Comparing automated cell imaging with conventional methods of measuring cell proliferation and viability.

The ability to assess cell proliferation and viability is essential for assessing new drug treatments, particularly in cancer drug discovery. This study describes a new method that uses a plate reader digital microscopy cell imaging and analysis system to assess cell proliferation and viability. This imaging system utilizes high throughput fluorescence microscopy with two fluorescent probes: cell membrane-impermeable SYTOX green and nuclear binding Hoechst-33342.

Cancer Stem Cells in Head and Neck Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Express Cathepsins.

Unlabelled: Cancer stem cell (CSC) subpopulations within moderately differentiated head and neck cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (MDHNcSCC) express the components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). This study investigated the expression of cathepsins B, D, and G, which constitute bypass loops of the RAS, by CSCs in MDHNcSCC.

Methods: Immunohistochemical staining was performed on MDHNcSCC tissue samples from 15 patients to determine the expression of cathepsins B, D, and G.

Expression and Localization of Cathepsins B, D, and G in Two Cancer Stem Cell Subpopulations in Moderately Differentiated Oral Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

Aim: We have previously demonstrated the putative presence of two cancer stem cell (CSC) subpopulations within moderately differentiated oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (MDOTSCC), which express components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). In this study, we investigated the expression and localization of cathepsins B, D, and G in relation to these CSC subpopulations within MDOTSCC.

Methods: 3,3-Diaminobenzidine (DAB) and immunofluorescent (IF) immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was performed on MDOTSCC samples to determine the expression and localization of cathepsins B, D, and G in relation to the CSC subpopulations.

Cancer Stem Cells in Moderately Differentiated Buccal Mucosal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Express Components of the Renin-Angiotensin System.

Aim: We have recently identified and characterized cancer stem cell (CSC) subpopulations within moderately differentiated buccal mucosal squamous cell carcinoma (MDBMSCC). We hypothesized that these CSCs express components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS).

Methods: 3,3'-Diaminobenzidine (DAB) immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded MDBMSCC samples to investigate the expression of the components of the RAS: (pro)renin receptor (PRR), angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensin II receptor 1 (ATIIR1), and angiotensin II receptor 2 (ATIIR2).

Characterization of Cancer Stem Cells in Moderately Differentiated Buccal Mucosal Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

Aim: To identify and characterize cancer stem cells (CSC) in moderately differentiated buccal mucosa squamous cell carcinoma (MDBMSCC).

Methods: Four micrometer-thick, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded MDBMSCC samples from six patients underwent 3,3-diaminobenzidine (DAB) immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for the embryonic stem cell (ESC) markers, NANOG, OCT4, SALL4, SOX2, and pSTAT3; cancer stem cell marker, CD44; squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) marker, EMA; and endothelial marker, CD34. The transcriptional activities of the genes encoding NANOG, OCT4, SOX2, SALL4, STAT3, and CD44 were studied using NanoString gene expression analysis and colorimetric in situ hybridization (CISH) for NANOG, OCT4, SOX2, SALL4, and STAT3.

Interrater and intrarater reliability of the Modified Ashworth Scale in children with hypertonia.

Purpose: The Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) is a six-point scale used to assess spasticity. This study assessed interrater and intrarater reliability of the MAS for children with hypertonia.

Methods: Five raters participated in this examination of interrater and intrarater reliability.

Current practice of cataract extraction and anaesthesia.

A questionnaire regarding preferred methods of cataract extraction and anaesthesia was sent to 456 consultant ophthalmologists in England and Wales. Replies were received from 86% (n = 392), 83% (n = 380) having completed the questionnaire in full. The most frequently employed surgical approach was non-automated extracapsular cataract extraction.