Abstract: This invention relates to polynucleotides encoding mini-dystrophin proteins, viral vectors comprising the same, and methods of using the same for delivery of mini-dystrophin to a cell or a subject.

Abstract: The invention relates to synthetic polynucleotides encoding fukutin related protein (FKRP). The invention further relates to nucleic acid constructs comprising the synthetic polynucleotides and methods of using these synthetic polynucleotides to treat dystroglycanopathy disorders.

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

Abstract: Methods for preparing highly purified rLV vector formulations at the scale needed to meet anticipated demand for human gene therapy are provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions based on optical sensor conjugates that are useful for detecting reactive oxygen, reactive nitrogen, or both species that are a direct result of inflammation caused by tissue damage.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for enhancing delivery of molecules, e.g. biological agents, into cells are described. The composition is a conjugate of the biological agent, preferably a nucleic acid analog having a substantially uncharged backbone, covalently linked to a peptide transporter moiety as described. Conjugation of the peptide transporter to a substantially uncharged nucleic acid analog, such as a morpholino oligomer, is also shown to enhance binding of the oligomer to its target sequence and enhance antisense activity.

Abstract: The present invention discloses compositions and methods for clinical imaging. In particular, these compositions and methods provide improvements to cardiovascular imaging. Such improvements are drawn to the creation and use of polymer-based microbubbles comprising metal nanoparticle additives that provide contrast images of highly improve resolution when compared to conventional lipid based microbubbles. For example, the compositions and methods may be used for dark field X-ray scattering contrast images for angiography.

Abstract: Various embodiments are described herein for a system and a method for identifying a region of interest in tissue using mass spectrometry. An agent administration component can be provided to administer an exogenous agent to the tissue. A sampling unit can also be provided to acquire a sample from the tissue. The sample can then be provided to a high sensitivity analysis platform, such as a mass analyzer, to analyze the sample and determine a distribution of the exogenous agent or a by-product of the exogenous agent within the tissue based on the analysis. The analysis platform can then identify the region of interest based on the distribution of the exogenous agent or the distribution of the by-product.

Abstract: A biocompatible curable composition and a method of detecting a border of a tumor, a tissue of interest, or both including injecting the biocompatible curable composition and contacting the border of a tumor or a tissue, the biocompatible curable composition crosslinks to form a three-dimensional cured nanocomposite, and imaging the three-dimensional (3D) cured nanocomposite, and imaging the 3D cured nanocomposite by at least one of MRI, CT, ultrasound, and X-ray, to detect the border of the tumor or the tissue of interest or track tumor motion during radiotherapy treatment. The biocompatible curable composition comprising an organic polymer having a hydrolysable functional group, a metallic nanoparticle, and a polar or a non-polar solvent. A brachytherapy strand consisting of a biocompatible curable composition and a radio-isotope seed. The biocompatible curable composition is shaped into an elongated cylinder and forms a 3D cured nanocomposite with a radio-isotope seed embedded.

Abstract: A self-assembled nanostructure including an amphiphilic chitosan and a contrast agent compound is provided. The contrast agent compound is grafted to the amphiphilic chitosan. The chemical bonding between the amphiphilic chitosan and the contrast agent compound has a synergistic effect to further improve the contrasting ability of the contrast agent compound.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to imaging agent formulations, methods for preparing imaging agent formulations and methods for using the same. The present disclosure also relates to kits for imaging agent formulations.

Abstract: Multi-modal imaging capsule for image-guided proton beam therapy, consisting of a biocompatible polymer layer, 18O-enriched water, and a contrast agent. The biocompatible capsule may be inserted near or inside a tumor under the guidance of X-ray, magnetic resonance, or ultrasonography imaging. Upon proton beam irradiation, the capsule emits positrons, allowing the tumor to be imaged and tracked by a PET detector.

Abstract: A light source for emitting emitted light having an SPD comprising: (a) a plurality of light emitters including at least one violet solid-state emitter; (b) at least one phosphor; wherein said light emitters and said at least one phosphor being configured such that: at least 25% of the power within the SPD is in the range 390-420 nm, and the emitted light has a chromaticity which is within a Duv distance of less than 5 points from the Planckian locus.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for treating a nanofibrillar cellulose hydrogel, wherein the method comprises the steps of: providing a nanofibrillar cellulose hydrogel; and subjecting the nanofibrillar cellulose hydrogel to a heat treatment, wherein the heat treatment is carried out by transferring the nanofibrillar cellulose hydrogel through at least one heat exchanger or through at least one insulated holding tube, during which heat treatment the nanofibrillar cellulose hydrogel is kept at a predetermined temperature within the range of 110-150° C. for a period of time in the range of 15 seconds to 20 minutes, wherein the pre-determined temperature and period of time are chosen such that the number of viable micro-organisms in the nanofibrillar cellulose hydrogel is reduced by a factor of at least 103.

Abstract: A light delivery system and method are provided to promote a photochemical reaction for disinfecting a surface. The system includes a light source and a light diffusing element operatively coupled to the light source and further embedded within a surface to be disinfected. The light diffusing element outputs light to the surface to promote a photochemical reaction to disinfect the surface. A low scatter light transmission medium may further be coupled between the light source and the light diffusing element to transmit light from the light source remotely to the light diffusing element.

Abstract: A UV disinfection unit includes a frame, a flexible envelope supported by the frame, the envelope having a reflective inner surface defining an inner volume for receiving an object to be disinfected, and a UV source for being received in the volume.

Abstract: A storage and sterilizing case shaped and dimensioned for storing a tattoo machine therein. The case has a cover and a base. The cover is connected to the base via a hinge securing the cover to the base along adjacent edges thereof. The base includes a tray for supporting the tattoo machine within the case. The interior of the case is provided with an electronic circuit board and at least one ultraviolet light.

Abstract: Ultraviolet radiation is directed within an area. Items located within the area and/or one or more conditions of the area are monitored over a period of time. Based on the monitoring, ultraviolet radiation sources are controlled by adjusting a direction, an intensity, a pattern, and/or a spectral power of the ultraviolet radiation generated by the ultraviolet radiation source. Adjustments to the ultraviolet radiation source(s) can correspond to one of a plurality of selectable operating configurations including a storage life preservation operating configuration, a disinfection operating configuration, and an ethylene decomposition operating configuration.

Abstract: The use of plasma to clean or sterilize items can be particularly advantageous for items that cannot be readily washed or cleaned by standard methods. The toxicity and complications generating sufficient plasma makes it hard to use for such purposes. The subject invention addresses the problem by generating a minimal amount of highly reactive plasma to sterilize an item. This is achieved by reducing the amount of space and ambient air around and within the item. In this way, the plasma generated fills only the required volume of the item to be cleaned and the plasm is directed at the object, not directed at or released into non-target areas.

Abstract: An aqueous disinfectant solution comprising peroxyacetic acid and a surfactant such as a polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphate, (polyethylene glycol p-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)-phenyl ether) or cocoamidopropylamino oxide. The solution is preferably adjusted to provide a pH in the range 5-8 by a pH adjusting agent such as a phosphate buffer; hydroxide; carbonate; bicarbonate; a combination of carbonate and hydroxide; or a combination of carbonate and bi carbonate.

Abstract: Disclosed are absorbent articles having a cyclodextrin complex of one or more odor controlling organic compounds wherein the cyclodextrin is a substituted cyclodextrin (wherein the H atom of OH groups in positions 2, 3 and 6 is partially or entirely replaced by a substituent —R) having a substitution degree (DS) of 0.4 or more —R substituents per molecule of cyclodextrin and wherein substitution in position 2 is 20% or above, in position 6 is 20% or above and in position 3 is 50% or below. Cyclodextrin complexes of this type release the odor controlling organic compound much faster and in more complete manner than non-substituted or differently substituted cyclodextrin complexes thus the odor control efficacy is improved.

Abstract: Scented electronic candle devices are described that facilitate operation and usage of a variety of features such as light or scent or movement of the flame, or a combination thereof. The disclosed features also include multiple settings for the variety of features. For instance, the scent feature can be activated or deactivated by multiple switches, remote, sensors, timers, or similar devices. In addition, the intensity of the scent features can be increased or decreased by increasing or decreasing the amount of heat or air. Similarly the light feature can be activated, deactivated, or set on a timer. Additionally, the scented electronic candle devices can be equipped with rechargeable batteries that can be charged using a wireless charging station or by connecting the scented electronic candle device to an electrical wall outlet.

Abstract: A treatment chamber 102 in which an object may be disinfected, deodorized, and/or sterilized. A source 172 of Hydroxyl radicals is arranged to introduce treatment agents, including Hydroxyl radicals, into the chamber 102. Operable sources 172 include nebulizer, Fenton generator, and Hydrogen Peroxide in the presence of nanoparticle catalyst and UV light. Ozone may be applied as an additional treatment agent. A tablet dispenser 128 may optionally be included to introduce additional chemical treatment agents into the chamber 102. The entire treatment device 100A-O may be sized for placement and use at the point-of-use of an object to be sterilized, such as in a hospital to sterilize an endoscope component.

Abstract: A solution for treating contact lens is provided. The solution includes about 0.01-1.0 parts by weight (pbw) of a polymer having phosphorylcholine groups, about 0.01-1 pbw of an inorganic salt, and about 100 pbw of water. The polymer has a number-average molecular weight of about 4,000 to about 1,000,000 daltons and has a structure of formula (I): wherein, in formula (I), m is a positive integer, n is zero or a positive integer, and R is C2-C12 alkyl group or C2-C12 hydroxyalkyl group. When n is a positive integer, m/n is greater than 1.

Abstract: A solution for treating a contact lens and a contact lens packaging system are provided. The solution includes about 0.01 to about 1.0 parts by weight (pbw) of a polymer having phosphorylcholine groups, about 0.005 to about 0.05 pbw of a hydrophilic molecule, about 0.01 to about 1.0 pbw of an inorganic salt, and about 100 pbw of water. A number-average molecular weight of the polymer is about 4,000 to about 1,000,000 daltons. The polymer has a structure of formula (I): wherein, in formula (I), m is a positive integer, n is zero or a positive integer, and R is C2-C12 alkyl group, or C2-C12 hydroxyalkyl group. When n is a positive integer, m/n is greater than 1. Moreover, a number-average molecular weight of the hydrophilic molecule is about 10,000 to about 5,000,000 daltons. The hydrophilic molecule is hyaluronic acid (HA) or hyaluronate salt.

Abstract: A skin-friendly absorbent structure providing oxygen, comprising a absorbing layer and skin-friendly and oxygen-providing units, the skin-friendly and oxygen-providing unit being evenly dispersed in partial or entire scope of the absorbing layer wherein the skin-friendly and oxygen-providing unit comprises oxygen providing units and pH regulating units; and the pH of the skin-friendly absorbent structure is between 4 and 7 after absorbing liquids.

Abstract: A microporous gel system for certain applications, including biomedical applications, includes an aqueous solution containing plurality of microgel particles including a biodegradable crosslinker. In some aspects, the microgel particles act as gel building blocks that anneal to one another to form a covalently-stabilized scaffold of microgel particles having interstitial spaces therein. In certain aspects, annealing of the microgel particles occurs after exposure to an annealing agent that is endogenously present or exogenously added. In some embodiments, annealing of the microgel particles requires the presence of an initiator such as exposure to light. In particular embodiments, the chemical and physical properties of the gel building blocks can be controlled to allow downstream control of the resulting assembled scaffold. In one or more embodiments, cells are able to quickly infiltrate the interstitial spaces of the assembled scaffold.

Abstract: The present invention relates to biomaterial in the form of dispersion of cellulose nanofibrils with extraordinary shear thinning properties which can be converted into desire 3D shape using 3D Bioprinting technology. In this invention cellulose nanofibril dispersion, is processed through different mechanical, enzymatic and chemical steps to yield dispersion with desired morphological and rheological properties to be used as bioink in 3D Bioprinter. The processes are followed by purification, adjusting of osmolarity of the material and sterilization to yield biomaterial which has cytocompatibility and can be combined with living cells. Cellulose nanofibrils can be produced by microbial process but can also be isolated from plant secondary or primary cell wall, animals such as tunicates, algae and fungi. The present invention describes applications of this novel cellulose nanofibrillar bioink for 3D Bioprinting of tissue and organs with desired architecture.

Abstract: A fat conditioning apparatus includes a conditioning vessel enclosing a conditioning chamber and a displacable plug. The conditioning chamber is bounded on one end by the displacable plug and has a variable volume that is a function of the position of the plug within the conditioning vessel. The apparatus has utility in a fat conditioning method, wherein the conditioning chamber contains a harvested fat emulsion. A washing liquid is injected into the conditioning chamber and mixes with the harvested fat emulsion, thereby displacing the plug in an outward expansion direction and expanding the variable volume of the conditioning chamber. The resulting mixture of harvested fat emulsion and washing liquid is stratified in the conditioning chamber into a contaminant-lean fat fraction and a contaminant-rich remainder fraction. The fat fraction, which is substantially free of the remainder fraction, is recovered from the conditioning chamber as a desired product of the method.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods of preparing a bone matrix solution, a bone matrix implant, and variants thereof. The invention also relates to methods of cell culture using the same. The invention further relates to bone matrix scaffolds comprising one or more bone matrix nanofibers, methods of preparing, and methods of use thereof. The invention also relates to methods of culturing cells and promoting differentiation of stem cells using the same.

Abstract: Certain embodiments include materials that carry oxygen and emit molecular oxygen upon heating. The approach reported here uses thermal decomposition of organic endoperoxide compounds to produce singlet oxygen. In certain aspects the oxygen carrier comprises an organic compound either alone or contained in a polymeric carrier or other carrier material that is used to form a coating, layer, or bulk substance that can be a solid, a gel or a fluid. The oxygen-carrier is most conveniently prepared by oxidation of a precursor compound, the structure of which determines its thermal stability and thus how rapidly oxygen is released at any given temperature.

Abstract: The invention relates to a biocompatible molded part for supporting new bone formation, in particular the reformation of a jaw bone or a jaw bone portion in a mammal, preferably a human, wherein the molded part is suitable to be placed on the jaw bone and is designed as a solid body. The invention also relates to a composition for producing a biocompatible molded part, a method for producing a biocompatible molded part, a use of a biocompatible molded part and a kit comprising a plurality of molded parts.

Abstract: For making a matrix useable in a wound, matrix construction methods are provided, in which a slurry is formulated and then lyophilized. Usage of collagen and chondroitin sulfate (C6S) in the slurry is favored.

Abstract: A skin-substitute is constructed by homogenizing an acellular dermal tissue matrix into a slurry, pouring the slurry into a mold, and lyophilizing the slurry.

Abstract: A catheter having a shaft made from polyvinyl alcohol where in the shaft has a varying stiffness along the length of the shaft.

Abstract: Antimicrobial formulations and coatings for medical devices and processes therefor are disclosed. The formulations include at least one water permeable polymer with at least one antimicrobial agent in a liquid medium and are prepared by wet milling the components and can form antimicrobial coatings having uniformly dispersed particles having an average size of no greater than 50 microns.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and compositions for rendering a surface resistant to bio-film formation by a combination of an antimicrobial agent, an organic hydroxy acid, lubricious biomedical polymer and solvent. The invention provides for compositions which may be used to render surfaces bio-film resistant, articles having bio-film resistant surfaces, and methods for their preparation. The present invention may be advantageously applied to medical articles as well as articles used in non-medical contexts, such as child care or food preparation.

Abstract: A method for treating proliferative diseases by delivering a combination of at least two pharmaceutically active agents to a diseased area or tissue comprising a coating layer of two hydrophobic drugs applied to an exterior surface of a device or a substrate wherein the first pharmaceutically active agent is selected from a group consisting of mTor inhibitors and the second pharmaceutically active agent is selected from a group of consisting of NF-k? inhibitors. Further a method for treating proliferative diseases by delivering a combination of at least two pharmaceutically active agents to a diseased area or tissue comprising: a coating layer of two hydrophobic drugs applied to an exterior surface of a medical device or substrate and a polymer blend carrier for the pharmaceutically active agents.

Abstract: The present invention relates to formulations for administration to a joint fat pad of a subject, and to methods of treating joint pain, inflammation or disease. The disclosed formulations are intended for local administration to the joint fat pad to provide sustained release of a therapeutic agent to the joint cavity and surrounding tissues. The joint may be an arthritic joint, an injured joint or a surgically replaced joint. The therapeutic agent may be an analgesic agent, an anti-inflammatory agent or an immunosuppressive agent. A single administration of the formulation to the joint fat pad delivers a therapeutically effective amount of the therapeutic agent with reduced systemic exposure relative to a single systemic or a single intra-articular administration of a therapeutic dose of an identical therapeutic agent.

Abstract: There is described inter alia a device having a surface comprising a layered coating wherein the outer coating layer comprises a plurality of cationic hyperbranched polymer molecules characterized by having (i) a core moiety of molecular weight 14-1,000 Da (ii) a total molecular weight of 1,500 to 1,000,000 Da (iii) a ratio of total molecular weight to core moiety molecular weight of at least 80:1 and (iv) functional end groups, whereby one or more of said functional end groups have an anti-coagulant entity covalently attached thereto.

Abstract: A surgical drain system for use during and following surgery is provided. A collection reservoir is placed in fluid communication with the body of a user through a collection port. A pump creates a vacuum pressure to urge fluid into the collection reservoir. Fluid exits the collection reservoir through a drain port. A drain mechanism allows air to come into the collection reservoir through an air intake aperture and collected fluid to leave the reservoir simultaneously. The drain system can be worn beneath clothes.

Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling a pump system for use in negative pressure wound therapy are described herein. In some embodiments, a method for controlling a pump system includes applying a drive signal to a pump assembly of the pump system, the drive signal alternating between a positive amplitude and a negative amplitude and the drive signal having an offset, and sampling a pressure within a fluid flow path configured to connect the pump system to a wound dressing configured to be placed over a wound during one or more time intervals. Each of the one or more time intervals can occur when the drive signal is approximately at an amplitude equal to one or more sampling amplitudes.

Abstract: A medical device is provided comprising a first port; a second port in fluid communication with the first port; and a third port in selective fluid communication with both the first port and the second port; a sealing membrane disposed between the third port and both the first port and the second port, the sealing membrane is configured to move between a first position preventing fluid communication between the third port and both the first port and the second port and a second position allowing fluid communication between the third port and the first port, wherein movement of a fluid supplied to the medical device at the third port moves the sealing membrane from the first position to the second position.

Abstract: This document provides systems and methods that can improve the efficacy of tube and needle thoracostomy. For example, this document provides devices and methods for confirming the proper placement of a chest tube or needle within the pleural space to relieve a pneumothorax or tension pneumothoax.

Abstract: The present invention provides devices and methods that treat damaged spinal cord tissue, such as spinal tissue damaged by disease, infection, or trauma, which may lead to the presence of swelling, compression, and compromised blood flow secondary to interstitial edema.

Abstract: A method for filling containers with fresh blood components, comprising the following steps of: a) providing a piece of equipment (1) defining a transit channel (3) having at least a first gap (3a) associated with a bag (5) or the like containing a fresh blood component, at least a second gap (3b) connected to a plurality of containers (6) to be filled, and at least a third gap (3c) connected to pumping means (12); b) isolating the first gap (3a) from the second gap (3b) and placing the latter in communication with the third gap (3c); c) suctioning the air contained in the containers (6) to be filled by means of the pumping means (12) so as to define a vacuum inside them; d) placing the first gap (3a) in communication with the second gap (3b), the containers (6) suctioning the contents of the bag (5) by effect of the vacuum defined inside them; and where the channel (3) has at least a fourth gap (3d) associated with an empty syringe (4) or the like, and by the fact that it comprises, after step d), the fol

Abstract: A system for infant feeding adapted to mimic an infant's mouthing and suckling during breastfeeding.

Abstract: An inventive fastener is provided that affixes a cardiac assist device to the aorta wall at the site of an aortonomy allowing the cardiac assist device to be deployed in any region of the aorta by minimally invasive techniques. The devices and methods described herein allow for improved patient outcome.

Abstract: The present invention provides an implantable cardiac compression device comprising: an inflatable cardiac compression jacket configured when inflated to directly compress a heart and assist in displacing blood therefrom, a channel that connects the inflatable cardiac compression jacket and an expandable fluid reservoir configured to contain a fluid when displaced compresses the inflatable cardiac compression jacket, and a fluid driver operably connected to the inflatable cardiac compression jacket and to the expandable fluid reservoir, wherein the fluid driver is configured to inflate the cardiac compression jacket and to deflate the expandable fluid reservoir during systole of the heart; said driver is further configured to deflate the cardiac compression jacket and to inflate the expandable fluid reservoir during diastole of the heart.

Abstract: An oxygenation system for a ventilation system comprises an inlet for receiving oxygenation gas at an oxygenation gas flow rate into an oxygenator, and an exhaust gas remover to remove exhaust gas at an exhaust gas flow rate from the oxygenator, and one or more flow controllers for controlling the exhaust gas flow rate relative to the oxygenation gas flow rate. This allows the amount of total gas entering the oxygenator and the amount of total gas removed from the oxygenator to be controlled with greater accuracy.