bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing and managing skin tears in older people
Authors: Clothier Annie
Published: June 2014

The skin is the largest and most visible organ in the body, comprising of two principal layers, the dermis and epidermis ( Timmons, 2006 ). Skin tears are acute, traumatic injuries, presenting predominantly in the extremities of the elderly, as a result of friction and shearing forces which separate the principal layers of the skin ( Baranoski, 2005 ). Skin tears cause significant pain and adversely affect quality of life. It is essential that health professionals ensure they are confident and competent in the management of skin tears. This article discusses how to assess and manage skin tears in older people and provides an overview of factors to consider when choosing an appropriate dressing.
Improving treatments for obesity: The concept of self-management
Authors: Shepherd Alison Burton
Published: June 2014

Obesity is one of the major healthcare challenges of the 21st century. With the increasing numbers of both adults and children who are deemed to be overweight or obese, it is prudent to suggest that traditional treatments including diet and exercise are not effective. In order to combat the obesity crisis, new treatments urgently need to be identified. Poor lifestyle is one major factor which may explain the rising trends in obesity, and to this end, the Department of Health (2012) have advised that the use of ‘self-management’ techniques may seek to promote behaviour change and could be useful in obesity management. This article will evaluate the potential role of self-management strategies and provide a brief description on how this may be achieved in the treatment of obesity.
Foam dressings
Authors: Pudner Rosie
Published: June 2014

This fifth article in the series on wound dressing products examines the use of foam dressings in the management of granulating and epithelializing wounds. The properties of each dressing will be discussed, followed by the method of application and removal of the dressings. The foam dressings which will be discussed are Lyofoam, Lyofoam Extra, Lyofoam Extra Adhesive, Allevyn, Allevyn Adhesive, Allevyn Cavity, Cavi-Care, Spyrosorb and Tielle (Table 1).
Medication and wound healing
Authors: Nobbs Sarah
Published: June 2014

Effective management of challenging or problematic wounds requires a thorough, holistic patient assessment, which includes taking into account the patients medication. There has been a great deal of research into the ways in which drugs affect the physiology of wound healing, but to understand it the nurse must know what the normal processes are.
Walk-in Clinic: Itchy skin
Authors: Ruscoe Dorf , Arshi Harpreet
Published: June 2014

Itchiness is well known as a symptom of eczema, psoriasis and infections of all kinds, but sometimes there is no observable skin disease, and as Dorf Ruscoe and Harpreet Arshi explain the underlying cause can be very serious indeed
Readers respond
Authors: Eveleigh Marilyn , Brown Barrie , Jones Mark
Published: June 2014

Information sought on protocol review

Tony Blair undermines nurses' pay body
Who Is Competent To Run Primary Care Groups?
Authors: Humphris Debra
Published: June 2014

PCGs are effectively ‘treating’ whole communities and Debra Humphris argues that this requires a whole new set of professional standards.
Helping People Change
Authors: Carpenter Marian
Published: June 2014

Marian Carpenter applied the Process of Change model to a patient at risk of developing diabetes. She tells of her success.
Schizophrenia: Drug Therapy
Authors: Martin Stephen
Published: June 2014

When the first term for schizophrenia, dementia praecox, was coined in the late 19th century there was no choice but to emphasize the poor prognosis of the disorder (Kraepelin, 1896). There were at that stage no effective treatments.
Psychosocial Intervention
Authors: Martin Stephen
Published: June 2014

The term schizophrenia applied with proper diagnostic criteria is not a glib label, but a helpful diagnosis. Unfortunately it has frightening connotations that have largely been stirred up by misuse of psychiatric terminology by the media, with over-dramatic and over-emphasised coverage of rare disasters.

Stephen Martin looks at psychosocial intervention and its use in treating patients with schizophrenia.
HCAs in general practice
Authors: Holmes Sheila
Published: June 2014

Skill mix agendas within the general practice environment are high on the clinical and financial priorities is primary care. This article describes how the introduction of health care assistants into general practices offers a way forward for the development of the clinical role of practice nurses and the more effective use of resources.
No such thing as a healthy tan
Authors: Robertshaw Hazel , Hammick Marilyn
Published: June 2014

The quest for a healthy lifestyle has been epitomised by a glowing tan since the 1940s, in sharp contrast to the Victorian premise that pale was beautiful. The media portrayal of bronzed beauty has led to many people baring their bodies to the damaging effects of the sun for two weeks each year on holiday. The result has been an increase in the number of reported skin cancers and, in particular, malignant melanoma.

Malignant melanoma is a rare form of skin cancer, but its incidence is rising. Early detection affords the best chance of a cure.
Pain management in the community
Authors: Burn Gilly
Published: June 2014

Managing pain is about far more than the administration of analgesics. Gilly Burn explains the importance of a holistic approach.
Pain management, ethics and the practice nurse
Authors: Duke Susan
Published: June 2014

Helping patients manage pain has many ethical implications, as Susan Duke explains.
Walk-in Clinic: Insomnia
Authors: Johnson Wendy , Johnson Stephen
Published: June 2014

Determining the underlying cause of insomnia will help patients take a holistic approach to treatment. Wendy and Stephen Johnson explain how the practice nurse can help.
Readers Respond
Authors: Paniagua Hilary , Young Nicholas , Davies Martin
Published: June 2014

Medical approach damaging the advance of women's health

Dealing with breathlessness in lung cancer patients

Keep flying th mental health flag
Urticaria: Causes and management
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: June 2014

Urticaria is well known in lay terms as nettle rash or hives. It frequently presents in the surgery as an acute problem. The patient complains of irritating skin blotches, blisters or wheals that may be pale or pink in the centre and red around the edges.

Dr Jean Watkins looks at the causes, management and treatment of urticaria.
PN perceptions of support workers
Authors: Dunn Lynne
Published: June 2014

This qualitative research focuses on practice nurses' perceptions of their role and philosophy with implications for the role of support workers. A Heideggarian Phenomenological approach was used to explore opportunistic and purposeful samples of thirteen nurses, from various general practice work environments in Devon, between October 1995 and April 1996. Focus group interviews enabled participants to express themselves, exploring their role and philosophy in depth and to reflect and consider the reasons for their opinions of support worker roles.

Most practice nurses reported delegating tasks to support workers for non clinical work at some time, and some practice nurses enabled support workers to undertake minor clinical roles in the right circumstances. Practice nurses always, however, felt it was essential to undertake initial assessment themselves.
Management of warts in practice
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: June 2014

The wart clinic is now an integral part of the services provided in most general practices. With the increased awareness of possible malignant skin lesions the patient is likely to be concerned not only with the worrying possibility of a malignant melanoma but also simple naevi and warts.

Dr Jean Watkins looks at the options for treatment of warts in primary care.
Promoting male health
Authors: Brewer Sarah
Published: June 2014

Men tend to lead unhealthy lives and avoid doctors, but as Sarah Brewer explains that can be changed.
Is clinical supervision an option for practice nurses?
Authors: Styles Julia , Casey Christine , Gibson Tim
Published: June 2014

A pilot study in Wales has given clear indications of how clinical supervision can be developed for nurses in general practice.
Cervical smears: a PN audit
Authors: Hook Ann , Pratt Claire , Cosford Liz , Kernick Vicky
Published: June 2014

The North & East Devon Primary Care Audit Group actively promotes multidisciplinary and interface audit within its area. To facilitate a greater involvement from practice nurses, the practice nurse representatives (Ann Hook and Claire Pratt) organized a small audit group for practice nurses. Audit expertise was provided by the audit team manager (Liz Cosford). The aim was to enable the nurses to gain more confidence with audit.
Letters
Authors: Hardman Julie , Lucas Julia
Published: June 2014

Nurse prescribing: the debate goes on
Asthma: what else could it be?
Authors: Booker Rachel
Published: June 2014

Asthma is common, affecting about 5% of the population of Great Britain, and may present as cough, wheeze, ‘chest-tightness’ and breathlessness on exertion. Although the peak age of onset is in childhood, it can, and does, present at any age (LAIA, 1999).

At each end of the age spectrum there is potential for misdiagnosis. The aim of this article is to give a brief ‘A–Z’ (omitting several letters of the alphabet) of the differential diagnosis of asthma in adults.
The Dorset approach to leg ulcers
Authors: Feltham Maggie , Goodwin Peter , Watkins Jean
Published: June 2014

Leg ulcers take up an enormous amount of time in the daily life of the nurse. Whether it be the practice nurse in the treatment room, the district nurse in the community or the hospital nurse in Outpatients or on the ward, the work of supervising, dressing and bandaging these persistent problems is tedious and time consuming. From the patients' point of view, they suffer months of discomfort, pain, inconvenience and frustration while struggling to keep appointments or waiting — confined to the house — for the nurse to call. Further frustration may follow when the ulcer finally heals, only to break down again at a later date.
Walk-in Clinic Sunburn
Authors: Fisher Pam , Holmes Peter
Published: June 2014

Too much sun can precipitate a range of acute to chronic conditions

Sunburn is defined as a superficial cutaneous reaction to ultra violet radiation (UVR) exposed areas (Caumes 1996). Affected skin becomes red several hours later, maximally after one day, then settling over the next two or three days. The amount of damage is dependant on the skin type, the time, the locality and the circumstances of exposure.

Pam Fisher and Peter Holmes consider effects, treatments and prevention
Using NSAIDs in arthritis
Authors: Hicks Rob
Published: June 2014

Arthritis is one of the commonest diseases treated in primary care, with around 20 million people in the UK suffering at least one of its many forms (Arthritis Care, 1989). Around 50% of those over 50 years of age will develop osteoarthritis, and this increases with age. In addition, around 2% of the population suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and around 1% of the population suffer from ankylosing spondylitis (Huskinsson and Drury, 1992).
Walk-in Clinic Joint pain
Authors: Johnson Wendy , Johnson Stephen
Published: June 2014

Joint pain may signal degeneration, infection, trauma, or connective tissue disorders

Pain in the joints is a very common symptom seen in primary care for which there are a multitude of causes. These range from acute to chronic, progressive, conditions; and can result in much misery to sufferers, as well as numerous lost working days. Eight million people every year seek help from their GP for ‘rheumatic’ disorders (Souhami and Moxham, 1990).

Wendy and Stephen Johnson consider the different causes and treatments
Introduction to qualitative research
Authors: Baird Anne
Published: June 2014

Nursing research is continuing to develop, consolidating the professionalism of the discipline and its place in higher education.

Government support has been crucial to ensuring nursing research has taken on a higher profile in recent years. Different research methodologies i.e. quantative and qualitative both have a place, depending on the nature of the results desired.

The second part of this article explores the nurse's role in conducting the qualitative research intrerview.

This work was prepared as part of an MA in Health Care Practice (Nurse Practitioner).
No progress in prescribing review
Authors: Richards Sue
Published: June 2014

The Crown report is a disappointment, failing to recognize the true role of nurses, says Sue Richards.
Occupational allergy
Authors: Cross Sue
Published: June 2014

An agent inhaled in the workplace causes occupational asthma. As well as asthma, the patient often suffers with rhinitis (Steimacher et al, 1999).

Compensation (in Britain) is an important consideration in occupational asthma. It is legally defined as ‘asthma that develops after a variable period of symptomless exposure to a sensitizing agent encountered at work’. Patients with pre-exhisting asthma may develop broncho-constriction at work after exposure to irritants.

Sue Cross outlines the key factors which can contribute to occupational asthma and how it should be managed.
From practice manager to PCG chief executive
Authors: Lawrence-Parr Carole
Published: June 2014

I have spent 23 years working in the National Health Service, the last 13 of which were as general manager of a practice in which I was responsible for 80 staff.

Life at the practice was hectic, dealing with the demands of a large, multidisciplinary team, the patients who were registered with our practice and, of course, the doctors themselves. My day was always busy with unexpected demands, but I had the support of well trained staff, who knew that I demanded high standards from them, which, in turn, resulted in excellent patient care.
Cutting costs compromises care
Authors: Richards Sue
Published: June 2014

Attempts to save money are putting practice nursing posts and patient care at risk, says Sue Richards.
The qualitative research interview
Authors: Baird Anne
Published: June 2014

The research interview was identified in the previous article as being an appropriate tool for data collection in various types of qualitative enquiry. Here, the qualitative research process and the ethical and professional issues surrounding the use of the research interview will be examined in more detail.
High Expression of the Mismatch Repair Protein MSH6 Is Associated With Poor Patient Survival in Melanoma
Authors: Alvino Ester , Passarelli Francesca , Cannavò Elda , Fortes Cristina , Mastroeni Simona , Caporali Simona , Jiricny Josef , Cappellini Gian Carlo Antonini , Scoppola Alessandro , Marchetti Paolo , Modesti Andrea , D’Atri Stefania
Published: June 2014

Objectives:

The outcome of patients with primary melanoma (PM) cannot be completely explained based on currently adopted clinical-histopathologic criteria. In this study, we evaluated the potential prognostic value of mismatch repair protein expression in PMs.

Methods:

We examined the immunohistochemical staining of mismatch repair proteins in 18 benign nevi and 101 stage I to III PMs and investigated their association with tumor clinicopathologic variables and melanoma mortality.

Results:

Expression of MSH2, MLH1, and PMS2 was high in benign nevi and reduced in a subset of PMs. Conversely, MSH6 expression was absent or extremely low in benign nevi and increased in a subset of PMs. In the multivariate analysis, including sex, age, Breslow thickness, and ulceration, high MSH6 expression in PMs (ie, immunostaining in >20% of tumor cells) was significantly associated with an increased risk of melanoma mortality (relative risk, 3.76; 95% confidence interval, 1.12–12.70).

Conclusions:

MSH6 protein expression can be a valuable marker to improve prognosis assessment in PMs.
Ticagrelor-Induced Pneumonitis and Subsequent Pulmonary Hemorrhage; Drug Rash with Eosinophilia Due to Boceprevir; Hepatitis C Reactivation after Starting Infliximab; Hydralazine-Associated Immune Glomerulonephritis; Fluoroquinolones and Retinal Detachment
Authors: Mancano Michael A.
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), discuss methods of prevention, and promote reporting of ADRs to the US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) MedWatch program (800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting, preventable ADR to MedWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers.
Effectiveness Evaluation of a Pharmacist-Driven Monitoring Database for Tardive Dyskinesia
Authors: Diefenderfer Lauren A. , Nelson Leigh Anne , Elliott Ellie , Liu Yifei , Iuppa Courtney , Winans Elizabeth , Sommi Roger W.
Published: June 2014

Background

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a potentially irreversible, chronic syndrome related to antipsychotic medication use characterized by hyperkinetic abnormal involuntary movements. Various studies have shown that development of TD is possible with both first- and second-generation antipsychotics. Regular monitoring for emergence of TD symptoms is recommended in clinical practice for early recognition and intervention.

Methods

This is a retrospective, single-center, observational study of the effectiveness of a pharmacist-driven monitoring database for TD assessment. Subjects were adult inpatients at a state psychiatric hospital who received antipsychotic treatment for at least 3 or 6 months between January 2006 and December 2011. The primary objective was to assess compliance rates with TD monitoring based on facility policy before and after implementation of the database at 3 and 6 months following initiation of antipsychotic therapy.

Results

A significant improvement in compliance with TD monitoring policy was seen after implementation of the database (2.9% vs 66.7%; P < .001). Compliance with TD monitoring did not differ between classes of antipsychotic medication, hospital units, or age groups.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrate that pharmacists can help improve compliance with TD assessment and that monitoring databases may be useful for similar extended or long-term care settings to ensure timely assessment of patients for the development or progression of TD.
Evaluation of Serum Carnitine Levels for Pediatric Patients Receiving Carnitine-Free and Carnitine-Supplemented Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Winther Brian , Jackson Daniel , Mulroy Cecilia , MacKay Mark
Published: June 2014

Purpose

Carnitine is a carrier molecule transporting long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs) into the mitochondria for fatty acid β-oxidation. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the role of carnitine supplementation in parenteral nutrition (PN) within the pediatric population. Our goal was to determine a weight range for which empiric carnitine supplementation is justified and to determine a weight range at which a carnitine level should first be drawn to confirm a deficiency prior to supplementation. Secondarily, we tried to determine a relationship among carnitine deficiency, hypoglycemia, and hypertriglyceridemia.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study to evaluate 2 groups of pediatric patients (weighing 0.68 kg to 60 kg) who were NPO and receiving PN. The first group of patients ( n = 454) received carnitine supplementation (15 mg/kg/day) upon initiation of PN. The second group ( n = 299) did not receive carnitine supplementation until they were determined to have a carnitine deficiency.

Results

The data indicated that 82% of the patients weighing less than 5 kg were deficient. Patients weighing more than 5 kg had serum carnitine levels within the normal range. Therefore, patients receiving PN and weighing less than 5 kg should be supplemented with carnitine. Comparison of triglyceride, glucose, and carnitine showed no statistically significant difference ( P = .1936).

Conclusion

Patients weighing more than 5 kg should have serum carnitine levels drawn within 7 days to determine whether supplementation is needed. There is no statistical correlation among carnitine deficiency, hypoglycemia, and hypertriglyceridemia.
Umeclidinium Bromide and Vilanterol Trifenatate Inhalation Powder
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Ingram Kyle , Leonard James , Baker Danial E.
Published: June 2014

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive 5 to 6 well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committees. Subscribers also receive monthly 1-page summary monographs on agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation/medication use evaluation (DUE/MUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are sent in print and are also available on-line. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of a facility. A drug class review is now published monthly with The Formulary Monograph Service. Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. For more information about The Formulary Monograph Service, call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The June 2014 monograph topics are apremilast, metreleptin, five pollen allergen extract, evolocumab, and miltefosine. The DUE/MUE is on apremilast.
Approvals, Submission, and Important LabelingChanges for US Marketed Pharmaceuticals
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: June 2014

This monthly feature will help readers keep current on new drugs, new indications, dosage forms, and safety-related changes in labeling or use. Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of this information;.
Socially Responsible Enterprise in Cuba: A Positive Role Model for Corporate Social Responsibility?
Authors: Denise Baden  , Stephen Wilkinson
Published: June 2014

This article examines the unique institutional environment of socialist Cuba, where currently a process of controlled marketisation and expansion of private enterprise is taking place. The article investigates business behaviour in Cuba with particular reference to implicit assumptions relating to socially responsible enterprise, or ‘Corporate Social Responsibility’ (CSR) as the term is understood in Western Liberal Democracies. It draws upon a series of interviews with business practitioners and business commentators (both Cuban and non-Cuban residents on the island). The interviews focused on the participants' awareness of business ethics and socially responsible enterprise, and the cultural differences in assumptions and expectations relating to the concept of CSR between the Cuban and non-Cuban interviewees. We find that Cuba at this early stage of tentative marketisation presents a positive role model of socially responsible enterprise. Both the highly regulated State economy, and the embedded norms and values of social equity that have emerged as a consequence of Cuba's socialist revolution facilitate business social responsibility. The relevance of this research to current debates in relation to CSR is discussed, and it is argued that capitalist economies may similarly benefit from tighter regulatory control and by cultivating more pro-social business norms that prioritise ethical over economic concerns.
Healthy ageing in Australia’s rural places: the contribution of older volunteers
Authors: Winterton Rachel , Warburton Jeni
Published: June 2014

Drawing on case studies of two ageing rural communities in north-east Victoria, Australia, this article explores how older volunteers both contribute to, and are supported by, third sector activities and services within rural environments. As such, volunteer activities build healthy ageing in rural settings, and contribute to community viability. However, further analyses suggest that reliance on third sector voluntarism also presents serious challenges for the future. This is particularly the case in relation to the sustainability of healthy ageing in rural settings where public sector resources are being rationalised. Our findings show that there are risks associated with an over-reliance on volunteers in rural communities and with the excessive regulation of volunteers unless appropriate infrastructure and support are provided.
The bank lending channel and monetary policy rules for Eurozone banks: further extensions
Authors: Apergis Nicholas , Miller Stephen M. , Alevizopoulou Effrosyni
Published: June 2014

The monetary authorities affect macroeconomic activity through various channels of influence. This paper examines the bank lending channel, which considers how central bank actions affect the loan supply through its main indicator of policy, the real short-term interest rate. This paper employs the endogenously determined target interest rate, emanating from the European Central Bank’s monetary policy rule, to examine the operation of the bank lending channel. Furthermore, it examines whether different bank-specific characteristics affect how Eurozone banks react to monetary shocks. That is, do sounder banks react more to the monetary policy rule than less-sound banks? The paper finds evidence of an active and statistically and economically significant bank lending channel for the Eurozone between 2000 and 2009.
Superfast Wavelet Transform Using Quantics-TT
Approximation. I. Application to Haar Wavelets
Authors: Khoromskij Boris N. , Miao Sentao
Published: June 2014

We propose a superfast discrete Haar wavelet transform (SFHWT) as
well as its inverse, using the low-rank Quantics-TT (QTT) representation for
the Haar transform matrices and input-output vectors. Though the Haar matrix
itself does not have a low QTT rank approximation, we show that factor matrices
used at each step of the traditional multilevel Haar wavelet transform
algorithm have explicit QTT representations of low rank.
The SFHWT applies to a vector representing a signal sampled on a uniform grid
of size

N
=

2
d

${N=2^d}$

. We develop two algorithms which roughly require square
logarithmic time complexity

O
(

log
2

N
)

${O(\log ^2 N)}$

with respect to the grid size,
hence outperforming the traditional fast Haar wavelet transform (FHWT) of
linear complexity O(N). Our approach also applies to the FHWT inverse as
well as to the multidimensional wavelet transform. Numerical experiments
demonstrate that the SFHWT algorithm is robust in keeping low rank of the
resulting output vector and it outperforms the traditional FHWT for grid sizes
larger than a certain value depending on the spacial dimension.
The Conditional Distribution of Waiting Time Given Queue Length
Authors: Patil Dipak D. , Naik-Nimbalkar Uttara V.
Published: June 2014

In this paper we propose a conditional distribution of the waiting time given the queue length. We assume that the number of customers in a queue, that is the queue length, follows a geometric distribution and the waiting time of a newly arrived customer in a queue follows an exponential distribution. We model the conditional distribution of the waiting time given the queue length using Gumbel's bivariate exponential copula. Parameters are estimated using the likelihood approach with a two stage estimation procedure. A simulation study indicates the performance of the estimators. Asymptotic properties of the estimators of the parameters are studied. We apply the model to a real data set to illustrate the dependence between the waiting time and the queue length.
Design and Development of Low-Cost Makhana Grading and Roasting Machine
Authors: Kumar Vishal , Rajak Dinesh , Kumar Raushan , Kumar Vikash , Devi Sharma Pratibha
Published: June 2014

The currently available technology of Makhana processing is not only indigenous and manual but also cumbersome and painstaking. The process involves handling of hot roasted seeds which require two to three laborers to process 8–9 kg of popped Makhana per day. With the view to mechanize the unit operation involved in Makhana processing, grading and roasting machine were designed and developed. Grader was developed based on engineering properties of Makhana while the roaster was designed based on preliminary experiments for Makhana, i.e. shell breaking force at different temperatures and for varying residence time. The grader performed best at feed rate of 20 kg/h with grading effectiveness of 0.99, 0.955 and 0.95 for grade 1, grade 2 and grade 3 Makhana seeds respectively. The developed roasting machine worked satisfactorily with 100% popping efficiency at machine capacity around 23.0 kg/h. The residence time of seeds in the roaster was 2.6 min and the average temperature of roasted seeds of grade 1, grade 2, grade 3 was found to be 271.33°C, 281.1°C and 280.7°C respectively.
Lachen und Politik. Zur Funktion von Humor in der politischen Kommunikation des römischen Principats
Authors: Meister Jan B.
Published: June 2014

Humor ist ein schwer fassbares Phänomen: Obwohl universell, ist er jeweils stark kulturell geprägt und daher in der Rückschau keineswegs immer leicht zu erkennen. Der vorliegende Beitrag möchte die Funktion von Humor in der politischen Kommunikation im frühen Principat genauer untersuchen. Ausgangspunkt ist die doppelbödige Kommunikation, die sich aus der Gleichzeitigkeit von Republik und Monarchie ergab. Vergleicht man diese kommunikative Situation mit modernen Theorien zu Humor und Komik, so zeigt sich, dass genau in dieser Doppelbödigkeit ein latentes humoristisches Potential lag. In der historischen Rückschau konnte daher bereits in der Antike Komik dort gesehen werden, wo ursprünglich gar keine intendiert war. Doch in der politischen Praxis musste die Realisierung des komischen Potentials, welches das System barg, zwingend vermieden werden, da die für das System lebensnotwendige Doppelbödigkeit im Lachen verloren gegangen wäre. Gelacht werden konnte nur über scheinbar banale Dinge, doch gerade ein solches Lachen konnte systemstabilisierend sein, wie abschließend anhand der Rede des Claudius über das ius honorum der Gallier gezeigt wird.
The Idea of aeternitas of State, City and Emperor in Augustan Poetry
Authors: Balbuza Katarzyna
Published: June 2014

The years of the early Principate, especially the rule of Augustus, are witness to the radical change, on the contrary to Republic, in the number of references of aeternitas especially in Roman poetry. Famous Augustan poets close to the idea of aeternitas are Virgil, Tibullus, Propertius, Horace and Ovid. Numerous references to the concept of aeternitas constituted the outcome of the contemporary mentality and specific world views towards the issue of the permanence and stability of the state; they resulted from social expectations as well as from ideological creations of the new power. The notion of aeternitas, which Augustan authors referred to, was deliberately set in the religious and political tradition of Rome. By means of this notion, poets extremely frequently conveyed the idea of the permanence and stability of the state as well as of the prevailing political system. Most often the concept was evoked in the context of the tradition of the foundation myths of Rome, especially with reference to the heroes of those myths (e.g. Romulus, Aeneas), ancient cults (e.g. of Vesta) as well as religious and political institutions (e.g. Pontifex Maximus). The tendency to treat the state as eternal seems to have increased in 12 B.C. This coincided with two events – the assumption of the function of Pontifex Maximus by Augustus (6th of March 12 B.C.) and attending with care to Vesta, who was linked to the House of Augustus on the Palatine.
Zu den Heeresformationen Roms an Rhein und oberer Donau in der Zeit des Alexander Severus und Maximinus Thrax
Authors: Wiegels Rainer
Published: June 2014

Die Ergebnisse der archäologischen Ausgrabungen am Harzhorn lassen sich mit großer Wahrscheinlichkeit mit dem Kriegszug des Maximinus Thrax in das Gebiet der Germania magna 235/236 n. Chr. in Verbindung bringen. Dennoch besteht angesichts der Quellenlage weder über Zielsetzung und Verlauf der militärischen Aktionen Roms noch über die Heeresformationen, welche schon von Alexander Severus bei Mainz zusammengezogen worden waren, hinreichend Klarheit. Der Beitrag versucht durch eine umfassende Interpretation der verfügbaren literarischen und epigraphischen Quellen, die vom Kriegszug des Severus Alexander gegen die Parther ihren Ausgang nimmt, die Heeresgeschichte an Rhein und oberer Donau mit Fokus auf die Heeresformationen zumindest in einigen wesentlichen Grundzügen zu klären. Dabei soll insbesondere auf die Rolle von Spezialtruppen – Mauri, Osrhoeni, Catafractarii – im Heer der Römer eingegangen werden und die Zuordnung von Inschriften aus dem rechtsrheinischen Bereich, in denen catafractarii genannt werden und die gewöhnlich mit dem Feldzug des Maximinus nach Germanien in Verbindung gebracht werden, überprüft werden. Kurz Stellung genommen wird zuvor zur militärischen Lage an Rhein und oberer Donau (Raetien) im Jahr 235 n. Chr. und zu den Disposition der verschiedenen Formationen an diesen Grenzabschnitten.
The Cult of Mithras in Early Christian Literature – an Inventory and Interpretation
Authors: Roselaar Saskia
Published: June 2014

This article investigates references to Mithraism in early Christian works, dating from the second to fifth centuries AD. It argues that the way the Mithras cult was described and/or addressed transformed as the relative positions in society of Christianity and pagan cults changed. In the earliest period Christianity was only one religious group among many, and its later dominance could not be foreseen. This may have made Christian writers eager to distinguish themselves from other religious groups by a detailed explanation of the differences between their religion and others, and by a careful exposition of what their cult entailed and why other cults were wrong. In later periods, when the position of Christianity was much stronger, a systematic refutation of other religions was no longer necessary. Most references to the cult of Mithras in later periods therefore merely seem to emphasize the superiority felt by Christians over other religions. An Appendix collects all references to the Mithras cult in patristic literature from the second to fifth century AD.
Bicaudal‐D1 regulates the intracellular sorting and signalling of neurotrophin receptors
Authors: Terenzio Marco , Golding Matthew , Russell Matthew R G , Wicher Krzysztof B , Rosewell Ian , Spencer‐Dene Bradley , Ish‐Horowicz David , Schiavo Giampietro
Published: June 2014

We have identified a new function for the dynein adaptor Bicaudal D homolog 1 (BICD1) by screening a siRNA library for genes affecting the dynamics of neurotrophin receptor‐containing endosomes in motor neurons (MNs). Depleting BICD1 increased the intracellular accumulation of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)‐activated TrkB and p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) by disrupting the endosomal sorting, reducing lysosomal degradation and increasing the co‐localisation of these neurotrophin receptors with retromer‐associated sorting nexin 1. The resulting re‐routing of active receptors increased their recycling to the plasma membrane and altered the repertoire of signalling‐competent TrkB isoforms and p75NTR available for ligand binding on the neuronal surface. This resulted in attenuated, but more sustained, AKT activation in response to BDNF stimulation. These data, together with our observation that Bicd1 expression is restricted to the developing nervous system when neurotrophin receptor expression peaks, indicate that BICD1 regulates neurotrophin signalling by modulating the endosomal sorting of internalised ligand‐activated receptors.
Affinity proteomics within rare diseases: a BIO‐NMD study for blood biomarkers of muscular dystrophies
Authors: Ayoglu Burcu , Chaouch Amina , Lochmüller Hanns , Politano Luisa , Bertini Enrico , Spitali Pietro , Hiller Monika , Niks Eric H , Gualandi Francesca , Pontén Fredrik , Bushby Kate , Aartsma‐Rus Annemieke , Schwartz Elena , Le Priol Yannick , Straub Volker , Uhlén Mathias , Cirak Sebahattin , ‘t Hoen Peter A C , Muntoni Francesco , Ferlini Alessandra , Schwenk Jochen M , Nilsson Peter , Al‐Khalili Szigyarto Cristina
Published: June 2014

Despite the recent progress in the broad‐scaled analysis of proteins in body fluids, there is still a lack in protein profiling approaches for biomarkers of rare diseases. Scarcity of samples is the main obstacle hindering attempts to apply discovery driven protein profiling in rare diseases. We addressed this challenge by combining samples collected within the BIO‐NMD consortium from four geographically dispersed clinical sites to identify protein markers associated with muscular dystrophy using an antibody bead array platform with 384 antibodies. Based on concordance in statistical significance and confirmatory results obtained from analysis of both serum and plasma, we identified eleven proteins associated with muscular dystrophy, among which four proteins were elevated in blood from muscular dystrophy patients: carbonic anhydrase III (CA3) and myosin light chain 3 (MYL3), both specifically expressed in slow‐twitch muscle fibers and mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase 2 (MDH2) and electron transfer flavoprotein A (ETFA). Using age‐matched sub‐cohorts, 9 protein profiles correlating with disease progression and severity were identified, which hold promise for the development of new clinical tools for management of dystrophinopathies.
Plasma irisin levels progressively increase in response to increasing exercise workloads in young, healthy, active subjects
Authors: Daskalopoulou Stella S , Cooke Alexandra B , Gomez Yessica-Haydee , Mutter Andrew F , Filippaios Andreas , Mesfum Ertirea T , Mantzoros Christos S
Published: June 2014

Background

Irisin, a recently discovered myokine, has been shown to induce browning of white adipose tissue, enhancing energy expenditure and mediating some of the beneficial effects of exercise. We aimed to estimate the time frame of changes in irisin levels after acute exercise and the effect of different exercise workloads and intensities on circulating irisin levels immediately post-exercise.

Methods

In a pilot study, four healthy subjects (22.5±1.7 years) underwent maximal workload exercise (maximal oxygen consumption, VO2 max) and blood was drawn at prespecified intervals to define the time frame of pre- and post-exercise irisin changes over a 24-h period. In the main study, 35 healthy, non-smoking (23.0±3.3 years) men and women (n=20/15) underwent three exercise protocols ≥48-h apart, in random order: i) maximal workload (VO2 max); ii) relative workload (70% of VO2 max/10 min); and iii) absolute workload (75 W/10 min). Blood was drawn immediately pre-exercise and 3 min post-exercise.

Results

In the pilot study, irisin levels increased by 35% 3 min post-exercise, then dropped and remained relatively constant. In the main study, irisin levels post-exercise were significantly higher than those of pre-exercise after all workloads (all,P<0.001). Post-to-pre-exercise differences in irisin levels were significantly different between workloads (P=0.001), with the greatest increase by 34% following maximal workload (P=0.004 vs relative and absolute).

Conclusions

Circulating irisin levels were acutely elevated in response to exercise, with a greater increase after maximal workload. These findings suggest that irisin release could be a function of muscle energy demand. Future studies need to determine the underlying mechanisms of irisin release and explore irisin's therapeutic potential.
ENDOCRINOLOGY AND ADOLESCENCE: Aerobic exercise reduces insulin resistance markers in obese youth: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: García-Hermoso Antonio , Saavedra Jose M , Escalante Yolanda , Sánchez-López Mairena , Martínez-Vizcaíno Vicente
Published: June 2014

Objective

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to examine the evidence for the effectiveness of aerobic exercise interventions on reducing insulin resistance markers in obese children and/or adolescents. A secondary outcome was change in percentage of body fat.

Methods

A computerized search was made from seven databases: CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, ERIC, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Science Citation Index. The analysis was restricted to randomized controlled trials that examined the effect of aerobic exercise on insulin resistance markers in obese youth. Two independent reviewers screened studies and extracted data. Effect sizes (ES) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated, and the heterogeneity of the studies was estimated using Cochran'sQ-statistic.

Results

Nine studies were selected for meta-analysis as they fulfilled the inclusion criteria (n=367). Aerobic exercise interventions resulted in decreases in fasting glucose (ES=−0.39; low heterogeneity) and insulin (ES=−0.40; low heterogeneity) and in percentage of body fat (ES=−0.35; low heterogeneity). These improvements were specifically accentuated in adolescents (only in fasting insulin), or through programs lasting more than 12 weeks, three sessions per week, and over 60 min of aerobic exercise per session.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis provides insights into the effectiveness of aerobic exercise interventions on insulin resistance markers in the obese youth population.
Targeted leptin receptor blockade: role of ventral tegmental area and nucleus of the solitary tract leptin receptors in body weight homeostasis
Authors: Matheny M , Strehler K Y E , King M , Tümer N , Scarpace P J
Published: June 2014

The present investigation examined whether leptin stimulation of ventral tegmental area (VTA) or nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) has a role in body weight homeostasis independent of the medial basal hypothalamus (MBH). To this end, recombinant adeno-associated viral techniques were employed to target leptin overexpression or overexpression of a dominant negative leptin mutant (leptin antagonist). Leptin antagonist overexpression in MBH or VTA increased food intake and body weight to similar extents over 14 days in rats. Simultaneous overexpression of leptin in VTA with antagonist in MBH resulted in food intake and body weight gain that were less than with control treatment but greater than with leptin alone in VTA. Notably, leptin overexpression in VTA increased P-STAT3 in MBH along with VTA, and leptin antagonist overexpression in the VTA partially attenuated P-STAT3 levels in MBH. Interestingly, leptin antagonist overexpression elevated body weight gain, but leptin overexpression in the NTS failed to modulate either food intake or body weight despite increased P-STAT3. These data suggest that leptin function in the VTA participates in the chronic regulation of food consumption and body weight in response to stimulation or blockade of VTA leptin receptors. Moreover, one component of VTA-leptin action appears to be independent of the MBH, and another component appears to be related to leptin receptor-mediated P-STAT3 activation in the MBH. Finally, leptin receptors in the NTS are necessary for normal energy homeostasis, but mostly they appear to have a permissive role. Direct leptin activation of NTS slightly increases UCP1 levels, but has little effect on food consumption or body weight.
Activation of innate immune system in response to lipopolysaccharide in chicken Sertoli cells
Authors: Michailidis Georgios , Anastasiadou Maria , Guibert Edith , Froment Pascal
Published: June 2014

Sertoli cells (SCs) play an important physiological role in the testis, as they support, nourish, and protect the germ cells. As protection of the developing spermatozoa is an emerging aspect of reproductive physiology, this study examined the expression pattern of innate immune-related genes, including avian β-defensins (AvBDs), Toll-like receptors (TLRs), and cytokines, and investigated the time course of an inflammatory response in rooster SCs triggered by exposure to the bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS). SCs were isolated from 6-week-old chicken, culturedin vitro, and stimulated with 1 μg/ml LPS at different time courses (0, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h). Data on expression analysis revealed that all ten members of the chickenTLRfamily, nine members of theAvBDfamily, as well as eight cytokine genes were expressed in SCs. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed that LPS treatment resulted in significant induction of the expression levels of sixTLRs, sixAvBDs, and four cytokine genes, while two cytokine genes were downregulated and two other genes were unchanged. The increasing interleukin 1β (IL1β) production was confirmed in the conditioned medium. Furthermore, the phagocytosis of SCs was increased after LPS treatment. In conclusion, these findings provide evidence that SCs express innate immune-related genes and respond directly to bacterial ligands. These genes represent an important component of the immune system, which could be integrated into semen, and present a distinctive constituent of the protective repertoire of the testis against ascending infections.
Introducing sustainable development with a mathematical model
Authors: Keirstead James
Published: June 2014

The role of the professional engineer has shifted over time from the application of narrowly defined technical expertise to a more holistic contribution to the betterment of society. However, as the profession has sought to develop these ‘habits of mind’ in engineering students, it has become apparent that both students and faculty find it difficult to transition from traditional technical subjects to the often nebulous realm of sustainability. This paper introduces a simple mathematical model based on a Cobb–Douglas production function to show how key principles of sustainable development can be introduced to students in a familiar setting. Examples are provided of how the model might be incorporated into an overall sustainability curriculum, emphasising the model's role not as a predictive calculating tool but as a conceptual framework through which sustainability can be explored and better understood.
Characterisation of the effects of time on the shaft friction of displacement piles in sand
Authors: LIM J.K. , LEHANE B.M.
Published: June 2014

This paper describes a new approach to represent the effects of time on the shaft friction of displacement piles in sand. The proposal is based on the findings from pile test programmes performed at a test bed site in Western Australia in addition to data from well-documented full-scale pile tests. The investigation reveals a significant influence of installation disturbance on the subsequent gain in capacity (set-up) of shaft friction. Set-up is viewed as a recovery process, rather than a capacity gain, following the disturbance induced by pile installation. Gains in capacity in the medium and longer term tend to vary with the logarithm of time, while capacity changes shortly after installation are seen to be relatively small. A new expression is proposed to represent this ageing characteristic, which also incorporates a limiting (or maximum available) shaft friction.