Abstract: Methods and compositions for treating and alleviating symptoms of irradiation injuries, therapeutic radiation intervention and/or anti-cancer therapies in a subject via pulmonary airway administration of granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) or a compound with similar affinity to the specific alveolar GM-CSF receptor to enhance pulmonary host defense are provided.

Abstract: Methods, devices and systems are described for decreasing the activity of the sympathetic nervous innervation to and from the lungs and the vessels supplying the lungs to treat pulmonary medical conditions such as asthma. In one embodiment, the method may involve advancing an intravascular instrument to a target location in a blood vessel within the intercostal vasculature to ablate either or both the sympathetic afferent and efferent nerves lying within the paravertebral gutter including the visceral fibers that travel to the cardiothoracic cavity and abdominopelvic viscera and the T1 to T4/5 sympathetic chain. In another embodiment, an intravascular instrument may be advanced to the bronchial vessels to ablate either or both the sympathetic afferent and efferent nerves in and around the posterior pulmonary plexus. In one embodiment the ablative agent is a neurolytic agent delivered in a gel. This approach may be utilized to treat other cardiac and pulmonary diseases.

Abstract: The present invention relates to fusion proteins comprising an insulin receptor agonist fused to a human IgG Fc region through the use of a peptide linker, and the use of such fusion proteins in the treatment of diabetes. The fusion protein of the present invention has an extended time action profile and is useful for providing basal glucose control for an extended period of time.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel albumin-free formulation of recombinant Factor VIII that does not require calcium ions as an added formulation excipient. The absence of calcium chloride in the formulation results in a number of improvements and benefits for a Factor VIII formulation. This invention allows a Factor VIII formulation that can be lyophilized more efficiently as the absence of calcium ions will increase primary glass transition of the amorphous phase. The absence of free calcium ions in the formulation will also improve the stability of the formulation as metal-dependent oxidation reactions will be avoided and the protein molecule will not be subjected to chemical instabilities. Finally, the absence of calcium will further simplify the Factor VIII formulation by reducing the number of excipients in the formulation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition for the prevention or treatment of glaucoma, wherein the pharmaceutical composition includes angiogenin or a fragment thereof as an active ingredient. Angiogenin or a fragment thereof according to the present invention activates aqueous humor outflow due to NO generation increase, Schlemm's canal expansion, and intercellular interval widening, thereby reducing intraocular pressure. Accordingly, angiogenin and a fragment may be useful for the prevention and treatment of glaucoma.

Abstract: The present invention relates to combinations of polypeptides or of polynucleotides corresponding to a specific region of the N-terminal portion of the VAR2CSA protein of different parasitic families or lines of Plasmodium falciparum, and to their use in the prevention of pregnancy-associated malaria. The invention also relates to immunogenic compositions and to vaccines useful for preventing malaria in pregnant women.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition comprising Brachyspira hyodysenteriae bacteria, particularly in the field of immunization against swine dysentery. The composition of the invention comprises bacteria from at least two genetically diverse strains of B. hyodysenteriae. The invention relates also to the composition of the invention for use as a vaccine, preferably a universal vaccine against swine dysentery caused by B. hyodysenteriae.

Abstract: A composition and method for immunizing a mammal infected with Mycobacterium are disclosed. The genes gcpE, pstA, kdpC, papA2, impA, umaA1, fabG2_2, aceAB, mbtH2, IpqP, map0834c, cspB, lipN, and map1634 of M. paratuberculosis and the products that they encode are vaccine targets for Johne's and Crohn's disease. Eighteen M. paratuberculosis-specific genomic islands (MAPs) were identified. Three inverted large genomic fragments in M. paratuberculosis (INV) were also identified. These genomic identifiers represent novel virulence determinants that can be used as targets for vaccines and for developments of drugs against Johne's disease. The methods can be used to deliver an immunizing compound to a mammal, to provide an immune response against Johne's or Crohn's disease in the mammal.

Abstract: The invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising one or more GBS conjugates and one or more antigens selected from: a) cellular or acellular pertussis antigen, b) a tetanus toxoid, c) a diphtheria toxoid and d) an inactivated polio virus antigen, wherein each GBS conjugate is a group B streptococcus capsular saccharide conjugated to a carrier protein. The invention also provides a method for raising an immune response in a patient, comprising the step of administering to the patient a composition of the invention.

Abstract: The invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising: a) a conjugate that is a capsular saccharide from GBS serotype Ia conjugated to a carrier protein; b) a conjugate that is a capsular saccharide from GBS serotype Ib conjugated to a carrier protein; c) a conjugate that is a capsular saccharide from GBS serotype III conjugated to a carrier protein; d) a conjugate that is a capsular saccharide from GBS serotype II conjugated to a carrier protein; and e) a conjugate that is a capsular saccharide from GBS serotype V conjugated to a carrier protein.

Abstract: Provided are topical delivery systems and methods for treating and/or preventing a disease or disorder in a subject, or for eliciting an immune response in a subject, including applying, to at least a portion of the subject's post-auricular region, a topical delivery system including a therapeutically effective amount of a topical pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one active agent and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and/or adjuvant. The topical pharmaceutical composition can include a topical immunogenic composition. The topical delivery system can further include a flexible substrate in communication with the topical immunogenic composition. The subject can be a pediatric subject.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel chimeric porcine circovirus infectious DNA clone and live attenuated chimeric virus with the PCV2, preferably of subtype PCV2b, capsid gene integrated into a non-pathogenic PCV1 virus genome. In a particular embodiment, the PCV2 capids gene is of subtype PCV2b, the predominant subtype circulating in pigs worldwide. The attenuated chimeric virus, designated PCV1-2b, effectively protects pigs from PCV2b challenges, and can be used as a live vaccine, as well as an inactivated (killed) vaccine, that provides protection and cross protection against PCV2b and PCV2a subtypes infection. The live attenuated vaccine of the present invention is also effective protecting pigs from porcine circovirus-associated disease (PCVAD).

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the fields of immunology and vaccine technology. More specifically, the invention relates to recombinant human adenovirus vectors for delivery of avian immunogens and antigens, such as avian influenza into avians. The invention also provides methods of introducing and expressing an avian immunogen in avian subjects, including avian embryos, as well as methods of eliciting an immunogenic response in avian subjects to avian immunogens.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are mosaic HIV envelope (Env) polypeptides that can elicit an immune response to HIV (such as cytotoxic T cell (CTL), helper T cell, and/or humoral responses). Also disclosed are sets of the disclosed mosaic Env polypeptides, which include two or more (for example, three) of the polypeptides. Also disclosed herein are methods for treating or inhibiting HIV in a subject including administering one or more of the disclosed immunogenic polypeptides or compositions to a subject infected with HIV or at risk of HIV infection. In some embodiments, the methods include inducing an immune response to HIV in a subject comprising administering to the subject at least one (such as two, three, or more) of the immunogenic polypeptides or at least one (such as two, three, or more) nucleic acids encoding at least one of the immunogenic polypeptides disclosed herein.

Abstract: Methods of stimulating or enhancing an immune response in a host are disclosed. The methods include contacting a monocyte with 15 kD granulysin thereby producing a monocyte-derived dendritic cell. In one example, the method further includes contacting the monocyte or monocyte-derived dendritic cell with a target antigen, such as a tumor antigen or an autoimmune antigen. In another embodiment, the method includes contacting the monocyte with an additional agent that enhances maturation of dendritic cells or induces immunological tolerance. The methods are of use in vivo, in vitro and ex vivo. In another aspect, the disclosure relates to compositions and methods for the treatment of tumors.

Abstract: The present invention provides, among other aspects, storage stabile aqueous formulations of immunoglobulins with histidine at a mildly acidic to neutral pH. The present invention also provides methods for stabilizing immunoglobulin compositions by formulating with histidine at a mildly acidic to neutral pH. Advantageously, the methods and formulations provided herein allow stabile aqueous compositions of immunoglobulins at mildly acidic to neutral pH useful for parenteral administration.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods for treating diarrhea, both chronic or acute forms, by the administration of a therapeutically or prophylactically effective amount of antibodies and fragments thereof having binding specificity for CGRP. In particular the methods prevent or reduce diarrhea in conditions or treatments resulting in elevated CGRP levels, e.g., in the GI tract (colon) that are associated with diarrhea and/or improper electrolyte and fluid excretion from the bowel or urinary system. More specifically, this invention relates to treatments using the anti-CGRP antibodies and fragments described herein, and binding fragments thereof.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides compositions (e.g., extended release compositions) which exhibit a desirable pharmacokinetic profile of an active agent while providing reduced dissolution sample variability, e.g., in the form of reduced inter-capsule variability and/or a reduction in storage-time dependent change in mean release of the active agent from the composition. Related methods of making and administering the disclosed compositions are also provided.

Abstract: Topical compositions comprising a corticosteroid and at least one penetration enhancing agent, wherein the composition is substantially free of propylene glycol.

Abstract: Disclosed is a tigecycline composition for injection, comprising the active component, tigecycline, and a propping agent. Also included is a stabilization agent. Also disclosed is a stable, pharmaceutically acceptable reconstitution liquid having freeze-dried tigecycline. The tigecycline composition for injection of the present invention has good redissolution, and can dissolve without intense shaking, thereby avoiding foams caused by intense shaking. Upon testing, the tigecycline composition and the tigecycline composition-diluted reconstitution liquid prepared in the present invention prove to have substantially lowered oxidation degradation and epimer generation and increased stability of the tigecycline preparation.

Abstract: The present invention is drawn to liquid stable swine vaccines that comprise a live porcine virus. The invention is also drawn to the manufacture of such vaccines and methods of vaccinating animal subjects with these vaccines.

Abstract: Biomaterials are disclosed having unique properties that make it a useful material in adhesives, local drug delivery applications and as filler or bulking material. The biomaterials are strong, safe and easily used as a surgical adhesive. Treated chitosan, modified chitosan or modified and treated chitosan compositions are disclosed displaying strengths suitable for general surgical applications. The materials can be used as a drug delivery vehicle which allows for the localization of the delivered drug as well as a programmable tether which allows for the release of the drug on a timed basis or in response to a physiological state such as the release of proteolytic enzymes. The materials of this invention can also be modified and treated to optimize the retention of water, thereby serving as a useful filler or bulking material.

Abstract: Various biodegradable polyglutamate-amino acids comprising recurring units of the general formulae (I) and (II) are prepared. Such polymers are useful for variety of drug, biomolecule and imaging agent delivery applications.

Abstract: Provided is a pharmaceutical preparation composition comprising a polymerized camptothecin derivative which is obtained by bonding a camptothecin derivative to a polymer carrier, and has nanoparticle-forming properties of associating in an aqueous solution, the pharmaceutical preparation composition having enhanced preparation stability. Particularly, a pharmaceutical preparation maintaining nanoparticle-forming properties, which are an important factor, and having an excellent storage stability is provided. Disclosed is a pharmaceutical preparation comprising a block copolymer in which a polyethylene glycol segment is linked to a polyglutamic acid segment containing a glutamic acid unit having a camptothecin derivative bonded thereto, the pharmaceutical preparation capable of forming associates in an aqueous solution. When the pharmaceutical preparation is made into an aqueous solution containing the camptothecin derivative at a concentration of 1 mg/mL, the pH of the aqueous solution is 2.4 to 7.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of a hydrogel and to a hydrogel obtainable by said process. The present invention further relates to a process for the preparation of a hydrogel-spacer conjugate, to a hydrogel-spacer conjugate obtainable by said process, to a process for the preparation of a carrier-linked prodrug and to carrier-linked prodrugs obtainable by said process, in particular to carrier-linked prodrugs that provide for a controlled or sustained release of a drug from a carrier. In addition, the invention relates to the use of the hydrogel for the preparation of a carrier-linked prodrug.

Abstract: A method of forming or creating a formulation for a compound to be delivered includes creating a carrier agent by conjugating at least one hydrophobic domain or hydrophobic compound with at least one hydrophilic domain or hydrophilic compound and associating the compound to be delivered with the carrier agent to create the formulation. The at least one hydrophobic compound has the formula: wherein R1 is a farnesyl group, a geranyl group or geranyl-geranyl group, X is O, S, SO, SO2, NH or Se, Z is C—R2 or N, R2 is H, CN, CO2R7, SO3R7, CONR7R8 or SO2NR7R8, wherein R7 and R8 are each independently H, an alkyl group, an alkenyl group, CO2M or SO3M, wherein M is a cation and R3, R4, and R5 are independently H, a carboxyl group, an alkyl group, an alkenyl group, an aminoalkyl group, a nitroalkyl group, a nitro group, a halo atom, an amino group, a mono-alkylamino group, a di-alkylamino group, mercapto group, a mercaptoalkyl group, an azido group or a thiocyanato group.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for treating a subject by manipulating ABCB5 on a cell as well as related products. The methods include methods of treating cancer using ABCB5 binding molecules such as antibodies and fragments thereof.

Abstract: Novel modulators, including antibodies and derivatives thereof, and methods of using such modulators to treat proliferative disorders are provided.

Abstract: The present invention concerns improved methods and compositions for preparing SN-38 conjugates of proteins or peptides, preferably immunoconjugates of antibodies or antigen-binding antibody fragments. More preferably, the SN-38 is attached to the antibody or antibody fragment using a CL2A linker, with 1-12, more preferably 6 or less, most preferably 1-5 SN-38 moieties per antibody or antibody fragment. Most preferably, the immunoconjugate is prepared in large scale batches, with various modifications to the reaction scheme to optimize yield and recovery in large scale. Other embodiments concern optimized dosages and/or schedules of administration of immunoconjugate to maximize efficacy for disease treatment and minimize side effects of administration.

Abstract: An object of this invention is to provide a novel delivery means that enables efficient delivery of an active ingredient to a target cell. Such objective is attained by a lipoplex comprising dioleylphosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE), phosphatidylcholine, a cationic lipid, and an RNAi molecule and an industrial method for producing the same.

Abstract: Compositions comprising one or more nanoparticles, wherein the nanoparticles encapsulate fluorescence dyes are disclosed. In one embodiment, the nanoparticle comprises triterpene. In another embodiment, the nanoparticle comprises triterpene and fatty ester. Methods for performing a diagnostic or a therapeutic procedure comprising administering to a subject an effective amount of the compositions of the present invention or carbocyanine dyes are also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for producing papilloma-derived nanosphere particles that contain therapeutic, diagnostic, or other agents. The invention also provides nanosphere particle preparations that are useful for selectively delivering therapeutic, diagnostic, and/or other agents to cancer cells of subjects without eliciting a serotype-specific immunogenic response in the subjects.

Abstract: The application provides polypeptides comprising or essentially consisting of at least one heavy chain variable domain of a heavy chain antibody (VHH) or functional fragments thereof, wherein said VHH or functional fragment thereof specifically binds to a target protein that is present on and/or specific for a solid tumor or cancer cell, e.g., HER2. The application further provides nucleic acids encoding such polypeptides; methods for preparing such polypeptides; host cells expressing or capable of expressing such polypeptides; compositions, and in particular to pharmaceutical compositions that comprise such polypeptides, nucleic acids and/or host cells. The application further provides such polypeptides, nucleic acids, host cells and/or compositions, for use in methods for the prevention and/or treatment of cancer.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions useful in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. More specifically, the present invention provides compositions and methods of use comprising a targeting composition comprising a solid substrate, an antibody composition, and optionally a chemotherapeutic agent.

Abstract: A fluid dispersal system with integrated UV lighting includes a reservoir of fluid, a sprayer head connected to the fluid reservoir, a nozzle, and an ultraviolet lighting element. The nozzle is supported by the sprayer head and is in fluid communication with the reservoir to disperse fluid from the reservoir in a spray direction. The ultraviolet lighting element is supported by the sprayer head adjacent the spray nozzle, and directs ultraviolet light in a direction generally parallel to the spray direction. The nozzle and the lighting element may be actuated such that ultraviolet light is directed onto a surface while fluid is simultaneously dispersed onto the surface.

Abstract: A sterilization apparatus for a portable electronic device may include: a case having an opening receiving a portable electronic device; an ultraviolet (UV) irradiation unit arranged in the case, and configured to sterilize the portable electronic device by irradiating UV light onto the portable electronic device; a door connected to the case for opening and closing the opening of the case; and a display unit connected to the portable electronic device, and configured to display an image outputted from the portable electronic device.

Abstract: A diffusive illuminator is provided. The diffusive illuminator includes a set of light sources and a light guiding structure including a plurality of layers. At least some of the layers can be formed of a fluoropolymer and at least one layer can be formed of a transparent fluid. The light guiding structure also includes an emission surface through which diffused light exits. The light guiding structure can further include diffusive elements associated with at least one of the plurality of layers. Each diffusive element can diffuse the light to within forty percent of Lambertian distribution. The diffusive elements can be arranged based on a desired uniformity of the diffused light at a target distance corresponding to a surface to be illuminated. The diffusive illuminator can emit ultraviolet light, and can be implemented as part of a disinfection system.

Abstract: Rapid Disinfection System that is able to disinfect the surfaces of a Rescue Ambulance Patient Cabin after all necessary hand disinfection protocols have been completed. As with emergency situations timing is critical. This system can disinfect the patient cabin rapidly within minutes with very little operator effort. This will allow for little to no down time of the rescue ambulance. Larger populated areas may have as much as 50,000 emergency calls in a months' time and may only have 20 to 30 rescue ambulance to handle all of these calls. In these areas there may only be less than 5 minutes surface disinfection times available.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for sterilization which may be applied to a medical dry sterilizer, and more particularly, to an apparatus which injects hydrogen peroxide so as to generate plasma and OH radicals which are effective in sterilization, so as to achieve the sterilization of a treated object. According to the present invention, the apparatus for sterilization comprises: a sterilizing reactor in which sterilization is performed on a treated object; a vacuuming unit which is equipped with a vacuum pump connected to the sterilizing reactor and which vacuumizes the interior of the sterilizing reactor; a hydrogen-peroxide supply unit which supplies hydrogen peroxide in a gas state to the interior of the sterilizing reactor; and a microwave-plasma generating unit which generates plasma using microwaves.

Abstract: An essential feature of the invention is the original combination of a plasma process and a sealing system. This is achieved with external tubes (4, 6), which are connected to each other so as to be impermeable to gas, but galvanically insulated, and of which at least one is electrically conductive, such that the external tubes form an antechamber between the two external tubes (4, 6) and a treatment chamber between the external tube (6) and the internal tube (1).

Abstract: A liquid treatment method according to an aspect of the present disclosure comprises: starting application of a power between a pair of electrodes to generate plasma, which causes active species to be produced in a liquid; measuring the hydrogen ion concentration in the liquid while the plasma is generated; measuring a time elapsed after the starting the application of the power; and stopping the application of the power when a value calculated by (a) multiplying the hydrogen ion concentration by the elapsed time or (b) integrating the hydrogen ion concentration with respect to the elapsed time is larger than a first threshold.

Abstract: A device for rapidly sanitizing a surface is described. The device has an enclosure having an opening adapted to insert a surface, and an interior; a liquid nitric oxide solution applicator; and an absorbent material. The liquid nitric oxide solution applicator is in fluid communication with the interior of the enclosure and is adapted to apply liquid nitric oxide solution onto the surface when the surface is positioned within the enclosure. A method of rapidly sanitizing a surface is described. The devices and methods provided herein may be implemented to sanitize the surface of any body part or item that may be placed within the device. An infectious agent on the surface may be killed; i.e., the surface is disinfected. Non-limiting applications of the devices and methods include preventing nosocomial infections or food contamination, sanitizing household items, and implementing sanitizing procedures to comply with FDA Good Manufacturing Practices.

Abstract: A gas transfer system including a housing, a pressurized gas canister held by the housing, a first passageway in fluid communication with the pressurized gas canister and configured to supply pressurized pre-sterilization gas from the pressurized gas canister to a fluid flow component, a gas discharge canister held by the housing; and a second passageway in fluid communication with the gas discharge canister and configured to supply post-sterilization gas from the fluid flow component to the gas discharge canister. Additional related devices, systems and methods are provided.

Abstract: Analyte sensors capable of undergoing sterilization with ethylene oxide are provided. The analyte sensors can include one or more polymer membranes having a nucleophilic group.

Abstract: A scent-releasing strip includes a release liner and a plurality of tab units coupled to the liner. Each of the plurality of tab units includes a sealed pouch having a pad dosed with at least one scent-emitting substance. The scent may induce a physiological effect. The sealed pouch is disposed on a base label. The pad may be an aroma-containing pad that includes at least one of an oil or other substance that emits a desired fragrance.

Abstract: A system for delivering a multi-phase fragrance composition comprises a container having a body forming a reservoir and an opening in communication with the reservoir and a multi-phase composition disposed within the reservoir. The multi-phase composition comprises a water phase composition and an oil phase composition and the water phase composition and the oil phase composition are substantially separated. The water phase composition comprises a water phase fragrance and both water and propylene glycol as water phase solvents. The oil phase composition comprises an oil phase fragrance and isopar M as an oil phase solvent. The system further includes a wick in contact with the water phase composition and the oil phase composition and configured to sequentially emit the water phase composition and the oil phase composition.

Abstract: This document describes a high intensity air purifier, a super oxidation purifier, and a controller for controlling operation of any of various purification systems. The air purifier includes an air purifier system coupled within a housing having an air inlet and an air outlet. The air purifier system includes a pre-filter coupled to the air inlet, an axial fan for receiving and forwarding air from the air inlet. The air purifier further includes a UV reaction chamber having a UV-light source for providing UV light to the forwarded air from the air inlet and a reflective lining to reflect the provided UV light, to provide UV purified air from the UV reaction chamber. The air purifier further includes a chemical catalyst cartridge for receiving the UV purified air from the UV reaction chamber, for further purifying the UV purified air, and a post filter coupled to the air outlet.

Abstract: A system for disinfecting a fluid, including: a flow cell including one or more inlet ports and one or more outlet ports, wherein the flow cell is configured to communicate a fluid containing a biological contaminant from the one or more inlet ports to the one or more outlet portions through an interior portion thereof; and one or more point radiation sources disposed about the flow cell, wherein the one or more point radiation sources are operable for delivering radiation to the biological contaminant; wherein an interior surface of the flow cell is operable for reflecting the radiation delivered to the biological contaminant by the one or more point radiation sources; and wherein the interior surface of the flow cell is operable for reflecting the radiation delivered to the biological contaminant by the one or more point radiation sources such that a radiation intensity is uniform throughout the interior portion of the flow cell. In one exemplary embodiment, the flow cell is an integrating sphere.

Abstract: A wound dressing composition, such as gauze, bandages, and surgical tapes comprising a substrate material impregnated with a pH sensitive dye composition comprising at least one anthocyanin derived from fruit or vegetable sources, and methods of use thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for preparing a ceramic powder from a bone of a bird's beak, a method for preparing biomedical or industrial ceramic materials by using the ceramic powder derived from a bone of a bird's beak, and a biomedical or industrial ceramic material prepared by the method thereof. The use of the present ceramic powder for manufacturing biomedical or industrial ceramic materials is safer than the use of the ceramic powder derived from allogenic bone or xenogeneic bone. In addition, the ceramic powder of the present invention can be prepared on a mass production basis. Furthermore, the ceramic material prepared using the ceramic powder of the present invention is more biocompatible than that prepared using artificially synthetic ceramic.