bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic Value of Serum S-100B in Malignant Melanoma
Authors: Andrés Raquel , Mayordomo José I , Zaballos Pedro , Rodino Javier , Isla Dolores , Escudero Pilar , Elosegui Luis , Filipovich Elena , Saenz Alberto , Polo Eduardo , Tres Alejandro
Published: April 2018

Aims and Background

Although there is no established tumor marker of proven value for patients with melanoma, high serum levels of S-100B protein have been found in patients with melanoma and distant metastases. This study was performed to assess the prognostic value of this marker.

Methods and Study Design

Serum S-100B protein was measured by means of the LIA-mat System 300 (Sangtec S-100B LIA, AB Sangtec Medical, Bromma, Sweden) in 85 patients with melanoma.

Results

Mean serum S-100B protein was 0.075 μg/L (range, 0.001-0.470) in 66 patients with non-metastatic melanoma (stage I-III) versus 0.441 μg/L (range, 0.001-16.840) in 19 patients with metastatic melanoma (stage IV) (P <0.001, Mann Whitney U test). The median follow-up time was 329 days. Serum levels above 0.150 μg/L were found in 10 of patients with non-metastatic melanoma (15.2%) and in 17 of 19 patients with metastatic disease (89.4%). Median survival was 256 days for the 27 patients with serum S-100B levels above 0.150 μg/L versus 561 days for the 58 patients with normal values (P <0.3973).

Conclusion

Serum S-100B is a useful tumor marker in melanoma.
Overdose of Lomustine: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Büyükçelik Abdullah , Akbulut Hakan , Yalçın Bülent , Özdemir Feyyaz , İçli Fikri
Published: April 2018

Two male patients with high-grade gliomas were treated with subtotal or total resection and radiotherapy followed by a lomustine-containing chemotherapy regimen. Both patients took lomustine at an oral dose of 800 mg over five days instead of their regular doses of 200 and 240 mg. Grade 4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia developed in both patients within two weeks of the last lomustine dose. One of them was admitted to hospital because of febrile neutropenia. Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were detected in the other patient when he was examined in the emergency room following a generalized convulsion. Both patients recovered from the severe myelosuppression caused by lomustine. No other organ toxicities were observed.
Neoadjuvant Oxaliplatin-based Chemotherapy for Liver Metastases from Colorectal Cancer. An Italian Survey
Authors: Zaniboni Alberto , Torri Valter , Tinazzi Angelo , Codignola Claudio , Faggiuolo Roberto , Sperti Elisa
Published: April 2018

Background

Only 10% to 25% of patients with liver metastases from colorectal cancer are suitable for resection. Methods for increasing the resectability of liver metastases are based on specific surgical techniques and neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Methods

We collected retrospective data on patients from various Italian hospitals from 1996 to 2002. Data from colorectal cancer patients with liver metastases treated with oxaliplatin-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy were considered. Analysis focused on patients and treatment description and on long-term survival. We considered 107 patients from 36 Italian hospitals.

Results

Of the 105 patients assessable for response, 8.4% achieved a complete response, 70.1% a partial response and 19.6% stable disease. Ninety-nine patients were treated with surgery for liver metastases. A radical resection was achieved in 79% of patients. Median survival time was 42 months. Thirteen patients experienced grade 3-4 hematologic toxicity, and 10 patients had grade 3-4 nonhematologic toxicity. Neurologic toxicity of grade >1 was observed in 21% of patients.

Conclusions

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy can be useful to increase the number of liver resections for metastatic colorectal cancer patients. Nevertheless, randomized trials are necessary to confirm this retrospective survey as well as the few single-institution experiences reported so far in the medical literature.
Computed Tomographic Characterization of Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Authors: Yan Tristan Dongbo , Haveric Namik , Carmignani Carlos Pablo , Bromley Christina M , Sugarbaker Paul H
Published: April 2018

Aims and Background

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare disease with a universally fatal outcome when managed in a traditional palliative manner. New approaches to treatment using cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy suggest that long-term survival is possible in selected patients. Early recognition of this disease process with an orderly surgical approach will begin to optimize treatment.

Methods

Thirty-three patients with malignant peritoneal mesothelioma had CT scans available for review. A Z-score was used to evaluate the incidence of cancer at a particular anatomic site as compared to a general incidence of disease at all sites. CT was analyzed by abdominopelvic anatomic sites (16), abdominopelvic regions (9), and for presence versus absence of disease in the chest. Interpretative CT findings (class 0-III) were determined for these 33 patients.

Results

Eight of 33 patients had pleural abnormalities. In an analysis of 16 abdominopelvic anatomic sites, the vesical or rectal uterine pouch was involved in 97% and the greater omentum in 91%. These anatomic sites were the only ones with a positive Z-score of >1. In the analysis of 9 abdominopelvic regions, the central and pelvic regions had Z-scores >2 for large volume disease >5 cm. For CT interpretative findings class I, class II and class III was determined in approximately one-third in each category. Sixty-six percent of the patients had ascites by CT.

Conclusions

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma by CT evaluation predominates in tumor mass within the central and pelvic portions of the abdomen. Minimal, moderate, and extensive small bowel enlargements were seen in roughly one-third of the patients. With the use of the Z-score and interpretative small bowel findings a radiologic characterization of this disease for primary radiologic diagnosis is possible.
Single Colon Metastasis from Breast Cancer a Clinical Case Report
Authors: Signorelli Carlo , Pomponi-Formiconi Donatella , Nelli Fabrizio , Pollera Camillo Francesco
Published: April 2018

Metastatic involvement of the extrahepatic digestive system is rare. We here report the case of a 62-year-old woman who presented with a bowel obstruction related to a metastasis of breast cancer occurring 12 years after a mastectomy for lobular carcinoma. No other distant metastases were detected except for two nodules of 20 and 5 mm on the right chest wall. Biopsy of the larger nodule showed a lobular carcinoma. The patient underwent a right hemicolectomy and then received chemotherapy combined with letrozole, resulting in a partial response. The literature revealed only a few cases of breast cancer metastatic to the colon. Patients with known breast cancer, particularly of the lobular histological type, who present with specific or less specific abdominal symptoms or signs such a microcytic anemia, should be endoscopically explored in order to detect possible metastases of the primary breast tumor.
Clinical Presentation and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Cipolla Calogero , Fulfaro Fabio , Sandonato Luigi , Fricano Salvatore , Pantuso Gianni , Grassi Nello , Vieni Salvatore , Valerio Maria Rosaria , Dico Rea Lo , Gebbia Nicola , Latteri Mario Adelfio
Published: April 2018

Aims and background

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), although rare, are the most common mesenchymal neoplasms affecting the gastrointestinal tract. We present our experience in the treatment of localized and metastatic disease and a review of literature.

Patients and methods

Nine patients were observed from April 2002 to July 2004. Eight tumors were in the gastric area and J was in the small bowel. In 5 cases, complete surgical removal was performed, and none of these patients underwent adjuvant therapy. The remaining 4 cases, with locally advanced or recurrent disease, were treated with imatinib.

Results

The patients with localized disease treated only by surgery did not relapse. In the patients with locally advanced or metastatic disease treated by imatinib, we observed 3 partial responses, and one case was not assessable because he had no measurable disease. In 2 of 3 responders, it was possible to perform a new radical surgery.

Conclusions

Our series is too small to draw any conclusion. According to our review of the literature, surgery remains the standard treatment for non-metastatic GISTs. Imatinib mesylate represents a major breakthrough in the treatment of advanced GISTs and is the first effective systemic therapy for the disease.
Urinary Neopterin in Patients with Liver Tumors
Authors: Melichar Bohuslav , Solichová Dagmar , Svobodová Iveta , Urbánek Lubor , Veselý Pavel , Melicharová Karolina
Published: April 2018

Aims and background

Primary and secondary liver tumors are associated with poor prognosis. Neopterin is an indicator of systemic immune activation, and increased neopterin concentrations have been associated with poor prognosis in a wide range of malignant tumors.

Methods

Urinary neopterin was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography in 154 patients with primary and secondary liver tumors. The survival of different groups of patients was compared by log-rank test, and Cox regression was used for multivariate analysis.

Results

Urinary neopterin was significantly increased in patients compared to controls. A statistically significant correlation was observed between urinary neopterin and age of the patients, hemoglobin concentration, mean erythrocyte volume and peripheral blood leukocyte or platelet count. In univariate analysis, urinary neopterin below 214 μmol/mol creatinine, peripheral blood leukocytes below 8 x 109/L, hemoglobin equal to or above 125 g/L, no extrahepatic tumor, stage of liver involvement, and colorectal, breast or ovarian primary were significant prognostic factors for survival. In multivariate analysis, Bengtsson stage, presence of extrahepatic involvement, primary other than colorectal, breast or ovarian carcinoma, peripheral blood leukocyte count and urinary neopterin were independent prognostic factors. Increased urinary neopterin during and at the end of follow-up was also associated with poor prognosis.

Conclusions

Urinary neopterin is increased in patients with liver tumors. Neopterin is an independent prognostic indicator in patients with liver tumors along with Bengtsson stage, presence of extrahepatic disease, primary site and peripheral blood leukocyte count.
Self-Expanding Metal Stents in Gastrointestinal Interventional Radiology: Technical Problems
Authors: Cozzi Guido , Chiaraviglio Francesca , Civelli Enrico Maria , Fornari Simona , Milella Marco , Salvetti Monica , Severini Aldo
Published: April 2018

Aims and background

To analyze the procedural difficulties in the placement of metal stents in stenoses of the digestive tract and optimize the technique.

Methods

Twenty-nine patients with digestive tract stenoses were treated from January 1999 to December 2004. In 14 cases the stricture was anastomotic (9 colorectal, 3 esophageal, 1 gastroesophageal and 1 gastrojejunal), in 13 esophageal, in 1 gastric and in 1 duodenal. The stenosis was due to scarring in 5 patients and was malignant in 24 patients (primary in 17 cases and secondary in 7 cases).

Results

The procedure achieved technical success in all cases but 2. For each of the different segments the technical difficulties and the adopted procedural solutions were analyzed.

Conclusions

The interventional radiology approach yielded results comparable to those reported for the endoscopic method and was always well tolerated. The need to rely on materials mostly designed for endoscopic use can make radiological use difficult in some cases.
Multifocal Biliary Cystadenocarcinoma of the Liver: CT and Pathological Findings
Authors: Salerno Sergio , Florena Ada Maria , Romano Ida , Miceli Laura , Casto Antonio Lo
Published: April 2018

Biliary cystadenocarcinoma is a rare tumor that originates from the hepatobiliary epithelium. Although this tumor can affect any portion of the biliary tree, intrahepatic location is more common. It is usually a slow growing tumor and often asymptomatic until it reaches a considerable size. The lesion is most often solitary and large when discovered; multiple lesions or metastases within the liver are very rare. A 63-year-old man was referred to our institute for weight loss, abdominal discomfort, worsening bulky symptoms in the right upper abdominal quadrant, and an increase in serum aminotransferases that had been present for several months. Spiral CT of the abdomen demonstrated two lesions, a larger one and a distant intrahepatic lesion, with a multiloculated cystic aspect, a thin peripheral capsule, multiple solid peripheral portions, and irregular septa enhancing in the portal phase after intravenous administration of iodinated contrast medium. The diagnosis of multifocal cystadenocarcinoma of the liver was confirmed by surgical laparoscopy and biopsy of the lesion. The patient was treated with chemotherapy.
LA LIPASI DEL RICINUS COMMUNIS NEL SEME IN QUIESCENZA ED IN GERMOGLIAZIONE
Authors: Di Fazio L. , Lado P.
Published: April 2018

The behaviour of Ricinus communis’ lipase is examined in the dry and sprouting seed. A complete picture of the enzymatic activity in normal conditions is obtained.
I SIMPATOBLASTOMI
Authors: Antoniazzi Bruno , Volontario Assistente
Published: April 2018

The histo-anatomical and clinicoradiological characteristics of sympatoblastomas are shortly reviewed and some particular possibilities of evolution are pointed out.

Two own cases illustrating peculiar clinical aspects and evolution of the diseasse are presented.
ULTERIORI OSSERVAZIONI SULLE ALTERAZIONI DEL DERMA NELL'ONCOGENESI SPERIMENTALE CUTANEA ()
Authors: Prodi G. , Maltoni C.
Published: April 2018

The histochemical properties and structural characters of the dermis in different animal species subjected to skin treatment with 9,10-dimethyl-1,2-benzanthracene have been studied. In all the animals the dermis shows new staining characters in relation to both Mallory stain and silver impregnation, undergoing a process of structural rearrangement which leads to a much more irregular and rarefied organization. Such alterations are progressing from the uppermost to the innermost layers and are proportional to the degree of hyperplasia of the overlying epithelium. At the onset of tumours in the rabbit, hamster, and rat, these alterations are progressive and extended to the whole dermis; in the rat and guinea-pig they soon enter a stationary stage where their limits are fixed by a barrier of normal dermis.
RICOSTITUZIONE MORFOLOGICA ED ISTOCHIMICA DEL DERMA DI CONIGLIO DOPO TRATTAMENTO CON SOSTANZE ONCOGENE E COCARCINOGENE ()
Authors: Maltoni C. , Prodi G.
Published: April 2018

The dermis return to normal after treatment with carcinogenic and co-carcinogenic substances has been studied. The alterations induced by oncogenic agents are slowly reversible, the structure lesions being still evident when treatment has been discontinued for two months. More rapidly reversible are the alterations induced by Croton oil.
VALORE DELL'IMPIEGO DI ESTROGENI A DOSI ELEVATE COME TEST RIVELATORE DI METASTASI OSSEE DA CARCINOMA MAMMARIO
Authors: Barillà M. , Ciarpaglini L. , Loasses A. , Paleani-Vettori P. G.
Published: April 2018

In women with breast cancer, estradiol administered in high doses is proposed for the detection of bone metastases roentgenologically unknown or undetectable owing to their small size.

A comparative study of calciuria, calcemia and calcium balance will allow the evaluation of the test positivity or negativity.
L'ATTIVITA’ ESTROGENA, DOPO OVARO-SURRENECTOMIA, IN DONNE PORTATRICI DI CARCINOMA AVANZATO DELLA MAMMELLA
Authors: Bucalossi P. , Grattarola R. , Catania V.
Published: April 2018

33 women, with advanced carcinoma of the breast, were treated with the ovaro-adrenalectomy, 20 cases were in menopause.

After the ovaro-adrenalectomy, the estrogens were present in the urine, also when the results, after the surgery, were favourable.

A cytologyc scheme according to estrogen activity is described. The scheme comprehends four cytologyc pictures; the last one of these (picture D) signifies the absence of the estrogenic activity (acidophilic basal cells in the vaginal smears). The first picture (A), for the presence of the superficial cells signifies an high estrogenic activity; the other two pictures (B and C), with the normal basal cells, signify a low but still present estrogenic activity. In the women in menopause with advanced carcinoma of the breast, before the ovaro-adrenalectomy, the vaginal smear had frequently the picture (A); on the contrary, in women in menopause without the cancer of the brest, the picture was (B) or (C).

After the ovaro-adrenalectomy, in favourable cases, forward the picture (D), it is described a new picture in which particular cells of the intermediate type, with prominent nuclei, are present (picture E). In these cases the urinary estrogens are lower than before the surgery.

In cases with an unfavourable course, after surgery, the cytologyc picture is (A) or (B) and the estrogenic valeues are growing up.

The AA. observe that the best results are obtained by bilateral ovaro-adrenalectomy or by bilateral ovariectomy and monolateral adrenalectomy; with the bilateral ovariectomy alone or bilateral adrenalectomy alone, the course was always unfavourable, with cytologycal pictures (A) and (B) without any relation to the age of the patient and the date of their menopause.
OSSERVAZIONI SUL COMPORTAMENTO CHIMICO-FISICO DELLE PROTEINE SERICHE IN PRESENZA DI 3–4 BENZOPIRENE: PROVE DI LABILITA’ COLLOIDALE E MISURE DI VISCOSITA'
Authors: Lado P.
Published: April 2018

In order to study the possible interferences of 3,4-benzpyrene with protein macro-molecules, the chemico-physical behaviour of the serum protein system (horse and rabbit serum) has been examined in the presence of the carcinogen. Two colloidal lability reactions and viscosimetric measurements were employed. 1. Kunkel and Weltmann's reactions of colloidal lability, performed both on pure serum and serum + benzpyrene did not show consistent and regular variations, On the other hand, an interference between 3,4-benzpyrene and proteins is revealed by the anomalous behaviour under the dissolving action of the urea of proteins denatured by the Weltmann's reaction, in the presence of the hydrocarbon. 2. The viscosimetric measurements have been carried out on the serum system before and after denaturation with urea.

The results obtained suggest 3,4-benzpyrene to interfere in the denaturing action of urea, favouring its action.
Ricerche Sull'Azione Promovente della Follicolina nel Duplice Meccanismo della Carcinogenesi
Authors: Picco A. , Somaglino W. , Lasi C.
Published: April 2018

Studies were undertaken on an eventual initiating or promoting action of follicular hormone in the twofold mechanism of carcinogenesis on the mouse skin. Animals were grouped into two series. The first series was divided into two groups: one was painted with a folliculin oleous solution (Estrene 5) every 3 days, the other with a 5 per cent dilution of croton oil in estrene. The mice of the second series, previously submitted to three paintings with 3:4-benzpyrene, were divided into four groups: 1) control group, 2) painted with Estrene every 3 days, 3) treated with 5 per cent croton oil solution in olive oil, and 4) treated with 5 per cent dilution of croton oil in oleous solution of follicular hormone. Results show that the follicular hormone, either alone or combined with croton oil, fails to produce any initiating and promoting action when painted on mouse skin previously treated with sub-maximal doses of 3:4-benzpyrene. Folliculin, on the contrary, enhances considerably the promoting action of croton oil when painted with it on the skin sensitized with benzpyrene: a rather early appearance of epithelial projections without basal membrane and composed of atypical elements is seen, whereas in animals of the same series, long treated with paintings of croton oil diluted with olive oil or with oleous folliculin this picture is not observed.
Valutazioni Spettrofotometriche Sul Comportamento del 3–4 Benzopirene in Presenza del Sistema Proteico del Siero
Authors: Lado P.
Published: April 2018

The U. V. absorption spectrum of benzpyrene dissolved in horse and rabbit sera is compared to that of benzpyrene dissolved in ethyl alcohol, cycloesane and vaseline oil. The absorption curve in serum, when compared with that in ethyl alcohol, shows a shifting towards higher values of λ in the region between 300 and 400 mμ and altered Mx/Mn ratios concerning the absorption bands. In 4 cases benzpyrene was re-extracted from serum with alcohol; the obtained spectrum often shows an anomalous behaviour. The possible causes of such variations and anomalies are discussed.
Studio dei Recettori Vaginale ed Endometriale Nell'Adenocarcinoma Dell'Endometrio
Authors: Mossetti C. , Durando C.
Published: April 2018

The hormonal condition of 42 women affected with endometrial adenocarcinoma was cytologically studied at the level of the vagina and of the mucous membrane surrounding the cancer lesion. A relatively low incidence of side symptoms of oestrogenic stimulation was observed (23.8 per cent in the endometrium, 14.2 per cent in the vagina). In still menstruated women gland hyperplasy was found in the 50 per cent and abnormal vaginal oestrogenic stimulation in the 20 per cent. In patients in menopause, in the 15.6 and in the 12.5 per cent respectively.

To the endometrial folliculinic stimulation, vaginal changes correspond only in the 60 per cent of the cases, whereas in simple hyperplastic endometrial processes this correspondence is found in more than the 80 per cent. The persistence of hyperoestrogenic endometrial changes in the absence of similar vaginal modifications may reflect a greater sensitivity of uterine tissue to the hormonal stimulation. Results cannot give information on the conditions existing at the onset of the cancerization process.
Le Auxine in Biologia Animale: Parte I - Azione dell'Acido Indolacetico e delta Kinetina in vivo, su tessuti normali e tumorali
Authors: Volpe R. Della , Albertini E.
Published: April 2018

The activity of some vegetal auxins in animal biology has been experimentally studied. A cyto- and mitokinetic action of Kinetine (6-furfurylaminopurine) was demonstrated on cells of sarcoma 180 of the rat, either by direct application or by action through the host organism.

Another auxin, the indolacetic acid, was found to stimulate the proliferation of vegetal and animal cells, and to increment their mitokinetic activity. These phenomena seem to be enhanced by the association indolacetic acid-Kinetine.

Researches carried out on normal albino mice parenterally treated with solutions of indolacetic acid alone, and associated with Kinetine, showed absence of acute and chronic toxicity, except for a certain degree of liver impairment due to the action of indolacetic acid. No influence was noted on the mitokinetic activity. on liver tissue, and on the cutaneous germinative layer. Similarly, the DNA synthesis in the liver tissue of animals treated with the tested auxins, appeared to be uninfluenced.

In a series of albino mice inoculated with 180 ascites sarcoma, and contemporaneously treated with indolacetic acid, and indolacetic acid + Kinetine (endoperitoneal or subcutaneous route), a marked stimulation of the initial tumour development was observed, with increase of ascites and stimulation of cytokinetic and mitokinetic activity of tumour cells. This influence was more marked following endoperitoneal administration. The association of the auxins did not seem to enhance their natural activities.
L'azione Del 5-Bis(2-Cloroetil)Aminouracile Sul Sangue E Sui Tessuti Emolinfopoietici Normali
Authors: Scaltrini G. C. , Conigliaro S.
Published: April 2018

Uracil mustard was administered at different dosage levels to albino mice and the effects on peripheral blood, bone marrow and spleen cells quantitated. At low dosage levels (0,0125 and 0,050 mg/kg/die for 5 days) decrease of circulating (mainly polinucleated) leukocytes was the only effect observed at 24 hrs. after the end of the treatment. Higher doses (0,200 and 0,800 mg/kg/die for 5 days) produced remarkable hypoplasia of the hemolymphopoietic tissues and a slight decrease in body and kidney weight. Eleven days after the end of the treatment the lymphoid and megakaryocytic hypoplasia was reduced and all the other observed lesions were repaired.
Considerazioni Statistiche Ed Aspetti Radiologici Delle Localizzazioni Ossee Del Linfogranuloma Maligno
Authors: Felci U. , Salvini E.
Published: April 2018

The present paper is concerned with 74 cases of bone involvement observed among 530 patients affected with Hodgkin's disease.

Owing to the large number of cases, some significant statistical considerations were consented. Thus, it could be determined that the «radiologic frequency» of bone involvement in Hodgkin's disease is the 14 per cent. irrespective of age and sex.

As concerns the time of occurrence of skeletal lesions compared to lymph node or visceral involvement, it could be observed that they developed in half cases within the first year of the disease, and in the three quarters of the cases within the first two years. This finding does not confirm, therefore, the view according to which bone changes are the expression of a late clinical stage of Hodgkin's disease.

Bone manifestations have been therefore classified according to the type and site. The obtained statistical observations are in agreement with data by some authors, and diverge from other ones.

Some suggestions derived from personal observations are also exposed.

In the second part of the paper, an iconographic documentation of some unusual roentgenographic pictures observed in the large series of cases are presented.
Results of Pituitary Ablation by Insertion of Radiogold Seeds in Advanced Cancer Patients
Authors: Méwissen Dieudonné J. , Malaise Edmond P. , Desaive Paul L.
Published: April 2018

A total of 85 advanced cancer patients were submitted to pituitary ablation by insertion of radioactive gold seeds. The procedure was performed using a fluoroscopic image intensifier but no external reference framework. Post-op. complications were uncommon. Therapeutic results were encouraging in many types of advanced cancer. Clinical data are presented, of which the most striking feature was the relief of pain in many cases. Improvement, either objective or subjective or both, was obvious in 68 % of all patients.
Subcutaneous Carcinogenesis by 14C and 3H Labelled Polymethylmetacrylate Films
Authors: Tomatis Lorenzo
Published: April 2018

14C and 3H labelled and not labelled polymetylmetacrylate films of various sizes were implanted subcutaneously into Swiss mice. Sizes of 3 mm2 and 6 × 12 mm appeared to posses a borderline carcinogenic activity, which was not influenced by the labelling. Similarly, the carcinogenic activity of the 12 mm2 films was not modified by the 14C or 3H labelling. There was however a notably higher incidence of tumors in a small group of mice implanted with 15 mm2 films labelled with 14C. The rate of excretion of radioactivity in the urine of mice implanted with the labelled films, rose sharply between the 2nd and the 8th week from implantation. It suddenly fell at the 9th week to minimal values. The rise in the excretion rate of radioactivity observed in the first 8 weeks from implantation, has been attributed to the possible presence of residual monomers in the films.
Stromal Hyperplasia in Women with Mammary Cancer
Authors: Catania Vinicio Carmelo , Di Re Francesco , Giarrusso Annamaria
Published: April 2018

The frequency and extent of stromal hyperplasia were studied in 103 menopausal women with mammary cancer submitted to oophorectomy. Results were compared to those obtained in a control group of 57 menopausal women who had undergone oophorectomy for non-cancer disease. Hyperplasia of the ovarian cortical stroma was classified as scanty, moderate, and significant. The comparative evaluation of the two groups did not show appreciable differences. Testosterone treatment at the conventional therapeutical doses was not found to induce significant variations at the level of the ovarian stroma. In order to evidence a possible relation between hyperplasia of the ovarian cortical stroma and estrogenic function of the ovary, the dosage of urinary phenolsteroids and the colpo-cytologic findings in mammary cancer women were considered. No quantitative relation was observed between hyperplasia and estrogenic function of the ovary. Hyperplasia of the ovarian cortical stroma is not considered to be a particular functional aspect of the ovary and, on the basis of the results obtained, does not seem to be more frequent in mammary cancer women as compared to control groups.
Treatment of Cancer of the Esophagus with a Radioactive Prosthesis
Authors: Ravasi Gianni , Badellino Fausto
Published: April 2018

A special plastic prosthetic tube for treating stenosis from esophageal cancer is described. It is a Mousseau Barbin tube on to which is fitted a hollow coupling containing a radioactive suspension. The site and degree of stenosis must be accurately determined. 32P in a colloidal suspension was used but possibly other, more penetrating, isotopes could be used too. The method is easy and the risks are negligible.
The Role of External and Biological Environment in the Etiology and Progression of the Neoplastic Process
Authors: Favilli Giovanni
Published: April 2018

Several exogenous and endogenous factors are reviewed in relation to the onset and the progression of tumors, with particular reference to human disease.
Experimental Studies for the Evaluation of Environmental Carcinogenic Risk
Authors: Porta Giuseppe Della
Published: April 2018

The principles of tests for carcinogenicity are presented and discussed.
Professional Oncogenesis with Particular Reference to the Italian Situation
Authors: Maltoni Cesare , Peretti Serena , Ghetti Giuseppe
Published: April 2018

Physical and chemical occupational oncogenic agents more diffuse in Italy, with reference to the groups of workers more exposed to risk, and the available data on the professional tumors in our Country have been reviewed. Data have been reported particularly on the incidence of tumors following exposure to chromium compounds (12 cases of lung tumors and 1 of tumor of the nasal cavities among 208 workers of a chromate factory in Northern Italy), and to aromatic amines (122 cases of bladder tumors and 7 of tumors of the upper urinary tract among 1,072 workers of five dyestuff factories in Northern Italy). Finally, the preventive measures for the control of professional oncogenesis have been briefly presented.
The Role of Sunlight in Skin Carcinogenesis in Men
Authors: Giordano Giovan Giacomo
Published: April 2018

A review of the clinical and experimental information on atmospheric, earth and individual factors in skin carcinogenesis by sunlight is presented. The material available to the author indicates that the highest incidence of skin tumors occurs in the areas which are exposed and in subjects working in the open air. Finally, the author suggests that both carcinogenic and non carcinogenic photodynamic chemicals might have a variety of roles in cutaneous carcinogenesis. Excitement may occurr at a wavelength higher than the ultraviolet.
Results of Radiotherapy in 144 Cases of Lymphosarcoma and Reticulum Cell Sarcoma with Primary Onset in the Pharynx
Authors: Carnevali Giuseppe , Salvini Enea
Published: April 2018

351 patients with lymphosarcoma and reticulum cell sarcoma (104 and 247 respectively) were given radiotherapy at the National Cancer Institute and at the Institute of Radiology, University of Milan between 1950 and 1961. 144 patients had primary onset in Waldeyer's ring (34 lmphosarcomas and 120 reticulum cell sarcomas). The high incidence of primary involvement of Waldeyer's ring in our case material, especially in reticulum cell sarcoma (48.5%), is definitely higher than usually reported in the literature and hence the interest of our study from the epidemiological, prognostic as well as therapeutic point of wiew. The sites more frequently involved were the nasopharynx and the pharyngeal tonsil. In the majority of cases the disease was locally advanced; in about 80% of cases the cervical or distant lymph nodes were involved. The results of our study represented in a series of graphs showing the actuarial survivals demonstrate that there is practically no significant difference between lymphosarcoma and reticulum cell sarcoma. The overall survival was 38.9, 32.5, and 23.3% after 3, 5 and 10 years respectively from the beginning of treatment with a median survival of 18 months. Considering the tissue-dose administered there is a clear difference in survival time between the group of patients adequately and inadequately treated (42% and 18% respectively at 5 years). Finally no significant differences in terms of overall survival were observed in reticulum cell sarcoma with primary onset in Waldeyer's ring and in lymph nodes and spleen.
A Clinico-Statistical Investigation of 316 Cases of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Oral Cavity with Secondary Invasion of the Mandible
Authors: Siervo Raffaele , Cislaghi Enrico , Panelli Giorgio
Published: April 2018

316 cases of squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity with secondary invasion of the mandible are analysed statistically. The highest incidence was in the 6th and 7th decades of life, with a strong predilection for males (285 cases out of 316). Metastases to the regional lymph nodes were observed in 255 cases, occurring very soon after the onset of the primary symptoms: of the 143 cases with a clinical history of three months or less as many as 127 exhibited regional lymph nodes involvement. The most frequent site of the primary tumor was the gingiva (142 cases). The best results were obtained with surgical treatment of with radium therapy associated with surgical removal of the regional lymph nodes. Some practical conclusions are drawn from the various clinical parameters.
Anatomico-Clinical, Histologic and Ultrastructural Features of Neurofibromatosis of the Bladder
Authors: Pennelli Natale , Stoppelli Ignazio
Published: April 2018

Anatomico-clinical, histologic and ultrastructural data of a case of neurofibromatosis of the bladder are reported. The principal cells of the neurofibroma appear isolated in the intercellular substance and have thin cytoplasmic processes, vacuoles, microfibrils, dense osmiophilic bodies and occasional ergastoplasmic tubules. Moreover, the presence of intracytoplasmic axons, a basement lamina of thickened amorphous periplasmalemmatic material and cilia support the theory of the Schwann cell origin of these cells. On the basis of these observations, the hypothesis that neurofibroma, in contrast to neurinoma, arises from the Schwann cells of unmyelinated nerve is advanced.
The Association between Endometrial Cancer and Blood Groups of the ABO System
Authors: Samuel Samy , Gualandri Vittorio , Pellegris Giuseppe
Published: April 2018

The authors consider the distribution of the phenotypes of ABO system in a group of 115 patients with histologically diagnosed endometrial adenocarcinoma and in a random semple of the population. The above group is combined with a larger one taken from the literature in the search for phenotypical correlations. Women of blood group A show a greater susceptibility to this form of cancer than O group women.
Effect of Hematoporphyrin « in Vivo » and « in Vitro » on ATPC+ Tumor Cells
Authors: Cittadini Giorgio , De Cata Tommaso , Gubinelli Carlo
Published: April 2018

ATPC+ ascites tumor transplants of different size were performed in NMRI mice. Hematoporphyrin chlorhydrate (Hp) was administered i.p. once daily during the seven days following transplantation. In the first series « in vivo » (1.9 x 106 cells; 0.1, 0.3, 0.9 mg of Hp), body weight, ascitogenic time (Tasc) and total ascitic volume (TV) were determined. Hematoporphyrin-treated animals showed, after the apprearance of the ascites, a body weight loss superior to controls, due to the drug toxicity caused by Hp vs. ascitic fluid interaction. Neither Tasc nor TV were significantly modified. In the second series « in vivo » (2.3 x 104 or 2.3 x 102 cells; 0.3 mg Hp), body weight loss was lower, Tasc was significantly increased and also the survival varied. In a third experiment ATPC+ cells were incubated « in vitro » with Hp in a range from 102 to 108 molecules/cell). No effect was observed on growth rate when the cells were transplanted into the host.
Inhibition from L-asparaginase of Mixed Lymphocyte Culture Reaction
Authors: Astaldi Giovanni , Micu Demetru , Astaldi Alberto , Burgio G. Roberto
Published: April 2018

The observation that phytohaemagglutinin (P.H.A.) - blstogenesis of human peripheral blood lymphocytes is inhibited by « E. coli » - L-asparaginase (« Asn-ase ») suggested that this enzyme might cause cellular immunological depression. To obtain more information on the possible immunosuppressive properties of « Asn-ase » the effect of this agent on lymphocyte blastogenesis in mixed-lymphocyte cultures has now been investigated. This system provides a real histo-compatibility test. The study was carried out on blood from 24 subjects. Most were normal volunteers but a few were suffering from plasmocytoma (1), acute leukaemia (1) and chronic lymphatic leukaemia (2). Peripheral-blood lymphocytes were randomly mixed in pairs and cultured. One group of these cultures was taken as control and another group was added to « Asn-ase » to make a concentration of one I.U. per ml of culture medium. These cultures were incubated at 37°C for 7 days. The results were 18.33 ± 7.02 % immunologically activated lymphocytes in the control mixed cultures, as opposed to 1.00 ± 1.29 % in the cultures with « Asn-ase ». These results show that « Asn-ase » is capable of inhibiting the histoincompatibility reaction in a mixed-lymphocyte culture and they strongly support the interpretation that « Asn-ase » has cellular immunosuppressive properties.
Complement Dependent Inhibition of RNA Synthesis in Malignant Melanoma Cells
Authors: Ikonopisov R. L.
Published: April 2018

The RNA synthesis of human melanoma cells in suspension is estimated by the uptake of tritiated uridine (3HU) after incubation with autologous, homologous serum from other patients with malignant melanoma and normal control serum with active and inactivated added complement. The total amount of labelled precursor incorporated is determined by extracting the acid/alcohol soluble material, dissolving the final precipitate in a solvent and mixing with scintillation fluid. Each pot is then counted in a Packard-3 liquid scintillation counter. The pulses recorded reveal the rate of RNA synthesis in the cells after incubation with the tested sera and inversely indicate the extent of the cytotoxic action exerted by serum antibodies upon the target cells in the presence of active complement. A test is positive when the uptake of 3HU in a pot containing the precipitate of autologous and/or homologous action is at least 20 per cent less than the average pulses for the control pots.

Tumor cell suspensions from 44 melanoma patients were tested against their own sera, against the sera from other melanoma patients and against sera from normal healthy individuals. Autologous cytotoxic effect was recorded in 11 cases (approximately 30 per cent of the cases). Homologous positivity was displayed in 5 cases. Cytotoxic action, being quantitatively determined, diminished with the spread of the disease.
Histopathological Changes in the Lungs in Patients with Malignant Tumors Treated with Bleomycin
Authors: Rilke Franco , Pilotti Silvana
Published: April 2018

Histopathological changes in the lungs of 7 patients with malignant tumors treated with Bleomycin are characterized by hyperplasia and endoalveolar migration of type II pneumocytes and macrophages, hyaline membrane formation and the appearance of newly formed reticular and collagen fibers within the alveolar septa and hyperplasia of muscular fibers of respiratory bronchioli. These findings are consistent with the diagnosis of interstitial pneumonia, the morphologic pattern of which is often complicated by either pre-existing pulmonary damage or supervening lesions. The direct or indirect role of bleomycin in the etiology and pathogenesis of the pulmonary disease as described above seems to be ascertained, since the pathological findings are in keeping with clinical and radiological data.
Characterization and Partial Purification of Heterodisperse Polysomal RNAs in Normal and Neoplastic Cells
Authors: Sacchi Ada , Chinali Gianni , Pons Susetta , Galdieri Michela , Cammarano Piero
Published: April 2018

The size distribution of cytoplasmic messenger RNAs (m-RNA) has been studied in rat liver and in monodifferentiated cells (mouse reticulocytes and myelomas). It has been found that the RNA which exhibits a « rapid turnover » and a polydisperse profile of radioactivity is refractory to phenol extraction. This property has been exploited to selectively isolate m–RNA from the phenol residue by means of an extraction at an alkaline pH. The sucrose density gradient profiles of m–RNA isolated from monodifferentiated cells show monodisperse peaks having the sedimentation coefficients expected on the basis of the molecular weights of monocistronic messages for α and β chains of hemoglobin (reticulocytes) and L and H chains of immunoglobulin (myelomas). The sedimentation profile of cytoplasmic m–RNA associated with rat liver polysomes shows a much broader distribution, with sedimentation coefficients ranging from 8 S to 28 S.
Karyology of Rhabdomyosarcomas Induced with 3-Methylcholanthrene
Authors: Basso Marisa
Published: April 2018

This work aims to find out how a neoplastic condition affects the chromosome set of the rat. Malignant tumors were induced by 3-methylcholanthrene in adult rats. The karyologic examination of 3 sarcomas (S1, S2, S3) showed that: in S1 65% of the metaphases are hypotetraploid; in S2 75% of the metaphases are roughly diploid and only 25 % are hypotetraploid; in S3 most of the mitoses are hypotetraploid with a circaoctoploid component. It has been observed that the number of chromosome breakages and translocations increases as the chromosome number increases; further, chromosomes not belonging to the normal karyogram of the rat may appear. The karyologic aberrations of the sarcomas were more or less proportional to the degree of histological differentiation of the cellular strain. The appearance of the new chromosomes was correlated with the onset of the tumor.
New Perspectives in Prosthetic Replacement of the Mandible after Resection or Disarticulation
Authors: Catania Vinicio Carmelo , Cislaghi Enrico , Molinari Roberto
Published: April 2018

A brief historical review of the various mandibular prostheses toghether with a critical analysis of the problem of indications, with special reference to malignant tumors. The reasons for the choosing intert metallic materials are explained and the progressive working out of a new mould of prosthesis is described. The prosthesis implants are in a new metallic alloy, CoTi 68 inox, which is biologically inert and stronger that other material; they are provided with mobile segments and a condyle which may be adjusted during the operation. The prosthesis is inserted into the contralateral normal bone by means of a movable, retating, self-centre ring basket, which can be fixed at the desired point. The flathead screws inserted into the laminae are made of the same material. All the parts are supplied in a sterilizable container, ready for use.
Treatment of Breast Cancer with an Association of Vincristine, Fluorouracil, Methotrexate, Cyclophosphamide and Prednisone
Authors: Rosso Riccardo , Brema Fulvio , Santi Leonardo
Published: April 2018

Twelve post-menopausal patients with advanced breast cancer who had received no prior therapy with sex hormones and cytotoxic drugs were treated with a 5-drug combination modified from a multiple drug-therapy previously proposed by Ansfield et al. Ten patients had objective regressions, category I of Karnofsky; eight patients were in category IB and one was in category IC. Toxic effects were very mild.
Ten Years Experience with Ewing's Sarcoma
Authors: Gasparini Marco , Barni Sandro , Lattuada Angelo , Musumeci Renato , Bonadonna Gianni , Fossati-Bellani Franca
Published: April 2018

The series comprises 57 consecutive patients with Ewing's sarcoma admitted to the National Cancer Institute of Milan from 1965 to 1976. In 75 % the disease was confined to one bone, while in 25 % multiple bone and/or visceral lesions were present. Patients with clinically localized tumor treated before 1971 with local therapy, showed a median disease-free survival of 5 months. After 1971, radiotherapy and/or surgery to local tumor was combined with multiple drug chemotherapy (ADM, VCR, CTX) and the projected median disease-free survival increased to 24+ months. In previously untreated patients with advanced tumor adriamycin, used as single drug, achieved an overall response rate of 73 %. This is comparable to that achieved by a new combination including ADM, VCR, CTX, CCNU (75%). This multiple drug regimen is, however, expected to prolong the duration of response.
A Biochemical Characterization of Human Breast Tumors
Authors: Roguljić Ante , Biškup Julija , Nola Petar , Jakaša Vida
Published: April 2018

The activities of PHI, LDH and LDH isoenzymes were examined in 45 samples of human breast tissue. There were 25 carcinomas, 10 fibroadenomas and 10 nontumor tissue samples. In the group of nontumor breast tissue, values were as follows: PHI (X̄ = 574 SD = 69), LDH (X̄ = 634 SD = 91), LDH5/LDH1 (X̄ = 0.42 SD = 0.23); in the benign group, PHI (X̄ = 425 SD = 95), LDH (X̄ = 59 SD = 188), LDH5/LDH, (X̄ = 0.55 SD = 0.38); and in the malignant tumor group, PHI (X̄ = 2871 SD = 1350), LDH (X̄ = 3108 SD = 1417), LDH5/LDH1 (X̄ = 3.33 SD = 0.95). The enzyme activities of nontumor and benign tissue were statistically similar, but when these parameters were compared with the enzyme values of malignant tissue, there was a significant statistical difference. Based on these results, it is possible to establish a biochemical criterion for malignancy with the PHI and LDH activity levels greater than 720 U/g and the LDH5/LDH1 ratio greater than 1.3. By using this criterion, the examined specimens can be categorized as nontumor or benign in one group and malignant in another group. This corresponds to the histopathologic system of classification.
Ovarian Cystomas and Ovulation, A Histogenetic Concept
Authors: Zajicek Josef
Published: April 2018

The current histologic classification of tumors of the ovary and testis is reviewed, and their relative frequency is illustrated by notifications to the Swedish Cancer Registry from 1959 to 1965. By far the most common neoplasms were epithelial tumors of the ovary (i.e., cystomas). These do not occur in the testis. Cystomas are believed to originate from the surface epithelium (coelomic epithelium, mesothelium) of the ovary, but there is no generally accepted explanation of how the epithelial cells enter the ovary. Based on the absence of cystomas in the testis, the suggestion is advanced that epithelial inclusions may arise during the reparative period following ovulation. The implications of this concept for the histogenesis of cystomas are discussed.