Biology Classes Research Articles

Development of PBL-based lichens diversity e-module to improve students' problem-solving skills

Problem-solving skills are important things everyone needs to have to improve their quality of life. The results of a needs analysis carried out on Biology students at the State University of Malang show that their problem-solving abilities are still relatively low in lichen diversity material. This research aims to determine the development of PBL-based lichens diversity e-module and its influence on students' problem-solving skills completeness e-module and its effect on students' problem-solving skills. This type of research is a development study (development research) with the ADDIE development model. This research was conducted at the State University of Malang in biology class with a sample size of 67 students. The research instrument uses problem-solving pretest and posttest sheets, as well as material expert questionnaires, media expert questionnaires, and practicality questionnaires from educators who will use the e-module. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). The results showed that the e-module developed was a very good product and could be used in learning Lichen material. The results of the study stated that the e-module was effective in improving problem-solving skills (sig. ˂ 0.05). So, it can be concluded that the PBL-based e-module is effective for improving problem-solving skills in biology students of the State University of Malang.

Implementasi LKPD Berbasis Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) dengan Pictorial Riddle untuk Hasil Belajar Biologi

This study aims to examine the application of LKPD (Learner Worksheets) focusing on Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) using Pictorial Riddle (image-based riddles) to increase interest and learning outcomes in biology class VII at MTs An-Najihah, Kerjo Mojorejo Village, Kebonsari District, Madiun Regency on Animal and Plant Tissue Sub-Material. This research uses Classroom Action Research (PTK). There are 4 data collection techniques in this study, namely interviews, observations, tests and documentation. The use of HOTS-based LKPD with Pictorial Riddle is able to improve learning outcomes and student interest in the sub-material of Animal and Plant Tissues in class VII MTs An-Najihah. The completeness of students has increased in each cycle. In the pre-cycle of individual completeness amounted to 11 students and 32% classical completeness, in cycle I individual completeness amounted to 15 students and classical completeness to 43%. Then in cycle II individual completeness increased to 32 students and classical completeness to 91%. The conclusion of the research is that the implementation of HOTS-based LKPD with Pictorial Riddle can increase the interest and learning outcomes of VII grade students of MTs An-Najihah on the subject matter of Animal and Plant Tissues.

From Farm to Classroom: Tubers as Key Resources in Developing Biology Learning Media Rooted in Banten's Local Culture

This study aims to investigate the diversity of tuber plants used as food by the people in Banten, which are then used as learning content based on local potential. To achieve this goal, we conducted a research and development (RD) method to create various media using the information of tubers diversity in Banten. In the first stage, we collected data on the diversity of tuber plants cultivated by residents in Banten province and their uses. In the second stage, we developed various forms of learning media from the diversity data and the status of plant utilization. Data on diversity was obtained by conducting field observation and interviews with 373 respondents: tuber farmers, traders, intermediaries, processed makers, souvenir shop owners, and homemakers in Banten. Data were analyzed using the descriptive-qualitative method. Information about the diversity of types of tubers, their use for food, and their processing techniques then use as the content on learning media of Biology subject for senior high school on biodiversity, ecosystems, and biotechnology concept. We customize content development to support Biology classes using the Kurikulum Merdeka. The results showed that there were 16 species of tubers used as food, belong to 11 families, such as Dioscoreaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Convolvulaceae which used as a staple food, snacks, and vegetables. The results of the media development analysis show that diversity data can be applied to various types of multimedia learning media in the biological sciences. While these materials may complement the learning of Biology, careful consideration must be given to the advantages and disadvantages of each medium to ensure that they are appropriate to the learning goals and circumstances of the learners.

Unveiling the pedagogical advantage of tutoring‐style videos in an authentic biology class

AbstractBackgroundWhile the effectiveness of tutoring‐style videos has been reported in previous studies conducted in laboratories, how these types of videos facilitate students' learning experiences and achievement has not been much explored in prior studies, which prevents discussion on how to design such tutoring‐style videos.ObjectivesIn this study, we addressed the limitations reported in studies conducted in authentic classes and attempted to explore students' learning patterns and experiences with tutoring‐style videos involving interactions between the instructor and agents. In addition, we attempted to reveal what instructional strategies can be used in tutoring‐style videos to enhance students' engagement and achievement.MethodsThe study took place in an undergraduate introductory biology class offered at a university located in the Midwest of the United States. The same instructor taught two sections of this course which lasted for 15 weeks during a Spring semester. The two sections were randomly assigned to an experimental group in which participants watched tutoring‐style videos and a control group with participants watching traditional videos. The experiment was administered in a module lasting two and a half weeks focused on microbiology. Surveys and tests were conducted to determine whether the tutoring‐style videos had a positive impact on student engagement and achievement. In addition, a video content analysis was carried out to elicit insights on how to design effective tutoring‐style videos.ResultsFor students' emotional engagement and perceived usefulness, no significant difference was found between the two groups, even though the descriptive statistics indicated slightly higher scores from the experimental group than the control group on both subscales. In terms of achievement, the participants reported significantly more learned concepts from watching rich‐interactions in the tutoring‐style videos than the participants in the control group; and they also reported a significantly smaller number of learned concepts from watching one‐interactions in the videos than the control group participants. We also found that instruction in the tutoring‐style videos used effective strategies for facilitating students' participation and cognitive processing.ConclusionsOur findings indicate that tutoring‐style videos can be effective learning materials by allowing students to engage in interactions between instructors and agents in the videos. The more instructional strategies used to facilitate the interactions between the instructor and the agents, the higher engagement can be expected from viewers. Our study would inform the design and development of effective tutoring‐style videos.

METHODOLOGY OF DEVELOPING STUDENTS' CREATIVE ABILITIES USING NEW TECHNOLOGIES IN BIOLOGY CLASSES

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, fostering creativity in students has become paramount. This research aims to present a comprehensive methodology for enhancing students' creative abilities in biology classes through the integration of new technologies. Creativity is a crucial skill for problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovation, making it essential for students to develop creative thinking from an early age. Our methodology involves the judicious use of innovative technologies, such as virtual reality simulations, augmented reality apps, and interactive online platforms, to create engaging and immersive learning experiences. By leveraging these tools, students can explore complex biological concepts in ways previously unimaginable. These technologies provide opportunities for hands-on experimentation, visualization of abstract concepts, and collaboration with peers, fostering creativity through active learning. Furthermore, we incorporate pedagogical strategies that encourage divergent thinking, curiosity, and exploration. Our approach aligns with constructivist and socio-constructivist theories, emphasizing the role of social interaction and collaboration in creative learning. We also emphasize the importance of a supportive learning environment that encourages risk-taking and experimentation. This research draws from both qualitative and quantitative data, including student assessments, surveys, and observations. Preliminary results indicate a significant enhancement in students' creative thinking abilities, manifested through innovative project submissions, insightful discussions, and a newfound enthusiasm for biology..

Risk of Paradoxical Eczema in Patients Receiving Biologics for Psoriasis

Biologics used for plaque psoriasis have been reported to be associated with an atopic dermatitis (AD) phenotype, or paradoxical eczema, in some patients. The risk factors for this are unknown. To explore risk of paradoxical eczema by biologic class and identify factors associated with paradoxical eczema. This prospective cohort study used data from the British Association of Dermatologists Biologics and Immunomodulators Register for adults treated with biologics for plaque psoriasis who were seen at multicenter dermatology clinics in the UK and Ireland. Included participants were registered and had 1 or more follow-up visits between September 2007 and December 2022. Duration of exposure to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors, interleukin (IL) 17 inhibitors, IL-12/23 inhibitors, or IL-23 inhibitors until paradoxical eczema onset, treatment discontinuation, last follow-up, or death. Incidence rates of paradoxical eczema, paradoxical eczema risk by biologic class, and the association of demographic and clinical variables with risk of paradoxical eczema were assessed using propensity score-weighted Cox proportional hazards regression models. Of 56 553 drug exposures considered, 24 997 from 13 699 participants were included. The 24 997 included exposures (median age, 46 years [IQR, 36-55 years]; 57% male) accrued a total exposure time of 81 441 patient-years. A total of 273 exposures (1%) were associated with paradoxical eczema. The adjusted incidence rates were 1.22 per 100 000 person-years for IL-17 inhibitors, 0.94 per 100 000 person-years for TNF inhibitors, 0.80 per 100 000 person-years for IL-12/23 inhibitors, and 0.56 per 100 000 person-years for IL-23 inhibitors. Compared with TNF inhibitors, IL-23 inhibitors were associated with a lower risk of paradoxical eczema (hazard ratio [HR], 0.39; 95% CI, 0.19-0.81), and there was no association of IL-17 inhibitors (HR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.74-1.42) or IL-12/23 inhibitors (HR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.66-1.16) with risk of paradoxical eczema. Increasing age (HR, 1.02 per year; 95% CI, 1.01-1.03) and history of AD (HR, 12.40; 95% CI, 6.97-22.06) or hay fever (HR, 3.78; 95% CI, 1.49-9.53) were associated with higher risk of paradoxical eczema. There was a lower risk in males (HR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.45-0.78). In this study, in biologic-treated patients with psoriasis, paradoxical eczema risk was lowest in patients receiving IL-23 inhibitors. Increasing age, female sex, and history of AD or hay fever were associated with higher risk of paradoxical eczema. The overall incidence of paradoxical eczema was low. Further study is needed to replicate these findings.

Forming Groups in a Large-Enrollment Biology Class: Group Permanence Matters More than Group Size.

Active-learning pedagogies often require group work. We tested aspects of forming groups in a nonmajors Biology class. We asked whether large or small groups affected student learning outcomes and attitudes towards working in groups. We placed students in groups of three or six and students stayed in their groups for the term. We measured learning outcomes using a pre/postassessment as well as two-stage exams. Attitudes towards working in groups were measured using a previously published pre/post survey and an exit survey. We found that students in large groups did better on group exams and large groups had higher highest scores on the individual part of two-stage exams. Group size had no effect on students' postassessment scores or attitudes towards working in groups. We next assigned students to permanent or nonpermanent groups. We used the same metrics as the group size experiment. Students in permanent groups had higher group exam scores and better attitudes towards working in groups. Group permanence had no effect on students' postassessment scores. Students preferred working in permanent groups due to positive group interactions that developed over the quarter. Optimal group size and permanence are likely context-specific and dependent on the types of group work used in class.

Teaching Nutrient Cycling and Climate Change Concepts Using Excretion Experiments with Common Fish

Many high school students learn about nutrient cycling during biology, environmental science, and agriculture classes. These lessons often focus on soil and plants, and nutrient cycling is usually taught independently from climate change. Scientists know that animals, including fish, can have strong effects on nutrient cycling (i.e., nitrogen and phosphorus) in ecosystems. Additionally, research has shown that nitrogen and phosphorus excretion rates of animals increase with water temperatures. We worked with high school students to design and conduct nutrient excretion experiments using common fish (zebrafish) to explore the impact of climate change on nutrient cycling. This allowed students to have hands-on laboratory experience. In 2021, we worked with students participating in a residential summer program in Georgia. Meanwhile, in 2022, students enrolled in the local high school visited the university campus on two occasions to participate in the experiments, and we once again worked with students in Georgia. Students from all three groups showed an increased understanding of the role of animals in nutrient cycling and ways climate change may impact these processes, despite variable results from the excretion experiments. Students also showed increased understanding of science processes and were more likely to feel like part of the science community. We believe that these experiments can be done in high school classrooms to expand students’ understanding of the scientific process, nutrient cycling, and climate change.

Analysis of students' environmental literacy at senior high school 10 palembang on environmental pollution material

The global concern for environmental issues is widely discussed worldwide. Environmental literacy, encompassing concerns for the environment, is crucial to prevent human-induced environmental damage. Education plays a pivotal role in enhancing this literacy. This research aims to describe the environmental literacy abilities of students at Senior High School 10 Palembang, namely a school that is environmentally conscious regarding environmental pollution material. The research method is descriptive research and survey techniques. The research sample was 36 students of class XI Science. The sample used a purposive sampling technique. The research instrument includes 31 multiple-choice questions for knowledge and cognitive skills and 37 questionnaire statements for behavioral and affective indicators. Data analysis was carried out by calculating the average achievement of indicator students' environmental literacy scores in the form of percentages. Analysis revealed an overall environmental literacy percentage of 49.06% in the quite good category. However, specific indicators, notably knowledge (39.44%) and cognitive skills (29.52%) poor category. Behavioral indicators (60.94%) were quite a good category, and affective indicators stood (66.33%) good category, indicating room for improvement, especially in knowledge and cognitive skills. Teachers could enhance environmental literacy by employing innovative strategies, particularly in biology classes discussing environmental pollution.

Label-Free Single Nanoparticle Identification and Characterization in Demanding Environment, Including Infectious Emergent Virus.

Unknown particle screening-including virus and nanoparticles-are keys in medicine, industry, and also in water pollutant determination. Here, RYtov MIcroscopy for Nanoparticles Identification (RYMINI) is introduced, a staining-free, non-invasive, and non-destructive optical approach that is merging holographic label-free 3D tracking with high-sensitivity quantitative phase imaging into a compact optical setup. Dedicated to the identification and then characterization of single nano-object in solution, it is compatible with highly demanding environments, such as level 3 biological laboratories, with high resilience to external source of mechanical and optical noise. Metrological characterization is performed at the level of each single particle on both absorbing and transparent particles as well as on immature and infectious HIV, SARS-CoV-2 and extracellular vesicles in solution. The capability of RYMINI to determine the nature, concentration, size, complex refractive index and mass of each single particle without knowledge or model of the particles' response is demonstrated. The system surpasses 90% accuracy for automatic identification between dielectric/metallic/biological nanoparticles and ≈80% for intraclass chemical determination of metallic and dielectric. It falls down to 50-70% for type determination inside the biological nanoparticle's class.

Implementation of the Problem Based Learning Model to Increase the Activity and Learning Outcomes of Students in the Digestive System Material and the Human Respiratory System Class XI MAN 2 Tanah Datar

This study aims to determine the effect of the model Problem based Learning in improve results and learning activities in biology learning system material digestion and the human respiratory system. The type of research carried out is in accordance with the problem researched is study action class (Classroom action research). The population in this study were students of class XI MIPA MAN 2 Tanah Datar who were enrolled in the 2022/2023 academic year. The sample in this study were students in class XI MIPA 1 and XI MIPA 2 MAN 2 Tanah Datar. Data collection techniques used in this study were observation, questionnaires, documentation and field notes. The data analysis technique used to analyze activity data and student learning outcomes is the percentage technique and the t test. The results of this study indicate that the average student learning outcomes have increased from cycle I (68.55 %) to cycle II (86.20%). In line with the learning activities of students also increased from cycle I (48 %) to cycle II (77%). The conclusion of this study is that the Problem Based Learning (PBL) learning model can increase the activity and learning outcomes of students in biology class XI IPA MAN 2 Tanah Datar.

A Preliminary Study on the Effectiveness of K-Nearest Neighbor Algorithm Based on Local Mean for Classification of Bioinformatics Data.

The preliminary classification of biological class data is of great importance for bioinformatics. One can quickly classify object data by comparing their existing features with known traits. k-nearest neighbor algorithm is easy to apply in this field, but its drawbacks make it less meaningful to improve the efficiency of the algorithm by simply changing the distance model, so this study uses a local mean-based k-nearest neighbor classifier and compares the accuracy of the predicted classification of six different distance models used. The prediction accuracies in the experimental results were all greater than 70%, and the highest accuracy was achieved in different data sets for all distance models with K=2; the prediction accuracy of Minkowski distance with different parameters had the highest volatility in the test.and the experimental results can be used as a reference for related practitioners.

Animating the excretory system: An interactive learning tool for eighth grade students

In Biology class, students face problems understanding the material that seems abstract to observe, such as biological system mechanisms. This study was aimed at developing interactive learning media products based on animated videos using the Unity application in the excretory system lesson for eighth grade and determine the response of teachers and students. This study adapted the ADDIE model to develop interactive learning media. The steps in this study are analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. The findings indicate that the content quality and media quality percentages are 83.35% (very feasible category) and 92.75% (very viable category) respectively. Furthermore, students scored the product in average 84.5% (very feasible category). Meanwhile, the science teachers assessed the product in average 91.7% (very viable category) from the teachers. The results of the Wilcoxon signed-rank test also showed a significant difference between the students’ pretest and posttest results. It can be concluded that the interactive learning media based on animated videos can be used as an alternative learning media in the excretory system lesson for eighth grade students.

Factors that impact student frustration in digital learning environments

The use of digital learning technologies and platforms has skyrocketed over the past decade. Although digital materials have many advantages, using them can be frustrating to students. Frustration is a negative achievement emotion that can serve as a barrier to learning. Therefore, understanding how frustration influences student learning and attitudes toward technology can help create more engaging and effective digital learning experiences. Previous research has identified three areas of frustration with academic e-textbooks (e-text frustration): (1) interactions with e-text interface, (2) technical difficulties, and (3) curriculum integration. This study investigated the relationships among e-text frustration and motivational, cognitive, attitudinal, academic, and demographic factors that impact frustration with e-texts in undergraduate biology classes. Extraneous cognitive load and motivation significantly predicted each of the three frustration constituents. Surprisingly, intrinsic cognitive load failed to predict e-text frustration. This study makes an important contribution to emotion research in education by examining the factors that impact learning in digital settings and emotions. Its implications are relevant for educators, researchers, and developers of digital learning materials and environments.

Treatment of Parkinson's disease with biologics that penetrate the blood-brain barrier via receptor-mediated transport.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by neurodegeneration of nigral-striatal neurons in parallel with the formation of intra-neuronal α-synuclein aggregates, and these processes are exacerbated by neuro-inflammation. All 3 components of PD pathology are potentially treatable with biologics. Neurotrophins, such as glial derived neurotrophic factor or erythropoietin, can promote neural repair. Therapeutic antibodies can lead to disaggregation of α-synuclein neuronal inclusions. Decoy receptors can block the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines in brain. However, these biologic drugs do not cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Biologics can be made transportable through the BBB following the re-engineering of the biologic as an IgG fusion protein, where the IgG domain targets an endogenous receptor-mediated transcytosis (RMT) system within the BBB, such as the insulin receptor or transferrin receptor. The receptor-specific antibody domain of the fusion protein acts as a molecular Trojan horse to ferry the biologic into brain via the BBB RMT pathway. This review describes the re-engineering of all 3 classes of biologics (neurotrophins, decoy receptor, therapeutic antibodies) for BBB delivery and treatment of PD. Targeting the RMT pathway at the BBB also enables non-viral gene therapy of PD using lipid nanoparticles (LNP) encapsulated with plasmid DNA encoding therapeutic genes. The surface of the lipid nanoparticle is conjugated with a receptor-specific IgG that triggers RMT of the LNP across the BBB in vivo.

Enhancing the Quality of Learning Through Training in PBL and TPACK-Based Teaching Module

The goal of the PKM activity is to enhance the quality of learning through intensive training in the creation of teaching modules that integrate the concepts of PBL with the application of TPACK. This reflects the urgency of the teacher's role in adapting the learning approach to the current developments and preparing students to face future challenges. Focusing on the improvement of learning quality provides insights into the importance of integrating PBL and TPACK in innovative and relevant modern learning. The implementation method involves knowledge transfer and the Community Development Model through synchronous and asynchronous online activities. The partners in this activity are students of the PPG Daljab Biology Class of 2023 from the Mandalika University of Education. The activity is carried out for a total of 3 meetings. The results of the activity show that the partners' participation is very active, and there is a significant impact of the training on the partners' understanding of the PBL model and the TPACK approach, as well as their integration into teaching modules

Exploring Supports to Enhance Learning from Online Virtual Experiments in Science

ABSTRACT Virtual experiments offer opportunities for students to engage in the scientific process and observe scientific phenomena. However, virtual experiments are not always effective for learning. The current study examined how two small manipulations might support better learning from virtual experiments and the extent to which this varied across learners. Undergraduates in an introductory biology class (n = 415) were randomly assigned to a 2(agency: active, passive) × 2(strategy instruction: control condition, control of variables [CVS] strategy instruction) between-subjects design and completed two prior knowledge tests (topic, general science). Comprehension tests results indicated that the students had relatively good comprehension of the experiment content, but that performance was driven by prior knowledge. Although there were no significant effects of the agency or strategy instruction manipulations, exploratory interactions suggest a need to further investigate which types of virtual experiment supports might be most beneficial for different learners.

PSW-Designer: An Open-Source Computational Platform for the Design and Virtual Screening of Photopharmacological Ligands.

Photoswitchable (PSW) molecules offer an attractive opportunity for the optical control of biological processes. However, the successful design of such compounds remains a challenging multioptimization endeavor, resulting in several biological target classes still relatively poorly explored by photoswitchable ligands, as is the case for G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Here, we present the PSW-Designer, a fully open-source computational platform, implemented in the KNIME Analytics Platform, to design and virtually screen novel photoswitchable ligands for photopharmacological applications based on privileged scaffolds. We demonstrate the applicability of the PSW-Designer to GPCRs and assess its predictive capabilities via two retrospective case studies. Furthermore, by leveraging bioactivity information on known ligands, typical and atypical strategies for photoswitchable group incorporation, and the increasingly structural information available for biological targets, the PSW-Design will facilitate the design of novel photoswitchable molecules with improved photopharmacological properties and increased binding affinity shifts upon illumination for GPCRs and many other protein targets.

Exploring the ceratopsid growth record: A comprehensive osteohistological analysis of Triceratops (Ornithischia: Ceratopsidae) and its implications for growth and ontogeny

Ceratopsids represent one of the most iconic groups of non-avian dinosaurs. These large quadrupedal ornithischians are well-known for their bizarre cranial ornamentations, which are distinctive among different ceratopsids. However, only very little data exist on ceratopsid osteohistology and growth rates. Here, we present a detailed osteohistological analysis on Triceratops horridus preserved in a relatively large bonebed from the Lance Formation (eastern Wyoming, USA) as well as additional Triceratops cf. prorsus specimens from Canada. Deciphering the bone microstructure of this iconic dinosaur allows to better understand the growth and development of ceratopsids. The Triceratops limb elements show a distinct pattern of slower growing parallel-fibred and faster growing woven-parallel bone tissue that serves as basis for the definition of histologic ontogenetic stages (HOS). Lower (i.e., younger) HOS correspond to woven-parallel tissue while higher (i.e., older) HOS correspond to parallel-fibred tissue. The intraskeletal variation in histology is best explained through the Three-Front Model, indicating significant differences in cortical thickness between different limb bones. The Triceratops primary growth record is poorly expressed, and the few growth marks preserved show irregular spacing inconsistent with expected growth patterns. The HOS scheme provides seven stages that correspond to biological age classes and that show a correlation with body size. Our analysis suggests that the taxonomic ambiguity between Torosaurus and Triceratops cannot be solved based purely on histological data, but requires additional taphonomic, taxonomic and histological analyses. This study expands the current ceratopsian histological database and helps to better understand ceratopsid growth patterns.

Synthesis, characterization, and dissolution properties of Aceclofenac-isobutabolammonium salt

The solubility issues of Biological Classification System Class II drugs are a challenge for formulation, and salt formation is a potential solution. In this study, we report the synthesis and solid-state characterization of aceclofenac-isobutanolammonium (IBA) salt using 2-Amino-2-methyl propanol (AMP) as the potential counterion. Various techniques, including X-ray powder diffractometry, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetry, solution state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and, infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy, were used for characterization. The in vitro dissolution study showed a significant increase in solubility and dissolution profile of the salt. The results suggest that aceclofenac-IBA salt has potential as a formulation strategy for enhancing the solubility and bioavailability of Class II drugs.