Abstract: In some embodiments, the present invention is directed to novel targeted contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The present invention is also directed to methods of making such targeted MRI contrast agents, and to methods of using such MRI contrast agents. Typically, such targeted MRI contrast agents provide enhanced relaxivity, improved signal-to-noise, targeting ability, and resistance to agglomeration. Methods of making such MRI contrast agents typically afford better control over particle size, and methods of using such MRI contrast agents typically afford enhanced blood clearance rates and biodistribution.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to core/shell nanoparticles, wherein such core/shell nanoparticles comprise a nanoparticle core and a nanoshell disposed about the nanoparticle core such that, in the aggregate, they form a core/shell nanoparticle that is operable for use as an imaging agent in X-ray/computed tomography (CT). Typically, such core/shell nanoparticle-based X-ray CT imaging agents further comprise a targeting species for targeting the imaging agent to diseased sites.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to core/shell nanoparticles, wherein such core/shell nanoparticles comprise a nanoparticle core and a nanoshell disposed about the nanoparticle core such that, in the aggregate, they form a core/shell nanoparticle that is operable for use as an imaging agent in X-ray/computed tomography (CT). Typically, such core/shell nanoparticle-based X-ray CT imaging agents further comprise a targeting species for targeting the imaging agent to diseased sites.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to core/shell nanoparticles, wherein such core/shell nanoparticles comprise a nanoparticle core and a nanoshell disposed about the nanoparticle core such that, in the aggregate, they form a core/shell nanoparticle that is operable for use as an imaging agent in X-ray/computed tomography (CT). Typically, such core/shell nanoparticle-based X-ray CT imaging agents further comprise a targeting species for targeting the imaging agent to diseased sites.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to core/shell nanoparticles, wherein such core/shell nanoparticles comprise a nanoparticle core and a nanoshell disposed about the nanoparticle core such that, in the aggregate, they form a core/shell nanoparticle that is operable for use as an imaging agent in X-ray/computed tomography (CT). Typically, such core/shell nanoparticle-based X-ray CT imaging agents further comprise a targeting species for targeting the imaging agent to diseased sites.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the field of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) agents. In particular, the present invention is directed to cationic, nonagglomerated, nontoxic SPIO agents, methods for imaging conditions associated with inflammatory responses using the disclosed SPIO agents, and methods for managing inflammatory conditions using the disclosed SPIO agents.

Abstract: A method of forming a plurality of monodisperse nanoparticles. Each of the nanoparticles comprises a nanocrystalline inorganic core and at least one outer coating comprising an ionizable stabilizing material that substantially covers the core. The method comprises the steps of: combining a nonpolar aprotic organic solvent, an oxidant, and a first surfactant; providing at least one organometallic compound to the combined nonpolar aprotic organic solvent, oxidant, and first surfactant; and heating the combined nonpolar aprotic organic solvent, oxidant, first surfactant, and the at least one organometallic compound under an inert gas atmosphere to a first temperature in a range from about 30° C. to about 400° C.

Abstract: An aspect of the invention includes a nanoparticle including a substantially monodisperse inorganic core with a surface and a coating substantially covering the surface of the substantially monodisperse inorganic core, wherein the coating includes of at least coating structure I, II, or III wherein the nanoparticle is substantially non-agglomerated and has diameter in a range from about 1 nm to about 100 nm. An aspect of the invention also encompasses a method of making a substantially non-agglomerated nanoparticle having a diameter in a range from about 1 nm to about 100 nm including a substantially monodisperse inorganic core with a surface and a coating substantially covering the surface of the substantially monodisperse inorganic core, wherein the coating comprises coating structure I, II, or III.

Abstract: A contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging having a plurality of nanoparticles. Each of the nanoparticles has: a signal generating core having a diameter of up to 10 nm; at least one organic layer of at least one of a polymer, a monomer, and a surfactant; and a water soluble outer shell of at least one of a polymer, a monomer, and a ligand. The organic layer is adsorbed upon and substantially surrounds and stabilizes the signal generating core. The water soluble outer shell solubilizes and provides biocompatibility for each of the nanoparticles. The contrast agents provide enhanced relaxivity, high signal-to-noise ratios, and targeting abilities. In addition, the contrast agents possess resistance to agglomeration, controlled particle size, blood clearance rate, and biodistribution. Methods of making such contrast agents and nanoparticles are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of increasing the amount of diphenylcarbonate produced per amount of catalyst consumed in a phenol carbonylation process is described. Phenolic carbonylation produces water as a reaction product which reduces the turnover number (TON) of the catalyst. A mixture of a phenolic precursor, a base containing catalyst and co-catalyst components and at least one chemical additive comprising a halide or hydroxide of alkali metal or alkaline earth metal when carbonylated together under specific conditions increases the turnover number (TON) and water resistivity of a palladium catalyst. The metal halide likely makes the catalyst less susceptible to degradation by water hence increasing the reaction yield per weight of catalyst consumed.