Abstract: The present invention provides a cosmetic composition containing one or more selected from a group consisting of green tea saponin and green tea polyphenol as active ingredients. The cosmetic composition of the invention is very safe to the skin and can greatly enhance biological mechanisms in the skin, and thus can serve as an anti-aging cosmetic composition.

Abstract: An anhydrous multiphase gel system consisting of an outer lipid matrix and an inner phase gelled by means of a polymer is described, which can be obtained by a) Melting the lipid phase with the formation of a liquid lipid phase, b) Mixing and homogenizing polymers or polymer blends capable of swelling with the formation of a polymer phase to be dispersed, c) Combining the polymer phase with the liquid lipid phase and homogenizing the phases, and d) Cold stirring the phase mixture until a solid gel-like mixed structure of the entire system is formed. The anhydrous multiphase gel system is particularly suitable for taking up difficulty soluble active substances in high concentration and for providing topical and transdermal applications. The described system is called an EDRS, “Entrapped Drug Reservoir System”.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods for improving drug efficacy in a patient having an obstructed airway in a lung. Such methods modulate nerve activity in the autonomic nervous system of a patient to reduce obstruction of an airway in a lung of the patient prior to administering a drug to the patient. These methods are especially useful in improving efficacies of bronchodilators in treating obstructive lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and compositions for increasing telomerase activity in cells. Such compositions include pharmaceutical, including topical, and nutraceutical formulations. The methods and compositions are useful for treating diseases subject to treatment by an increase in telomerase activity in cells or tissue of a patient, such as, for example, HIV infection, various degenerative diseases, and acute or chronic skin ailments. They are also useful for enhancing replicative capacity of cells in culture, as in ex vivo cell therapy and proliferation of stem cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing uniform size polymeric nanoparticles containing poorly soluble drugs, and more particularly, to a method for manufacturing uniform size polymeric nanoparticles containing poorly soluble drugs, including a first step of dissolving a biodegradable polymer in a non-volatile polar organic solvent, a second step of adding poorly soluble drugs to water and the biodegradable polymer solution to produce a dispersion, and a third step of adding the dispersion to emulsifier solutions in a batch under the condition of low mechanical energy level stirring.

Abstract: Compounds having drug and bio-affecting properties, their pharmaceutical compositions and methods of use are set forth. In particular, modified C-3 betulinic acid and other structurally related natural products derivatives that possess unique antiviral activity are provided as HIV maturation inhibitors. These compounds are useful for the treatment of HIV and AIDS.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of gene expression profiling for inflammatory bowel disease pathogenesis, in which the differential expression in a test sample from a mammalian subject of one or more IBD markers relative to a control is determined, wherein the differential expression in the test sample is indicative of an IBD in the mammalian subject from which the test sample was obtained.

Abstract: Several ursolic acid derivatives and pharmaceutical compositions thereof are provided. The ursolic acid derivatives and the pharmaceutical compositions thereof have at least one of an anticancer and an anti-inflammatory effects. A method for increasing a reactive oxygen species in a cell is also provided. The method comprises a step of providing the cell with a pharmaceutical composition including an ursolic acid derivative.

Abstract: Methods, compositions, and kits for predicting whether a subject with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or at risk of developing COPD is likely to have progressive COPD are provided. Methods, compositions, and kits for predicting whether lung function is likely to decline in a subject with COPD or at risk for developing COPD are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the treatment of diseases and conditions with an effective amount of a steroid having those formulas given in the specification, or a pharmacologically-acceptable salt or ester thereof. The disease or conditions treatable according to the invention include angiogenic diseases and conditions of the eye, angiogenic diseases and conditions of the brain, inflammatory diseases and conditions of the eye, inflammatory diseases and conditions of the brain and neurodegenerative diseases.

Abstract: The invention pertains to methods and compositions for treating medical disorders characterized by elevated levels or abnormal expression of TNF? by administering a TNF? antagonist, such as recombinant TNFR:Fc.

Abstract: Bronchodilating compositions and methods are provided. The compositions are intended for administration as a nebulized aerosol. In certain embodiments, the compositions contain formoterol, or a derivative thereof, and a steroidal anti-inflammatory agent. Methods for treatment, prevention, or amelioration of one or more symptoms of bronchoconstrictive disorders using the compositions provided herein are also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for improving skin lipid barrier function by applying to the skin a composition comprising effective amounts of a protease inhibitor and a cell differentiation enhancer. The composition is useful in promoting skin lipid barrier repair and maintaining the integrity of the lipid barrier. In this regard, the compositions can be used in the treatment and prevention of dry skin, and associated chrono/proto-aging conditions, in the treatment and prevention of irritation on the skin, in the treatment and prevention of UV-related damage to the skin, and in the enhancement of the retention of self-tanning.

Abstract: Compounds from 14 Kenyan plants, including from the root of Dovyalis abyssinica and Clutia robusta have been characterized and isolated, and their uses are disclosed.

Abstract: Storage-stable, anti-microbial compositions and products include a carrier and a ceragenin compound suspended in the carrier. Ceragenin compounds suspended in the carrier include a sterol backbone and a number of cationic groups attached to the sterol backbone via hydrolysable linkages. The carrier has a pH of 5.5 or less, which acts to stabilize the hydrolysable linkages and increase the shelf-life of the anti-microbial compositions and anti-microbial products. Nevertheless, the ceragenin compounds described herein are designed to break down relatively quickly (e.g., within about 5 days) if the pH environment of the ceragenin compounds is raised to about pH 6.5 or greater.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions and methods for the treatment of otic disorders with steroid, NSAID, and/or adenosine triphosphatase (“ATPase”) modulator agents. In these methods, the steroidal, NSAID, and/or ATPase compositions and formulations are administered locally to an individual afflicted with an otic disorder, through direct application of these compositions and formulations onto or via perfusion into the targeted auris structure(s).

Abstract: The hydrocortisone derivative of formula (I), whose IUPAC name is 3-[3,5-Dihydroxy-3-(2-hydroxy-acetyl)-3a,6-dimethyl-7-oxo-dodecahydro-cyclo-penta[alpha]naphthalen-6-yl]-propionic acid, designated as Deina®, is used in the treatment of atrophic tissues, particularly skin, cartilage, connective, and mucosal tissues and scalp skin.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions and methods for the treatment of otic disorders with steroid, NSAID, and/or adenosine triphosphatase (“ATPase”) modulator agents. In these methods, the steroidal, NSAID, and/or ATPase compositions and formulations are administered locally to an individual afflicted with an otic disorder, through direct application of these compositions and formulations onto or via perfusion into the targeted auris structure(s).

Abstract: Disclosed herein are ?7?1 integrin modulatory agents and methods of using such to treat conditions associated with decreased ?7?1 integrin expression or activity, including muscular dystrophy. In one example, methods for treating a subject with muscular dystrophy are disclosed. The methods include administering an effective amount of an ?7?1 integrin modulatory agent to the subject with muscular dystrophy, wherein the ?7?1 integrin modulatory agent increases ?7?1 integrin expression or activity as compared to ?7?1 integrin expression or activity prior to treatment, thereby treating the subject with muscular dystrophy. Also disclosed are methods of enhancing muscle regeneration, repair, or maintenance in a subject and methods of enhancing ?7?1 integrin expression by use of the disclosed ?7?1 integrin modulatory agents. Methods of prospectively preventing or reducing muscle injury or damage in a subject are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods, devices and compositions for treatment of severe and uncontrolled asthma are provided by which high amounts of an inhaled corticosteroid are directed to the small airways of the lower lungs. The invention provides for a substantial decrease in the dose of concurrently administered oral corticosteroids. A particular advantage of the invention is the significant reduction in corticosteroid-related adverse effects.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the field of drug delivery systems for neuroactive steroid anaesthetic agents. More particularly, anaesthetic and sedative formulations are provided in the form of host/guest preparations comprising one or more neuroactive steroid anaesthetics and a cyclodextrin. Particular cyclodextrins contemplated include sulfoalkyl ether cyclodextrins and modified forms thereof.

Abstract: A series cardenolide derivatives including structure of formula I from the root of Reevesia formosana have provided. In formula (1) and (2), where R3, R5, R10 and R16 are as defined in the specification. The derivatives compounds showed potent cytotoxicity against MCF-7, NCI-H460, and HepG2 cancer cell lines.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions and methods for the treatment of otic disorders with steroid, NSAID, and/or adenosine triphosphatase (“ATPase”) modulator agents. In these methods, the steroidal, NSAID, and/or ATPase compositions and formulations are administered locally to an individual afflicted with an otic disorder, through direct application of these compositions and formulations onto or via perfusion into the targeted auris structure(s).

Abstract: The invention relates to an oleogel-forming agent which comprises at least one highly dispersed triterpene. The invention also relates to an oleogel which comprises a nonpolar liquid in an amount ranging from 80% by weight to 99% by weight based on the total weight of the oleogel and an oleogel-forming agent comprising a highly dispersed triterpene in an amount ranging from 1% by weight to 20% by weight based on the total weight of the oleogel. The invention also relates to a method for producing an oleogel.

Abstract: A method of treating a patient to reduce risk of developing Clostridium difficile-associated disease or reducing existing Clostridium difficile-associated disease in a mammalian subject involves administering to a mammalian subject an effective amount of a germination-inhibiting compound derived from taurocholate. Novel compounds of this class are also provided.

Abstract: Provided herein are compositions, devices and systems comprising thermoresponsive, biodegradable elastomeric materials, and methods of use and manufacture thereof.

Abstract: Seven protective alleles for IgA nephropathy have been discovered that can be identified by analyzing a DNA sample for seven respective SNPs. A method is provided for identifying and treating subjects at risk of developing IgA neuropathy based on a new seven-SNP genetic risk score. Also provided are screening methods to identify compounds that bind to and reduce the expression or biological activity of a either CFHR1 or CFHR3.

Abstract: Method and compositions for reducing the inflammation after cytokine exposure of an islet cell transplant without affecting the viability and potency are disclosed herein. The present invention describes a composition comprising Withaferin A (WA), a steroidal lactone derived from Withania somnifera to effectively block NF-kB activation in beta cells, minimize cytokine-induced cell death and improve survival of transplanted islets. The method of the present invention involves identifying a subject having islet cells in need of treatment; and providing a effective amount of a Withaferin A composition disposed in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier in an amount sufficient to reduce the inflammation after cytokine exposure without affecting the viability and potency of the islet cell population.

Abstract: Estrogen and progesterone replacement therapies are provided herein. Among others, the following formulations are provided herein: solubilized estradiol without progesterone; micronized progesterone without estradiol; micronized progesterone with partially solubilized progesterone; solubilized estradiol with micronized progesterone; solubilized estradiol with micronized progesterone in combination with partially solubilized progesterone; and solubilized estradiol with solubilized progesterone.

Abstract: Steroid compounds having increased resistance against metabolism and increased water solubility are disclosed, together with methods for their production. These substances are suitable for the manufacture of pharmaceuticals for the treatment of steroid related or steroid induced CNS disorders and for use in methods of prevention, alleviation or treatment of such disorders.

Abstract: Steroid compounds having increased resistance against metabolism and increased water solubility are disclosed, together with methods for their production. These substances are suitable for the manufacture of pharmaceuticals for the treatment of steroid related or steroid induced CNS disorders and for use in methods of prevention, alleviation or treatment of such disorders.

Abstract: Novel benzoic acid hydrazones of 5?-androstan-3,17-dione have been prepared on the basis of steroidal tigogenin of the plant Yucca gloriosa. The hydrazones of the General Formula (I), General Formula (II) and General Formula (III) as shown in the accompanying FIGURE of the drawing are synthesized. The hydrazones have shown promising anti-T.B., anti-cancer and anti-HIV activity revealing immense potential as more efficacious, less toxic drugs with fewer undesirable side effects. They could also prove valuable in correcting hormonal abnormalities that cause severe health problems.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new therapeutic approach for the treatment of eye diseases or conditions that allows for the delivery of corticosteroids to the eye's surface but does not cause any of the usual side effects associated with topical administration of corticosteroids. More specifically, the present invention provides methods of treatment involving the administration of a corticosteroid prodrug, such as dexamethasone palmitate, to the surface of the eye. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions and kits for carrying out such methods of treatment.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to medical devices and pharmaceutical compositions containing a synthetic, bioabsorbable, biocompatible liquid polymer that is the reaction product of a polybasic acid or derivative thereof, a polyol and a fatty acid, the liquid polymer having a melting point less than about 40° C., as determined by differential scanning calorimetry.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical compositions for preventing or treating anxiety, comprising betulinic acid or derivatives thereof are provided. Methods for preventing or treating anxiety with betulinic acid or derivatives thereof are also provided. The invention further provides betulinic-acid containing preparations of plants of the family Marcgraviaceae having anxiolytic activity and methods for making such extracts and using them to prevent or treat anxiety in a subject.

Abstract: A combination hormone and melatonin therapy is provided to reduce the risk of developing, or to reduce the severity of, breast cancer by administering at least one estrogen hormone and optionally at least one progesterone-receptor-binding compound or composition and melatonin together, preferably at normal bed time.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for the prevention, treatment and/or alleviation of skin disorders and skin cancers and prevention, treatment and/or alleviation of prostate cancer and pancreatic cancer by administering a Lupeol-derived anti-tumor compound. The invention further provides pharmaceutical and nutraceutical compositions containing Lupeol-derived anti-tumor compounds.

Abstract: A pH responsive and mucoadhesive pharmaceutical dosage form for the release of a pharmaceutically active agent is described. The dosage form includes a mucoadhesive layer for site-specific mucoadhesion, a water-insoluble outer layer, and an intermediate layer including one or more pharmaceutically active agents for site-specific delivery. The different membranous layers perform different functions in order to create a drug delivery system which is able to deliver a drug to a specific site, for a particular period of time and with a specific drug release pattern. The dosage form can have two or more intermediate layers, each layer comprising an active agent. The mucoadhesive layer can also include an active agents. The dosage form is preferably an oral or buccal delivery form for release of the active agent into the gastro intestinal tract. The intermediate layer can be an electrospun fibrous membrane layer containing the active agent.

Abstract: Compounds of formula (I) wherein: the groups are as defined in the description, are useful for the preparation of medicaments for the treatment of cardiovascular disorders, in particular heart failure and hypertension. The compounds are inhibitors of the enzymatic activity of the Na+, K+-ATPase. Said compounds are used for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment of a disease caused by the hypertensive effects of endogenous ouabain, such as renal failure progression in autosomal dominant polycystic renal disease (ADPKD), preeclamptic hypertension and proteinuria and renal failure progression in patients with adducin polymorphisms.

Abstract: A method of delivering a drug composition comprises providing a carrier having a phosphatidylcholine component and a drug entrapped therein, and applying the composition to the skin for transdermal delivery of the drug, wherein the composition is stable at room temperature.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for transdermal drug delivery comprising formulating a phosphatidylcholine carrier composition containing the drug and applying the composition to the skin.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to replication competent viral vectors for treating cell proliferative disorders. The disclosure further relates to the use of such replication competent viral vectors for delivery and expression of a heterologous nucleic acid in normal and diseased tissues and methods and compositions that facilitate such delivery and expression to tissues in vivo and in vitro. The disclosure further relates to replication competent retroviral vectors for these uses and in conjunction with methods and compositions that facilitate in vivo therapeutics.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition for application in human and animals, with at least one systemically and/or locally acting, topically applicable active ingredient and with at least one phospholipid, improving the transport of the active ingredient trough the cell membrane and containing a concentration of at least 60% by weight phosphatidylcholine, referring to the phospholipid, is described. The composition shows such a liquid consistency, that it is able to be sprayed as droplets or as a foam, whereas in the composition such a phospholipid is included, that additionally contains oil in a concentration of maximum 7.5% by weight besides the at least 60% by weight phosphatidylcholine.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods to manipulate stem cells in vivo and in vitro to treat, e.g., a condition where cell or tissue repair is needed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the treatment of diseases and conditions with an effective amount of a steroid having those formulas given in the specification, or a pharmacologically-acceptable salt or ester thereof. The disease or conditions treatable according to the invention include angiogenic diseases and conditions of the eye, angiogenic diseases and conditions of the brain, inflammatory diseases and conditions of the eye, inflammatory diseases and conditions of the brain and neurodegenerative diseases.

Abstract: A dosage form for hormonal contraception containing a given number of hormone-containing daily units and a given number of hormone-free daily units for daily, oral administration, where the hormone-containing daily units each contain at most the minimum effective daily amount of folic acid for women and the hormone-free daily units contain at least a multiple of this amount up to the maximum permissible amount of folic acid for women.

Abstract: The presently-disclosed subject matter includes polyurethane composites that include tissue component(s), as well as methods of making such composites and uses thereof. The polyurethane component can comprise a polyisocyanate prepolymer and a polyol. The tissue component can be a polysaccharide. Exemplary composites can be moldable and/or injectable, and can cure into a porous composite that provides mechanical strength and/or supports the in-growth of cells. Inventive composites have the advantage of being able to fill irregularly shaped areas, voids, or the like. Exemplary composites can be used for treating wounds.

Abstract: A method for providing neuroprotection to a patient in need of neuroprotection, comprising administering a neuroprotective-effective amount of a compound of formula I in which X is an oxygen atom or an ?N—OH group, R is selected from the group consisting of A is a hydrogen atom or together with B a carbon-carbon bond, B is a hydrogen atom, a hydroxy group or together with A a carbon-carbon bond, C is a hydrogen atom or together with D a carbon-carbon bond, D is a hydrogen atom or together with C a carbon-carbon bond, E is a hydrogen atom or together with F a carbon-carbon bond, F is a hydrogen atom or together with E a carbon-carbon bond, or an addition salt with a pharmaceutically acceptable acid.

Abstract: A compound with general formula I for treatment of various diseases of the central nervous system, in treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders related to imbalance of glutamatergic neurotransmitter system, ischemic damage of CNS, neurodegenerative changes and disorders of CNS, affective disorders, depression, PTSD and other diseases related to stress, anxiety, schizophrenia and psychotic disorders, pain, addictions, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy and gliomas.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a novel poly (diol citrates)-based coating for implantable devices. More specifically, the specification describes methods and compositions for making and using implantable devices coated with citric acid copolymers or citric acid copolymers impregnated with therapeutic compositions and/or cells.