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I have never been interested in the different sciences, straying away from such courses out of intimidation and disinterest. However, after taking this course, I have learned to appreciate biology and its relation to other science fields, learning about unique topics, and enjoying the activities and assignments.

Firstly, before I began the course, I was somewhat scared. I had only taken another science college course prior to this one and it had not gone well. I had read up about the course and Professor Revuelta, researching about requisities and responsibilities I would have. I assumed I would struggle, given my previous class, but I was willing to put in the necessary work and learn about Biology.

Upon entering the course, I was pleasantly surprised by the way the class was organized and what I would be doing throughout the duration of the semester. I enjoyed the setup of the class which promoted in-class participation and the engaging assignments provided. With this, I learned the topics during our allotted time and didn't need to spend out-of-class time completing busy work or extra assignments. Having no homework was a new experience but a welcomed one, since it allowed me to manage my time with other courses. It made the class and material more manageable and made the topics digestable.

After experiencing the class, I am much more open to learning about different sciences. I am not as afraid of such topics and am now more interested in the field as a whole. This class has taught me to be more willing to try new things, even if they may seem intimidating. I learned that I am capable of understanding science and retaining that information.

In conclusion, this class has been very accessible and easily digestible. I learned to enjoy Biology and consider the entire field as a whole, from a new perspective. I appreciated the topics, assignments, and overall setup of the classroom. All in all, this was a very nice class and helped me learn to appreciate Biology.

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Through studies of evolutionary history, the red panda has evolved from an ancient carnivore species most likely related to skunks, raccoons, and weasels. Possessing adaptive pseudothumbs and having meat-eating ancestors, they are ideal creatures for convergent evolution studies given their modern bamboo nutrient utilization. Nevertheless, the red panda has no known evolutionary link, only recently linked to the aforementioned raccoons and the family Procyonidae, with extinct fossil relatives found in Eurasia and North America. A common misconception is that the link between the red panda and the giant panda; the two having a significant period of independent evolution separating the two species. Some evolutionary adaptations the red panda have are enlarged wrist bones on each front paw alongside an extra thumb, a small body mass for quick movement, and puffy tails used to preserve heat. The red pandas are the only remaining member of the Ailuridae, the first true red pandas appearing during the Miocene in Spain.

Sources:
https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/news/red-panda-bear-and-more-red-panda-facts#:~:text=Studies%20of%20their%20evolutionary%20history,their%20ancestors%20roamed%20North%20America!

https://redpandarocks.wordpress.com/evolutionary-history/

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Sept. 19 is International Red Panda Day! Whether you know them as red pandas, red bear-cats, firefoxes, first pandas, lesser pandas or simply "the other pandas," get to know these ferociously furry animals with a few fun facts.

Is a red panda a real panda?

That depends on your definition of a real panda! The name panda is believed to come from the Nepali word "ponya," meaning "bamboo eater" or "bamboo footed." Despite sharing a common name, giant pandas and red pandas are not closely related. Red pandas are the only living members of their taxonomic family, Ailuridae, while giant pandas are in the bear family, Ursidae.

The red panda was first classified and given its scientific name, Ailurus fulgens, in 1825. Giant pandas were described much later and earned their "panda" name because of the similarities the two species shared, like eating bamboo. So, red pandas could be considered the original (or only) true pandas - even if giant pandas have grown more famous over the years.

Why is a red panda's tail so fluffy?

It's all about balance! A red panda's long, woolly tail helps to keep it steady as it walks along rock ledges and tree branches. Red pandas don't hibernate through the winter, so their thick fur and bushy tails also provide protection from the cold, wind and other harsh weather.

Is a red panda a bear?

No, nor are they raccoons! Scientists have long debated the red panda's taxonomy. Red pandas were first described in 1825 as members of the raccoon family, because they have similar skulls, teeth and ringed tails. Later, DNA analysis suggested that red pandas might belong in the bear family.

However, later genetic research placed red pandas in their own family: Ailuridae. Studies of their evolutionary history show that red pandas are an ancient carnivore species and are probably most closely related to skunks, raccoons and weasels. Five million years ago, their ancestors roamed North America!

Where do red pandas live?

Red pandas live in high-altitude, temperate forests in the Himalayas and other tall mountains where bamboo grows. New genetic studies suggest that the originally recognized subspecies of red panda may actually be two distinct species: Ailurus fulgens fulgens and Ailurus fulgens styani (also known as Ailurus fulgens refulgens).

Ailurus fulgens fulgens lives predominantly in Nepal and can also be found in India and Bhutan. Ailurus fulgens styani is primarily found in China and Myanmar, and tends to be larger and deeper red in color.

Do red pandas like snow?

You bet. Red pandas love the snow - and snowy days are the best time to see active red pandas at the Zoo!

Do red pandas make noise?

Red pandas can squeal, twitter, "huff-quack," hiss and grunt to communicate with each other. Young cubs will sometimes use a whistle or high-pitched bleat when in distress. However, red pandas rely on scent marking more than vocalizations to communicate. They can scent mark by urinating or rubbing the scent-producing glands at the base of their tails against a surface.

Red pandas look like they are doing a "wiggle" dance when they scent mark. The liquid left behind tells other pandas about their sex, age, fertility and more. They also have scent glands between their foot pads, which they use to mark their territory. These glands produce a colorless liquid that humans can't smell.

When a red panda comes across a new scent mark, it tests the odor with its tongue. The underside of a red panda's tongue has a cone-like structure to collect liquid and deliver it to a gland inside the mouth, where the scent is interpreted. The red panda is the only carnivore with this adaptation.

How big do red pandas get?

Full-grown red pandas typically weigh between 8 and 17 pounds. That's about the size of a house cat. From tip of the nose to tip of the tail, they usually range from 36 to 43 inches long.

Would a red panda make a good pet?

No way. If the red panda hybrids (fire ferrets) from the animated series "Avatar: The Legend of Korra" have you dreaming of a pet red panda, think again. Real-life red pandas (nicknamed "firefoxes") are wild animals and should never be kept as pets.

They have sharp teeth and claws that can be dangerous, and scent glands that emit a musky liquid. They also require specialized diets and healthcare. Moreover, red pandas are endangered animals protected by law, so it is illegal to buy and sell them as pets.

Instead, consider symbolically adopting a red panda. You'll receive a red panda stuffed animal, postcard, certificate and more.

What do red pandas eat?

Red pandas may have the digestive system of a carnivore, but they are practically vegetarians. About 95% of their diet is bamboo! They eat the nutritious leaf tips and tender shoots, but skip the culm (woody stem). They also forage for roots, grasses, fruits, insects and grubs. Red pandas may sometimes hunt birds and small mammals, too.

At the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, red pandas eat leafeater biscuits, bamboo and bamboo shoots (when in season). As enrichment treats, they like to snack on apples, grapes, bananas, blueberries and other produce.

What is a group of red pandas called?

A group of red pandas can be called a pack, but they rarely encounter each other. Red pandas are solitary except during the breeding season when it's not uncommon to see a male and female pair (or even a male and two females). Baby red pandas usually arrive in late spring to early summer (in the northern hemisphere) and stay with their mothers for about a year before heading out on their own.

In zoos, some red pandas live in pairs based on their individual personalities and the size of their exhibit.

Are red pandas good climbers?

Absolutely. Whether napping, sunbathing or fleeing predators, red pandas spend most of their time in trees and are skilled climbers. They can even climb down a tree trunk head-first - thanks to very flexible ankles and the positioning of the fibula and tibia bones in their legs. Sharp claws and fur-covered feet also help red pandas grip as they climb.

How many red pandas are left in the wild?

Red pandas are endangered, and researchers believe that their total population has declined by more than 50% over the last 20 years. Scientists estimate that there may only be 2,500 red pandas remaining in the wild today.

How can I help red pandas?

The best way to help red pandas is to educate yourself and others about these animals. Encourage your friends and family to support conservation efforts, and research ecotourism practices before traveling to an area where red pandas live.

At home, look for ways to shrink your carbon footprint. Reduce, reuse, repurpose and recycle goods to divert waste from landfills, and volunteer to clean up a local ecosystem. These types of activities help keep the air and water free from pollution, which supports species worldwide.

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Is a Red Panda a Bear? And More Red Panda Facts

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Sept. 19 is International Red Panda Day! Whether you know them as red pandas, red bear-cats, firefoxes, first pandas, lesser pandas or simply "the other pandas," get to know these ferociously furry animals with a few fun facts. That depends on your definition of a real panda!

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Why you selected the species? How will it be impacted by climate change?

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Why you selected the species? How will it be impacted by climate change?

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I selected the Red Panda as my species because of my personal interest and admiration of the little creature. With its defensive stance and interesting fur, I've always been interested by the endangered species lifestyle and habitat. These animals will be impacted by climate change because as temperature rises, the Red Panda will need to move to higher elevations to adapt. This is dangerous for the creature given that nearly 70% of suitable habitat in Sikkim is located outside of designated protected areas.

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Enzymes bind substrates at key locations in their structure called active sites. They are typically highly specific and only bind certain substrates for certain chemical reactions or catalysis.

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The movement of individual molecules (or atoms, ions, or energy) of a substance through a semipermeable barrier from a region of high concentration to an area of low concentration.

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A mosaic of components of the plasma membrane of animal cells including phospholipids, cholesterol, proteins, and carbohydrates. Ranging from 5 to 10 nm in thickness, it helps maintain the cell membrane's role as a barrier between the inside and outside of the cell environment.

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Cytoplasm is the gelatinous liquid that fills the inside of all cells. Composed of various organic molecules, it transports, maintains cell shape structure, protects, and stores macromolecules. Serving as a platform for other organelles, most chemical reactions and metabolic processes occur here.

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Coneheads, egg stacks, and anteater attacks: The reign of a termite queen - Barbara L. Thorne

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Something that caught my attention was the complex systems and hierarchy that exist in termite colonies and their lifespans. I was surprised to hear that the queens live for up to 20 years and that the colonies have unique roles for certain termites that all work together for the survival of the colony like the nasute soldier. This has made me reflect and appreciate the existence of termites beyond being home pests; instead learning on the intricate lifecyle of the termite.

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The life cycle of the butterfly - Franziska Bauer

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The Life Cycle of the Butterfly Discussion

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The Life Cycle of the Butterfly Discussion

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Something that really caught my attention was the information that caterpillars have cells known as imaginal discs that remain dormant until the caterpillar goes through metamorphosis. I had never thought to the think of the complex processes that go on in a caterpillar's body and how many systems are working to have the insect successfully go through such a dangerous process. It made me appreciate the effort these small creatures go through to become such beautiful creatures.

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My name is Diana Concepcion and I am currently attending School for Advanced Studies at the Homestead campus. Originally born in Costa Rica, I moved from a young age to live in Florida. Since we were constantly moving from place to place, I found myself entertained by painting and drawing. It is a hobby that I indulged in academically as well as a hobby. Art has allowed me to explore self-expression and communicating my feelings through imagery and color. Alongside drawing, I was also enthralled by the innerworkings of the law and am interested in pursuing it as a career. For example, during one summer I worked alongside a lawyer in an immigration law firm as an assistant. I truly value that experience and hope to have more opportunities like that in the future. What's most important to me is leaving a positive impact on the people and places I encounter. I value the people in my life and cherish every day's opportunities.

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Can this be used in our daily life when dealing in the news?  How?

Yes, C.E.R. can be used in daily life when dealing with the news. Given C.E.R.'s framework, it can help one determine the veracity of the information being shared. If you're unsure about what the news is stating, you can run your own investigation based on personal research and come to your own conclusion. Or, one could observe the information the news is stating and see whether they are making a claim, providing evidence, and reasoning the correlation between the evidence and claim. Implementing C.E.R. allows you to determine whether the data the news is providing is factually supported and not bogus information.  By implementing C.E.R. to the news, one is more observant to the nature of news reports and can even begin to ponder their own questions regarding the data and topic. Alongside making you more diligent of the news, applying C.E.R. to the news allows your brain to explore new ideas and brainstorm new possibilities.

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Species Selection: Red Panda or Ailurus fulgens

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Species Selection: Red Panda or Ailurus fulgens

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Slightly larger than a domestic cat, the Red Panda is an endangered species that inhabits the Eastern Himalayas. With the scientific name Ailurus fulgens, the red panda is a skillful animal that uses its long, bushy tail for balance and warmth. Their diet primarily consists of bamboo, categorizing them as herbivores. Currently, organizations like WWF are monitoring the species and helping the spread community awareness about bear-like creatures.

Source:

https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/red-panda

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The species I chose, the Red Panda, lives in high-altitudes, temperate forests with bamboo understory. Typically, this includes the Himalayas and other high mountains in northern Myanmar to the west of the Sichuan and Yunnan Provinces of China; although there are suitable habitats in Nepal, India, and Tibet. The climate of these areas are typically consistently cool and rainy year-round. Hollow logs are important components to their habitat, along with necessary water and shelter.

Sources:

https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/red-panda#:~:text=Red%20pandas%20live%20in%20high,in%20Nepal%2C%20India%20and%20Tibet.

https://animals.mom.com/kind-climate-red-panda-live-in-1954.html

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Which of the following is TRUE about the scientific method?

A) It is a linear path or form of experimentation

B) It describes how science first originated

*C) It is the process by which scientists test and experiment

D) There is no research involved in the process

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Why is it so hard to cure the common cold?

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Something that caught my attention from this video was the term and reproduction process of the virus that typically causes the common cold. Referred to as a the Rhinovirus, I wasn't aware that the virus first reproduces in the nose lining and spreads through water molecules. It made me realize how many people, especially teens, don't practice proper hygiene from a lack of knowledge.

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Digital Story: Common Cold Lesson Done by: Loteisha  Lattibeaudiere

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What is the biggest single-celled organism? - Murry Gans

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Question: What caught your attention in the video?  Why?

What caught my attention in this video was that negative feedback loops are just as important as the positive. One would assume negative loops would be detrimental to the environment or social sciences but it actually serves to limit positive loops, working in tandem. I like the way the video explained these loops in an ecosystem, comparing them to a symphony of instruments.

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Feedback loops: How nature gets its rhythms - Anje-Margriet Neutel