FCNC Top Quark Decays in Extra Dimensions

The flavor changing neutral top quark decay t -> c X is computed, where X is a neutral standard model particle, in a extended model with a single extra dimension. The cases for the photon, X= \gamma$, and a Standard Model Higgs boson, X = H, are analyzed in detail in a non-linear$R_\xi gauge. We find that the branching ratios can be enhanced by the dynamics originated in the extra dimension. In the limit where 1/R >> ->, we have found Br(t -> c \gamma) \simeq 10^{-10} for 1/R = 0.5 TeV. For the decay t -> c H, we have found Br(t -> cH) \simeq 10^{-10} for a low Higgs mass value. The branching ratios go to zero when 1/R -> \infty.Comment: Accepted to be published in the Europ. Phys. Jour. C; 16 pages, 2 figure

Management of oligometastatic non-small cell lung cancer patients: Current controversies and future directions

Oligometastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) describes an intermediate stage of NSCLC between localized and widely-disseminated disease. This stage of NSCLC is characterized by a limited number of metastases and a more indolent tumor biology. Currently, the management of oligometastatic NSCLC involves radical treatment (radiotherapy or surgery) that targets the metastatic lesions and the primary tumor to achieve disease control. This approach offers the potential to achieve prolonged survival in patients who, in the past, would have only received palliative measures. The optimal therapeutic strategies for the different scenarios of oligometastatic disease (intracranial vs extracranial disease, synchronous vs metachronous) remain undefined. Given the lack of head-to-head studies comparing radiotherapy to surgery in these patients, the decision to apply surgery or radiotherapy (with or without systemic treatment) must be based on prognostic factors that allow us to classify patients. This classification will allow us to select the most appropriate therapeutic strategy on an individualized basis. In the future, the molecular or microRNA profiles will likely improve the treatment selection process. The objective of the present article is to review the most relevant scientific evidence on the management of patients with oligometastatic NSCLC, focusing on the role of radiotherapy and surgery. We also discuss areas of controversy and future directions

Role of 3.0 T multiparametric MRI in local staging in prostate cancer and clinical implications for radiation oncology

To evaluate the accuracy of preoperative 3T multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (3TmMRI) for local staging of prostate cancer and its influence on the decision to change the clinical target volume (CTV), total dose and hormonal therapy when treating prostate cancer patients with radiotherapy. From 2009 to 2013, 150 patients, who had confirmed prostate cancer and underwent a 3TmMRI before treatment with radical prostatectomy or radical radiation therapy, were included. Radiation therapy treatment (CTV, total dose and hormonal therapy) was initially determined on the basis of the clinical information, and radiation therapy plan was reevaluated after 3TmMRI review. The value of preoperative 3TmMRI in local staging and in the decision of radiotherapy treatment according to NCCN risk classification was analyzed. 3TmMRI performed correct, over- and under staging in 78.7 % (37/47), 6.3 % (3/47), 14.8 % patients (7/47), respectively. 3TmMRI identified 6 cT2a, 7 cT2b, 28 cT2c, 3 cT3a, 3 cT3b tumors. At final pathology, 5 tumors were classified as pT2a, 5 as pT2b, 30 as pT2c, 4 as pT3a, 3 as pT3b. After reviewing the MRI reports, the initial radiotherapy and hormonal therapy plan was changed in 33.9 % patients (35/103). In our group of patients, 3TmMRI has been a reliable technique providing an optimal staging for prostate cancer. Its routine use could induce important changes in radiation therapy treatments in a significant number of such patients. However, more additional studies are needed to clarify this issue.2.077 JCR (2014) Q3, 147/211 OncologyUE