Abstract: A method is provided herein to increase an immune response to an antigen. The method includes administering an agent that inhibits extracellular adenosine or inhibits adenosine receptors. Also disclosed are methods to increase the efficacy of a vaccine and to increase an immune response to a tumor antigen or immune cell-mediated tumor destruction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to alpha-form zinc-phthalocyanine nanowires (ZnPc NWs) having enhanced water solubility and water dispersibility, to a composite of an alpha-form zinc-phthalocyanine nanowire/phenothiazine, to a method for preparing same, and to a photosensitizer including same or a pharmaceutical composition including same for preventing or treating cancers. Since the alpha-form zinc-phthalocyanine nanowires or the composite of alpha-form zinc-phthalocyanine nanowire/phenothiazine according to the present invention exhibit dual traits, i.e., photothermal and photodynamic traits in single molecules, they are very useful for the development of a multifunctional molecular system and can also be usefully applied to light therapy of cancers due to their good light therapeutic effects.

Abstract: The present invention is based, in part, on our discovery that certain types of therapeutic agents can be used in combination to treat a variety of neuropsychiatric and related disorders, including addiction (e.g., to a substance or to an activity) as well as to alleviate some of the symptoms experienced during menopause or associated with the menstrual cycle. Regardless of the precise formulation, the compositions of the invention can include at least one active ingredient that targets the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and at least one active ingredient that targets the prefrontal cortex. Either or both of these types of agents can be combined with an agent that inhibits activity in the sympathetic nervous system. Thus, the compositions or combination pharmacotherapies can also include an agent that inhibits a beta-adrenergic receptor or that otherwise acts as an anti-hypertensive or anxiolytic agent.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions that are useful in effecting the transdermal delivery of therapeutic agents. More particularly, the disclosed transdermal compositions may include a fatty alcohol (for example, octanol), a terpene (for example, limonene), and an active agent comprising an amine moiety.

Abstract: The present invention relates to stable lipid nanoparticle pharmaceutical formulations which are substantially free of large aggregates (e.g., aggregates greater than 1 ?m in size) and include a substantially non-ionic medium.

Abstract: A composition and method for targeted delivery of substances to the lower GI tract comprises a base or scaffold carrier to which a drug or prodrug is fixed or covalently attached. Compound, when taken orally travels through the GI tract of a patient to the lower GI where bacterial azo reductace enzymes cleave the bonds, releasing the drug or prodrug from the base or scaffold carrier permitting the delivery of the drug to the vicinity of a target cell type in the GI tract. The base or scaffold, which remains as a by-product passes out of the GI tract in the feces.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel luminescent compositions of matter containing two fluorophores (sensitizers), synthetic methods for making the compositions, macromolecular conjugates of the compositions, and the use of the compositions and their conjugates in various methods of detection. The invention also provides kits containing the compositions and their conjugates for use in the methods of detection.

Abstract: The invention provides bipartite inhibitors of bacterial RNA polymerase having the general structural formula (I): X-?-Y (I) wherein X is an moiety that binds to the rifamycin binding site of a bacterial RNA polymerase, Y is a moiety that binds to the GE23077 binding site of a bacterial RNA polymerase, and is a linker. The invention also provides compositions comprising such compounds, methods of making such compounds, and methods of using said compounds. The invention has applications in control of bacterial gene expression, control of bacterial growth, antibacterial chemistry, and antibacterial therapy.

Abstract: Provided herein are monomers incorporating folate or other targeting agent, polymers prepared therefrom, polymers prepared therefrom having a therapeutic agent covalently coupled thereto, as well as micelles and therapeutic compositions thereof.

Abstract: A series of peptides with divergent confirmations including structures of formula (1A), (1B), (2) and (3) are provided. In the formula, wherein U, G, A, B, R1, R2 and T are as defined in the specification. The divergent peptides disclosed in the present invention are characterized in a mineral binding affinity function.

Abstract: Novel compounds of the general formula: in which X represents a polymer, Q represents a linking group; W represents an electron-withdrawing moiety or a moiety preparable by reduction of an electron-withdrawing moiety; each of R1 and R2 independently represents a hydrogen atom or a C1-4alkyl group; and either Z1 represents a protein or a peptide linked to CR2 via a nucleophilic moiety, and Z2 represents a molecule linked to CR2 via a nucleophilic moiety, or Z1 and Z2 together represent a single group derived from a protein or peptide linked to CR2 via two nucleophilic moieties.

Abstract: The present invention features compositions and methods that make use of complexes comprising one or more inhibitory nucleic acids and a targeting polypeptide, wherein the targeting polypeptide consists of a cell surface receptor ligand. The compositions can be used in methods of silencing gene expression in a cell, in delivering agents to a target cell, and in treating or preventing a disease or disorder in a subject.

Abstract: A compound which is selected from A: B: and C: and salts and solvates thereof, as well as conjugates thereof with cell binding agent.

Abstract: The present invention relates to anti-FGFR2 antibodies, antibody fragments, antibody drug conjugates, and their uses for the treatment of cancer.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for treating disorders affecting motor function, such as motor function affected by disease or injury to the brain and/or spinal cord, are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for treating a myopathy. In certain embodiments, the invention provides compositions and methods for treating, improving muscle function, and prolonging survival in a subject with X-linked myotubular myopathy (XLMTM). The present invention provides a method comprising systemic administration of a composition that induces the increased expression of myotubularin in the muscle of a subject. The invention provides sustained regional and global increases in muscle function.

Abstract: The present invention relates to Adeno-associated virus 9 methods and materials useful for systemically delivering polynucleotides across the blood brain barrier. Accordingly, the present invention also relates to methods and materials useful for systemically delivering polynucleotides to the central and peripheral nervous systems. The present invention also relates to Adeno-associated virus type 9 methods and materials useful for intrathecal delivery of polynucleotides. Use of the methods and materials is indicated, for example, for treatment of lower motor neuron diseases such as spinal muscle atrophy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis as well as Pompe disease and lysosomal storage disorders. Use of the methods and materials is also indicated, for example, for treatment of Rett syndrome.

Abstract: A molecular probe for use in detecting, monitoring, and/or imaging cancer cells and/or cancer cell metastasis, migration, dispersal, and/or invasion includes a targeting agent and a detectable moiety. The targeting agent specifically binds to and/or complexes with a proteolytically cleaved extracellular fragment of an immunoglobulin (Ig) superfamily cell adhesion molecule that is expressed by a cancer cell or another cell in the cancer cell microenvironment.

Abstract: Provided herein are nanobubbles designed for use in ultrasound-mediated ablation of cancer cells. The nanobubbles undergo ultrasound-mediated cavitation at an ablation threshold which is significantly decreased, relative to standard ultrasound-mediated treatment of cancer cells. In exemplary embodiments, the nanobubbles comprise an amphiphilic ABC triblock copolymer, wherein block A comprises a hydrophilic polymer, block B comprises a crosslinking polymer, and block C comprises a hydrophobic copolymer comprising (i) methyl methacrylate (MMA) and (ii) a fluorinated monomer, wherein the fluorinated monomer is present in the hydrophobic copolymer of block C at 25 mole percent or less. Related treatment and diagnostic methods, as well as materials relating to the nanobubbles are provided herein. Methods of making a random copolymer are furthermore provided herein.

Abstract: A bill sterilizer includes a counting machine having a bill input part, a bill sensing part and a bill discharge part; a body having an opening and a receiving space; a tray provided on the floor of the receiving space; an ion generator located on the wall surface of the receiving space; a door to block the opening of the receiving space; and a door lock located on the front face below the opening of the body to fix the door. The bill sterilizer equipped with the counting machine supplies cluster negative ions to the sterilizer body so that the cluster negative ions are evenly transferred to the surfaces of the bills after the whole counting machine for counting the number of the bills is located inside the bill sterilizer.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein may include systems and method for monitoring physiological parameters of a patient. Specifically, embodiments disclose wireless, reusable, rechargeable medical sensors that include an inductive coil coupled to a rechargeable battery. Additionally, embodiments disclose systems and methods for recharging and disinfecting the disclosed medical sensors.

Abstract: A chamber configured to increase an intensity of target radiation emitted therein is provided. The chamber includes an enclosure at least partially formed by a set of transparent walls. Each transparent wall can comprise a first material transparent to the target radiation and having a refractive index greater than 1.1 for the target radiation. The outer surface of the set of transparent walls can include a set of cavities, each cavity comprising an approximately prismatic void. Additionally, a medium located adjacent to an outer surface of the set of transparent walls can have a refractive index within approximately one percent of a refractive index of a vacuum for the target radiation.

Abstract: In a plasma treatment method, at least a surface of a target object is treated using a plasma treatment apparatus at least including a discharge electrode section configured to cause electric discharge based on supply of a high voltage pulse from a pulse power supply, by supplying fluid including nitrogen into the discharge electrode section to generate plasma by electric discharge in the discharge electrode section and applying resultant active species and the fluid to the target object. The flow rate of the fluid is in a range of 20 mm/s to 500 mm/s. Electrical energy per area of the discharge electrode section in the pulse power supply is 1.4×104 (J/cm2) or more. The separation distance from the center of the discharge electrode section to the target object is in a range of 3 mm to 1700 mm.

Abstract: A moving handrail disinfecting device for passenger conveyor which enables a reduction in burden of maintenance, leading to improved maintenance performance of the device, wherein information concerning the device is centrally managed in a management center so as to enhance shareability of information, leading to improved maintenance performance of the whole system, is a moving handrail disinfecting device 10 for disinfecting a moving handrail 5 of an escalator 1, having a disinfecting unit comprising a plurality of applying members 11 for disinfecting the surface of the moving handrail 5, being installed outside an inlet part 6A of the moving handrail 5, an applying member replacing mechanism, a disinfection solution supplier 24 and associated parts, a control unit 60 operable to control disinfection operations by the disinfecting unit based on a dirt detection state by a dirt detecting unit 40, and a communications unit 50 operable to send information concerning said disinfecting device 10 to an outside man

Abstract: A moving handrail disinfecting device for passenger conveyor whereby disinfection solutions can be suitably used depending on the situations of the device and the like, resulting in appropriate disinfection treatment with little waste, is a moving handrail disinfecting device 10B, having a contact roller switching unit comprising an applying roller 17 to be allowed to make contact with the surface of a moving handrail 5, a first impregnating roller 18 and a second impregnating roller 19 which supply disinfection solutions, a first slide section 22A, a second slide section 22B and a sliding mechanism 23A which separately slides the both, wherein a control unit 60B controls the sliding mechanism 23A to separately slide the first slide section 22A and the second slide section 22B so as to switch a roller to be allowed to make contact with the applying roller 17 from the first impregnating roller 18 to the second impregnating roller 19, or from the second impregnating roller 19 to the first impregnating roller 18

Abstract: A modular, integrated, combination air purification and aroma diffuser includes a UV and catalytic oxidation germicidal cell and multiple filtrations as pre-treatment of air diffusing essential oils or other liquids as ultra-fine droplets entrained in airflow into enclosed, habitable spaces. Liquid microbicide, insecticide, fumigant, or aroma therapy is kept cleaner by eradication of microbes. Comparatively larger droplets are separated out and recycled to the reservoir after initial atomization. An electrical module, between a purifier and filters upstream and a diffuser downstream, includes a pump, a fan, and a controller for both. Staged, double-eduction, triple-separation processes include a micro-cyclone for quiet, well diffused flow of ultra-fine droplets.

Abstract: Aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to apparatus and methods for the photooxidation of sulfur-containing contaminants in air. In one example, an odor control system comprises a source of air contaminated with a sulfur-containing compound and a UV oxidation reactor having an inlet in fluid communication with the source of contaminated air. The reactor includes a source of UV radiation disposed within the reactor and a reflective coating disposed on internal surfaces of the reactor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a lens care solution having 0.001 to about 5 weight percent of a low molecular weight amine of the general formula: where R1, R2, R3 and R4 are —H or low molecular weight radicals, and R5 is a low molecular weight radical, or salt thereof; an effective amount of a tonicity agent; and the balance water.

Abstract: The invention is related to gel preparations capable of absorbing as well as releasing liquid, and the use of such gel preparations in the treatment of wounds.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fosfomycin preparation that comprises a) a calcium salt of fosfomycin and b) at least one sugar alcohol having a melting point above 70° C., whereby the weight ratio of sugar alcohol to calcium salt of fosfomycin is at least 0.8. Moreover, the invention proposes a method for producing the fosfomycin preparation and a polymethylmethacrylate bone cement powder that contains the fosfomycin preparation.

Abstract: The present invention provides materials and methods that can serve as a prosthetic and/or, for tissue engineer applications, as a supporting matrix in the stabilization of the myocardium. For example, the present invention provides methods of stabilizing an injured or defective myocardial wall in a patient including forming a prosthetic in situ by injecting, at a pre-selected site in the myocardial wall of the patient, a polymer network including: a cross-linked polymer, the cross-linked polymer being a hydrogel; and a linear polymer, the polymer chains of which are entangled within the cross-linked polymer, wherein the linear polymer is not covalently bonded to the cross-linked polymer.

Abstract: An osteoinductive demineralized bone matrix, corresponding osteoimplants, and methods for making the osteoinductive demineralized bone matrix are disclosed. The osteoinductive demineralized bone matrix may be prepared by providing demineralized bone and altering the collagenous structure of the bone. The osteoinductive demineralized bone matrix may also be prepared by providing demineralized bone and compacting the bone, for example via mechanical compaction, grinding into a particulate, or treatment with a chemical. Additives such as growth factors or bioactive agents may be added to the osteoinductive demineralized bone matrix. The osteoinductive demineralized bone matrix may form an osteogenic osteoimplant. The osteoimplant, when implanted in a mammalian body, may induce at the locus of the implant the full developmental cascade of endochondral bone formation including vascularization, mineralization, and bone marrow differentiation.

Abstract: Porous regions are formed using selected additive manufacturing techniques. The porous regions can assist in fibro-inductive regions and/or osteo-inductive regions. A prosthetic member can be formed completely with the additive manufacturing technique and/or the additive manufacturing techniques can be used to form an augment portion that is added to the prosthetic member formed separately.

Abstract: Macroporous 3-D tissue engineering scaffold are manufactured by contacting an article comprising multiple distinct macroparticulate porogens distributed within a polymer scaffold, wherein the porogens are selectively and sequentially dissolvable by corresponding biocompatible stimuli.

Abstract: The invention features fiber reinforced bone repair putties and fiber reinforced pliable lyophilized implants which are useful for the treatment of bone defects. The putties and lyophilized implants include ceramic particles. The formulations of the invention can exhibit reduced migration of the ceramic particles, and are mechanically strengthened so the materials can be aggressively manipulated by a physician during an implantation procedure without tearing or puncturing.

Abstract: The invention relates to an angioplasty catheter having a balloon and a constraining element carrying at least on a portion of its surface a taxane or taxane preparation and at least one lipophilic antioxidant at a ratio of 3-100% by weight of the at least one antioxidant in relation to 100% by weight of the taxane, wherein a preferred lipophilic antioxidant is propyl gallate. Scoring or cutting balloons as medical devices are excluded.

Abstract: A method for the manufacture of biodegradable membranes for preventing adhesion formation followed open heart surgery is described herein. The manufacturing of biodegradable membranes is based on polymeric composition, comprised of copolymer of polyhydroxybutyrate/hydroxyvalerate (PHBV), poly (D, L-lactide) in the ratio of the dried powders of 3:1, the resulting mixture is dissolved in chloroform to a concentration of 6-9% followed by thorough mixing for 2 hours and heating up to 35° C. The membrane is produced by electrostatic spinning (electrospinning), wherein biologically active substances from fibrinolytic agents or direct anticoagulants are embedded in the structure of the fiber.

Abstract: A method for depositing a coating comprising a polymer and at least two pharmaceutical agents on a substrate, comprising the following steps: providing a stent framework; depositing on said stent framework a first layer comprising a first pharmaceutical agent; depositing a second layer comprising a second pharmaceutical agent; Wherein said first and second pharmaceutical agents are selected from two different classes of pharmaceutical agents.

Abstract: A biodegradable in vivo supporting device is disclosed. The in vivo supporting device comprises a biodegradable metal scaffold and a biodegradable polymer coating covering at least a portion of the biodegradable metal scaffold, wherein the biodegradable polymer coating has a degradation rate that is faster than the degradation rate of the biodegradable metal scaffold.

Abstract: An antithrombotic material has an excellent anticoagulant activity and can form a stable coating layer on a base material through a simple and mild coating process. An antithrombotic material includes a copolymer configured to have 75% by mole to 25% by mole of a repeating unit (A) derived from diacetone(meth)acrylamide represented by the following formula (1) (wherein R1 is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group) and 25% by mole to 75% by mole of a repeating unit (B) derived from a monomer having at least one sulfonate group selected from a group consisting of 2-(meth)acrylamide-2-methyl-propane sulfonic acid, vinyl sulfate, allyl sulfate, styrenesulfonic acid, sulfoethyl(meth)acrylate, and sulfopropyl(meth)acrylate in a molecule, or a salt of the monomer (the total amount of the repeating unit (A) and the repeating unit (B) is 100% by mole).

Abstract: A sensor for use in a canister for fluid collection, the canister having a canister top and defining a fluid collection chamber. The sensor includes a first electrode and a second electrode. The first electrode includes a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion of the first electrode is supported by the canister top, and the second portion of the first electrode is configured to extend into the fluid collection chamber. The second electrode includes a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion of the second electrode is supported by the canister top, and the second portion of the second electrode is configured to extend into the fluid collection chamber. The sensor also includes an electric circuit configured to detect an electrical property associated with the first and second electrodes.

Abstract: A system for removing cryoprotectant from a cryoprotectant-containing liquid stored a container comprises a cryoprotectant removal device that receives the cryoprotectant-containing liquid and a cryoprotectant-free dialysate liquid and that is operable to transfer cryoprotectant to the dialysate liquid. A differential conductivity device is arranged to continuously measure the difference in conductivity between dialysate liquid entering the device and dialysate liquid that has received cryoprotectant transferred by the dialyzer discharged from the device. A controller is operable to control the flow of the liquids through the device in response to the measured difference in conductivity, and particularly to stop the flow of the cryoprotectant-containing liquid when the measured differential conductivity indicates that the cryoprotectant has been substantially removed from the liquid.

Abstract: A high efficiency blood pump includes a pump housing, wherein the pump housing provides an inlet and outlet. The pump includes a motor housing, wherein the motor housing contains a motor. An impeller is housed in the pump housing, wherein the impeller is radially supported by a hydrodynamic bearing providing at least one row of pattern grooves. A diaphragm provided by the pump housing separates the impeller chamber from the motor chamber. A magnetic coupling is provided between the motor and the impeller, wherein the magnetic coupling causes the impeller to rotate when the motor rotates and provides axial restraint of the impeller.

Abstract: A transseptal cannula having a flexible cannula body, a left atrial anchor coupled to the distal end of the flexible cannula body, and a right atrial anchor operable to be attached to the left atrial anchor in vivo. The left and right atrial anchors are implanted and deployed separately. Delivery of the transseptal cannula to a heart tissue can include a low profile coaxial balloon catheter comprising a tube body including an inner member and an outer member surrounding the inner member and thereby creating an inflation channel between the inner and outer members, a hub coupled to the proximal portion of the tube body and including a fluid space in fluid communication with the inflation channel; and a balloon coupled to the distal portion of the tube body, wherein the balloon is in fluid communication with the inflation channel.

Abstract: A ventricular assist device (VAD) system includes one or more external subsystems including an amplifier energizing a drive loop with alternating current, and a Tx resonator inductively coupled to the drive loop. An implanted subsystem includes a VAD, an Rx resonator that forms a magnetically coupled resonator with the Tx resonator, and a load loop for providing power to the VAD that is inductively coupled to the Rx resonator. A sensor monitors the drive loop and a controller uses the sensor data to adjust a system parameter to optimize energy transfer performance. Distributing a plurality of the external subsystems throughout a defined space provides a patient with freedom of movement within the defined space.

Abstract: A system and method for balancing flows of renal replacement fluid is disclosed. The method uses pressure controls and pressure sensing devices to more precisely meter and balance the flow of fresh dialysate and spent dialysate. The balancing system may use one or two balancing devices, such as a balance tube, a tortuous path, or a balance chamber.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to blood flow reversal valves and related systems and methods. In certain aspects of the invention, a blood flow reversal valve includes a first member having a first passage and a second passage, and a second member having a first passage and a second passage. The first and second members are rotatably fixed relative to one another such that the first passage of the first member is aligned with the first passage of the second member and the second passage of the first member is aligned with the second passage of the second member. A flow directing element is disposed in the cavity and is moveable relative to the first and second members between a first position in which the first passage of the first member and the first passage of the second member are fluidly connected and a second position in which the first passage of the first member and the second passage of the second member are fluidly connected.

Abstract: An extracorporeal blood processing system comprises a plastic molded compact manifold that supports a plurality of molded blood and dialysate fluidic pathways along with a plurality of relevant sensors, valves and pumps. A disposable dialyzer is connected to the molded manifold to complete the blood circuit of the system. The compact manifold is also disposable in one embodiment and can be detachably installed in the dialysis machine.

Abstract: An electrical stimulation lead includes electrodes disposed along a distal end portion of a lead body; terminals disposed along a proximal end portion of the lead body; and stimulation conductors electrically coupling the terminals to the electrodes. A light-emitter is disposed along the distal end portion of the lead body. A light source is disposed along the at least one lead body and converts received electrical power into light. An optical transport medium is disposed along the at least one lead body. The optical transport medium extends between the light source and the light-emitter. A light source conductor electrically couples the light source and the terminals. A drug-dispensing port is defined along the distal end portion of the lead body. A drug-delivery channel is in fluid communication with the at least one drug-dispensing port and extends to the proximal end portion of the lead body.

Abstract: A container for receiving or storing or carrying pistons for injectors, the container having a base plate and hollow cylindrical piston storage parts (the container being hereafter referred to as a piston nest). Each of the hollow cylindrical piston receiving parts is formed either by making it vertically penetrate through the basic plate, with one side of the base plate functioning as one opening end, and project from the other side or by making it vertically penetrate through the base plate and project from both sides of the base plate. Preferably, each piston receiving part has a swelled part where a part of the inner peripheral wall surface of the piston receiving part is swelled inward. The pistons for injectors are received in the piston receiving parts.