Parenchyma cell, oops... sclerenchyma?

There has been a fuss about the fact that parenchyma tissue can or cannot differentiate into sclereid. I should say... Yes it can. Although it is not a usual case. Let us put it this way. Meristematic cell differentiate into parenchyma cell (and other types of cell too!). Parenchyma cells, being loosely arranged and having thinner cell walls, present almost in every other tissue, have the potential to die (i. e. the protoplast disappears). Depending on where they are located they may differentiate into tissues assisting the main structure, e.g. parenchyma cells assisting the xylem tissue may die and become the fibres supporting the xylem. Certain parenchyma cells in the fruit flesh of pears, are determined to have their walls evenly thickened as the protoplast dies, to become the slereid... the ones that gives the gritty texture of pears or "buah lai"...

That's it!

The Biologist - when it comes to classification, there can be grey "individuals" which cannot be defined decisively. This would cause confusion as they can be grouped into other groups closest to their characteristics.

The 2007/2008 Final Examination

This week is the examination week in KMM. I don't invigilate due to ill health. I wish all students "all the best". Hopefully, the examination is not that bad. A male student SMS-ed me asking for my forgiveness should he repeat in the next session. And he hadn't even started the exam!
That's why early preparation is important.

The Biologist - is preparing for the new session. 2008/2009 batch is greater in number... so they said.

UPS2 07/08 results is out!

Mid-semester II examination results was announced yesterday. Mixed responses anticipated. On the whole, the students' faces are the picture of dissatisfaction, regret, frustration, cautiousness ... only handfuls are happy. A girl student of mine didn't come for the class simply because of her inferiority complex. She even thought her classmates were isolating (? appropriate words are welcomed) her. She didn't even bother to accept my effort to comfort, advise her to make her feel better to stand up and brave the painful reality. That attitude and the final examination is only seven weeks away... O Allah! give her and my other students the strength and good health to continue to study so that they will be qualified to further their studies in the fields beneficial for themselves and for the ummah. Ameen.

Introduction! Introduction!

SALAAM.
Phew! This is my first attempt to establish a blog. Well, this is intended to provide a forum to discuss my students' problem on Biology, to raise issues, confusion, common mistakes on Biology (preferably matriculation level but anyone from A-level or STPM circles are also welcomed). Articles posted can be in English or Malay, depends... Since the scope is rather limited, I also planned to share articles, links on motivation or anything study-related! Comments are most welcomed...

The Biologist.