Abstract: The present invention relates to a cosmetic composition containing, in a physiologically acceptable medium, fluorescent particles comprising molecules of at least one fluorescent organic compound trapped inside a matrix at least partially formed by at least one metal oxide, said composition comprising less than 100 mg/l of said fluorescent organic compound or compounds dissolved in a liquid phase of the medium.

Abstract: Disclosed is a drug delivery system from which a macrocyclic lactone can be released with a desirable zero order release profile. The system is based on the use of thermoplastic polymers, and particularly of polyethylene vinyl acetate copolymers (EVA). The drug delivery system of the invention comprises a solid non-porous reservoir in which the macrocyclic lactone is contained, preferably in a concentration well above the saturation concentration, and a non-porous skin covering the reservoir not initially loaded with the drug. The system is preferably in the form of a rod, wherein the core and the skin are concentric, and the end surfaces of the rod are not skin-covered.

Abstract: A polymer coating for medical devices based on a polyolefin derivative. A variety of polymers are described to make coatings for medical devices, particularly, for drug delivery stents. The polymers include homo-, co-, and terpolymers having at least one olefin-derived unit and at least one unit derived from vinyl alcohol, allyl alcohol and derivatives thereof.

Abstract: A membrane for implantation in soft tissue comprising a first domain that supports tissue ingrowth, disrupts contractile forces typically found in a foreign body response, encourages vascularity, and interferes with barrier cell layer formation, and a second domain that is resistant to cellular attachment, is impermeable to cells and cell processes, and allows the passage of analytes. The membrane allows for long-term analyte transport in vivo and is suitable for use as a biointerface for implantable analyte sensors, cell transplantation devices, drug delivery devices, and/or electrical signal delivering or measuring devices. The membrane architecture, including cavity size, depth, and interconnectivity, provide long-term robust functionality of the membrane in vivo.

Abstract: The present invention provides an implant material comprising an organic-inorganic complex porous article and a production method thereof. The organic-inorganic complex porous article is a biodegradable and bioabsorbable bioactive porous article in which a bioactive bioceramics powder is uniformly dispersed in a biodegradable and bioabsorbable polymer, wherein it has continuous pores and the bioceramics powder is partly exposed to the pore inner surface or the pore inner surface and the porous article surface.

Abstract: This invention provides a therapeutic agent for inhibiting neovascularization, a therapeutic agent for a solid cancer, a therapeutic agent for a disease pathologically caused by neovascularization, and a therapeutic agent for repairing a tissue comprising as the effective ingredient, a substance that potentiates the action of CXCR4. Based on the finding that vascularization is suppressed in CXCR4 knockout mice, it becomes possible to prepare a therapeutic agent for suppressing vascularization, a therapeutic agent for a solid cancer, a therapeutic agent for a disease pathologically caused by neovascularization, each of which comprises as the effective ingredient, a substance that inhibits the action of CXCR4, as well as to prepare a therapeutic agent for repairing a tissue comprising as the effective ingredient, a substance that potentiates the action of CXCR4. Methods for treatment are made possible that use these therapeutic agents.

Abstract: A hemostatic composition for stopping or decreasing blood flow from an open wound or medical or surgical procedure. Compositions of the invention comprise a mixture of a cationic polymer and a cation exchange material. In one embodiment, the composition comprises a mixture: (1) a high molecular weight copolymer of diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DADMAC) and acrylamide [DADMAC copolymer], and (2) the hydrogen form of a crosslinked, sulfonated polystyrene (hydrogen resin). In an exemplified embodiment, a composition of the invention comprises the mixture of DADMAC copolymer and hydrogen resin provided in a dry powdered form. The compositions of the invention may be applied directly to a wound or treatment site, or they may be incorporated into a wound dressing, such as a bandage. The seal formed at a wound or treatment site treated with the present invention is adhesive and exhibits considerable toughness.

Abstract: A biocompatible meniscal repair device is disclosed. The tissue repair device includes a scaffold adapted to be placed in contact with a defect in a meniscus, the scaffold comprising a high-density, dry laid nonwoven polymeric material and a biocompatible foam. The scaffold provides increased suture pull-out strength.

Abstract: The present application relates to expression constructs capable of securing correct processing of neuropeptides upon expression in mammalian cells, and to mammalian cells secreting correctly processed peptides. One exemplary peptide is galanin. The application also relates to devices containing neuropeptide secreting cells, which devices may be used for the treatment of epilepsy and other disorders of the nervous system. All references cited herein are incorporated by reference.

Abstract: The invention includes a medical hydrogel made from polymerized polysaccharide macromers. The macromers are preferably polysaccharides decorated with polymerizable groups, for example, methacrylates. The macromers may also be made into polymers of at least two macromers polymerized together. These polymers are preferably multi-armed or high-molecular weight and used for medical uses, for example, making coatings on medical devices. Macromers of N-vinylpyrrolidone are also disclosed herein.

Abstract: Generally, the present invention provides devices and methods for delivering high, efficacious concentrations of therapeutic agents, i.e., medicaments such as drugs, antibiotics, etc., to specific sites in a patient's body, such as tumors and infected lesions. In one aspect of the present invention there are provided devices to accomplish the aforesaid delivery of therapeutic agents and methods to accomplish the delivery by positioning a device in the body using minimally invasive techniques such as, for example, catheterization or via trochar. The devices may contain a carrier substrate and a coating on the substrate. The carrier substrate provides structural integrity to the device and the coating thereon contains at least one layer of polymeric material containing one or more medicaments. Optionally, there may be a non-medicated binder coat between the carrier substrate and the medicated polymer layer. The medicated polymer layer may contain a hydrophilic/hydrophobic polymer composition.

Abstract: The invention relates to a PMMA revision bone cement having powder and liquid component, in which the powder component contains two or more granular antibiotics whose grain size distribution is equal in that the main screening fraction each of the individual antibiotics is in the same grain size range, in particular in the range of 100-250 ?m or 150-250 ?m.

Abstract: Methods for treating cognitive/attention deficit disorders in general using tetrahydroindolone derivatives and analogues, particularly tetrahydroindolone derivatives or analogues in which the tetrahydroindolone derivative or analogue is covalently linked to another moiety to form a bifunctional conjugate are disclosed. More specifically, methods and compositions for treating attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders in adults and children as well as mild cognitive impairment and dementia are provided.

Abstract: This invention provides novel active agents (e.g. peptides, small organic molecules, amino acid pairs, etc.) peptides that ameliorate one or more symptoms of atherosclerosis and/or other pathologies characterized by an inflammatory response. In certain embodiment, the peptides resemble a G* amphipathic helix of apolipoprotein J. The agents are highly stable and readily administered via an oral route.

Abstract: This invention relates to stable non-aqueous single phase viscous vehicles and to formulations utilizing such vehicles. The formulations comprise at least one beneficial agent uniformly suspended in the vehicle. The formulation is capable of being stored at temperatures ranging from cold to body temperature for long periods of time. The formulations are capable of being uniformly delivered from drug delivery systems at an exit shear rate of between about 1 to 1×10?7 reciprocal second.

Abstract: The invention provides an implantable membrane for regulating the transport of analytes therethrough that includes a matrix including a first polymer; and a second polymer dispersed throughout the matrix, wherein the second polymer forms a network of microdomains which when hydrated are not observable using photomicroscopy at 400× magnification or less. In one aspect, the homogeneous membrane of the present invention has hydrophilic domains dispersed substantially throughout a hydrophobic matrix to provide an optimum balance between oxygen and glucose transport to an electrochemical glucose sensor.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method for restoring adhesive strength of an adhesive that has lost at least some of its adhesive strength includes applying a restoration agent to the adhesive. In one embodiment, a selectively-releasable adhesive includes a copolymer formed from a multifunctional alcohol and a multifunctional carboxylic acid, wherein the copolymer has been cured the equivalent of less than approximately 9 hours at approximately 120° C. and 100 milliTorr.

Abstract: The invention provides micronized encapsulated cell therapy devices that are capable of delivering a biologically active molecule to the eye. Also provided are methods of using the same to deliver biologically active molecules to the eye and to treat ophthalmic disorders in patients suffering there from.

Abstract: A drug delivery device that includes a capsule for implantation into the body; the capsule further includes a reservoir for containing a substance such as a therapeutic agent, at least one port for allowing the substance to diffuse from or otherwise exit the reservoir, and a nanopore membrane in communication with the capsule at or near the exit port for controlling the rate of diffusion of the substance from the exit port. The device also includes an optional screen for providing structural stability to the nanopore membrane and for keeping the pores of the nanopore membrane clear. One embodiment of the drug delivery device includes an osmotic engine internal to the device for creating fluid flow through the device.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for reducing, treating or preventing pain and/or inflammation in a patient in need of such treatment, the methods and compositions comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of a statin or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof to a target tissue site beneath the skin.

Abstract: Coatings for medical devices which include polycationic peptides such as L-arginine and methods for fabricating the coatings are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to microarray polymeric barriers designed to control the release rate of therapeutic agents. By varying the thickness of the coating or affecting, physically and/or chemically, the constituents of the barrier composition, the release profile of the underlying therapeutic agent can be modified and controlled.

Abstract: Coatings are provided in which surfaces may be activated by covalently bonding a combination ofsilane derivatives (A) to the metal surface, covalently bonding a lactone polymer (B) to the silane derivative by in situ ring opening polymerization, and depositing at least one layer of a polyester (C) on the bonded lactone polymer. Biologically active agents or therapeutic compounds may be deposited with any of the polyester layers. Such coated surfaces may be useful in medical devices, in particular stents.

Abstract: Flowable compositions and methods are provided for delivering a therapeutic agent at or near a target tissue site beneath the skin of a patient, the flowable composition comprising (i) a solvent, (ii) a polymer and (iii) an effective amount of the therapeutic agent, the flowable composition being capable of setting to form a substantially non-flowable composition at a physiological temperature or as the solvent contacts bodily fluid at or near the target tissue site, wherein the substantially non-flowable composition is capable of releasing the therapeutic agent over a period of at least one day and the target tissue site comprises at least one muscle, ligament, tendon, cartilage, spinal disc, spinal foraminal space near the spinal nerve root, facet or synovial joint, or spinal canal.

Abstract: Described herein are implant devices comprising at least one exposed biodegradable inner core surface, the inner core being surrounding partially by a membrane sheath which comprises a biocompatible polymer. A bioactive agent can be released from the inner core.

Abstract: Implantable biomaterials, particularly hydrogel substrates with porous surfaces, and methods for enhancing the compatibility of biomaterials with living tissue, and for causing physical attachment between biomaterials and living tissues are provided. Also provided are implants suitable for load-bearing surfaces in hard tissue repair, replacement, or augmentation, and to methods of their use. One embodiment of the invention relates to an implantable spinal disc prosthesis.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel implantable or insertable medical devices that provide controlled release of a therapeutic agent. According to an embodiment of the present invention, a therapeutic-agent-releasing medical device is provided, which comprises: (a) an implantable or insertable medical device; (b) a release layer disposed over at least a portion of the implantable or insertable medical device; and (c) a therapeutic agent. The release layer comprises a styrene copolymer and at least one additional polymer. The release layer regulates the rate of release of the therapeutic agent from the medical device upon implantation or insertion of the device into a patient. The present invention is also directed to methods of forming the above implantable or insertable medical devices, methods of administering a therapeutic agent to a patient using such devices, and methods of modulating the release of therapeutic agent from such devices.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for preparing a multicoloured poured cosmetic product, particularly a process for obtaining a multicoloured lipstick, gloss or cosmetic product for the eye contour area, as well as the products obtained by means of this process.

Abstract: According to one aspect of the invention, implantable or insertable medical devices are provided which can delay release of one or more therapeutic agents for a predetermined time after implantation in a subject. In various embodiments, a therapeutic agent delivery profile of this type is provided by employing a temporary barrier layer which initially permits little to no release of the therapeutic agent, but which layer permits much greater release levels after a predetermined period of time. Other aspects of the invention relate to methods of forming such devices and to methods of using such devices.

Abstract: An implantable medical device is disclosed having a plurality of smaller particles contained in a plurality of larger particles and configured to be released from the larger particles when the device is implanted in a patient. The smaller particles and the larger particles are made of bioabsorbable metal, glass or ceramic. A substance can be associated with the smaller particles. The larger particles can be embedded within at least a portion of the device.

Abstract: The common premise of synthetic implants in the restoration of diseased tissues and organs is to use inert and solid materials. Here, a porous titanium implant enables the delivery of microencapsulated bioactive cues. Control-released TGF?1 promoted the proliferation and migration of human mesenchymal stem cells into porous implants in vitro. Upon 4-wk implantation in the rabbit humerus, control-released TGF?1 from porous implants significantly increased BIC by 96% and bone ingrowth by 50% over placebos. Control-released 100 ng TGF?1 induced equivalent BIC and bone ingrowth to adsorbed 1 ?g TGF?1, suggesting that controlled release is effective at 10-fold less drug dose than adsorption. Histomorphometry, SEM and ?T showed that control-released TGF?1 enhanced bone ingrowth in the implant's pores and surface. These findings suggest that solid prostheses can be transformed into porous implants to serve as drug delivery carriers, from which control-released bioactive cues augment host tissue integration.

Abstract: A biointerface membrane for an implantable device including a nonresorbable solid portion with a plurality of interconnected cavities therein adapted to support tissue ingrowth in vivo, and a bioactive agent incorporated into the biointerface membrane and adapted to modify the tissue response is provided. The bioactive agents can be chosen to induce vascularization and/or prevent barrier cell layer formation in vivo, and are advantageous when used with implantable devices wherein solutes are transported across the device-tissue interface.

Abstract: A retrievable, sustained release, solid dosage form is provided for implanting into cranial bony canals and for prolonged release of an anesthetic, whereby treating neurovascular conditions, such as migraine. The dosage comprises an anesthetic contained in a polymeric carrier, and a retrieval member, the anesthetic being gradually released from the carrier.

Abstract: An appliance for the delivery of at least one bioactive agent to the eye has at least one diffusion attenuator within a hydrophilic or silicone-hydrogel contact lens. The bioactive agent can be a drug or a nutraceutical. The diffusion attenuator can be a plurality of solid particles or phase separated liquid aggregates within at least one continuous phase of the lens where the diffusion attenuators promote a tortuous path for the diffusion of the bioactive agent to mediate the rate by which the bioactive agent diffuses from the contact lens. The diffusion attenuator can be homogeneously dispersed throughout at least one continuous phase of the lens to modify the diffusivity of the bioactive agent through that phase. The diffusion attenuator can have little or no affinity for the bioactive agent or can be miscible with the bioactive agent. The diffusion attenuator can be incorporated while forming the contact lens by polymerization of a monomer mixture containing the diffusion attenuator.

Abstract: Scaleable, vascularised tissue constructs that are composed of a multiplicity of cell containing, discrete and separable modules, methods of fabricating same and uses thereof. The tissue construct is a tissue substitute used in tissue transplantation or substitution or for the purpose of in vitro mimic of normal tissue.

Abstract: Xerogel films on substrates are provided containing pharmaceutically active compounds. Articles incorporating such films are robust, release active compounds at predictable rates and may provide such release for relatively long periods of time. Orthopedic and trauma uses are indicated along with generalized use in contact with body fluids or as biological implants. Methods for fabrication of such films and devices are provided.

Abstract: Disclosed are implant compositions and methods for treatment of neurological diseases of the central nervous system of a mammal.

Abstract: The combination of pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has been discovered to act synergistically to enhance cell survival and decrease apoptosis in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. PEDF and DHA synergistically protected RPE cells by confronted with oxidative stress by blocking apoptotic cell death and increasing the synthesis of the important mediator neuroprotectin D 1. Administering a composition comprising PEDF and DHA will halt or slow down the initiation and progression of macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa and retinal degeneration. In addition, the topical application of the combination of PEDF and DHA was found to promote cornea nerve regeneration after refractive surgery, and thus this combination could be used to prevent the complications of refractive surgery and certain diseases, e.g., neurotrophic keratitis due to Herpes virus.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for the biological repair of cartilage using a hybrid construct combining both an inert structure and living core are described. The inert structure is intended to act not only as a delivery system to feed and grow a living core component, but also as an inducer of cell differentiation. The inert structure comprises concentric internal and external and inflatable/expandable balloon-like bio-polymers. The living core comprises the cell-matrix construct comprised of HDFs, for example, seeded in a scaffold. The method comprises surgically removing a damaged cartilage from a patient and inserting the hybrid construct into the cavity generated after the foregoing surgical intervention. The balloons of the inert structure are successively inflated within the target area, such as a joint, for example. Also disclosed herein are methods for growing and differentiating human fibroblasts into chondrocyte-like cells via mechanical strain.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for implantation in the subretinal space of an eye, the composition including amniotic membrane, which may be cryopreserved human amniotic membrane, and a plurality of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells or RPE equivalent cells present at the amniotic membrane. The amniotic membrane may be intact, epithelially denuded, or otherwise treated. The invention includes the use of amniotic membrane for the culturing of RPE cells thereon, forming a surgical graft for replacement of Bruch's membrane as a substrate, and for the transplanting of RPE cells to the subretinal space. The composition does not elicit immunological reactions to alloantigens or to RPE specific autoantigens; and exerts anti-inflammatory, and angiogentic, and anti-scarring effects. The invention includes methods and kits for making or using composites including amniotic membrane and RPE cells. Also disclosed is a device for harvesting RPE cells.

Abstract: A method of creating tolerance to transplanted cells, tissue, or organs without the need for continuous immunosuppression. A tolerizing dose of a cell or tissue within a membrane structure is implanted into a patient. Once the patient becomes tolerant to the cell or tissue, a tissue or organ is implanted which will no longer be recognized as foreign matter. The method makes animal organs practical for human use, prevents autoimmune destruction as well as immune rejection. It has applications in treatment and prevention of many mammalian diseases.

Abstract: A micro-scale artificial gland is disclosed in the form of an independent unit for promoting biological activity. The artificial gland includes cells formed in a membrane enclosing a reservoir. The reservoir is a bio-reactor capable of containing a product of activity of the cells. The reservoir comprises a gas, a liquid, and a gel and preferably also contains nanoparticles, a buffer, a surfactant, and, a gel precursor. The reservoir may also contain cells. Nanoparticles may also surround the artificial gland to form a protective coating. A variety of methods are disclosed for making the artificial gland by directed assembly of cells into the artificial micro-gland by gel, liquid or bubble templating. All involve coating the surface of gel, droplet or bubble with the living cells and the stabilizing the cells on the surface of gels, droplets or bubbles.

Abstract: This invention relates to devices and methods for the local, differential delivery of nitric oxide within the body. The devices include devices having at least two differing nitric oxide donor compounds, such as nitric oxide donor compounds having differing half-lives and nitric oxide donor compounds having different release mechanisms. The devices also include devices having at least two chemically distinct compositions to which nitric oxide donor compounds are adsorbed or attached or within which the donor compounds are disposed. The devices are typically used to increase local nitric oxide concentration in the body upon placement of the medical article at a delivery position on or within a patient.

Abstract: A bio-membrane with angiogenic activity for implant in tissue regeneration and repair, including bone reconstruction and the repair of skin and soft tissue lesions is described, essentially constituted by a gel able to provide support and growth and/or differentiation and/or angiogenic factors for the full in vivo functionality of the cell, containing also mesenchymal stem/precursor cells, an implant device for reconstructive surgery of bone tissue, of skin and soft tissue lesions which comprises the bio-membrane, and a method for its obtainment. Use of the gel alone for tissue regeneration and of adhesive plasters that comprise it is also described.

Abstract: Various methods and devices are provided for providing therapy to a living body. In one embodiment, an implanted permeable container has living cells provided therein, and various nutrients and/or agents are provided into the container to promote cell life.

Abstract: Methods using PEG-PE micelles for the local delivery of substantially water insoluble drugs and bioactive agents are disclosed.

Abstract: Composite biomaterials (e.g., for use as orthopedic implants), as well as methods of preparing composite biomaterials, are disclosed. The composite biomaterial includes a matrix (e.g., a continuous phase) comprising a thermoplastic, a calcium phosphate composition that is curable in vivo, or combinations thereof. The composite biomaterial also includes an isometric calcium phosphate reinforcement particles which are dispersed within the matrix.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to implantable devices for producing insulin in diabetic animals and to methods of making same. Some embodiments include amphiphilic biomembranes for use in biological applications (e.g., as an alternative and/or supplemental insulin source). Some embodiments also include live insulin-producing cells contained within one or more amphiphilic membranes so as to prevent or diminish an immuno-response and/or rejection by the host.

Abstract: It has been discovered that improved yields of engineered tissue following implantation, and engineered tissue having enhanced mechanical strength and flexibility or pliability, can be obtained by implantation, preferably subcutaneously, of a fibrous polymeric matrix for a period of time sufficient to obtain ingrowth of fibrous tissue and/or blood vessels, which is the removed for subsequent implantation at the site where the implant is desired. The matrix is optionally seeded prior to the first implantation, after ingrowth of the fibrous tissue, or at the time of reimplantation. The time required for fibrous ingrowth typically ranges from days to weeks. The method is particularly useful in making valves and tubular structures, especially heart valves and blood vessels.

Abstract: The present invention provides a denatured albumin lamina, useful for repairing lesions on solid visceral organs. The lamina comprises human serum albumin, formed into a thin, pliant sheet and denatured. The denatured lamina can be sterilized and stored until used. As well, it can be impregnated with a variety of bioagents. A method for repairing a lesion on a solid visceral organ includes applying an energy-absorbing proteinaceous material to a lesion site on the solid visceral organ lesion; irradiating the proteinaceous material with energy sufficient to fuse the energy-absorbing material at least partially to the lesion site; applying a biocompatible denatured albumin lamina onto the proteinaceous material on the lesion site; and irradiating the biocompatible albumin lamina and the proteinaceous material with energy sufficient to fuse the biocompatible albumin lamina to the proteinaceous material and/or the lesion site.