Th1/Th2 cytokine polarization in three different anaesthesia protocols administered to cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy

This study investigated perioperative Th1/Th2 cytokine polarization and biochemical changes in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy under three different anesthesia protocols. Twenty-four healthy mixed-breed female cats were randomly allocated into three groups (n = 8/group): propofol–isoflurane (Group I), xylazine–ketamine hydrochloride (Group II), and xylazine–isoflurane (Group III). Venous blood samples were collected preoperatively (0 h) and at 6 and 12 h postoperatively. Serum co...

The Consequences of Performance Measurement Systems in Multilevel Governance Health Systems: The Case of the Italian National Healthcare Service

Background: Performance measurement systems (PMSs) have become an essential component of health system reforms globally and are increasingly used to assess, reward and improve provider performance. While PMSs can be valuable tools for achieving desired health outcomes, their effectiveness depends on how they are designed, implemented, and used within complex multilevel governance structures. There is evidence that PMSs may also have unintended negative consequences. Drawing on new empirical e...

Uncovering the genomic basis of lactose content in Valle del Belice dairy sheep

Genetic variability of SARS-CoV-2 XFG lineage and its parental lineages

SARS-CoV-2 XFG (nicknamed Stratus), a recombinant lineage arising from LP.8.1.2 and LF.7, is currently the most prevalent circulating lineage. Although most recombinant lineages do not pose a significant public health concern, some have shown the capacity to emerge and spread, highlighting the importance of their investigation. In this context, we performed a genome-based analysis to assess the genetic variability of XFG and to identify its recombination breakpoint. The breakpoint was mapped ...