State University of New York System

About: State University of New York System is a education organization based out in Albany, New York, United States. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Poison control. The organization has 54077 authors who have published 78070 publications receiving 2985160 citations.

On the actions that one nerve cell can have on another: Distinguishing “drivers” from “modulators”

Abstract: When one nerve cell acts on another, its postsynaptic effect can vary greatly. In sensory systems, inputs from “drivers” can be differentiated from those of “modulators.” The driver can be identified as the transmitter of receptive field properties; the modulator can be identified as altering the probability of certain aspects of that transmission. Where receptive fields are not available, the distinction is more difficult and currently is undefined. We use the visual pathways, particularly the thalamic geniculate relay for which much relevant evidence is available, to explore ways in which drivers can be distinguished from modulators. The extent to which the distinction may apply first to other parts of the thalamus and then, possibly, to other parts of the brain is considered. We suggest the following distinctions: Cross-correlograms from driver inputs have sharper peaks than those from modulators; there are likely to be few drivers but many modulators for any one cell; and drivers are likely to act only through ionotropic receptors having a fast postsynaptic effect whereas modulators also are likely to activate metabotropic receptors having a slow and prolonged postsynaptic effect.

Body Composition, Visceral Fat, Leptin, and Insulin Resistance in Asian Indian Men

Abstract: There is a high prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease among urban and migrant Asian Indians despite the absence of traditional risk factors. Evidence exists that Asian Indians are more hyperinsulinemic than Caucasians and that hyperinsulinemia may be important in the development of these diseases. To test whether insulin action was related to total or regional adiposity and to explore the potential role of plasma leptin and lipids, we measured insulin-mediated glucose disposal by the euglycemic insulin clamp, adipose distribution and muscle volume using computed axial tomography, and fasting serum leptin and lipid levels in 20 healthy Asian Indian male volunteers (age, 36 ± 10 yr). A mean body mass index of 24.5 ± 2.5 kg/m2 was associated with an unusually high percentage of body fat (33 ± 7%). The majority of the fat was sc, and 16% was visceral (intraabdominal) adipose tissue. The majority (66%) of these nonobese men were insulin resistant. The mean fasting serum leptin leve...

Curiosity and Exploration: Facilitating Positive Subjective Experiences and Personal Growth Opportunities

Abstract: In an effort to expand research on curiosity, we elaborate on a theoretical model that informs research on the design of a new measure and the nomological network of curiosity. Curiosity was conceptualized as a positive emotional-motivational system associated with the recognition, pursuit, and self-regulation of novelty and challenge. Using 5 independent samples, we developed the Curiosity and Exploration Inventory (CEI) comprising 2 dimensions: exploration (appetitive strivings for novelty and challenge) and absorption (full engagement in specific activities). The CEI has good psychometric properties, is relatively unaffected by socially desirable responding, is relatively independent from positive affect, and has a nomological network consistent with our theoretical framework. Predicated on our personal growth facilitation model, we discuss the potential role of curiosity in advancing understanding of various psychological phenomena.