Abstract: The present invention relates to new immunogenic compositions comprising conjugated Streptococcus pneumoniae capsular saccharide antigens (glycoconjugates) and uses thereof. Immunogenic compositions of the present invention will typically comprise at least one glycoconjugate from a S. pneumoniae serotype not found in PREVNAR®, SYNFLORIX® and/or PREVNAR 13®. The invention also relates to vaccination of human subjects, in particular infants and elderly, against pneumoccocal infections using said novel immunogenic compositions.

Abstract: Compounds are provided herein which are emetine derivatives that can be used as prodrugs which selectively undergo activation to release emetine in specific cellular conditions. In one aspect, a blocking group is incorporated onto the emetine molecule by the derivization of the N2?-position with moieties that can be selectively removed by hydrolysis in the cancer/tumor microenvironment. Such compounds are less cytotoxic than emetine and are substantially inactive in non-cancerous cells. In one aspect, the compounds described herein can be used for the treatment of metastatic and non-metastatic cancers, including, for example, breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, and leukemia.

Abstract: Described herein are compositions and methods of use of targeted delivery complexes for delivery of siRNA to a disease-associated cell, tissue or pathogen. The targeted delivery complex comprises a targeting molecule, such as an antibody or fragment thereof, conjugated to one or more siRNA carriers. In preferred embodiments the siRNA carrier is a dendrimer or protamine and the targeting molecule is an anti-cancer antibody, such as hRS7. More preferably, the antibody or fragment is rapidly internalized into the target cell to facilitate uptake of the siRNA. Most preferably, the targeted delivery complex is made by the DNL technique. The compositions and methods are of use to treat a variety of disease states, such as cancer, autoimmune disease, immune dysfunction, cardiac disease, neurologic disease, inflammatory disease or infectious disease.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a modified ?-helical bundle cytokine, with reduced activity via an ?-helical bundle cytokine receptor, wherein the ?-helical bundle cytokine is specifically delivered to target cells. Preferably, the ?-helical bundle cytokine is a mutant, more preferably it is a mutant interferon, with low affinity to the interferon receptor, wherein the mutant interferon is specifically delivered to target cells. The targeting is realized by fusion of the modified ?-helical bundle cytokine to a targeting moiety, preferably an antibody. This disclosure relates further to the use of such targeted modified ?-helical bundle cytokine to treat diseases. A preferred embodiment is the use of a targeted mutant interferon, to treat diseases, preferably viral diseases and tumors.

Abstract: The invention relates to conjugates that bind to targets, methods of using conjugates that bind to targets and methods of treating undesirable or aberrant cell proliferation or hyperproliferative disorders, such as tumors, cancers, neoplasia and malignancies that express a target.

Abstract: We tested the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of a recombinant bispecific immunotoxin that recognizes both EGFRwt and tumor-specific EGFRvIII receptors. A single chain antibody was cloned from a hybridoma and fused to toxin, carrying a C-terminal peptide which increases retention within cells. The binding affinity and specificity of the recombinant bispecific immunotoxin for the EGFRwt and the EGFRvIII proteins was measured. In vitro cytotoxicity was measured. In vivo activity of the recombinant bispecific immunotoxin was evaluated in subcutaneous models and compared to that of an established monospecific immunotoxin. In our preclinical studies, the bispecific recombinant immunotoxin, exhibited significant potential for treating brain tumors.

Abstract: Antibody drug conjugates against tissue factor. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions comprising the antibodies and antibody drug conjugates, and therapies and diagnostic methods for using the antibodies and antibody drug conjugates.

Abstract: The present invention relates to therapeutic immunoconjugates comprising SN-38 attached to an antibody or antigen-binding antibody fragment. The antibody may bind to Trop-2 or CEACAM5 and the immunoconjugate may be administered at a dosage of between 4 mg/kg and 16 mg/kg, preferably 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12, or 16 mg/kg. When administered at specified dosages and schedules, the immunoconjugate can reduce solid tumors in size, reduce or eliminate metastases and is effective to treat cancers resistant to standard therapies, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy or immunotherapy. Surprisingly, the immunoconjugate is effective to treat cancers that are refractory to or relapsed from irinotecan.

Abstract: A high power amplifier may amplify an RF or microwave input signal. The amplifier may include: an input signal divider (DIV) that has an input port for the input signal and that divides this input signal into multiple sub-input signals; multiple power amplifier units (PAUs), each having an input port for receiving one of the sub-input signals and an output port for delivering an amplified version of the received signal; multiple power supply units (PSUs), each connected to power a different one of the PAUs; and an interface control unit (ICU). The ICU may: monitor each PSU to verify that it is operating within one or more pre-determined PSU specifications; and upon detecting that a PSU is no longer operating within the one or more pre-determined PSU specification (malfunctioning PSU), set the PAU being powered by the malfunctioning PSU (online PAU in online mode) not to amplify one of the sub-input signals and not to be available for being switched to the online mode (offline mode of offline PAU).

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for suppressing the growth of a target cell, which is not limited in the type of a target cell and the type of a protein to be expressed in the target cell and needs not any preparatory experiment for determining a codon to be contained in a protein to be expressed in a target cell. Specifically disclosed is a method for suppressing the growth of a target cell, which comprises the steps of: incorporating DNA containing a region encoding a protein into the target cell, and allowing a protein encoded by the DNA to be expressed in the target cell into which the DNA has been incorporated. The region contained in the DNA comprises a tri-nucleotide sequence. The tri-nucleotide sequence is selected from codons that define at least some amino acid species constituting the protein, and is complementary to at least some codons that are used in the target cell at a frequency of 0.2 or less.

Abstract: Provided herein are antibodies with high affinity for the ?8 subunit of ?v?8.

Abstract: Cavity and sentinel lymph node marking devices, marker delivery devices, and methods are disclosed. More particularly, upon insertion into a body, the cavity marking device and method enable one to determine the center, orientation, and periphery of the cavity by radiographic, mammography, echogenic, or other noninvasive imaging techniques. A composition and method are disclosed for locating the sentinel lymph node in a mammalian body to determine if cancerous cells have spread thereto. The composition is preferably a fluid composition consisting of a carrier fluid and some type of contrast agent; alternatively, the contrast agent may itself be a fluid and therefore not need a separate carrier fluid. This composition is capable of (1) deposition in or around a lesion and migration to and accumulation in the associated sentinel node, and (2) remote detection via any number of noninvasive techniques.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel multi-modality probes for imaging, tracking and analyzing stem cells and related biological samples, and methods of preparation and use thereof. The molecular probes of the invention are constructed, for example, by utilizing (a) the high selectivity of long hydrocarbon chains for binding to plasma membranes of cells, (b) a near-infrared (NIR) dye for optical imaging, and (c) a radionuclide for PET or SPECT imaging. The in vitro and in vivo data of the optical and radiolabeled probes demonstrated their utility for detecting the presence of stem cells with multiple imaging modalities.

Abstract: The present invention refers to novel dimeric proteins obtained from modified ubiquitin capable of binding targets with high affinity. The novel dimeric binding proteins comprise a combination of amino acid substitutions and at least one insertion of amino acids in one of the monomers. The invention is further directed to the use of said proteins in medical diagnosis or treatment methods.

Abstract: Biological implants have an electroplated surface wherein a substantial portion of the electroplated surface is covered with dendrites. The dendrites assist in maintaining the implant in location. When the metal is a radioactive metal or the surface of the electroplated is coated with a radioactive material, the dendrites increase surface area thereby increasing radiation dosage and further extend the radioactive surface farther away from the surface of the implant, further enhancing radioactive emission. This is particularly useful for a cholangiocarcinoma stent which can be implanted into the biliary stent to treat cholangiocarcinoma.

Abstract: An elliptical-shaped housing contains a UV light source and a power source. A connector is removably mounted in the housing and is disinfected or sterilized by UV light. A reflective coating inside the housing enhances the intensity of the UV light to disinfect or sterilize the connector.

Abstract: An apparatus configured to disinfect a vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a first electrode substantially coating a portion of a partially light transmissive panel. A plurality of printed light emitting diodes (LEDs) is suspended in a semiconductor ink on the first electrode and configured to emit a disinfecting emission. A second electrode is in electrical connection with the plurality of LEDs. In connection with the second electrode and/or one or more intermediate layers a light transmitting layer is disposed forming an interior surface of the glass panel. The light transmitting layer is operable to transmit at least a portion of the disinfecting emission therethrough such that the portion of the disinfecting emission impinges upon an interior surface of the vehicle.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a display screen including a first array of first light-emitting diodes for emitting visible light and a second array of second light-emitting diodes for emitting ultraviolet light, wherein the second light-emitting diodes are interspersed among the first light-emitting diodes. A method includes a computing device receiving input from a remote server indicating that a surface of the computing device should be disinfected, the computing device detecting that a display screen is in a closed positioning facing the surface, wherein the display screen includes an array of light-emitting diodes for emitting ultraviolet light, and controlling operation of the light-emitting diodes to disinfect the surface in response to the input received. The surface may, for example, be selected from a keyboard, a touchpad, and a cover.

Abstract: Provided are a method and apparatus for decontaminating personal protective equipment while it is being worn by a person. A booth having a plurality of internally-reflective surfaces defines an interior space with dimensions suitable for receiving a standing person wearing the personal protective equipment. A plurality of UVC light sources are arranged to emit UVC light into the booth, and are operational while the person wearing the personal protective equipment is within the interior space. A door is selectively closeable to enclose the interior space and interfere with UVC light escaping the interior of the booth into an ambient environment of the booth, and a controller is operable to selectively operate the UVC light sources while the person wearing the personal protective equipment is standing within the interior space.

Abstract: Surfaces for information security and protection of physical biometrics, such as a fingerprint, is described. Such biometric information recording surface includes a plurality of raised structures that can reproduce a biometric information when a body part containing the biometric information is applied to the biometric metric information recording surface. The reproduced biometric information can be completely removed by applying a liquid to the plurality of raised structures without need to apply an external physical contact.

Abstract: A method for fumigating psyllium husk. The method comprises filling a fumigation chamber with psyllium husk chamber is at least 35% filled with bags of psyllium husk, fumigating the psyllium husk with at least 40 g/m3 of methyl bromide for at least 24 hours, and degassing the chamber for at least 6 hours to form fumigated psyllium husk. The fumigated psyllium husk comprises less than 50 ppm inorganic bromide residue and the fumigated psyllium husk does not comprise an insect infestation or a khapra beetle infestation.

Abstract: A household appliance system for safe generation and delivering of ozone comprising at least one disposable capsule, each capsule is configured to chemically generate a predetermined dose of oxygen wherein the disposable capsule is manipulated in a way that initiates generation of oxygen, and an ozone generator for generating ozone from said predetermined dose of oxygen, wherein the ozone generator is fluidically connected to said capsule.

Abstract: A contact lens solution comprising 0.001 to 10 weight percent or a preservative enhancer chosen from the group consisting of: inositol; mannitol; sorbitol; sucrose; dextrose; glycerin and propylene glycol; and at least 0.0001 weight percent of a cationic polymeric preservative, and where the concentration of chloride in said solution is less than 0.2 percent by weight.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an ophthalmic solution comprising 0.00001 to 10.0 weight percent of a simple saccharide, at least 0.00001 weight percent of a preservative, and not more than about 0.2 percent by weight chloride. The simple saccharide is chosen from the group consisting of: inositol; mannitol; sorbitol; sucrose; dextrose; glycerin; propylene glycol; ribose; triose; tetrose; erythrose; threose; pentose; arabinose; ribulose; xylose; xylulose; lyxose; hexose; allose; altrose; fructose; galactose; glucose; gulose; idose; mannose; sorbose; talose; tagatose; adlose; ketose; heptose; sedoheptulose; monosaccharides; disaccharides; sugar alcohols; xylitol; and polyol.

Abstract: An objective of the present invention is to provide an absorbent article exhibiting excellent absorption speed of body fluid and dryness after absorbing body fluid, even in the case of absorbing body fluid repeatedly. The absorbent article of the present invention comprises: a water absorption layer where a water absorbent resin powder meeting the following requirements (a) to (d) is disposed, (a) a bulk density: 0.45 g/ml to 0.62 g/ml, (b) an absorption speed measured by a vortex method: 20 seconds to 50 seconds, (c) a liquid passing speed under load: 10 seconds or less, (d) a moisture absorption blocking ratio: 5% or less; and a diffusion layer disposed below the water absorption layer and including a cellulose acetate fiber.

Abstract: Methods of post-loading ceramic particles with antimicrobial metal cations are disclosed. In certain embodiments, the post-loaded particles are zeolites, wherein the zeolites have been incorporated into a resin and the combination is used as an implantable device. In certain embodiments, the polymer is a thermoplastic polymer such as polyaryletheretherketone (PEEK). In certain embodiments, the source of antimicrobial activity includes ion-exchangeable cations contained in a zeolite. In certain embodiments, disclosed are methods of imparting antimicrobial activity to devices by controlling the delivery of certain cations through ion-exchange via a zeolite incorporated in the device.

Abstract: The invention relates to porous granular calcium phosphate osteoinductive materials, particularly materials useful in body tissue repair, principally bone repair and bone replacement, and also to the use of such materials and to a method of making such materials. Exemplary materials comprise discrete porous granules each containing crystals of at least one calcium phosphate, wherein (i) at least 90% of said crystals of the granules have a crystal size in the range 10-100 nm, (ii) at least 90% of the pores in the granules have a pore size in the range 10-500 nm, (iii) the average pore size of the pores having pore size in the range 10-500 nm in the granules is in the range 30-90 nm, (iv) the total volume porosity of the granules is at least 50%, and (v) the surface area of the granules is in the range 10-70 m2/g.

Abstract: The invention related to hyaluronic derivative according to formula (I), methods of preparation thereof and a hydrogel prepared obtained from the derivative and methods of preparation thereof. The hydrogel can be used in tissue engineering, cosmetics, medicine or regenerative medicine such as the forming of scaffolds for the treatment of articular cartilage or bone tissue defects.

Abstract: A stent made from an ultra high molecular weight bioabsorbable polymer is disclosed herein. The bioabsorbable polymer can have a Mw greater than 1 million g/mole or greater than 2 million g/mole. Methods of making the ultra high molecular weight polymer stent without degrading the molecular weight are further disclosed.

Abstract: A calcium phosphate/copper coating for an implant is provided which includes highly porous calcium phosphate and predominantly discontinuously distributed copper. The highly porous calcium phosphate first forms a highly porous calcium phosphate layer in which the copper has been incorporated so as to be discontinuously distributed, to form the calcium phosphate/copper coating. Further provided are a method of producing such a calcium phosphate/copper coating and an implant coated therewith.

Abstract: A tissue engineered nerve graft for repairing peripheral nerve injury consists of a nerve conduit and a extracellular matrix (ECM) that is secreted by autologous or allogeneic support cells and obtained by decellularization. A preparation method of the ECM-modified tissue engineered nerve grafts containing support cells, nerve conduit and constructing a ECM-modified tissue engineered nerve graft.

Abstract: A biocompatible material comprising a resorbable polymer matrix and at least one additive, wherein the resorbable polymer matrix comprises: (i) at least one non-random copolymer of poly (alkylene oxide) s, and (ii) at least one poly (alkylene glycol) polymer and/or at least one methoxypoly (alkylene glycol) polymer, and wherein the at least one additive is selected from solid particles, porous particles, hollow particles, polymers, inert fillers, bioactive compounds, color pigments and combinations of two or more thereof.

Abstract: The bone graft system comprises a solid inorganic component, which is bone graft material, and a hydrogel. The hydrogel contains >2 ppm of silicon ions, calculated as parts by weight of Si per million of the aqueous component of the hydrogel. Preferably, the solid inorganic component comprises hydroxyapatite or a silicon-containing hydroxyapatite, and may be a silicon-containing hydroxyapatite having a Ca/P ratio in the range 2.05 to 2.55 and a Ca/(P+Si) molar ratio less than 1.66. Bone healing is promoted by delivery of silicon ion release from the hydrogel and by the solid inorganic component stimulating cell behavior.

Abstract: A method of treating a tear in a knee meniscus of a patient. The method includes exposing the torn knee meniscus to a protein crosslinker during surgery to repair the tear. Also provided is a fixation device for the surgical repair of tears of the meniscus of the knee, where the device contains one or more protein crosslinking reagents.

Abstract: Absorbable barrier composites are designed for modulated gas and water permeability depending on clinical use and are formed of at least two physicochemically distinct components, one of which is a film adjoined to a knitted mesh and/or electrostatically spun, non-woven fabric. Depending on the physicochemical properties of the barrier composite, it can be used in neurological and urinogenital surgical procedures as well as tissue engineering and/or as physical barriers to prevent adhesion formation following several types of surgical procedures.

Abstract: A coating for an expandable portion of a catheter comprising a hydrophobic matrix and a dispersed phase is disclosed. The dispersed phase comprises a plurality of micro-reservoirs dispersed in the hydrophobic matrix, wherein the plurality of micro-reservoirs comprises a first active agent and a first biodegradable or bioerodable polymer. A coating formulation and a method for forming the coating are also disclosed. A catheter comprising the coating on the expandable portion and a method for treating a condition are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a medical tube catheter and to a method for manufacturing same. The medical tube catheter according to the present invention includes PVC resin (polyvinyl chloride resin), a plasticizer, a stabilizer, and NBR (acrylonitrile butadiene rubber). Also, the method for manufacturing the medical tube catheter according to the present invention comprises: a first step of preparing a composition by mixing 80 to 120 parts by weight of a plasticizer, 1 to 3 parts by weight of a stabilizer, and 3 to 20 parts by weight of NBR with respect to 100 parts by weight of PVC resin at room temperature; a second step of blending the composition at 140° C. to 170° C. into a blended compound; a third step of extruding the blended compound through an extruder into a tube shape; a fourth step of cooling the tube; and a fifth step of cutting the cooled tube into predetermined lengths.

Abstract: A barrier layer device is formed of an underlying biocompatible structure having a barrier layer coating that can exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, non-inflammatory properties, and/or adhesion-limiting properties, as well as generate a modulated healing effect on injured tissue. As implemented herein, the barrier layer is a non-polymeric cross-linked gel derived at least in part from a fatty acid compound, and may include a therapeutic agent. The underlying structure can be in the form of a surgical mesh. The barrier device is further provided with anchoring reinforcements to aid with the fastening of the barrier device for implantation purposes and reinforcing truss sections or portions that prohibit or substantially reduce the occurrence of excessive stretching and tearing. The barrier device is implantable in a patient for short term or long term applications, and can include controlled release of the therapeutic agent.

Abstract: A catheter tube for a fecal drainage system has a first layer and a second layer. At least one of the first and second layers is an odor barrier layer of material and at least one of the first and second layers is a thermoplastic elastomer material.

Abstract: The invention relates to equipment for applying a determined pulsatile pressure to a medical device, comprising: a withdrawing means (2) designed to withdraw fluid from a source of fluid in continuous flow at high pressure; a conversion means (3) designed to convert said fluid into a fluid in a pulsatile flow at low pressure; at least one application means (105) for applying said fluid, as a low-pressure pulsatile flow, to said medical device; and a means (104) for removing said fluid.

Abstract: A molded interconnect device can carry a Hall sensor for transducing a position of a rotor of the implantable blood pump. The molded interconnect device includes one or more integrated electronic circuit traces configured to electrically connect the hall sensor with a printed circuit board of the implantable blood pump, and the molded interconnect device is configured to be mounted to the printed circuit board.

Abstract: A blood pump is implantable within the vasculature, such as within the pulmonary artery. The pump may project through a native valve such as the pulmonary valve. In use, the pump opposes retrograde flow and thus acts as a replacement for the native valve. The pump may be an axial flow pump having a generally tubular housing adapted to fit within the space proximal to the bifurcation of the pulmonary artery while projecting only slightly proximally of the annulus of the native pulmonary valve.

Abstract: The presence or absence of a suction condition in an implantable blood pump is determined at least in part based on a parameter related to flow, such as a parameter related to thrust on the rotor of the pump. A local extreme of the parameter representing the minimum flow during ventricular diastole in an earlier interval is used to establish a threshold value. A value of the parameter representing the minimum flow during ventricular diastole in a later interval is compared to this threshold. If the comparison indicates a substantial decline in the minimum flow between the earlier and later intervals is associated with a suction condition. During the absence of a suction condition, the threshold is continually updated, so that the system does not indicate presence of a suction condition if the flow decreases gradually.

Abstract: Concentrate for a dialysis liquid, at least comprising one acid and one physiologically acceptable electrolyte, characterized in that the acid comprises at least one acidic ion exchanger or is an acidic ion exchanger.

Abstract: An artificial placenta oxygenating device for use with an infant is provided. The device comprises a first layer comprising a gas permeable membrane; and a second layer comprising a vascular network that permits circulation of fluid therethrough, wherein a portion of the gas permeable membrane is attached to and covers the vascular network, wherein the vascular network comprises an inlet that permits fluid flow into the vascular network and an outlet that permits fluid to flow out of the vascular network and wherein the inlet and outlet are positioned so that fluid flows through the vascular network and in contact with the gas permeable membrane to permit gas exchange to occur. Assemblies comprising a plurality of single artificial placenta devices is also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus and methods for dispensing a sanitized saline solution for rinsing the nasal passages and sinuses. The disclosure includes methods for bulk storage of granular sodium salt mixtures (pH balanced sodium chloride and sodium bicarbonate), bulk storage of water, heating and sensing elements, filtering elements, and dispensing elements. The apparatus provides controls for customizing the concentration and temperature of the dispensed saline solution, and provides for dispensing the solution into a delivery device, with a water catch basin and area for drying a delivery device after use.

Abstract: An infusion pump assembly includes a reservoir assembly configured to contain an infusible fluid. A motor assembly is configured to act upon the reservoir assembly and dispense at least a portion of the infusible fluid contained within the reservoir assembly. Processing logic is configured to control the motor assembly. A primary power supply is configured to provide primary electrical energy to at least a portion of the processing logic. A backup power supply is configured to provide backup electrical energy to the at least a portion of the processing logic in the event that the primary power supply fails to provide the primary electrical energy to the at least a portion of the processing logic.

Abstract: A system for delivery of a volume of infusible fluid. The system includes a controller configured to calculate a trajectory for delivering infusible fluid, the trajectory comprising at least one volume of fluid, and determine a schedule for delivering the at least one volume of fluid according to the trajectory, wherein the schedule comprising an interval and a volume of infusible fluid for delivery. The system also includes a volume sensor assembly for determining the at least one volume of fluid delivered, wherein the controller recalculates the trajectory based on the volume of fluid delivered.

Abstract: A system is disclosed. The system includes a fill adapter device including a heat exchanger which includes a heating element and a fluid pathway, the fluid pathway fluidly connected to a filling needle input, whereby fluid enters the heat exchanger through the filling needle input and flows through the fluid pathway and whereby the fluid is heated by the heating element. The system also includes a reservoir including a plunger and a plunger rod and a filling needle configured to be removably attached to the reservoir, wherein the fill adapter is configured to be attached to a vial of fluid and wherein fluid from the vial flows through the fluid pathway and is heated and loaded into the reservoir through the filling needle.

Abstract: A method of infusing liquid medicaments including insulin via an insulin pump, includes identifying an insulin delivery protocol associated with ingestion of carbohydrates wherein the insulin delivery protocol is likely to lead to a postprandial drop in blood glucose to a level below a basal level, then proposing at least one alternative insulin delivery protocol to inhibit the postprandial drop in blood glucose by delivering a metered amount of insulin that is appropriate to facilitate the metabolism of the carbohydrates without the postprandial blood glucose level drop. The invention further includes querying the patient as to whether to apply the alternative insulin delivery protocol, receiving instructions from the patient in response to the query, and applying the alternative insulin delivery protocol following receiving instructions from the patient to apply the alternative insulin delivery protocol.