Hi,

I posting this query for a colleague of mine.  Please post responses to her
at the address below or to the list. 

Thank you.

Haviva Goldman


Hello,

I have a problem to put to all of you out there.  I am processing and
embedding non-decalcified blocks taken from the long bone shafts of some
pretty small primates, and desperately need to find a way to permanently
mark anterior-posterior so that I can orient myself when imaging. The bones
are run through an enzymatic detergent, graded ethanols, xylene, and other
organic solvents, and embedded in polymethyl-methacrylate. I have tried a
variety of so-called permanent markers, pencils and inks. Nothing lasts
through the whole protocol. Any ideas? I would also be interested in
hearing about other ways of marking orientation. For example, I am trying
out a system of tying nylon thread around the bone, to remain there through
the embedding, but am concerned that this may lead to some problems when I
start making sections.

Any thoughts on this matter would be much appreciated.

Thanks,
Johanna Warshaw
Department of Anthropology
Hunter College
695 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10021
Phone: 212-772-5418
e-mail: jwarshaw@gc.cuny.edu
Haviva M. Goldman
Department of Anthropology
Hunter College
695 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10021

Phone: 	212-772-5416
Fax: 		212-772-5419
e-mail:	hgoldman@gc.cuny.edu