bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary Malignant Tumors of the Trachea – The Tata Memorial Hospital Experience
Authors: Thotathil Z.S. , Agarwal J.P. , Shrivastava S.K. , Dinshaw K.A.
Published: February 2004

Objective: Primary tumors of the trachea are extremely rare. Treatment methods vary considerably and few studies have sought to provide adequate guidelines. This study reviews the records of patients treated for tracheal cancer at the Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH), Mumbai, India. Subjects and Methods: Fifteen patients with primary tracheal malignancies were identified in the TMH database during the period from 1983 to 2000. They were predominantly males (87%) belonging to an older age-group (67% above 40 years). Common presenting symptoms were cough, hoarseness, hemoptysis and indications of airway obstruction. Squamous cell carcinoma was the commonest histologic subtype (40%) followed by adenoid cystic carcinoma (27%). Ten patients received radical treatment. One patient underwent surgery (resection and anastomosis) and received postoperative radiotherapy. Another was explored but was found to be unresectable and was 1 of 2 patients treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Laser resections and radiotherapy were used in 2 patients while 4 patients were managed with radiotherapy alone. One patient was treated elsewhere. The majority of patients (8/9) were treated with locoregional fields and doses ranging from 40 to 60 Gy (median 50 Gy). Two patients also received intraluminal brachytherapy, 1 as part of initial treatment and another for recurrence. Results: Only 5 patients treated at TMH (5/9) achieved local control of their disease. Follow-up times ranged from 1 month to 134 months, median of 38 months. Distant metastases were identified in 4 patients (bone n = 1 and lung n = 3). Median survival was 38 months. Overall survival at 5 years was 37% by Kaplan-Meier method, but this figure should be treated with caution since only 6 patients had a follow-up of more than 2 years. Conclusion: Tracheal cancer is a rare malignancy. Radiation therapy is a reasonably effective modality for unresectable disease.
Giant Testicular Mixed Germ Cell Tumor
Authors: Tomašković Igor , Sorić Tomislav , Trnski Davor , Ružić Boris , Kraus Ognjen
Published: February 2004

Objective: We report a case that we believe to be the largest example of a testicular mixed germ cell tumor with a clearly defined histology pattern. Clinical Presentation and Interventions: A 21-year-old patient consulted a urologist concerning a giant testicular mass. At the time of presentation the tumor measured 29 × 20 × 16 cm, with a weight of 4,850 g. Serum α-fetoprotein was over 15,000 ng/ml, while β-human chorionic gonadotropin was normal. Chest X-ray and CT revealed multiple bilateral metastases. Histopathology revealed a mixed germ cell tumor containing 80% of yolk sack tumor, 10% of teratoma and 10% of embryonal carcinoma. Orchiectomy and chemotherapy were successful in the treatment of primary tumor and bilateral lung metastases. Conclusion: This tumor grew to extraordinary dimensions because of the patient’s failure, due to fear, lack of knowledge and embarrassment, to seek medical help and to health professionals’ negligence when performing regular check-ups.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenocortical System and Mood Disorders: Highlights from Mutant Mice
Authors: Müller Marianne B. , Uhr Manfred , Holsboer Florian , Keck Martin E.
Published: February 2004

In recent years, refined molecular technologies and the generation of genetically engineered mice have allowed to specifically target individual genes involved in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) system. Given the fundamental role of the corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) system in anxiety, stress-associated pathologies, and mood disorders, we describe genetic modifications of the genes that encode proteins integral to the CRH/CRH receptor system with particular emphasis on conditional gene-targeting strategies. The profile of results, consistent with current knowledge of CRH function from more traditional assays, indicates that enhancement of the CRH function is associated with an activation of the HPA system, an anxious phenotype, alterations in cognitive performance, reductions in food intake, and disturbances of autonomic functions. In general, blockade of CRH activity produces the opposite effects, namely an anxiety-reduced phenotype. Molecular genetic strategies for conditional inactivation or overexpression of the glucocorticoid receptor contribute to our understanding of the genetics of endocrine activity and behavior, the most complex form of biological organization. In addition, we introduce mice with a genetic manipulation in the function of the blood-brain barrier as an animal model for the study of neuroendocrine regulation and, in particular, of HPA system activity. By use of mice deficient for abcb1– (also called multidrug resistance gene 1, mdr1–) type P glycoproteins, it was shown most recently that abcb1-type P glycoproteins control the access of endogenous glucocorticoids into the central nervous system. Thus, the ABCB1-type P glycoprotein function exerts a profound influence on activity and regulation of the HPA system under both basal conditions and during stress. Taken together, these genetically engineered mice are valuable tools for increasing our understanding of HPA system dysregulation in anxiety and stress-related pathologies, including human affective disorders. The identification and detailed characterization of these molecular pathways will ultimately lead to the development of novel neuropharmacological intervention strategies.
Agonist-Specific Coupling of Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor Type 1a to Different Intracellular Signaling Systems
Authors: Carreira Marcos C. , Camiña Jesus P. , Smith Roy G. , Casanueva Felipe F.
Published: February 2004

The growth hormone secretagogue receptor subtype 1a (GHSR-1a) is involved in biological actions of ghrelin by triggering intracellular second messengers coupled to heterotrimeric G-protein complex involving Gαq/11. Adenosine is a partial agonist of the GHSR-1a, binding to a binding pocket distinct from the one described for ghrelin. This suggests a variety of functions for the poorly understood GHSR1a receptor. In this work, a sequential analysis of the pathways involved in the regulation of GHSR-1a signaling was undertaken to characterize the intracellular calcium mobilization that is observed following adenosine binding. The results showed that adenosine induced, in a dose-dependent manner, a calcium mobilization from IP3-sensitive intracellular stores since the IP3 receptor blocker 2-APB was able to suppress the calcium response. However, adenosine did not show any effect in the formation of inositol phosphates. The calcium-mobilizing activity was blocked after preincubation of cells with CTX, the inhibitor of adenylate cyclase MDL-12,330A and the protein kinase A blocker H-89. Furthermore, the administration of adenosine stimulated cAMP production. Based on the experimental data, a signaling pathway is proposed involving adenylate cyclase and protein kinase A, which causes phosphorylation of the IP3 receptor, with a cross-talk between the signaling pathways activated by ghrelin and adenosine. The data described in this report suggest that GHSR-1a is able to activate different intracellular second-messenger systems depending on the agonist that activates it. The regulation of the ghrelin-activated earliest signaling pathways by adenosine may have unexpected implications in the GHSR-1a actions.
Involvement of Endogeneous Glutamate in the Stimulatory Effect of Norepinephrine and Serotonin on the Hypothalamo-Pituitary-Adrenocortical Axis
Authors: Feldman Shaul , Weidenfeld Joseph
Published: February 2004

The effects of ionotropic glutamate receptor antagonists on the pituitary adrenal responses following injections of norepinephrine (NE) and serotonin (5-HT) receptor agonists into the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) or electrical stimulation of central NE and 5-HT pathways were studied in anesthetized male rats. PVN injections of an α1-adrenergic receptor agonist or a serotonergic 5-HT1A receptor agonist markedly increased both adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and corticosterone (CS) serum levels. These responses were significantly inhibited by separate pre-injection of the selective non-NMDA and NMDA glutamate receptor subtype antagonists into the PVN in a dose-dependent manner. Electrical stimulation of either the ventral noradrenergic bundle or the dorsal raphe nucleus markedly increased serum ACTH and CS. These responses were also significantly attenuated by pre-injection of the above glutamate ionotropic receptor antagonists in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that glutamatergic interneurons in the PVN, acting via non-NMDA and NMDA receptors, may act as an excitatory mechanism in the NE and 5-HT control of hypothalamic ACTH secretagogues.
The Dawning of a New Sedative: Propofol in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Authors: Heuss Ludwig T. , Inauen Werner
Published: February 2004

Background: Using gentler endoscopes and improved sedation, great strides have been made in enhancing patients’ comfort and acceptance of endoscopic procedures. Because morbidity and mortality have been associated with benzodiazepines in endoscopic sedation, safer alternatives were sought. Propofol (2,6-diisopropylphenol), a rapid and short-acting anesthetic, initially used in the 1980’s for general anesthesia induction and maintenance, is a promising candidate. Methods: This review article examines experiences and literature references of propofol’s use in endoscopic procedures. Three critical questions are posed: What are the major advantages and potential risks of propofol? When should propofol be used? Who should administer propofol, how should it be administered, and what type of monitoring is required? Results: With considerable inter-patient variability, the propofol dose must be carefully titrated according to the individual patient’s response. Factors influencing dosage include age, ASA class, patient’s height and procedure duration. Propofol’s primary risk is its narrow therapeutic range which necessitates careful patient monitoring. Conclusions: Propofol’s advantages over benzodiazepines and narcotics include a more rapid onset of action, full relief of discomfort and rapid recovery to alertness without residual sedative effects or anterograde amnesia, thereby making this drug a cost-effective and, with proper monitoring, safe choice.
Glucoreceptors Located Inside the Blood-Brain Barrier Mediate Hypoglycemia-Induced LH Inhibition in Man
Authors: Coiro Vittorio , Volpi Riccardo , Capretti Luigi , Manfredi Guido , Galli Paola , Saccani-Jotti Gloria , Chiodera Paolo
Published: February 2004

Objective: To establish the role of hyperinsulinemia and hypoglycemia during the insulin tolerance test (ITT) in the regulation of luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion and the location with respect to the blood-brain barrier (BBB) of the glucosensitive areas controlling LH release. Methods: The LH-secretory pattern during an ITT (0.15 IU/kg body weight) was evaluated in 8 normal men during infusion with normal saline (control test), glucose or fructose. Results: lnsulin-induced hypoglycemia produced a significant decrement in serum LH levels in the control test, but not when the concomitant infusion of glucose prevented hypoglycemia. Fructose infusion did not change LH decrease during ITT. Conclusions: These data exclude a direct role of hyperinsulinemia in the mechanism underlying the inhibition of LH secretion during ITT. Furthermore, since glucose but not fructose crosses the BBB, the LH decrease during ITT appears to be generated by hypoglycemia at the level of glucosensitive areas located inside the BBB.
Longitudinal Data for Intrauterine Levels of Fetal IGF-I and IGF-II
Authors: Gohlke B.C. , Fahnenstich H. , Dame C. , Albers N.
Published: February 2004

Objective: An increasing body of evidence supports a major role for the insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) in the control of human fetal growth. Individual data at various times of pregnancy suggest that IGF-I and IGF-II levels remain stable up to the 33rd week of pregnancy. Thereafter, both increase to reach values 2–3 times higher at term. In order to provide an accurate reflection of fetal IGFs in utero, we sampled fetal blood from the umbilical cord by cordocentesis. Methods: We measured IGF-I and IGF-II in 12 fetuses longitudinally for up to 5 times between the 21st week of gestation and delivery. Results: All patients showed a progressive increase in IGF-I and IGF-II levels. Data determined during different time intervals (before 29th, 29th to 32nd, after 32nd week) were compared and the main increase was found after the 32nd week. The median for IGF-I before the 29th week was 33.5 ng/ml (range 19–40.5) and increased to 41 ng/ml (32–59) between the 29th to 32nd and further to 54.1 ng/ml (range 17–70) thereafter. During the same time interval, the median for IGF-II increased from 217 ng/ml (86–326) to 349 ng/ml (227–467). In 7 patients, cord blood after delivery was available. For IGF-II a further increase was consistently found after birth (from 282 ng/ml (175–511) to 393 ng/ml (297–513)), whereas only 2 fetuses showed an increase in IGF-I. Conclusion: We conclude that in human fetuses, IGF-I and IGF-II levels increase longitudinally throughout pregnancy. Therefore, they may become important markers of healthy fetal development.
Hypoketotic Hypofattyacidaemic Hypoinsulinaemic Hypoglycaemia in a Child with Hemihypertrophy? A New Syndrome
Authors: Hussain K. , Bodamer O.A.F. , Cameron F.J. , Camacho-Hübner C. , Soos M.A. , Jones J. , Krywawych S. , O'Rahilly S. , Aynsley-Green A.
Published: February 2004

Background: Recurrent and persistent hypoketotic, hypofattyacidaemic hypoglycaemia in infancy and childhood is most frequently due to hyperinsulinism of infancy. This biochemical profile can also be due to non-islet cell tumour hypoglycaemia or circulating insulin-receptor autoantibodies. Hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia is also seen in children with the Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, where it is usually transient. Methods/Results: We report a novel case of child with hemihypertrophy and severe persistent hypoketotic, hypofattyacidaemic hypoinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia. No ‘big’ pro-IGF2 forms or circulating insulin-receptor antibodies were found. Glucose and protein isotope turnover studies showed marked suppression of hepatic glucose production during fasting. There was no evidence for constitutive autophosphorylation of the insulin or IGF-1 receptor, and no evidence for up-regulation of IGF-1 receptor. Conclusion: The precise pathophysiology of this novel case is still unclear.
Probiotic Treatment Increases Salivary Counts of Lactobacilli: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Study
Authors: Montalto M. , Vastola M. , Marigo L. , Covino M. , Graziosetto R. , Curigliano V. , Santoro L. , Cuoco L. , Manna R. , Gasbarrini G.
Published: February 2004

Background/Aims: Lactobacilli are used in the prevention and treatment of several diseases, but they are also known to play a role in the pathogenesis of dental caries. The aim of our study was to evaluate whether the oral administration of lactobacilli could change the salivary counts of these bacteria compared with placebo. Moreover, lactobacilli were administered in liquid and in capsule form to determine the role of direct contact with the oral cavity. Methods: Thirty-five healthy volunteers were randomized into three groups to receive lactobacilli and/or placebo for 45 days: group A (n = 14) received probiotics in capsules and placebo in liquid form; group B (n = 16) took liquid probiotics and placebo in capsules, and group C (n = 5) used placebo in both liquid and capsule form. Streptococcus mutans populations served as control. The salivary counts of lactobacilli and S. mutans were measured semi-quantitatively using the CRT® bacteria kit. Results: Compared with placebo, the oral administration of probiotics, both in capsules and in liquid form, significantly increases salivary counts of lactobacilli (p = 0.005 and p = 0.02, respectively). S. mutans populations were not significantly modified. Conclusions: The increased salivary counts of lactobacilli may indicate the need to closely monitor the dental health of patients undergoing long-term probiotics treatment, even when this treatment is administrated in a form that avoids direct contact with the oral cavity.
Genetic Polymorphism of the Renin-Angiotensin System on the Development of Primary Vesicoureteral Reflux
Authors: Yim Hyung Eun , Jung Min Ji , Choi Byung Min , Bae In Sun , Yoo Kee Hwan , Hong Young Sook , Lee Joo Won , Kim Soon Kyum
Published: February 2004

Background: The familial clustering of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) has suggested a genetic basis. This study was designed to investigate the genetic polymorphism of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in Korean children. Methods: Genetic polymorphism of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and angiotensin II receptor genes was evaluated in 67 primary VUR patients and compared to 58 controls with no urological abnormalities. To detect the relation of the risk factors of primary VUR with the genetic polymorphism, the distribution of ACE, AT1 and AT2 genotypes after stratification by risk factors was also studied in the primary VUR patients. Results: The incidence of AT2 A-1332G transition was significantly lower in primary VUR patients (p = 0.047). Furthermore, in the case of combination of ACE and AT2 gene, a significantly lower incidence of primary VUR was seen with II genotype of ACE and A-1332G transition in the AT2 receptor gene (p = 0.003). Concerning the risk factors of primary VUR, there were no biologically significant results. Conclusions: These findings indicate that a lower incidence of AT2 A-1332G transition is seen in primary VUR patients, at least in the Korean population. Also, in the case of combination of ACE and AT2 gene, the combination of ACE II genotype and AT2 A-1332G transition occurs infrequently in primary VUR.
The Coronary Effects of Parathyroid Hormone
Authors: Fazekas Réka , Soós Pál , Kékesi Violetta , Fazekas Levente , Juhász-Nagy Alexander
Published: February 2004

Objective: The aim of the present study was to characterize the role of the ATP-sensitive potassium channels (K+ATP) in the coronary dilator action of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Methods: Dose-response curves of intracoronary administrated PTH (0.15–1.33 nmol) were obtained in control phases and during continuous intracoronary administration of the K+ATP channel-selective antagonist glibenclamide (0.1–1.0 µmol/min) in dogs (n = 13). Results: Increments of integrated coronary conductance (excess coronary conductance) at PTH doses of 0.15 and 1.33 nmol were 1.17 versus 0.03 ml/mm Hg (p < 0.05) and 4.03 versus 0.94 ml/mm Hg (p < 0.05) in the control versus during maximal blockade, respectively. Conclusion: The results indicate that the activation of K+ATP channels significantly contributes to the PTH-induced coronary vasodilation.
Introduction
Authors: EKMAN PAUL
Published: February 2004

Abstract:InThe Expression of Emotions in Man and AnimalsDarwin argued that emotions are not unique to humans, but can be found in many species; that many of the same social occasions that generate emotions in humans do so in other animals. He asked why this particular expression for a particular emotion, and his answer formed part of his demonstration of the continuity of the species and was thus crucial to his evolutionary theory. Darwin was one of the first scientists to use photographs as illustrations and to use the judgment method for studying the signal value of an expression—which has become the most frequently used method in the psychology of expression. The contents of the present volume extend, support, and sometimes contradict Darwin's remarkable contribution to the field of the expression of emotions.
Meaning and Emotion in Animal Vocalizations
Authors: SEYFARTH ROBERT M. , CHENEY DOROTHY L.
Published: February 2004

Abstract:Historically, a dichotomy has been drawn between the semantic communication of human language and the apparently emotional calls of animals. Current research paints a more complicated picture. Just as scientists have identified elements of human speech that reflect a speaker's emotions, field experiments have shown that the calls of many animals provide listeners with information about objects and events in the environment. Like human speech, therefore, animal vocalizations simultaneously provide others with information that is both semantic and emotional. In support of this conclusion, we review the results of field experiments on the natural vocalizations of African vervet monkeys, diana monkeys, baboons, and suricates (a South African mongoose). Vervet and diana monkeys give acoustically distinct alarm calls in response to the presence of leopards, eagles, and snakes. Each alarm call type elicits a different, adaptive response from others nearby. Field experiments demonstrate that listeners compare these vocalizations not just according to their acoustic properties but also according to the information they convey. Like monkeys, suricates give acoustically distinct alarm calls in response to different predators. Within each predator class, the calls also differ acoustically according to the signaler's perception of urgency. Like speech, therefore, suricate alarm calls convey both semantic and emotional information. The vocalizations of baboons, like those of many birds and mammals, are individually distinctive. As a result, when one baboon hears a sequence of calls exchanged between two or more individuals, the listener acquires information about social events in its group. Baboons, moreover, are skilled “eavesdroppers:” their response to different call sequences provides evidence of the sophisticated information they acquire from other individuals' vocalizations. Baboon males give loud “wahoo” calls during competitive displays. Like other vocalizations, these highly emotional calls provide listeners with information about the caller's dominance rank, age, and competitive ability. Although animal vocalizations, like human speech, simultaneously encode both semantic and emotional information, they differ from language in at least one fundamental respect. Although listeners acquire rich information from a caller's vocalization, callers do not, in the human sense, intend to provide it. Listeners acquire information as an inadvertent consequence of signaler behavior.
Darwin, Deception, and Facial Expression
Authors: EKMAN PAUL
Published: February 2004

Abstract:Darwin did not focus on deception. Only a few sentences in his book mentioned the issue. One of them raised the very interesting question of whether it is difficult to voluntarily inhibit the emotional expressions that are most difficult to voluntarily fabricate. Another suggestion was that it would be possible to unmask a fabricated expression by the absence of the difficult‐to‐voluntarily‐generate facial actions. Still another was that during emotion body movements could be more easily suppressed than facial expression. Research relevant to each of Darwin's suggestions is reviewed, as is other research on deception that Darwin did not foresee.
Expression and the Course of Life
Authors: KELTNER DACHER
Published: February 2004

Abstract:In this paper I discuss how expressive behavior relates to personality and psychopathology, integrating recent findins from my laboratory and the insights of Charles Darwin on this topic. In the first part of the paper I challenge the view, in part espoused by Darwin, that humans are equipped to convey only a limited number of emotions with nonverbal behavior. Our lab has documented displays for several emotions, including embarrassment, love, desire, compassion, gratitude, and awe, to name just a few states that previously were thought not to possess a distinct display. I then present an argument for how individual differences in emotion, although fleeting, shape the social environment. This argument focuses on the functions of nonverbal display: to provide information to others, to evoke responses, and to serve as incentives of preceding or ensuing social behavior. This reasoning sets the stage for the study of the relationships between personality, psychopathology, and expressive behavior, to which I turn in the final part of the paper. Here I show that basic personality traits (e.g., extraversion, agreeableness) and psychological disorders (e.g., externalizing disorder in children, autism) have expressive signatures that shape social interactions and environments in profound ways that might perpetuate and transmit the trait or disorder.
Darwin and the Neural Bases of Emotion and Affective Style
Authors: DAVIDSON RICHARD J.
Published: February 2004

Abstract:This article presents an overview of ways to think about the brain and emotion and consider the role of evolution and expression in shaping the neural circuitry of affective processing. Issues pertaining to whether there are separate unique neural modules hard‐wired for emotion processing or whether affective processing uses more generalized circuitry are considered. Relations between affect and cognition—specifically, memory—are examined from the perspective of overlapping neural systems. The role of individual differences in neural function in affective style are discussed, and the concepts of affective chronometry, or the time course of emotional responding and emotion regulation, are introduced. Finally, the extent to which certain emotional traits can be viewed as trainable skills is considered, and the relevance of work on neural plasticity to the skill framework is addressed. Data from a variety of sources using different types of measures is brought to bear on these questions, including neuroimaging and psychophysiological measures, studies of individuals of different ages ranging from early childhood to old age, studies of nonhuman primates, and observations of patients with localized brain damage. Emotions are viewed as varying in both type and dimension. Honoring brain circuitry in parsing the domain of affects will result in distinctions and differentiations that are not currently incorporated in traditional classification schemes.
The Amygdala, Social Behavior, and Danger Detection
Authors: AMARAL DAVID G.
Published: February 2004

Abstract: The amygdala is a distinctive portion of the anterior temporal lobe that has been implicated in a variety of functions including expression of fear, modulation of memory, and mediation of social communication. While work on the rodent amygdala often deals with emotion, much of the research in nonhuman primates and in man deals with its role in the perception of social signals, such as facial expressions, and the maintenance of social position, such as in primate dominance hierarchies. We have established a program of research that has as its major goal the definition of neural systems that underlie species‐typical social communication. A first phase of the program was launched on the premise that the amygdala is essential for species‐typical social behavior. We sought to examine in more detail the impairments of social behavior that followed discrete, bilateral lesions of the amygdala. We found, however, that mature rhesus monkeys with bilateral lesions of the amygdala not only were capable of species‐typical social behavior, but actually engaged in more affiliative social interactions. The lesioned animals also demonstrated a striking lack of fear of normally fear‐inducing stimuli such as replicas of snakes. In a second, ongoing series of studies in the infant rhesus monkey, we are examining whether the amygdala is essential for gaining social knowledge during development. Infant animals that receive bilateral lesions of the amygdala at two weeks of age and are raised by their biological mothers demonstrate all expected social behaviors for their ages. These animals, like the adults, demonstrate a lack of fear of objects such as snakes. However, unlike the adults, they demonstrate more fear when placed into novel social situations. The results from these studies are most consistent with the conclusion that the amygdala is not necessary for species‐typical social behavior or for gaining social knowledge during development. We hypothesize that the amygdala is a critical component of a system that evaluates the environment for potential dangers. As such, it has a modulatory role on social behavior—that is, it typically inhibits social interaction with novel conspecifics while they are evaluated as potential adversaries. This perspective predicts that hyperactivity of the amygdala would be associated with increased fear or anxiety and may contribute to disorders such as social phobia.
Blood, Sweat, and Fears
Authors: LEVENSON ROBERT W.
Published: February 2004

Abstract:The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a critical role in emotion, providing metabolic support for adaptive action, generating appearance changes with high signal value for conspecifics, and producing visceral sensations that shape subjective emotional experience. In this chapter, I consider several of the most important ways that the ANS is involved in emotion, including: (a) peripheral activation of emotion; (b) autonomic influences on emotional language and the labeling of subjective emotional experience; (c) positive emotion and autonomic soothing; (d) expressive signs of autonomic origin; (e) autonomic substrates of emotional contagion and empathy; and (f) autonomic consequences of emotion regulation. For each, I describe relevant research from our laboratory and discuss implications for an evolutionary account of emotion. In these and many other ways the autonomic architecture of human emotion has evolved not only to move blood and tears in the service of fears, but also to provide us with a rich set of tools that help us communicate and signal the nature of our internal emotional experiences, understand the emotions of others, calm ourselves and others, and give us some modicum of control over harmful and unproductive emotions.
Acoustic Analyses Support Subjective Judgments of Vocal Emotion
Authors: MONNOT MARILEE , ORBELO DIANA , RICCARDO LUCIANA , SIKKA SEEMA , ROSSA ELLIOTT
Published: February 2004

Abstract: Subjective human judgments of emotion in speech have been considered to be less reliable than acoustic analyses in scientific studies, but acoustic analyses have had limited ability to detect subtle vocal nuances that give useful social information about human intent and meaning to discourse partners. Two post hoc analyses were undertaken to determine if results from acoustic analyses of vocalizations were related to subjective judgments of vocal affect (affective prosody). Acoustic analyses of fundamental frequency (Fo) and subjective judgments of emotional content of vocal productions from two studies underwent statistical analyses: Study 1—vocal repetition of sentences using 6 basic emotions in 24 detoxified alcoholics and 15 controls; study 2—quality/quantity of “motherese” speech directed to 52 infants in Cambridge, England. Ratings of emotion indicators for both studies were done by female researchers of different ages and cultural/language backgrounds. In both studies, acoustic analyses of Fo elements in utterances accounted for approximately 50% of the effect when modeling subjective emotion accuracy and emotion intensity ratings, using linear regression analyses. Acoustic analyses of Fo are positively associated with subjective judgments of emotion indicators, and speakers who cannot vary Fo are unable to convey emotion accurately to communication partners. Yet acoustic analyses are limited in comparison to the exquisite complexity of the human auditory and cognitive systems. Subjective judgments of emotional meaning in speech can be a reliable variable in scientific inquiry and can be used for more complex, subtle studies of speech communication and intentionality than acoustic analyses.
Congenital Lipoid Adrenal Hyperplasia Caused by a Novel Splicing Mutation in the Gene for the Steroidogenic Acute Regulatory Protein
Authors: González Alexis A. , Reyes M. Loreto , Carvajal Cristian A. , Tobar Jaime A. , Mosso Lorena M. , Baquedano Paulina , Solar Antonieta , Venegas Alejandro , Fardella Carlos E.
Published: February 2004

Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) plays a crucial role in the transport of cholesterol from the cytoplasm to the inner mitochondrial membrane, facilitating its conversion to pregnenolone by cytochrome P450scc. Its essential role in steroidogenesis was demonstrated after observing that StAR gene mutations gave rise to a potentially lethal disease named congenital lipoid adrenal hyperplasia, in which virtually no steroids are produced. We report here a 2-month-old female patient, karyotype 46XY, who presented with growth failure, convulsions, dehydration, hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, hypotension, and severe hyperpigmentation suggestive of adrenal insufficiency. Serum cortisol, 17OH-progesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, testosterone, 17OH-pregnenolone, and aldosterone levels were undetectable in the presence of high ACTH and plasma renin activity levels. Immunohistochemical analysis of testis tissues revealed the absence of StAR protein. Molecular analysis of StAR gene demonstrated a homozygous G to T mutation within the splice donor site of exon 1 (IVS1 + 1G>T). Her parents and one brother were heterozygous for this mutation. In vitro analysis of the mutation was performed in COS cells transfected with minigenes coding regions spanning exon-intron 1 to 3 carrying the mutant and the wild-type sequences. RT-PCR analyses of the mutant gene showed an abnormal mRNA transcript of 2430 bp (normal size 433 bp). Sequence analysis of the mutant mRNA demonstrated the retention of intron 1. Immunolocalization of the StAR minigene product detected the peptide in the mitochondria of COS cells transfected with the wild-type minigene but not in those transfected with the mutant minigene. We conclude that this mutation gives rise to a truncated StAR protein, which lacks an important N-terminal region and the entire lipid transfer domain.
Six Months of Treatment with Cabergoline Restores Sexual Potency in Hyperprolactinemic Males: An Open Longitudinal Study Monitoring Nocturnal Penile Tumescence
Authors: De Rosa Michele , Zarrilli Stefano , Vitale Giovanni , Di Somma Carolina , Orio Francesco , Tauchmanova’ Libuse , Lombardi Gaetano , Colao Annamaria
Published: February 2004

This open longitudinal study investigated the prevalence of depressed sexual potency by monitoring erectile dysfunction using nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT) in 51 consecutive men with hyperprolactinemia (41 macroprolactinomas and 10 microprolactinomas) and evaluated potential reversibility of sexual failure after 6 months of treatment with cabergoline. Fifty-one healthy men served as controls.

Compared with controls, the patients with either micro- or macroprolactinoma had low testosterone levels with severe alterations of erectile function. Testosterone deficiency was present in 73.2% of macro- and 50% of microprolactinomas; reduced libido and sexual potency were referred by 53.6% of macroprolactinomas, 50% of microprolactinomas, and none of controls. Fewer than three erectile events per night by NPT were found in 96.7% of patients and 13.7% of controls (P < 0.0001). After 6 months of cabergoline treatment, prolactin levels normalized in 74.5% of patients: 73.2% of macroprolactinomas and 80% of microprolactinomas. Testosterone levels normalized in 68.6% of patients, whereas NPT normalized in 60.6% of patients who had normalized prolactin levels and in 7.7% of patients who did not.

In conclusion, at study entry, 50% of the patients complained of sexual disturbances, 96.7% of whom had an impairment of erectile events per night compared with 13.7% of controls. Six months of treatment with cabergoline normalized testosterone levels in most cases, thus restoring and maintaining during treatment the capability of normal sexual activity in hyperprolactinemic males.
The Effect of a Six-Month Exercise Program on Very Low-Density Lipoprotein Apolipoprotein B Secretion in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Alam Saima , Stolinski Michael , Pentecost Claire , Boroujerdi Massoud A. , Jones Richard H. , Sonksen Peter H. , Umpleby A. Margot
Published: February 2004

The dyslipidemia and insulin resistance of type 2 diabetes can be improved by aerobic exercise. The effect of 6 months supervised exercise on very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) apolipoprotein B metabolism was investigated in patients with type 2 diabetes. Moderately obese patients (n = 18) were randomized into supervised (n = 9) and unsupervised (n = 9) exercise groups. All patients were given a training session and a personal exercise program and asked to exercise four times per week at 70% maximal oxygen uptake for 6 months. Patients in the supervised group had a weekly session with an exercise trainer. VLDL apolipoprotein (apo)B metabolism was measured with an infusion of 1-13C leucine before and after 6 months of the exercise program.

Supervised exercise for 6 months resulted in a significant within-group decrease in percent hemoglobin A1c (P < 0.001), body fat (P < 0.004), nonesterified fatty acid (P < 0.04), and triglycerides (P < 0.05) and an increase in insulin sensitivity (P < 0.01). There was a decrease in VLDL apoB pool size (160.8 ± 42.6 to 84.9 ± 23.2 mg, P < 0.01) and VLDL apoB secretion rate (11.3 ± 2.6 to 5.5 ± 2.0 mg/kg·d, P < 0.05) with no change in fractional catabolic rate. In a between-group comparison, the decrease in VLDL apoB secretion rate in the supervised group did not achieve significance. This study demonstrates that in type 2 diabetes, a supervised exercise program reduces VLDL apoB pool size, which may be due to a decrease in VLDL apoB secretion rate.
Transdermal Testosterone Application: Pharmacokinetics and Effects on Pubertal Status, Short-Term Growth, and Bone Turnover
Authors: Mayo A. , Macintyre H. , Wallace A. M. , Ahmed S. F.
Published: February 2004

The aim of the study was to assess the effect of transdermal testosterone on free testosterone concentrations in saliva and on short-term growth and bone turnover in boys with growth or pubertal delay.

A prospective, randomized, crossover study was conducted over 26 wk with 4 wk of run-in, 8 wk of treatment I (8 or 12 h), 4 wk of washout, 8 wk of treatment II (8 or 12 h), and 4 wk of final washout.

The main outcome measures were salivary testosterone profiles during the different study periods; weekly change in lower leg length (LLL) as measured by knemometry, i.e. LLL velocity; absolute and percentage change in bone alkaline phosphatase (bALP) levels; and deoxypyridinoline cross-links measured in urine.

Eight boys who took part in the study had a median age of 13.5 yr (range, 12.4–14.9 yr), testicular volume of 3 ml (range, 2–6 ml), height sd score of −2.4 (range, −1.44 to −3.35), and bone age delay of 2 yr (range, 1–3.2 yr).

Median salivary testosterone during 8- and 12-h treatments [179 pg/ml (range, 7–3579 pg/ml) and 150 pg/ml (range, 12–3472 pg/ml) (not significant)] was significantly higher than during the run-in and washout blocks (P < 0.0001) [9 pg/ml (range, <7 to 122 pg/ml) and 13 pg/ml (range, <7 to 285 pg/ml) (not significant)]. LLL velocity in the treatment blocks (median, 0.64 mm/wk; range, 0.1–1.08 mm/wk) was significantly higher than during the run-in and washout periods (median, 0.48 mm/wk; range, −0.06 to 0.92 mm/wk) (P < 0.001). The main rise in bALP occurred during the first treatment block with a median percentage change in bALP of 44.2% (range, −4 to 87%) and a smaller percentage change in bALP at the end of the second treatment block of 9.8% (range, −4 to 55%). The increases in bALP were not significantly different between the 8- and 12-h treatment periods, and there was no significant decline during the washout periods.

Overnight transdermal testosterone application, as Virormone (5 mg), may be a potentially acceptable method of induction of puberty and stimulates short-term growth and bone turnover.
Optimierungsbasierte Regelung eines integrierten reaktiven chromatographischen Trennprozesses (Optimization-based Control of a Reactive Chromatographic Separation Process)
Authors: Toumi Abdelaziz , Engell Sebastian
Published: February 2004

Dieser Beitrag beschäftigt sich mit der Prozessführung eines chromatographischen Trennprozesses, bei dem kontinuierlich ein Fruktose-Sirup aus einer reinen Glukoselösung gewonnen wird. Glukose wird hierbei enzymatisch zu Fruktose umgewandelt. Gleichzeitig wird das so entstandene Zuckergemisch chromatographisch aufgetrennt. Die Prozessführung ist aufgrund des ausgeprägten nichtlinearen Verhaltens schwierig. Aufbauend auf einem rigorosen Prozessmodell, dessen Parameter on-line aus Messungen geschätzt werden, wird in dieser Arbeit ein nichtlinearer modellprädiktiver Regler entwickelt. Ziel der Regelung ist die Minimierung des Lösungsmittelverbrauchs bei Einhaltung der Produktreinheit. Es handelt sich also um eine echte On-line-Optimierung. Das gesamte Regelungskonzept wurde an einer Sechs-Säulen-Technikumsanlage implementiert und experimentell verifiziert. Dies ist die weltweit erste Realisierung eines MPC-Konzepts an einer SMB-Anlage.
Ordnungsreduktion mittels Krylov-Unterraummethoden (Order Reduction using Krylov Subspace Methods)
Authors: Lohmann Boris , Salimbahrami Behnam
Published: February 2004

Bei der Modellierung dynamischer Systeme entstehen heute durch gewachsene Güteanforderungen und den Einsatz von Softwaretools regelmäßig Systeme hoher Ordnung, deren weitere Verwendung durch eine Modellreduktion entscheidend erleichtert werden kann. Krylov-Unterraummethoden erlauben dabei die Reduktion auch sehr großer linearer Modelle mit zehntausenden Zustandsvariablen. Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt eine Einführung in die Grundgedanken, stellt die wichtigsten Algorithmen vor und gibt einen Ausblick auf zu lösende Aufgaben.
Enzymatic U(VI) reduction by Desulfosporosinus species
Authors: Suzuki Yohey , Kelly Shelly D. , Kemner Ken M. , Banfield Jillian F.
Published: February 2004

Here we tested U(VI) reduction by a Desulfosporosinus species (sp.) isolate and type strain (DSM 765) in cell suspensions (pH 7) containing 1mM U(VI) and lactate, under an atmosphere containing N2-CO2-H2 (90:5:5). Although neither Desulfosporosinus species (spp.) reduced U(VI) in cell suspensions with 0.25 Na-bicarbonate or 0.85 NaCl, U(VI) was reduced in these solutions by a control strain, Desulfovibrio desulfuricans (ATCC 642). However, both Desulfosporosinus strains reduced U(VI) in cell suspensions depleted in bicarbonate and NaCl. No U(VI) reduction was observed without lactate and H2 electron donors or with heat-killed cells, indicating enzymatic U(VI) reduction. Uranium(VI) reduction by both strains was inhibited when 1mM CuCl2 was added to the cell suspensions. Because the Desulfosporosinus DSM 765 does not contain cytochrome c
3 used by Desulfovibrio spp. to reduce U(VI), Desulfosporosinus species reduce uranium via a different enzymatic pathway.
Enhanced extraction of thorium(IV) and uranium(VI) with 1-phenyl-3-methyl-4-pivaloyl-5-pyrazolone in the presence of various neutral organophosphorus extractants
Authors: Meera R. , Luxmi Varma R. , Reddy M. L. P.
Published: February 2004

This paper describes the results of the investigations carried out on the extraction of thorium(IV) and uranium(VI) from dilute nitric acid solutions into chloroform with 1-phenyl-3-methyl-4-pivaloyl-5-pyrazolone (HPMPP) in the presence and absence of various neutral organophosphorus extractants, tributylphosphate (TBP), octyl(phenyl)-N,N-diisobutylcarbamoylmethylphosphine oxide (CMPO) and trioctylphosphine oxide (TOPO). The results demonstrated that these metal ions were extracted into chloroform as Th(PMPP)4 and UO2(PMPP)2 with HPMPP alone and as Th(PMPP)4·S and UO2(PMPP)2·S in the presence of neutral organophosphorus extractants (S). High selectivity (S.F.=2.8×105) has been observed between thorium(IV) and uranium(VI) when extracted with HPMPP alone. The equilibrium constants of the extracted complexes have been deduced by non-linear regression analysis. The equilibrium constants of the synergistically extracted complexes have been correlated with the donor ability of the phosphoryl oxygen of the neutral organophosphorus extractants in terms of their 31P NMR chemical shifts and basicity values (K
H = nitric acid uptake constant). The addition of a neutral organophosphorus extractant to the metal chelate system significantly enhances the extraction efficiency of these metal ions. Thorium(IV) and uranium(VI) complexes of HPMPP and mixtures of HPMPP and neutral organophosphorus extractants were synthesized and characterized by IR spectral data to further clarify the nature of the extracted complexes.
Crown ethers as synergists in the extraction of trivalent lanthanoids with 3-phenyl-4-(4-fluorobenzoyl)-5-isoxazolone
Authors: Pavithran Rani , Reddy M. L. P.
Published: February 2004

This paper highlights the results of investigations carried out on the extraction of lanthanoids such as Nd(III), Eu(III) and Tm(III) from nitrate solutions into chloroform with 3-phenyl-4-(4-fluorobenzoyl)-5-isoxazolone (HFBPI) in the presence and absence of various crown ethers (CE); 18-crown-6 (18C6), dicyclohexano-18-crown-6 (DC18C6), benzo-18-crown-6 (B18C6) and dibenzo-18-crown-6 (DB18C6). The results demonstrated that these trivalent metal ions were extracted into chloroform as Ln(FBPI)3with HFBPI alone and as Ln(FBPI)3·CE in the presence of a CE. The equilibrium constants of the above extracted complexes deduced by a non-linear regression analysis were found to increase monotonically with a decrease in ionic radii of these metal ions. The addition of a CE to the metal chelate system significantly improves the extraction efficiency of these metal ions. The complexation strength of trivalent lanthanoids with various CEs follows the order: DC18C6 > 18C6 > B18C6 > DB18C6. Solid complexes of Eu(III) with HFBPI alone and with mixtures of HFBPI and various crown ethers have been isolated and characterised by IR and1H NMR spectral data to further clarify the nature of the extracted complexes.
Adsorption and thermodynamic studies of Co(II) and Hg(II) on 2-nitroso-1-naphthol immobilized polyurethane foam using radiotracer technique
Authors: Saeed Muhammed M. , Ahmed Munir
Published: February 2004

The sorption behaviour of Co(II) and Hg(II) on 2-nitroso-1-naphthol loaded polyurethane foam (PUF) was studied. The maximum sorption of 1.8×10-5M solution of Co(II) occurred at low pH range 3-7 and that of 3.11×10-5M solution of Hg(II) was sorbed at higher pH range 7-9. The maximum equilibrium was attained within twenty minute shaking time. The adsorption data followed the Freundlich and Langmuir adsorption isotherms successfully. The Freundlich constants 1/n and K
f for Co(II) are 0.44 and 1.18×10-2mol g-1 and for Hg(II) are 0.38 and 8.67×10-4mol g-1 respectively indicate the surface heterogeneity. The Langmuir constants M and b are 2.6×10-4mol g-1 and 4.7×104L g-1 for Co(II) and 2.9×10-5mol g-1 and 7.6×104L g-1 for Hg(II) respectively. The sorption free energy (E) evaluated from Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R) isotherm for Co(II) and Hg(II) are 12.7kJ mol-1 and 13.13kJ mol-1 respectively, which indicate the ion exchange type chemisorption of Co(II) and Hg(II) onto 2-nitroso-1-naphthol loaded PUF. The thermodynamics parameters ΔH, ΔS and ΔG have been evaluated. The change in enthalpy (ΔH) of Co(II) is 74.55kJ mol-1, indicates the endothermic sorption, while for Hg(II) is -25.28kJ mol-1, depicts the exothermic sorption. The effect of diverse anions on the sorption of Co(II) and Hg(II) has been studied which revealed that the sorption of Hg(II) was completely masked in the presence of bromide, tartrate, nitrite, EDTA, thiocyanate, cyanide, perchlorate, ascorbate and thiourea, whereas sorption of Co(II) was greatly affected in the presence of oxalate, EDTA, cyanide, citrate and ascorbic acid. The nature of sorption mechanism has been discussed. The 2-nitroso-1-naphthol loaded PUF has potential in radiochemistry to separate 203Hg(II) from 75Se(IV), and Co(II) from Ni(II) metal ions or vice versa.