Showing papers by "Washington State University published in 1985"

Genetic basis for species vulnerability in the Cheetah

Abstract: A population genetic survey of over 200 structural loci previously revealed that the South African cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus) has an extreme paucity of genetic variability, probably as a consequence of a severe population bottleneck in its recent past. The genetic monomorphism of the species is here extended to the major histocompatibility complex, since 14 reciprocal skin grafts between unrelated cheetahs were accepted. The apparent consequences of such genetic uniformity to the species include (i) great difficulty in captive breeding, (ii) a high degree of juvenile mortality in captivity and in the wild, and (iii) a high frequency of spermatozoal abnormalities in ejaculates. The species vulnerability of the cheetah was demonstrated by an epizootic of coronavirus-associated feline infectious peritonitis in an Oregon breeding colony in 1983. Exposure and spread of the coronavirus, which has a very low morbidity in domestic cats (approximately 1 percent), has decimated a heretofore productive and healthy captive population. The extreme genetic monomorphism, especially at the major histocompatibility complex, and the apparent hypersensitivity of the cheetah to a viral pathogen may be related, and provide a biological basis for understanding the adaptive significance of abundant genetic variation in outbred mammalian species.

High Efficiency Transformation of Cultured Tobacco Cells

Abstract: Tobacco calli were transformed at levels up to 50% by cocultivation of tobacco cultured cells with Agrobacterium tumefaciens harboring the binary transfer-DNA vector, pGA472, containing a kanamycin resistance marker Transformation frequency was dependent on the physiological state of the tobacco cells, the nature of Agrobacterium strain and, less so, on the expression of the vir genes of the tumor-inducing plasmid Maximum transformation frequency was obtained with exponentially growing plant cells, suggesting that rapid growth of plant cells is an essental factor for efficient transformation of higher plants

New cloning vehicles for transformation of higher plants.

Abstract: We have constructed a set of small vectors based on the tumor-inducing (Ti) plasmid of Agrobacterium tumefaciens which allow the transfer of exogenous DNA into plant chromosomes. These vectors contain: (i) a chimeric gene containing the transcriptional control signals from the nopaline synthase gene and the coding sequence for neomycin phosphotransferase; (ii) the ColE1 replicon; (iii) the cos site of bacteriophage λ; (iv) the border sequences from the ends of the T-DNA region of the Ti plasmid; and (v) a wide host range replicon. Due to the small size of these cosmid vectors, DNA fragments up to 35 kbp can be inserted by an in vitro packaging method in Escherichia coli. The ability of these vectors to be stably replicated in both E. coli and A. tumefaciens allows their subsequent transfer to and maintenance in Agrobacterium without intermediate genetic manipulations. We demonstrate that DNA cloned into these vectors in A. tumefaciens can efficiently transform plants when in trans with a wild-type Ti plasmid which donates the functions necessary for DNA transfer and integration. We also show that only the right border of the T-DNA is necessary for DNA transformation.

THE ORIGINS OF INDIVIDUAL MEDIA-SYSTEM DEPENDENCY A Sociological Framework

Abstract: Prior theory and research that has demonstrated the consequences of individuals' media-system dependencies upon selective exposure and message effects has not, however, addressed the equally important question of the determinants of individuals' media-system dependencies. The aim of this article is to present a sociological framework for the analysis of the macro and micro determinants of those media-system dependencies. The configuration of determinants that constitute this framework includes structural dependencies between the media and other social systems, characteristics of the social environs, media-system activity, interpersonal discourse networks, the sociostructural location of individuals, and personal goals.

Simple equation to approximate the bidirectional reflectance from vegetative canopies and bare soil surfaces

Abstract: A simple equation has been developed for describing the bidirectional reflectance of some vegetative canopies and bare soil surfaces. The equation describes directional reflectance as a function of zenith and azimuth view angles and solar azimuth angle. The equation works for simulated and field measured red and IR reflectance under clear sky conditions. Hemispherical reflectance can be calculated as a function of the simple equation coefficients by integrating the equation over the hemisphere of view angles. A single equation for estimating soil bidirectional reflectance was obtained using the relationships between solar zenith angles and the simple equation coefficients for medium and rough soil distributions. The equation has many useful applications such as providing a lower level boundary condition in complex plant canopy models and providing an additional tool for studying bidirectional effects on pointable sensors.

Using data envelopment analysis to measure the efficiency of non-profit organizations: A critical evaluation

Abstract: This study examines the potential effects of variable set expansion and data variations upon the efficiency scores generated using the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model. It was found that variable set expansion (either through disaggregation of existing variables or addition of new factors) should produce an upward trend in efficiency scores. In addition, ample opportunity exists for ‘decision-making units’ to increase their efficiency scores through manipulation of reported data. In real-world applications of DEA, these problems must be resolved as much as possible (e.g. increased audit of data) in order to improve DEA's practical usefulness and reliability.

Natural variation of canine parvovirus

Abstract: Canine parvovirus was first recognized during 1978. Analysis of isolates collected since its emergence revealed that viruses circulating after 1980 were antigenically different from earlier isolates. Monoclonal antibodies clearly distinguished the two strains, some being specific for either the old or the new viruses. Restriction enzyme analysis of viral DNA's showed that the post-1980 viruses were similar to earlier isolates, but some restriction site differences were present in the new strain. These results suggest that the canine parvoviruses infecting dogs in the seven areas of the United States that were sampled derive from a variant virus that replaced the original strain during 1980.

Optimal Growth, Resource Amenities and the Preservation of Natural Environments

Abstract: This paper examines the conditions for which it is optimal to permanently preserve natural environments in which a productive natural resource is found. The conditions are more restrictive than those previously indicated in the literature on the economics of natural environments. Increasing consumption and declining commodity prices are not sufficient to warrant permanent preservation. The initial capital stock can be an important determinant of the optimal level of preservation. In addition, resource amenity values will increase the initial resource price and decrease the rate of growth of the resource price. The natural world provides a variety of services to the human community. Natural resources are essential inputs in the production of goods and services. In addition, the natural world generates a variety of amenity services including the scientific, recreational, and aesthetic value of preserved natural environments (Krutilla (1967), Krutilla and Fisher (1975a)). This paper examines the impact of resource amenity values on the optimal growth of an economy which depends upon natural resource inputs for the production of goods and services. In particular, the paper examines the conditions under which it is optimal to permanently preserve some natural environments in which the productive resource is found. The conditions which warrant permanent preservation are more restrictive than previously indicated by the literature on the economics of natural environments. Increasing consumption and declining commodity prices are not sufficient to warrant permanent preservation. In addition, the initial capital endowment can be an important determinant of the optimal level of preservation.

Vaccinia virus recombinants: expression of VSV genes and protective immunization of mice and cattle

Abstract: Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) causes a contagious disease of horses, cattle, and pigs. When DNA copies of messenger RNA's for the G or N proteins of VSV were linked to a vaccinia virus promoter and inserted into the vaccinia genome, the recombinants retained infectivity and synthesized VSV polypeptides. After intradermal vaccination with live recombinant virus expressing the G protein, mice produced VSV-neutralizing antibodies and were protected against lethal encephalitis upon intravenous challenge with VSV. In cattle, the degree of protection against intradermalingually injected VSV was correlated with the level of neutralizing antibody produced following vaccination.

Particle dispersion by coherent structures in free shear flows

Abstract: The dispersion of particles in turbulent flows is poorly understood. Previous approaches to this problem have been found to be inadequate for nonisotropic turbulent flows. An approach involving a new physical concept is presented. This approach assumes that coherent vortex structures control the particle dispersion process in free shear flows. A simple computational model employing Stuart's vortices is used to simulate particle motion in a two-dimensional free shear layer. The results of this simulation are in reasonable agreement with previous experiments. For the first time, experimental observations indicating particle dispersion rates greater than fluid dispersion rates in free shear flows can be plausibly explained.

Equine Infectious Anemia Virus: Immunopathogenesis and Persistence

Abstract: Equine infectious anemia (EIA) is a chronic, relapsing infectious disease of horses caused by a nononcogenic retrovirus. Virus persists in infected animals for life and can be reliably detected by serologic tests that measure levels of antibody to the major structural protein of the virus. Periodic virus replication in macrophages leads to an immunologically mediated acute disease characterized primarily by severe anemia. Recrudescence of acute EIA is the result of antigenic variation of the surface glycoprotein of EIA virus. The frequency and severity of clinical episodes of EIA decrease in most horses, leading to an inapparent carrier state. This cessation of clinical illness is probably brought about by the ability of the infected animals to eventually achieve a threshold efficiency of the immune response against antigenic epitopes common to all EIA virus strains.

Capsaicin pretreatment attenuates suppression of food intake by cholecystokinin.

Abstract: Capsaicin, the pungent principal in red pepper, has been shown to damage small-diameter peptide-containing sensory neurons. Suppression of feeding by cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK OP) was attenuated after systemic pretreatment with capsaicin. Capsaicin pretreatment did not attenuate suppression of food intake by intragastric preloads. Pretreatment of rats with microgram quantities of capsaicin injected into the fourth ventricle, near the sites of vagal afferent termination, also attenuated CCK OP-induced suppression of food intake. These results suggest that the satiety-inducing effects of CCK OP are mediated, at least in part, by capsaicin-sensitive afferent neurons.

Effects of Grand Fir Monoterpenes on the Fir Engraver, Scolytus ventralis (Coleoptera: Scolytidae), and its Symbiotic Fungus

Abstract: Monoterpenes present in grand fir, Abies grandis (Douglas) Lindley, phloem were tested for their effects on fir engraver, Scolytus ventralis LeConte, adults and the symbiotic fungus Trichosporium symbioticum Wright. All of the monoterpene vapors caused significant beetle mortality within 4 h. Toxicity was observed at doses normally found in the host tree, either in unattacked phloem or in reaction tissue induced by the pathogen. Incorporation of any monoterpenes into the growth medium, at doses normally found in the host tree, substantially reduced T. symbioticum growth. Limonene was the most inhibitory synthetic compound, but grand fir resin had a greater effect. This suggests that other factors are also involved in fungal inhibition.

The effects of the mentor on the academic career

Abstract: The mentor plays an important role in initiating a process of cumulative advantage for the student. Our analyses present a clear and systematic pattern of effects of the mentor on the careers of biochemists. The influence of the mentor begins with collaboration, which is the single most important factor affecting the student's predoctoral productivity. For those who collaborate, the effects of both eminence and performance further increase the student's predoctoral productivity. The mentor's performance has weak effects on the productivity of noncollaborating students. For those who collaborate with their mentor, the mentor continues to influence the career with a positive effect of the mentor's performance on academic placement, an effect not found for noncollaborators. Even though the mentor's performance affects the student's placement, the student's performances doesnot affect that placement, suggesting a process of ascription. For those who collaborate with their mentor, the mentor's performance increases the student's later publications and citations. For noncollaborators, whose mentors are much less productive during the student's period of doctoral study, the mentor's eminence has a smaller, but significant effect on later productivity. Overall, the advantages of a strong mentor are drawn upon and enhanced through processes of both achievement and ascription.

Kinship and Social Support of the Elderly: The Case of the United States

Abstract: This paper deals with two related issues: (1) the extent to which older persons who require some assistance in the tasks of or resources needed for daily living actually receive such assistance from informal networks; and (2) the consequences of the receipt of this assistance for the older person.

Effects of manipulatable objects on the activity of captive capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella)

Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate simple behavioral enrichment procedures for a captive group of tufted capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella). We examined the effects of providing a manipulatable substrate (straw) and a variety of portable objects in the monkeys' home cage. The animals were observed across three conditions in two replications: 1) No portable objects were present; 2) a set of six identical portable objects was present; and 3) a set of six varied portable objects was present. The cage floor was bare in the first replication; straw was uniformly spread on the cage floor in the second replication. An 18-month period of qualitative note taking followed completion of the initial data collection phase. The presence of straw and portable objects affected patterns of affiliation by decreasing quiet contact and close proximity. Providing additional manipulative opportunities affected both the form and frequency of object-directed activities. Object contacts were directed toward a greater variety of targets, and some objects were spontaneously used as tools. Manipulation of provided objects and use of objects as tools have become routine activities in this group of monkeys. We conclude that providing straw and portable objects in an already well equipped cage is an effective means of long-term behavioral enrichment for captive capuchin monkeys. Enabling captive capuchins to express species-typical manipulative tendencies is apparently conducive to the monkeys' optimal physical and psychological well-being as well as interesting to the human observer.

A realization approach to stochastic model reduction

Abstract: The problem of discrete-time stochastic model reduction (approximation) is considered. Using the canonical correlation analysis approach of Akaike (1975), a new order-reduction algorithm is developed. Furthermore, it is shown that the inverse of the reduced-order realization is asymptotically stable. Next, an explicit relationship between canonical variables and the linear least-squares estimate of the state vector is established. Using this, a more direct approach for order reduction is presented, and also a new design for reduced-order Kalman filters is developed. Finally, the uniqueness and symmetry properties for the new realization—the balanced stochastic realization—along with a simulation result, are presented.

Risk Perceptions and Management Responses: Producer-Generated Hypotheses For Risk Modeling

Abstract: Farm level risk analyses have used price and yield variability almost exclusively to represent risk. Results from a survey of 149 agricultural producers in 12 states indicate that producers consider a broader range of sources of variability in their operations. Significant differences exist among categories with respect to the importance of the sources of variability in crop and livestock production. Producers also used a variety of management responses to variability. There were significant difference among categories in the importance given to particular responses and their use of them. These results have implications for research, extension, and policy programs.

Increasing Opportunities for Social Control by Children with Autism and Severe Handicaps: Effects on Student Behavior and Perceived Classroom Climate

Abstract: The present study assessed the effects of an intervention package designed to (a) increase the quality and quantity of opportunities for students with autism and severe handicaps to exercise contro

A Model of Nutrient Exchange in the Rhizobium-Legume Symbiosis

Abstract: Rhizobium bacteria and leguminous plants can establish a symbiotic relationship in which photosynthetic products made by the plant supply energy used by Rhizobium to reduce atmospheric dinitrogen (Bergerson, 1982; Verma and Long, 1983). Reduced nitrogen is returned to the plant to complete the exchange. Details of the interaction are not completely understood but it is clear that the relationship has required considerable adaptation by both symbiotic partners. For instance, the low oxygen tension needed to stabilize nitrogenase is preserved by leghemoglobin, a plant-derived protein produced only in the nodule. Unusual forms of glutamine synthetase are found in both the plants and the bacteria (Cullimore et al. 1983; Darrow and Knotts, 1977).

Heterozygosity and developmental stability in gynogenetic diploid and triploid rainbow trout.

Abstract: We have previously reported that rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) more heterozygous at enzyme loci generally show increased developmental stability, as measured by reduced fluctuating asymmetry We experimentally produced gynogenetic diploid and triploid individuals to test the effect of extreme heterozygosities on developmental stability Gynogenetic diploids are identical by descent at an estimated 34 per cent of all loci and show a 50 per cent increase in the mean proportion of traits asymmetric per individual compared to normal rainbow trout Triploids from two different strains have an estimated 30 per cent increase in genomic heterozygosity and a 14 per cent decrease in the mean proportion of traits asymmetric per individual compared to normal diploids These changes in asymmetry induced by gynogenesis and triploidy are not as great as we expected based on the association between heterozygosity and fluctuating asymmetry in random mating populations The narrow range of mean asymmetry in rainbow trout may result from an upper limit restricted by directional selection for developmental stability and a lower limit determined by inherent randomness in the developmental process

Visualization: A Means of Reducing Speech Anxiety.

Abstract: This study compared self reported speech anxiety of students who were asked to visualize themselves making an effective speech with those who were not asked to visualize themselves making an effective presentation. Students who were asked to visualize reported lower anxiety levels than those who were not asked to do so. It is argued that visualization is an effective, nondisruptive method that can be used in the typical public speaking class to help reduce speech anxiety.