From COVID-19 to long COVID; the forms of the neurological manifestations

Ever since the SARS-CoV-2 infection was declared a global pandemic in 2020, numerous multisystemic manifestations have been discovered. The COVID-19 is known to cause a wide spectrum of neurological symptoms like fatigue, headache, brain fog, stroke, smell and taste disorders, encephalopathy and neurodegenerative disorders. The neurological manifestations are more prevalent in the post-COVID syndrome or long COVID. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and WHO defined Ongoing Symptomatic COVID as 4-12 weeks post infection and post COVID-19 syndrome as persistence of symptoms beyond 12 weeks. So far there are limited data available regarding the pathophysiology of neurological symptoms of prolonged COVID, although neuroinflammation and oxidative damage have been implicated. In this review article, we have highlighted the transition from COVID to long-term COVID, focusing the discussion particularly on neurological complications

Effect of dizocilpine (MK-801) on the working memory of rats on a three-panel runway apparatus

Background: Understanding the processes underlying cognitive functions is a prerequisite to develop strategies for the treatment of cognitive deficits. There is a great need for valid animal models for investigating the cognitive enhancing effects of potential therapeutics. Many studies have investigated animal models of cognitive deficits by using animals treated with compounds that compromise cognitive abilities. Glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter and abundantly distributed in the central nervous system is involved in memory processes through N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. The behavioural consequences of blocking the NMDA receptor provide the rationale for cognitive impairment as an animal model for the cognitive deficits associated with dementia. Authors investigated the effect of dizocilpine (MK-801), an NMDA-receptor antagonist (non-competitive) on the working memory in rats using the three-panel runway apparatus.Methods: Total 24 trained male albino rats were randomly divided into 4 groups of 6 animals each. Varying doses of MK-801 were administered to the animals. Working memory errors and latency periods were evaluated on the three panel Runway apparatus.Results: Treatment with MK-801 at the dose of 0.03mg/ kg did not result in any significant change in working memory errors or latency period in comparison to saline control. MK-801 treatment at dose of 0.1mg/kg and 0.3mg/kg resulted in a significant increase in the number of working memory errors and latency period as compared to control.Conclusions: Authors conclude that MK-801 treatment in the dose of 0.1mg/ kg and 0.3mg/kg resulted in working memory deficits on the three-panel runway apparatus. Rats with cognitive deficits induced by the prototypical N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist MK-801 may provide a relevant animal model of dementia based on the mechanistic approach of blocking NMDA/glutamatergic signalling

The evolving landscape of immunohistochemistry in cervical and uterine carcinoma in gynecologic oncology: current status and future directions

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) has become an indispensable tool in routine gynecological pathology, particularly with the advancements in molecular understanding and histological classification of gynecological cancers. This evolution has led to new immunostainings for diagnostic and classification purposes. This review describes the diagnostic utility of IHC in gynecological neoplasms, drawing insights from literature reviews, personal experiences, and research findings. It delves into the application of IHC in resolving morphologically equivocal cases, emphasizing its role in achieving an accurate diagnosis. The selection of appropriate immunomarkers for common scenarios encountered in gynecological pathology aids pathologists in navigating complex cases. Specifically, we focus on cervical and endometrial malignancies, elucidating the molecular rationale behind the use of specific immunohistochemical markers. An updated overview of essential immunohistochemical markers provides knowledge for precise diagnosis and classification of gynecological cancers. This review serves as a valuable resource for clinicians and researchers involved in the management and study of gynecological malignancies, facilitating improved patient care and outcomes

Oilseed rape seeds with ablated defence cells of the glucosinolate–myrosinase system. Production and characteristics of double haploid MINELESS plants of Brassica napus L.

Oilseed rape and other crop plants of the family Brassicaceae contain a unique defence system known as the glucosinolate–myrosinase system or the ‘mustard oil bomb’. The ‘mustard oil bomb’ which includes myrosinase and glucosinolates is triggered by abiotic and biotic stress, resulting in the formation of toxic products such as nitriles and isothiocyanates. Myrosinase is present in specialist cells known as ‘myrosin cells’ and can also be known as toxic mines. The myrosin cell idioblasts of Brassica napus were genetically reprogrammed to undergo controlled cell death (ablation) during seed development. These myrosin cell-free plants have been named MINELESS as they lack toxic mines. This has led to the production of oilseed rape with a significant reduction both in myrosinase levels and in the hydrolysis of glucosinolates. Even though the myrosinase activity in MINELESS was very low compared with the wild type, variation was observed. This variability was overcome by producing homozygous seeds. A microspore culture technique involving non-fertile haploid MINELESS plants was developed and these plants were treated with colchicine to produce double haploid MINELESS plants with full fertility. Double haploid MINELESS plants had significantly reduced myrosinase levels and glucosinolate hydrolysis products. Wild-type and MINELESS plants exhibited significant differences in growth parameters such as plant height, leaf traits, matter accumulation, and yield parameters. The growth and developmental pattern of MINELESS plants was relatively slow compared with the wild type. The characteristics of the pure double haploid MINELESS plant are described and its importance for future biochemical, agricultural, dietary, functional genomics, and plant defence studies is discussed

Uterine Serous Cystadenoma or Endosalpingiosis?: A Case Report with a Review of Literature

Endosalpingiosis is a nonneoplastic lesion defined by the presence of tubal epithelium at ectopic sites such as the peritoneum, bladder, appendix, and even uterus. They may be asymptomatic and detected incidentally on ultrasonography. However, cystic endosalpingiosis is also known to be a mimicker of ovarian neoplasms. It is crucial for both the clinician and the pathologist to be aware of this benign lesion so that overdiagnosis and overtreatment can be avoided. We report a case of endosalpingiosis of the uterine serosa in a 45-year-old woman which was misdiagnosed as an adnexal cyst on radiological investigations

Histopathological Spectrum of Endoscopic Gastrointestinal Biopsies: An Experience from a Tertiary Care Centre, Uttarakhand, India

Introduction: The Gastrointestinal Tract (GIT) is the site of numerous pathological lesions from inflammatory to malignant. Endoscopic biopsy plays an important role in detection of earlystage cancers and precursor lesions. It also aids in determining the extent of disease, monitoring response to therapy and for early detection of complications. However, histopathological evaluation serves as gold standard for diagnosis and aids the clinician in deciding further management. Aim: To determine the histopathological spectrum of gastrointestinal lesions and assess the frequency of benign and malignant tumours in GIT in a tertiary care center in North India. Materials and Methods: It was a retrospective study in which all endoscopic gastrointestinal biopsies received in Department of Pathology at Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical and Health Sciences from January 2015 to December 2017 were retrieved. The lesions from oropharynx, oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum and anal canal were categorised as neoplastic (further divided as benign and malignant) and non neoplastic. The results were tabulated and expressed as frequencies and percentages. Results: Of the 867 cases, 582 were males and 285 were females with a male to female ratio of 2.04:1. The most common age group was sixth decade with a mean age of 53.8 years. Out of total 7782 specimens received, 867 (11.1%) were endoscopic gastrointestinal biopsies. Among all the biopsies evaluated, 116 (13.4%) were from oropharynx, 55 (6.3%) oesophageal, 97 (11.2%) from stomach and Gastroesophageal (GE) junction, 138 (15.9%) from small intestinal and 461 (53.2%) from colorectum and anal canal. Out of 867 biopsies, 659 (76%) were classified as non neoplastic and 208 (24%) were neoplastic. Incidence of malignancy was highest in gastric (29%) and oropharyngeal (28.5%) biopsies while it was least in small intestinal biopsies (4.3%). Conclusion: In the current study, squamous cell carcinoma and ulcerative colitis were the most prevalent neoplastic and non neoplastic lesions, respectively. It is advisable to interpret and correlate endoscopic findings with histopathology to arrive at a final diagnosis and aid the clinician for further management

Fetus in fetu in a 1-year-old female: A case report

Background: Fetus in fetu (FIF) is an exceedingly rare congenital anomaly characterized by the presence of a partially developed fetus within the body of its twin. It is a rare entity with fewer than 200 cases documented worldwide. Typically presenting as an abdominal mass in early childhood, this condition remains a diagnostic challenge due to its infrequency and varied clinical manifestations. Case presentation: We present the case of a 1-year-old female child referred to the pediatric surgery department due to an abdominal mass detected by her parents. Physical examination revealed a firm, ill-defined mass in the right upper abdomen. Ultrasonography delineated a heterogeneous, calcified mass in the right upper quadrant. Laboratory investigations (complete blood count, viral markers), including tumor markers (AFP, beta-hCG), were within normal limits.A midline laparotomy was performed, and intraoperative findings revealed a well-encapsulated mass adherent to the retroperitoneum, adjacent to the liver. Careful dissection was carried out to preserve vital structures, and the mass was successfully removed without rupture. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of fetus in fetu, displaying a spectrum of tissues reminiscent of embryonic development, including skin, adnexal structures, brain tissue, mature cartilage, adipose tissue, bone marrow elements, and a partially developed vertebral column. After the surgical resection, the patient experienced an uneventful postoperative recovery. At one year of follow up the patient has shown no signs of recurrence. Conclusion: FIF is characterized by diagnostic challenges, often requiring postoperative histological confirmation. Histopathological examination confirmed the presence of FIF. Surgical excision, is crucial for favorable outcomes, especially in preventing potential complications. Comprehensive histopathological evaluation remains imperative for accurate diagnosis

Spermatocytic tumor with extensive lymphovascular invasion in a young male

Spermatocytic tumors are rare testicular cancers, accounting for less than 1 % of all testicular neoplasms, usually affecting older men. This report details a 35-year-old male with a spermatocytic tumor featuring extensive lymphovascular invasion. The patient had a painless, slow-growing right testicular mass, with normal serum tumor markers. Ultrasound and CT scans suggested malignancy. Post-orchiectomy, histopathology confirmed a spermatocytic tumor with polymorphic cells and lymphovascular invasion. Immunohistochemical staining was positive for SALL4 and CD117, negative for OCT4, AFP, and CD30. The patient underwent chemotherapy and remained recurrence-free for a year, highlighting the need for accurate diagnosis and long-term monitoring

Evaluation of Human Leukocyte Antigen-B27 Expression in Patients with Spondylopathy/Spondylitis by Flowcytometry

Introduction: The role of immune mediated injury in pathogenesis of Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is well established. HLA B27, a Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I molecule is one of the major genetic risk factors associated with the disease. Various techniques are used for testing HLA-B27 which includes Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) based tests, Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and flowcytometry. Flowcytometry has gained popularity due to ease of procedure, shortened turnaround time and cost-effectiveness. Aim: The aim of the present study was to assess the sensitivity and specificity of flowcytometry for HLA-B27 detection, taking PCR assay as the gold standard along with its association with demographic, clinicopathological and radiological parameters. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study conducted in Department at Pathology of Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, Dehradun, India, for a period of 18 months from January 2020 to June 2021. The study included 51 patients for which HLA-B27 typing was done cases by flowcytometry and Sequence Specific Allele (SSA) PCR/Real time PCR on peripheral blood samples. The association of HLA-B27 with clinical features {Inflammatory Back Pain (IBP), arthritis, psoriasis, uveitis, dactylitis, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), cervicitis, urethritis, diarrhoea) along with MRI findings (sacroiliitis)}, laboratory findings {C-reactive protein and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)} was evaluated. The performance analysis parameters of flowcytometry were evaluated both by excluding and including the cases in grey zone taking PCR as gold standard. Statistical testing was conducted with SPSS 20.0. Chi-square test or Fisher’s-exact test were used and a p-value of less than 0.05 was taken as significant. Results: A significant association of HLA-B27 was seen only with IBP (p-value= 0.001) and sacroiliitis (p-value= 0.03). Of the 22 (43.1%) patients positive for HLA-B27 by PCR, 18(81.8%) patients were positive while the remaining 4(18.1%) were in grey zone by flowcytometry. Of the 29(56.9%) patients testing negative by PCR, 27(93.1%) patients were negative, one (3.4%) was in grey zone and one (3.4%- false positive) tested positive for HLA-B27 by flowcytometry. Sensitivity and specificity of flowcytometry for detection of HLA-B27 was found to be 100% and 96.4% respectively when grey zone cases were excluded. Conclusion: The study brings to light that flowcytometry is a fairly specific and sensitive method for HLA-B27 detection with a high Negative Predictive Value (NPV) (100%) and Positive Predictive Value (PPV) (94.7%). In the COVID-19 era, it reiterates the importance of flowcytometry for HLA-B27 especially when PCR is overburdened