Biological Concepts Research Articles

Life, sense-making, and subjectivity. Why the enactive conception of life and mind requires phenomenology

One of the ideas that characterises the enactive approach to cognition is that life and mind are deeply continuous, which means that both phenomena share the same basic set of organisational and phenomenological properties. The appeal to phenomenology to address life and basic cognition is controversial. It has been argued that, because of its reliance on phenomenological categories, enactivism may implicitly subscribe to a form of anthropomorphism incompatible with the modern scientific framework. These worries are a result of a lack of clarity concerning the role that phenomenology can play in relation to biology and our understanding of non-human organisms. In this paper, I examine whether phenomenology can be validly incorporated into the enactive conception of mind and life. I argue that enactivists must rely on phenomenology when addressing life and mind so that they can properly conceptualise minimal living systems as cognitive, as well as argue for an enactive conception of biology in line with their call for a non-objectivist science. To sustain these claims, I suggest that enactivism must be further phenomenologised by not only drawing from Hans Jonas’s phenomenology of the organism (as enactivists often do) but also from Edmund Husserl’s thoughts on the connection between transcendental phenomenology and biology. Additionally, phenomenology must be considered capable of providing explanatory accounts of phenomena

Path planning algorithm design using particle swarms optimization and artificial potential fields

AbstractOne of the most important challenges in an autonomous and robotics system is the path planning in which the system finds the optimal path from start point to goal point. The traditional path planning algorithms may have large memory requirements which scale with the size and resolution of the configuration space. To address these challenges, this paper introduces a novel path planning algorithm that combines Particle Swarm Optimization and Artificial Potential Field in the form of a path planning algorithm for mobile robots. The biological and physical concepts from Particle Swarm Optimization and Artificial Potential Field algorithms are combined to yield an algorithm which minimizes instances of getting stuck in local minima and generates a smooth but feasible path. The developed method requires memory which scales only with the number of particles and the time taken to reach the goal. This results in a memory‐efficient solution that generates smooth and feasible paths for mobile robots navigating in a 2D space.

The Definition of Individual Biological Fitness

“Fitness” is one of the central concepts in biology. Despite this, the concept is still not clearly defined. Previous attempts at definition refer to what should be called an individual’s “potential fitness,” or, when mathematized, the relative fitness of genetic alleles. In contrast, the present work defines the actual fitness of an individual, exactly what is referred to in the expression “survival of the fittest.” This represents a new conceptualization, a mathematical definition that will extend across the entire set of ideas related to evolution.

The Bio-Restorative Concept for Implant-Supported Restorations.

This study aims to present the bio-restorative approach in implant dentistry, which combines biological and restorative concepts through digital planning. This concept combines periodontal, surgical, and prosthetic variables, aiming to reduce patient morbidity while achieving satisfactory esthetic and functional outcomes in implant-supported restorations in the long term. Implant dentistry evolved from a primarily surgical to a recent prosthetically driven approach. This evolution was partly due to advancements in bone reconstructive techniques and an increased demand for esthetic outcomes. Recently, digital planning has introduced a new paradigm that allows for the full integration of both approaches. The bio-restorative concept considers functional, esthetic, and biological variables in a virtual planning environment. This is achieved through the simultaneous digital assessment of (A) anatomical site characteristics and (B) implant restorative variables. These variables include digital tooth arrangement, soft-hard tissue conditions, implant variables, supra-platform components, and a surgical plan that respects or modifies peri-implant phenotype. The bio-restorative concept is intended to improve contemporary implant dentistry by integrating updated biological and prosthetic notions through digital planning. Adopting this paradigm has the potential to redefine the standards in implant dentistry, fostering a holistic and patient-centered approach. It enhances patient and clinician satisfaction through more efficient and less invasive procedures. Significantly, it improves predictability, leading to successful implant-supported restorations in the long term.

Design as a learning opportunity in biology lessons—a cross-domain STEM approach and its impact on biological subject knowledge

There is a broad consensus in politics, economy and science about the importance of promoting STEM competences. To promote STEM skills in the classroom, we propose a cross-domain approach combining the STEM sub-domains of Biology and Technology/Engineering. Therefore, we have developed a model that illustrates how the STEM sub-domains of Biology and Technology/Engineering can complement each other in a cognitive process. Both sub-domains show similarities in working methods and consider structural and functional relationships. These synergies can be brought together in a design process. This approach leads to the question of the extent to which a cross-domain approach utilising a design process can be a learning opportunity for biological subject knowledge. Based on this model, we have created a learning arrangement on the topic of the ‘locomotor system’. Learners should use a design process to build a feeding machine inspired by structural-functional relationships in different locomotor systems. In a quasi-experimental study, we compared this Design approach with two alternative teaching approaches (a Reconstruction approach and a Biology approach). In the Reconstruction approach, students receive the same input on structural-functional relationships in locomotor systems but build their feeding machine according to a predetermined plan. In the Biology approach, no feeding machine is built; instead, structural-function relationships in locomotor systems are modelled using further examples from the animal world. 413 pupils (age: M = 12.53, SD = 0.818) took part in the study. Longitudinal and cross-sectional analyses emphasise the potential of the Design approach compared to the other methods and show significant differences in long-term learning outcomes. Path models illustrate that cognitive abilities (IQ) and participation in the ‘Design’-intervention group are decisive prerequisites for learning success. The results also show that students following the Design-approach develop a significantly improved understanding of concepts related to the musculoskeletal system. Using a design process combining biology and engineering presents a learning opportunity for students to develop long-term robust biological knowledge and understanding of biological concepts. Thus, using a design approach can be a cross-domain bridge for integrated STEM instruction in order to foster pupils’ knowledge acquisition and competences.

Genetic enhancement from the perspective of transhumanism: exploring a new paradigm of transhuman evolution.

Transhumanism is a movement that advocates for the enhancement of human capabilities through the use of advanced technologies such as genetic enhancement. This article explores the definition, history, and development of transhumanism. Then, it compares the stance on genetic enhancement from the perspectives of bio-conservatism, bio-liberalism, and transhumanism. This article posits that transhuman evolution has twofold implications, allowing for the integration of transhumanist research and evolutionary biology. First, it offers a compelling scientific framework for understanding genetic enhancement, avoiding technological progressivism, and incorporating concepts of evolutionary biology. Second, it represents a new evolutionary paradigm distinct from traditional Lamarckism and Darwinism. It marks the third synthesis of evolutionary biology, offering fresh perspectives on established concepts such as artificial selection and gene-culture co-evolution. In recent decades, human enhancement has captivated not only evolutionary biologists, neurobiologists, psychologists, and philosophers, but also those in fields such as cybernetics and artificial intelligence. In addition to genetic enhancement, other human enhancement technologies, including brain-computer interfaces and brain uploading, are currently under development, which the paradigm of transhuman evolution can better integrate into its framework.

Social media symbiosis: Understanding the dynamics of online political persuasion in social media ecologies

Research has noted that political content on social media, both accurate and fake, may lead users to reconsider their political opinions and be persuaded. This study contributes to this topic by examining how political attitude change in social media unfolds according to users’ perceptions. Our findings, based on in-depth interviews with 30 Spanish social media users, show how the centrality of social media in citizens’ everyday life nudges them into a persuasive relationship in these ecologies. We conceptualize this dynamic relationship as social media symbiosis, an analogy that draws on the biological concept of symbiosis, and that explains the characteristics of perceived online persuasion: (1) the primacy of social media persuasion over other information sources, (2) its gradual and evolutionary nature, and (3) the persuasive relationships in which users may engage: mutualism, in which both sender and receiver reciprocally benefit and persuade each other; and parasitism, in which fake news creators harmfully persuade receivers while benefitting. Our study contributes to extant literature by theorizing about the persuasive relationship in which users perceive to engage in social media, and the rationales that facilitate it.

Innovation in Biology Education: Classroom Action Research as a Catalyst for the Renewal of Teaching Methods in Indonesia

Abstract. This study emphasizes the critical importance of enhancing Classroom Action Research (CAR) as a catalyst for more sustainable Biology education. The primary factors identified include a lack of comprehensive information regarding the implementation of CAR across various regions in Indonesia and the current weaknesses inherent in CAR. The objective of this research is to examine the effectiveness of CAR in improving the understanding of biological concepts and to propose a model for sustainable CAR. A systematic review method following the PRISMA approach was employed to analyze relevant studies. The findings reveal that CAR is effective across almost all Biology teaching methods, enhancing quality through student participation, creativity, and learning outcomes. However, the principal challenge lies in the unsustainable nature of CAR, which hampers long-term improvement efforts. This study develops a sustainable CAR design, referred to as Sustainable Action Research (SAR), which encompasses comprehensive planning, monitored implementation, evaluation of outcomes and processes, and reflective practices to develop new strategies. SAR acts as a catalyst for the renewal of Biology teaching methods, enabling educators to adapt to evolving educational challenges. Recommendations for future research include focusing on the implementation of SAR and evaluating its effectiveness. Active teacher involvement in every stage of SAR is essential to ensure that innovations are aligned with on-the-ground needs. Collaboration between academics and teachers is also crucial to improving the quality of education in Indonesia, particularly in the field of Biology education Keywords: classroom action research, sustainable action research, biology education, sustainable education

Pembuatan Media Interakitf Mengenai Analogi Tubuh Manusia menggunakan Adobe Animate 2022

The multimedia development process involves character design, animation, and interactive scenarios using Adobe Animate. This multimedia is designed to be easily accessible to various user levels, taking into consideration the aspects of user experience design.Evaluation results indicate that interactive multimedia created with Adobe Animate is effective in improving the biological concepts understanding of the human body. The interactive interface provides a more engaging learning experience, motivating users to explore further information and enhancing the retention of the concepts taught.This research contributes to the utilization of Adobe Animate as an effective tool for creating educational multimedia. With this approach, it is expected that the teaching of the human body can become more interesting and accessible to various learner groups. Additionally, the findings of this research may pave the way for the development of interactive multimedia based on Adobe Animate in the context of science education.

An integrative approach to the delineation of locally endemic species: A case study of Vitis baihuashanensis (Vitaceae) and its implication for conservation management

Species definition and classification have long been the subject of controversy, and name changes can often be a source of frustration for both conservationists and the public. Vitis baihuashanensis is a critically endangered grapevine endemic to Beijing with only two remaining wild individuals. Although formerly treated as a synonym of V. amurensis, it was later listed in the List of National Key Protected Wild Plants (LNKPWP) in 2021. Here, we evaluated the taxonomic identity of V. baihuashanensis based on phylogenomic inference and population genetic analysis, and tested the species boundaries under various major species concepts (biological, morphological, ecological, phylogenetic, and integrative species concepts). Phylogenetic inference revealed that the amurensis-baihuashanensis clade was monophyletic, samples of V. baihuashanensis nested within the V. amurensis node. Population genetic analysis demonstrated that V. baihuashanensis samples clustered with V. amurensis. Our findings from field observations, morphological comparisons, pollination experiments, and genetic analyses indicate that V. baihuashanensis and V. amurensis are the same species under the integrative species concept, and support the synonymy of V. baihuashanensis under V. amurensis. Given that V. baihuashanensis was listed in the LNKPWP, we suggest that it be removed in the next update of the list because of limited financial resources. Nevertheless, the two wild individuals deserve conservation attention because of their distinct leaf characteristics and potential of cold tolerance, which could have important applications in the horticulture and grape industries. Our study provides multiple lines of evidence for clarifying the identity of a taxonomically questionable species, as well as valuable suggestion with conservation and management implications.

Analisis Pengelolaan Limbah Praktikum Biologi di Madrasah Aliyah X, Tangerang Selatan

A biology laboratory is a room for experiments and research to understand biological concepts and each experiment. Science laboratory standardization is regulated by Minister of National Education Regulation no. 24 of 2007. This research aims to increase awareness about the importance of effective and efficient waste management. The research was conducted at Madrasah Aliyah X, South Tangerang, for the 2024/2025 academic year. The research methods used in collecting data were interviews, observation, and documentation, which were then presented descriptively. The results of interviews with laboratory assistants and biology teachers were described qualitatively, observational data were described quantitatively in percentages, and documentation was used as research-supporting data. Waste management at Madrasah Aliyah X, South Tangerang, is included in the excellent category. Waste management needs to be developed by collaborating with external parties so that waste management is optimal and there is no accumulation of waste.

Content Analysis of Bioenergetics’ Conceptual Presentation in Senior High School Biology Textbooks

Factors that bring about a low mastery level of bioenergetics, a core concept in biology, include relatively poor teaching-learning experience and low-quality textbooks, among others. To determine which textbook and teaching components have affected the low learning mastery of the topics in bioenergetics, the researchers analyzed the textbooks’ quality of content, language, layout, and figures, and the teachers’ experience, contentment, and challenges while teaching the topic, and effects to the learners. Using a sequential explanatory mixed method research design, ten (10) textbooks, and seven (7) teacher participants were purposively selected following a set of criteria. Descriptive and principal component analyses revealed that the textbooks' quality depends on two components: (1) competent and coherent visuals and content, and (2) consistency of style in the varied forms of assessment. Narrative analysis and Quasi-Statistics analysis revealed that teachers are not contented with the textbooks as they are inadequate to teach the subject matter. The lack of good learning materials, coupled with low competence to introduce the topics, resulted in the low mastery level of the learners. The researchers propose that periodic textbook assessment, retooling of teachers’ skills, and deepening teachers’ understanding are necessary to improve learners’ performance in bioenergetics. Finally, this paper is instrumental in providing educators, resources and curriculum developers, and researchers a feasible and practical path to improve textbook quality and address pedagogical gaps.

Teaching introductory biomechanics course in low resource environment

Biomechanics originates at the interface of engineering mechanics and biological science. Biomechanics is an essential course for students of various disciplines, such as sports medicine, kinesiology, exercise science, orthopedics, medical sciences, biomedical engineering, and biological sciences. An introductory biomechanics course involves concepts of biology, mathematics, and mechanics that students find difficult to understand. This results in incomplete and ineffective learning of biomechanical concepts. The professional competence of a biomechanics student significantly depends on learning outcomes. Designing and developing an effective instructional methodology for an introductory biomechanics course that can improve students’ learning outcomes is challenging. Teaching a biomechanics course in a low-resource environment lacking expensive biomechanics experiment equipment and commercial software is an additional challenge. Literature suggests that active learning instructional techniques can help overcome these challenges. The present study reviews active learning methods such as Experiential Learning, Problem-based Learning, Challenge-based Instructions, Just-in-Time Teaching, Game-based Learning, and Mobile Learning, which have the potential to enhance the learning outcomes of biomechanics students during an introductory biomechanics course. The present study also discusses the possibility and effectiveness of these pedagogical approaches while teaching an introductory biomechanics course in low-resource environments. A curriculum designed (lecture and laboratory modules) for effectively delivering biomechanics courses to students in low-resource environments has been suggested. This study also highlights open-source software packages and tools that are helpful for teaching and learning introductory biomechanics in low-resource settings.

Methylsulfonylmethane induces caspase-dependent apoptosis in acute myeloid leukemia cell lines.

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous ailment in both biological and clinical concepts. Numerous efforts have been devoted to discover natural compounds for combating cancer, which showed great potential in cancer management. Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), an organosulfur dietary supplement, is utilized for improving various clinical conditions, particularly osteoarthritis. MSM can exert antitumor activity in a wide range of cancers. The molecular mechanisms of action underlying antileukemic activity of MSM remain unclear. In this regard, we aimed to investigate the anticancer properties of MSM on human AML cell lines (U937 and HL60) with focus on underlying cell death mechanism. Anticancer activity of the MSM was examined employing MTT assay, Annexin V-PE/7AAD staining, caspase3/7 activity test, and real-time qPCR. Both cell lines were treated with different concentrations (50-400 mM) of MSM for 24 h. Pretreatment of the cells with a caspase inhibitor (i.e., Z-VAD-fmk) was performed for the assessment of apoptosis induction. The results of MTT assay revealed that in both cell lines, the MSM markedly reduced cell viability in comparison to the control cells. Additionally, findings of Annexin V-7AAD staining revealed that MSM induced apoptosis and activated caspase 3/7 in both cell lines markedly. Real-time quantitative PCR results also supported the induction of apoptosis in AML cells. MSM altered the expression levels of various apoptotic genes (BAX, BAD, and BIM). Overall, our results indicated that MSM could induce apoptosis in AML cell lines in a dose-dependent manner, which therefore could be utilized as anantileukemic agent.

Project Based Learning (PLO) with a Bio-Entrepreneurship (BEP) Approach: Can it Improve Students' Science Literacy and Life Skills?

This research aims to analyze the PjBL model with the Bio-Entrepreneurship (BEP) approach to scientific literacy abilities and life skills. The method used was quasi-experimental with a pretest posttest non-equivalent control group research design. The sample for this research consisted of 71 students consisting of experimental classes and control classes, using a purposive sampling technique. The results of research on scientific literacy abilities show that the average N-Gain in the experimental class is 0.67 with medium criteria, while the control class average N-Gain is 0.28 with low criteria. The results of life skill abilities after being given treatment in the experimental class increased higher with an average of 78.63 compared to those in the control class with an average of 51.74. Thus, this research shows significant implications for students' abilities in developing real projects by combining aspects of entrepreneurship and biological concepts in everyday life.ABSTRAK: This study aims to analyze the PjBL model with a Bio-Entrepreneurship (BEP) approach to science literacy and life skills. The method used was quasi experiment with pretest posttest nonequivalent control group design. The sample of this study amounted to 71 students consisting of experimental and control classes, with purposive sampling technique. The results of the research on science literacy skills showed that the average N-Gain in the experimental class was 0.67 with moderate criteria, while the control class had an average N-Gain of 0.28 with low criteria. The results of life skills ability after being treated in the experimental class increased higher with an average of 78.63 than in the control class with an average of 51.74. Thus, this research shows significant implications for the ability of students to develop real projects by combining entrepreneurial aspects and biological concepts in everyday life.

Video animation in coordination system to improve students’ cognitive ability

The biological concept has a broad scope and requires the visualisation of bioprocesses to provide complex understanding. Learning media can help visualise bioprocesses to enhance students’ cognitive abilities. The study aimed to develop, test the practicality, and test the effectiveness of video animation in improving grade XI high school students’ und erstanding of the coordination system. This study involved 66 high school students in grade XI of the science department at State Senior High School 2 Malang, Indonesia. This research used the Lee & Owens Multimedia-Based Instructional Design method, which consisted of analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation stages. In the evaluation stage, we conducted face validity by media experts and content validity by material experts, successively getting results of 97% and 100%. Then, the concurrent validity test was obtained from student assessments of the media interface with a result of 97%, the user-friendly with a result of 100%, and the appropriateness of the material with a result of 95%. In the final stage, construct validity was carried out through an effectiveness test using a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group design. Data analysis was performed using the Independent T-test, with the results showing a significance of 0.006 < 0.05, which showed a significant difference in the average post-test between the control and experimental classes. The average score in the experimental class increased from 76.32 to 89.03, but the control class increased from 76.38 to 84.56. The results showed that the video animation media effectively improved students’ abilities. Therefore, this learning media can be a recommendation in the learning coordination system.

Dynamics of Endothelial Cell Diversity and Plasticity in Health and Disease.

Endothelial cells (ECs) are vital structural units of the cardiovascular system possessing two principal distinctive properties: heterogeneity and plasticity. Endothelial heterogeneity is defined by differences in tissue-specific endothelial phenotypes and their high predisposition to modification along the length of the vascular bed. This aspect of heterogeneity is closely associated with plasticity, the ability of ECs to adapt to environmental cues through the mobilization of genetic, molecular, and structural alterations. The specific endothelial cytoarchitectonics facilitate a quick structural cell reorganization and, furthermore, easy adaptation to the extrinsic and intrinsic environmental stimuli, known as the epigenetic landscape. ECs, as universally distributed and ubiquitous cells of the human body, play a role that extends far beyond their structural function in the cardiovascular system. They play a crucial role in terms of barrier function, cell-to-cell communication, and a myriad of physiological and pathologic processes. These include development, ontogenesis, disease initiation, and progression, as well as growth, regeneration, and repair. Despite substantial progress in the understanding of endothelial cell biology, the role of ECs in healthy conditions and pathologies remains a fascinating area of exploration. This review aims to summarize knowledge and concepts in endothelial biology. It focuses on the development and functional characteristics of endothelial cells in health and pathological conditions, with a particular emphasis on endothelial phenotypic and functional heterogeneity.

Testing the form-function paradigm: body shape correlates with kinematics but not energetics in selectively-bred birds

A central concept of evolutionary biology, supported by broad scale allometric analyses, asserts that changing morphology should induce downstream changes in locomotor kinematics and energetics, and by inference selective fitness. However, if these mechanistic relationships exist at local intraspecific scales, where they could provide substrate for fundamental microevolutionary processes, is unknown. Here, analyses of selectively-bred duck breeds demonstrate that distinct body shapes incur kinematic shifts during walking, but these do not translate into differences in energetics. A combination of modular relationships between anatomical regions, and a trade-off between limb flexion and trunk pitching, are shown to homogenise potential functional differences between the breeds, accounting for this discrepancy between form and function. This complex interplay between morphology, motion and physiology indicates that understanding evolutionary links between the avian body plan and locomotor diversity requires studying locomotion as an integrated whole and not key anatomical innovations in isolation.

Promoting public engagement in interdisciplinary biological systems education by leveraging American sports-inspired bracket contests on social media and web.

The complexity of modern biology poses challenges in fostering interdisciplinary understanding, particularly between practicing scientists and the public. Furthermore, scientists often lack formal training in science communication, despite various motivations to engage the public. The science literacy of the public in the biological sciences can also vary across socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. Leveraging popular culture and informal learning practices to promote active learning offers promising avenues to enhance public understanding of biological systems. Organized sports hold collective recognition across various communities and cultures, serving as a means to bring people together. Notably, the NCAA March Madness event holds widespread national and international popularity, presenting an opportunity to laterally apply this concept to promote science communication within STEM and biology education. An educational social media and web-based contest tool was developed integrating NCAA-inspired brackets with animal biological systems concepts. The tool featured tournament-style matchups based on animal biological systems, interesting animal facts, and a voting system, all housed within a user-friendly interface. To encourage regular user access to the tool, graphic designs were developed for all social media posts to aid in visual recruitment to the voting website. Based on online metrics, the use of social media garnered repeat users across both the public and educators. The latter noted the tool's simplicity and informative content. Application of this social media and web-based bracket contest tool, which leverages informal settings for active learning for use in biology education, can foster science communication to engage audiences, improve comprehension, and promote interdisciplinary biology education.

The Use of Brain Based Learning Elements in a Teaching Approach for Scientific Understanding of Biology Concepts

The Use of Brain Based Learning Elements in a Teaching Approach for Scientific Understanding of Biology Concepts