Selection of stable housekeeping genes for gene expression studies in different varieties of black pepper (Piper nigrum L.)

Real Time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) is a widely used technique to study the transcript level modulation of genes during developmental stages of crop plants as well as in stress responses. Suitable reference genes have not been validated in many plants including black pepper. In this study, expression stability of six commonly used housekeeping genes viz., actin, ?-tubulin, elongation factor, initiation factor, ubiquitin and glyceraldehyde 3- phosphate dehydrogenase were evaluated by RT-qPCR during the growth of the black pepper inflorescence of varieties viz., Panniyur 1, Karimunda and Thekken. The results were analyzed using geNorm and Normfinder statistical algorithms. Stable reference gene is critical for the accurate normalization of target gene data in RT-qPCR. In this study actin, elongation factor and initiation factor were identified as the most stable housekeeping gene in different black pepper varieties viz., Thekken, Panniyur 1 and Karimunda respectively. Actin in combination with GAPDH and elongation factor were obtained as optimal reference genes for Thekken. It is the first report on identification of stable housekeeping gene in different varieties of black pepper and can aid in expression studies in black pepper for yield improvement. The study will aid in normalization of gene expression studies in different varieties of black pepper

“You feel different in your body”: Experiences of fatigue among children undergoing radiotherapy for cancer treatment

Purpose: The aim of this research is to examine the experience and impact of radiotherapy related fatigue in children diagnosed with solid tumours. Design and methods: Children (n = 25) and parents (n = 19) participated in a semi-structured interview on the last week of radiotherapy treatment. The study sample included children who were 6 to 14 years of age, diagnosed with brain or solid tumour, and received radiotherapy as part of their treatment protocol over the period of 6 weeks. Interpretation of data was undertaken through the adoption of thematic analysis approach. Results: Data revealed children's experience and response to fatigue while undergoing radiotherapy. Several recurring themes arose about their experience of fatigue/tiredness while undergoing radiotherapy. Two themes and eight sub themes, namely ‘Experience of Fatigue’ (“You feel Different in your body”, Mood and Feeling, Activity and Occurrence) and ‘Response to Fatigue’ (Rest and Sleep, Activity, Mood and Concentration and Eating Habit) were identified. Conclusions: The findings illustrated significant fatigue on activity sleep, rest and mood of children undergoing radiotherapy. Practice implications: Monitoring and addressing fatigue and its consequences during radiotherapy treatment are essential to improve well-being of children with cancer