Abstract: The present invention concerns methods and compositions involving inhibitors of Pre-B Cell Colony Enhancing Factor (PBEF) for inflammatory conditions and diseases, including acute lung injury (ALI), ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI), and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The present invention also concerns biomarkers for inflammation as well as methods for screening for PBEF inhibitors.

Abstract: A novel biosensor comprises at least one fluorophore and at least two quenchers, and is capable of selectively and specifically detecting the presence of an ion in the presence of other ions.

Abstract: A composite material, contains a polymer, a polymerizer, a corresponding catalyst for the polymerizer, and a plurality of capsules. The polymerizer is in the capsules. The composite material is self-healing.

Abstract: A method for producing the silicon nanoparticle of the invention is a gradual advancing electrochemical etch of bulk silicon. Separation of nanoparticles from the surface of the silicon may also be conducted. Once separated, various methods may be employed to form nanoparticles into colloids, crystals, films and other desirable forms. The particles may also be coated or doped.

Abstract: This invention is directed to methods for preventing the emergence of multidrug resistance in tumor cells during cancer chemotherapy. In particular, it relates to the use of protein kinase inhibitors to prevent the induction of expression of the multidrug resistance gene (MDR1) encoding P-glycoprotein by chemotherapeutic drugs. MDR1 expression, which results in tumor cell resistance to subsequent treatment with certain chemotherapeutic drugs, is shown herein to be induced in response to treatment with various cytotoxic agents, including such agents that are and are not substrates for P-glycoprotein-mediated efflux from cancer cells. Inhibitors of protein kinases, in particular, protein kinase C, are shown herein to suppress this cellular response. In addition, such protein kinase inhibitors are also shown herein to inhibit expression of a gene encoding a multidrug resistance-associated protein (the MRP gene).