Abstract: Methods for improving quality of life and/or increasing activity in an aging and/or chronically ill mammal via administration of a composition of egg powder protein are provided.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a flowable hemostatic paste comprising a crosslinked carboxymethyl cellulose and at least one non-toxic dispersant. More specifically the present invention relates to a hemostatic paste containing citric acid cross-linked CMC, which is suspended or dispersed as a powder in a mixture of a first non-toxic glycerol-containing hygroscopic dispersant and a second non-toxic alcohol functionalized dispersant comprising propylene glycol or 1,3-butanediol.

Abstract: It is an object to provide a therapeutic material for a skin ulcer which has excellent therapeutic effects on intractable skin ulcers such as decubitus ulcers with pockets and huge decubitus ulcers. By applying the therapeutic material for decubitus ulcers consisting of a fibrous material holding an antibiotic and a cell proliferation accelerator therein which is formed into an approximately spherical shape to a site of decubitus in a state in which a defect extending to the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, muscle or bone occurs, it is possible to treat critical skin ulcers such as intractable decubitus ulcers with pockets and huge intractable decubitus ulcers, as well as to treat not only relatively mild decubitus classified as stage II according to the US National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP) staging system, i.e.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides programmable osmotic-controlled oral compositions providing delayed extended release of a therapeutically acceptable amount of methylphenidate hydrochloride. The programmable osmotic-controlled compositions of the disclosure provide a lag time that is independent of the presence or absence of food, type of food, pH, gastric emptying, and volume of gastric fluid. The compositions of the disclosure can be programmed to provide a desired and precise lag time, and release drug, after the lag time, at a rhythm that matches the circadian rhythm of an individual being treated to optimize therapeutic outcome and minimize side effects.

Abstract: Implantable devices and methods for delivery of lidocaine or other drugs to a patient are provided. In one embodiment, the device includes a first drug portion which has a first drug housing which contains a first drug formulation in a solid form which includes a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of lidocaine; and a second drug portion which includes a second drug housing which contains a second drug formulation which includes lidocaine base. In another embodiment, the device includes a drug reservoir component which has an elastic tube having at least one lumen bounded by a porous sidewall having an open-cell structure, a closed-cell structure, or a combination thereof; and a drug formulation contained within the at least one lumen, wherein the device is deformable between a low-profile deployment shape and a relatively expanded retention shape.

Abstract: A method for labeling urine in a subject using fluorophores is provided that allows for determining if a urine sample originates from the subject that accepted the administered fluorophore. The method discloses detection of the fluorophore in the urine sample with optical means. One suitable fluorophore is fluorescein sodium. The method may be suitable for ensuring that urine samples for drug, illicit substance or other substance tests are genuine.

Abstract: A drug delivery device is provided that includes a device body, a number of solid, compressed drug tablets, and a retention frame. The device body includes a drug reservoir lumen and a retention frame lumen. The number of solid, compressed drug tablets are positioned in the drug reservoir lumen, and the retention frame is positioned in the retention frame lumen. The drug tablets may be mini-tablets aligned in the drug reservoir lumen, with an interstice formed between any two adjacent drug tablets facilitating deformation of the device body. Systems and method are also provided for loading a drug delivery device. In one embodiment, the method includes positioning one or more solid drug units upstream of the drug delivery device; and driving the drug units into the drug delivery device with a flow of pressurized gas.

Abstract: The present invention relates to liquid application for skin rejuvenation created from specific amino acids, lipids, nucleic acids and vitamins. This collection of molecules delivers precisely the factors necessary to a specific site requiring healing; a direct intervention system to most expeditiously remodel skin with building blocks. This delivery is a transdermal topical delivery and healing is via specific molecules that engender a false autocoid reaction rapidly followed by an incremental healing-anti-inflammatory response augmented by very specific GRAS ingredients in the invention and also recruited from the body to this needy site. Energy is brought to site by transdermally delivered protons and enhanced by the local vascular flow initiated by transdermal molecules. This delivery system bypasses digestion and dilution. Key is a lipophilic carrier with nuclear and mitochondrial ligands that rapidly penetrate and permeate all membranes and truncates the inflammatory site quickly manifesting curation.

Abstract: Disclosed is a gelatin-based nanoparticle complex for tumor-targeted delivery of siRNA for specific gene silencing in tumor cells. The gelatin-based nanoparticle complex includes: poly-siRNA chains whose ends are modified with thiol groups; and thiolated gelatin bound to the poly-siRNA chains through disulfide crosslinking and charge interactions. The gelatin-based nanoparticle complex is not degraded in the bloodstream and can be efficiently absorbed into tumor cells without cytotoxicity. The delivered siRNA can effectively silence target gene expression. Also disclosed is a method for preparing the gelatin-based nanoparticle complex.

Abstract: Disclosed are cosmetic compositions and methods for making up keratinous tissue using the compositions, as well as methods of making the compositions. The compositions contain a photoluminescent polymer (PLP) which is an oligomeric polyester synthesized from a multifunctional monomer and a diol, and which has grafted thereon an amino acid or an amino acid derivative. The compositions achieve a colorizing and/or UV-protectant effect when applied to keratinous tissue.

Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter provides a scalable and electrostretching approach for generating microfibers exhibiting uniaxial alignment from polymer solutions. Such microfibers can be generated from a variety of natural polymers or synthetic polymers. The hydrogel microfibers can be used for controlled release of bioactive agents. The internal uniaxial alignment exhibited by the presently disclosed fibers provides improved mechanical properties to microfibers, contact guidance cues and induces alignment for cells seeded on or within the microfibers.

Abstract: Biomaterials that support cell attachment and growth are provided. In one aspect, biomaterials are provided comprising a first polymer matrix comprising reactive amino moieties and a second polymer matrix that interpenetrates with the first polymer matrix, where the second polymer matrix comprises a poly(alkylene oxide) comprising two or more alkylene oxide oligomers joined by gamma-thioether carbonyl linkages. In another aspect, biomaterials are provided comprising at least one biopolymer comprising amino groups, thiol groups, and bifunctional modifiers connecting at least some of the amino groups to at least some of the thiol groups; and at least one poly(alkylene oxide) cross-linked to at least two thiol groups of the biopolymer. The biomaterials may further comprise a pharmacologically active agent or cells. Methods of administering such biomaterials to a patient in need thereof are also provided.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a hydrogel composition and methods of using the same. The hydrogel composition may include precursors that react with each other upon contact as well as precursors that react upon contact with an initiator. In embodiments, the resulting hydrogels may have varying levels of crosslinking with both denser and less dense regions.

Abstract: A drug composition in a liquid form sealed within a soft capsule containing succinylated gelatin as a principal component thereof, the composition including (a) one kind of phenol derivative or a mixture of multiple kinds thereof and (b) a succinylated-gelatin insolubilizing agent; and a soft capsule drug including a capsule shell containing succinylated gelatin as a principal component thereof, the shell sealing therein a drug composition in a liquid form including (a) one kind of phenol derivative or a mixture of multiple kinds thereof; and (b) a succinylated-gelatin insolubilizing agent.

Abstract: The present invention relates to new acid resistant hard pharmaceutical capsules, a process for their manufacture and use of such capsules particularly but not exclusively for oral administration of pharmaceuticals, veterinary products, food and dietary supplements to humans or animals. The capsules of the invention are obtained by aqueous compositions comprising a water soluble film forming polymer and gellan gum in a mutual weight ratio of 4 to 15 weight parts of gellan gum for 100 weight parts of film forming polymer.

Abstract: An extrusion process comprises extruding a material that is flowable when heated and passing the extrudate thus formed through a nozzle 10 to shape the extrudate into a plurality of substantially uniformly shaped elements such as minispheres or minicapsules.

Abstract: Disclosed is a dry composition, which upon addition of an aqueous medium forms a substantially homogenous paste suitable for use in haemostasis procedures. The paste forms spontaneously upon addition of the liquid, hence no mechanical mixing is required for said paste to form. Further disclosed are methods of preparing said dry composition, a paste made from said dry composition and use of said paste for medical and surgical purposes.

Abstract: Oral insulin formulations and processes for preparing oral insulin formulations are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates a biopolymeric liquid aqueous composition for producing self-gelling systems and gels, which comprises: an acidic water-based medium, 0.1 to 10% by weight of a pH-gelling acid-soluble biopolymer; and 0.1 to 10% by weight of a water-soluble molecule having a basic character and a pKa between 6.0 and 8.4, or a water-soluble residue or sequence of the molecule having a basic character and a pKa between 6.0 and 8.4. The liquid composition has a final pH ranging from 5.8 and 7.4, and forms a stable solid and homogeneous gel within a temperature range from 10 to 70° C. The present invention also relates to a method for preparing the composition and uses thereof.

Abstract: A scaffold for vascular endothelial cell migration includes a recombinant gelatin having an amino acid sequence derived from a partial amino acid sequence of collagen. A method for producing a blood vessel uses this scaffold.

Abstract: The invention provides methods, compositions and kits relating to hyaluronan based matrices using oxidized glutathione as a crosslinking agent.

Abstract: Micronutrient combination product, wherein the micronutrient combination product comprises zeaxanthin, lutein, zinc and copper.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods useful in the treatment of wounds, particularly in reducing or preventing scar formation, particularly hypertrophic scar or keloid formation. The invention thus further provides methods of treatment, including methods useful in hypertrophic scar or keloid revision as well as prophylactic, scar inhibiting methods.

Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a targeting agent that enables drug delivery to a neovascular site and the imaging of such a neovascular site, utilizing the effect of the agent to accumulate in the neovascular site. The present invention provides a targeting agent to a neovascular site, which comprises a gelatin-like protein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to protein matrix materials and devices and the methods of making and using protein matrix materials and devices. More specifically the present invention relates to protein matrix materials and devices that may be utilized for various medical applications including, but not limited to, drug delivery devices for the controlled release of pharmacologically active agents, encapsulated or coated stent devices, vessels, tubular grafts, vascular grafts, wound healing devices including protein matrix suture material and meshes, skin/bone/tissue grafts, biocompatible electricity conducting matrices, clear protein matrices, protein matrix adhesion prevention barriers, cell scaffolding and other biocompatible protein matrix devices. Furthermore, the present invention relates to protein matrix materials and devices made by forming a film comprising one or more biodegradable protein materials, one or more biocompatible solvents and optionally one or more pharmacologically active agents.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a crosslinked gelatin support, in which a surface of a crosslinked gelatin is negatively charged and has a zeta potential in ethanol of from ?3 to ?50 mV, and a support for controlled release of a physiologically active substance, including: the crosslinked gelatin support; and a physiologically active substance adsorbed and retained on and/or inside the crosslinked gelatin support.

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 process for forming a personal care article, the process including (a) producing an extrudate from a twin screw extruder, and (b) forming the extrudate into the personal care article. The personal care article includes (i) from about 10% to about 60% of one or more anionic surfactants, wherein the one or more anionic surfactants have a Krafft point of less than 30° C.; (ii) from about 10% to about 50% of one or more water soluble polymers; (iii) from about 1% to about 30% of one or more plasticizers; and (iv) from about 10% to about 50% water.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a hyaluronic acid epoxide derivative film comprises a polymer containing a hydroxyl (—OH) terminal group. The film is prepared by allowing an epoxy crosslinker to react with a mixture of hyaluronic acid and a polymer containing a hydroxyl (—OH) terminal group and has improved physical strength, in vivo stability, flexibility, adhesiveness to biological tissue, and biocompatibility.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a hydrogel composition and methods of using the same. The hydrogel composition may include precursors that react with each other upon contact as well as precursors that react upon contact with an initiator. In embodiments, the resulting hydrogels may have varying levels of crosslinking with both denser and less dense regions.

Abstract: The present invention belongs to the biomedicine field and specifically concerns an enzyme-degradable polymer and the application thereof. To solve the problem of low sensitivity of the existing assay reagents, the present invention provides an enzyme-degradable polymer and the related application of the polymer. The present invention also provides hydrogels, nano-particles, fluorescent dye-labeled enzyme substrates and kits (packages) for detection or activity-analysis of biological enzymes based on the enzyme-degradable polymer. The formula of the enzyme-degradable polymer is P1-(aa)N-(AA)n-X X=[formula 1] wherein, (aa)N is a non-enzyme substrate domain, the N aa may be different (no correlation), and N is a non-negative integer; (AA)n is an enzyme substrate domain, the n AA may be different, and n is a non-negative integer; P1 is a protecting group of ?-amino or functional group; P2 is a protecting group of ?-amino; P3 is —NH2, a small molecule compound or a fragment of a polymer.

Abstract: A process for producing a composition containing biologically active follistatin from a biological source, which composition is preserved and, especially pathogen free and is storage stable, preferably at room temperature. Further, the invention relates to the composition containing biologically active follistatin, which composition is available by the production process. The invention provides a process for producing a composition containing biologically active follistatin from avian eggs, or from raw animal blood serum.

Abstract: This invention relates to the production of biomaterials from polymeric collagen (PC) and its seeding with cells and other components of biomaterials. Polymeric collagen is isolated from tissue, suspended in an acidic solution, and then neutralized at low temperature. The neutralized suspension is then seeded with biomaterial components, such as cells, and the polymeric collagen aggregated to form a biomaterial comprising the biomaterial components. Polymeric collagen biomaterials produced as described herein may therefore be useful in a range of tissue engineering applications.

Abstract: A continuous process for the preparation of gelatin based nanoparticles in a reactor having a process channel having a mixing element therein, the process having the following steps: A) feeding separately an aqueous gelatin solution at a first rate and a water-miscible organic solvent at a second rate to the process channel of the reactor to be mixed therein, to form a suspension of non-crosslinked gelatin based nanoparticles and B) crosslinking the non-crosslinked gelatin based nanoparticles, wherein the sum of the first rate and the second rate is chosen such that the reactor has a mixing efficiency as determined by the Villermaux/Dushman method of between 0.1 and 1.5 and the period from the time point at which the aqueous gelatin solution is fed to the reactor to the time point at which the mixture of the aqueous gelatin solution and the organic solvent contacts the mixing element is at most 15 seconds.

Abstract: Hydrogels based on gelatin crosslinked with N,N?-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) are disclosed. The hydrogels according to the invention are useful for cell culture, growth and proliferation, for the controlled release of bioactive molecules, and to promote tissue regeneration.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an anti-adhesion membrane that has no toxicity to a living body, has flexibility allowing itself to fit an affected part as a hydrated gel, is uniformly crosslinked, and is immediately absorbed in a living body after maintaining its shape in the living body for a certain period of time. The present invention provides anti-adhesion material, which comprises a thermally crosslinked gelatin film, and has a water content of 60 to 85% calculated by the following formula (1): water content (%)=[(Ws?Wd)/Ws]×100(%)??(1), in the formula (1), Ws representing a weight (wet weight) of the anti-adhesion material immersed in a phosphate buffered saline solution at a temperature of 25° C. for one hour, and Wd representing a weight (dry weight) of the anti-adhesion material dried completely using a vacuum drying apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention provides: a soft capsule preparation which includes a self-emulsifying composition containing an oily component, an emulsifier, 8% by mass to 20% by mass of a polyhydric alcohol and 2.5% by mass to 5% by mass of water, and a capsule film containing 35% by mass to 50% by mass of a polyhydric alcohol and gelatin, in which capsule film the above-described self-emulsifying composition is encapsulated; a method of producing the soft capsule preparation; a composition for a soft capsule preparation, which is an intermediate product of the soft capsule preparation; and a self-emulsifying composition and a capsule film composition that are used in the composition for a soft capsule preparation.

Abstract: Provided is an adhesion preventing medical material including a bioresorbable base material and a polyhydric alcohol or aqueous polyhydric alcohol solution, which contains the polyhydric alcohol, held in the bioresorbable base material. The bioresorbable base material includes a bioresorbable material, and has a swelling degree of 200 to 3,000 mass % and a water elution rate of not higher than 10 mass %. After immersed for 3 hours in water of 25° C. in an amount at least 50 times a total mass of the aqueous polyhydric alcohol solution or aqueous polyhydric alcohol solution and the bioresorbable base material, the polyhydric alcohol remains in an amount of not greater than 30 mass % of that of the polyhydric alcohol before the immersion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a chewable soft capsule shell and a chewable soft capsule, and to a filled jelly sweet and a process for preparing a chewable soft capsule shell or filled jelly sweet, wherein the chewable soft capsule shell comprises gelatin 10%-50%, water retention agent 10%-40%, thickening agent 2%-20%, water 6%-20%, and said soft capsule shell has a thickness of 0.3-1.2 mm.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a small-sized light-stabilized soft capsule formulation, which has a shell that ensures effective light shielding of an active ingredient encapsulated thereby. The present invention provides a light-stabilized soft capsule formulation comprising a shell containing a non-water-soluble light-shielding agent and having an average thickness of 200 ?m or less, and a medicament encapsulated by the shell.

Abstract: Methods for evaluating and treating patients for dysphagia are provided. In a general embodiment, the method comprises screening the patient for dysphagia symptoms, diagnosing and categorizing the dysphagia if the patient exceeds a threshold of dysphagia symptoms, choosing the proper dysphagia treatment product based the patient's dysphagia, and giving the patient preparation instructions for the dysphagia treatment product.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to topical compositions, comprising isoflavone nanoparticle compositions. The isoflavone nanoparticle compositions contain isoflavone in the form of nanoparticles and preferably a carrier. In the topical compositions recrystallization of the isoflavone to bigger particles is avoided.

Abstract: Gastric resistant film-forming compositions are described herein. The composition comprises a gastric resistant natural polymer, a film-forming natural polymer, and optionally a gelling agent. Suitable gastric resistant natural polymers include polysaccharides such as pectin and pectin-like polymers. The film-forming composition can be used to prepare soft or hard shell gelatin capsules which can encapsulate a liquid or semi-solid fill material or a solid tablet (Softlet®) comprising an active agent and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients. Alternatively, the composition can be administered as a liquid with an active agent dissolved or dispersed in the composition. The compositions are not only gastric resistant but may also prevent gastric reflux associated with odor causing liquids, such as fish oil or garlic oil, encapsulated in a unit dosage form and esophageal irritation due to the reflux of irritant drugs delivered orally.

Abstract: Improved compositions for tissue augmentation are provided. These compositions comprise an amount of crosslinked material sufficient to provide a melt temperature (Tm) greater than 37 C, wherein microparticles can be substantially uniformly dispersed and maintained at ambient room temperature as well as body temperature. Said compositions also provide high shear moduli, sufficient to effectively deliver microparticles into dense tissue and narrow intersticial spaces without significant disruption to the homogeneous distribution of microparticles within the solution. The provided compositions can be stored and shipped at room temperature without significant detriment to the material composition. Additional embodiments include a system for delivery of tissue augmentation materials and methods of manufacture thereof.

Abstract: A kit and method for compounding medicated treats for pet animals includes a first compound, a second compound, a mold assembly, and a blister pack subkit. The first compound includes an edible binding agent for the medicated treat. The second compound includes a nutritional supplement. The first compound and the second compound are admixed together with an auxiliary ingredient, which admixture is formed into the medicated treats using the mold assembly. The mold assembly includes at least a mold plate, a base plate, and a pair of mold clamps. The kit may also include an extractor to facilitate removal of medicated treats from the mold assembly. The blister pack subkit includes a blister pack for receiving the medicated treats, and an adhesive backing for sealing the medicated treats within the blister pack.

Abstract: Compositions for an oral delivery vehicle are described as well as methods for their manufacture and administration. The oral delivery vehicles can be made in any size or shape and can further comprise a medicament or other substance or object to be orally delivered. The vehicle can, for example, take the form of a pouch or capsule. Alternatively, a medicament or other substance to be orally delivered can be coated with the composition. In another alternative, the medicament or other substance to be orally delivered can be dispersed within a matrix of the composition. The compositions for the oral delivery vehicle are also suitable for use as an animal food or treat or use as a hunting bait or lure.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved method of administering a medicinal, dental or nutritional agent to a non-human animal, such as a domesticated dog or cat. The method comprises mixing a liquid composition in a mixer at various speeds and pressures for a period of time; pouring the liquid composition onto a conveyor belt propelled by polymer rollers, wherein the polymer rollers allow the components to advance on the conveyor belt without adhering to the belt; evenly distributing the composition on the belt with the use of a knife; heating the composition in one or more hot-air chambers; obtaining a film comprised of the composition; cutting the film into strips; and then administering one or more of the strips to the non-human animal by placing the strip under the tongue of the animal, i.e., by sub-lingual administration.

Abstract: Electrospun scaffolds crosslinked with acrylates and methods of making the same are provided. Because the cross-linking linking is carried out under mild conditions, biologically active agents are incorporated into the scaffolds in a facile manner.

Abstract: A method for use of a double-structured tissue implant or a secondary scaffold stand alone implant for treatment of tissue defects. The double-structured tissue implant comprising a primary scaffold and a secondary scaffold consisting of a soluble collagen solution in combination with a non-ionic surfactant generated and positioned within the primary scaffold. A method of use of a stand alone secondary scaffold implant or unit for treatment of tissue defects.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a hyaluronic acid epoxide derivative film comprises a polymer containing a hydroxyl (—OH) terminal group. The film is prepared by allowing an epoxy crosslinker to react with a mixture of hyaluronic acid and a polymer containing a hydroxyl (—OH) terminal group and has improved physical strength, in vivo stability, flexibility, adhesiveness to biological tissue, and biocompatibility.