Comments on the history of the Biological Stain Commission, Inc

Quirks of dye nomenclature. 16. Dyes, and a pigment, named after places

Many dyes produced during the 19^th century were named after locations. Manufacturers proliferated the number of synonyms used and in time, the original names were forgotten. Therefore, in the headings below, the original names are followed by the current name(s) in parentheses. The stories of some of these dyes that survived into the 21^st century are recounted here. Numerical identity data are provided. Chemical structures also are provided and for simplicity, ionic structures, which can be multiple and pH variable, are presented as their parents.

Accomplishments of the Trustees and laboratory staff of the Biological Stain Commission, 2002-2013

During the 12 years from 2002 to 2013, the Trustees and laboratory personnel of the Biological Stain Commission (BSC) can claim many accomplishments. These accomplishments are itemized under 11 categories: continuous publication of the official journal, Biotechnic & Histochemistry; production of four special issues of Biotechnic & Histochemistry devoted to specific dyes or stains; standardization of staining and dye purity; mechanisms of staining and prediction of dye behavior; publication of books or book chapters; effects of fixation and processing on staining; cancer research; immunohistochemistry; BSC Laboratory activities; miscellaneous publications; and administrative accomplishments.