Abstract: A kit for generating a biological sample from a discharge emitted from a portion of a body includes an absorbent pad for deploying adjacent to the portion of the body and a portable device for preserving and/or pre-processing the sample. The pad includes a sampling membrane configured to retain at least one biological material. The portable device has a housing formed from a base portion and lid portion which together define a sealable sample chamber for receiving the sampling membrane. An injector device is configured to be activated by closing of the lid portion to inject sample extracting solution into the sample chamber.

Abstract: An intra-vaginal self-administered cell collecting device and method includes inserting a tampon-like telescoping tube intra-vaginally. The tube includes an expandable preformed absorbent member having a textured cover. The absorbent member also includes a retrieval member extending therefrom. The tube is manipulated to expel the absorbent member intra-vaginally. The tube is removed and the absorbent member is retained intra-vaginally for a period of time. The absorbent member is retained from expanding from its preform when exposed to vaginal fluids by means of a cover on the absorbent material. The cover also captures soughed-off cells in the vaginal fluids. The absorbent material is retrieved manually by the retrieval member.

Abstract: An ear cleaner device for cleaning the wax and dirt from a user's ear. The ear cleaner device includes an elongate flexible support member; and also includes a pair of conical-shaped ear cleaning members being attached to the elongate flexible support member and being adapted to clean a user's ear canal.

Abstract: An implement used for personal hygiene by an obese or impaired person includes an elongated handle having a curving blade covered with an absorbent wiping cover, stroked by the user gripping the handle with the covered blade pressed against the person's anal-genital body regions.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for use in removing liquid from under a corneal flap generated during LASIK surgery. The apparatus comprises a handle, a sickle-shaped end coupled to the handle, the sickle-shaped end having a concave and a convex portion, and a sponge coupled with the concave portion of the sickle-shaped end, extending along the convex portion thereof, and being shaped substantially similarly to the sickle-shaped end. The sickle-shaped end extends from approximately 180° to 270°, or any other desired part of a circle and may have sponge on one or both sides thereof. The radius of the sickle-shaped end is the same or slightly larger than the diameter of a corneal flap generated during LASIK surgery so that when the apparatus is placed adjacent the cornea of a patient about the corneal flap, liquid is wicked from thereunder without requiring any contact with the corneal flap.

Abstract: Myocardial revascularization catheters and methods are provided herein. Catheters in accord with the present invention may include an outer shaft and an inner shaft where the inner shaft may be slidably and rotatably disposed in the outer shaft and the distal movement of the inner shaft may be arrested by the engagement of stops and catches located within the inner and outer shaft Methods in accord with the current invention may include providing a therapeutic, providing a radiopaque contrast media, injecting the therapeutic through a lumen into the myocardium of the heart, and injecting the radiopaque contrast media through a lumen into myocardium of the heart. In this example, the location of the injection the radiopaque material may be chosen to indicate the injection point of the injection of the therapeutic.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a blood aspiration system that is configured to enable various types of aspiration through a working lumen of a catheter. The blood aspiration system facilitates natural aspiration by providing a circuit between a patient's arterial and venous vasculature, and also comprises a manually actuated pump configured to selectively vary rates of aspiration in the working lumen. The blood aspiration system further comprises an external port that allows suction-assisted aspiration or infusion through the working lumen, and further comprises a detachable filter that removes emboli prior to reperfusing blood into a patient's venous vasculature.

Abstract: A liquid applicator includes an elongated hollowing body having opposed first and second open ends in fluid communication with one another, and a tip attached to the first open end and including a porous material. A closed, frangible ampule is supported within the second open end of the body and contains a liquid to be disposed.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel polymers derivatized with at least one —SNO group per 1200 atomic mass unit of the polymer. In one embodiment, the S-nitrosylated polymer has stabilized —S-nitrosyl groups. In another embodiment the S-nitrosylated polymer prepared by polymerizing a compound represented by the following structural formula: R is an organic radical. Each X′ is an independently chosen aliphatic group or substituted aliphatic group. Preferably, each X′ is the same and is a C2-C6 alkylene group, more preferably —CH2—, —CH2CH2—, —CH2CH2CH2— or —CH2CH2CH2CH2—. p and m are independently a positive integer such that p+m is greater than two. The polymers of the present invention can be used to coat medical devices to deliver nitric oxide in vivo to treatment sites.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cosmetic applicator for applying a cosmetic product having an applicator body with a first longitudinal axis and defining external and internal walls. The internal walls of the present invention define at least one internal member having a second longitudinal axis and capable of movement between a retracted first position and a second projected position. The internal member of the present invention provides the consumer with one application surface adapted to apply relatively small amounts of one or more cosmetic products.

Abstract: The invention relates to cotton buds and to swabs for medical use. The inventive buds or swabs are characterized in that they are extruded and provided with a continuous inner web. Said inner web may be linked with the inner surface of the buds or swabs by webs that are produced of the same material. The invention provides buds or swabs that are slightly less rigid while guaranteeing good working properties and a good usability. At the same time, their weight and the material required is considerably reduced.

Abstract: An attachment means is disclosed for reliably and securely attaching cotton, sponge, or other absorbent materials to the ends of cotton swabs tubes. The attachment means comprises of an enlarged contact surface that provides increased friction as well as increased physical resistance to retain the cotton, sponge, or other absorbent material to the ends of the cotton swab tubes. The simple design may be economically incorporated into existing manufacturing process with minimal modification of the manufacturing process.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel applicator for topical anesthetics and a method using said novel applicator which provides for pain-free injections in mucosa by the application of a topical anesthetic followed by an injection limited to penetrate the mucosa only to the extent of penetration of the topical anesthetic. The method is accomplished by applying a topical anesthetic to the desired mucosal area by means of a novel applicator swab, comprising a handle on which is attached an absorbent material and an abrasive portion. The swab is dipped in topical anesthetic and placed at the desired oral location, where the abrasive portion is used to mildly abrade the oral mucosa. The application of the topical is then followed with an injection which penetrates the tissues only to the extent of penetration of the topical anesthetic.

Abstract: A substance applying apparatus for applying a substance to an application location. An application element having a wetting body is partially received in an inner tube and the inner tube is received in an outer tube. A fluid connection between the inner space of the inner tube and the inner space of the outer tube is produced by the application of pressure on the substance applying apparatus. The inner tube is comprised of a softer material than the outer tube and at least the bottom of the inner tube is deformable upon the application of pressure on the substance applying apparatus.

Abstract: An energy filtering system including an energy filtering material provided between a radioactive material and a treatment target such that radioactive energy is filtered. In a preferred embodiment, the filtering material is provided as a thin-walled layer, such as a micro-foil, mesh, helically wound spring, film, coating or stackable right-angle disks, among others, at one or more locations between the radioactive source and a treatment target, to filter the radiation energy during treatment. The filtering material may be a high-density material, such as platinum, applied or incorporated in a supporting structure between the radioactive material and the treatment target. The supporting structure may include a catheter having a treatment end, a source wire movable within the catheter, a stent or indeed, any structure positionable between a source of radiation and a treatment site.

Abstract: A multifunctional device for use in an endoscopically performed operative procedure of the type where a narrow portal is established through the skin to provide access to an operative site and the multifunctional device is introduced to the operative site through the narrow portal. The multifunctional device is formed of an absorbent material, preferably expandable, having a substantially rigid dry state prior to introduction to the operative site and a soft, flexible wet state after absorbing fluids. The absorbent material can be formed with a spine therein and the spine can be branched and tubular or solid. The multifunctional device can have a passage therethrough to accommodate laser, electrosurgical, biopsy or culturing instruments.

Abstract: A disposable kit for achieving and maintaining clean and healthy tissue in body piercing sites on the human body including the eyebrow, chin, nose, mouth, tongue, navel, nipples, and private parts, by cleaning, sterilizing and applying an antiseptic and antibacterial solution. Prevents body piercing complications most often related to the absence of a suitable sterile environment, e.g., using piercing tools or instruments that are not sterile, or the insertion of non-sterile or contaminated appliances, rings, hooks, or whatever device or product is inserted into the pierced cavity. Designed to prevent problems such as irritation, soreness, and closure of the desired pierced opening, which results from contamination, and the absence of a proper sterile and aseptic cleaning kit.

Abstract: A container and applicator assembly includes an applicator with a handle and a dispensing tip, and a container with a chamber that detachably receives at least part of the applicator. The container has an inner surface with a plurality of protrusions that extend in the chamber along side portions of the tip. The protrusions facilitate distribution of the composition across the tip and also help to prevent unintentional movement of the composition to other areas.

Abstract: The medical instrument for the application of liquids to teeth includes a handle portion and a treating portion, the treating portion comprising a highly elastic sponge. In a preferred embodiment, the treating portion is connected to the handle portion by a ball joint. The use of a sponge allows an optimum application of the liquid on and in cavities without leaving residual material. The presence of a ball joint allows a safe treatment also in locations that are difficult to access otherwise.

Abstract: A cleaning kit for old pierced holes in a person's body for cleaning and sanitizing pierced holes of a person's body. The cleaning kit for old pierced holes in a person's body includes a plurality of elongate flexible cleaning members being adapted to pass through pierced holes of a person's body; and also includes a packet member for storing the elongate flexible cleaning members therein; and further includes a container of cleaning solution with the cleaning solution being disposable upon the elongate flexible cleaning members.

Abstract: A disposable, hand-held oral hygiene device comprising an elongated member and one or more swabs attached to one or both longitudinal ends of the elongated member. The swab can comprise a material suitable for cleaning the teeth and mouth. In particular embodiments, this material is a nonwoven fabric having projections. The elongated member can be sufficiently compressible to prevent harm to the care receiver in the event the care receiver bites down while receiving care. For example, the elongated member can have a compressive energy of from about 2 to about 20 inch-pounds (from about 0.226 to about 2.26 Joules). The present invention further describes various methods of making a disposable oral hygiene device.

Abstract: A fastener tab for securing absorbent garments is provided. The fastener tab has a first elastic region that extends laterally outward from a waist region of the garment, a second elastic region that extends laterally outward from the first elastic region, and a grip that is attached to an outboard portion of the second elastic region. The first elastic region has a greater stretch resistance than the second elastic region. In another embodiment of the invention, the fastener tab has a substantially inelastic region interposed between the first elastic region and the second elastic region.

Abstract: An apparatus for taking an intestinal sample of a human or animal patient comprises a holder part (1) and an expandable part (2) supported by the holder part and having one or more sampling areas (8) on the surface thereof. The expandable part (2) is in a non-expanded state rectally insertable into and retractable from the patient's intestine, and in an expanded state, inserted into the patient's intestine, the expandable part is capable of contacting the intestinal wall with at least one sampling area (8; 14). The apparatus further comprises protective livers (7a, 7b) for preventing said sampling area or areas (8) from contact with the intestinal wall and intestinal fluid at least when the expandable part (2) in the non-expanded state is being rectally inserted into the patient's intestine.

Abstract: A disposable nail polish removal pad with handle is provided having an elongated handle bifurcating into a V-shaped base portion. The V-shaped base portion has an absorbent cotton applicator bonded to an upper surface thereof. The disposable nail polish removal pad with handle allows for the removal of nail polish from toenails in a manner which ensures that any nail polish on fingernails is not damaged.

Abstract: A container and applicator assembly includes an applicator with a handle and a dispensing tip, and a container with a chamber that detachably receives at least part of the applicator. The container has an inner surface with a plurality of protrusions that extend in the chamber along side portions of the tip. The protrusions facilitate distribution of the composition across the tip and also help to prevent unintentional movement of the composition to other areas.

Abstract: A filling device for connecting a dispensing instrument having multiple fluid reservoirs to multiple containers is disclosed. More particularly, the present invention discloses a connecting device capable of coupling the individual reservoirs of a dispensing instrument to multiple fluid containers. The apparatus includes a body, a collar extending from the body, a plurality of tubes in fluid communication with a plurality of inlet ports formed in the body, and a hood adapted to simultaneously receive a plurality of containers therein. The containers are positioned within the hood to allow the plurality of tubes to simultaneously and separately draw fluid from the fluid containers and transferring the material into the individual reservoirs of the dispensing instrument.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for targeted, efficient, and easy application of a fluid such as herbicide or insecticide, to a surface, such as a plant leaf or stem. The apparatus includes an elongated hand-manipulatable handle defining a fluid reservoir, a sealable fluid inlet to the reservoir, an application head, and a fluid control between application head and reservoir. The method includes storing a fluid to be applied in a portable hand-held manner, transferring the fluid to a targeted surface by capillary action of the stored fluid to an application head that allows swiping or touching of the head to the target and resists spillage or wind drift of the fluid. In one aspect of the invention, a kit includes an apparatus as described in combination with an instruction card that includes a measure or rule for mixing concentrate of a fluid for use with the apparatus.

Abstract: Disclosed are occluders and methods of their use. The occluders comprise shape-memory polymeric materials which, when heated above their crystalline melting temperatures, may be deformed from a first configuration into a second configuration. The occluder is then held in the deformed shape until it cools to a temperature below its crystalline melting temperature (Tm) whereby it holds the deformed shape of the second configuration by virtue of the recrystallization of the polymeric occluder material. Upon reheating the occluder above its Tm, the occluder will resume its original shape. In this manner, an occluder which has been deformed to reduce its diameter may be inserted into and positioned within a target lumen in the body and then allowed to warm to body temperature whereby it resumes its original diameter and results in the occlusion of the lumen. The occluders, according to preferred embodiments, may be used for reversible sterilization of mammals, among other surgical and non-surgical uses.

Abstract: An advancing antiseptic marking pen in which a barrel of the pen holds a plurality of antiseptic/marking tips. The tips contain a colored antiseptic substance. When an indicated area on the patient's body is cleansed, the area remains marked by the antiseptic/colorant fluid chosen so that the user of the pen can clearly ascertain the indicated area. A protective cap fits over the open end of the pen to prevent bacteria and other contaminants from contaminating the antiseptic/marking tips. When the pen is to be used, the operator must of course first remove the protective cap. The operator then depresses and slides an advancing tab on a top side of the barrel of the pen to advance an antiseptic/marking tip to an in-use position. After the indicated area is highlighted, cleansed, and simultaneously marked, the operator again depresses and slides the advancing tab to eject the used tip. The protective cap is then replaced by the operator so that the pen can be conveniently stored in a pocket.

Abstract: In qualitative or quantitative assays which employ a test device comprising a test strip pretreated for detection of a specified target analyte dissolved in a liquid medium, the presence of solid, semisolid and/or colloidal materials in the liquid medium may interfere with the assay results. The present invention involves collecting the sample from a flowing or quiescent pool of liquid also containing solid, semisolid or colloidal material with a swab comprised of a handle and a mass of fibrous material or foamed, open cell material which, when immersed in and thoroughly wetted by the liquid, entraps solid, semisolid and/or colloidal material and delivers only the liquid to the sample receiving zone of the test strip.

Abstract: A swab (10) for applying fluids to a surface having a quick, easy opening dispenser package portion (12 and 14) and at least one sponge-like member (30). The dispenser package portion (12 and 14) includes a wall (12) made from a thermoplastic material and having an outlet creating formation (20). When a sufficient force is applied to the at least one outlet creating formation (20), an outlet opening (18) is formed allowing a release of the fluid contents (17) to flow from the dispenser package (12 and 14) and into the overlying at least one sponge-like member (30).

Abstract: Methods and devices for reducing the mineral content of a region of non-intimal vascular tissue are provided. In the subject methods, an isolated local environment that includes the region to be demineralized is produced. The pH of the local environment is then reduced to a subphysiologic level, e.g. by flushing with an acidic dissolution fluid, for a period of time sufficient for the mineral content of the region to be reduced. The devices of the subject invention are characterized by comprising a means for producing an isolated local environment that includes a non-intimal region of vascular tissue. Also provided are kits for practicing the subject methods.

Abstract: A closed plastic container has a plastic elongated sleeve which has a hollow interior. An exterior fracture recess extends from an exterior surface of the sleeve inward to form a reduced wall thickness for opening the container. The container is opened by squeezing or bending the container at the exterior fracture recess. The closed container may have an applicator material inside or outside of the container. A substance contained within the container is dispensed and applied when the container is opened at the fracture recess. An inner closed container having an exterior fracture recess can be contained within an outer closed container also having an exterior fracture recess.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for use in removing liquid from under a corneal flap generated during LASIK surgery. The apparatus comprises a handle, a sickle-shaped end coupled to the handle, the sickle-shaped end having a concave and a convex portion, and a sponge coupled with the concave portion of the sickle-shaped end, extending along the convex portion thereof, and being shaped substantially similarly to the sickle-shaped end. The sickle-shaped end extends from approximately 180° to 270°, or any other desired part of a circle and may have sponge on one or both sides thereof. The radius of the sickle-shaped end is the same or slightly larger than the diameter of a corneal flap generated during LASIK surgery so that when the apparatus is placed adjacent the cornea of a patient about the corneal flap, liquid is wicked from thereunder without requiring any contact with the corneal flap.

Abstract: A device for taking a sample from the human or animal body comprising a casing tube (2) in which there is longitudinally movably arranged a swab carrier (1) whose distal end is provided with a swab (4), and a displacement device (3) which is arranged at the proximal end of the device and by the actuation of which the swab (4) can be extended from the casing tube (2) or completely retracted thereinto, wherein the swab carrier (1) comprises at least a distal carrier portion (10) and a tubular proximal carrier portion (11), which are releasably connected together by way of a coupling portion (12) which is introduced into the proximal carrier portion (11) and which extends in the distal direction into a first opening (13) at the proximal end of the distal carrier portion (10), and wherein the coupling portion (12) locks the carrier portions relative to each in their longitudinal direction in such a way that the connection thereof is releasable by pulling the distal end of the coupling portion (12) in the proximal

Abstract: A liquid dispenser applicator for preoperative preparation of a target area of a patient's skin is comprised of two integrated components, a handle portion and a canister vessel. The two components are locked by a locking and sealing ring mechanism to prevent accidental rupture of the sterile antiseptic fluid in the canister vessel. When the lock is unlocked, the unit contains a perforator designed to initially slit the membrane followed by pushing it open further and thereafter venting it to provide dual-staged self-venting by the perforator for ease of flow.

Abstract: In a pretreatment instrument and a pretreatment method of saliva, used for identification and quantitation of Streptococcus mutans in saliva by the immunochromatographic method utilizing an antigen-antibody reaction, the instrument includes a swab and a mixing container for saliva and a treatment liquid, the swab having a stick and a soft synthetic resin-made sponge capable of absorbing a predetermined amount or more of saliva, and the mixing container being made of a transparent or translucent soft synthetic resin and comprising a bag-like portion formed integrally with and continuously to a constricted portion as the end of a tapering introduction portion having an opening thoroughly larger than the sponge, wherein the constricted portion and the bag-like portion have elasticity such that the sponge can be squashed by a finger pressure in a state that the sponge is inserted therein; the constricted portion has a width such that a pressure can be applied by fingers and has a shape such that when the sponge i

Abstract: A retractable brush structure is attached to a cylindrical rigid rod which in the closed position passes through a channel in an endoscope. After the closed brush passes through the endoscope, the brush is opened and moves transversely to the tissue in order to remove cells from an area under examination. The brush is closed and withdrawn from the endoscope and sample tissue is removed from said brush for examination after it is withdrawn from the endoscope.

Abstract: A swab product is provided which includes a swab defined by an elongate stem and a fibrous absorbent covering such as cotton on at least one end of the stem. The fibrous absorbent covering is held together by a film-forming polymer. A treatment composition is dispersed onto the fibrous absorbent covering. Particularly preferred is a highly viscous hydrophobic treatment composition consisting of at least about 80% of petrolatum, which may serve to deliver actives such as bacitracin ointment or by itself serve as an occlusive therapeutic covering of skin to prevent infection.

Abstract: A swab product is provided which includes a swab defined by an elongate stem and a fibrous absorbent covering such as cotton on at least one end of the stem. The fibrous absorbent covering is held together by a film-forming polymer. A treatment agent is provided which includes an active agent in a carrier. Particularly preferred is a highly viscous hydrophobic treatment composition such as petrolatum serving as a carrier for actives such as bacitracin ointment.

Abstract: A handheld applicator (1) for absorbing liquids for medical and personal hygiene purposes. The applicator (1) including at least one elongated support member (2) having a longitudinal axis (3) and an initially thin liquid absorbant pellet (6) securely fastened thereto at its distal end. The applicator (1) having a thin profile at least in the region of its distal end in an end view thereof in the direction of its associated longitudinal axis (3). The pellet (6) capable of absorbing liquid whereupon it expands significantly in at least one direction perpendicular to its associated longitudinal axis (3) in its associated end view to form a swab-like member (7).

Abstract: Disclosed are occluders and methods of their use. The occluders comprise shape-memory polymeric materials which, when heated above their crystalline melting temperatures, may be deformed from a first configuration into a second configuration. The occluder is then held in the deformed shape until it cools to a temperature below its crystalline melting temperature (Tm) whereby it holds the deformed shape of the second configuration by virtue of the recrystallization of the polymeric occluder material. Upon reheating the occluder above its Tm, the occluder will resume its original shape. In this manner, an occluder which has been deformed to reduce its diameter may be inserted into and positioned within a target lumen in the body and then allowed to warm to body temperature whereby it resumes its original diameter and results in the occlusion of the lumen. The occluders, according to preferred embodiments, may be used for reversible sterilization of mammals, among other surgical and non-surgical uses.

Abstract: A double-ended plastic handle is fitted with a cotton swab at each end. Preferably, the swabs are treated with a topical solution of Lidocaine Hydrochloride and each device is wrapped individually in a plastic enclosure. The device may be easily unwrapped and the swabs may be used to conveniently administer the topical solution to affected tissue without requiring any clean-up after discarding the used device.

Abstract: A dental instrument is configured to be positioned adjacent the teeth and gums of a patient without injuring or causing pain to sensitive teeth or gums. The dental instrument includes: (i) a main body having a proximal end and a distal end, the main body being configured to be grasped by a practitioner; (ii) an elastomeric member coupled to the distal end of the main body such that abutment of the elastomeric member against the teeth or gums of a patient does not injure or cause pain to the teeth or gums; and (iii) a plurality of fibers disposed on the elastomeric member. The fibers can be used to remove air bubbles from impression material, or for a variety of other uses. The instrument may be in the form of an applicator or delivery tip, for example. The instrument can have a non-slip gripping surface.

Abstract: A flexible applicator for applying an oil-in-water emulsion comprises: (1) an allantoin-containing oil-in-water emulsion; and (2) a flexible element that adsorbs or absorbs the emulsion such that the emulsion is applied to the skin of a patient on whom the flexible applicator is placed. The allantoin-containing emulsion, containing allantoin and an emulsifier, has improved stability coming from the adjustment of the pH to a range of 3.0 to 6.0; preferably, the pH is in the range of 4.5 to about 5.8. The lower pH preserves the stability of the allantoin and the functionality of the emulsifier system is maintained. The emulsifier system can be a nonionic emulsifier or an anionic emulsifier plus beeswax. The acid used to adjust the pH can be an organic acid or an inorganic acid. The emulsion can further comprise other ingredients such as herbal extracts, chelating agents, preservatives, emollients, solvents, and fragrance.

Abstract: A cervical cell collection device can easily and comfortably be used by a woman in the privacy and comfort of her own home. Once the woman obtains the cervical cell sample, she can be forward it to a physician's office or other lab location for analysis. The collection device includes an outer guide assembly and an inner sampling assembly bearing a collector.

Abstract: A catheter having an inflatable member formed of a liquid crystal polymeric material. The inflatable member is formed from a blend of a minor amount, preferably less than 10%, of liquid crystal polymer with a major amount of a non-liquid crystal polymer having LCP fibers that are highly oriented in the machine direction. The aspect ratio of the liquid crystal polymeric material fibers is greater than 10, so that the polymer blend has mechanical characteristics similar to a fiber-reinforced composite with improved strength and optimal compliance.

Abstract: An improved swab applicator is provided including a swab connected to an elongate stick. The swab applicator further includes a sleeve encapsulating the swab and stick including a handle portion, receptacle portion and transition portion. The handle portion is preferably hollow and cylindrical in shape extending a substantial part around the length of the stick, while the receptacle portion of the sleeve is also hollow and cylindrically shaped having a substantially greater cross section than the handle portion. Meanwhile, the transition portion is preferably hollow and fristo conically shaped to connect the handle portion to the receptacle portion of the sleeve. The transition portion is substantially non-deformable when the receptacle portion of the sleeve is compressed creating a significant level of sheer stress to be imparted between the receptacle portion and transition portion of the sleeve causing the receptacle portion to sever from the rest of the sleeve.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel polymers derivatized with at least one —SNO group per 1200 atomic mass unit of the polymer. In one embodiment, the S-nitrosylated polymer has stabilized-S-nitrosyl groups. In another embodiment the S-nitrosylated polymer prepared by polymerizing a compound represented by the following structural formula: R is an organic radical. Each X′ is an independently chosen aliphatic group or substituted aliphatic group. Preferably, each X′ is the same and is a C2-C6 alkylene group, more preferably—CH2—, —CH2CH2—, —CH2CH2CH2— or —CH2CH2CH2CH2—. p and m are independently a positive integer such that p+m is greater than two. The polymers of the present invention can be used to coat medical devices to deliver nitric oxide in vivo to treatment sites.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cosmetic applicator for applying a cosmetic product having an applicator body with a first longitudinal axis and defining external and internal walls. The internal walls of the present invention define at least one internal member having a second longitudinal axis and capable of movement between a retracted first position and a second projected position. The internal member of the present invention provides the consumer with one application surface adapted to apply relatively small amounts of one or more cosmetic products.