Procedures are described for showing the effectiveness of antibiotics (penicillin, ampicillin, and tetracycline) against a nonpathogenic bacteria strain (Bacillus cereus). Methods are outlined for preparing nutrient agar, sterilizing tubes, pouring agar plates, preparing antibiotic discs, and transferring antibiotic discs to agar plates. (CS)

Examines the opportunities and performance of women in the field of microbiology in the past and present. Provides tabulated and graphical data to compare the percentages of doctoral degrees earned by women since 1920 in microbiology, the biosciences, and all fields of study. (JR)

Discusses concerns relating to the preparation of internal and external practical examinations in microbiology at the university degree or diploma level. Outlines the basic objectives, initial organization, and major considerations in preparing the laboratory examination. (JR)

Presents evidence that the status of women microbiologists is lower than that of men and that the lower status of women results, to a large degree, from inequality of opportunity throughout their careers. (Author/JR)

Describes a technique for comparing the number of bacteria in various soil samples. The equipment and materials are readily available, and the technique is suitable for high school students. (JR)

Describes simple quantitative determinations for ethanol and carbon dioxide, together with techniques for examining the effects of a number of environmental factors on their production. The experimental work centers around the growth of a cell population of yeast, and is suitable for senior high school students. (JR)

Describes various types of training programs carried out in the study of microbiology. Indicates that the need for new energy sources and the expansion of medical schools and food industry may lead to an increasing demand for qualified microbiologists. (CC)

A study conducted by high school advanced bacteriology students appears to confirm the hypothesis that the incremental administration of antibiotics on several species of bacteria (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus epidermis, Bacillus sublitus, Bacillus megaterium) will allow for the development of antibiotic-resistant strains. (PEB)

Discusses the use of microbes over the centuries in the quest for new/improved foodstuffs; microbial benefits to public health, medicine, and for farmers in developing countries; and microbial applications to energy, industry, and mining. (JN)

A review of great epidemics (rat-borne, plague, smallpox, cholera, influenza, rabies, tuberculosis) reveals the devastation they have caused. Success in the battle against these is being won through hygiene, sanitation, vector control, and vaccines, especially since microbiology has provided a rational understanding of the diseases. (Author/JN)

Using the biochemical record to class archaebacteria, eukaryotes, and eubacteria involves abstractions difficult for the concrete learner. Therefore, a method is provided in which students discover some basic tenets of biochemical classification and apply them in a "hands-on" classification problem. The method involves use of RNA…

Fifteen stations are used for a laboratory examination which focuses on evaluation of laboratory techniques, skills, procedures, and information management. Examples of several stations (with related questions) are provided. Areas measured include bacterial and cellular culturing, staining, and transferring procedures, genetics…

Describes a simple, inexpensive continuous culture apparatus (chemostat) and its applications in teaching biological concepts (growth-limiting factors and competition). Other suggested uses include experiments in enzyme induction, biosynthesis, and strain selection, and for student research projects. (JN)