Systematics ofJusticia sect.Pentaloba (Acanthaceae)

The transfer of the four taxa ofSiphonoglossa sect.Pentaloba toJusticia is proposed. It is shown that the taxa of this section were placed inSiphonoglossa primarily because of a single-character phenetic relationship and that they correctly belong inJusticia. In addition to morphology, data from cytology and flavonoid chemistry are also presented that support this intergeneric transfer. A key to the taxa and a detailed taxonomic treatment of the section are provided.     

Biological flora of central Europe: Solidago gigantea Aiton

Solidago gigantea is a rhizomatous perennial herb native to northern America and introduced in Europe. It is a serious invader of disturbed mesic sites, often forming dense monospecific stands. We review the literature on taxonomy, morphology, population biology, cytology, physiology, chemistry, and ecology of this species.     

An ultrastructural and autoradiographic study of stipe elongation inAgaricus bisporus

Summary The cytology and ultrastructure of different cell types in the elongating stipe of the basidiomyceteAgaricus bisporus are described. Light and electron microscope autoradiography are used to locate the sites of synthesis of chitin.     

European guidelines for quality assurance in cervical cancer screening: recommendations for clinical management of abnormal cervical cytology, part 1

The current paper presents the first part of Chapter 6 of the second edition of the European Guidelines for Quality Assurance in Cervical Cancer Screening. It provides guidance on how to manage women with abnormal cervical cytology. Throughout this article the Bethesda system is used for cervical cytology terminology, as the European guidelines have recommended that all systems should at least be translated into that terminology while cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) is used for histological biopsies (Cytopathology 2007; 18 :213–9). A woman with a high‐grade cytological lesion, a repeated low‐grade lesion or with an equivocal cytology result and a positive human papillomavirus (HPV) test should be referred for colposcopy. The role of the colposcopist is to identify the source of the abnormal cells and to make an informed decision as to whether or not any treatment is required. If a patient requires treatment the colposcopist will decide which is the most appropriate method of treatment for each individual woman. The colposcopist should also organize appropriate follow‐up for each woman seen. Reflex testing for high‐risk HPV types of women with atypical squamous cells (ASC) of undetermined significance with referral for colposcopy of women who test positive is a first option. Repeat cytology is a second possibility. Direct referral to a gynaecologist should be restricted to special circumstances. Follow‐up of low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion is more difficult because currently there is no evidence to support any method of management as being optimal; repeat cytology and colposcopy are options, but HPV testing is not sufficiently selective, unless for older women. Women with high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) or atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude HSIL (ASC‐H) should be referred without triage. Women with glandular lesions require particular attention. In a subsequent issue of Cytopathology, the second part of Chapter 6 will be presented, with recommendations for management and treatment of histologically confirmed intraepithelial neoplasia and guidance for follow‐up of special cases such as women who are pregnant, postmenopausal or immunocompromised.     

Cytological and Experimental Studies on the Pars Distalis of the Mink Mustela vison,a Light Microscopic Study

The pars distalis of adult minks were examined by light microscopy. Seasonal variations in cytology and the effect of photostimulation and various drugs were studied. Six types of glandular cells were identified by their structural and staining qualities. To each has been tentatively assigned an endocrine function. Problems in the interpretation of experiments involving administration of drugs are discussed. Discussion is also devoted to the difficulties in demonstrating the mink prolactin cells.     

The relationships of vegetation to surface water chemistry and peat chemistry in fens of Alberta,Canada

The relationships between vegetation components, surface water chemistry and peat chemistry from 23 fens in boreal Alberta, Canada, substantiate important differences along the poor to rich fen gradient. Each of the three fen types have their own characteristic species. The extreme-rich fens are characterized by Calliergon trifarium, Drepanocladus revolvens, Scirpus hudsonianus, S. cespitosus, Scorpidium scorpioides, and Tofieldia glutinosa. Moderate-rich fens are characterized by Brachythecium mildeanum, Carex diandra, Drepanocladus vernicosus, D. aduncus, and D. polycarpus. Poor fens are characterized by Carex pauciflora, Drepanocladus exannulatus, Sphagnum angustifolium, S. jensenii, and S. majus. Moderate-rich fens have fewer species in common with poor fens than with extreme-rich fens, while species richness is highest in the moderate-rich fens and lowest in poor fens. Variation in vascular plant occurrence appears to be more associated with nutrient levels, while bryophytes are more affected by changes in acidity and mineral elements. Based on chemical criteria, the three fen types are clearly separated by surface water pH, calcium, magnesium, and conductivity, but are less clearly differentiated by the nitrogen and phosphorus components of the surface waters. Moderate-rich fens are chemically variable both temporally and spatially, whereas poor fens and extreme-rich fens are more stable ecosystems. Whereas components of alkalinity-acidity are the most important factors that distinguish the three fen types in western Canada, nutrient concentrations in the surface waters generally do not differ appreciably in the three fen types.     

Ovarian cycle of the captive formosan gem‐faced civets (Paguma larvata taivana)

Formosan gem‐faced civets are classified to be endemic sub‐species of Paguma larvata in Taiwan. Little about their reproductive physiology has been reported. This study was designed to characterize the ovarian activity throughout the year and define ovarian cycle length and the lengths of its component phases. Serum samples were collected for enzyme immunoassay (progesterone and estradiol) from seven captive civets twice weekly for 1 year. Meanwhile, periodic changes in external genitalia (vulva swelling) and vaginal cytology were examined and recorded. Results showed estrous cycles exhibited two types: 18‐day (18.5±1.1, n=64) and 28‐day (27.6±1.0, n=28) as shown by progesterone and estradiol fluctuations and corresponding changes in vulva morphology and vaginal cytology. Both types showed a similar 7‐day follicular phase, peaking progesterone at Day 7. The 18‐day cycle type prevails in the spring and summer whereas the 28‐day cycle type is significant in the autumn. In summary, female gem‐faced civets are polyestrous (approximately 13 cycles/year), and non‐typical seasonal breeders, with follicular phase and two distinct durations of luteal phases (diestrus) cycling throughout the year, but the frequency of ovarian cycles was remarkably gradually decreased from September to February of next year. Zoo Biol 0:1–11, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.     

Die Geschlechtsbestimmung beiMegaselia scalaris Loew (Phoridae)

Summary The determination of male sex of the Phorid,Megaselia scalaris, is effected through an epistatically-operating realizer which appears to lie terminally on a certain end of the chromosomes and which ist exchanged between the three non-homologous chromosomes by a regular translocation process. This process seems to be a praemeiotic event as the exceptional types often appear in clusters. Under the assumption that every cluster is the effect of one translocation, the translocation-frequency from the III-chromosome is estimated at ca. 0.3%, from the I-chromosome and from the II-chromosome at ca. 0.08%. The theoretical aspect of this type of sex determination is discussed. Details about the cytology ofMegaselia are reported.     

External quality control for immunocytochemistry on cytology samples: a review of UK NEQAS ICC (cytology module) results

I. S. Kirbis, P. Maxwell, M. S. Fle?ar, K. Miller and M. Ibrahim External quality control for immunocytochemistry on cytology samples: a review of UK NEQAS ICC (cytology module) results Objective: To date, external quality control for immunocytochemistry on cytology samples is provided only by the United Kingdom national external quality assessment service for immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridisation (UK NEQAS ICC & ISH). For the purpose of this study a retrospective analysis of a comprehensive collection of quality‐related data regarding immunocytochemistry on cytology samples collected through this service was analysed. Methods: The quality of immunocytochemical reactions, using on‐line collected data, was analysed for the last 23 UK NEQAS ICC cytology module external quality assessments carried out on cytology samples completed in the period from 2004 to 2010. Results: Our study showed that the majority of participants in the cytology module (66%) sent formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissue sections for assessment as in‐house control slides and only 34% sent cytology slides of various types. The highest UK NEQAS ICC score for the quality of immunocytochemical staining among in‐house control slides was achieved on cell block sections, followed by cytospins, FFPE tissue sections, liquid‐based cytology slides and smears. With regard to fixation, acetone‐fixed slides achieved significantly lower scores than other reported fixatives. The strength of agreement in perception of immunocytochemical staining quality was good between in‐house assessors (Kappa = 0.64) but only fair between in‐house and UK NEQAS ICC assessors (Kappa = 0.22). Conclusions: Good quality of immunocytochemical staining can be achieved on cytology slides prepared and fixed in different ways as well as on cell blocks. Unified criteria for high‐quality immunocytochemical staining and proper internal and external quality assurance could facilitate further improvement and standardization of immunocytochemistry on cytology samples.     

Vaginal vault cytology tests: analysis of a decade of data from a UK tertiary centre

H. Stokes‐Lampard, S. Wilson, C. Waddell and L. Bentley Vaginal vault cytology tests: analysis of a decade of data from a UK tertiary centre Objectives: To examine temporal trends in the use of vault cytology tests in primary and secondary care and the demographics of those women tested. Methods: Retrospective analysis of routinely collected data concerning women who had a vault cytology test processed during a 10‐year period (1 April 1995 to 31 March 2005) at Birmingham Women’s NHS Foundation Trust. Results: A total of 8457 vault cytology tests from 3164 women (range 1–17 tests, median = 2) were processed, representing approximately 2% of the cervical cytology workload of the Department of Cytopathology at Birmingham Women's Hospital. There was a significant reduction in annual numbers processed (Pearson correlation ?0.958, P < 0.001). Significant abnormalities (mild dyskaryosis or worse) were detected in 4.5%, with malignancy being detected in <0.1%. The unsatisfactory cytology test rate was 10.7% overall. There was a reduction in the numbers of vault cytology tests coming from the community, hospital outpatient clinics and operating theatres over time (χ² for linear trend = 139.53, 9 d.f., P < 0.0001). Tests originating from community settings had the lowest disease detection rates: no malignancies and only two severe abnormalities were detected from almost 4000 primary care samples; abnormal results represented 2.8% (n = 113), of which the majority (n = 73) were borderline results. All cancers (n = 8) were detected in samples taken in gynaecology and colposcopy clinics. Conclusions: Vault cytology test usage appears to be reducing, particularly from outpatient clinics and primary care. Community detection rates are very low. Further research is required to establish the true costs and benefits of vaginal vault cytology.     

Effects of plant micro-environment on movement of <Emphasis Type="Italic">Helicoverpa armigera</Emphasis> (Hübner) larvae and the relationship to a hierarchy of stimuli

Locomotory behaviour of 1st instar Helicoverpa armigera is influenced by a complex of micro-attributes, the leaf “environment”, comprising odours, wax chemistry, trichomes and grip texture. Larval movement speeds on leaves of different types varied more than eight fold. On garden pea, Pisum sativum, there is a hierarchy of stimuli perceived by larvae resulting in differing behavioural responses. Light and angle are paramount in responses to micro-environment. These influence responses to local stimuli. Experiments in darkness produce different responses from those under laboratory light. In darkness, on horizontal surfaces as found for most leaves, preference for leaf surface is driven by micro-environment associated with leaf waxes. Larvae prefer the abaxial surface. In light, on horizontal surfaces, larvae seek enclosed spaces and foray under leaf surfaces. They wander more openly in the dark. Such information is important in building a model of larval behaviour and predicting behaviour on differing plant architectures.     

PALYNOLOGY AND SYSTEMATICS OF THE LYTHRACEAE. I. INTRODUCTION AND GENERA ADENARIA THROUGH GINORIA

A palynological survey, including LM, SEM, and TEM, is presented for 10 genera of the Lythraceae s.s. (plus Alzatea to be assigned separate family status): Adenaria, Ammannia, Capuronia, Crenea, Cuphea, Decodon, Didiplis, Diplusodon, Galpinia, and Ginoria. Discussion of the results is deferred until the survey is complete, but already information of taxonomic interest is available for the 11 genera studied. The pollen data, consistent with results from cytology, anatomy, and embryology, suggest the current subgeneric classification into the Tribes Lythreae and Nesaeeae based on complete or incomplete septation of the ovary is not valid. The pollen of Alzatea is a generalized type and lacks the morphological features most characteristic of the Lythraceae (pseudocolpi, sculptured exine). The genus is being described as a separate family, and the pollen morphology is consistent with this treatment. The pollen of Cuphea is more diverse and shows little similarity to other genera in the family. It also has a unique combination of floral characters and lipid chemistry that suggests a separate category within the developing subfamilial classification of the Lythraceae.     

Human papillomavirus infection in women with and without cervical cancer in Tbilisi, Georgia

Background: No accurate estimates of cervical cancer incidence or mortality currently exist in Georgia. Nor are there any data on the population-based prevalence of high-risk (HR) human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which, in the absence of good-quality screening, is known to correlate with cervical cancer incidence. Methods: We obtained cervical cell specimens from 1309 women aged 18–59 years from the general population of Tbilisi, and also from 91 locally diagnosed invasive cervical cancers (ICC). DNA of 44 HPV types was tested for using a GP5+/6+-based PCR assay. Results: In the general population (of whom 2% reported a previous Pap smear) HPV prevalence was 13.5% (95% CI: 11.6–15.9), being highest in women aged 25–34 years (18.7%) and falling to between 8.6% and 9.5% for all age groups above 34 years. HR HPV prevalence was 8.6% overall, being 6.8% and 38.9% among women with normal and abnormal cytology, respectively. HPV45 (1.6%) was the most common type in women with normal cytology, whereas HPV16 predominated among women with cervical abnormalities (including 7 of 10 histologically confirmed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2/3) and among ICC (57.6%). The next most common types in ICC in Georgia were HPV45 and 18 (13.2 and 11.0%, respectively). Conclusions: We report a relatively high burden of HPV infection in Tbilisi, Georgia. Improving cervical cancer prevention, through screening and/or HPV vaccination, is an important public health issue in Georgia, where 70% of ICC are theoretically preventable by HPV16/18 vaccines.     

The morphology and anatomy ofHydrastis (Ranunculales): Systematic reevaluation of the genus

Evidence from morphology and anatomy (including embryology), as well as from palynology, chemistry and cytology, indicates thatHydrastis is quite divergent from Ranunculaceae (in which the genus has been most often included) as well as from both Glaucidiaceae and Berberidaceae. Distinctive features ofHydrastis, which demarcate it from Ranunculaceae but which are sometimes shared by Berberidaceae, are: the unique mode of origin of the vascular supply to stamens and carpels; the micropyle being formed by both integuments; the xylem not V-shaped in cross section; scalariform vessel perforations present; haploid chromosome number 13; pollen tectum consisting of a compound layer of striae; leaf mesophyll not differentiated; the unique course of stem medullary bundles; D-galactose present. Its distinctive higher haploid chromosome number, as well as its many less-specialized character states (in floral structure, leaf anatomy, and xylem and vessel morphology), suggest thatHydrastis is a relictual primitive group which diverged early from a common ancestral stock of Ranunculaceae, Berberidaceae and probably of Circaeasteraceae; at least some of the features shared byHydrastis and one or another of the families concerned seem to be a heritage from their common ancestor. We propose a reestablishment of a monotypic family, Hydrastidaceae.     

Primary HPV testing: a proposal for co‐testing in initial rounds of screening to optimise sensitivity of cervical cancer screening

As explained by Kitchener in a previous issue of Cytopathology (2015; 26 :4‐6), primary human papillomavirus (HPV) testing is likely to be introduced in the UK for all women aged 25–64 years following pilot site studies already in place. This will be necessary when the prevalence of cervical cancer and its precursors declines when vaccination takes effect but there is a risk in abandoning cytology as a primary test: a risk that would be most apparent in the present unvaccinated population in which the prevalence of cervical cancer and its precursors is exceptionally high. HPV testing is more sensitive than cytology but has a significant false‐negative rate that could be detrimental to a successful screening programme if introduced without cytology backup. Accurate cytology would be needed for triage and could be compromised if HPV‐negative tests were excluded from examination. This article proposes a compromise: cytology and HPV co‐testing for the first two screening tests to optimise the sensitivity of the test as a whole. Registrations of invasive and in situ carcinoma of the uterine cervix in England indicate that the prevalence of the disease is highest in young women in the early rounds of screening. Calculations of the likely impact on the workload of this proposal have been based on a service evaluation of 295 cytology tests received at St Thomas’ Hospital, which suggests that the volume of cytology tests would be reduced by approximately 60% compared with 80% for primary HPV testing alone. This proposal should be debated openly before irrevocable changes are made to a skilled workforce.     

STIGMA OF NICOTIANA: ULTRASTRUCTURAL AND BIOCHEMICAL STUDIES

The aim of the present study has been to elucidate further the cytology of the glandular stigma of Nicotiana tabacum, the mechanism of the secretory process during stigma development and the biochemical composition of the exudate. The stigma consists of two distinct zones: a glandular zone formed by the papillae and 2–3 layers of cells (basal cells) immediately below them, and a non-glandular region formed by vacuolated cells which are in continuity with the transmitting tissue. The stigmatic exudate is a complex mixture of different chemical compounds such as proteins, saccharides, fatty acids and phenols. The role of stigma secretion is discussed in relation to pollen activation, recognition and pollen tube growth.     

A multi-nucleate male-sterile mutant of maize with gametophytic expression

 In order to dissect the complex genetic system that controls pollen development, we have undertaken a program of transposon insertion mutagenesis, with the purpose of producing mutations in gametophytically acting genes that are important for this process. The present work reports the developmental cytology of one of the mutants isolated, gaMS-2 (gametophytic male sterile-2). A peculiar feature of the mutant grains was lack of differentiation between the vegetative and the generative nuclei, leading to alteration in number, conformation and placement of nuclei. At anthesis, the grains carrying the mutant allele are about 40% of the normal grain size, contain a very reduced amount of starch and exhibit various nuclear abnormalities. Received: 31 May 1996 / Revision accepted: 26 August 1996     

The segregation pattern of a translocation quadrivalent

The segregation pattern of a translocation quadrivalent was studied in three hybrid families of the tetraploid (2n=28) oat, of the Avena strigosa polyploid complex. The rate of IV formation in F₁ was high and the fertility was normal. The adjacent-alternate orientation of this quadrivalent was very variable. Conspicuous variation in this frequency was found between anthers of the same floret and between florets. The alternate type was usually more common toward the end of MI. The adjacent-alternate ratio was found to be an unreliable measure for calculating the type of gametes produced by the F₁ and the F₂ plants derived from them. An attempt was made to determine the type of viable gametes produced on the F₁ and their frequency by examining the cytology of F₂ plants. The various combinations of the chromosomes of the translocation complex expected in the F₂ plants were derived and their expected frequencies calculated by taking into account chiasma formation at the chromosome ends and various restrictions of gamete viability. In none of the three hybrid families F₂ individuals were found to produce trivalents as the most complex chromosome configuration, indicating that one type of gamete derived from adjacent separation was not formed. The 11 ratio between F₂ plants having only bivalents (2II) and those with F ₁-like quadrivalent configuration R(c), expected when gametes resulting from alternate separation are fully functional, with the exclusion of other types, was not found. That ratio 2II/R(c), was 2-1/3 in the various families. The cytology of selected F₃ individuals basically followed the predictions based on chromosome association in the F₂.     

Neurosecretion in selected nemertina

Summary An investigation of the neurosecretory cells of three intertidal species of nemerteans,Procephalothrix spiralis (Coe, 1930) (Palaeonemertini),Lineus socialis (Leidy, 1855) (Heteronemertini) andAmphiporus lactifloreus (Johnston, 1828) (Hoplonemertini) was performed. Cell types are described and their distribution and relative abundance in the central nervous system reported. Neurosecretory cells were examined for diel activity and a relationship with sexual state. A change in the cytology of the neurosecretory cells was only noted with respect to the sexual state of the animal.Contribution number 60 from the Marine Science Institute, Nahant, MA 01908, USA