Non-coordinate synthesis and methylation of tRNA following excision of plant tissue

The relationship between the synthesis and methylation of nucleic acids in tissue slices from higher plant storage organs has been investigated. Although the observed nucleic acid synthesis is mainly an expression of rRNA synthesis the highest level of methylation occurs in tRNA. Unlike the synthesis and methylation of rRNA which appears completely coupled, the methylation of tRNA is not tightly coupled to its synthesis. It is suggested that a pool of undermethylated tRNA exists in the tissue prior to incubation and that methylation of this tRNA initially controls the rate of protein synthesis in the tissue slices.

Infective complications of open-heart surgery and the monitoring of infections by the NBT test

Freeman, R., King, B., and Hambling, M. H. (1973).Thorax, 28, 617-621. Infective complications of open-heart surgery and the monitoring of infections by the NBT test. Seventy-four consecutive patients undergoing open-heart surgery were extensively investigated, preoperatively and postoperatively, for evidence of infection. The incidence of the infective complications encountered is presented, together with discussion on the aetiology of these complications. A previously unrecognized infective complication is described, this being a high incidence of infection with Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

The series also reports an assessment of the nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) test in these patients, and it is concluded that the system evolved in this series, of minimal chemoprophylaxis and constant monitoring of infection, affords a logical alternative to conventional methods using massive prophylaxis.

Serial nitroblue tetrazolium tests in the management of infection

Two cases are described in which extensive use was made of the nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) test. In the first case the advantages of using this technique to diagnose and control infection is shown; in the second the considerable advantage of the speed of the technique. In both of these cases the test made a material contribution to the management of the patient, and it is concluded that the test brings bacteriological control of the patient within the immediate clinical area, thus overcoming one of the principal disadvantages of the classical bacteriological methods.

The effect of inhibitors of protein and nucleic acid synthesis on nucleolar size and enzyme induction in Jerusalem artichoke tuber slices

The effects of various inhibitors of protein and nucleic acid synthesis on the development of invertase activity and increased nucleolar volume in discs excised from tubers of artichoke tissue are compared. The results are discussed with reference to the current theories relevant to the action of the inhibitors and to the nature of the increase in nucleolar volume.

Technique for the performance of the nitro-blue tetrazolium (NBT) test

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