Abstract: We have developed a ring opening polymerization method in an aqueous dispersion for the formation of latex. By encapsulating a catalyst in micelles dispersed in water, a seeded catalytic polymerization of various monomers in water was successfully performed. An amphiphilic molecule was used to form a micelle with a hydrophobic core in water. The catalyst that was encapsulated within this structure and the formed microcapsules were used as microreactors for the formation of biodegradable elastomers.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for preparing a quantum rod/polymer fiber membrane by using electrospinning technique. The method comprises the following steps: (1) preparing a quantum rod solution; (2) preparing a polymer solution, and adding the quantum rod solution obtained in step (1) into the polymer solution so as to form an electrospinning precursor solution with a volume concentration of the quantum rods of 5%-80%; and (3) adding the electrospinning precursor solution into an electrospinning device, regulating the voltage of a generator and the receiving distance, and then performing electrospinning to prepare the quantum rod/polymer fiber membrane. By adjusting the concentration of the quantum rod solution and parameters in the electrospinning process, the method realizes directional arrangements of the quantum rods in the electrospinning process, thereby obtaining the quantum rod/polymer fiber membrane with high degree of polarization performance.

Abstract: A non-woven chopped fiber mat includes a mixture of glass fibers and synthetic fibers. The non-woven mat is formed using a binder composition that includes a binder resin, a coupling agent, and a corrosion inhibitor. The non-woven mat is non-corrosive and resistant to volatile unsaturated monomers such as styrene, but still remains fully compatible with solvent-containing polyester resins, such that it can be used in various pultruded products.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for constructing a whitlockite coating on a surface of a calcium phosphate-based bioceramic substrate and a resulting coating, wherein the preparation method includes the following steps of: preparing pure calcium phosphate-based bioceramic powder firstly, then pre-firing, shaping and calcining the pure calcium phosphate-based bioceramic powder to obtain a calcium phosphate-based bioceramic substrate, placing the substrate in a solution containing Mg2+, then transferring the substrate to a high-temperature high-pressure reaction kettle for a hydrothermal reaction, and then cleaning and drying the sample to obtain a whitlockite coating.

Abstract: A wound dressing including a hydropolymer matrix crosslinked with genipin and a plurality of thymol nanoparticles loaded into the hydropolymer matrix. The plurality of thymol nanoparticles has a concentration between 0.01 wt. % and 1 wt. % of dry weight of the wound dressing. The hydropolymer matrix includes gelatin, chitosan, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC).

Abstract: A system related to the reparation of damaged veins along with the suspension of venous stasis progression by minimizing the leak reflux flow and the protection of the valve functions of the vena saphena magna, parva, perforator veins by means of exovascular or external filling agent injection in the treatment of venous stasis (which is also called varicose vein or varicose treatment).

Abstract: Presented are improved and more sensitive methods for measuring levels of phytoestrogens in a biological sample, and specifically in a human urine sample, employing a High Pressure Liquid Chromatography method, coupled with a photodiode array analysis detection system. Calibration curve preparation for each of a panel of phytoestrogen analytes, including daidzein, equol and genistein, are provided employing techniques that demonstrate greater accuracy and sensitivity of sample level measurement. Clinically applicable techniques suitable for large population scale screening, diet and gut microflora characterization and disease analysis and correlation in human populations, such as in at risk breast cancer populations, through monitoring of phytoestrogen levels, is disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to the treatment of gynoid lipodystrophy, and more specifically to the use of calcium (hydroxy)phosphate particles in combination with at least one compound capable of reducing local subcutaneous fat in the treatment of gynoid lipodystrophy.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for cellular seeding onto three-dimensional fibroblast constructs, three-dimensional fibroblast constructs seeded with muscle cells, and uses therefore.

Abstract: The disclosure provides thiol-containing alkyl fatty acid compound formulations for intravenous, parenteral or oral administration. The compositions of the present technology have optimal controlled bioavailability and are useful for treating metabolic dysfunctions such as pre-diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and diabetes. Also provided are methods of treatment comprising the daily administration of the disclosed thiol-containing alkyl fatty acid formulations.

Abstract: A nitric oxide gas-releasing conduit configured for surgical implantation through a patient's tympanic membrane. The nitric oxide gas-releasing conduit comprises a gas-permeable cured resin material configured for releasably sequestering therein gas. The gas-permeable cured resin material is charged with nitric oxide gas. The nitric oxide gas-releasing conduit may be optionally coated with an antimicrobial gas-releasing composition. The gas-releasing coating composition may be configured to release nitric oxide.

Abstract: Disclosed are hydrogels polymerized with a biofunctional moiety, biodegradable and permanent, designed to be implantable in a mammalian body and intended to block or mitigate the formation of tissue adhesions. The hydrogels of the present invention are characterized by comprising four structural elements: a) a polymeric backbone which defines the overall polymeric morphology, b) linkage groups, c) side chains, and d) biofunctional end groups. The hydrophobicity of the various structural elements are chosen to reduce tissue adhesion and enhance the biofunctional aspect of the end groups. The morphology of these polymers are typically of high molecular weight and have shape to encourage entanglement. Useful structures include branching chains, comb or brush, and dendritic morphologies.

Abstract: Radiation therapy or radiotherapy (RT) is a powerful treatment where precision and accuracy is crucial. Image Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT) facilitates more accurate position verification, correcting for anatomic changes related to internal organ movement. IGRT thereby helps reduce toxicity of radiotherapy and increases relapse-free survival. An inter-correlation point with a fixed position and volume (a marker) can be applied to indicate the point of treatment clearly in both imaging modalities and to localize and track tumors in real time. In this study, we present the development of a marker based on lactose octaacetate:octapropionate 1:1 containing 3 mM PLA-DTPA(Gd), 40% triglyceride, 5% propylene carbonate and 10% XSAIB (sucrose based CT-contrast agent). The injectable marker had high CT contrast (>1000 HU) and displayed clearly visible, stable T1 contrast enhancement (T1˜900 ms) in the rim over at least 3 weeks with clinically observable resolution.

Abstract: A hydrogel is formed by a reaction which is induced, in an electrolytic solution, by an electrode product electrochemically generated by electrodes installed in the electrolytic solution. An apparatus including an electrolytic tank with a bottom surface on which a two-dimensional array of working electrodes is provided and a counter electrode installed in the electrolytic tank is prepared. An electrolytic solution containing a dissolved substance that causes electrolytic deposition of a hydrogel is housed in the electrolytic tank. By applying a predetermined voltage to one or more selected working electrodes of the two-dimensional array, a hydrogel with a two-dimensional pattern corresponding to the arrangement of the selected working electrodes is formed.

Abstract: Devices and methods are described for measuring formed blood component sedimentation rate. Some of the methods may use (1) centrifugal techniques for separating red blood cells from plasma and (2) video and/or still imaging capability. Both may be used alone or in combination to accelerate formed blood component sedimentation and to measure its rate. In one example, the method may advantageously enable rapid measurement of sedimentation rate using small blood sample volumes. Automated image analysis can be used to determine both sedimentation rate and hematocrit. Automated techniques may be used to compensate for effects of hematocrit on uncorrected sedimentation rate data.

Abstract: A pulverulent semisynthetic material, derived from a natural marine biomaterial, namely the aragonitic inner layer of the shell of bivalve molluscs selected from Pinctadines, notably Pinctada maxima, margaritifera, and Tridacnes, notably Tridacna gigas, maxima, derasa, tevaroa, squamosa, crocea, Hippopus hippopus, Hippopus porcelanus, in pulverulent form, with the addition of insoluble and soluble biopolymers and calcium carbonate transformed by carbonation.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a device for printing a lumen tissue construct, a method for using the same, and a 3D bioprinter. The device includes a spray head assembly for printing a biological construct; and a bioprinting platform for supporting a lumen tissue, and for carrying a biological construct printed by the spray head assembly, and for applying the biological construct to an inner surface of the lumen tissue. The device for printing a lumen tissue construct of the present disclosure provides the spray head assembly and the bioprinting platform, and the spray head assembly applies the biological construct onto the inner surface of the lumen tissue by the bioprinting platform, to avoid such problems as recurrence of thrombus and restenosis of a lumen after the lumen tissue has been implanted for a long time, thereby improving the biological reliability of the lumen tissue.

Abstract: The present application relates to biomimetic three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds, constructs and methods of making the same. The three-dimensional scaffold can include a sacrificial internal cast and a durable external scaffold material, wherein the durable external scaffold material comprises a biocompatible material which completely surrounds the sacrificial internal cast and wherein the sacrificial internal cast be removed to yield a branching 3D network of hollow, vessel-like tubes that substantially mimics a native tissue or organ.

Abstract: The invention relates to the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, and particularly to a three-dimensional biomimetic tissue scaffold that exploits the use of three-dimensional print technology. Surface energy is controlled by precisely placing polymers with differing surface chemistry, and using surface texture and bulk composition to pattern absorbable and non-absorbable polymers for the purpose of promoting functional healing in a mammalian body.

Abstract: Implants with fillable reservoirs have been developed that are suitable for rhinoplasty, breast reconstruction, ear reconstruction, and replacement, reconstruction or repair of other soft tissues. The implants can be filled with graft material prior to implantation. The implants are preferably made from resorbable polymers, can be tailored to provide different geometries, mechanical properties and resorption rates in order to provide more consistent surgical outcomes. The implants preferably have an interconnected network of unit cells with microporous outer layers and optionally some or all of the unit cells having at least one macropore in their outer layers. The implants can be loaded by injection with microfat, collagen, DCF, cells, bioactive agents, and other augmentation materials, prior to implantation.

Abstract: Allograft biomaterials, implants made therefrom, methods of making the biomaterial and implants, methods of promoting cartilage, tissue, bone or wound healing in a mammal by administering the biomaterial or implant to the mammal, and kits that include such biomaterials, implants, or components thereof. For example, the allograft may include viable cells, for example, which were native to intervertebral discs and/or umbilical cords that the allograft was derived from.

Abstract: Compositions comprising self-assembled hydrogel particles formed of short peptides which comprise one or more aromatic amino acid residue(s) in an inverted emulsion are disclosed. Such hydrogel particles which encapsulate an active agent and uses thereof in therapeutic and diagnostic applications are also disclosed.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure include lubricious coatings. In an embodiment the disclosure includes a lubricious coating for a medical device including an acrylic acid polymer, an acrylamide copolymer comprising at least one photoreactive group, and a cross-linking agent comprising at least two photoreactive groups. The coating can be used on a catheter surface to facilitate its movement in the body.

Abstract: A drug delivery balloon (10) has a drug thereon in the form of crystalline particles (12), the drug having a predetermined size distribution. Optionally marker particles (14, 16) are also provided. A texturized coating (18), a cap layer (20) and/or other methods may be used to increase particle loading capacity of the balloon.

Abstract: Crosslinked biodegradable block polyurethane copolymers prepared from a plurality of biodegradable polymers or oligomers linked together via urethane bonds and crosslinked via a citrate ester are disclosed. Such copolymers can include folic acid and fabricated into medical devices such as a nerve growth conduit and locally deliver folic acid to a site of injury such as a PNS injury site.

Abstract: This invention addresses the need for efficient dry skin electrodes. Robust, flexible Mixed Ionic Electronic Conductor (MIEC) electrodes were prepared by an aqueous solution route resulting in electrically conductive networks of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and ionically conductive elastic matrix. The flexible electrode was characterized in terms of conductivity, ionic charge transfer resistance, and water uptake. The flexible electrode maintained low resistance even after multiple cycles of 50% extension and contraction.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for producing a polymeric scaffold for use in tissue engineering applications or soft tissue surgery, as well as to the produced scaffolds and an associated kit. The method features a first fast drying step of applying a mechanical compression on a polymeric gel layer and a second slow drying step of the gel up to reach a polymer mass fraction of at least 60% w/w in the final scaffold. The method allows the production of scaffolds with high regeneration and healing properties of a grafted tissue via host cell invasion and colonization, and a good suturability. These goals are achieved through the formation within the scaffold of a non-uniform architecture creating softer and stiffer areas, which is maintained even upon re-swelling of the scaffold upon hydration of the final dried product.

Abstract: In general, the present invention is directed to materials that when in use resist fouling on their surfaces. Such materials may be used in the construction of various process equipment having surfaces exposed to a given fluid that contains a foulant or chemical substance that may deposit on, or adhere to, the surface and thereafter continue to grow on the surface resulting in deteriorated performance of the equipment and process. The materials are specifically selected using a method that takes into account the dielectric spectra of the fluid to which the surface is exposed and the surface itself. It has been unexpectedly found that if the dielectric spectra of the surface and the fluid are matched to within relative agreement, there should be no adhesion of the foulant on the surface. In some embodiments, the dielectric spectra to be matched include the intrinsic indexes of refraction.

Abstract: Engineered human tissue seed constructs are provided that are suitable for implantation in subjects. Methods of making and using the engineered tissue seed constructs are provided.

Abstract: A method of using a dental filler is disclosed. The method may include securing a prosthetic to a dental implant, the prosthetic having an access channel therethrough. The method may also include filling a portion of the access channel by inserting a polytetrafluoroethylene dental plug into the access channel and compressing the polytetrafluoroethylene dental plug within the access channel.

Abstract: A hydrophilic silicone, compositions comprising the same, and articles comprising the same are shown and described herein. The hydrophilic silicone is an ionically modified silicone compound wherein the compound has a net neutral charge. The hydrophilic silicone compounds may be provided as part of a composition, e.g., a composition suitable for forming a hydrogel, which may be employed to form a film material and even an article (e.g., in a contact lens).

Abstract: A biocompatible textile and methods for its use and fabrication are disclosed. The textile may be fabricated from electrospun fibers forming windings on a mandrel, in which the windings form openings having a mesh size between adjacent windings. The textile may also be fabricated by the addition of solvent-soluble particles incorporated into the textile while the windings are formed. Such particles may be removed by exposing the textile to a solvent, thereby dissolving them. Disclosed are also replacements for animal organs composed of material including at least one layer of an electrospun fiber textile having a mesh size. Such replacements for animal organs may include biocompatible textiles treated with a surface treatment process.

Abstract: A solid antimicrobial hydrogel comprising a first amphiphilic component. The first amphiphilic component, in its chemically cross-linked state, being a lyotropic liquid crystal and having an ordered nanostructure of hydrophobic and hydrophilic domains, the composition further comprising an antimicrobial agent being covalently attached to at least one of the hydrophilic or hydrophobic domains.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides compositions and methods for treatment of a kidney disease with chemokine protein stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1), such as methods of treating a subject afflicted with or at risk of developing a kidney disease, comprising administering SDF-1 to a kidney of the subject in a treatment-effective amount.

Abstract: A bio-ink composition comprises a plurality of bio-block, in which the bio-blocks can serve as basic building blocks in cell-based bioprinting. The bio-blocks, pharmaceutical compositions comprising the bio-blocks, methods of preparing artificial tissues, tissue progenitors, or multi-dimensional constructs, and methods of preparing the bio-blocks are also provided. The bio-blocks, and the multi-dimensional constructs, artificial tissues, and tissue progenitors comprising the bio-blocks or prepared by the methods described herein are useful for tissue engineering, in vitro research, stem cell differentiation, in vivo research, drug screening, drug discovery, tissue regeneration, and regenerative medicine.

Abstract: Devices and methods for inserting an implant into skin or other tissue of a patient can include an insertion device that can enclose and support a hyaluronic thread as it is injected into a patient's skin or other tissue. The device can include a cover member, a non-tubular support member, and the thread. The cover member can have a proximal portion, a closed distal portion, and an inner cavity extending from the proximal portion toward the closed distal portion. The thread can be positioned along a longitudinal length of support member, between the support member and the cover member. The non-tubular support member can extend within the inner cavity of the cover member. The cover member can be moveable relative to the support member to expose the thread.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are formulations of pirfenidone or pyridone analog compounds for aerosolization and use of such formulations for aerosol administration of pirfenidone or pyridone analog compounds for the prevention or treatment of various fibrotic and inflammatory diseases, including disease associated with the lung, heart, kidney, liver, eye and central nervous system. In some embodiments, pirfenidone or pyridone analog compound formulations and delivery options described herein allow for efficacious local delivery of pirfenidone or pyridone analog compound. Compositions include all formulations, kits, and device combinations described herein. Methods include inhalation procedures, indications and manufacturing processes for production and use of the compositions described.

Abstract: Provided is a compression resistant implant configured to fit at or near a bone defect to promote bone growth. The compression resistant implant comprises a biodegradable polymer in an amount of about 0.1 wt % to about 20 wt % of the implant and a freeze-dried oxysterol in an amount of about 5 wt % to about 90 wt % of the implant. Methods of making and use are further provided.

Abstract: Process for the preparation of aqueous polyurethane dispersions, containing from 20 to 50% by weight of an anionic polyurethane having a mean particle size from 1 to 15 micron and providing films with durable low gloss aspect.

Abstract: Biphasic tissue constructs that include a scaffold having one or more channels, a vascular portion comprising a hydrogel at least partially disposed in the one or more channels, and a first bioactive growth factor and a second bioactive growth factor different from the first bioactive growth factor, the first bioactive growth factor localized to the scaffold and the second bioactive growth factor localized to the vascular portion. The first bioactive growth factor may be bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) peptide and the second bioactive growth factor may be vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) peptide.

Abstract: In various embodiments functionalized graphene oxide(s) are provided that demonstrate improved antimicrobial activity, where the graphene oxide(s) are functionalized to increase carbon radical (.C) density.

Abstract: The present invention is concerned with a photosynthetic scaffold that delivers oxygen and its uses for tissue engineering and the treatment of ischemia.

Abstract: A method of preparing a decellularized placental membrane is provided. The method comprises removing cells from a pre-decellularized placental membrane comprising an amnion layer and a chorion layer to produce a decellularized placental membrane without separating the amnion layer from the chorion layer. The pre-decellularized placental membrane is obtained from an amniotic sac, and the decellularized placental membrane comprises the amnion layer and the chorion layer. Also provided is a decellularized placental membrane and a placenta-derived graft comprising the decellularized placental membrane. Further provided are the uses of the decellularized placental membrane or the placenta-derived graft.

Abstract: A method of preparing a reconstitutable implantable bone putty includes combining a bone matrix derived from human bone and gelatin particulates derived from human tissue at a concentration of the bone matrix by dry weight of 20 to 60 percent to form the reconstitutable implantable bone putty. Preparing the gelatin particulates includes supplying a gelatin precursor of bone or soft tissue from a human, treating the gelatin precursor with phosphoric acid to generate a gelatin-acid mixture, neutralizing the gelatin-acid mixture with an alkali to a pH between 6 and 8 to allow a gelatin-rich solution and a waste solution to separate, removing residual salts from the gelatin-rich solution to obtain purified gelatin, drying the purified gelatin, and reducing the purified gelatin to particulates having a largest dimension less than 300 ?m. A method of preparing an implantable bone putty includes adding a reconstitution media to the reconstitutable implantable bone putty.

Abstract: The invention provides liquid injectable copolymers of TMC and HTMC that are degradable in vivo. Degradation can be tailored by adjusting the amount of HTMC in the copolymer, the initial molecular weight of the copolymer, and the characteristics of the initiator used in its preparation. Specifically, the degradation rate increases as the amount of HTMC incorporated into the copolymer increases, as the molecular weight of the copolymer decreases, and as the hydrophobicity of the initiator decreases. Moreover, the degradation yields products such as glycerol and carbon dioxide that are non-toxic in vivo, and which will not cause a substantive change in tissue pH upon implantation in vivo. The copolymers may be used in applications such as drug delivery and as coatings.

Abstract: A method of modifying a surface of a medical device for implantation or disposition inside a patient is described. The medical device comprises a structure having at least one surface. The method includes the steps of: placing the medical device into a plasma chamber substantially free from contaminants and substantially sealing the plasma chamber from the atmosphere; removing at least an outermost layer of any oxide layer from the at least one surface of the structure by a plasma oxide-removal process, whilst maintaining the plasma chamber under seal from the atmosphere; and subsequently forming a new oxide layer at the least one surface of the structure by introducing at least one gas into the plasma chamber, whilst maintaining the plasma chamber under seal from the atmosphere. A medical device including a bulk material and an oxide layer disposed over at least one surface of the medical device. The oxide layer is substantially pure and free from contaminants.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and compositions for transplanting non-lymphoid tissues into lymphoid organs. It may be used to cultivate organ tissues including for the purpose of supplementing or reconstituting organ function. Tissues that may be propagated in this manner include but are not limited to lung, kidney, thyroid, intestine, and brain.

Abstract: A prosthetic implant comprising a biocompatible three-dimensional scaffold and at least two cell types selected from the group consisting of osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and endothelial cells or progenitors thereof.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for treatment of viral skin disease, precancerous and cancerous skin disease, and other neoplasms are disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for infiltrating a porous structure with a precursor solution by means of humidification. The infiltration method with a precursor solution using moisture control comprises the steps of: (S1) providing a substrate having porous structures deposited thereon; (S2) depositing, by electrospraying, a precursor solution on the substrate having porous structures deposited thereon; (S3) humidifying the porous structures having the precursor solution deposited thereon; and (S4) sintering the humidified porous structures.