This paper details work done on face processing using a novel approach involving Hidden Markov Models. Experimental results from earlier work [14 ] indicated that left-to-right models with use of structural information yield better feature extraction than ergodic models. This paper illustrates how these hybrid models can be used to extract facial bands and automatically segment a face image int...

Angelman syndrome has been suggested as a disease model of neurogenetic developmental condition with a specific behavioral phenotype. It is due to lack of expression of the UBE3A gene, an imprinted gene located on chromosome 15q. Here we review the main features of this phenotype, characterized by happy demeanor with prominent smiling, poorly specific laughing and general exuberance, associated...

The effect of odor on cognitive and emotional processes has been studied in adults and children, but less so in infants. In this study twenty-seven six-month-olds were presented with a video while in either an odor (pine or baby-powder) or a no odor control condition. The video was a 92-s audiovisual presentation of a woman expressing happiness and sadness, with the order of emotion counterbala...

Excessive gingival display (EGD) is a condition in which an overexposure of the maxillary gingiva (>3 mm) is present during smiling. The proper diagnosis and determination of its etiology are essential for the selection of the right treatment modality. Different techniques have been used in cases of hyperactive upper lip: botulinum toxin injections, lip elongations with rhinoplasties, lip muscl...

We investigated the hypothesis that people's facial activity influences their affective responses. Two studies were designed to both eliminate methodological problems of earlier experiments and clarify theoretical ambiguities. This was achieved by having subjects hold a pen in their mouth in ways that either inhibited or facilitated the muscles typically associated with smiling without requirin...

From a consideration of developmental data an integrative perspective on infant development is evolved emphasizing the function of the smile. From the earliest spontaneous smiles of the newborn period to mature smiling and laughter, a central role was revealed for an eAcitation (tension) relaxation process in producing smiles, This notion is complementary to social and cognitive .theories of sm...