Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a fusion protein made from a synthetic gene construct comprising of elements derived from the Leishmania antigens K26, K39, and K9. The fusion protein is particularly useful in the diagnosis of leishmaniasis, particularly visceral leishmaniasis in animals such as humans and dogs.

Abstract: The present invention provides a moisturizer comprising, as an active ingredient, a saccharide having 3-O-?-D-glucopyranosyl-D-glucose as a structural unit. The moisturizer of the present invention improves the water retention capacity of the stratum corneum, and is useful for prevention and improvement of rough skin.

Abstract: Disclosed are a powder of a silver-based inorganic antimicrobial agent with superior dispersability or water permeability, composed of silver-supporting hexagonal zirconium phosphate, and an antimicrobial product and a water processing material using the silver-based inorganic antimicrobial agent powder. The silver-based inorganic antimicrobial agent containing hexagonal zirconium phosphate crystals, which has a particle size distribution to enable easy handling as a powder and contribute to exhibition of antimicrobial properties, can be prepared by a preparation method including wet-heating zirconium carbonate. When the silver-based inorganic antimicrobial agent wherein particles with a size of 10 ?m to 100 ?m are 90% or more on a volume basis is kneaded into resin products, since aggregation or the like may not occur and the silver-based inorganic antimicrobial agent can be easily exposed on the surface of molded articles, antimicrobial effects are thus readily exhibited on the surface.

Abstract: The invention concerns particles consisting essentially of fibers of an organogelling substance in the form of xerogel (dry gel), the fibers being essentially oriented in a common direction and randomly aligned around the longest fiber. The organogelling substance is preferably 1,3: 2,4-di-O-benzylidene-D-sorbitol. Said particles, which are in the form of spindles, have interesting optical properties; they have a total light transmittance higher than 0.80, with a diffuse transmittance higher than the specular transmittance. The invention also concerns a method for preparing said particles by solvent evaporation process, by solvent diffusion/evaporation process or by shearing process. The invention finally concerns active particles consisting of said particles whereon is immobilized a dermocosmetically active principle, a dermocosmetic composition comprising said particles or said active particles and a cosmetic treatment method which consists in applying on the skin said dermocosmetic composition.

Abstract: Methods, compounds, and topical formulations for treatment of telangiectasias are disclosed. The methods comprise topically applying a composition comprising an ?-adrenergic receptor agonist to telangiectatic skin. Amelioration of telangiectasia symptoms begins within minutes after topical application of a disclosed composition. A single application can significantly lessen telangiectasia discoloration for at least about 2 hours.

Abstract: A cosmetic powder, endowed with a hydrophobic coating based on alkoxy silicones, comprising a powder phase and a hydrophobic coating phase, said hydrophobic coating phase completely coats said powder phase and said coating phase consists of a compound of general formula (RO)3—Si—(CH2)3—NHCOR?, where R and R? have the meanings described in the disclosure. A cosmetic composition comprising said powder and to its uses in pressed powder foundations, pressed powder eye shadows, lipsticks or fluid foundations.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to pesticidal compositions and to methods for controlling pests such as insects and other arthropods. More particularly, the disclosure relates to a pesticidal compositions containing mineral oil and one or more additional components which, when used in combination, act synergistically to control insect and pest populations.

Abstract: Disclosed are compounds of Formula 1, including all geometric and stereoisomers, N-oxides, and salts thereof, wherein A1, A2, A3, A4, A5 and A6 are independently selected from the group consisting of CR3 and N; provided that at most 3 of A1, A2, A3, A4, A5 and A6 is N; B1, B2 and B3 are independently selected from the group consisting of CR2 and N; each R3 is independently H, halogen, C1-C6 alkyl, C1-C6 haloalkyl, C3-C6 cycloalkyl, C3-C6 halocycloalkyl, C1-C6 alkoxy, C1-C6 haloalkoxy, C1-C6 alkylthio, C1-C6 haloalkylthio, C1-C6 alkylsulfinyl, C1-C6 haloalkylsulfinyl, C1-C6 alkylsulfonyl, C1-C6 haloalkylsulfonyl, C1-C6 alkylamino, C2-C6 dialkylamino, —CN or —NO2; and R1, R2, R4, R5, W and n are as defined in the disclosure. Also disclosed are compositions containing the compounds of Formula 1 and methods for controlling an invertebrate pest comprising contacting the invertebrate pest or its environment with a biologically effective amount of a compound or a composition of the invention.

Abstract: Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) from which pyrogen has been removed are provided for use in numerous biomedical applications. PHAs which have been chemically modified to enhance physical and/or chemical properties, for targeting or to modify biodegradability or clearance by the reticuloendothelial system (RES), are described. Methods for depyrogenating PHA polymers prepared by bacterial fermentation processes are also provided, wherein pyrogens are removed from the polymers without adversely impacting the polymers' inherent chemical structures and physical properties. PHAs with advantageous processing characteristics, including low melting points and/or solubility in non-toxic solvents, are also described. PHAs are provided which are suitable for use in in vivo applications such as in tissue coatings, stents, sutures, tubing, bone and other prostheses, bone or tissue cements, tissue regeneration devices, wound dressings, drug delivery, and for diagnostic and prophylactic uses.

Abstract: Hydrogels that expand volumetrically in response to a change in their environment (e.g., a change in pH or temperature) and their methods of manufacture and use. Generally, the hydrogels are prepared by forming a liquid reaction mixture that contains a) monomer(s) and/or polymer(s) at least portion(s) of which are sensitive to environmental changes (e.g., changes in pH or temperature), b) a crosslinker and c) a polymerization initiator. If desired, a porosigen may be incorporated into the liquid reaction mixture to create pores. After the hydrogel is formed, the porosigen is removed to create pores in the hydrogel. The hydrogel may also be treated to cause it to assume a non-expanded volume in which it remains until a change in its environment causes it to expand. These hydrogels may be prepared in many forms including pellets, filaments, and particles.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an implantable drug depot for weight control. The drug depot includes at least one biodegradeable polymer and at least one biologically active agent. Through the administration of an effective amount of the biologically active agent at or near a target site, one can control weight gain and/or reduce, prevent or treat obesity. When appropriate formulations are provided within biodegradable polymers, weight control or treatment can be conducted for at least five days and up to one hundred and thirty-five days.

Abstract: A drug delivery system (DDS) comprised of segmented biodegradable implants sized and suitable for implantation in an ocular region or site and methods for treating ocular conditions. The segmented implants provide an extended release of an active agent at a therapeutically effective amount for a period of time between 50 days and one year, or longer, and permit the DDS to have segments that possess individual and different drug release characteristics.

Abstract: A multicomponent material, which is comprised of chitosan material being coated onto an inert carrier material. The multicomponent material can be incorporated into an absorbent structure. In one aspect of the invention, the multicomponent material can be incorporated throughout the thickness of an absorbent structure. Absorbent articles comprising the multicomponent material are also provided.

Abstract: A medical composition comprising an antimicrobially effective and immunostimulating amount of a combination of a ?-glucan component and a silver-containing component is disclosed. The medical composition may be adapted for use topically or incorporated with a mesh material which may be further adapted for use as a wound dressing or as a surgical mesh. Methods for manufacturing the medical compositions described herein are also provided. The invention further provides methods for treating tissue damaged by wound or burn, and methods for treating or repairing tissue at a surgical site.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system presenting site-specific accumulation through a ligand that specifically targets a receptor overexpressed on the surface of specific cells within a target organ, like, for example, tumor cells and/or vascular cells of tumor blood vessels. Moreover, this invention provides a method where, upon internalization of the previous-mentioned system by the target cells, triggered release at a high rate of the associated agent takes place, permitting efficient intracellular delivery and, thus, increased concentration of the transported cargo at the target site. Overall, this invention provides a method for the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of human diseases and disorders.

Abstract: A non-gelatin encapsulation system for liquid filled soft capsules, by nature of the carrier, the cationic-ionic balance of the carrier and the active ingredients, or the concentration of the active ingredients and excipients, are difficult or impossible to commercially encapsulate in gelatin capsules. In particular, the system is adapted for the encapsulation of highly basic, or alkaline, fills. The system provides for a predominantly starch and gelling carrageenan based shell, which displays high resistance to both concentrated fills and to alkaline fills, in particular, to those fills which contain the salt or salts of weak acids and strong bases.

Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrostatic delivery system including a hydrostatic couple and an agent of interest. The hydrostatic couple includes at least one hydrodynamic fluid-imbibing polymer, and at least one hydrostatic pressure modulating agent. This delivery system has the ability to control the release of one or more agents of interest within a fluid environment following zero-order kinetics.

Abstract: A solid oral controlled-release dosage form of hydrocodone is disclosed, the dosage form comprising an analgesically effective amount of hydrocodone or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and controlled release material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an oral modified release pharmaceutical composition for the administration of a therapeutically and/or prophylactically effective amount of an active substance (a drug substance) to obtain a relatively fast or quick onset of the therapeutic and/or prophylactic effect. The drug substances contained in a modified release pharmaceutical composition according to the invention are suitably a drug substance which has a very low solubitity under acidic conditions, i.e. under conditions similar to those present in the stomach and/or drug substances which have a pKa value below about 5.5 such as in a range of from about 4 to about 5.

Abstract: Small-volume oral transmucosal dosage forms or NanoTabs® comprising a predetermined amount of a pharmaceutically active drug are provided. Exemplary applications include use of the NanoTabs® to administer a drug for the treatment of acute, post-operative or breakthrough pain.

Abstract: Disclosed are oral dosage forms, comprising (i) a therapeutically effective amount of an opioid agonist; (ii) an opioid antagonist in releasable form; and (iii) a sequestered opioid antagonist which is not released when the dosage form is administered intact, and methods thereof.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical tablet adapted for accurate division of a dose of a drug into two or more smaller doses, which tablet has two or more segments.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for controlled release of medicinally active substances, which comprises sucrose acetate isobutyrate (SAIB) and a further solvent.

Abstract: This invention relates to a sustained release tablet comprising at least two layers, wherein at least one layer rapidly releases pralnacasan and the other layer releases pralnacasan in a delayed manner. This tablet is particularly suitable for the treatment of a condition such as autoimmune diseases, type I and type II diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis or psoriasis.

Abstract: A method of treatment for epilepsy and other disease states is described, which comprises the delivery of gabapentin in a gastric retained dosage form.

Abstract: Described are transdermal drug delivery systems for the transdermal administration of estrogen, comprising a polymer matrix and estrogen. Methods of making and using such systems also are described.

Abstract: Milled nanoparticles comprising a biologically active agent, at least one biopolymer and a coating containing at least one coating which is a polymer or ligand.

Abstract: A sheet-shaped composition is provided which has an improved preservability and handling readiness, as well as a high flexibility in use. Amnion with trehalose added thereto is utilized. Addition of trehalose improves the flexibility of the amnion, and prevents basal membrane and stratum compactum from being damaged during lyophilization process.

Abstract: The invention relates to a new injectable composite material suitable for use as a bone substitute. The composite material according to the invention comprises a reactive ceramic phase based on tricalcium phosphate and an organic phase comprising a polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel. By varying the concentration of the two phases it is possible to modulate the mechanical and injectability properties of the material.

Abstract: A method of preparing a trace element solution includes the steps of providing at least one EDTA-complex, providing a sodium selenite solution, and combining the EDTA-complex(es) and the sodium selenite solution to form a trace element solution. An EDTA complex is prepared by using disodium EDTA or EDTA acid, selenium, and any other suitable mineral.

Abstract: The invention is a composition consisting essentially of a component from barley which has been subjected to alcohol fermentation using Aspergillus kawachii and which is a residue from a distillation of distilled spirits of the barley and wherein the component from barley is a fraction produced by ion exchange treatment using an aromatic series or methacryl series wherein the component from barley is separated into a solid fraction and a liquid fraction and wherein the liquid fraction is separated out by the ion exchange treatment and wherein the liquid fraction contains the component from barley which decreases a serum uric acid level and wherein the liquid fraction contains crude proteins at 40-60% by weight, polyphenols at 7-12% by weight, polysaccharides at 5-10% by weight, and organic acids at 4-10% by weight.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to anti-microbial cleanser compositions comprising linalool, hinokitiol and dipropylene glycol. The present invention further provides methods for using these compositions to maintain eyelid hygiene, to treat an ocular disorder or to clean a skin surface. The cleanser compositions of the present invention can be in the form of a foam, gel or liquid.

Abstract: Phytoceutical compositions for the prevention and treatment of circulatory disorders, such as Angina Pectoris and Ischemic Heart Disease are taught. A specific combination of extracts of plants is taught, as well as principles for varying the formulations based on categorizing plants into one of three groups, Energy, Bio-Intelligence, and Organization and selecting several plants from each group. Such combinations have synergistic effects as demonstrated by gene expression levels, yet exhibits minimal side effects.

Abstract: The present invention provides a performance assay that measures the total antioxidant activity of a composition using oxygen uptake in contrast to prior art methods that measure antioxidant capacity by indirectly measuring degradation of a fluorescent compound by following the disappearance of fluorescence. Using the performance antioxidant assay of the present invention, an antioxidant composition having synergistic activity is provided by the present inventors that includes flavonoids such as the flavonol quercetin, mixed tocopherols or tocotrienols, grape skin extract, green tea extract and bush plum. The antioxidant activity of the present composition exceeds 6,000 micromoles Trolox equivalent units per gram using the present invention.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of using megestrol acetate. In one embodiment, the method comprises informing a user that megestrol acetate is metabolized by a cytochrome p450 isozyme. In another embodiment, the method comprises obtaining megestrol acetate from a container associated with published material providing information is metabolized by a cytochrome p450 siozyme. Also disclosed are articles of manufacture comprising a container containing a dosage form of megestrol acetate, wherein the container is associated with published material informing that megestrol acetate is metabolized by a cytochrome p450 siozyme, a method of treatment, and a method of manufacturing a megestrol acetate product.

Abstract: The present invention concerns the use of a rice protein hydrolysate in order to pigment the skin and skin appendages. Thus, it is possible to intensify the normal pigmentation of the skin without sunlight. Preferred areas of applications are repigmentation of white patches of the skin, repigmentation of white patches of the skin as a consequence of pityriasis or due to the use of dermocorticoids; acceleration and intensification of the tanning process, stimulation of the constitutive photoprotection and improvement of the phototype, prevention of skin photocarcinogenesis. Advantageously, the rice protein hydrolysate comprises peptides of which at least 50% have a molecular mass in the range of between 300 and 3,500 Da.

Abstract: The present invention relates to specially selected catalase enzymes and their use in reducing hydrogen peroxide in applications, and particularly in aseptic packaging applications.

Abstract: A method for delivering a short coffee extract faster from a closed capsule containing ground coffee by injecting water under pressure within the capsule. The capsule is filled with ground coffee, has a delivery membrane and is extracted in a coffee extraction device and pressurized water is injected in the capsule under pressure. The coffee beverage is released through the beverage delivery membrane of the capsule with engaging means engaging in and/or against the membrane. The pressure loss is reduced in the coffee bed by providing ground coffee having a reduced percentage of fines (F) depending on the average particle size (D4,3). The extraction yield is maintained between 15 and 30% and the coffee extract of 25 or 40 grams is delivered in a flow time of 20 seconds or less.

Abstract: Cooking of French fried potatoes by facilitating a generally vertical arrangement of potato strips while in the frying operation is disclosed wherein the slices may be cooked within a very deep pack while oil is urged to flow upwardly through the pack and steam entrapment within the cooking slice pack is minimized. A conveyor belt carrying the slices through the cooker has a multiplicity of openings facilitating oil flow there through and the cooker is configured to permit oil discharge for reheating purposes both laterally and longitudinally of the processing path.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an animal chew including a resin and a method of direct injection molding the animal chew using a modified screw. The screw may incorporate, for example, additional flights or a larger transition zone. The formed resin may exhibit voids of about 1-100 ?m in diameter.

Abstract: The invention relates to high performance gellan gum compositions having a 0.1% curdmeter gel strength of at least about 117 g/cm2, i.e. from about 117 g/cm2 to about 400 g/cm2. The high performance gellan gums have a low acyl content but an increased molecular weight. One embodiment of the invention also relates to processes for producing high performance gellan gums having high clarity. The invention further relates to food and non-food industrial products comprising high performance gellan gums.

Abstract: Disclosed is a bovine milk derived phosphatidylserine source of natural composition having excellent dispersibility and organoleptic as well as physical stability. The source is useful in neutraceutical in powder, liquid or dispersion form. The source can be prepared from serum from butter oil production or from the retentate from microfiltration of whey for defatting purposes.

Abstract: [PROBLEMS] To develop by an easy method an oily food material which, when eaten, gives a satisfactory and novel feeling in the mouth and which has high heat resistance. [MEANS FOR SOLVING PROBLEMS] In the oily food material, the particle size of solid ingredients other than the fat is kept at 30 ?m or more, which is larger than in ordinary oily food materials represented by chocolate, and the proportion of StUSt to all fat is regulated to 30 wt % or higher. Furthermore, the fat content in the oily food material is 20-55%. Due to this constitution, the oily food material has significantly improved meltability in the mouth while retaining high heat resistance. It can be produced by an easy method.

Abstract: Methods for reducing the sodium content of finished food products comprising adding trehalose to suitable food products in an amount ranging from greater than 0% to less than 1.5% by weight of the finished food product and by optionally further adding sodium and or potassium. Ingredient systems for achieving salt (i.e. sodium) reduction in suitable food products are also provided. The ingredient systems comprise trehalose and can include sodium, potassium, or combinations thereof.

Abstract: Methods for reducing the sodium content of finished food products comprising adding trehalose to suitable food products in an amount ranging from greater than 0% to less than 1.5% by weight of the finished food product and by optionally further adding sodium and or potassium. Ingredient systems for achieving salt (i.e. sodium) reduction in suitable food products are also provided. The ingredient systems comprise trehalose and can include sodium, potassium, or combinations thereof.

Abstract: A medical device, such as a medical wire, which includes a coating applied to the surface of the medical wire. The coating includes a base layer bonded to the surface of the medical wire and an at least partially transparent low-friction top coat applied to the base layer. The base layer includes heat activated pigments that change color when heated above a color shifting temperature. In one embodiment, the color of the pigment in one area contrasts with the color of the pigment in an adjacent area without otherwise affecting the low-friction surface of the coating. The areas of different color created in locations along the length of the low-friction coated medical wire form markings which, as an example, enable a surgeon to determine the length of the medical wire inserted into a body by observing the markings on the portion of the marked medical wire located exterior to the body.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a coated medical device, such as a medical guide wire, including at least applying a first colored coating to at least a first portion of an outer surface of a medical guide wire, securing a first end of the medical guide wire, and for each a designated quantity of turns, turn a second end of the medical guide wire upon a longitudinal axis of the medical guide wire. The method of manufacturing also includes securing the second end of the medical guide wire, blocking at least a first portion of the coated surface of the medical guide wire, applying a second contrasting colored coating to at least a second, unblocked portion of the outer surface of the medical guide wire and releasing the first end and the second end of the medical guide wire to display at least one spiral marking formed along a length of the medical guide wire.

Abstract: A method for producing a layer on a molded article. The method includes providing a formable film. Galvanically catalytically active nuclei are anchored to at least one region of the formable film provided for the layer. The formable film is shaped so as to form the molded article. A galvanic deposition is performed on a surface of the molded article so as to bond the nuclei to form the layer.

Abstract: Methods for coating medical devices for implantation within a body vessel are provided comprising providing a cylindrical container, placing a medical device inside the cylindrical container, and applying a polymer in liquid form inside the container.

Abstract: An implantable member for use in the body is provided herein. This implantable member includes a porous biocompatible substrate; the substrate having at least one surface sealed fluid-tight with self-aggregating protein particles of substantially the same diameter range. The self-aggregated protein particles are formed from a deposited aqueous slurry of the protein particles.