Presentation Details
| Valence-dependent modulation of sniff volume is sustained across sniffs Johan N.Lundström1, 2, 3, Frans Nordén1, Giulia Ciotti1, Irene Zanettin1, Artin Arshamian1. 1Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.2Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.3Monell Chemical Senses Center, Stockholm, Sweden |
Abstract
Multiple studies have demonstrated that sniff parameters are modulated by an odor’s perceived valence in that negative odors trigger a smaller sniff. The robustness of this valence-related modulation is underscored by its use as the basis for a clinical assessment of olfactory dysfunction, known as the Sniff magnitude test. To date, however, valence-dependent modulation has only been demonstrated for the initial sniff of an odor; whether similar effects extend to subsequent sniffs during continued odor exposure remains unknown. Participants (n=41) smelled 4 iso-intense odors (2 clearly pleasant, 2 clearly unpleasant) presented in jars, 3 times of the same ongoing odor, while their nasal airflow was assessed using a spirometer with nasal canula. Valence ratings were obtained for all sniffs, and individual ratings were used for subsequent analyses. Each odor was presented a total of 15 times. Skin conductance served as a distractor to mask the focus on respiration and ensure natural sniffing behavior. As expected, negative odors produced lower sniff volumes, when compared to positive odors, for the first sniff (p<.001). The clear difference in sniff volumes between valences was sustained for the two following sniffs (both p<.001). Interestingly, contrary to previous reports, this was not a universal effect. 46% of participants did not have a significant valence-dependent modulation of their sniff response. In conclusion, we can replicate and extend effects of valence-dependent sniff modulation also for subsequent sniffs, but the individual differences bring the usability of the previously proposed sniff magnitude test into question.
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