Supercharging protein ions in native mass spectrometry using theta capillary nanoelectrospray ionization mass spectrometry and cyclic alkylcarbonates.

Theta nanoelectrospray ionization of protein ions formed from aqueous buffer solutions that are mixed with denaturing solutions containing cyclic alkylcarbonates (e.g., vinyl ethylene carbonate; VEC) results in a significant increase in the extent of ion charging compared to native mass spectrometry.

Treatment and outcomes of melanoma in Asia: Results from the National Cancer Centre Singapore.

Background: Acral melanoma (AM) and mucosal melanoma (MM) make up more than half of melanomas in Asia but comprise only 5% of cases in Caucasians, where cutaneous melanoma (CM) predominates. AM and MM are thought to be genetically and biologically distinct from CM. We report the characteristics and outcomes of melanoma patients from the National Cancer Centre Singapore.

A Cyclic di-GMP-binding Adaptor Protein Interacts with Histidine Kinase to Regulate Two-component Signaling.

The bacterial messenger cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP) binds to a diverse range of effectors to exert its biological effect. Despite the fact that free-standing PilZ proteins are by far the most prevalent c-di-GMP effectors known to date, their physiological function and mechanism of action remain largely unknown. Here we report that the free-standing PilZ protein PA2799 from the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa interacts directly with the hybrid histidine kinase SagS.

Highly sensitive simple homodyne phase detector for ultrasonic pulse-echo measurements.

We have designed and built a modern versatile research-grade instrument for ultrasound pulse-echo probing of the elastic properties of a wide range of materials under laboratory conditions. The heart of the instrument lies in an AD8302 microchip: a gain and phase detector from Analog Devices, Inc. To construct the device, we have implemented a schematic that utilizes the homodyne principle for signal processing instead of the traditional superheterodyne approach.

Safety and efficacy of aflibercept in combination with fluorouracil, leucovorin and irinotecan in the treatment of Asian patients with metastatic colorectal cancer.

Aim: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the combination therapy of fluorouracil, leucovorin and irinotecan (FOLFIRI) and aflibercept in Asian patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), who had progressed after oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy.

Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 19 mCRC patients who received FOLFIRI and aflibercept (4 mg/kg intravenously) every 2 weeks via a Named Patient Program (supported by Sanofi Aventis) in Singapore. Treatment was administered until disease progression or unacceptable toxicities.