Abstract: Systems and methods for determining the prognosis of a patient having CYP1B1-mediated lung cancer and for diagnosing a risk of developing CYP1B1-mediated lung cancer are provided. The systems and methods comprise determinations of the concentration of estrogen metabolites in the lung tissue or a proxy thereof, or polymorphisms in the gene encoding the CYP1B1 protein, which metabolite concentrations or CYP1B1 polymorphisms are associated with a probability of surviving and/or a risk of developing lung cancer.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided, which utilizes an adjustment platform for supporting a subject during the endoscopic examination. Additionally, a method for performing an endoscopic examination is also provided in which an endoscope is inserted into a subject and the endoscope is maintained at a generally fixed position while the position of the subject is adjusted to advance the endoscope into the subject. Further still, a method is provided for estimating the size of sample tissue using an endoscope and a reference element. Based on known parameters of the reference element, the size of the area being examined can be estimated.

Abstract: Systems and methods for determining the prognosis of a patient having CYP1B1-mediated lung cancer and for diagnosing a risk of developing CYP1B1-mediated lung cancer are provided. The systems and methods comprise determinations of the concentration of estrogen metabolites in the lung tissue or a proxy thereof, or polymorphisms in the gene encoding the CYP1B1 protein, which metabolite concentrations or CYP1B1 polymorphisms are associated with a probability of surviving and/or a risk of developing lung cancer.

Abstract: Methods for screening compounds for their capability to inhibit CYP1B1-mediated proliferation and motility of and/or to reverse estrogen-induced reduction in apoptosis of premalignant or malignant cells are provided. Kits for practicing the screening methods are also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided, which utilizes an adjustment platform for supporting a subject during the endoscopic examination. Additionally, a method for performing an endoscopic examination is also provided in which an endoscope is inserted into a subject and the endoscope is maintained at a generally fixed position while the position of the subject is adjusted to advance the endoscope into the subject. Further still, a method is provided for estimating the size of sample tissue using an endoscope and a reference element. Based on known parameters of the reference element, the size of the area being examined can be estimated.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided, which utilizes an adjustment platform for supporting a subject during the endoscopic examination. Additionally, a method for performing an endoscopic examination is also provided in which an endoscope is inserted into a subject and the endoscope is maintained at a generally fixed position while the position of the subject is adjusted to advance the endoscope into the subject. Further still, a method is provided for estimating the size of sample tissue using an endoscope and a reference element. Based on known parameters of the reference element, the size of the area being examined can be estimated.

Abstract: Novel methods for inhibiting angiogenesis and treating diseases associated with angiogenesis are described. The methods may comprise administering to a patient an effective amount of a 1,2-dithiol-3-thione derivative or metabolite thereof. Preferred compounds for use in the methods include 5-(2-pyrazinyl)-4methyl-1,2-dithiol-3-thione (Oltipraz) and its metabolites.