Parallel processing for associative and neuronal networks

We present a parallel processing network, consisting of nine microcomputers, for neuron-network simulations and for the realization of an associative computer memory. We add some remarks on the present possibilities to implement larger associative networks and on parallel processing strategies in general.     

Quirks of dye nomenclature. 10. Eosin Y and its close relatives

The long history of eosin Y, eosin B and the methyl and ethyl eosins is recounted as well as their synthesis, the variety of their molecular species and some of the myriad applications of these dyes. Chromatographic techniques are described that reveal the purity or lack of it in commercial samples. Toxicological studies are discussed that suggest that the eosins are virtually non toxic, but efforts to remove them from the environment imply that there may be some risk.     

Chemical and functional analysis of components of adenylyl cyclase from human platelets treated with phorbolesters

Human platelets, prelabeled with [32P]phosphate were treated with tetradecanoylphorbol acetate (TPA) for 5 min at 37 degrees C. Phosphorylation of the components of adenylyl cyclase was determined in membranes using specific antibodies against G-proteins and the catalytic moiety. Less than 0.01 mol of [32P]phosphate/mol could be detected in immunoprecipitates using antibodies against sequences within the alpha-subunit of the GTP binding protein Gi. TPA, however, caused the incorporation of 0.67-1.1 mol of [32P]phosphate per mol of catalyst while 0.13-0.2 mol were found in the absence of TPA. Lack of modification of the alpha-subunit of Gi was also indicated by the results of reconstitution experiments with purified Gi alpha from bovine brain: adenylyl cyclase in membranes from untreated platelets was significantly more inhibited by added G1 alpha, than that from TPA treated cells. While beta, gamma-subunits were like-wise inhibitory no difference dependent on platelet-pretreatment could be observed.     

Quaternary structure of immunoglobulin m: A model based on small-angle X-ray scattering data

This paper presents some data on a human Waldenström immunoglobulin M.IgM_GAL based on small-angle X-ray scattering data. the IgM_GAL had molecular weight 970 000, volume 1760 nm³, radius of gyration 12 nm and maximum diameter 37 nm. The conclusions from various model calculations are discussed. A flat, star-shaped model is compatible both with X-ray scattering data and electron micrographs.     

Isolate B12, which harbours a virus-like element,represents a new species of the archaebacterial genus Sulfolobus,Sulfolobus shibatae,sp. nov.

The Sulfolobus isolate B12 and its endogenous virus-like element SSV1 have provided a fruitful system for detailed analysis of certain aspects of archaebacterial molecular biology, especially those concerning gene expression. In the course of clarifying this isolate's taxonomic position, we determined DNA base composition, ability to grow autotrophically, nucleotide sequence of 16S ribosomal RNA, and level of total genomic homology to other Sulfolobus strains. Although the results generally demonstrate a similarity to S. solfataricus, DNA-DNA hybridisation and 16S rRNA sequence data indicate that isolate B12 in fact represents a distinct species.Abbreviations DSM Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen, Mascheroder Weg 1 B, D-3300 Braunschweig, FRG - SDS-PAGE sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis     

Promoting islet cell function after transplantation

Engraftment (i.e., the adaptation of transplanted pancreatic islets to their new surroundings with regard to revascularization, reinnervation, and reorganization of other stromal compartments) is of crucial importance for the survival and function of the endocrine cells. Previous studies suggest that transplantation induces both vascular and stromal dysfunctions in the implanted islets when compared with endogenous islets. Thus the vascular density and the blood perfusion of islet grafts is decreased and accompanied with a capillary hypertension. This leads to hypoxic conditions, with an associated shift toward anaerobic metabolism in grafted islets. An improved engraftment will prevent or compensate for the vascular/stromal dysfunction seen in transplanted islets and thereby augment survival of the islet implant. By such means the number of islets needed to cure the recipient will be lessened. This will increase the number of patients that can be transplanted with the limited material available.