Publications by authors named "M F Whitfield"

Background: In mammals, sperm fertilization potential relies on efficient progression within the female genital tract to reach and fertilize the oocyte. This fundamental property is supported by the flagellum, an evolutionarily conserved organelle, which contains dynein motor proteins that provide the mechanical force for sperm propulsion and motility. Primary motility of the sperm cells is acquired during their transit through the epididymis and hyperactivated motility is acquired throughout the journey in the female genital tract by a process called capacitation.

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The annulus is an electron-dense ring structure that surrounds the axoneme and compartmentalizes the sperm flagellum into two parts: the midpiece and the principal piece. The function of the annulus as a diffusion barrier in the mature spermatozoon is now well described but its function during spermiogenesis remains unclear. The intriguing spatio-temporal dynamics of the annulus during spermiogenesis and its position at the interface of the two main flagellar compartments have been highlighted for more than 50 years, and suggest a major role in this process.

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Article Synopsis
  • Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is a medicine that helps treat diseases like Systemic Sclerosis by slowing down certain immune cells called lymphocytes.
  • This study looked at how MMF affects other immune cells called monocytes and macrophages, which are important in Systemic Sclerosis.
  • The results showed that MMF can make these cells less active and even cause them to die, which might help reduce the harmful effects of Systemic Sclerosis on the body.
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Objective: The objective of this review was to map the literature about the concept of capability in advanced practice nursing education and practice to achieve greater clarity on the concept and its application.

Introduction: Advanced practice nursing roles make up a growing segment of the global nursing workforce. Capability has been proposed as an overarching description of the attributes of advanced practice nursing roles within complex workplace environments.

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Introduction: Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is prevalent in about 1 in 1000 people. A 39-year-old female diagnosed with HT was having unsuccessful symptom resolution with conventional thyroxine (T4) replacement therapy. In 60 days, there was a remarkable reduction of thyroid antibodies (Ab), improvement of thyroid hormones, and cardiometabolic biomarkers following a Paleolithic diet (PD).

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