Abstract: The invention relates to an adhesive and binder for dermal or transdermal therapy systems, that includes (a) 85-99.9 weight % of (meth)acrylate copolymer of structural and functional monomers, where the functional monomers have tertiary or quaternary amino groups, (b) 0.1-15 weight % of an organic dicarboxylic or tricarboxylic acid, and (c) 40-70 weight %, relative to the total of (a) and (b), of a plasticizer.

Abstract: A membrane shield for application over the eye of a wearer to retain moisture. The moisture shield includes a window that can be made of a transparent plastic. A collar is connected to the perimeter of the window such that the collar extends outwardly from the window. An adhesive layer, such as an adhesive gel, is applied to the collar to permit the moisture shield to be adhered to the wearer's face about the eye. A vapor distribution element is attached to the membrane shield to expose the eye to a desired substance or substances, such as water or medication.

Abstract: A kit for external fixation pin site care in conjunction with practicing a uniform and consistent standardized protocol to significantly reduce post-operative infection risk is provided. The kit contains labeled treatment materials to be used in the newly-designed, standard post-operative cleansing and infection treatment procedure. The result is significantly reduced incidences of infection at the pin/skin interface of patients.

Abstract: A flexible sheet material for covering wounds, comprising at least two regions. The first region is in contact with the wound, and facilitates healing of the wound. The second region surrounds the first region and comprises an antimicrobial agent to inhibit or prevent the migration of microorganisms from the external environment to the first region.

Abstract: Single and multiple layer membranes such as gloves and condoms include one or more deactivating barrier layers and/or indicating layers to indicate to a user membrane breach or the presence of a harmful substance in blood or body fluids. A membrane may include one or more permeable or semipermeable layers to disperse contained substances such as lubricants, biocides, spermicides, or indicators outwardly, and may also include permeable or semipermeable layers to allow transmission of body fluids or other environmental fluids inwardly into contact with an indicating or treating substance. An intermediate layer of a multi-layer membrane may include a substance to wipe, cleanse, sterilize, or otherwise treat a piercing needle. A membrane may include a sealing or coating to entrap indicators or other agents such as biocides therein. A method of making membranes such as gloves results in a double glove having discrete inner or outer layers joined only in a cuff region.

Abstract: A novel device and method for delivering a liquid containing an active ingredient to a treatment site on the skin is disclosed. The device is useful for treating lesions or abnormal skin features such as corns, warts, calluses, bunions, actinic keratoses and hard hyperkeratotic skin as is often found on the face, arms, legs or feet.

Abstract: A wetted, disposable wipe constructed by bonding a layer of absorbent material to one side of a barrier sheet that is impermeable to infectious agents and insoluble in dermatological fluids, filling a reservoir in the barrier with a dermatological fluid, and hermetically sealing the absorbent layer between the barrier and a cover. The peripheral edges of the absorbent layer are spaced inwardly from the peripheral edges of the barrier to provide a surrounding zone of the impermeable barrier alone. The absorbent layer bond to the barrier is resistant to degradation caused by exposure to the dermatological fluid. The cover is secured by an adhesive that is resistant to degradation caused by exposure to the dermatological fluid and that allows the cover to be manually peeled from the barrier. The reservoir holds the dermatological fluid temporarily to prevent vapors from the fluid from igniting during the barrier/cover sealing process.

Abstract: A moxibusting implement includes a loess support having a receiving hole and a recess for inserting a filter paper. When a moxa is burned and the heat generated reaches the loess support(10), far-infrared radiation is produced from the loess support to enhance the effect of the moxa cautery treatment.

Abstract: The device according to this invention is provided to reduce the trauma which can be caused by an open wound such as that caused after childbirth and in particular to reduce the trauma of an open wound in the perineal and/or rectal area which can be painful and uncomfortable to a person having experienced childbirth. The device comprises a housing having a gel-like material therein which can be cooled prior to application to the area and said material has a high thermal capacity so that when the device is applied a cooling effect is created, an occluding effect of the open wound is provided and furthermore a cushioning effect on the area surrounding the wound is also provided thereby allowing the device to be used comfortably and also to improve the comfort of the person to whom the same is applied.

Abstract: A bandage in the form of a reinforced silicone gel sheet for the treatment of scar tissue is disclosed. The bandage consists of a first layer of silicone adapted to adhere to the skin, a second layer of polyester mesh fabric with a plurality of holes therethrough, which contacts the first layer, and a third layer of silicone. The third layer acts as a sealant and an adhesive when applied to the mesh fabric by projecting through the holes in the mesh fabric to seal the second layer and to laminate the second layer between the first layer and the third layer. The sealant effect of the third layer provides a non-adherent surface which enables the bandage to be worn underneath clothing. A method of manufacture is also disclosed.

Abstract: An adhesive sheet article comprising a porous backing coated on one side with a polymeric migration barrier and said migration barrier is further coated with a pressure-sensitive adhesive to provide novel adhesive tape articles. A method of manufacturing such articles is also disclosed.

Abstract: A sterile wound packing material and package therefor is provided, which wound packing is flexible and conformable to deep and/or irregular shaped wounds, is compact and easily dispensed, and which can be stored indefinitely. The wound packing may also be used for absorbing wound exudate and immediately discarded or may be designed to remain in place for extended periods during healing. The wound packing includes a sterile, wound packing of a flexible material capable of absorbing wound exudate, with the flexible material being in the form of a substantially flat, coiled, spirally-cut layer and a package therefor. In certain embodiments of the invention where it is desired that the wound packing remain in place for an extended period, the flexible material is impregnated with a hydrogel, which may be a "wet" hydrogel (i.e., one containing substantial amounts of water) or a dehydrated hydrogel which is substantially devoid of water but becomes hydrated in use.

Abstract: An improved wound dressing is provided which comprises a backing layer bearing a reference marking, a hydrocolloid layer and a release layer. The hydrocolloid swells in use. This swelling can be seen or felt through the backing layer. When the swelling extends to or beyond the reference marking, the dressing should be changed to prevent leaking. Thus, the dressing can be left in place for as long as possible, but not so long as to damage the underlying skin.

Abstract: A wound dressing that releases, via hydrolysis and in a controlled manner, acetic acid when subjected to body temperatures and moisture, and is made from a cellulose ester substrate with a partial solvent thereon.

Abstract: An improved hydrogel reservoir for use in two-compartment iontophoretic patches is described. The hydrogel reservoir contains a water soluble polyelectrolyte and a fluid. The reservoir may also contain a matrix forming material such as polyvinylpyrrolidone. A preferred water-soluble polyelectrolyte is sodium polystyrene sulfonate.

Abstract: A portable, self-contained device is described for the topical application of oxygen to promote the healing of skin wounds. The device is comprised of a wound dressing that incorporates an electrochemical, chemical, or thermal means of generating high purity oxygen. The device can regulate the supply of oxygen to an area above the wound at various concentrations, pressures and dosages. The device is driven by a built in or accessory power source. Ambient air is brought into contact with a gas permeable cathode. Oxygen present in the air is reduced at the cathode to negative ions (i.e. peroxide, superoxide or hydroxyl ions) and/or their unprotonated and protonated neutral species. One or more of these species diffuse through an electrolyte and are then oxidized at a gas permeable anode to produce a high concentration of oxygen directly above the wound.

Abstract: Cellulose films useful as wound and bum dressings are prepared from a solution of cellulose produced by Acetobacter xylinum in a stirred tank. The materials of this invention comprise a film of microbially produced cellulose, particularly cellulose produced from the culture of Acetobacter xylinum in a stirred tank. The film is made by dissolving the cellulose in a solvent system comprising dimethylacetamide and lithium chloride, casting the resulting solution onto a flat surface and regenerating the film in a gelation bath. Humectant is incorporated into the film by solvent exchange. The film is then sterilized and packaged for long term storage. These films are strong and elastic having mechanical properties superior to plant derived cellulose membranes and similar to that of the human skin and are useful as wound dressings.

Abstract: Hydrophilic polyurethane gel foams are obtainable from a polyurethane gel defined in the description, from a water-absorbing material and from a non-aqueous foaming agent and can be used in medicine, in particular for the management of deep wounds and wound cavities. Wound dressings are obtainable with a polyurethane sheet as backing and a polyurethane gel foam composed of a polyurethane gel defined in the description, of a water-absorbing material and of a non-aqueous foaming agent.

Abstract: An interface is formed by incorporating (1) a mixture comprising a water-soluble protein and a drug into a matrix, or preferably (2) a mixture comprising a water-soluble protein and a drug to a porous matrix coated with a cationic surfactant or other ionic surfactant. The coating amount of the ionic surfactant is about 0.1 to 50 .mu.g, and the content of the water-soluble protein is about 0.1 to 1,500 .mu.g, each per 1 cm.sup.2 of the matrix. The water-soluble protein includes an albumin and the drug includes a physiologically active peptide or protein, for example. The use of the stabilized interface inhibits decrease of the drug retaining amount, and insures an effective transdermal drug delivery with a high repeatability and accuracy.

Abstract: A product suitable for absorbing wound exudate comprising a series of interconnected square or rectangular perforated bags made of a substance of maximum thickness 1 mm e.g. film, which is substantially non-adherent to a wound, wherein alginic acid or a salt thereof such as calcium alginate is housed in the bags, preferably in the form of small spheres. The film preferably comprises ethylene/methyl acrylate copolymer. Alternatively, the product comprises a string along which beads of alginic acid or alginate are threaded.

Abstract: A method for measuring the concentration of a chemical present in a blood stream of a mammalian subject is disclosed. The method involves contacting the subject's skin with a sensor assembly comprised of an ionically conducting material which contacts the skin, a working electrode which is in contact with the ionically conducting material which electrode has a catalytic surface and a mask having an opening therein. The mask is positioned between the skin and the working electrode. When the electrode is activated, chemical is transported through the skin and the ionically conductive material. The mask is positioned so that it blocks the flow into the catalytic surface except for flow which is substantially axially to the catalytic surface. Electrical signal generated at the working electrode is monitored over a period of time and correlated with a concentration of chemical present in the blood stream of the mammalian subject.

Abstract: Applications of low-frequency (20 KHz) ultrasound enhances transdermal transport of high-molecular weight proteins. This method includes a simultaneous application of ultrasound and protein on the skin surface in order to deliver therapeutic doses of proteins across the skin. Examples demonstrate in vitro and in vivo administration of insulin (molecular weight 6,000 D), and in vitro administration of gamma interferon (molecular weight 17,000 D), and erythropoeitin (molecular weight 48,000 D).

Abstract: There provided a percutaneous administration tape preparation which can attach well to the skin surface even in the case of the permeation of water after attaching and can be easily detached from the skin surface without giving the skin simulation such as peeling off and the injury of the horny layer. The percutaneous administration tape preparation comprises a sheet-form support, a drug-containing pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, and a separator, wherein the drug-containing pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprises a uniform dispersed state containing from 50 to 95% by weight one or more kinds of elastomers, from 5 to 50% by weight a hygroscopic material, and a percutaneous absorption drug so that a part of the hygroscopic material contained therein remains on the applied surface at detaching the tape preparation from the applied surface.

Abstract: This invention relates to a composition containing a hydrophobic solvent, a network polymer and a flow control agent which is useful in healing wounds. The composition of this invention may be applied directly to a wound to create a structured occlusive dressing. The dressings of this invention do not migrate, but maintain their integrity at skin temperature, and encourage the creation of a moist wound environment while protecting the wound in order to accelerate healing.

Abstract: A fluid resistant first aid mitt for use in control of bleeding by direct pressure is described. The mitt includes two thumb sheaths, making the mitt suitable for use by either hand. The mitt has a large opening and a large internal cavity that makes it quick and easy to put on and remove. The finger section of the mitt is wide enough to accept all four fingers of the user's hand, which eliminates wasted time on inserting each finger. The mitt can also include an attached dressing, which saves time in locating necessary pressure dressings.

Abstract: The healing of surface wounds, including burns, is facilitated by increasing the wound oxygen tension through the application of an oxygen-generating wound dressing which renewably and non-sustainingly chemically generates oxygen. The wound dressing contains an oxygen permeable membrane and an oxygen supply solution reservoir adapted to receive an aqueous liquid capable of supplying oxygen through chemical reaction. Preferably, the aqueous liquid contains hydrogen peroxide and the reservoir contains an immobilized solid hydrogen peroxide decomposition catalyst such as manganese dioxide. The solid catalyst may be contained within a hydrogel, an open-celled polymeric foam, or a biosynthetic foam such as a collagen foam. The oxygen-generating wound dressing may be applied over an intermediate hydrogel occlusive wound covering such as an alginate.

Abstract: A device is described for promotion of human or animal wound healing by controlling oxygen concentration in the environment around the wound. It is light weight, portable, convenient and comfortably worn by the patient. It can operate continuously or intermittently and can patient-controllable or automatic. Its comfort, portability and effectiveness insure that it will be readily used by patients to enhance recovery from skin trauma. The device is a generally flat unit which includes components for electrochemical production of an ionic species at one electrode, transported of the ionic species across an ion permeable membrane, and reaction of the ionic species at a second electrode to be converted to a molecule which results in a net change of concentration of oxygen adjacent to the wound. Medication may also be applied to the wound within the enclosure. The electrical system can powered by an easily replaceable battery.

Abstract: The invention provides wound dressings comprising a molecular filtration membrane having a maximum pore size in the range of from 0.001 .mu.m to 0.5 .mu.m, and preferably in the range of from 0.01 .mu.m to 0.25 .mu.m. The wound dressings may also comprise an absorbent layer atop the molecular filtration membrane and/or a wound contact layer of wound-friendly bioabsorbable material for contacting the wound. In use, the molecular filtration membrane retains high molecular weight biopolymers and wound healing factors at the wound surface while excluding bacteria and allowing rapid egress of wound exudate through the membrane into the absorbent layer.

Abstract: The present invention provides fiber materials, knits and textiles, nonwoven fabrics, miscellaneous daily goods or foam materials having an improved dyeability, bio-compatibility, anti-microbial activity, good bio-degradative property, and being effective for deodorizing uses, growth enhancing uses for plants and medical uses, and having anti-microbial effect produced from the chitin-chitosan viscose which is produced by a xanthogenation reaction of alkaline chitin-chitosan having a different DAC ratio through a pre- and post-immersion steps in an NaOH solution, or from a viscose in which chitin-chitosan and cellulose are solubilized.

Abstract: A transdermal delivery system containing tiagabine or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts or esters is disclosed. The delivery system is useful in the treatment of epilepsy.

Abstract: A chemical signal-impermeable mask is positioned in the electrolyte flow such that the mask is between a source of chemical signal and a working electrode which senses the chemical signal transported from the source (e.g., by diffusion). The configuration of the mask is such that the mask prevents substantially all chemical signal transport from the chemical signal source having a radial vector component relative to a plane of the mask and the catalytic face of the working electrode, thus allowing primarily only chemical signal transport that is substantially perpendicular to the place of the mask and the catalytic surface of the working electrode. By reducing or eliminating chemical signal radial transport toward the working electrode, the mask thus significantly reduces or eliminates edge effects. By substantially reducing edge effects created by radial transport of chemical signal, it is possible to obtain a more accurate measurement of the amount (e.g.

Abstract: A product suitable for absorbing wound exudate comprising a series of interconnected square or rectangular perforated bags made of a substance of maximum thickness 1 mm e.g. film, which is substantially non-adherent to a wound, wherein alginic acid or a salt thereof such as calcium alginate is housed in the bags, preferably in the form of small spheres. The film preferably comprises ethylene/methyl acrylate copolymer. Alternatively, the product comprises a string along which beads of alginic acid or alginate are threaded.

Abstract: The skin plate product according to the invention is an adhesive, flat skin plate product for use as a semi-manufacture in the production of dressings, skin and wound care devices, fastening means for dressings, ostomy equipment, wound drains and catheters for incontinence equipment, in particular for men, and for use in electrodes for application to the skin, the said skin plate product having an area being delimited by the periphery of the product, and a first surface and a second surface consisting of two or more essentially non-mixed material units (1, 1', 2, 2', 2a, 2b, 2c, 4, 11, 12, 21, 21', 22, 22', 31, 32, 33, 41, 42, 43), at least two material units being of different material, of which at least one material unit is a skin friendly self-adhesive material, and where a first material unit (1, 1', 11, 21, 21', 31, 41) extends throughout the area of the entire product, this material unit further constituting at least a portion of the first surface (6, 26, 26', 36, 46) and the second surface (5, 25, 25',

Abstract: The present invention relates to a compress comprising Dead Sea mineral mud or a mineral mud having similar properties. Said compress comprises substantially a fibrous cloth; an absorbent material on which a mineral mud having the properties of the Dead Sea mud is evenly spread; and a non permeable plastic sheet; all said layers being located one upon another; the materials being heat resistant to at least 70.degree. C. and resistant to solutions of high salinity.

Abstract: An anal patch for controlling fecal incontinence comprising a polymeric body member adapted to be fitted into the natal cleft about the anal opening and secured to the natal cleft with a releasable adhesive material.

Abstract: A scar-reducing frame structure of the type for preventing motion relative to a healing cut in a person's skin of skin the region of the cut. The frame is conformable and attachable to the person's skin, and has an open area which encompasses the cut. The frame is substantially rigid in the plane of the frame so as to substantially prevent motion of the skin within the open area relative to the cut to allow the cut to heal without scarring. The frame includes an adhesive layer for fixedly attaching the frame to the skin. The adhesive layer is waterproof and provides for secure attachment of the frame to the skin, and allows the frame structure to be removed for purposes of replacement or when healing of the cut is complete.

Abstract: A wound dressing that releases, via hydrolysis and in a controlled manner, acetic acid when subjected to body temperatures and moisture, and is made from a cellulose ester substrate with a partial solvent thereon.

Abstract: The present invention is a patch-type device for iontophoretic transdermal medication of insulin of one-piece form having a container for holding gel-like insulin and a power supply for furnishing insulin with electricity. A patch plate, formed with an embossed portion, electrically contacts an electrode pattern formed in a printed circuit board carried by the device, thereby improving transdermal treatment of insulin.

Abstract: The specification discloses an alginate dressing comprising a fibrous alginate layer needle punched to a non-alginate backing web such that fibers from the alginate layer penetrate into and are interlocked with the backing web thereby affixing the alginate layer to the backing web. The dressing exhibits improved absorbency and long-term stability when used in the treatment of wounds. The dressing also eliminates the need for adhesives and secondary dressings for retaining an alginate fibrous dressing on a wound site.

Abstract: A body shielding device having an elongate tube constructed of flexible, water-resistant sheet material. The tube has a diameter large enough to allow a limb to be inserted through the tube. The tube preferably has a permanent crease running along the length of the tube so as to allow a sidewall of the tube to be easily folded over itself as needed to accomodate varying limb sizes. Fastening strips are provided on the outer surface of the tube to provide convenient means by which to secure the tube tightly around the limb in the folded-over position.

Abstract: A wound dressing comprises a chemically modified polymer which has a free radical activity in the DPPH Test in the range 15-80 percent. It may comprise a chemically modified polymer which carries at least one chemical group which is a persistent free radical or a precursor therefor. It may comprise a chemically modified polymer which carries at least one chemical group capable of reacting with molecular oxygen in a wound environment to form hydrogen peroxide. It may comprise a chemically modified polymer capable of stimulating the activity of macrophages or the proliferation of fibroblasts or both in a wound environment.

Abstract: A device for administering an active agent to the skin or mucosa of an individual comprising a laminated composite of an adhesive overlay, a backing layer underlying the central portion of the adhesive overlay, an active agent-permeable membrane, the backing layer and membrane defining a reservoir that contains a formulation of the active agent, a peel seal disc underlying the active agent-permeable membrane, a heat seal about the periphery of the peel seal disc, the active agent-permeable membrane and the backing layer and a removable release liner underlying the exposed overlay and peel seal disc. The adhesive layer is above and peripheral to the path of the active agent to the skin or mucosa and is protected from degradation by the components of the reservoir by a multiplicity of heat seals. The peel seal disc protects against release of the active agent-containing reservoir and the release liner protects the adhesive from exposure to the environment prior to use.

Abstract: A diaper containing a liquid pervious topsheet coated with a lotion composition is disclosed. The lotion composition reduces the adherence of BM to the skin of the wearer, thereby improving the ease of BM clean up. The lotion composition comprises a plastic or fluid emollient such as mineral oil or petrolatum, an immobilizing agent such as a fatty alcohol or paraffin wax to immobilize the emollient on the surface of the diaper topsheet, and optionally a hydrophilic surfactant to improve wettability of the coated topsheet. Because the emollient is substantially immobilized on the surface of the topsheet, less lotion is required to impart the desired therapeutic or protective lotion coating benefits.

Abstract: A diaper containing a liquid pervious topsheet coated with a lotion composition is disclosed. The lotion composition reduces the adherence of BM to the skin of the wearer, thereby improving the ease of BM clean up. The lotion composition comprises a plastic or fluid polysiloxane emollient such as phenyl-functional polymethylsiloxanes, an immobilizing agent such as a fatty alcohol or paraffin wax to immobilize the emollient on the surface of the diaper topsheet, and optionally a hydrophilic surfactant to improve wettability of the coated topsheet. Because the polysiloxane emollient is substantially immobilized on the surface of the topsheet, less lotion is required to impart the desired therapeutic or protective lotion coating benefits.

Abstract: A receptacle for controlling and containing irrigation fluids administered to clean and irrigate a wound on a patient's body. The receptacle comprises a thin flexible film selected from the group consisting of polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride, and having an adhesive portion for sealing to the patient. The receptacle is in the form of a bag member and is utilized for retaining fluids along with a spraying or irrigation member, thereby enabling the wound irrigation procedure to be carried out in a closed system, and wherein upon completion of the procedure, the receptacle may be completely sealed and disposed of in an appropriate manner so as to avoid cross-contamination from a patient being treated to another person such as a health care professional or another patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the discovery that biocompatible anionic polymers can effectively inhibit fibrosis, scar formation, and surgical adhesions. The invention is predicated on the discovery that anionic polymers effectively inhibit invasion of cells associated with detrimental healing processes, and in particular, that he effectiveness of an anionic polymer at inhibiting cell invasion correlates with the anionic charge density of the polymer. Thus the present invention provides a large number of materials for use in methods of inhibiting fibrosis and fibroblast invasion. Anionic polymers for use in the invention include but are not limited to natural proteoglycans, and the glycosaminoglycan moieties of proteoglycans. Additionally, anionic carbohydrates and other anionic polymers may be used. The anionic polymers dextran sulfate and pentosan polysulfate are preferred. In a more preferred embodiment, dextran sulfate, in which the sulfur content is greater than about 10% by weight, may be used.

Abstract: A water vapor permeable dressing, such as a surgical dressing, is constructed of a thin elastomeric transparent film which is protected by a layer of non-woven fabric, such as a material of elastomeric filaments. The fabric is sufficiently thin, elastic and fluffy to absorb stress of abrasive objects so as to protect the underlying film. Both the film and the protective fabric are sufficiently thin and compliant to allow the dressing to conform to the contours of the human body. Adhesive used in the dressing, for securing the film to a person's skin, as well as for securing the fabric to the film, are permeable to water vapor. The film and the adhesives are impermeable to liquid water, thereby to provide an effective shield for a wound against infection by outside bacteria. A release sheet is employed for protecting a layer of adhesive on the film.

Abstract: A method of producing easily densified high bulk fibers that have adhered particulates. The high bulk fibers have hydrogen bonding or coordinate covalent bonding functionalities, and a binder is applied to the fibers to bind the particles to the fibers. The binder has a functional group that forms a hydrogen bond or a coordinate covalent bond with the particles, and a functional group that forms a hydrogen bond with the fibers. A substantial portion of the particles that are adhered to the fibers are adhered in particulate form by hydrogen bonds or coordinate covalent bonds to the binder, and the binder is in turn adhered to the fibers by hydrogen bonds. Fibers containing particles bound by this method are easily densified.

Abstract: A portable, self-contained device is described for the topical application of oxygen to promote the healing of skin wounds. The device is comprised of a wound dressing that incorporates an electrochemical, chemical, or thermal means of generating high purity oxygen. The device can regulate the supply of oxygen to an area above the wound at various concentrations, pressures and dosages. The device is driven by a built in or accessory power source. Ambient air is brought into contact with a gas permeable cathode. Oxygen present in the air is reduced at the cathode to negative ions (i.e. peroxide, superoxide or hydroxyl ions) and/or their unprotonated and protonated neutral species. One or more of these species diffuse through an electrolyte and are then oxidized at a gas permeable anode to produce a high concentration of oxygen directly above the wound.

Abstract: Star polymers of soft segment forming monomers are useful in forming surgical devices. The star polymers can be endcapped with isocyanate, mixed with a filler and/or cross-linked. The polymer compositions are useful, for example, as fiber coatings, surgical adhesives or bone putty, or tissue growth substrate.