Miscellaneous

The Periodic Table of TOPS: Ba is for Bacteria

In nature, Barium is symbolized by Ba. One of its compounds is used to provide X-ray images of the esophagus, stomach and intestines. Yes, your gut. For my refracted purpose in the Periodic Table of TOPS, Ba will symbolize Bacteria. Specifically, the Bacteria (Ba) found in our gut, also called the gut microbiome. As a retired microbiologist, I have over…

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Eu is Eureka
Miscellaneous

The Periodic Table of TOPS: Eu is for Eureka

I am not alone when something I am working on finally comes together in using the phrase this is an “Aha!” moment. I had many of these moments during my forty years working in a laboratory. Refracting on my next element for the Periodic Table of TOPS, I had another “Aha!” moment when I saw Eu, which symbolizes Europium. This…

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Cr is for Craving
Miscellaneous

The Periodic Table of TOPS: Cr is for Craving

In nature, Chromium (Cr) is a trace element that helps us to use glucose, yet in excess, it can be poisonous. It is in brewer’s yeast and wheat germ. It is also used in chrome plating to make items shiny. In April 2022, I introduced the first element of the Periodic Table of TOPS…Health (H). There are many factors that influence…

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