Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for utilizing scaffolds in cancer vaccines.

Abstract: This invention provides methods and compositions for modulating movement of eukaryotic cells with migratory capacity. More specifically, the invention provides anti-fugetactic agents and methods for the use thereof in enhancing an immune response.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel targets for immune response modulation, treatment of tuberculosis infection and epitopes of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, or subsequences, portions or modifications thereof, and methods and compounds for treatment and prevention of tuberculosis infection.

Abstract: Provided herein is a multivalent Brucella vaccine expressing at least one heterologous M. tuberculosis antigen. The vaccines described herein serve as an environmentally safe bivalent vaccine for protection against Brucella and Mycobacterium infections simultaneously. In particular, a multivalent vaccine comprising a Brucella strain transformed with a vector that expresses at least one M. tuberculosis antigen, where the M. tuberculosis antigen(s) is codon optimized for the Brucella strain is provided. In some aspects, the Brucella strain is B. abortus strain RB51 leuB and the M. tuberculosis antigen is one or more of Ag85B, Rv2660c, and ESAT6.

Abstract: Methods of immunizing older adult subjects against Streptococcus pneumoniae infection are provided. Provided methods comprise immunization of naive adult subjects with a conjugated pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine. Optionally, initial immunization may be followed by additional immunization doses comprising conjugated pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine or unconjugated pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine composition.

Abstract: There are provided compositions and methods for prevention or treatment of Streptococcus pneumoniae (SP)-associated diseases. More specifically, there are provided recombinant lipidated fusion proteins comprising pneumococcal surface antigen A (PsaA), the recombinant lipidated fusion proteins comprising, from N-terminus to C-terminus, the N-terminal native lipid signal peptide of PsaA and the C-terminal structural gene for PsaA. Methods of inducing broad spectrum mucosal immunity against SP comprising administering a vaccine comprising recombinant lipidated fusion proteins are also described.

Abstract: The present invention provides monoclonal antibodies that bind to the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) spike protein, and methods of use. In various embodiments of the invention, the antibodies are fully human antibodies that bind to MERS-CoV spike protein. In some embodiments, the antibodies of the invention are useful for inhibiting or neutralizing MERS-CoV activity, thus providing a means of treating or preventing MERS infection in humans. In some embodiments, the invention provides for a combination of one or more antibodies that bind to the MERS-CoV spike protein for use in treating MERS infection. In certain embodiments, the one or more antibodies bind to distinct non-competing epitopes comprised in the receptor binding domain of the MERS-CoV spike protein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a preparation method of a human plasma-derived hepatitis B immunoglobulin preparation. More specifically, the present invention relates to a preparation method of a human plasma-derived hepatitis B immunoglobulin preparation characterized in that plasma protein fraction II (fraction II) containing human hepatitis B immunoglobulin is dialysis concentrated and then thrombus-producing materials and impurities formed during processes are removed by anion exchange resin and cation exchange resin purification techniques. By using the preparation method of the human plasma-derived hepatitis B immunoglobulin preparation according to the present invention, the efficiency of removing impurities and thrombus-producing materials is increased and a polymer content is maintained, whereby it is possible to produce human hepatitis B immunoglobulin with stable and improved quality.

Abstract: Described are stable nanoparticle complexes of 100 nm to 900 nm comprising paclitaxel, albumin and an antibody. The nanoparticle complexes are suitable for the treatment of cancer.

Abstract: Antibodies that bind to tumor associated antigen CD44 or to tumor associated antigen EphA2, are disclosed herein, as well as related compositions and methods of use. Methods of use encompass cancer therapies, diagnostics, and screening methods.

Abstract: Formulations of a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-specific fusion protein antagonist are provided including a pre-lyophilized formulation, a reconstituted lyophilized formulation, and a stable liquid formulation. Preferably, the fusion protein has the sequence of SEQ ID NO:4.

Abstract: Methods and compositions modulate the activity of electrically excitable cells. Photovoltaic compounds which, upon exposure to light energy, increase or decrease the electrical activity of cells. These supplement and/or replace of vision based on the conversion of light energy to electrical energy within certain cells of the visual system. A “patch” or bridge to circumvent one or more defective, damaged, or diseased cells in the visual system. Additionally, in several embodiments, subjects with normal vision can benefit from the methods, compositions, systems, and/or devices disclosed herein as normal visual acuity can be heightened. The exposure induces an energy (e.g., a receipt of light energy, conversion to electrical energy, and passage of that electrical energy) from the photovoltaic compound to the cell, thereby altering the transmembrane potential of the cell and/or the opening of one or more ion channels, thereby modulating the activity of the electrically excitable cell.

Abstract: Iron oxide nanoparticle compositions, methods of preparing the nanoparticles using high gravity controlled precipitation (HGCP), and methods of using the nanoparticles are disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions and methods for inhibiting viral entry.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an exendin-4 analog PEGylated with polyethylene glycol or a derivative thereof, a preparation method, and a pharmaceutical composition for prevention or treatment of diabetes containing the same as an active ingredient. According to the present invention, the yield of an exendin-4 analog can be increased via the selective PEGylation by using exendin-4 in which a cysteine is introduced into #40 site of the C-terminal, and treatment effect of medications can be increased, so that the exendin-4 analog can be usefully applied as a composition for prevention or treatment of diseases caused by insulin hypersecretion.

Abstract: According to the invention, thermoreversible hydrogels are provided, which are prepared from chain-extended poloxamers, having advantageous properties. In addition, the invention provides thermoreversible hydrogels, including biological materials, and a process for the preparation thereof, thermoreversible hydrogels including living cells, application systems for pharmaceutical applications, and an in-vitro-method for forming a composition on a surface.

Abstract: A composition for treating atopic dermatitis in animals containing active compositions of ceramides for skin barrier protection, omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids for reducing pruritus and botanical extracts for inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase activity, histamine release while modulating the immune system. The active compositions are placed in a soft dough oral delivery system.

Abstract: The present invention provides amphiphilic telodendrimers that aggregate to form nanocarriers characterized by a hydrophobic core and a hydrophilic exterior. The nanocarrier core may include amphiphilic functionality such as cholic acid or cholic acid derivatives, and the exterior may include branched or linear poly(ethylene glycol) segments. Nanocarrier cargo such as hydrophobic drugs and other materials may be sequester in the core via non-covalent means or may be covalently bound to the telodendrimer building blocks. Telodendrimer structure may be tailored to alter loading properties, interactions with materials such as biological membranes, and other characteristics.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods of making oral pharmaceutical compositions that contain substantially crush resistant drug containing microparticles. The microparticles may contain an active pharmaceutical agent, a polymer and a plasticizer. The microparticles may be un-coated (so as to impart an immediate release profile) or coated so as to impart an extended release (ER), delayed release (DR) or delayed extended release (DER) profile. One or more of the populations of microparticles may be coated with a taste masking composition. The methods may produce oral compositions such as orally disintegrating tablets that contain one or more these types of microparticles in order to further customize the release profile. Also disclosed are the oral compositions, per se, and methods of using same for their intended purposes.

Abstract: Methods for use of a multi-arm polyethylene glycol (PEG) modifier in modification of asparaginase. The described multi-arm PEG modifier enhances the subunit interaction of a multimeric protein to maintain the multimeric protein in a polymerized form, thereby improving the stability of the multimeric protein, maintaining the bioactivity of the multimeric protein, and reducing the probability of exposure of the antigen binding site after depolymerization of the subunits, so as to reduce the immunogenicity.

Abstract: The present invention provides soluble single wall nanotube (SWNT) constructs functionalized with a plurality of a targeting moiety and a plurality of one or more payload molecules attached thereto. The targeting moiety and the payload molecules may be attached to the soluble SWNT via a DNA or other oligomer platform attached to the SWNT. These soluble SWNT constructs may comprise a radionuclide or contrast agent and as such are effective as diagnostic and therapeutic agents. Methods provided herein are to diagnosing or locating a cancer, treating a cancer, eliciting an immune response against a cancer or delivering an anticancer drug in situ via an enzymatic nanofactory using the soluble SWNT constructs.

Abstract: There are provided for herein novel amine-containing transfection compounds and methods for making and using same. The compounds are generally obtained by reacting a primary amine with an unsaturated compound. Transfection complexes made using the amine-containing transfection compounds in combination with additional compounds to encapsulate biologically active agents such as nucleic acids are also provided for herein. Methods of using the transfection complexes for the in vivo or in vitro delivery of biologically active agents are also described. The transfection complexes of the present invention are highly potent, thereby allowing effective modulation of a biological activity at relatively low doses compared to analogous transfection compounds known in the art.

Abstract: The invention described herein pertains to ligand-ionophore conjugates, that may also comprise a linked therapeutic agent or imaging agent, and pharmaceutical compositions containing the conjugates. Also described are methods of using the conjugates for increasing the endosomal accumulation and escape of a therapeutic agent, or an imaging agent.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a water-soluble docetaxel anticancer drug compound having the structure of Formula I below: in which R=—CH3, —CH2CH3, —CH2CH2CH3, or —CH2CH2CH2CH3; and n=5-500. The active moiety docetaxel in the anticancer drug compound is covalently conjugated to a polyethylene glycol monoalkyl ether through a linker diglycoloyl (carbonyl methoxyacetyl) to form the water-soluble docetaxel anticancer drug compound. The present invention also relates to a preparation method of the drug compound and use thereof.

Abstract: Described herein are prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) binding conjugates that are useful for delivering therapeutic, diagnostic and imaging agents. Also described herein are pharmaceutical composition containing them and methods of using the conjugates and compositions. Also described are processes for manufacture of the conjugates and the compositions containing them.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention described herein include a hydrogel prodrug and methods of making a hydrogel prodrug for drug delivery. Also contemplated are methods of treating, inhibiting, ameliorating or inhibiting a disease or disorder. Without being limiting, the methods for treatment can be directed to a cancer, HIV, a virus, pain, a bacterial infection, a neurological disorder, hemorrhaging, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, high blood pressure, Alzheimer's, or inhibiting a fungal growth in a subject in need.

Abstract: Normal or genetically modified cell(s) having magnetic nanoparticle(s) bound (affixed) to their surfaces and methods of delivery to target tissues, e.g. for treatment of disease and/or injury.

Abstract: A medicinal composition for diseases caused by dyslipidemia and/or autophagy dysfunction, etc., said medicinal composition comprising polyrotaxane that carries bulky substituents introduced, via intracellularly degradable bonds, into both ends of a linear molecule penetrating through plural cyclic molecules.

Abstract: The present invention relates to AAV vectors encoding variant capsid polypeptides that are more cationic as compared to a non-variant parent capsid polypeptide and/or another variant capsid polypeptide, and wherein the vector comprising the variant capsid polypeptide is capable of comprising a longer nucleic acid insert as compared to a vector encoding a non-variant parent capsid polypeptide and/or another variant capsid polypeptide.

Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter provides compositions and methods for the expression of CRISPR guide RNAs using the H1 promoter. In particular, compositions and methods are provided for the use of the H1 promoter to express CRISPR guide RNA (gRNA) with altered specificity of the 5? nucleotide, as well as use of the H1 promoter sequence as a bidirectional promoter to express Cas9 nuclease and the gRNA simultaneously. Compositions and methods are also provided for the expression and regulation of gRNA expression in vivo through the use of RNA ribozymes and regulatable aptazymes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a compound or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof having a chemical structure comprising: (A) at least one motif specifically binding to cell membranes of neoplastic cells; (B) at least one chelator moiety of radiometals; and (C) at least one dye moiety; wherein said compound has a molecular weight of not more than 5 kDa. Further, the invention refers to a method for producing such compound and to the in vivo and in vitro uses thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-specific binding protein, wherein the PSMA-specific binding protein is a lipocalin 2 (Lcn2)-derived binding protein and binds to PSMA with a KD of 10 nM or lower. The present invention also relates to a nucleic acid molecule encoding the PSMA-specific binding protein of the invention, a vector comprising said nucleic acid molecule of the invention and a host cell transformed with the vector. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method of producing the PSMA-specific binding protein of the invention, the method comprising culturing the host cell of the invention under suitable conditions and isolating the PSMA-specific binding protein produced. The present invention further relates to a protein conjugate comprising the PSMA-specific binding protein of the invention, or the PSMA-specific binding protein produced by the method of the invention.

Abstract: Cellular targets on cancer cells have been identified that can be used with targeted molecular imaging to detect the cancer cells in vivo. Non-invasive methods for detecting cancer cells, such as metastasized cancer cells, are therefore provided. Also provided are compositions and kits for use in the disclosed methods.

Abstract: Provided herein are compositions Gd(III)-dithiolane gold nanoparticle conjugates and methods of use thereof. In particular, compositions and method find use in in vivo imaging (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)), for example, of pancreatic tissue.

Abstract: We have developed a model system of HIV reservoirs in neural cells by generating chimeric phosphorothioate-modified oligodeoxynucleotides (sODN) that specifically interact with neural cell DNA or RNA, and that further comprise a sequence of the HIV genome. In particular, we have conjugated the chimera sODN to a delivery vehicle (e.g. a superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (SPIO)) and have demonstrated specific delivery to neural cells, in vitro and in vivo. These model systems can be used to screen for agents that specifically target latent viral infection. In particular, using the model system, we have developed suicide MRI contrast agents that can be used to reduce the number of neural cells which harbor the virus, also provided herein. Our model system is translatable to other latent viruses as well.

Abstract: Provided herein are novel polypeptides comprising fibronectin type III tenth (10Fn3) domains which specifically bind to Programmed Death Ligand-1 (PD-L1), as well as imaging agents based on the same for diagnostics.

Abstract: A system for manufacturing radionuclide generators including an enclosure defining a radioactive environment, at least one autoclave sterilizer within the enclosure, and at least two loading and unloading elevators. The enclosure includes radiation shielding to prevent radiation within the radioactive environment from moving to an exterior of the enclosure. Each autoclave sterilizer includes a plurality of sterilization stations arranged vertically and at least two autoclave rails. One loading and unloading elevator is configured to load a cart into the autoclave sterilizer and one loading and unloading elevator is configured to unload the cart from the autoclave sterilizer. Each loading and unloading elevator includes at least two cart rails configured to support the cart and a plurality of loading elevator rails coupled to the cart rails. The loading elevator rails are configured to adjust the height of the cart rails.

Abstract: Sanitizing surfaces in a location related to aircraft. There are multiple rows of seats. A sanitization device includes a mobile body configured to travel along the aisle of the aircraft. An arm extends from the sanitization device laterally from the mobile body across the seats, and a source of UV radiation mounted on the sanitization device is directed across the seats exposing surfaces in the passenger area to UV radiation.

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: A hemostatic textile comprising glass fibers circular knit with bamboo-sourced rayon fibers in a tubular fashion. The knitted textile is scoured and dried to shrink the bamboo-sourced rayon relative to the glass fibers and to orient the glass fibers exteriorly of the bamboo-sourced rayon fibers such that when the hemostatic textile is administered to a wound, the glass fibers are the first to come in contact with any wound fluid, for example blood. This orientation aids in the activation of the hemostatic response which leads to faster clot times and improved overall wound-healing. A method of manufacturing and utilizing the hemostatic textile is also provided.

Abstract: Provided is a water absorbent resin that is useful to sanitary materials such as a disposable diaper, a sanitary napkin, and a blood absorbent for medical use each having a higher liquid permeability and a higher water absorbing speed. Further provided is a water absorbent resin powder that is useful to sanitary materials such as a disposable diaper, a sanitary napkin, and a blood absorbent for medical use each having increased in absorbency of a liquid and in heat retaining property. A gel grinding device to be used to produce a water absorbent resin, includes: a screw; a feed opening; an extrusion opening; a porous plate; and a barrel, the barrel including a return preventing member provided on an inner surface thereof, and the return preventing member satisfying at least one of specific parameters.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical compositions comprising embolic particles, that optionally comprise pharmaceutical actives, in oil or emulsion formulations that are useful in therapeutic embolization procedures, particularly for the treatment of vascularised neoplasias, such as liver carcinomas.

Abstract: A hollow fiber membrane bundle configured to be used in an artificial lung and comprised of integrated hollow fiber membranes 31 has hollow portions through which a fluid passes. The hollow fiber membrane bundle is shaped as a cylinder body. In addition, the hollow fiber membrane 31 is tilted with respect to a central axis O of the cylinder body, is wound around the central axis O of the cylinder body, and satisfies the following conditions. An inner diameter ?d1 of the hollow fiber membrane 31 is equal to or smaller than 150 ?m, a tilt angle ? with respect to the central axis O of the cylinder body of the hollow fiber membrane 31 is equal to or smaller than 60°, and a ratio ?D1/L of an outer diameter ?D1 of the cylinder body to a length L of the cylinder body is equal to or greater than 0.4.

Abstract: A method for preparing placenta membrane tissue grafts for medical use, includes obtaining a placenta from a subject, cleaning the placenta, separating the chorion tissue from the amniotic membrane, mounting a selected layer of either the chorion tissue or the amniotic membrane onto a drying fixture, dehydrating the selected layer on the drying fixture, and cutting the selected layer into a plurality of tissue grafts. Preferably, the drying fixture includes grooves or raised edges that define the outer contours of each desired tissue graft, after they are cut, and further includes raised or indented logos that emboss the middle area of the tissue grafts during dehydration and that enables an end user to distinguish the top from the bottom side of the graft. The grafts are comprised of single layers of amnion or chorion, multiple layers of amnion or chorion, or multiple layers of a combination of amnion and chorion.

Abstract: The invention provides tissue repair compositions and methods of making the tissue repair compositions. Also featured are methods of treatment using the tissue repair compositions and articles of manufacture that include the tissue repair compositions.

Abstract: The invention describes methods for producing a biphasic nanocomposite scaffold comprising custom polymer-based core-shelled nanospheres by the physical and chemical attachment of two disparate polymeric materials whose composition can be readily modified with tissue-specific nanomaterials and products created using such methods. The custom nanospheres are constructed via co-axial wet electrospraying and can be employed to deliver compounds to the polymeric materials.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an article fabrication system having a plurality of material deposition tools containing one or more materials useful in fabricating the article, and a material deposition device having a tool interface for receiving one of the material deposition tools. A system controller is operably connected to the material deposition device to control operation of the material deposition device. Also disclosed is a method of fabricating an article using the system of the invention and a method of fabricating a living three-dimensional structure.

Abstract: An antibiotic-eluting article for implantation into a mammalian subject, produced by an additive manufacturing process wherein a polymeric material is concurrently deposited with a selected antibiotic. The additive manufacturing process may be a selective laser sintering process or a selective laser melting process or a selective heat sintering process or an electron beam melting process. The antibiotic-eluting article may be temporary or permanent orthopedic skeletal component, an orthopedic articulating joint replacement component, and/or an external hard-shell casing for an implantable device. One or more bone-growth-promoting compositions may be concurrently deposited with the polymeric material. The implantable device may be a cardiac pacemaker, a spinal cord stimulator, a neurostimulation system, an intrathecal drug pump for delivery of medicants into the spinal fluid, and infusion pump for delivery of chemotherapeutics and/or anti-spasmodics, an insulin pump, an osmotic pump, and a heparin pump.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a peptide having the ability to bind specifically to the surface of titanium. The titanium-binding peptide according to the present invention is fixed securely to the titanium surface so that the activity of a physiologically active substance linked to the peptide can be stably maintained over a long period of time. Thus, the peptide can be effectively used for surgical regeneration therapy.

Abstract: A method and device for isolating tissue cells from a liquid is provided for integrating a mixture of the tissue cells and the liquid into a vacuum stream and isolating again from the vacuum stream in a tissue collection container (13). The tissue cells are filtered out of the mixture by means of gravity and the remaining liquid is re-integrated into the vacuum stream. In order to further develop said method and device to improve the care of the tissue cells and to reduce the filtration time, the vacuum stream that is isolated from the mixture inside the tissue collection container (13) is temporarily interrupted in order to generate a pressure that also acts on the mixture. In terms of the device, the connection between the lower collection chamber (23) for the liquid and the upper vacuum chamber (25) is formed by a blockable bypass line (27).