bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
p53 Protein Expression and Cell Proliferation in Non-Neoplastic and Neoplastic Proliferative Skin Diseases
Authors: Batinac Tanja , Zamolo Gordana , Jonjić Nives , Gruber Franjo , Petrovečki Mladen
Published: April 2018

Aims and background

The p53 protein is essential for the regulation of cell proliferation and its aberrant accumulation is usually seen in malignant tumors but also occurs in squamous epithelium of inflammatory skin diseases characterized by hyperproliferation. The aim of this study is to elucidate the role of the p53 tumor suppressor protein in the pathogenesis of different hyperproliferative, non-malignant and malignant skin diseases, and to determine the association between p53 overexpression and cell proliferation. We also investigated the influence of aging on p53 and Ki-67 protein expression.

Methods

One hundred and fifty skin specimens divided into 30 samples each of normal skin (NS), psoriatic skin (PS), keratoacanthomas (KA), basal cell carcinomas (BCC), and squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) were examined immunohistochemically to assess p53 and Ki-67 protein expression.

Results

p53 immunostaining of NS, PS, KA, BCC and SCC was detected in 39.0%, 46.7%, 66.7%, 80% and 86.7% of cases, respectively. Median values and ranges of p53 protein expression were as follows: 0.0% (range, 0.0–1.8%) in NS, 0.0% (range, 0.0–6.5%) in PS, 9.2% (range, 0.0–24.0%) in KA, 19.3% (range, 0.0–48.1%) in BCC and 30.1% (range, 0.0–68.1%) in SCC. p53- and Ki-67-positive cells were present in basal (NS) and suprabasal layers (PS), and not only in cancer nests of KA, BCC and SCC but also in dysplastic and even morphologically normal epidermis adjoining cancers. The positivity of p53 and Ki-67 proteins differed significantly among the groups, with no differences in p53 expression between NS and PS and in Ki-67 expression between PS and KA. Within all groups there was a significant correlation between p53 and Ki-67 expression. Lesion location and patient age, with the exception of location in PS and age in BCC, were significantly related to p53 and Ki-67 expression in all groups.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that p53 overexpression occurs mainly in neoplastic skin lesions, although it may also occur in squamous epithelium of inflammatory skin diseases such as PS, as well as in normal skin epithelium. It is associated with cell proliferation in normal as well as altered epithelium. p53 protein overexpression is an age-related process and significantly associated with sun exposure, especially in NS and PS but also in KA and SCC. Our findings suggest that Ki-67 rate and p53 protein expression reflect the degree of malignancy in the examined cutaneous neoplasms.
Case Report of a Hepatic Angiomyolipoma
Authors: Romano Fabrizio , Franciosi Claudio , Bovo Giorgio , Cesana Giovanni Carlo , Isella Giuseppe , Colombo Giovanni , Uggeri Franco
Published: April 2018

Angiomyolipoma (AML) is a benign mesenchymal tumor that has been frequently reported in the kidney but rarely in the liver. Hepatic AML may be clinically, radiologically and morphologically difficult to distinguish from hepatocellular carcinoma or other hepatic lesions, even though the number of cases has been increasing recently due to improved imaging techniques. Histologically it consists of smooth muscle cells, adipose cells and abnormal blood vessels. It is commonly diagnosed following abdominal pain but may also be asymptomatic, has a predominant female predilection, highly variable size and occurs in subjects with a wide age range. The right lobe is the most common site, and multicentricity has been reported. Here we report a case of the myomatous variant of AML, accidentally discovered in a young woman with no clear features on radiographic examination, which was diagnosed by means of fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) and then surgically removed. Although careful observation with serial radiological follow-up is an option in these cases, we chose the surgical approach because of the risk of rupture due to the large size of the lesion and the risk of malignant behavior or transformation. In case of the myomatous variant composed of irregular cells with epithelioid appearance, hepatocellular carcinoma with fatty changes or the possibility of other malignant tumors must be ruled out by immunohistochemistry (HMB-45), even in biopsy specimens.
Her-2/Neu Receptor in Prostate Cancer Development and Progression to Androgen Independence
Authors: Di Lorenzo Giuseppe , Autorino Riccardo , De Laurentiis Michele , Cindolo Luca , D'armiento Massimo , Bianco Angelo Raffaele , De Placido Sabino
Published: April 2018

Development of prostate cancer and progression to androgen-independent disease is correlated with increased expression of growth factors and receptors capable of establishing autocrine and/or paracrine growth-stimulatory loops. A thorough review was made of the current literature and recent abstract presentations at scientific meetings focusing on the role of the HER-2/neu (c-erbB2) receptor in prostate cancer and the potential clinical usefulness of its specific inhibitors. In the past 10 years, conflicting results on HER-2/neu expression in prostate cancer have been reported. More recently, four studies have shown experimental evidence of HER-2/neu in the development of prostate cancer and, more specifically, in the progression to a hormone-refractory clinical behavior. Furthermore, it has been proposed that HER-2 family and androgen receptors function synergistically in the absence of androgen, which suggests a crosstalk between the HER-2/neu and androgen receptor pathways. Finally, clinical trials are in progress in prostate cancer patients to test novel agents that selectively interfere with HER-2/neu activity.
Smoking in Italy 2003, with a Focus on the Young
Authors: Gallus Silvano , Pacifici Roberta , Colombo Paolo , Scarpino Vilma , Zuccaro Piergiorgio , Bosetti Cristina , Apolone Giovanni , La Vecchia Carlo
Published: April 2018

Aims and background

To update trends in smoking prevalence in Italy to 2003, with specific focus on the young.

Methods

A population-based, face-to-face survey conducted in February-April 2003 on 3,535 individuals aged 15 or over, representative of the whole Italian adult population, plus an over sampling of 426 subjects aged 15 to 24 years.

Results

Overall, 27.6% of Italians described themselves as current cigarette smokers (33.2% men, 22.5% women); 20.1% of men and 8.0% of women smoked 15 or more cigarettes per day. Ex-smokers were 16.6% (22.5% men, 11.2% women). No appreciable difference with reference to geographic area was observed. Less educated men, but more educated women, were more frequently smokers. As compared to previous years, no noticeable change was observed in overall smoking prevalence. However, an appreciable decline was observed in the young (15 to 24 years), from 37.6% in 2001 to 32.6% in 2003 for men, and from 30.4% to 20.7% for women. Among current smokers, 40.6% had tried at least once to stop. Of these, only 6.8% had used some pharmacological and 1.8% some psychological support.

Conclusions

Overall self-reported smoking prevalence had not appreciably changed over the last few years. However, prevalence of smoking appears to have declined in the young. Compared to legal sale data, tobacco consumption is substantially under reported.
Inflammatory Metastatic Carcinoma of the Colon: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Wong Nan Soon , Chang Bridget Mary , Toh Han Chong , Koo Wen Hsin
Published: April 2018

Cutaneous metastases from colon cancer are uncommon and usually present as nodular lesions. We describe a patient with colonic carcinoma who developed an inflammatory pattern of cutaneous metastases. A review of the literature is also presented. Recognition of this entity is important as it may be mistaken for erysipelas and radiation recall phenomenon.

Early treatment with chemotherapy can result in meaningful palliation.
Accelerated Intensity-Modulated External Radiotherapy as a New Technical Approach to Treat the Index Quadrant after Conserving Surgery in Early Breast Cancer: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Livi Lorenzo , Paiar Fabiola , Buonamici Fabrizio Banci , Scoccianti Silvia , Meldolesi Elisa , Scotti Vieri , Bastiani Paolo , Cardillo Carla Deluca , Detti Beatrice , Fondelli Simona , Simontacchi Gabriele , Mungai Raffaello , Russo Serenella , Mungai Valiano , Biti Gianpaolo
Published: April 2018

Purpose

We present a novel technical approach to treat the index quadrant after conserving surgery in patients with early breast cancer and study its clinical feasibility.

Methods and material

Patients selected for the study, after breast conserving surgery with histologically verified breast carcinoma, signed a full informed consent to intensity-modulated external radiotherapy of the partial breast. Treatment was performed with the 6 MV beam from one of the Elekta Precise LINAC units installed in our Department. The prescribed dose was 30 Gy in 5 fractions in 10 days.

Results

Acute toxicity was minimal. No skin changes were noted during treatment or during the first 6 months after radiotherapy treatment.

Conclusions

Accelerated partial breast irradiation using intensity-modulated external radiotherapy is technically feasible. We think the approach will give good results in terms of local control, toxicity and quality of life, at the same time sparing resources for the patient and health care system.
Small Periampullary Duodenal Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Treated by Local Excision: Report of a Case
Authors: Cavallini Marco , Cecera Andrea , Ciardi Antonio , Caterino Salvatore , Ziparo Vincenzo
Published: April 2018

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are mainly located in the stomach and the small bowel, with the duodenum accounting for about 4%. We report the case of a 66-year-old woman with a periampullary GIST of the duodenum that was treated by local excision and direct duodenal wall defect repair. Since no definitive clinical criteria have been established to differentiate malignant from benign mesenchymal tumors, preoperative cytology was not available and surgical removal of the 3.5 cm tumor was feasible, the patient was treated conservatively. The morbidity and mortality rates of the more radical and invasive duodenopancreatectomy, in particular when dealing with a soft pancreatic stump with a narrow pancreatic duct, are, in our opinion, too high for a potentially benign disease when the more conservative procedure is feasible. Four years after surgery the patient is doing well and control CT scan showed the absence of local recurrence.
Urinary Bladder Metastases from Breast Carcinoma: Review of the Literature Starting from a Clinical Case
Authors: Gatti Giovanna , Zurrida Stefano , Gilardi Daniela , Bassani Guillermo , Santos Gabriela Rosali dos , Luini Alberto
Published: April 2018

Bladder metastases from solid tumors are rare. Breast carcinoma cells seldom spread to the urinary bladder. We report the case of a patient with invasive breast carcinoma who developed a breast recurrence followed by bone and urinary bladder metastases. Starting from this clinical case we review the available literature on this issue. Only few cases of urinary bladder metastases from primary breast cancer have been reported, although the case reports have increased in recent years. Patients with breast cancer presenting with urinary symptoms should be examined for possible bladder metastases.
Cutaneous Melanoma with Tonsillar Metastasis
Authors: Pakos Emilios E , Tsekeris Pericles G , Gogou Penelope V , Koutis Evangelos V , Capizzello Antonio , Exarchakos George
Published: April 2018

Metastases to the tonsillar fossa due to hematogenous dissemination is an extremely rare phenomenon associated with advanced-stage disease and poor prognosis. In the present report we describe a case of cutaneous melanoma with a metastasis to the tonsil approximately 4 years after the initial diagnosis of the primary disease treated with palliative radiation therapy.
Thyroid Carcinoma with Insular Component: Report of Three Cases with Different Clinical Pictures
Authors: Kirdak Turkay , Saraydaroglu Ozlem , Duran Cevdet , Yerci Omer , Korun Nusret
Published: April 2018

Insular carcinoma of the thyroid is situated morphologically and biologically in an intermediate position between the well-differentiated and undifferentiated tumors and presents a variable clinical course in a widely heterogeneous spectrum. The present cancer staging system (TNM) for thyroid cancer considers differentiated and undifferentiated tumors while ignoring this intermediate type, which is also called poorly differentiated tumor. In addition to the limited data on this rare disease, some poorly differentiated thyroid tumors contain differentiated cancer areas at various rates. These factors may cause difficulties in estimating disease aggressiveness and prognosis. To solve this problem, various microscopic and immunohistochemical parameters can be assessed. In this paper we describe 3 patients affected by thyroid carcinoma with an insular component, who presented different clinical pictures. When these cases were examined, the TNM system failed in stage grouping for poorly differentiated thyroid tumors. Case 1 and case 2 had similar clinical stages according to the TNM staging system for differentiated tumors, but had different prognoses. Case 3, with more limited disease, had the highest rate of poorly differentiated areas but the lowest Ki-67 proliferation index. In conclusion, it is difficult to make claims about the clinical behavior and prognosis of thyroid carcinoma with an insular component based on the 3 cases reported in this study, but it can be speculated that there is a gap in the TNM system with regard to the staging of insular thyroid carcinoma. In this situation the assessment of microscopic and immunohistochemical features of the tumor may help to predict disease aggressiveness and patient risk. However, it is clear that there is a need for large-scale studies evaluating the prognostic importance of histopathological and immunohistochemical features in determining risk groups.
Studio Sull'Attivita’ Dell'Ovaio in Donne, in Pre-Menopausa, Trattate con Radium, per Carcinoma della Portio
Authors: Grattarola Renzo
Published: April 2018

The Author's study is concerning the ovary activity of the patients treated with radium for cervix carcinoma. 15 subjects were observed during one year after radium-therapy and it was observed in five patients with trophic vaginal smear the absence of the menopausal syndrome; the other ten patients with hypertrophic and distrophic cytological picture were affected by serious vascular instability of the menopause. The treatment with gonadotropin hormones (FSH and LH) of four patients, after 16-18 months of amenorrhea by radium, reverted the hypotrophic vaginal smear to a trophic one, while the menopausal syndrome was stopped during the treatment.

The A. retains that after the radium dosage of 7.541 mgr/hr (dose used in the Gynoecological Department of the Cancer Institute in Milan) the ovarian activity is not yet extinguished. The ovaries of four patients operated with Wertheim's, after the radium therapy, were showing theca cells activity and in one patient, treated with gonadotropins, it was seen a growing follicle and the luteinitation of two follicles.
I Gruppi Sulfidrilici Nel Sarcoma 180 Del Topo E Nell'Adenocarcinoma Di Walker Del Ratto Dopo Irradiazione « in Vitro »
Authors: Ferri L. , Mussini E. , Palazzi D.
Published: April 2018

The content of the non proteic sulphydril groups have been determined by an amperometric method in sarcoma 180 of mice and in Walker adenocarcinoma of rats after « in vitro » irradiation. The obtained results are similar to those observed in a previous research on succino-dehydrogenases. They may be summarized in a SH fall 1 hour after irradiation in the radiosensitive tumour (sarcoma 180), while no SH changes are observed in the radioresistant tumour (Walker adenocarcinoma).
L'iperplasia Dello Stroma Ovarico Nel Ca. Della Mammella
Authors: Sirtori C. , Bianco R.
Published: April 2018

In 12 patients bearing mammary cancer, hyperplasy of the ovarian stroma has constantly been observed. In 3 cases ovarian micrometastases were present. In most cases menopause was observed to occur later than usually. This observation furtherly supports the hypothesis that folliculine excess is a co-factor of primary importance in the occurrence of mammary canper.
Determinazione E Utilizzazione Del Fosforo 33, Presente Nel Radiofosforo Invecchiato
Authors: Mayr G.
Published: April 2018

A method is described for determining the amount of P33 present in aged P32. Furthermore experiences are referred which demonstrate that, for autoradiography, P33 and also aged P32 are preferable to the usual active Phosphorus (P32).
Lo Struma Ovarico
Authors: Di Re Franco
Published: April 2018

After a review of the recent literature on ovarian struma, and a discussion of pathogenetic theories, hystological aspects and diagnostical methods, 4 cases of unilateral ovarian struma are referred. Micrographs are here presented of the hystological preparations on which diagnosis was based, strictly similar to those from normal thyroid. In one case, a syndrome of probable hyperthyroidism was found to be associated.
Su Di Un Caso Di Tumore Ipernefroide Del Fegato
Authors: Vitagliano Giovanni
Published: April 2018

A case of a so called hypernephroma of the liver (right lobe) in a 70 years old man, is described. The aetiology is discussed, and the macro-and microscopic features are referred. The conclusion is the tumour arises from the normal structures of the liver.
Considerazioni Anatomo-Cliniche e Radiologiche Sulle Neoplasie Del Timo
Authors: Bullo E. , De Donato E. , Rock T. , Sirtori C.
Published: April 2018

Ten thymic tumours are described (7 thymomas, 1 lymphosarcoma, 1 lymphoepithelioma, 1 cylindrocellular carcinoma). Two asymptomatic thymomas were casually detected by mass radiography and a roentgenological investigation. In 1 case symptoms had been present for 10 years, in 1 for 5 years, and in the others for 3 years to 40 days.

Myasthenia was present in 2 thymomas: in 1 of them the patient treated with prostigmine was able to begin pregnancy and to bring it to term.

The clinical and radiological diagnosis was correct in 4 cases. The tumour was located in 6 cases in the anterosuperior mediastinum, in 3 in the antero-inferior mediastinum, in 1 in the hilar region.

Radical treatment was possible in 3 patients; two of them are alive after 3 and 4 years from operation, the third had a recurrence 9 months after the operation.

In 3 cases pleuropulmonary metastases occurred. Roentgen-therapy produced tumour reduction in 3 cases and decrease of the myasthenic condition in 1.

Thymomas are easily distinguishable from the other thymic tumours, and those with myasthenia show a higher cellular differentiation. Radiotherapy must be employed as a complement of surgery or when the latter is contraindicated.
Rapida Induzione di Cancri Mammari Con 3-Metilcolantrene e Progesterone Nel Ratto
Authors: Briziarelli G.
Published: April 2018

Sprague-Dawley rats, castrated (20) and intact (20) were given orally 10 mg 3-methylcholanthrene 6 times a week for 50 days. Half of the ovariectomized and half of the non-ovariectomized animals were additionally and simultaneously injected with 4 mg of progesterone intramuscularly.

All the rats under experiment developed multiple mammary tumours (adenocarcinomas), except for 4 out of the ten animals castrated and treated with 3-methylcholanthrene. The earliest occurrence was observed in the intact rats treated with 3-methylcholanthrene and progesterone (average time of occurrence of the neoplasms: 40th day of treatment).

The mammary glands of the castrated rats given 3-methylcholanthrene were less atrophic than those of the corresponding controls. Mammary proliferations, of the dioestrus type, were observed in the ovariectomized rats treated with 3-methylcholanthrene and progesterone, and in tre normal rats treated with 3-methylcholanthrene only. In the non-ovariectomized rats, the concomitant administration of 3-methylcholanthrene and progesterone brought about changes similar to those of the first day's pregnancy. The present experiment shows that 3-methylcholanthrene behaves like an oestrogen in stimulating the mammary gland and in inducing breast cancers in the rat. Progesterone acts concomitantly with 3-methylcholanthrene and enhances its activity.
Ripartizione Di Alcuni Amminoacidi Nel Rene Ipertrofico Di Ratti Portatori Di Tumore
Authors: Erede P.
Published: April 2018

In rats bearing sarcoma Galliera the kidney in compensatory hypertrophy presents, when compared with the controls, a decrease in the percentual content of aminoacids in the proteins.
Sulla Possibilita’ Di Determinare Stati Immunitari Rispetto Al Tumore 256 Di Walker
Authors: Mor C. , Sforza M. , Mangioni C.
Published: April 2018

The induction of the resistance to Walker carcinosarcoma in solid and ascites form has been attempted in rats by the subcutaneous implantation of fragments from « in vitro » irradiatied tumour and by the intraperitoneal injection of « in vitro » irradiated total or filtrated ascites. These researches gave only indicative results. It has been also observed that a number of rats show resistance to successive transplantations (up to four) of tumour ascites.
Azione Della 2-Metil-4-Mercapto-6-Metossi-Chinolina Su Culture in Vitro Di Fibroblasti
Authors: Orazi F. , Rota M.
Published: April 2018

The action of 2 methyl-4-mercapto-6 methoxy-quinoline on « in vitro » cultures of chick embrio fibroblasts is briefly described. The substance, at concentrations higher than 5 γ ml causes within 24 hours metaphase block; at the highest concentrations, widespread cell damage and fall in growth indexes are the prevalent effects.
Association of Methotrexate with X-Rays in the Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Conte Gianni , Casara Silvio , Grigoletto Eligio , Ruffato Cesare
Published: April 2018

Twenty patients affected by head and neck advanced malignancies have been treated by an association of oral Methotrexate and radiation therapy. The used techniques and the immediate and short term results are illustrated. The best regimen suggested is to begin with the drug, and then to irradiate. Results are satisfactory if compared with that obtained by surgery or radiotherapy alone, and tolerance is generally good.
Genealogical Study on Cutaneous Melanoma
Authors: Dalai Maria Iolanda Tosoni , Bernardi Maria Giulia Ronzoni , Meneghelli Pier Luigi
Published: April 2018

Genealogical and statistical researches carried out on 122 cases affected by cutaneous melanoma proved that there is a higher frequency of neoplastic diseases of all sites in the relatives of the probands than in the relatives of the controls.
Effect of Growth of Walker 256 Carcinosarcoma on the Fibrinolytic System of the Rat Plasma and Urine
Authors: Mootse Gerda , Agostino Domenico , Cliffton Eugene E.
Published: April 2018

Growth of a transplanted Walker 256 carcinosarcoma in rats was accompanied by: 1) An increase in plasma fibrinogen and urinary trypsin inhibitors; 2) A significant decrease in plasma plasminogen and hematocrit; 3) A decrease in urokinase activity in urine; 4) A decrease in fibrinolytic activity of the euglobulin fraction of plasma and serum. There was no significant change in the plasma inhibitors for trypsin or bovine fibrinolysin.
Enzyme Histochemistry and its Application to the Study of the Mixed Tumors of the Salivary Glands
Authors: Mira Eugenio , Vidi Ivo
Published: April 2018

The activity of several hydrolytic (acid and alkaline phosphatase, ATP-ase) and oxidative (lactic, succinic, isocitric, glutamic, ((-glycerophosphate, glucose-6-phosphate and β-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenases, NADH2 and NADPH2 tetrazolium reductases) enzymes has been studied using histochemical methods in four mixed tumors (pleomorphic adenomas) of human salivary glands: one of epithelial type, one of myxoid and chondroid type and two composed of patches of epithelial cells set in a myxoid stroma. Acid phosphatase showed little activity and alkaline phosphatase and ATP-ase none at all, either in the epithelial and in myxochondroid areas. However, epithelial areas contained clumps of cells strongly reactive for alkaline phosphatase and ATP-ase, sometimes arranged in a duct-like pattern around a homogeneous intercellular substance, also strongly reactive. Of the oxidative enzymes, NADH2-diaphorase and lactic dehydrogenase were strongly active, NADPH2-diaphorase and isocitric dehydrogenase were moderately so and the other dehydrogenases poorly active. There were no detectable differences in enzyme activity pattern between epithelial and myxoid or chondroid areas of the mixed tumors. In general the level of activity of the oxidative enzymes in the mixed tumors was intermediate between that of the acinar cells and that of the cells of the striated excretory ducts of the salivary glands.
Influence of Thymectomy, Splenectomy, and Cortisone on Carcinogenesis
Authors: Porta Giuseppe Della , Colnaghi Maria I. , Parmi Liliana
Published: April 2018

Groups of outbred albino CTM mice were either thymectomized or splenectomized at 4 weeks of age and administered urethan 0.4 percent in the drinking water for 10 days at 5 weeks. In comparison with intact, urethan-treated animals, the thymectomized, urethan-treated mice had a slightly lower incidence of malignant lymphomas (19 against 24 %), a marked decrease of mammary tumors (31 against 62%), and increased incidence of lung adenomas (84 against 48%) and of skin papillomas (10 against 1%). Thymectomized, but otherwise untreated mice developed less lymphomas and mammary tumors than intact, untreated controls. Splenectomy did not modify significantly the tumor incidence. In a second experiment, groups of CTM mice were administered either 1 mg of cortisone s. c. daily for 10 days or urethan in the drinking water for 5 days followed by 5 days of cortisone or viceversa, or urethan alone. No major differences in the tumor incidence in the various groups were observed, but for a decreased incidence of thymic lymphosarcomas in the group with cortisone after urethan. In a third experiment, CTM mice were given 2 mg urethan within the first day after birth and thymectomized or sham operated during the anesthesia caused by the urethan. Both groups had a very high incidence of hepatomas and lung adenomas, and developed only few lymphomas and mammary tumors. Finally, a group of C3H mice thymectomized at birth under Nembutal anesthesia, developed a considerably lower incidence of hepatomas and mammary tumors than sham operated animals.
In Vitro Biological Activity of Adriamycin
Authors: Silvestrini Rosella , Gambarucci Carmela , Dasdia Teresa
Published: April 2018

Adriamycin is an antibiotic, isolated from cultures of a mutant of Streptomyces peucetius, var. caesius, with a chemical structure very similar to daunomycin but with a higher therapeutic index in experimental tumors. The biological activity of this antibiotic has been studied in vitro on the HeLa cell strain. Adriamycin quickly penetrates into the cells and fixes to the nuclear structures with a marked localization at the level of the perinucleolar chromatin. It causes a marked and immediate disturbance of the mitotic process, viz. pre-prophasic inhibition at the low doses and mitotic block at the higher doses. Even the synthesis of DNA and RNA, evaluated autoradiographically as incorporation of 3H-thymidine and 3H-uridine, appear markedly inhibited. The viability of the cells, tested both as regards capacity to give rise to colonies and as regards proliferative activity of a cell population, was seriously reduced, in a degree proportional to the period of treatment and to the concentration of the antibiotic, until total inhibition. In comparison with daunomycin, adriamycin exerts an immediate antimitotic and anti-metabolic effect which, at equivalent doses, is slightly lower than that of daunomycin. The long-term antiproliferative activity on cellular proliferation is however, identical for the two antibiotics.
Mucoepidermoid Tumors of the Parotid
Authors: Bozzetti Federico , Catania Vinicio Carmelo , Gennari Leandro
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this paper is to describe and discuss the clinical and anatomopathological features of 14 mucoepidermoid tumors of the parotid observed at the Milan Cancer Institute from 1928 to 1970. Although this is still a much debated matter these neoplasms are here regarded as mixed tumors because of the frequency of intermediate forms. Mucoepidermoid tumors are mostly benign. The minority of malignant ones may be classified as undifferentiated squamous cell carcinomas, adenocarcinomas, or nonradically treated tumors.
Transplacental Toxicity and Carcinogenesis Studies in Rats with Hexamethylenetetramine
Authors: Porta Giuseppe Della , Cabral José R. , Parmiani Giorgio
Published: April 2018

In a previous paper (Fd Cosmet. Toxicol., 6: 707–715, 1968) it was reported that hexamethylenetetramine (HMT) had no carcinogenic activity in long-term experiments in mice and rats. In the present study, 12 ♀ and 6 ♂ Wistar rats were given 1% HMT in the drinking water starting 2 weeks before mating. The females were kept under treatment during pregnancy and lactation. A similar untreated group of 12 ♀ and 6 ♂ served as control. Twelve treated females and eleven controls became pregnant and gave birth to 124 and 118 babies respectively; no malformations were noted. From these animals, 24 for each sex were continued on the 1% HMT up to the 20th week of age or were kept untreated. The body weight of treated animals was significantly lower than that of controls one, only up to the 9th week of age for the males and up to the 13th week for the females. At the end of the treatment both groups were sacrificed; the weight of organs was identical in the treated and control animals; there were no gross or histological pathology. In a second experiment, rats were given 1% HMT in the drinking water for 3 successive generations, up to the age of 40 weeks in the F1 and F2 groups and of 20 weeks for F3. The three groups were composed of 13 ♂ and 7 ♀, 15 ♂ and 11 ♀, 12 ♂ and 12 ♂, respectively. In addition, a group of 16 ♂ and 16 ♀ descendants of 2% HMT treated parents, were given 2% HMT for 50 weeks. A group of 48 ♂ and 48 ♀ served as untreated controls. All groups were kept under observation for over 2 years of age. No evidence of carcinogenicity was found in any of the HMT-treated groups.
Clinical and Radiological Study of Breast Metastatic Localization of Malignant Melanoma
Authors: Bartorelli Alberto , Orefice Sergio
Published: April 2018

Six cases of metastasis of malignant melanoma in the breast are described. Mammography did not differentiate these lesions from primary breast lesions.
Nuclear Glycogenosis and Virus-Like Particles in Human Laryngeal Papilloma Cells
Authors: Conforti Alberto , Albani Lodovico Medolago , Pizzichetta Virgilio
Published: April 2018

Ultrastructural investigation of human laryngeal papilloma cells revealed the presence of glycogen infiltration in the nuclei of the intermediate layer; virus-like particles were also observed in the nuclei of the superficial layer.
Electron Microscopic Observations on T and B Lymphocytes from Spleens of Syngeneic Radiation Chimaeras
Authors: Rebessi Simonetta , Di Caterino Benito , Adorini Luciano , Covelli Vincenzo
Published: April 2018

The ultrastructure of T and B lymphocytes has been examined in long-term syngeneic chimaeras and age-control mice. Spleen cell suspensions from these mice were passed through glass wool columns to obtain pure lymphocyte populations. These cells were then separated into T and B lymphocytes by nylon wool columns, and their purity was tested by cytotoxicity assays with anti-ϑ serum. Electron microscopic observations on such separated T and B lymphocytes did not reveal morphological differences except when the cells were fully differentiated, either as mature (T2) cells or plasmacells. In particular, T2 cells showed a very high cytoplasmic density, attributable to the presence of a larger number of microfilaments with respect to immature (T1) cells. In long-term chimaeras a significantly larger number of T2 cells was found as compared to age-control mice, and this morphological observation is correlated with the differences in immune reactivity and leukemia incidence previously described in these mice.
Myocardial Injury Induced by a Single Dose of Adriamycin: An Electron Microscopic Study
Authors: Lambertenghi-Deliliers Giorgio , Zanon Paola L. , Pozzoli Ermanno F. , Bellini Ornella
Published: April 2018

Adriamycin cardiomyopathy has been studied under the electron microscope using myocardial ventricular cells of CRF mice, previously treated with 10 mg/kg body weight of the drug given in a single intravenous injection. Within 10 min myocardial cell nucleoli show a nucleolonema fragmentation, and during the following 3 hours they acquire the nucleolar segregation pattern. Fourteen hours after drug injection, nucleolar morphology again becomes normal, while areas of focal degeneration, characterized by damaged mitochondria and enlarged smooth reticulum cisternae, appear in the sarcoplasm. One to 3 days later the degeneration process involves the myofibrillar component, and after 50 days the great majority of myocardial ventricular cells is damaged. The early appearance and the functional significance of nucleolar segregation support the hypothesis that adriamycin cardiotoxicity might be dependent on its ability to bind to myocardial cell DNA. The consequent failure of UNA and protein synthesis, impairing the continuous renewal of myofibrillar and mitochondrial components of the cell, might explain the progressive myocardial damage.
Nature and Properties of C3Hf Natural Antitumor Cytotoxins Directed against Murine Lymphosarcoma Cells
Authors: Pierotti Marco A. , Miotti Silvia , Torre Gabriella Della , Colnaghi Maria I.
Published: April 2018

The nature and some biological properties of the natural antitumor cytotoxins previously found in normal C3Hf serum, have been investigated. By immunoelectronmicroscopy study, employing rabbit hybrid antibodies with specificity for mouse Ig and ferritin, the C3Hf cytotoxins were shown to belong to immunoglobulins. By gel filtration, by inhibition experiments of the cytotoxic serum activity with monospecific anti-IgG and anti-IgM sera, and by 2-mercaptoethanol treatment of the C3Hf serum, the cytotoxic immunoglobulins were demonstrated to belong to the IgM class. They were not inactivated by heating until 60 °C and were able to activate guinea pig, rabbit, and human complement. The highest cytotoxic activity of the normal C3Hf serum was found when cells and serum were incubated at the low temperature, suggesting a low binding affinity of the cytotoxic IgM.
The Out-Patient Clinic for Medical Oncology Treatment. Experience at the Istituto Nazionale Tumori of Milan
Authors: De Lena Mario , Tancini Gabriele , Brambilla Cristina , Rossi Anna , Musumeci Renato , Marchesi Mary , Cipriani Silvia , Monfardini Silvio , Petrillo Raffaele , Franchi Franca , Del Vecchio Marcella
Published: April 2018

The possibility to administer chemo-hormone- and immunotherapy on an out-patient basis has greatly increased because of the progress reached in the management of the out-patient departments. The improved knowledges on tossicological, pharmacodynamic and therapeutic data as well as the advent of the cyclic schedules determined the feasibility of medical treatments even when they are combined with surgical and/or radio-therapeutic modalities. To the patient, the possibility to be carefully and effectively treated on out-patient clinic, renders more acceptable, both from a psychologic and economic point of view, even a prolonged combined treatment. On the same time, also the Institutions have some advantages both on their organization (a shorter median stay in hospital and consequently a reduced waiting list) and for their scientific program (increased number of patients who can be treated according to a therapeutic program, possibilities to obtain statistically valuable information on the treatment program of a given disease and on the knowledge of its natural history). The last five year increasing activity of the Out-Patient Clinic for Medical Oncology Treatment of the Istituto Nazionale Tumori of Milan is illustrated in Text-figure 1, while Text-figure 2 represents its actual organization; this is obviously of a multidisciplinary type, both on its diagnostic and therapeutic phase. Table 1 shows the activity carried out in 1975; it is notewhorthy that 2,570 patients have been followed, thus accounting for a total of 20,164 medical examinations and/or intravenous drug administrations. Table 2 presents the incidence of the different types of neoplasia followed in the out-patient department: the large majority was represented by breast cancer (40%); followed by malignant lymphomas (31.5%) and pediatric tumors (7.5%). During 1975, 22 therapeutic protocols have been applied, 10 of which (table 4) required an initial hospitalization and 12 (table 5) could be entirely carried out in the out-patient department. As shown in Table 6 chest x-rays accounted for 52 % and skeletal survey for 18 % of the 11.906 radiological examinations. Table 7 shows the number of off-hand required radiological reports carried out for patients not geographically accessible who, in one single day, could have their radiological, and medical examinations as well as their hemogram and treatment performed. A total 467 scintiscans have been required, 86 % of which of the liver (table 8). The hemato-pathology unit counted out about 16,000 hemograms with platelets (table 9). The hemograms were always performed within 1–2 hours with immediate communication of the counts to the out-patient department. In order to modify clinical situations which were deteriorated because either of the disease or of the treatment 358 blood units were transfused.
Concanavalin a and Wheat Germ Agglutinin Receptors in the Ascitic Fluid of Rat Hepatomas
Authors: Neri Giovanni , Hayes Shelley Palmer , Smith Harilyn W. , Capetillo Sylvia , Walborg Earl F.
Published: April 2018

The presence of glycopeptide lectin receptors in the ascitic fluid of rats bearing Novikoff or AS-30D hepatoma was investigated. Macrosialoglycopeptides, resistant to pronase digestion, were partially purified from the ascitic fluid of hepatoma-bearing rats by gel filtration on Sephadex G-50. A macrosialoglycopeptide fraction, isolated from the ascitic fluid of rats bearing the Novikoff hepatoma, possessed potent concanavalin A (Con A) receptor activity. This fraction possessed higher Con A receptor activity than did the comparable macrosialoglycopeptide fraction from the ascitic fluid of rats bearing the AS-30D hepatoma; this observation is in agreement with the Con A-induced agglutination properties of these 2 hepatoma cell lines and with the Con A receptor activities of the glycopeptides released from the surface of the hepatoma cells by papain digestion. Rat blood serum contained a comparable macrosialoglycopeptide fraction, which possessed weak Con A receptor activity. The macrosialoglycopeptide fractions from the ascitic fluid of hepatoma-bearing rats possessed wheat germ agglutinin receptor activity. However, this activity was also present in normal rat serum. These results suggest that glycopeptides present on the surface of Novikoff hepatoma cells are shed into the ascitic fluid and may be distinguished from components in normal serum by their Con A receptor activity.
Computerized Tomography in Lymphomas: A Simple Method for the Control of Abdominal Localizations after Treatment
Authors: Falappa Piergiorgio , Ausili-Cefaro Gianpiero , Pincelli Giovanni , Gazzella Tito
Published: April 2018

The authors, according to their experience of repeated controls of abdominal computed tomography (CT) in 10 patients with Hodgkin's and non Hodgkin's lymphomas, obtained a clear demonstration of therapy response and disease evolution. The reduction or enlargement after therapy of periaortic, pericaval, hepatic, splenic and pancreatic lymph nodes not always opacified from lymphographic contrast medium is evaluated. It was possible, during the same examination, to evaluate liver, spleen, kidneys parenchyma and regional bone. CT results were always well correlated with clinical findings.
MOPP Treatment of Resistant Hodgkin's Disease following ABVD Failure
Authors: Cimino Giuseppe , Anselmo Anna Paola , Marzullo Antonella , Enrici Riccardo Maurizi , Mauro Francesca , Papa Giuseppe , Mandelli Franco
Published: April 2018

Fourteen patients with Hodgkin's disease resistant to ABVD were treated with MOPP chemotherapy (nitrogen mustard, vincristine, procarbazine, prednisone). Complete remission was obtained in 6 patients (43%). Four of the 6 complete responders are disease free after 5, 20, 23, 35 months. The actuarial median survival after MOPP of all patients is 20 months. These data confirm that there is no «cross-resistance» among the drugs included in the two schedules.
Prognostic Factors in Operable Breast Cancer
Authors: Salvadori Bruno , Greco Marco , Clemente Claudio , De Lellis Riccardo , Delledonne Vincenzo , Galluzzo Domenico , Piotti Patrizia , Sacchini Yirgilio , Bufalino Rosaria , Marubini Ettore , Morabito Alberto , Cascinelli Natale
Published: April 2018

A series of 743 consecutive cases of operable breast cancer, admitted and treated at the Istituto Nazionale Tumori of Milan from 1969 to 1970, was analized by a multivariate statistical method to evaluate a) the variables of the host and the primary tumor associated with the frequency of nodal metastases, b) the variables that significantly affect survival, and c) the identification of homogeneous risk groups. As regards the frequency of regional node metastases, they were more frequently observed in young than in old patients with large tumors (P values 10–5 and 3×10–5, respectively). Tumors that originated in the axillary tail, upper, outer and central quadrants were significantly associated with a higher rate of node metastases (P = 0.002). Each of these variables maintained its significant value when adjusted by the other two. Survival was affected at a statistically significant level by the age of the patients (P = 2×10–4), the pathologic diameter of the primary tumor (P < 10–6), and the number of metastatic regional nodes (P < 10 –6). The number of involved nodes appears to be the most relevant factor in the assessment of prognosis of patients with positive nodes, Age of the patients, size of the primary tumor, and number of involved nodes maintain their own statistical significance when each is adjusted by the remaining two. The site of origin of the primary tumor, even if associated with the frequency of regional node metastases, did not affect survival. Three groups with a significantly different risk of death were identified in patients with negative lymph nodes and three groups in patients with positive nodes. It is concluded that age, size of the primary, and number of involved lymph nodes are important pieces of information that clinicians should have at hand following radical surgery, not only to make a prognosis, but also to identify groups of patients with high risk of death on which the role of adjuvant treatment should be evaluated.
5-Fluorouracil, Vincristine and Hydroxyurea Combination Chemotherapy in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Liberati Anna Marina , Di Costanzo Francesco , Buzzi Franco , Fatati Giuseppe , Biscottini Bruno , Ballatori Enzo , Falchi Raffaello , Grignani Fausto
Published: April 2018

Twenty consecutive patients who had biopsy proven metastatic colorectal cancer were treated with combination chemotherapy. The drug regimen (FVH), in a 4 week cycle, consisted of 5-fluorouracil (600 mg/m2 i.v. on days 1, 8, 15 and 22), vincristine (1.4 mg/m2 i.v. on day 4), and hydroxyurea (2400 mg/m2 p.o. on days 3, 10, 17 and 24). Three of the 18 evaluable patients achieved an objective tumor remission (2 CR and 1 PR) and 15 patients had stable disease. The overall response rate to FVH was therefore not superior to that achieved in patients who received 5-fluorouracil alone, and the overall survival in this study was comparable to that of other studies involving patients with metastatic colorectal cancer.
Oral Idarubicin in Adult Acute Leukemia: A Preliminary Experience
Authors: Lambertenghi-Deliliers Giorgio , Pogliani Enrico , Annaloro Claudio , Pacciarini Maria Adele , Polli Elio E.
Published: April 2018

Twelve patients affected by different types of acute leukemia received idarubicin (4-demethoxy-daunorubicin) by oral route at the total dosage of 45, 60 or 90 mg/m’ distributed over three consecutive days. Drug response was assessed by the decrease in blast cells in peripheral blood and showed some variations between the different types of leukemia. Acute myelogenous leukemia patients and those with blastic crisis of chronic myeloid leukemia appeared to be the more responsive groups; however, the lower dose schedule could explain the less satisfactory results obtained in lymphatic leukemia patients. Data suggest that idarubicin is absorbed rapidly after oral ingestion, in spite of nausea and vomiting, which appeared 3-4 h later and were easily controlled by antiemetic therapy. The purpose of fractionating the drug dosage over three consecutive days is to prolong in the blood an elevated concentration of the main idarubicin metabolite (13-dihydro-derivative), which presents in experimental models an antileukemic potency similar to the parent compound. This study confirms that idarubicin is effective in acute leukemia also by oral route. This formulation could offer some advantages for subjects who cannot tolerate parenteral chemotherapy and it could be proposed in maintenance leukemia protocols.
Cisplatin, Epirubicin and 5-Fluorouracil Combination Chemotherapy for Recurrent Carcinoma of the Salivary Gland
Authors: Airoldi Mario , Pedani Fulvia , Brando Vincenzo , Gabriele Pietro , Giordano Carlo
Published: April 2018

Nine patients (5 males, 4 females; median age, 62 years) with recurrent high-grade malignancies of major (7 cases) and minor (2 cases) salivary gland origin (4 adenoid cystic carcinomas, 2 adenocarcinomas, 2 poorly differentiated carcinomas, 1 mixed malignant tumor) were treated with cisplatin (60 mg/m2), epirubicin (50 mg/m2) and 5-fluorouracil (600 mg/m2) (CEF) by intravenous injections on the first day of a 21-day regimen. Previous therapy included surgery (1 case), radiotherapy (1 case), and surgery+radiotherapy (7 cases). There was 1, complete response (11.1%), 3 partial responses (33.3%), 2 unchanged lesions (22.2%) and 3 progressions (33.3%). Patients with local recurrence had a better response. Median remission duration was 7.5 months in CR + PR patients. Median overall survival was 8+ months; 14+ months for responders and 4 months for nonresponders. The major toxic effects were nausea/vomiting and alopecia; myelosuppression was less frequent and usually not severe.
Lonidamine in Advanced Colorectal Cancer: A Phase II Study of the Italian Oncology Group for Clinical Research (Goirc)
Authors: Passalacqua Rodolfo , Bisagni Giancarlo , Bertusi Maurizio , Donati Donatella , Buzzi Franco , Di Costanzo Francesco , Basurto Carlo , Gori Stefania
Published: April 2018

Twenty-one patients with metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma, all previously treated with chemotherapy for metastatic disease, were treated with lonidamine (LDN). The major toxicity encountered was muscular (myalgias in 48%) and gastrointestinal (nausea and/or vomiting in 52%). Other toxicities included abdominal pain, somnolence, fever, arthralgia and ototoxicity. In the 14 patients evaluable for response we observed no complete or partial remission, 8 stable disease and 6 progressive disease. LND has no clinically worthwhile activity against colorectal carcinoma refractory to conventional chemotherapy.