Abstract: The present invention provides an improved method for preparing, purifying, precipitating, etc., a subject compound for use in a subsequent reaction carried out in suspension. The present invention relies on a precipitating solvent being added to an aqueous solution comprising the subject compound to form a precipitate of the subject compound, which may be further dried and/or purified. Compositions made according to present methods have improved characteristics and properties, such as increased surface and/or reduced density, resulting in a higher reactivity in a subsequent reaction carried out in suspension.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a thermogelling pharmaceutical composition comprising local anaesthetics in base form and which is suitable for topical administration. The compositions further comprise a polyoxyethylene castor oil and one or more surfactants to obtain thermogelling characteristics.

Abstract: A method of treating a human subject in need of melatonin therapy comprises administering to a human subject a composition comprising melatonin dispersed in a polymer matrix adapted to cover the melatonin in a melatonin solubility enhancing pH environment after ingestion and to maintain the melatonin solubility enhancing pH environment when said composition is present in said subject's intestines so that an effective amount of melatonin is released into the subject's intestines.

Abstract: An implant and a process for preparing such an implant are disclosed. The implant includes a porous layer including collagen, a non-porous layer including a collagenic constituent, and a reinforcement component. The non-porous layer is joined to the porous layer and the reinforcement member is embedded into the non-porous layer. The porous layer has a three dimensional density ranging from about 20 mg collagen/cm3 to about 200 mg collagen/cm3.

Abstract: Tissue matrices having anti-microbial properties are provided. In certain embodiments, the tissue matrices include cationic anti-microbial agents that form a stable bond with the tissue matrices without adversely affecting the biologic properties of the tissue matrices.

Abstract: Compositions, materials, methods and kits for bone grafting are described. In some embodiments, a bone graft composition includes about 15% to about 20% by weight collagen, about 55% to about 70% by weight bioactive glass, and about 15% to about 30% by weight a calcium phosphate. The bioactive glass and the calcium phosphate together are about 80% to about 85% by weight of the bone graft composition. In some embodiments, a bone graft composition includes a collagen matrix and a plurality of bioactive glass particulates dispersed throughout the collagen matrix. The collagen matrix is about 20% to about 60% by weight of the bone graft composition, and the bioactive glass is about 40% to about 80% of the bone graft composition. In some embodiments, a majority of the bioactive glass particulates are about 53 ?m to about 425 ?m in size.

Abstract: Described are lyophilized compositions comprising cidofovir, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) or hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) and, optionally, a plasticizer. In particular, described are such compositions that form a sheet-shaped porous solid matrix. Also described are methods for producing such compositions and their use in treating human papillomavirus (HPV) infections and HPV-associated malignancies, in particular, HPV lesions and cervical cancer.

Abstract: The present invention belongs to the biomedicine field and specifically concerns an enzyme-degradable polymer and the application thereof. To solve the problem of low sensitivity of the existing assay reagents, the present invention provides an enzyme-degradable polymer and the related application of the polymer. The present invention also provides hydrogels, nano-particles, fluorescent dye-labeled enzyme substrates and kits (packages) for detection or activity-analysis of biological enzymes based on the enzyme-degradable polymer. The formula of the enzyme-degradable polymer is P1-(aa)N-(AA)n-X X=[formula 1] wherein, (aa)N is a non-enzyme substrate domain, the N aa may be different (no correlation), and N is a non-negative integer; (AA)n is an enzyme substrate domain, the n AA may be different, and n is a non-negative integer; P1 is a protecting group of ?-amino or functional group; P2 is a protecting group of ?-amino; P3 is —NH2, a small molecule compound or a fragment of a polymer.

Abstract: A method including advancing a delivery device through a lumen of a blood vessel to a particular region in the blood vessel; and introducing a composition including a sustained-release carrier and an apolipoprotein A-I (apo A-I) synthetic mimetic peptide into a wall of the blood vessel at the particular region or a perivascular site, wherein the peptide has a property that renders the peptide effective in reverse cholesterol transport. A composition including an apolipoprotein A-I (apo A-I) synthetic peptide, or combination of an apo A-I synthetic mimetic peptide and an Acyl CoA cholesterol: acyltransferase (ACAT) inhibitor in a form suitable for delivery into a blood vessel, the peptide including an amino acid sequence in an order reverse to an order of various apo A-I mimetic peptides, or endogenous apo A-I analogs, or a chimera of helix 1 and helix 9 of endogenous apo A-I.

Abstract: Methods for treating a cardiovascular disorder comprising concomitant administration of one or more extracellular matrix (ECM) based compositions directly to damaged or diseased cardiovascular tissue associated with the cardiovascular disorder, and provision of ventricular assistance. In a preferred embodiment, the ECM based compositions include an ECM material derived from a mammalian source.

Abstract: The invention is directed to beta-defensin-derived peptides and their use in modulating the activity of hematopoietic cells and other CXCR4-expressing cells. Specifically, the invention provides compositions and methods useful in the treatment of cancer. The invention further provides compositions and methods useful for promoting mobilization and transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells and progenitor cells.

Abstract: A rapidly dissolving film is provided for delivery of an active agent to a moist body surface, e.g., mucosal tissue. The film comprises a film-forming binder, a rapidly dissolving polymeric material, and an active agent.

Abstract: The present invention provides for methods and compositions for treating or preventing arthritis and joint injury.

Abstract: A method is provided to functionally select cells with enhanced characteristics relevant to cell engraftment, including both spontaneous migration and directional migration towards specific chemo-attractants. The cells are preferably undifferentiated cells, such as mesenchymal stem cells. The method involves entrapping or encapsulating the cells in a biomaterial barrier, optionally inducing cell migration, and selecting cells that migrated through the barrier. The cells selected by this method have better migratory activities and enhanced in vivo engraftment to injured tissues when they are supplemented systemically.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a solid form and a method for preparing the same. The solid form consists essentially of a biodegradable copolymer and an amide-containing compound. The biodegradable copolymer is semi-crystalline due to the dipole-dipole interaction between the biodegradable copolymer and the urea. The method for preparing the above solid form includes: dissolving a biodegradable copolymer and an amide-containing compound in water at a first temperature, obtaining a solution; cooling the solution at a second temperature to form a solid mixture; and the solid mixture is subjected to a freeze-drying process at a third temperature.

Abstract: A device, a system, or a method is described for treating a disease or a condition of one or more joints of articulating bone in a mammalian subject. The device provides one or more medicaments to one or more joints of the mammalian subject. A device is described that includes one or more substrates configured to contact one or more body contours in proximity to one or more joints of articulating bone of a mammalian subject; one or more sensors configured to detect one or more physiological conditions of the one or more joints; and one or more microjet applicators supported by the one or more substrates and configured to respond to the one or more sensors by injecting one or more medicaments to the one or more joint tissues of the mammalian subject.

Abstract: A method for the preparation of a bioadhesive compact matrix, which comprises the preparation of a uniform mixture of powders comprising one alkylcellulose or one hydroxy alkylcellulose and a non-water-soluble, water-swellable crosslinked polycarboxylic polymer; the preparation of compressed units starting from such powder mixture by direct compression and finally the heating of the compressed units thus obtained to a temperature in the range of 80-250° C. for a time of 1-60 minutes; the powder mixture can also comprise at least one active substance and the compressed units thus obtained are characterized by a prolonged release, and have a release kinetics of the active substance substantially of zero order in an aqueous solution at pH 4-8.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a bone-repair composition comprising a micro-pulverized demineralized bone matrix; a nonmicro-pulverized demineralized bone matrix; and a hydrating material. The bone-repair composition of the present invention provides easier injectability and shape-maintenance (handling), and exhibits excellent bone-repairing effects due to a large surface area of the micro-pulverized demineralized bone matrix and an early release of the bone growth factors, compared with conventional compositions comprising the nonmicro-pulverized demineralized bone matrix alone. It also has an advantage of being biocompatible and harmless to the human body because there is no use of synthetic materials.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to compounds and medical devices activated with a solvophobic material functionalized with a first reactive member and methods of making such compounds and devices.

Abstract: This invention relates to phytases, polynucleotides encoding them, uses of the polynucleotides and polypeptides of the invention, as well as the production and isolation of such polynucleotides and polypeptides. In particular, the invention provides polypeptides having phytase activity under high temperature conditions, and phytases that retain activity after exposure to high temperatures. The phytases of the invention can be thermotolerant and/or thermostable at low temperatures, in addition to higher temperatures. The phytases of the invention can be used in foodstuffs to improve the feeding value of phytate rich ingredients. The phytases of the invention can be formulated as foods or feeds or supplements for either to, e.g., aid in the digestion of phytate. The foods or feeds of the invention can be in the form of pellets, liquids, powders and the like.

Abstract: A nutriceutical food product includes a solid polymeric matrix and a liquid combined into a gel. The nutriceutical food product may include an immune modulator, such as transfer factor and/or a nanofraction immune modulator. A fruit component may be included in the nutriceutical food product. The fruit component may include at least one oligoproanthocyanidin-containing fruit, such as açai.

Abstract: Particular aspects provide bioresorbable and biocompatible compositions for bioengineering, restoring or regenerating tissue or bone, comprising a three-dimensional porous or non-porous scaffold material comprising a calcium phosphate-based ceramic having at least one dopant therein selected from metal ion or ion dopants and metal oxide dopants, wherein the composition is sufficiently biocompatible to provide for a cell or tissue scaffold, and resorbable at a controlled resorption rate for controlled strength loss, depending on dopant composition, under body, body fluid or simulated body fluid conditions. Preferably, the at least one dopant is selected from the group consisting of Zn2+, Mg2+, Si2+, Na+, K+, Sr2+, Cu2+, Fe3+/Fe2+, Ag+, Ti4+, CO32?, F?, MgO, ZnO, NaF, KF, FeO/Fe2O3, SrO, CuO, SiO2, TiO2, Ag2O and CaCO3, present in an amount between 0 and about 10 w %, from about 0.5 to about 5 w %, or from about 1 to about 3 w %, and methods of using same.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided comprising one or more matrices contained within a shell, wherein the one or more matrices comprise between 1-99 wt % of a water-insoluble host material and between 1-99 wt % of a guest substrate, wherein the guest substrate comprises between 1-100 wt % of one or more disinfectant compounds or one or more beneficial compounds; and wherein the shell comprises a water-insoluble shell polymer, and one or more apertures. The host material may be a polymer. The apparatus is used for treating an aqueous medium with one or more disinfectant compounds or one or more beneficial compounds.

Abstract: Methods for administering a dermatological agent to a subject are provided. In the subject methods an effective amount of a topical formulation of the dermatological agent is topically applied to a host. The topically applied formulation of dermatological agent is then occluded with a hydrogel patch, where a feature of the hydrogel patch is that it lacks a pharmaceutically active agent. Also provided are methods of treating a subject for a disease condition by administering a dermatological agent to the subject. Also provided are kits for use in practicing the subject methods. The subject methods and compositions find use in a variety of different applications.

Abstract: The present invention provides a process or preparing an extracellular matrix composition which comprises: (a) mixing an aqueous solution of fibrinogen with a coagulating agent and a bulking agent and a foaming agent; (b) causing the mixture to foam and coagulate; (c) incubating the mixture obtained in step (b) with a cross-linking agent; and (d) washing the cross-linked composition obtained in step (c) to remove the cross-linking agent. Wherein the foaming agent consists of or comprises one or more surfactant agent(s) from the class of sugar-surfactants. The invention also relates to the formulation mixture as such, and to the products of the process.

Abstract: One embodiment provides a method for enzymatic treatment, including the steps of forming a closed space on a local tissue area with a device and infusing an enzyme solution into the closed space for enzymatic treatment. The method according to the embodiment is capable of treating the local tissue area with enzymes for enhancing cell proliferation in the treated tissue area and preventing damage of the adjacent normal tissues. A device and kit used for the method are also provided.

Abstract: A two-component, molecular-recognition gelation strategy that enables cell encapsulation without the need for environmental triggers is provided. The two components, which in one example contain WW and polyproline-rich peptide domains that interact via hydrogen bonds, undergo a sol-gel phase transition upon simple mixing. Hence, physical gelation is induced by the mixing of two components at constant environmental conditions, analogous to the formation of chemically crosslinked epoxies by the mixing of two components. Variations in the molecular-level design of the two components are used to predictably tune the association energy and hydrogel viscoelasticity. These hetero-assembly physical hydrogels encapsulate neural progenitor cells at constant physiological conditions within 10 seconds to create uniform 3D cell suspensions that continue to proliferate, differentiate, and adopt well-spread morphologies.

Abstract: This invention provides for biocompatible and biodegradable syringeable liquid, implantable solid, and injectable gel pharmaceutical formulations useful for the treatment of systemic and local disease states.

Abstract: A formulation containing conidia of non-toxigenic strains of fungi is a useful biocontrol agent for preventing toxin contamination in agricultural commodities, especially those for human and animal consumption such as peanuts, corn, cotton and tree nuts. The formulation of the invention is a water dispersible granule formulation suitable for spraying and includes non-toxigenic and/or non-aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus strains capable of inhibiting growth of fungi which produce aflatoxin and further capable of suppressing production of aflatoxin by the toxigenic fungi. A method of preparing the formulation is shown.

Abstract: Devices and methods for transplanting cells in a host body are described. The cell comprises a porous scaffold that allows ingrowth of vascular and connective tissues, a plug or plug system configured for placement within the porous scaffold, and a seal configured to enclose a proximal opening in the porous scaffold. The device may further comprise a cell delivery device for delivering cells into the porous scaffold. The method of cell transplantation comprises a two step process. The device is incubated in the host body to form a vascularized collagen matrix around a plug positioned within the porous scaffold. The plug is then retracted from the porous scaffold, and cells are delivered into the vascularized space created within the porous scaffold.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an adhesive strip, particularly an adhesive strip or bandage for use in periodontal treatments. The biocompatible adhesive strip comprises a flexible barrier with a biocompatible adhesive for use in an oral environment, wherein the adhesive is in a non-tacky state when dry and becomes adherent upon contact with liquids.

Abstract: A silk fiber based matrix composition comprising spider silk that can be biodegradable, from the spider species Nephila clavipes (or from genetically engineered bacteria making Nephila clavipes silk), and in the form of a mesh or film.

Abstract: Treatment of prostate cancer by regional and prolonged release of one or more nucleotide-based RNAi agents is provided.

Abstract: In alternative embodiments, the invention provides articles of manufacture comprising biocompatible nanostructures comprising PolyEther EtherKetone (PEEK) surface-modified (surface-nanopatterned) to exhibit nanostructured surfaces that promote osseointegration and bone-bonding for, e.g., joint (e.g., knee, hip and shoulder) replacements, bone or tooth reconstruction and/or implants, including their use in making and using artificial tissues and organs, and related, diagnostic, screening, research and development and therapeutic uses, e.g., as primary or ancillary drug delivery devices. In alternative embodiments, the invention provides biocompatible nanostructures that promote osseointegration and bone-bonding for enhanced cell and bone growth and e.g., for in vitro and in vivo testing, restorative and reconstruction procedures, implants and therapeutics.

Abstract: An article comprising a polyelectrolyte complex comprising an interpenetrating network of at least one predominantly positively charged polyelectrolyte polymer and at least one predominantly negatively charged polyelectrolyte polymer, the polyelectrolyte complex further comprising a plurality of closed-shell pores, the plurality of pores having at least one average transverse dimension between about 100 nanometer and about 1000 micrometers.

Abstract: Biocompatible foams having excellent physical and chemical properties are described. The biocompatible foams can be formed in situ or applied as a pre-formed foam for the treatment of tissue. The invention provides biocompatible degradable foams formed with a poly-?(1?4)glucopyranose macromer. The invention also provides biostable foams formed with a poly(alkylene oxide) macromer.

Abstract: A novel method for the preparation of a highly densified and at least partly, preferably fully or almost fully hydrated ceramic for use in the preparation of a pharmaceutical composition notably for controlled-release of one or more therapeutically, prophylactically and/or diagnostically active substance. The method involves a concomitant step of hydrating and densifying a bioresorbable and hydratable ceramic such as calcium sulphate. The invention also relates to compositions comprising such a highly densified ceramic. The pharmaceutical composition is useful for targeted and controlled local prolonged release of active substances, e.g. anti-cancer agents, whereby the spectrum and severity of side effects are minimized due to an optimized local concentration-time profile.

Abstract: A generally non-acidic hemostatic agent, having a relatively neutral pH comprising a magnesium compound, such as a magnesium chloride, a magnesium sulfate and/or a magnesium acetate based compound. The resultant agent is generally less caustic than previous agents, when using a similar amount of active material.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for modifying biologically active substances to achieve multi-day delivery of such substances, particularly through oral or parenteral administration, are disclosed. The compositions include the biologically active substance conjugated to a carrier having a suitably long half life, typically more than one day, wherein the conjugate optionally contains a spacer linking the carrier to the biologically active substance. Pharmaceutical formulations of the conjugates are also disclosed, as are methods of extending delivery of a single dose of a biologically active substance for more than one day.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions for extended release of one or more active ingredients, comprising a lipid-saturated matrix formed from a non-biodegradable polymer or a block-co-polymers comprising a non-biodegradable polymer and a biodegradable polymer. The present invention also provides methods of producing the matrix compositions and methods for using the matrix compositions to provide controlled release of an active ingredient in the body of a subject in need thereof.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing an unshrunken tissue equivalent. Said method is comprising in that: a mixture is produced that contains at least one element of an extracellular matrix; at least one pluridimensional medium is soaked with said mixture; from the components of the mixture, a lattice comprising at least one element of an extracellular matrix is produced, at least at the medium; at least part of the components of said mixture is attached to the structure of the medium; the shrinking of at least the lattice is prevented and at least said lattice is tensioned on said medium; fibroblasts are integrated into the lattice and at least one cell culture of said fibroblasts is carried out, at least in the lattice. The invention also relates to a method for producing a skin equivalent that comprises at least one dermal equivalent formed by an unshrunken tissue equivalent and at least one epidermal equivalent.

Abstract: The invention relates to material compositions comprising adult stem cells obtained from exocrine gland tissue and a supporting matrix having the shape of a thread structure and/or of a net. The supporting matrix preferably consists of a plastic material which is physiologically acceptable and degradable in the body. The material compositions of the invention are in particular suited for use in regenerative medicine, e.g. for regeneration of injured or damaged myocard tissue.

Abstract: Formulations of molindone having superior stability and methods of administering same are provided. The formulations may be immediate, modified, or otherwise delayed release formulations of molindone.

Abstract: A solid dosage form containing a taste masked active agent is provided. The solid dosage form may be provided as a water soluble film that is disintegrable in the oral cavity to deliver and release the taste masked active agent. The disintegrable film includes at least one water soluble polymer and a taste masked ketoprofen active. Also provided are methods for preparing the solid dosage form and for using the solid dosage to administer an effective dosage of an active agent, such as ketoprofen, into the oral cavity for absorption.

Abstract: The subject invention pertains to compositions and methods for promoting repair of damaged nerve tissue. The compositions and methods of the subject invention can be employed to restore the continuity of nerve interrupted by disease, traumatic events or surgical procedures. Compositions of the subject invention comprise one or more chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG)-degrading enzymes that promote axonal penetration into damaged nerve tissue. The invention also concerns methods for promoting repair of damaged nerve tissue using the present compositions and nerve tissue treated according to such methods. The invention also pertains to kits for nerve repair.

Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to solve the problem of precipitation of a poorly water-soluble compound in a hydrophilic matrix upon inclusion of the poorly water-soluble compound in the hydrophilic matrix. The present invention provides a composition wherein a poorly water-soluble compound is contained in a hydrophilic matrix in a finely-dispersed state.

Abstract: The present invention provides a controlled release composition showing release of an active ingredient (proton pump inhibitor) controlled in two or more steps at different release rates, which contains 1) a release-controlled part A capable of controlling release of the active ingredient to occur at a predetermined rate, 2) a release-controlled part B capable of controlling release of the active ingredient to occur at a predetermined rate lower than the release rate of the release-controlled part A, and where necessary, 3) a release-controlled part C capable of controlling release of the active ingredient to occur at a predetermined rate faster than the release rate of the release-controlled part B, wherein the release of the active ingredient from the release-controlled part B precedes the release of the active ingredient from the release-controlled part A (when release-controlled part C is contained, the release of the active ingredient from the release-controlled part C precedes the release of the active

Abstract: The invention relates to ultrasmall, monodisperse nanoparticles comprising silicon dioxide to the surface of which at least one antigen is attached. The nanoparticles can be used for the immunoprophylaxis or immunotherapy of cancer. The invention also relates to a method for the targeting of antigens at antigen-presenting cells and for the activation of the immune system, where the efficiency of targeting and/or immunoactivation are set via the particle characteristics. The invention also relates to a method for the active and passive immunization of a mammal.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a bio-functionalized stimulus-responsive dissolvable PEG-hydrogel. This inventive stimulus-responsive dissolvable PEG-hydrogel comprises a matrix of PEG-polymers, which are modified to contain at least one multifunctional fusion protein, the multifunctional fusion protein preferably comprising as components a substrate binding peptide (SBP), preferably a repetitive RGD-binding peptide and/or a ZZ-binding domain, preferably a tag for purification, and at least one N- and/or C-terminal linker. The present invention is furthermore directed to the use of such inventive stimulus-responsive dissolvable PEG-hydrogels in the treatment of lesions, in surgical dressings, for wound treating, for soft and hard tissue regeneration, for the treatment of wounds in the oral cavity, in the field of ophthalmology, in the field of periodontal defects, etc. The invention also describes a method of treatment for such diseases.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a non-invasive medical therapy and a composition for avoiding organ transplantation, or controlling biological rejection of transplanted organs, or treating organs under consideration for replacement by transplant, and otherwise treating aged, diseased and/or abnormal tissues and/or organs. More specifically, the non-invasive medical therapy involves administering to a patient an elemental nutritional feeding comprising a free amino acid profile simulating and/or replicating a targeted diseased or transplanted tissue and/or organ. The subject invention provides methods of inactivating reactive component epitopes of moieties pathogenic substances or producing immunogenic compositions containing pathogenic substances comprising contacting pathogenic substances, or compositions containing pathogenic substances, with super critical carbon dioxide or liquid nitrogen. Similar benefits are produced using high HLB surfactants also reducing carcinogenic factors.