Discusses microbial production of methane from biomass. Topics include methogens (bacteria producing methane), ecology of methanogenesis, methanogenesis in ruminant/nonruminant and other environments, role of methanogenesis in nature, and methane production in sewage treatment plants. Also discusses construction of methane digesters (and related…

Describes computer program (HUMAN) used to simulate physiological experiments on patient pathology. Program (available from authors, including versions for microcomputers) consists of dynamic interactions of over 150 physiological variables and integrating approximations of cardiovascular, renal, lung, temperature regulation, and some hormone…

Traces the history of physiology at the University of Michigan, focusing on facilities, curriculum program and instruction, classic experiments, and faculty. Contributions of Henry Sewall and Warren Plimpton Lombard are discussed at some length. (JN)

Outlines the objectives, materials, and procedures in performing a student laboratory experiment that demonstrates sodium transport in frog skin. (CS)

Examples of the application of compound pendulum theory to the practical measurement of the moments of inertia of human beings, farm tractors, and sailing boats are presented. Suggests developing laboratory experiments to measure moments of inertia of hockey sticks, golf clubs, and frisbees, among others. (Author/SK)

The importance of examining both the natural history of organisms being investigated and numerical data from long-term field experiments is illustrated by describing a long-running field experiment at an English Field Study Council Centre. Sample results are discussed and alternative methods of using field studies in biology instruction are…

Reported is a method of producing artificial lightning in an ordinary clear lightbulb. The appearance of sparks produced is that of a miniature stroke of forked lightning seen in natural thunderstorms. The sparks also show the intricate branching patterns often seen in natural lightning. (JT)

Provides instructions and a list of materials needed to demonstrate: (1) a model of the quantum mechanical atom; (2) principles involved in metal corrosion and in the prevention of this destructive process by electrochemical means; and (3) a Thermit reaction, modified to make it more dramatic and interesting for students. (SK)

Two demonstrations are described: (1) a sunset effect using a gooseneck lamp and 20 sheets of paper and (2) the preparation and determination of structural features of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) by infrared spectroscopy. (SK)

Describes a versatile mount for Slinky wave demonstrator and dynamics experiments using pool balls which have been altered by various means such as hollowing out or filled with lead. Suggests tightening screw holding motor clamp to prevent random speed fluctuations in ripple tanks. (JN)

Describes a method to allow direct observation of a chick embryo development from three days to about 17 days of incubation, by culturing the entire embryo in a petri dish. (DS)

Describes ways platyfish can be utilized in biology activities and experiments. Includes an account of the animals' care, unique anatomical characteristics, reproductive behavior, and genetics. (DS)

Provides examples of several classroom activities utilizing the American horseshoe crab (Limulus Polyphemus), including raising fertilized eggs, fertilizing eggs in vitro, and testing water samples. Includes background information on the natural history, life cycle, and breeding habits of this animal. (DS)

Describes the Space Shuttle Student Involvement Project which attempts to stimulate high school student interest in science and technology by engaging students in a competition to develop experiments suitable for flight aboard the Space Shuttle. Also describes "Getaway Specials" which allow individuals to send up experiments in the…

Four means of altering fat levels in laboratory mice, contrasting invasive injection techniques with non-invasive dietary and behavioral means, are described. Relates these investigations concerning obesity to the practicality of using animal models as an approach in searching for physiological knowledge about human beings. (CS)