Cytological Differences Research Articles

Cytologic and Molecular Assessment of Isthmus Thyroid Nodules and Carcinomas.

Background: Isthmic thyroid nodules are more likely to be malignant and isthmic differentiated thyroid cancer demonstrates less favorable behavior compared with lobar locations. The goal of this study was to assess molecular differences of thyroid nodules and carcinomas from the isthmus relative to the lobes. Methods: The Afirma thyroid nodule database (n = 177,227) was assessed for cytologic and molecular differences between isthmus and lobar nodules in this observational cohort study. Genome-wide differential expression analysis was conducted to decipher transcriptomic differences. Histopathology reports (n = 583) of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) (n = 389) and infiltrative follicular subtype of PTC (IF-PTC) (n = 194) from Afirma discovery cohorts and from thyroid cancer patients managed at an integrative endocrine surgery community care practice were analyzed for molecular differences between isthmic and lobar cancers. Results: In the Afirma database, 8527 (4.8%) isthmus nodules were identified. Bethesda V-VI nodules were almost twice as prevalent from the isthmus as compared with the lobes (8.2% vs. 4.3%, p < 0.0001). Isthmus nodules had twice the frequency of BRAFp.V600E (21% vs. 10.6%, p < 0.0001), an increased frequency of ALK/NTRK/RET fusions (4.6% vs. 2.5%, p < 0.0001) and SPOP variants (1.5% vs. 0.8%, p < 0.0001), and a lower frequency of NRAS mutations (7.8% vs. 13.2%, p < 0.0001), and PAX8::PPARy fusions (1.1% vs. 2.3%, p < 0.0001) than lobar nodules. Transcriptome analysis of molecular signatures and genome-wide analysis showed that isthmus nodules have higher BRAF-like scores, ERK activity, follicular mesenchymal transition scores (FMT), and lower inflammation activity scores. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed genes downregulated in isthmus tumors are enriched in immune response regulation. IF-PTC from the isthmus (n = 13) were more BRAF-like and had increased ERK and FMT scores compared with those from the lobes (n = 181) (p < 0.01 for all). Conclusions: These data suggest isthmic nodules are more likely to have malignant cytology and increased rates of higher risk molecular alterations compared with lobar nodules. IF-PTC from the isthmus is molecularly different compared with IF-PTC from the lobes. More data are needed to know if a change in surgical therapy is warranted in isthmic thyroid cancers relative to lobar cancers and if this molecular data should influence isthmic thyroid cancer management and monitoring.

Comparative karyological features of several populations of Populus euphratica Oliv., grown under different environmental conditions in Iran

Abstract Understanding genetic structure and chromosomal characteristics is essential for developing effective breeding programmes and improving plant species. This research compared karyotypic features of 10 plant populations of Populus euphratica from various regions of Iran. Fresh roots grown from cuttings of the populations were used to get metaphase cells. Then several chromosomal parameters were recorded and analysed using a nested statistical model. All the studied populations were diploid, with 2n = 38 chromosomes, consisting of medium and sub-medium chromosome types. Significant differences (P ⩽ 0.01) were observed between the plant populations in chromosomal dimensions and arm ratios, suggesting chromosomal rearrangements. Chromosome lengths in the studied populations ranged from 0.69 to 3.38 μm. Intra-chromosomal index (A1) showed clear asymmetrical differences between the plant populations. Furthermore, using Stebbins's standards, the studied populations classified as 1A and 1B classes, demonstrated more asymmetry than those categorized as 1B and 2B, respectively. Cytological differences between the plant populations, collected from different parts of the country, showed that chromosome structural rearrangements are responsible for the speciation and adaption of the species against the mentioned variable ecological conditions and play a key role in response to diverse climatic and geographical conditions.

Integrated cytological and transcriptomic analyses provide new insights into restoration of pollen viability in synthetic allotetraploid Brassica carinata.

Upregulation of genes involved in DNA damage repair and sperm cell differentiation leads to restoration of pollen viability in synthetic allotetraploid B. carinata after chromosome doubling. Apart from the well-known contribution of polyploidy to crop improvement, polyploids can also be induced for other purposes, such as to restore the viability of sterile hybrids. The mechanism related to viability transition between the sterile allodiploid and the fertile allotetraploid after chromosome doubling are not well understood. Here, we synthesised allodiploid B. carinata (2n = 2x = 17) and allotetraploid B. carinata (2n = 4x = 34) as models to investigate the cytological and transcriptomic differences during pollen development. The results showed that after chromosome doubling, the recovery of pollen viability in allotetraploid was mainly reflected in the stabilisation of microtubule spindle morphology, normal meiotic chromosome behaviour, and normal microspore development. Interestingly, the deposition and degradation of synthetic anther tapetum were not affected by polyploidy. Transcription analysis showed that the expression of genes related to DNA repair (DMC1, RAD51, RAD17, SPO11-2), cell cycle differentiation (CYCA1;2, CYCA2;3) and ubiquitination proteasome pathway (UBC4, PIRH2, CDC53) were positively up-regulated during pollen development of synthetic allotetraploid B. carinata. In summary, these results provide some refreshing updates about the ploidy-related restoration of pollen viability in newly synthesised allotetraploid B. carinata.

Abstract PO2-21-01: Granular Cell Tumors of the Breast: A Case Series

Abstract Objective: Granular cell tumors (GCT) of the breast are rare, Schwann-cell derived tumors that are largely benign in nature, but may present with malignant characteristics in 1-2% of cases. There are few reports highlighting the clinical presentation, cytologic differences, operative management and clinical outcomes of patients with these benign versus malignant GCTs. Here, the authors report the clinical course of 9 patients identified with either benign or malignant GCT of the breast. Methods: The medical records for a total of 9 patients treated for histologically confirmed GCT of the breast between March 2015 and May 2023 at our institution were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical data, imaging findings, immunohistochemical markers, surgical interventions, and clinical follow-up data were collected and analyzed. Results: All patients were female, with a mean age of 46 years (Range: 29-61). 5 (56%) patients presented with left-sided lesions with an average maximum dimension of 1.1 cm (SD: 0.7 cm). All 9 (100%) tumors were positive for S100, 4 (44%) were positive for CD68, and 3 (33%) were positive for Inhibin. 4 (44%) patients underwent local mass excision, 3 (33%) underwent lumpectomy, 1 (11%) underwent lumpectomy with sentinel lymph node biopsy, and 1 (11%) underwent partial mastectomy with sentinel lymph node biopsy. There were no perioperative complications nor complications noted at postoperative follow up visits. 1 patient (11%) had 2 recorded recurrences of GCT after the initial breast mass excision, with each tumor exhibiting different positive immunohistochemical markers. 1 (11%) patient had a previous history of breast cancer at time of GCT diagnosis, and 1 (11%) patient had concurrent breast malignancy with the granular cell tumor being in the lymph node of the same breast. Conclusions: Granular cell tumors of the breast are rare Schwann cell derived tumors that often present near breast scar tissue as spiculated, ill-defined masses with microcalcifications on radiologic imaging, mimicking breast malignancy, leading to overtreatment. This study found that for GCTBs that present in lymph nodes, regardless of low malignant potential seen histologically, there was a higher risk of recurrence, and may require further workup and close follow up after wide local excision. For all other granular cell tumors presenting with normal appearing lymph nodes on imaging, a local mass excision was adequate in management, with low risk of recurrence or malignant potential. Future studies should be performed analyzing long-term follow up for these patients to determine risk of recurrence over longer periods of time, and risk for breast malignancy. Granular Cell Tumor Characteristics Tumor characteristics including laterality, tumor location, maximum dimension in centimeters, and positive immunohistochemistry markers were shown for each patient. Citation Format: Shwetha Kochi, Madeline Karsten, Monika Masanam, Teagan Thorson, Roshanak Derakhshandeh, Patricia Wehner, Lucy De La Cruz, Jennifer Son. Granular Cell Tumors of the Breast: A Case Series [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO2-21-01.

THU680 Cytologic And Molecular Assessment Of Isthmus Thyroid Nodules

Abstract Disclosure: S. Jasim: None. Y. Chen: Employee; Self; Veracyte, Inc. Stock Owner; Self; Veracyte, Inc. R. Jiang: Employee; Self; Veracyte, Inc. Stock Owner; Self; Veracyte, Inc. Y. Hao: Employee; Self; Veracyte, Inc. Stock Owner; Self; Veracyte, Inc. J. Huang: Employee; Self; Veracyte, Inc. Stock Owner; Self; Veracyte, Inc. J.P. Klopper: Employee; Self; Veracyte, Inc. Stock Owner; Self; Veracyte, Inc. R.T. Kloos: Employee; Self; Veracyte, Inc. Stock Owner; Self; Veracyte, Inc. T.C. Brown: None. Thyroid nodules arising in the isthmus are more likely to be malignant and demonstrate more aggressive behavior relative to thyroid nodules from either thyroid lobe. Preliminary studies of papillary thyroid cancers (PTC) studied in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) indicate molecular profiles that may explain the more aggressive phenotype of isthmic PTC, including an increased ERK signaling molecular profile. The goal of this study was to interrogate the Veracyte Afirma thyroid nodule database and assess cytologic and molecular differences of thyroid aspirates sent for Afirma Genomic Sequencing (GSC) testing from isthmus nodules relative to lobar nodules. Samples from isthmus nodules represented 4.8% of all samples. Most Afirma nodules had indeterminate cytology (ITN, Bethesda III or IV) and there were more ITN samples from the thyroid lobes (95.7%) compared to the isthmus (91.8%). For Bethesda V or VI nodules, the proportion from the isthmus was almost double that from the lobes (8.2% vs 4.3%). There were no significant differences observed in the Afirma benign or suspicious result of ITN samples comparing isthmus versus lobar location. Analysis of molecular alterations in Afirma suspicious nodules from ITN and Bethesda V-VI nodules showed that isthmus nodules had twice the frequency of BRAFV600E mutations compared to lobar nodules (21% vs 10%), an increased frequency of ALK/NTRK/RET fusions (4.6% vs 2.5%), and a lower frequency of NRAS (7.7% vs 13%) and HRAS (4.5% vs 8.2%) variants (all comparisons significant (p &amp;lt; 0.001)). Additionally, isthmus nodules had significantly higher BRAF-like signature, ERK signaling, and follicular-mesenchymal transition scores compared to lobar nodules (p &amp;lt; 0.01). In summary, thyroid nodules sent for Afirma molecular testing arising from the isthmus are more likely to have Bethesda V and VI cytology and, amongst Afirma suspicious ITN and Bethesda V and VI lesions, have higher levels of molecular markers of aggressiveness relative to lobar nodules. This study expands upon the data seen in PTCs from the TCGA as most thyroid tumors referred for molecular testing have Bethesda III and IV cytology and thus are enriched for follicular lesions including follicular variants of PTC and follicular carcinomas. Future studies should investigate the final histopathology of these molecularly tested isthmus nodules as well as oncologic outcomes. Presentation: Thursday, June 15, 2023

Age and Race-Based Differences in Anal Cytology: Implications for Screening and Prevention of Anal Cancer Disparities: A Single Institutional Study

Age and Race-Based Differences in Anal Cytology: Implications for Screening and Prevention of Anal Cancer Disparities: A Single Institutional Study

Changes in eotaxin-2 and periostin levels in patients with bronchial asthma according to their smoking status: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Smoking influences the nature of airway inflammation in patients with bronchial asthma though synthesis of certain cytokines. Patterns of bronchial asthma are differentiated clinically, functionally, and regarding inflammatory biomarkers. Aim The research aimed to study the clinical, functional, sputum cytological differences, and serum eotaxin-2 and periostin levels in asthmatic patients regarding smoking status. Patients and methods The research was a cross-sectional study. The collection of cases began in August 2018 and ended in January 2020 at the Chest Department, Assiut University Hospital. We studied 117 asthmatic patients who were classified regarding their smoking status (45 nonsmokers, 42 smokers, and 30 former smokers) for serum eotaxin-2 and periostin by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The effects of smoking were analyzed on inflammatory cells including eosinophilic and neutrophilic percentages in sputum and serum eotaxin-2 and periostin levels. Results Smokers with asthma had worse clinical and functional outcomes. Asthmatic smokers had mainly neutrophilic phenotype. Serum eotaxin-2 level was higher in smokers compared with nonsmokers and former smokers. However, serum periostin level was higher in nonsmokers compared with smokers and former smokers. Serum eotaxin-2 had a positive correlation with smoking index and eosinophilic and neutrophilic count in sputum, whereas serum periostin was correlated negatively with smoking index and positively with eosinophilic count. Conclusion Asthmatic smokers had worse clinical and functional outcomes with increased neutrophils in the sputum. The inflammatory biomarkers seen in smokers with asthma showed low serum periostin and increased serum eotaxin-2 levels.

Fallopia ×moravica (Polygonaceae), a new hybrid between Fallopia compacta and F. sachalinensis

A new knotweed hybrid originating from the crossing of Fallopia compacta and F. sachalinensis is described based on plant material collected in the Moravia region in the Czech Republic as F. ×moravica. In addition to the Czech Republic, the hybrid has also been reported previously from the United Kingdom and New Zealand; however, it was not distinguished from F. ×bohemica, a hybrid between F. japonica and F. sachalinensis, since its one parent (F. compacta) has been generally treated only as a variety of F. japonica. F. ×moravica differs from the morphologically most similar hexaploid (2n = 6x = 66) F. ×bohemica by its tetraploid (2n = 4x = 44) number of chromosomes and by the constant absence of purple spots on stem internodes (which are usually present in F. ×bohemica). The new hybrid also differs from F. ×bohemica as well as other European Fallopia members by its unique relative genome size. Other potential morphological and cytological differences of F. ×moravica from the related F. ×bohemica are discussed.

Ontogenetic Variation in Macrocyclic and Hemicyclic Poplar Rust Fungi.

Melampsora larici-populina (Mlp), M. medusae (Mmed), M. magnusiana (Mmag), and M. pruinosae (Mpr) are epidemic rust fungi in China. The first two are macrocyclic rust fungi distributed in temperate humid environments. The latter two are hemicyclic rusts, mainly distributed in arid and semi-arid areas. Ontogenetic variation that comes with this arid-resistance is of great interest-and may help us predict the influence of a warmer, drier, climate on fungal phylogeny. To compare the differences in the life history and ontogeny between the two types of rust, we cloned mating type genes, STE3.4 and STE3.3 using RACE-smart technology. Protein structures, functions, and mutant loci were compared across each species. We also used microscopy to compare visible cytological differences at each life stage for the fungal species, looking for variation in structure and developmental timing. Quantitative PCR technology was used to check the expression of nuclear fusion and division genes downstream of STE3.3 and STE3.4. Encoding amino acids of STE3.3 and STE3.4 in hemicyclic rusts are shorter than these in the macrocyclic rusts. Both STE3.3 and STE3.4 interact with a protein kinase superfamily member EGG12818 and an E3 ubiquitin protein ligase EGG09709 directly, and activating G-beta conformational changes. The mutation at site 74th amino acid in the conserved transmembrane domain of STE3.3 ascribes to a positive selection, in which alanine (Ala) is changed to phenylalanine (Phe) in hemicyclic rusts, and a mutation with Tyr lost at site 387th in STE3.4, where it is the binding site for β-D-Glucan. These mutants are speculated corresponding to the insensitivity of hemicyclic rust pheromone receptors to interact with MFa pheromones, and lead to Mnd1 unexpressed in teliospora, and they result in the diploid nuclei division failure and the sexual stage missing in the life cycle. A Phylogenic tree based on STE3.4 gene suggests these two rust types diverged about 14.36 million years ago. Although these rusts share a similar uredia and telia stage, they show markedly different wintering strategies. Hemicyclic rusts overwinter in the poplar buds endophytically, their urediniospores developing thicker cell walls. They form haustoria with a collar-like extrahaustorial membrane neck and induce host thickened callose cell walls, all ontogenetic adaptations to arid environments.

Assessment of megakaryocytes’ size and morphology in selected myeloproliferative neoplasms

&lt;br&gt;&lt;b&gt;Introduction:&lt;/b&gt; Contemporary technological development make the cytological analysis of megakaryocytes (MKs) a valuable tool for supporting differential diagnosis of myeloproliferative neoplasms’ (MPNs) early stages.&lt;/br&gt; &lt;br&gt;&lt;b&gt;Aim:&lt;/b&gt; The aim of the study was to identify megakaryocyte’s cytological differences between chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), polycythemia vera (PV) and essential thrombocythemia (ET), as well as to assess the usefulness of this analysis in differential diagnosis of the aforementioned MPNs.&lt;/br&gt; &lt;br&gt;&lt;b&gt;Materials and methods:&lt;/b&gt; Bone marrow aspirate smears were obtained from 20 patients with CML, 15 patients with PV and 12 patients with ET. The control included bone marrow biopsies from 15 patients without any hematological disorder. The following megakaryocyte’s parameters were examined: cell diameter, cytoplasmic area, nuclear area, nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio and nuclear lobulation.&lt;/br&gt; &lt;br&gt;&lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; Cytological analysis revealed a significantly decreased megakaryocytes’ size and the prevalence of cells with hypolobulated nuclei in CML patients comparing to other groups. MKs in ET were found to have characteristic staghorn-like hyperlobulated nucleus, whereas polycythemia vera showed the predominance of cells with multilobulated nuclei (4-7 lobes) and a tendency to hyperlobulation. However, there were no significant differences in mean values for cytoplasmic and nuclear area among these two groups of patients.&lt;/br&gt; &lt;br&gt;&lt;b&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/b&gt; Characteristic megakaryocytes’ cytological differences in CML patients may be useful in differential diagnosis of the CML’s early stage. MKs’ size and nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio are not useful in differentiation between polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia.&lt;/br&gt;

Endocervical adenocarcinomas. Cytological, histological, and molecular diagnostics

This study was undertaken to analyze the effectiveness of cytological diagnostics of endocervical adenocarcinomas. We compared conventional liquid-based cytology, histology, immunohistochemistry, and molecular testing. A total of 25 endocervical adenocarcinomas, including endocervical adenocarcinomas in situ, were diagnosed using cytological methods over a year. Liquid-based cytology ensured better detection of glandular differentiation signs than conventional cytology. After molecular testing for human papillomavirus (HPV), we performed retrospective analysis of cytological characteristics of all endocervical adenocarcinomas (n = 15).We identified specific cellular characteristics of HPV-associated typical and mucinous adenocarcinomas. We also observed 1 case of non-HPV-related clear-cell and 1 case of non-HPV-related mesonephral adenocarcinoma.Our findings suggest that endocervical adenocarcinomas are a heterogeneous group of tumors. Endocervical adenocarcinomas accounted for 10.7 % of all primary cervical carcinomas (n = 214). Eighty percent of all endocervical adenocarcinomas were HPV-related, whereas the remaining 20 % were HPV-negative. We found no cytological differences between invasive endocervical adenocarcinomas and adenocarcinomas in situ.Mutations detected in some of the patients are an important diagnostic criterion that specifies whether the tumor is rare.

Stratified research on related risk factors of CINⅡ+ in CINⅠ patients diagnosed by endocervical curettage under colposcopy

Objective: To estimate risks of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) Ⅱ or worse (CINⅡ+) on loop electrosurgical excisional procedure (LEEP) specimens with the diagnosis of endocervical curettage (ECC) CINⅠ compared with biopsy CINⅠ, and also to investigate the hierarchical management scheme of ECC CINⅠ based on the relevant factors of CINⅡ+ risk. Methods: (1) A retrospective computer-based research for subjects enrolled in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University from Jan. 2013 to Jun. 2021 was performed. The case group comprised women with an ECC CINⅠ (ECC results of CINⅠ with colposcopy-directed biopsy results ≤CINⅠ), and the control group comprised women with a biopsy CINⅠ (colposcopy-directed biopsy results of CINⅠ with negative ECC findings) were divided after LEEP surgery and diagnosis in the next three months. The clinical data of all patients before LEEP were analyzed, and the pathological diagnosis between two groups after LEEP was compared. (2) Variables, including age, cytology, high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV), ECC results, cervical transformation zone (TZ) and colposcopy impression, were included to describe the characteristics and compare the incidence of LEEP CINⅡ+. (3) Univariate analysis and Multivariate logistic regression method were used to analyze the related factors that affect the LEEP CINⅡ+ in CINⅠ patients. Further, the specific risks caused by related factors and conduct a stratified study in LEEP CINⅡ+ were analyzed. Results: (1) Overall, 2 581 women with ECC CINⅠ or biopsy CINⅠ diagnosis who underwent LEEP participated in the study with the mean age (43.6±9.5) years old. Chi square test found that the age and cytology of patients in ECC CINⅠ group were statistically different from those of biopsy CINⅠ group (all P<0.05). There was no significant difference in HR-HPV detection, TZ type and colposcopy impression between the two groups (all P>0.05). ECC CINⅠ comprised 957 women, with LEEP histopathology results revealing 288 (30.1%, 288/957) CINⅡ+, which was significantly higher than that of biopsy CINⅠ which was comprised 1 624 women, with LEEP histopathology results showing 333 (20.5%, 333/1 624) CINⅡ+ (χ2=30.31, P<0.001). (2) Compared by LEEP CINⅡ+ with LEEP ≤CINⅠ group, there were no significant difference in the age, HR-HPV, colposcopy impression (all P>0.05); but there were significantly differences in cytology, ECC CINⅠ, type Ⅲ TZ (all P<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that atypical squamous epithelial cells (ASC-H; OR=2.77, 95%CI: 2.04-3.77), high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and worse (HSIL+; OR=2.93, 95%CI: 2.24-3.81), ECC CINⅠ (OR=1.89, 95%CI: 1.56-2.29) and type Ⅲ of TZ (OR=1.76, 95%CI: 1.45-2.11) were independent risk factors for LEEP CINⅡ+ (all P<0.05). (3) When cytology was ≤low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) and ≥ASC-H, the detection rate of CINⅡ+ in ECC CINⅠ was significantly higher than that of biopsy CINⅠ (all P<0.001). In ECC CINⅠ, the rate of CINⅡ+ with cytology ≤LSIL was significantly lower than that in cytology ≥ASC-H (56.0% vs 25.9%; χ2=49.38, P<0.001). In type Ⅰ/Ⅱ of TZ, the detection rate of CINⅡ+ between ECC CINⅠand biopsy CINⅠ had no significantly different; while in type Ⅲ of TZ, there was significantly different (72.7% vs 46.2%; χ2=4.02, P=0.045). In ECC CINⅠ, type Ⅲof TZ was significantly higher in the rate of CINⅡ+ than that of type Ⅰ/Ⅱ of TZ (72.7% vs 21.7%; χ2=16.38, P<0.001). When cytology ≥ASC-H, type Ⅲ of TZ and colposcopy impression of HSIL were combined, the rate of CINⅡ+ in ECC CINⅠ was 6/6 while 1/3 in biopsy CINⅠ. Conclusions: Cytology ≥ASC-H, ECC CINⅠ and type Ⅲ TZ are the risk factors of LEEP CINⅡ+. However, cytology ≥ASC-H is more valuable in predicting LEEP CINⅡ+ than ECC CINⅠ. For patients with ECC CINⅠ to perform LEEP, it is recommended that cytology ≥ASC-H is taken as the first level stratification, and type Ⅲ TZ is taken as the second level stratification. The colposcopy impression of patients is recommended for a reference parameter.

Association of abnormal vaginal microflora and HPV infection in cervical precancerous lesions: a retrospective study

The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation between abnormal vaginal microflora and different types of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cervical precancerous lesions during the perimenopausal period. This retrospective study included women patients who underwent liquid-based cytologic test (LBC), HPV test, leucorrhea routine test, or routine urine test at the China-Japan Friendship Hospital between October 2019 and January 2020. A cut-off of 45 years was used as the cut-off age for menopause. The positivity and subtypes of HPV were determined using a chip-based assay. Vaginal microflora was determined using an HB-2012a flow-through hybridization instrument. A total of 132 patients were included in this study. 97 patients were younger than 45 years of age, with a median age of 35 (8.0), and 35 patients ≥ 45 years of age, with a median age of 55 (11.0). There were no significant differences in cytology, type of cervical lesion, HPV type, and common pathogens of the reproductive tract (all p > 0.05). The multivariable analysis showed that only HPV-16 infection lesions (OR: 2.825, 95% CI: 1.121-7.120, p = 0.028), Chlamydia trachomatis infection (OR: 0.142, 95% CI: 0.024-0.855, p =0.033), and Mycoplasma infection (OR: 7.750, 95% CI: 1.603-37.474, p = 0.011) were independent risk factors for cervical precancerous lesions. The menopausal status (with age < 45 or > 45 years as its surrogate) was not associated with cervical precancerous lesions. Menopause was not associated with cervical precancerous lesions. The results suggest that the prevention and treatment of HPV-16, Chlamydia trachomatis infection, and Mycoplasma infection could be significant to prevent the occurrence of cervical precancerous lesions.

Human Papillomavirus and Cervical Dysplasia in Latinas: Evaluating the Association Between HPV Infection and Cervical Dysplasia [A99

INTRODUCTION: Given the elevated risk of cervical dysplasia and malignancy in the Latina population, we sought to assess the rate of high-grade cervical dysplasia in a population of Latina patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive testing on screening Pap smear, relative to a non-Latina White population. We additionally assessed rates of HPV vaccination, HPV strains, and concordance of cytology/histology. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective chart review of all HPV-positive patients undergoing colposcopy across three clinics (January 2019 to September 2021), comparing demographic factors, medical history, cytology, HPV strains, and histology results between the groups. Logistic regression was performed to control for potential confounding factors. RESULTS: We identified 164 patients with positive HPV testing on Pap smear who completed histologic evaluation. No difference was seen in age, immunosuppression, prior abnormal Pap smears, or cytology between Latina and non-Latina patients. CIN2+ was identified in 57.6% of Latina patients, compared to 22.5% among non-Latina White individuals; P&lt;.001. The significant difference persisted when controlling for tobacco use, HPV vaccination, immunosuppression and history of abnormal Pap smear. Latinas had less concordance between cytology and histology: 45.7% of Latinas had CIN2+ after initial low-grade cytology, compared to 7.7% of non-Latinas; P&lt;.001. CONCLUSION: Among HPV-positive patients, Latina ethnicity was associated with increased risk of high-grade cervical dysplasia relative to non-Latina patients, despite no difference in initial cytology or other relevant medical factors. Latina ethnicity was additionally associated with lower HPV vaccination rates and decreased concordance of cytology and histology, with a higher rate of high grade histology following low-grade cytology.

Cyto-morphological features of parathyroid lesions: Fine-needle aspiration cytology series from an endocrine tumor referral center.

Descriptions of parathyroid cell cyto-morphology are limited. Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) with immunocytochemistry (ICC) or biochemical PTH measurements may help verify the parathyroid origin in extraordinary cases, although these methods are nowadays largely replaced by imaging techniques. We collected all available FNAC reports of parathyroid lesions from our department spanning 20 years, to characterize the clinical use of parathyroid FNAC, and to assess morphological correlates between cytology and subsequent histopathology. Twenty-eight cases with assessable cytological smears were found, of which 21 cases were surgically resected and 20 available for histological review (15 adenomas, 2 carcinomas, 2 atypical tumors and a single case with secondary hyperplasia). FNAC was predominantly performed to localize the diseased gland in cases with inconclusive imaging, in cases with a suspicion of intrathyroidal localization or in cases with persistent hypercalcemia following unsuccessful surgery. The diagnosis was verified using either PTH ICC and/or PTH measurements for most cases, and the procedure affected the clinical decision-making for the majority of patients in this selected cohort. Cytological differences between parathyroid adenomas and carcinomas were found, as only carcinomas showed pleomorphism with irregular nuclei and prominent nucleoli. Morphologically, no correlations to predominant cell types or growth patterns visualized at histological investigations among adenomas were noted, and biopsy artifacts were evident in 40% of cases. Parathyroid FNAC could be considered as a complementary analysis for a small group of selected patients, but benefits have to be weighed against the risk of biopsy artifacts in histological preparations.

Sex Differences in Papillary Thyroid Cancer

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is three times more common in women than men. However, PTC in men appears to be associated with poorer outcomes than in women. This study compares the clinical presentation and pathologic features of men and women with PTC. A retrospective review of prospectively collected data for patients with PTC who underwent fine needle aspiration (FNA) of a solitary thyroid nodule and thyroidectomy at a single institution was performed. Factors including age, ultrasound features, FNA results, extent of surgical operation and final histopathology were compared between male and female patients. Descriptive statistics using chi-square and t-test statistics compared outcomes by sex. Of the 851 patients with PTC, 158 (19%) were men and 693 (81%) were women. Mean age and standard deviation (SD) of patients was 48 (± 14) years, and most were of Hispanic origin (69%). Men had a significantly higher rate of radiation exposure relative to women, respectively (8% vs. 2%, P<0.01). There were no ultrasonographic or FNA cytologic differences among sexes. Men had more aggressive pathologic features including lymphovascular invasion (LVI) (47% vs. 34%, P<0.01) and positive lymph nodes (LN) (36% vs. 27%, P<0.05) compared to women. Thyroid lobectomy with isthmusectomy was more commonly performed among men compared to women (24% vs. 13%, P<0.01). Men with PTC have higher rates of radiation exposure associated with more aggressive disease with LVI and LN involvement on final histopathology compared to women. Total thyroidectomy with possible central neck dissection should further be considered when counseling men with PTC.

Structural Abnormalities of Spermatozoa in Triploid Gynogenetic Crucian Carp (Carassius auratus).

The spermatozoa of triploid gynogenetic crucian carp (Carassius auratus) (3nDTCC) possess a spermatogenesis process with a normal genetic background. However, the genetic materials of these spermatozoa do not completely inherit gynogenetic progeny in general. Understanding the intrinsic mechanism may be helpful for developing breeding strategies of gynogenetic fishes. In this study, the spermatozoa ultrastructure was systematically studied in diploid red crucian carp and 3nDTCC to demonstrate their cytological structural differences. In addition, the artificial breeding tests of 3nDTCC(♀) with different ploidy spermatozoa were performed to verify the contributions of genetic materials from 3nDTCC spermatozoa to the gynogenesis progeny. Furthermore, the mRNA expression of centriole-related genes (i.e., cep57, cetn1, rootletin, and nek2) involved in spermatozoa packaging was also determined by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) to illustrate the molecular expression characteristics of the spermatozoa packaging process in 3nDTCC. The results reveal the adaptive features of spermatozoa in 3nDTCC, including the loose midpiece structure, abnormal head structure, and abnormal expression of centriole-related genes, which may influence the motility of spermatozoa and make it not involved normally in the genetic composition of the gynogenesis offspring.

Necessity for subsequent surgery in women of child-bearing age with positive margins after conization

Background20–25% of women with high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasias (HSIL) have residual lesions after conization. The state of the margin is generally considered to be a risk factor for recurrence or persistent lesions. Predictors of positive margins and residual lesions need to be identified. A design for postoperative management and avoidance of overtreatment needs to be provided, especially for women of child-bearing age.MethodsThis study was a retrospective analysis of 1309 women of child-bearing age with HSIL, who underwent cold knife conization (CKC). Age, gravidity, parity, human papillomavirus (HPV) species, cytology, transformation zone type, results of endocervical curettage (ECC), quadrant involvement, glandular involvement, and Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN) grade were analyzed. Among those with positive margins, 245 patients underwent secondary surgery within three months, including CKC, a loop electrosurgical excision procedure, and total hysterectomy. Risk factors for positive margins and residual lesions were assessed.ResultsThere was no significant difference in age, gravidity, parity, glandular involvement, and CIN grade between the two groups (P > 0.3). There was a significant difference in HPV species, cytology, ECC results, and quadrant involvement (P < 0.002). Multivariate analysis showed a major cytology abnormality, high-risk HPV infection, type III transformation zone, positive ECC result, and multiple quadrant involvement were independent risk factors for positive margins and residual lesions (P < 0.02). Age > 35 years was also a risk factor for residual lesions (P < 0.03).ConclusionHigh-risk women should be treated appropriately considering fertility. Patients with positive margins should be managed uniquely. Surgery for women without fertility may be appropriate. Close follow-up is necessary for women who have fertility requirements or are unwilling to undergo subsequent surgery if they have no risk factors, especially women < 35 years.

An analysis on the divergence of Chironomid spp. based on the study of 18S rRNA and polytene chromosome organization in the species revealing the role of environment on speciation

BackgroundNine species of Chironomus evolved throughout the world were measured for their divergence with regard to their DNA sequences concerning 18S rRNA since it is conserved for a specific species. With the advancement of the field of molecular evolution, cytogenetics requires further correlation between molecular architecture and morphological features of a species to compare amongst others to decipher their role in speciation. Therefore, divergence of DNA sequences of the Chironomus were compared with differences in the polytene chromosome features of most of the species under this investigation to evaluate underlying correlation among them, if any, to finally establish a novel method of molecular classification broadly applicable in cytogenetics studies.ResultsWhen Chironomus javanus Kieffer was considered as a reference organism, an in silico pair-wise alignment of sequences for the 18S rRNA gene regions of the other eight different species of the same genus exhibited nucleotide sequence homology ranging from 67 to 98%. This divergence of the species under consideration might be due to environmental impact causing alteration of nitrogenous bases probably due to mismatch pairing in DNA replication. This may be suggested as a cause of evolution of species in nature. A concomitant study on the polytene chromosome band patterns of majority of these species belonging to this series also indicated a divergence ranging from 10% to 30%.ConclusionsSequence analysis based on 18S rRNA of nine species of Chironomus under this investigation shows a similarity in the polytene chromosome organization in most of the Chironomid species of the series. Hence, molecular divergence in the species is consistent with cytological difference among Chironomid species. Therefore, molecular data based on 18S rRNA and cytological characters based on the polytene chromosome features of the Chironomid species may be useful for their taxonomical recognition. Moreover, variations concerning two aspects of this study may be correlated to their environmental distinctions.

Evaluation of Treatment With Respiratory Gene Technology and Serum in a Group of Standard Bred Racehorses With Cytological Evidence of Mild Equine Asthma

Alternative treatment options to glucocorticoids for equine asthma is desirable due to withdrawal time. The objective was to evaluate if serum and Respiratory Gene Technology (RGT), a commercial kit to produce autologous conditioned serum, was effective in reducing bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) neutrophils and mast cells in racehorses with cytological evidence of mild equine asthma . Thirty-six Standardbred trotters in active training were enrolled in this randomized clinical trial; a healthy control group (n=11), a RGT group (n=12) and a serum group (n=13). Endoscopy including tracheal wash (TW) and BAL was performed before (T0), after a 6-week treatment period including 12 intramuscular injections of RGT or serum (T6) and as a follow-up 10 weeks after treatment (T16). A significant decrease in BAL neutrophils for the RGT group was found between T0 and T6 (P = .002, d=-1.51, CI: -2.43;-0.59) and for the serum group between T0-T6 (P = .002, d=-1.36, CI: -2.26;-0.46). Further, a significant decrease in BAL mast cells between T0-T6 for the both the RGT group (P = .019, d=-1.23, CI: -1.22;-0.34) and the serum group (P= .004, d=-0.81, CI: -1.65;0.04), and further between T0-T16 (RGT P= .011, d=-1.55, CI: -2.62;-0.48; serum P= .044, d=-0.65, CI: -1.68;-0.37). No significant difference in TW cytology was found for any of the time-points. Pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines were regulated according to treatment. The control group showed no cytological differences between any time-point. Study results showed that intramuscular treatment with both RGT and serum was effective associated with reduction of BAL neutrophils and mast cells in horses with cytological evidence of mild equine asthma. Further large-scale studies are necessary.