SCI115: Introduction To Biology Eassys Guru only
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sci115_discussions.docxWeek 1 Discussion question
"Science and Society"
Instructions: Please select one (1) of the following three options for your primary post. Completely address the discussion questions in the topic you choose, in a primary post of at least 125 words. Additionally, please reply to a fellow student on any topic.
(1) Read the blog post by Aizenman (2016). Explain what so-called 'parachute research' is about. Why is it considered a problem? Discuss possible solutions that would satisfy all stakeholders. How does this issue relate to the field of biology?
(2) Review the editorial (Cox, 2015) in the "Instructor Insights" folder for this week (Week 1). What is Cox's position? Explain the basic the logic of his argument. Discuss whether or not you agree with the editorial, and explain why. Explain how this issue relates to the field of biology.
(3) In a recent blog post, O'Neil (2016) describes five lines of evidence that, taken together, seems to indicate that the Zika virus causes microcephaly. Choose one of these lines of evidence and explain why that line of evidence, in and of itself, does not establish a causal link between the Zika virus and microcephaly. Explain whether the other lines of evidence bolster the claim.
References:
Aizenman, N. (2016, April 2). Scientists say it's time to end 'parachute research'. Goats and soda [blog]. Retrieved from http://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2016/04/02/472686809/scientists-say-its-time-to-end-parachute-research
McNeil, D. G. (2016, April 1). 5 reasons to think that the Zika virus causes microcephaly. http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/04/01/health/02zika-microcephaly.html
"Mitochondria, Water, Molecules, and Cell Structures"
Note: Online students, please respond to one (1) of the following four (4) bulleted options.
· The cell is comprised of very important components including the mitochondria. Please view this video describing mitochondrial disease which is found here. Keep in mind that one of the symptoms of mitochondrial disease is fatigue (weak and tired). Next discuss two (2) functions of mitochondria and why you believe each of these functions is important. Then explain two (2) ways that the inability of mitochondria to perform their proper function can account for mitochondrial disease symptoms. Justify your response.
· Water is essential to life. Briefly discuss three (3) properties of water then explain what is meant by the structure of water accounting for each of its properties. Next choose one (1) of the properties of water below and explain two (2) ways the property can be useful for living systems.
Cohesion
Adhesion
High Specific Heat
Floating Ice
Good Solvent Properties
Dissociation of water molecules
· Are you really what you eat? Many of us have heard the saying, “you are what you eat”. Please view the quick crash course on carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins here then describe the processes needed to distinguish whether a biological molecule is a carbohydrate, lipid, or protein. Next consider your daily intake of foods this week and note the various carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins you ingested. Discuss three (3) ways that your diet relates to the molecules of life and their function. Justify your response.
· Consider three (3) structures and functions of a cell then provide a 100 to 250 word explanation based on the following question: “How do varied membrane composition and the structural features of molecules in different cells contribute to membrane function?”
Week 3 Discussion question
"Energy Sources and Energy for Life"
Note: Online students, please respond to one (1) of the following three (3) bulleted items.
Discuss three (3) types of energy sources used by cells then provide two (2) examples of when / in what cells / situations your chosen energy sources are used. Next describe two (2) forms of transport within the cell and the specific energy source used in each form of transport.
The effectiveness of dieting has been debated for years. There are several diets available including Atkins, Zone, Carbohydrate, Weight – Watchers, Jenny Craig, Dukan, Mediterranean, or 22 Day Vegan. Choose two (2) diets that were listed previously then explain four (4) effects each of your selected diets has on one’s energy and overall health including any hazardous effects.
Review the animation on enzymes found here then in your own words define the term enzyme. Next choose one (1) enzyme of your choice then determine its function in the body. In addition, discuss three (3) advantages of having metabolic pathways in the cell and the specific role enzymes play in those processes.
