Abstract: An apparatus for steam reforming of hydrocarbons comprises a heat exchange reformer having disposed within a plurality of vertical catalyst-filled tubes, through which a gas mixture comprising hydrocarbon and steam may be passed, and to which heat may be transferred by means of a heat exchange medium flowing around the external tube surfaces, wherein heat exchange adapting means are provided within the reformer so that the tubes have a zone of lower heat exchange extending from the bottom of the catalyst up to 25% of the catalyst depth with no heat exchange enhancement means provided in that zone. A process for steam reforming of hydrocarbons employs this apparatus.

Abstract: Provided are radiolytically and metabolically stable metal complexes based on tetrathiol ligands useful for nuclear medical diagnostics and in endoradionuclide therapy. Methods for their preparation are also provided. The complexes can have a central ligand, Y, that can be 99mTcO, 186ReO, 188ReO, 99mTcN, 186ReN or 188ReN.

Abstract: The present invention is intended to provide a diagnostic method for paratuberculosis by which an animal infected with Mycobacterium avium subsp. Paratuberculosis can be diagnosed at a high sensitivity in the sub-clinical infection stage before the specific antibody level begins to increase and a large number of specimens can be treated. The present invention provides: a diagnostic method for paratuberculosis characterized by collecting the blood of a subject animal, adding an anti-IL-10 antibody and a Mycobacterium avium subsp.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the assessment of colorectal cancer. It discloses the use of the CYFRA 21-1 assay in the assessment of colorectal cancer. It also relates to a method for assessing colorectal cancer in vitro using a liquid sample, derived from an individual by measuring CYFRA 21-1 in said sample. Measurement of CYFRA 21-1 can, e.g., be used in the early detection or in the follow-up of patients with colorectal cancer.

Abstract: The immune response of an animal to a target immunogen may be enhanced by use of a novel adjuvant which includes low concentrations of killed cells of Mycobacterium avium subspecies avium in combination with mineral oil. The adjuvant may be used in vaccine compositions for the immunization of an animal against any target immunogen, and is particularly preferred for use with immunocontraceptive vaccines such as GnRH and PZP immunocontraceptive vaccines.

Abstract: Contemplated substituted arylpiperazinyl compounds, and most preferably 18F-Mefway, exhibit desirable in vitro and in vivo binding characteristics to the 5-HT1A receptor. Among other advantageous parameters, contemplated compounds retain high binding affinity, display optimal lipophilicity, and are radiolabeled efficiently with 18F-fluorine in a single step. Still further, contemplated compounds exhibit high target to non-target ratios in receptor-rich regions both in vitro and in vivo, and selected compounds can be effectively and sensitively displaced by serotonin, thus providing a quantitative tool for measuring 5-HT1A receptors and serotonin concentration changes in the living brain.

Abstract: A staining composition for staining an ophthalmic membrane when performing the ophthalmic membrane removal, wherein the staining composition comprises a Brilliant Blue G (BBG) derivative as a primary component.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for body shaping by means of a sun-protection agent and a corresponding cosmetic product. The inventive method consists in pre-treating by means of a preliminary product containing a caffeine, algae extract, pineapple extract, radical scavenger, copper gluconate, silylpropionic acid and a melanin-stimulating amino acid-containing agent, in subsequently treating by a main product containing, apart from an UVA- and UVB-Filter, at an ratio ranging from 30:70 to 70:30, a green coffee bean oil whose radical scavenger content is 30-60% less than this of the preliminary agent and in post-treating by means of an after-product which comprises the preliminary product constituents and whose silylpropionic acid content is of 2 to 10 times the content of the preliminary product.

Abstract: The present invention describes a method and compositions by which introducing PO4?3 ion at particular stage in the preparation of aluminum/zirconium solutions surprisingly results in significantly improved zirconium molecular weight stability.

Abstract: A hair cosmetic formulation, comprises (A) a fragrance ingredient comprising cis-3-hexenol; and (B) monoethanolamine.

Abstract: A method for overcoming immune suppression includes the steps of inducing production of naïve T cells and restoring T cell immunity. A method of vaccine immunotherapy includes the steps of inducing production of naïve T cells and exposing the naïve T cells to endogenous or exogenous antigens at an appropriate site. Additionally, a method for unblocking immunization at a regional lymph node includes the steps of promoting differentiation and maturation of immature dendritic cells at a regional lymph node and allowing presentation of processed peptides by resulting mature dendritic cells, thus, for example, exposing tumor peptides to T cells to gain immunization of the T cells.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for modulating T helper (Th) cell development and function using modulators of IL-21, e.g., human IL-21, activity or level.

Abstract: A liquid composition in an osmotic drug delivery system and a dosage form in an osmotic drug delivery system is disclosed comprising an amphiphilic molecule, a non-aqueous liquid solvent, and a pharmaceutically active agent.

Abstract: A stabilized HSA-free liquid pharmaceutical composition is described, which comprises an interferon (IFN), wherein said formulation is a solution that comprises a buffer, an amino acid and an antioxidant. Preferably, the interferon is human recombinant IFN-beta.

Abstract: This invention is directed to therapeutic compositions containing non-MHC-restricted T-cells/NK-cells in combination with MHC-restricted T-cells and especially to therapeutic compositions, which comprise LAK cells. Furthermore, the present invention is directed to the use of the above combination in the treatment of tumors in humans, which tumors show a missing, low or aberrant expression of MHC class 1a or 1b molecules. By using the aforementioned compositions/combinations it is possible to provide a balanced selective pressure against emergence of tumor cell variants that would otherwise escape immune detection.

Abstract: Methods for treating cell proliferative disorders by administering virus to proliferating cells having an activated Ras-pathway are disclosed. The virus is administered so that it ultimately directly contacts proliferating cells having an activated Ras-pathway. Proliferative disorders include but are not limited to neoplasms. The virus is selected from modified adenovirus, modified HSV, modified vaccinia virus and modified parapoxvirus orf virus. Also disclosed are methods for treating cell proliferative disorders by further administering an immunosuppressive agent.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an avirulent, oncolytic herpes simplex virus modified from a wild-type herpes simplex virus so that both ?134.5 genes of the virus have been deleted and each replaced with an interferon-resistance gene that is expressed as an immediate-early gene. The present invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition that includes the modified herpes simplex virus of the present invention and a pharmaceutically acceptable vehicle for in situ administration to tumor cells. Also provided in the present invention are methods for killing tumor cells in a subject and for immunizing a subject against an infectious disease, cancer, or an autoimmune disease that involve administering to a subject the modified avirulent, oncolytic herpes simplex virus of the present invention.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed herein for specifically inducing proliferation of CD4+ T cells. The methods are of use in treating immunodeficiencies, such as an immunodeficiency produced by infection with an immunodeficiency virus, such as infection with a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The methods include contacting isolated mammalian CD4+ T cells with an effective amount of a thymic stromal derived lymphopoietin (TSLP) polypeptide or a therapeutically effective amount of nucleic acid encoding the TSLP polypeptide, thereby inducing proliferation of the T cells. Methods are also disclosed for treating an IgE mediated disorder, such as asthma. The methods include administering to a subject a therapeutically effective amount of a TSLP antagonist. Transgenic mice are also disclosed herein.

Abstract: A skin dressing, particularly a wound dressing, comprises oxidoreductase enzyme and, optionally, peroxidase enzyme, wherein the enzyme(s) are present in hydrated condition, e.g. being present in one or more hydrated hydrogels. The dressing is used by being located on the skin of a human or animal e.g. over a wound. The oxidoreductase enzyme catalyses a reaction that produces hydrogen peroxide from an appropriate substrate, the substrate either being naturally present in body fluids and/or being supplied separately and/or being incorporated into the dressing. The currently preferred oxidoreductase enzyme is glucose oxidase. The catalyses reaction of ?-D-glucose substrate to give hydrogen peroxide and gluconic acid. A mixture of oxidoreductase enzyme can undergo reaction (optionally catalysed by the peroxidase enzyme) to produce a variety of species including reactive oxygen intermediates that have antimicrobial properties and that can therefore assist in promoting wound healing.

Abstract: An interleukin-6 suppressive agent comprising lactoperoxidase as an active ingredient is used as a pharmaceutical preparation or the like for prevention and/or therapy of a disease caused by production of interleukin-6, such as thrombocytosis, myeloma, Castleman syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, or influenza-virus infectious disease.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention relates to mutants of chondroitinase ABCI. Such chondroitinase ABCI mutants exhibit altered chondroitin lyase activity or increased resistance to inactivation from stressors including exposure to UV light or heat. Methods of using chondroitinase ABCI mutant enzymes are also provided.

Abstract: A novel computational method and generation of mutant butyrylcholinesterase for cocaine hydrolysis is provided. The method includes molecular modeling a possible BChE mutant and conducting molecular dynamics simulations and hybrid quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical calculations thereby providing a screening method of possible BChE mutants by predicting which mutant will lead to a more stable transition state for a rate determining step. Site-directed mutagenesis, protein expression, and protein activity is conducted for mutants determined computationally as being good candidates for possible BChE mutants, i.e., ones predicted to have higher catalytic efficiency as compared with wild-type BChE. In addition, mutants A199S/A328W/Y332G, A199S/F227A/A328W/Y332G, A199S/S287G/A328W/Y332G, A199S/F227A/S287G/A328W/Y332G, and A199S/F227A/S287G/A328W/E441D all have enhanced catalytic efficiency for (?)-cocaine compared with wild-type BChE.

Abstract: The present application pertains to the use of bromelain preparing a medicament for increasing the IL-(8) level in an individual so as to reduce or prevent inflammation in said individual and as an adjuvant therapy during wound healing processes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to antagonists of neuropilin receptor fuction and use thereof in the treatment of cancer, particularly metastatic cancer, and angiogenic diseases.

Abstract: The present inventors discovered that the PepT-binding antibodies have the ability to inhibit the transport activity of peptide transporters, as a result of dedicated research. These antibodies may be utilized as cell growth inhibitors, for example, for treating and preventing cancer.

Abstract: The disclosure provides novel antibodies against growth and differentiation factor-8 (GDF-8), including antibody fragments, which inhibit GDF-8 activity in vitro and in vivo. The disclosure also provides methods for diagnosing, preventing, or treating degenerative disorders of muscle, bone, or insulin metabolism.

Abstract: The present invention relates to antibodies that differentially recognize multi-dimensional conformations of A?-derived diffusible ligands, also known as ADDLs. The antibodies of the invention can distinguish between Alzheimer's Disease and control human brain extracts and are useful in methods of detecting ADDLs and diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease. The present antibodies also block binding of ADDLs to neurons, assembly of ADDLS, and tau phosphorylation and are there useful in methods for the preventing and treating diseases associated with soluble oligomers of amyloid ? 1-42.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of modulating angiogenesis and inhibiting tumor progression by using TWEAK receptor (Fn14) agonists. In particular, methods for inhibiting angiogenesis are disclosed.

Abstract: The invention discloses newly-discovered phosphorylation sites in human IRS-1 and IRS-2, serine 1101 (Ser1101) and serine 1149 (Ser1149) respectively, and provides antibodies, both polyclonal and monoclonal, that selectively bind to IRS-1 and/or IRS-2 when phosphorylated at these respective sites, but do not bind to IRS-1 and/or IRS-2 when not phosphorylated at these respective sites. The sites are relevant to insulin-resistance in type 2 diabetes. Also provided are methods for determining the phosphorylation of IRS-1/2 or activity of PKC theta in a biological sample, by using a detectable reagent, such as the disclosed antibodies, that binds to IRS-1/2 only when phosphorylated at Ser1101/Ser1149. Kits comprising the phosphor-IRS-1/2 (Ser1101/1149) antibodies of the invention are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to antibodies that specifically bind to human BNP and immunoassays using said antibodies in the quantification of human BNP or a fragment of human BNP in a test sample.

Abstract: Monoclonal antibodies prepared against platelet ?3 integrin useful in antithrombotic therapy or in models of thrombosis, thrombocytopenia, and anti-angiogenesis. The antibodies are prepared using ?3 integrin deficient (?3?/?) mice immunized against platelets or ?3 integrin fragments.

Abstract: The invention provides, inter alia, immunogenic compositions comprising a first antigen, at least two adjuvants, wherein a first adjuvant comprises a polymer derived from poly(lactides) and/or poly(lactide-co-glycolides), and wherein a second adjuvant comprises an imidazoquinoline, wherein said first antigen is encapsulated within, adsorbed or conjugated to, co-lyophilized or mixed with said first adjuvant, and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient, wherein said composition elicits a cellular immune response when administered to a vertebrate subject. The invention also provides methods of producing immunogenic compositions, methods for producing a cytotoxic-T lymphocyte (CTL) response in a vertebrate subject, and methods of immunization.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved methods for delivery of substances into the skin. It has been discovered that delivery of substances such as nucleic acids, amino acids, amino acid derivatives, peptides and polypeptides simultaneously with abrasion of the skin enhances delivery and the biological response as compared to application of the substance to previously abraded skin.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods for producing immortalized antigen-specific plasma cells and antibodies which include depleting an immunized cell population of CD138-positive cells and activating the depleted cells. The methods may be used to improve the efficiency of obtaining immortalized antigen-specific plasma cells.

Abstract: The invention relates to pharmaceutically important variants of the major allergen Phl p 1 from timothy grass, characterized in that a preparation, hitherto not possible, of monomeric molecules which are soluble and stable in physiological media can be carried out with the aid of prokaryotic expression systems and subsequent purification thereof.

Abstract: The present invention provides peptides and proteins for use in second generation HIV vaccines and as diagnostic tools in the treatment and control of HIV infection. The antiviral protection shown by compositions of the present invention has not been previously achieved with an HLA epitope-enhanced vaccine. These findings define a critical balance between MHC affinity and receptor crossreactivity required for effective epitope enhancement and also demonstrate construction and efficacy of such a component of a new generation vaccine.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an influenza antigen, comprising a fusion product of at least (1) the extracellular part of a conserved influenza membrane protein (e.g., M2) or a functional equivalent thereof and (2) a presenting carrier. The presenting carrier may be a (poly)peptide or a non-peptidic structure such as glycans, peptide mimetics, and synthetic polymers. The invention further relates to methods of making and using the antigen, and to influenza vaccines comprising the antigen and optionally one or more excipients.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of ameliorating a Th1-mediated immune pathology in a mammal. The method is practiced by administering a low dose of estrogen to the mammal. Optionally, an immunotherapeutic agent can also be administered to the mammal. Also provided are kits containing a low dose of estrogen and an immunotherapeutic agent.

Abstract: The present invention provides mutant viruses with a decreased ability to block nuclear transport of mRNA or protein in an infected cell which are attenuated in vivo. The mutant viruses of the present invention may also be capable of triggering the anti-viral systems of normal host cells while remaining sensitive to the effects of these systems. The present invention further provides for the use of the mutant viruses in a range of applications including, but not limited to, as therapeutics for the treatment of cancer and infections, as vaccines and adjuvants, as viral vectors, and as oncolytic and cytolytic agents for the selective lysis of malignant or infected cells.

Abstract: Chimeric GP molecules were constructed which contain portions of both the EBOV and MBGV GP proteins by swapping the subunits between EBOV and MBGV. The chimeric molecules were cloned into an alphavirus replicon which offers the advantage of high protein expression levels in mammalian cells and is a proven vaccine vector. These chimeric molecules fully protected guinea pigs from MBGV challenge, and conversely protected the animals from EBOV challenge. These results indicate that a protective epitope resides within the GP2 subunit of the MBGV GP protein and at least partially within the GP2 subunit of the EBOV GP protein. Additionally these results show that a construction of a single-component bivalent vaccine protective in guinea pigs is achievable.

Abstract: A method of treating irritable bowel syndrome using a probiotic composition including the bacilli (1) Bacillus subtilis, (2) Bacillus coagulans, and (3) Enterococcus faecium. The composition may further include a carrier medium, such as fructo-oligo-saccharides (FOS), as incorporated in a dose form such as a pill, capsule, powder or sachet. The compositions of the invention may be usefully employed as health or nutritional supplements, food additives, or therapeutic agents for combating a wide variety of physiological disorders.

Abstract: Methods for treating obsessions and compulsions by local administration of a Clostridial toxin. The obsessions or compulsions can be eye poking, body rocking, finger biting, counting, checking and related disorders treated by low dose, intramuscular administration of a botulinum toxin.

Abstract: Forms of GAS25 (streptolysin O) which are not toxic but which still maintain the ability to induce protection against S. pyogenes are useful in vaccine compositions to induce protection against S. pyogenes.

Abstract: The unnatural amino acid analogue 2-fluorohistidine (2-FHis) was incorporated into protective antigen to produce a protein which resists protonation at physiological pH by reducing the side-chain pKa. The protein structure was unperturbed by the incorporation of fluorinated histidine residues, and the heptameric (2-FHisPA63)7 could form ion conducting channels, and bind to the PA-binding domain of LF (LFN), but translocation of LFN in planar lipid bilayers was blocked. Further, while (2-FHisPA63)7 could bind to host cells and in vitro to the host cellular receptor, pore formation in the presence of the receptor was blocked, and LFN-DTA mediated cytotoxicity in CHO-K1 cells was blocked. The modified PA is useful as both a vaccine and an antitoxin, providing epitopes for the production of antibodies against PA, but preventing key steps in pathogenesis (pore formation, translocation).

Abstract: The invention discloses the Chlamydia PMPE and PMPI polypeptide, polypeptides derived therefrp, (PMP-derived polypeptides), nucleotide sequences encoding said polypeptides, antibodies that specifically bind the PMP polypeptides and PMP-derived polypeptides and T-cells specific for PMP polypeptides and PMP-derived polypeptides. Also disclosed are prophylactic and therapeutic compositions, including immunogenic compositions, e.g., vaccines, comprising PMP polypeptides or PMP-derived polypeptides or antibodies thereto. The invention additionally discloses methods of inducing in animals an immune response to Chlamydia cells, Chlamydia elementary bodies, and/or cells expressing Chlamydial proteins, e.g., cell infected with Chlamydia.

Abstract: A method of treating a synovial joint by injecting particles of collagen-based material into the joint. The particles may be dehydrated before implantation, and rehydrated after implantation, or they may be implanted in a “wet” state—such as a slurry or gel. Radiocontrast materials may be included to enhance imaging of the injected material. Other additives may include analgesics, antibiotics, proteoglycans, growth factors, and/or other cells effective to promote healing and/or proper joint function.

Abstract: The invention concerns an O/W emulsifier, an O/W emulsion prepared therefrom and the uses thereof. According to the invention the O/W emulsifier contains (a) 70 to 90 wt. % of glyceryl oleate citrate and (b) 10 to 30 wt. % of a viscosity modifier having a viscosity in the range from 1 to 10,000 mPas.

Abstract: A method and composition for treating healed wounds including hypertrophic scars so as to prevent scarring or reduce the size and improve the appearance of scars comprises applying to the healed wound or scar a composition comprising a fluid, film-forming carrier which may contain one or more active topical ingredients, the carrier hardening to a solid, tangible, membrane juxtaposed to the skin. Novel compositions using the film-forming carrier are also useful to treat a variety of adverse skin disorders, and internal physiological conditions.

Abstract: The present invention describes substantially pure cultures of three new species of fungi, Meira geulakonigae (CBS 110052), Meira argovae (CBS 110053) and Acaromyces ingoldii (CBS 110050) (all nom. prov.), wherein said cultures are biologically pure. The conditioned medium for all three new fungi species is also described, as well as their biologically active products. The biological product of the three new fungi species and their conditioned medium has miticidal and fungicidal activities. Thus, a composition for the control of mites and/or phytopathogenic fungi comprising a biocontrol agent derived from any one of the three new fungi species is also described, optionally comprising an agriculturally compatible carrier. Finally, the present invention describes a method for producing a fungicide and/or a miticide, wherein the active ingredient of said fungicide/miticide is any one of M. geulakonigae, M. argovae, or A.

Abstract: A method is provided for the antimicrobial treatment of a surface which comprises the contacting a surface with substituted 4-aminopyrimidines.