bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Lipoma of Tuber Cinereum
Authors: Discepoli Stefania
Published: April 2018

Two cases of lipoma of the tuber cinereum, unexpectedly discovered in the course of autopsy examination, are reported. Each case was thoroughly investigated by serial sectioning of both the diencephalic floor and the tumor. Some peculiar findings observed and a complete survey of the literature revealed that such a growth may be considered an incomplete benign mesenchymoma, i.e., a mixed tumor of mesenchymal derivates, according to Stout (14). The error in development, consisting in the inclusion of embryonal germs of primitive meninx into the nervous system, may occur early during the third month of intrauterine life, at the time of the formation of the primitive septa.
Carcinogenicity Study of 3-(5-Nitro-2-Furyl)-Imidazo(1,2-α) Pyridine in Mice and Rats
Authors: Cabral José R. , Rossi Lorenzo , Dragani Tommaso A. , Porta Giuseppe Delia
Published: April 2018

3-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-imidazo(1,2-α)pyridine was tested for carcinogenicity by long-term administration in the diet to CTM mice at 0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 % dose levels and to Wistar rats at 0.2 and 0.4 % dose levels, and by short-term intraperitoneal injections to suckling BALB/c mice. The compound was a strong carcinogen. In CTM mice it induced carcinomas of the esophagus and forestomach at all dose levels and thymic lymphosarcomas at the two highest doses. In male and female rats, esophagus and forestomach papillomas were observed at all dose levels, whereas esophagus and forestomach carcinomas and kidney tumors were observed only at the high dose. In female rats, an increased incidence of mammary tumors was seen at the high dose. The treatment of BALB/c suckling mice by intraperitoneal injections did not induce a clear carcinogenic response.
On Radiation-Induced Extraskeletal Osteosarcoma: Report of a Case
Authors: Ascenzi Antonio , Casagrande Augusto , Ribotta Giorgio
Published: April 2018

A case of extraskeletal osteogenic sarcoma arising in the soft tissues of the lower portion of the anterior abdominal wall (subumbelical region) is reported. The tumor developed in an area that had received telecobaltherapy 2 years 8 months previously (total skin dose of 9,000 rads delivered in 45 exposures over two separate periods of 106 and 141 days), after surgical treatment for a Stage I carcinoma of the uterine cervix. The clinical description and histopathology of this unusual neoplasm are presented, and the literature is reviewed.
Different Kinetic Pattern of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: Lymphoblastic and Myeloblastic Blastic Crisis
Authors: Piacibello Wanda , Aglietta Massimo , Gavosto Felice
Published: April 2018

Cell kinetic studies were performed in 8 ease of lymphoid blastic crisis (BC) of chronic myeloid leukemia at the onset of BC and during subsequent relapses. The results were compared with those found in 7 myeloblastic BC. While in the myeloblastic transformation the labeling index (LI) was always higher in bone marrow than in peripheral blood blasts, suggesting a predominant bone marrow proliferation of the leukemic cells, in the lymphoid transformation a higher LI was often found in peripheral blasts. Moreover, the lymphoblastic transformations were frequently characterized by lymphadenopathy. These findings point to the similarities between lymphoid BC and acute lymphoblastic leukemia, suggesting the possibility that a blastic event may originate in an extramedullary site and that an extramedullary BC is more likely to be lymphoid in nature.
Prognosis and Treatment of Loco-Regional Breast Cancer Recurrences: Critical Considerations on 120 Cases
Authors: Di Pietro Sergio , Bertario Lucio , Piva Luigi
Published: April 2018

In the present study we report the long-term results for 120 female patients who underwent mastectomy for breast cancer, from 1955 to 1965, and in whom the first relapse was represented by a skin recurrence or a supraclavicular lymph node metastastis. Eighty-nine patients had been submitted only to local therapy, 11 had also undergone bilateral oophorectomy, and in the remaining 20 hormonal compounds had been administered in addition to local therapy. The disease-free interval between the first and the second relapse, and survival after the treatment of the first relapse were strictly related to the presence and the number of axillary lymph node metastases at the time of the mastectomy (N category). In fact, the median survival was 19.5 months for 63 cases with more than 3 metastatic lymph nodes, 29 months for 24 cases with 1–3 involved lymph nodes, and 59 months for 38 cases without axillary involvement. No significant difference in survival was observed in relation to chronological age and menopausal status of the patients or to the lenght of the disease-free interval. The association of endocrine therapies to local treatment of the recurrences also did not increase the survival rate in these cases. The present data indicate that the prognosis for patients with recurrent breast cancer is mainly related to the N category.
Adjuvant Postoperative Radiotherapy in Locally Advanced Rectal and Rectosigmoidal Cancer
Authors: Zucali Roberto , Cardani Gianstefano , Volterrani Fabio
Published: April 2018

A pelvic recurrence is the cause of death in about 1/3 of radically operated patients for rectal and rectosigmoidal cancer without clinical evidence of distant metastases. Preoperative and postoperative radiotherapy are largely used to reduce the incidence of locoregional relapses and to improve disease-free and overall survival and quality of life. Benefits from radiotherapy have been widely demonstrated, and adjuvant postoperative radiotherapy is at present strongly recommended. Twenty-one patients with locally advanced (stage B2, B3, C) rectal (11 cases) and rectosigmoidal cancer (10 cases) were treated with postoperative radiotherapy at the National Cancer Institute of Milan from 1975 to 1978. The pelvis received a median dose of 4500 rad (range, 4000–5200 rad) in 5 to 7 weeks through AP, PA opposed fields; 6 patients received a boost of 1000 rad on the perineum. Median follow-up after surgery is 83 months (range, 24–63 months). Only 1 case (« 5%) had a pelvic recurrence, at the perineum. The expected recurrence rate after surgery alone is 40 %, and our favorable results after postoperative radiotherapy are comparable with recent data from other institutions. Radiotherapy side effects were moderate and transient; no late damages to small bowel were observed.
Extra and Intracranial Meningiomas
Authors: Schmid Corrado , Bestetti-Bosisio Maria , Schiaffino Eugenio , Servida Ernesto , Zibordi Francesco
Published: April 2018

Two cases of extracranial meningiomas respectively in the left frontal region in a 64-year-old woman and in the right frontal sinus in a 13-year-old boy are reported. Both cases were associated with an intracranial meningioma later detected after primary histologic diagnosis of the extracranial surgical specimen. The possibility of an extracranial meningioma, expecially when an angioblastic, fibroblastic or meningothelial pattern is prominent, must always be considered together with the existence of an intracranial equivalent, as our 2 cases clearly demonstrate.
Histological Typing of Lung Tumours
Authors:   World Health Organization, Geneve, Switzerland, Chaves E. , Pessoa Toão , Campobasso O. , Chrétien J. , Hochholzer L. , Kreyberg L. , Matthews M. J. , Mirejovsky P. , Olchovskaya I. G. , Riotton G. , Seal R. M. E. , Shanmugaratnam K. , Shimosato Y. , Sobin L. H. , Spencer H. , Yesner R. , Zettergren L. , Kreyberg L. , Amorim M. F. , Brandt H. , Camain R. , Delarue J. , Hamperl H. , Haranghy L. , Letterer E. , Liebow A.A. , McDonald J. R. , Pantangco E. E. , Ramalingswami V. , ten Seldam R.E.J. , Strukov A.I. , Thackray A.C. , Thomson J. G. , Torloni H. , Uehlinger E. A. , Ungar H.
Published: April 2018

The WHO Histological Classification of Lung Tumours, published in 1967, has been revised. The main features are as follows: Squamous cell carcinoma (epidermoid carcinoma) has the same definition as in the original version, i.e., the identification of keratin and/or intercellular bridges by light microscopy. Three degrees of histological differentiation are described. Dysplasia and carcinoma in situ are discussed. Small cell carcinoma is divided into oat-cell carcinoma, an intermediate cell type and a category for oat-cell carcinomas combined with other major types. Adenocarcinoma includes the acinar, papillary and bronchiolo-alveolar forms and the solid carcinomas with mucus formation (previously part of the large cell carcinoma group). Mesothelial tumours are divided into fibrous, epithelial and biphasic subtypes. A number of less common tumours and tumour-like lesions are defined.
Descriptive Epidemiology of Breast Cancer in the City and Province of Torino
Authors: Colombo Alessandro , Rendine Sabina , Zanetti Roberto
Published: April 2018

Between 1950–54 and 1970–74 the mortality rates from breast cancer showed a 35 % increase in Italy. In the city of Torino, an increase occurred between 1950–54 and 1960–64 but not in the following 10-year period. These trends were confirmed by the analysis of rates by cohorts of birth. In the province of Torino, between 1960–64 and 1970–74 the increase in breast cancer death rates was far lower than in the other provinces of Piedmont. It is suggested that the peculiar patterns in the city and in the province of Torino reflect qualitative changes of lifestyle brought about by the conspicous immigration from southern Italy during the sixties.
Prognostic Significance of the Growth Rate of Breast Cancer: Preliminary Evaluation on the Follow-Up of 196 Breast Cancers
Authors: Galante Emanuele , Guzzon Adalgiso , Gallus Giuseppe , Mauri Maurizio , Bono Aldo , De Carli Adriano , Merson Mirella , Di Pietro Sergio
Published: April 2018

The doubling time (DT) of 196 consecutive breast cancers was studied by means of a double mammographic examination (average time between the 2 mammographies, 30 days) and calculated with the formula of exponential growth. On the basis of DT values the case series was divided into 3 groups of growth: fast (DT from 1 to 30 days), 31 cases (15.8 %), intermediate (DT from 31 to 90 days), 84 cases (42.9 %), slow (DT more than 90 days), 81 cases (41.3 %). No relationship was found between growth rate and size of tumor, or menopausal status of the patient. After mastectomy fast and slow cases were equally distributed in the N− and N+ groups, whereas for the intermediate cases the N−: N+ ratio was 1: 2. One hundred and thirty-four cases were followed for a period of 12 to 52 months. Evaluation was done on the basis of the subdivision into N− and N+, and the latter group into N+ (1–3) and N+ (> 3). For N− tumors the course of the disease was apparently not affected by the growth rate. However, the case of fast growing tumors showed a higher proportion of recurrences with respect to N+ slow growing tumors. This difference was even more noticeable the higher the number of involved lymph nodes, but not statistically significant. The course of slow growing tumors was identical in the N− and N+ groups, but all the N+ tumors were subjected to adjuvant chemotherapy.
Giant Lymph Node Hyperplasia in Angiohamartomatous Soft Tissues
Authors: Muretto Pietro , Lungarotti Ferdinando , Lemma Enrico
Published: April 2018

The first case of Castleman's benign lymphoma associated with angiohamartomatous alterations in peripheral fibroadipose tissue is reported, and a pathogenetic connection is hypothesized. The lesion was encountered in a 48-year-old man; it was situated in the left and inferior retroperitoneal area with extension to the inguinal region of the same side.
Elastofibroma. Case Report
Authors: Bosisio Maria Bestetti , Schmid Corrado , Schiaffino Eugenio
Published: April 2018

A case of subscapular elastofibroma in a 61-year-old male was studied by light and electron microscopy. Sixty-two cases of this lesion have been to date reported. At light microscopy, the mass was unencapsulated and consisted of dense collagen bundles with many thick elastinophilic fibers and globules. The ultrastructural examination showed the fibers contained a clear core of mature elastic tissue surrounded by a more electron-dense fibrillar material, which was attributed to newly formed elastin. After elastase digestion, the fibers failed to stain with orcein. The cells were very scanty and identified as fibroblasts. The hypothesis formulated by various authors about the nature of elastinophilic fibers and about the pathogenesis of elastofibroma are reviewed. Our findings seems to support those of most authors, who consider the lesion an abnormally increased reactive production of elastic tissue by fibroblasts in response to a mechanical stimulus.
Degree of Malignancy of Maxillary Sinus Cylindromas in Relation to Histologic Characteristics
Authors: Buffoli Alberto , Olivetti Lucio , Micheletti Enrico , Facchetti Fabio , Moretti Renzo
Published: April 2018

The authors, by analysing 31 cylindromas and 65 squamous cell carcinomas of the maxillary sinus, reached the conclusion that at a T2–T3, identical stage of development and with similar treatment, the carcinoma has a worse prognosis than the cylindroma, the latter being influenced in its clinical evolution by its histologic characteristics. In particular, the solid cellular pattern negatively affects the survival period.
Arguments in Favor of Precautional Treatment of Cervical Nodes in Clinically N0 Oral Cancer
Authors: Volterrani Fabio , Chiesa Fausto , Molinari Roberto
Published: April 2018

Our retrospective and unrandomized clinical study covers 317 squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity initially N0 and treated with curietherapy from January 1959 to December 1970. Upon conclusion of the treatment on T, a radical dissection of the neck was performed only on 110 patients (34.7%) and the other 207 were not submitted to surgery. The incidence of N0 N+ cases was 27.3% (30/110). The clinical evolution showed that in the group not submitted to radical dissection 53 of 179 cases (29.6%) with adequate follow-up had lymph nodal relapses; 15/69 of these were initially T1 (21.7%) and 38/110 initially T2,3 (34.5%). The data concerning clinical evolution and analysis of the survival curves for the 2 groups supply arguments in favor of the systematic treatment of the lymphatic areas of the neck in initially N0 oral carcinomas.
Cardiovascular Toxic Effects of VM 26 in the Treatment of Acute Lymphatic Leukemia. Presentation of Two Cases
Authors: Razon-Veronesi S.
Published: April 2018

Two cases of acute lymphatic leukemia treated with VM 26 underwent a severe cardiovascular syndrome with hypertension and cardiac failure. The first patient, a 9-year-old boy, after the appearance of hypertension suffered from serious cerebral hemorrhages which were lethal. The second patient, a 12-year-old boy, also developed hypertension with retinal hemorrhages and cardiac failure. Hypertension was, however, controlled, the patient recovered, and at present he is in remission. Although cardiovascular toxic effects are not frequent after administration of VM 26, they should be known to the medical oncologist so that treatment of this side effect may be introduced at the first appearance of the symptoms.
Increase in Sister Chromatid Exchanges in the Peripheral Lymphocytes of Cigarette Smokers
Authors: Parodi Silvio , De Ferrari Marcella , Ottaggio Laura , Zunino Annalisa , Santi Leonardo
Published: April 2018

We examined 20 smokers and 20 nonsmokers for a possible increase in sister chromatid exchanges. The people examined were carefully matched for age, sex and working environment, on that in each smoker-nonsmoker pair the only difference would be the smoking habit. The measurements were double blind. We found an average number of 5.8 sister chromatid exchanges per metaphase in nonsmokers and an average number of 7.9 sister chromatid exchanges per metaphase in smokers. The difference was statistically significant (p < .002).
Chemotherapy of Advanced Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas: A Report of 35 Cases
Authors: Büchi Gualtiero , Mazza Umberto , Camaschella Clara , Saglio Giuseppe , Cambrin Giovanna Rege , Termine Giuseppe , Enrico Eugenia , Autino Riccardo , Zappala Cirino
Published: April 2018

Thirty-five patients with stage III and IV non-Hodgkin lymphomas, classified according to Lennert have been treated by combination chemotherapy (CVP). Total remission (complete plus partial) was obtained in 68.5% of the cases and complete remission in 28.5%; 73% of the favorable types and 55% of the unfavorable histologic types achieved tumor response: the difference was not statistically significant, perhaps because of the limited number of cases. Median survival was 14 months for the unfavorable histologic types and 28 months for the favorable types; longer survivals were obtained in patients who achieved complete remission. CHOP regimen after CVP in patients refractory to this type of treatment was not satisfactory in our patients.
Surgery for Malignant Mesenchymal Tumors of the Breast: A Series of 31 Cases
Authors: Salvadori Bruno , Greco Marco , Galluzzo Domenico , Piotti Patrizia , Clemente Claudio
Published: April 2018

Thirty-one cases of malignant mesenchymal tumors of the breast were analyzed with the purpose of identifying the most suitable type of surgery to be recommended. All the cases considered underwent pathologic review. Even young women were affected, and menopausal status did not seem to influence the development of mesenchymal tumors. Mammography was of little use for diagnosis. All cases underwent surgery and 26 had an adequate follow-up. In 8 cases a relapse occurred with a mean free interval of 6 months. Total mastectomy was sufficient to provide local control, whereas axillary dissection turned out to be not worthwhile. Postoperative radiotherapy did not improve distant results. Relapses mainly consisted of lung metastases. Fifteen patients were alive, free of disease, at a time ranging from 9 months to 13 years after surgery.
Correlation between Levels of Dehydroepiandrosterone-Sulphate and Prolactin in Human Breast Cyst Fluid
Authors: Angeli Alberto , Boccuzzi Giuseppe , Agrimonti Fulvio , Brignardello Enrico , Barbadoro Edy , Dogliotti Luigi
Published: April 2018

Concentration of dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHAS), cortisol (F), aldosterone (A) and prolactin (PRL) were measured in 70 samples of breast cyst fluid (BCF) obtained by needle aspiration from patients having gross cystic disease of the breast. DHAS concentrations in our series of BCF were scattered over a broad range, up to values 200-fold higher than in plasma, with ample interindividual variability; Cortisol was present in BCF in very small amounts. Aldosterone and PRL values were in the same order of plasma levels; moreover, a significant correlation was found between DHAS and PRL concentrations in BCF.
Intracytoplasmic Lysozyme in Malignant Hematologic Disorders: An Immunoperoxidase Study
Authors: Tabilio Antonio , Falini Brunangelo , versa Franco A , Zuccaccia Massimo , Cernetti Cristina , Gerli Roberto , Rutili Domenico , Grignani Fausto , Martelli Massimo F.
Published: April 2018

Intracytoplasmic lysozynie was studied by the peroxidase antiperoxidase (PAP) and protein A-peroxidase methods in 130 cases of various myeloproliferative and lymphoproliferative disorders and 21 lymph nodes and bone marrow metastases from solid primary tumors. This marker, which can be identified in formalin or Zenker-fixed tissues, as well as in peripheral blood and bone marrow smears, proved useful to distinguish malignant myeloid and histiocytic tumors from malignant lymphoid and undifferentiated epithelial metastases. The diagnostic application of these findings are discussed.
Non-Hodgkin's Lymphomas of Waldeyer's Ring
Authors: Bajetta Emilio , Buzzoni Roberto , Rilke Franco , Valagussa Pinuccia , Rovej Rosella , Viviani Simona , Lattuada Angelo , Banfi Alberto , Bonadonna Gianni
Published: April 2018

From 1970 to 1980, 171 consecutive cases with non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL) of Waldeyer's ring were admitted to this Institute. The cases were reviewed to evaluate whether involvement of Waldeyer's ring might represent a distinct clinicopathologic entity. Adequate pathologic staging was performed in 86% of cases. All slides were reviewed, and the histologic diagnosis given according to the Rappaport classification, the Kiel classification, and the recent Working Formulation of NHL for Clinical Usage. Waldeyer's ring alone was involved in 12.3% of the cases at presentation; regional nodes were positive in one-third (35.7%), and distant involvement was detected in half of the patients (52%). The tonsils represented the most frequent site of involvement by NHL within Waldeyer's ring. Treatments employed were heterogeneous, but most of the patients with stage I-II received radiotherapy alone. The present series shows that the association of involvement of Waldeyer's ring and the stomach by NHL occurs in less than 10% of the cases. Treatment results and patterns of recurrence fail to differentiate NHL involving Waldeyer's ring from those of other sites. Prognosis remains related to the classical variables and is independent of the site of onset.
Accuracy of Breast Cancer Diagnosis by Physical, Radiologic and Cytologic Combined Examinations
Authors: Azzarelli Alberto , Guzzon Adalgiso , Pilotti Silvana , Quagliuolo Vittorio , Bono Aldo , Di Pietro Sergio
Published: April 2018

Physical examination, mammography and fine-needle aspiration cytology were performed in 1498 consecutive cases with a solitary solid lump of the female breast. The intent was to verify the validity of this diagnostic triplet in the accuracy of the preoperative diagnosis of breast cancer. Clinically sure cancers were excluded from the study. The collected data were evaluated in terms of sensitivity, specificity and predictivity of any procedure alone or in combination. In 1138 cases confirmed by histology (514 carcinomas and 669 benign or non-neoplastic lesions), the physical examination and mammography were very sensitive (respectively 96% and 84%) but with a high rate of false-positive reports (respectively 20% and 18%). The cytologic diagnosis was less sensitive (65%), mostly due to many inadequate smears, but highly specific (93%) and predictive for malignancy (99%) when the cytologic report was frankly positive. Any single procedure improved the overall sensitivity, and taken together this triplet appears to be the most effective noninvasive diagnostic combination that provides in a short time with minimal cost and discomfort, a diagnosis of certain malignancy in about 50% of carcinomas with a predictivity close to 100%, when cytology detected malignancy.
Perfluorocarbone (FDA 20) and Extracorporeal Circuit of Isolated Extremity Perfusion
Authors: Hild Peter , De Toma Günther , Schwemmle Konrad , Pfannkuch Friedrich , Beisbarth Heiner
Published: April 2018

The applicability of Fluosol DA 20 as a perfusion fluid was investigated in the isolated limb perfusion of 14 mongrel dogs and its performance compared with that of diluted blood. Control of perfusion parameters permitted a direct comparison of the two perfusion liquids. Muscle tissue, blood and perfusate were analyzed for pH, pO2, pCO2, O2 content, lactate, pyruvate, ATP and creatine phosphate. Due to given experimental conditions, the pH values of the perfusion liquid and muscle tissue were in a slightly acidic range. The oxygen uptake of the perfusion liquids and the oxygenation of tissue was satisfactory, the metabolism of the muscle tissue was not disrupted.
Leiomyosarcoma of the Small Bowel
Authors: Baldi Feliciano
Published: April 2018

Two cases of leiomyosarcoma of the small bowel are described. Both patients presented a large mass adherent to the intestinal wall, with a central necrotic area communicating with the intestinal lumen. Microscopically, the lesions were identified as grade III leiomyosarcomas.
Prognostic Value of the Prelaryngeal Node in Laryngeal and Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Resta Leonardo , Micheau Christian , Cimmino Antonietta
Published: April 2018

The role in tumor spread and the prognostic value of metastasis in a prelaryngeal node were investigated in 124 cases of laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinoma selected from about 900 total laryngectomies and pharyngolaryngectomies. Metastasis in a prelaryngeal node was noted in 26 cases: 22 without capsular rupture (N+) and 4 with capsular rupture (N+R+). Vascular embolism (E+) was never noted. Patients with a metastatic prelaryngeal node had a tumor of the piriform sinus in 13 cases (50 %), a transglottic tumor in 6, glotto-subglottic in 3, glottic in 2 and supraglottic in 2. They also more frequently had involvement of the cervical nodes (81 %) and of the thyroid gland. The 5-year survival in these patients is very poor: only 3 patients (11.5 %) were alive and free of disease. These data demonstrate the role of prelaryngeal nodes in tumors that affect the hypopharynx and the antero-inferior portion of the larynx and that directly reach this node through the anterior lymphatic peduncle.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Binding Macromolecules. Identification, Characterization and Temperature Activation of a 4.5 S Binding Nucleoprotein
Authors: Sica Vincenzo , Pulcini Donato , Masi Carlo , Pagnotta Rita , Biondi Ivana , Masucci Maria Teresa
Published: April 2018

A macromolecule binding 3H-methyIcholanthrene (3H-MCA) and 3H-benzo(a)pyrene (3H-BaP) and sedimenting in the 4-5 S region of sucrose gradient (4.5 S) was identified in rat liver cytosol. The binding was displaced by 100-fold molar excess unlabeled ligands whereas 2,3,7,8-tetrachloro-dibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) was ineffective. The dissociation constant for both polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was of the order of 10−3 M or lower. Both 3H-MCA and 3H-BaP bound to 4.5 S in a non covalent manner, since 92 % of the bound radioactivity was extractable with ethyl ether. Furthermore the binding was stronghly reduced by urea 8 M and by guanidine. HCl 4 M (99 and 70 % respectively). Thin layer chromatography of the ehtyl ether-solubilized radioactivity showed a peak comigrating with PAHs used as standards. When chromatographed on Sephadex G-200, 4.5 S was eluted as a sharp peak with an apparent molecular weight of 50-60,000 daltons. Enzyme treatment of liver cytosol showed that the 4.5 S binding sites were destroyed by micrococcal nuclease (92 % of inhibition). Papain and phosphodiesterase I and II reduced the binding to 50 %, whereas DNase I, DNase II, RNase, phospholipase A2 andC and trypsin were ineffective. These data suggest that the PAHs binding macromolecule of rat liver cytosol is a protein associated with a polynucleotide. The binding of both PAHs was enhanced by increasing the incubation temperature, the maximum being reached after 20-30 min at 37 °C. After 2.5 min at 65 °C, binding sites were completely destroyed. The same temperature-induced « activation » was obtained also by prewarming the cytosol at 37 °C in the absence of ligands.
Ultrastructural Localization of 5′nucleotidase in Human Normal and Malignant Lymphoid Cells
Authors: Gawande Sulochana R. , Gopal R. , Advani Suresh H. , Sirsat Satyavati M.
Published: April 2018

5′Nucleotidase (EC 3.1.3.5), a purine pathway enzyme, occurs as a cellular ectoenzyme. Widely differing 5′N activity has been reported in different types of lymphoid cells and appears to be related to lymphocyte function, differentiation and immunological subtype. This paper reports a study on the ultrastructural distribution of 5′N in different types of lymphoid leukemias and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. In lymphoid leukemias, only cALL cells showed strong 5′N staining. In CLL, PLL and HCL the intensity of staining was less than in normal cells. In the NHL group, the reaction pattern was mixed. Infiltrating neoplastic cells, specially the large lymphoid cells, consistently showed very mild activity of the enzyme, whereas follicular center cells and other mature lymphocytes were characterized by moderately strong to strong 5′N activity. These results support the view that 5′N is a marker of lymphocyte cell differentiation.
Therapeutic Association for Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Rapoport Abrão , Kowalski Luiz Paulo , de Andrade Sobrinho Josias , Fava Antônio Sérgio , De Carvalho Marcos Brasilino
Published: April 2018

The authors studied retrospectively 16 cases of malignant epithelial nasopharyngeal tumors which were treated at the Head and Neck Service of the Heliópolis Hospital, São Paulo, Brasil, from December 1977 to December 1983. The treatment was intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) followed by radiotherapy. The chemotherapeutic schedules were: a) methotrexate and vincristine, b) methotrexate, bleomycin and vincristine (2 different schedules) and c) methotrexate, bleomycin, vincristine and cisplatinum. Objective responses to IAC were observed in 18.6 % of the cases. Only 3 patients are alive at 26, 37 and 53 months; 2 of them had exhibited response to IAC. The authors analyze the results and suggest randomized trials in order to determine the exact effects of this method of treatment.
Intensive Chemotherapy Regimen in High-Grade non Hodgkin's Lymphomas
Authors: Zinzani Pier Luigi , Gherlinzoni Filippo , Lauria Francesco , Mazza Patrizio , Barbieri Enza , Emiliani Ermanno , Tabanelli Maurizio , Tura Sante
Published: April 2018

Between February 1982 and June 1984, 36 previously untreated patients with high-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL) according to the Kiel classification were treated with an intensive therapeutic regimen including cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, prednisone, cytarabin, VM 26 and local radiotherapy on bulky disease. Twenty-three patients (64 %) achieved a complete remission and 11 patients (30 %) had a partial response. Over a median follow-up from the diagnosis of 32.5 months, the overall survival was 55 %; relapse-free survival for complete responders was 56.5 %. Toxicity was irrelevant. This regimen was effective in the treatment of high-grade NHL, but probably needs intensification and rotation of different drugs.
Comparison of Results with CO2 Laser and Traditional Surgical Treatment of Stage I Malignant Melanoma
Authors: Reali Umberto Maria , Donati Eleonora , Quercetani Roberto , Ciardi Carlo , Chiarugi Cristina
Published: April 2018

The follow-up data on 39 cases of stage I malignant melanoma treated with CO2 laser are compared to those of an analogous group of cases treated by traditional surgical methods and selected for their clinical and pathologic similarities with the laser-treated group. The findings were expressed in terms of tumor-free time and were evaluated by variance analysis. The data showed that traditional methods gave better results. CO2 laser surgery requires longer healing time, which may have a negative effect on the course of the disease.
Five-Year Recurrence Probabilities in 330 Patients Curatively Resected for Stage Ia Bronchogenic Carcinoma
Authors: Bedini Amedeo Vittorio , Cataldo Ignazio , Yalente Maurizio , Ravasi Gianni
Published: April 2018

Three hundred and thirty consecutive cases of resected Stage Ia (TNM UICC classification) lung carcinomas were retrospectively reviewed with the aim of evaluating actuarial probabilities of recurrence within the 5th year from operation, according to the extent of resection, the cell type, and the T number. The probabilities of recurrence according to the pattern of failure were also assessed. Five-year overall probability of recurrence was 46.3 %. Pneumonectomies showed a lower rate of relapse (37.4 %) than lobectomies (49.2 %), even though non significant. However, patients submitted to a lobectomy had a higher rate of 5-year survivors. Cell type had no significant impact on the probability of recurrence. 35.5 % of patients with T1 carcinomas had evidence of relapse compared with 51.1 % of patients with T2 tumors. This datum is explained by the presence in T1 group of a high share of squamous cell cases. Patients with T1 squamous cell carcinomas had, in fact, the best prognosis (26.5 % recurred) among the subgroups obtained by stratification of T number and cell type together; loco-regional failure as exclusive modality of relapse had a 5-year rate of 19.7 % and metastatic failure of 30.0 %. Adenocarcinomas had a significantly higher impact on the occurrence of brain metastases.
Preoperative Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy in the Management of Epidermoid Carcinoma of the Anal Canal
Authors: Secco Giovanni Battista , Sertoli Mario Roberto , Scarpati Daniele , Marino Gianni , Fardelli Roberto , Nobile Maria Teresa , Corvò Renzo
Published: April 2018

Sixteen patients affected by epidermoid carcinoma of the anal canal were treated preoperatively by means of an i.v. infusion of mitomycin C (15 mg/m2) on day 1 and 5-fluorouracil (750 mg/m2) days 1 to 5, followed by radiotherapy (3000 R in 3 weeks). Four to 6 weeks after the end of radiotherapy the response to the preoperative treatment was evaluated by means of biopsy. A reduction of the neoplastic mass was observed in 13 of the 16 patients. An evident correlation exists between the stage of the tumor and 1) the response to preoperative treatment, 2) local recurrence, and 3) long-term survival. In fact: 3/4 T1 patients reached a complete response (CR), and 1/4 T1, 5/5 T2 and 4/7 T3 patients achieved a partial response (PR); only 3/7 T3 patients never responded to preoperative treatment. After the initial surgery, only T2 (3/5) and T3 (4/7) patients underwent a second operation for a recurrence. Overall survival at 42 months was 62.5 % (T1, 100 %; T2, 80 %; T3, 28.5 2%).
A New Set for Transhepatic Insertion of Large Caliber Catheters for Biliary Drainage: Technical and Clinical Report
Authors: Severini Aldo , Cozzi Guido , Bellomi Massimo , Frigerio Laura , Doci Roberto
Published: April 2018

An original set for percutaneous insertion of large caliber (12-16 French) biliary drainages is described. The results obtained in the 70 patients submitted to biliary drainage with late complications due to malfunction of the standard 8.3 or 10 F catheters show the advantage of the set described. The correction of unsatisfactory levels of bilirubinemia was obtained in 100% of cases, the resolution of recurrent cholangitis in 84.2% and of bile leakage on the skin in 46.7%. The large caliber and the large side holes of the catheter, together with its length and its easy handling, allow resolution of many different problems of insufficient drainage present in patients with neoplastic involvement of bile ducts.
A Cohort Study of Workers Employed in a Refractory Brick Plant
Authors: Puntoni Riccardo , Goldsmith David F. , Valerio Federico , Vercelli Marina , Bonassi Stefano , Di Giorgio Flavia , Ceppi Marcello , Stagnaro Emanuele , Filiberti Rosangela , Santi Leonardo , Merlo Franco
Published: April 2018

A mortality study was carried out on a cohort of workers who were exposed to silica dust in a refractory brick plant. The cohort was divided into two groups: workers with and without silicosis, and their mortality was contrasted with the death rate of Genova from 1960 to 1979. Results show an increased risk for laryngeal tumors (3 obs., 0.44 exp., SMR = 682), nonmalignant respiratory disease (16 obs., 3.2 exp., SMR = 500), and cardiovascular diseases (19 obs., 11 exp., SMR = 173) among silicotics. The mortality rate for lung cancer showed an increase for the cohort of workers as a whole (11 obs., 6 exp., SMR = 183). The almost double overall mortality observed in silicotic subjects raises some doubts about the validity of other proportional mortality studies that showed no excesses for workers in these industries.
Intravenous Administration of Cyclophosphamide, Methotrexate and 5-Fluorouracil in Metastatic Breast Cancer. A Pilot Study
Authors: De Lena Mario , Brandi Mario , Logroscino Alfredo , Lorusso Vito , Paradiso Angelo , Maiello Evaristo
Published: April 2018

Sixty-two women with advanced breast cancer were admitted to a pilot study in which a modified CMF regimen was administered. Cyclophosphamide was administered i.v. at a dosage of 600 mg/m2 on the same day as fluorouracil (600 mg/m2/i.v.) and methotrexate (40 mg/m2/i.v.). The therapy was recycled on the 21st day and in the presence of myelosuppression, the administration of the drugs was delayed for 1-2 weeks recovery of the hematologic values. CR + PR were obtained in 42% of patients and no change in 32% (U.I.C.C. criteria). Metastases to soft tissues showed CR + PR in 55% of the cases, bone in 33% and viscera in 35%. The menopausal status, the disease-free interval and the number of involved sites did not influence statistically the percentage of responses; however, the response rate was influenced statistically by previous treatment. The median duration of response was 7.5 months; the median overall survival of the 60 evaluable patients was 18 months. Due to myelosuppression, CMF i.v. administration was delayed 90/620 times (14%). Toxicity was acceptable and had a lower incidence than that reported in the literature in different series of CMF administered p.o. Nausea and vomiting, in particular, were limited to 24-48 h after administration of the drugs, and alopecia was seldom observed.
Performance of General Hospitals in Delivering Adjuvant Chemotherapy to Breast Cancer Patients
Authors:   G.I.V.I.O. (Interdisciplinary Group for Cancer Care Evaluation), Italy, Fossati R. , Confalonieri C. , Apolone G. , Nicolucci A. , Tognoni G. , Torri W. , Liberati A.
Published: April 2018

Indications for and modes of delivery of adjuvant chemotherapy in early breast cancer were assessed in a group of 353 patients followed within a cohort of 1110 newly diagnosed cases in 54 Italian general hospitals. Among node-positive patients 79 % pre- and 44 % postmenopausal women had the treatment. Only a few node-negative women (10 % pre- and 5 % post-menopausal) were treated. The multidrug combination CMF was by far the most commonly employed (89 %) in its two types: cCMF (the classic combination where cyclophosphamide is given orally on days 1–14 and the two other drugs i.v. on days 1 and 8 every 28 days for either 6 or 12 cycles) to 33 % women and nCMF (the more recent combination where all three drugs are given i.v. on day 1 every 21 days for 12 cycles) to 63 %. The mode of delivery of treatment was consistent with the Italian National Breast Cancer Task Force (F.O.N. Ca. M.) recommendations for the cCMF combination, but the lack of clear guidelines on the use of nCMF led to wide variations in the total number of cycles administered. At present, however, it is hard to establish whether this will have any impact on patients’ outcome. Overall the study suggests that adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer has entered general practice and can be satisfactorily delivered at the community level. However, better guidelines need to specify more precisely the treatment indications (i.e. subgroups with greater expected benefits), regimen type (is nCMF still experimental or already standard?) and treatment duration, in view of the present uncertainty about what should be the standard for general practice. The paper finally discusses the feasibility of the treatment comparing general hospitals’ performance with that achieved in controlled clinical trials of adjuvant chemotherapy.
TA 4-SCC versus CEA Sensitivity for Lung Cancer
Authors: Pecchio Fernando , Rapellino Marco , Ricci Elia , Casadio Caterina , Moscato Donatella , Adamo Rita , Miserendino Laura , Sansalvadore Franca
Published: April 2018

The sensitivity of a new tumor marker, TA 4-SCC, for lung tumors is examined and compared with the performance of the already established CEA. TA 4-SCC sensitivity is only moderate (30 %), and it presents no significant differences among the various histologic types of lung cancer. In addition, unlike CEA, TA 4-SCC is present in large amounts in the serum of many stage I and II patients. In fact, its sensitivity in still curatively operable tumors reaches 30 % compared to 10 % with CEA.
Polyamine Oxidase Activity in Serum of Cancer Patients and Healthy Subjects
Authors: Romano Marta , Bonelli Patrizia
Published: April 2018

Polyamine oxidase (PAO) activity was determined in the serum of cancer patients and healthy subjects. However, the data obtained showed that PAO activity was extremely low or undetectable in the serum of cancer patients and healthy subjects. The difference in PAO activity observed between the sera of cancer patients and healthy subjects was statistically insignificant. Thus, the measurement of PAO activity in serum has no value as a cancer marker.
Reactive Astrocytes in the Morphologic Composition of Peripheral Areas of Gliomas
Authors: Schiffer Davide , Giordana Maria Teresa , Mauro Alessandro , Migheli Antonio
Published: April 2018

The participation of reactive astrocytes in the morphologic composition of peripheral areas of 25 gliomas was investigated. Reactive astrocytes were studied by the immunohistochemical demonstration of glial fibrillary acidic protein and vimentin. Reactive astrocytes were more abundant around malignant gliomas than around well-differentiated astrocytomas. They underwent modifications when entrapped within the tumor proliferation and became indistinguishable from tumor astrocytes. Mitoses occurred in both types of cells. Reactive astrocytes did participate in the cell composition of gliomas. They might have contributed to tumor growth. Practically, their occurrence might lead to an erroneous diagnosis when small fragments of tissue are examined.
The Double Contrast Barium Enema in the Identification of Proximal Colonic Adenomas and Carcinomas beyond the Limits of Fiberoptic Sigmoidoscopy
Authors: Ciatto Stefano , Castiglione Guido , Crocellà Aldo , Parenti Roberto , D'Albasio Giuseppe , Fucini Claudio
Published: April 2018

Eight hundred and twenty patients were examined by fiberoptic sigmoidoscopy (SIG) and double contrast barium enema (DCBE) to detect colonic cancers or adenomas. Cancer or adenoma in the bowel tract proximal to the upper limit of SIG insertion was detected in 4-patients and in 12 on DCBE. The DCBE detection rate of proximal colonic lesions varied according to the hemoccult (HO) outcome. This was 1.16 % for cancer and 2.03 % for adenoma in HO+ patients and null for cancer and 1.23 % for adenoma in HO–- patients. The detection rate of proximal adenomas was higher in patients who presented adenomas on endoscopy in the distal bowel (SIG+), 2.46 % as compared to 0.48 % in SIG- patients,. independent of the HO reports. Routine DCBE is practically useless in HO-SIG- patients and questionable in HO-SIG+ patients since improvement of the detection rate is null for cancer and moderate for adenoma. It is recommended for HO+ patients because it increases the colonic cancer detection rate (10.5 % in this study).
Cisplatin and 5-Fluorouracil in Advanced and Recurrent Cervical Cancer
Authors: Chiara Silvana , Consoli Rita , Falcone Alfredo , Bruzzone Milena , Foglia Giovanni , Ragni Nicola , Conte Pier Franco
Published: April 2018

Nineteen consecutive patients with advanced or recurrent cervical cancer were treated with cisplatin 20 mg/m1 plus 5-fluorouracil 200 mg/m2 on days 1–5 every 3 weeks. Toxicity was acceptable and manageable, with most patients treated on an outpatient basis. The most important side effect was dose-cumulative neurotoxicity. In 18 evaluable patients a 61 % objective response rate (1 complete and 10 partial) was achieved. In recurrent disease the regimen was effective both in irradiated lesions and in non-irradiated ones. Two out of five patients not previously treated with radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy responded to the treatment but tumor regression was insufficient for the disease to be controlled radically by subsequent surgery or radiotherapy. The median duration of response was 11 months (3–23) and the actuarial survival rate after 36 months follow-up was 43.3 %.
A new Procedure for Large Scale Production and Freezing of Lymphokine Activated Killer (LAK) Cells to be used in Adoptive Immunotherapy of Cancer
Authors: Gambacorti-Passerini Carlo , Radrizzani Marina , Rivoltini Licia , Marchesi Edoardo , Ravagnani Fernando , Sciorelli Gianalfredo , Cascinelli Natale , Parmiani Giorgio
Published: April 2018

A new procedure for activation of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) with recombinant interleukin 2 (rIL2) is described. PBL obtained by leukapheresis were subjected to NH4Cl (ACK) treatment to clear erythrocyte contamination; Ficoll separation was not performed. PBL were subsequently seeded in 10-floor multitrays (Cell Factory™, CF), gasified and incubated at 37 °C for 3-4 days in a humidified 5% CO2 atmosphere. This procedure achieved an activation (evaluated as cytotoxicity and proliferation) comparable with that obtained by culturing PBL in small flasks. Optimal activation of PBL was achieved in CF even in the presence of granulocyte contamination of up to 40%. It was also possible to freeze, thaw and recover most of the frozen cells and their cytotoxic activity. With this procedure therefore large quantities of lymphokine activated killer cells (LAK) can be easily produced to be used in adoptive immunotherapy trials.
Chemotherapy of Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Carcinoma with Cisplatin, Fluorouracil and Bleomycin Administered in an Outpatient Schedule
Authors: Veronesi Andrea , Magri Maria Donatella , Foladore Silva , Bidoli Ettore , Innocente Roberto , Caruso Giuseppe , Barzan Luigi , Comoretto Roberto , Monfardini Silvio
Published: April 2018

From May 1983 to September 1984, 48 consecutive patients with locally advanced, recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck squamous carcinoma were treated with cisplatin 60 mg/m2 i.v. on day 1, fluorouracil 10 mg/kg i.v. push from day 1 to day 4 and bleomycin 10 mg/m2 i.v. from day 1 to day 4, every 3 weeks. In the 44 evaluable patients complete remission was observed in 4, partial remission in 9, stable disease in 19, and progression in 12, for a 29.5% response rate. When the analysis was limited to the 21 patients with PS > 70 and no previous chemotherapy or radiotherapy, the response rate was 48%. Toxicity was acceptable, and no treatment related deaths occurred. Overall median survival (all eligible patients) was 7 months. Although further studies with this combination in poor risk patients (previously treated or with PS < 70) do not appear to be indicated, a more accurate assessment in good risk patients might be warranted.
Bleomycin, Vincristine, Mitomycin and Cisplatin Alternated with Cyclophosphamide, 4'-Epidoxorubicin and Procarbazine in Advanced Non-small-cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Demicheli Romano , Bonciarelli Giorgio , Jirillo Antonio , Lonardi Federico , Balli Mario
Published: April 2018

Thirty-eight patients with histologically confirmed non-small-cell lung cancer were treated with bleomycin, vincristin, mitomycin and cisplatin (BOMP) alternated with cyclophosphamide, 4'-epidoxorubicin and procarbazine (CEP). Twenty patients were randomized to start the treatment with BOMP and 18 with CEP. Patients underwent a median of 4 cycles (range, 1-8). The overall response rate was 36% with 2 clinical complete responses. The median duration of response was 6.5 months, the median survival time was 7.5 months, and 37% of patients survived for more than one year. The comparison between the two arms of this study and between this study and a previous investigation on the effectiveness of BOMP suggests that CEP regimen added to BOMP does not significantly improve patient outcome.