Sensory System

Nature’s Nanomagnets: A Chemical Perspective on Magnetotactic Bacteria

Abstract Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are complex organisms that have evolved a multitude of internal chemical processes to survive their harsh environments. This paper discusses the details of important biological molecules, metabolic systems, and molecular mechanisms that contribute to the vital functions of MTB. Notably, biomineralization is a chemical, multi-step process

Alex Gagnon, Catriona Kirk, Jason Li, Sofian Martinais

A Physical Analysis of Magnetotactic Bacteria: Nature’s Microscopic Compass as a Solution to a Motile Biotope

Figure 1: Magnetotactic Bacteria (Perduca, 2016). Abstract Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are unique aquatic microaerophiles that can align and move in the direction of the Earth’s magnetic field. In this paper, the basic physical properties of magnetosomes, some mechanisms, such as magnetotaxis, and phototaxis, involved in the MTB’s motion, and the

Alex Gagnon, Catriona Kirk, Jason Li, Sofian Martinais

Mathematical Models of Diatoms: Understanding Their Complex Shape, Reproduction and Chain Formation

Abstract Apart from physical and chemical solutions used by the diatom for survival, some features of the unicellular microalgae also could be described in mathematics. For instance, the diatom morphology reveals a striking alignment with the golden ratio and fractal geometry. By examining the silica shells of these unicellular algae,

Peter Matthews-Crochetiere, Daniel Ibrahim, Wenan Liao, Cedric Mackay

Life-Sustaining Processes of the Diatom

Abstract The chemical reactions, processes, and mechanisms that occur inside diatoms are key to their ability to survive and dominate the world of microalgae. Through photosynthesis, the diatom can absorb sunlight and carbon dioxide and then convert them into oxygen and glucose with the help of chlorophyll, which is a

Peter Matthews-Crochetiere, Daniel Ibrahim, Wenan Liao, Cedric Mackay

Frustules: Design solutions in Diatoms

Abstract There are many microorganisms in the universe, and they can generally be sorted into three types: prokaryotic, eukaryotic, and acellular. The subject of this paper is a member of the eukaryotic family, and they are commonly present in nature: the diatom. The diatomite which is formed by the death

Peter Matthews-Crochetiere, Daniel Ibrahim, Wenan Liao, Cedric Mackay

The Physical Properties and Interactions of Coccolithophores

Abstract Coccolithophores are one of the world’s most important calcifying organisms. Populating the greater light-intensive areas of the ocean, these unicellular haptophytes are more broadly classified as photosynthetic phytoplankton. These organisms’ anatomy, physiology, and various processes make them irreplaceable contributors to the world’s carbon cycle. They are responsible for modifying

Megan Farrow, Zackary Murphy, Minh Tri Pham, Jia Yi Yu

Aquatic Fungi: An Exploration of Adaptations in Chemical Processes

Abstract This article explores the chemistry behind the diverse functions and characteristics of aquatic fungi, a fascinating group of microorganisms that inhabit freshwater and marine ecosystems. Aquatic fungi play an important role in the cycling of nutrients and the decomposition of organic matter. This article gives an overview elucidating the

Izabela Junqueira Magalhaes, Kristina Kerkelova, Ruizhi Liu, Yasmine Sadr Kaufmann

Physical Analysis of Amoeba

Abstract Out of all the types of cell migration, amoeboid movement is studied very extensively due to its use by important biological components such as white blood cells. Despite the attention it has received, this type of cell movement has yet to be fully understood. Examining it from different perspectives

Hailey Jukes, Adele Omichinski, Nicholas Da-Costa-Bastidas, and Gil Qin

How mathematics governs the nature of tentacles

Abstract The tentacle displays a variety of fascinating properties and functions which scientists have attempted to comprehend via mathematical models over the years. In fact, such numerical modeling emphasizes how the appendage has evolved to become optimized for rapid movement, fine-tuned sensation, and skillful predation via its colour-changing abilities. It

Yousif Al Shajlawi, Henry Bain, Charles Barakett, Julianna Bede

Speed, Sense, and Strike: The Biochemistry of Tentacles and their Chemical Interactions with the Environment

Abstract The tentacle has long been a curiosity to scientists for its unique and diverse properties and functions, perhaps since antiquity when Aristotle observed the ability of cephalopods to regenerate lost tentacles and arms. Today, tentacles continue to inspire scientific innovation, such as a biomimetic recognition strategy for capturing and

Yousif Al Shajlawi, Henry Bain, Charles Barakett, and Julianna Bede

Geometry is Key: Mathematical Modeling of Whiskers and Antennae

Abstract Rat whiskers can be modeled by Euler spirals, curves with linear change in curvature. One hypothesis explaining vibrissae shape is that the linear growth of rat whiskers creates linear curvature. Another hypothesis is that the Euler spiral is an optimal shape to satisfy its sensory needs. The patterning of

Yen Chuang, Giselle De Leon, Anna Xuyao Shi, Ella (Yaxin) Wang

Comparison of Antenna and Whisker Functions in Different Environments

Abstract Animals and insects use whiskers and antennae for orientation, foraging, stalking prey, finding mates, and fighting. This article explores the function of whiskers and antennae in different environments and species. Rats use a whisking motion to contact surfaces and gather sensory information regarding object shapes and textures. Kinetic motion

Yen Chuang, Giselle De Leon, Anna Xuyao Shi, Ella (Yaxin) Wang