Neutron emission spectrometer to measure ion temperature on the Fusion Demonstration Plant

General Fusion is building the Fusion Demonstration Plant to demonstrate a magnetized target fusion scheme in which a deuterium plasma is heated from 200 eV to 10 keV by piston-driven compression of a liquid-lithium liner. The multilayer coaxial time-of-flight neutron emission spectrometer is designed to measure the ion temperature near peak compression at which time the neutron yield will approach 10¹⁸ neutrons/s. The neutron energy distribution is expected to be Gaussian since the machine uses no neutral beam or radio-frequency heating. In this case, analysis shows that as few as 500 coincidence events should be sufficient to accurately measure the ion temperature. This enables a fast time resolution of 10 µs, which is required to track the rapid change in temperature approaching peak compression. We overcome the challenges of neutron pile-up and event ambiguity with a compact design having two layers of segmented scintillators. The error in the ion temperature measurement is computed as a function of the neutron spectrometer's geometric parameters and used to optimize the design for the case of reaching 10 keV at peak compression.

Thalidomide and chemotherapy combination

Angiogenesis has been shown to be important in tumor growth and metastasis. Thalidomide, an oral sedative, has recently been found to inhibit angiogenesis. We therefore set out to ask whether thalidomide can be used as therapy for breast cancer. In a mouse model of breast cancer, we found that thalidomide alone did not suppress tumor growth. However, mice treated with thalidomide in combination with cytoxan and adriamycin had significantly smaller tumors than those given the two chemotherapeutic agents alone (3,432 +/- 303 mm(3) versus 4,643 +/- 203 mm(3), p = 0.0005). We proceeded to administer thalidomide together with chemotherapy to seven breast cancer patients in the context of a Phase I trial. Side effects attributed to thalidomide were minimal, and included constipation and a rash. We concluded that an approach at cancer therapeutics combining an antiangiogenic agent such as thalidomide with conventional chemotherapy may be feasible and deserves further studies.

Abstract P6-04-13: Gene and microRNA Signatures of the Mesenchymal Epithelial Transition in Pre-Clinical Models of Inflammatory Breast Cancer

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is the most aggressive form of locally advanced breast cancer The pathological hallmark of IBC is lymphovasculogenesis resulting in the invasion of tightly adhered cells, defined as tumor emboli, into lymphovascular spaces of the dermis. IBC tumor emboli have been reported to over-express the glycoprotein E-cadherin, which is at odds with the current hypothesis that tumors with a metastatic phenotype lose E-cadherin, and gain expression of specific transcription factors and microRNAs (miRs) that mediate the process of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). Immunohistochemical staining confirms the presence of E-cadherin on tumor emboli in IBC patient tissues as well as in Mary-X tumor xenografts, which is the only model to recapitulate tumor emboli in vivo. Using unbiased global transcriptional profiling, microRNA microarrays, real time PCR, Western blot validation, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy, we found that IBC cell lines, and Mary-X tumor emboli from xenografts had significantly elevated expression of genes and their corresponding proteins that collectively mediate tight homotypic cell:cell aggregation, including CDH1 which encodes for E-cadherin, DSC2, which encodes for Desmocollin 2 and JUP/CTNNG1, which encodes for junctional plakoglobin/gamma catenin. Regardless of molecular subtype, IBC cell lines and Mary-X tumor spheroids lacked detectable mRNA or protein for zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 gene, ZEB1, with very low levels of ZEB2 gene expression. The expression of CDH1, loss of ZEB1 and low gene expression of ZEB2 by IBC cell lines and Mary-X tumor spheroids was associated with increased expression of specific families of microRNAs including the miR 200 family known to be transcriptional regulators of E-cadherin. In contrast to lack of ZEB1 expression, IBC cell lines expressed either one or all of the SNAI1, SNAI2 and TWIST1 genes, which encode for transcription factors that have been associated with the process of EMT. IBC cell lines that contained ZEB1 cDNA lacked expression of CDH1 and did not produce E-cadherin protein, however the IBC/ZEB1 clones exhibited little difference in their ability to invade across an artificial Matrigel membrane compared to either vector control cells or the parental IBC cells. Taken together, the present observations suggest that pre-clinical models of IBC have distinct gene and microRNA signatures characterized by expression of genes and miRs that collectively support the persistence of compact tightly aggregated tumor cells within IBC tumor emboli, while maintaining an invasive and metastatic phenotype, suggesting that IBC tumor emboli display characteristics of the process of mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET). Supported in part by the American Airlines-Komen For the Cure Foundation Promise Grant KGO81287 (FMR, MC) and The State of Texas Fund for Rare and Aggressive Breast Cancer (FMR, SK).

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2010;70(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P6-04-13.

Chemoattractants in fibrotic disorders

Fibrosis represents an excessive deposition of connective tissue which impedes the normal functions of an organ or tissue. The mechanisms leading to this increased deposition of connective tissue may be similar to those occurring in normal wound repair. We have previously shown that the repair process involves the migration of connective tissue cells to the site of injury and their subsequent proliferation. One of the principal factors controlling these events appears to be the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). PDGF acts as a potent chemoattractant and mitogen for connective tissue cells but not other cell types. In addition to PDGF, factors produced by monocytes and tissue macrophages also act as chemoattractants for connective tissue cells. These observations suggest that such activities may be abundant in areas of inflammation. In normal repair these factors would be present for a relatively short period of time, whereas in fibrosis the chronic inflammatory response could maintain a constant or repeated release of such factors. This would recruit additional connective tissue cells to the area of inflammation, changing the cellular composition of the affected organ or tissue, resulting in an expansive and permanent nodule of connective tissue.

Molecular dynamics study of slip at the interface between immiscible polymers

Nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations were used to study the structural properties and viscous response of interfaces in binary blends of symmetric polymers. The polymers were made immiscible by increasing the repulsion between unlike species. As the repulsion increased, the interface narrowed, and the fraction of chain ends in the interfacial region increased. The viscosity in the interfacial region eta(I) was lower than the bulk viscosity, leading to an effective slip boundary condition at the interface. As the degree of immiscibility increased, the interfacial viscosity decreased, and the slip length increased. When the radius of gyration of the chains was much larger than the interfacial width, eta(I) was independent of chain length. As predicted by de Gennes and co-workers, eta(I) corresponds to the bulk viscosity of chains whose radius of gyration is proportional to the width of the interfacial region.

Molecular dynamics study of replica symmetry in the vulcanization transition

We report on computer simulations of the vulcanization transition of randomly crosslinked polymer melts. We focus on the order parameter between different realizations of the same distribution of random crosslinks, as well as the overlap distribution of these systems.

Tretinoin in the removal of eyeliner tattoo

Eyelid tattooing is a commonly performed procedure. For at least 100 years, it has been performed by medical and nonmedical professionals. Complications can occur; the main one is improperly placed pigment. To date, the most frequently reported methods to remove eyeliner tattoos have been laser treatments or surgical correction. We observed a case in which tretinoin was used successfully in the removal of an eyelid tattoo.

A multi-purpose system for water purification and sea-water softening

A novel technique that can be used for reacting toxic carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from power plants and other combustion wastes with sea water is described. A chemical interaction between CO2 and the cations in sea water, with the pH electrolytically regulated, can precipitate almost all the calcium and magnesium ions, as well as some sodium and potassium ions, as carbonates and bicarbonates. The carbonates and bicarbonates thus prepared can then be mixed with ash to yield a building material. Sulfur ions will be neutralized with calcium and magnesium, and the remaining ions can be removed using reverse osmosis or some other method. The technology and equipment for purification are based on modules that can be used for industrial waste-water, sea water, solutions, and otherwise. The module for separation of sand and suspended coarse substances consists of a tank for flocculation, coagulation, and precipitation of solid particles; and a low-pressure hydrocyclone. The module for purification from oil and fine suspensions is based on column flotation, flotation with a special ejector, and adhesion flotation. The module for ions and colloids consists of an absorbing filter with zeolite, fly ash, and other absorbing materials. Using a laboratory model consisting of a special mini-plant, we processed 10 L of factory-waste water containing more than 20 g/L organic content (compare with the upper limit of 0.02 g/L allowed by the Ministry of Environmental Protection in Israel). After the experimental solution was treated and evaporated to a small bulk, the water obtained was almost clear. On the basis of the results in the model, we present a scaled-up process for the design, development, and production of equipment for and the assembly of a large installation for drainage and water purification.

Monosymptomatic hypochondriacal psychosis: belief of contracting rabies

The authors describe a forty-one-year-old female with possible monosymptomatic hypochondriacal psychosis (MHP): a delusional belief that she had contracted rabies. This is the first report of this type of delusion in MHP. The patient failed to respond to multiple somatic therapies and finally made a serious suicide attempt. The authors discuss the reasons for the failed treatment and suggest a sequential protocol for treatment of MHP based on the current literature.

"Koro" (genital retraction syndrome): psychotherapeutic interventions

"Koro" is a belief or delusion of retraction of the penis into the abdomen. Originally thought to be a Chinese and Indonesian culture-bound syndrome, it has recently been noted to occur in "Western" patients. Two Western patients with this syndrome are described and their psychotherapeutic treatment and outcome outlined. A stepwise approach to the treatment of the Koro symptom is suggested.

Scleromyxedema with corneal deposits

Scleromyxedema (Arndt-Gottron syndrome) is a rare cutaneous disease in which hyaluronic acid is deposited in the dermis. The authors describe a patient with scleromyxedema and corneal deposits. A corneal biopsy demonstrated hyaluronic acid deposition in the corneal stroma and amyloid P component in Bowman's membrane. This is the first report of scleromyxedema involving the cornea. It is also the first report of amyloid P component deposition in the cornea occurring independent of corneal amyloid deposits.

Zosteriform connective-tissue nevus

Zosteriform connective-tissue nevus, because of its distribution and histopathologic characteristics, is considered to be a separate entity. The only previous case of zosteriform connective-tissue nevus to be reported in the American literature was in 1944. We report and discuss a similar case.

Benign cephalic histiocytosis. A case report and ultrastructural study

A 4-year-old Hispanic boy had an asymptomatic eruption of red-brown macules and papules on the face, neck, trunk, and upper extremities. Examination of the skin lesions by light microscopy revealed a diffuse infiltrate of histiocytes in the upper dermis. Examination by electron microscopy showed wormlike inclusion bodies within the histiocytes. A diagnosis of benign cephalic histiocytosis was made on the basis of these distinct clinical, histologic, and ultrastructural features.

Pigmented basal cell epithelioma arising in the scar of an onchocerciasis nodule

Pigmented basal cell epithelioma (BCE) arose in the scar of an onchocercoma nodule in a 45-year-old white man. There were extensive fibrosis, inflammation, epidermal hyperplasia, and nests of basal cancer cells. The authors believe that the development of epithelioma in this case was more than a chance occurrence. There is little doubt that the malignant change was subsequent to the scarring-proliferative process of the disease. To the authors' knowledge, this complication has not been reported previously.

Benign cephalic histiocytosis

A 2-year-old boy was seen because of an extensive asymptomatic papular eruption on the face, neck, and shoulders of 18-months' duration. A skin biopsy specimen revealed cellular infiltrates composed predominantly of histiocytes. Electron microscopy of biopsy material disclosed "comma-shaped" inclusion bodies in the cell cytoplasm, consistent with the findings described in benign cephalic histiocytosis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of this clinical entity in the American literature.

A controlled study of suicide pacts

The records of the Dade County Medical Examiner's Office were reviewed and 20 suicide pacts (double suicides) were identified. These 40 suicide pact victims were compared using a standardized instrument to 120 randomly selected single Dade County suicides, from the same time period and area. Suicide pacts were also compared based on their composition (spouses, other intrafamilial pairs, and lovers). Suicide pact victims differed significantly from single suicides on several variables, including the tendency to use guns, leave suicide notes, have alcohol-positive blood, be older, be less depressed, and to suicide in the morning hours.

Acrodermatitis enteropathica

A case of acrodermatitis enteropathica belatedly recognized in a pregnant 23-year-old woman is reported. The condition was not specifically diagnosed during childhood. It cleared at puberty but recurred during two of three pregnancies in the form of pustular, vesiculobullous, and psoriasiform lesions. There were no associated signs or symptoms in other organs. Initial diagnoses upon the recurrence during the third pregnancy were herpes gestationis and impetigo herpetiformis. A markedly decreased serum zinc level (18 micrograms/dl) was found. Treatment with zinc sulfate was instituted, and within 3 days the cutaneous lesions began to clear. Two months after the birth of a healthy child, and without further therapy, all lesions had resolved and the serum zinc level was nearly normal. Acrodermatitis enteropathica should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unresponsive bullous dermatoses occurring during pregnancy.

An epidemic of infection with Trichophyton tonsurans revealed in a 20-year survey of fungal infections in Chicago

Trichophyton tonsurans has long been recognized as an important, but hitherto uncommon, cause of tinea capitis in the United States. Today it is known to be more common, but infection of the glabrous skin by this organism is still not well appreciated. In an epidemiologic study during the two decades from 1961 to 1980, 1,292 isolates of thirteen species of dermatophytes were obtained from patients at Cook County Hospital, Chicago. During the last 3 years of study, T. tonsurans accounted for 207 cases (96%) of tinea capitis and ninety-seven cases (75%) of tinea corporis. Ninety-five percent of cases of tinea capitis caused by T. tonsurans occurred in children (59% girls, 41% boys). By contrast, 62% of cases of tinea corporis caused by that organism occurred in adults. Substantially more women than men were affected in a ratio of nearly six to one. The majority of the women were between 15 and 29 years of age; about half of all had lesions on the arm. Over the past 20 years, T. tonsurans has emerged as a major cause of both tinea capitis and tinea corporis in Chicago. The disproportionate number of cases of tinea corporis in women of childbearing age may be due to their more frequent contact with infected children.

Warty dyskeratoma

A 43-year-old man with a crusted papule on the cheek was found to have a squamous cell carcinoma of the lung. Histologic examination of the skin lesion showed the characteristic features of warty dyskeratoma. A rare clinical photograph is presented and the clinical and histopathologic features are reviewed.

Lichen striatus with onychodystrophy

Two case reports of lichen striatus with nail dystrophy are presented herein. Review of the literature suggests a more protracted course for the cutaneous eruption if there is nail involvement. Biopsy is important to differentiate this condition from other linear lesions that may interfere with normal nail growth.

Nevus comedonicus with epidermolytic hyperkeratosis. A report of four cases

Four patients with nevus comedonicus (NC) and the histological changes of epidermolytic hyperkeratosis (EH) are described. The relationship between NC and other epidermal nevi in which EH may occur is further emphasized by this finding.

Ichthyosiform sarcoid

Although acquired ichthyosis may appear in patients with various systemic illnesses, an association with with sarcoidosis has rarely been reported. However, three adults who presented with sarcoidosis and ichthyosiform changes on their legs are discussed herein.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis: surgical management of a case with unusual clinical and histological features

Our case of cutaneous leishmaniasis clinically resembles the atypical form "infiltrees en nappes" that was described by Photinos in 1930. A subsequent biopsy of the lesion was performed more than one year after its onset and after a full course of stibogluconate sodium and the specimen showed multiple organisms in multinucleated giant cells as well as in histiocytes. Electrodesiccation and curettage of the lesion resulted in complete healing with minimal scarring.

Clinical comparison of desonide cream with fluocinonide cream in steroid-responsive dermatologic disorders

Desonide, a nonfluorinated topical corticosteriod, was compared with fluocinonide, a potent fluorinated steroid, in identical concentrations, in the treatment of various steroid-responsive dermatologic disorders. In treatment comparisons, the group treated with desonide showed significantly (p less than 0.05) better erythema and scaling scores after the first week than did those in the fluocinonide group, but the two week scores were not significantly different. Although 5 percent of patients treated with fluocinonide had adverse reactions, no such reactions were observed in the desonide-treated group.

Pacinian neurofibroma

A 40-year-old woman developed a tender, greyish-white nodule of the index finger. Histologic examination disclosed mature and immature pacinian corpuscles.

Umbilical endometrioma (silent type)

Umbilical endometrioma is an uncommon entity and is rarely asymptomatic. A 24-year old black woman had an asymptomatic, spontaneous umbilical endometrioma. The lesion was excised and the diagnosis was histologically confirmed.