Abstract: Described herein are low protein concentration gelling compositions comprising keratin proteins.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for treating an ocular inflammatory disease, comprising hydrophilic sulfasalazine and hyaluronic acid, and a preparation method therefor. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for treating an ocular inflammatory disease, which comprises administering, to an individual, a therapeutically effective amount of hydrophilic sulfasalazine and hyaluronic acid.

Abstract: Described herein are compounds, compositions and methods for modification of the surface of a living cell with a therapeutically relevant targeting moiety. Also described herein are methods for treating disease states, such as acute myocardial ischemia or infarction, with said compositions, in a subject.

Abstract: The invention encompasses therapeutic formulations comprising a protein active ingredient and a stabilizing excipient, methods of improving stability in a therapeutic formulation comprising a protein active ingredient by adding a stability-improving amount of a stabilizing excipient to the therapeutic formulation, and methods of reducing adverse infusion-related effects in a patient, comprising administering to a patient in need thereof a therapeutic formulation comprising a protein active ingredient and a stabilizing excipient.

Abstract: The drug component of an antibody-drug conjugate having a structure according to formula (II), where Ab, m, n, R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 are as defined in the application, exhibits unexpectedly improved stability.

Abstract: The invention provides a class of sucrose ester based cationic lipids and preparation method thereof. The vector prepared using the cationic lipid can be used to deliver nucleic acid. The sucrose ester based cationic lipid is prepared by using a chemical synthesis method in the invention, wherein the synthesis method is simple, and has a relatively high product yield. A composition, including suspension, emulsion, micelle and liposome and the like, can be prepared by mixing the sucrose ester based cationic lipid compound of the invention with a co-lipid. Sucrose ester based cationic lipid complex can be prepared by using the said composition and nucleic acid, which has advantages such as simple preparation, low toxicity and high transfection efficiency, and is a novel and highly efficient gene vector.

Abstract: The present application relates to a non-human mammal model of a human neurodegenerative disorder, methods of producing the non-human mammal model, and methods of using the non-human mammal model to identify agents suitable for treating a neurodegenerative disorder. The present application also relates to methods of treating neurodegenerative disorders and restoring normal brain interstitial potassium levels.

Abstract: A method for measuring, adjusting and maintaining the level of blood volume in a patient is described. A blood volume expander composition includes, in combination, a standard umodified protein, colloid or crystalloid and a fluorescently-labeled protein colloid or crystalloid of approximately the same molecular weight. The use of blood volume expander to measure, adjust and maintain the level of blood volume in a patient also is described.

Abstract: A method of forming a plurality of microbubbles, wherein the method disposes in a sealed container comprising a first volume at ambient pressure, a second volume of a mixture comprising one or more microbubble stabilizing materials. The first volume is greater than said second volume. The method further comprises sealing said container, introducing a gas into said sealed container, and shaking the container to form said plurality of microbubbles.

Abstract: A method for producing a solution including a positron emitting zinc cation of 63Zn, and the method comprises bombarding a solution target including 63Cu with high energy protons to produce a solution including a positron emitting zinc cation. A method for detecting or ruling out Alzheimer's disease in a patient comprises administering to a patient a detectable amount of a compound including a positron emitting zinc cation, wherein the zinc cation is targeted to beta-amyloid in the patient, and acquiring an image to detect the presence or absence of beta-amyloid in the patient.

Abstract: Power supply unit, in particular for a sterilization device, comprising at least one electric component, wherein, at least one of the electric components is at least partly covered with a solid insulation layer, wherein the solid insulation layer is adapted to provide an electric insulation.

Abstract: This invention provides a lamp device, a substrate cleaning apparatus and an operation method thereof, wherein the lamp device comprises a plurality of lamps and a plurality of connection structures, and every two adjacent lamps are provided with one connection structure therebetween, wherein each lamp is provided with a first recess and a second recess along a direction in which the plurality of lamps are arranged, one end of each connection structure is positioned into the first recess of one of two adjacent lamps and the other end of the connection structure is positioned into the second recess of the other one of the two adjacent lamps. With this configuration, the connection structures do not protrude from the surfaces of the far ultra-violet lamps, and thus the glass substrate is prevented from being scratched, and both the yield of the display panels and capacities of removing organic substances are increased.

Abstract: A device is presented for disinfecting needleless connectors. The device has a housing that contains a UV light source. The UV light source is operably connected to a power source. The housing has a receptacle configured to selectively receive a shield. The shield has an inner reflective chamber with an internal surface that reflects UV light. In use, the UV light source can illuminate a needleless connector inserted within the shield.

Abstract: Embodiments of this disclosure include systems, methods, and kits for sterilizing in vivo catheters using an optical fiber to deliver UV light. In an embodiment, a method for sterilizing a catheter with at least a first lumen, includes inserting a distal end of a fiber optic cable into a fiber insertion port of a catheter connector attached to a hub of the first lumen, flushing the first lumen with fluid from a fluid source, inserting the fiber optic cable into the first lumen until a stopper of the fiber optic cable is adjacent to the fiber insertion port, providing light to the fiber optic cable from a light source after the fiber optic cable is inserted into the first lumen, withdrawing the fiber optic cable from the first lumen while the light is provided, and ceasing to provide light to the fiber optic cable after the fiber optic cable is withdrawn from the first lumen. The disclosure is also applicable to catheters with multiple lumens and to catheters accessed through subcutaneous ports.

Abstract: A solution in which an ultraviolet radiation source is mounted on a flexible substrate is provided. The flexible substrate is capable of having a deformation curvature of at least 0.1 inverse meters. The flexible substrate may be incorporated within an existing enclosure or included in the enclosure. The flexible substrate can be utilized as part of a solution for disinfecting one or more items located within the enclosure. In this case, while the items are within the enclosure, ultraviolent radiation is generated and directed at the items. Wiring for the ultraviolet radiation source can be embedded within the flexible substrate and the flexible substrate can have at least one of: a wave-guiding structure, an ultraviolet absorbing surface, or an ultraviolet reflective surface. A control system can be utilized to manage generation of the ultraviolet radiation within the enclosure.

Abstract: A system for decontamination of a medical device comprising a decontamination chamber configured to withstand pressure changes; a vacuum pump configured to adjust the pressure within the decontamination chamber; and a source of decontaminating substance positioned within the decontamination chamber. The system also includes a container within the decontamination chamber to enclose a medical device and provide fluid communication between the medical device and the source of decontaminating substance; and a vaporizer positioned within the decontamination chamber to vaporize the decontaminating substance.

Abstract: Implementations generally relate to a sanitizing platform. In one implementation, a system includes a base. The system also includes a first sanitizer mechanism coupled to the base, where the first sanitizer mechanism is configured to sanitize at least one hand of a user. The system also includes a second sanitizer mechanism coupled to the base, where the second sanitizer mechanism is configured to sanitize a door handle.

Abstract: A container (10) used for sterilizing medical instruments and the like has a sealed filtered vent. A wall or a lid of the container has a vent area formed by a plurality of holes (12) that pass therethrough. The vent area is surrounded by a convex ridge (16) on an outside surface of the container, with a corresponding concave recess (26) on an opposing inside surface. A web of filter material (36) is sized and adapted to cover the vent area and overlie the concave recess. A cover plate (37) is generally planar, with a vent area formed by a plurality of holes (38) that pass through the cover plate. This vent area is surrounded by a convex ridge (43) that is sized and adapted to correspond to the concave recess of the sterilization container. An elastomeric gasket (127) with outwardly-projecting ridges is secured to at least the convex ridge of the cover plate.

Abstract: The present application belongs to the technical field of household commodity and provides a sterilization box applicable to sterilize cosmetic tools, which comprises a base assembly, a housing assembly connected to the base assembly and cooperating with the base assembly to form a first cavity, and a supporting assembly connected in the first cavity and being able to connect with a plurality of cosmetic tools. The base assembly is provided therein with a second cavity. The sterilization box further comprises a circulation assembly configured to drive air circulations in the first cavity and in the second cavity and a sterilization assembly configured to sterilize the cosmetic tools. The circulation assembly includes a first ventilation assembly cooperating with the second cavity and a second ventilation assembly cooperating with the first cavity. A heating assembly cooperating with the first ventilation assembly is connected in the second cavity.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a sensor assembly for continuous measurement of at least one dose control parameter of an electron beam during a substantial part of the duration of a sterilizing process of package material includes an electron beam emitter adapted to emit electron beam (e?) from an electron exit window and a sensor device that includes: a sensor surface having an electron excitable material arranged to be radiated with at least a part of said electron beam (e?), so as to excite said electron excitable material so that said electron excitable material emits luminescence and a detector arranged and adapted to detect said luminescence. The electron beam emitter is adapted to emit a continuous electron beam (e?) during a predetermined time period so as to irradiate and sterilize package material.

Abstract: The safe incense evaporator has a bowl, a flat lid covering the bowl, and a cap or dome defining a chamber above the lid. The bowl defines a basin, and a crucible is concentrically seated at the top of the basin. The basin allows water to surround the crucible. Very small orifices are defined in a central area of the lid, and are also defined in the dome to allow the scent of burning incense to leave the evaporator. The crucible is adapted for holding incense coal or charcoal used to burn or heat incense. The evaporator may have a latch holding the cap onto the bowl in case the evaporator tips over onto its side so that the coals or charcoal will be extinguished by the water from the basin. The evaporator may also have a dual latch or lock to prevent children from tampering with the evaporator.

Abstract: An aromatic agent container includes a container, a supporting bracket and a flow guiding device. The container contains an aromatic agent therein, and its top surface is formed of an opening. The supporting bracket of a ring shape is mounted onto the top of the container. The wall of the supporting bracket is formed of through holes. The flow guiding device is arranged inside the supporting bracket and at a spacing from the top of the container. The flow guiding device includes a driving motor with a fan arranged at an external of the bottom thereof. Accordingly, when the flow guiding device is activated and the fan is driven to rotate for fragrance of the aromatic agent to flow out of the opening of the container, the airflow generated by the fan allows the fragrance to exit from through holes and to spread into the surrounding air effectively and actively.

Abstract: A fragrance diffuser has a diffuser element connecting a first reservoir to a second reservoir. As a fragrant oil flows between the reservoirs, the diffuser element becomes saturated with oil and diffuses the fragrance or scent. The diffuser is self-contained, easy to interact with, without creating a mess. The diffuser is relaxing and pleasant to watch as it flows through from one end and drips to the other, releasing one small bubble at a time. It is refillable, transportable, and the intensity of the scent release can be controlled easily by saturating the wood more or less often.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and apparatus that help reduce and prevent infection by controlling and/or reducing the level of contaminants, which include pathogens, allergens and/or odor-causing agents including VOCs. Photocatalytic oxidation is performed in a high humidity environment so that hydrogen peroxide molecules are readily produced.

Abstract: A shape memory polymer article is disclosed. The article may include a surface having a microstructure and it may include a shape memory polymer. The shape memory polymer may include a copolymer network. The copolymer network may be formed from the reaction product of a free radically polymerizable siloxane having greater than one functional free radically polymerizable group and at least one (meth)acrylate monomer.

Abstract: An absorbent article having a belt structure, wherein the inner surface of the belt comprises a treatment and wherein the inner surface of the belt is different than the outer surface of the belt.

Abstract: An odor control layer for personal care products has a composition that has a PEG or PEG copolymer composition applied thereto. The layer can be placed in a personal care product, such as a diaper, training pant, absorbent under pant, adult incontinence product, or feminine hygiene product. Additional odor control layers may include silver nanoparticles and activated carbon compositions. In an alternative form, a single odor control layer includes the PEG composition and the activated carbon and/or silver nanoparticle compositions. A cleansing composition with PEG and possibly active carbon and silver nanoparticles may be combined with the personal care product to form a kit.

Abstract: Body tissue and structures in an airway may be treated with an artificial scab comprising an inhomogeneous, uncohesive, solid sheet-like body comprising a granular mixture of chitosan and polysaccharide particles. The artificial scab breaks apart into smaller pieces if peeled away from the surgical site or wound, thus reducing the risk of airway occlusion.

Abstract: Biocompatible phase invertible proteinaceous compositions and methods for making and using the same are provided. Phase invertible compositions in accordance with the invention are prepared by combining a liquid proteinaceous substrate and a liquid crosslinking composition, where the liquid crosslinking composition includes a macromolecular crosslinking agent. Also provided are kits for use in preparing the subject compositions. The subject compositions, kits and systems find use in a variety of different applications.

Abstract: An implantable structure, method for making the structure and method for using the structure, where the structure includes a combination of non-absorbable and absorbable components, and the implantable structure has a randomly uniform array of materials. The resulting implantable structure provides improved tissue ingrowth and flexibility after implantation and after absorption of the absorbable materials.

Abstract: Preparations containing hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and hyaluronic acid (HA) and methods of making and using same. The HGF and HA preparations can be prepared together in solution as an injectable fluid without gelatinization, or impregnated within a porous hydrophilic matrix material with, or without, cross-linking of the HA with the matrix material. The preparations can be used as a dermal filler or to generate and promote healing of cartilage, vertebral discs, connective tissues such as tendons and ligaments and bone in vivo.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a parenteral composition for maintaining the efficacy of a filler for a long time, containing a collagen hydrolysate as an active ingredient. The composition, according to the present invention, can maintain the efficacy of a hyaluronic acid filler for a longer time, thereby enabling the effect thereof to be maintained irrespective of a smaller frequency of filler operations, and thus there is an advantage of also reducing skin irritation. In addition, there is an advantage of enabling an immediate effect since an administration method is simple as a parenteral administration and enables direct penetration into the skin.

Abstract: A collagen-coated tissue based membrane that is smooth on both sides so as to inhibit cell and tissue adhesion. Also disclosed are methods for making a collagen-coated tissue-based membrane.

Abstract: The invention provides articles of 3D printed biomaterials with retained physical properties and biological activity and methods of using the articles. Furthermore, the invention provides manufacturing conditions to generate 3D printed biomaterials with highly preserved biological activity.

Abstract: The present invention features, inter alia, biocompatible compositions that include a poloxamer and one or more additives such as hyaluronic acid, gelatin, fibronectin, or a peptide fragment of fibronectin. The compositions are useful in tissue repair or remodeling, including repair of an injured spinal disc, in drug delivery, in cell culture, and in inhibiting the formation of adhesions.

Abstract: A method of treating a spinal disk according to the present invention can include inserting an alloplastic bulking agent into the spinal disk to treat the defect. The alloplastic bulking agent has a plurality of microparticles and a suspending agent comprising hyaluronic acid. The bulking agent results in at least one of sealing the defect, increasing a pressure of the disk, increasing a height of the disk, improving stability of the disk and improving structural integrity of the disk.

Abstract: Composite grafts including a biocompatible, synthetic scaffold; and a biological tissue component obtained or derived from a deceased donor tissue, wherein the biological tissue component is embedded in the biocompatible, synthetic scaffold, are provided as systems relating thereto. Methods of manufacture and methods of treatment using such grafts are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an implant having a surface comprising a coating on at least a portion of the surface of the implant, wherein the coating comprises at least two coating layers of bioactive compounds adjacent to each other, obtainable in a process comprising the following steps: providing an implant with a surface, providing a first suspension comprising at least one first bioactive compound in a first solvent, wherein the first bioactive compound is non-soluble or partially soluble in the first solvent, applying said first suspension comprising the at least one first bioactive compound onto at least a part of the implant surface forming a first coating layer; drying the first coating layer, providing a second solution comprising at least one second bioactive compound in a second solvent, wherein the second bioactive compound is soluble or readily soluble in the second solvent; applying said second solution comprising the at least one second bioactive compound onto the first coating layer form

Abstract: Provided herein are methods for treating an individual having (suffering from) an acute myocardial infarction and drug eluting stents useful for treating such individuals. These methods include treating an individual by introducing, such as by surgically inserting, at a site of an acute coronary artery occlusion upstream of the site of acute myocardial infarction, a drug eluting stent (DES) that is capable of eluting from 25 pg to 950 pg of IGF-1 directly into the coronary circulation. The treatment is specifically directed to stimulation of repair or survival of damaged cardiac muscle or left ventricular remodeling.

Abstract: A balloon or balloon cover comprising a composite material having a least one expanded fluoropolymer material and an elastomer is provided. The expanded fluoropolymer material can contain serpentine fibrils. In exemplary embodiments, the fluoropolymer is polytetrafluoroethylene. The composite material may be axially, helically, and/or circumferentially wrapped to form a balloon or balloon cover. The balloon or balloon cover exhibits a sharp increase in stiffness at a predetermined diameter. The balloon or balloon cover can be designed to have a stop point in either a radial or axial direction.

Abstract: Implantable medical devices, and methods of coating same, including a plurality of components disposed on a substrate, and a low surface energy layer deposited as a liquid over at least a first portion of the components and the substrate, the low surface energy layer becoming solidified after deposition and conforming to at least the first portion of the components. The devices further include a biocompatible hermetic coating conforming to and sealingly covering at least a portion of the low surface energy layer.

Abstract: Various exemplary composite adjunct materials for delivering medicants are provided. In general, the adjunct material can be configured to be delivered to tissue by deployment of staples from a cartridge body of a surgical stapler. The adjunct material includes a conformable region and a distinct reinforcing region that form the composite structure. An effective amount of at least one medicant can be disposed within and releasable from at least one of the conformable region and the reinforcing region and can provide a desired effect on tissue in-growth in a predetermined manner.

Abstract: A minimally invasive surgery suction sleeve configured for use with an inner cannula of a suction instrument. The sleeve includes a first opening at a proximal end, a second opening at a distal end, and a tube between the first opening and the second opening. The sleeve slides over a suction instrument. The distal end is configured to insert into the body and includes a plurality of apertures that provide for pool suction. The sleeve further includes a flange at the proximal end that allows a surgeon to manipulate the sleeve, switching between spot and pool mode by sliding the sleeve over the inner cannula of the suction instrument. In spot mode, the tip of the suction instrument is exposed. In pool mode, the sleeve slides forward, covering the tip of the suction instrument so that fluent material is drawn through the apertures in the sleeve.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses are presented that facilitate the provision of reduced pressure to a tissue site by using a delivery-and-fluid-storage bridge, which separates liquids and gases and provides a flow path for reduced pressure. In one instance, a delivery-and-fluid-storage bridge includes a delivery manifold for delivering reduced pressure to a treatment manifold at the tissue site and an absorbent layer proximate the delivery manifold adapted to receive and absorb liquids. The delivery manifold and the absorbent layer are encapsulated in an encapsulating pouch. A first aperture is formed proximate a first longitudinal end of the delivery-and-fluid-storage bridge for fluidly communicating reduced pressure to the delivery manifold from a reduced-pressure source, and a second aperture is formed on a patient-facing side of the delivery-and-fluid-storage bridge. Reduced pressure is transferred to the tissue site via the second aperture. Other systems, apparatuses, and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: The invention includes a negative wound therapy system including a container, a wound covering, a packet and a plurality of surface cross-linked superabsorbent particles. The invention may be portable. The invention also includes a liquid solidification system for reducing gel block in NPWT systems. Methods of solidifying liquid medical waste from NPWT devices are also described and disclosed.

Abstract: A breast milk storage system which comprises a mandrel for selective engagement with a bottle connector of a breast pump. The storage system also includes at least one clamp in pivotal engagement with the mandrel, and a lock ring. The lock ring is positioned for rotation about the mandrel and the at least one clamp. Rotation of the lock ring effectuates pivoting of the at least one clamp between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the at least one clamp is pivoted with respect to the mandrel and presses against the mandrel so as to retain a storage bag in place by pinching said storage bag between the at least one clamp and the mandrel.

Abstract: A progressive sequencing lactating breast milk extraction apparatus comprising a series of compression segments arranged forming a conical shape extending between a wider chest end and a narrower extracted milk collection end, at least one vibration generating apparatus in vibrational communication with at least one compression segment of the series of compression segments; and an operational mechanism to contract and expand each compression segment. In use, the operational mechanism cycles each compression segment of the series of compression segments between a compressed state and a relaxed state and the cycles are provided sequentially from a rear of the progressive sequencing lactating breast milk extraction apparatus to the extracted milk collection end. The vibrational energy applied to the breast aids in flow of the milk through the breast.

Abstract: A mounting ring for a ventricular assist device or other device used in the heart includes a plate adapted to be secured to the exterior of the heart by rigid anchors such as hook, pin, or screw. When hooks are used, they can be pivotally mounted to the plate so that the hooks can rotate from retracted positions to advanced positions. A tool can be included in a mounting ring kit to move the hooks from their retracted positions to their advanced positions so that the hooks secure the plate to the heart. Preferably, all of the hooks are advanced simultaneously. The VAD or other device is then secured to the plate. The plate can be mounted to the heart in less time than required to install a traditional mounting ring by suturing to the heart.

Abstract: A blood pump includes a hub having an axis of rotation and a generally cylindrical shape. The hub has an upstream end region, a central region, and a downstream end region, and the hub includes a magnetic material. Blades that are disposed on the downstream end region of the hub extend downstream of the hub.

Abstract: Endovascular variable aortic control catheters (EVACC) are provided that are adapted to augment upstream blood pressure and regulate downstream blood flow for patients in shock. The EVACC devices provide improved treatment for truncal wounds, which may be used for example on a battlefield, thereby increasing survivability of injured soldiers. The devices are a catheter-based system having a proximal hand piece for controlled deployment of the device through a delivery sheath. A collapsible, wire framework supports an expandable and collapsible occlusion barrier. The wire basket and occlusion barrier expand to fit within the lumen of the aorta. Various movable elements are used to adjust an adjustable passageway to regulate controlled anterograde blood flow.