...HOW TO WRITE AN UNKNOWN LAB REPORT IN MICROBIOLOGY GENERAL Unknown reports in microbiology are written in scientific format. Scientific writing is written differently from other types of writing. The results of the exercise or experiment are what are being showcased, not the writing. The purpose of scientific writing is not to entertain, but to inform. The writing should be simple and easy to understand. There is a specific style that must be followed when writing scientific reports. Scientific writing is typically written in the passive voice. The pronouns "I", "We" and "They" are not typically used.. For example, instead of writing "I used a TSA agar plate to isolate my unknown," it is customary to write, "A trypticase soy agar (TSA) plate was used to isolate the unknown." It is also customary to write in the past tense for most of the report. This includes the introduction, the summary, the description of the materials and methods and the results. The present tense is reserved for the conclusions about the results. See the examples given below. Some other general rules that should be followed are: Microbial nomenclature: The name of the bacterium should written and spelled correctly. The name should be italicized or underlined. Italicized is preferred. For example, Staphylococcus aureus. The genus is capitalized but the species is not. After the full genus name is given in the paper, it can be written as S. aureus, but still italicized. This is as long as there in no other...
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...Gene technology carries with it social and ethical implications—many of which engender personal views and discussion. Select one (1) of the following biotechnology topics to write about: * Genetically modified animals 1. Biological basis. Describe the technology. Discuss what it accomplishes. Elaborate on the scientific principles that make this technology possible. Your goal in this section of the paper is to show the instructor that you understand the underlying science behind the technology. Describe how exactly the technology works. Discuss the biological principles that underlie this technology. Genetic engineering is the use of tools of modern biotechnology and molecular biology to introduce new characteristics or traits into organisms. It is a laboratory process where genes from the DNA of one species are extracted and forced into the genes of an unrelated plant or animal to introduce new genetic material, or delete or alter existing genetic material. Genetic engineering comes from foreign genes of bacteria, viruses, insects, animals or even humans which enables people to introduce a much wider range of new characteristics into an organism than is possible by conventional breeding. Animals that have had genes artificially added or removed from their DNA are described as genetically modified animals. Genetic modification of an animal involves altering its genetic material by adding, changing or removing certain DNA orders in a way that does not occur...
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...Theories and the Theory of Evolution Joy Dawson Colorado Technical University Author Notes This paper was prepared for SCI 101- 1401A taught by Professor Scott Christensen on January 17, 2014. Theories and the Theory of Evolution Evolution, a natural selection theorized by Charles Darwin and backed by many other scientist based on the scientific method. All theories must be capable to conduct testable predictions. Predictions are performed by observation and experimentations that are then to be conducted to give the theories authentication to the predictions. Darwin theory depends on slow, consistent, gradual change in organisms which in time will become a new species. Other evolutionary theories propose that evolution occurred in rapid periods of time or that a designer intervened during different times to modify or create organisms. The controversial debate of punctuated equilibrium and phyletic gradualism still exists, but the interesting research continues with fossil records, patterns of punctuated equilibrium, and maybe even more with the use of innovations of today. It is safe to say that scientists agree there is two models of growth which theorizes evolution of species can emerge. A species can change by phyletic gradualism and punctuated equilibrium or both. Scientist believes species with a shorter evolution change is mostly by punctuated equilibrium, however, those with a longer progression developed mostly by gradualism. Phyletic gradualism happens gradually...
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...Introduction Bacteria are microscopic unicellular prokaryotic organisms characterized by the lack of a membrane-bound nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. They are remarkably adaptable to diverse environmental conditions and are found in bodies of all living organisms and on all parts of the earth. The purpose of microbial biochemical tests is to identify the unique traits it yields and with that knowledge we can then categorize them in groups and specify them by scientific name. These experiments included the Triple-sugar iron agar (TSIA), Sulfur Indole Motility (SIM), Methyl Red (MR), Voges-Proskauer (VP), Citrate, Urease, Gelatin, and Oxidase Test. In order for these tests to produce reliable and credible results, the bacterium organism must be grown using strict and meticulous procedure to produce viable colonies of pure culture. Having pure culture is significant to ensure that a single type of bacteria is used for identification without contamination so tests can be run without complications or confusion. Once all these tests are performed, the unknown bacteria in this lab will be one of the following: Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, or Salmonella typhimurium. This report included the results and details to these experiments which are discussed further on. Abstract Gram negative bacteria Unknown #12 was run through an array of tests which produced positive and negative results. The results obtained from the various...
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...Genetically Modified Organisms Group E- Chrystalyn Northcutt-Warden LAS 432- Technology, Society & Culture Kira Leavens DeVry University December 7, 2013 Table of Contents Abstract Introduction Political Influences Economic Questions and Considerations Psychological Affects Moral and Ethical Implication Conclusion Works Cited Appendix Abstract Introduction The Hunger Games trilogy dwells upon genetic modification. With genetically engineered animals such as the jabberjay, mockingjay, tracker jacker and wolf mutts, monkey mutts and even genetically engineered roses, the trilogy explores the ethics and consequences of toying with Nature. This paper will discuss the pros and cons of genetically modified organisms. Also the economic, psychological effect on society as well as the moral and ethical implications that this technology can have on today’s society. History Genetically modified organisms have continually been around but have recently evolved and came to light in the past 10 years. Genetically modified organisms are described as “An organism whose genetic characteristics have been altered by the insertion of a modified gene or a gene from another organism using the techniques of genetic engineering (www.medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com, 2013).” genetically modified organism (GMO) is used to refer to any microorganism, plant, or animal in which genetic engineering techniques have been used to introduce, remove, or modify specific parts...
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...Layne Hazam English 101 Prof. Anderson Aug 7, 2010 Attack of the Clones I recall sitting around the dinner table with my family as a teenager and engaging in riveting debates about the numerous possibilities cloning had for our world. In recent years, due to sports injuries and other battle wounds, these possibilities have become increasingly personal for me, even as the technology and the debates have rapidly advanced. It seems that since the discovery of fire humanity has attempted to imitate and manipulate phenomena that nature has had billions of years to develop and perfect. Cloning is a perfect example of such attempts. In nature, cloning is the process by which genetically identical organisms are produced by way of asexual reproduction. With some success, scientists have been working on ways to reproduce this phenomenon through biotechnology, in a laboratory setting. In biotechnology, cloning refers to the process used to create copies of DNA, cells, or entire organisms. Each of these forms of cloning will be described in this paper, which will then explore the issues surrounding cloning from biological, technological and public health standpoints. Molecular cloning, or DNA cloning, is the process of making multiple copies of an isolated sequence of DNA fragments (Strachan & Read, 1999). This form of cloning is most often used in biological research, but is also used in more practical applications such as genetic profiling and protein production. In practice, techniques such as this are often used ...
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...ancestors through a series of changes. That life has changed over long periods of time, with all forms of life related to one another, is a scientifically well-established fact. There are two aspects of evolution today. First, evolution is the organizing principle for all of biology. Just as we are offspring from our parents, and our grandparents before them, and so on, all living organisms today are inclined from organisms that lived in the past. Understanding how and why these ancestor-descendent lineages have changed through time helps us appreciate the diversity of life we see today. Genetics, anatomy, physiology, neurology, morphology, and behavior all of these aspects of living organisms have evolved through time. The study of the evolutionary processes that produced these traits provides the comprehensive framework for understanding them. Theory Of Evolution Evolution Theory: - Evolution is technically defined as: "a gradual process in which something changes into a different and usually more complex or better form." As it is most famously used, "evolution" is the process by which an organism becomes more sophisticated over time and in response to its environment. The Theory of Evolution is currently the most popular concept of how life reached its current state. Evolution as a biological mechanism is driven by natural selection. This theory is favored by many scientists to explain phenomena in nature, so much so that it is generally assumed as factual in most studies...
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...Technology AENG 26 Introduction to Environmental Science Term Paper Effects of Genetically Modified Food on Human Amoguis, Jenina R. ECE 3 – 1 Engr. David L. Cero Professor Introduction Genetically modified (GM) foods are foods derived from organisms whose genetic material (DNA) has been modified in a way that does not occur naturally, e.g. through the introduction of a gene from a different organism. Currently available GM foods stem mostly from plants, but in the future foods derived from GM microorganisms or GM animals are likely to be introduced on the market. Most existing genetically modified crops have been developed to improve yield, through the introduction of resistance to plant diseases or of increased tolerance of herbicides. In the future, genetic modification could be aimed at altering the nutrient content of food, reducing its allergenic potential, or improving the efficiency of food production systems. The main purpose of genetic modification of food is to improve its taste, output, and make plants disease resistant. Despite these advantages, many people refuse to eat genetically modified foods over concerns that it could be dangerous to their health. However, there is still no detailed study about the long term effects of eating genetically modified foods. Genetically modified foods have more research challenges but also there are misgivings about its implications in the long run. All these applications have to...
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...White Horse Business Park, Aintree Avenue, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, UK. BA14 0XB SUMMARY This paper looks at the theoretical development of a natural preservative system using the author's data base on medicinal plants as a source of references. The legal aspects of this concept are considered. The traditional methods of preservation, many taken from the food industry are summarised. The use of alcohol, glycerine, sugar, salt, dessication, anhydrous systems and temperature are amongst examples considered. The definitions of the many words used to describe the act of preservation are considered, and the confusion that results from the presence of the many synonyms is considered. e.g. antimicrobial, antibiotic, antiseptic, bactericidal, etc. Specific organisms are identified as being of particular interest, especially those standard organisms that form part of the B.P. challenge test. These include Candida albicans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus niger and Staphylococcus aureus. A cross-section of plants mentioned in the literature as being specifically targeted at these organisms are considered. The paper concludes with Appendices of plant materials that have mention in the literature according to specific definitions, which may give researchers a potential introduction to future research. KEY WORDS Natural preservation, traditional preservation, challenge test organisms, legal status. INTRODUCTION The subject of natural preservatives is one that probably...
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...Genetically Modified Organisms Group B: Erica Grigg, Kaneka Jackson, Gene Kim, Kathryn Lynn Content Introduction/Description (Kathryn Lynn)………………………….………...………… 2 Historical Development (Kathryn Lynn)….….……….………….….…….…………… 4 Political/Legal Influences (Kaneka Jackson)………………….….……..…….……….. 11 Economic Questions (Erica Grigg)…….…….……..….….….….…..…..…..…….……15 Psychological Considerations (Erica Grigg)…………………….…………………....... 19 Cultural/Media Influence (Kaneka Jackson)………………………….…..…………….. 24 Environmental Implications (Gene Kim)……..….….…..….….……….……………..... Moral/Ethical Implications (Gene Kim)………………..….…….….…….………....... References…..….…..…….…….…….…….…..…….……..…..….…..…….…….…. Introduction The world is forever changing. New technologies are being introduced and discovered as generations grow and the need for basic food items is increased. Technology is involved in every facet of our lives. It is used continuously every day whether it be waking up to an alarm clock, watching TV that you recorded on a digital video recorder, brushing your teeth with a mechanical toothbrush, or using your GPS navigation system when going to your latest vacation destination. The latest technology has made it possible for people to communicate with others all over the world in both audio and video formats. Scientists are continuously looking for ways to make living easier and more productive. They are looking for solutions to world hunger, new medical advances to...
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...Genetically Modified Organisms Technology, Society, and Culture Table of Contents Technical Aspect of GMO by Chad Dookie Page 3 Moral and Ethical Aspect of GMO by Ronald Claude Page 7 Cultural and Legal Aspect of GMO by Evangelina Ramirez Page 14 Environmental Issues of GMO by Donovan Collins Page 23 References Page 32 Technical Aspect of GMO by Chad Dookie Description of GMOs and the associated science Most of the populations that do shopping in the groceries to buy food for their family are not aware of the “naturalness” of the food. Groceries sell items such as; cotton seeds, rice, soy, sugar beets, yeast, cassava, papaya, bananas, food flavoring, potatoes, corn, tomatoes, squash, oils, beef, pork, chicken, salmon, peas, alfalfa, and honey. Notice that most of the items listed either came from a plant or an animal. Those are the top 20 grocery items that have been genetically modified. What are genetically modified organisms? A genetically modified organism is any living thing that has had their DNA tampered with. This can be mutating, removing, or adding genetic material into the organism. All of the items listed in paragraph one has had their DNA tampered with. Most times when people talk about genetically modified organisms, they mostly refer to plants that are genetically modified. You may be wondering how the animals listed are considered genetically modified. This is because scientists modify the plants that are being...
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...genes are added or transferred to alter the genetic code of an organism (“What is Genetic Modification”). Since the completion of the Human Genome Project in 2006, genetic engineering has developed rapidly and it seems as though a new discovery or breakthrough is announced every day. Many of the discoveries as well as future prospects have presented numerous challenges and concerns, and continue to be an ethical debate. Human genetic engineering will lead to unfavorable consequences that defy nature, lead to less diversity, and threaten our safety. Scientists are messing with nature in the process of human genetic engineering. There is a delicate balance in nature that should not be tampered with because of the unforeseen effects it could cause. With advancements in genetic engineering and new technologies, scientists are racing to uncover some profound new discovery by experimenting with our genes in a Petri dish. Manipulations to our genes are unnatural and unpredictable. It was just announced this year that the first human ear was grown from animal cells on the back of a rat (Briggs). While this major breakthrough has enormous potential for human replacement parts, it may open the doors to unknown consequences as well. One example of this lies in the well known, yet controversial cloned sheep Dolly, who after only six years, developed arthritis and progressive lung cancer and was euthanized (CNN). The unknown risks to these types of experiments are dangerous and unethical...
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...up to one metre squared per month of living corals (Chesher 1969)! A. planci also has a few interesting evolutionary adaptations, including venomous spines and a feeding method that includes everting its stomach through its mouth to digest prey (Ault et al 2011). Fascinatingly, A. planci has a very strange method of sexual reproduction that is based on spawning. Finally, A. planci has been the subject of intensive study over the last few decades, yet we still have no real idea as to what causes major infestations of A. planci, and we have barely any idea of how to control them. In this paper, we plan to spread some light on the life cycle, reproduction, feeding habits, predators, potential human causes, and human impacts of this obscure starfish. The appearance of the crown-of-thorns starfish is characterized by a purplish-blue colour with multiple arms and venomous thorn-like spines about 4-5 cm in length (Lotha 2007). These spines are venomous due to the toxic compounds known as saponins which are released when the spine punctures its targets skin. The toxins cause a number of symptoms in humans such as intense pain, nausea, vomiting, and extreme swelling in the punctured area (Moran 1988). However, although...
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...http://cls.casa.colostate.edu/transgeniccrops/what.html What Are Transgenic Plants? A transgenic crop plant contains a gene or genes which have been artificially inserted instead of the plant acquiring them through pollination. The inserted gene sequence (known as the transgene) may come from another unrelated plant, or from a completely different species: transgenic Bt corn, for example, which produces its own insecticide, contains a gene from a bacterium. Plants containing transgenes are often called genetically modified or GM crops, although in reality all crops have been genetically modified from their original wild state by domestication, selection and controlled breeding over long periods of time. On this web site we will use the term transgenic to describe a crop plant which has transgenes inserted. Image:Results of insect infestation on Bt (right) and non-Bt (left) cotton bolls. Source: USDA | Why Make Transgenic Crop Plants? A plant breeder tries to assemble a combination of genes in a crop plant which will make it as useful and productive as possible. Depending on where and for what purpose the plant is grown, desirable genes may provide features such as higher yield or improved quality, pest or disease resistance, or tolerance to heat, cold and drought. Combining the best genes in one plant is a long and difficult process, especially as traditional plant breeding has been limited to artificially crossing plants within the same species or with closely related...
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...Vishal Wilson English 16 Professor Donald McCrary Research Paper 1 The issue of genetically modified organisms, often referred to as GMOs, is one of the most important arguments we can have as a society. A huge part of the argument stems from genetically modified foods. Some people regard genetically modified wheat and corn for their drought resistance and ability to feed millions of people in parts of the world that desperately need food. The other side of the argument stems from unwanted side effects caused by GMOs such as the creation of herbicide-resistant super weeds to the loss of biodiversity and uncontrollable transfer of modified genes into the environment (Whitman 4). The benefits vs. risks that GMO’s pose in regard to the environment and human health are still inconclusive. Only rigorous scientific research and time will yield conclusive results, along with possible advancements in technology that will help address most concerns. What is clear is that we need GMO’s to be able to feed the world’s population and that the potential risk GMO’s pose to human health and the environment can vary tremendously. The labeling of GM food is necessary will address the question of accountability of the impact GMO’s and large corporations have with their “proprietary crops” to the environment and health, along with minimizing potential risk. The argument that corporate driven agriculture...
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