bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glutamate attenuates nitric oxide release from isolated trigeminal ganglion satellite glial cells
Authors: Laursen J.C. , Somvanshi R. , Kumar U. , Cairns B.E. , Dong X.-D. , Arendt-Nielsen L. , Gazerani P.
Published: July 2012

Background/aims

Elevated concentrations of nitric oxide (NO) and glutamate (Glu) in the trigeminal ganglion (TG) may contribute to the development and maintenance of migraine headache. The role of satellite glial cells (SGC) and their pattern of substance release in relation to the pathophysiology of migraine are currently under investigation. In the present study, we investigated the release of NO from isolated trigeminal SGCs and its modulation by Glu.

Methods

SGCs from the TG of adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 8) were isolated and maintained in culture until used. SGCs were treated with graded concentrations of Glu (0, 10, 100, 1000 μM) and samples were withdrawn after 48 h of incubation. In subsequent experiments, SGCs were treated with vehicle medium, 10 μM forskolin (FSK) alone, or 10 μM FSK in conjunction with 100 μM Glu and incubated for 48 h. The NO concentration was determined using the Griess Reagent System and data was subjected to a one-way repeated measures ANOVA analysis, where p <0.05 was considered statistically significant. All experimental procedures were performed at minimum in triplicate.

Results

The concentration of NO was 3.59 ± 0.04 M under baseline conditions. Application of 10 or 100 μM Glu resulted in a significant drop in NO concentration (2.92 ± 0.017 μM and 2.83 ± 0.012 M, respectively) compared to baseline, whereas treatment with 1000 μM Glu did not significantly alter NO release. Treatment of SGCs with 10 μM FSK significantly increased NO release (to 125.94 ± 3.90% of baseline) compared to baseline. Coapplication of 10 M FSK with 100 M Glu significantly decreased FSK-induced NO release (83.73 ± 2.29% of baseline), compared to both FSK-mediated NO release and baseline levels.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that one mechanism by which SGCs protect the TG from elevated Glu concentrations that may occur in response to prolonged noxious stimulation is to reduce the release of NO.
Dose and administration-period play a key role in the effect of ceftriaxone on neuropathic pain in CCI-operated rats
Authors: Frederiksen K.K. , Kristensen P. , Honoré P.H. , Gegelashvili G. , Bjerrum O.J.
Published: July 2012

Introduction

An unmet medical need for more effective therapies of neuropathic pain exits. Here modulation of the glutaminergic system represents an unexplored possibility. Down-regulation ofglutamate transporters potentiates pain transmission by delaying the removal of glutamate from the synapse. In the spinal cord, glutamate transporter 1 (GLT–1) is responsible for more than 90% of the glutamate uptake. Ceftriaxone, a β-lactam, is believed to induce the expression of GLT–1 through the transcriptional factor (NF-ºB) pathway, which results in induced promoter activity and thereby increased synthesis of GLT-1 protein.

Objectives

To evaluate the analgesic effect of ceftriaxone in the Chronic Constriction Injury (CCI) rat model of neuropathic pain and to investigate the pharmacodynamics of ceftriaxone in a chronic dosing regime.

Methods

In CCI rats, mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity, were determined with von Frey filaments and Hargreaves test, respectively. Groups of rats received ceftriaxone (200, 300 or 400 mg/kg, i.p.) once daily in 7–19 days and the control groups received vehicle.

Results

From a total of 24 CCI operated rats, 16 rats developed both mechanical (withdrawal threshold ≤3g) and thermal hypersensitivity (latency threshold ≤13 s.). Ceftriaxone alleviated mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in CCI operated. Daily dosing of ceftriaxone 200, 300 and 400 mg/kg reached the same withdrawal threshold levels as before the CCI surgery, after 18, 12 and 7 days, respectively. This indicates that the dynamic effect of ceftriaxone is not only dependent of the dose, but also the duration of administration. Thus, it seems that dose exposure above a certain threshold is necessary to induce protein synthesis.

Conclusion

The CCI model is a useful model to evaluate the anti-nociceptive effects of ceftriaxone. Increased dose do not only elevate effect magnitude but also the rate of with which the effect appears.
Time-course of analgesic effects of botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNTA) on human experimental model of pain induced by injection of glutamate into temporalis muscle
Authors: Bittencourt da Silva L. , Kulas D. , Karshenas A. , Cairns B.E. , Bach F.W. , Arendt-Nielsen L. , Gazerani P.
Published: July 2012

Background/aims

Analgesic effects of BoNTA develop within few hours in animal studies and within days in human studies. We have previously shown that BoNTA can block glutamate-induced mechanical sensitization and neurogenic vasodilation in rat temporalis muscle within 3 h. The present translational study was designed to explore the time-course of analgesic effects of BoNTA on pain, sensitization and vasomotor responses in a glutamateevoked human pain model.

Methods

BoNTA (5U) and saline were injected (30 min interval) into the left and right temporalis muscles of 12 healthy males (24.2° 2 years). Pressure pain threshold (PPT), skin temperature (thermo camera) and tissue perfusion (laser Doppler flowmetry) were measured every hour for 3 h. Afterwards, subjects received an intramuscular injection of glutamate (1M– 0.2 mL) into the left and right temporalis muscles. Pain intensity (VAS) was recorded for 10 min after injection and pain distribution was then mapped. PPT was measured at 15 and 30 min following the glutamate injections, while skin temperature and tissue perfusion were recorded at 5, 15 and 30 min.

Results

This preliminary data showed that BoNTA significantly reduced glutamate-evoked peak pain intensity compared with saline (P = 0.042). Expansion of pain area was also smaller in the muscles pretreated with BoNTA (P = 0.045). Glutamate-induced vasomotor reactions (elevated skin temperature and tissue perfusion) showed a tendency to decline in BoNTA-pretreated muscles. A similar pattern was seen in terms ofmuscle sensitivity with higher PPT values in BoNTA-pretreated muscles.

Conclusions

BoNTA induced a direct analgesic effect withi 3 h of its injection into the temporalis muscle. This phenomenon, at least in part, might be through BoNTA actions on nociceptors. Present data also indicated that BoNTA attenuated glutamateinduced muscle sensitization and vasomotor reactions. This finding may suggest additional effects of BoNTA on the pattern of release of substances which are involved in pain pathways.
The effect of nerve compression and capsaicin on contact heat evoked potentials (CHEPs) related to Aδ and C fibers
Authors: Madsen C.S. , Johnsen B. , Fuglsang-Frederiksen A. , Jensen T.S. , Finnerup N.B.
Published: July 2012

Background/aims

Brief noxious heat stimuli activate Aδ and C fibers, and contact heat evoked potentials (CHEPs) can be recorded from the scalp. Under standard conditions, late responses related to AS fibers can be recorded. This study examines C-fiber responses to contact heat stimuli.

Methods

A preferential A-fiber blockade by compression to the superficial radial nerve was applied in 22 healthy subjects. Quality and intensity of heat evoked pain (NRS, 0–10), and CHEPs were examined at baseline, during nerve compression, and during further nerve compression with topical capsaicin (5%).

Results

During the A-fiber blockade, 3 subjects had CHEPs with latencies below 400 ms, 8 subjects within 400–800 ms and 6 subjects later than 800 ms. Pain intensity to contact heat stimuli was reduced and fewer subjects reported the heat stimuli as stinging. Following acute capsaicin application, ultralate CHEPs with latencies >800 ms could be recorded in 13 subjects, pain intensity to the contact heat stimuli was increased (p <0.01) and more subjects reported the heat stimuli as being more warm/hot-burning.

Conclusion

The results indicate that following a compression to the superficial radial nerve, CHEPs compatible within complete A fibers or C fibers were recorded. Following sensitization with capsaicin, C-fiber responses were recorded in 62% of subjects.
Persistent pain, sensory disturbances and functional impairment after adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer
Authors: Andersen Kenneth Geving , Jensen Maj-Britt , Kehlet Henrik , Gärtner Rune , Eckhoff Lise , Kroman Niels
Published: July 2012

Background

Persistent pain after breast cancer treatment (PPBCT) is a considerable clinical problem affecting between 25 and 60% of breast cancer survivors [1]. Several risk factors have been proposed, among them nerve damage caused by adjuvant treatment [2]. Taxanes used in adjuvant therapy for breast cancer are neurotoxic, and thereby being a potential risk factor for PPBCT and sensory disturbances. However, the long term influence of taxanes on PPBCT is not well documented. Thus, the aim of this study was therefore to compare a nationwide cohort treated with cyclophosphamide and epirubicin + docetaxel (CE + T) versus a nationwide cohort treated with cyclophosphamide, epirubicin and fluoruracil (CEF), in order to assess differences in reporting of PPBCT, sensory disturbances in surgical area, symmetric peripheral sensory disturbances, and functional impairment.

Methods

A comparative nationwide cross-sectional questionnaire study on two cohorts treated with CEF respectively CE + T, based on the Danish Breast Cancer Cooperative Groups database. Inclusion criteria were identical i both cohorts: women treated with adjuvant chemotherapy for primary breast cancer, age 18–69 years, without recurrence. Exclusion criteria: bilateral or previous breast surgery, including reconstructive surgery. The same questionnaire [1] was used for both cohorts and contained detailed questions regarding pain intensity and frequency and sensory disturbances in the breast area, side of chest, axilla and arm, bilateral peripheral sensory disturbances in the hands and feet, and questions regarding daily activities.

Results

1241 patients treated with CEF in 2005-2006 and 1652 patients treated with CE + T in 2007–2008 were included. 664 (54%) with CEF and 861 (53%) patients with CE+T reported PPBCT. In the multivariate analysis including available risk factors, CE + T did not increase risk of PPBCT, adjusted OR 0.95 (95%C10.81–1.11), p = 0.52, compared to CEF. Patients treated with CE + T had a lower risk of sensory disturbances in the area of surgery compared with CEF, adjusted OR 0.75 (95%C1 0.62–0.90), p = 0.002. More CE+T patients reported peripheral sensory disturbances in the hands, adjusted OR 1.56 (95%C11.27–1.92), p < 0.0001, and in the feet, adjusted OR 2.0 (95%C1 1.66–2.42), p < 0.0001, compared to CEF. There was no difference in functional impairment (p = 0.62).

Conclusion

Docetaxcel as adjuvant treatment for breast cancer does not increase the risk of PPBCT, sensory disturbances in the surgical area or functional impairment, but increase the risk for peripheral sensory disturbances.
Influence of emotionally loaded visual and gustatory stimuli on pain perception
Authors: Horjales E. , Finnerup N.B. , Jensen T.S. , Svensson P.
Published: July 2012

Background/aims

Previous studies have focused on the effect of negative emotions generated by music, pictures or odours on pain perception. This study tested whether emotionally loaded visual and gustatory stimuli could influence experimental tonic jaw muscle pain in healthy subjects.

Methods

32 healthy subjects (16 men, 16 women; 18–39 years old) participated. In two sessions experimental jaw muscle pain was evoked by injection of 0.2 ml hypertonic saline into the masseter muscle. In the first session with each injection an emotion (positive, negative or neutral) was generated by visual stimuli (pictures taken from International Affective Picture System). In the second session, emotions were generated by gustatory stimuli (75% sucrose = sweet, 0.1% quinine = bitter, or tasteless gelatine). The participants continuously rated pain intensity (electronic visual analogue scale – VAS) as well as mood and unpleasantness/pleasantness of the conditioning stimuli (visual/ gustatory).

Results and conclusion

Hypertonic saline evoked moderate levels of pain in all subjects (mean peak VAS = 5.2 ± 2.4). During conditioning with negatively loaded pictures VAS pain scores were increased (19.3%) compared with neutral (p = 0.03) and positive emotions (p = 0.001). There was a linear relation between negative emotions and VAS pain scores (r = 0.40, p = 0.02). Although there was a tendency, no significant effect was observed during positive pictures in comparison with neutrals (p = 0.1). Surprisingly no effect on VAS pain scores was observed during neither negative (p = 0.1) nor positive (p = 0.2) gustatory stimuli. This may be due to failure of the gustatory stimuli to generate a change in emotions. These results suggest that not all conditioning stimuli are potent modifiers of emotions, which seem to be a prerequisite for effects on pain perception.
Modulating pain with augmented reality
Authors: Christoffersen G. , Petrini L. , Arendt-Nielsen L.
Published: July 2012

Background/aims

Being able to modulate pain through visual input raises the possibility that visually distorting body size also will reduce pain. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether experimental cold/heat pain could be modulated through a visual illusion of an increased/decreased hand size and whether pain perception correlated with the perceived sense of control of movement.

Methods

20 healthy right-handed volunteers were recruited. Hand sizes were modulated through an AR setting designed to act as a mirror. Four conditions were included: (1) No AR setting; (2) left/right hands were the same size; (3) left hand enlarged; (4) left hand decreased. Pain thresholds (PT) for both hands were alternately assessed using two thermodes, placed on each palmar side of the hands. After each condition subjects rated the following statement: “I could control the movements of my left/right hand”.

Results

Heat pain: no main effect for conditions or hands (left/right). Cold pain: Significant main effects for conditions, but not for hands – condition (2) is significantly more painful than all conditions. Control of movements when the left hand is stimulated: the more control subjects have of right hand in condition (4), the higher the cold PT for the left hand in conditions (1) and (2). Control of movements when the right hand is stimulated: the more control subjects have of the right hand in condition (4), the higher the heat PT in the right hand for condition (2).

Conclusions

Visual illusions can modulate pain, however the modulating factors do not only depend on the size of the limbs that are been viewed but also on how much control subjects feel they have of the movements in their hands-specifically the relationship to the right hand condition (4) seems to have an analgesic effect for cold pain and heat pain.
Pain following stroke: A prospective study
Authors: Hansen Anne P. , Marcussen Ninna S. , Klit Henriette , Kasch Helge , Jensen Troels S. , Finnerup Nanna B.
Published: July 2012

Background/aims

Pain following stroke is common and affects the quality of life in stroke survivors. The most common types of pain following stroke are headache, shoulder pain, other joint pain and central post-stroke pain (CPSP). The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of pain at stroke onset and 6 months after stroke and classify the different pain types.

Methods

All consecutively eligible patients admitted to the Stroke Unit at Aarhus University Hospital from February 1 to October 1, 2007 and from February 1 to August 1, 2008 were included. An interview on pain prior to and at stroke onset was conducted at admission followed by interviews on current pain by phone 3 and 6 months after the stroke.

Results

A total of 300 patients were included in the study, and 275 of them completed the 6-month follow-up. The mean age of the 275 patients was 65.9 years old and 55.2% was male. Pain prior to stroke was reported by 49.1% of patients at stroke onset and newly developed pain defined as pain not experienced prior to stroke was reported by 37.8% at stroke onset, 41.8% at the 3-month follow-up and 45.8% at the six month follow-up. The impact on daily life was moderate to severe in 36.4% and 33.6% of the patients with newly developed pain at the 3- and 6-month follow-up, respectively. More than one type of newly developed pain was experienced by 32.2% and 36.5% at the 3- and 6-month follow-up. Headache was reported by 33.5% at stroke onset and newly developed headache by 15.3% at 3-month follow-up and 13.1% at 6-month follow-up. Shoulder pain was reported by 1.5%, 13.1% and 16.4% at stroke onset, and the 3-and 6-month follow-up, respectively. Other joint pain was reported by 7.4% at 3-month and 11.7% at 6-month follow-up. Evoked pain was experienced by 3.6% at stroke onset and by 5.5% and 9.1% at the follow-up interviews.

Other types of pain were also reported; 7.3% at stroke onset, 18.9% at 3-month follow-up and 20.0% at 6-month follow-up. Possible CPSP was identified in 10.5% of patients from the different pain groups.

Conclusion

Pain following stroke is common and may have a considerable effect on the everyday life of the patient.
Sensory phenotypes in patients with peripheral neuropathic pain evaluated with quantitative sensory testing
Authors: Demant D. , Lund K. , Christensen B. , Segerdahl M. , Sjögren N. , Jensen T.S. , Sindrup S. , Finnerup N.B.
Published: July 2012

Background

In patients with neuropathic pain, Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST) can define different sensory phenotypes thought to be related to different underlying mechanisms. One phenotype with abnormal sensitization of cutaneous nociceptors has been termed irritable nociceptors.

Methods

This study is a part of a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, crossover trial with the anticonvulsant oxcarbazepine. The study is ongoing. In this report, baseline QST measures from patients with peripheral neuropathic pain due to either polyneuropathy (PNP) or peripheral nerve injury (PNI) are analyzed. QST evaluates thresholds for cold and heat detection (CDT, WDT), thermal pain (CPT, HPT), vibration (VDT), pin prick, mechanical detection and pressure pain. Furthermore, wind-up ratio and dynamic mechanical allodynia (DMA) are evaluated. Patients with irritable nociceptors are defined as patient with normal CDT and WDT and either mechanical or thermal allodynia or hyperalgesia.

Results

By March 2012, 28 patients with PNI and 24 with PNP were included. There was no difference in pain duration (66.2 (53.7) vs. 64.0 (43.3) months, p = 0.87) or pain intensity (NRS, 0 10) (6.6 (1.6) vs. 6.3 (1.7), p = 0.54), but patients with PNI were significantly younger (48.8 (15.1) years) compared to patients with PNP (62.4 (8.5) years), p < 0.001. The percentage of irritable nociceptors in the PNI group was 39.3% and in the PNP group 29.2% (p = 0.44). The percentage of patients with DMA was 39.3% and 33.3%, respectively (p = 0.66). Significantly more patients with PNI had thermal allodynia (28.6% vs. 0%, p = 0.005), 6 reported cold allodynia and 4 heat allodynia.

Conclusion

Preliminary results show that there was no significant difference in percentage of irritable nociceptors between the two groups, but more patients with PNI had thermal allodynia.
Pain perception is altered in patients with medication-overuse headache but can improve after detoxification
Authors: Munksgaard Signe Bruun , Bendtsen Lars , Jensen Rigmor Højland
Published: July 2012

Background

Previously, central sensitization has been found in chronic, primary headaches but pain perception in MOH patients has only scarcely been studied.

Aim

To investigate pain perception before and during detoxification in patients with medication overuse headache (MOH).

Methods

35 patients with MOH following structured detoxification programmes were tested before and 2, 6 and 12 months after withdrawal and 40 age and sex matched, healthy volunteers were tested for comparison. We measured cephalic and extra cephalic pressure pain thresholds (PPT) and supra-threshold pressure pain (STPP) as well as extra cephalic pain thresholds, supra-threshold pain and wind-up for electrical stimulation.

Results

At baseline, cephalic and extra cephalic PPTs were significantly lower in patients with MOH compared with healthy volunteers. Cephalic STPP was significantly higher in MOH patients compared with healthy volunteers but decreased significantly from baseline to the 6-month and 12-month follow-up. Supra-threshold pain for a single electrical stimulus was significantly higher in MOH patients compared with healthy volunteers. In contrast to healthy volunteers, patients with MOH did not exhibit wind-up before withdrawal. After 2 months, MOH patients had regained ability to wind-up and this persisted at 6-month and 12-month follow-up.

Conclusions

Patients with MOH have altered pain sensation and exhibit both allodynia and hyperalgesia indicating central sensitization. Withdrawal from medication overuse causes significant decrease in central sensitization. The ability to wind-up is altered in MOH patients, probably as a consequence of medication overuse, but it can be regained after withdrawal. These findings emphasize the need for detoxification in MOH.
Detoxification in a structured programme is effective for medication-overuse headache
Authors: Munksgaard Signe Bruun , Bendtsen Lars , Jensen Rigmor Højland
Published: July 2012

Aim

To evaluate the long-term efficacy of two different treatment programmes for medication-overuse headache (MOH) in so-called treatment-resistant patients.

Methods

MOH patients, who had previously been unsuccessfully treated by neurologists, were enrolled in one of 2 structured detoxification programmes in a tertiary headache centre: (A) a one-week withdrawal with restricted analgesics, rescue medications and prophylactics from Day 1 followed by advice of restricted intake of symptomatic medications or (B) a 2-month drug-free period and multidisciplinary education in groups and subsequent initiation of restricted symptomatic medication and prophylactics as required. All patients were closely followed up for a year.

Results

86 of 98 patients completed the 12-month follow-up. Totally, headache frequency was reduced by 39% (p <0.001), medication use by 63% (p <0.001) and 83% remained cured of MOH. Headache frequency was reduced with more than 50% in 42 patients (49%) and 52 (61%) reverted to episodic headache, and with no difference between the groups. Patients in programme B used significantly less symptomatic medication: 6.5 days/4 weeks compared with 8.7 days/4 weeks in programme A (p = 0.02), and the 56% of patients in programme B who needed prophylactic medication was significantly less than the 80% in programme A (p = 0.02). Further, programme B required fewer resources from the staff.

Conclusion

Structured detoxification with close follow-up by a multidisciplinary team for one year is highly effective in patients with previously treatment-resistant MOH. We recommend a multidisciplinary educational programme for patients in groups due to cost-effectiveness and limited use of medication.
Generation of internal waves from rest: extended use of complex coordinates, for a sphere but not a disk
Authors: Davis Anthony M. J.
Published: July 2012

The anisotropy created by stratification and or rotation places restrictions, severe if viscosity is present, on the construction of analytic solutions to wave generation and scattering problems. Consequently, much literature is devoted to frequency space and so careful consideration of oscillatory motion generated from rest is advisable. Moreover, the use of complex coordinates in the inviscid case has been incompletely presented. The detailed inversion of the Fourier time transform for a breathing or heaving sphere demonstrates an expanded, perhaps more crucial, role for the complex coordinates and shows that the known phase changes in the energy propagation regions are present throughout the St Andrew’s cross that circumscribes the sphere. However, the different solution structure for the heaving disk requires and allows a more direct calculation. Though the inclusion of rotation does not affect the dynamics, it enables the significance of their relative magnitude to be identified and reference to rotation only results achieved.
Stress, Resiliency Factors, Quality of Life Among Caregivers of Children with High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders (HFASDs)
Authors: Lee Gloria K. , Lopata Christopher , Volker Martin A. , Thomeer Marcus L. , Toomey Jennifer A. , Rodgers Jonathan D. , Smerbeck Audrey M. , Schiavo Audrey L. , McDonald Christin A.
Published: July 2012

This study investigated the relationships among stress, intrapersonal resiliency factors (self-esteem, locus of control, and optimism) and quality of life [QOL] (physical health and mental health) among caregivers of children with high functioning autism spectrum disorders (HFASDs). Participants consisted of 113 caregivers of children with HFASDs (males = 38.1%, females = 61.9%; age range = 27–62; 93.6% Caucasians) and 47 caregivers of typically developing children (males = 29.8%; females = 70.2%; age range = 30–56; 93.3% Caucasians). They completed a set of self-rating surveys on perceived locus of control, self-esteem, optimism, and QOL. Within-group inferential statistical analyses were applied. For the HFASD group analyses, two simultaneous regression analyses were used to study the independent effects of the three intrapersonal variables on the physical health and mental health QOL of the caregivers. Intrapersonal factors predicted self-reported mental health QOL but not physical health QOL in caregivers of children with HFASDs.
Breast-feeding duration: influence on taste acceptance over the first year of life
Authors: Schwartz Camille , Chabanet Claire , Laval Caroline , Issanchou Sylvie , Nicklaus Sophie
Published: July 2012

Early feeding experiences, e.g. related to milk feeding, can affect later food and taste preferences. However, consequences of breast-feeding on taste acceptance are under-investigated. The objective of the present study was to examine the impact of exclusive breast-feeding duration (DEB) on taste acceptance at 6 and 12 months in the same infants (n122). Mothers recorded the DEB. Acceptance of solutions of each of the five basic tastes relative to water was evaluated in the laboratory at 6 and 12 months by the ingestion ratio (IR). Kendall correlations were calculated between the DEB and the IR. Only 16 % completed at least 6 months of exclusive breast-feeding; 79 % had begun complementary feeding by 6 months. At 6 months, infants preferred sweet, salty and umami solutions over water and were indifferent to sour and bitter solutions. The longer an infant was breast-fed, the more s/he accepted the umami solution at 6 months. At 12 months, infants preferred sweet and salty solutions over water and were indifferent to sour, bitter and umami solutions. The relationship between the DEB and acceptance of the umami solution was not observed at 12 months. No relationship was observed between the DEB and sweet, salty, sour and bitter taste acceptance at 6 or 12 months. The association between the DEB and umami taste acceptance at 6 months may relate to the higher glutamate content of human milk compared with formula milk. Beyond the acknowledged metabolic benefits of breast-feeding, this suggests that prolonged breast-feeding could also be associated with an impact on sensory preference at the beginning of complementary feeding.
Observations on the biology of Culicoides impunctatus Goetgh. (Dipt., Ceratopogonidae) in southern England
Authors: Boorman John , Goddard Philip
Published: July 2012

Catches of Culicoides spp. in a Surrey copse in 1967–69 showed the univoltine C. impunctatus Goetgh. to be dominant. This species reached peak numbers from late May to early June, when nulliparous females were commonly seen at rest on tree trunks. Proterandry was marked in catches from light-traps but not apparent in those from emergence traps or taken at rest. Biting was most frequent 1–2 h before sunset; many bites did not result in a blood-meal. Females taken at rest and from emergence traps could complete their ovarian cycle without a blood-meal, most eggs being matured by the former; midges taken biting matured the fewest eggs but could not do so without a blood-meal. Large full fat-bodies were an indication of nulliparity. It was concluded that C. impunctatus can develop the first egg-batch autogenously, and that the resting habits and responses of females to light and human bait change subsequent to the laying of the first batch of eggs.
Detrital zircon evidence for the linkage of the South China block with Gondwanaland in early Palaeozoic time
Authors: DUAN LIANG , MENG QING-REN , WU GUO-LI , MA SHOU-XIAN , LI LIN
Published: July 2012

LA-ICP-MS U–Pb dating of Lower Devonian detrital zircon samples from three representative sections in the South China block yields dominant Grenvillian and Pan-African populations, similar to the age distribution of early Palaeozoic samples from Gondwana, the Tethyan Himalaya and West Australia, in particular. Hf isotopic compositions indicate the contributions of juvenile crust at 1.6 Ga and 2.5 Ga, and bear a resemblance to their counterparts from SE Australia and West Antarctica, revealing the mixed origin of the Pan-African and Grenvillian grains from juvenile magmas and melting of pre-existing crustal rocks. These results suggest that the South China block should be considered an integral part of East Gondwana in early Palaeozoic time, rather than a discrete continental block in the Palaeo-Pacific or a fragment of Laurentia.
Jayhawker Fraternities: Masons, Klansmen and Kansas in the 1920s
Authors: ALLERFELDT KRISTOFER
Published: July 2012

In the 1920s, like most of the rest of the nation Kansas found itself the target of the attentions of the KKK. One of its main ways of recruiting was via existing fraternities. Using new archival material this article investigates the response of one of the leading fraternities of the times – the Masons. What emerges is a picture of mixed responses – ranging from mutual hostility to active Klan recruitment within Masonic lodges. In many ways Kansas can be seen as a microcosm of the nation, and as such this study can add to our understanding of what drove up to 10 million American men and women to join this mysterious and now hated body.
“the agitation of the autobiographical”: National Politics and Aesthetic Autonomy in Philip Roth'sExit Ghost
Authors: CONNOLLY ANDY
Published: July 2012

Through a close reading ofExit Ghost, this paper examines in a fresh manner the conflicts between notions of authorial context and autonomous literary creativity that dominate not just this novel, but all of Roth's works. In particular, I will look at howExit Ghostreprises the antagonism and confusion that has existed between disinterested notions of authorial self-effacement and forms of autobiographical self-exposure within Zuckerman's (and Roth's) writing. By exploring how the fraught relationship between Zuckerman's private self and his publicly accessible body of fiction has been closely tied to his more youthful erotic adventures in earlier novels, I will discuss in detail the significance of the eviscerating impact of old age and impotence that he endures inExit Ghost. In addition, I will discuss these complex issues of desire and authorship in the context of Roth's creative treatment of the Bush/Kerry Presidential election of 2004 inExit Ghost. I will look at how the presence, albeit marginal, of such large-scale political events in this novel provides an interesting insight into the tangled intersection between literature and the raw “facts” of American history in Roth's fiction.
Management of recurrent acute otitis media in children: systematic review of the effect of different interventions on otitis media recurrence, recurrence frequency and total recurrence time
Authors: Cheong K H , Hussain S S M
Published: July 2012

Objective:

To conduct a systematic review comparing the effect of three interventions (prophylactic antibiotics, tympanostomy tube insertion and adenoidectomy) on otitis media recurrence, recurrence frequency and total recurrence time.

Methods:

Literature on recurrent otitis media was identified using the PubMed and Scopus search engines for the period January 1990 to March 2011. A hand search of the reference lists of relevant articles and textbooks was conducted to identify additional studies. Randomised, controlled trials with a minimum of 40 children and follow up of at least 12 months were included.

Results:

Eighteen publications were identified. Each was assessed using preset inclusion criteria; seven publications met these criteria.

Conclusion:

Prophylactic antibiotics are effective in reducing otitis media recurrence, recurrence frequency and total recurrence time. Tympanostomy tube insertion failed to reduce the prevalence of otitis media recurrence, but reduced the recurrence frequency and total recurrence time. Adenoidectomy reduced otitis media recurrence; results on otitis media recurrence frequency differed but on average there was a reduction; however, the two studies with relevant data on total recurrence time had contradictory results.
Cirsoid aneurysm of the right pre-auricular region: an unusual cause of tinnitus managed by endovascular glue embolisation
Authors: Kumar A , Ahuja C K , Khandelwal N , Bakshi J B
Published: July 2012

Objective:

We report an interesting case of a right temporal pre-auricular arteriovenous fistula (cirsoid aneurysm) causing intractable tinnitus successfully managed by transarterial n-butyl cyanoacrylate glue embolisation.

Case report:

A 52-year-old female presented with a one-year history of tinnitus and pulsatile swelling in the right pre-auricular region. A colour Doppler ultrasound test and magnetic resonance angiography revealed a high-flow scalp arteriovenous fistula with a feeder vessel from the distal superficial temporal artery, which drained into the corresponding, dilated, tortuous vein. The patient underwent diagnostic digital subtraction angiography. This was followed by transarterial embolisation of the fistula using a 50 per cent mixture of n-butyl cyanoacrylate glue and Lipiodol®, with manual distal venous occlusion. A successful outcome was achieved with instant relief of symptoms.

Conclusion:

Cirsoid aneurysms of the facial region, an uncommon cause of tinnitus, can be effectively managed by endovascular embolisation. This treatment obviates the need for surgery, which is associated with an increased risk of complications such as scarring, deformity and bleeding.
Effects of the 2010 Chile and 2011 Japan tsunamis on the Antarctic coastal waters as detected via online mooring system
Authors: He Jianfeng , Zhang Fang , Lin Ling , Cai Minghong , Yang Haizhen , Wang Xiangnan
Published: July 2012

Sea level oscillations associated with both the 2010 Chile and 2011 Japan tsunamis were recorded in the coastal waters of King George Island off the west coast of Antarctica with an online coastal mooring system. The Chile tsunami arrived at the detection site within around five hours of the earthquake. The largest wave (84.4 mm) was measured 27 hours after the first arrival. In contrast, the Japan tsunami was detected around 26 hours after the earthquake, and the maximum wave height (180.8 mm) was observed around 11 hours after the initial wave. The energy level of the earthquake and the direction of energy propagation are probably the two most significant causes of the comparatively high amplitudes of the 2011 Japan tsunami, despite the fact that its epicentre was much further away than that of 2010 Chile tsunami. The sea level oscillations associated with the tsunami increased the level of mixing of seawater in the shallow Antarctic coastal waters and influenced the environment temporarily.
Complexity of Ising Polynomials
Authors: KOTEK TOMER
Published: July 2012

This paper deals with the partition function of the Ising model from statistical mechanics, which is used to study phase transitions in physical systems. A special case of interest is that of the Ising model with constant energies and external field. One may consider such an Ising system as a simple graph together with vertex and edge weights. When these weights are considered indeterminates, the partition function for the constant case is a trivariate polynomialZ(G;x,y,z). This polynomial was studied with respect to its approximability by Goldberg, Jerrum and Paterson.Z(G;x,y,z) generalizes a bivariate polynomialZ(G;t,y), which was studied in by Andrén and Markström.

We consider the complexity ofZ(Gt,y) andZ(G;x,y,z) in comparison to that of the Tutte polynomial, which is well known to be closely related to the Potts model in the absence of an external field. We show thatZ(G;x,y,z) is #P-hard to evaluate at all points in3, except those in an exceptional set of low dimension, even when restricted to simple graphs which are bipartite and planar. A counting version of the Exponential Time Hypothesis, #ETH, was introduced by Dell, Husfeldt and Wahlén in order to study the complexity of the Tutte polynomial. In analogy to their results, we give under #ETHa dichotomy theorem stating that evaluations ofZ(G;t,y) either take exponential time in the number of vertices ofGto compute, or can be done in polynomial time. Finally, we give an algorithm for computingZ(G;x,y,z) in polynomial time on graphs of bounded clique-width, which is not known in the case of the Tutte polynomial.
Quadricuspid aortic valve with ruptured sinus of Valsalva
Authors: Akerem Khan Shamruz Khan , Tamin Syahidah Syed , Burkhart Harold M. , Araoz Philip A. , Young Phillip M.
Published: July 2012

We present a case of a 24-year-old woman who was diagnosed with quadricuspid aortic valve with ruptured sinus of Valsalva. Quadricuspid aortic valve is a rare congenital cardiac anomaly. The recognition of quadricuspid aortic valve has clinical significance as it causes aortic valve dysfunction, and is often associated with other congenital cardiac abnormalities. We showed the important role of multimodality imaging in diagnosing a quadricuspid aortic valve associated with ruptured sinus of Valsalva.
Basic-Level Emergency Medical Technician Administration of Fluids and Glucose via Enzyme-Assisted Subcutaneous Infusion Access
Authors: Soremekun Olanrewaju A. , Shear Melissa L. , Connolly Jay , Stewart Charles E. , Thomas Stephen H.
Published: July 2012

Introduction

During disasters and mass-casualty incidents (MCIs), there may be insufficient numbers of advanced life support (ALS) providers to provide intravenous (IV) access to all patients requiring parenteral fluids and/or medications. Enzyme-assisted subcutaneous infusion (EASI) access, in which human recombinant hyaluronidase (HRH) augments subcutaneous fluid dispersion and absorption, may be useful when ALS resources are insufficient to meet intravascular access needs. The utility of the use of the EASI lies, in part, in its ease of placement by ALS personnel.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to document the feasibility, comfort, and speed/degree of infused-glucose uptake through EASI lines placed by basic-level emergency medical technicians (EMT-Bs).

Methods

Eighteen EMT-Bs instituted EASI access on each other. A total of 150 units (1 mL) of HRH were administered through the EASI line, followed by the administration of 250 mL of tracer-labeled D5W. Timed phlebotomy enabled gas chromatography/mass spectrometry characterization of glucose uptake. Enzyme-assisted subcutaneous infusion placement and comfort ratings were tracked and analyzed using non-parametric statistics and Fisher's Exact Test.

Results

In all 18 subjects, EASI access required only one attempt and was rated by the EMT-Bs as easy to accomplish. Glucose was absorbed quickly (within five minutes) in all subjects. The rate of infusion was rapid (median 393 mL/hour) and was comfortable for the recipients (median pain score 1/10).

Conclusions

The use of EASI may be viable as a fast, simple, and reliable method for the administration of fluid and glucose by EMT-Bs.

Soremekun OA, Shear ML, Connolly J, Stewart CE, Thomas SH. Basic-level emergency medical technician administration of fluids and glucose via enzyme-assisted subcutaneous infusion access. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2012;27(3):1-6.
Differences in Medical Care Usage between Two Mass-Gathering Sporting Events
Authors: Burton James O. , Corry Stephen J. , Lewis Gareth , Priestman William S.
Published: July 2012

Background

Event planning for mass gatherings involves the utilization of methods that prospectively can predict medical resource use. However, there is growing recognition that historical data for a specific event can help to accurately forecast medical requirements. This study was designed to investigate the differences in medical usage rates between two popular mass-gathering sports events in the UK: rugby matches and horse races.

Methods

A retrospective study of all attendee consultations with the on-site medical teams at the Leicester Tigers Rugby Football Club and the Leicester Racecourse from September 2008 through August 2009 was undertaken. Patient demographics, medical usage rates, level of care, as well as professional input and the effects of alcohol use were recorded.

Results

Medical usage rates were higher at the Leicester Racecourse (P < .01), although the demographics of the patients were similar and included 24% children and 16% staff. There was no difference in level of care required between the two venues with the majority of cases being minor, although a higher proportion of casualties at the Leicester Tigers event were seen by a health care professional compared with the Leicester Racecourse (P < .001). Alcohol was a contributing factor in only 5% of consultations.

Conclusions

These two major sporting venues had similar attendance requirements for medical treatment that are comparable to other mass-gathering sports events. High levels of staff and pediatric presentations may have an impact on human resource planning for events on a larger scale, and the separation of treatment areas may help to minimize the number of unnecessary or opportunistic reviews by the on-site health care professionals.

BurtonJO, CorrySJ, LewisG, PriestmanWS. Differences in medical care usage between two mass-gathering sporting events. Prehosp Disaster Med.2012;27(4):1-5.
Independent Application of the Sacco Disaster Triage Method to Pediatric Trauma Patients
Authors: Cross Keith P. , Cicero Mark X.
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Though many mass-casualty triage methods have been proposed, few have been validated in an evidence-based manner. The Sacco Triage Method (STM) has been shown to accurately stratify adult victims of blunt and penetrating trauma into groups of increasing mortality risk. However, it has not been validated for pediatric trauma victims.

Purpose

Evaluate the STM's performance in pediatric trauma victims.

Methods

Records from the United States’ National Trauma Data Base, a registry of trauma victims developed by the American College of Surgeons, were extracted for the 2007-2009 reporting years. Patients ≤18 years of age transported from a trauma scene with complete initial scene data were included in the analysis. Sacco triage scores were assigned to each registry patient, and receiver-operator curves were developed for predicting mortality, along with several secondary outcomes. Area under the receiver-operator curve (AUC) was the main outcome statistic. Sensitivity analysis was performed using a Sacco score without age adjustment, using blunt versus penetrating trauma, and using patients <12 years of age.

Results

There were 210,175 pediatric records, of which 90,037 had complete data for analysis. The STM with age adjustment predicted pediatric trauma mortality with an AUC of 0.933 (95% CI: 0.925-0.940). Without the age adjustment term, it predicted mortality with an AUC of 0.924 (95% CI: 0.916-0.933). The STM with age adjustment predicted blunt trauma mortality in 72,467 patients with an AUC of 0.938 (95% CI: 0.929-0.947) and penetrating trauma mortality in 10,099 patients with an AUC of 0.927 (95% CI: 0.911-0.943). These findings did not change significantly when analysis was limited to patients <12 years of age. The Sacco Triage Method was also predictive of some secondary outcomes, such as major injury and death on arrival to the emergency department.

Conclusion

The Sacco Triage Method, with or without its age adjustment term, was a highly accurate predictor of mortality in pediatric trauma patients in this registry database. This triage method appears to be a valid strategy for the prioritization of injured children.

Cross KP, Cicero MX. Independent application of the Sacco Disaster Triage Method to pediatric trauma patients. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2012;27(4):1-6.
Traditional and Social Media Coverage and Charitable Giving Following the 2010 Earthquake in Haiti
Authors: Lobb Ano , Mock Nancy , Hutchinson Paul L.
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Media reports on disasters may play a role in inspiring charitable giving to fund post-disaster recovery, but few analyses have attempted to explore the potential link between the intensity of media reporting and the amount of charitable donations made. The purposes of this study were to explore media coverage during the first four weeks of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti in order to assess changes in media-intensity, and to link this information to data on contributions for emergency assistance to determine the impact of media upon post-disaster charitable giving.

Methods

Data on newspaper and newswire coverage of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti were gathered from the NexisLexis database, and traffic on Twitter and select Facebook sites was gathered from social media analyzers. The aggregated measure of charitable giving was gathered from the Center for Philanthropy at Indiana University. The intensity of media reporting was compared with charitable giving over time for the first month following the event, using regression modeling.

Results

Post-disaster coverage in traditional media and Twitter was characterized by a rapid rise in the first few days following the event, followed by a gradual but consistent decline over the next four weeks. Select Facebook sites provided more sustained coverage. Both traditional and new media coverage were positively correlated with donations: every 10% increase in Twitter messages relative to the peak percentage was associated with an additional US $236,540 in contributions, while each additional ABC News story was associated with an additional US $963,800 in contributions.

Conclusions

While traditional and new media coverage wanes quickly after disaster-causing events, new and social media platforms may allow stories, and potentially charitable giving, to thrive for longer periods of time.

Lobb A, Mock N, Hutchinson PL. Traditional and social media coverage and charitable giving following the 2010 earthquake in Haiti.Prehosp Disaster Med. 2012; 27(4):1-6.