Abstract: A method of increasing insulin content in a pancreatic beta cell is disclosed. The method comprising expressing in the pancreatic beta cell an exogenous polynucleotide encoding at least one microRNA or a precursor thereof, wherein the microRNA is selected from the group consisting of miR-15, miR-16, miR-24, miR-26, miR-27, miR-29, miR-30, miR-129, miR-141, miR-148, miR-182, miR-200, miR-376 and Let-7, thereby increasing the insulin content in the pancreatic beta cell.

Abstract: The present application relates to probiotic confection-based compositions comprising lactic acid-producing bacteria and oil-based compositions comprising the same.

Abstract: Present invention features a novel use of Lactobacillus for treating type 2 diabetes, wherein the Lactobacillus is Lactobacillus reuteri GMNL-89 with the deposition numbers of BCRC 910340 and CCTCC M 207154 and comprises of live, dead bacteria or supernatant of the bacterial culture(s) and a pharmaceutically acceptable vehicle. The invention also discloses the efficacies of the indicated Lactobacillus strain including anti-oxidative enzyme activity, anti-inflammation, reduction of blood glucose level, reduction of triglycerides, reduction of total cholesterol, reduction of LDL, increase of HDL and improve insulin utilization.

Abstract: Present invention features a method for controlling body weight, comprising Lactobacillus reuteri GMNL-263 with the deposition numbers of BCRC 910452 and CCTCC M 209263. Moreover, the invention also relates to a novel use of the composition or the isolated Lactobacillus strain for controlling body weight, whose mechanism is inhibiting biosynthesis of lipids and reducing formation of lipid droplets so as to control body weight.

Abstract: The present invention provides a therapeutic agent for dementia comprising a pharmaceutically active substance derived from Hericium ramosum.

Abstract: Use of an organic solvent extract of a tempeh-fungus-fermented soybean product for the production of a PPAR? and/or PPAR? activator. A method for activating PPAR? and/or PPAR?, the method comprising administering an organic solvent extract of a tempeh-fungus-fermented soybean product to a subject, or feeding the organic solvent extract to the subject.

Abstract: Herbal compositions are useful for inhibition, amelioration or prevention of adipogenesis mediated diseases such as obesity, lipid storage disease and hyperlipemia. The herbal compositions comprise biologically effective amounts of extracts or fractions from Piper betle in combination with one or more of the extracts or fractions derived from Dolichos biflorus, Commiphora mukul, Boerhaavia diffusa, Tribulus terrestris and Zingiber officinale as active ingredients. The compositions optionally contain a bio-enhancing agent or a bio-protecting agent, along with biologically acceptable carriers or diluents. The herbal compositions may be used in a method for treating or preventing adipogenesis involved diseases in mammals.

Abstract: A method of intranasal treatment of nasal symptoms administered to a human in need of the treatment includes administering intranasally from an internasal spray container a composition having a therapeutically effective amount of capsicum extract to a human in need thereof; and effecting relief from at least one symptom. The symptom relieved includes at least one of nasal congestion, sinus pressure, headache, sinus pain or a combination thereof. The first relief of sinus pain, sinus pressure, or nasal decongestion in the human occurs within about 30 minutes of administration.

Abstract: A coniferyl alcohol or a Compositae family, Brassicaceae family, Umbelliferae family, Lamiaceae family, Liliaceae family or Amaranthaceae plant extract provides various uses associated with hTRPA1 activation, and, being a natural compound, involves relatively few side effects in the body and has substantial industrial applicability. The coniferyl alcohol or the Compositae family, Brassicaceae family, Umbelliferae family, Lamiaceae family, Liliaceae family or Amaranthaceae plant extract of the present invention not only will be a novel medical or food raw material which is helpful in maintaining homeostasis in the body associated with hTRPA1 activation, but can also be used to advantage in hTRPA1 antagonist screening.

Abstract: The invention provides novel compounds and conjugates of these compounds useful for the delivery of biologically active substances. Further novel design criteria for chemically stabilized siRNA particular useful when covalently attached to a delivery polymer to achieve in vivo mRNA knock down are disclosed therein.

Abstract: The present invention provides materials and methods useful to treat various sGC?1-expressing cancers. Materials include peptides which interfere with sGC?1's pro-survival functions, thereby resulting in apoptosis of sGC?1-expressing cells. In addition, the present invention provides screening assays, diagnostic assays, methods to prognose, methods to treat, and kits.

Abstract: The invention relates to kinase ligands and polyligands. In particular, the invention relates to ligands, homopolyligands, and heteropolyligands that modulate mTOR activity. The ligands and polyligands are utilized as research tools or as therapeutics. The invention includes linkage of the ligands and polyligands to a cellular localization signal, epitope tag and/or a reporter. The invention also includes polynucleotides encoding the ligands and polyligands.

Abstract: The invention relates to compositions and methods for the preparation, manufacture and therapeutic use of oncology-related polynucleotides, oncology-related primary transcripts and oncology-related mmRNA molecules.

Abstract: Methods of treating inflammatory conditions, disease and disorders are provided. Method include, for example, contacting or administering a sufficient amount of a LIGHT inhibitor to a subject to treat the inflammatory condition, disease or disorder.

Abstract: The present invention relates to pharmaceuticals and modified beta-lactamases. Specifically, the invention relates to novel recombinant beta-lactamases and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the beta-lactamases. Also, the present invention relates to methods for modifying a beta-lactamase, producing the beta-lactamase and treating or preventing beta-lactam antibiotic induced adverse effects. Furthermore, the present invention relates to the beta-lactamase for use as a medicament and to the use of the beta-lactamase in the manufacture of a medicament for treating or preventing beta-lactam antibiotics induced adverse effects. Still further, the invention relates to a polynucleotide and a host cell comprising the polynucleotide.

Abstract: The present invention relates to pharmaceuticals and modified beta-lactamases. Specifically, the invention relates to novel recombinant beta-lactamases and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the beta-lactamases. Also, the present invention relates to methods for modifying a beta-lactamase, producing the beta-lactamase and treating or preventing beta-lactam antibiotic induced adverse effects. Furthermore, the present invention relates to the beta-lactamase for use as a medicament and to the use of the beta-lactamase in the manufacture of a medicament for treating or preventing beta-lactam antibiotics induced adverse effects. Still further, the invention relates to a polynucleotide and a host cell comprising the polynucleotide.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising as active substance, at least one compound comprising, or consisting of, a polypeptide which comprises, or consists of, at least 11 contiguous amino acids selected from X1-S-D-I-F-X2-G-E-P-X3-L-X4-P-X5-X6-X7-X8-X9-Q-L (SEQ ID NO: 13).

Abstract: The present invention relates to cancer immunotherapy, specifically to allogeneic tumor cell vaccines. According to some embodiments, the invention provides novel cell lines useful as therapeutic cell vaccine compositions. The invention further provides advantageous screening methods and means for identifying patients amenable for treatment with partially Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) matched allogeneic cell vaccines. Therapeutic compositions and methods for use in proliferative disorders are further provided.

Abstract: Provided herein are peptides that have activity as mast cell activating proteins (MCAP), as well as compositions, adjuvant compositions, vaccines, and pharmaceutical formulations that include the peptides. Also provided are methods of using the peptides, including methods for eliciting an immune response to an immunogen in a mammal upon administration.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a composition containing Arabinogalactan for enhancing the adaptive immune response in subjects to foreign antigen(s) by administering said composition prior, during and after the phase of exposure to said foreign antigen(s). Furthermore, the present invention relates to a vaccination kit comprising a composition comprising Arabinogalactan and a vaccine.

Abstract: Multilayer films comprised of polypeptide epitopes and a toll-like receptor ligand. The multilayer films are capable of eliciting an immune response in a host upon administration to the host. The multilayer films can include at least one designed peptide that includes one or more polypeptide epitopes from a virus, bacteria, fungus or parasite.

Abstract: The invention provides stabilized aqueous pharmaceutical etanercept compositions suitable for long-term storage of etanercept, methods of manufacture of these compositions, methods of administration, and kits containing same.

Abstract: A combination of an anti-cancer agent and a metal radiosensitizer potentiates the radiotherapy of cancer. Said anti-cancer agent is preferably cisplatin while the metal radiosensitizer is preferably gold nanoparticles. Both the anti-cancer agent and the metal radiosensitizer bind to DNA and potentiate the radiotherapy of cancer by synergistically increases the amount of double strand breaks induced by the radiation. The anti-cancer agent and the metal radiosensitizer may be encapsulated in liposomes.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a compound of formula (1): where R1 through R8, which can be identical or different from each other, each are selected from of the group comprising hydrogen and the radical —(CH2)k—X, where k is a whole number from 1 to 20 and where X is an organic radical comprising a) at least one neutral, protonizable nitrogen atom and/or b) at least one positively charged nitrogen atom, under the provision that at least 1 radical R1 through R8 is not hydrogen. The invention further relates to the production and use of said compound.

Abstract: This document provides methods and materials involved in treating cancer. For example, methods and materials for identifying a mammal as having an elevated level of PD-1+/CD11ahigh CD8 T cells having the potential to exert anti-cancer effects are provided. In addition, methods and materials for identifying a mammal as having an elevated level of PD-1+/CD11ahigh CD8 T cells and administering a PD-1 inhibitor to such a mammal are provided.

Abstract: A solution and method for treating symptoms commonly associated with fibromyalgia. The solution includes a solvent and a composition including active ingredients of menthol, camphor, and capsaicin, as well as additional components including aloe vera extract, carbomer, decyl polyglucose, deionized water, grapefruit seed extract, green tea extract, orange peel extract, queen of the prairie extract, rose water, silica, sodium, hydroxymethyl glycinate, vegetable glycerin, witch hazel, and yucca extract. The method includes soaking an affected area in the solution for a predetermined period of time.

Abstract: Iodine-containing germicidal compositions are disclosed that remain physically stable for extended storage periods with little to no iodine complexing agent being present. The compositions employ a mixture of emollients, such as glycerin and ethoxylanolin, to create a composition that in certain embodiments presents a cloudy or emulsion-like appearance.

Abstract: This invention relates to the use of a composition comprising a polysaccharide and a botulinum toxin for reducing a skin wrinkle. In some embodiments, the polysaccharide comprises disaccharides. In some embodiments, the average molecular weight of a disaccharide unit of the polysaccharide is between about 345 D and about 1,000 D.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for treating disorders of the nail and nail bed. Such compositions contain a vehicle in which all components of the composition are dissolved, suspended, dispersed, or emulsified, a non-volatile solvent, a wetting agent, and a pharmaceutically active ingredient that is soluble in the non-volatile solvent and/or a mixture of the vehicle and the non-volatile solvent, which composition has a surface tension of 40 dynes/cm or less and has continuing spreadability, and which composition is effective in treating a disorder of the nail or nail bed.

Abstract: Stable formulations for parenteral injection of peptide drugs and methods of using such stable formulations are provided. In particular, the present invention provides stable formulations for parenteral injection of glucagon and methods of using such glucagon formulations to treat hypoglycemia, especially severe hypoglycemia in emergency situations.

Abstract: A liquid aqueous pharmaceutical formulation is described which has a high protein concentration, a pH of between about 4 and about 8, and enhanced stability.

Abstract: An artificial tris-catecolate siderophore with a tripodal backbone and its conjugates with ampicillin and amoxicillin were synthesized. Both conjugates exhibited significantly enhanced in vitro antibacterial activities against Gram-negative species compared to the parent drugs, especially against P. aeruginosa. The conjugates appear to be assimilated by an induced bacterial iron transport process as their activities were inversely related to iron concentration. The easily synthesized tris-catecolate siderophores can be used with a variety of drugs as conjugates to target antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria.

Abstract: A composition for treating or preventing inflammatory-related conditions includes as an active principle a carrier which exhibits a plurality of a scavenger structure capable of mitigating the activity of a mediator of inflammatory-related conditions. The scavenger structure includes a nucleophilic center complying with the formula X1(—R?—)(—R?)mHn where: a) X1 is a single-bonded heteroatom selected amongst N, O and S and exhibits a free electron pair; b) m is 0 or 1 and n is 1 or 2; c) —R?— is a bivalent organic group providing attachment to the carrier via one of its free valences and to X1 at the other free valence; and d) R?— is a monovalent organic group attached to the X1 via its free valence. A method for treating or preventing inflammatory-related conditions in an individual suffering from such conditions includes: providing the composition; and contacting the mediator within or separate from the individual.

Abstract: The present invention discloses cell penetrating peptides (CPP or membrane translocating peptide) and their conjugates with cargo molecules. The peptides are useful as drug delivery systems, particularly as delivery vehicles for nucleotide-based therapeutics, such as polynucleotides, oligonucleotides and peptide nucleic acids. A CPPs of the invention provides a balance between good cell entry efficiency and low toxicity and comprises three contiguous domains: the central one being hydrophobic and the flanking ones consisting of arginine and aminohexanoic acid or beta-alanine residues. The hydrophobic domain contains a sequence selected from YQFLI, YRFLI, IQFLI and IRFLI.

Abstract: The present invention provides antibodies that bind to prolactin receptor (PRLR) and methods of using the same. According to certain embodiments, the antibodies of the invention bind human PRLR with high affinity. In certain embodiments, the invention includes antibodies that bind PRLR and block prolactin-mediated cell signaling. In other embodiments, the invention includes antibodies that bind PRLR but do not block prolactin-mediated cell signaling. The antibodies of the invention may be fully human antibodies. The invention includes anti-PRLR antibodies conjugated to a cytotoxic agent, radionuclide, or other moiety detrimental to cell growth or proliferation. The antibodies of the invention are useful for the treatment of various cancers as well as other PRLR-related disorders.

Abstract: Compositions comprising at least one Omega-3 fatty acid ester and at least one surface active agent; wherein the compositions form micelles when in contact with an aqueous medium are taught. Also provided is a method of administering to a subject a composition comprising at least one Omega-3 fatty acid ester and at least one surface active agent, wherein the at least one Omega-3 fatty acid ester forms micelles when in contact with an aqueous medium, and the bioavailability of the at least one Omega-3 fatty acid ester is substantially independent of a food effect. The compositions are useful for treating cardiovascular conditions or disorders in a subject and for reducing side effects associated with the ingestion of Omega-3 fatty acid esters. Also taught are various dosage forms for administering the compositions and use of the compositions in functional foods. Also contemplated are kits for administering the compositions.

Abstract: Described herein are compositions comprising at least one Omega-3 fatty acid ester and at least one surface active agent; wherein the compositions form micelles when in contact with an aqueous medium. Also provided is a method of administering to a subject a composition comprising at least one Omega-3 fatty acid ester and at least one surface active agent, wherein the at least one Omega-3 fatty acid ester forms micelles when in contact with an aqueous medium, and the bioavailability of the at least one Omega-3 fatty acid ester is substantially independent of a food effect. The compositions are useful for treating cardiovascular conditions or disorders in a subject and for reducing side effects associated with the ingestion of Omega-3 fatty acid esters. Described are also various dosage forms for administering the compositions and use of the compositions in functional foods. Provided herein are also kits with instructions on how to administer the compositions.

Abstract: Disclosed is a near-infrared fluorescent imaging agent comprising an indocyanine-based fluorescent dye and a liposome. The near-infrared fluorescent imaging agent of the present invention demonstrates high fluorescence intensity and a long anchoring time in sentinel lymph nodes, thereby making it useful for detecting sentinel lymph nodes in sentinel lymph node navigation surgery. Also disclosed is an indocyanine green derivative that is particularly suitable for use in the near-infrared fluorescent imaging agent of the present invention.

Abstract: Compounds and uses of the compounds are provided. The compounds can be used as Fe(II) sequestering compounds. For example, these compounds can be used to sequester Fe(II) in cells, organs, vasculature, or tissues. Also, provided are compositions and methods of using the them for sequestering Fe(II) in an individual. The compounds can be used as MRI paraCEST contrast agents.

Abstract: Introducing ultraviolet (UV) light to activate a light sensitive chemical compound applied to interior portions of footwear alters the environment inside a shoe or other footwear to destroy microorganisms or inhibit their growth. Visible light can also be used to prevent further microorganism growth. Introducing forced air flow through the footwear removes dampness in and thereby deodorizes the footwear. A preferred embodiment comprises an adjustable shoe tree equipped with a UV germicidal light source and electronic safeguards that prevent appreciable leakage of UV radiation outside the shoe.

Abstract: A method of sterilizing articles, using a low-vapor-pressure sterilant in a compact sterilizer, including a pre-pulse injection of sterilant to condition a sterilization chamber.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a filter system having a catalyst filter configured for placement in a filter housing. The catalyst filter has a first band and a second band of material. Each band has a length of material extending in a longitudinal direction. Each band has a first wall and a second wall, each wall facing in an opposite direction from the other wall. A portion of each first wall is coated with a catalyst material, which receives light emitted by a light source to break down contaminants passing in air through the housing and over the catalyst material. Each of the first and second bands extends continuously along its longitudinal axis traversing the catalyst filter without being intersected by other structure of the catalyst filter. The first and second bands of material diverge relative to each other across the catalyst filter. The first wall of each band is optically exposed to light from the light source.

Abstract: To provide a method for producing an aldehyde gas deodorant which has high aldehyde deodorizing performance, and which is negative for mutagenicity and excellent in safety, and a deodorant processed product. A method for producing an aldehyde gas deodorant, the method comprises the steps of: preparing a deodorizing composition containing a dihydrazide compound, a water-containing inorganic powder, and water; and heating the deodorizing composition at a temperature of from 45° C. to 90° C. so that water remains in an amount of 4.5% by mass or more, based on the total mass of the deodorant produced, and wherein the aldehyde gas deodorant is negative for mutagenicity measured by an AMES test.

Abstract: The microwave sterilization chamber (10) is made in the shape of a downwardly open bell which can be sealed by a base structure (6, 19, 20) which carries means (5) for gripping and rotating the canister (1) filled with waste, which can be moved by suitable means from a low position for the filling and discharge of the canister (1) to a raised position for the closure of said chamber and for the insertion of the full canister (1) into the chamber, each canister being provided with means by which it can be removably supported by said means of gripping and rotating the sterilization chamber (10), and can be gripped by the manipulating means (SM) which transfer said canister between the different operating stations of the machine.

Abstract: Hemostatic compositions comprising a wet layered clay (e.g., wet kaolin) and, optionally, a zeolite, as well as devices and methods of use to promote blood clotting, are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fibrin matrix, its preparation and use for effectively sealing a defect in a mucosa or other moist tissue.

Abstract: A complex antimicrobial sorption composition possessing the necrolytic effect for treating the purulent wounds, the trophic ulcers, the wounds, and the infiltrates with the significant necrotic and exudative components represents the silica sorbent with the immobilized drug. Fine pyrogenic silica is used as a siliceous sorbent, and serrathiopeptidase as a drug.

Abstract: The present invention presents methods for making oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and medical implants made therefrom. Preferably, the implants are components of prosthetic joints, e.g., a bearing component of an artificial hip or knee joint. The resulting oxidation-resistant and wear-resistant polyethylenes and implants are also disclosed.

Abstract: Compositions of P4HB (poly-4-hydroxybutyrate) and copolymers thereof, have been developed for pultrusion, as well as processes to produce profiles from these compositions by pultrusion. These pultrusion processes provide profiles without causing structural damage to the surface of the profile. The profiles may be used in medical applications. These compositions include P4HB, and copolymers thereof, having intrinsic viscosities less than 3.2 dl/g but greater than 0.8 dl/g. The profile may be formed using conditions such as: pull rate of 0.1 to 100 mm/min, die temperature of up to 95° C., rod stock temperature up to 95° C., draw ratio of up to 100×, pulling force of greater than 10 MPa, and clamping pressure at least 10% higher than the pulling force. Preferably, the profile is formed by pulling the rod stock through a series of dies placed at intervals with the hole sizes decreasing in diameter by 0.1 to 10 mm.

Abstract: Provided herein is a prohealing piezoelectric coating and the method of making and using the same.