Abstract: The invention relates to the finding that virus like particles (VLPs) can be loaded with immunostimulatory substances, in particular with DNA oligonucleotides containing non-methylated C and G (CpGs). Such CpG-VLPs are dramatically more immunogenic than their CpG-free counterparts and induce enhanced B and T cell responses. The immune response against antigens optionally coupled, fused or attached otherwise to the VLPs is similarly enhanced as the immune response against the VLP itself. In addition, the T cell responses against both the VLPs and antigens are especially directed to the Th1 type. Antigens attached to CpG-loaded VLPs may therefore be ideal vaccines for prophylactic or therapeutic vaccination against allergies, tumors and other self-molecules and chronic viral diseases.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions, methods, and kits for eliciting an immune response to at least one CMV antigen expressed by a cancer cell, in particular for treating and preventing cancer. CMV determination methods, compositions, and kits also are provided.

Abstract: The invention provides a composition useful to prepare high titer influenza viruses, e.g., in the absence of helper virus, which includes internal genes from an influenza virus vaccine strain or isolate, e.g., one that is safe in humans, for instance, one that does not result in significant disease, that confer enhanced growth in cells in culture, such as MDCK cells, or in eggs.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to RSV F protein mutants, nucleic acids or vectors encoding a RSV F protein mutant, compositions comprising a RSV F protein mutant or nucleic acid, and uses of the RSV F protein mutants, nucleic acids or vectors, and compositions.

Abstract: Recombinant chimeric viruses based on NDV LaSota strain and containing either ILTV gB or gD are produced. Administration of the chimeric viruses to chickens induces an immune response in the animal against both NDV and ILTV. Immunogenic compositions, plasmids, kits and methods are described.

Abstract: Stabilized trimers of a clade A strain and a clade C strain of HIV-1 are provided. Broadly neutralizing antisera against HIV-1, methods of making broadly neutralizing antisera against HIV-1, broadly neutralizing vaccines against HIV-1, as well as methods of treating subjects infected with HIV, preventing HIV infection, and inhibiting HIV-mediated activities are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vaccine for protecting a pig against diseases associated with porcine epidemic diarrhea virus. The vaccine commonly includes inactivated/killed PEDV (e.g., chemically inactivated PED virus), and/or recombinant PEDV antigen and an adjuvant. Methods for protecting pigs against diseases associated with PEDV and methods of producing the porcine epidemic diarrhea virus vaccine are also provided.

Abstract: The invention provides a novel class of compounds, immunogenic compositions and pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds and methods of using such compounds to treat or prevent diseases or disorders associated with Toll-Like Receptors 7. In one aspect, the compounds are useful as adjuvants for enhancing the effectiveness of a vaccine.

Abstract: Compositions and methods, including vaccines and pharmaceutical compositions for inducing or enhancing an immune response are disclosed based on the discovery of useful immunological adjuvant properties in a synthetic, glucopyranosyl lipid adjuvant (GLA) that is provided in substantially homogeneous form. Chemically defined, synthetic GLA offers a consistent vaccine component from lot to lot without the fluctuations in contaminants or activity that compromise natural-product adjuvants. Also provided are vaccines and pharmaceutical compositions that include GLA and one or more of an antigen, a Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonist, a co-adjuvant and a carrier such as a pharmaceutical carrier.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to branched and linear chimeric compounds containing both nucleic acid and non-nucleic acid moieties, as well as to polynucleotides. The present disclosure also relates to uses thereof for stimulating an immune response, and to methods for preparation of the branched chimeric compounds.

Abstract: The present invention relates to RNA decorated particles such as RNA decorated lipid particles, preferably to RNA decorated liposomes. Further, the present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising RNA decorated particles such as RNA decorated lipid particles, preferably RNA decorated liposomes. Said pharmaceutical composition is useful for inducing an immune response. It is also useful in a prophylactic and/or therapeutic treatment of a disease involving an antigen. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for producing the RNA decorated particles such as RNA decorated lipid particles, preferably RNA decorated liposomes.

Abstract: A liquid aqueous pharmaceutical formulation is described which has a high protein concentration, a pH of between about 4 and about 8, and enhanced stability.

Abstract: The invention relates to trans carotenoid compounds and salts thereof as well as compositions thereof, methods for making them, and uses thereof. These compounds are useful in improving diffusivity of oxygen between red blood cells and body tissues in mammals including humans.

Abstract: Provided are formulations, compositions and methods for delivering biological moieties such as modified nucleic acids into cells to modulate protein expression. Such compositions and methods include the delivery of biological moieties, and are useful for production of proteins.

Abstract: A hydrophilic biocompatible sustained-release material is disclosed. The material comprises amounts of Pluronic F-127, PEG-400, HPMC and water, effective to produce a composition of sufficiently low viscosity at room temperature to be injectable into an internal body cavity via a tube inserted within a urinary catheter. At body temperature, the material exhibits a much higher viscosity and will stably adhere to the internal surface of a body cavity. As the material dissolves, a therapeutic agent incorporated therein is slowly released to the body cavity, while the material itself is excreted from the body.

Abstract: This invention relates to a complex for cancer cell chemotherapy and, more particularly, to a HER2 aptamer-anticancer drug complex for chemotherapy of cancer cells, which includes a nucleic acid aptamer specifically binding to HER2 and an anticancer drug linked with the nucleic acid aptamer, so that HER2-positive breast cancer cells are selectively targeted and killed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hybrid anticancer prodrug simultaneously producing cinnamaldehyde and quinone methide. The hybrid anticancer prodrug according to the present invention sequentially releases quinone methide and cinnamaldehyde by H2O2 and acidic pH, and thus alkylates antioxidant GSH through the release of quinone methide, thereby inhibiting an antioxidative system and increasing oxidation stress, and generates and accumulates reactive oxygen species (ROS) through the release of cinnamaldehyde, thereby promoting apoptosis, and thus the hybrid anticancer prodrug according to the present invention can be favorably used as an anticancer drug by creating a synergetic anticancer effect through double stimulus-response and sequential treatment action in a cancer cell-specific manner.

Abstract: Controlled release dosage formulations for the delivery of one or more HIF-1 inhibitors are provided. The controlled release formulations contain one or more HIF-1 inhibitors conjugated to or dispersed in a polymeric vehicle. The one or more HIF-1 inhibitors can be dispersed or encapsulated in a polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the one or more HIF-1 inhibitors are covalently bound to a polymer, forming a polymer-drug conjugate. Polymeric vehicles can be formed into implants, microparticles, nanoparticles, or combinations thereof. Controlled release HIF-1 formulations provide prolonged therapeutic benefit while lowering side effects by releasing low levels of one or more HIF-1 inhibitors and/or HIF-1 inhibitor conjugates over a prolonged period of time. Controlled release dosage formulations can be used to treat or prevent a disease or disorder in a patient associated with vascularization, including cancer, obesity, and ocular diseases such as wet AMD.

Abstract: Peptides that have been found to facilitate the delivery of siRNA molecules into cells and to function in siRNA mediated silencing of cellular targets are disclosed. Complexes that include one of the peptides and a cargo molecule are disclosed, wherein the peptide and the cargo molecule are coupled non-covalently. Also disclosed are methods of producing and using the peptides/complexes.

Abstract: A vehicle composition in the form of a vesicular composition or a particular composition and, optionally, an active agent associated with the vesicle forming components or particles, and folate receptor alpha is used as a delivery system for the transport of components and/or active agents into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and/or brain and/or central nervous system and/or spinal cord. The composition is used for treating of CSF or brain pertaining diseases, disorders or conditions, such as preventing or treating neurological or neurodegenerative diseases, disorders or conditions.

Abstract: The invention in some aspects provides compounds useful for targeting bacterial infections. In some embodiments, the compounds comprise a transferrin receptor ligand covalently linked to a bactericidal agent. In some embodiments, the bactericidal agent is a bactericidal peptide, such as a glycoside hydrolase (e.g., lysozyme).

Abstract: Provided herein are maytansinoid compounds, derivatives thereof, conjugates thereof, and methods of treating or preventing proliferative diseases with the same.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides anti-folate receptor alpha (FRA) antibody-drug conjugates comprising a hydrophilic self-immolative linker. The present disclosures further provide compositions and methods for treating cancers.

Abstract: Conjugates of specific PBD dimers with an antibody that that binds to CD19, the antibody comprising a VH domain having the sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NOs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6, optionally further comprising a VL domain having the sequence according to any one of SEQ ID NOs. 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12.

Abstract: A functionalized nanomaterial, such as a nanoparticle, can include a polythioaminal functionalized surface. The polythioaminal linked to the surface of the nanomaterial can be bonded to a compound such as therapeutic and/or diagnostic materials. The thiol-based linkages can be used to bond the polythioaminal to both the nanomaterial and the therapeutic and/or diagnostic materials. Polythioaminals can be prepared via reactions of triazine and dithiols. Polythioaminals thus prepared can be further modified to provide linkages to the nanomaterial and other compounds such as medicinal compound, peptides, and dyes. Nanomaterials including such compounds linked thereto via the polythioaminal can be supplied for therapeutic and/or diagnostic purposes to biological target regions.

Abstract: The present application provides an amphiphilic cyclodextrin-based compound of the formula I: R-G-D-A (I) wherein R is one or more hydrophilic groups; G is one or more linkers; D is a cyclodextrin, and A is one or more aliphatic groups. In certain embodiments, the hydrophilic group is a sugar such as lactose, the linker comprises —(CHR?CH2O)n— where R? is H or is an alkyl group substituted with —(CHR?CH2O)n— where n is 1 to 20, typically n=4; the cyclodextrin is a ?-cyclodextrin comprising 7 subunits, and the aliphatic groups are C6 alkyl groups. The compound can be used to enhance water solubility, bioavailability, cellular uptakes of active ingredients used in medicines, cosmetics and foods and other products, for detection, removal and immobilization of pathogenic organisms, toxins, and autoantibodies, and biomarkers on solid matrix, or for molecular biological techniques, such as ELISA, for example.

Abstract: Improved DNA vaccine plasmids are disclosed that contain novel immunostimulatory RNA compositions. The improved plasmids eliminate all extraneous sequences, incorporate a novel antibiotic free short RNA based selectable marker, increase eukaryotic expression using a novel chimeric promoter, improve yield and stability during bacterial production, and improve immunostimulation. These vectors are utilized in immunization to elicit improved immune responses or therapy to induce type 1 interferon production.

Abstract: Described herein are compositions having a nanoparticle that is conjugated to at least one bone targeting moiety, wherein the bone targeting moiety is bonded to the nanoparticle by a linker, wherein the nanoparticle contains iron, and wherein the compositions are neutral or pharmaceutically acceptable salts or esters. Also described herein are methods of making these compositions. In one aspect, the nanoparticles serve as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging of bone metabolism. The compounds, compositions, and methods described herein can be used in a number of therapeutic applications including diagnosing or monitoring fracture and/or the progress of conditions associated with bone loss, which include, but are not limited to, osteoporosis, Paget's disease, osteolytic tumors, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, osteopenia, and hypercalcemia.

Abstract: A peptide that can be used as an imaging probe for GLP-1R is provided. In an embodiment, a polypeptide is represented by the following formula (3); (Sequence ID No. 3) Xaa1-Leu-Ser-Lys-Gln-Met-Glu-Glu-Glu-Ala-Val-Arg- Leu-Phe-Ile-Glu-Trp-Leu-Lys-Asn-Gly-Gly-Pro-Ser- Ser-Gly-Ala-Pro-Pro-Pro-Ser (3) where Xaa1 represents an aspartic acid in which a —Y—X? group binds to an ?-amino group, X? includes a chelating site and a radioactive metal nuclide chelated by the chelating site, the chelating site being diethylenetriaminepentaacetic dianhydride (DTPA) or 1,4,7-triazacyclononnane-N,N?,N?-triacetic acid (NOTA), and Y represents a linker including a group selected from the group consisting of —CH2—(C6H4)—, —NH—C(?S)—, —NH—(CH2)5—C(?O)—, and a combination thereof.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a fluid reservoir, a sterilization member, and a transfer adapter. The sterilization member operably couples to the fluid reservoir. The sterilization member is configured to be transitioned between a first configuration, in which the sterilization member obstructs an inlet surface of the fluid reservoir and maintains the inlet surface in a substantially sterile environment, and a second configuration, in which the inlet surface is unobstructed. The transfer adapter is configured to be placed in fluid communication with a portion of a patient. The transfer adapter is configured to move relative to the sterilization member from a first position to a second position such that a surface of the transfer adapter contacts the sterilization member to transition the sterilization member to the second configuration. The fluid reservoir is placed in fluid communication with the transfer adapter when the transfer adapter is in the second position.

Abstract: Disinfecting devices and related methods are provided that apply germicidal ultraviolet light to disinfect dispensing components of food and beverage dispensers. A disinfecting holster for a bar gun includes a support surface configured to interface with a bar gun to support the bar gun when stowed in the holster, a housing coupled with the support surface and surrounding a dispensing nozzle of the bar gun when the bar gun is stowed in the holster, and an ultraviolet light source configured to emit germicidal ultraviolet light onto the nozzle. The housing substantially contains the ultraviolet light within the housing during the application of the ultraviolet light to the dispensing nozzle. The ultraviolet light can be periodically applied to maintain the nozzle in a disinfected state.

Abstract: A sanitizer for sanitizing various plumbing fixtures and specifically, to a chemical-free sanitizer, more specifically to an ozone-free sanitizer, and yet more specifically to an electronic sanitizer using ions.

Abstract: A biocidal treatment evaporates a liquid having biocidal properties. An absorption organ has absorbent strips suited to retain the liquid, each absorbent strip having a top first end and a bottom second end, The liquid is injected into the first end of each absorbent strip, the liquid flowing by gravity along the absorbent strip towards the second end, the liquid having biocidal properties being injected at a predetermined flow rate. The liquid is evaporated by producing a gas flow directed towards the absorption organ at a temperature below 50° C.

Abstract: A system and method for disinfecting hard surfaces in an area such as a hospital room including a light source emitting UV light and a reflector mounted behind the light source for concentrating and directing the light toward a target. The light source and reflector rotate to direct the concentrated beam around a room, thereby making more efficient use of the energy being emitted.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for employing aromatherapy and binaural sounds for inducing a state of relaxation in a user who may be anxious, upset, or experiencing sleeping difficulties. The apparatus comprises a shape memory foam pillow, a pair of stereo speakers, an aromatherapy diffuser, a pillowcase comprised of heat-transfer fabric, an optional vibrating device, a canopy and a housing to support these elements. The user connects a smartphone or digital audio device to the speakers, activates the aromatherapy diffuser and the vibrating device, and lays his or her head down on the pillow beneath the canopy. Ideally, the smartphone or music device should have a meditation or binaural sound application, which would be tuned to a specific beat frequency, such as 10 Hertz. The combined action of essential oil vapors and binaural sounds should enable the user to relax or sleep more soundly.

Abstract: A system for releasing volatile substances includes a receptacle housing a volatile substance, a ventilation surface arranged in the receptacle provided with ventilation windows, and a fan for inducing the ventilation of the scent of the volatile substance. The fan can move between at least two positions. The effectiveness with which the perfume evaporates during the work cycle of the device can be improved and controlled with the system.

Abstract: A composition and a method of applying the composition to a site on or within a body of a mammal. The composition includes a hydrogel matrix that includes at least one polymer cross linked, via ionic or covalent bonding, with both hyaluronic acid and alginic acid. The at least one polymer is chitosan, poly L-Lysine, or a combination thereof.

Abstract: The present invention provides highly injectable, long-lasting hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel dermal filler compositions which are particularly advantageous for correction of fine lines in the face.

Abstract: A fiber-reinforced hydrogel composite is provided. The composite includes a hydrogel and a fibrous component containing a plurality of fibers. Length of each of the plurality of fibers is less than about 1,000 ?m. A method of preparing a fiber-reinforced hydrogel composite is also provided. The method includes coating a hydrogel precursor solution on a substrate to form a hydrogel precursor film, depositing the plurality of fibers onto the hydrogel precursor film, and allowing the hydrogel precursor film to form a hydrogel film, thereby forming the fiber-reinforced hydrogel composite. A scaffold containing the fiber-reinforced composite, and a tissue repair method using the fiber-reinforced composite are also provided.

Abstract: Provided are layered cell sheets, comprising a plurality of layered cell sheets containing myoblasts, in which each cell sheet comprises cell population containing myoblasts with controlled orientations. Preferably provided are the layered cell sheets comprising a region in which the orientations of the cell population containing the myoblasts in each cell sheet are identical to each other.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for producing an implant from interstitial, connective or supporting tissue, the method comprising at least one step of perfusing the tissue with at least one decellularization medium under negative pressure applied for substantially the whole time period of the perfusion.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses the finding that certain treatments (e.g., surface modifications) to particulate materials can provide surprising and unexpected benefits and/or features to composites and/or compositions as described herein. In some embodiments, such benefits and/or features may render particular composites and/or compositions particularly useful in a certain therapeutic context (e.g, for repair of tibial plateau, femoral head, craniofacial, or lateral mandibular body defects). The present invention demonstrates that certain composites and/or compositions wherein the particular material is or comprises defatted bone have surprising and beneficial attributes.

Abstract: The invention relates to a multifunctional chitosan grafted surface. Specifically, the invention relates to a chitosan modified with a quaternary ammonium salt (CH-Q) grafted surface that provides various functional properties, including stability (pH 3-9) and unique pH dependent swelling and antibacterial properties.

Abstract: A fixation device comprises a first anchor portion being configured to join to a first bone portion. A second anchor portion is configured to join to a second bone portion. An intermediate component extends between the first anchor portion and the second anchor portion. The intermediate component is configured to expand and contract enabling constrained movement of the second bone portion.

Abstract: In one aspect, nerve growth inhibition devices are described herein. In some embodiments, a nerve growth inhibition device described herein comprises a tube having a proximal end and a distal end. A matrix material is disposed in the tube, and the matrix material comprises one or more microchannels. The proximal end of the tube comprises an opening operable to receive nerve tissue, the distal end of the tube is sealed, and the microchannels of the matrix material extend from the proximal end of the tube toward the distal end of the tube.

Abstract: A dressing (2) and an apparatus (1) comprising the dressing, for cleansing the wounds (5) in which an irrigant fluid from a reservoir (12) connected to a conformable would dressing and would exudate from the dressing are moved by a device (18) (which may be a single pump or two pumps) for moving fluid through a flow Path (6, 7, 9, 10) which passes through the dressing with a means for providing simultaneous aspiration and irrigation of the wound, to provide a desired balance of fluid at a controlled nominal flow rate that removes materials deleterious to wound healing, while distributing materials that are beneficial in promoting would healing over the wound bed.

Abstract: A blood pump (20) includes a stator assembly comprising a motor stator (52), a fluid inlet (24), and a fluid outlet (26). A rotor assembly includes a motor rotor (54) and an impeller (40) rotatable about an axis (44) to move fluid from the inlet (24) to the outlet (26). An outflow sheath (300) directs the flow along the outside of the pump (20).

Abstract: A method of operating a counterpulsation device (CPD) in a human or animal subject is disclosed, the method including: receiving a heart beat signal indicative of the heart beat of the subject; providing counterpulsation therapy by controlling the pressure supplied to a CPD drive line in pneumatic communication with the CPD to cause the CPD to alternately fill with blood and eject blood with a timing that is determined at least in part based on the heart beat signal; while providing counterpulsation therapy, receiving a CPD drive line pressure signal indicative of the pressure in the CPD drive line; and adjusting the pressure supplied to the drive line based at least in part on the drive line pressure signal.

Abstract: A combination kidney and liver dialysis system and method provides a portable, lightweight hemodialysis device that removes uremic toxins, hepatic toxins, water, and impurities from the blood. The method comprises separating the blood into a plasma portion and a cellular portion, immediately returning the cellular portion to the body, providing large volumes of replacement fluids, diluting the plasma portion with replacement fluids, and then manipulating the plasma portion of the blood to pass through hemoperfusion membranes, hemodiafiltration membranes, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation membranes. Dialysis is performed on the plasma portion of the blood with an albumin dialyzer against an albumin dialysate and a high molecular weight cut off membrane. Dialysis is performed on the plasma portion of blood with a lipid dialysate comprising 10-30% lipid composition, and a high flux dialyzer.

Abstract: A method of rinsing and/or filling a blood treatment device, in particular for priming a blood treatment device, is associated with a blood treatment device that includes a membrane filter, in particular a hollow fiber membrane filter, a first partial circuit, and a second partial circuit. The first and the second partial circuits are separated by the membrane filter in a semipermeable manner, with temporarily the first partial circuit being first filled with a fluid with a uniform and/or a pulsatile first volumetric flow rate, with the volumetric flow rate not exceeding a specified threshold value at which the fluid has not completely wetted and/or soaked the membrane. The second partial circuit is temporarily open towards the atmosphere, air is displaced from the first partial circuit into the second partial circuit via the membrane, and during filling no negative pressure is applied to the first partial circuit.