Abstract: Prostacyclin compounds and compositions comprising the same are provided herein. Specifically, prostacyclin compounds comprising treprostinil covalently linked to a linear C5-C18 alkyl, branched C5-C18 alkyl, linear C2-C18 alkenyl, branched C3-C18 alkenyl, aryl, aryl-C1-C18 alkyl or an amino acid or a peptide (e.g., dipeptide, tripeptide, tetrapeptide) are described. The linkage, in one embodiment, is via a carbamate, amide or ester bond. Prostacyclin compounds provided herein can also include at least one hydrogen atom substituted with at least one deuterium atom. Methods for treating pulmonary hypertension (e.g., pulmonary arterial hypertension) and portopulmonary hypertension are also provided.

Abstract: Prostacyclin compounds and compositions comprising the same are provided herein. Specifically, prostacyclin compounds comprising treprostinil covalently linked to a linear C5-C18 alkyl, branched C5-C18 alkyl, linear C2-C18 alkenyl, branched C3-C18 alkenyl, aryl, aryl-C1-C18 alkyl or an amino acid or a peptide (e.g., dipeptide, tripeptide, tetrapeptide) are described. The linkage, in one embodiment, is via a carbamate, amide or ester bond. Prostacyclin compounds provided herein can also include at least one hydrogen atom substituted with at least one deuterium atom. Methods for treating pulmonary hypertension (e.g., pulmonary arterial hypertension) and portopulmonary hypertension are also provided.

Abstract: This invention pertains generally to prostacyclin formulations and methods for their use in promoting vasodilation, inhibiting platelet aggregation and thrombus formation, stimulating thrombolysis, inhibiting cell proliferation (including vascular remodeling), providing cytoprotection, preventing atherogenesis and inducing angiogenesis.

Abstract: A medicament carrier composition includes a medicament and a polymer component including a polyvinylpyrrolidone having a weight average molecular weight of at least 700,000 g/mol. The medicament carrier composition has a viscosity of from 500 to 5,000 cps at 250 C, is substantially free of cellulose, and includes an auxiliary polymer. The medicament carrier composition is used to form a film that is also substantially free of cellulose. The film has a consistent thickness and size, and an increased flexibility and increased moisture resistance due to the polyvinylpyrrolidone. The medicament carrier composition is also used in a method of forming the film. The method includes the steps of providing the medicament and the polymer component. The method also includes the step of combining the polymer component and the medicament to form the medicament carrier composition. The method further includes the step of drying the medicament carrier composition to form the film.

Abstract: There is provided a complex comprising rifaximin and a complexing agent, wherein the complexing agent is a polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) or a cyclodextrin. There is also provided a process for preparing the complex, a pharmaceutical composition including the complex and therapeutic uses of the complex.

Abstract: The present invention provides, among other things, polymeric reagents suitable for reaction with biologically active agents to form conjugates, the polymeric reagents comprising one or more polymer chains and a plurality of hydroxyapatite-targeting moieties, and optionally the reagents include one or more degradable linkages that serve to divide the polymer chains into polymer segments having a molecular weight suitable for renal clearance.

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 invention relates to a method for preventing the crystallization of a pharmaceutical in a polymer film, wherein the solvent-containing coating compound, which comprises a matrix-forming polymer or polymer mixture and at least one pharmaceutical and is spread to produce the polymer film, is temporarily dried at temperatures that is at least 10° C. above the melting temperature of the pharmaceutical contained in the coating compound. The maximum temperature is thus higher than that which is required for mere drying and obviates the need for an additional, time-consuming and expensive work step.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods and compositions relating to the attachment of water soluble polymers to proteins. Provided are novel methods for N-terminally modifying proteins or analogs thereof, and resultant compositions, including novel N-terminally chemically modified G-CSF compositions and related methods of preparation. Also provided is chemically modified consensus interferon.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical aerosol composition comprising at least one hydrofluoroalkane propellant; at least one active agent complexed with an adjuvant; and, optionally, at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition is provided comprising a therapeutically effective amount of pterostilbene, a therapeutically effective amount of a polyphenolic-PVP extract of grape juice, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The embodiments of the pharmaceutical compositions can have lipid lowering properties, or alternatively can have properties that can treat oxidative stress, by decreasing inflammation or inflammatory processes contributing to neurodegenerative diseases. A method of lowering lipid levels in an individual is also provided, comprising administering to the individual in need of such treatment a pharmaceutical composition including a therapeutically effective amount of pterostilbene, a therapeutically effective amount of a polyphenolic-PVP extract of grape juice, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, wherein lipid levels are decreased.

Abstract: Polymeric nanoparticles with a hydrophobic core and a hydrophilic shell are formed from: 1) N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAM), at a molar ratio of about 50% to about 90%, and preferably 60% for specific delivery routes such as oral or parenteral; either water-soluble vinyl derivatives like vinylpryolidone (VP) or vinyl acetate (VA), or water insoluble vinyl derivaties like methyl methacrylate (MMA) or styrene (ST), at a molar ratio of about 10% to about 30%; and acrylic acid (AA), at a molar ration of about 10% to about 30%.

Abstract: The present invention relates to siRNA hydrogel and a method for manufacturing the same, and more particularly, to siRNA hydrogel for targeted gene silencing, which is nano-structured for targeted gene silencing, and a method for manufacturing the same.

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: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a composition having antimicrobial activity comprising particles comprising at least one inorganic copper salt; and at least one functionalizing agent in contact with the particles, the functionalizing agent stabilizing the particle in a carrier such that an antimicrobially effective amount of ions are released into the environment of a microbe. The average size of the particles ranges from about 1000 nm to about 4 nm. Preferred copper salts include copper iodide, copper bromide and copper chloride. Preferred functionalizing agents include amino acids, thiols, hydrophilic polymers emulsions of hydrophobic polymers and surfactants.

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: An antimicrobial skin composition comprised of an antimicrobial agent, an alcohol, one or more pH sensitive viscosity builders and water. Preferably, the viscosity builders of the present invention are comprised of pH sensitive methacrylic polymers which are alcohol compatible and have pH controlled water solubility. The composition combines the advantages of an antimicrobial agent and an alcohol, and has a viscosity of from 100 cp to 1,000. This viscosity is sufficiently low for purposes of dispensing and applying the preparation, yet sufficiently high to cause the solution to remain in the area of the wound and not flow away or pool under the patient. The preparation further forms a water-resistant film that is difficult to remove during wound irrigation, but can be easily removed upon completion of the procedure. Finally, the preparation is fast drying so as to take advantage of the fast high initial kill properties of alcohol.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel drug formulations for oral administration for diverse medical applications including anticancer, antimetastatic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiprotozoic, antiviral, antiprionic and PDT treatments for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. In a preferred embodiment the oral drug formulation comprises a photosensitizer and suitable excipients and may be administered in multiple doses over an extended period of time with exposure to activating radiation occurring generally between individual doses or in a light-independent manner. In another preferred embodiment PDT methods for treating hyperplasia and neoplasia, for localizing hyperplasic and neoplasic tissues and pathogen bacteria by fluorescence, for treating infections caused by pathogen bacteria in complex body fluids and for fat reduction, skin disorders and vascular diseases are provided.

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

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: There is provided a complex comprising rifaximin and a complexing agent, wherein the complexing agent is a polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) or a cyclodextrin. There is also provided a process for preparing the complex, a pharmaceutical composition including the complex, and therapeutic uses of the complex.

Abstract: The present invention provides tiotropium bromide having a low degree of crystallinity. The present invention also provides a complex of tiotropium bromide and polyvinylpyrrolidone, processes for preparing it and pharmaceutical formulations including it.

Abstract: A medical product is provided that is selected from at least one of, nasal cannulas, oxygen masks, wound dressings, bandages, band aids, catheters, endotrachial tubes, condoms, surgical and other gloves, sheaths for endoscopy probes, and medical products that physically touch the body. A coating is included with at least one of, a non-antibiotic, antimicrobial and/or antiviral substance that prevents further local, non-systemic, colonization of infections.

Abstract: There is provided a non-water soluble drug delivery composition comprising a conjugate and a polymer matrix wherein exposure of the composition to electromagnetic radiation at a suitable pre-determined wavelength and intensity induces release of the active ingredient from the composition. The conjugate is attached to the polymer matrix through non-covalent interactions. There is also provided a drug delivery apparatus formed from the drug delivery composition.

Abstract: Antiseptic compositions and kits containing a source of silver ions and menthol, which act in synergy such that a concentration of silver ions in the composition is substantially reduced, are disclosed. Further disclosed are uses of the antiseptic compositions as disinfectants and in the treatment of wounds.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for diagnosis and treatment of ALS are provided.

Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter provides nanoscale coordination polymers for use as anticancer agents and as dual anticancer/imaging agents. The nanoscale coordination polymers can comprise a plurality of platinum metal complexes; nonplatinum anticancer drug bridging ligands complexed to multiple metal centers; or combinations thereof. The nanoscale coordination polymers can be targeted for delivery to cancer cells. They can also comprise stabilizing agents to allow for controlled and/or sustained release of anticancer agents in vivo.

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: An aromatic hydrocarbon solution of a fullerene or a fullerene mixture is mixed with an ethanol solution of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), water is added to the mixed solution, the solvent is removed and then an aqueous solution of a complex of a fullerene or a fullerene mixture with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) is obtained. Under a condition free from a halogen, a PVP/fullerene complex excellent in manifestation of fullerene properties, stability and safety and an aqueous solution thereof are obtained.

Abstract: Stable, viscous, mucoadhesive aqueous compositions which are useful for the prevention and treatment of ulcerative, inflammatory, and/or erosive disorders of mucous membranes and/or the delivery of pharmaceutically active compounds to mucosal surfaces for topical treatment or transfer to the systemic circulation.

Abstract: Stable, viscous, mucoadhesive aqueous compositions which are useful for the prevention and treatment of ulcerative, inflammatory, and/or erosive disorders of mucous membranes, especially mucositis.

Abstract: Disclosed in certain embodiments is a method of treating infections of an interior part of the human or animal body, comprising administering to said interior body part, a pharmaceutical preparation comprising a particulate carrier and an effective amount of an agent selected from the group consisting of an antiseptic agent, a wound-healing promoting agent and a combination thereof, to treat an infection at said interior body part.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of at least one copolymer obtainable by (i) free-radically initiated copolymerization of a monomer mixture comprising (a) 1 to 99.99% by weight of at least one monomer chosen from N-vinylimidazoles and diallylamines optionally in partially or completely quaternized form; (b) 0 to 98.99% by weight of at least one neutral or basic water-soluble monomer which is different form (a); (c) 0 to 50% by weight of at least one unsaturated acid or unsaturated anhydride, (d) 0 to 50% by weight of at least one free-radically copolymerizable monomer which is different from (a), (b) or (c); and (e) 0.01 to 10% by weight of at least one monomer which acts as crosslinker and has at least two ethylenically unsaturated, nonconjugated double bonds; and (ii) subsequent partial or complete quaternization or protonation of the polymer in the case where the monomer (a) is unquaternized or only partially quaternized, as additive for skin cosmetic and dermatological preparations.

Abstract: An insecticidal fertilizer composition is prepared by contacting a solid fertilizer with a solution of a nicotinyl insecticide. The nicotinyl insecticide solution can be imidacloprid in a solvent, such as dimethyl sulfoxide, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone or N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone, and mixtures thereof. The solution contains at least about 10 wt % of the insecticide in solution to attain a solid, particulate fertilizer containing at least about 0.1 wt % of the insecticide.

Abstract: AnB block copolymers, wherein n is at least two, that include A blocks with poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) units and B blocks with urethane groups, urea groups, imide groups, amide groups, ether groups, ester groups, or combinations thereof, as well as medical devices and methods.

Abstract: Methods of producing an intraocular lens in vivo comprise preparing a composition of discrete water soluble macromolecular particles, mixing the composition with a water soluble photoinitiator and forming an opthalmically acceptable aqueous solution having a refractive index of at least 1.39, injecting the resulting aqueous solution into the capsular bag of an eye, and initiating crosslinking between the macromolecular particles by irradiation of a wavelength in the range of about 380 to 700 nm to create a lens in the capsular bag.

Abstract: Methods are described for the identification and preparation of high-affinity nucleic acid ligands to TGF&bgr;2. Included in the invention are specific RNA ligands to TGF&bgr;2 identified by the SELEX method. Also included are RNA ligands that inhibit the interaction of TGF&bgr;2 with its receptor.

Abstract: Methods, devices, kits and compositions to treat a myocardial infarction. In one embodiment, the method includes the prevention of remodeling of the infarct zone of the ventricle. In other embodiments, the method includes the introduction of structurally reinforcing agents. In other embodiments, agents are introduced into a ventricle to increase compliance of the ventricle. In an alternative embodiment, the prevention of remodeling includes the prevention of thinning of the ventricular infarct zone. In another embodiment, the prevention of remodeling and thinning of the infarct zone involves the cross-linking of collagen and prevention of collagen slipping. In other embodiments, the structurally reinforcing agent may be accompanied by other therapeutic agents. These agents may include but are not limited to pro-fibroblastic and angiogenic agents.

Abstract: An antimicrobial skin composition comprised of an antimicrobial agent, an alcohol, one or more pH sensitive viscosity builders and water. Preferably, the viscosity builders of the present invention are comprised of pH sensitive methacrylic polymers which are alcohol compatible and have pH controlled water solubility. The composition combines the advantages of an antimicrobial agent and an alcohol, and has a viscosity of from 100 cp to 1,000. This viscosity is sufficiently low for purposes of dispensing and applying the preparation, yet sufficiently high to cause the solution to remain in the area of the wound and not flow away or pool under the patient. The preparation further forms a water-resistant film that is difficult to remove during wound irrigation, but can be easily removed upon completion of the procedure. Finally, the preparation is fast drying so as to take advantage of the fast high initial kill properties of alcohol.

Abstract: AnB block copolymers, wherein n is at least two, that include A blocks with poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) units and B blocks with urethane groups, urea groups, imide groups, amide groups, ether groups, ester groups, or combinations thereof, as well as medical devices and methods.

Abstract: The present invention provides an ink composition for use in ink jet printing on food items, candy, particularly dark candy, such as chocolate, and to a method of forming printed images on such food items by use of the ink compositions. The compositions of the present invention comprise a pigment, a binder, and an aqueous carrier.

Abstract: A dental bleach using a bleaching agent and a polyvinylpyrrolidone thickening agent is disclosed. The bleach may include water, flavoring agents, a basic substance and desensitizing agents, as desired. Polyvinylpyrrolidone avoids acid etching and chelation of teeth that were problematic in bleaches using carbomer as a thickener.

Abstract: This invention relates to a non-leachable, oil based carrier derived from the anhydrous free radical solution polymerization of a water insoluble acrylate and/or acrylamide monomer in an oil medium for use in long lasting skin lubricating formulations.

Abstract: The invention discloses materials that adsorb readily to the surfaces of body tissues in situ and provide a steric barrier between such tissues, so that tissue adhesions, which typically form following surgical procedures, are minimized. These materials contain a polymer of hydrophilic molecules such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) bound to a polymer that spontaneously adsorbs to biological tissue such as phenylboronic acid (PBA). The PEG-PBA co-polymer can be formed in a variety of geometries. The materials can also be used to coat prosthetics and other implants.

Abstract: The invention provided relates to the use of polyvinylpyrrolidone-iodine complexes in combination with gelling agents to produce strong disinfectants which not only physically stabilize biohazardous and infectious wastes but also kill pathogens contained in the wastes. The gelling agents include polyacyrlates that are superabsorbents.

Abstract: A method for producing an intraocular lens, comprising the steps of injecting a high-refractive index, low viscosity composition of crosslinkable units into an enclosure and initiating polymerization under pressure to create a synthetic polymer lens. The method is especially suitable for producing an intraocular lens directly in the capsular bag of the eye from an injected aqueous solution of macromolecular particles, which can undergo a crosslinking reaction to a solid lens when exposed to light.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition containing a cancer-treating effective amount of a prostaglandin compound and analogs thereof having a metabolic rate slowing group attached thereto, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, and methods of employing the same for the treatment of cancer.

Abstract: Biocompatible crosslinked polymers, and methods for their preparation and use, are disclosed in which the biocompatible crosslinked polymers are formed from water soluble precursors having electrophilic and nucleophilic groups capable of reacting and crosslinking in situ. Methods for making the resulting biocompatible crosslinked polymers biodegradable or not are provided, as are methods for controlling the rate of degradation. The crosslinking reactions may be carried out in situ on organs or tissues or outside the body. Applications for such biocompatible crosslinked polymers and their precursors include controlled delivery of drugs, prevention of post-operative adhesions, coating of medical devices such as vascular grafts, wound dressings and surgical sealants.

Abstract: The present invention relates to water or alcohol soluble or dispersible silicone grafted thermoplastic elastomeric copolymers and to cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions containing these copolymers. This invention especially relates to copolymers useful for hair styling purposes, and to hair styling compositions containing these copolymers. This invention further relates to copolymers useful for providing cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions for topical application to the skin. These topical skin care compositions are useful for delivering and/or transdermally transporting active ingredients to or thorugh the skin.

Abstract: This application relates to antiviral tissue paper comprising pyrrolidone carboxylic acid as an antiviral agent. When added to tissue paper pyrrolidone carboxylic acid has the ability to kill certain strains of viruses which come into contact with the tissue. In addition to its antiviral efficacy, pyrrolidone carboxylic acid tends to be mild to the skin thus mitigating the potential for skin irritation. Furthermore, upon transfer to the skin, pyrrolidone carboxylic acid assists in retention of the natural moisture of the skin while continuing to kill deleterious viruses.