bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphologic and Antigenic Properties of Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus Produced in a Hormone-Responsive Fashion by C57B1/10 Mammary Tumors of Non-Viral Origin
Authors: Marchetti Antonio , Svec Juraj , Hlavay Elena , Veselovska Zuzanna , Castagna Maura , Squartini Francesco
Published: April 2018

Bl-MaTU/A1 mouse mammary tumor cells, derived from a C57B1/10 mammary adenocarcinoma induced by dimethylbenzanthracene and mammotropic hormones, express virus particles and proteins related to mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV). Immunocytochemical analysis by means of monospecific and monoclonal anti-gp52 sera revealed a different localization of the main structural proteins of MMTV in Bl-MaTU/A1 and GR cells (the latter used as a positive virus-producing control). Immunoelectron microscopy of B-type particles budding from the microvilli of dexamethasone-stimulated Bl-MaTU/A1 cells showed remarkably weak reactivity of the viral envelope with anti-gp52-protein A-gold complexes as compared with that of dexamethasone-stimulated GR cells. Since Bl-MaTU/A1-associated MMTV originates from the amplified unit II of endogenous MMTV, which is altered probably within the env gene, the observed antigenic difference in the Bl-MaTU/A1-associated MMTV may be due to altered synthesis of gp52 glycoprotein in these cells.
Phase II Trial of 4′-Epi-Doxorubicin in Locally Advanced or Metastatic Gastric Cancer
Authors: Cazap Eduardo , Estevez Roberto , Bruno Mario , Levy Daniel , Algamiz Carlos , Chacon Reinaldo , Badano Carlos , Romero Alberto , Desimone Gustavo , Roca Enrique , Arteaga Cristina , Hannois Adrian , Kotliar Mauricio , Wooley Paul
Published: April 2018

Patients with locally advanced or metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma received an i.v. bolus of 4′-epi-doxorubicin, 75/mg/m2/cycle, every 21 days. Partial responses were observed in 5 of 23 evaluable patients (21.7%). Treatment was generally well tolerated and toxicity was mild. The response rate to epirubicin appears to be very similar to that reported for doxorubicin. Larger doses of epirubicin could be safely used in future studies, and further evaluation of epirubicin in phase III trials is indicated.
Ileal Carcinoid Metastatic to the Breast. Report of a Case
Authors: Di Palma Silvana , Andreola Salvatore , Lombardi Luciano , Colombo Claudio
Published: April 2018

We report a case of ileal carcinoid which clinically presented as a primary breast carcinoma. Review of the literature demonstrated only 9 cases of carcinoids metastatic to the breast. In spite of the rarity of this event, the differential diagnosis between primary and metastatic carcinoid of the breast should be considered in view of the different clinical management of these two settings.
Melatonin Increase as Predictor for Tumor Objective Response to Chemotherapy in Advanced Cancer Patients
Authors: Lissoni Paolo , Tancini Gabriele , Barni Sandro , Crispino Sergio , Paolorossi Franco , Rovelli Franco , Cattaneo Giulio , Fraschini Franco
Published: April 2018

Clinical studies have demonstrated an altered pineal function in cancer patients. Owing to the documented antineoplastic activity of the pineal gland, these anomalies could have a prognostic significance. This study was carried out to monitor changes in blood levels of melatonin, the most important pineal hormone, in relation to the clinical response to chemotherapy in human neoplasms. The study included 42 cancer patients of both sexes (breast cancer, 10; lung cancer, 13; colon cancer, 11; soft tissue sarcoma, 4; testicular cancer, 1; Hodgkin's disease, 1; peritoneal mesothelioma, 2). Melatonin serum levels were measured by radioimmunoassay before and 28 days after each cycle of chemotherapy. The results showed that, irrespectively of the type of tumor and chemotherapeutic regimen, 12/16 patients (75%) whose melatonin markedly enhanced after chemotherapy had an objective regression. In contrast, 2/26 patients only (8%) whose melatonin did not enhance after chemotherapy had a clinical response. The percentage of objective responses was statistically significantly higher in patients with a chemotherapy-induced melatonin increase than in those with no melatonin increase (p < 0.001). This study seems to demonstrate that melatonin determination can be used as a predictor of the objective response to chemotherapy in cancer patients. Moreover, it suggests that the antineoplastic effect of cytotoxic drugs may require participation of the pineal gland.
Fine Aspiration versus Fine Cutting Needle, and Comparison between Smear Cytology, Inclusion Cytology and Microhistology in Abdominal Lesions
Authors: Livraghi Tito , Sangalli Gabriele , Giordano Ferdinando , Vettori Claudio
Published: April 2018

Two hundred patients underwent ultrasound guided percutaneous fine needle biopsy of focal solid abdominal lesions using 22 gauge aspiration and cutting needles. The material obtained by aspiration needle was treated by smear cytology and by inclusion cytology, and that obtained by cutting needle by microhistology. The retrieval rate was 89% for aspiration needle (smear cytology = 89%, inclusion cytology = 83.5%) and was 83% for cutting needle; the combined diagnostic accuracy was 98%. The typing accuracy was 76% for smear cytology, and was 84% for inclusion cytology and microhistology. We conclude that: 1. to obtain the highest retrieval rate (98%) both aspiration and cutting needles are necessary, because the aspiration needle is more likely to secure necrotic or soft tissue, and the cutting needle, fibrous or hard tissue; 2. histologic treatment of the samples yields a higher typing accuracy: 84% vs 76%; however, smear cytology remains essential because it permits a much faster evaluation of the adequacy of the sample and because it may avoid histologic methods in 76% of cases; 3. the smear cytology + microhistology combination seems to be the best solution (retrieval rate = 97.5%), but the costs are much higher because the cutting needle is somewhat expensive. The best solution would be to use the combination smear + inclusion cytology (retrieval rate = 89%) and to reserve the cutting needle for when aspiration needle material proves to be inadequate.
Treatment of Postmenopausal Breast Cancer with Bisbromoacetyl Hexestrol
Authors: Zhao Tiping , He Guifen
Published: April 2018

Twenty five cases of advanced postmenopausal breast cancer patients were treated with bisbromoacetyl hexestrol 3 CR and 5 PR were achieved. The response rate was 32 %, and the average duration of remission 6 months. Vaginal bleeding was seen in 9 cases, 4 of whom were compelled to discontinue treatment.
Doppler Echocardiographic Assessment of Left Ventricular Diastolic Function in Patients with Primary Lung Cancer Treated with Doxorubicin
Authors: Maione Stefania , Giunta Anna , Tuccillo Bernardino , Biagini Renato , Del Rosso Paola , Pezza Aldo , De Blasio Francesco
Published: April 2018

Eighteen patients were examined by Doppler echocardiography before and after treatment with doxorubicin (DXR). Early left ventricular filling rate decreased from 66±15 to 51±10 cm/sec whereas late filling rate increased from 48±12 to 61±9 cm/sec (p < 0.05) with inversion of the E/A ratio suggesting an impairment of left ventricular diastolic function; conversely no significant changes were found in systolic function indexes. These results suggest that follow-up of patients treated with DXR must include left ventricular diastolic function studies. Doppler echocardiography can be successfully used to detect the presence of diastolic abnormalities.
CNS Metastasis in Ovarian Cancer with Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia Associated with Diffuse Intravascular Coagulation
Authors: Pogliani Enrico Maria , Fowst Camilla , Matté Pierfranco , Marozzi Anna , Stefani Michele , Polli Elio
Published: April 2018

We present the case of a woman affected by ovarian cancer metastatic to multiple lymph node and the CNS. She was affected by hemorrhagic diathesis with microangiopathic alterations, whereas coagulopathy developed only after some days in coincidence with disease worsening. Our patient is probably one of those in which cancer leads to microangiopathy and coagulopathy by means of a tissue factor-like activity, a common event in mucin secretory tumors. Fibrinolytic activity was also increased in our patient as in others of the same type. The main aspect of this case report is metastasis to the CNS and to other multiple sites, which is quite uncommon in such cancers. We retain that tumor procoagulant activity could have played a role in this phenomenon.
Intralaboratory Reproducibility of Interpretation of Pap Smears: Results of an Experiment
Authors: Duca Piergiorgio , Braga Mario , Chiappa Liliana , Piffer Raffaele , Turolla Enrico
Published: April 2018

One hundred and twenty Pap-smears were examined by 3 cytotechnologists on two occasions in the Legnano Hospital Cytologic Center. A 10-category classification system was used. Chance-adjusted overall and category-specific agreement was estimated (Cohen's unweighted kappa-statistics) within and between cytotechnologists. Mean K for the Center, weighted for precision, was 0.432, S.E. 0.029 (between cytotechnologists). The most reproducible categories (between cytotechnologists) were « 9: malignant cells » (K = 0.683) and « 1: normal » (K = 0.533); the least reproducible categories were « 4: endocervical metaplastic cells » (K = 0.024) and « 8: severe squamous dysplasia CIN III » (K = 0.227).
Monoclonal Immunoglobulin Gene Rearrangement in Peripheral Lymphocytes of a Patient with Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Palumbo Antonio P. , Pileri Alessandro , Battaglio Silvano , Omedè Paola , Redoglia Valter , Massaia Massimo , Dianzani Umberto , Boccadoro Mario
Published: April 2018

We analyzed the immunoglobulin (Ig) heavy chain gene rearrangement in the peripheral blood lymphocytes of a patient with multiple myeloma (MM). Although the morphological and immunological examination did not reveal the presence of circulating plasma cells, a monoclonal Ig gene rearrangement was detected. This observation indicates that a monoclonal expansion of circulating B cells was present in the peripheral lympocytes of this patient.
Post-Traumatic Localization of Hiv-Related Kaposi's Sarcoma: Á Case Report
Authors: Rotoli Maurizio , Zamparelli Francesco , Nardi Mario , Cerimele Decio
Published: April 2018

A case is reported of HIV-related Kaposi's sarcoma of the skin which occurred on a traumatized area. Such a case has not been previously described. The probable pathogenetic role of vasal growth factors produced by platelets, macrophages and lymphocytes' is emphasized.
Morphological Characterization of Lewis Lung Carcinoma (3LL). A Light and Electron Microscopic Study
Authors: Garcia-Sanz Manuel , Simón-Marín Rafael , Hilario Enrique
Published: April 2018

Primary tumor and its metastases of subcutaneously injected Lewis lung carcinoma (3LL) of the mouse were examined by light and electron microscopy. Although the optical appearance, in both cases, was of a indiffentiated carcinoma, the ultrastructural observation showed characteristic intracyto-plasmic myelinoid bodies similar to those seen in type II pneumocytes in normal lung. These findings suggest that Lewis lung carcinoma is a carcinoma derived from granular pneumocytes equivalent to human alveolar cell carcinoma. The histological and embryological aspects ot type II pneumocytes that could explain the histogenesis of this tumor are discussed.
Lonidamine versus Polychemotherapy in Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer. A Preliminary Analysis
Authors: Giaccone Giuseppe , Bagatella Matteo , Donadio Michela , Bonardi Gianmaria , Maestroni Franco , Calciati Alessandro
Published: April 2018

No clear evidence of survival benefit has been definitely shown by chemotherapy in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer. We evaluated in a randomized trial the activity of the new drug lonidamine (up to 1050 mg/day) versus MVP (mitomycin C, 10 mg/m2, vinblastine, 5 mg/m2, cisplatin, 100 mg/m2). The preliminary findings on 25 patients showed that lonidamine can be easily administered at these dose ranges, and main toxicity was represented by myalgia and testicular pain. Tolerance to combination chemotherapy (MVP) was superimposable to our prior experience. Responses were recorded in both arms, and no survival difference was apparent. The study is in progress.
CA 125 Reliability in Predicting Ovarian Cancer Recurrence
Authors: Zanaboni Flavia , Presti Mauro , Scarfone Giovanna , Bolis Giorgio
Published: April 2018

The predictive value of CA 125 assay for recurrence in ovarian cancer patients in follow-up was analyzed in a study from April 1984 through June 1987. Forty-two patients with no evidence of disease (NED), with positive antigen levels at diagnosis and negative at the end of active treatment, were considered eligible for the analysis. Median follow-up time was 16 months (range, 5-34). Outcome analysis revealed 19 cases still NED: 16 had normal CA 125 levels « 35 U/ml). The 3 patients with positive antigen titers were intensively investigated with no evidence of recurrence. Twenty-three cases had disease recurrence: 13 of them had elevated marker levels prior to relapse diagnosis, with a median lead time of 5 months (range, 2-13). In contrast, 10 patients had positive titers at or soon after the recurrence. Test sensitivity was therefore 56% and specificity 84%. Predictive value for recurrence of elevated CA 125 levels was 0.81.
Cancer Survival from the Incident Cases of the Registry of Vaud, Switzerland
Authors: Levi Fabio , Mezzanotte Guerrino , Te Van Cong , La Vecchia Carlo
Published: April 2018

Survival statistics from the incident cases of the Vaud Cancer Registry over the period 1974–1980 were computed on the basis of an active follow-up based on verification of vital status as to December 31, 1984. Product-moment crude and relative 5 to 10 year rates are presented in separate strata of sex, age and area of residence (urban or rural). Most of the rates are comparable with those in other published series from North America or Europe, but survival from gastric cancer (24% 5-year relative rates) tended to be higher, and that from bladder cancer (about 30 %) lower than in most other datasets. No significant difference in survival emerged according to residence in urban Lausanne vs surrounding (rural) areas. Interesting indications according to subsite (higher survival for the pyloric region vs the gastric fundus, but absence of substantial differences for various colon subsites), histology (higher rates for squamous carcinomas of the lung, seminomas of the testis or chronic lymphatic leukemias as compared with other histotypes), or site of origin (higher survival for lower limb melanomas), require further quantitative assessment from other population-based series. A Cox proportional hazard model applied to melanomatous skin cancers showed an Independent favorable effect on long-term prognosis of female gender and adverse implications for advanced age, stage at diagnosis and tumor site other than lower limb.
Telethermography and Breast Cancer Risk Prediction
Authors: Ciatto Stefano , Del Turco Marco Rosselli , Cecchini Silvia , Grazzini Grazia , Iossa Anna
Published: April 2018

The authors report on 4,624 noncancer women classified by telethermography (TH1-2 vs TH3) and followed for an average of 6.6 years (range, 2–12). Breast cancer occurring beyond the sixth month from TH were recorded according to a Cancer Registry, and the association between breast cancer incidence and thermographic class or patient age was evaluated. Univariate analysis showed a significant association of age and thermography with further cancer incidence, but multivariate analysis (Cox's model) confirmed a significant association only for age. Thermography (TH3) showed a nonsignificant odds ratio of 1.6 with respect to TH1-2 cases. Thus thermography did not show any practical role as a breast cancer risk indicator. Possible biases affecting previous reports suggesting the use of thermography as a breast cancer risk indicator are discussed.
Combination of Cyclophosphamide, Adriamycin and Platinum (Cap) versus 5-Fluorouracil, Adriamycin and Cyclophosphamide (Fac) as Primary Treatment in Metastatic Breast Cancer: Results of a Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Kolarić Krsto , Vukas Dunja , Potrebica Vera
Published: April 2018

Based on favorable results we reported earlier with the CAP regimen in breast cancer (CAP vs CMFVP), the present study compared the CAP with the FAC regimen, which is so far one of the most active adriamycin containing chemotherapy regimens in breast cancer. The aim of the study was to find the optimal first line treatment and possibly evaluate the role of cis platinum in breast cancer chemotherapy. The CAP schedule consisted of cyclophosphamide 200 mg/m2 i.v. days 1, 3 and 5, adriamycin 40 mg/m2 i.v. day 1, and platinum 30 mg/m2 i.v. day 1, 3 and 5. The FAC schedule included 5-FU 500 mg/m2 days 1 and 8, adriamycin 50 mg/m2 day 1, and cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m2 da 1. One hundred and twenty-six previously untreated patients received > 2 cycles and were evaluated. In the CAP arm 15 complete (26%) and 24 partial remissions were observed, resulting in a 67 % overall response rate (39/58). The response in soft tissue and visceral organs was notable (78 % – 22/28, 71 % – 15/21) with an important complete response rate (32 %). In the FAC arm there was an overall response in 41 % (28/68) of patients, with 8 complete (12 %) and 20 partial responses. The difference in overall response, complete response, and response in soft tissue and visceral organs, was statistically significant in favor of the CAP arm (P < 0.005). Concerning bone metastases there was no difference between the two schedules in response rate, nor in the median remission duration (CAP 11, FAC 10 months). In spite of a somewhat longer median survival in the CAP group, the difference (13 months vs 9 months) was not statistically significant (P=0.10). Toxicity was moderate and tolerable in both regimens with more pronounced myelosuppression and vomiting in the CAP group. Compared with the FAC schedule the platinum containing combination chemotherapy (CAP) showed higher antitumor activity with no reflection on remission duration and survival.
Pathologic Assessment of Computerized Tomography Accuracy for the Evaluation of the Laryngeal Cartilaginous Frame Work in Laryngopharyngeal Carcinomas
Authors: Sulfaro Sandro , Querin Francesco , Barzan Luigi , Lutman Mario , Comoretto Roberto , Volpe Rachele , Carbone Antonino
Published: April 2018

Sixty-six whole-organ sectioned laryngopharyngectomy specimens removed for cancer during a seven-year period were uniformly examined to determine the accuracy of preoperative high resolution computerized tomography (CT) for detection of cartilaginous involvement. Our results indicate that CT has a high overall specificity (88.2%) but a low sensitivity (47.1 %); we observed a high false-negative rate (26.5%) and a fairly low false-positive rate (5.9%). Massive cartilage destruction was easily assessed by CT, whereas both small macroscopic and microscopic neoplastic foci of cartilaginous invasion were missed on CT scans. Moreover, false-positive cases were mainly due to proximity of the tumor to the cartilage. Clinical implications of these results are discussed.
Nephroblastoma with Neuroendocrine Differentiation
Authors: Orazi Attilio , Lombardi Luciano , Trumper Liliana , Cattoretti Giorgio , Ballerini Emanuela
Published: April 2018

A nephroblastoma (Wilms' tumor) with morphological, histochemical, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural evidence of neuroendocrine differentiation is described. Whereas areas of neural differentiation and occasional argyrophilic cells in cases of Wilms' tumor have been previously reported, the unique characteristic in this case was the extent of the neuroendocrine differentiation, as shown by a strong Grimelius stain of over 90 % of the blastematous cells. Immunoperoxidase studies employing antibodies to neuron-specific enolase and ultrastructural data were also in favor of the neuroendocrine differentiation and suggested the existence, in addition to the already reported variant of Wilms' tumor with neural differentiation, of a neuroendocrine variant which may be part of the histologic spectrum of this neoplasm.
A Study of Thyroid Function in Cancer Cachexia
Authors: Tancini Gabriele , Barni Sandro , Crispino Sergio , Paolorossi Franco , Lissoni Paolo
Published: April 2018

The mechanisms responsible for cancer cachexia have not yet been clarified. To further investigate the role played by the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis in cancer cachexia, we evaluated serum levels of T3, FT3, T4, FT4, TSH and TBG in a group of 26 cancer patients, 14 of whom showed cachexia, whereas the other 12 had a body weight within the normal range despite their advanced diseases. As controls, 58 healthy subjects and 11 patients with benign weight loss were included in the study. Low levels of both T3 and FT3 were observed in all patients with benign weight loss and in 9/12 advanced cancer patients who had no cancer cachexia. On the contrary, only 4/14 cachectic cancer patients presented decreased values of T3 and FT3. Moreover, the mean serum levels of T3 and FT3 in cachectic oncologic patients were significantly higher than those seen both in non-cachectic cancer patients and in patients with benign weight loss. Since T3 is the biologically active thyroid hormone, the lack of a decrease in its production might play a role in the pathogenesis of cancer cachexia.
N-Ras Mutations in Myeloid Leukemias
Authors: Saglio Giuseppe , Serra Anna , Novarino Anna , Falda Michele , Gavosto Felice
Published: April 2018

The presence of mutations activating the N-ras gene was investigated by the polymerase chain reaction technique in twenty patients with acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML) at onset and in four patients with Ph' positive chronic myelogeneous leukemia (CML) either in chronic phase or in blast crisis. Four remission samples and four relapses from the AML cases were also studied. Mutations were found in five out of twenty (25%) untreated AML cases at onset. No mutations were detected in the complete remission samples, two of them with N-ras mutations during the leukemic phase. Two out of the four leukemia relapses were positive for the same N-ras mutation shown at presentation, whereas no new mutations were found in the other two initially negative cases. An N-ras mutation appeared during the blast crisis of one of the four CML, which were all negative during the chronic phase. In conclusion, whereas some data appear to be consistent with a role of the N-ras mutations as initiating events in myeloid leukemias, in other cases N-ras activation seems to represent a factor involved in progression. These data suggest that a partial overlapping between initiation and progression factors could exist in naturally occurring tumors.
In Vitro Immune-Receptor Gene Rearrangemets in Clonal Thymic Lymphomas Induced by Abelson Murine Leukemia Virus
Authors: Saggioro Daniela , DAndrea Emma , ChiecoBianchi Luigi
Published: April 2018

The Abelson and Moloney murine leukemia virus complex (A-MuLV/M-MuLV) induces rapidly growing thymic lymphomas following direct injection into the thymus of newborn BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice. Southern blot analysis with a v-abl specific probe not only demonstrated that primary tumors are clonal, but also that the pattern of A-MuLV provirus integration is quite stable in primary tumor cells, as well as in their derived cell lines and clones. Most of the cell samples were able to rearrange the immunoglobulin heavy chain genes in culture, whereas in two cases the T cell receptor gamma chain genes also underwent rearrangement. Since the recombination mechanism is operative only in very immature lymphoid cells, these data provide indirect evidence for the lack of differentiation of A-MuLV cell targets in the thymus.
Protein Kinase C Activation and Lipid Peroxidation by Doxorubicin Analogues
Authors: Gambetta Romolo A. , Banfi Patrizia , Lanzi Cinzia , Franzi Annarita , Zunino Franco
Published: April 2018

Several doxorubicin analogues have been tested for their capacity to activate protein kinase C (PKC) and to induce lipid peroxidation in intact human platelets. Only doxorubicin and 4′-iodo-doxorubicin were able to induce lipid peroxidation and PKC activation the first beeing the most effective. N-acetyl-doxorubicin, N-trifluoroacetyl-doxorubicin-14-valerate (AD32) and doxorubicin-14-propionate were not effective on either event. This correlation supports that PKC activation in human platelets by doxorubicin is mediated by lipid peroxidation and suggests that the effect is specific for anthracyclines with a doxorubicin aglycone and a free charged amino group in the sugar moiety. The results stress the new action of anthracyclines, whose pharmacologic implications are presently under investigation on nucleated cells.
Risk Factors for Soft Tissue Sarcomas in Childhood: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Magnani Corrado , Pastore Guido , Luzzatto Lia , Carli Modesto , Lubrano Paolo , Terracini Benedetto
Published: April 2018

A hospital-based case-control study on soft tissue sarcomas (STS) was conducted in 1983-84 in Torino and in Padova (Italy). Cases (36 children with rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) and 16 non RMS-STS) were compared to 326 controls. Histories of parental smoking habits and occupations, parental and children's exposure to ionizing radiation, children's diseases and some other variables were collected through interviews to the relatives attending the child in the hospital. A non statistically significant association was observed with both maternal age above 30 at child's birth (STS: OR = 1.5, C.I. = 0.8-2.9; RMS: OR = 1.9, C.I. = 0.9-4.0) and « in utero » exposure to diagnostic radiation (STS: OR = 1.9, C.I. = 0.5-6.5, based on 4 cases). No association was found with children's previous diseases. Paternal and maternal smoking habits were similar for RMS and STS cases and controls. Some positive associations with either maternal or paternal occupational histories were identified. They are difficult to interpret in view of the large number of comparisons and small absolute figures. They included maternal employment as medical doctor and nurse, farmer, textile worker and machine tool operator. An association was also observed with paternal occupation as butcher, building worker or employment in the production of domestic appliances. One case and no controls reported a maternal aunt affected by breast cancer.
Descriptive Epidemiology of Hodgkin's Disease in Italy
Authors: La Vecchia Carlo , Boyle Peter , Cislaghi Cesare , Decarli Adriano , Negri Eva
Published: April 2018

Death certification data on Hodgkin's disease in Italy over the period 1955-84 were studied in terms of age-standardized and age-specific national trends, and of geographical variation in mortality. There were substantial declines in death rates from the early 1970's onward, which can be largely attributed to therapeutic improvements. These led to avoidance of about 350 deaths, with a total 950 reported, which is probably the major absolute therapeutic advance identified for any cancer site. The declines started earlier in childhood and young adult age, and were restricted to population below age 60. The age distribution of the disease was different in the two sexes, since the age curve for males showed steady rises up to age 75, whereas that for females was clearly bimodal, with a peak around age 30, and another at oldest age. This divergent pattern is consistent with different exposure to (infectious) agent(s) in children of the two sexes, but also to occupational exposures potentially related to the risk of the disease. Examination of rates in various geographical areas showed generally higher rates in the North, and a few provinces with exceedingly high mortality in the central part of Northern Italy, particularly in a chiefly rural province (Mantua). This excess mortality (and, more in general, the observation that rates for Northern Italy are higher than in any other area of the EEC) could not be explained by obvious diagnostic or classification problems, were evident in both sexes, appeared to be consistent over the last decade and are reflected in available Italian cancer registration data.
Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Localized Ewing's Sarcoma of the Extremities: Preliminary Results of a Protocol Which uses Surgery (Alone or Followed by Radiotherapy) for Local Control
Authors: Bacci Gaetano , Dallari Dante , McDonald Douglas , Avella Maddalena , Toni Aldo , Barbieri Elsa , Ciaroni Daniela , Sudanese Alessandra , Mancini Antonia , Giunti Armando , Campanacci Mario
Published: April 2018

From June 1983 to December 1985, thirty-eight paients with localized Ewing's sarcoma of the extremities were treated with a protocol that consisted of an initial nine week period of polychemotherapy (vincristine, adriamycin and cyclophosphamide) followed by local therapy and additional chemotherapy (vincristine, adriamycin, cyclophosphamide and dactino-mycln) for one year. As local treatment all patients were offered surgery; thirty-two accepted and six refused. These six patients were locally treated with radiotherapy alone (50 Gy). In the remaining patients an amputation was performed in one case and a resection in thirty-one. In resected patients when a wide margin was achieved (24 cases) no further local treatment was performed; when it was marginal (5 cases) or intralesional (2 cases) radiotherapy at lower doses (40 Gy) followed. At mean follow-up of thirty-seven months the percentage of continuously disease-free patients was 50 % for those treated with radiotherapy, 76 % with surgery, and 85 % with surgery and radiotherapy. Eight patients developed metastatic disease and two patients had local recurrence and metastases. The local recurrences were seen in one patient locally treated with surgery and in one locally treated with radiotherapy. Nine major local complications were observed: three in patients treated with radiotherapy, five in patients treated with surgery, and one in a patient treated with surgery and radiotherapy. These results indicate that after induction chemotherapy conservative surgery is possible in almost all cases of Ewing's sarcoma of the extremities and that such treatment is better than radiotherapy alone as local therapy.
Etoposide and Mitomycin-C in Pretreated Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Menichetti Ettore Tito , Silva Rosa Rita , Tummarello Diego , Miseria Salvatore , Torresi Umberto , Cellerino Riccardo
Published: April 2018

Twenty-five patients with metastatic breast cancer in progression after prior chemotheray ± hormonotherapy were treated with etoposide 50 mg/m2 i.v. days 1 to 5 every 21 days and mitomycin-C 10 mg/m2 i.v. day 1 every 42 days. A partial response (PR) occurred in 10 patients with an overall response rate of 40 % (47 % when only the 21 patients evaluable after 3 courses or more were considered). The median duration of PR was 10.5 months (range 3-31). The soft tissue metastatic sites were the most responsive. Toxicity was mild.
Correlation of Serum Interleukin-2 Levels, Soluble Interleukin-2 Receptors and T Lymphocyte Subsets in Cancer Patients
Authors: Lissoni Paolo , Barni Sandro , Rovelli Franco , Rescaldani Roberto , Rizzo Virginia , Biondi Andrea , Tancini Gabriele
Published: April 2018

An interleukin-2 (IL-2) in vitro reduced production has been observed in most metastatic cancer patients. At present, however, there are no data on blood IL-2 levels in vivo, because of the too low sensitivity of previous biological and enzyme immunoassay methods. The recent development of a sensitive RIA method allowed us to start a preliminary investigation of IL-2 production in basal conditions in human solid tumors. The study included 42 cancer patients. Breast and lung cancer were the two commonest neoplasms. Serum levels of IL-2 and soluble IL-2 receptors (SIL-2R), and CD4/CD8 ratio were measured in each patient. The control group consisted of 58 healthy subjects. Mean serum levels of IL-2 were significantly lower in metastatic patients (n = 23) than in those without metastases (n = 19). Patients with low CD4/CD8 ratio (n = 16) had significantly lower mean values of IL-2 than those with normal ratio (n=26). Finally, mean IL-2 concentrations were significanty lower in patients with elevated levels of SIL-2R than in those with normal values. These results would suggest that metastatic dissemination is associated with a decreased IL-2 production in vivo, and that reduced IL-2 production is more frequent in patients with low CD4/CD8 ratio.
Pulmonary Carcinoid Presenting as Multiple Subcutaneous Nodules
Authors: Oleksowicz Leslie , Morris John C. , Phelps Robert G. , Bruckner Howard W.
Published: April 2018

A 60-year-old female presented with a one-year history of multiple enlarging tender subcutaneous nodules. Initial biopsy demonstrated a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. Mammography showed multiple nodular breast lesions. After the patient failed to respond to tamoxifen, a second biopsy demonstrated a metastatic carcinoid tumor. Further search revealed a single small pulmonary nodule, which on aspiration biopsy proved to be a carcinoid tumor. The patient failed to respond to treatment with streptozotocin and 5'-fluorouracil. Therapy with leucovorin calcium and 5'-fluorouracil then produced a partial response.
Open Phase II with 5-Fluorouracil, 4-Epi-Doxorubicin and Mitomycin C (Fem) in Advanced Gastric Cancer
Authors: Roth Anton , Županc Darko , Luetić Josip , Kolarić Krsto
Published: April 2018

Forty-four patients with advanced gastric cancer were treated with a combination including 5-fluorouracil, 4-epi-doxorubicin and mitomycin C. 4-Epi-doxorubicin was substituted for adriamycin in MacDonald's original schedule. The combined treatment involved 600 mg/m2 i.v. of 5-fluorouracil on days 1, 8, 29 and 36; 80 mg/m2 i.v. of 4-epi-doxorubicin on days 1 and 29; and 10 g/m2 i.v. of mitomycin C on day 1. The cycle was repeated on day 57 after the start of treatment. Out of 44 patients, 39 were evaluable. Thirteen partial remissions (33 %) were achieved. The average duration of remission was 7 months (range, 3–12 months). The average survival of the responders was 9 months, and that of nonresponders 3.5 months. Toxicity was moderate, well-tolerated and, as compared with the FAM schedule, less pronounced, particularly as regards myelotoxicity. Thus, the substitution of 4-epi-doxorubicin for adriamycin in the original schedule of MacDonald et al. (1980) did not improve treatment results, but the observed toxicity was less pronounced.
Partial Response of Metastatic Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Treatment with Thymostimulin
Authors: Palmieri Giovannella , Gridelli Cesare , Pepe Rosario , Airoma Giuseppe , laffaioli Rosario Vincenzo , Frasci Giuseppe , Caponigro Francesco , Bianco Angelo Raffaele
Published: April 2018

We describe a case of partial regression of metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma after treatment with thymostimulin. The patient, a 58-year-old man, received no specific therapy for his tumor, but only a thymus extract (« thymostimulin »). At follow-up 6 months later the patient showed clinical improvement, reduction of alpha-fetoprotein level an liver lesions, and a complete regression of lung metastases. The patient died of progression of the disease with 2-year overall survival.
In Vitro Reversal of Doxorubicin Resistance by the Tiapamil Analog Ro 11–2933 in Human Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Mazzoni Alessandra
Published: April 2018

The ability of RO 11–2933 to restore cellular sensitivity to doxorubicin (DX) was investigated in cultured human cancer cells with two different levels of treatment-induced resistance to DX. In the poorly resistant subline A2780-DX1, a short-term (2 h) exposure to 1 μM RO 11–2933 (IC10) completely restored DX sensitivity, whereas in the more resistant subline A2780-DX3 only partial reversal of drug resistance could be achieved by this schedule of treatment. In these cells, a long term (72 h) exposure to 1 μM RO 11–2933 (IC15) or a higher dose (6 μM) given for 2 h was required to reverse DX resistance completely. Investigation of the effects of RO 11–2933 on DX cellular accumulation and retention indicated that RO 11–2933 was able to enhance DX accumulation and reduce DX efflux within resistant cells to levels comparable to those found in sensitive cells.
Morphological Heterogeneity and Phenotype Modifications during Long Term in Vitro Cultures of Six New Human Glioblastoma Cell Lines
Authors: Dipasquale Bruno , Colombatti Marco , Tridente Giuseppe
Published: April 2018

Long term in vitro cultures of six human malignant gliomas were established to obtain permanent lines and to assess, under conditions of prolonged culture, changes in morphology and phenotype of neoplastic cells and the extent of these modifications. We analyzed expression of the following markers by immunocytochemistry: glioma-specific antigens (GE2 and CG12), fibronectin, intermediate filaments (GFAP, vimentin, neurofilaments), class I and II histocompatibility antigens (HLA-ABC and HLA-DR), growth factor and receptor (aTGF and EGF-receptor), proliferation-associated antigen (Ki-67). Strong and stable staining with the two antiglioma monoclonal antibodies (GE2 and CG12) was seen, with coexpression of GFAP and fibronectin in five of six cell lines (after 20 passages) and presence of vimentin and neurofilaments. HLA-DR expression was heterogeneous, with a peculiar intracellular compartmentation in four of six cell lines. Cells showed clear cytoplasmic positivity for aTGF and strong membrane staining for EGF-receptor. In previous studies we showed that these cell lines have increased copies of chromosome 7; therefore we speculate that an autocrine pathway of stimulation may maintain the neoplastic growth. The percentage of Ki-67 positive proliferating cells ranged from 40 to > 60%, depending on cell line and passage. A slight decrease in the positivity of some markers (GFAP, vimentin and HLA-DR in 2/6 cell lines) was observed after prolonged in vitro culture (> 12 months), but morphophenotypic modifications, established within a few passages after explanation, were maintained with time. A clonogenic assay showed values of plating efficiency (PE) higher than corresponding values of other similar cell lines with a tendency to increase in the late passages. PE and Ki-67 positivity were not associated with tumorigenicity into nude mice (except the Hu 197 cell line). These results indicate that, in culture, all six cell lines acquired stable morphology, a well defined antigenic phenotype and high growth rate. Further studies will be performed on these permanent cell lines to clarify differentiation steps of malignant gliomas.
5-Fluorouracil Carcinogenesis in BALB/c MICE
Authors: Cavaliere Antonio , Alberti Paolo Francesco , Vitali Rino
Published: April 2018

5-Fluorouracil, a drug mainly used in the treatment of gastrointestinal tract neoplasms, was administered i.p. to BALB/c mice at the dose of 30 mg/kg body weight once a week for 50 weeks to test its carcinogenicity. The treatment induced a significant increase in lung tumor in both sexes (males, p < 0.05; females, p < 0.01) and tumors of the lymphoreticular system in female mice (p < 0.001). These results suggest that 5-fluorouracil is carcinogenic in mice.
Sequential Alternate Administration of Tamoxifen and Medroxyprogesterone Acetate in Advanced Breast Cancer: Clinical-Biological Randomized Study
Authors: De Lena Mario , Tommasi Stefania , Schittulli Francesco , Lorusso Vito , Paradiso Angelo
Published: April 2018

From January 1985 to September 1988, 60 women with advanced breast cancer were randomized in two arms to receive: A) tamoxifen (TAM) (20 mg/die) until progression or B) TAM (20 mg/die for 14 days) then medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) (1500 mg/die p.o. for 14 days) followed by 7 days of wash-out before repeating the TAM/MPA treatment. All patients were postmenopausal, previously untreated with hormone therapy, and with tumor receptor status determined immediately before randomization; all had objectively evaluable lesions. In order to verify hormone receptor variations due to the antiestrogen, when possible a second biopsy was performed after the initial 14 day cycle of TAM. Thirty-one and 29 patients were included respectively in arms A and B. Objective regression (CR+PR) was observed in 58% of group A and 75% of group B, with CR in 11% and 23%, respectively. Differences were not statistically significant. Median time to progression was 12 months for group A and 9 for group B. Overall survival has not yet been reached in group A while it was 34 months for patients of group B. Metrorrhagia was observed in two cases of group A and in 6 of group B, and thrombophlebitis in 1 and 3 cases, respectively. The second biopsy confirmed a clear increase of PgR content in 8/11 cases (75%). Plasma level variations of TAM, N-desmethyl TAM and MPA were checked at various intervals on 3 patients of group B, and confirmed that our schedule is able to produce a drug wash-out period for tumor cells. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that while the manipulation of hormone receptors seems possible, results indicating better overall survival and time to progression were not obtained with alternate sequential TAM-MPA therapy.
Mitoxantrone (M) and Vinblastine (V) in the Treatment of Advanced Breast Cancer
Authors: Cruciani Giorgio , Tienghi Amelia , Fiorentini Giammaria , Rosti Giovanni , Turci Daniele , Salerno Vincenzo , Leoni Maurizio , Marangolo Maurizio
Published: April 2018

Twenty-four patients with metastatic breast cancer, all but 1 pretreated with one or more chemotherapeutic regimens, were entered in a pilot study to assess toxicity and efficacy of the combination mitoxantrone and vinblastine. Dominant sites of metastases were viscera in 9 patients, bone in 10 and soft tissues in 5. All patients received mitoxantrone 10 mg/m2 i.v. on day 1 and vinblastine 1.7 mg/m2 by 4 hour infusion on days 3, 4 and 5, every 3-4 weeks. Objective responses (1 CR, 7 PR) were observed in 8 (38%) of the 21 evaluable patients. Median duration of response was 10.5 months. Of 12 patients pretreated with an anthracycline containing regimen, 4 responded (1 CR and 3 PR). Major toxicity was myelosuppression, grade 4 in 2 cases and grade 3 in 2 others. No evident alopecia was observed and only 1 case of grade 1 cardiac toxicity. In conclusion, mitoxantrone followed by vinblastine is an effective regimen in metastatic breast cancer also in pretreated patients, and previous anthracycline administration does not seem to reduce the percentage of response. Moreover, toxicity is generally mild.
Cisplatin and Mitomycin C in Advanced Chemotherapy-Refractory Breast Cancer
Authors: Crivellari Diana , Galligioni Enzo , Frustaci Sergio , Foladore Silva , Lo Re Giovanni , Morassut Sandro , Monfardini Silvio
Published: April 2018

A combination of platinum (100 mg/m2 in a 24-h continuous i.v. infusion) and mitomycin C (10 mg/m2 i.v. push at the end of the cisplatin infusion) was administered in 20 patients with advanced breast cancer refractory to conventional treatments (CMF and anthracycline-containing regimens, hormonal therapies). The response rate was 20% (4/20), including one complete response of lung metastases which lasted 12 months. Median duration of partial responses was 4 months. Major toxicity was gastrointestinal and it was superimposable to that observed with other cisplatin-containing regimens. A marked and prolonged asthenia was reported in 6/20 patients (30%), and the regimen's compliance was poor. We conclude that at these doses and schedule, the cisplatin and mitomycin C combination has a limited efficacy in advanced breast cancer patients, and its use is not recommended in pretreated patients.
Syringomatous Adenocarcinoma of Minor Salivary Glands
Authors: Bondi Roberto , Urso Carmelo
Published: April 2018

An intraoral adenocarcinoma showing syringomatous features is reported in a woman aged 71. The tumor, which appeared to arise in minor salivary glands, ulcerated the overlying epithelium. Histologically, it was composed of dilated ductal structures and, in deeper parts, of tumor nests, elongated cords and small ducts containing small lumina. In wide areas, neoplastic ducts were lined by flattened cells, resembling syringoma of the skin. Other ductal structures were lined by atypical columnar or squamous epithelium. Solid squamous islands and superficial small horny cysts were also observed. Salivary glands tumors with syringomatous features have rarely been reported. They probably represent a rare variant of salivary adenocarcinoma.
A Metastatic Breast Cancer with an Unusual Lymphoma-Like Presentation
Authors: Cerrotta Annamaria , Galante Emanuele
Published: April 2018

An unusual metastatic breast cancer, characterized at first by a diffuse involvement of the lymph node areas, is described. The relapse of the disease, 3 months after ceasing treatment (CMF schedule for 16 cycles) and with the patient in apparent complete remission, massively involved the bone marrow, sparing the commonest parenchymal sites. The lymphohematogenous diffusion simulated the course of a systemic lymphoma-like disease. The behavior of this case suggests that breast cancer is a polymorphic disease: early diagnosis and treatment can modify the natural course, so no attention is paid to the variety and evolution of the presenting symptoms.
Parental Occupation and Other Environmental Factors in the Etiology of Leukemias and Non-Hodgkin'S Lymphomas in Childhood: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Magnani Corrado , Pastore Guido , Luzzatto Lia , Terracini Benedetto
Published: April 2018

We report the results of a hospital-based, case-control study on acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), acute non-lympocytic leukemia (AnLL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in childhood. The study was conducted from 1981 to 1984 in Turin (Italy). One hundred and forty-two children with ALL, 22 with AnLL and 19 with NHL were included, as well as 307 controls. Information on parental smoking habits, parental occupation, ionizing radiation and childhood diseases were collected using a standard questionnaire during a personal interview of the relative attending the child in the hospital. The odds ratios for antenatal diagnostic radiation were 1.1 (NS) for ALL and 2.4 (NS) for AnLL. No association was found with diseases in childhood. Paternal and maternal smoking habits were similar for ALL cases and controls. Both maternal and paternal smoking were associated with NHL: for paternal smoking, odds ratios were around 5, but without a correlation with number of cigarettes. Positive associations observed with maternal employment were: ALL with teacher and cleaner; AnLL and textile worker; NHL and baker. Corresponding association with paternal jobs were: ALL with clerks, farmers and employment in office equipment production; AnLL and workers in building, tire or textile industries; NHL and lorry drivers, workers in the building or in the wood and furniture industry.