In a previous paper, we introduced the idea of a scale-free system, and applied this to extend the Lanchester equations of industrial age warfare into the information age, corresponding to the shift towards more self-organising force elements in future conflicts. Here, we present evidence from an agent-based model of conflict (MANA) which supports our theoretical analysis.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential role of peripheral noradrenergic mechanisms in the hyperalgesia associated with lateral epicondylalgia.Methods: Under double blind conditions, 20 patients with lateral epicondylalgia received either a regional block with guanethidine or a control block procedure, on two study days separated by a wash out period of at least 14 days. Prior to administration of the block and two hours post administration subjects were evaluated using a number of pain related measures. The measures included: evaluation of pressure pain thresholds, heat pain thresholds, cold pain thresholds, and neurodynamic testing.Results: The study demonstrated improvements in pressure pain threshold [P = 0.01] and range of movement in the neurodynamic test [P = 0.0002] under both experimental conditions. There was, however, a selective improvement in cold pain thresholds under the guanethidine condition [P = 0.036].Conclusion: The results are discussed in terms of potential mechanisms responsible for hyperalgesia in musculoskeletal pain states. The findings suggest that cold hyperalgesia associated with lateral, epicondylalgia may be sympathetically maintained.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate and quantify the characteristics of hyperalgesia in patients [16 subjects, mean age 49 yrs 10 mths, mean duration of complaint 3 yrs 1 mth] with chronic, unilateral 'tennis elbow.' Methods: Subjects received an initial clinical examination. The tender area on the affected elbow and a corresponding area on the unaffected elbow were marked with a 1cm diameter circle. Triplicate measurements of mechanical pain threshold [using a pressure algometer], heat pain threshold and cold pain threshold [using the Thermotest® system] were then obtained at each of the marked areas. Upper limb tension tests 1 & 2b were carried out on both arms to evaluate nociceptive withdrawal reflexes in the limbs. The order of test procedures and sites tested was randomized for each subject. Results: Subjects exhibited significant differences in mechanical pain thresholds [P = 0.04] between the affected and unaffected limbs. No differences were apparent for heat pain thresholds [P = 0.9] or cold pain thresholds [P = 0.44]. Subjects exhibited a significantly reduced range of movement in both upper limb tension test 1 [P = 0.03] and 2b [P = 0.03]. There was no significant difference in any of the control measurements. Conclusion: Tennis elbow is characterized by mechanical hyperalgesia and hyperactive nociceptive withdrawal reflexes [as determined by tension test results]. There is no evidence of either heat or cold hyperalgesia in this condition.

Antigen distribution and clearance studied in vivo may be viewed as a pharmacokinetic problem complicated by the intervention of the immune response. A model characterizing the clearance of the simple antigen øΨ174 from the bloodstream of various experimental animals, as well as the subsequent serum antibody response, was developed. The present model is the simplest of the possible models and no doubt will have to be modified when considering more complex antigens, additional distribution modes, and differences in antibody reactivity. For the primary (IgM) immune response, however, early events in the immunological response can be adequately accounted for in a consistent and quantitative manner.