Abstract: The present invention provides a method of nucleic acid, including DNA, immunization of a host, including humans, against disease caused by infection by a strain of Chlamydia, specifically C. pneumoniae, employing a vector containing a nucleotide sequence encoding full-length, 5′-truncated or 3′-truncated 76 kDa protein of a strain of Chlamydia pneumoniae and a promoter to effect expression of the 76 kDa protein gene in the host. Modifications are possible within the scope of this invention.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the production of preparations for stimulating human skin cells and for protection against aging of the skin and the harmful effects of environmental toxins and UV radiation, characterized in that the preparations contain at least one substance which increases the synthesis of energy donors of the mitochondrial respiratory chain and, at the same time, lowers the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cell metabolism. The invention also relates to the use of cosmetic and/or pharmaceutical preparations containing at least one substance which increases the synthesis of energy donors of the mitochondrial respiratory chain and, at the same time, lowers the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cell metabolism for stimulating human skin cells and for protection against aging of the skin and against the harmful effects of environmental toxins and UV radiation.

Abstract: Recombinantly produced L1 major capsid proteins which mimic conformational naturalizing epitopes on human and animal papilloma virions including canine and equine papilloma virions are provided. These recombinant proteins are useful as vaccines for conferring protection against papillomavirus infection. Antibodies to the recombinant protein are also provided. Such antibodies are useful in the diagnosis and treatment of viral infection.

Abstract: This invention provides a polypeptide comprising a fragment of a chemokine receptor capable of inhibiting HIV-1 infection. In an embodiment, the chemokine receptor is C—C CKR-5. In another embodiment, the fragment comprises at least one extracellular domain of the chemokine receptor C—C CKR-5. This invention further provides different uses of the chemokine receptor for inhibiting HIV-1 infection.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for enhancing the effect of vaccines in animals, such as domestic, sport, or pet species, and humans. More particularly, the use of Ribavirin as an adjuvant to a vaccine protocol and compositions having Ribavirin and an antigen are described.

Abstract: Plant expression vectors comprising at least two expression cassettes are provided which function to reduce transcriptional silencing of polynucleotide expression. Further, novel plant expression vectors for expression of immunogenic polypeptides, including HBsAg, are provided. The plant expression vectors can be used to produce immunogenic polypeptides, including HBsAg, in edible plant tissues. The edible plant tissues can be used to elicit an immune response in humans and animals when the plant tissues are consumed.

Abstract: Methods for treating peptic ulcers and methods for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease by oral administration of a botulinum toxin.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical compositions of a botulinum toxin for oral administration to a patient with a gastrointestinal disorder.

Abstract: A bacterial translocation inhibitor containing live Bacillus subtilis cells as an active ingredient, and a method for inhibiting bacterial translocation comprising the step of orally administering the bacterial translocation inhibitor.

Abstract: The present invention includes interferon-tau (IFN&tgr;) pharmaceutical compositions useful for oral administration to treat cancers, autoimmune disorders (particularly multiple sclerosis), cell proliferative disorders and viral disease.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of anti-viral peptides in the inhibition and treatment of viral infections, in particular infections caused by enveloped viruses. These anti-viral peptides, some natural and others artificial, adopt either amphiphilic alpha-helical or a theta structure where the homodimeric or heterodirner peptides are joined by both cysteine bonds and circularization of the peptides. These agents may be used alone or in combination with more traditional anti-viral pharmaceuticals.

Abstract: Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis can be treated by suppressing contraction of the pyloric muscle by using a therapeutic agent or a treatment kit which comprises atropine sulfate as an anticholinergic agent and nitroglycerin or isosorbide nitrate as an NO donor as the active ingredients.

Abstract: The conventional pharmacotherapy for diseases caused by a disturbance of ocular circulation, inclusive of glaucoma, comprises oral administration of steroids and other drugs and/or topical administration of &bgr;-adrenergic antagonists but these therapeutic regimens are invariably not effective enough but rather entail adverse reactions characteristic of the respective drugs used.

Abstract: The present invention uses calcium-releasing or binding substances for the targeted weakening or strengthening of the barrier function of the skin. The invention includes methods and compositions of using these substances.

Abstract: Film with high solubility in water, comprising a starch, a cellulose and a cosmetic, aromatic, pharmaceutical and/or food substance in a quantity exceeding 10% on the total film weight.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for killing ectoparasites on a subject. Compositions containing a fatty acid ester, e.g., isopropyl myristate, effective for killing ectoparasites is described. Also described are compositions containing a fatty acid ester and a siloxane (e.g. decacyclomethicone). The compositions can also contain a mectin and/or a mycin, and S-methoprene. The compositions are useful against a variety of ectoparasites that afflict humans, animals, and plants, e.g., head lice, fleas, body lice, crab lice, scabies mites, ticks, and plant parasites.

Abstract: Disclosed is a sorbent that includes spent grain germ, seed meal, or a mixture thereof. The sorbent may be used to introduce a material into an environment. For instance, the sorbent may be used to introduce a control agent, such as an insecticide or larvicide, into an environment. The sorbent also may be used to remove an unwanted material from an environment. For instance, the sorbent may be used to sorb oil or a hazardous chemical that has been spilled. The disclosed sorbents are biodegradable over a wide range of environmental conditions.

Abstract: Coatings for implantable devices or endoluminal prosthesis, such as stents, are provided, including a method of forming the coatings. The coatings can be used for the delivery of an active ingredient or a combination of active ingredients.

Abstract: A method for making a medical device having at least one biomolecule immobilized on a substrate surface is provided. One method of the present invention includes immobilizing a biomolecule comprising an unsubstituted amide moiety on a biomaterial surface. Another method of the present invention includes immobilizing a biomolecule on a biomaterial surface comprising an unsubstituted amide moiety. Still another method of the present invention may be employed to crosslink biomolecules comprising unsubstituted amide moieties immobilized on medical device surfaces. Additionally, one method of the present invention may be employed to crosslink biomolecules comprising unsubstituted amide moieties in solution, thereby forming a crosslinked biomaterial or a crosslinked medical device coating.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for loading a polymer with one or more bioactive agents, using a wet spinning technique. The invention further relates to a polymer loaded with one or more bioactive agents, obtainable by said process and to the use thereof as a carrier for controlled drug release or as scaffold for tissue engineering.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a powder mixture for resorbable calcium phosphate biocements, which mixture consists of 40-99% by volume of powder having a particle size of 0.

Abstract: A pullulan-free edible film composition for oral cleansing, breath freshening, and anti-microbial benefits includes a film forming agent and cinnamaldehyde. In a treatment process, effective amounts of cinnamaldehyde is delivered to the oral cavity by the edible film for convenient oral cleansing and breath freshening benefits. A method of making the pullulan-free edible film composition includes forming an aqueous solution of film forming agents and cinnamaldehyde and drying the aqueous solution to form a dry edible film.

Abstract: Beta-glucan soluble fiber and non-digestible fats are administered orally to reduce blood cholesterol levels and to control postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels. The beta-glucan soluble fiber and non-digestible fat may be administered as separate compounds, as a mixture, or combined with other materials and administered in the form of an appealing food.

Abstract: The present invention is related to hydrogel particles and aggregates formed therefrom having characteristics including, without limitation, shape-retentiveness, elasticity, controllable pore sizes and controllable degradation rates that render them useful for a wide variety of applications including, without limitation, the controlled release of biologically active substances, in vivo medical devices, tissue growth scaffolding and tissue replacement.

Abstract: A medical dressing comprising a complex of silver and being capable of releasing antimicrobial silver ion activity, said complex comprising silver and a transition element of Group IV of the periodic system of elements enables a controlled release of silver ion activity to a wound bed.

Abstract: A composition and a method for increasing the permeability of membrane junctions or cell membranes for delivery of a drug to target tissues are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods and devices for local drug delivery.

Abstract: Silicone adhesive formulations are provided, in which fentanyl particles are suspended one or more a solvated silicone adhesives. The formulations can be used for manufacturing improved, matrix-type transdermal devices for administering fentanyl.

Abstract: The invention relates to a transdermal therapeutic system comprising a surface layer which is impervious with respect to an active ingredient; a self-adherent matrix layer or a plurality of matrix layers, wherein the exposed matrix layer is, at least self-adherent when the system is applied. Said system also comrises a pull-off protective coating, whereby the matrix layer(s) contains one or more active ingredients and/or one or more biologically active substances and highly dispersed silicon dioxide. Said system contains silicon dioxide in order to increase skin permeation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a food or beverage comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of 5-membered ring-containing triterpenes and physiologically acceptable salts or derivatives thereof. The present invention also relates to an orally administered whitening agent comprising, as an effective component, at least one member selected from the group consisting of 5-membered ring-containing triterpenes and physiologically acceptable salts or derivatives thereof.

Abstract: A plaster comprising a styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer 10-40 wt %, a rosin-based resin 5-30 wt %, a plasticizer 20-70 wt %, polyisobutylene 6-40 wt %, an antioxidant 0.1-5 wt %, and felbinac as a medicinally effective component 1.1-10 wt %, wherein the plaster does not contain crotamiton which is a solubilizer for the felbinac, the felbinac is uniformly dispersed in a semi-solubilized state in the plaster, wherein solubilized felbinac and microcrystalline felbinac coexist in the plaster, and a thickness of the plaster is 50-300 &mgr;m.

Abstract: A plaster comprising a styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer 10-40 wt %, a rosin-based resin 5-30 wt %, a plasticizer 20-70 wt %, polyisobutylene 6-40 wt %, an antioxidant 0.1-5 wt %, and felbinac as a medicinally effective component 1.1-10 wt %, wherein the plaster does not contain crotamiton which is a solubilizer for the felbinac, the felbinac is uniformly dispersed in a semi-solubilized state in the plaster, wherein solubilized felbinac and microcrystalline felbinac coexist in the plaster, and a thickness of the plaster is 50-300 &mgr;m.

Abstract: Compositions and transdermal systems are provided for enhancing the permeability of skin or mucosal tissue to topical or transdermal application of local anesthetic agents. The compositions and systems include a base in order to increase the flux of the agent through a body surface while minimizing the likelihood of skin damage, irritation or sensitization. The permeation enhancer can be an inorganic or organic base. Methods of use are also described.

Abstract: The present invention is a composition for treating cancer composed of a novel oligonucleotide enclosed in a liposome together with Pokeweed Mitogen (PWM), which has been treated with activated polyethylene glycol PEG2 to form PWM-PEG. The composition is given in conjunction with recombinant human interleukin-2, (rIL-2).

Abstract: The invention provides a method for expressing a nucleotide sequence in a host. Non-cationic liposomes not containing a viral protein encapsulating the nucleotide sequence are administered to the host. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising the liposomes in a form suitable for administration to a host.

Abstract: The invention is directed to novel and advantageous pharmaceutical compositions for oral administration of the antidepressant compound paroxetine. The composition is in the form of a tablet having a dissolution rate of at least 90% in 30 minutes measured with a paddle apparatus according to US Pharmacopoeia.

Abstract: A light colored standardized extract of Emblica officinalis consisting essentially of over 40% by weight of Emblicanin A. Emblicanin B, Pedunculagin and Punigluconin, and not more than about 1% by weight of flavonoids, and methods of producing same. Also disclosed are cosmetic or pharmaceutical compositions comprising the standardized extract and methods of using same to lighten or whiten skin.

Abstract: The invention is directed in part to oral dosage forms comprising a combination of an orally analgesically effective amount of an opioid agonist and an orally active opioid antagonist, the opioid antagonist being included in a ratio to the opioid agonist to provide a combination product which is analgesically effective when the combination is administered orally, but which is aversive in a physically dependent subject. Preferably, the amount of opioid antagonist included in the combination product provides at least a mildly negative, “aversive” experience in physically dependent addicts (e.g., precipitated abstinence syndrome).

Abstract: The present invention provides to a method of administration of two or more therapeutically active agents comprising orally administering to a patient a spaced drug delivery system, wherein the time of release of the two or more therapeutically active agents is designed to provide desired control on the disease condition. The present invention also provides a method of administration of two or more therapeutically active agents comprising orally administering to a patient a spaced drug delivery system at a specified time prior to food intake by the patient. The present invention further provides a spaced drug delivery system that releases two or more antidiabetic agents at different times after oral administration, for the treatment of diabetes mellitus or conditions associated with diabetes mellitus.

Abstract: The present invention is directed a pharmaceutical composition which can be administered orally, allowing for the controlled release of at least one active substance. The composition includes at least one active substance, between 5 and 60% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition, of at least one excipient, selected from the group consisting of inert matrices, hydrophilic matrices, lipid matrices, mixtures of inert matrices and of lipid matrices, and mixtures of hydrophilic matrices and of inert matrices, with the exception of mixtures comprising a polyacrylic acid and at least one hydrophilic matrix of the cellulose type; and between and 14.3% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition, of at least one alkalinizing agent soluble in an aqueous phase under physiological pH conditions, selected from the group consisting of alkali or alkaline-earth metal hydroxides, carbonates, bicarbonates, phosphates, sodium borate and basic salts of organic acids.

Abstract: The present invention provides a dosage form containing stabilized choline and a method for preparing the dosage form. The choline is stabilized by encapsulating a low hygroscopic choline salt in a lipid coating.

Abstract: A dosage formulation for once daily administration prior to sleeping is described that provides an initial delay in pharmaceutical release followed by controlled release of the pharmaceutical. There is also provided a method for preparing a time specific delayed, controlled release formulation of dosage, which method includes coating a single pellet with at least one dosage layer, which is coated by at least one seal coat and at least one outer rate controlling layer of a water soluble polymer coat. The dosage formulation of this invention provides a substantially drug free interval of about 0 to 5 hours followed by a drug delivery interval at a rate permitting bioavailability thereof for up to about 24 hours following oral administration. A method of using the formulations of the present invention for the treatment of early morning pathologies, including atrial fibrillation, is also described.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a solid dosage form is provided comprising a matrix, wherein the matrix comprises (a) a pharmaceutically effective amount of metformin or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and (b) a waxy matrix material. The invention also provides a method of making a solid dosage form, the method comprising: (a) hot melting a waxy material to form a melt, (b) granulating metformin or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof with the melt to form a granulate; (c) milling the granulate; and (d) compressing granulate to form a matrix.

Abstract: The invention provides an itraconazole composition comprising itraconazole dispersed in a hydrophilic polymer, and, optionally, a surfactant, having a dissolution at 30 minutes between 10 and 40%, at 45 minutes between 25 and 80%, at 60 minutes between 60 and 95%, at 90 minutes at least 80%, as measured using the type II paddle method at 100 rpm according to the US Pharmacopoeia, in a dissolution medium comprised of 1000 ml HCl 0.1N. The invention also provides a process for manufacturing this composition.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for the modification of the surfaces of polymeric materials with polymer coatings that may be subsequently treated to be lubricious and anti-microbial. The method comprises incubating a photo-initiator-coated polymeric material with an aqueous monomer that is capable of free radical polymerization and exposing the incubating polymeric material to UV light creating a modified surface on said polymeric material. The method may additionally comprise adding a silver component to the modified surface. The silver component may be provided as a silver salt coating or a silver salt contained within a hydrogel bonded to the acrylate modified polymeric material surface.

Abstract: The present invention provides active agent delivery systems for use in medical devices, wherein the active agent delivery systems include an active agent and a miscible polymer blend.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a dosage form 10 and to administering an antidepressant medicament 16 for an extended period of time in a rate-known dose.

Abstract: This invention discloses an orally administered pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of elevated levels of cholesterol and related conditions comprising a statin and fenofibrate in the form of microparticles of solid fenofibrate that are stabilized by phospholipid as a surface active substance, wherein a therapeutically effective amount of the composition provides the statin and a quantity of fenofibrate to a fasted human patient that is greater than 80% of the quantity of fenofibrate provided by the same amount of the composition when administered to the same patient who has been fed a high fat meal.

Abstract: A method for targeted delivery of therapeutic agents within the eye is provided. Magnetic particles having associated therapeutic agents are injected into the eye, for example into the vitreous cavity. External magnets are then used move the particles to a desired position within the eye, for example, to the macula. The therapeutic agent that is delivered may be, for example, anti-VEGF (for the treatment of exudative macular degeneration) or a steroid (for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy).

Abstract: The present invention discloses an inorganic bone adhesive and its use in human hard tissue repairs. The inorganic bone adhesive comprises basic compound, phosphate, calcium phosphate bone cement and retarder with the characteristics of rapid hydration rate and high early strength. Inorganic Bone adhesive can be widely used in the artificial joints fixation, screw fixation as well as comminuted fracture fixation. It is a kind of safe and effective adhesive material and beneficial for the fast postoperative recovery. The final hydration reaction products contains the composition of magnesium phosphate, bio-mineral containing ammonium and apatite-like materials, which has excellent biocompatibility and can be gradually absorbed by surrounding tissues after being implanted in vivo, which benefits the in-growth of the new bone.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions without added iron and methods for prophylactic nutritional supplementation and therapeutic nutritional supplementation. Specifically, the method involves administering to an individual a composition comprising carotenoids, vitamin E, vitamin D, vitamin C, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, pantothenic acid, cobalamin, magnesium, manganese, zinc, selenium, chromium, copper, alpha lipoic acid, and lutein, wherein the composition is free of added iron.