[Effect and bioaccumulation of heavy metals (Zn, Cd) on Micractinium pusillum ALGA]

Heavy metals (Zn and Cd) effect and their bioaccumulation by a microalga Micractinium pusillum were investigated. Results showed that Cd was more toxic than Zn on Micractinium pusillum. Indeed, inhibitory concentrations of 50% of alga population in 72h (IC(50,72h)) were 0.28 and 0.34 mg l(-1) respectively for Cd and Zn. On the other hand, metal extracted rates from medium solution were more important for Zn than for Cd, essentially for the two first concentrations tested (0.06 and 0.12 mg l(-1)). Furthermore, Zn and Cd extracted proportions were more important for the low concentrations tested and decreased progressively with increasing concentrations applied. This mechanism of extraction corresponds principally to their biosorption by Micractinium pusillum.

Laser marsipulization of epidermal cysts: avoiding linear scars

OBJECTIVE

We describe a simple technique in which the prominent surface of the cyst is vaporized by a carbon dioxide (CO(2)) laser, thus avoiding linear scarring and reducing postoperative complications.

BACKGROUND DATA

Epidermal cysts are commonly excised in outpatient clinics under local anaesthesia. The procedure usually entails an elliptical skin incision to include the puncture of the cyst. This may lead to infection, scarring or recurrence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cyst is marsupilized using a scanning CO(2 )laser under local anaesthetic.

RESULTS

Surgical results assessed by pre- and postoperative photographic records confirmed smaller scars the absence of linear scars.

CONCLUSION

In cosmetically sensitive areas, laser marsipulization of epidermal cysts represents a viable alternative to conventional dissection.

Characterisation of a tripartite nuclear localisation sequence in the regulatory protein Lys14 of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The Lys14 regulatory protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae activates the expression of the LYS genes involved in the lysine biosynthetic pathway. Studies with a fused Lys14-green fluorescent protein reveal that Lys14p is localised to the nucleus, even under growth conditions leading to the absence of LYS gene expression. Lys14p nuclear localisation is mediated by a tripartite sequence made up of three short basic motifs located on the C-terminal side of the Zn cluster domain of Lys14p. Substitution of basic residues by alanines in any of the three motifs partially prevents the nuclear import of the protein. Simultaneous mutations in the three basic domains are required to completely abolish the entry into the nucleus and to impair the Lys14 function.