bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Some Observations on the Epidemiology and the Pathology of Reticulum Cell Sarcomas in (C57BL/Cne x C3H/Cne) F1 Mice
Authors: Covelli Vincenzo , Metalli Pietro , Bassani Bruno , Di Caterino Benito , Silini Giovanni
Published: April 2018

Life-long observations on untreated animals have shown that spontaneous reticulum cell sarcomas (RCS) developed in 56.5 % male mice of the hybrid (C57BL/Cne x C3H/Cne) F1 strain; the average age at death of mice with tumors was 949 days, compared with 929 days for all causes: no age-specific peak of mortality has been shown to occur over the entire life span of the animals. Histologically, the spleen and all the lymphnodes, including the mesenteric node, were always invaded; neoplastic growth was found less frequently in kidneys, liver and lungs (77, 70, and 40%, respectively), only occasionally in other organs such as adrenals and testes, and never in the thymus. The tumor was predominantly composed of a single type of neoplastic cells, resembling highly undifferentiated reticular cells, typically proliferating from the periarteriolar region of the lymphatic follicles in the spleen. The monomorphic aspect of the tumor cell population suggests that RCS in this strain of mice may be classified as type A according to Dunn. Electron-microscopy observations showed the presence of a few virus-like particles both in tumor cells and in sediments from cell-free extracts. Transplantation of cells from spontaneous RCS into both normal and lethally-irradiated syngeneic recipients was successful only in 4 out of 7 experiments, regardless of the tissue of origin of the neoplastic cells (spleen, lymphnodes or bone marrow). Virus-like particles were seen with higher frequency in transplanted tumors. Inoculation of cell-free extracts into neonatal mice of low-leukemia strains has not so far been successful. Splenectomy of young animals as well as the intravenous injection of syngeneic bone marrow cells immediately following a lethal dose of whole-body X-irradiation significantly reduced the frequency of spontaneous tumors.
Stimulation of Protein Synthesis and of RNA Polymerase Activity in the Liver of 3-Methylcholanthrene-Treated Rats
Authors: Greco Claudia , Ferrini Umberto
Published: April 2018

Following a single dose of 3-methylcholanthrene in rat liver the RNA polymerase activity of Mg++ and Mn++/(NH4)2SO4 - dependent forms is stimulated in isolated nuclei and particularly in the chromatin of extranucleolar fraction. The early enhancement of N-2-fluorenylacetamide microsomal hydroxylating activity does not parallel the shift of the monomer-polysome equilibrium to more aggregated forms. It is suggested that the rate of synthesis and the transport mechanism of RNA messengers into the cytoplasm can be selectively regulated by 3-methylcholanthrene and its metabolites.
Leiomyoma of the Esophagus
Authors: Catania Vinicio Carmelo , Pizzocaro Giorgio , Pellegrino Fulvio , La Monica Gaudenzio
Published: April 2018

Seven cases of leiomyoma of the thoracic esophagus were successfully treated by simple extramucosal enucleation of the neoplasm, and one case of leiomyoma of the cardia was cured after esophago-gastric resection. The rarity of this neoplasm, which often shows a non-esophageal symptomatology, is emphasised and the diagnostic aids are described. The treatment of choice is conservative surgery, which is indicated in all cases, both because of the expanding character of the lesion and its possible malignant evolution.
Analysis of Rabbit and Guinea PIG Complement Efficiency in Cytotoxicity Tests against Fibrosarcoma and Lymphosarcoma Cells
Authors: Ménard Sylvie , Colnaghi Maria I.
Published: April 2018

In a complement-dependent 51Cr cytotoxicity assay, using as target murine fibrosarcoma or lymphosarcoma cells, the rabbit complement (RC) was more efficient than guinea pig complement (GPC) when tested either with strong antisera, such as anti-histocompatibility sera, or with weak sera, such as sera from normal mice shown previously to possess a natural antitumor response. The high efficiency of RC was not due to activation by antibodies of a different class or specificity than those activating GPC. In fact, both 2-mercaptoethanol (2-Me)-sensitive or-resistant immunoglobulins could activate both RC and GPC, and the results of absorption tests indicated that the antibodies detected using either of the 2 complements were directed against the same specificities. In addition, the results of tests searching for cooperative antibodies excluded that a cooperative effect might be responsible for the high efficiency of RC. With weak antisera, sera of different rabbits were found to have different complement activity.
A Statistical Approach to Detection of the Primary Cancer Based on the Site of Neck Lymph Node Metastases
Authors: Molinari Roberto , Cantù Giulio , Chiesa Fausto , Podrecca Stefano , Milani Franco , Del Vecchio Marcella
Published: April 2018

Preoperative differential diagnosis of a swelling in the neck is mandatory for a good therapeutic planning. Indiscriminate biopsy as first approach is to be disregarded, since it can compromise the result of a radical neck dissection in cases where a metastasis of epidermoid cancer is histologically recognized. A cervical biopsy is not to be performed until a complete HNT examination (including the thyroid and major salivary glands) has excluded the presence of a primary tumor in these regions. Since every localization of the head and neck malignancies shows rather fixed patterns in its lymphatic spreading, a correlation between site of T and particular localizations of N within the neck can be found. The knowledge of the probabilities that an adenopathy in a given region of the neck correlates with a primary tumor located in a given site of the body could strongly aid the physician in detecting the latter, following a rational statistically based approach. This study was performed applying Bayes theorem for probability calculus to the maps of distribution of metastases of tumors of different site in 3,700 patients who were taken into National Cancer Institute of Milan during 7 consecutive years. The results are gathered in tables and text-figures showing the great significance of some correlations, who become more evident when the adenopathies are multiple, but who usefully direct the physician also when the adenopathy is only one.
Lymphographic Evaluation in Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Musumeci Renato , Bombarda Achille , Cataldo Ignazio , Fontana Franco , Petrillo Raffaele , Zanini Marcello
Published: April 2018

A group of 79 patients with soft tissue sarcomas and 46 with primary malignant bone tumors underwent lymphangiography as part of the initial diagnostic workup. In the group of soft tissue sarcomas, the overall incidence of metastases was 22 of 79 (28%). According to the site of origin, the highest incidence was found in tumors originating from the buttocks (57%), followed by those from the inferior limbs (31%). Considering the histology, the incidence ranges from 50 % in anaplastic sarcoma, to 43 % in rhabdomyosarcoma, to 23 % for liposarcoma and fibrosarcoma. The incidence of lymphographycally proven metastases in bone tumors was 8 of 46 (17 %), with 1 out of 4 in reticulum cell sarcoma, 1/1 in chordoma, and 22 % in Ewing's sarcoma. A radiographic/histologic correlation on the lymph nodes was obtained in 19/79 (24 %) soft tissue sarcomas and in 4/46 (9 %) bone tumors. In the 12 radiographically negative and 11 radiographically positive cases, this correlation was always correct. The results of this study suggest a larger use of lymphography in these tumors.
Hyperthermic Isolation-perfusion with Melphalan. A Preliminary Appraisal of Local and General Effects in Malignant Melanoma
Authors: Lejeune F. J. , Mathieu M. , Kenis Y.
Published: April 2018

Ten hyperthermic isolation-perfusions with melphalan were performed for invasive malignant melanoma of the limbs. Four cases at stage II and with in transit metastases (up to 15 cm in diameter) had a complete regression. However, no improvement of survival was noticed: 4 out of 5 stage II patients who died, within 1 year after perfusion, developed a generalized disease. Systemic chemotherapy was administered in 3 patients after perfusion, but they died from distant metastases. The need for an adequate adjuvant treatment added to isolation perfusion is discussed.
Regional Chemotherapy of Maxillofacial Malignant Melanoma with Intracarotid Artery Infusion of DTIC
Authors: Jortay A. M. , Lejeune F. J. , Kenis Y.
Published: April 2018

Six intracarotid artery infusions of DTIC were performed in 4 patients with invasive malignant melanoma of the maxillo-facial region. A total dose of 3.5 to 7 g was well tolerated. Only 1 patient who received 9.5 g in 25 days developed a reversible bone marrow depletion. Two out of the 4 patients presented a transient 50 % tumor surface regression, but no response was seen after the second infusion. Of the 2 remaining patients, 1 had no measurable effect and 1 experienced tumor progression.
Serum Phosphoexose Isomerase in Cancer
Authors: Cunietti Ettore , Greco Maura
Published: April 2018

Serum levels of phosphoexose isomerase (PHI) were determined in 138 cancer patients. The enzyme levels showed a relation to the clinical stage of the tumor, and were, on the average, higher in advanced disease. The behavior of the enzyme levels after chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy was studied in relation to the clinical response. A statistically significant reduction of PHI activity in patients with subjective and objective or only subjective response to therapy was noted. The mean values before and after chemotherapy in patients with progression of the disease were not significantly different. The authors conclude that high levels of serum PHI are, most often, associated with an advanced and/or a metastasized tumor; furthermore PHI seems to be a reliable biologic marker of the destruction of cancer tissue.
An Italian Case of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Correlated with Epstein-Barr Virus Specific Antigens
Authors: Scolozzi Rosario , Masucci Giuseppe , Cassai Enzo , Pansini Raffaele
Published: April 2018

An Italian case of nasopharyngeal carcinoma was studied clinically; the immunologic study showed the correlation with the Epstein-Barr virus specific antigen.
Epidemiologic Study on Enzootic Bovine Leukemia Using Serologic Tests and Hematologic Examinations
Authors: Rutili Domenico , Severini Maurizio , Rampichini Luigi , Titoli Francesco , Chicchini Umberto
Published: April 2018

In order to find suitable diagnostic procedures to use in an epidemiologic survey for the detection of animals infected with the bovine leukemia virus (BLV), the authors conducted an investigation on 262 Friesian dairy cattle. The results of hematologic, serologic, and electron microscopic examinations are reported. Evaluation of the results demonstrated the validity of the immunodiffusion and immunofluorescence tests and the opportunity for their use in conjunction with examination of the blood picture. From the data reported it would appear useful to extend the investigation to the herds without history of lymphosarcoma.
A Phase II Study of Combined Adriamycin, L-PAM, and Methotrexate with Citrovorum Factor Rescue in Advanced Ovarian Carcinomas
Authors: Tropé Claes , Mattsson Willy , Ästedt Birger
Published: April 2018

In a phase II study of combined adriamycin, L-PAM, and methotrexate with citrovorum factor rescue, 14 of 15 patients with primary advanced or recurrent ovarian malignant tumors obtained an objective remission. In remission, all patients improved their quality of life. So far the median duration of remission is 5+ months for the complete responders and 7 months for the partial responders. Myelosuppression of varying severity occurred in 93 % of the courses. The regimen proved highly effective, although toxic in some advanced patients.
A Murine Oncornavirus Marker in Adenovirus 7-Transformed Mouse Cells
Authors: Merletti Lucio , Pauluzzi Sergio
Published: April 2018

The presence of oncornavirus particles in BALB/c mouse cells transformed by adenovirus 7 was investigated. The particles detected had a buoyant density of 1.16 g/cm3; both p30 and adenovirus T-specific immunofluorescence was demonstrated in the cell cytoplasm. No C-particles were shown by the electron microscope.
Quantitative Comparison of Milk-released C3H and RIII Mammary Tumor Viruses in Infected BALB/c Hosts
Authors: Bistocchi Maria , Nuti Marianna , Squartini Francesco
Published: April 2018

The C3H and RIII mammary tumor viruses (MTV) carried by BALB/cfC3H and BALB/cfRIII breeding females have been quantified and compared in milk samples, after partial purification with a sucrose density gradient. The samples were collected at identical times during the first 3 lactation periods from individual mice (6 per strain), standardized for age at delivery and size of litter. Milk samples from 6 MTV negative BALB/c controls have also been analyzed. Data for comparison are expressed in optical density units (ODU) and refer to the protein content of the whole milk using MTV-negative BALB/c milk as blank. The results have shown 1) an increase of MTV released through milk in each MTV-carrying female from the first (average ODU, 0.542) to the second (1.351) and third (2.105) lactation, 2) individual variations, and 3) a significant difference in release between C3H and RIIl MTV, the latter being more than double (average ODU, 1.801) in respect to the former (0.847). The apparent discrepancy between these results and the bioactivity in BALB/c mice of C3H and RIII MTV, significantly lower for the latter, is discussed.
Thin Needle Biopsy as a Routine Method for Rapid Diagnosis of Neoplasms
Authors: Pedio Gino , Nedden Gerhild zur
Published: April 2018

The present communication demonstrates the possibility of applying the « thin needle biopsy » as a routine method for rapid cytologic diagnosis of neoplasms. Systematically used in the examination of pulmonary, mammary, and thyroid tumors, the « thin needle biopsy » offers the following advantages: 1) decreased occurrence of so-called « false negative diagnoses »; 2) psychological relief for the patient; 3) decreased cost.
Comparative Aspects of Pigmented Nevi in Children, Youths and Adults
Authors: Blinova Galina A. , Movchan Vladislav I.
Published: April 2018

Clinicomorphological correlations in children of different ages, youths, and adults with various pigmented nevi are analyzed to determine the diagnostic significance of certain structures. The study included 129 pigmented nevi surgically removed from 122 children. 27 from youths, and 133 from adult subjects. A comparative analysis of the reasons that caused the removal of the pigmented nevi made it possible to clarify a number of peculiarities of pigmented nevi in children that play an important role in the clinical and diagnostic aspects, as well as the decision of management policy. For diagnostic purposes, in the evaluation of pigmented nevi in children, particular attention should not be paid to the marked cellular proliferation of junctional melanoblasts, invasion of the epidermis by nevus cells, and pigmentation of the epidermis by melanin.
Cytogenetic Study of Pleural Effusions
Authors: Carlevaro Cesarina , Rossi Giovanni Arturo , Cerri Ettore , Pelucco Davide
Published: April 2018

Chromosome analysis of effusions has been recently regarded as useful means in the diagnosis of cancer. Cytological and cytogenetic findings of 19 pleural effusions from patients with benign and malignant diseases are compared. Conventional cytology does not always give correct positive results because of the high percentage of false negatives, whereas cytogenetic analysis reveals a considerable spread of the chromosome number in neoplastic fluid, with structural chromosome changes, marker chromosomes and minute fragments. Absence of mitosis does not exclude the malignant etiology of the effusion when the patient had been previously treated with antineoplastic drugs. Benign diseases were never falsely classified as malignant by cytogenetic analysis.
Descriptive Epidemiology of Cancer of the Larynx in the Province of Torino, Italy
Authors: Terracini Benedetto , Anglesio Enrico , Panero Mario , Vineis Paolo
Published: April 2018

Age-standardized incidence rates of cancer of the larynx in men from 1965–1969 were 14.7/100,000/year in the city of Torino and 8.4 in the non-metropolitan area of the province. These rates are among the highest in Europe. The geographical distribution of cancer of the larynx has been investigated in the non-metropolitan area considering two geographical entities, i.e., the 291 towns and the 12 ecological zones/subzones of the area. The incidence of cancer of the larynx in men was unrelated to the population of towns in 1961, whereas it was positively correlated to indexes of general industrialization as well as to those related to industrialization in the mechanical processes. Tobacco and alcohol consumption have not been taken into account. In order to validate the methodology, the investigation was extended to bladder cancer and to cancer in children. The former was correlated with general and chemical + rubber industrialization, whereas the latter was not correlated with any industrial process.
Possible Histologic Markers for Early and Late Stages of Breast Cancer
Authors: Migliori Elena , Sani Stefania , Squartini Francesco
Published: April 2018

The degree of productive fibrosis, amount of lymphoid infiltrate and nuclear grade have been studied in 492 consecutive cases of duct-infiltrating breast cancer. It has been found that highly significant relationships exist between these morphologic parameters of breast cancer: lymphoid infiltrate is directly related to nuclear anaplasia and antagonized by productive fibrosis; conversely, productive fibrosis is inversely related to nuclear anaplasia and antagonized by lymphoid infiltrate. Significant inverse relationships between productive fibrosis and lymphoid infiltrate persist in tumors that have the same nuclear grade. It is suggested that lymphoid infiltrate and productive fibrosis are suitable candidates as morphologic markers to estimate the age of breast cancer, while the nuclear grade is a suitable tool to identify subgroups with different behavior in the NOS (not otherwise specified) category of breast cancer.
Protein Loss after Radical Mastectomy as a Cause of Postoperative Hypoalbuminemia
Authors: Bozzetti Federico , Leo Ermanno , Barbieri Angelo , Costa Chiara Dalla
Published: April 2018

The concentrations of serum albumin and the cumulative loss of albumin through the drainage tubes were followed in 14 patients who underwent radical mastectomy for cancer. The concentration of serum albumin declined during the postoperative period, and the nadir was on the 5th day. On the first 5 days a good correlation was observed between hypoalbuminemia and loss of albumin from the wound. After this period, hypoalbuminemia persisted unchanged although small quantities of albumin continued to be lost through the drains. It is concluded that in surgery complicated by abundant serum discharge, the albumin loss may be the main cause of postoperative hypoalbuminemia.
Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Vaglini Maurizio , Bozzetti Federico , Viganotti Giovanni
Published: April 2018

A series of 12 cases of mesothelioma is presented, and the data in the literature is reviewed in an attempt to formulate a program of treatment for this malignant, fast-growing and rapidly fatal tumor.
Hairy Cell Leukemia: Enzyme-histochemical and Ultrastructural Investigation of one Case
Authors: Pilotti Silvana , Carbone Antonino , Lombardi Luciano , Tavolato Cristina , Rilke Franco
Published: April 2018

The investigation was carried out on blood smears, bone marrow aspirates, one lymph node biopsy, and the surgically removed spleen of a 53-year-old man with hairy cell leukemia. In the blood smears stained with May-Grünwald-Giemsa, 60 to 70 % of the hairy cells contained tubular inclusions that corresponded to the ribosome-lamella complexes demonstrated at electron microscopy. In blood smears, imprints and cryostatic sections of the lymph node and of the spleen, hairy cells revealed tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, beta-glucuronidase and adenosine-triphosphatase activity. In the spleen neutral esterase and alkaline phosphatase demonstrated the numerical increase of the histiocytes, which ultrastructurally displayed phagocytic activity. The presence in the spleen of pseudosinuses lined by hairy cells was confirmed by electron microscopy as well as by cytoenzymology.
Stability of Characters of Mammary Tumors in Balb/cfRIII Mice
Authors: Pingitore Raffaele
Published: April 2018

The biological and morphological characteristics of mammary tumors in BALB/c mice infected with RIII mammary tumor virus (MTV) by foster nursing have substantially kept stable and unchanged after 20 years, 53 inbred generations and transfer of the strain from Perugia to Pisa. This suggests that the causal MTV keeps unaltered in time its biological properties.
Salvage with Radiotherapy of Postsurgical Relapses of Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Pirtoli Luigi , Ciatto Stefano , Cionini Luca , Taddei Gianluigi , Colafranceschi Maurizio
Published: April 2018

From January 1960 to June 1974, 71 patients with a postsurgical relapse of endometrial adenocarcinoma have been referred to the Radiology Institute of the University of Florence. Eleven patients showed hematogenous metastases; the remaining 60 cases showed locoregional relapses and were treated with radiotherapy. Forty-eight patients, whose relapse was localized to the pelvis, vagina, inguinal nodes or perineal scar, were treated with a radical aim (4,500-6,000 rad in 5-6 weeks); the treatment was palliative in 12 cases with abdominal extrapelvic relapse. The therapeutic response was not evaluated in 8 patients lost to follow-up shortly after the treatment. In the cases treated with a radical scope, a complete regression was attained in 22 of 43 (51 %); a survival rate of 16 of 43 (37 %) was attained at 5 years. In 9 cases treated with a palliative aim, only subjective remission was attained, and no patient was alive one year after the therapy. The most favorable therapeutic response was attained in the vaginal relapses (50 % survivors at 5 years) and the cases with a late recurrence (more than 3 years) after the initial surgery. No definite correlation was found between the prognosis of the relapse and the histological grading of the primary tumor.
Müllerian Adenosarcoma of the Uterus: A Report of 5 Cases
Authors: Martinelli Giuseppe , Pileri Stefano , Bazzocchi Floriano , Serra Luigi
Published: April 2018

The clinicopathologic features of 4 cases of Müllerian adenosarcoma of the uterine body and 1 of the cervix are reported. They showed the characteristic pattern of benign epithelial growth within sarcomatous stroma. In the cervical tumor, malignant heterologous stromal cells were also present. All the patients are alive and well, confirming the good prognosis of this neoplasm. The authors think that the presence of a malignant heterologous component probably does not imply a worse prognosis.
Descriptive Epidemiology of Hodgkin's Disease in the Province of Padova, 1970-1974
Authors: Zambon Paola , Simonato Lorenzo , Pendii Natale , Mastrangelo Giuseppe , Saia Bruno
Published: April 2018

The age-standardized incidence rates of Hodgkin's disease in the province of Padova during the period 1970-1974 were 4.33/105 per year for males and 3.70/105 per year for females. These rates are higher (particularly for females) than in other European countries and close to those reported for North America. A bimodal distribution by age is present in the province as a whole. These findings, with the limitations due to the small population and diagnostic difficulties taken into account, are discussed with a view to further investigation.
Histones of Human Lung Carcinoma and Human Lung Tissue. Analysis by Two-Dimensional Electrophoresis
Authors: Gabrielli Franco , Bevilacqua Generoso , Salvini Mariangela
Published: April 2018

Histones prepared from human lung and human lung carcinoma were analyzed by a 2-dimensional elecvtrophoresis method able to separate histone subfractions. The comparative analysis of electrophoretograms showed differences in the relative amounts of H1, H2A, and H3 histone subfractions extracted from human lung and human lung carcinoma chromatin.
The Value of the CEA Test in the Diagnosis of Metastases of Adenocarcinoma of the Gastroenteric Tract
Authors: Orefice Sergio , Gennari Leandro , Mor Carlo , Costa Alberto
Published: April 2018

Of 174 patients previously resected for gastric, colon or rectal adenocarcinoma, 75 had distant metastases at the time of the first examination and provided information on the specific characters of different types of tumors as regards CEA sensitivity. The remaining 99 cases, all without clinical evidence of disease, showed positive CEA levels in 26 and negative CEA levels in 73. Of the 26 CEA-positive cases, 24 showed clinical signs of metastases in a period of time varying from 1 to 11 months. The remaining 2 cases, although CEA positive at subsequent tests, did not develop clinical metastases and have been disease-free for 5 years after the first test. Of 73 CEA-negative patients, 30 developed metastases: in 17 the clinical appearance of recurrences was preceded by a positive CEA test, while in 13 the CEA test remained negative even with the presence of disease. The remaining 43 cases are still CEA negative and without metastases from 44 to 51 months from the first examination. Altoghether, in 22 cases CEA was negative, but the clinical evidence of recurrences was positive, and in these cases 63.6 % were undifferentiated carcinomas; 2 patients were CEA positive but without signs of evident metastases.
An Evaluation of Elective Irradiation of Neck Nodes in Patients with Cancer of the Supraglottic Larynx
Authors: Skolyszewski Jan
Published: April 2018

Between 1964 and 1973, 152 patients with supraglottic cancer limited to the larynx with clinically negative neck were included in the controlled randomized study designed to evaluate elective irradiation of the neck. The patients were randomized to one of the 2 treatment groups: 1) « T + N »: irradiation of the larynx and all neck nodes, tumor dose 5130 rad/6-7 weeks, 2) « T »: irradiation of the laryngeal portals only, tumor dose 5130 rad/5 weeks. All patients received 250 kV orthovoltage irradiation. The biologic dose delivered to the larynx was greater in group « T » because of faster fractionation and shorter overall time of therapy. The calculated NSD value for the patients in group « T + N » varied from 1620 to 1690 ret, and in group « T » it was 1800 ret. Five-year survival rates with a preserved larynx and without cancer were 45.3 % for group « T + N » and 66.2 % for group « T ». Seven patients of group « T » developed metastatic cancer in the neck, and 4 of them were cured by neck dissection. It is concluded that patients with early supraglottic cancer can be successfully irradiated through laryngeal portals only, including the larynx, and possibly midjugular and digastric nodes. The tumor dose should be at least equivalent to the NSD of 1800 ret in the condition of megavoltage therapy.
Results of 60CO-Teletherapy in Oral Cancer
Authors: Volterrani Fabio , Sigurtà Davide , Uslenghi Carlo , Chiesa Fausto , Molinari Roberto
Published: April 2018

Our study reports 282 oral cancer cases treated with 60Co-teletherapy (TCT), taken from 736 oral carcinomas treated with radiotherapy on the primary tumor from January 1959 to December 1970. They were mainly locally advanced cases which often had regional node involvement. In fact, during that period, the more advanced cases were submitted to TCT. There were only 9 (3.2 %) patients with T1 lesions, while there were 134 (47.5 %) T2 and 139 (49.3 %) T3, X4 cases; there were respectively 106 (37.6 %) and 44 (15.6 %) N1 or N2 and N3 cases. Almost half of the patients were ≥ 66 years old at onset of the treatment (138/282 cases, or 47.2 %); the women were a small minority (18/282, or 6.4 %). There were 58 (20.6 %) carcinomas of the mucosal surface of the cheeks, 60 cases arising from the retromolar areas, the upper-lower alveolar processes and the hard palate (21.3 %), 72 carcinomas of the mobile portion of the tongue (25.5 %) and 92 arising from the floor of the mouth (32.6 %). All the patients considered in the study were treated with conventional techniques by doses, field dimensions and fractionation.

The overall results were objectively disappointing, even though they should be evaluated keepping in mind the nature and the gravity of oral carcinomas submitted to TCT. Actuarial survival at 5 and 10 years from the onset of treatment was respectively 11.6 % and 6.4 %. None of the N1, N3 cases survived beyond the fourth year from onset of the treatment. Long-term survival differs very little in relation to the site of origin in the oral cavity.

Nowadays, TCT alone may have only a palliative role in the treatment of oral cancer, reserving it for those cases which, due to their extreme gravity or the various contraindications, do not permit more aggressive treatments. In a combined therapeutic approach the aim of TCT today is to control the minimum disease foci. Its association with surgery appears to be most effective.
Ultrastructural Alterations of Megakaryocytes in Some Hematologic Disorders
Authors: Lambertenghi-Deliliers Giorgio , Polli Nicoletta , Pozzoli Ermanno , Nava Mariateresa , Soligo Davide
Published: April 2018

Bone marrow and peripheral blood samples of patients affected by hematologic disorders involving the megakaryocytic line were examined at the electron microscope. While in idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura the megakaryocytes appeared almost normal, in primary thrombocythemia there were various ultrastructural alterations interpreted as a counterpart of ineffective thrombocytopoiesis. In one patient with blastic chronic myeloid leukemia and in another with acute megakaryoblastic leukemia, the electron microscope study was very useful in the identification of immature megakaryocytes. In fact, analysis of various ultrastructural parameters allowed some blast cells to be attributed to the megakaryocytic series. Furthermore, platelet demarcation system abnormalities and alterations of the circulating thrombocytes confirm the hypothesis that there is a block in megakaryocytic maturation.
Struma Ovarii and Brenner Tumor
Authors: Cannelli Silvestro G. , Senzani Francomaria , Cannelli Ines , Cefis Francesco
Published: April 2018

One struma ovarii with agregates of epithelial nests indistinguishable from Brenner tumor was studied. The presence of a communication between the nests and the follicles and the association of Brenner, mucinous and respiratory epithelium in the lining of 1 cyst in the same tumor strongly support the germ cell theory of Brenner tumors associated with teratomatous elements.
Epithelial Dysplasia in Endoscopic Gastric Mucosal Biopsies
Authors: Farini Roberto , Leandro Gioacchino , Farinati Fabio , Di Mario Francesco , Scalabrin Giovanni , Mazzucato Bruna , Cecchetto Attilio , Naccarato Remo
Published: April 2018

To define the frequency of gastric epithelial dysplasia (precancerous lesion), 1463 biopsies from 842 endoscopically studied patients were reassessed. Mild dysplasia was found in 19.9 % of the cases, moderate in 4.1 %, severe in 0.95 %. Since the clinical and biological significance of the lesion is still an open question, indications for follow-up are discussed in the light of personal views, together with a critical evaluation of the recently proposed classifications.
Oat Cell Carcinoma of the Esophagus. Report of a Case
Authors: Scarani Paolo , Betts Christine M. , Fedeli Franco , Bondi Arrigo
Published: April 2018

A case of primary oat cell carcinoma of the esophagus is described. The oat cell pattern appeared intermingled with small areas of squamous carcinoma. The origin of this mixed tumor is discussed together with the literature on esophageal carcinomas with an oat cell pattern.
A Study on the Etiological Factors of Bilharzial Bladder Cancer in Egypt: 4. β-Carotene and Vitamin a Level in Serum
Authors: El-Aaser Abdelbaset Anvver , El-Merzabani Mahmoud Mohamed , Abdel-Reheem K.A. , Hamza B.M.
Published: April 2018

The possible role of vitamin A in the pathogenesis of bilharzial bladder cancer among Egyptians, particularly as it relates to the histopathologic tumor type, was investigated. Bilharzial patients and bladder cancer patients with squamous cell carcinoma, the most prevalent type in Egypt, showed significantly lower levels of vitamin A than normal male subjects. In contrast, bladder cancer patients with transitional cell carcinoma had levels that were not significantly different from normal male subjects. The possible role of vitamin A in the etiology of bilharzial bladder cancer is discussed.
Behavior of Human Breast Tumor Cells in Vivo on Chorioallantoic Membrane. A Preliminary Report
Authors: Sawant Suneeti S. , Ghosh Soumendra Nath , Shah Prabhaker N.
Published: April 2018

The invasive properties of 2 types of breast cancers were tested on an « in vivo » model system in which 9-day-old chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of chick embryo was used. Similar to HeLa and ALL cells, the breast « negative » cells invaded the blood vessels of the host, whereas the breast « positive » cells were seen in the mesoderm away from blood vessels of the host. This finding probably explains the intrinsic aggressive property of breast « negative » cells.
Serum Copper Level in Non-Hodgkin's Lymphomas
Authors: Salvagno Luigi , Pappagallo Giovanni L. , Sileni Vanna Chiarion , Segati Romana , Cartei Giuseppe , Endrizzi Luigi , Paccagnella Adriano , Ongaro Giuseppe , Bonvicini Piero , Fiorentino Mario V.
Published: April 2018

Serum copper level (SCL) was studied by the atomic absorption technique in 103 patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. SCL was increased in 61 % of patients at diagnosis or during active disease; values within normal range were found in 88 % of patients in complete remission. The difference between mean SCL during active disease and in remission was highly significant, independently of stage and histologic type, so that: a) Within the same clinical stage high SCL at diagnosis was associated with poorer response to therapy in stage II and stage III (respectively P = 0.033 and P = 0.049), but not in stage IV, where the complete remissions were only 8 out of 42. A shorter 5-year survival was also shown in stages III and IV with high SCL at diagnosis (respectively P < 0.025 and P < 0.05), but not in stage II where the deaths were only 3 out of 24. b) Within histologic types, SCL is a useful prognostic index of response to therapy and survival, although a statistically significant difference was only reached for poorly differentiated lymphocytic lymphoma. We conclude that SCL may be a good parameter of disease activity and a useful index of response to therapy and survival in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Trattamento Radiante Elettivo del Carcinoma Mammario
Authors: Nervi Carlo , Arcangeli Giorgio , Danesi Donatella Tirindelli , Creton Giovanni
Published: April 2018

From March 1972 to November 1979 a total of 157 patients with stage I to III primary breast cancers have been irradiated after segmental resection (12 cases), tilectomy (89 cases) or biopsy (56 cases). Complete local control was achieved in all Stage I lesions, in 97 % Stage II lesions and in 68 % Stage III lesions. Non recurrence has been observed in patients previously operated by segmental resections, while local failures occurred in 6/89 and in 16/56 patients operated by tilectomy or biopsy, respectively. Of the 28 Stage I patients, 24 (86 %) are alive, one with distant metastases. Four patients of this group are dead, 2 of intercurrent disease and 2 of breast cancer. Of the 61 (Stage II) patients, 38 (62 %) are alive, 5 of these with distant metastases. Twenty-three patients are dead, 15 with active disease, and 8 suffered intercurrent death. Of the 68 Stage III patients, 21 (31 %) are alive, 6 of these with distant metastases. Fourty-seven patients are dead, 43 of breast cancer and 4 of intercurrent disease. The high probability of initial subclinical deposits is evidenced by the fact that 49 of the 68 patients in this group developed distant metastases. The patients with T1 lesions appear to comprise the most favourable group with a relapse free survival at five years of 76 %. The 5 years relapse free survival was 62 % for T2 lesions and 25 % for T3 and T4 lesions. N0 status does not confer the same favourable prognosis as T1 status. N+ status, however, resulted in a definitly negative prognostic factor. Cosmetic results after our treatment approach appear to be extremely good. A marked difference between the irradiated and controlateral breast occurred only in 10 of the 125 patients after a minium of 2 years observation.
Impiego Combinato della Laparoscopia e Della Biopsia Ossea Nella Determinazione Dello Stadio Del Carcinoma Indifferenziato a Piccole Cellule del Polmone. Valutazione di 116 Casi Consecutivi
Authors: Tancini Gabriele , Marchini Silvana , Volonterio Alberto , Barni Sandro , Spinelli Pasquale
Published: April 2018

116 consecutive patients with small cell anaplastic carcinoma of the lung had laparoscopy with multiple liver biopsies and bone marrow biopsy, performed as a staging procedure. Bone marrow biopsy was positive in 13 patients (11.2 %); no significant rise in percent was seen when bilateral specimens were obtained. Laparoscopy was positive in 17 patients (14.6 %); one patient had extrahepatic involvement only. Liver scan did not show high correlation with laparoscopy: 6 patients out of 11 had negative liver scan with metastases demonstrated at laparoscopy. Only 6 patients had laparoscopy positive along with bone marrow biopsy (5.1 %). At determination of the stage, 12 patients out of 78 (15.3 %), with apparently localized disease had diffuse disease after the two procedures. Laparoscopy and bone marrow biopsy were positive in 12 patients out of 38 (31.5 %), when the disease was diffuse at diagnosis. 7 patients had liver metastases at diagnosis, which were excluded after laparoscopy. Laparoscopy and bone marrow remain valuable procedures in assessing stage in small cell anaplastic carcinoma of the lung, because of their high rate of stage modifications due to their combined employment at diagnosis.
Evaluation of Lung Ventilation and Carbon Monoxide-Diffusing Capacity in Patients with Nonseminomatous Testicular Tumors Treated with Bleomycin
Authors: Pagnoni Annamaria , Riboldi Gianluca , Valagussa Pinuccia
Published: April 2018

Spirometric tests and CO transfer tests were systematically employed before, during, after the therapy and in the follow-up of 33 patients affected by non seminomatous testicular tumors treated with 4-5 Einhorn courses (PVB). The aim was to demonstrate possible bleomycin-induced pulmonary toxicity and its relationship with the cumulative dose of the drug. Our patients, who never had clinical or radiological signs of pulmonary toxicity, did not show significant change in the functional respiratory tests throughout therapy, except for 6 patients who had a reduction in CO transfer of about 30 % after the 2nd or 3rd course which persisted up to the end and during the follow-up. We did not find any correlation of such a reduction with predisposing factors.
Cardiac Toxicity of 5-Fluorouracil: A Study on 1083 Patients
Authors: Labianca Roberto , Beretta Gianni , Clerici Maurizia , Fraschini Paolo , Luporini Gino
Published: April 2018

The possible onset of cardiotoxic manifestations during chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) was evaluaetd in 1083 patients treated with the drug for various kinds of neoplasm. We recognized 17 cases of 5-FU cardiopathy (usually anginous crises but also myocardial infarction). The comprehensive incidence was 1.6 %, with a significantly greater risk (4.5 % vs 1.1 %) for patients with a positive anamnesis of previous cardiopathy. On the contrary, age and combination with other antiblastic drugs had no affect on the appearance of cardiopathy. We conclude that 5-FU cardiopathy, although rare, has to be taken into account in oncologic practice, chiefly in those patients already affected with cardiac diseases.
Stage I and II Hodgkin's Disease Presenting in Infradiaphragmatic Nodes
Authors: Cionini Luca , Magrini Stefano , Mungai Vallano , Biti Gian Paolo , Ponticelli Pietro
Published: April 2018

Twenty patients with Hodgkin's disease limited to infradiaphragmatic (ID) nodes have been treated at the University and Hospital Radiotherapy Departments in Florence between 1960 and 1978. Clinicopathologic features and treatment modalities of these patients were reviewed and results compared with those of 2 similar series previously published by other authors. With respect to the patients with disease above the diaphragm, the ID presentation occurred more often in males in all the 3 reviewed series; a relative prevalence of the lymphocytic predominance histotype and of an older age was observed in 2 only of the 3 series; laparatomy seems unnecessary in lymphographic-negative patients. The analysis of therapeutic results suggests that inverted Y irradiation is a sufficient treatment when inguinal or lower iliac nodes only are affected; paraortic region and spleen involvement warrant a more radical program including the supradiaphragmatic irradiation or systemic chemotherapy.
Vindesine in the Treatment of Squamous Cell Carcinoma (Who I), Adenocarcinoma (Who III), and Large Cell Carcinoma (who IV) of the Lung
Authors: Ferrazzi Eros , Zagonel Yittorina , Vinante Orazio , Galligioni Enzo , Pappagallo Giovanni L. , Cartei Giuseppe , Fiorentino Mario V.
Published: April 2018

The antineoplastic activity of vindesine was evaluated in 57 patients with non-small-cell carcinoma of the lung. 53 patients were fully evaluable for response and toxicity. Twenty-seven patients had squamous cell carcinoma (WHO I), 14 had adenocarcinoma (WHO III), and 12 had large cell carcinoma (WHO IV). Forty percent of patients were previously treated. Vindesine was administered at a weekly i.v. dose of 3 mg/m2. Partial remissions were observed in 2 of 12 patients with large cell carcinoma and in 1 of 27 patients with squamous cell carcinoma. Among 14 patients with adenocarcinoma, 3 minor responses were observed. Drug-related toxic effects (mainly leukopenia with manageable and reversible neurotoxicity) required modification of dose in 41 % of patients: this finding and previous treatment may have adversely affected the response rate. It is concluded that vindesine as a single agent has some activity in large cell carcinoma. Activity in the other histologic types was minimal but not totally absent and deserves further evaluation, possibly in non-pretreated patients.
Carolis Disease and Bile Duct Carcinoma. Report of a Case
Authors: Rugge M. , Chinelli E. , Fassina A.S. , Zambon M. , Breggion G.
Published: April 2018

A case of Caroli's disease associated with cholangiocarcinoma is described and, by a review, of the literature its histogenetic problems are discussed.
An Intercomparison of in Vitro Assays for Assessing Cytotoxicity after a 24 Hour Exposure to Anti-Cancer Drugs
Authors: Rupniak H. Thomas , Dennis Lorraine Y. , Hill Bridget T.
Published: April 2018

Employing a tumourigenic mouse cell line, we have measured the effects of four anti-cancer drugs (methotrexate, vincristine, cis-platinum and adriamycin) upon tumour cell survival as assessed by three independent procedures. The results from two short-term procedures based upon dye exclusion and labeling index determinations were compared with data from the relatively long-term clonogenic or colony-forming assay. The dye exclusion procedure demonstrated the poorest correlation with the clonogenic assay, whereas labeling index measurements exhibited qualitative but not quantitative correspondence with results from the clonogenic assay. These short-term procedures cannot therefore be considered accurate sbustitutes for a clonogenic assay, which remains the method of choice for assessing cytotoxic effects of anti-cancer drugs.
Pilot Study with Adjuvant Hormone Therapy in Figo Stage I Endometrial Carcinoma with Myometrial Invasion
Authors: De Palo Giuseppe , Spatti Giovanni Battista , Bandieramonte Gaetano , Luciani Luciano
Published: April 2018

A pilot study with adjuvant hormone therapy in FIGO stage I endometrial carcinoma with myometrial invasion was carried out. All patients received total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy plus complementary radium therapy on the vaginal stump. After the conventional treatment, patients were randomly allocated to adjuvant hormone therapy or no further treatment. Hormone therapy consisted of gestonorone caproate (17α-hydroxy-19-norpregn-4-en 3,20 dione caproate) administered i.m. at the dose of 200 mg/week for 1 year. Of the 62 patients who entered the study, 51 were considered evaluable (24 with adjuvant hormone therapy and 27 with no further treatment). Five patients had a relapse: four of these were in the group with no further treatment. Actuarial relapse-free survival analysis at 5 years was 95.7% in the group of adjuvant-treated patients and 82.8% in the control group. Although there is no statistical significance, adjuvant therapy appears to result in an increase in relapse-free survival in the group of patients with deep myometrial invasion and undifferentiated carcinoma. Further studies are necessary to assess the effectiveness of hormone adjuvant treatment in FIGO stage I endometrial carcinoma with myometrial invasion.
Secreting Benign Paraganglioma of the Prostatic Urethra
Authors: Altavilla Giuseppe , Cavazzini Luigi , Russo Rosario
Published: April 2018

A case of benign paraganglioma of the prostatic urethra, incidentally discovered in a hyperplastic gland, is reported. Presurgical mild systemic hypertension, which suggested the paraganglioma secreting activity, became normal in the postoperative follow-up.
Relationship between Erythrocyte Hexokinase in Cancer Patients and Red Cell Age
Authors: Canestrari Franco , Dachà Ugo , Giacchi Remo , Magnani Mauro , Stocchi Vilberto , Palma Fulvio , Piacentini Giuseppe , Dachà Marina
Published: April 2018

A study of hexokinase isozymic pattern and age dependence of the enzyme was carried out on erythrocytes of 4 patients with adenocarcinoma of the gastrointestinal tract. On the basis of our results, we think that the increase in hexokinase activity previously reported and the increase in both subtypes (Ia and Ib) of the enzyme herein described are not due to a mean younger red cell population caused by secondary anemia, which is frequently present in cancer patients.
Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) in Human Cerebral Tumors. An Immunohistochemical Study
Authors: Schiffer Davide , Giordana Maria Teresa , Mauro Alessandro , Migheli Antonio
Published: April 2018

Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was studied in 160 cerebral tumors, mostly of neuro-epithelial nature. It was positive in astroglial tumors with an intensity proportional to the degree of cell differentiation. It was sometimes positive also in non-astroglial tumors, such as oligodendrogliomas and ependymomas, and this finding is discussed in relation to genesis and diagnostic value. In medulloblastomas, there were also positive cells, which could be reactive glia cells included in the tumors or subependymal cells. The demonstration of GFAP is very useful in gliosarcomas for identifying the glial component. It was sometimes positive in hemangioblastomas, and it is discussed in view of the nature of the stromal cells of this tumor.