Patent Survey Research Articles

Plant Taxa as Raw Material in Plant-Based Meat Analogues (PBMAs)—A Patent Survey

Background/Objectives: The environmental problems associated with meat production, the pain and distress of animals, and health problems have contributed to the increased appreciation of meat alternatives. Methods: The review of patented inventions presenting plant-based meat analogues (PBMAs)issued in the years 2014-2023 was conducted according to PRISMA statements across the ISI Web of Science, as well as Google Patents and Espacenet Patent Search engines. Results: The analysis of 183 patents showed an increase inpatent numbers in the years 2020–2022, with the greatest number of patents developed by teams consisting of two authors. The authors and patent applicants were mainly affiliated with the United States, while Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. emerged as the leader among applicant institutions. The International Patent Classification (IPC) codes were given to 177 patents, which were mainly classified as Human Necessities (Section A). In total, inventors mentioned 184 taxa, including 28 genera, 1 section, 144 species, 5 subspecies and 6 varieties of vascular plants. The majority of taxa showed a high edibility rating and belonged to perennials, mainly herbaceous plants representing the families Fabaceae, Poaceae and Brassicaceae. The analysis of patents showed that plants are a promising source of protein, lipids, fibre, polyphenols, starch and gum in meat analogues. At the same time, the noticed slight use of numerous taxa, despite the substantial content of valuable constituents as well as high edibility rates, presumably might be caused by their underutilization in numerous regions of the world. Conclusions: The direction of future studies should focus on searching for novel plant-based meat analogues based on underutilized, promising plant sources and investigations of their usefulness.

Emerging Nanoparticle-Based Herbal Drug Delivery Systems for Colon Targeting Therapy

Abstract: Herbal medications hold a dominant position in the pharmaceutical sector due to their well-established therapeutic effects and extremely low negative effects. Besides, herbal remedies are easily available and highly economical. However, to circumvent the issue of poor bioavailability, the combinatorial strategy of incorporating herbal medicines and nano-technology is useful. The phytoconstituents molded in novel nanocarriers such as polymeric nanoparticles, polymeric micelles, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, nanoemulsions, gold nanoparticles, etc., have been extensively investigated as they are the most promising approach for colon-targeting drug delivery systems. Although plant-based medicines have been developed for decades, there is enormous research interest in the development of an effective plant-derived delivery system for the incorporation of phytocon-stituents into various nanomaterials to overcome potential challenges related to solubility, bioavailability, and stability issues. The encapsulation of phytoconstituents in a novel nanocarrier is a promising approach to improving the bioavailability, stability, and therapeutic efficacy of herbal medicines. The herbal nanomedicines are used as a promising tool for tar-geted delivery to the colon, with potentially effective outcomes for the treatment of colonic diseases, viz., ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, Crohn's disease, shigellosis, constipation, co-lonic polyps, colon cancer, etc. This article presents a comprehensive survey of recent find-ings and patents by innovators working exclusively on nanoparticles for the delivery of phy-tomedicines for colon targeting.

Recent advancements in novel formulations of anti-psoriatic agents for effective delivery: clinical importance and patent survey.

Objectives An autoimmune-mediated dermatological ailment featuring recurrent episodes is acknowledged as psoriasis. Around the world, 2-3% of people suffer from this autoimmune skin condition. The primary goal of the current review is to analyse and determine the effectiveness of conventional and emerging nano technological strategies to alleviate psoriasis and discuss future perspectives. Evidence acquisition A thorough search of numerous electronic databases, including Science Direct, Scopus, Google Scholar, Clinical Trials, Google Patents, Research Gate, and PubMed, yielded all the data used in this review paper about the management of psoriasis via various anti-psoriatic agent and nanotechnology approaches. Keywords such as topical, liposomes, niosomes, micro needles, clinical trials, patents, pathogenesis, biosimilars, cytokines, and other pertinent words were investigated. Results Nano technological approaches are gaining prominence since they enable targeted delivery, rapid onset of action with limited systemic exposure. Researchers have investigated innovative, alternative therapeutic approaches that are both secure and efficient for treating psoriatic conditions. Further, the potential role of numerous psoriatic conventional therapies has been explored. The patents granted or in process to address psoriasis via topical route have been well explored. Modern nanotechnology has made it possible for pharmaceuticals to be delivered with improved physical, chemical, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic qualities. Despite extensive research complete cure for psoriasis is hampered. Conclusion Relying on the extensive literature review, it can be inferred that nanoparticles based novel delivery strategies have the possibility of enhancing the pharmacological activity and eliminating or resolving problems associated with this ailment. The different drug delivery systems available for the treatment of psoriasis along with the clinical trials in different stages, patents in process and granted, the commercialized status of therapeutic molecules, and the future of research in this area have been thoroughly reviewed.

A Complete Sojourn of Current Trends in Gastro-retentive Drug Delivery System: Recent Advances and Patent Survey.

The current work aims to provide a complete sojourn on gastro-retentive drug delivery system (GRDDS) along with formulation methods, polymer selection, and in vitro/ in vivo challenges with finished dosage forms. Ideally, a biopharmaceutical-hindered drug has a rapid clearance and erratic bioavailability due to its low aqueous solubility and permeability. Additionally, it also suffers from high first-pass metabolism and pre-systemic gut wall clearance. Gastro-retentive drug delivery systems have become an emerging technology where newer methodologies and scientific approaches have been used to provide the controlled release of drugs and provide a protective mechanism in the stomach. By the virtue of utilizing GRDDS as a dosage form, these formulations increase Gastroretention time (GRT) which prolongs the controlled release of the drug in the dosage form. GRDDS contribute to increased drug bioavailability and targeting at a site of action, which enhances therapeutic action and offers significant patient compliance. Furthermore, the present work also highlighted the critical role of polymers in favoring drug retention across GIT with the mechanism of gastro-retention and recommended concentration ranges. The emerging technology is also highlighted by the approved drug products and patented formulations in the recent decade which is depicted in a justified manner. GRDDS formulations have demonstrated clinical efficacy, which is supported by a compilation of patents for cutting-edge innovations in dosage forms that can be held in the stomach for an extended period of time.

Plant-Based Proteins, Peptides and Amino Acids in Food Products Dedicated for Sportspeople-A Narrative Review of the Literature.

Plant proteins are increasingly seen as critical nutrient sources for both amateur and professional athletes. The aim of the presented study was to review the inventions and experimental articles referring to the application of plant-based proteins, peptides and amino acids in food products dedicated to sportspeople and published in the period 2014-2023. The literature search was conducted according to PRISMA statementsacross several key databases, including Scopus and ISI Web of Science. Altogether, 106 patents and 35 original articles were found. The survey of patents and inventions described in the articles showed the use of 52 taxa (mainly annual herbaceous plants), creating edible seeds and representing mainly the families Fabaceae and Poaceae. The majority of inventions were developed by research teams numbering from two to five scientists, affiliated in China, The United States of America and Japan. The greatest number of inventions applied plant-based proteins (especially protein isolates), declared the nutritional activity and were prepared in liquid or solid consistency. According to the reviewed studies, the intake of soybean and potato proteins might provide better results than animal-based protein (excluding resistance training), whereas the consumption of pea and rice protein does not possess any unique anabolic properties over whey protein. The analysis of other investigations demonstrated the varied acceptability and consumption of food products, while the high rating of the tested food products presented in four articles seems to be an effect of their sensual values, as well as other elements, such as production method, health benefits and cost-effectiveness. Considering the great potential of useful plant species, it might be concluded that future investigations focusing on searching for novel plant protein sources, suitable for the preparation of food products dedicated to amateur and professional sportspeople, remain of interest.

To commercialize inside or outside of the firm: Behavioral considerations in patent exploitation by family firms

AbstractResearch SummaryThis article examines the relationship between family ownership and patent use strategy using primary data from a patent survey, as well as patent and firm‐level data from secondary sources. The findings reveal that family firms are less likely than non‐family firms to license their patents and more likely to internally commercialize them. We show that the decision of family firms to license less does not depend on lower patent quality or inefficient patent use. Instead, it arises from their preference for patent uses that allow them to exert greater control over the value they can derive from their innovations. We also show that family firms commercialize more patents because they leverage their managerial discretion to explore and seize emerging internal patent commercialization opportunities.Managerial SummaryWhether the desire of families in family firms to maintain control over the company and strategic resources negatively impacts their economic performance has important governance implications. Within the context of patent commercialization, in line with this desire for control, our study highlights the preference of family firms to prioritize internal commercialization over licensing. To offset their underlicensing tendency, family firms internally commercialize more patents by being nimble to identify and capitalize on emerging commercialization opportunities. This enables them to align their control ambitions with patent commercialization efficiency, akin to nonfamily firms.

Maritime LNG fuel systems for small vessels—A survey of patents

The goal of the Paris agreement (2015) is to achieve a climate-neutral world by mid-century. For maritime transport, the goal is a 50 % reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This may be achieved using low and zero-emission fuels. LNG is a well-known low-carbon fuel for some ship types, but for application to medium to small-sized vessels, more cost-effective, compact, and operational robust solutions must be available. This paper discusses patented LNG fuel system designs and gives a qualitative evaluation of them with respect to their application to this ship segment. The use of a pressure build-up unit in combination with nitrogen injection, and/or heating of the LNG during bunkering, is suggested to be a feasible solution. Another aim of this paper is to highlight the role of patents within this area and contribute to the prevention of patent infringement.

Production, Formulation, and Application of Postbiotics in the Treatment of Skin Conditions

The skin microbiome is composed of a complex association of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The maintenance of skin commensal microbes is essential for preventing the overgrowth of pathogenic microorganisms or already present opportunistic pathogens. Thus, the development of bioactive compounds capable of modulating skin microbiome has become an important topic for both researchers and the cosmetic industry. Increasingly, scientific evidence highlights that metabolites derived from probiotics have a great potential to prevent diseases affecting the skin. These compounds have recently been called postbiotics and are defined as a “preparation of inanimate microorganisms and/or their components that confers a health benefit on the host”. Postbiotics are obtained from fermentations performed almost exclusively by lactic acid bacteria and yeast. Short-chain fatty acids, bacteriocins, and organic acids are some examples of postbiotics. These compounds exhibit antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. In addition, postbiotic production possesses technological advantages, including high stability and increased safety, compared to viable probiotics. In this article, a model for the large-scale production of postbiotics and their uses in cosmetic formulations are reviewed. In addition, results obtained from in vivo tests for the treatment of alopecia, acne, atopic dermatitis, and wound healing are discussed. Finally, technological advances are shown based on a survey of the main patents filed in the area of postbiotics.

Innovation and Appropriation: Insights from the Chinese Patent Survey

Innovation and Appropriation: Insights from the Chinese Patent Survey

A critical appraisal on ferulic acid: Biological profile, biopharmaceutical challenges and nano formulations

Ferulic acid (4-hydroxy-3-methoxy cinnamic acid) is a common phenolic acid in the plant kingdom and an important component of Chinese medicine herbs like Angelica Sinensis, Cimicifuga heracleifolia, and Lignsticum chuanxiong. Ferulic acid rarely occurs in a free state in plants and is typically conjugated with mono- and oligosaccharides, polyamines, lipids, and polysaccharides. Ferulic acid is essential for the synthesis of significant chemical molecules such as coniferyl alcohol, vanillin, synaptic, di ferulic acid, and curcumin as well as for giving the cell wall stiffness. It serves as a precursor to vanillin, amongst the most significant aromatic flavourings found in foods, drinks, medicines, and fragrances. Ferulic acid is now a prime choice of phytochemicals which is used in combination with different anti-depressants and hepatoprotective drugs for enhancing activity. This novel molecule suffers from poor biopharmaceutical properties such as poor solubility and erratic bioavailability which hinders its therapeutic efficacy. The current review highlights the most recent research on ferulic acid, as well as its metabolism profile and issues related to its biopharmaceutical delivery. This review also focused on different nano-formulations reported along with the patent survey.

Potential role of resveratrol and its nano-formulation as anti-cancer agent.

The uncontrolled and metastatic nature of cancer makes it worse and more unpredictable. Hence, many therapy and medication are used to control and treat cancer. However, apart from this, many medications cause various side effects. In America, nearly 8% of patients admitted to the hospital are due to side effects. Cancer is more seen in people residing in developed countries related of their lifestyle. There are various phytoconstituents molecules in which resveratrol (RSV) is the best-fitted molecule for cancer due to its significantly less adverse effect on the body. RSV inhibits the initiation and progression of cell proliferation due to the modulation of various pathways like the phosphoinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. RSV downgraded cell cycle-regulated proteins like cyclin E, cyclin D1, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and induced the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria, causing apoptosis or programmed cell death (PCD). A great benefit comes with some challenges, hence, RSV does suffer from poor solubility in water i.e. 0.05 mg/mL. It suffers from poor bioavailability due to being highly metabolized by the liver and intestine. Surprisingly, RSV metabolites also induce the metabolism of RSV. Hence, significantly less amount of RSV presented in the urine in the unchanged form. Due to some challenges like poor bioavailability, less aqueous solubility, and retention time in the body, researchers concluded to make the nanocarriers for better delivery. Adopting the technique of nano-formulations, increased topical penetration by up to 21%, improved nano-encapsulation and consequently improved bioavailability and permeability by many folds. Hence, the present review describes the complete profile of RSV and its nano-formulations for improving anti-cancer activity along with a patent survey.

Functional Excipients and Novel Drug Delivery Scenario in Self-nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System: A Critical Note.

Lipid-based formulations have emerged as prospective dosage forms for extracting the therapeutic effects of existing lipophilic compounds and novel chemical entities more efficiently. Compared to other excipients, lipids have the added benefit of enhancing the bioavailability of lipophilic and highly metabolizable drugs due to their unique physicochemical features and similarities to in vivo components. Furthermore, lipids can minimize the needed dose and even the toxicity of drugs with poor aqueous solubility when employed as the primary excipient. Hence, the aim of the present review is to highlight the functional behavior of lipid excipients used in SNEDD formulation along with the stability aspects of the formulation in vivo. Moreover, this review also covered the importance of SNEDDS in drug delivery, the therapeutic and manufacturing benefits of lipids as excipients, and the technological advances made so far to convert liquid to solid SNEDDS like melt granulation, adsorption on solid support, spray cooling, melt extrusion/ spheronization has also highlighted. The mechanistic understanding of SNEDD absorption in vivo is highly complex, which was discussed very critically in this review. An emphasis on their application and success on an industrial scale was presented, as supported by case studies and patent surveys.

Classification of Hollow Rollers of Roller Machines for the Treatment of Polymeric Materials and Rubber Compounds (Survey of Patents)

Classification of Hollow Rollers of Roller Machines for the Treatment of Polymeric Materials and Rubber Compounds (Survey of Patents)

Classification of Devices for Introduction and Distribution of Light Phase in Mass-Exchange Columns (Survey of Patents)

Classification of Devices for Introduction and Distribution of Light Phase in Mass-Exchange Columns (Survey of Patents)

The invention of reconfigurable manufacturing systems – A survey of RMS early patents

This paper discusses the rationale and history of inventing the Reconfigurable Manufacturing System (RMS) in the last decade of the 20th Century. The RMS enables creating “live factories” that can be rapidly changed to respond to new market conditions. This paper is focused on the pioneering RMS patents (1997 to 2006) that legally defined the RMS invention discipline. By quantifying the impact of each RMS-related patent, we identify the three prominent patents that legally define the RMS invention: 1. The reconfigurable manufacturing system patent. 2. The reconfigurable manufacturing machine patent. 3. The reconfigurable inspection machine patent.

Classification of Stirrers in the Form of Geometric Shapes of Revolution for Stirring Liquids (Survey of Patents)

Classification of Stirrers in the Form of Geometric Shapes of Revolution for Stirring Liquids (Survey of Patents)

Classification of Disc Stirrers of Tank Equipment for Liquid Media Processing (Survey of Patents)

Classification of Disc Stirrers of Tank Equipment for Liquid Media Processing (Survey of Patents)

How do patent trolls affect the technological innovation of Chinese enterprises? Evidence from enterprise patent survey data in China

Based on the 2017 China Patent Survey data, this study examines how contact with patent trolls affects Chinese enterprises’ technological innovation. The results indicate that the presence of patent trolls in the market may be beneficial for stimulating Chinese enterprises’ awareness of intellectual property rights and improving their technological innovation, indicated by increased R&D investment and patent quantity. However, direct contact with patent trolls does not improve patent value. Such contact further negatively affects patent implementation, as demonstrated by a decreasing share of self-implemented patents and an increasing share of licensed patents. Our findings reveal a “patent troll infection” among enterprises, which hinders patented technology implementation.

Classification of the Rotor Seals of Internal Mixers for Plastics and Rubber Compounds (Survey of Patents)

Classification of the Rotor Seals of Internal Mixers for Plastics and Rubber Compounds (Survey of Patents)

Classification of the Packing Contact Elements of Mass-Exchange Towers with Second-Order form of the Surfaces (Survey of Patents)

Classification of the Packing Contact Elements of Mass-Exchange Towers with Second-Order form of the Surfaces (Survey of Patents)