Abstract:
In general, the invention provides kits, devices, and methods for determining the ineffectiveness of an anesthetic, (e.g., lidocaine), using a topical approach that avoids injection. The methods typically employ the placement of aliquots of two different formulations, at least one including an anesthetic, in different locations on a subject. Further embodiments may employ a single formulation including the anesthetic.
Abstract:
Multi-step cosmetic regimens are provided to improve the appearance of aging skin. A target portion of skin that exhibits a sign of skin aging is identified. A first formulation is topically applied, comprising at least one active possessing an ability to transcriptionally up-regulate an eigengene derived from a genetic co-expression module for one or more biological themes associated with skin cleansing and/or skin detoxification, and/or skin hydration to the target portion of skin. A second formulation is also topically applied, comprising at least one active possessing an ability to transcriptionally up-regulate an eigengene derived from a co-expression module for one or more biological themes associated with skin repair and/or rebuilding to the target portion of skin.
Abstract:
Recombinant Mycobacteria (rMyc) which contain sequences encoding a heparin- binding hemagglutinin (HBHA) fusion protein are provided, as are methods of making and using the rMyc and the fusion protein. The fusion protein includes an amino terminal mycobacterial antigen Ag85B leader peptide and transcription of the fusion protein is driven by an Ag85B promoter sequence. The recombinant fusion protein is produced in abundance by the rMyc, is post-translationally methylated, and is highly antigenic.
Abstract:
The present invention provides transgenic, large non-human animal models of atherosclerosis and hypercholesterolemia, as well as methods of using such animal models in the identification and characterization of therapies for atherosclerosis and hypercholesterolemia.
Abstract:
The invention relates to test kits for the determination of allergic dermatitis caused by insect bites in an animal such as horses, and to compositions and methods for desensitization. It was found that a culture supernatant or a cell extract of Sf21 insect cells is suitable for reliable test kits and for compositions for desensitization.
Abstract:
In various embodiments, provided are methods for formulating compositions for treating and maintaining the quality of skin, wherein a composition is selected for use in a personal care product based on its demonstrated biological effect to improve skin quality as evidenced by one or more biomarker changes that correlate with improvement as evidenced by one or more objective measurements of skin health.
Abstract:
A method and a kit for quantification of at least one predictor promoting at least one multifactorial disease, intended for use in assessment of the risk for developing or progression of the at least one multifactorial disease for a subject are disclosed. The kit comprises a plurality of reservoir units (320), each reservoir unit (320) being arranged to releasably retain a skin irritation agent adapted to provoke an unspecific inflammatory response of skin. The kit comprises an estimation unit adapted to estimate a quantification of the at least one predictor on basis of an assessment of the at least one predictor performed by a user on basis of an assessment of the degree of severity of the inflammatory response to the skin irritation agent at each of a plurality of skin sites according to a predetermined inflammatory response criteria performed by the user and relative impact of the at least one predictor on the progress of the at least one multifactorial disease.
Abstract:
A device and clinical techniques that can help healthcare workers locate and image the general outlines of blood vessels that are located either under or near to tissue or skin surfaces are described. The device involves a substrate formed from a self-cooling polymeric matrix that incorporates at least a thermo -chromic colorant, and can provide a means to distinguish between different temperature regions when applied to a heat-emitting object or body. The device can be used in certain therapeutic or healthcare-related applications.
Abstract:
A hand cleansing formulation in the form of a soap/disinfectant (liquid, foam, cream or powder) in solution contains a marker agent (e.g., fluorescent or phosphorescent agent(s)) aggregated with a non-marker binder material. By vigorously scrubbing the hands together, as required by a proper hand washing procedure, the aggregates are dissociated to allow the measurement of the fluorescence/ phosphorescence intensity under an activation light source, i.e., UV, IR. This intensity measurement directly relates to the thoroughness of the hand scrubbing steps, thereby allowing the thoroughness of hand scrubbing during a hand washing event to be judged and monitored.
Abstract:
A convenient to use test method for comparing the relative affinity of surfactants for the skin employs a solid or semisolid matrix for associating a dye or pigment with the skin. The dye or pigment has an affinity to either the skin or a surfactant adsorbed on the skin during personal cleansing. The matrix may include a reagent soluble polymer film or temporary tattoo.