Abstract: The present invention relates to immunization of hypo-responsive groups of individuals. In particular, the present invention provides methods and compositions for eliciting a potent immune response to hepatitis B virus in individuals in need thereof.

Abstract: A method is provided herein to increase an immune response to an antigen. The method includes administering an agent that inhibits extracellular adenosine or inhibits adenosine receptors. Also disclosed are methods to increase the efficacy of a vaccine and to increase an immune response to a tumor antigen or immune cell-mediated tumor destruction.

Abstract: Proteins that bind to matrix metalloproteinase 14, combination therapies with such proteins and methods of using such proteins are described.

Abstract: Provided is a method for enhancing the potency of a targeted cancer immunotherapy in a subject by using a superantigen in combination with an immunopotentiator (for example, a PD-1 inhibitor).

Abstract: The present system is directed in several embodiments to a method of administration of a therapeutic composition for protection of the brain of a subject at risk of injury leading to traumatic brain injury (TBI) and/or treatment of injury to the brain resulting from TBI. The method includes administering one or more therapeutic compositions comprising an effective amount of insulin directly to the subject patient's CNS, with no to minimal systemic exposure. Preferably, this method comprises administration of an effective amount of insulin to the upper third of a patient's nasal cavity, thereby bypassing the patient's blood-brain barrier and delivering the therapeutic composition directly to the patient's central nervous system.

Abstract: Described herein are coating compositions for consumer and/or medical products. The coating compositions can be used to confer desirable properties to the consumer and/or medical products.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods relating to polylactides which may be used for drug delivery (e.g., parenteral delivery), wherein an organic solvent is not required.

Abstract: Described are stable topical formulations useful in the treatment of viral wart infection, demodex infection and bacterial infection of the skin, and genitalia and the method of treating viral wart infection, demodex infection and bacterial infection of the skin, and genitalia with said compositions.

Abstract: Disclosed is a catechin bioavailability enhancer comprising cyclodextrin as an active ingredient. Further, disclosed is a composition comprising a catechin bioavailability enhancer comprising catechin and cyclodextrin. The composition disclosed in the present specification may improve the stability of catechin which has significantly low intestinal absorption rate, and thus may improve bioaccessibility, intestinal transport rate and bioavailability of catechin. Accordingly, the improved bioavailability may further increase the effects of catechin such as the effects of reducing weight and body fat, anti-oxidative effects and anti-aging effects. The composition disclosed in the present specification having the abovementioned characteristics can be effectively used in the fields of food or pharmacy.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a low-cost and safe approach to efficient delivery of a substance to phagocytes. In particular, the present invention relates to a carrier for delivery of a substance to phagocytes, the carrier comprising a lactic acid bacterium and/or an extract thereof.

Abstract: Sub-100 micron multimodal nanoparticles have four main components: 1) a target element (peptides, lipids, antibodies, small molecules, etc.) that can selectively bind to cells, tissues, or organs of the body; 2) a diagnostic agent such as a fluorophore or NMR contrast agent that allows visualization of nanoparticles at the site of delivery and/or a therapeutic or prophylactic agent; 3) an outside “stealth” layer that allows the particles to evade recognition by immune system components and increase particle circulation half-life; and 4) a biodegradable polymeric material, forming an inner core which can carry therapeutics and release the payloads at a sustained rate after systemic, intraperitoneal, or mucosal administration. These particles possess excellent stability, high loading efficiency, multiple agent encapsulation, targeting and imaging. They are targeted to sites of, or associated with, inflammation caused by a disease, disorder; trauma, chemotherapy or radiation.

Abstract: The disclosure describes jasmonate conjugates and nanocarried and/or microcarried jasmonate conjugates and pharmaceutical compositions thereof, as well as use thereof for treating or preventing angiogenesis-related or NF-?B-related disorders. Also disclosed are methods of making the conjugates.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides conjugate structures (e.g., polypeptide conjugates) and hydrazinyl-indole compounds used to produce these conjugates. The disclosure also provides methods of production of such conjugates, as well as methods of using the same.

Abstract: Disclosed are dendrimers of formula (I): and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions comprising the dendrimer of formula (I) and methods of using the same for treating cancer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an antibody-drug-conjugate. From one aspect, the invention relates to an antibody-drug-conjugate comprising an antibody capable of binding to a Target, said antibody being conjugated to at least one drug selected from derivatives of dolastatin 10 and auristatins. The invention also comprises method of treatment and the use of said antibody-drug-conjugate for the treatment of cancer.

Abstract: A type of trimaleimide linkers and uses thereof are disclosed. The trimaleimide linkers can be applied for preparation of antibody-drug conjugate as shown by formula I: L-(T-A-D)n I wherein, L is an antibody, antibody fragment or protein; T is a trimaleimide linker; A is a cleavable linker group or a noncleavable linker; D is a drug; n is an integer ranging from 1 to 8.

Abstract: A silybin injection contains silybin, sulfobutyl ether-?-cyclodextrin, an organic solvent for injection, a pH regulator, and may further contain a co-solvent, a lyophilization bulking agent, and water for injection.

Abstract: Methods for treating a human subject who has X-linked Retinitis Pigmentosa (XLRP) or another clinically-defined ophthalmological condition due to a loss-of-function mutation in the gene encoding the retinitis pigmentosa GTPase regulator (RPGR) protein, the method comprising administering to the subject a nucleic acid comprising an adeno-associated viral vector comprising an abbreviated human RPGR cDNA.

Abstract: A polynucleotide comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding a thymidine kinase wherein at least one of the nucleotides corresponding to the splice donor site nucleotides is replaced by another nucleotide and wherein the nucleotides of the splice acceptor sites are not altered.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and compositions for treating, ameliorating or preventing a disease or disorder in a subject by introducing into cells of the subject a therapeutic gene switch construct that controls expression of one or more therapeutic products.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of preparation of formulations of gadolinium metal complexes of the macrocyclic chelator DOTA, which further comprise a small excess of free DOTA. The method uses controlled conditions such that excess gadolinium is present as a precipitate of gadolinium oxide, with filtration to remove the excess, prior to the addition of a defined excess of DOTA chelator. Also provided is a method of preparation of MRI contrast agents based on Gd-DOTA.

Abstract: An ultraviolet (UV) footwear illuminator for footwear treatment is disclosed. In one embodiment, the UV footwear illuminator includes an insert adapted for placement in an article of footwear. At least one UV radiation source is located in the insert and is configured to emit UV radiation in the footwear through a transparent window region formed in the insert. A control unit is configured to control at least one predetermined UV radiation characteristics associated with the radiation emitted from each UV radiation source. A power supply is configured to power each UV radiation source and the control unit.

Abstract: A method of sterilizing an article such as a flexible endoscope is performed in a sterilization chamber. A vacuum is applied in the sterilization chamber while the article is contained in the sterilization chamber. A sterilant is then introduced into the sterilization chamber. The pressure within the sterilization chamber is incrementally increased to provide a step-wise transition from a high vacuum state to atmospheric pressure. The article is thereby sterilized.

Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing scented granules into a trash receptacle includes an enclosure having an open top end, a bottom end, and a peripheral wall. The enclosure is fixed against a bottom side of a lid to the trash receptacle with a riser tube traversing an aperture of the lid and an attachment ring. A portion control flange is fixed inside the enclosure proximate the bottom end thereof to segregate a predetermined portion of the scented granules when the enclosure is in a first upright orientation. A top end of the portion control flange is fixed with the peripheral wall which has a discharge aperture therethrough below the portion control flange. When the enclosure is placed in a second orientation inclined towards the discharge aperture, the segregated scented granules slide between the portion control flange and the enclosure to exist the discharge aperture into the trash receptacle.

Abstract: The present invention provides an air scavenger composition comprising by weight at least: extracts of sanguisorba officinalis and melia azadarach 10-30 parts, extract of sophora flavescens 10-30 parts, extract of robinia pseudoacacia 5-10 parts, extract of eucalyptus leaves 1-5 parts, extract of chrysanthemum 10-15 parts, extract of aloe vera 10-15 parts, nanosilver 0.1-1 parts, and artemisinin 0.5-2 parts.

Abstract: Portable ozone generators and methods of use. For example, a hand-held portable ozone generator has: a housing defining an air inlet, an air outlet, and an air channel communicating between the air inlet and the air outlet; a battery; an ozone generator configured to output, during operation, ozone into the air channel at a non-zero rate that is equal to or below 50 mg/hour; and a controller connected to send control signals to the ozone generator in response to user input. In other cases, a plank or slab shaped portable ozone generator is disclosed, with an air inlet and an air outlet located in respective opposed face plates. In one case the unit has no defined base, and every face and side wall of the device forms a ground engaging base, and the unit functions properly regardless of what face or side wall the unit contacts the ground or a horizontal ground surface with.

Abstract: A fragrance dispensing system includes a fragrance dispensing mechanism, a network interface, and a control module. The control module receives a control signal from an input device via the network interface and controls the fragrance dispensing mechanism based on the control signal. The control signal corresponds to settings of the fragrance dispensing mechanism. The fragrance dispensing mechanism may include a fan, a light source, a power save switch, or a combination thereof. A method for controlling a fragrance dispensing system includes generating an interface at an input device, receiving input via the interface, generating a control signal based on the input, and remotely transmitting the control signal to the fragrance dispensing system. The input indicates settings of the fragrance dispensing system. The interface may include a selectable timer option, a selectable power mode, a fan control, a light control, or a combination thereof. The interface may include a fragrance indicator.

Abstract: A fluid dispensing method, the method comprising steps of: providing a drop on demand apparatus comprising a plurality of nozzles in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir; selecting a subset of the plurality; dispensing fluid via the selected subset of the plurality; pausing all dispensing of fluid; selecting a second subset of the plurality; dispensing fluid via the second selected subset of the plurality.

Abstract: Antimicrobial laminates of the invention include at least one adhesive layer; a backing outwardly exposed on a first side of the adhesive layer; and, optionally, a release liner outwardly exposed on a second side of the adhesive layer opposite from the first side of the adhesive layer. At least one of the at least one adhesive layer and the backing includes an antimicrobially effective amount of substantially pure chlorhexidine.

Abstract: A biocompatible, covalently cross-linked, polymer that is obtained by reacting an electrophilically activated polyoxazoline (EL-PDX) with a nucleophilic cross-linking agent is disclosed. The EL-PDX comprises m electrophilic groups; and the nucleophilic cross-linking agent comprises n nucleophilic groups, wherein the m electrophilic groups are capable of reacting with the n nucleophilic groups to form covalent bonds; wherein m?2, n?2 and m+n?5; wherein at least one of the m electrophilic groups is a pendant electrophilic group and/or wherein m?3; and wherein the EL-PDX comprises an excess amount of electrophilic groups relative to the amount of nucleophilic groups contained in the nucleophilic cross-linking agent. Biocompatible medical products and kits comprising the cross-linked PDX-polymers are also disclosed.

Abstract: Provided herein are a biocompatible hemostatic product and a tissue sealant, including polyethylene oxide particles with a viscosity-average molecular weight ranging from 100,000 to 7,000,000 Daltons, a particle size ranging from 0.5 ?m to 2000 ?m and a water absorbency capacity ranging from 1 to 500 times of its own weight. Also provided herein is a method for preparing biocompatible hemostatic product and tissue sealant and the use of the biocompatible hemostatic product and tissue sealant in hemostasis, preventing adhesion, avoiding infection, promoting tissue healing, and sealing wound of tissues and organs either on animal's body surface, or inside body's cavity.

Abstract: The present invention provides for concentrated aqueous silk fibroin solutions and an all-aqueous mode for preparation of concentrated aqueous fibroin solutions that avoids the use of organic solvents, direct additives, or harsh chemicals. The invention further provides for the use of these solutions in production of materials, e.g., fibers, films, foams, meshes, scaffolds and hydrogels.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of producing a collagen membrane that has particular mechanical properties.

Abstract: A collagen-based therapeutic delivery device includes an insoluble synthetic collagen-fibril matrix comprising a polymerization product of soluble oligomeric collagen or a polymerization product of a mixture of soluble oligomeric collagen with one or more type of non-oligomeric soluble collagen molecules, such as, for example, soluble telocollagen and/or soluble atelocollagen, and an active agent dispersed throughout the collagen-fibril matrix or within a portion of the collagen-fibril matrix. A pre-matrix composition includes an aqueous solution including soluble collagen-fibril building blocks and an active agent in the aqueous solution. The soluble collagen-fibril building blocks include soluble oligomeric collagen or a mixture of soluble oligomeric collagen with non-oligomeric soluble collagen molecules. The building blocks are operable to self-assemble into a macromolecular synthetic collagen-fibril matrix in the absence of an exogenous cross-linking agent.

Abstract: Compositions comprising a reverse-temperature sensitive hydrogel comprising a biopolymer such as a polysaccharide and a synthetic polymer, and a compound in an amount that reversibly inhibits respiratory enzyme complex I, and methods of using the composition, are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the manufacture of shaped biomaterial-based implants via three-dimensional printing technology.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a process, and to the related apparatus, for the in vitro preparation of a biomimetic tissue prostheses of the tympanic membrane from mesenchymal stem cells; such prostheses are used for repairing or reconstructing the injured tympanic membrane in patients needing it, for example as a consequence of various trauma or pathologies.

Abstract: The present application is directed to the field of implants comprising soft tissue for use in implantation in humans. The soft tissue implants of the present application are preferably obtained from xenograft sources. The present application provides a chemical process that neutralizes, removes or substantially reduces antigens from and sterilizes and/or strengthens xenograft implants. The present techniques yield soft tissue implants having superior structural, mechanical, and/or biochemical integrity. The present application is also directed to processes for treating xenograft implants comprising soft tissues such as tendons and ligaments, and to implants produced by such processes.

Abstract: A polymer composite includes a functionalized polyisobutylene and an additional polyisobutylene-containing material. The functionalized polyisobutylene includes an ?-lipoic acid functional group. A method for producing the polymer composite includes providing the additional polyisobutylene-containing material as a substrate having a surface, and coating the surface of the substrate with the functionalized polyisobutylene. A method for producing a coated substrate including the polymer composite includes providing a polymer combination including the functionalized polyisobutylene and the additional polyisobutylene-containing material, and depositing the polymer combination on to a substrate to thereby form the coated substrate.

Abstract: Hydrogels and composite material containing hydrogels and liposomes dispersed therein, which exhibit a reduced friction coefficient compared to neat hydrogels or composites containing hydrogels, processes for preparing the same, and methods for using the same are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention is related to scoring or cutting balloon catheters carrying at least on a portion of their surface at least one drug or drug preparation and at least one lipophilic antioxidant at a ratio of 3-100% by weight of the at least one lipophilic antioxidant in relation to 100% by weight of the drug, wherein a combination of the at least one drug being a limus drug and the at least one lipophilic antioxidant being butylated hydroxytoluene is excluded.

Abstract: A method and device for local delivery of water-soluble or water-insoluble therapeutic agents to the surface of a normal or diseased body lumen is disclosed. An expandable structure of a medical disposable device, such as a balloon of a balloon catheter, is coated with an amphiphilic polymer coating comprising a therapeutic agent and an amphiphilic polymer or co-polymer. The medical disposable device is inserted into a body lumen, and expanded to contact the amphiphilic polymer coating against the body lumen. The total solubility of the polymer or co-polymer in vivo prevents any embolic hazard associated with the amphiphilic polymer coating.

Abstract: Implantable materials having defined patterns of affinity regions for binding endothelial cells and providing for directed endothelial cell migration across the surface of the material. The affinity regions include photochemically altered regions of a material surface and physical members patterned on the material surface that exhibit a greater affinity for endothelial cell binding and migration than the remaining regions of the material surface.

Abstract: A non-synthetic, hydrophilic, biodegradable, biocompatible polysaccharide based non-toxic anti-adhesion hydrogel barrier is disclosed herein. The barrier of the present invention is formed by constructing a unique interpenetrating, crosslinked network with a unique porosity. Furthermore, the barrier of the present invention is comprised of tunable biopolymers for controllable mechanical robustness and degradation. The barrier of the present invention effectively reduces unwanted adhesions using non-synthetic components.

Abstract: A kit includes a mesh substrate and a polymer that is fixed to the mesh substrate. The polymer includes an active agent that is configured to elute over time. The kit further includes a hemostatic agent. The hemostatic agent is separate from the mesh substrate and the polymer. Systems and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A method and device are provided for simultaneously or near-simultaneously diagnosing and treating tension pneumothorax and/or hemothoraxA Veress-type needle portion includes a hollow needle for puncturing the chest wall over a blunt hollow probe biased by one or more springs to extend distally into the pleural cavity. Openings in the blunt hollow probe connect via a pathway to an automatic check valve, which permits the flow of air and/or fluid only in a proximal direction. Pressure from within the pleural cavity is transmitted to the interior surface of a pressure documenter. If pressure greater than atmospheric pressure is present in the pleural cavity, the pressure documenter will be automatically urged proximally to simultaneously allow air and/or fluid to escape from the pleural space through the device, thus treating the tension pneumothorax and/or hemothorax, as well as providing a stable indicator to positively document the diagnosis of increased pressure.

Abstract: A surgical system comprises a hand piece, an irrigation conduit in fluid communication with the hand piece to carry fluid toward a surgical site, an aspiration conduit in fluid communication with the hand piece to carry fluid away from the surgical site, a pump interfacing with the aspiration conduit, the pump to create a vacuum pressure in the aspiration conduit to draw fluid through the aspiration conduit, a vacuum relief valve in fluid communication with the aspiration conduit to relieve the vacuum pressure in the aspiration conduit, a pressure sensor to detect a pressure associated with the surgical site, a controller in communication with the vacuum relief valve and the pressure sensor to control the vacuum relief valve to decrease the vacuum pressure in the aspiration conduit when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor is less than a first pressure threshold.

Abstract: Methods and devices for treatment of damaged tissue are disclosed, including treatment of wounds by employing non-electrically powered, reduced pressure therapy devices. The devices are capable of generating a substantially constant reduced pressure with low tolerance for pressure fluctuations. Also disclosed herein are reduced pressure therapy systems that comprise an alarm system to detect the depleted state of the suction device and provide an alert to the patient and/or practitioner.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods of the present disclosure assist with management of tubes and hoses during surgical procedures. The systems, devices, and methods provide for the proper opening and closing of tubes to facilitate performance of steps in a surgical procedure. Systems, devices, and methods of the present disclosure control fluid delivery to and from a medical device, including devices for tissue processing and cleaning.

Abstract: A mounting element defining a bore, the mounting element being configured to mount to an exterior surface of an organ of a patient. A one way valve sized to be received and retained within the bore of the mounting element is included, the one way valve having an open position and a closed position. The one way valve substantially occludes the bore when the valve is in the closed position. The one way valve is biased in the closed position. A plug having a lumen extending there through is included, the plug being configured to be releasably inserted through at least a portion of the one way valve. The plug is configured to transition the one way valve from the closed position to the open position and to maintain the one way valve in the open position when the plug is inserted within the bore.