The Elements of Bacteriological Technique A Laboratory Guide for Medical, Dental, and Technical Students. Second Edition Rewritten and Enlarged.   By: J. W. H. (John William Henry) Eyre (1869-)

"The Elements of Bacteriological Technique" by J. W. H. Eyre is an essential laboratory guide for students in the fields of medicine, dentistry, and technical sciences. This second edition has been meticulously rewritten and enlarged, offering comprehensive knowledge and practical guidance in bacteriological techniques.

Eyre unveils a systematic approach to bacteria research, enabling students to develop a solid foundation in the laboratory. The book starts with a detailed explanation of the principles and tools required for successful bacteriological examinations. The author ensures that readers understand the fundamental concepts right from the beginning, which is immensely helpful for beginners in the field.

In subsequent chapters, Eyre introduces various culture media and methods for obtaining and cultivating pure bacterial cultures. He provides step-by-step instructions, accompanied by clear illustrations, ensuring that readers can easily follow the procedures. Additionally, Eyre emphasizes the importance of maintaining aseptic conditions throughout the laboratory work, underscoring its significance in accurate experimentation.

One of the strengths of Eyre's book lies in its comprehensive coverage of staining techniques. The author delves deep into the different staining methods available, including gram-staining, acid-fast staining, and flagella staining, among others. Each technique is explained thoroughly, enabling students to understand the underlying principles and apply them effectively in their research projects.

Moreover, Eyre offers valuable insights into bacterial identification and classification. He explains the significance of morphological, physiological, and biochemical tests in determining the nature of bacteria. With clear illustrations and detailed explanations, Eyre equips readers with the necessary knowledge to accurately identify and classify various bacterial species.

Throughout the book, Eyre's writing style is concise and accessible, making complex concepts easy to comprehend. He balances theoretical knowledge with practical aspects, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of bacteriological techniques. The inclusion of numerous tables, diagrams, and color plates further enhances the learning experience, elevating this guide beyond a mere textbook.

However, a minor drawback of the book is the absence of a glossary. While the author consistently defines technical terms within the text, a consolidated glossary would have been beneficial for quick reference.

In conclusion, "The Elements of Bacteriological Technique" is an invaluable laboratory guide for medical, dental, and technical students. J. W. H. Eyre's comprehensive approach, combined with clear instructions and illustrations, allows for a thorough grasp of bacteriological techniques. This second edition showcases the author's expertise and commitment to providing students with a reliable resource. Whether readers are beginners or seasoned researchers, this book is a must-have for anyone seeking to excel in the field of bacteriology.

First Page:

Bacteriology is essentially a practical study, and even the elements of its technique can only be taught by personal instruction in the laboratory. This is a self evident proposition that needs no emphasis, yet I venture to believe that the former collection of tried and proved methods has already been of some utility, not only to the student in the absence of his teacher, but also to isolated workers in laboratories far removed from centres of instruction, reminding them of forgotten details in methods already acquired... Continue reading book >>