Summaries and Reflections

Microinquiry 5: Identification of Bacterial Species

Summary

The text of identification of bacterial species highlighted the major methods used to differentiate one species from the other. The text included three main methods used to achieve this in the lab. These methods are gram staining (that differentiates bacteria based on the structure of their cell walls), bacterial culture (to grow bacteria that grow under specific conditions only), and chemical identification (which include the addition of chemicals such as phenol red to differentiate various stains) (Pommerville, 2013). The process can be applied in normal research and healthcare facilities.

Reflection

The article had wonderful information that can be applied in research and my career. The information demonstrated the role of various properties of bacteria in the differentiation of strains. For example, learning about differences in cell wall structure was well linked with the gram staining process. The information reminds me of a friend who had to undergo multiple tests after suffering from UTI. The lab technician in charge had to culture a small urine sample and test drug sensitivity of the bacteria. Generally, the text was good for learning and applications.

Microinquiry 6: The machine that makes ATP

Summary

The content explained the fundamental processes involved in the production of ATP in cells. The article provided the basics of energy production in humans and focused on ATP production in bacterial cells. The initial past of the text focused on the history of the discovery of chemiosmosis, while the rest of the text explains the complexes involved and the actual process of flow of protons and formation of ATP from ADP by ATP synthase (Pommerville, 2013). The article has a diagrammatic representation of the process.

Reflection

The combination of diagrams and detailed text enables me to understand more about the production of ATP in bacterial cells. In addition, I also learned the similarities between the process in bacteria and humans. In class, we learned about the basics of energy production and how energy is required by bacterial cells for various functions. The information thus helped me understand more on these concepts. Based on the quality of information from the article, I will recommend reading to anyone willing to learn more about ATP production and utilization.

Microfocus 8.2 Polymerase Chain Reactions

Summary

The microfocus provides detailed information on the basics of PCR, its brief history, and its application. The text summarized the major process in a PCR reaction, including denaturation of DNA, primer annealing, and elongation of the new stands. The process is repeated several times until the required number of strands is met. The text explained how the process is used in biological and medical research (Pommerville, 2013). In medical research, PCR is mostly used for diagnostic purposes.

Reflection

The article has helped me understand PCR reactions more and link the information with the basic knowledge I had acquired in class. The microfocus reminded me of the current methods used for the diagnosis of infectious diseases such as COVID-19. It made me appreciate the advancements that have been introduced in this technology to simplify the whole process. Although I had some information on the basics of PCR, following the chart made it easier to understand the process. I believe the information can be used by students willing to learn more about the basics of PCR. However, they will also need to learn more about the actual conditions required to achieve the process in a different text for advancement in PCR knowledge.

Exam#2 Clinical Case

Summary

The clinical case explains the major cause of dental carries among children and the best methods to reduce the effects. Dr. Rivera, after noticing a high number of children surfing from dental carries, she decided to research its major cause. She noted that all the children suffering from the condition attended a church program where bubblegums were used as incentives for attendant and discipline. Besides this, the text explains the relation between high sucrose content in the bubble gums, lactic acid production by S. mutans, and dental carriers. Xylitol is proposed as the alternative solution to reduce the prevalence of the disease.

Reflection

The article was very informative on the cause of dental carries and methods that can be used to prevent it. I also suffered from the disease when I was young. I was addicted to candies, a situation that caused dental carries in two of my premolars. However, after learning about oral hygiene and the effects of sugary meals, I could avoid such issues in the future. Although I was aware that sucrose is the basis of these issues, I did not know that xylitol could be an alternative solution. Personally, the text has opened up my mind on oral hygiene, and I am willing to learn more about methods to reduce such issues in the community.

References

Pommerville, J. C. (2013). Fundamentals of microbiology. Jones & Bartlett Publishers.