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Paleobathymetrys Golden Note

Photosynthesis
Light Reaction
During the light reaction, chlorophyll captures light energy which excites the electrons of
chlorophyll molecules to higher energy levels. In the excited state, the electrons leave the chlorophyll
molecules. Light energy is also used to split the water molecules into hydrogen ions and hydroxyl
ions. This reaction is known as the photolysis of water.

(light and chlorophyll)
The hydrogen ions then combine with the electrons released by the chlorophyll to form hydrogen
atoms.

The energy from the excited electrons is used to form energy-rich molecules of ATP. At the same
time, each hydroxyl ion loses an electron to form a hydroxyl group. This electron is then received by
the chlorophyll.

The hydroxyl groups then combine to form water and gaseous oxygen.

Oxygen is released into the atmosphere and used for cellular respiration. The ATP molecules provide
energy while the hydrogen atoms provide reducing power for the dark reaction which takes place in
the stroma.

Dark Reaction
The dark reaction is also known as the Calvin cycle. It is light independent. During the dark
reaction, the hydrogen atoms are used to fix carbon dioxide in a series of reactions catalysed by
photosynthetic enzymes. The overall reaction results in the reduction of carbon dioxide into glucose.

is a basic unit of glucose. Six units of it combine to form one molecule of glucose. The glucose
monomers then undergo condensation to form starch which is temporarily stored as starch grains in
the chloroplast. The entire process can be represented by the following equation.

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Respiration
Aerobic Respiration
Aerobic respiration requires a continuous supply of oxygen from the air or water surrounding
the organism. Oxygen that is taken in is delivered by the blood circulatory system to the body cells. In
the cells, glucose molecules are oxidised by oxygen to release energy. Aerobic respiration can be
summarised by the following chemical equation:

Aerobic respiration involves the oxidation of glucose in the presence of oxygen to carbon dioxide,
water and energy. Organisms that respire aerobically are called aerobic organisms. Aerobic
respiration releases all the available energy stored within the glucose molecules. The entire process
does not only involve a single chemical reaction, but also driven by a sequence of complex
biochemical reactions which are catalysed by the respiratory enzymes. The energy stored within the
glucose molecules are released gradually. This is far more useful to the organism than a sudden
release of energy.
Only a small portion of energy is lost in maintaining the body temperature. A larger portion of the
energy is used to synthesise ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate. ATP which is an instant source
of energy is the main supply for all living cells. Each ATP molecule consists of three phosphate groups
and the phosphate bonds can be easily broken down to release energy.

Anaerobic Respiration
During vigorous exercise such as running a race, the muscles initially respire aerobically.
However, the muscles soon used up all the available oxygen. In spite of the increased breathing rate
and heartbeat rate, the blood cannot supply oxygen fast enough to meet their requirements. The
rate at which oxygen is used by the muscles exceeds the amount of oxygen supplied by the blood. The
muscles are in a state of oxygen deficiency, and an oxygen debt is incurred.
As such, the muscles obtain extra energy from anaerobic respiration because oxygen is not available.
During anaerobic respiration, the glucose molecules break down partially into an immediate
substance called lactic acid instead of carbon dioxide and water. Because glucose is not completely
broken down, the energy released during anaerobic respiration is much less than the energy released
during aerobic respiration. In fact, for every molecule of glucose, anaerobic respiration releases only
two molecules of ATP or 150kJ of energy per mole of glucose. In contrast, aerobic respiration
generates 38 molecules of ATP or 2898kJ of energy per mole of glucose. Thus, in terms of energy
yield, anaerobic respiration is less efficient than aerobic respiration.
Much of the energy is still trapped within the molecules of lactic acid. The accumulation of lactic acid
can reach a high level of concentration which can cause muscle cramps and fatigue. This contributes
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to the exhaustion a person feels during and after a period of intense exercise. The person needs to
breathe more deeply and rapidly in order to inhale more oxygen. The excess oxygen is used by the
body to oxidise the accumulated lactic acid to carbon dioxide and water.
Oxidation of lactic acid occurs mainly in the liver where a portion of it is oxidised to produce energy
while the remaining ones is converted into glycogen for storage in the muscle cells. The oxygen debt
is paid off when all the lactic acid is removed. This happens through the increased breathing rate
after vigorous exercise. Therefore, an oxygen debt is the amount of oxygen needed to remove lactic
acid from the muscle cells.

Digestion
Ruminant
When a cow feeds on grass, it partially chews the grass. This partially chewed food is
swallowed into the rumen, the largest compartment of the stomach. Here, cellulose is broken down
by the cellulose produced by symbiotic microorganisms such as bacteria and protozoa. Part of the
breakdown products are absorbed by the bacteria and protozoa, the rest by the cow.
As the food enters the reticulum, the cellulose undergoes further hydrolysis. The content of the
reticulum, called the cud, is then regurgitated bit by bit into the mouth to be thoroughly chewed
again. This process helps soften and break down cellulose, making it more accessible to further
microbial action in other parts of the stomach.
The cud is then re-swallowed and moves into the omasum. Here, large particles of food are broken
down into smaller pieces by peristalsis. Water is removed from the cud. The food particles finally
move into the abomasums, the true stomach of the cow. Here, gastric juices containing digestive
enzymes complete the digestion of proteins and other food substances. The food then passes through
the small intestine to be digested and absorbed in the normal way.

Rodents
In rodents like squirrels, the caecum and appendix are enlarged to store the cellulose-
producing bacteria. The breakdown products pass through the alimentary canal twice. The faeces in
the first batch are usually produced at night and are soft and watery. Those are eaten again to
enable the animals to absorb the products of bacterial breakdown as they pass through the
alimentary canal for the second time. The second batch of faeces becomes drier and harder. This
adaptation allows squirrels to recover the nutrients initially loss with the faeces.




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Colonisation and Succession
Definition
*Colonisation: is the process whereby living organisms move into a newly formed area which is
devoid of life.
*Succession: is the gradual process by which one community changed its environment so that it is
replaced by another community.
Mangrove Swamp
The pioneer species of a mangrove swamp are the Sonneratia sp and Avicennia sp. The
presence of these species gradually changes the physical environment of the habitat. The extensive
root systems of these plants trap and collect sediments, including organic matters from decaying
plant parts. As time passes, the soil becomes more compact and firm. This condition favours the
growth of the Rhizophora sp. Gradually, the Rhizophora sp replaces the pioneer species. The seeds of
the Rhizophora sp show distinct viviparity. The prop root system of the Rhizophora sp traps silt and
mud, creating a firmer soil structure overtime.
The ground becomes higher. As a result, the soil is drier because it is less submerged by sea water.
The condition now becomes more suitable for another mangrove species, the Bruguiera sp, which
replaces the Rhizophora sp. The buttress root system of the Bruguiera sp forms loops which extend
from the soil to trap more silt and mud. As more sediment is deposited, the shore extends further to
the sea. The old shore is now further away from the sea and is like terrestrial ground. Over time,
terrestrial plants like the nipah palm and Pandanus sp begin to replace the Bruguiera sp. The gradual
transition and succession from a mangrove swamp to a terrestrial forest and eventually to a tropical
rainforest, which is a climax community, takes a long time. That is why we need to conserve and
preserve our mangrove forest.

Pond
Succession in a disused pond begins with the growth of pioneer species such as
phytoplankton, algae and submerged plants like the Hydrilla sp, Cabomba sp and Elodea sp. These
plants have special adaptive features which enable them to colonise the pond. Their fibrous roots
penetrate deep into the soil to absorb nutrients and bind sand particles together. Plenty of sunlight
penetrates through the clear water to allow photosynthesis to take place. When the pioneer species
die and decompose, more organic nutrients are released into the pond. The organic matter is
converted into humus at the pond base. The humus and soil which erode from the sides of the pond
are deposited on the base of the pond, making the pond shallower.
The condition becomes more unfavourable for submerged plants but more suitable for floating plants
such as duckweeds (Lemna sp), water hyacinths (Eichornia sp) and lotus plants (Nelumbium sp).
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These plants float freely on the surface of the water. Since these plants receive sunlight directly and
can reproduce rapidly by vegetative propagation, they spread to cover a large area of the water
surface and prevent sunlight from reaching the submerged plants. As a result, the submerged plants
die because they cannot photosynthesise. The decomposed remains of the submerged plants add
more organic matter on the base of the pond. At the same time, more erosion occurs at the edge
which results in more sediments being deposited on the base of the pond. As a result, the pond
becomes more and more shallow which makes it unsuitable for the floating plants.
The floating plants are subsequently replaced by emergent (amphibious) plants which can live in
water as well as on land, for example, sedges and cattails. The rhizomes of these plants grow
horizontally across the habitat. Their extensive roots bind the soil particles together and penetrate
deeply to absorb more mineral salts. These plants spread rapidly and colonise the habitat, changing
it. The emergent plants grow from the edge of the pond towards the middle of the pond as the pond
becomes shallower. When these plants die, their decomposed remains add to the sediments on the
base of the pond. This further reduces the depth of the pond. The condition of the pond now becomes
more favourable for land plants like small herbaceous weeds, for example, Ageratum conyzoides,
Euphorbia hirta and Oldentandia dichotoma. As time passes, the land becomes drier and the pond
dries up. Land plants such as shrubs, bushes and woody plants become more numerous. A primary
forest emerges and eventually turns into a tropical rainforest which is also known as a climax
community.

Cell Division
Mitosis
The two major phases mainly interphase and mitotic cell division also known as the M phase
which consists of mitosis and cytokinesis begins and ends according to the cell cycle. Mitosis begins
with interphase. Interphase is divided into three shorter stages, G
1
, S and G
2
. In G
1
phase, the cell
synthesises protein and new cytoplasmic organelles such as mitochondria and chloroplast. The
chromosomes are not condensed and appear as thread-like structures called chromatin. In S phase,
however, synthesis of DNA occurs. This means that the DNA in the nucleus undergoes replication.
Each duplicated chromosome now consists of two identical sister chromatid which contain identical
copies of the chromosomes DNA molecule. The cell continues to grow and remain metabolically
active during G
2
stage as a preparation for cell division. Interphase is followed by the M phase which
contains mitosis and cytokinesis. Mitosis can further subdivided into four phases mainly prophase,
metaphase, anaphase and telophase.
The mitosis in an animal cell begins with prophase. During prophase, the chromosomes in the nucleus
condense and become more tightly coiled. The chromosomes appear shorter and thicker. Each
chromosome now consists of a pair of sister chromatids joined together at the centromere. In the
cytoplasm, spindle fibres begin to form and extend between the centrioles. Each pair of centrioles
then migrates to lie at the opposite poles of the cell. The chromatids are attached to the fibres of the
spindle by their centromeres. In most plant cell, the spindle fibre forms without the presence of
centrioles. At the end of prophase, the nucleolus disappears and the nuclear membrane
disintegrates.
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Metaphase begins when the centromeres of all the chromosomes are lined up on the metaphase
plate, an imaginary plane across the middle of the cell. The mitotic spindles is now fully formed. The
two sister chromatids are still attached to one another at the centromere. Metaphase ends when the
centromeres divide. During anaphase, two sister chromatids of each chromosome separate at the
centromere. The sister chromatids are pulled apart to the opposite poles by the shortening of the
spindle fibres that connect the centromeres to the poles. Once separated, the chromatids are referred
to as daughter chromosomes. By the end of anaphase, the two poles of the cell have completed and
have equivalent sets of chromosomes.
Telophase begins when the two sets of chromosomes reach the opposite poles of the cell. The
chromosomes start to uncoil and revert to their extended state (chromatin). The chromosomes
become less visible. The spindle fibres disappear and a new nuclear membrane forms around each set
of chromosomes. The nucleolus also reforms in each nucleus; the process of mitosis is now
completed. Cytokinesis, the division of the cytoplasm occurs towards the end of telophase. In animal
cell, the actin filaments in cytoplasm contracts to pull a cleavage furrow. The cleavage furrow
pinches at the equator of the cell and deepens progressively until the cell is separated into two
daughter cells. Although plant cells undergo the same stages of mitosis as in animal cells, cytokinesis
in plant cells us markedly different. A cleavage furrow does not form. Instead, membrane enclosed
vesicles fuse to form a cell plate. The cell plate grows outwards until its edges fuse with the plasma
membrane of the parent cell. New cell walls and plasma membranes are formed from the contents of
the cell plate, which eventually divide the cell into two daughter cells. At the end of cytokineses,
cellulose fibres are produces by the cell to strengthen the new cell walls. After cytokinesis, the new
cells enter the G
1
stage of interphase, thus completing the cell cycle. Each daughter cell contains
diploid number of chromosomes.

Meiosis
Meiosis only occurs in gametes which are reproductive cells. This is because meiosis is a
reduction division of diploid cells to produce haploid sex gametes. Meiosis begins with a single
duplication of chromosomes in the parent cells, followed by two cycles of nuclear and cell division
mainly meiosis I and meiosis II.
In meiosis I, basically, the chromosomes begin to condense. They become shorter, thicker and clearly
visible. Unlike mitosis, the homologous chromosomes come together to form bivalents through a
process called synapse. Each bivalent is visible under the microscope as a four-part structure called a
tetrad. A tetrad consists of two homologous chromosomes, each made up of two sister chromatids.
Non sister chromatids exchange segments of DNA in a process known as crossing over. Crossing over
results in a new combination of genes on a chromosome. The points at which segments of
chromatids cross over are called chiasmata. At the end of prophase I, the nucleolus and the nuclear
membrane disappear. The two pairs of centrioles migrate to the opposite poles of the cells. Each pair
of centrioles acts as a central point from which the spindle fibres radiate.
In metaphase I, the chromosomes are lined up side by side as tetrads on the metaphase plate. The
chromosomes are still in homologous pairs. The chromosome of each pair is attached to the spindle
fibres from one pole while its homologue is attached to the fibre from the opposite pole. The
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centromere does not divide. During anaphase I, the spindle fibres pull the homologous chromosomes
away from one another and move them to the opposite poles of the cell. Each chromosome still
consists of two sister chromatids which move as a single unit. Although the cell started with four
chromosomes, only two chromosomes move towards each pole. Next will be telophase I. The
chromosomes arrive at the poles. Each pole now has haploid daughter nucleus because it contains
only one set of chromosomes. The spindle fibres disappear. The nuclear membrane reappears to
surround each set of chromosomes. The nucleolus then reappears in each nucleus. Cytokinesis usually
occurs simultaneously with telophase I, resulting in two haploid daughter cells, and each receiving
one chromosome from the homologous pair. Hence, another cell division is required as the
chromosomes are still duplicated.
Meiosis II follows immediately after cytokinesis, no interphase between them. DNA replication does
not occur again and the chromosomes remained in a condensed state. In prophase II, the nuclear
membrane of the daughter cells disintegrates again. The spindle fibres reform in each daughter cell.
During metaphase II, the chromosomes each still make up of sister chromatids, are positioned
randomly on the metaphase plate with the sister chromatids of each centromere pointing towards
the opposite poles. Each sister chromatid is attached to the spindle fibres at the centromere. In
anaphase II, however, the centromeres of the sister chromatids finally separated and the sister
chromatids of each chromosome are now individual chromosomes. The chromosomes move towards
the opposite poles of the cell. Lastly in telophase II, the nucleoli and the nuclear membrane reform.
The spindle fibres break down. Cytokinesis follows and four haploid daughter cells are formed, each
containing half the number of chromosomes and is genetically different from the parent diploid cell.
These haploid cells will develop into gametes.

Tissue Culture Technique
A small piece of a plants leaf, shoot, bud, stem or root tissues are cut out. These cut out
plants tissues are called explants. Alternatively, enzymes are used to digest the cell walls of tissues,
for example, the mesophyll tissue from a leaf. This result in naked cells without cell walls called
protoplasts. The explants or protoplasts are sterilised and then placed in a glass container which
contains a nutrient solution with a fixed chemical composition. A culture medium or growth medium
normally consists of a complex mixture of glucose, amino acids, minerals, and other substances
required for the growth of the tissues. The culture medium and the apparatus used must be in a
sterile condition and free from microorganisms which can contaminate the tissue culture. The pH and
the temperature of the culture medium also need to be maintained at optimum levels.
The explants or protoplasts begin to divide by mitosis. Cell division produces aggregates of cells. The
aggregates of cells develop into a callus, an undifferentiated mass of tissue. The callus develops into
a somatic embryo. The embryo develops into a plantlet which can later be transferred to the soil for
growth into an adult plant. All the plantlets produced this way are genetically identical. Therefore, all
the adult plants that develop from them share the same traits.


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Cancer
When a cell divides by mitosis repeatedly without control and regulation, it can produce
cancer cells. Cancer is a disease caused by uncontrolled mitosis due to severe disruption to the
mechanism that controls the cycle. Cancer cells divide freely and uncontrollably without heeding the
cell cycle control system. Cancer cells compete with the surrounding normal cells to obtain sufficient
nutrients and energy for their own growth. A cancer cell that is not destroyed will divide
uncontrollably to form a tumour, an abnormal mass of cells. Cancer cells can intrude on and spread
to other tissues which then lead to the malfunction of the tissues and ultimately death.
Cancer can be caused by many factors such as damage to the DNA, changes in genes (mutation) that
control cell division, ionising radiation, for example, X-rays, ultraviolet rays and gamma rays, certain
chemical compounds like tar in tobacco smoke or carcinogenic (cancer-causing) compounds such as
formaldehyde.

Reproduction
Menstrual Cycle
Menstrual cycle is the monthly cycle of ovulation and menstruation. This cycle causes
changes in the thickeninig of the endometrium or uterus wall every 28 days, beginning puberty until
menopause. It is regulated by a few hormones mainly:
- Follicle stimulating Hormone (FSH)
Produced by: Pituitary gland
Function: Stimulates the development of follicles in the ovary
- Luteinising Hormone (LH)
Produced by: Pituitary gland
Function: Stimulates ovulation, the development of corpus luteum and promotes the
secretion of progesterone
- Oestrogen
Produced by: Follicle cells of the ovary
Function: Stimulates further growth of the follicles, promotes the repair of the endometrium,
from about the 12
th
day of the menstrual cycle, it has a positive feedback action on the
secretion of the FSH and LH
- Progesterone
Produced by: Corpus luteum
Function: Stimulates the endometrium to become thick, folded and highly vascular (enriched
with blood vessels) for the implantation of embryo; inhibits the secretion of FSH and LH to
prevent the development of the graafian follicle and ovulation
Menstrual cycle involves two process mainly the breakdown of the endometrium and the formation
of an ovum. On day 1-5, FSH stimulates the development of primary follicle to produce a Graafian
follicle. FSH stimulates the follicle cells and ovary tissues to secrete oestrogen to heal and repait the
uterus lining. This only takes place in the ovary. On the other hand, menstruation occurs in the uterus
where blood is discharged from the vagina. This is when the uterus lining breakdown.
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On day 6-13, in the ovary, the graafian follicle matures. Oestrogen and progesterone level continue
to increase. Till a certain point, the oestrogen will stop the pituitary gland from producing FSH and is
stimulated to produce LH. In the uterus, the endometrium wall is repaired and thickens.
On day 14, LH causes ovulation and the formation of corpus luteum from the follicle cells. In the
uterus, however, the endometrium continues to thickens.
On day 15-24, the corpus luteum develops and releases progesterone which stimulates the thickening
of the endometrium. In the uterus, the endometrium becomes thicker and more blood vessels are
present.
On day 25-28, if there is no fertilisation, then there will not be any implantation. Thus, the corpus
luteum degenerates causing the level of progesterone to decrease and halt. In the uterus, the
endometrium begins to break down and menstruation occurs. The menstrual cycle continues.
However, if fertilisation happens, a zygote will be implanted in the endometrium. The corpus luteum
will continue to secrete oestrogen and progesterone until the placenta is formed to replace it. The
presence of hormone progesterone inhibits the production of FSH and LH, this cause the menstrual
cycle to stop during pregnancy.

Formation of Embryo Sac in the Ovule
The ovule develops from the ovarian tissue. It has a diploid embryo sac mother cell (2n). Each
ovule consists of protective outer layers of cells called the integuments. The embryo sac mother cell
(2n) undergoes meiosis to form a row of four haploid cells called megaspores (n). Three of the four
megaspores degenerate, leaving one in the ovule. The megaspore continues to grow and enlarges
filling up most of the ovule. The nucleus of the three megaspores then undergoes mitosis three times
to form eight haploid nuclei. Three of the eight nuclei migrate to one end of the cell to form antipodal
cells. Another two nuclei, called the polar nuclei, move to the centre. One of the three nuclei nearest
the opening of the ovule (micropyle) develops into an egg cell or female gamete, flanked by two
synergid cells. The structure formed is known as the embryo sac. It is where the embryo will develop.
The ovule, which eventually becomes a seed, now consists of the embryo sac and the surrounding
integuments.
*Eight cells have no cell walls; synergid cells provide nutrient and support to egg cell; integuments
form protective layers around embryo sac.




Formation of Pollen Tube, Zygote and Triploid Nucleus
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Pollination is the process in which mature pollen grains from the anther are transferred to
the stigma of a flower. A pollen grain on a stigma initiates the fertilisation process. The secretion of
sucrose solution in the stigma stimulates the pollen grain to germinate and form a tube known as the
pollen tube. The pollen tube grows through the tissues of the style into the ovule. During the growth
of pollen tube, the generative nucleus divides by mitosis to form two male gamete nuclei. The male
nuclei follow the tube nucleus down the pollen tube. When the pollen tube reaches the ovary, it
penetrates the ovule through the micropyle. The tube nucleus disintegrates and the tip of the tube
bursts, leaving the passage for the male nuclei to enter the embryo sac.
Double fertilisation, which is unique for angiosperms, occurs within the ovule. This process involves
the union of the two male gametes nuclei with different nuclei of the embryo sac. One male gamete
nucleus fuses with the egg nucleus, forming a diploid zygote (2n). The other male gamete nucleus
fuses with the two polar nuclei, forming a triploid nucleus (3n). The division of the tripod nucleus will
give rise to the endosperm, the food-storing tissue of the seed. The synergid cells and the antipodal
cell will degenerates.

The Lymphatic System
Formation and Composition of Interstitial Fluid
Blood that enters the arterial end of the capillaries is under high pressure. This is because the
blood capillaries have a smaller diameter than the arterioles and arteries. This blood pressure causes
fluid to leak continuously from the blood plasma into the spaces between the cells. This fluid is known
as interstitial fluid. The interstitial fluid fills the spaces between the cells and constantly bathes the
cells. The exchange of substances between the blood capillaries and the body cells occurs in the
interstitial fluid. Nutrients and oxygen diffuses from the blood through the interstitial fluid into the
body cells while carbon dioxide and other waste products diffuse from the body cells through the
interstitial fluid into the blood.
Interstitial fluid consists of water, dissolved nutrients, hormones, waste products, gases and small
proteins from the blood. Leucocytes ooze through the openings in the capillary walls. Interstitial fluid
does not contain plasma proteins (albumin, globulin and fibrinogen), erythrocytes and platelets
because these are too large to pass through the capillary walls. About 85% of the fluid that leaves the
blood at the arterial end of the capillary re-enters at the venous end. The interstitial fluid must be
returned to the circulatory system to maintain the normal blood volume. About 15% of the fluid that
is still remains in the interstitial space is equivalent to about 4 litres of fluid lost from the blood
capillaries each day. The fluid loss is returned to the blood through the lymphatic system.
*The higher BP at the arterial end forces fluid out of blood capillary; the lower BP at the venous end
allows fluid to re-enter the blood capillaries.


Dynamic Ecosystem
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Nitrogen Cycle
To build proteins, plants need the element nitrogen. The nitrogen gas in the atmosphere is
about 78% but plants are not able to utilize the nitrogen. This is because the nitrogen has to be fixed
before it can be absorbed by the plants. Nitrogen fixing bacteria (Nostoc sp, Azotobacter) which live
in the root nodule of leguminous plant can convert nitrogen in the atmosphere into ammonia.
Nitrosomonas converts/oxidises ammonia into nitrites. Nitrobacter oxidises/converts nitrites into
nitrates. Nitrites and Nitrates can be absorbed by the plants as their nitrogen source. The plants
protein is transferred to the animals when consumed by the animals. The animals and plants proteins
are transferred to human when consumed.

Blood
Blood Clotting Mechanism
Blood clotting mechanism involves a complex series of biochemical reactions in the blood to
prevent excessive loss of blood after an injury. When you get a cut, the blood vessels around the
wound immediately constrict to reduce blood loss. Exposed tissues, the collagens interact with the
blood coagulation proteins to start the coagulation process. Platelets become activated as it begins
to adhere to the wall of the blood vessel at the side of bleeding. They form a temporary platelet plug.
The adhered platelets undergo de-granulation and release cytoplasmic granules. The cytoplasmic
granules attract more platelets to the area. While the platelets form the temporary plug, other blood
proteins congregate on the damaged blood vessels to reinforce the clot. The interaction of the
different blood clotting factors such as Factor VIII and platelets produces prothrombin. Prothrombin
acts together with calcium ions and vitamin K to form an active plasma protein called thrombin.
Thrombin transforms a protein called fibrinogen into fibrin. Fibrin surrounds the platelet plug,
creating a fibrin mesh. The fibrin mesh is more stable than the temporary platelet plug. Over the next
few days, the fibrin mesh or blood clot strengthens even more, protecting the blood vessels from
further damage or blood loss. After the injury heals, the body has to remove the fibrin clot. A protein
called plasmin is formed to dissolve fibrin. The blood clot is slowly removed with the help of plasmin.

Impaired Musculoskeletal System
Muscle cramps
A muscle cramp is a sudden contraction of one or more muscles which result in a sudden,
intense pain and an inability to use the affected muscles. A muscle cramp is an involuntary, forcibly
contracted muscle that is not able to relax. When the cramp begins, the spinal cord stimulates the
muscle to keep contracting. The muscle groups usually affected are the back of the lower leg or the
calf, the back of the thigh (hamstrings) or the front of the thigh (the quadriceps). A cramp can last
from a few seconds to 15 minutes or more. Muscle cramps are very common among endurance
athletes and older people who perform strenuous exercises. Usually, inadequate stretching and
muscle fatigue lead to abnormalities in the mechanisms that control muscle contractions.
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Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy is caused by the progressive degeneration and weakening of the skeletal
muscles that control movement. The body muscles gradually become weak as they are replaced by
fibrous tissue. This disease is caused by a mutated gene in the X chromosome and mainly affects
boys. At present, there is no cure for muscular dystrophy.

Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a common bone disorder which causes the bones to become thinner, more
brittle and more porous. It is a common disease among elderly women. The loss of bone mass
normally begins after the age of 30 years and accelerates greatly after the age of 45 years. It
particularly affects women after menopause, when changes in hormone levels (especially oestrogen
level) reduce bone strength. During the course of an individuals life, the body needs phosphate and
calcium to build bones. If the dietary intake of these minerals is not sufficient, or if the body does not
absorb enough of these minerals from the diet, bone production and bone tissue will suffer, resulting
in brittle and fragile bones. These bones are easily subjected to fracture. The loss of bone mass occurs
gradually over an extended period of time. Most people are not even aware that they have
osteoporosis until a bone is fractured because there are no symptoms or early signs of osteoporosis.
Symptoms that manifest over the years include fractures of the vertebrae, wrists or hips; a reduction
in height over time and a stooped posture. Osteoporosis can be prevented by taking adequate
amounts of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D. Regular exercise can also reduce the likelihood of
bone fractures and help reduce bone mineral loss. Although there is no cure for osteoporosis,
medications can slow down the loss of bone mineral.

Arthritis
Arthritis refers to a group of skeletal disorders that involve inflammation of the joint. The
joints become swollen, stiff and painful. One form of arthritis is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is part of
the ageing process caused by the wear and tear of the cartilage between the bones inside certain
joints. The ageing process may also result in a decreased production of the synovial fluid in the joints.
The patient usually suffers from a painful and stiff knee which restricts daily activities like walking
and climbing stairs. If treatment fails to relieve pain, a surgeon can replace the damaged joints with
artificial ones made of plastic or metal.





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Respiration & Circulation
Human Respiratory System
During inhalation, the external intercostals muscles contract while the internal intercostals
muscles relax. This action causes the ribcage to move upwards and outwards. At the same time, the
diaphragm muscles contract. The diaphragm lowers and flattens. These two actions cause the
volume of the thoracic cavity to increase, and the pressure of the thoracic cavity decreases. Higher
atmospheric pressure on the outside forces the air to enter the lungs.
During exhalation, the external intercostals muscles relax while the internal intercostals muscles
contract. This action causes the rib cage to move downwards and inwards. At the same time, the
diaphragm muscles relax. The diaphragm curves upwards (dome-shaped). These two actions cause
the volume of the thoracic cavity to decrease, and the pressure of the thoracic cavity increases.
Higher atmospheric pressure inside the lungs forces the ait out of the lungs.

Alveoli & Gaseous Exchange
Gaseous exchange happens between the alveolus and the blood capillaries through diffusion.
The oxygen concentration or partial pressure of oxygen, PO
2
in the alveolus is higher than the blood
capillaries. Blood capillaries carry carbon dioxide from body cells to the alveolus. So, it has a higher
partial pressure of carbon dioxide, PCO
2
compared to the air in the alveolus. Carbon dioxide diffuses
into the alveolus and then it is breathed out through the nose or mouth. Oxygen diffuses into the
blood capillaries from the lungs and combines with haemoglobin to form oxyhaemoglobin.
Haemoglobin is the red pigment in RBC. Oxygen in the form of oxyhaemoglobin is carried to the cells
and tissues. Oxyhaemoglobin is unstable so it will breakdown into haemoglobin and oxygen when it
reaches the cell or tissue with lower PO
2
.
Carbon dioxide is given out by cell as waste products of cellular respiration. This carbon dioxide is
transported out of the cell by a few means. 7% of them dissolve in blood plasma, 23% of them binds
with haemoglobin to form carbaminohaemoglobin, a type of multiple amino while 70% of them are
carried with bicarbonate ions.

*with the presence of carbonic anhydrase

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The Regulatory Mechanism of Carbon Dioxide Content in the Body
During vigorous exercise, partial pressure of carbon dioxide increases as there is active
cellular respiration. Carbon dioxide reacts with water to form carbonic acid. The higher carbon
dioxide concentration level in the blood results in a drop in the pH value of the blood and tissue fluid
(cerebrospinal fluid) bathing the brain.

This drop of pH is detected by the receptors include the central chemoreceptors located in the
medulla oblongata and the perisheral chemoreceptors which are sensitive to both the carbon dioxide
content and the pH of the blood. The perispheral chemoreceptors are the aortic bodies found within
the aortic bodies found within the aortic arch and the carotid bodies at the carotid arteries. Central
and perispheral chemoreceptors send nerve impulses to the respiratory centre. The diaphragm and
the intercostals muscles are the effectors in this case. When impulse reaches the effectors, the
respiratory muscles contract and relax at a faster rate. As a result, the breathing rate and ventilation
rate increase. As excess carbon dioxide is eliminated from the body, the carbon dioxide concentration
and the pH value of the blood return to the normal level.

The Regulatory Mechanism of Oxygen Content in the Body
The oxygen content in the blood usually has little effect on the breathing control centre. The
perispheral chemoreceptors in the aortic bodies and the carotid bodies will only be stimulated if the
oxygen level is very low, for example at very high altitudes. Usually a rise in the carbon dioxide
concentration is a better indication of a drop in the oxygen concentration because both carbon
dioxide and oxygen are involved in the same process, that is, cellular respiration.
At high altitude, the decrease in concentration of oxygen in blood is detected by perispheral
chemoreceptors. Nerve impulses are sent to the respiratory centre. This causes the diaphragm and
intercostals muscles to contract and relax at a faster rate. Thus, breathing rate and ventilation rate
increases so that more oxygen is inhale to make the concentration of oxygen in the blood to return to
normal.

Rate of Respiration & the Gases content in Blood
When an individual does an activity, the body cells require more energy. This causes the rate
of respiration to increase. When PO
2
decreases while PCO
2
increases, the rate and depth of breathing
also increases. The breathing rate increases will cause the increase of ventilation rate so that the rate
of gaseous exchange between alveoli and blood capillaries increases. Lastly, the heartbeat rate
increases causes more blood to be pumped into the circulation so that more oxygen can reach the
cell to oxidise glucose for energy and also to remove the carbon dioxide from the cells to the air.


15 | P a g e

Compensation Point
Compensation point is the light intensity at which the rate of carbon dioxide production
during respiration is equal to the carbon dioxide consumption during photosynthesis.


Genetics
Genetic Modification of Bacteria in the Mass Production of Insulin
An enzyme is used to isolate and cut the bacterial plasmid. A plasmid is a circular DNA found
in bacteria. The human gene that codes the production of insulin is isolated and inserted into the
vector plasmid. An enzyme is used to incorporate the gene into the plasmid. The human gene
together with the bacterial plasmid (called recombinant DNA) is inserted into the bacterial cell. The
bacteria are cultured in a bioreactor. The plasmids are replicated as the bacteria divide asexually
(producing clones) and make identical copies of themselves, all carrying the new gene that is capable
of producing human insulin. The insulin produced in large quantities, purified and separated. This is a
cost-effective way of producing sufficient amounts of insulin.

Variation
Comparison between Continuous &Discontinuous Variation
i. Similarities
Both continuous and discontinuous variation creates varieties in the population of a
species. Both variations are caused by environment factors or genetic factors or both.
Variation that is caused by genetic factors can be inherited. This too can promote a higher
survival rate in the formation of new species/individual.
ii. Differences
Continuous variation is a type of variation in which the differences in a character are not
distinctive while discontinuous variation is a type of variation in which the differences in a
character are distinctive. Height and weight are continuous variation as while blood group,
fingerprint patterns, haemophilia and albinism are discontinuous variation. Continuous
variation exhibits a spectrum of phenotypes with intermediate characters while
discontinuous variation exhibits a few distinctive phenotypes with no intermediate
characters.
Continuous variation has characters that are quantitative, they can be measured and graded
from one extreme to the other while discontinuous variation has characters that are
qualitative, they cannot be measured or graded from one extreme to the other. Continuous
variation is represented by a normal distribution while discontinuous variation is represented
by a discrete distribution. Continuous variation is influenced by environmental factors while
16 | P a g e

discontinuous variation is not influenced by environmental factors. Two or more genes
control the same character for continuous variation while only a single gene determines the
differences in the traits of a character. The phenotype of a continuous variation is usually
controlled by many pairs of alleles while the phenotype of a discontinuous variation is
controlled by a pair of alleles.

Genetic Variation in Sexual Reproduction
Sexual reproduction, which involves the production and fertilisation of gametes, resulting in
genetic variation in the offspring. There are three sources of genetic variation in sexual reproduction:
i. Crossing over during meiosis
During prophase I of meiosis, when two homologous chromosomes are paired up in a
bivalent, crossing over occurs between the chromatids. The exchange of genetic materials
between the chromatids results in new, different genetic combinations of genes from the
parents. The new genetic combinations result in variation.
ii. Independent assortment during meiosis
During metaphase I of meiosis, homologous chromosomes arrange themselves randomly
at the metaphase plate. The random arrangement and separation of each homologous pair
is independent of one another. Independent assortment produces various genetic
combinations in the gametes. There are two equal possible arrangements of the
chromosomes inherited from the parents. These variations in the arrangement of the
chromosomes produce gamates with four equally possible combinations of the
chromosomes.
iii. Random fertilisation
Each gamete has a unique set of combination of genes. A male gamete can fertilise any
of the female gametes. The fertilisation between a male gamete and a female gamete occurs
randomly. As a result, each zygote is unique. With random fertilisation, variations occur in
the offspring.

Reproduction II
Formation of Identical Twins
Identical twins are formed when the ball of cells from a fertilised ovum splits into two
embryos. Only one sperm and one ovum are involved in the process of fertilisation. The two embryos
develop into two separate foetuses in the uterus. Each foetus has its own umbilical cord but shares
the same placenta. Since the twins originate from one embryo, they are, therefore, identical in every
aspect. They are born the same sex.

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Formation of Fraternal Twins (Non-identical Twins)
Fraternal twins are formed when two ova are released at the same time, one from each
ovary. Each ovum is then fertilised by a sperm. As a result, two zygotes are formed and develop into
two separate embryos. Each embryo has its own placenta and umbilical cord. They are genetically
un-identical thus having different physique and may or may not varies in sex.
Siamese Twins
Siamese twins are identical twins which did not separate completely during embryonic
development. Normally, Siamese twins are attached at certain parts of the body such as the head,
chest, abdomen or hips. They may also share some common internal organs. Siamese twins can be
separated surgically and have a greater chance of survival if they do not share major internal organs
like the heart, brain or lungs.

Development of a Zygote & Fertilisation
During copulation, man ejaculates semen containing about 400 million sperms, into the
womans vagina. The sperms swim up through the cervix into the uterus. After about 24 hours, 6000
sperms reach the fallopian tube. Half of the sperms die. After 30 hours, a few hundred sperms
complete the journey. Ovulation occurs when a ripe egg/ matured ovum bursts from the ovary and is
collected by the fallopian tube. Sperms surround the egg. Fertilisation occurs when one sperm
penetrates the egg. The sperms nucleus fuses with the eggs nucleus. 30 hours after fertilisation, the
zygote divides to form two cells. More cell division takes place as the zygote moves along the
Fallopian tube. From two cells, it slowly divides into four cells and so on to produce a solid ball of cells
called morula. About 4 days after fertilisation, the embryo, now a hollow ball of about 128 cells
(blastocyst), arrives in the uterus. It absorbs the nourishment which leaks out of the uterus lining.
During the monthly cycle, oestrogen and progesterone produced by the ovaries cause the uterus
lining to grow and thicken, ready to receive and nourish the embryo. Up to three days after its arrival
in the uterus, the embryo sticks to the endometrium. Implantation happens. The embryo sinks into
the endometrium and becomes buried by it. From the 9
th
week of development until birth, the
embryo is called a foetus. After nine months of development inside the uterus, the baby is ready to be
born.

Function of Placenta & Its Advantages
Placenta takes over the job of corpus luteum to constantly produce oestrogen and
progesterone to maintain the thick, blood-enriched endometrium throughout the pregnancy. The
placenta is the site of the exchange of nutrients, respiratory gases and wastes between the foetus
and its mother. The placenta is connected to the foetus by the umbilical cord. Umbilical cord is a tube
with one umbilical vein and two umbilical arteries. The umbilical arteries carry deoxygenated blood
from the foetus to the placenta while the umbilical vein carries oxygenated blood from the placenta
to the foetus. Nutrients, oxygen, antibodies and hormones are transported through the umbilical vein
18 | P a g e

from the maternal arteriole into the foetus. On the other hand, carbon dioxide and nitrogenous
waste products are transported through the umbilical arteries from the foetus into the maternal vein.
Placenta has many functions. It helps to synthesise glycogen, cholesterol and fatty acid. It is also a
source of nutrients and energy for the developing embryo. Placenta not only secretes hormones like
oestrogen and progesterone but it also secretes relaxin that can soften the cervix and relaxes the
pelvic ligaments in childbirth. It also produces protein hormone that is the human placental lactogen.
This hormone prepares the breasts for lactation.
Placenta forms a selective blood barrier that prevents the mixing of maternal and foetal blood. The
two bloodstreams are separated by a thin membrane called blood barrier.

Birth Control
Birth control can be done by various methods. There is the statistical method also known as
the rhythm method. This control is natural as it estimates the period of fertility. The period is based
on the length of past menstrual cycles. Another method called the barrier method is to wear condom
(male & female) or diaphragm (female). This is done to prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Withdrawal method is another method where the penis is taken away from the female vagina right
before ejaculation. There are drawbacks for this method as the semen might leak before ejaculation.
Sterilisation can be done for both male and female for birth control. Vasectomy is done for male,
where sperm duct is cut and tied while tubal ligation is done for female, where the fallopian tube is
cut and tied. These methods can be done by surgery but they are irreversible. Intrauterine device
(IUD) can be used for birth control. IUD is inserted into the uterus so that it interrupts the normal
uterine environment and prevents the implantation of zygote in the endometrium. The T-shaped IUD
is made up of copper and plastics.
Another method known as the hormone method can too be used for birth control. This can be done
by taking contraceptive pills orally. These pills contain a combination of oestrogen (increases weight)
and progesterone. Ovulation is prevented by inhibiting the secretion of FSH and LH. This is because a
high level of oestrogen and progesterone inhibits the pituitary gland from secreting FSH and LH.
Lastly there is the awareness method. This is done by analysing the temperature of the uterus lining
by plotting temperature graphs (also known as the basal body temperature). Sexual intercourse in
the period where the basal body temperature is high is prevented as high basal body temperature
give a sign that the process of ovulation is happening on that particular day.





19 | P a g e

Technology in aid of Infertility
Infertility will not be a problem as the technology improves. This is because there are many
methods that can aid infertility in both men and women. Artificial Insemination (Intro-uterine
insemination) can be used for male that has low sperm count. This is done by collecting the mans
sperm over a period of time so that the sperm count will be high enough for fertilisation. The wife can
be inseminated with the husbands sperms or sperms from the sperm bank. The sperms are injected
directly into the fallopian tube. Sometimes, the woman is inseminated with sperms obtained from the
sperm bank. A sperm bank is a special laboratory that stores sperms in liquid nitrogen at a
temperature of -196
o
C. Sperms from the donors are collected, frozen and kept in a sperm bank. The
genetic biodata of each donor are kept meticulously, so that a woman wishing to conceive can use
the sperm bank to obtain the sperms she wants.
In some cases, another woman can be used as a surrogate mother as some females are unable to
give birth or even to get pregnant. The sperms and ova are contributed by the parents. The sperms
can also be obtained from a sperm bank and the ova from the surrogate mother. Either sperms or an
embryo is transferred to the uterus of the surrogate mother. The surrogate mother then becomes
pregnant and the foetus develops in her uterus until birth. In vitro fertilisation, another method of
fertilisation that occurs in a controlled environment of a laboratory outside the human body. This
method is used when the fallopian tubes are blocked, thus preventing fertilisation by the sperms. A
fine laparoscope is used to remove mature ova from the ovary. The ova are then placed in glassware
with culture solution to mature. Then, concentrated sperms from the father are added. The sperms
and ova fuse and develop into embryos. After two to four days, when the embryos are selected and
inserted into the uterus through the cervix for implantation on the uterine wall. If the procedure is
successful, the implantation embryos will develop into a healthy baby or healthy babies. Babies
conceived in this method are sometimes called test-tube babies. Couples can also use ova from
donors.

Spermatogenesis
Spermatogenesis occurs in the germinal epithelium of the seminiferous tubules. The
primodial germ cell in the germinal epithelium cells (2n) divides by mitosis to produce spermatogonia
(2n) (spermatogonium sing.). One spermatogonium (2n) grows in size to become a primary
spermatocyte (2n). Each primary spermatocyte (2n) undergoes meiosis I to produce two secondary
spermatocytes. Each secondary spermatocyte (n) completes meiosis II to produce spermatids (n). In
the process of spermiogenesis, each spermatid differentiates (matures) into a spermatozoa/sperm
(spermatozoon sing.).

Oogenesis
Oogenesis occurs in the germinal epithelium of the ovary before birth and is regulated by
hormones. The primodial germ cell in the germinal epithelium cells (2n) divide by mitosis to produce
oogonia (2n) (oogonium sing.). The oogonium (2n) grows in size to become a primary oocyte (2n).
Each primary oocyte (2n) undergoes meiosis but stops at prophase I of meiosis I. Meiosis resumes at
20 | P a g e

puberty to produce a larger secondary oocyte (n) and a smaller first polar body. The secondary
oocyte (n) undergoes meiosis II and stops at metaphase II. The first polar body completes meiosis II to
form two polar bodies (n). At this stage, the secondary oocyte, together with the layers of follicle sells
around it, is now called a secondary follicle. The secondary oocyte starts to grow in the follicle. The
secondary follicle increases in size and matures to form the graafian follicle. At intervals of
approximately 28 days, the graafian follicle merges with the wall of the ovary. The ovarian wall and
the graafian follicle then rupture, releasing the secondary oocyte or egg into the fallopian tube. This
process is known as ovulation. If the secondary oocyte is fertilised by a sperm, meiosis II will be
completed to form two haploid cells of unequal size. The larger cell is ovum while the other is a polar
body. The nuclei of the sperm cell and the ovum then fuse to form a diploid zygote (2n). This means a
primary oocyte ultimately give rise to a single haploid ovum and three haploid polar bodies. All polar
bodies will degenerates. After ovulation, the follicle cells left in the ovary form a corpus luteum. If
there is no fertilisation, the corpus luteum will degenerates after a few days. The cycle formation of
the graafian follicle, ovulation and the corpus luteum is known as the ovarian cycle.
Actions
Voluntary Actions of the Skeletal Muscles
Voluntary actions such as walking and talking are under conscious control. Voluntary control
of the skeletal muscles is governed by the cerebral cortex of the cerebrum. The pathway of the
transmission in voluntary actions is as follows. When the door bell rings, the receptors in the ear pick
up the ringing of the doorbell. The receptors trigger nerve impulses in the afferent neurones. The
nerve impulses pass from the afferent neurones to the interneurones in the brain. The brain
interprets the nerve impulses from many interneurones that the doorbell is ringing. The brain also
decides that the door should be opened. From the interneurones, nerve impulses are transmitted to
the efferent neurones and then to the muscles. The muscles in the arm carry out the response and
open the door.

Involuntary Actions of the Skeletal Muscles: The Reflex Arc
Involuntary actions that involve skeletal muscles allow an immediate action that does not
require conscious effort. In such circumstances when the responses to stimuli are involuntary, they
are called reflexes.
A sharp pin pierces the skin causing the sensory receptors in the skin to generate impulses. The nerve
impulses are transmitted along an afferent neurone towards the spinal cord. In the spinal cord, the
nerve impulses are transmitted from the afferent neurone to an interneurone. From the
interneurone, the nerve impulses are transmitted to an efferent neurone. The efferent neurone
carries the nerve impulses from the spinal cord to the effectors (muscle tissue) so that the pin can be
pulled out from the skin immediately.


21 | P a g e

Special Case: Knee-jerk (patellar reflex)
Knee-jerk only involves the simplest neural circuit because it involves only two kinds of
neurones: the afferent neurone and the efferent neurone. The reflex hammer hits a tendon that
connects the quadriceps muscle in the thigh to a bone in the lower leg. As the hammer strikes the
knee, the force stretches the quadriceps muscles and stimulates the stretch receptors in the muscles,
triggering nerve impulses. Afferent neurones transmit the information to the efferent neurones in the
spinal cord. The efferent neurones transmit this information to the quadriceps muscles, and the
muscle contracts, jerking the leg forward.

Synapses
The transmission of information is by no means electrical but chemical in nature. When the nerve
impulse reaches the end of the presynaptic end of the neurone, it will stimulate the release of
chemicals named neurotransmitters in the synaptic vesicles. The synaptic vesicles then fuse with the
cell membrane, releasing the neurotransmitters through exocytosis. The neurotransmitters then
cross the synapse where they may be accepted by the next neurone at a specialised site called a
receptor. The neurotransmitters then fuse with the receptor thus transmitting the nerve impulse to
the next neurone. Vesicles containing the neurotransmitters are only in the presynaptic end and the
receptors are only on the postsynaptic end, therefore the synapse ensures that the flow of impulses
in one direction only.

Diseases Related to Nervous System
i. Alzheimers Disease
Neurological disease characterised by increasing loss of memory and intellectual ability.
It is associated with the shrinkage of brain tissues and lack of neurotransmitters such as
acetylcholine. Alzheimer usually affects elderly. Patient with it will show loss of intelligence,
loss of memory, mild confusion and poor concentration. This disease can be inherited.
ii. Parkinsons Disease
Parkinsons disease is a chronic disease of the nervous system. It causes tremors and
weakness of the muscles. This is due to the reduced level of neurotransmitters called
dopamine in the brain. In some cases, the disease is caused by the hardening of the cerebral
arteries. This causes muscles not functioning smoothly and becomes stiff and jerky in their
actions. This disease affects elderly but is not a heredity disease. Levodopa is administered in
the treatment of this disease.



22 | P a g e

Hormone imbalanced
i. Growth Hormone
Over secretion of the growth hormone during childhood results in gigantism, a condition
characterised by an abnormal increase in the length of bones. The person grows to be
abnormally tall. Over secretion during adulthood results in acromegaly, a condition in which
the bones, hands, feet, cheeks and jaws thicken, and other tissue enlarges.
Under secretion during growing years retards bone growth, resulting in a condition known as
dwarfism. The organs of the person often fail to grow and the size of the body is like that of a
child. Today, genetically engineered growth hormones can be given to children with the
deficiency in growth hormone and successfully induce growth, allowing the children to attain
normal height.
ii. Thyroxine
Over secretion causes an increase in the metabolic rate of the body. Common symptoms
include excessive sweating, heat intolerance, increased bowel movements, nervousness,
rapid heart rate and weight loss. Sometimes, the thyroid gland can grow and enlarges two or
three times its normal size, a condition known as goitre. One causes of goitre is iodine
deficiency. In this situation, the thyroid gland cannot synthesise and release enough
thyroxine (throxine contains iodine). As a result, it enlarges in response to excess stimulation
from the pituitary gland.
Under secretion during childhood can cause severe mental retardation, a condition known as
cretinism. In adulthood, it causes myxedema. A person with myxedema has a slow heart rate,
low body temperature, high sensitivity to cold, general lethargy and a tendency to gain
weight easily. A lack of iodine in the diet also reduces the production of thyroxine.
iii. Insulin
Over secretion of insulin can lead to hypoglycaemia, an abnormally low level of glucose
in the blood. Some of the symptoms of hypoglycaemia are fatigue, insomnia, mental
confusion, nervousness, mood swings, fainting spells and headache. Severe hypoglycaemia
can lead to convulsions and unconsciousness.
Under secretion of insulin can lead to diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus is a chronic
condition associated with abnormally high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. People with
diabetes either do not produce enough insulin or cannot use the insulin that their body
produce. As a result, glucose builds up in the bloodstream. A person with diabetes mellitus
experiences an increase in frequency of urination, excessive thirst, numbness or burning
sensation in the feet, ankles and legs, blurred or poor vision, fatigue, and slow healing of
wounds. Large quantities of human insulin are now produced by genetically engineered
bacteria. Patients are usually injected with this commercially prepared insulin.


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iv. Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
Over secretion of ADH can results in high retention of water in the body.
Under secretion of ADH can result in a disorder known as diabetes insipidus. As a result, the
person excretes a large amount of urine. People with diabetes insipidus are thirsty all the
time. They often want to drink liquids frequently. This is because so much water is lost in the
urine; the person may die of dehydration if deprived of water for even a day.

Kidney & Its Function + the Formation of Urine
Kidney is situated in the dorsal wall of the abdomen. It has three main parts that are the
outer cortex, inner medulla and the pelvis. Each kidney consists of numerous tubular units that are
called nephrons. Kidney is needed to remove toxic waste products from our body. Kidney involved in
the osmoregulation to keep the osmotic concentration of the blood constant by removing excess
water and salts. It regulates the pH of the blood by controlling the removal of hydrogen ions. It also
controls the blood volume.
The formation of urine depends on the nephrones through three processes:

i. Ultra filtration
The afferent arteriole which has a bigger diameter than that of the efferent arteriole
sends blood to the glomerulus. The blood is now under relatively high pressure and ultra
filtration takes place in the Bowmans capsule. The filtrate which filters into the Bowmans
capsule consists of small molecules, water, glucose, amino acids, urea and mineral salts. The
filtrate does not contain blood cells or plasma proteins. These components remain in the
glomerular capillaries as they are too large. The filtrate then goes down the proximal
convoluted tubule for reabsorption.
ii. Reabsorption
Reabsorption takes place in the proximal convoluted tubule, loop of Henle, distal
convoluted tubule and collecting duct. At the proximal convoluted tubule, about 65% of the
water in the glomerular filtrate (water, urea, glucose, amino acids and salts such as sodium
ions) is absorbed back into the surrounding blood capillaries by osmosis. All the glucose,
amino acids, vitamins and some salts are reabsorbed by active transport. Urea is not
reabsorbed. As the filtrate (water, salt and urea) passes along the loop of Henle, about 20%
of the water and some salts are reabsorbed into the blood capillaries. At the distal
convoluted tubule and collecting duct, the amount of water and salts that are reabsorbed
into the blood capillaries depends on the content of water and salt in the blood.
Reabsorption of water and salts is regulated by the endocrine system
.
24 | P a g e

iii. Secretion
Secretion takes place in the distal convoluted tubule. Along the tubule, waste products
such as urea, uric acid and ammonia are pumped out of the blood capillaries into the distal
convoluted tubule by active transport. This process is called secretion. Some drugs and toxic
substances are secreted by simple diffusion. The final glomerular filtrate which remains in the
collecting duct is called urine (96% of water, 2.5% nitrogenous products such as urea, uric
acid, ammonia and cretinine, 1.5% salts and other trace elements such as bile pigments).
From the collecting ducts, urine is channelled into the pelvis and carried out of the kidney by
the ureter to the urinary bladder before it is excreted through the urethra.

Homeostasis
Homeostasis is the regulation of the physical and chemical factors in the internal
environment to maintain a constant internal environment.

Osmoregulation
Osmoregulation is the regulation of salt and water balance in the body to maintain the blood
osmotic pressure. It is controlled by two hormones mainly Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) and
aldosterone.
When the osmotic pressure increases, it is detected by the osmoreceptors in the hypothalamus.
Nerve impulses are sent to the pituitary gland so that more ADH and less aldosterone is secreted.
This causes the distal convoluted tubule to become more permeable to water and impermeable to
salt. More water and less salt then moves into the distal convoluted tubule through diffusion. The
osmotic pressure declines back to normal.
When the osmotic pressure decreases, it is detected by the osmoreceptors in the hypothalamus.
Nerve impulses are sent to the pituitary gland so that more aldosterone and less ADH is secreted.
This causes the distal convoluted tubule to become more permeable to salt and impermeable to
water. Less water and more salt then moves into the distal convoluted tubule through diffusion. The
osmotic pressure increases back to normal.

Glucoregulation
The normal blood glucose level is 90mg in 100cm
3
of blood. When the blood glucose level
increases, the change is detected by the -cells of the Islets of Longerhans. This stimulates the
pancreas to secrete insulin. Glucose is converted into glycogen for temporal storage. Glycogen is
converted into lipid to be stored under the adipose tissues. Part of the glucose is used as the
respiration of glucose increases. The blood glucose level declines back to normal.
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When the blood glucose level decreases, the change is detected by the -cells of the Islets of
Longerhans. This stimulates the pancreas to secrete glucagon. Lipid is converted back to glycogen
while glycogen is converted back to glucose. The blood glucose level rises back to normal.

Thermoregulation
Thermoregulation is the regulation of body temperature. When the body temperature
increases to a value higher than 37
o
C, it is detected by the thermoreceptors in the hypothalamus.
Nerve impulses are sent to the hypothalamus. The hair erector muscles relax to lower the hair so that
no air is trap on the surface of the skin. Sweat gland is activated to produce sweat. This is to allow
heat loss by means of evaporation. Muscle activities are also reduced to minimise heat production.
Vasodilation occurs when smooth muscles of blood capillaries dilate so that more heat can be
released through radiation. Adrenal gland secretes less adrenaline while thyroid gland secretes less
thyroxine to lower down the rate of metabolism. The body temperature declines back to normal.
When the body temperature decreases, it is detected by the thermoreceptors in the hypothalamus.
Nerve impulses are sent to the hypothalamus. The hair erector muscles contract to raise hair so that
more heat is trapped on the skin surface. Sweat gland is inactive to stop sweat so no heat loss via
evaporation. Voluntary muscular activity is increased such as rubbing the hands to keep warm while
involuntary muscles contract and relax frequently leading to shivering to produce heat.
Vasoconstriction occurs when smooth muscles of the blood capillaries constrict to lower down heat
loss. Adrenal gland secretes more adrenaline while thyroid gland secretes more thyroxine to increase
the rate of metabolism. The body temperature rises back to normal.
Auxin & Its Effects on the Growth of Plants
Plants hormones are organic compounds that act as messengers that promote or inhibit
plant growth and development. Some examples of it are auxin, gibberellins, cytokinin, abscisic acid
and ethylene (a gas). Auxin stimulates cell tropism. Auxins are continuously produced by the
meristematic cells of the shoot tip. It is then transported to the shoot via the phloem. Therefore, they
are highest in concentration in the shoot tip and lowest at the root tip. The concentration of auxins in
the shoot tip and the root tip affects growth. High concentration of auxin in shoot promotes
elongation of cells. Hence the lower side of the shoot with a higher concentration of auxins will grow
faster than the upper side. As a result, the shoot curves upwards, showing negative geotropism. A
high concentration of auxins inhibits the elongation of cells in the root. The upper side of the root
grows faster than the lower side. The young root curves and grows downwards, showing positive
geotropism. Auxins move away from the light, accumulate in the shaded side.





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Locomotion
Antagonistic Muscles
Antagonistic muscles are a pair of muscles which work together to allow coordinated
movements of the skeletal joints. This means that when one muscle contracts, the other relaxes.

Bending & Straightening of the Arm
When the biceps contract, the triceps relaxes. The biceps becomes shorter and thicker while
the triceps becomes longer and thinner. This exerts a pulling force transmitted to the radius through
the tendons. As a result, the radius is pulled upward and the arm is bended. The elastic ligaments
that held the radius, ulna and the humerus together enable the radius and ulna to be pulled upward,
bending the arms from the elbow. When the triceps contract, the biceps relaxes. Now, the triceps
becomes shorter and thicker while the biceps becomes longer and thinner. The triceps that contracts
exert a pulling force on the ulna through its tendon. The ulna and radius, which are jointed to the
humerus by the elastic ligaments, is pulled together downwards, causing the arm to straighten.

Walking
The calf muscle contracts and raises the heel. In doing so, it exerts a forward thrust by
pushing the ball of the foot against the ground. The hamstring muscle contracts to pull the femur
back and bends the knee. The leg is raised. As the right foot loses contact with the ground, the weight
of the body is now supported by the left leg which is still in contact with the ground. Next, the
quadriceps muscle contracts, pulls the femur forward and extends the leg. When the extension of the
leg is completed, the foot then regains contact with the ground with the heel touching the ground
first. The weight of the body is now supported on the right leg. The whole sequence is repeated with
the left leg.
Worm
The movement of earthworm is carried out by a series of contraction and relaxation of both
the circular and longitudinal muscles of its body. When the circular muscle at the anterior contracts,
the longitudinal muscles relaxes. The body becomes thinner and lengthens. The body fluid is pushed
to the posterior part of the body. When the longitudinal muscle at the anterior contracts and the
circular muscle relax, the body flatten and shortens. The body fluid will be pushed to the front part by
hydrostatic pressure and the posterior will be pulled forward. Each segment has chaetae which help
to anchor the worm during locomotion and pull itself forward. The antagonistic muscles working in
opposite directions produce hydrostatic pressure of the body fluid. Thus, creating peristalsis wave.



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Fish
The movement of tail is caused by the contraction and relaxation of the myotome muscles on
both side of the body. The contraction of the muscle on the right side will pull the tail to the right
whereas the contraction of the muscles on the left side will pull the tail to the left. The continuous
movement of the tail from left to the right will create a push for the fish to move forward. The
function of the fins help in controlling the direction as well as the stability of fish in the water.

Bird
The antagonistic actions of the strong muscles enable the bird to flap its wings up and down.
When the pectorial major (in) contracts and the pectorial minor (out) relax, the wings flapped
downwards. When the pectorial minor (out) contracts and the pectorial major (in) relaxes, the wings
goes up.

Grasshopper & Frog
Grasshopper has strong muscular hind legs that are the flexor (in) and the extensor (out)
muscle to enable them to jump. A flexor muscle controls forward leg movement while the extensor
controls the backward movement. Before jumping, the hind leg is folded in the shape of alphabet Z,
the flexor muscle contracts while the extensor relaxes. When the extensor muscle contracts and the
flexor muscle relax, the hind leg will straighten quickly resulting in a lift and the grasshopper jumps
forward and upward.
To land, the forelegs are extended forward to absorb the landing shock. The hind legs are then folded
again. For walking, the grasshopper uses three legs to move while the other three labelled X are used
to support the body.
Frog has locomotion almost identical to grasshopper. It also has long, big and strong muscular hind
legs. The contraction of the femur muscles result in straightening of the leg quickly. The feet push the
ground causing the frog to jump upward and outward. During landing, the front legs are extended
first to absorb the landing shock. At the same time, the hind legs are folded again into its Z shape.
Respiration II
Fish
When a fish inhales, its mouth opens and the buccal cavity is lowered. As this occurs, the
operculum closes and the opercular cavity becomes bigger. This resulted into a lower pressure in the
buccal cavity. Water is then drowned into its mouth along with dissolved oxygen.
When a fish exhales, its mouth closes, raising the floor of the buccal cavity. A water flows through
the lamellae, respiratory gases are exchanged between blood capillaries and water. As this occurs,
the opercular cavity becomes smaller. The high pressure in the buccal cavity forces the operculum to
open allowing water to flow out.
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Grasshopper
Insects inhale and exhale through the rhythmic contraction and expansion of their abdominal
muscles. The body movements and the contractions of the abdominal muscles speed up the rate of
diffusion of gases from the tracheae into the body cells. When an insect inhales, the abdominal
muscles relax and the spiracles open. Air pressure inside the tracheae decreases and air is drawn in.
When an insect exhales, the abdominal muscles contract. The increased air pressure forces air out
through the spiracles. The spiracle system with its network of small tubes allows oxygen to be
absorbed directly from the atmosphere into the body cells. Therefore, there is no circulatory system
in insects.




Frog
When a frog inhales, it breathes in through its nostrils. The bucco-pharyngeal floor is lowered
and fresh air is drawn in. At the same time, its glottis closes and state air remains in the lungs.
Afterwards, the glottis will open. Its nostrils are then closed and the bucco-pharyngeal floor is raised.
This causes high air pressure which forces air into its lungs thus, expanding them.
When a frog exhales, its lung muscles contract, expelling air from its lungs. A frog does this by the
abdominal pressure and elasticity of the lungs. Some of the air flows out of its nostrils and some
mixed with the air in the bucco-pharyngeal cavity.
*Filling in air: nostrils open, glottis closed, floor of the mouth lowers
*Force air in: nostrils closed, glottis open, floor of the mouth rises
*Expiration: nostrils open, glottis open, lung contracts