Abstract: Several forms of immunoregulatory substances are derived from monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) that are specific for a T cell surface antigen, such as CD3, TCR, CD4, or CD8 on T cells. The substances include: a mixture of F(ab′)2 fragments (or other divalent binding molecules which lack Fc) which each bind noncompetitively to different monovalent antigenic epitopes on the same antigen; the F(ab′)2 fragment (or other divalent binding molecules which lack Fc) of a bispecific antibody which has each of its binding sites derived from one of the two MAbs that bind noncompetitively to monovalent antigenic epitopes on the same antigen; a conjugate including a polymeric backbone, such as polyethylene glycol (“PEG”), cellulose, dextran, agarose, or an amino acid copolymer or a liposome, that is coupled with the binding molecules, e.g., Fv, Fab, or F(ab′)2, which bind noncompetitively to monovalent antigenic epitopes on the same antigen.

Abstract: A soluble antibody conjugate comprising an antibody linked to a structure which is recognized by T-cells and has the ability to direct T-cells to lyse the target cell, which is recognized by the antibody. The conjugate is characterized by the structure being a superantigen. One important mode is a method for the lysis of target cells, wherein the target cells are contacted with a target cell lysis effective amount of the conjugate. The method of lysis is part of a potent treatment regime for cancer, autoimmunity, parasitic infestations and fungal, viral and bacterial infections. The specification also describes modes such as the synthesis of the conjugate and pharmaceutical compositions and their manufacture.

Abstract: The invention provides ftsZ polypeptides and polynucleotides encoding ftsZ polypeptides and methods for producing such polypeptides by recombinant techniques. Also provided are methods for utilizing ftsZ polypeptides to screen for antibacterial compounds.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for the prevention and diagnosis of Lyme disease. OspA and OspB polypeptides and serotypic variants thereof, which elicit in a treated animal the formation of an immune response which is effective to treat or protect against Lyme disease as caused by infection with B. burgdorferi. Anti-OspA and anti-OspB antibodies that are effective to treat or protect against Lyme disease as caused by infection with B. burgdorferi. A screening method for the selection of those OspA and OspB polypeptides and anti-OspA and anti-OspB antibodies that are useful for the prevention and detection of Lyre disease. Diagnostic kits including OspA and OspB polypeptides or antibodies directed against such polypeptides.

Abstract: The present invention describes a soluble fusion protein composed of a plurality of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules linked together by a stabilizing structure herein referred to as the “linker,” the MHC molecules being loaded with a specific peptide or peptides. Such fusion proteins can be used as a method for stimulating or inhibiting specific T cell clones expressing T cell receptors (TCR) restricted to the specific MHC-peptide combination. Such fusion proteins can thus be used as delivery systems to stimulate T cell immunity and as a treatment for diseases such as transplant rejection or autoimmunity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of natural extracts of algae for the preparation of a product meant to prevent and to treat skin diseases. The invention also relates to natural extracts of algae meant to prevent and to treat these diseases. Said use of natural extracts of algae consists in using concentrated extracts of algae of the chlorella type. The invention especially applies to diseases such as skin rashes or allergic reactions to cosmetic compositions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to cosmetic products having whitening effect, which contains fractionated extracts of Ramulus mori (Marus) extracts. According to the present invention, an aqueous suspension of the Ramulus mori extracts, which have been obtained by extracting young twig of plants belonged to Morus Genus with water or an organic solvent, is solvent-fractionation-extracted to obtain a fractionated extracts of Ramulus mori extracts, which is then added to conventional skin-care cosmetics to give whitening cosmetics having excellent whitening effect.

Abstract: An anti-fungal composition, including: (a) an extract of botanical materials, the botanical materials including material from Echinacea species, and Propolis, which is a material derived from the hives of bees; and (b) an essential oil. The compositions of the present invention have been shown to have unexpectedly prolonged anti-fungal activity, as well as having anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. Preferably, the essential oil includes at least one oil selected from the group consisting of tea-tree oil, thyme oil and lavander oil. Also preferably, the herbal extract includes a mixture of Calendula, poke root, Echinacea and Propolis extract.

Abstract: The present invention defines a herbal composition for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchitis and respiratory disorders and a process for preparing the same.

Abstract: A novel extract from the root of Harpagophytum procumbens (Devil's Claw) which contains high levels of the compound harpagoside and a method for producing the extract.

Abstract: The invention provides olive-derived vegetation water substantially free of monophenolic compounds (e.g., tyrosol and its derivatives) from olive pits. According to one aspect of the invention, the pits or seeds are removed from the olives prior to pressing. The pitless pulp or meat is then pressed to obtain a liquid-phase mixture including olive oil, vegetation water, and solid by-products. The vegetation water is separated from the rest of the liquid-phase mixture and collected. The vegetation water is useful as a source of oleuropein.

Abstract: A composition providing an all-natural, non-surgical preventative of or improvement to disorders of the prostate gland is described. The invention relates to a composition for the prevention of or improvement of prostatitis, and for relieving symptoms and improving objective signs of prostatitis. The formula of the composition preferably includes the following ingredients each in a therapeutically effective amount: Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Vitamin E, zinc, glycine, L-alanine, Glutamic acid, Saw palmetto, Pygeum extract, Pumpkin seed, Stinging nettle, Echinacea, garlic, Ginkgo leaves, and selenium.

Abstract: Composition of matter comprising the causative agent of Mystery Swine Disease, Lelystad Agent, in a live, attenuated, dead, or recombinant form, or a part or component of it. Vaccine compositions and diagnostic kits based thereon. Recombinant nucleic acid comprising a Lelystad Agent-specific nucleotide sequence. Peptides comprising a Lelystad Agent-specific amino acid sequence. Lelystad Agent-specific antibodies.

Abstract: Methods and compositions useful for inducing a cytotoxic T lymphocyte response (CTL) in a human or domesticated or agriculturally important animal. The method includes the steps of providing the antigen to which the CTL response is desired and providing a microfluidized antigen formulation which comprises, consists, or consists essentially of two or more of a stabilizing detergent, a micelle-forming agent, and an oil. This antigen formulation is preferably lacking in an immunostimulating peptide component, or has sufficiently low levels of such a component that the desired CTL response is not diminished. This formulation is provided as a stable oil-in-water emulsion.

Abstract: The invention provides a novel surface polypeptide from Neisseria meningitidis as well as nucleic acid and nucleic acid sequence homologues encoding this protein. Pharmaceutical compositions containing the polypeptide and nucleic acids of the invention are also disclosed as well as methods useful in the treatment, prevention and diagnosis of N. meningitidis infection.

Abstract: The present invention provides a nucleic acid sequences coding for the ryegrass pollen allergens Lol pIa and Lol pIb, purified Lol pIa and Lol pIb protein and fragments thereof, methods of producing recombinant Lol pIa and Lol pIb or at least one fragment thereof or derivative or homologue thereof, and methods of using the nucleic acid sequences, proteins and peptides of the invention.

Abstract: Solid oral administration forms from which the active ingredients can be isolated only with difficulty are described and comprise, besides conventional ingredients, as addition a mixture of pharmacologically suitable fats or gel formers with surfactants. Addition of the mixtures impedes extraction of the active ingredients out of the administration forms.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an antimicrobial wipe comprising a porous or absorbent sheet impregnated with an antimicrobial cleansing composition, wherein the antimicrobial cleansing composition comprises from about 0.001% to about 5.0%, by weight of the antimicrobial cleansing composition, of an antimicrobial active; from about 0.05% to about 10%, by weight of the antimicrobial cleansing composition, of an anionic surfactant; from about 0.1% to about 10%, by weight of the antimicrobial cleansing composition, of a proton donating agent; and from about 3% to about 99.85%, by weight of the antimicrobial cleansing composition, water; wherein the composition is adjusted to a pH of from about 3.0 to about 6.0; wherein the antimicrobial cleansing composition has a Gram Negative Residual Effectiveness Index of greater than about 0.3. The invention also relates to these antibacterial wipes wherein the antimicrobial cleansing composition has a Mildness Index of greater than about 0.3.

Abstract: The present invention relates to kits and films formed from the kits which are useful as cosmetic or therapeutic agents, as well as methods of their use. The films and kits herein are particularly useful as polishes for mammalian nails. More particularly, the present invention relates to kits and films which, when applied to mammalian nails exhibit long wear.

Abstract: A composition for the treatment of skin includes an alpha amino acid, which is most preferably an alpha amino dicarboxylic acid such as aspartic acid or glutamic acid. The composition has a pH in the range of 0.5 to 5. Also disclosed is a method for preparing the compositions wherein the amino acid is first solubilized in a strong acid, and the resultant solution then neutralized with a base to the therapeutic pH range. Also disclosed is a carrier for dermatological compositions comprising a solution of ascorbic acid and mineral salts.

Abstract: A composition for external use which contains xyloglucan. It preferably further contains an ultraviolet shielding agent, a thickening polysaccharide, a thickening polysaccharide and sericin, a carboxyvinylpolymer, or an alkyl-modified carboxyvinylpolymer.

Abstract: In an emulsion cosmetic composition for application to skin containing water and at least one surfactant, the improvement wherein the composition also contains a water soluble, protein polysaccharide complex (“PPC”) having a net positive or negative charge, which is the reaction product of at least one protein and at least one anionic polysaccharide.

Abstract: Crystalline, low melting -Caprolactone polymers which undergo accelerated hydrolysis, and their use as lubricant coatings and/or as coatings containing bioactive agents, as carriers of viable cells, and as coatings for open-cell microporous template or constucts for tissue regeneration; the polymers bearing basic functionalities can be linked ionically or covalently to the ester chain which induces autocatalyzed hydrolysis.

Abstract: A drain sanitizing article (9) for reducing microbiological activity in drain runoff areas having a housing (10), the housing having an inner wall (16) defining an inner opening (18) in the housing, an outer wall (12), and a bottom wall (14) defining a central cavity (15) in the housing (10), a tear strip (20) for destructibly removing the housing outer wall and a portion of the bottom wall (14), a handle (30) spanning the inner opening (18) of the housing (10) and joined to the inner wall (16) of said housing (10); and a chemical sanitizing agent (40).

Abstract: Certain antimicrobial agents, particularly chitosan- or chitin-based polymers, exhibit increased antimicrobial activity when coated onto the surface of a hydrophobic material such as polypropylene. When applied to the surface of a polypropylene nonwoven fabric, for example, the resulting material can be used for diaper liners to reduce odors and promote skin wellness.

Abstract: A preparation is described which contains a lipophilic gas with a pharmacological action in dissolved or dispersed form. This preparation is particularly suitable for inducing anaesthesia.

Abstract: A system and method for implanting pellets containing local anesthetic agents into tissues of the heart for temporary treatment of angina pectoris. The mechanism of delivery can be transcatheter via chambers of the heart, endoscopic epicardial approach via minimally invasive transthoracic access, or intraoperative epicardial approach during open-chest surgery.

Abstract: This invention provides methods for the localized delivery of supplemented tissue sealants, wherein the supplemented tissue sealants comprise at least one composition which is selected from one or more antibodies, analgesics, anticoagulants, anti-inflammatory compounds, antimicrobial compositions, antiproliferatives, cytokines, cytotoxins, drugs, growth factors, interferons, hormones, lipids, demineralized bone or bone morphogenetic proteins, cartilage inducing factors, oligonucleotides polymers, polysaccharides, polypeptides, protease inhibitors, vasoconstrictors or vasodilators, vitamins, minerals, stabilizers and the like. Further provided are methods of using the site-specific supplemented tissue sealants, including preparation of a biomaterial.

Abstract: This invention relates to an intra-articular preparation for the treatment of arthropathy, which comprises microcapsules of (a) a high-molecular substance, which has biodegradability and biocompatibility, and (b) a drug. When applied directly to a joint area, this preparation can achieve a high drug concentration at the target area, can inhibit occurrence of general side effect, and can maintain drug efficacy over a long term. The preparation can therefore alleviate the burden on the patient.

Abstract: Methods, devices, and compositions for treatment of dysmenorrhea comprise an intravaginal drug delivery system containing an appropriate pharmaceutical agent incorporated into a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier whereby the pharmaceutical agent is released into the vagina and absorbed through the vaginal mucosa to provide relief of dysmenorrhea. The drug delivery system can be a tampon device, vaginal ring, pessary, tablet, suppository, vaginal sponge, bioadhesive tablet, bioadhesive microparticle, cream, lotion, foam, ointment, paste, solution or gel. The system delivers a higher concentration to the muscle of the uterus, the primary site for the dyskinetic muscle contraction, which is the pathophysiologic cause of dysmenorrhea.

Abstract: A nasally administrable composition which contains physiologically active compounds such as insulin, calcitonin, prostaglandin (PG) derivatives, monoclonal antibodies or interleukin derivatives (IL), and is enhanced in the in vivo absorbability of the physiologically active compound when administered nasally. The compositions are prepared by mixing fine particulate of the physiologically active compound with fine particulate of carrier having a mean particle size from 15 &mgr;m to 300 &mgr;m, and particle surface area from 0.1 to 0.4 m2/g, a which adhere to the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity, and HPC—H as absorption accelerator.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to novel nutritional anti-nausea compositions, anti-emetic compositions, and methods of using same. The compositions provide improved relief from nausea and/or vomiting. The compositions are particularly useful for pregnant women.

Abstract: Devices and methods for enhancing the healing of wounds, especially chronic wounds (e.g., diabetic wounds), involving the use of keratinocytes are described. Keratinocytes are grown on a transplantable solid support (e.g., collagen-coated beads), and the keratinocyte-coated solid support is placed in an enclosure. The enclosure, in turn, is placed in the wound for use as an interactive wound healing promoter.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a controlled-release solid composition for the oral cavity or “pharmaceutical oral patch” that adheres to hard dental surfaces, such as teeth and dentures, and releases an active pharmaceutical agent into the oral cavity. Release of the agent is for a predetermined period of time and at a predetermined sustained concentration. The site of action of the agent is local or systemic.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there are provided lipid-conjugated polyamide compounds and related compositions and methods thereof. Lipid-conjugated polyamide compounds of the present invention are particularly useful as vehicles for delivering biologically active agents to a target site. In particular, the invention compounds are effective at facilitating the delivery of polynucleotides to cells. The present invention also provides a method for producing stable formulations of polynucleotides complexed with a delivery vehicle.

Abstract: Provided are methods for preparing improved biologically active liposome products comprising a biological1y active amphipathic compound in association with a liposome. Methods for producing the liposome products as well as methods of using the liposome products in therapcutic and diagnostic techniques are also provided.

Abstract: A device for delivering a liquid, semiliquid or solid beneficial agent into the mouth of a human or animal is disclosed. The device has a size and shape adapting it to be comfortably retained in the mouth for extended periods of time. The device may be formulated in one of two forms: 1) one form comprises a wall surrounding a hollow compartment holding the beneficial agent. A passageway in the wall connects the agent with the exterior of the device. The wall is impermeable and, with the exception of the passageway, fluids may not enter into the hollow compartment, or escape from the hollow compartment into the mouth. The size and configuration of the passageway determines the rate at which the agent is released into the mouth.

Abstract: A solid pharmaceutical composition for oral administration comprising a cyclosporin and an anionic surfactant, preferably sodium lauryl sulfate, wherein the amount of anionic surfactant is at least about forty percent of the minimum amount needed to dissolve the cyclosporin in water.

Abstract: An analgesic composition useful in the preparation of fast dissolving tablets is provided, where the composition is the result of combining ibuprofen, arginine, linear PVP and an alkaline bicarbonate to which usual excipients for the preparation of tablets are added.

Abstract: A method of decreasing atherosclerosis and its complications including but not limited to myocardial infarction, stroke and peripheral vascular disease wherein the method involves administering to a human or an animal an amount of abarelix sufficient to reduce atherosclerosis and its complications.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new type of solid balneological preparations for cosmetic, hygienic and therapeutic use, which has both the properties of a solid bath additive and those of liquid products, and is characterized especially by the addition of lipid components, vesicle forming lipids, tensides and, in some cases, mineral salts. Active components, adjuvants such as stabilizers, adsorbing substances, lubricants as well as smoothing and breakdown promoting agents may also be contained therein.

Abstract: The sustained release tablet of (R)-5,6-dihydro-5-(methylamino)-4H-imidazo[4,5-ij]-quinolin-2(1H)-one (Z)-2-butenedioate (1:1) which is disclosed permits twice daily administration of (R)-5,6-dihydro-5-(methylamino)-4H-imidazo[4,5-ij]-quinolin-2(1H)-one (Z)-2-butenedioate (1:1) to treat humans with Parkinson's disease.

Abstract: A controlled release formulation of lipoic acid is disclosed. The lipoic acid is combined with excipient materials in such a way that those materials protect the lipoic acid from chemical degradation in the gastrointestinal tract and provide for gradual release of the lipoic acid. These combined features make it possible to use lipoic acid to reduce serum glucose levels and maintain those levels over time thereby obtaining a range of desired results.

Abstract: The invention provides a unit formulation which comprises a 2-hydroxy-5-phenylazobenzoic acid derivative which is particularly sodium balsalazide dihydrate which formulation has a density of at least 0.9 mg/mm3 and its use in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases.

Abstract: This invention relates to a synthetic bone replacement material impregnated with drugs such as antibiotics and growth hormones, which facilitate and promote the regeneration of bone and/or soft tissue. Methods for making the impregnated material and its medical use are also taught.

Abstract: The invention relates to a complexion-improving beauty composition comprising disintegrable granules and a blood circulation accelerator. The composition can synergistically exhibit a blood circulation-accelerating effect in a short period of time, is excellent in the effect of improving a complexion, and does not irritate the skin and eyes, thus being highly safe.

Abstract: Controlled, sustained release formulations of butorphanol are provided. Such formulations can be an aqueous suspension of butorphanol freebase or an oil suspension of a butorphanol salt. Processes for using such formulations to provide long term analgesia are also provided.

Abstract: The foregoing invention relates to a new microbubble preparation and thrombolytic therapy which relies on microbubbles and ultrasound for its lytic activity. The pharmaceutical composition of the invention comprises a liquid solution of microbubbles with an internal atmosphere enhanced with the perfluorocarbon gas which cavitate in the presence of an ultrasound field following intravenous injection or infusion of said composition into said host. For thrombolysis the area of a thrombus is exposed to an ultrasound field in the presence of the microbubbles and significant lysis is experienced. The method and pharmaceutical composition of the invention exhibit thrombolytic properties similar to those of other thrombolytic agents such as urokinase and are less toxic and are clot specific in that they do not introduce a systemic lytic state to a said animal.

Abstract: Bioadhesive polymers in the form of, or as a coating on, microcapsules containing drugs or bioactive substances which may serve for therapeutic, diagnostic, or diagnostic purposes in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, are described. The polymeric microspheres all have a bioadhesive force of at least 11 mN/cm2 (110 N/CM2). Techniques for the fabrication of bioadhesive microspheres, as well as a method for measuring bioadhesive forces between microspheres and selected segments of the gastrointestinal tract in vitro are also described. This quantitative method provides a means to establish a correlation between the chemical nature, the surface morphology and the dimensions of drug-loaded microspheres on one hand and bioadhesive forces on the other, allowing the screening of the most promising materials from a relatively large group of natural and synthetic polymers which, from theoretical consideration, should be used for making bioadhesive microspheres.

Abstract: An oral dosage form that provides for the controlled release of an analgesic wherein the dosage form comprises a core containing an analgesic that is coated with a mixture of an enteric polymer, a water insoluble polymer and a lubricant.