Abstract: Aspects of the invention relate to composite markers that employ a gel carrier to carry two or more contrast materials, each detectable by a detection modality different than one another. Kits and methods for forming these composite markers and methods of marking a target site in a mammalian subject employing these composite markers are also discussed herein.

Abstract: The techniques of this disclosure generally relate to a vector flush sizing catheter that is used initially to disperse contrast and measure a length of a main vessel using radiopaque measuring markers of the catheter. Subsequently, the vector flush sizing catheter is used to guide and introduce another endovascular device into the main vessel. By using the vector flush sizing catheter for both procedures, the exchange of catheters, the complexity of the procedure, and the associated risks are minimized.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to pharmaceutical formulations. Particularly, the present invention relates to a new delivery system for delivery of medical components to the lungs, and its utility in the fields of pharmaceutical formulation, drug delivery, medicine and diagnosis.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a nanocomposite for detecting hydrogen sulfide; a method for preparing the same; a novel reactive fluorogenic compound to be used in the method; a kit for detecting hydrogen sulfide comprising the nanocomposite; and a method for providing information for the diagnosis of a disease, which causes abnormal secretion of hydrogen sulfide, by using the nanocomposite.

Abstract: Described are nanoparticulates comprising a metallic nanoparticle core and a peptide coating or shell encapsulating the nanoparticle core and being covalently bonded thereto. The coating is formed from a plurality of branched, amphipathic peptides, each comprising a polar/positively charged C-terminal segment, a branch point, and two hydrophobic N-terminal segments extending from the branch point. Methods of forming and using the nanoparticulates are also described. When a plurality of first and second peptides are added sequentially to the nanoparticle core, the peptides they self-assemble to form an interlocking peptide network bilayer where the respective hydrophobic segments of the peptides form beta-sheet structures in which the opposed sequences interlock to form a zipper-like structure in three dimensions.

Abstract: A method for preparing a suspension of size-controlled microparticles stabilized by a layer of amphiphilic material. The method, which may be applied to preparations using microfluidic techniques, comprises controlling the temperature of the microparticles during the preparation process and preferably while collecting the formed microparticles.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein relates to a method of cavitation-induced delivery of a therapeutic or diagnostic agent to a human or animal subject. In particular the invention provides an agent for use in a method of diagnosis or treatment of a human or animal subject, the method comprising exposing the subject to ultrasound, wherein the agent comprises a therapeutic or diagnostic component which is covalently bound to a dense component, the dense component having a density greater than that of the therapeutic or diagnostic component, and wherein either the dense component is a cavitation initiator or the method comprises administering to the subject a further agent which is a cavitation initiator. Binding of the dense component enhances cavitation-induced transport of the therapeutic or diagnostic component.

Abstract: Provided herein are improved methods for preparing phospholipid formulations including phospholipid UCA formulations.

Abstract: Provided herein are improved methods for preparing phospholipid formulations including phospholipid UCA formulations.

Abstract: Provided herein are improved methods for preparing phospholipid formulations including phospholipid UCA formulations.

Abstract: The present application discloses optical microscopy systems and related method that use modulation techniques and contrast agents to enable the systems to detect nonlinear photoacoustic signals with high spectrum sensitivity and frequency selectivity for imaging. A laser beam is amplitude modulated for pure sinusoidal modulation using either the loss modulation technique or the single light amplitude modulation technique. The sample used in the invention is an endogenous contrast agent by itself or is treated by at least one exogenous contrast agent to produce or enhance photoacoustic effect induced by multi-photon absorption. The modulated laser beam is focused via a focusing device onto a sample which absorbs multiple photons simultaneously and generates ultrasonic (acoustic) waves via nonlinear photoacoustic effect. The ultrasonic waves are received and transformed into electrical signals and the frequency signals within the electrical signals are detected and recorded to create images.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a method for preparing organic microbubble complex particles including sonicating an aqueous solution including a graphene compound and an amphiphilic material in the presence of a gas, a method for preparing organic microbubble complex particles including injecting an aqueous solution including a graphene compound and an amphiphilic material into a microchannel, and an organic microbubble complex particle including a core part including at least one gas selected from the group consisting of an inert gas and carbon dioxide, and a shell layer including a graphene compound and an amphiphilic material, and an ultrasound contrast agent including the organic microbubble complex particles.

Abstract: Method for preparing a lyophilized matrix and, upon reconstitution of the same, a respective injectable contrast agent comprising a liquid aqueous suspension of gas-filled microbubbles stabilized predominantly by a phospholipid. The method comprises preparing an emulsion from an aqueous medium, a phospholipid and a water immiscible organic solvent. The emulsion is then freeze-dried and subsequently reconstituted in an aqueous suspension of gas-filled microbubbles. The method allows to obtain suspensions comprising microbubbles having a relatively small diameter and a narrow size distribution.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for targeted controlled drug release. The compositions and methods can be used for treating or imaging vascular stenosis, stenotic lesions, occluded lumens, embolic phenomena, thrombotic disorders and internal hemorrhage.

Abstract: The present invention provides a prophylactic or therapeutic agent for various malignant tumors, including currently intractable solid tumors, which contains a novel antibody having the ability to bind to human LAT1/CD98 and inducing antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity specifically against cancer cells as an active ingredient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for treating diseases and disorders including cancer and various other angiogenic-dependent diseases, vascular malfunctions, arteriovenous malformations (AVM), hemorrhagic processes and treatment of pain, in particular tumor-related pain by drug delivery and/or therapeutic embolization using microspheres. More particularly the invention relates to microspheres containing non-ionic contrast agents, to compositions comprising these microspheres, as well as methods for preparing and using such compositions for embolization therapy. The invention further relates to compositions and methods using detectable microspheres for targeted drug delivery, irrespective of whether embolization is also needed.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions and methods for related to echogenic contrast agents. Also disclosed are methods and compositions for diagnosing eosinophilic esophagitis in a subject. Also disclosed are methods for producing a medical image of a tissue. Also disclosed are methods of monitoring the progression of eosinophilic esophagitis in a subject before, during, and after treatment.

Abstract: The invention provides particles useful for sequential imaging or for diagnostics or therapeutics. Disclosed is a method to image diagnostic or therapeutic cells in a mammal, comprising: introducing to a mammal a composition comprising mammalian cells comprising mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) comprising a lanthanide, a fluorophore and an agent detectable by ultrasound; applying ultrasound and/or a magnetic field to the mammal and recording ultrasound and/or magnetic resonance images that include the MSNs; and detecting the presence, location or amount of the MSNs in the mammal.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an aqueous ultrasound contact fluid comprising a pharmaceutical grade triglyceride and a pharmaceutically acceptable emulsifier and the use of said ultrasound contact fluid in an intraoperative or interventional ultrasound imaging procedure.

Abstract: A tumor-targeting multi-mode imaging and analyzing method for living body based on gold nanoclusters can include incubating the relevant cells with chloroauric acid and the salt solution thereof with certain concentration under physiological conditions, thereby generating gold nanoclusters. After, real-time non-invasive fluorescence imaging, Raman imaging and/or ultrasonic imaging can be used to image the tumor tissue.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to immunoglobulin single variable domains directed against human macrophage mannose receptor (MMR) and their uses in the field of oncology. More specifically, it concerns immunoglobulin single variable domains, including single-domain antibodies (sdAbs), against human MMR and their use in targeting and in vivo imaging of tumor-associated macrophages, with applications in the field of cancer diagnostics and therapeutics and monitoring of the disease.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an image enhancing composition for the enhancement of contrast in a body cavity, wherein the viscosity of the composition is between 2000 and 4000 mPa·sec. It also relates to a method for enhancing contrast of an image of a body cavity, which method involves introducing one single small aliquot of an image enhancing composition into the body cavity. In another aspect, the present invention provides a high contrast image of a body cavity obtained by the method of the invention, in particular a 3-dimensional high contrast image.

Abstract: PSMA ligands, compositions, and methods therefore are disclosed where the ligand is a peptide having the sequence X1X2CVEVX3QNSCX4X5 where X1-X5 are independently a natural or non-natural amino acid or a peptide having the sequence CALCEFLG [SEQ ID NO: 1]. Especially preferred aspects include diagnostic reagents for detection and/or quantification of PSMA in a sample, therapeutic reagents, and diagnostic imaging reagents.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for preparing beads comprising imaging agent. The present invention further provides beads highly useful for medical imaging.

Abstract: The present invention relates to CX3CR1-targeting imaging agents and their use in treatment and diagnosis of diseases. Single domain CX3CR1-targeting polypeptides linked to detection labels and their use in in vivo imaging of atherosclerotic plaques are described. The CX3CR1-targeting imaging agents are useful in the treatment and diagnosis of CX3CR1-mediated diseases including atherosclerosis.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention relates to a method of ultrasonography, utilizing a gel comprising a reverse phase polymer which facilitates the transmission of high-frequency sound waves. Further, the inherent properties of the reverse phase polymer result in increased adhesion at higher temperatures, thereby helping to maintain the desired position of the ultrasound probe until the user intends to adjust the probe's position. In certain embodiments, the method is utilized in a medical procedure in which stability of an ultrasound probe or transducer in an intended desired position can improve the outcome or increase the efficiency of the procedure. In certain embodiments, the gel further comprises an additive to increase the ultimate adhesion of the gel. In still other embodiments, the gel can be used on the skin, on a protective sheath encasing an ultrasound probe, or between the sheath and the probe, or any or all of them.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for targeting an imaging agent to cells of an animal to detect localized infections. More particularly, localized infections are detected by targeting imaging agents to inflammatory cells having receptors for a vitamin by using vitamin-imaging agent conjugates.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel heteroaryl substituted benzothiazole derivatives, precursors thereof, and therapeutic uses for such compounds, having the structural formula (I) below: and to their pharmaceutically acceptable salt, compositions and methods of use. Furthermore, the invention relates to novel heteroaryl substituted benzothiazole derivatives that are suitable for imaging amyloid deposits in living patients, their compositions, methods of use and processes to make such compounds. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method of imaging amyloid deposits in brain in vivo to allow antemortem diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease as well as measuring clinical efficacy of Alzheimer's disease therapeutic agents.

Abstract: A hydrogel marker is placed under stress during its curing stage, in one embodiment, by application of an externally applied force. The stress may also be induced during or after the dehydration process. The direction of the externally applied force increases the length, width, depth, or radial extent of the marker. The elastic limit of the marker is exceeded when the external force is applied so that the marker substantially retains its stressed size and shape when the externally applied force is removed. When the stretched or otherwise deformed dehydrated marker is hydrated, it substantially returns to the configuration it had prior to its dehydration and prior to the application of the externally applied force.

Abstract: The present invention describes processes for the preparation of a lipid blend and a uniform filterable phospholipid suspension containing the lipid blend, such suspension being useful as an ultrasound contrast agent.

Abstract: A method for treating prostate related diseases in a subject, the method comprising i) optionally administering to subject an initial boost dose of one or more active substances and/or prodrugs, and ii) administering locally into the prostate a controlled release pharmaceutical composition comprising one or more active substances in a biodegradable ceramic carrier. The biodegradable hydrating ceramic may be selected from the group consisting of non-hydrated or hydrated calcium sulphate, calcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, calcium fluoride, calcium silicate, magnesium sulphate, magnesium phosphate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium fluoride, magnesium silicate, barium sulphate, barium phosphate, barium carbonate, barium fluoride, barium silicate, or mixtures thereof. In a specific embodiment, the biodegradable hydrating ceramic is non-hydrated or hydrated calcium sulphate.

Abstract: Provided herein are animals expressing light-responsive opsin proteins in the basal lateral amygdala of the brain and methods for producing the same wherein illumination of the light-responsive opsin proteins causes anxiety in the animal. Also provided herein are methods for alleviating and inducing anxiety in an animal as well as methods for screening for a compound that alleviates anxiety in an animal.

Abstract: Provided are a preparation process of a diagnostic or therapeutic agent having a step of adding, to a first fine emulsion having a particle size of 0.5 ?m or less prepared by applying a predetermined pressure to a first mixture containing a first hydrophobic compound, an emulsifying agent, and an aqueous phase, a second hydrophobic compound compatible with the first hydrophobic compound, thereby preparing a second mixture; and a step of stirring and shaking the second mixture in a hermetically sealed state, thereby embedding the second hydrophobic compound in the first fine emulsion to prepare a second fine emulsion having a particle size of 0.5 ?m or less; a diagnostic or therapeutic agent prepared by the process; and an apparatus for carrying out the process.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and method for delivering a therapeutic or diagnostic agent to a disease site in a mammal, the method comprising administering to the mammal a therapeutically or diagnostically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises the therapeutic or diagnostic agent coupled to a Procaspase 8 polypeptide and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions that contain a plurality of biocompatible self-assembling molecules that transform from isolated molecules or spherical micelles in the circulation into cylindrical nanofibers in the acidic extracellular environment of tumors which can be used to achieve a higher relative concentration of imaging, drug delivery, or radiotherapeutic agents at the tumor site compared to non-tumor tissues. This transition is rapid and reversible, indicating the system is in thermodynamic equilibrium.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to peptide reagents, methods for detecting colon pre-cancer (dysplasia with non-polypoid or polypoid morphology) or cancer using the peptide reagents, and methods for targeting pre-cancerous or cancerous colon cells using the peptide reagents.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of treating LAL deficiency comprising administering to a mammal a therapeutically effective amount of lysosomal acid lipase with an effective dosage frequency. Methods of improving growth and liver function, increasing LAL tissue concentration, and increasing LAL activity in a human patient suffering from LAL deficiency are also provided.

Abstract: Nanocarriers and methods of preparation and use of nanocarriers are presented. In some embodiments, a nanocarrier composition comprises an organic liquid comprising a plurality of nanoparticles dispersed therein; and a coating material disposed around the exterior surface of the organic liquid. Biological tissue may be imaged or treated by coming into contact with a nanocarrier composition, and, at least in some embodiments, irradiated.

Abstract: Fullerenes, when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation, generate acoustic waves. A photoacoustic tomography method using a material comprising fullerenes is disclosed that includes irradiating the material with a radiation beam such as a laser. The resultant photoacoustic effect produced by the material is detected by at least one detector. A photoacoustic tomography system using a material comprising fullerenes is also described.

Abstract: The present invention provides polypeptides, peptide dimer, and multimeric complexes comprising at least one binding moiety for KDR or VEGF/KDR complex, which have a variety of uses wherever treating, detecting, isolating or localizing angiogenesis is advantageous. Particularly disclosed are synthetic, isolated polypeptides capable of binding KDR or VEGF/KDR complex with high affinity (e.g., having a KD<1 ?M), and dimer and multimeric constructs comprising these polypeptides.

Abstract: The present application provides an agent comprising or consisting of a binding moiety with specificity for a kallikrein protein (for example, PSA or hK2) for use in the treatment of prostate cancer, and a method for the treatment of prostate cancer in a patient, the method comprising the step of administering a therapeutically effective amount of an agent comprising or consisting of a binding moiety with specificity for a kallikrein protein to the patient.

Abstract: The invention provides SPARC and Albumin binding peptides for the targeting of disease sites, such as tumors, with therapeutic and diagnostic agents. In particular, compositions comprising SPARC binding peptide-Antibody Fc domain fusion proteins and methods of their use are disclosed.

Abstract: Provided herein are nanobubbles designed for use in ultrasound-mediated ablation of cancer cells. The nanobubbles undergo ultrasound-mediated cavitation at an ablation threshold which is significantly decreased, relative to standard ultrasound-mediated treatment of cancer cells. In exemplary embodiments, the nanobubbles comprise an amphiphilic ABC triblock copolymer, wherein block A comprises a hydrophilic polymer, block B comprises a crosslinking polymer, and block C comprises a hydrophobic copolymer comprising (i) methyl methacrylate (MMA) and (ii) a fluorinated monomer, wherein the fluorinated monomer is present in the hydrophobic copolymer of block C at 25 mole percent or less. Related treatment and diagnostic methods, as well as materials relating to the nanobubbles are provided herein. Methods of making a random copolymer are furthermore provided herein.

Abstract: Nanocarriers and methods of preparation and use of nanocarriers are presented. In some embodiments, a nanocarrier composition comprises an organic liquid comprising a plurality of nanoparticles dispersed therein; and a coating material disposed around the exterior surface of the organic liquid. Biological tissue may be imaged or treated by coming into contact with a nanocarrier composition, and, at least in some embodiments, irradiated.

Abstract: Provided are methods for treating cancer in a patient, comprising administering to a patient in need thereof a therapeutically effective regimen, the regimen comprising administering a gamma-secretase inhibitor, wherein the regimen results in a reduction in the cancer cell population in the patient. In some embodiments of the methods, the therapeutically effective regimen stabilizes, reduces or eliminates the cancer stem cell population. Also provided are compounds of the formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R1, R2, and X are as herein described.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions, methods and kits to control bleeding through the use of an internal occluder based on polymeric solutions, including use of reverse thermosensitive polymers in nephron-sparing surgeries, which produces a completely bloodless surgical field, allowing speedy resection. In certain embodiments, after a certain amount of time, the flow gradually resumes, with no apparent adverse consequences to the kidney. In certain embodiments, return of blood flow may be accelerated by cooling the kidney. The compositions, methods and kits for perfusive organ hemostasis can also be used to simplify or to enable other organ surgeries or interventional procedures, including liver surgery, prostate surgery, brain surgery, surgery of the uterus, spleen surgery and any surgery on any highly vascularized organs.

Abstract: The application discloses the use of an aqueous composition comprising a thickener, and an antiseptic compound or a pharmaceutical acceptable salt thereof as an ultrasonic couplant spray. An ultrasonic couplant spray comprising starch, and an antiseptic compound or a pharmaceutical acceptable salt thereof is also disclosed. Furthermore, the present application relates to a kit comprising a composition according to the present application and spray device.

Abstract: According to an aspect of the invention, injectable bulking compositions are provided which contain the following: (a) fibers that are configured to prevent migration to locations in the body remote from the injection site, for example, because they have a minimum length that is sufficiently large to prevent migration of the fibers and/or because they have surface features that stimulate host tissue response to lock the fibers in position and (b) a carrier in an amount effective to render the composition injectable.

Abstract: Methods and suspensions are provided that are useful for preparing readily reconstitutable, dry compositions of micro- or nanospheres. The dry compositions find use in diagnostic applications such as ultrasonic imaging. The suspension includes as key ingredients one or both of t-butyl alcohol and/or an amorphous sugar (or mixture of amorphous sugar) in specified amounts that reduce aggregation of the particles comprising the suspension.

Abstract: The present invention provides polypeptides, peptide dimers, and multimeric complexes comprising at least one binding moiety for KDR or VEGF/KDR complex, which have a variety of uses wherever treating, detecting, isolating or localizing angiogenesis is advantageous. Particularly disclosed are synthetic, isolated polypeptides capable of binding KDR or VEGF/KDR complex with high affinity (e.g., having a KD<1 ?M), and dimer and multimeric constructs comprising these polypeptides, particularly contrast agents. Also provided are methods for monitoring and evaluating the therapeutic effectiveness of treatment protocols for diseases associated with angiogenesis or endothelial cell hyperproliferation, such as cancer, using contrast agents of the invention.