scholarly journals Evaluating the Use of Avida-ED Digital Organisms to Teach Evolution & Natural Selection

2020 ◽  
Vol 82 (2) ◽  
pp. 114-119
Author(s):  
Delbert S. Abi Abdallah ◽  
Christopher W. Fonner ◽  
Neil C. Lax ◽  
Matthew R. Babeji ◽  
Fatimata A. Palé
Keyword(s):  
Natural Selection ◽  
Real Time ◽  
Computer Simulations ◽  
Clear Understanding ◽  
Laboratory Setting ◽  
Environment Change ◽  
Digital Organisms ◽  
Evolutionary Concepts

The concepts of evolution and natural selection remain as some of the most challenging topics to teach. The difficulty in teaching these topics arises from the fact that evolution is difficult to observe, and computer simulations do not always result in a clear understanding of evolutionary principles. Recently, the Avida-ED software has been developed to simulate evolution in a laboratory setting. Unlike other simulations, Avida-ED allows students to manipulate the environment, change the genetics of the virtual organisms, and track offspring in real time. We have demonstrated, by using pretest and posttest questionnaires, that students gained a deeper understanding of evolutionary concepts by using this software. In particular, students showed the greatest increase in their ability to explain evolutionary concepts in answers to open-ended questions. Our results show that Avida-ED could be a useful tool in helping students understand and combat preconceived notions about evolution.

scholarly journals Selfish Genes, Pleiotropy and the Origin of Recombination

Genetics ◽  
1998 ◽  
Vol 149 (4) ◽  
pp. 2089-2097 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jody Hey
Keyword(s):  
Natural Selection ◽  
Simple Model ◽  
Computer Simulations ◽  
Recombination Rate ◽  
Evolutionary Origin ◽  
Deleterious Mutations ◽  
Beneficial Mutations ◽  
Selfish Genes ◽  
Simple Interaction

Abstract If multiple linked polymorphisms are under natural selection, then conflicts arise and the efficiency of natural selection is hindered relative to the case of no linkage. This simple interaction between linkage and natural selection creates an opportunity for mutations that raise the level of recombination to increase in frequency and have an enhanced chance of fixation. This important finding by S. Otto and N. Barton means that mutations that raise the recombination rate, but are otherwise neutral, will be selectively favored under fairly general circumstances of multilocus selection and linkage. The effect described by Otto and Barton, which was limited to neutral modifiers, can also be extended to include all modifiers of recombination, both beneficial and deleterious. Computer simulations show that beneficial mutations that also increase recombination have an increased chance of fixation. Similarly, deleterious mutations that also decrease recombination have an increased chance of fixation. The results suggest that a simple model of recombination modifiers, including both neutral and pleiotropic modifiers, is a necessary explanation for the evolutionary origin of recombination.

scholarly journals Mismatch induced speciation in Salmonella : model and data

2006 ◽  
Vol 361 (1475) ◽  
pp. 2045-2053 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel Falush ◽  
Mia Torpdahl ◽  
Xavier Didelot ◽  
Donald F Conrad ◽  
Daniel J Wilson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
New Species ◽  
Natural Selection ◽  
Dna Sequence ◽  
Computer Simulations ◽  
De Novo ◽  
Sequence Data ◽  
Biological Species ◽  
Species Boundaries ◽  
Population Subdivision ◽  
Geographical Population

In bacteria, DNA sequence mismatches act as a barrier to recombination between distantly related organisms and can potentially promote the cohesion of species. We have performed computer simulations which show that the homology dependence of recombination can cause de novo speciation in a neutrally evolving population once a critical population size has been exceeded. Our model can explain the patterns of divergence and genetic exchange observed in the genus Salmonella , without invoking either natural selection or geographical population subdivision. If this model was validated, based on extensive sequence data, it would imply that the named subspecies of Salmonella enterica correspond to good biological species, making species boundaries objective. However, multilocus sequence typing data, analysed using several conventional tools, provide a misleading impression of relationships within S. enterica subspecies enterica and do not provide the resolution to establish whether new species are presently being formed.

Measurement of the Thermal Expansion for Space Structures Using Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors and Displacement Measuring Interferometers

2008 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hong-Il Kim ◽  
Lae-Hyong Kang ◽  
Jae-Hung Han
Keyword(s):  
Fiber Bragg Grating ◽  
Real Time ◽  
Deformation Monitoring ◽  
Space Environment ◽  
Space Structures ◽  
Bragg Grating ◽  
Environment Change ◽  
Time Deformation ◽  
Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors ◽  
Fbg Sensors

Dimensional stability of the space structures, such as large telescope mirrors or metering substructures, is very important because even extremely small deformations of these structures might degrade the optical performances. Therefore, precise deformation data of the space structures according to environment change are required to design these structures correctly. Also, real-time deformation monitoring of these structures in space environment is demanded to verify whether these structures are properly designed or manufactured. FBG (fiber Bragg grating) sensors are applicable to real time monitoring of the space structure because they can be embedded onto the structures with minimal weight penalty. In this research, therefore, thermal deformation measurement system for the space structures, composed of FBG sensors for real time strain measurement and DMI (displacement measuring interferometers) for accurate specimen expansion data acquisition, is developed. Thermal strains measured by distributed FBG sensors are evaluated by the comparison with the strains obtained by highly accurate DMI.

scholarly journals A Study of the Coevolution of Digital Organisms with an Evolutionary Cellular Automaton

Biology ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (11) ◽  
pp. 1147
Author(s):  
Javier Falgueras-Cano ◽  
Juan-Antonio Falgueras-Cano ◽  
Andrés Moya
Keyword(s):  
Natural Selection ◽  
Cellular Automaton ◽  
Evolutionary Dynamics ◽  
Evolutionary Strategy ◽  
Phenotypic Flexibility ◽  
Biological Interactions ◽  
Fragmented Habitats ◽  
Digital Organisms ◽  
Effective Instrument ◽  
Good Resource

This paper presents an Evolutionary Cellular Automaton (ECA) that simulates the evolutionary dynamics of biological interactions by manipulating strategies of dispersion and associations between digital organisms. The parameterization of the different types of interaction and distribution strategies using configuration files generates easily interpretable results. In that respect, ECA is an effective instrument for measuring the effects of relative adaptive advantages and a good resource for studying natural selection. Although ECA works effectively in obtaining the expected results from most well-known biological interactions, some unexpected effects were observed. For example, organisms uniformly distributed in fragmented habitats do not favor eusociality, and mutualism evolved from parasitism simply by varying phenotypic flexibility. Finally, we have verified that natural selection represents a cost for the emergence of sex by destabilizing the stable evolutionary strategy of the 1:1 sex ratio after generating randomly different distributions in each generation.

Pushing the Limits in Offshore Mexico

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hector Hugo Vizcarra Marin ◽  
Alex Ngan ◽  
Roberto Pineda ◽  
Juan Carlos Gomez ◽  
Jose Antonio Becerra
Keyword(s):  
Gulf Of Mexico ◽  
Real Time ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Clear Understanding ◽  
Directional Drilling ◽  
Case Histories ◽  
Control Plan ◽  
Drilling Performance ◽  
Drilling Parameters ◽  
Drilling Engineering

Abstract Given the increased demands on the production of hydrocarbons and cost-effectiveness for the Operator's development wells, the industry is challenged to continually explore new technology and methodology to improve drilling performance and operational efficiency. In this paper, two recent case histories showcase the technology, drilling engineering, and real-time optimization that resulted in record drilling times. The wells are located on shallow water in the Gulf of Mexico, with numerous drilling challenges, which typically resulted in significant Non-Productive Time (NPT). Through close collaboration with the Operator, early planning with a clear understanding of offset wells challenges, well plan that minimize drilling in the Upper Cretaceous "Brecha" Formation were formulated. The well plan was also designed to reduce the risk of stuck pipe while meeting the requirements to penetrate the geological targets laterally to increase the area of contact in the reservoir section. This project encapsulates the successful application of the latest Push-the-Bit Rotary Steerable System (RSS) with borehole enlargement technology through a proven drilling engineering process to optimize the drilling bottomhole assembly, bit selection, drilling parameters, and real-time monitoring & optimization The records drilling times in the two case histories can be replicated and further improved. A list of lessons learned and recommendations for the future wells are discussed. These include the well trajectory planning, directional drilling BHA optimization, directional control plan, drilling parameters to optimize hole cleaning, and downhole shocks & vibrations management during drilling and underreaming operation to increase the drilling performance ultimately. Also, it includes a proposed drilling blueprint to continually push the limit of incremental drilling performance through the use of RSS with hydraulics drilling reamers through the Jurassic-age formations in shallow waters, Gulf of Mexico.

Iconicity and Dynamic

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Inge Hinterwaldner
Keyword(s):  
Real Time ◽  
Computer Simulations ◽  
Artificial Life ◽  
Simulation Program ◽  
Special Focus ◽  
Responsible Attitude ◽  
Real Time Simulations ◽  
Optical Level

Within real-time simulations, the calculated simulation dynamic is only one movement-generating instance. There exist further and other movement-generating elements of a sensorial nature. Typically, the simulation program encompasses many diverse processes – internal and external ones – taking place simultaneously. Several artificial life applications are analysed with respect to the multi-layered dynamics and with a special focus on how the sensorial levels contribute motions not present in the simulation dynamics itself. Computer simulations also have the potential for deception (some applications aim at exploiting the suspense of disbelief), but surprisingly it is located in their domain, in the process and reaction or consequence design. The optical level follows other logics. Being aware of this fact with all its consequences is crucial for a critical and responsible attitude towards computer simulations.

A Simplified Bioenergetics Model of a Hammerhead Shark for Teaching Natural Selection

2019 ◽  
Vol 81 (2) ◽  
pp. 115-119
Author(s):  
Jay Y. S. Hodgson
Keyword(s):  
Natural Selection ◽  
Reproductive Success ◽  
Computer Simulations ◽  
Trade Off ◽  
Bioenergetics Model ◽  
Hammerhead Shark ◽  
Differential Reproductive Success ◽  
Evolutionary Consequences ◽  
Successful Predation

Students often have difficulty understanding the underpinning mechanisms of natural selection because they lack the means to directly test hypotheses within the classroom. Computer simulations are ideal platforms to allow students to manipulate variables and observe evolutionary outcomes; however, many available models solve the scenario for the users without revealing the evolutionarily significant calculations. I developed a simplified bioenergetics model of a hammerhead shark for teaching natural selection that allows the users to manipulate variables and see the impacts of modeling while solving for the evolutionary consequences. Students generate variation within the population by controlling cephalofoil widths and swimming speeds of an individual, which affect its ability to detect and capture prey at the expense of energy lost as drag from swimming. The trade-off between energy gained from successful predation and energy lost from metabolic expenditures dictates rates of reproduction. By manipulating a subset of factors that influence differential reproductive success, students gain an improved understanding of natural selection.

Towards more helpful bus tracker apps for blind transit riders

First Monday ◽  
2015 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rakesh Babu ◽  
Paige Fuller
Keyword(s):  
Real Time ◽  
Help Seeking ◽  
Qualitative Method ◽  
Time Of Arrival ◽  
Clear Understanding ◽  
Verbal Reports ◽  
Blind Users ◽  
Travel Planning ◽  
Transit Agencies ◽  
Time Systems

Bus trackers aid in travel planning with real-time bus arrival and location information. However, their sight-centered design means they’re inherently challenging for the blind. A clear understanding of their help-seeking situations in interacting with bus trackers is necessary to design appropriate help features as a solution.We present a qualitative method to study help-seeking situations of blind users in interacting with bus-trackers, and illustrate its application on the use of CTA bus tracker. Think-aloud observation of seven participants generated verbal reports of performing bus-tracking activities. Qualitative analysis explained what, where, and how help-seeking situations arose in learning the interface, in site interaction, determining estimated time of arrival, requesting ETA alerts, and finding bus location. We elaborate results pertinent to key help-seeking situations, the underlying help needs, and design implications for appropriate help features. The paper contributes a feasible qualitative method to study help-seeking situations, as well as valuable insights into the thoughts, actions and perceptions of blind users in real time bus tracking. This represents the first step towards developing the tool to transform the 45 million blind citizens into empowered transit riders. Implications for transit agencies, real time systems designers, and research in travel management, human-computer interaction and cognitive science are discussed.

The Systemic Image

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Inge Hinterwaldner
Keyword(s):  
Real Time ◽  
Computer Simulations ◽  
Art History ◽  
Science Studies ◽  
User Participation ◽  
Close Reading ◽  
Design Decisions ◽  
Theoretical Concepts ◽  
Real Time Simulations ◽  
The Relationship

In media art history as well as in science studies an intensified reception of cybernetic and system-theoretical concepts can be seen in the last few years. In the book a conceptualization of the relationship between the systemic and the iconic in interactive real-time simulations is proposed. To this end, the author differentiates between four main strata of form-giving design decisions: perspectivation, modelling, iconization, interaction. The particular images – ephemeral, changeable and open for interventions – fulfill the conditions of all these layers and, as a necessary consequence, they exhibit characteristic aesthetic features. With a close reading of the chosen example works, the variations within the repetitive cycles become evident as does the reason why the narration remains ‘flat’ (with only a few consecutive steps), contributing to the general impression of being confronted with a situation rather than a story. How are the borders of simulations either artificially marked or hidden and extended with images or other models? What role does the sensuous interface play for the degree and mode of user participation in the simulated scenery? The book assembles some basic preconditions and main features of image worlds based on computer simulations.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document