Pulsed NMR studies on Na + binding to simple carbohydrates

Pulsed NMR spectroscopy has been used to study Na⁺ binding to several simple carbohydrates in aqueous solution. Changes in the ²³Na spin-lattice relaxation time (T₁) were monitored to indicate complex formation between sodium ions and a ligand. It was found that Na⁺ interacts with these hydroxy-compounds in a manner similar to other metal cations, but very weakly. Among the sugars investigated, $\text{c i s}$-inositol forms the strongest complexes with the stability constant about 1.2 M^?1 (if 1:1 complexes are assumed). A qualitative study of competition between Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ was done, indicating that both cations have the same binding sites.     

Aspect cytologique et localisation intranucléaire de l'hétérochromatine constitutive des chromosomes C9 chez l'homme

Using a specific technique which stains the secondary constriction of number 9 chromosomes in man, we observed that this segment frequently appears to be composed of multiple small units packed together in metaphase as well as in interphase. During prophase of the first meiotic division in man, this segment looks like a diffuse structure, suggesting division and multiplication of these units. On the other hand, the C9 bodies observed in interphase with this cytological procedure are frequently associated with the nucleolus. This heterochromatin is less compact than previously shown and may represent repetitive DNA with a specific role.

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Travail subventionné par une bourse nationale du Canada pour la Santé, projet no. 604-7-779.