Further evidence for heterogeneity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in Papua New Guinea

Summary Four new G6PD variants have been characterized in individuals from Papua New Guinea. This study demonstrates that the previously reported Markham variant and the newly characterized Salata variant may be widely distributed in Papua New Guinea. The data presented here together with those of previously published studies demonstrate a degree of heterogeneity of G6PD deficiency that is much higher than that in other regions of the world where G6PD deficiency is common.     

Protein diffusion in crowded electrolyte solutions

We report on a combined cold neutron backscattering and spin-echo study of the short-range and long-range nanosecond diffusion of the model globular protein bovine serum albumin (BSA) in aqueous solution as a function of protein concentration and NaCl salt concentration. Complementary small angle X-ray scattering data are used to obtain information on the correlations of the proteins in solution. Particular emphasis is put on the effect of crowding, i.e. conditions under which the proteins cannot be considered as objects independent of each other. We thus address the question at which concentration this crowding starts to influence the static and in particular also the dynamical behaviour. We also briefly discuss qualitatively which charge effects, i.e. effects due to the interplay of charged molecules in an electrolyte solution, may be anticipated. Both the issue of crowding as well as that of charge effects are particularly relevant for proteins and their function under physiological conditions, where the protein volume fraction can be up to approximately 40% and salt ions are ubiquitous. The interpretation of the data is put in the context of existing studies on related systems and of existing theoretical models.     

Genetic Variability in Taro, Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott (Araceae)

Tablés 1 to 3 were omitted from the final printing ofthis article. They are reprinted here.     

Identification of Phytopathogenic Virus Strains by their Luminescent Properties

A quick test has been developed to identify phytopathogenic virus strains by variations in their photoluminescence parameters. When heated, the virus suspension shows a jumpwise drop or rise in fluorescence intensity caused by conformational changes in the macromolecules of the virion protein capsules. The relative value of the jump in fluorescence intensity and the temperature value at which the jump occurs are essentially strain-specific. The minimum time needed for one test is from 15 to 20 minutes.     

Germination of the chlamydospores of Candida albicans

Using a slide culture technique, it was determined unequivocally that the chlamydospore of Candida albicans does germinate. The germination was by way of a multiple-budding process which was associated mostly with young spores following their transfer to a fresh environment. It is concluded the chlamydospore of C. albicans is a reproductive cell with a transient viability.