BIOS 242 Week 1 Discussion; Microscopy (4 Options)

Option (I): Describe a clinical or research scenario that requires the use of a microscope. What microscope is the best choice for your scenario and why? What would be your second choice? Option (II): As a medical professional, it is important to have prior knowledge in Microbiology. Many of your patients will seek medical attention due to illness caused by bacterial infection. Medical News Today released an article that explains how gastric biopsies are used to diagnose a wide range of complaints. Take a look through the article linked below. Let’s discuss your experience (or make up a hypothetical situation) with medical lab tests. How were the samples collected, and how did lab professionals determine if the microbe was present to cause illness? It may be useful to identify growth requirements of the expected microbe, then read through Ch. 4 to review staining/classification methods and Ch.6 nutrition and growth. Ex) During James’ new hire health screening, he had a positive skin test for TB. His doctor wanted to verify the results, so a sputum test was ordered. In a sputum test, fluid from the lungs (phlegm) was collected and an acid-fast stain was performed on this sample. Acid fast stains identify mycolic acid in Mycobacterium Tuberculosis by staining the cells pink. James’ sputum test came back positive, verifying he was infected by Mycobacterium Tuberculosis. Treatment was initiated immediately. Option (III): Since tobacco mosaic virus' discovery in 1892 by Dmitry Ivanovsky, the debate about 'viruses being alive or not' has been going on. Do you agree with this statement? Here's your chance to add your two cents to the debate. There is some information in the book, but here's an interesting article published in 'Scientific American' that provides valuable arguments 'for' and 'against' the question. Please defend your answer. Villarreal, Luis P. “Are Viruses Alive?” Scientific American, Springer Nation, 8 Aug. 2008, Option (IV): Which scientist from Ch. 1 is your favorite? Explain to the class what their major contribution to the field of Microbiology is. How does their important discoveries influence your day to day life?