Abstract: Methods and compositions for improving the delivery and/or efficacy of a therapy (e.g., a cancer therapy) are disclosed. In one embodiment, methods and compositions for treating or preventing a cancer (e.g., a solid tumor such as a desmoplastic tumor) by administering to a subject an anti-hypertensive agent, as a single agent or in combination with a microenvironment modulator and/or a therapy, e.g., a cancer therapy (for example, a therapeutic agent or therapy, including immunotherapy (e.g., antibodies, vaccine, cell-based), nanotherapeutics, radiation therapy, photodynamic therapy, low molecular weight chemotherapeutics, molecularly targeted therapeutics and/or oxygen radical) are disclosed.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a copolymer comprising at least three types of monomeric units, said three types of monomeric units comprising: a temperature-sensitive unit, a hydrophilic unit, and a hydrophobic unit comprising at least one pH-sensitive moiety; wherein said hydrophobic monomeric unit is derived from a copolymerizable unsaturated fatty acid.

Abstract: The invention aims at providing a polymeric hydrogel which is highly resistant to water washing. The aim is attained by a polymeric hydrogel comprising a polymeric matrix formed by copolymerizing a nonionic polymerizable monomer with a crosslinking monomer, characterized in that the polymeric matrix contains a wetting agent and water, at least 50 wt % of the wetting agent is constituted of a polymer prepared by polymerizing a polyhydric alcohol monomer component containing a trihydric or more alcohol monomer, and the polymer is a water-soluble one which has an average molecular weight of 150 to 4000 and satisfies the relationship: {(number of ether groups in the polymer+number of hydroxyl groups in the polymer)/number of carbon atoms present in the polymer}?1/3.

Abstract: A water-soluble photo-activatable polymer including: a photo-activatable group adapted to be activated by an irradiation source and to form a covalent bond between the water-soluble photo-activatable polymer and a matrix having at least one carbon; a reactive group adapted to covalently react with a biomaterial for subsequent delivery of the biomaterial to a cell; a hydrophilic group; and a polymer precursor. A composition including a monomolecular layer of the water-soluble photo-activatable polymer and a matrix having at least one carbon, wherein the monomolecular layer is covalently attached to the matrix by a covalent bond between the photo-activatable group and the at least one carbon. The composition further includes a biomaterial having a plurality of active groups, wherein the biomaterial is covalently attached to the monomolecular layer by covalent bonding between the active groups and reactive groups. Also provided is a method for delivery of a biomaterial to a cell.

Abstract: A biobeneficial coating composition for coating an implantable device, such as a drug eluting stent, a method of coating the device with the composition, and an implantable device coated with the composition are provided.

Abstract: The disclosure provides methods and materials suitable for preparing coating layers on substrates. The coatings comprise quaternary amine groups and therefore impart anti-bacterial properties to the substrate. In one embodiment, for example, there is provided a quaternary amine-containing polymeric coating comprising propylene and ethylene repeat units.

Abstract: A biocompatible tissue-bonding adhesive composition comprising a polyol of functionality N. The polyol being terminated has at least one polyisocyanate in solution with at least (N?1)% of the solution comprising free polyisocyanate. N may be in the range 1.5-8. The polyol may be a branched polypropylene/polyethylene oxide copolymer.

Abstract: Medical devices, wound dressings, and methods of dressing wounds are described. Devices and methods using silicone and pharmaceutically active agents are described. Devices including covers and bases are described.

Abstract: A biological coating material that includes a polymerizable polyacrylate monomer; a volatile liquid; a polymer selected from a synthetic rubber, a natural rubber, and a thermoplastic elastomer. The biological liquid coating material forms a coating or bandage in the form of a film that when applied and adhered to a surface or to the skin of a user inhibits the application surface from adhering to another surface.

Abstract: Nanocells allow the sequential delivery of two different therapeutic agents with different modes of action or different pharmacokinetics. A nanocell is formed by encapsulating a nanocore with a first agent inside a lipid vesicle containing a second agent. The agent in the outer lipid compartment is released first and may exert its effect before the agent in the nanocore is released. The nanocell delivery system may be formulated in pharmaceutical composition for delivery to patients suffering from diseases such as cancer, inflammatory diseases such as asthma, autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, infectious diseases, and neurological diseases such as epilepsy. In treating cancer, a traditional antineoplastic agent is contained in the outer lipid vesicle of the nanocell, and an antiangiogenic agent is loaded into the nanocore. This arrangement allows the antineoplastic agent to be released first and delivered to the tumor before the tumor's blood supply is cut off by the antianiogenic agent.

Abstract: Materials and Methods for the generation of polyelectrolyte multilayers that can erode to release cationic components. The multilayers comprise layers that contain one or more cations and one or more charge-dynamic anionic polymers. Charge-dynamic anionic polymers contain side chains having removable functional groups. Removal of the functional groups results in a change in the net change in the charge of the polymer which can disrupt interactions between cations and the anionic polymers and facilitate release of cations.

Abstract: A method of uncoupling mitochondria in a subject including administering nanotubes to the subject in a therapeutically effective amount, wherein the nanotubes are self-rectifying is provided. A method of decreasing reactive oxygen species and decreasing detrimental loading of Ca2+ into mitochondria is provided, including administering a pharmaceutically effective amount of nanotubes into the subject. A method of reducing weight, treating cancer, reducing the effects of traumatic brain injury, or reducing the effects of ageing, in a subject including administering a pharmaceutically effective amount of nanotubes into the subject is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides materials and methods that can serve as a prosthetic and/or, for tissue engineer applications, as a supporting matrix in the stabilization of the myocardium.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and compositions for pretargeting delivery of therapeutic agents. In preferred embodiments, the pretargeting method comprises: a) administering a bispecific antibody with a first binding site for a disease-associated antigen and a hapten on a targetable construct; b) administering a targetable construct comprising at least one therapeutic agent. In preferred embodiments, the bispecific antibody is made by the dock-and-lock (DNL) technique. In a more preferred embodiment, the targetable construct comprises one or more SN-38 moieties.

Abstract: The present invention relates to organic polymeric photon up-conversion nanoparticles for biological applications, such as labeling and/or detection of cells, biological (macro-) molecules or other analytes, as well as for sensing temperature, pressure, oxygen and other substances that influence the up-conversion process. It further relates to organic photon up-conversion nanoparticles for singlet oxygen generation and the treatment of diseases, such as cancer.

Abstract: A composition comprising an alloplastic injectable suspension for use as a dermal filler comprising a biocompatible and pliable material and a physiologically acceptable suspending agent is provided. A method of making a composition comprising an alloplastic injectable suspension for use as a dermal filler comprising a biocompatible and pliable material and a physiologically acceptable suspending agent, said method comprising admixing a biocompatible and pliable material with a physiologically acceptable suspending agent, is also provided. A method of augmenting soft tissue to provide long-term reduction of a skin defect, said method comprising stimulating collagen beneath the skin defect is further provided.

Abstract: A biobeneficial coating composition for coating an implantable device, such as a drug eluting stent, a method of coating the device with the composition, and an implantable device coated with the composition are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a polymeric nanoparticle comprising a medium for photon up-conversion, and to a method of producing such polymeric nanoparticle.

Abstract: Cationic polymers hydrolyzable to zwitterionic polymers, monomers for making the cationic polymers, surfaces that include the polymers, therapeutic agent delivery systems that include the cationic polymers, methods for administering a therapeutic agent using the delivery systems, and methods for making and using the cationic polymers, monomers, surfaces, and therapeutic agent delivery systems.

Abstract: A novel process of manufacturing sevelamer carbonate from a polyallylamine carbonate or bicarbonate chloride salt. Process for manufacture of carbonate and/or bicarbonate salts of water insoluble polymers containing amino groups that are useful as anion binders in the gastrointestinal (GI) system. The process arranges the polyallylamine chain in a solution in such a way that the cross-linking reaction with epichlorohydrin can be controlled at a desired reaction rate.

Abstract: The present invention concerns nanoparticles, compositions comprising the nanoparticles, methods for their production, and methods of using the nanoparticles for the delivery of biologically active agents (e.g., antibiotics or other drugs) to human or non-human subjects. In one embodiment, the nanoparticle is a “surfactant-free” nanoparticle in which the surfactant moiety is covalently attached to the backbone of the polymer.

Abstract: An implantable device including a conjugate formed of an acrylamide-based copolymer and a bioactive agent is provided.

Abstract: Isolatable, hydroxyapatite-targeting polymeric structures, and biologically active conjugates thereof, are provided. The polymeric structure includes a linear or branched water-soluble and non-peptidic polymer backbone, such as a PEG backbone, having at least two termini, a first terminus being covalently bonded to a hydroxyapatite-targeting moiety, such as a bisphosphonate, and a second terminus covalently bonded to a chemically reactive group, wherein said chemically reactive group is protected or unprotected. Methods of preparing and using hydroxyapatite-targeting polymeric structures, and biologically active conjugates thereof, are also provided.

Abstract: The subject of the invention is the use of cationically modified polysaccharides, except for chitosan, for direct neutralization of heparin in blood and physiological fluids in a mammal. Cationic modification of the polysaccharides is achieved using compound containing cationic ammonium groups and/or the polysaccharides are grafted with a polymer containing amine and/or ammonium groups.

Abstract: A temporary embolic material for blood vessel which can embolize a blood vessel in a living body and is used for the temporary embolization of the blood stream. More specifically, disclosed is an embolus-forming material comprising a specific PVA particle which can be used for the closure of the inner lumen of a blood vessel by the PVA particle to embolize the blood stream, which can ultimately be absorbed in the living body, which can be excreted out of the body and which does not remain in the body. A pearl-like polyvinyl alcohol particle for use as a temporary embolic material, the particle having a saponification degree of 90 mol % or higher and an average particle diameter of 70 to 1000 ?m; and a temporary embolic material comprising the particle mixed or dissolved therein.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention relates to a hydrogel comprising a polymer comprising a plurality of pendent hydroxyl groups, a crosslinker, and a sclerosing agent. Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for reducing lung volume in a patient comprising the steps of advancing into a region of a patient's lung via said patient's trachea a multi-lumen catheter lumen through a bronchoscope; and co-administering, through the multi-lumen catheter, a first mixture comprising a first amount of a polymer containing a plurality of pendent hydroxyl groups; a second mixture comprising a second amount of a crosslinker; and a third mixture comprising a third amount of a sclerosing agent; thereby forming a hydrogel in said region. In certain embodiments, the compositions and methods described herein are intended for use in the treatment of patients with emphysema of the lung.

Abstract: Viscoelastic compositions capable of preventing microbial proliferation and capable of capturing microbrial membrane and cell wall decomposition products are provided, the compositions including reaction products of drying oils and semi-drying oils and methacrylate polymers. The compositions are capable of absorption or incorporation of lipopolysaccharide and protein membrane materials and endotoxins.

Abstract: This invention relates to microgel compositions, and in particular, to gel compositions formed by binding a plurality of individual microgel particles together. The present invention also relates to processes for the preparation of these compositions and their use for particular applications, especially medical applications such as the repair of damaged, degenerated or inappropriately formed load-bearing tissue (such as, for example, intervertebral discs).

Abstract: According to an aspect of the invention, injectable bulking compositions are provided which contain the following: (a) fibers that are configured to prevent migration to locations in the body remote from the injection site, for example, because they have a minimum length that is sufficiently large to prevent migration of the fibers and/or because they have surface features that stimulate host tissue response to lock the fibers in position and (b) a carrier in an amount effective to render the composition injectable.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel compositions of therapeutic cyclodextrin containing polymeric compounds designed as a carrier for small molecule therapeutics delivery and pharmaceutical compositions thereof. These cyclodextrin-containing polymers improve drug stability and solubility, and reduce toxicity of the small molecule therapeutic when used in vivo. Furthermore, by selecting from a variety of linker groups and targeting ligands the polymers present methods for controlled delivery of the therapeutic agents. The invention also relates to methods of treating subjects with the therapeutic compositions described herein. The invention further relates to methods for conducting pharmaceutical business comprising manufacturing, licensing, or distributing kits containing or relating to the polymeric compounds described herein.

Abstract: Provided herein are compositions and methods for preventing and treating diseases and risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome by targeting the RGD-binding site of selected intra- and extracellular proteins. Exemplary compositions include RGD-polyphenol conjugates via an ester linkage; polyphenol polymer conjugated to RGD analogs or mimetics; and RGD polymer conjugates linked to polyphenol.

Abstract: Cationic polymers hydrolyzable to zwitterionic polymers, monomers for making the cationic polymers, surfaces that include the polymers, therapeutic agent delivery systems that include the cationic polymers, methods for administering a therapeutic agent using the delivery systems, and methods for making and using the cationic polymers, monomers, surfaces, and therapeutic agent delivery systems.

Abstract: The invention provides peptides that are chemically modified by covalent attachment of a water soluble oligomer. A conjugate of the invention, when administered by any of a number of administration routes, exhibits characteristics that are different from the characteristics of the peptide not attached to the water soluble oligomer.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for detecting, diagnosing, and treating osteolysis and implant loosening are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to certain DPP-4 inhibitors for treating and/or preventing oxidative stress, vascular stress and/or endothelial dysfunction as well as to the use of such DPP-4 inhibitors in treatment and/or prevention of diabetic or non-diabetic patients, including patient groups at risk of cardiovascular and/or renal disease.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a biocomposite useful in artificial tissue replacement, methods for its production, and methods of use. The biocomposite can be implanted into humans or animals as an artificial tissue for treatment of a tissue defect. The biocomposite can be formed or manipulated into a desired shape for implantation.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an aqueous ink jet ink comprising an ink vehicle and an aqueous dispersion, wherein the aqueous dispersion comprises a solid particle and a polymeric dispersant that has been crosslinked, wherein the polymeric dispersant is a block copolymer comprising an A block and a B block, wherein the A block is a segment having a block size of about 5 to about 18 units, and comprises at least 50% by weight of a monomer, having the following structure: CH2?CRC(O)O(CHR1CH2O)nR2; wherein R and R1 are H, or methyl; R2 is alkyl of 1-4 carbon atoms or phenyl; and n is about 1 about 20; and the B block is a segment comprising an ionic monomer and at least one hydrophobic monomer; and wherein the dispersant comprises a crosslinkable moiety; wherein the crosslinkable moiety is crosslinked with a crosslinking agent selected from the group consisting of epoxide, carbodiimide, oxazoline, isocyanate, and silane; and wherein the aqueous dispersion has a pH of at least about 8.0.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a polymeric material comprising a conductive polymer substantially homogeneously distributed within a hydrogel. Also disclosed are methods for making the polymeric material and uses for the polymeric material.

Abstract: Cellulose support containing mannose derivatives able to fix type 1 piliated bacteria, application to disinfecting wipes especially. Support intended to bind type 1 piliated bacteria comprising cellulose fibers and/or regenerated cellulose fibers onto which mannose derivative is fixed characterized in that the mannose derivative is present in the form of copolymer obtained by copolymerization of: —a monomer derivative of alkenyl ?-D-mannopyranoside modified with a function capable of reacting with an acrylamid monomer, —a cationic monomer —an acrylamid monomer.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to amphiphilic compounds, self assembling compositions formed from the amphiphilic compounds and methods of making such compositions.

Abstract: A dimer comprising a mutated neublastin polypeptide coupled to a polymer is disclosed. Such dimers exhibit prolonged bioavailability and, in preferred embodiments, prolonged biological activity relative to wild-type forms of neublastin.

Abstract: A method for bonding a polymeric fiber to tissue is provided which includes providing a polymeric fiber having a plurality of tissue reactive members linked to a surface of the fiber via a specific binding pair, and contacting the polymeric fiber to biological tissue, to covalently bond the fiber to the tissue.

Abstract: An implantable device including conjugate formed of an acrylamide-based copolymer and a bioactive agent is provided.

Abstract: An antimicrobial hydroalcoholic composition comprising hydroalcoholic solvent system comprising a lower alcohol and water in a weight ratio of at least about 50:50; a thickener system comprising at least one cationic or nonionic polymeric thickener that is solid at ambient temperature; and a secondary antimicrobial agent.

Abstract: A hydrogel system comprising polymer-conjugated albumin molecules is provided for controlled release delivery of therapeutic agents. The polymer is a functionalized synthetic polymer, preferably PEG-diacrylate. The polymer-conjugated albumin is preferably mono-PEGylated albumin. The hydrogel system may comprise a matrix to which the polymer-conjugated albumin molecules are linked via a functional group of the polymer. The matrix may be formed from the same polymer of the polymer-albumin conjugate.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to membrane active polymers useful for cellular delivery of compounds. Described are polyconjugates systems that incorporate targeting, anti-opsonization, anti-aggregation, and transfection activities into small biocompatible in vivo delivery conjugates. The use of reversible modification provides for physiologically responsive activity modulation.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a biocompatible composite and method for its use in repairing tissue defects, including defects in cartilage. The biocompatible composite includes a fibrous polymeric component and a polymerizable agent, which is capable of forming the biocompatible composite in situ at the site of a tissue defect. In embodiments, the repair site at which the biocompatible composite is to be applied may be treated with a priming agent, permitting polymerization of the polymerizable agent to the tissue located at the repair site.

Abstract: Poly(ethylene glycol) carbamate derivatives useful as water-soluble pro-drugs are disclosed. These degradable poly(ethylene glycol) carbamate derivatives also have potential applications in controlled hydrolytic degradation of hydrogels. In such degradable hydrogels, drugs may be either trapped in the gel and released by diffusion as the gel degrades, or they may be covalently bound through hydrolyzable carbamate linkages. Hydrolysis of these carbamate linkages releases the amine drug at a controllable rate as the gel degrades.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a class of membrane active polymers useful for cellular delivery of compounds. Conjugation of the described membrane active polymers to targeting, anti-opsonization, and anti-aggregation agents provides polymers suitable for in vivo delivery. The use of multiple reversible linkages connecting component parts provides for physiologically responsive activity modulation.

Abstract: The invention provides a multi-arm block copolymer for use in delivering a variety of bioactive agents. The copolymer of the invention contains a central core from which extend multiple (3 or more) copolymer arms. Each copolymer arm possesses an inner polypeptide segment and an outer hydrophilic polymer segment. Thus, the overall structure of the copolymer comprises an inner core region that includes the central core and the inner polypeptide segment, while the outer core region is hydrophilic in nature. The multi-arm copolymer of the invention is particularly useful for delivery of biologically active agents that can be entrapped within the inner core region.