Isozymes and general protein patterns as taxonomic markers in the taxon Nephtyidae (Annelida Polychaeta)

Seven Nephtys species and one species of the genus Aglaophamus (collected from different European tidal and subtidal locations between 1989 and 1991) were compared with respect to six isozyme systems (-amylase, esterase, hexokinase, malate dehydrogenase, malic enzyme, phosphoglucoseisomerase) as well as with respect to general protein patterns with non-specific staining. The proteins were obtained from the tissue (proboscis, individual segments) of single individuals, the species of which had previously been accurately determined, and were separated by isoelectric focusing (IEF) in polyacrylamide gels. The enzymes were identified by their specific catalytic activities, and the general proteins were visualized by silver staining. All the isozymes proved to be monomorphic within each of the various polychaete populations. With a single exception, it was impossible to distinguish geographically separated populations of the same species, because the band patterns were completely consistent within the species. The individual enzymes varied in their suitability for species differentiation. Only with respect to esterase and -amylase could all species be distinguished; the other enzymes studied were identical in morphologically similar species. In contrast, each species could be identified by its general protein pattern, although some species differed from others in the position of a few bands only. Individuals of N. hombergii, N. caeca and N. cirrosa with abnormally shaped parapodia, as well as juvenile nephtyids, could be unequivocally assigned to their respective species by IEF. Only in the case of N. longosetosa were two morphological variants found to differ in their electrophoretic characteristics; one of them is interpreted as a new species, not previously described.     

Biosensoren

By the combination of transducers (thermistors, selective electrodes, field-effect transistors, optical systems) with immobilized enzymes or antibodies specific sensors for biologically relevant substances are obtained. The construction, ranges, of linearity, response times and stability of biosensors are demonstrated. Examples are given for their application in clinical analysis and fermentation control. Finally limits and future possibilities are discussed.     

Elektrostriktion in Bariumtitanat oberhalb des Curie-Punktes

The Science of Nature -     

A Dynamic Crediting Regime for Joint Implementation to Foster Innovation in the Long Term

Joint Implementation is a theoretically efficient instrument of climate policy at least in the short run. This need not apply for the long run. Joint Implementation can reduce innovation in the industrialized countries because of reduced incentives for emission reduction. To realize short run efficiency gains and to avoid long run efficiency losses, we need a ‘strategic’ climate policy. This policy should start with full crediting of Joint Implementation allowing short-run efficiency gains which can foster technology transfer and thus lead to ‘leapfrogging’ by developing countries. Over time, the crediting ratio should be gradually reduced while domestic carbon taxes are raised. Experiences from the second oil shock have shown that energy-saving innovation is positively correlated to energy prices. Both, the reduced crediting and the raising domestic carbon tax, will therefore lead to long-run innovation.     

RESIDENTIAL WATER CONSERVATION: CASA DEL AGUA1

ABSTRACT: A single-family residence in Tucson, Arizona, was retrofitted with water-conserving fixtures, rainwater harvesting, and graywater reuse systems. During a four-year study, efficient use of water was shown to significantly decrease demand for domestic water at the house without reducing the residents' quality of life. The use of municipal water was reduced by 66 percent to 148 gallons per day (gpd) and total household use was reduced by 27 percent to 245 gpd. Graywater reuse averaged approximately 77 gpd or 32 percent of the total household water use. Evaporative cooling required about 15 gpd. Water use for toilet flushing was only 9 gallons per capita per day (gpcd) or 14 percent of interior water use.