Author: Glossary
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Fern pattern ferning
The palm leaf (arborization) pattern that mid-cycle cervical mucus assumes when it is placed in a thin layer on a glass slide and allowed to dry. The pattern, caused by crystallization of the mucus as it dries, depends on the concentration of electrolytes, especially sodium chloride, which in turn depends on the amount of estrogen…
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Fermentation tube
A U-shaped culture tube open at one end. If gas is produced by the bacteria cultured, the level of fluid decreases in the side of the tube with the closed end.
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Viscous fermentation
Production of gelatinous material by different forms of bacilli.
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Propionic acid fermentation
Formation of propionic acid from carbohydrates by the action of certain bacteria.
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Oxalic acid fermentation
Formation of oxalic acid from carbohydrates by the action of certain molds, especially Aspergillus.
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Lactic fermentation
Formation of lactic acid from carbohydrates by bacterial action. The genera Streptococcus and Lactobacillus are the forms usually involved. Bacterial action is responsible for the souring of milk.
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Invertin fermentation
Conversion of cane sugar into glucose and fructose.
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Citric acid fermentation
Formation of citric acid from the action of molds on carbohydrates.
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Butyric fermentation
Formation of butyric acid from bacterial action on carbohydrates under anaerobic conditions.
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Autolytic fermentation
Disintegration of tissues after death due to enzymes present in the tissues.