Abstract: The invention relates to methods and kits for detecting the likelihood that a subject has cancer, e.g., squamous cell carcinoma, by assaying the expression levels of tumor associated genes. More specifically, the expression levels of nucleic acids or proteins can be assayed in the tumor associated genes, e.g., over-expression of beta-2 microgobulin (B2M), keratin 17 (KRT17), interleukin 8 (IL8), or annexin A2 (ANXA2), and under-expression of cytochrome p450 1B1 (CYP1B1) or laminin gamma-2 (LAMC2) can be indicative of the likelihood a subject has squamous cell carcinoma or a precancerous squamous cell disorder. The expression levels compared to standards can be indicative of the likelihood a subject has squamous cell carcinoma. The expression levels of B2M, CYP1B1, KRT17, IL8, ANXA2, or LAMC2 can also be repeatedly assayed to monitor the progression of a squamous cell neoplasia.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and kits for detecting the likelihood that a subject has cancer, e.g., squamous cell carcinoma, by assaying the expression levels of tumor associated genes. More specifically, the expression levels of nucleic acids or proteins can be assayed in the tumor associated genes, e.g., beta-2 microgobulin (B2M) and cytochrome p450 1B1 (CYP1B1). The expression levels compared to standards can be indicative of the likelihood a subject has squamous cell carcinoma. For example, over-expression of B2M and under-expression of CYP1B1 can be indicative of the likelihood a subject has squamous cell carcinoma. Also, over-expression of B2M and over-expression of CYP1B1 can be indicative of the likelihood a subject has a precancerous squamous cell disorder. The expression levels of B2M and CYP1B1 can also be repeatedly assayed to monitor the progression of a squamous cell neoplasia.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and kits for detecting the likelihood that a subject has cancer, e.g., squamous cell carcinoma, by assaying the expression levels of tumor associated genes. More specifically, the expression levels of nucleic acids or proteins can be assayed in the tumor associated genes, e.g., beta-2 microgobulin (B2M) and cytochrome p450 1B1 (CYP1B1). The expression levels compared to standards can be indicative of the likelihood a subject has squamous cell carcinoma. For example, over-expression of B2M and under-expression of CYP1B1 can be indicative of the likelihood a subject has squamous cell carcinoma. Also, over-expression of B2M and over-expression of CYP1B1 can be indicative of the likelihood a subject has a precancerous squamous cell disorder. The expression levels of B2M and CYP1B1 can also be repeatedly assayed to monitor the progression of a squamous cell neoplasia.

Abstract: Complexes of .beta. carotene with cyclodextrin are described, having reduced color intensity and a shift of color to tones more neutral than the deep red of uncomplexed .beta. carotene. When these complexes are added to topical compositions such as typical skin cream bases in amounts up to 1.0% .beta. carotene w/v, the result is a cream having a pinkish to beige color which is cosmetically acceptable, as opposed to the mustard orange to red color seen in creams containing like amounts of uncomplexed .beta. carotene.

Abstract: The present invention relates to genes and their encoded proteins which induce immunological effector cell activation and chemattraction. The proteins of the invention attract subsets of immunological effector cells and stimulate them to express their specialized effector cell functions. Such proteins, termed Ap-1 proteins, are expressed by lymphoid cells, and bind to effector cells such as macrophages and mast cells. In particular, the ApPursuant to the provisions of 35 U.S.C. .sctn.202(c), it is hereby acknoledged that the Governament has certain rights in this invention, which was made in part with funds from the National Institutes of Health.

Abstract: The present invention relates to genes and their encoded proteins which induce immunological effector cell activation and chemattraction. The proteins of the invention attract subsets of immunological effector cells and stimulate them to express their specialized effector cell functions. Such proteins, termed Ap-1 proteins, are expressed by lymphoid cells, and bind to effector cells such as macrophages and mast cells. In particular, the Ap-1 proteins induce macrophage phagocytosis, expression of class II major histocompatibility molecules, cytotoxicity, and migration, and induce hematopoietic progenitor cell differentiation. The Ap-1 molecules can be of value in the therapy or diagnosis of inflammatory or immune disorders, or neoplasia.