bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split 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.
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.
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.
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.
Testing Cervicography and Cervicoscopy as Screening Tests for Cervical Cancer
Authors: Cecchini Silvia , Bonardi Rita , Mazzotta Antonia , Grazzini Grazia , Iossa Anna , Ciatto Stefano 
Published: April 2018

Aims and Background Suboptimal sensitivity is currently reported for Pap test in screening for cervical cancer. Colposcopy is known to be more sensitive than cytology but its use as a screening test is not possible due to costs and complexity. Screening by cervicography has been suggested as a compromise being less costly and feasible. The present study evaluates the feasibility of screening by cervicography and cervicoscopy (naked eye examination of the cervix after acetic acid lavage) on a consecutive screening series. Methods Cervicography and cervicoscopy were performed by the smear taker in subjects consecutively attending a screening clinic. Women with abnormal cytology (atypia or more severe lesion) and/or abnormal cervicography or cervicoscopy (acetowhite lesion) underwent colposcopic assessment. The three screening methods were compared according to positivity rate, CIN 2-3 detection rate and positive predictive value. Results 2105 consecutive subjects were screened. Positivity rate was 3.8 %, 15.3 % or 25.4 % for cytology, cervicography or cervicoscopy, respectively, 486 of 555 women attended the assessment phase, 281 directed biopsies were performed and 8 CIN 2-3 lesions were detected. Cytology, cervicography and cervicoscopy, detected 5.5, or 7 of 8 CIN 2-3 lesions, respectively. The positive predictive value was 0% for cytologic atypia, 25 % for cytologic SIL, 1.75 % for cervicography and 2.05% for cervicoscopy. Detecting one CIN 2-3 lesion at cytology cost $ 5,543. The cost per each additional cytologically negative CIN 2-3 lesion detected at cervicography or cervicoscopy was $ 12,947 or $ 3,916, respectively. Conclusions The study confirms the limited sensitivity of cytology for CIN 2-3. The association of cervicography was not cost effective. Cervicoscopy was poorly specific but increased the detection rate of CIN 2-3 at relatively low costs. Cervicoscopy is worth further evaluation as a screening test.
A Weekly Schedule of Epirubicin in Pretreated Advanced Breast Cancer
Authors: Barni Sandro , Archili Caterina , Lissoni Paolo , Paolorossi Franco , Crispino Sergio , Tancini Gabriele 
Published: April 2018

Aims Epirubicin is an analogue of doxorubicin with a similar activity but less toxicity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and the tolerability of a weekly schedule of epirubicin. Methods Fifty-three patients with metastatic breast cancer, pretreated and/or with a low performance status, were treated with 25 mg/m2/week of the drug. Results Of the 49 evaluable patients, 3 achieved a complete response (6.1 %) and 21 a partial response (42.8 %) with a median duration of 6.3 months. Median survival was significantly higher in responders than in nonresponders: 15.2 vs 6.0 months (P < 0.005). Furthermore, a marked improvement in performance status was observed (ECOG scale). No cardiologic toxicity was observed, and gastrointestinal toxicity was low. Conclusions Epirubicin administered weekly represent a valid alternative to conventional treatments.
Production and Characterization of a Tumor-Specific Monoclonal Antibody Act19 Recognizing an Epitope Distinctive from Sialosyl-Tn on the TAG72 Antigen
Authors: Xiang Jim , Moyana Terence , Chen Zhinan , Han Wenzhou , Ping Tiejing , Li Eiqen 
Published: April 2018

Aims A murine monoclonal antibody ACT19 directed at the TAG72 tumor-associated antigen, which was originally defined by the B72.3 antibody, was established. Methods This was done by immunizing mice with the bovine mucin followed by the selection of hybridomas secreting antibodies with the desired specificity. In order to better characterize this antibody, its immunoreactivity was compared to that of the B72.3 antibody. Results The data showed that the ACT19 antibody bound specifically to the TAG72 antigen as the B72.3 antibody did. However, there were some differences between ACT19 and B72.3. Firstly, the immunoreactivity of ACT19 for the bovine mucin was lower than that of B72.3. Secondly, the immunoreactivity of ACT19 for the TAG72 antigen was not inhibited by N-acetylgalactosamine, nor was that of B72.3. Thirdly, ACT19 did not compete the binding reactivity of B72.3 for the TAG72 antigen. This suggests that the epitope defined by ACT19 is different from the sialosyl-Tn epitope recognized by B72.3. Immunoperoxidase staining of various tumors, normal and embryonic tissues for ACT19 was carried out. For the various tumors, only adenocarcinomas from the colon and stomach showed remarkable positivity. All the normal tissues were negative, except for weak positivity involving the zona reticularis of the adrenal cortex, and intestinal goblet cells. Embryonic tissues showed a wide spectrum of positivity with staining of the small and large intestine, stomach and renal tubules. Conclusions The ACT19 antibody appears to be a useful marker for colon and stomach cancers, and this additional anti-TAG72 antibody may be useful in conjunction with the B72.3 antibody in pathology and clinical application.
Conventional Radiographic follow-up in the Irradiated Lung
Authors: Guzzon Adalgiso , Milani Franco , Spagnoli Ivo , Danesini Gian Maria , Laffranchi Alberto , Potepan Paolo , Giovannardi Giulia , Gattoni Filippo 
Published: April 2018

Aims To highlight the different changes induced in lung tissues by various forms of radiotherapy (RT) according to tumor site and type. Methods A retrospective analysis of the roentgenographic evaluation of and long-term follow-up data on 2375 patients who received RT for various intrathoracic and extrathoracic tumors at the National Cancer Institute of Milan. Results The iconographic patterns of post-RT changes, grouped by site and type of tumor and RT procedure and described in detail, afford deeper insight into a little-known area of lung pathology. Conclusions These descriptions of common and uncommon patterns of the irradiated lung as they appear on conventional chest roentgenograms enable the radiologist and radiotherapist to assess exactly the response of tumor and lung tissues and to plan the most appropriate clinical follow-up.
Stage I Seminoma of the Testis: Long Term Results and Toxicity with Adjuvant Radiotherapy
Authors: Amichetti Maurizio , Fellin Giovanni , Bolner Andrea , Busana Lucia , Pani Giuseppe , Romano Mario , Scillieri Marco , Maluta Sergio 
Published: April 2018

Aims and background Pure testicular seminoma has historically been treated with post-orchidectomy radiation therapy with excellent results. Recently, several aspects of the treatment of stage I seminoma have been questioned. We assessed long-term results and toxicity of patients with pure testicular seminoma treated at the Department of Radiation Oncology of S. Chiara Hospital, Trento. Methods From 1953 to 1987, 102 patients with stage I pure testicular seminoma were given megavoltage irradiation with curative intent. All patients had a minimum follow-up of 3 years (maximum 37 years, median 13 years). They received a mean para-aortic/pelvic dose of 33.07 Gy (range 23.70-45.20 Gy) with different doses and fields reflecting the change in techniques over a long period of time. Results The cause-specific actuarial survival at 30 years was 99% and crude survival 67%. One patient had an out-field relapse (inguinal) after a few months and was cured with radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Another patient relapsed with widespared metastases and died after 1 year of progressive disease. Early toxycity was mild and the treatment was well tolerated. Late side effects were reported in 8/102 patients. Conclusion In our series adjuvant radiation therapy resulted in cure rates corresponding to those reported in the literature. The 30-year actuarial survival of 99% was extremely good and the toxicity of the treatment was mild. Post-orchidectomy radiation to the para-aortic and ipsilateral pelvic nodes is a safe and effective method of preventing recurrences and is currently to be considered the treatment of choice in stage I testicular seminoma.
R75251 in Prostate Cancer Patients in Progression after First-Line Hormonal Treatment
Authors: Boccardo Francesco , Cannata Daniela , Guarneri Domenico , Oneto Francesco , Cortesi Enrico , Bono Aldo 
Published: April 2018

Introduction The therapeutic potential of R75251, a ketoconazole derivative which has shown marked antitumor activity in animals and in men, was investigated in 16 patients with advanced prostatic cancer progressing after one or more lines of hormone therapy. Patients and methods Patients were given the drug at 150 mg/b.i.d. for one month. After the first month of treatment, the dose was increased to 300 mg/b.i.d. In all patients, treatment was continued until disease progression or the development of severe toxicity. Clinical and biochemical assessments were performed on days 0, 14 and 28 and then repeated on a monthly basis. Results Of the 13 evaluable patients, 12 showed stable disease by strictly employing US-NPCP criteria. However, in 3 patients a clear effect was observed on the volume of their measurable lesions. In addition, 2 of them showed a more than 50% decrease of prostate-specific antigens (PSA). Overall, 50% of patients showed some decrease in PSA baseline levels. Overall tolerance to treatment was good. Conclusions Our results, although achieved in a small number of patients, suggest that R75251 has a moderate but definite activity in patients with hormone-refractory prostate cancer and that the value of this drug as second-line treatment in these patients should be further investigated.
Possible Correlation between Some Biologic Effects and the Clinical Course in Patiens Treated with Continuous Infusion of Interleukin-2 plus Alpha-2 Interferon for Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Baiocchi Claudia , Landonio Giuseppe , Balzarmi Gabriella , Cacioppo Carlo , Calgaro Mario , Ferrari Massimo , Gottardi Ornella , Majno Margherita , Scanzi Francesco , Ghislandi Enrico , Brando Bruno 
Published: April 2018

Background Interleukin-2 therapy is known to cause many biologic effects, which are enhanced by the administration of interferon prior to or immediately after interleukin-2 infusion. Some of these effects could be related to the clinical response. Methods Sixteen patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma were treated with continuous infusion of interleukin-2 plus alpha-2 interferon. Differential leukocyte count and lymphocyte subset evaluation were performed every 3 days during interleukin-2 treatment. At each cycle, the presence of the following antibodies was tested: antithyroid, antinuclear, antiplatelet and antierythrocyte. Results Fifteen patients were evaluable for response. No complete response was observed. Five patients obtained partial response (33%) and 3 stable disease (20%): 2 of them underwent surgical resection of metastases and obtained complete response. Some of our patients showed a significant increase in eosinophils, CD25+ lymphocytes and antithyroid antibodies. The association of these parameters, calculated with a “score” system, was also related to a better clinical response. Conclusions Eosinophils, CD25+ lymphocytes and antithyroid antibodies could have a predictive value for the efficacy of interleukin-2 and alpha-2 interferon therapy in metastatic renal cell carcinoma.
Prostate Cancer: Population-Based Survival Rates in Central Italy
Authors: Crocetti Emanuele , Buiatti Eva , Amorosi Andrea 
Published: April 2018

Aims To evaluate survival in prostate cancer patients in the Province of Florence where the Tuscany Cancer Registry is active. Methods The survival of 777 patients with prostate cancer diagnosed in the period 1985-87 was evaluated. The observed and relative survival rates 1, 3 and 5 years after diagnosis were computed. Also the prognostic effect of age, disease extension, tumor grade, histological verification, place of residence and year of diagnosis were evaluated using univariate and multivariate analysis. Results The observed survival was 73.4% 1 year, 42.5% 3 years and 29.2% 5 years after diagnosis. The relative survival was respectively 78.7%, 53.0% and 43.0%. Significant independent risks were evident when the disease was extended out of the prostate, for patients older than 80 years, for high grade tumors and for patients without histological verification. Conclusion The 5-year relative survival rate in the province of Florence is similar to those from other European Registries and the Latina Registry, but much lower than the one reported by the SEER program in the US. Data on histological verification percentage, availability of information on disease extension, and tumor grade are discussed as indicators of the quality of the diagnostic approach in comparison with other registries.