Abstract: A novel delivery system for drugs, and especially macromolecules such as proteins or oligonucleotides through biological membranes is provided, and specifically delivery of siRNA The delivery system comprises conjugation of the macromolecule drug to a moiety that enables effective passage through the membranes. Respectively, novel compounds and pharmaceutical compositions are provided, utilizing said delivery system. In one aspect of the invention, the compounds may be utilized in medical practice, for example, in delivery of siRNA or antisense oligonucleotides across biological membranes for the treatment of medical disorders.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods of chemical conjugation comprising contacting a lysosomal enzyme with a first crosslinking agent to introduce aldehyde groups; contacting a lysosomal targeting peptide with a second crosslinking agent to introduce a hydrazide group at the N-terminal residue; contacting the lysosomal enzyme with aldehyde groups of step a. with the lysosomal targeting peptide with a hydrazide group at the N-terminal residue of step b; and forming a lysosomal enzyme-lysosomal targeting peptide conjugate.

Abstract: The disclosure provides, inter alia, polymeric antibiotic compounds such as modified chitosans and methods of use thereof.

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 is a conjugate in which a c-Met targeting compound and a bioactive material are chemically conjugated with each other, and methods of use thereof.

Abstract: A compound which is either A: or B: and salts and solvates thereof, as well as their conjugates with a cell-binding agent.

Abstract: Mucus-penetrating liposomal nanoparticles and methods of making and using thereof are described herein. The nanoparticles contain one or more lipids, one or more PEG-conjugated lipids, and optionally one or more additional materials that physically and/or chemically stabilize the particles. The nanoparticle have an average diameter of about 100 nm to about 300 nm, preferably from about 100 nm to about 250 nm, more preferably from about 100 nm to about 200 nm. The particles are mobile in mucus. The liposomes can further contain one or more therapeutic, prophylactic, and/or diagnostic agent to be delivered to a mucosal surface, such as the CV tract, the colon, the nose, the lungs, and/or the eyes. The liposomes can further contain one or more CEST agents to allow real time imaging of the particles in a live animal. The particles may also further contain an imaging agent, such as a fluorescent label.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to nanoconjugates that cross the blood-brain barrier and methods of their therapeutic use.

Abstract: Methods for introducing nucleic acids to cells via exosomes for use in gene modulation and therapy, such as for gene silencing and to introduce genetic material into cells to compensate for abnormal genes or to induce or repress a process in the recipient cell.

Abstract: The invention relates generally to activatable antibodies that include a masking moiety (MM), a cleavable moiety (CM), and an antibody (AB) that specifically binds to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and to methods of making and using these anti-EGFR activatable antibodies in a variety of therapeutic, diagnostic and prophylactic indications.

Abstract: A preparation method for a magnetic composite for treating and diagnosing cancer. The method may include a step of pyrolyzing a precursor of a magnetic nanoparticle in the presence of a conjugated polymer. The preparation method for a magnetic composite can produce a magnetic composite economically and efficiently because a magnetic composite comprising a magnetic nanoparticle coated with a conjugated polymer can be prepared by a single process.

Abstract: Fibrin-specific imaging agents that contain at least two imaging reporters are described, as well as methods of making and using the contrast agents.

Abstract: A method for removing microorganisms from liquid samples and a nanofiber containing liquid filtration medium that simultaneously exhibits high liquid permeability and high microorganism retention. Microorganisms such as bacteria, particularly B. Diminuta, are removed from a liquid by passing the liquid through a porous nanofiber containing filtration medium having a B. Diminuta LRV greater than about 9, and the nanofiber(s) has a diameter from about 10 nm to about 1,000 nm. Another method for removing microorganisms such as bacteria and Mycloplasma, includes passing the liquid through a porous nanofiber containing filtration medium having a microorganism LRV greater than about 8, and the nanofiber(s) has a diameter from about 10 nm to about 1,000 nm. The filtration medium can be in the form of a fibrous electro spun polymeric nanofiber liquid filtration medium mat.

Abstract: The invention relates to a thermal-treatment vessel (17) for pathogenic liquids intended for being filled to a predetermined level leaving a compression dome, characterised by comprising at least one pressurised-steam injector (31) positioned such as to be submerged in the liquid contaminated by pathogenic agents when the thermal-treatment vessel (17) is filled to the predetermined level with the liquid contaminated with pathogenic agents and directed toward the inside of the thermal-treatment vessel (17) with at least one tangential component so as to create a cyclonic movement of the liquid contaminated with pathogenic agents to be decontaminated.

Abstract: The invention relates to an assembly (1) composed of at least one preform (12) and of a device (10) for decontaminating the interior of a preform (12) by irradiation with at least one type of ultraviolet radiation emitted by components (22) of the semiconductor type, relates to an installation (100) for producing a sterile recipient (120) including at least one decontamination device (10) and relates to a method for fabricating a sterile recipient (120) starting from a decontaminated preform (12).

Abstract: A device is provided for the decontamination of hollow objects with a cavity such as caps, including: (i) a first exposure apparatus including at least a UV radiation source and a reflector oriented toward the cavity of the positioned objects, able to produce a direct exposure to UV radiations of surfaces inside the cavity, (ii) a second exposure apparatus including at least a UV radiation source placed on the opposite side relative to the cavity of the positioned objects, the second exposure apparatus being able to expose surfaces inside the objects cavity to UV radiations by diffusion and/or transmission of UV radiations through the walls surrounding the objects cavity, and the first and second exposure apparatus cooperating for producing a global exposure to UV radiations of the surfaces inside the objects cavity. A method is also provided for the decontamination of hollow objects.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electrode arrangement (1) for generating a non-thermal plasma, comprising: a layer-shaped first electrode (2) made of an electrically conductive material, a layer-shaped second electrode (4) made of an electrically conductive material, wherein the second electrode (4) is electrically insulated from the first electrode (2), and a dielectric barrier (3) being arranged between the first electrode (2) and the second electrode (4), so that the non-thermal plasma is generated by a dielectric barrier discharge. The inventive electrode arrangement is characterized in that at least one of the first electrode (2) and the second electrode (4) comprises several perforations which are distributed over the electrode.

Abstract: Provided is a decontamination apparatus that includes a motorized base with a transport system that is operable to autonomously move the decontamination apparatus. A plurality of UVC bulbs, each of which emits UVC light, are supported at a vertical elevation above the motorized base. A controller controls operation of the transport system to move the decontamination apparatus along a desired route while the UVC bulbs are energized during a decontamination process.

Abstract: An air freshener enhancer includes a base having a support for holding a fragrance composition, first inlet openings for receiving ambient air, first outlet openings positioned adjacent the fragrance composition, and main airflow channels for supplying air from the first inlet openings to the first outlet openings; a fan for blowing the air from the first inlet openings, through the main airflow channels and out through the first outlet openings; and the base further includes second inlet openings in a side wall for receiving ambient air, second outlet openings positioned above the fragrance support, and auxiliary airflow channels positioned between the main airflow channels and extending between the second inlet openings and second outlet openings such that air forced through the main airflow channels results in suction of air through the auxiliary airflow channels and out the second outlet openings into contact with the fragrance composition.

Abstract: Photocatalysis is a promising technique for remediation of indoor air pollution. The present invention focuses on the enhancement of the effectiveness of the photocatalytic process by the introduction of artificial roughness on the interior reactor surface. Artificial roughness elements on the catalytic surface enhance the turbulence intensity close to the catalytic surface. The enhanced turbulence intensity translates to an increase in the mass transfer of airborne contaminants to the catalyst surface, improving the efficiency of photocatalysis.

Abstract: An absorbent article includes a topsheet layer, a backsheet layer and one absorbent core layer. The topsheet layer, absorbent core layer and backsheet layer each include a longitudinally directed side peripheral edge. The absorbent article further includes an aqueous medium-sensitive coating composition for triggered release of active ingredients from the absorbent article. The aqueous medium-sensitive coating composition is affixed to the absorbent article adjacent a longitudinally directed side peripheral edge. The coating composition includes a betaine ester or betaine ester derivative having a functional active group derived from a fragrance with a hydroxyl group, a color changing visual indicator chemistry, where the visual indicator chemistry is selected from at least one of the group of a pH indicator dye and pH adjuster, a thermochromic dye and a polarity-sensitive dye.

Abstract: Temperature-insensitive calcium phosphate cements and methods of using the same are provided. Aspects of the cements include a dry component having fine and coarse calcium phosphate particulate reactants and a setting fluid which includes a cellulose. The dry component and setting fluid may be combined over a broad temperature range to produce a flowable composition. The resultant flowable composition finds use in a variety of different applications, including the repair of hard tissue defects, e.g., bone defects such as fractures.

Abstract: Provided is a method of making a polymeric material with a spatially controlled distribution of one or more additives including the steps of blending the one or more additives with a polymeric material, consolidating the polymeric material, heating at least a portion of at least one surface of the consolidated additive-blended polymeric material, and cooling the heated consolidated additive-blended polymeric material, thereby forming a polymeric material with a spatially controlled distribution of additive.

Abstract: A method for bone regeneration which comprises administering a short term release composition into a bone area of a subject in need thereof, wherein the composition comprises a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) cross-linked alendronate (PLGA-ALN), wherein the composition releases the alendronate into the bone area, wherein the bone tissue of the bone area is exposed in situ to a therapeutically effective amount of the alendronate over 9 days.

Abstract: Disclosed are photocrosslinked hyaluronic acid (HA) derivatives consisting of HA, a bifunctional polyethylene glycol (PEG) spacer which is triethylene glycol, and a photoreactive compound selected from a coumarin derivative and propiophenone.

Abstract: A bone implant for implantation into bone tissue includes a metallic material having a surface that is covered by an oxide layer wherein the oxide layer has a thickness within the range of from 2 to 100 nm and includes strontium ions homogenously dispersed in the oxide layer. The oxide layer is a metal oxide layer formed from the metallic surface of the implant. The local administration of strontium ions in bone tissue has been found to improve the bone formation and bone mass upon implantation of a bone tissue implant in the bone tissue.

Abstract: The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a cultured cell sheet having a superior tissue adhesiveness and an excellent flexibility. The problems can be solved by producing the cultured cell sheet in which cells are cultured in the presence of a surfactant protein or a cross-linking inhibitor on a surface of a cell culture support that is coated with a temperature responsive polymer having an upper or lower critical solution temperature ranging from 0° C. to 80° C. in water, including steps of: adjusting the temperature of the culture medium to a temperature below the lower critical solution temperature or above the upper critical solution temperature; and detaching the cultured cell sheet.

Abstract: The present invention provides implant devices comprising nanoscale structures on the surface thereof and methods of manufacturing such implant devices. In some embodiments, methods of manufacturing an implant device comprise exposing a surface of the implant device to an oxidative hydrothermal environment for a duration sufficient to generate nanoscale structures on the exposed surface(s) of the implant device.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to collagen-containing implants including a porous substrate having a first hydrogel precursor and a second hydrogel precursor applied thereto in a manner such that the first hydrogel precursor and second hydrogel precursor do not react with each other until the implant is placed at the site of implantation and exposed to the physiological fluids of a patient.

Abstract: A method of producing metallic medical supplies includes supplying a metallic material as a base material; treating the base material by carrying out any one of electrochemical treatment, chemical treatment, thermal and/or mechanical treatment or a combination of two or more of these treatments to form a film having micro pores and/or micro unevennesses having a density of 5? 104/mm2 on a surface of the base material; and carrying out iodine-impregnation treatment to impregnate the film with iodine or iodine compounds.

Abstract: In various embodiments, the present invention describes materials and methods for the local reprogramming of cells in a location where the treatment is applied. The invention can be used to replace lost cells or to restore function to tissue damaged due to disease, injury or genetic defect. In various embodiments, the treatment includes a semisolid hydrogel embedded with liposomes. The liposomes can contain an effector molecule or molecules. When phagocytic cells such as monocytes infiltrate the hydrogel, they encounter the liposomes and incorporate the liposomes carrying the effector molecules into the cells. In some embodiments, the effector molecules can induce angiogenesis. The matrix can contain other effector molecules designed to attract specific cells to the matrix. The cells can also remain in the matrix and secret molecules such as proteins and hormones that will diffuse through the matrix material to the surrounding tissue.

Abstract: A medical composition is disclosed, which is injectable and which comprises a mixture of native components, which are obtainable by culturing one or more cell samples from a human or animal during normal conditions, said native components being included in the group consisting of growth factors, extracellular matrix proteins, and other substances produced by said cell samples during normal conditions, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, as well as a method for producing the native components, a method for producing the medical composition, a method for treating a subject in need of tissue repair by injection of the medical composition, and use of said mixture of native components for the production of said medical composition for tissue repair via injection.

Abstract: A scaffold for hard tissue regeneration comprising an active ingredient for treating osteoporosis and a preparation method thereof. The scaffold for hard tissue regeneration is prepared by the steps of mixing a polyphenol-based natural substance containing Quercetein or Genistein involved in the activation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts and the biofunctional analog thereof with a ceramic scaffold material and molding the mixture at room temperature into a three-dimensional scaffold. The biofunctional material included in the scaffold above may be sustain-released slowly over the long period of time so that the osteoblast activity is directly improved and at the same time the osteoclast activity is suppressed in the course of bone regeneration, to have the effect of improving bone regeneration.

Abstract: In one aspect, the invention provides an implantable device comprising a uniform mixture of components including degradable polymer, inorganic bone particulate either natural or synthetic, a drug, and a soluble microporagen. In some embodiments, the uniform mixture further includes a soluble polymer macroporagen. In some embodiments, the uniform mixture is coated with an immobilized outer porous layer comprising or consisting of synthetic or natural inorganic bone granules. In further aspects, the invention provides an implantable device comprising a composite core of degradable polymer, bone, and a drug, and a coating comprising or consisting of microporous bone overlayer covering the degradable composite core.

Abstract: A scalable microfluidic based artificial skin covers a variety of wounds while also providing efficient healing of the wounds. The artificial skin comprises a plurality of microfluidic panels separated by semi-permeable membranes, and also comprising a plurality of micro-pumps and micro-channels for carrying healing fluids in proximity to the wound on the natural skin. The panels form detachable patches that are inert and biocompatible. The panels are fabricated from polydimethylsiloxane materials and impregnated with silver nanocrystalline powder. A first panel partially engages the natural skin, partially supported by micro-pillars. Large micro-channels carry contaminants from the wound. A second panel and an optional third panel having micro-channels that carry healing fluids to the wound. A first and second semi-permeable membrane regulate passage of fluids, cellular components, and debris between the panels. An inlet port enables passage of healing fluids to the wound.

Abstract: A medical device has a surface intended for contact with living tissue, wherein the surface comprises nanoparticles comprising a non-toxic post-transition metal such as gallium and/or bismuth, said nanoparticles having an average particle size of 500 nm or less. The nanoparticles may provide an antimicrobial effect, and thus the risk for infection may be reduced.

Abstract: A biodegradable polymeric stent made from poly(L-lactide) and a low concentration of L-lactide monomer is disclosed. The concentration of L-lactide is adjusted to provide a degradation behavior that is suitable for different treatment applications including coronary, peripheral, and nasal.

Abstract: A fluid collection system includes a disposable collection container configured to receive a disposable collection container. The fluid collection container may include a flexible liner configured to collapse during evacuation of the fluid from the liner. The system may include a receiving housing sized to receive the disposable collection container, the receiving housing including a cavity and a piston assembly positioned within the cavity, the piston including a piston check valve. The system includes a suction source connectable to the disposable collection container and a filter positioned between the suction source and the cavity. A first connecting line extends between a suction source opening, configured to communicate the suction source to the disposable collection container, and the filter. A first check valve connects to the first connecting line between the suction source opening and the filter.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for managing reduced pressure at a tissue site are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a pump for supplying reduced pressure to the tissue site, a motor coupled to the pump to propel the pump, and a drive system electrically coupled to the motor that includes a power source that provides a source of direct current power to the motor during an operational period at a substantially constant current and of sufficient magnitude to supply a targeted reduced pressure during the operational period. The drive system also includes a controller that monitors the pump's loading on the motor by measuring the voltage across the motor to determine whether the motor voltage remains within a predetermined operational range of voltages necessary for maintaining the reduced pressure supplied by the pump proximate to the targeted reduced pressure without directly measuring the reduced pressure using a pressure sensor.

Abstract: A system for subatmospheric pressure therapy in connection with healing a wound is provided. The system includes a wound dressing cover dimensioned for positioning relative to a wound bed of a subject to establish a reservoir over the wound bed in which subatmospheric pressure may be maintained, a subatmospheric pressure mechanism including, a housing, a vacuum source disposed in the housing, and a collection canister in fluid communication with the vacuum source. The system further includes an exudate conduit in fluid communication with the wound dressing and the collection canister for collecting exudate removed from the reservoir and deposited in the collection canister under influence of the vacuum source and a vent conduit in fluid communication with the collection canister and the wound dressing for introducing air into the reservoir to facilitate flow of exudate through the exudate conduit.

Abstract: The catheter device comprises a motor located at the proximal end of the catheter device and a drive shaft, extending from the proximal end section to the distal end section of the catheter device, for driving a rotating element located at the distal end of the catheter device. The catheter device also comprises a hose-like catheter body which encompasses the drive shaft and extends from the proximal end section to the distal end section of the catheter device. At the proximal end of the catheter device, the drive shaft is connected to a motor by a clutch. The clutch is a magnetic clutch with a proximal and a distal magnet unit. The proximal magnet unit is connected to the motor and the distal magnet unit to the drive shaft. The distal magnet unit is mounted fluid-tight in a clutch housing. The proximal end of the catheter body makes a fluid-tight connection with the clutch housing.

Abstract: A hemodialysis system comprising: a source of priming fluid; an extracorporeal circuit including an arterial line, a venous line, and a drip chamber; a level sensor operable with the drip chamber; a reversible blood pump operable with the extracorporeal circuit; a connection between the arterial and the venous line; and a priming sequence in which priming fluid from the source is pumped in a reverse pump direction through the extracorporeal circuit and reversibly in a normal pump direction through the extracorporeal circuit, wherein an output from the level sensor is used to determine when to stop pumping in at least one of the directions.

Abstract: The present specification discloses a portable dialysis system comprising a mechanism that allows the user to accurately position an air bubble in a venous line, so that it can be safely removed. When an air bubble is detected, the system automatically runs the blood pump in a direction such that the air bubble is placed close to the extraction point on the venous line, from where it can safely be removed using a needleless syringe.

Abstract: A highly reliable circulation apparatus promptly detects an abnormal state of a status value related to blood flowing in a circulation circuit with no particular operation performed. As an extracorporeal circulation mode starts, a user operates a pump first and waits until a flow rate is stabilized. Then, when the flow rate is stabilized, a predetermined value is added to or subtracted from the stabilized flow rate so as to set two threshold values which regulate an upper end and a lower end of a permissible state range. Then, it is monitored whether or not the flow rate is within the permissible state range regulated by the threshold values, and when the flow rate deviates from the permissible state range, an alarm is issued for notification.

Abstract: A pump system including a pump, an inflow cassette and an outflow cassette. The inflow cassette has a damping flexible membrane covering a damping region configured to dampen pressure pulsations in washing fluid passing through the damping region. The pump has a plurality of individually actionable pressing members that can each be individually actuated to pinch one of a plurality of suction tubes of the outflow cassette to at least partially prevent fluid flow through the one of the plurality of the suction tubes.

Abstract: A phacoemulsification irrigation sleeve having a body configured to operatively connect to a phacoemulsification needle. The body has proximal and distal ends and defines a passageway for liquid. A first irrigation port is formed in the body between its proximal and distal ends. The body is slit to define a first flap configured to swing away from the first irrigation port in response to pressure of fluid flowing in the passageway to thereby reduce resistance of fluid flow through the first irrigation port. The first flap, when swung away from the first irrigation port, is oriented to direct fluid flowing through the first irrigation port in a direction from the proximal end of the body toward the distal end of the body.

Abstract: A storage tray for one or more syringes includes a recess for each of the syringes to be held in the tray. Each recess has first and second opposed sidewalls that define a space therebetween for receiving the barrel of the syringe. Each of the first and second sidewalls has one or more deformable projections thereon that protrude into the space between the sidewalls for positively retaining the barrel of the syringe between the first and second sidewalls. Additionally, a slot is provided for receiving the thumb rest of the plunger. The slot includes a third sidewall oriented generally transverse to the first and second sidewalls, with the third sidewall including a further projection for engaging a surface of the thumb rest. Preferably, a plurality of such transverse slots is provided to accommodate different positions of the plunger relative to the syringe barrel.

Abstract: Described is a needle assembly magazine comprising a housing including a coupling having a proximal aperture adapted to receive a medicament delivery device and a distal aperture adapted to receive a needle of a needle assembly, a needle guard coupled to the housing and having an aperture axially aligned with the distal aperture of the coupling, and a needle assembly carrier rotatably coupled to the needle guard and adapted to hold a plurality of needle assemblies. Rotation of the needle assembly carrier aligns one needle assembly with the distal aperture and the aperture.

Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, an apparatus comprising a pump configured to deliver a fluid from a cartridge, a display a temperature sensor and a controller. The controller is configured to compare a temperature within the cartridge as measured by the temperature sensor to a threshold temperature and cause the display to display a message relating to temperature when the measured temperature goes beyond the threshold temperature.

Abstract: Multicomponent infusion device assemblies include locking and unlocking mechanisms that allow for locking and unlocking of components via actions capable of being carried out by at least some patients suffering from movement disorders. Tools or disengagement components may be used to unlock or disengage the components.