Over-expression of SERPINB3 in hepatoblastoma: a possible insight into the genesis of this tumour?

Background: The serpin SERPINB3 (SB3) found over-expressed in human hepatocellular carcinoma and in regenerating liver in mice has been shown to induce apoptosis resistance, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and increasing cellular invasion. It has also been hypothesised that SB3 may provide a pro-proliferative stimulus for liver cells in vivo. No information is available on SB3 in hepatoblastoma (HB).

Large cell/anaplastic medulloblastoma: outcome according to myc status, histopathological, and clinical risk factors.

Purpose: To evaluate the prognostic impact of large cell/anaplastic (LC/A) histology together with molecular and clinical risk factors in childhood medulloblastoma.

Methods: Three consecutive prospective medulloblastoma trials were screened for patients with the histological diagnosis of LC/A medulloblastoma. Tumors were considered as LC/A if they displayed areas of severe cytological anaplasia or a significant or predominant large cell component.

Novel technique of craniospinal axis proton therapy with the spot-scanning system: avoidance of patching multiple fields and optimized ventral dose distribution.

Background And Purpose: Conventional craniospinal irradiation (CSI) is a complex procedure carrying a high risk of adverse side effects. Still, it is indispensable for cure in a number of pediatric brain tumors. In this study, the feasibility and the potential advantage of spot-scanning proton therapy for CSI are investigated.