David A. Hamburg

Fluctuations in symptoms and moods during the menstrual cycle

Abstract Fifteen married, nulliparous women were studied longitudinally over two menstrual cycles. Changes in menstrual symptoms (pain, water retention, autonomic reactions), mood (anxiety, aggression, depression, pleasantness, activation), and sexual arousal were measured. Results indicated that these variables changed cyclically in relation to the menstrual cycle; that the 15 women were generally consistent from one cycle to another in their degree of symptomatology; that this consistency was greater for the intermenstrual than for the menstrual and premenstrual phases, suggesting greater variability of symptoms in these latter phases; and, that high and low premenstrual tension women tended to differ consistently from each other on negative affect throughout the cycle, as well as on another symptoms in other phases of the cycle. Consistently high premenstrual tension women may thus constitute an especially important group for endocrinologic studies.

Orgasmic frequency and plasma testosterone levels in normal human males

Twenty males participated in a 2-month study examining the relationship between 8 a.m. plasma testosterone levels and orgasmic frequency. Within subjects, higher levels of testosterone are associated with periods of sexual activity. Over subjects, however, the direction of the relationship is reversed. Mean testoster-one levels were higher for sexually less active individuals.

Coping behavior in life-threatening circumstances.

Despite the omnipresence of threatening experiences, the human species displays remarkable resilience in adaptation. This has been significantly neglected until recent years in both clinical observati

Genetic aspects of the synthesis of catecholamines in the adrenal medulla

Abstract (1) There are marked strain differences in the activity of the enzymes involved in the synthesis of the adrenal medullary hormones within a series of inbred mouse strains. (2) In the case of tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate-limiting step in the formation of catecholamines, differences of as much as fourfold have been found, while for phenylethanolamine N-methyl transferase, the enzyme which converts norepinephrine to epinephrine, differences of 2·5-fold have been noted. (3) Genetic studies of the strains provide evidence that genetic factors are very important in determining the activity of the enzymes involved in catecholamine formation. (4) Major differences in regulatory mechanisms involving the enzymes can also be demonstrated between the strains. (5) Such differences in the capacity to form catecholamines may have significance in the response to stress and in behavior.

AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR OF CHIMPANZEES AND BABOONS IN NATURAL HABITATS

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the aggressive behavior of chimpanzees and baboons in natural habitats. The predator–prey relation is only one aspect of the complex interactions between chimpanzees and baboons at the Gombe Stream Reserve and certainly not the most prominent aspect on a day-to-day basis. The two species clearly know each other well and they respond to each other differentially in a way that suggests the recognition of individual animals, the recognition of signals, and mutual accommodation. Overt competition sometimes occurs, especially in relation to premium foods. It is found that while the chimpanzees are generally dominant over the baboons in these encounters, the interactions are complex. Several adult male baboons may persist for several hours in harassing adult male chimpanzees who are controlling a supply of bananas. This harassment involves repeated, close-range threats, including the display of the massive canine teeth. Occasional short runs to grab for a banana also occur. However, the baboons rarely get more than a banana peel, at least until the chimpanzees have had an abundant intake. In these persistent agonistic encounters over a premium food, baboons frequently break off contact with the adult male chimpanzees and attack a female or juvenile chimpanzee.