Abstract: This invention relates to a method of therapeutic or prophylactic treatment of periodontal disease comprising administering to a subject in need thereof epicatechin and/or catechin and/or a polymeric compound of formula An. Also disclosed and claimed is an article of manufacture comprising the above compounds packaged within a container with instructions for use thereof.

Abstract: Visible light-activated polymer cosmetic filler preparations useful in a variety of applications are provided. In some embodiments, the photo-activated polymer composition comprises a conventional polymeric material, such as HA, together with a modified, cross-linkable polymer, such as PEG or PEODA, to permit the formation of crosslinks within the polymer matrix in situ on exposure to a visible light source, such as an IPL device. The preparations provide for a more stabilized composition that is contourable during gelation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for obtaining the molybdopterin derivative precursor Z, wherein an over-production of precursor Z occurs in host organisms by recombinant expression of precursor Z synthesizing proteins. The invention further relates to the use of precursor Z for the production of a means for the therapy of human molybdenum cofactor deficiency and associated diseases, which may be directly or indirectly attributed to an altered molybdenum cofactor synthesis, whereby precursor Z is used as essential component of said therapy means.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for incorporation of a biomolecule into a cell including the method steps: i) production of a complex from a biomolecule, preferably a nucleic acid and a polymer which may be obtained by reaction of an amine monomer having at least two amine groups with an epoxide monomer having at least two epoxide groups and ii) incorporation of the biomolecule into a cell bx bringing the cell into contact with the complex. The invention further relates to the transformed cell obtained by said method, the use of a particular polymer for incorporation of a biomolecule into a cell, a kit for incorporation of a biomolecule into a cell, the use of said kit, a complex made from a biomolecule and a polymer, a therapeutic composition, the use of a complex of a biomolecule and a polymer for therapeutic treatment of the human or animal being and a method for treatment of a disease by means of gene therapy.

Abstract: The invention provides a polymer comprising (i) a first water-soluble polymer segment that is covalently attached, either directly or through one or more atoms, to a first oxygen atom that is covalently attached to a linking carbon atom; (ii) a second water-soluble polymer segment is covalently attached, either directly or through one or more atoms, to a second oxygen atom that is covalently attached to the linking carbon atom; and (iii) a reactive group that is covalently attached, either directly or through one or more atoms, to the linking carbon atom. The invention also provides, among other things, methods for preparing polymers, conjugates, pharmaceutical compositions and the like.

Abstract: An aqueous solution or at least one polyether polyol in a fluid for administration to a mammal, such as a human being, wherein the at least one polyether polyol has a molecular weight of from 200 to 4000 and is dissolved in the aqueous fluid in a concentration of from 0.01 to 10 mg/ml, preferably from 1 to 10 mg/ml.

Abstract: Methods for making comb-type antithrombotic conjugate wherein substantially all side chains of water soluble poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) are extended by ring-opening polymerization to form a copolymer wherein substantially all terminals are conjugated to an antithrombotic molecule. In addition, a method is provided for applying a coating comprising a comb-type anti-thrombotic conjugate to at least a portion of an implantable device to prevent or reduce the formation of thrombosis on the surface of the device. A first or sub-layer of the coating is prepared by mixing a polymeric material and a biologically active agent with a solvent, thereby forming a homogeneous solution. A second or outer layer comprising a comb-type anti-thrombotic conjugate may be applied over the inner drug-containing layers using, for example, a dip coating or spray coating process.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cosmetic or personal care composition comprising a polymer which polymer comprises oxazolidon groups. Examples of cosmetic and personal care compositions include hair spray compositions, mousses, gels, lotions, tonics, shampoos, conditioners, rinses, hand and body lotions, facial moisturizers, sunscreens, anti-acne preparations, topical analgesics, mascara's, eyeliners, blush, liquid lip color, nail polish and foundations.

Abstract: This invention relates to novel colonic purgative compositions of polyethylene glycol having an average molecular weight of at least 1,000 or at least 4,000. Further, this invention relates to methods of using the colonic purgative compositions. The formulations and methods of this invention are particularly useful to cleanse the bowel prior to diagnostic and surgical procedures and can also be employed in lower dosages as a laxative to promote elimination and/or to relieve constipation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for treating and preventing heart disease. In particular, the present invention provides compositions comprising poloxamers (e.g., poloxamer 188-P1 88) and methods of using the same for treating and preventing heart disease (e.g., in subjects with muscular dystrophy) and for treating cells and tissue damage caused by ischemia and cell death (e.g., for treating dystrophin-deficient cells (e.g., myocytes)).

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for the treatment of ion imbalances. In particular, the invention provides polymeric and pharmaceutical compositions comprising crosslinked amine polymers. Methods of use of the polymeric and pharmaceutical compositions for therapeutic and/or prophylactic benefits are disclosed herein. Examples of these methods include the treatment of renal diseases and hyperphosphatemia.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for delivering a wide range of chemical and biological therapeutics, including protein therapeutics, via transepithelial routes. The system comprises a high molecular weight polyethylene glycol-like (HMW PEG-like) compound for use with a therapeutic compound. Optionally, the system comprises a composition containing one or more HMW PEGlike compounds and one or more therapeutics, supplemented with a protective polymer such as dextran and/or essential pathogen nutrients such as L-glutamine. Administered alone, the HMW PEG-like compounds also provide therapeutic benefits. Also provided are methods for preventing or treating epithelial diseases, disorders, or conditions, such as an epithelium at risk of developing gut-derived sepsis attributable to an intestinal pathogen, as well as methods for monitoring the administration of HMW PEG-like compounds.

Abstract: Interleukin-10 (IL-10) conjugated via a linker to one or more polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecules at a single amino acid residue of the IL-10, and a method for preparing the same, are provided. The method produces a stable mono-pegylated IL-10, which retains IL-10 activity, where pegylation is selective for the N-terminus on one subunit of IL-10 with little or no formation of monomeric IL-10. The method also provides a substantially homogenous population of mono-PEG-IL-10.

Abstract: Natural feel polymers exhibit an advantageous blend of flexibility and a strong affinity to natural fibers imparting a natural feel when applied to keratin-based fibers, e.g. hair, skin, or textiles, e.g. cotton, wool, and are water-soluble and water-resistant. The polymers include repeat units of a monomer (e.g. ?-olefin) maleic anhydride alkyl half-ester or full acid, maleamic acid and maleimide, which are derivatized with a polyether amine.

Abstract: Personal care compositions, particularly hair care products, include a polymer mixture made from (A) a derivatized polymer of maleic anhydride having defined repeat units of a monomer (e.g. ?-olefin) maleic anhydride alkyl half-ester or full acid, maleamic acid and maleimide, and (B) a compound or polymer having a carboxylic acid functionality. These compositions exhibit excellent high humidity curl retention properties, as well as an advantageous blend of toughness and cohesiveness, and a strong affinity to natural fibers such as keratin-based fibers, e.g. hair, skin, or textiles, such as cotton or wool; and they are also water-soluble and water-resistant.

Abstract: Personal care products, particularly hair care products, are made herein by mixing (A) a polymer having defined repeat units of a monomer (e.g. ?-olefin) maleic anhydride alkyl half-ester or full acid, maleamic acid and maleimide, which is derivatized with an amine, and (B) a compound or polymer having a carboxylic acid functionality. These products exhibit excellent high humidity curl retention properties, as well as an advantageous blend of toughness and cohesiveness, and a strong affinity to natural fibers, when applied to keratin-based fibers, e.g. hair, skin, or textiles, e.g. cotton, wool; and also they are water-soluble and water-resistant.

Abstract: The present invention discloses that DARPP-32 is substrate for the cyclin dependent kinase Cdk5. The phosphorylation takes place at a specific threonine residue of DARPP-32 (Threonine 75). The Cdk5 catalyzed phosphorylation of DARPP-32 converts this protein into an inhibitor of the cAMP dependent protein kinase (PKA) and furthermore prevents it from being converted to an inhibitor of protein phosphatase 1 (PP1). Methods of identifying agents that modulate the phosphorylation of DARPP-32 by Cdk5 are disclosed. Methods of treating dopamine dysfunction in animal subjects are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to hydrolyzable drug-oligomer conjugates, pharmaceutical compositions comprising such conjugates, and to methods for making and using such conjugates and pharmaceutical compositions. For example, a conjugate of insulin, PEG, and oleic acid can be orally administered.

Abstract: Stimulant laxative in combination with an osmotic laxative produces safe and effective bowel and colon cleansing with a reduced volume of liquid input. Administering to a patient an oral stimulant laxative, such as bisacodyl, followed, after a biologically determined interval, by a reduced volume of a PEG in water solution cleanses the bowels and colon in preparation for diagnostic colonoscopy, without the profuse uncontrollable diarrhea that typically follows either ingestion of large volume isotonic ravages, or smaller volume hypertonic ravages.

Abstract: A method for the prevention of the adhesion of particles, in particular cells and cellular components in solution to surfaces, characterized in that to the solution is added at least one polyalcohol.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a water-soluble polyether glycol polymer having: a structural backbone of carbon atoms and oxygen atoms where there are at least two consecutive carbon atoms present between each oxygen atom; a moiety on the backbone of the polymer or a functionalized derivative on the polymer, that is cationic at physiological pH and permits complexation with phosphate or oxalate; and an average molecular weight from about 5,000 to about 750,000 Daltons. These polymers are formulated for oral dosage to reduce the phosphonate or oxalate levels in an animal. The process of preparing these polymers and the method of reducing gastrointestinal absorption of phosphate and oxalate are included.

Abstract: A polymer comprising recurring units represented by formula (I): 1

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for reducing adhesions associated with post-operative surgery. The present method comprises administering or affixing a polymeric composition preferably comprising chain extended, coupled or crosslinked polyester/poly(oxyalkylene) ABA triblocks or AB diblocks having favorable EO/LA ratios to a site in the body which has been subjected to trauma, e.g. by surgery, excision or inflammatory disease. In the present invention, the polymeric material provides a barrier to prevent or reduce the extent of adhesions forming.

Abstract: Thermally responsive compositions that include a thermally responsive viscosity modifier, a polymerizable component, and water are provided. The compositions, which optionally may be hardened, are useful for application to a surface of a body.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel heterobifunctional and monobifunctional polyethylene glycol derivatives for the pegylation of therapeutically active proteins. The heterobifunctional PEGs which bear two different functional groups as well as the monobifunctional PEGs which contain two similar functional groups, may be used for cross-linking purposes. The cross-linking may be intramolecular between two areas within the same molecule or intermolecular between two separate molecules. The pegylated protein conjugates that are produced, retain a substantial portion of their therapeutic activity and are less immunogenic than the protein from which the conjugate is derived. New syntheses for preparing such bifunctional derivatives are described.

Abstract: The present invention is concerned with the use of a triple combination comprising a 5HT3 antagonist, a 5HT4 agonist and a laxative—in particular an osmotic agent—for accelerating intestinal lavage. The present invention is also concerned with the use of said triple combination for the treatment of constipation.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining the viscosity of the circulating blood of a living being over plural shear rates caused by a decreasing pressure differential by monitoring the changing weight of the blood, or the changing level of a column of blood over time. The apparatus and method utilize a riser, a capillary tube, a collector and a mass detector, such as a precision balance or a load cell, for monitoring the changing weight of a sample of fluid that flows through these components under the influence of the decreasing pressure differential; alternatively, the apparatus and method use a column level detector to monitor the changing level of the column of blood over time.

Abstract: This invention relates to hydrolytically degradable gels of crosslinked poly(ethylene) glycol (PEG) structures. Addition of water causes these crosslinked structures to swell and become hydrogels. The hydrogels can be prepared by reacting two different PEG derivatives containing functional moietes at the chain ends that react with each other to form new covalent linkages between polymer chains. The PEG derivatives are chosen to provide covalent linkages within the crosslinked structure that are hydrolytically degradable. Hydrolytic degradation can provide for dissolution of the gel components and for controlled release of trapped molecules, including drugs. Reageants other than PEG can be avoided. The hydrolysis rates can be controlled by varying atoms adjacent to the hydrolytically degradable functional groups to provide substantially precise control for drug delivery in vivo.

Abstract: Methods are provided for the preparation of conjugates of a variety of bioactive components, especially proteins, with water-soluble polymers (e.g., poly(ethylene glycol) and derivatives thereof), which conjugates have reduced antigenicity and immunogenicity compared to similar conjugates prepared using poly(ethylene glycol) containing a methoxyl or another alkoxyl group. The invention also provides conjugates prepared by such methods, compositions comprising such conjugates, kits containing such conjugates or compositions and methods of use of the conjugates and compositions in diagnostic and therapeutic protocols.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and their methods of manufacture and use which are effective for delivering a homogeneous distribution of a boron containing active ingredient to a tree or tree derived substrate for the purpose of preventing or eradicating an infestation and/or for imparting flame retardency thereto.

Abstract: A polyalkylene glycol (PAG)—preferably a polyethylene glycol—or a derivative or conjugate thereof, in particulate form, having a residual solvent content of 200 ppm or less and a volume mean particle diameter of 25 &mgr;m or less. Also methods for forming particulate products containing PAGs or derivatives or conjugates thereof, in particular by carrying out a GAS process—preferably a Nektar™ SCF process—on a solution or suspension of a target substance but using as the anti-solvent fluid a compressed fluid which at the point of its contact with the solution or suspension is at a temperature of 25° C. or below.

Abstract: The invention is a gel composition for delivery to a breast milk duct prior to surgical excision of breast tissue including cancerous lesions. The invention also provides methods of mapping all or nearly all of a breast milk duct prior to surgical excision of breast tissue, and method of identifying part or all of a breast duct or ducts as a surgical aide to a breast surgeon. Kits to support these methods and including these compositions are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising polyoxyethylene glycol, fatty acid mono- and diglyceride ester as an absorption promoting agent and an absorption controlling agent together with a therapeutically, prophylactically and/or diagnostically active substance. The pharmaceutical compositions are especially suitable for mucosal administration such as intranasal administration.

Abstract: An improved drug delivery composition and method of use is disclosed. The composition comprises one or more biodegradable block copolymer drug carriers; and a reconstitution enhancing and enabling agent comprising polyethylene glycol (PEG), a PEG derivative or a mixture of PEG and a PEG derivative. The composition can be administered as is or after being be dissolved or rapidly reconstituted in an aqueous vehicle to afford a homogeneous solution or uniform colloidal systems.

Abstract: A non-polydispersed mixture of conjugates in which each conjugate in the mixture comprises a drug coupled to an oligomer that includes a polyalkylene glycol moiety is disclosed. The mixture may exhibit higher in vivo activity than a polydispersed mixture of similar conjugates. The mixture may be more effective at surviving an in vitro model of intestinal digestion than polydispersed mixtures of similar conjugates. The mixture may result in less inter-subject variability than polydispersed mixtures of similar conjugates.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and pharmaceutical compositions involving the use of bioerodible (biodegradable) polymers to address fundamental needs in ocular surgery including sealants and sealing methods, barriers to cellular adhesion and proliferation, and mechanical barriers. In a particular embodiment, the present invention is also directed to the treatment of intraocular hypotony in an eye by limiting the flow of aqueous from the eye. In a preferred embodiment, application of a polymer, such as to the angle of the eye, limits the flow, thereby increasing the intraocular pressure.

Abstract: A lubricant coating vehicle for medical devices used to reduce the coefficient of friction of such devices upon exposure thereof to moisture. The lubricant coating vehicle allows the introduction of a pharmacological additive having a release rate that is within acceptable pharmacokinetic criteria. The release rate is adjusted by utilizing different salt forms of the additive and adjusting the concentration of a urethane pre-polymer.

Abstract: The field of colonic diagnostic and surgical procedures is hampered by the lack of optimal means available to cleanse the colon. A compromise between convenient, distasteful, solid or low volume, hyperosmotic solutions which cause considerable fluid and electrolyte imbalances in patients and large volume, difficult to consume, iso-osmotic solutions has had to be made heretofore. This invention describes a low volume, hyperosmotic solution consisting of sulfate salts with and with out polyethylene glycol. Unlike prior art, this composition is useful for the cleansing of the bowel and, in lower volumes, as a laxative, without producing clinically significant changes in bodily function.

Abstract: Polymeric derivatives of indoles such as 1

Abstract: There is provided a new aqueous temperature responsive delivery system made with a temperature responsive polymer and a bioadhesive which is intrinsically cationic. This system may also have an effective amount of a treating agent, which may be a medical or cosmetic agent. The bioadhesive, temperature responsive delivery system is useful in delivering moisturizers or pharmaceutically active agents to the user in controlled release manners, through the tissues in a body cavity.

Abstract: Dialysis solutions comprising aqueous solutions including physiologically acceptable salts and a polyglycol osmotic agent are disclosed. The subject solutions provide an improved osmotic gradient resulting in reduced dialysis times and/or reduced volumes of required dialysis solution. Moreover, the subject osmotic agents do not significantly migrate into the patient's blood over the time period of dialysis nor are the subject osmotic agents as susceptible to forming detrimental degradation products during gamma sterilization. The use of free radical scavengers is also described along with the use of a filter to reduce the introduction of bacteria into the peritoneal cavity.

Abstract: Methods of forming crosslinked hyaluronic acid anti-adhesion barriers, crosslinked hyaluronic acid anti-adhesions barriers, methods for preventing or inhibiting adhesions, and methods of promoting healing of a wound are provided. The method of forming the crosslinked hyaluronic acid anti-adhesion barrier includes freeze-drying a solution including hyaluronic acid to form a hyaluronic acid foam, which is then reacted with a crosslinking agent to form a crosslinked hyaluronic acid foam. The crosslinked hyaluronic acid foam is mixed with a solution containing hyaluronic acid to form an anti-adhesion barrier.

Abstract: Polymeric micelles for encapsulation of hydrophobic molecules are provided. Methods and formulations for delivering hydrophobic molecules to a host via these micelles are also provided. Methods of stabilizing liposomes or lipid based formulations by addition of polymeric micelles are also provided.

Abstract: A novel compound and novel gelatinous substance which have high absorbability, uniform expansion, and elasticity. Although conventional gels include chemical gels and physical gels, no novel gels or compounds have been realized which have fracture resistance, high entropic elasticity, and biodegradability. The present invention provides a novel compound and a novel gelatinous substance which each comprises a crosslinked polyrotaxane obtained by chemically bonding two or more polyrotaxane molecules through the cyclic molecules or rotators thereof.

Abstract: A method of preventing and/or reducing deposition of denatured proteins on a contact lens while worn on the eye involves distilling in the eye an ophthalmically compatible composition including tromethamine in an amount effective to prevent or reduce protein denaturation. The compositions preferably include a demulcent, and may include conventional eye drop components such as a preservative, a buffering agent, a chelating agent, an osmolality adjusting agent, and/or a surfactant.

Abstract: Disclosed and claimed are cocoa extracts, compounds, combinations thereof and compositions containing the same, such as polyphenols or procyanidins, methods for preparing such extracts, compounds and compositions, as well as uses for them, especially a polymeric compound of the formula An, wherein A is a monomer of the formula: 1

Abstract: The invention relates to biocidal polymers based on guanidine salts characterized in that they are representatives of a number of polyoxyalkylene guanidines and their salts and are a product of a polycondensation of guanidine salts with diamines which include two amino groups and polyoxyalkylene chains therebetween.

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: A method for controlling bleeding from bones, comprising the use of copolymers of oxyethylene and oxypropylene or mixtures thereof to cover the bleeding portions of bones. The copolymers are resorbable by the body, not metabolized, simple to prepare, inexpensive, readily available, and do not interfere with the fusion, osteogenesis, and related tissue healing and repair of the affected bones.

Abstract: Non-gelling polyoxyalkylene compositions, and methods of their use for inhibiting surgical adhesion formation/reformation in mammals are disclosed. The useful non-gelling compositions preferably comprise polyoxyalkylene block copolymer at desired concentrations with or without a therapeutic agent. When used with an incorporated drug, the non-gelling compositions serve as a carrier providing sustained or prolonged release of the therapeutic agent.