Shape-memory polymers as a technology platform for biomedical applications

May combine two claims.

Irradiation-based sterilization techniques such as gamma and e-beam sterilization are instantaneous, penetrating and nontoxic, but may be associated with changes in molecular structure.

“Irradiation-based sterilization techniques such as gand e-beam sterilization are instantaneous, penetrating and nontoxic, but may be associated with changes in the molecular structure [55].”

• cites [55] Freeman, 1960, J. Hyg. (Lond.) sourceCould not verify

  The Conclusion and Sterilizing technique sections discuss ethylene oxide sterilization, including its long exposure time and the gas’s penetrating power. Searches for irradiation, gamma rays, electron beams, and molecular-structure changes found no passage addressing the claimed properties of irradiation-based sterilization. (LLM, conf=0.75)

  Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

It might be useful to customize polymers to a lower switching temperature in a narrow range of 45-50°C, rather than using materials of relatively high Tg, to enable activation at lower laser power.

“Thus, it might be useful to customize polymers to a lower switching temperature in a narrow range of 45-50°C, rather than using materials of relatively high T g in order to enable activation at lower laser power [116].”

• cites [116] Wilson TS, Small W, Benett WJ, Bearinger JP, Maitland D. Shape memory polymer therapeutic devices for stroke. In:Smart Medical and Biomedical Sensor Technology III. Cullum BM, Carter JC (Eds). SPIE, WA, USA, 60070R (2005). sourcePartly supported

  The Conclusions (page unavailable) report polymers with glass transitions ranging from 34 to 87°C and very narrow transitions, supporting the possibility of tailoring a lower switching temperature. The Coil Stroke Devices section (page unavailable) describes laser actuation, but the paper does not specify a 45–50°C target or say that choosing it would enable activation at lower laser power. (LLM, conf=0.85)

  Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

May combine two claims.

Shape recovery from a thin stretched rod to a more compact-shaped rod allows fixation of ligaments in bone tunnels, and the rod's radial recovery forces depend on the material composition, such as the cross-linker content.

“In this application, shape recovery from a thin stretched rod to a more compact-shaped rod allows fixation of ligaments in bone tunnels, in which the rod's radial recovery forces depend on the material composition, such as the cross-linker content [27].”

• cites [27] Yakacki, 2008, Adv. Funct. Mater. sourcePartly supported

  The Introduction describes an orthopedic-fixation prototype reduced to a smaller diameter and then heated to recover its shape. The Results and Conclusions link constrained recovery stress to rubbery modulus and crosslink density, which can be adjusted through crosslinking-monomer composition. Our copy does not specify ligament fixation in bone tunnels or measure radial recovery forces in that setting. (LLM, conf=0.86)

  Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

By using triple-shape thermosensitive SMP materials, temporary stents could be designed that are implanted in their first temporary shape, expand upon heating to their required functional shape, and upon further heating shrink for easy removal.

“By using triple-shape thermosensitive SMP materials, temporary stents could be designed that are implanted in their first temporary shape, expand upon heating to their required functional shape (second temporary shape) and, upon further heating, shrink for easy removal if required [102].”

• cites [102] Bellin, 2006, Proc. Natl Acad. Sci. USA sourceSupported

May combine two claims.

Tubular SMP devices were laser etched for more flexible stents that could navigate through small tortuous vessels; however, resistance to withstand the critical collapse pressure in the vessel at elevated body temperature may not be given in all cases.

“In addition, tubular SMP devices were laser etched for more flexible stents that also could navigate through small tortuous vesselshowever, it has been revealed that resistance to withstand the critical collapse pressure in the vessel at elevated body temperature may not be given in all cases [106].”

• cites [106] Baer, 2009, J. Biomed. Mater. Res. B Appl. Biomater. sourceSupported

May combine two claims.

In cyclic thermomechanical tests, congruent curves were observed for drug-loaded oLG materials during different cycles, meaning that drug loading did not affect the shape-memory functionality.

“In cyclic thermomechanical tests, congruent curves were observed for drug-loaded materials during the different cycles of testing, meaning that drug loading did not affect the shape-memory functionality.”

• cites [131] Wischke, 2009, J. Control. Release sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

Controlled drug release has been established for covalent SMP networks based on different chemistries: PCGDMA cross-linked by photopolymerization, oligo[(rac-lactide)-co-glycolide]tetroles cross-linked by low-molecular-weight aliphatic diisocyanates, and branched oligo(ε-caprolactone)octols cross-linked by low-molecular-weight aliphatic diisocyanates.

“So far, controlled drug release has been established for covalent SMP networks that were based on different chemistries: PCGDMA as telechelics that were cross-linked by photo polymerization [46,137], oligo[(rac-lactide)-co-glycolide]tetroles (oLG) cross-linked by lowmolecular-weight aliphatic diisocyanates [131,138], and branched oligo(e-caprolactone)octols (oCl) cross-linked by low-molecular”

• cites [46] Neffe, 2009, Adv. Mater. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [137] Neffe, 2009, Mat. Res. Soc. Symp. Proc. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [131] Wischke, 2009, J. Control. Release sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [138] Wischke, 2009, Mat. Res. Soc. Symp. Proc. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [132] Nagahama, 2009, Biomacromolecules sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

A variety of polymers exhibiting a shape-memory effect were prepared and characterized.

“A variety of polymers exhibiting a SME were prepared and characterized.”

May combine two claims.

Corresponding to the drugs' physicochemical properties, differences in release profiles were observed, with higher release rates for hydrophilic drugs.

“Corresponding to the drugs' physicochemical properties, differences in the release profiles were observed with higher release rates for hydrophilic drugs.”

• cites [131] Wischke, 2009, J. Control. Release sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

Shape-memory polymers have attracted substantial scientific and technological interest, especially for biomedical applications, reflected in the rapidly increasing number of publications on SMPs during the last decade.

“Shape-memory polymers have attracted substantial scientific and technological interest, especially for biomedical applications, which is reflected in the rapidly increasing number of publications on SMPs during the last decade.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Due to a so far limited number of contributions in this field, only a few practical examples of potential applications have been given.

“Due to a so far limited numbers of contributions in this field, only a few practical examples of potential applications have been given.”

May combine two claims.

Selected sterilized SMP devices were shown to be non-cytotoxic, as well as cell- and histo-compatible in vitro and in vivo.

“Selected sterilized SMP devices were shown to be non-cytotoxic, as well as cell-and histo-compatible in vitro and in vivo.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Currently, only few studies are available that address the cell- and histo-compatibility of SMPs after sterilization.

“Currently, only few studies are available that address the celland histo-compatibility of SMPs after sterilization.”

May combine two claims.

A clear acceleration of the breakdown of the cross-linked network architecture was observed at least in the presence of some drugs, and the elastic modulus experienced a strong loss during degradation in all drug-loaded samples.

“However, a clear acceleration of the breakdown of the cross-linked network architecture was observed at least in the presence of some drugs (Figure 10C), and the elastic modulus experienced a strong loss during degradation in all drug-loaded samples (Figure 10D).”

• cites [131] Wischke, 2009, J. Control. Release sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

Substantial amounts (up to ~6 wt.%) of suspended drug were incorporated during cross-linking, with only minor effects on the materials' stress-strain curves.

“Still, substantial amounts (up to ~6 wt.%) of suspended drug were incorporated during cross-linking, with only minor effects on on the materials' stress-strain curves.”

• cites [46] Neffe, 2009, Adv. Mater. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

After an initial release of 20% of the loaded drug in the first day, a smooth subsequent release profile was observed over 5 weeks.

“After an initial release of 20% of the loaded drug in the first day, a smooth subsequent release profile was observed over 5 weeks (Figure 9B).”

• cites [132] Nagahama, 2009, Biomacromolecules sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

So far, cytotoxicity was evaluated mainly for sterilized polyurethanes or poly(ε-caprolactone)-based SMPs, and showed promising results.

“So far, cytotoxicity was evaluated mainly for sterilized polyurethanes or poly(e-caprolactone)-based SMPs, and showed promising results.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

Stent technology has been, and certainly will be, one of the most intensively studied fields of SMP applications.

“Stent technology has been, and certainly will be, one of the most intensively studied fields of SMP applications.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Within the different strategies to sterilize SMPs, the most commonly used method is low-temperature sterilization with ethylene oxide (EO).

“Within the different strategies to sterilize SMPs (g-or e-beam-irradiation, hydrogen peroxide vapor-, low-temperature gas plasma-and low-temperature gas-sterilization), the most commonly used method is the low-temperature sterilization with EO.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

Very recently, some first reports were published proving the general capability of SMPs for controlled drug release, and led to multifunctional materials that combine shape-memory, biodegradability and controlled drug release.

“Very recently, some first reports were published proving the general capability of SMPs for controlled drug release, and led to multifunctional materials that combine shape-memory, biodegradability and controlled drug release.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

The economic significance of this market is reflected in a forecasted revenue of US$4-5 billion in the USA in 2009.

“The economic significance of this market is reflected in a forecasted revenue of US$4-5 billion in the USA in 2009.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

An evaluation strategy has been established to allow the transfer of shape-memory materials into pharmaceutical sciences.

“An evaluation strategy has been established to allow the transfer of shape-memory materials into pharmaceutical sciences.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Shape-memory properties are quantified in cyclic, stimuli-specific mechanical tests that consist of the shape-memory creation process and the recovery of the original, permanent shape.

“The shape-memory properties are quantified in cyclic, stimuli-specific mechanical tests that consist of the SMCP and the recovery of the original, permanent shape [2,[14][15][16].”

• cites [2,[14][15][16]Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

Thermally induced shape-memory polymers are triggered by heat.

“Here, we focus on thermally induced SMPs, which are triggered by heat.”

May combine two claims.

Covalent shape-memory polymer networks provide in many cases higher shape fixity and shape recovery ratios compared with similar thermoplastic architectures, while thermoplastic shape-memory polymers provide the advantage of processing by extrusion.

“While covalent SMP networks provide in many cases higher R f and R r compared with similar thermoplastic architectures, thermoplastic SMPs provide the advantage of processing by extrusion.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Different test protocols differ in the shape-memory creation process, which can be performed under constant strain or constant stress conditions.

“Different test protocols have been developed.They differ in SMCP, which can be performed under constant strain or constant stress conditions.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

Often the shape-memory effect needs to be combined with other functions, such as degradability or drug release.

“Often the SME needs to be combined with other functions, such as degradability or drug release.”

May combine two claims.

Oxidation reactions can occur between amine groups and hydrogen peroxide, and cross-linking reactions can occur between ethylene oxide and hydroxyl or amine groups in shape-memory polymers.

“Possible examples are oxidation reactions, for example, between amine groups and hydrogen peroxide, or cross-linking reactions between EO and hydroxyl or amine groups.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Physical cross-linking is realized by solidification on cooling, such as vitrification or crystallization.

“Physical cross-linking is realized by solidification, which occurs on cooling, such as vitrification or crystallization.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

From the data obtained, the shape fixity ratio and the shape recovery ratio can be determined.

“From the data obtained, the shape fixity ratio (R f ) and the shape recovery ratio (R r ) can be determined.”

May combine two claims.

The molecular weight of PLG decreases after gamma-irradiation, and this degradation process continues on storage for 4 weeks.

“The molecular weight of PLG, which is known as a candidate material for SMP synthesis, decreases after g-irradiation, and this degradation process continues on storage for 4 weeks [57,58,61].”

• cites [57] Loo, 2005, Biomaterials sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [58] Williams, 2006, Polym. Degrad. Stab. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [61] Leonard, 2006, Plast. Rubber Compos. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Shape-memory polymers can be considered as multifunctional materials when the shape-memory effect and hydrolytic degradability are present in one material.

“Additionally, SMPs can be considered as multi functional materials when, for example, the SME and hydrolytic degradability are present in one material.”

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

Biomedical applications require certain properties or functionalities that can be fulfilled by the appropriate choice of suitable shape-memory polymer architectures.

“With respect to SMPs, biomedical applications require certain properties or functionalities, which can be fulfilled by the appropriate choice of suitable SMP architectures.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

In multiphase polymers, domains related to the highest thermal transition temperature are hard domains and act as physical netpoints.

“In such multiphase polymers, the domains related to the highest thermal transition temperature (T perm ) are called hard domains and are acting as physical netpoints.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

The deformation creating the temporary shape necessitates a sufficient elastic deformability of the polymer network.

“The deformation creating the temporary shape necessitates a sufficient elastic deformability of the polymer network.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Thermosensitive shape-memory polymers are presently the most prominent class of shape-memory polymers.

“Thermosensitive SMPs, which is presently the most prominent class of SMPs, can be additionally classified according to the thermal transitions related to the solidification of the polymer chain segments.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

The temporary shape of a shape-memory polymer implant can be adjusted to the individual needs of the patient.

“Furthermore, the temporary shape can be adjusted to the individual needs of the patient.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The shape fixity ratio is a measure for the ability of the switching segment to fix a mechanical deformation applied during the shape-memory creation process when the temporary shape is created.

“R f is a measure for the ability of the switching segment to fix a mechanical deformation -for example, an elongation to e m , applied during SMCP, when the temporary shape is created.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

For PCL, e-beam irradiation at 9.0 kGy/min broadens the molecular weight distribution through combined chain scission and cross-linking.

“For PCL, Filipczak et al. demonstrated by e-beam irradiation (9.0 kGy/min) that the molecular weight distribution becomes broadened through combined chain scission and cross-linking [56].”

• cites [56] Filipczak, 2006, Macromol. Biosci. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The application of the prepolymer method enabled the production of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers on an industrial scale.

“The application of the prepolymer method enabled the production of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers on an industrial scale.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Thermoplastic shape-memory polymers can be synthesized by direct coupling of presynthesized polymer blocks with a reactive linker, by applying the prepolymer method, or by melt blending.

“Thermoplastic SMPs can be synthesized by direct coupling of presynthesized polymer blocks with a reactive linker, by applying the prepolymer method or by melt blending.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Appropriate sterilization of shape-memory polymers requires a transition temperature higher than the temperature attained during the sterilization technique.

“This requires, for example, a T trans of the SMP, which is higher than the temperature attained during the sterilization technique.”

May combine two claims.

This polyetherurethane material is used in artificial hearts, wound dressings and pacemaker leads.

“This material is used in artificial hearts, wound dressings and pacemaker leads [18].”

• cites [18] Guignot, 2001, Nucl. Instrum. Meth. B sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

The quality of phase separation between the polyurethane segments and the polyetherurethane is determined by the molecular weight of the polytetrahydrofurandiols used as educt.

“The quality of phase separation between the polyurethane segments and the PEU is determined by the molecular weight of the polytetrahydrofurandiols used as educt.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

For sterilization techniques using reactive components, building blocks nonreactive towards these components have to be used.

“Furthermore, in case of sterilization techniques using reactive components, building blocks, which are nonreactive towards these components, have to be used.”

May combine two claims.

Such reactions might shift the transition temperature of a shape-memory polymer, causing actuation during sterilization or preventing actuation at the application site.

“While these effects might be neglected for materials not intended to change their shape, in case of SMPs, such reactions might result in an undesired shift of T trans , either resulting in actuation of the SME during sterilization or preventing it at the application site, when stimulated by exposure to the intended temperature range.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Shape-memory polymers are polymer materials that can be temporarily stabilized in a second, temporary shape by application of external stress and subsequent fixation.

“SMPs are polymer materials, which can be temporarily stabilized in a second, temporary shape by application of external stress and subsequent fixation [2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13].”

• cites [2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13]Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

May combine two claims.

When the shape-memory polymer is reheated, crystallites melt or glassy polymer chain segments return to the viscous state.

“When the SMP is reheated, the crystallites will melt or the glassy polymer chain segments will return to the viscous state.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Physical crosslinks require a morphology consisting of at least two segregated domains, for example a crystalline and an amorphous phase.

“physical crosslinks require a morphology consisting of at least two segregated domains -for example, a crystalline and an amorphous phase.”

May combine two claims.

A bulky implant with a switching temperature between room temperature and body temperature can be inserted through a small incision in a compressed or elongated temporary shape and, upon heating to body temperature, changes into its bulky application-relevant shape.

“A bulky implant having a switching temperature (T sw ) between room temperature and body temperature could be inserted into the body through a small incision in a compressed or elongated temporary shape.As soon as the implant is placed in the body, it is heated to body temperature and changes into its bulky application-relevant shape.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Several shape-memory polymer network architectures have been invented, each having certain advantages.

“As a result, several SMP network architectures have been invented, each having certain advantages.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

If additional cross-links are based on physical interaction, a further distinction according to thermal transition can be made: glass transition, melting transition, or liquid crystalline transition.

“If these additional cross-links are based on physical interaction, a further distinction according to T trans can be made, which can be a glass transition T g , a melting transition T m or a liquid crystalline transition.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

Multifunctionality is the unexpected combination of material functions.

“Multifunctionality is the unexpected combination of material functions [17].”

• cites [17] Lendlein, 2005, Clin. Hemorheol. Micro.Not checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

In polyesterurethanes, the oligourethane segments act as hard segments, while the polyester segments, for example poly(e-caprolactone), form the switching segments.

“In PESU, the oligourethane segments are acting as hard segments, while the polyester segments, for example, poly(e-caprolactone) (PCL), are forming the switching segments.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

Melting transitions mostly extend over a temperature range between 15 and 20 K, while liquid crystalline transitions can occur in a temperature interval between 1 and 5 K.

“Melting transitions mostly extend over a temperature range between 15 and 20 K, while liquid crystalline transitions can even occur in a temperature interval between 1 and 5 K.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The shape recovery ratio determines the ability of the material to memorize its permanent shape.

“R r determines the ability of the material to memorize its permanent shape.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

In most cases these polymers form a mixed domain acting as a switching phase.

“In most cases these polymers form a mixed domain acting as a switching phase.”

May combine two claims.

The netpoints of the polymer network determine the permanent shape of the shape-memory polymer and can be of chemical or physical nature.

“The netpoints of the polymer network, which are connected by the chain segments, determine the permanent shape of the SMP and can be of chemical (covalent bonds) or physical (intermolecular interactions) nature.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

When the recovery process is performed under stress-free conditions, for thermally induced shape-memory polymers the switching temperature can be determined.

“When the recovery process is performed under stress-free conditions, for thermally induced SMPs the switching temperature T sw , triggering the macro scopic SME, can be determined.”

May combine two claims.

Hydrogen peroxide vapor or ethylene oxide may react with certain chemical groups of shape-memory polymers, so careful selection of sterilization method is required.

“Among them, a careful selection has to be made, as hydrogen peroxide vapor or EO may react with certain chemical groups of the SMP.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The temperature at which maximum stress is developed can be determined from recovery processes under constant strain.

“In addition, the temperature at which maximum stress is developed (T smax ) can be determined from recovery processes under constant strain.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Prominent examples for block copolymers with a melting transition as the transition temperature are polyetherurethane, polyesterurethanes and polyetheresterurethanes.

“Prominent examples for block copolymers with T trans = T m are PEU, polyesterurethanes (PESU) and polyetheresterurethanes.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Tests with organotypic and regiospecific primary cells are suited to provide more detailed systematic information about SMP-cell interaction in the later medical approach.

“Tests with organotypic and regiospecific primary cells are suited to provide more detailed systematic information about the SMP-cell interaction in the later medical approach.”

Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

These results were supposed to be affected by different mechanical loading by surface roughness, and besides chemical composition, also by resulting surface properties such as hydrophobicity, which are main predictors of protein adsorption and cell adhesion.

“These results were supposed to be affected by different mechanical loading by the surface roughness, and besides the chemical composition of the material surface, also by the resulting surface properties, often expressed in terms of hydrophobicity, that are the main predictors of protein adsorption and, thus, cell adhesion [77-79].”

• cites [77] Sigurdson, 2002, J. Biomed. Mater. Res. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [78] Singer, 1999, N. Engl. J. Med. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [79] Wang, 2004, Pharm. Res. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

No gas leakage after gas insufflation could be detected, and fast and unfavorable degradation of the polymer did not occur.

“No gas leakage after gas insufflation could be detected, and fast and unfavorable degradation of the polymer did not occur.”

• cites [75] Rickert, 2005, Biomed. Tech. (Berl.) sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [76] Rickert, 2005, Clin. Hemorheol. Microcirc.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: The incorporation of a biomaterial in vivo requires regular wound-healing mechanisms.

May combine two claims. The quote only partly states this claim.

Endothelial cells proved to adhere, grow and form confluent monolayers on PDC after EO sterilization during increasing time periods.

“The endothelial cells proved to adhere, to grow and to from confluent monolayers on the material during increasing time periods.”

• cites [80] Rickert, 2003, Clin. Hemorheol. Microcirc.Not checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

N-PCLDMA polymer proved biocompatible for all tested cell types, supporting cell viability and proliferation.

“The polymer proved biocompatibility for all tested cell types, supporting cell viability and proliferation.”

• cites [86] Neuss, 2009, Biomaterials sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

N-PCLDMA supported osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells 3 weeks after induction, and SME activation did not affect the majority of adherent cells.

“N-PCLDMA also supported the osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells 3 weeks after osteogenic and adipogenic induction, and the SME activation did not affect the majority of adherent cells.”

• cites [86] Neuss, 2009, Biomaterials sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

PESU showed higher TNF-a production and a higher potential for macrophage and endothelial activation compared with PEU.

“The PESU showed higher TNF-a production and a higher potential for macrophage and endothelial activation, respectively, compared with PEU.”

• cites [81] Cabanlit, 2007, Macromol. Biosci. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

PCL-based shape-memory polyurethane ionomers with quaternarized pyridine moieties reduced the bacterial activity of Klebsiella pneumoniae by 96.2% and Staphylococcus aureus by 100%.

“In addition, PCL-based shape-memory polyurethane ionomers with quaternarized pyridine moieties proved to be suited to reduce the bacterial activity of Klebsiella pneumoniae (-96.2%) and Staphylococcus aureus (-100%).”

• cites [73] sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

The in vivo degradation process of PDC is characterized by a release of microparticles, which were supposed to primarily consist of PPDO, and which did not negatively affect strong integration of the SMP in the subcutis of rats and mice.

“The study demonstrated that the in vivo degradation process of PDC is characterized by a release of microparticles, which were supposed to primarily consist of PPDO, and which didn't negatively affect a strong integration of the SMP in the subcutis of rats [97] and mice [99].”

• cites [97] Hiebl, 2009, Mat. Res. Soc. Symp. Proc. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [99] Binzen, 2003, Clin. Hemorheol. Microcirc.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: The incorporation of a biomaterial in vivo requires regular wound-healing mechanisms.

May combine two claims.

Variations in PEU blood compatibility have been observed, with improved thromboresistance correlating to more alkylated soft segments, higher soft segment content on the surface, and surface treatment such as grafted sulfonate groups.

“Variations in PEU blood compatibility have been observed, with improved thromboresistance correlating to more alkylated soft segments [82], higher soft segment content on the surface [83] and surface treatment, such as grafted sulfonate groups [84,85].”

• cites [82] Coury A, Levy R, McMillin Cet al.Biomaterials Science: An Introduction to Materials in Medicine. Ratner B, Hoffman A, Schoen F, Lemons J (Eds). Academic Press, NY, USA (1996).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• cites [83] Silver, 1994, Biomaterials sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [84] Lelah, 1985, J. Biomed. Mater. Res. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [85] Lelah, 1983, J. Biomed. Mater. Res. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

Polyurethane ionomers possessed good bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus and bacteriostatic activity against Escherichia coli.

“It was found that the polyurethane ionomers possessed good bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus and bacteriostatic activity against Escherichia coli.”

• cites [72] Grapski, 2001, Biomaterials sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

After plasma sterilization with Sterrad-100St, H2O2, for 52 min, PU foams have increased open porosity but no effects on shape-memory recovery.

“After plasma sterilization (Sterrad-100St, H 2 O 2 , 52 min) PU foams are described to have an increased open porosity, but no effects on shape-memory recovery were observed [63].”

• cites [63] De Nardo, 2009, Acta Biomater. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

Therefore, in vivo testing in animal models is necessary prior to human clinical testing.

“Therefore, in vivo testings in animal models are necessary prior to human clinical testing.”

May combine two claims.

The angiogenic effect of PDC was shown in the hen's egg chorioallantoic membrane test and after subcutaneous implantation in rats and mice.

“This might be explained by the angiogenic effect of the PDC, which was shown in the hen's egg chorioallantoic membrane test (HET-CAM-test) [71], and also after subcutaneous implantation in rats [97] (Figure 3) and mice [99].”

• cites [71] Rickert, 2006, Eur. Arch. Otorhinolaryngol. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [97] Hiebl, 2009, Mat. Res. Soc. Symp. Proc. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [99] Binzen, 2003, Clin. Hemorheol. Microcirc.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: The incorporation of a biomaterial in vivo requires regular wound-healing mechanisms.

May combine two claims.

The highest MMP-1 and MMP-2 levels corresponded with the highest TIMP levels, and vice versa.

“The highest MMP-1 and MMP-2 levels corresponded with the highest TIMP levels, and vice versa.”

• cites [74][75][76][77]Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

May combine two claims.

By using polymers instead of Pt coils, improved cell adhesion may be achievable, since polymers can be tailored to preferentially allow adhesion of certain cell types by selection of building blocks.

“By using polymers instead of Pt coils, an improved cell adhesion may be achievable [108], since polymers can be tailored to preferentially allow adhesion of certain cell types by the selection of building blocks for the polymer.”

• cites [108] Hampikian, 2006, Mater. Sci. Eng. C sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

Energy input from laser activation also causes heating and potential damages to blood cells and the surrounding tissue.

“However, at the same time, energy input also causes heating and potential damages to blood cells and the surrounding tissue.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

For hydrolytic cleavage as the most commonly followed biodegradation strategy, the erosion mechanism depends on the combination of the rate of water uptake into the matrix and the rate of hydrolytic polymer cleavage.

“For example, for hydrolytic cleavage as the most commonly followed biodegradation strategy, the erosion mechanism depends on the combination of both the rate of water uptake into the matrix and the rate of hydrolytic polymer cleavage.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The concept of a controlled and sustained release of drugs from biodegradable implants was developed more than 30 years ago.

“The concept of a controlled and sustained release of drugs from biodegradable implants was developed more than 30 years ago [134,135].”

• cites [134] sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [135] sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Diffusion of water into the polymer matrix typically occurs when the dry implant matrix is transferred into a physiological environment.

“Typically this is the case when the dry implant matrix is transferred into a physiological environment.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Depending on the application, drug release can be adjusted to be fast, slow or pulsatile.

“Depending on the application, the release can be adjusted to be, for example, fast, slow or pulsatile.”

May combine two claims.

FDA approval was received in the USA for a microcatheter system that is guided to the occluded vessel and passed beyond the thrombus; a nitinol wire deploys to a helical corkscrew shape and captures the clot.

“Accordingly, FDA approval was received in the USA for a microcatheter system that is guided to the occluded vessel and passed beyond the thrombus.A nitinol wire is advanced through the catheter, deploys at the end of the catheter in a spring-like manner to a helical corkscrew shape, and captures the clot [129].”

• cites [129] Gobin, 2004, Stroke sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

When drug release and degradation/erosion overlap, diffusion and erosion both contribute to the drug's release profile.

“In this common scenario, diffusion and erosion both contribute to the drug's release profile.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

In contrast to daily peroral medication, implants can reduce the frequency of administration and provide constant levels of bioactive molecules either locally or systemically over an extended period of time (sustained release).

“In contrast to daily peroral medication, for example, with tablets, implants can reduce the frequency of administration, and provide constant levels of bioactive molecules either locally or systemically over an extended period of time (sustained release).”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Polymer erosion can occur either at the surface of the material (surface-eroding) or in the entire matrix (bulk-eroding).

“In principle, this erosion can either occur at the surface of the material (surface-eroding) or in the entire matrix (bulk-eroding).”

May combine two claims.

A tight connection between the polymer and the adjacent stomach was found, resulting in adequate mechanical stability under the extreme pathophysical conditions of the stomach milieu.

“A tight connection between the polymer and the adjacent stomach was found, resulting in adequate mechanical stability under the extreme pathophysical conditions of the stomach milieu (Figure 4).”

• cites [75] Rickert, 2005, Biomed. Tech. (Berl.) sourceNot checked — no full text of the source
• cites [76] Rickert, 2005, Clin. Hemorheol. Microcirc.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: The incorporation of a biomaterial in vivo requires regular wound-healing mechanisms.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Depending on the speed and pathway of polymer erosion, drug release and degradation/erosion may overlap.

“Depending on the speed and pathway of polymer erosion, drug release and degradation/erosion may overlap.”

May combine two claims.

Due to Joule heating by applying current to the copper wires, the SMP switching temperature is exceeded and super elastic recovery of the nitinol is enabled.

“Due to Joule heating by applying current to the copper wires, the SMP switching temperature is exceeded and super elastic recovery of the nitinol is enabled.”

• cites [117] Small, 2007, IEEE Trans. Biomed. Eng. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

A fast shape recovery may be useful when immediate fixation of a device or tissue is required during an intraoperative scenario.

“Often, a fast shape recovery may be useful when immediate fixation of a device or tissue is required during an intraoperative scenario.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

For drugs with relevant diffusion coefficients, a solely diffusion-controlled drug release can be realized.

“For drugs with relevant diffusion coefficients, a solely diffusioncontrolled drug release can be realized.”

May combine two claims.

Preliminary in vivo data in dogs for aneurysms of the common carotid artery showed successful closure, at least macroscopically, in this well-healing vessel model, although no information on the cell types of the neointima was provided.

“Preliminary in vivo data in dogs for aneurysms of the common carotid artery showed a successful closure, at least macroscopically, in this well-healing vessel model, although no information on the cell types of the neointima was provided (Figure 7) [107].”

• cites [107] Metcalfe, 2003, Biomaterials sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

After turning off the current, the SMP vitrifies, enforces the nitinol and allows clot removal in vivo without the need of otherwise common guide wires.

“After turning off the current, the SMP vitrifies, enforces the nitinol and allows clot removal in vivo without the need of otherwise common guide wires [118].”

• cites [118] Hartman, 2007, AJNR Am. J. Neuroradiol.Not checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

A solely erosion-controlled drug release can be observed for molecules that do not possess diffusibility in the polymer matrix, for example due to high molecular weight.

“A solely erosion-controlled drug release can be observed for molecules that do not possess diffusibility in the polymer matrix; for example, for sterical reasons due to a high molecular weight.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

Shape recovery produces forces that are typically required to enable the biomedical functionality of SMP devices.

“Shape recovery produces forces that are typically required to enable the bio medical functionality of SMP devices.”

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

By employing SMP devices rather than common metal screws, damage of ligaments by the screw threads may be avoided during fixation.

“Moreover, by employing SMP devices rather than common metal screws, damage of ligaments by the screw threads may be avoided during fixation.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Diffusion of water from the release medium into the polymer matrix is essential to initiate drug release.

“It should be pointed out that the diffusion of water from the release medium into the polymer matrix is essential to initiate drug release.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

In SMPs capable of biodegradation, substantial alterations of polymer properties will occur after exposure to a physiological environment.

“In the preferred case of SMPs with the capability to undergo biodegradation, substantial alterations of polymer properties will occur after exposure to a physiological environment.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Dissolved drug molecules can diffuse with a certain rate out of a polymer matrix.

“Generally, dissolved drug molecules can diffuse with a certain rate out of a polymer matrix.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

Adding a new capability to a device is not trivial, since it may impair an already established functionality.

“Adding a new capability to a device is not trivial, since it is not unlikely that this may impair an already established functionality.”

May combine two claims.

Incorporation of higher amounts of cross-linker into the network, or reducing the Tg of the switching segment, resulted in faster shape recovery of stent prototypes at body temperature in vitro.

“Incorporation of higher amounts of the cross-linker into the network, or reducing the T g of the switching segment, resulted in faster shape recovery of stent prototypes at body temperature in vitro.”

• cites [26] Yakacki, 2007, Biomaterials sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Following water diffusion, small-molecule drugs with some water solubility get dissolved and typically can diffuse through the matrix in order to be released.

“Following this, small-molecule drugs, at least those with some extent of water solubility, get dissolved and typically can diffuse through the matrix in order to be released.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

A controlled-release formulation may prevent drug degradation, reduce side effects, or improve patients' adherence to the treatment.

“Besides ensuring delivery of the correct amount of drug, a controlled-release formulation may prevent drug degradation, reduce side effects, or improve patients' adherence to the treatment [136].”

• cites [136] sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

As a consequence of polymer degradation, implants lose structural integrity, undergoing erosion.

“As a consequence of polymer degradation, implants lose structural integrity -that is, they undergo erosion.”

May combine two claims.

In another study, solid and perforated stents were compared, and a faster onset of recovery was found for the perforated devices.

“In another study, solid and perforated stents were compared, and a faster onset of recovery was found for the perforated devices [104].”

• cites [104] Yakacki CM, Shandas R, Lanning C, Gall K. Free recovery effects of shape-memory polymers for cardiovascular stents. In:Mechanical Behavior of Biological and Biomimetic Materials. Bushby AJ, Ferguson VL, Ko C-C, Oyen ML (Eds). Material Research Society, PA, USA (2006). sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

Incorporation of drugs may result in a disturbance of the polymer morphology or thermomechanical properties, and thus in an impaired shape-memory of a temperature-induced SMP.

“For example, incorporation of drugs may result in a disturbance of the polymer morphology or thermomechanical properties, and thus in an impaired shape-memory of a temperature-induced SMP.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

Biomedical applications require specific combinations of properties or functionalities, which can be realized by the appropriate choice of suitable SMP architectures.

“Biomedical applications require specific combinations of properties or functionalities, which can be realized by the appropriate choice of suitable SMP architectures.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Multifunctional SMPs that combine shape-memory, biodegradability and controlled drug release are highlighted as matrices of drug carriers with relevance for both medical devices and pharmaceutical products.

“Multifunctional SMPs that combine shape-memory, biodegradability and controlled drug release are highlighted as matrices of drug carriers with relevance for both medical devices and pharmaceutical products.”

May combine two claims.

Increased drug solubility in the polymer may increase maximum loading by swelling techniques but may also result in incomplete drug release due to trapping of drug in the polymer phase.

“This, on the one hand, may increase maximum loading, for example, by swelling techniques, but, on the other hand, may result in incomplete drug release due to trapping of drug in the polymer phase.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

The shape-memory effect results from a suitable molecular network architecture in combination with a tailored processing and programming technology.

“The shape-memory effect (SME) results from a suitable molecular network architecture in combination with a tailored processing and programming technology.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

If a SMP stent releases drugs and subsequently is removed from the tissue by biodegradation, the stent product might be considered to act mainly as a drug reservoir, and therefore as a pharmaceutical product.

“If, on the other hand, a SMP stent releases drugs and subsequently is removed from the tissue by biodegradation, the stent product, although providing mechanical stabilization of a tissue for a certain period of time, might be considered to act mainly as a drug reservoir, and therefore as a pharmaceutical product.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

There are several different methods to incorporate drugs in a polymeric matrix, but their applicability depends on the polymer properties.

“In principle, there are several different methods to incorporate drugs in a polymeric matrix; however, their applicability will depend on the polymer properties.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

Selection of building blocks and polymer architectures allows tuning of SMP mechanical properties over a wide range.

“Selection of building blocks and polymer architectures allows tuning of SMP mechanical properties over a wide range.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

During the consultation process, according to the medical device directive 93/42/EEC, the relevant national authorities will independently review in each specific case whether inclusion of drugs has led to changes in product classification.

“During the consultation process, according to the medical device directive 93/42/EEC, the relevant national authorities will independently review in each specific case whether inclusion of drugs has led to changes in product classification.”

• cites medical device directive 93/42/EECNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

May combine two claims.

Amorphous covalent SMP networks might advantageously show more homogeneous biodegradation, slower changes of mechanical properties during degradation, and easier adjustment of degradation and possibly drug release rates by changing co-monomer ratios in the network precursors.

“Besides being capable of drug loading in the entire matrix, amorphous covalent SMP networks might advantageously show a more homogeneous biodegradation, slower changes of mechanical properties during degradation and an easier adjustment of degradation, and possibly of drug release rates, by changing the co-monomer ratios in the network precursors [133].”

• cites [133] Wischke, 2010, Adv. Polym. Sci.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

May combine two claims.

Drug loading of thermoplastic materials will typically be time-independent from polymer synthesis and can be carried out with different loading levels.

“Drug loading will typically be time-independent from polymer synthesis and could be carried out with different loading levels.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Cross-linking a macromolecular network precursor in the presence of dispersed drug might cause chemical alterations of drug molecules that should be strictly avoided.

“Cross-linking macromolecular network precursor in the presence of dispersed drug might possibly cause chemical alterations of drug molecules that should be strictly avoided.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Such stents might be useful to keep the ureter open, for example in patients with abdominal tumors.

“Such stents might be useful to keep the ureter open, for example in patients with abdominal tumors.”

May combine two claims.

A possibly broader temperature interval of thermal transition or a potential drug-induced plasticization of the SMP, and consequent alterations of the switching temperature, might be drawbacks of amorphous SMP networks.

“However, a possibly broader temperature interval of thermal transition or a potential drug-induced plasticization of the SMP and, as a consequence of this, alterations of the switching temperature, might be potential drawbacks of amorphous SMP networks.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based). May combine two claims.

Due to SMP biodegradability, the need for a second surgery for explantation can be avoided, which is beneficial for the patient and reduces treatment costs and intraoperative risks.

“Due to SMP biodegradability, the need of a second surgery for explantation can be avoided, which is beneficial for the patient and reduces treatment costs, as well as intraoperative risks.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Common strategies to incorporate drugs in a polymeric matrix include casting of drug/polymer solutions, processing polymers in the molten state with dissolved or suspended drug, swelling of preformed networks, or cross-linking a macromolecular network precursor in the presence of dispersed drug.

“Common strategies include casting of drug/polymer solutions, processing polymers in the molten state with dissolved or suspended drug, swelling of preformed networks or cross-linking a macromolecular network precursor in the presence of dispersed drug.”

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

The introduction of biodegradable building blocks into SMPs enabled a wider evaluation of SMPs for biomedical applications.

“Importantly, the introduction of biodegradable building blocks into the SMPs enabled a wider evaluation of SMPs for biomedical applications.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Noncovalent interactions, such as ionic bonds or hydrophobic interactions between drug and polymer, may take place when dissolved drug molecules are brought into contact with the polymer during drug loading.

“In addition, noncovalent interactions, such as ionic bonds or hydrophobic interactions between drug and polymer, may take place when dissolved drug molecules are brought into contact with the polymer during drug loading.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

According to the common definition, at least in Europe, a product will no longer be considered a medical device but a pharmaceutical product whenever a principal intended action of the device in the human body is achieved by pharmacological, immunological or metabolic means.

“According to the common definition and, at least in Europe, the product will no longer be considered as a medical device, but a pharmaceutical product whenever a principal intended action of the device in the human body is achieved by pharmacological, immunological or metabolic means.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Drug loading of covalently cross-linked SMP networks can be conducted by swelling the network in drug solutions with subsequent drying.

“Drug loading of covalently cross-linked SMP networks can be conducted by swelling the network in drug solutions with subsequent drying.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

To evaluate the significance of the drug payload in a specific product, the purpose and application of the product need to be considered.

“In order to evaluate the significance of the drug payload in a specific product, the purpose and application of the product need to be considered.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Biodegradable SMP stents are considered as a future strategy that might overcome complications in treatment, such as late thrombosis.

“Biodegradable SMP stents are considered as a future strategy that might overcome complications in treatment, such as late thrombosis.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

This stresses the potential of SMP applications in the field of regenerative therapies.

“This stresses the potential of SMP applications in the field of regenerative therapies.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

These requirements could be fulfilled by materials that are able to perform more than one predetermined shift.

“These requirements could be fulfilled by materials that are able to perform more than one predetermined shift.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

Besides the advantages of EO, including efficacy at low temperatures, high penetration and compatibility with a wide range of materials, residual EO can have severe cytotoxic effects.

“However, besides the advantages of EO, including efficacy at low temperatures, high penetration and compatibility with a wide range of materials, residual EO can have severe cytotoxic effects.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

Especially for applications in minimally invasive medicine, there is a strong demand for implants that are able to perform complex movements.

“Especially for applications in minimally invasive medicine, there is a strong demand for implants that are able to perform complex movements.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

By combining the SME with biodegradability and controlled drug release in one polymeric system, multifunctional materials can be obtained that open up biomedical applications beyond medical devices.

“By combining the SME with biodegradability and controlled drug release in one polymeric system, multifunctional materials can be obtained that open up biomedical applications beyond medical devices.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

In terms of an individual treatment of patients, SMPs might be necessary that can be adapted to the specific conditions of an individual patient.

“In addition, in terms of an individual treatment of patients, SMPs might be necessary that can be adapted to the specific conditions of an individual patient.”