Highlights in this issue

Abstract

‘The hard problem’ of consciousness is why and how subjective experience arises from physical basis. In this issue, Hans Lou discusses the identification of neural events behind the emergence of consciousness, in particular awareness e.g. of the Danish Queen. Of special importance is the gamma synchrony, which is regulated by dopamine and other neurotransmitters. This system may be disturbed in autism, ADHD and schizophrenia (pp. 112–119). A well-established pain score (PIPP) was used to monitor discomfort during transport. Most babies showed signs of discomfort according to Cath Harrison and Liz McKechnie (pp. 143–147). See also article by Björn-Markus Karlsson et al (pp. 148–154) showing that sound and body vibration during neonatal transport exceed the recommended levels for adults. Coeliac disease was reported to be far more common among children in Sweden than in Denmark. This was attributed to the addition of gluten to infant formula. Now, Stine Dydensborg et al report from Denmark a more than fourfold increase in the incidence during the last ten years. However, this prevalence is still considerably lower than reported elsewhere, possibly due to less stringent criteria (pp. 179–184). See also article by Carl J Wingren et al. showing the association between low socio-economic status and coeliac disease in Sweden (pp. 185–191). Obesity in adults often leads to metabolic syndrome increasing the risk for type II diabetes and early cardiovascular disease. Rikke J Gøbel et al now report low-grade inflammation and elevated levels of several biomarkers of the metabolic syndrome in otherwise healthy Danish obese adolescents. This is an important finding and should lead to interventions to decrease the risk factors to prevent adult disease (pp. 192–200). See also article by Lone M Larsen et al. (pp. 201–207). Radiology, histology and short-term outcome of asymptomatic congenital thoracic malformations by Thomas Kongstad et al. (pp. 155–158). Systemic activity of inhaled beclomethasone dipropionate: a double-blind comparison of volume spacers by Ole D Wolthers et al. (pp. 159–163). Low 5-minute Apgar score in moderately preterm infants; association with subsequent death and cerebral palsy by Line V Jensen et al. (pp. e80–e82).