Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel therapeutic uses of T-140 analog peptides and compositions comprising same. Specifically, the invention relates to compositions and methods for providing improved platelet levels, useful in the treatment and prevention of thrombocytopenia, for controlling bleeding and for inducing or modulating haemostasis.

Abstract: Provided is a novel soluble factor that modulates morphogenesis and cell proliferation, such as cardiac development and/or cardiomyocyte differentiation. Specifically provided are: an inhibitor of Wnt signalling, comprising an insulin-like growth-factor-binding protein (IGFBP), the protein being binding to a Wnt receptor, and/or a polynucleotide encoding the protein; a medicament for prevention and/or treatment of a disease due to enhanced Wnt signalling, comprising the inhibitor of Wnt signalling, and a medicament for induction of cardiomyocyte differentiation; and a method for prevention and/or treatment of a disease due to enhanced Wnt signalling and a method of inducing cardiomyocyte differentiation, the methods each comprising using the inhibitor of Wnt signalling, and a cardiomyocyte, which is obtained by the method of inducing cardiomyocyte differentiation, and a use thereof.

Abstract: The present invention concerns methods of treating cancer and methods of inhibiting cancer cell proliferation, particularly methods of treating breast cancer, wherein the methods comprise delivering a dominant-negative inhibitor of endogenous ErbB-2.

Abstract: A synergistic pharmaceutical composition for the preparation of topical formulations for use in prophylaxis and treatment of wounds, burn wounds, skin grafts, pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers and other skin diseases is provided. The composition may include one or more synergistically active ingredients and one or more inactive ingredients. The synergistically active ingredients may include Recombinant Human Epidermal Growth Factor (rh-EGF) (REGEN-D™ of Bharat Biotech International Limited) and/or Platelet Derived Growth Factor (rh-PDGF-BB), silver sulfadiazine (SSD) and chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG). One or more inactive ingredients may comprise carriers, preservatives, emulsifiers, skin emollients and soothers and one or more other constituents.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for inhibiting tumorigenicity both in vitro and in vivo in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering an effective amount of an anti-miR-494 nucleic acid construct sufficient to target one or more tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) are described. Activation of the ERK1/2 pathway is a major determinant of diverse cellular processes and cancer development and is responsible for the transcription of several important miRNAs. Described herein is a link between the ERK1/2 pathway and BIM expression through miR-494. This ERK1/2 pathway regulates apoptosis and cell proliferation through miR-494 and mechanisms responsible for TRAIL resistance. Materials and methods related to the study and treatment of cancer are described.

Abstract: The present invention provides isolated epitope peptides derived from TOPK and immunogenic fragments thereof have an ability to induce cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and thus are suitable for use in cancer immunotherapy, more particularly as cancer vaccines. The peptides of the present invention encompass both of peptides including a TOPK-derived amino acid sequence and modified versions thereof, in which one, two, or several amino acids are substituted, deleted, inserted and/or added, provided such modified versions have CTL inducibility. Further provided are polynucleotides encoding any of the aforementioned peptides as well as pharmaceutical compositions that include any of the aforementioned peptides or polynucleotides. The peptides, polynucleotides, and pharmaceutical compositions of this invention find particular utility in either or both of the treatment and prevention of a number of cancers.

Abstract: Two universally conserved sequences from influenza type A neuraminidases were identified by large scale sequence analysis then chemically modified and conjugated to carrier proteins to generate mono-specific and monoclonal antibodies. The two antibodies, one targeting the N-terminus of the type A neuraminidase and the other sequence close to enzymatic active site, were capable of binding to all 9 subtypes of neuraminidase while demonstrating remarkable specificity against the viral neuraminidase sequences since no cross-reactivity against allantoic proteins was observed. Quantitative analyses of NA using slot blot suggest that the antibodies can be used for NA antigen quantitation in vaccines. These represent the first time the antibody-based immunoassay can be used for NA quantitative determination.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for treating a malignant neoplastic cell proliferative disorder or disease, comprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of an mTOR inhibitor and an effective amount of a CD4 lymphocyte depleting agent. Such methods find utility in the treatment of certain subsets of malignant neoplastic cell proliferative disorders or diseases, e.g. renal cell carcinoma and melanoma. The invention also provides for pharmaceutical compositions comprising a therapeutically effective amount of an mTOR inhibitor and an effective amount of a CD4 lymphocyte depleting agent in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

Abstract: The present invention provides: an antibody which specifically reacts with hTROP-2 and has anti-tumor activity in vivo (particularly, a humanized antibody); a hybridoma which produces the aforementioned antibody; a conjugate of the aforementioned antibody and a drug; a pharmaceutical composition for diagnosing or treating a tumor; a method for detecting a tumor; and a kit for detecting or diagnosing a tumor.

Abstract: A method of screening for the presence of a composition in a medium includes selecting a score record for a score that affects the composition, and applying energy to the medium in accordance with the selected score.

Abstract: Methods for reducing the growth of breast cancer cells in a subject by exposing the cells to nanoparticles, and irradiating with a focused, low to medium power ultrasound. The nanoparticles can be gold or magnetic nanoparticles. The nanoparticles can have a cancer drug attached, such as an antibody-based cancer drug.

Abstract: Treatment of skin tissue with photoactive materials and light, such as nanoparticles and formulations which are useful for cosmetic, diagnostic and therapeutic applications to mammals such as humans. In particular, embodiments of hair removal with metal nanoparticles in surfactant containing solutions are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention includes compositions and methods for diagnosing and treating CA-MRSA infections in patients. The methods are based on the finding that combining cefoxitin and a synthetic penicillin in a treatment regimen results in a synergistic effect of the two drugs, an effect that is related to PBP4 activity in CA-MRSA isolates. Also provided is a CA-MRSA-specific biomarker which can be used to detect the presence of a CA-MRSA infection in a patient.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an activated polymer composition for use in repairing tissue of a patient comprising platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a chitosan solution, a salt such as NaCI or glycerol phosphate, and an activator such as at least one of CaCI2 and a mixture of thrombin/CaCI2.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a composition that includes hyaluronic acid, or its salt or derivative thereof, zinc citrate and an additive selected from the group consisting of grapefruit seed extract, Citricidal™, calcium propionate, sodium benzoate, potassium benzoate, magnesium citrate, proline, raddish root extract, Leucidal™ or 1,2-propanediol.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the use of an agent that enhances transdermal delivery of a PDE-5 inhibitor. More particularly, the present disclosure provides improved method and composition that promotes transdermal delivery of a PDE-5 inhibitor for the treatment of the PDE-5 mediated conditions and/or diseases.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions and methods for the treatment of otic diseases or conditions with free-radical modulating agent compositions and formulations administered locally to an individual afflicted with an otic disease or condition, through direct application of these compositions and formulations onto or via perfusion into the targeted auris structure(s).

Abstract: The present invention relates to an aqueous ophthalmic composition comprising (A) polyoxyethylene castor oil, (B) polyethylene glycol monostearate, and (C) at least one member selected from the group consisting of sesame oil, castor oil, vitamin A, and chlorobutanol.

Abstract: Conjugates of polymers or copolymers having attached thereto an anti-angiogenesis agent and a bisphosphonate bone targeting agent, and processes of preparing same, are disclosed. Pharmaceutical compositions containing these conjugates and uses thereof in the treatment of bone related disorders are also disclosed.

Abstract: Insulin conjugates comprising an insulin molecule covalently attached to at least one bi-dentate linker having two arms, each arm independently attached to a ligand comprising a saccharide and wherein the saccharide for at least one ligand of the linker is fucose are disclosed. The insulin conjugates display a pharmacokinetic (PK) and/or pharmacodynamic (PD) profile that is responsive to the systemic concentrations of a saccharide such as glucose or alpha-methylmannose even when administered to a subject in need thereof in the absence of an exogenous multivalent saccharide-binding molecule such as Con A.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are meningococcal immunogenic conjugates which can elicit immune responses against meningococcal polysaccharides (PS) from groups A, C, W-135, and Y and group B factor H binding protein (fHbp). The disclosed conjugates also exhibit bactericidal activity against meningococcal A, C, W-135, Y, B, and X serogroups. Also disclosed are improved methods for preparing conjugates, such as immunogenic conjugates, including activation of a polysaccharide with a cyanylation agent at about 4° C.

Abstract: This document provides methods and materials related to treating cancer (e.g., skin cancer). For example, methods and materials relating to the use of a composition containing albumin-containing nanoparticle/antibody complexes (e.g., Abraxane®/anti-VEGF polypeptide antibody complexes) to treat cancer (e.g., skin cancer) are provided.

Abstract: The present application relates to methods for the enzymatic functionalization of immunoglobulins, in particular with drugs. Also disclosed herein are linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

Abstract: Novel tubulysin derivatives which may be useful as cytotoxic agents to provide therapeutic benefits in the treatment of various types of cancers, alone, as drug conjugates or in combination with other chemotherapies are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to duocarmycin-containing antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for use in the treatment of human solid tumors expressing HER2, wherein the human solid tumor expressing HER2 is endometrial cancer, in particular uterine serous carcinoma (USC). In particular, the present invention relates to duocarmycin-containing ADCs for use in the treatment of endometrial cancer, notably USC, with HER2 IHC 2? or 1+ and HER2 FISH negative tumor tissue status.

Abstract: Provided is a family of intramolecularly quenched imaging agents for use in both in vivo and in vitro imaging that contain at least one enzymatically cleavable oligopeptide and two fluorophores or a fluorophore and a quencher. When subjected to proteolytic cleavage, at least one fluorophore is unquenched and becomes capable of producing a fluorescent signal upon excitation with light of an appropriate wavelength. Also provided are in vivo and in vitro imaging methods using such imaging agents.

Abstract: Described is a method, and a combination of agents for used therein, by which an agent administered to a subject can be rapidly cleared from circulation. This is achieved by providing an Administration Agent (e.g. a probe for pretargeting) with a reactive group and providing a Clearing Agent with another reactive group, said reactive groups forming a bio-orthogonally reactive pair. Preferably, the reactive pair comprises a cyclooctene or cyclooctyn as one reactant, and a diene as the other reactant. The method and combination can be used for the removal of any bindable molecule from circulation, such as an excess of a pre-targeting probe in the course of a pre-targeting method, a targeting or imaging agent delivered, or the removal of any biomolecule already present in circulation.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a series of stable radioisotope trithiol complexes that provide a simplified route for the direct complexation of radioisotopes present in low concentrations. In certain embodiments, the complex contains a linking domain configured to conjugate the radioisotope trithiol complex to a targeting vector. The invention is also directed to a novel method of linking the radioisotope to a trithiol compound to form the radioisotope trithiol complex. The inventive radioisotope trithiol complexes may be utilized for a variety of applications, including diagnostics and/or treatment in nuclear medicine.

Abstract: A household sterilizer for disinfecting fabric material that has become soiled. The unit involves an upright tub containing an electric heating element at its base. A suspension bar extends generally across at least part of the tub interior, for hanging clothing to be treated. An electric cord for the heating element has a switch and timer module in series, to control current flow to the heating element. The arrangement is such that a wide variety of garments, including miscellaneous fabrics in general, can be readily steam cleaned with a minimum of water being required. The tub occupies a minimum of space, suitable for a conventional home or apartment.

Abstract: A metering unit is provided for metering hydrogen peroxide into an evacuated vessel, for controlling the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the vessel. The metering unit includes a body defining a metering passage having a fixed volume and upstream and downstream ends, an upstream connection for connecting the upstream end to a hydrogen peroxide supply, a downstream connection for connecting the downstream end to a hydrogen peroxide vaporizer, an upstream valve for selectively closing the upstream end and a downstream valve for selectively closing the downstream end, and a controller for operating the valves in a non-overlapping and opposite manner for selectively preventing opening of both valves at the same time. With the metering unit of this disclosure, expensive peroxide concentration measurement systems are replaced with an economical monitoring of the number of injection cycles using a passage of fixed volume.

Abstract: Provided is a filter cartridge for an air purifier, comprising a structure ensuring the retention of a filter medium, the filter medium comprising a standard absorbent material chosen from the group consisting of activated charcoal or zeolites, and the filter medium further comprises a nanoporous specific absorbent material functionalized with probe molecules in such a way that chemical pollutants of the aldehyde type can be trapped.

Abstract: A fabric scent diffuser that can be easily and strongly attached to a pet collar which is then worn by a pet with the portable scent diffuser providing an effective scent or vapor to the pet, yet can be removed when desired. The fabric scent diffuser has a fabric strap, absorbent material such as cotton to which a scent oil or solution is applied, and has a fabric cover over the absorbent material, all stitched together to hold the absorbent material and fabric cover in place on the fabric strap. Hook and loop fastener material are attached near the ends of the strap so that the fabric scent diffuser can be looped around a pet collar and secured with the hook and loop material. A kit with additional components, and methods of fabrication and use, are provided.

Abstract: A disinfection system of a contact lens comprising immersing the contact lens in a disinfecting solution containing hydrogen peroxide in a concentration of 1 to 10% and neutralizing the hydrogen peroxide in the disinfecting solution through contact with a metal catalyst, where the disinfecting solution contains an organic carboxylic acid or a salt of the organic carboxylic acid, the organic carboxylic acid having a structure in which a hydroxyl group and a carboxyl group are bonded to one carbon atom; the disinfecting solution is adjusted to have a pH of 6 to 8; and the disinfecting solution after the neutralization is adjusted to have an osmotic pressure of 250 to 350 mOsm.

Abstract: Orthopedic splinting materials and methods for stabilizing an injured limb or extremity of a human or animal comprising applying a foam to the limb or extremity and allowing the foam set to sufficient rigidity, which can be in less than 60 seconds. The foam, such as a Spray Polyurethane Foam, can be sprayed directly on the skin without producing an amount of heat release that is painful or uncomfortable on the skin. Also provided is a kit for stabilizing an injured limb or extremity comprising a dispenser comprising the present foam. Further provided is situ preparation and application of a compression bandage on an injured patient in an emergency or combat situation comprising applying the present foam. A spine board and a method for making the same comprising applying the present foam to the patient's back, then contacting the foam with a board or flat surface before the foam sets.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for manufacturing a cross-linked gelatin sponge having a surface by providing a cross-linked gelatin sponge, wetting the surface of the sponge by applying a sufficient amount of liquid comprising a protein or peptide active ingredient, wherein a sufficient amount of liquid is one that retains the flexibility of the sponge even after drying. The sponge is then dried the sponge to obtain a flexible, dry and ready to use cross linked gelatin sponge having a layer of protein or peptide active ingredient on the surface thereof.

Abstract: The invention provides injectable, biofunctional agent-containing calcium phosphate cement bone pastes for bone tissue engineering, and methods of making and using the same.

Abstract: A method of producing an injectable calcium phosphate paste by a process in which calcium phosphate precursors are mixed with the setting fluids to form a self-hardened apatite cement is disclosed. The produced apatite cement is biocompatible, bioactive and biodegradable in the body. The pH value of said apatite cement is approximately 7 with compressive strength between 10-30 MPa and the setting process will not generate.temperature >37° C. The self-hardened apatite (SHA) cement is found to be bioresorbable and can be used for bone fillers, fixation of broken bones or artificial joints in human and also appropriate for use as a delivery vehicle.

Abstract: A shape memory polymer (SMP) intraocular lens may have a refractive index above 1.45, a Tg between 10° C. and 60° C., inclusive, de minimis or an absence of glistening, and substantially 100% transmissivity of light in the visible spectrum. The intraocular lens is then rolled at a temperature above Tg of the SMP material. The intraocular device is radially compressed within a die to a diameter of less than or equal to 1.8 mm while maintaining the temperature above Tg. The compressed intraocular lens device may be inserted through an incision less than 2 mm wide in a cornea or sclera or other anatomical structure. The lens can be inserted into the capsular bag, the ciliary sulcus, or other cavity through the incision. The SMP can substantially achieve refractive index values of greater than or equal to 1.45.

Abstract: A fiber-based surgical implant stabilized against fraying, includes a thermally crimped flat-knitted fabric of a biocompatible, optionally biodegradable, polymer material having a glass transition temperature or other thermally induced secondary conformational mobility threshold in the temperature range of from 20° C. to +170° C. Also disclosed is a corresponding fabric and methods of producing the implant and the fabric.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided for musculoskeletal tissue engineering. For example, a scaffold apparatus is provided which comprises microspheres of selected sizes and/or composition. The microspheres are layered to have a gradient of microsphere sizes and/or compositions. The scaffold provides a functional interface between multiple tissue types.

Abstract: An artificial tissue including an internal mass transport network having a plurality of channels, wherein the channels are designed to substantially mimic naturally occurring vascular network and a method for creating an internal transport system within a tissue scaffold to improve circulation, diffusion, and mass transport properties by utilizing computer-aided tissue engineering (CATE). The artificial tissue has the internal mass transport network of channels embedded, deposited, or molded within a scaffold, wherein the channels are made from a biodegradable transporting material and the scaffold is made from a scaffold material. The artificial tissue of the invention includes a basic circulatory system embedded within the tissue scaffold. This system provides mass transport throughout the entire scaffold and degrades after the new circulatory system develops.

Abstract: A structure of, and a method of producing, a biocompatible structure for bone and tissue regeneration are disclosed. The method includes dissolving a polyurethane polymer in methanol, adding hydroxyapatite (HAP) nanoparticles to form a uniformly distributed mixture, applying the mixture to a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) surface to form a polymer film, cutting the polymer film into strips, stacking the strips with layers of bone particles disposed therebetween, coating the stacked strips and layers by the mixture and allowing it to dry, adding bone particles to the coating, and plasma treating the structure to form the biocompatible structure. A weight percentage of the HAP nanoparticles to the polymer is about 5-50% such that a resorption rate of the biocompatible structure substantially matches a rate of tissue generation in the biocompatible structure.

Abstract: Microbial growth inhibiting solutions and methods of employing the microbial growth inhibiting solutions in flushing and coating medical devices are disclosed. In alternative embodiments, the microbial growth inhibiting solutions include combinations of a chelating agent with a C4-C12 carboxylate antimicrobial agent, for example, such as n-capric, n-lauric, or n-octanoic acid. Methods of using these microbial growth inhibiting solutions for coating a medical device and for inhibiting catheter infection are also disclosed. Methods of using these microbial growth inhibiting solutions, or portions thereof, as leaching treatment solutions to treat polymer syringes and the treated syringes are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for the production of silk fibroin matrices surface-PEGylated on one or more surfaces. Such surface-PEGylated silk fibroin matrices can be used in biomedical applications, such as anti-adhesive and anti-thrombosis materials. Silk matrices may be surface-PEGylated, for example, by a reaction with a functional group-activated PEG. Controlling the degree of PEGylation on surface of silk fibroin matrix can regulate both the degradation rate of the silk matrix, and the differentiated adhesion of cells or differentiated adsorption of proteins on the surface of the silk matrix. The present invention also provides for silk fibroin matrices having one or more surfaces possessing differentiated adhesion properties, which allows for tissue integration on the adherent side and inhibition of tissue adhesion to the opposing tissues or organs.

Abstract: A stent made entirely or partially of a cobalt alloy having the following composition: Co: 18.36-66.85% by weight Cr: 17.0-30.0% by weight Mn: 4.0-10.0% by weight W: 9.0-18.0% by weight Fe: 3.0-20.0% by weight C: 0.03-0.5% by weight N: 0.1-1.0% by weight Si: 0-2.0% by weight O: 0-0.05% by weight with the alloying components and production-related impurities adding up to 100% by weight and (i) a PRE value for corrosion resistance, which is derived from the weight percentages of the alloying components according to formula (1) PRE=[Cr]+1.65×[W]+30×[N]??(1) ranges between 34 and 89; and (ii) for the contents of nitrogen and carbon the following restrictions according to formula (2) and (3) apply 0.15?C+N?1.00??(2) 0.25?C+N?1.00??(3).

Abstract: Coatings with crystallized active agent(s) and related methods are disclosed. One method includes selecting a solvent and a polymer, selecting a concentration of an active agent of at least a certain amount of saturation, forming a coating composition having the selected concentration of the active agent, and applying the coating composition to the medical device. Also disclosed is an elution control coating which includes an active agent that is at least about 80% crystallized within one week of being disposed on a medical device. One method enhances the formation of active agent crystals within a coating layer by adjusting the concentration of the active agent in the coating solution to reach some percentage of the active agent saturation point. Another method includes increasing the rate of active agent nucleation within the coating.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and connectors are provided that introduce a working gas at certain times into a reduced-pressure dressing into order to break or avoid vacuum locks in the conduits removing fluids. In one instance, a reduced-pressure connector includes a connector body for applying a reduced pressure to the tissue site. The connector body is formed with a venting port, a body conduit, and a receptacle to receive a reduced-pressure delivery conduit. The reduced-pressure connector includes a flexible member coupled to the connector body over the venting port. The flexible member is formed with at least one venting aperture. The flexible member is biased away from the venting port and is configured to collapse and seal the venting port under a reduced pressure greater than a threshold pressure. Other systems, apparatuses, and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A cardiotomy suction tube system comprises a main line, a first flexible branch line in fluid communication with the main line, a second flexible branch line in selective fluid communication with the main line, and a rigid branch line in selective fluid communication with the main line. A valve mechanism selectively places either the second flexible branch line or the rigid line in fluid communication with the main line. The first flexible branch line may be provided with a weighted suction tip which gravitates to a low point in an operative field. The second flexible branch line may be provided with a weighted suction tip which gravitates to a low point in an operative field.

Abstract: A finger-controlled combination irrigation and suction device is provided. The device includes a handpiece. The handpiece includes: a shaft having a first end and a second end, and having a channel disposed from the first end of the shaft to the second end of the shaft for allowing suction through the shaft; a nozzle coupled to the first end of the shaft; an inlet disposed through an exterior surface of the shaft and in operable communication with the channel, the inlet being disposed to be manually covered and uncovered by one or more fingers of a single hand of a primary caregiver for control of suction through the shaft; and a conduit having a first end disposed to receive a volume of irrigation solution after one or more fingers of the single hand of the primary caregiver act upon an irrigation source proximate to the conduit.

Abstract: Some embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a pump assembly comprising a voice coil, a magnet and a diaphragm, wherein the voice coil is configured to move the diaphragm to pump a fluid through the pump assembly in response to a drive signal applied to the voice coil. Some embodiments disclosed herein are directed to an apparatus for applying negative pressure to a wound comprising a source of negative pressure configured to be coupled to a dressing, the source of negative comprising a voice coil actuator and a diaphragm, and a controller configured to produce a drive signal for the voice coil actuator.