• Book : ()
• Pub. Date : 2025
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Abstract Background Radiotherapy as a complement or an alternative to neurosurgery has a central role in the treatment of skull base grade I-II meningiomas. Radiotherapy techniques have improved considerably over the last two decades, becoming more effective and sparing more and more the healthy tissue surrounding the tumour. Currently, hypo-fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) for small tumours and normo-fractionated intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) or proton-therapy (PT) for larger tumours are the most widely used techniques. It is expected a decrease of the risk of cognitive impairment with these modern techniques. However prospective data about cognitive long-term consequences of partial brain irradiation with SRT, PT, or IMRT remain very scarce to date. Methods CANCER COG is one of the first multicentric study in the world to prospectively assess the cognitive performances of patients following different modalities of cerebral radiotherapy (stereotactic radiotherapy, proton therapy, intensity modulated radiotherapy) for the treatment of grade I-II skull base meningioma, up to at least 10 years after the end of radiotherapy. This longitudinal study includes the follow-up of 3 cohorts, including: patients treated with PRT, IMRT, and SRT. An additionally control group will be formed. The primary objective is to report long-term cognitive deterioration in each cohort until 10 years after the end of irradiation. The rate of clinical symptomatology improvement over time after irradiation, the evolution of health-related quality-of-life, anxiety/depression, fatigue, over time after irradiation, the tumoral local control after irradiation, the progression-free survival (PFS), the professional reintegration for working-age patients will also be assessed. CANCER COG aims to help clinicians to choose the best irradiation techniques with the best benefit/risk ratio. Inclusions started on september 2023. Trial registration The study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov with the following number: NCT 06036706.

• Book : 20(1)
• Pub. Date : 2025
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Background: Rho-associated kinases 1 and 2 (ROCK1 and ROCK2) regulate critical cell functions, including actomyosin contractility, apoptosis, and proliferation. Some studies suggest that ROCK inhibition may serve as a treatment for liver fibrosis. More investigation is needed to understand the role of hepatocyte ROCK signaling in vivo, especially in the context of profibrotic liver injury. Methods: Rock1 fl/fl , Rock2 fl/fl , and Rock1 fl/fl ; Rock2 fl/fl mice were given adeno-associated virus serotype 8 (AAV8)-thyroid hormone-binding globulin (TBG)-Cre to produce targeted gene deletion in hepatocytes, or given AAV8-TBG-Null to generate littermate controls (WT). Mice were then placed on a 0.1% 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC) diet to induce liver injury. Results: Upon DDC-induced liver injury, mice with hepatocyte-specific deletion of ROCK1 alone (R1 KO) or ROCK2 alone (R2 KO) demonstrated minimal differences compared to WT. In contrast, mice with hepatocyte-specific deletion of both ROCK1 and ROCK2 (DKO) showed pervasive early mortality, increased hepatocellular injury, and decreased hepatic function. DDC-injured DKO mice demonstrated markedly distorted liver histology characterized by large cavities in the parenchyma. RNA-seq analysis showed upregulation of cell death, inflammatory, and profibrotic pathways in DDC-injured DKO liver as compared to DDC-injured WT liver. Cdkn1a (gene encoding p21) was one of the most highly upregulated genes in the DKO liver in response to DDC-induced injury. Correspondingly, there was increased hepatocyte nuclear localization of p21 and expression of cleaved caspase-3 in DDC-injured DKO liver, consistent with the activation of p21-mediated caspase-3–dependent apoptotic cell death pathways. ROCK1/ROCK2-deficient primary hepatocytes demonstrated increased susceptibility to both caspase-3–mediated apoptosis and caspase-3–independent forms of cell death in a cell intrinsic manner. Conclusions: ROCK signaling plays a critical role in mediating hepatocyte cell survival pathways in response to liver injury.

• Book : 9(2)
• Pub. Date : 2025
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Sinonasal small-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SCNEC) is an uncommon malignant epithelial neuroendocrine tumor in the sinonasal cavity that often presents in isolation and rarely occurs in synchronous fashion with small-cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). Here, we present a case of a 65-year-old man diagnosed with SCNEC concurrently combined with SCLC. He received first-line platinum-doublet chemotherapy combined with durvalumab, followed by radiotherapy to thoracic as well as head and neck regions. The follow-up computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed a complete response according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors criteria until 9 June 2024. This case highlights the need for accurate diagnostic characterization of primary lesions and the need to formalize treatment paradigms using chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors, and targeted prophylactic cranial irradiation.

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• Pub. Date : 2025
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Abstract This paper presents an in-depth analytical investigation into the time-dependent flow of a Casson hybrid nanofluid over a radially stretching sheet. The study introduces the effects of magnetic fields and thermal radiation, along with velocity and thermal slip, to model real-world systems for enhancing heat transfer in critical industrial applications. The hybrid nanofluid consists of three nanoparticles—Copper and Graphene Oxide—suspended in Kerosene Oil, selected for their stable and superior thermal properties. The theory of Darcy-Forchheimer, along with the suction and injection effect, is applied to refine the flow behaviour and enhance heat transfer efficiency. The governing nonlinear equations are solved using the Homotopy Analysis Method to provide a robust framework for solution accuracy. The graphical and tabulated results demonstrated that hybrid nanofluid outperforms mono and Casson hybrid nanofluids. The result shows that, at a nanoparticle volume concentration of 0.03, the Casson hybrid nanofluid showed a remarkable 19.99% increase in heat transfer, compared to 14.80% for simple nanofluid. The magnetic parameter and thermal radiation parameter further amplify thermal conductivity. This research provided a critical insight into optimizing thermal management systems for advanced engineering applications, positioning hybrid nanofluid as highly effective solutions for next-generation cooling technologies.

• Book : 15(1)
• Pub. Date : 2025
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Abstract Chest imaging in children presents unique challenges due to varying requirements across age groups. For chest radiographs, achieving optimal images often involves careful positioning and immobilisation techniques. Antero-posterior projections are easier to obtain in younger children, while lateral decubitus radiographs are sometimes used when expiratory images are difficult to obtain and for free air exclusion. Chest CT protocols should be age-dependent to minimise radiation exposure and motion artefacts. MRI is primarily used in specialised centres to reduce radiation exposure, requiring specific expertise and sedation in younger children. Respiratory distress syndrome is a leading cause of morbidity in preterm neonates, diagnosed through characteristic radiographic findings and a history of prematurity. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is the most common complication of extreme preterm birth and chronic oxygen therapy; imaging is used for predicting outcomes for the assessment of severe cases. Transient tachypnoea of the newborn and meconium aspiration syndrome are common in term infants, with specific imaging characteristics aiding in their differentiation. Congenital lung malformations present diagnostic and management challenges, with imaging playing a crucial role in diagnosis and surgical planning. Finally, imaging is essential in detecting complications from pneumonia in children, such as empyema and necrotic pneumonia, or in identifying foreign object aspiration. Clinical relevance statement This review summarises current radiology practice of paediatric chest pathologies, aiding in the accurate diagnosis and management of neonatal and congenital pulmonary conditions and pneumonia complications, ultimately improving patient outcomes through precise imaging interpretation and targeted clinical intervention. Key Points Chest radiographs should be systematically assessed for pathology. Ensure accurate differential diagnosis of neonatal lung diseases by collecting information on gestational age, method of delivery, presenting symptoms, ventilation type, and fetal ultrasound findings. Radiographs and ultrasound are initial diagnostic tools for paediatric pulmonary disease; CT should be reserved for complex cases. Referral to paediatric hospital should be considered when the use of chest MRI is indicated.

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• Pub. Date : 2025
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This study aims to determine the most suitable location for establishing solar power stations in the Sebha region using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). It focuses on integrating geographic and climatic data and applying specific criteria to evaluate the spatial suitability for these stations. The study aims to leverage the region's natural potential by utilizing solar radiation and guiding decision-makers towards optimal sites that offer economic and environmental efficiency. The study used a descriptive-analytical approach and applied several criteria in the analysis, such as solar radiation, slope degree, proximity to transportation and energy networks, and distance from urban areas. The Multi-Criteria Evaluation (MCE) method was also applied within the GIS environment to assess suitable areas. The results showed that climatic factors, such as solar radiation, temperature, and wind, play a crucial role in determining site suitability for solar power stations. The study utilized a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) of the region to produce maps using Spatial Analyst tools within the Arc Map 10.8 package, along with land use maps to create a spatial suitability map. The spatial suitability results for establishing a solar power station indicated that highly suitable areas constitute about 60% of the total studied area, while moderately suitable areas represent around 22%, and areas with low suitability cover approximately 18% of the total area. These findings support efforts to diversify energy sources and establish a scientifically-based database that promotes renewable energy use and sustainable development in the region.

• Book : 14(FICTS-2024)
• Pub. Date : 2025
• Page : pp.36-54
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MR-guided radiotherapy (MRgRT) is novel treatment modality in Radiation Oncology that could allow a higher precision and tolerability of Radiation Treatments. This modality is possible due to dedicated systems consisting of a MR scanner mounted on a conventional linac and software that permit daily online treatment plan adaptation. Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the most common malignancies in RO clinical practice and currently under investigation with this new technology. The focus of this review is to describe the current state of the art and clinical results of MRgRT in the treatment of PC. The available technology are briefly described, as well as the published literature and possible future applications

• Book : 24()
• Pub. Date : 2025
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AbstractGlioblastoma is the most aggressive primary brain tumor characterized by a dismal prognosis and a profound therapy resistance that is most evident for the mesenchymal molecular subtype of glioblastoma. Targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐A by the monoclonal antibody bevacizumab, despite failing to improve survival in randomized trials, yields relevant benefits in glioblastoma patients such as reduction of radionecrosis, an adverse event associated with radiotherapy. This demands for continued research to identify optimal combinations of anti‐VEGF‐A and standard therapies for glioblastoma treatment. We show here that blocking VEGF‐A in an immune competent orthotopic glioblastoma mouse model resembling the adverse mesenchymal molecular subtype increases the tumoricidal effect of computed tomography (CT)‐based fractionated radiotherapy and also rectifies irradiation‐induced expression of genes with known association to mesenchymal subtype enrichment as revealed by microarray‐based transcriptome analyses of explanted tumors. VEGF‐A blockade also decreases the expression of myeloid‐cell‐related gene patterns in irradiated tumors and lowers inflammatory response in normal brain tissue after tumor irradiation. Hence, these data both provide a hint how blockade of VEGF‐A increases the effect of radiotherapy in mesenchymal glioblastoma and a mechanistic base for clinical observations reporting reduced incidences of radionecrosis in glioblastoma patients treated with radiotherapy upon concurrent administration of bevacizumab.

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• Pub. Date : 2025
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AbstractMultidrug-resistantStaphylococcus aureusis a major global health threat, with the VraTSR three-component system playing a key role in sensing and conferring resistance to cell-wall active antibiotics, particularly vancomycin. VraTSR comprises the membrane histidine kinase VraS, the cytoplasmic response regulator VraR, and the uncharacterized membrane protein VraT, which regulate the cell wall stress stimulon. However, the molecular signals sensed by VraTSR remain unknown. To elucidate the activation mechanism of this regulatory system, we investigated interactions with β-lactams and glycopeptides. Using a transcriptional reporter strain, we confirmed VraTSR activation by β-lactams, glycopeptides, a vancomycin-derived photoprobe (VPP), and the previously unreported activators A47934 and moenomycin A. Photo-crosslinking assays with VPP and full-length VraS expressed in membranes revealed a direct interaction with vancomycin, which was further confirmed in purified VraS reconstituted in liposomes. VPP binding was concentration-dependent, saturable, and displaced by vancomycin. Saturation transfer difference (STD) Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) experiments confirmed vancomycin binding to VraS and demonstrated ampicillin interaction, highlighting the involvement of aryl protons from both antibiotics. These findings establish VraS as a receptor for vancomycin and ampicillin. In contrast, assays with membrane vesicles expressing only VraT or co-expressing VraS/VraT did not show covalent adduct formation between VraT and VPP. While VraT’s exact role remains unclear, its participation in antibiotic sensing or signal transduction cannot yet be excluded. These results demonstrate that vancomycin and ampicillin directly activate VraS, providing critical insights into the activation of the cell wall stress stimulon and the mechanisms underlying antibiotic resistance. Disrupting VraTSR signaling is a promising strategy to combat multidrug resistance inS. aureus,and we provide invaluablein vitroplatforms for identifying potential VraS inhibitors.Author SummaryMultidrug-resistantStaphylococcus aureusposes a major global health threat due to its resistance to cell-wall active antibiotics. Our study focuses on the VraTSR three-component system, a key regulator of the cell wall stress response inS. aureus, whose activation signals have remained unknown.We demonstrate that VraS, the membrane histidine kinase of the system, acts as a direct receptor for vancomycin and ampicillin—two structurally distinct antibiotics. These findings uncover the activation mechanism of VraTSR and position VraS as a central player in antibiotic sensing and resistance.By identifying VraS as a direct antibiotic receptor, we provide a promising target for developing inhibitors to disrupt VraTSR signaling and restore antibiotic efficacy. Additionally, thein vitroplatforms we established enable the identification and testing of potential VraS inhibitors.This study highlights the importance of understanding bacterial stress-response pathways to combat antibiotic resistance, offering critical insights for developing new therapeutic strategies against multidrug-resistantS. aureus, a growing global health challenge.

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• Pub. Date : 2025
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