Biomechanics and Biophysics

Just Keep Swimming: Structure, Movement, and Light Interactions of Unicellular Green Algae

Abstract Popular scientific theory suggests that life on earth originated in a primordial ocean billions of years ago. Basic prokaryotic cells allegedly diverged into eukaryotes, and chloroplasts that produce oxygen later appeared. The first organisms with functioning chloroplasts are presumed to be a kind of marine algae. The genus

Ai-Lan Ji-Eun Nguyen, Tesnim Obey, Anders Schwarz and Jackson Yu

A Mathematical Approach to Understanding Volvox

Abstract This paper sheds light on the suitability of mathematical theories and models to unveil a variety of design solutions inherent to Volvox. Having evolved from the unicellular Chlamydomonas, Volvox demonstrates that multicellularity is of particular interest to improve the nutrient uptake per somatic cell. Also, randomness plays a role

Robinson Libman, Meryem Louni, Ryan McGibbon, and Ali Najjar

The Biophysics of Volvox

Abstract Volvox are microscopic colonial algae that are heavily studied as they are one of the simplest examples of multicellular organisms. Composed of hundreds to tens of thousands of individual cells moving in harmony, they are the source of several mesmerizing phenomena, each of them serving a purpose for the

Robinson Libman, Meryem Louni, Ryan McGibbon, and Ali Najjar

Art in Symmetry: Mathematical Models that Dictate Radiolarian Structures

– ABSTRACT – This essay explores the fascinating intersection of mathematics and biology through the study of Radiolaria, which are intricate marine protozoa known for their symmetrical skeletal structures. The idea of symmetry is the core of this investigation, highlighting how radial and bilateral formations in Radiolaria are not only

Vicky Barré, Liora Benzecry, Rhiannon Butler, and Valerie Hung

Unveiling the Chemistry of Radiolaria: Exploring Elemental Insights and Environmental Significance

– ABSTRACT – The Radiolarian species are a diverse group of marine microorganisms. They are known for their intricate and multi-functional silica skeletons. Due to rough oceanic conditions, the formation of a hard silica shell through biomineralization allows them to maintain their shape. The dissolution of their siliceous skeletons at

Vicky Barré, Rhiannon Butler, Valerie Hung, and Liora Benzecry

The Innovative Structural and Physical Properties of Radiolaria

ABSTRACT The intricate silica skeletons of Radiolaria, a type of marine microorganism, exhibit striking optical fiber-like properties, offering a potential roadmap for future innovations in the optical field. Beyond their applications for photonics, radiolarians are fascinating models for studying buoyancy control. They exhibit a variety of adaptive mechanisms that alter

Vicky Barré, Liora Benzecry, Rhiannon Butler, and Valerie Hung

Analysis of the Survival Mechanisms of Hydra

Abstract This paper aims to get a better understanding of the physical properties of Hydras. It describes the structure of the body of the Hydra as well as its behavior and interactions with its environment, with a focus on physics. Despite its relatively simple nervous system, characterized by a nerve

Jessica Coulson, Magnus Duffy, Ruolin Hu, and Shilong Zheng

An Investigation of the Physical Properties of Gonium

ABSTRACT Gonium pectorale is a small 16-celled photosynthetic algae that provides a refreshing outlook on the evolution of green algae and the concept of modularity. Each individual cell operates with its own two flagella, which are propulsion appendages, and an eyespot, an optical light sensor. Without a central nervous system,

Andrew D’Argenio, Breanna D’Ettorre, Lucas Elliott, and Joseph Gad

The Physics of Foraminifera

Abstract In the face of tumultuous waters and other such environmental challenges, foraminifera have evolved a wide range of morphological adaptions. Indeed, the development of tests, pores, pseudopodia, and spines have allowed them to thrive within a variety of marine ecosystems, globally, for over 545 million years. Their fossils have

Carolyn Denton, Emma Bussiéres, Rachel Jiang, Reno Thompson

Phenotypic Adaptation of Daphnia Throughout Evolution

Abstract Daphnia, referred to as water fleas due to their distinctive hop-and-sink swimming pattern, are commonly found navigating freshwater lakes and ponds. Their phenotype, finely tuned to their environment and way of life, is dynamically adaptive throughout their lifecycle, showcasing variations in eye size, carapace shape, and swimming behaviors. Their compound

Eva Otell, Iris Sun, Marwan Sobh, Rémi Ouellette, Xinying Wang

Shaping Success: A Mathematical Exploration of Cyanobacteria across Scales

ABSTRACT Mathematical models and functions are familiar tools used to study biological systems and interactions, in particular with the study of infectious diseases. Epidemic and pandemic dynamics, however, are only one example of their applications for adding analysis, understanding, and insight into complex topics. In this essay, cyanobacteria’s size and

Max Bai, Sierra Bushey, Maria Delgopiatof, and Valerie Syme

The Biochemical Nature of Cyanobacteria

ABSTRACT Cyanobacteria are a phylum of gram-negative bacteria that have been found in a vast range of habitats including Antarctic lakes, hot thermal springs, tropical soil, and even arid climates. These microorganisms have gained attention for their photosynthetic capabilities, long history on Earth, and more recently, eutrophic blooms due to

Max Bai, Sierra Bushey, Maria Delgopiatof, and Valerie Syme