BRONX-MANHATTAN 2024 C/STEP EXPO BOOK OF ABSTRACTS

April 13, 2024 Barnard College

Dear C/STEP Bronx-Manhattan Regional Research Expo Attendees, Welcome to the 6th Annual C/STEP Bronx-Manhattan Regional Research Expo. This year’s expo will feature research, creative work, and scholarship from 57 scholars across our region. For 37 years, CSTEP and STEP have been dedicated to students’ academic, professional, and personal growth. Across our 63 CSTEP programs and 56 STEP programs, we have a proven track record of success! CSTEP and STEP have provided historically underrepresented students the opportunity to receive comprehensive support toward successful degree completion within STEM and other licensed professions. CSTEP and STEP are highly regarded, nationally recognized programs committed to access, equity, and nurturing academic excellence. The Research Expo provides a platform for students to come together and exchange ideas, share discoveries, and foster collaboration. It offers an excellent opportunity for our scholars to present their research findings, network with peers, and engage in meaningful discussions that can lead to future advancements in STEM disciplines. This year, we are glad to introduce a new component for undergraduate CSTEP scholars to present their research findings via oral presentations, further expanding their skills and abilities as they prepare to enter their future professional spaces. We know that exposure to STEM education is crucial as we work to ensure diversity in the STEM disciplines while empowering our students to explore their interests and develop the confidence they need to succeed. CSTEP and STEP are at the forefront of this work, and we look forward to continuing to shape future STEM leaders and advocate for the continued growth of our programs. On behalf of our Planning Committee and of all the program directors, administrators, instructors, advisors, and other staff who help develop and run our programs, we want you to know how incredibly proud all of you make us every time you raise your hand, every time you ask more questions. Every time, you go above and beyond to represent your program. Today, we look forward to hearing you present your work and demonstrate all the skills you have developed. Our future is already better because you are here, representing the future of New York City and ensuring all our voices are heard. We are so glad you could attend the Research Expo and hope you find it informative and enjoyable. We are truly grateful for your support and commitment to the success of CSTEP & STEP. Sincerely, Elida Martinez-Gaynor, M.A., Director Gianni Lopez, M.Ed., Senior Associate Director Research Expo Conveners CSTEP at Barnard College 2024 C/STEP Bronx-Manhattan Regional Research Expo Planning Committee: Elida Martinez-Gaynor, Barnard College Gianni Lopez, Barnard College Edgardo Sanabria Valentín, John Jay College for Criminal Justice Carolina Salane Fordham University Costin Thampikutty, Manhattan College Diandra Jugmohan, Hostos Community College Demi Cheng, John Jay College for Criminal Justice Nkem Stanley Mbamelu, City College

Message from the Bronx -Manhattan Regional Representative The Bronx-Manhattan C/STEP Research Expo is an event that showcases the work of the STEP and CSTEP research students in the Bronx and Manhattan Region. The orals and posters on display describe the students’ research projects, explain the theories on which the projects are based, and how the research is an application of these theories. This book is a collection of abstracts of the work displayed in the event. On behalf of the students and staffs of the Bronx and Manhattan Region’s STEP and CSTEP programs, I welcome you and thank you for your support of our students and for your participation in this extraordinary event. Yours truly, Millicent Roth Prof. Millicent Roth Director of City College Academy for Professional Preparation (CCAPP), the CSTEP program at City College Bronx-Manhattan Regional Representative Deputy Dean of Science for Undergraduates

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION PROGRAMS Institution Program Albert Einstein College of Medicine STEP Barnard College CSTEP Columbia University Medical School STEP CUNY Baruch College STEP CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College STEP CUNY Bronx Community College STEP and CSTEP CUNY City College of New York STEP and CSTEP CUNY Hostos Community College STEP and CSTEP CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice STEP and CSTEP CUNY Lehman College STEP CUNY School of Labor and Urban Studies CSTEP Fordham University STEP and CSTEP Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (ISMMS) STEP Manhattan College CSTEP New York Institute of Technology STEP New York University STEP and CSTEP New York University Medical School STEP Pace University CSTEP SUNY Optometry CSTEP

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 STEP PRESENTERS Page # First Name Last Name Grade Level 1 Alexander Alvarado 12th Grade 2 Mohamed Amechtak Senior 6 Henry Asante 12th Grade 2 Maruf Aurnap Senior 11 Daiana Azimova 12th Grade 10 Cassidy Baudin 11th Grade 2 Jahleel Bennett 11th Grade 5 Kimora Castang 10th Grade 11 Alexa Cuvilly 12th Grade 10 Edwin Diaz 11th Grade 7 Khalil Etoria 11th Grade 4 Najma Gure 12th Grade 3 Jesus Gutierrez 12th Grade 7 Nafisa Islam 11th Grade 8 Jahmier Jackson 12th Grade 2 Anthony Jean-Baptiste 11th Grade 4 Virginia Lima 12th Grade 9 Lismary Lismary 11th Grade 6 Gabrielle Machado 11th Grade 5 Maysoon Masud Junior 9 Anyah Moreira 11th Grade 1 Raymon Morillo 12th Grade 1 Ariadny Morocho 11th Grade 9 Joshuanaveen Navaneetharaja 11th Grade 3 Gabriel Oberhofer 12th Grade 8 Noah Quides-Perez 12th Grade 9 Ryan Rafi 11th Grade 5 Kinsey Saleh 10th grade 8 Andrew Sokai 12th Grade 5 Shahan Syed 10th Grade 10 William Tan 9th Grade 1 Mahabuba Tayeba 11th Grade 3 Fenley Theluscar 12th Grade 7 Nicole Weng 9th Grade 6 Britney Zambrano 11th Grade

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 CSTEP PRESENTERS Page # First Name Last Name Class Level 21 Maisha Ahmed Senior 13 Rowan Almuntaser Junior 29 Kenneth Arguedas Senior 26 Alexis Ayala First Year 12 Leah Barcelo Junior 16 Samantha Cajamarca Senior 20 Samantha Diaz Junior 18 Abigail Diaz-Oblitas Esquivel Sophomore 24 Aya Sara Elwassif Senior 24 Perla Encarnacion Junior 24 Jefferson Estrada Senior 20 Tanvin Farjana Senior 14 Sheldon Garrick II Sophomore 23 Daphne Hernandez Senior 19 Aliesha Hetnarine Junior 16 Gladys Hughes Junior 26 Meriem Bouteldja Izzy Holmes First Year 13 Kiran Kaur Junior 13 Ryan-Alexa Liquori Senior 26 Amy Lopez Navarro Junior 22 Kayla Lucas Senior 29 Naoroz Mahmood Senior 27 Dicken Martinez Rivadeneira Sophomore 22 Trinit'y Mitchell Junior 28 Lesly Munoz Sophomore 17 Jordan Nacimba Senior 14 Guadalupe Ortega Junior 19 Juliet Ortiz Senior 25 Yuren Rangel Senior 23 Violeta Rosario Senior 27 Raymond Saldana Sophomore 25 Blerina Sehitaj Sophomore 13 Patricia St. Fleur Junior 15 Jaxon Tartaglia Senior 28 Darren Zheng Senior

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 STEP PRESENTATIONS

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 1 | Page Title: Out With The Old, in With The New: Cardiac Organoids, Recreating Your Heart Presenter: Alexander Alvarado– 12th grade, Raymon Morillo- 12th grade Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: David Sachs Program Institution: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (ISMMS) -STEP Contact: Kenya Townsend- [email protected] Developing and testing new cardiovascular drugs is a long and expensive process. The lab models which we use to test human drugs are inaccurate and not representative of human physiology. To increase the efficacy and reduce the amount of time it takes to get a drug approved, researchers developed organs on a chip, specifically cardiac organoids. Our process involves mixing Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with a curing agent, molding it until solidified, then preparing the chip for stem cell seeding. Through continuous experimentation and optimization, we're making progress toward producing mature cardiac organoids. These organoids could serve as a next-generation tool for drug screening, significantly reducing the time and expense associated with drug development. While we have had some successful organoids where they beat and pump fluid like our heart does, we have also found that (PDMS) is unreliable and unpredictable. Making the chips from this material is not viable because it absorbs small molecules, making it difficult to effectively control concentrations. For this reason, we have started to experiment with other materials such as Cyclic Olefin Copolymer (COC) beads with a water absorption of ＜.01%. Title: Curcumin attenuates mancozeb induced p53/RTP801 activation and Nrf2 suppression in PC12 cells Presenters: Mahabuba Tayeba – 11th Grade, Ariadny Morocho 11th grade Category: Biological/ Life Sciences Mentor: Shu-Yuan Cheng Program Institution: CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice- STEP Contact: Shu-Yuan Cheng- [email protected] Mancozeb (MZ), a manganese and zinc-containing fungicide used in field crops, can potentiate parkinsonian toxin toxicity by activating inflammatory responses. MZ toxic mechanism is not fully investigated. Curcumin is an anti-inflammatory compound. This study focused on elucidating p53/RTP801/Nrf2 regulation by MZ and on revealing curcumin’s effect on these responses through western blot analysis. Curcumin’s effect on MZ triggered cytotoxicity was also investigated by CCK-8 cytotoxicity and NucGreen cell viability assays. Results showed that p53 and its downstream target RTP801 levels were increased by MZ in a dose-dependent manner. Curcumin attenuated these increases. Nrf2 levels, an antioxidant response regulator, was decreased by MZ in a dose-dependent manner. This decrease was restored by curcumin. Cytotoxicity and viability results showed that curcumin attenuated MZ induced cell damages. In conclusion, MZ upregulated p53/RTP801, but downregulated Nrf2. Curcumin co-treatment diminished MZ-triggered p53/RTP801/Nrf2 changes and reversed MZ-induced cellular damages.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 2 | Page Title: A Tale of Two Crises: The Housing Shortage and Homelessness Presenters: Mohamed Amechtak-Senior, Maruf Aurnap – Senior Mentor: Quiana McCoy-Taylor Research Category: Human Services Program Institution: CUNY The City College of New York - STEP Contact: Elissa Campbell - [email protected] Many cities throughout the country are facing a shortage of affordable housing, leading to skyrocketing rents and limited options for low-income individuals. This scarcity has contributed to a growing homelessness crisis, with many people unable to afford a place to live. Since this crisis is multi-faceted, it is crucial to strategically implement solutions to ensure positive change in the years to come. Firstly, a model predicting changes in housing supply in Seattle, Washington, and Albuquerque, New Mexico over the next 10, 20, and 50 years was proposed. By employing Double Exponential Smoothing, we forecasted the changes in housing supply across the two cities. Our model predicts the housing supply in Seattle, Washington, and Albuquerque, New Mexico in 50 years would be 510,335 and 324,451 units, respectively. Next, projections for changes in the homeless population in the same regions over the next 10, 20, and 50 years were determined. We determined that the homeless population will be 10,524 and 1,441 in 2034, 10,501 and 1,344 in 2044, and 10,436 and 1,052 in 2074 for the cities of Seattle and Albuquerque, respectively. Finally, we created a model to assist Albuquerque, New Mexico in devising a long-term strategy to tackle homelessness. Existing models for reducing homelessness often involve constructing housing and providing it to those in need, focusing on specific vulnerable groups like women with children or individuals experiencing trauma. By targeting these high-risk populations, resources can be allocated more effectively to address the issue. Title: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Implications for Immunotherapeutic Strategies Presenters: Jahleel Bennett- 11th grade, Anthony Jean-Baptiste- 11th grade Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Patricio Meneses Program Institution: Fordham University-STEP Contact: Carolina Salane- [email protected] This research project centers on Human Papillomavirus (HPV), specifically focusing on HPV-16 due to its association with cervical cancer, a leading cause of death in women across 36 countries. Cervical cancer, primarily caused by persistent genital high-risk HPV infections, prompts the need for an effective treatment plan for all HPV-related cancers. Researchers are conducting experiments using antibodies, hypothesizing that 16v5 will strongly bind to HPV-16, while L2F1 will bind to both HPV 16 and 18. The antibody acts as the independent variable, with binding levels to the designated virus as the dependent variable. Accuracy is ensured through a control using antimouse IgG, which does not bind to either virus, including the non-cancer causing variant HPV-6. The overarching goal is to develop a quick and portable biosensing system for HPV-16 detection, aiming to enhance accessibility and cost-effectiveness, particularly for women in under-resourced communities, and enable early detection and timely treatment.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 3 | Page Title: Investigating Differences in Metabolic Traits Between Ancestries Presenters: Fenley Theluscar 12th grade, Jesus Gutierrez 12th grade Category: Biological/ Life Sciences Mentor: Paul O'Reilly Program Institution: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai - STEP Contact: Kenya Townsend- [email protected] We investigated the differences in metabolic trait values between global ancestries. We examined the scientific literature to discover if there are ancestry differences in blood pressure, C-reactive protein, body mass index, cholesterol, neutrophil count, and Vitamin D. We used PubMed to find articles on various traits using key phrases like, “Blood Pressure”, “C-reactive Protein”, “Genetic Prediction”, “Multi-Ancestry”, “African Ancestry”, “European Ancestry”, “Latino Ancestry”, “Asian ancestry”, and “Polygenic Risk Scores”. We identified a total of 39 articles that included our key phrases. After removing articles that did not test for ancestry differences, 27 articles remained. Next, we collected the means and standard deviations from the articles and inputted them into the statistical package R to conduct descriptive and comparative analyses. We found that blood pressure (BP) differed statistically significantly with small effects across the ancestry groups, with African Ancestry having the highest average systolic BP and European Ancestry having the lowest. Similar trends were observed for CRP and BMI, with African Ancestry having the highest averages, followed by Latino and European Ancestry, and Asian Ancestry having the lowest average. It is crucial to study these traits across different ancestry groups so that we can provide more powerful personalized medicine. Our study, which involved performing a comprehensive literature review and meta-analyses of findings across multiple studies, will serve as a foundation for future research. Our next step is to use genetic data to perform analyses that will help discover the relative contribution of genetic and environmental causes of these differences. Title: The Impact of Water Quality on Incidence of Eczema Across New York State Presenter: Gabriel Oberhofer- 12th grade Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Soraya Abdelaziz Program: CUNY Lehman College-STEP Contact: Paulina Mohamed-Ocasio- [email protected] This study delves into the relationship between water quality parameters (pH, Chlorine, Water Hardness) and the prevalence of eczema across different regions in New York State. Participants in the experimental group will be equipped with shower head water filters, while the control group will forego filtration.The main aim is to uncover potential links between variations in water quality and eczema incidence in diverse geographic contexts within New York State. By taking a region-specific approach, the study seeks to identify any patterns or discrepancies in water quality that may align with varying rates of eczema.This research provides a deeper understanding of how environmental factors, specifically water quality, can impact skin microbiome. The inclusion of using water filters allows for an assessment of the filters' effectiveness in mitigating potential skin irritants. The findings could provide insights for public health strategies, especially in regions where eczema rates coincide with specific water quality characteristics.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 4 | Page Title: Identification of Genetic Mutations in JAK1 Leading to Autoimmunity Presenter: Najma Gure – 12th grade Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Sofija Buta Program: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (ISMMS)-STEP Contact: Kenya Townsend- [email protected] Mutated Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) proteins are associated with an imbalance in the immune homeostasis, which can cause various immune dysregulations such as autoimmunity, atopy, dermatitis, and colitis. Janus kinases (JAKs) belong to and are responsible for the maintenance of a major immunology system: the Janus kinase-signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK-STAT) pathway. In this pathway, ligand binding to cytokine receptors stimulate JAKs to phosphorylate their target: signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) proteins, in the cytoplasm. Active STAT proteins become transcription factors that mediate the expression of multiple cytokine-responsive genes. I identified multiple JAK1 mutations in patients that suffer from immunological ailments such as severe atopic dermatitis. One category of mutants that I focus on are JAK1 gain-of-function. This type of mutation bypasses the necessary receptor-ligand binding signaling trigger, allowing for the excessive phosphorylation of STAT proteins. By studying novel JAK1 mutations, I hope to characterize their effect on JAK1 function and thereby disease. Better understanding of JAK1 mutations, can lead to more efficient and more targeted treatment for patients, as there is availability of multiple JAK inhibitors. Title: Polyphenols Decrease Atrazine-induced Cell Death at Low Dosage in A549 Cells Presenters: Virginia Lima- 12th grade Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Alejandra Lopez Rojas Program: CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice- STEP Contact: Shu-Yuan Cheng- [email protected] Atrazine (AT) is a chlorotriazine herbicide commonly used in the agriculture industry which can cause apoptosis, structural changes to the lungs, mast cell degranulation, and airway inflammation, upon exposure. Polyphenols are plant compounds that have been seen to prevent the negative effects of atrazine on the reproductive and urinary systems. This study focused on the use of polyphenols to reverse AT cytotoxicity in lung carcinoma epithelial cells (A549). The effects of polyphenols on ATtriggered cytotoxicity were investigated through CCK-8, NucGreen cell viability assays and Western Blot analysis. Results showed that a 10 ug/mL concentration of polyphenols decreased AT-triggered apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner, but at higher polyphenols concentrations of 250 ug/mL, there was increased cell death with increasing concentrations of AT. Furthermore, Nrf2 expression, a protein involved in oxidative stress prevention within cells, was observed using Western Blot analysis. Results showed that with a higher concentration of PP (250 ug/mL), there is a decrease in Nrf2 expression only when there is no AT present in the cells and that as AT concentration increases, there is a concurrent increase in Nrf2 expression. However, at the highest concentration of Atrazine, there is too much oxidative stress and the cells have started to die off, which leads to a significant decrease in Nrf2 since there are fewer cells present to produce the protein.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 5 | Page Title: Origami Engineering: The Potential of Origami-Based Biomedical Stents Against Supratransmissive and Compressive Stimuli Presenter: Maysoon Masud- Junior Category: Biological/ Life Sciences & Technology Mentor: Quiana McCoy-Taylor Program: CUNY The City College of New York- STEP Contact: Elissa Campbell - [email protected] Stents are a prevalent technology used to maintain blood flow within arteries amidst cardiovascular conditions like coronary heart disease. However, expenses associated with customized stent development restrict their homogeneous utilization across populaces, thus detrimenting the quality of life afforded to patients. The potential for the issue to be addressed through origami-based metastructures necessitated investigation into the impact of scaling on the ability for cylindrical origami metastructures’ mechanical properties to effectively attain biomedical stent design standards. In this study, Yoshimura, Tachi-Miura, Waterbomb, and Kresling cylindrical patterns were used to address the proposed inquiry due to infrequent discussion in relevant literature. With modeling software, the metastructures were developed on a large and small scale based on crease patterns utilized in previous studies. Afterwards, numerical simulations through FEA software enacted compressional and supratransmissional impact on the structures, aligning with the stimulus' similarity to forces exerted on traditional stents from artery vasoconstriction and heartbeats’ vibrations. The simulations identified the level of strain tolerance until structural deformation from compression, while amplitudes were applied to the metastructures until energy dissipation failed and similarly caused structural alterations. The results demonstrate that Kresling cylindrical metastructures retained the most favorable capabilities for compressive and supratransmissive resistance on both scales, but cannot maintain this extensively. The research highlights guidelines for the best origami designs that may effectively function in stents, as well as potential further research into the way that novel origami patterns can be designed to optimize the most beneficial mechanical attributes of the experimented few. Title: Exploring Osmosis’s Effects on Gummy Bears Presenters: Kimora Castang- 10th grade, Shahan Syed -10th grade, Kinsey Saleh – 10th grade Category: Physical Sciences Mentor: Danilo Tuyuc Program: New York University- STEP Contact: Anna Ortega Chavolla- [email protected] The human body’s composition is predominantly water, making fluid dynamics vital to the overall health in a human. Understanding an important factor in the fluid dynamics of the human body, Osmosis in this case, will provide insight on how exactly water moves throughout the human body. Osmosis is defined as the movement of water from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower concentration. This research project aims to analyze the effects Osmosis has on gummy bears under various conditions. The specific variables in our investigation include sugar concentration and temperature. Prior to placing the gummy bears in any solution, we recorded their initial linear dimensions. We then placed the gummy bears in the solution, periodically monitoring their growth by measuring the change in height, length, depth, and mass. This project analyzed many different factors including gummy bear size, the rate of osmosis and general appearance.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 6 | Page Title: Syndecan Expression in Human Papillomavirus-infected and Non-infected Cells Presenters: Britney Zambrano – 11th grade, Gabrielle Machado- 11th grade Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Patricio Meneses Program: Fordham University- STEP Contact: Carolina Salane- [email protected] Human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV-16, poses a significant health risk, notably linked to cervical cancer, a leading cause of mortality among women globally. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying HPV infection is crucial for devising effective preventive and therapeutic strategies. Previous studies have implicated syndecans, transmembrane proteins, as key receptors facilitating HPV binding and entry into host cells. However, the relationship between syndecan expression variability across different cell lines and HPV infectivity remains unclear. This research explores syndecan expression profiles in various cell lines, including cervical cancer cells (Hela, C33A), immortalized skin cells (HaCaT), and kidney cells (293TT), to discern potential implications for HPV infection. Through quantitative analysis, our study revealed distinct syndecan expression patterns among the cell lines, with syndecan-4 predominantly expressed in Hela and HaCaT cells, while syndecan2 predominates in C33A and 293TT cells. Unexpectedly, syndecan-4 was notably absent in Hela cells, contrary to its ubiquitous expression in human tissues. Although syndecan expression levels do not directly correlate with HPV binding or entry, our findings lay the groundwork for further investigations into the interplay between syndecans and HPV infection dynamics. By elucidating syndecan expression variations across cell lines, this study provides valuable insights into potential factors influencing HPV infectivity. Future research endeavors should delve deeper into understanding the mechanistic roles of syndecans in HPV pathogenesis, ultimately informing the development of targeted interventions against HPV-associated diseases. Title: The Impact of Video Games on Stress Relief in Adolescents Presenter: Henry Asante- 12th grade Category: Social Sciences Mentor: Soraya Abdelaziz Program: CUNY Lehman College-STEP Contact: Paulina Mohamed-Ocasio- [email protected] This study explored the impact of video games on stress relief. Stress is associated with various daily activities, and there are diverse methods to alleviate it. Video games serve as a significant stress-relief avenue, prompting me to conduct a survey focusing on different game categories and emotional elements. Among the 15 participants, 60% were female and 40% were male. Predominantly, 14 individuals favored fighting games, 11 preferred action games, and 9 chose adventure games. The preference for fighting games suggests a tendency towards stress relief through virtual combat simulating a “punching bag”. Notably, 60% of respondents would recommend video games to individuals experiencing stress, citing that the right game can effectively alleviate stress, contrasting the potential stress caused by inappropriate game choices. This research underscores that for many, video games are a preferred method for stress relief, showcasing their positive impact in mitigating stress levels.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 7 | Page Title: Uncovering the Relationship Between Potential Compressibility and Model Accuracy Presenter: Khalil Etoria- 11th grade Category: Technology Program: CUNY The City College of New York- STEP Contact: Ophelia Morris- [email protected] Neural networks have become nearly ubiquitous in terms of the number of fields that they can be applied in. From image recognition for facial identification, medical imagery, and quality control, to stock market prediction, aerospace engineering, and language processing. Some of the most accurate image recognition networks can have tens or hundreds of millions of parameters determining the eventual output. In many cases, pruning has been used as a tool to minimize the computational requirements for the systems they are being deployed in, allowing for substantially more products for the end user. The practice involves removing redundant weights/connections between layers to eliminate some of the unnecessary complexity in the model, drastically increasing efficiency. Some of the most popular being weight pruning, neuron pruning, channel pruning, and filter pruning. In a sparsity-based pruning algorithm proposed by Diao, Enmao et. al, a constant value based on their proposed potential compressibility index (PQI) is used to govern the maximum number of model parameters that should be pruned. As proposed by Diao, et. al, my work addresses the addition of an upper bound for the retained parameters ‘r ‘ to suggest the minimum number of parameters to prune. The results of this research further our understanding of the relationship between sparsity and pruning. Title: Precision Agriculture Drones Presenters: Nafisa Islam- 11th grade, Nicole Weng-9th grade Category: Technology Mentor: Anthony Mai, Matthew Persad Program: New York University- STEP Contact: Anna Ortega Chavolla- [email protected] This research project helps us understand the revolutionary potential of Precision Agriculture Drones as a solution to the problem of climate change in the agricultural sector. These drones, which will be installed with multispectral cameras, GPS, autonomous navigation systems, and AI algorithms, have the potential to fundamentally alter crop monitoring and resource application. This new technology solves issues such as delayed disease detection, unpredictable yields, and lack of crop health insights through real-time data analysis and data processing software. Precision agriculture drones are essential tools for climate-resilient farming, offering focused solutions to cut down on pesticide use, maximize resource use, and enhance environmental sustainability. One of the current real-life issues that can be solved with this is poverty. By having drones assisting us with agricultural growth, we can have increased crop yields, quicker crop health diagnoses, and alleviate the number of people who go hungry every night.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 8 | Page Title: The Impact of Social Media on the Cognitive Abilities in Adolescents Presenter: Noah Quides-Perez- 12th grade Category: Social Sciences Mentor: Soraya Abdelaziz Program Institution: CUNY Lehman College- STEP Contact: Paulina Mohamed-Ocasio- [email protected] This study delved into the impact of social media on the memorization and reflexes of adolescents. A one month social media cleanse was used to determine if social media plays a role in these specific cognitive processes. All members were given two games (Simon Says and FlipSlide) in order to calculate both memorization and their cognitive reflexes as a base. The same two games were distributed postcleansing to document any significant improvement, consistency or downgrade. Results showed that there were significant changes towards the experimental group that completely disconnected themselves from social media. Post cleansing tests gave clear improvements towards faster cognitive reflexes and improved memorization. The group that overused social media showed similar precleansing results but more consistency throughout the trials. There is clear evidence shown that completely disconnecting ourselves from social media displays blatant psychological benefits towards cognitive and memorization skills. We must also look into different factors as to why this was shown due to other tasks the group was doing as a substitute for their time put into media. Members of that group resorted to hands-on puzzle games and more verbal socialization instead of indulging themselves on their phones like the other experimental groups. The cleanse group also showed more satisfaction with other forms to be updated with the news like articles or tv. Title: AI vs. Human Intuition in Predicting March Madness Outcomes Presenters: Jahmier Jackson – 12th grade, Andrew Sokai- 12th grade Category: Technology Mentor: Edwin L Reed-Sanchez Program: CUNY Bronx Community College - STEP Contact: Eugene Adams- [email protected] The NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament, known as March Madness, is notoriously difficult to predict due to the large number of games and potential for upsets. This study aims to compare the performance of an AI model trained on historical data and current team statistics with human intuition in predicting March Madness game outcomes and brackets. Methods/Procedures: An AI model will be built on Google Cloud and trained using historical tournament data, team statistics, and player performance metrics. The model will be fine-tuned with the most recent data from the current season. A group of basketball fans and experts will fill out their own brackets based on knowledge and intuition. Results/Findings: The AI model will generate predictions for each game and an overall bracket, which will be compared to human participants' brackets and actual tournament results. The study will analyze the AI's performance across different tournament stages. Conclusion/Implications: The findings could lead to wider adoption of AI-based prediction models in sports analytics and provide insights into the strengths and limitations of AI compared to human expertise in predicting complex sporting events like March Madness.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 9 | Page Title: Exploring Biometric Authentication: Enhancing Security and User Experience within a Population of 20 Presenters: Ryan Rafi- 11th grade, Anyah Moreira- 11th grade Category: Social Sciences Mentor: De Jolie Christelle Mbe Fokam Program: CUNY Hostos Community College -STEP Contact: Diandra Jugmohan- DJugmohan @hostos.cuny.edu Biometric authentication systems utilize distinctive physiological or behavioral characteristics to validate an individual's identity. User experience in biometrics requires looking beyond the interplay between user perceptions and ethical considerations and adopting biometric authentication systems. The feasibility of incorporating biometric authentication alongside established security protocols, including two-factor authentication and cryptographic techniques, to enhance the system's overall resilience against unauthorized access and identity theft among the limited number of participants can validate these worries. For this purpose, this research investigated the principles, technologies, and applications of biometric authentication within a population of 20 individuals. The research question is, "To what extent do the negative perceptions and ethical concerns surrounding the use of biometric technology in consumer products affect its adoption and usage among the general population?". Analyzing existing literature and case studies, the researchers indicated the biometric authentication systems' effectiveness, practicality, and scalability. Title: Safeguarding Online Presence: Mitigating Cybersecurity Threats on Social Media Platforms Presenters: Lismary Lismary-11th grade, Joshuanaveen Navaneetharaja -11th grade Category: Social Sciences Mentor: Dejolie Christelle Mbe Fokam Program: CUNY Hostos Community College -STEP Contact: Diandra Jugmohan- DJugmohan @hostos.cuny.edu This research aimed to investigate social media security threats and vulnerabilities associated with sharing sensitive information on these platforms within a population of 50. From this perspective, the researchers formulated the following question: "What are the potential cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities associated with sharing sensitive information on social media platforms, and what proactive measures can users take to safeguard their online presence?" Using existing literature reviews and case studies, we identified and summarized some key insights to help users effectively address cybersecurity threats on social media platforms. The study provides actionable guidance and practical recommendations for navigating the intricate cybersecurity landscape of social media platforms by examining empirical data, case studies, and expert insights.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 10 | Page Title: Enhancing Mobile App Security Adoption: Addressing Trust and Usability Concerns for a population of 20 Presenters: Edwin Diaz- 11th grade, Cassidy Baudin-11th grade Category: Social Sciences Mentor: Dejolie Christelle Mbe Fokam Program: CUNY Hostos Community College -STEP Contact: Diandra Jugmohan- DJugmohan @hostos.cuny.edu By synthesizing past studies, this research focuses on actionable insights for mobile app developers, security professionals, and policymakers to design more user-centric and trustworthy security solutions. Also, this study seeks to contribute to advancing mobile app security practices and promote the widespread adoption of protective measures among end-users. This research analyzes existing literature and case studies to understand biometric authentication systems' effectiveness, practicality, and scalability. Techniques learned from the analysis teach how to enhance the system's overall resilience against unauthorized access and identity theft among the limited number of participants. Delving into participants' nuanced perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors toward mobile app security software offers the opportunity to examine the underlying factors contributing to distrust, including apprehensions about resource utilization and skepticism regarding the effectiveness of security measures. Title: AI Smart Artificial Reef Presenter: William Tan -9th grade Category: Technology Mentor: N/A Program: Columbia University VP&S - STEP Contact: Katherine Rojas- [email protected] Coral reefs are one of the most important underwater habitats for fish and other marine animals, but overfishing and climate change have led to more than half of the world's coral reefs being lost since the 1950s. Artificial coral reef attempts have had limited success, due to broken components, biodeterioration, and chemical corrosion. Our project aims to create the world's first AI-Smart Artificial Reef (AiSAR), composed of a biodegradable 3D-printed reef with a gyroid infill and coated with crushed oyster grout mix. The rough surface will encourage coral, sea shells, and seaweeds to grow on it. The reef will be fitted with three key sensors - temperature, dissolved oxygen, and a camera that feeds data back to an Arduino Uno (motherboard), providing valuable intelligence to researchers, scientists, and fishermen to better understand and protect our oceans.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 11 | Page Title: The Impact of Different Curricula on Transitive Inference Presenter: Daiana Azimova- 12th grade Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Samuel Lippl Program: Columbia University VP&S - STEP Contact: Katherine Rojas- [email protected] Transitive inference (TI) is a classical cognitive task that tests whether subjects can infer an underlying hierarchy (e.g., A > B > ... > G) from being provided feedback only on adjacent items (e.g. A>B). Subjects therefore need to rely on the transitive rule for non-adjacent items. This ability is seen in humans and a broad range of animals, including monkeys1, rodents2, and fish3. Recent studies show that standard statistical models can mimic behavioral effects in TI4,5,6,7, but often overlook the role of sequential trial presentation. We explore how this influences model behavior in TI experiments, finding that different curricula affect training behavior but not final outcomes. Surprisingly, the effect of varying curricula on TI behavior in humans and animals hasn’t been thoroughly examined. Our model underscores the need for empirical research to test these predictions. Title: Investigating the Role of Habituation on the Production of Dopamine in the Brain Presenter: Alexa Cuvilly- 12th grade Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Rachel Frazer and Brittney Bitis Program: Columbia University VP&S - STEP Contact: Katherine Rojas- [email protected] In mice, social touch is shown to be transduced through Mrgprb4 (B4) neurons in the skin. The activation of such neurons proves to be associated with positive social touch, due to the release of dopamine, in the Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA) of the brain. Although it is certain that this correlation exists, it is obscure whether the physical and emotional state affects the release of dopamine. To determine if this effect is state-dependent, I looked at the co-expression of c-FOS and TH in the VTA, with habituated and non-habituated mice. I hypothesized that non-habituated mice would experience less co-expression, and therefore release less dopamine in the brain. Using methods such as RNAScope assay in situ Hybridization and Immunohistochemistry, we were able to obtain high resolution and precise target detection for a single gene focus and use primary and secondary antibodies (Anti Oxcytocin- Anti Rabbit, Anti c-FOS- Anti Rat) to bind specific antigens, respectively. These methods proved an effective approach because of their ability to target specific cells and staining to visually see co-expression and cell activity. Habituation has a slight but not significant effect in correlation to habituation and B4+ mice, with a probability value of 0.0727. With a larger sample size and more time, we will be able to establish whether this effect is for certain, significant. This has the potential to aid in future research about CLTMR cells in humans, the homolog to Mrgprb4 cells, and aid those who experience autism, hypersensitivity, anxiety, stress, and severe pain.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 CSTEP ORAL PRESENTATIONS

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 12 | Page Title: The Slowest Wave Presenter: Leah Barcelo- Junior Category: Biological/ Life Sciences Mentors: Constantina Theofanopoulou, Ph.D., Jose L. Contreras-Vidal, Ph.D. Program: Barnard College – CSTEP Contact: Elida Martinez-Gaynor- [email protected] Identifying the neural basis of dance performance has prompted challenges due to the limitations of neuroimaging that render natural movement in space impractical. However, researchers have developed creative methodologies to address these questions. Within this study, mobile EEG-based brain imaging (MoBI) was used to visualize the brain activity of five dancers while dancing Butoh, a Japanese avant-garde dance. Currently, this type of dance (Butoh), as well as the number of dancers (5), have not been studied thus far. In the past, the highest number of dancers’ brain activity recorded simultaneously was done with 2 dancers (Contreras-Vidal, 2022). This study constitutes a great example of what an art-science collaboration entails. For the analysis presented here, the data generated by Theofanopoulou et al. 2023 was utilized. This data includes EEG recordings during the rehearsals and theater performances of Butoh in front of an audience. The methodology presented within this study depicts the data collection and data processing processes used on the data of a single dancer, subject C. The study utilized mobile scalp EEG, EOGs, and an IMU, along with WIFI transmitters to record the brain activity of the dancer performing butoh. Data collection occurred over a series of days consisting of rehearsals, control tasks, calibrations, as well as a final performance in front of an audience, as depicted in Figure 1. The equipment consisted of the Brain Products actiCAP, Brain Amp DC amplifiers, IMU Opal sensors, and MOVE transmitters. Each data collection was recorded simultaneously and in synchrony. Thus far, the collected EEG data has been pre-selected for the first 20 minutes of the performance before denoising. The data was run through H ∞ to remove motion artifacts using the collected EOG signals as a first step in the denoising pipeline. Preliminary results from the visual analysis of the raster plots demonstrate the effectiveness of using the denoising pipeline to clean the electrode signals. The comparison of the collected impedance values in also demonstrates the effectiveness of using mobile EEG to capture the brain signals of dancers actively moving in space. Further steps for this experiment will include signal denoising for the remaining four subjects, before starting the analysis process. Overall, this work may provide greater insight into future science-art collaborations, understanding of the brain “in action and context”, and therapeutic practices, using dance as a therapeutic modality for improving wellness and motor deficits (Theofanopoulou et al., 2023)

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 13 | Page Title: Can Stem Cells Reverse the Effects of Age-related Macular Degeneration? Presenters: Kiran Kaur - Junior, Rowan Almuntaser- Junior Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Quy Nguyen Program: SUNY College of Optometry- CSTEP Contact: Dr. Deborah Wang- [email protected] Age-related Macular Degeneration is a disease that affects the macula, which is responsible for an individual's central vision, leading to vision loss. There are two different types of AMD- wet and dry. In wet AMD, abnormal blood vessels form in the eye, which end up leaking out proteins and lipids, causing severe eye damage in which they see images with a black hole in the center. Dry AMD is more common in the US and less severe, in which the patient sees more fogginess and distortion. AMD has several causing factors including: UV rays. smoking, poor diet, genetics, and age. However, using sunglasses, incorporating a healthy diet and exercise, and not smoking are all ways someone can prevent this unfortunate discase. The advanced form of AMD, geographic atrophy, is an irreversible disease in which the RPE is damaged, losing all its functions within the eye. These functions include recycling photoreceptors, providing ions and nutrients, and observing light. Current trials testing the use of stem cells on AMD suggest a potential for AMD to be treated and reversed. Through thorough research of articles and data, focusing on the trials in London; it aims to reverse damaged RPE caused by wet AMD with stem cells. After further research and with just a few results. improvements in the eyes of two AMD patients treated with stem cells were successful. As research on this treatment develops through the upcoming years, it suggests that stem cells will play a huge role in reducing AMD. Title: Investigating Mancozeb Through Proteomics and the Cell Cycle in PC12 Cells Presenters: Patricia St. Fleur- Junior, Ryan-Alexa Liquori- Senior Category: Biological/ Life Sciences Mentor: Shu-Yuan Cheng Program: CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice-CSTEP Contact: Edgardo Sanabria-Valentin- [email protected] Association between manganese overexposure and various neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease has been suggested. Mancozeb (MZ) is a manganese-containing dithiocarbamate fungicide used to control various crop diseases such as the infamous potato blight. However, recent studies have linked these fungicides to neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and have raised major toxicological concerns. Studies showed that MZ can potentiate parkinsonian toxicant MPP+ toxicity in PC12 cells. In order to reveal the comprehensive neurotoxicity profile of mancozeb, this study used a quantitative high throughput protein array with 167 antibodies to reveal neurotoxic protein phosphorylation profiles in PC12 cells treated with various concentrations of MZ for 24 hours. The proteomic results analyzed by QIAGEN Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) software. The IPA results showed that there were changes to signaling pathways that were being observed- specifically the acetylcholine and neuroinflammation pathways. With each of the different concentrations of MZ being tested (1 uM, 5 uM, and 50 uM), the main difference was within the 50uM of the neuroinflammation pathway, where the NMDA receptor was activated instead of inhibited. Cell cycle regulation by MZ was also studied by staining with FxCycle™ PI/RNase Staining Solution and analyzed by Attune NxT Flow Cytometer. The results showed

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 14 | Page that the cell cycle arrest patterns varied depending on the concentration of Mancozeb treated on the PC12 cells. The cell cycle distribution pattern shifted to the G0/G1 phase from 45% to 72% as the concentration of Mancozeb increased from 0uM to 50uM. Title: INEEDTOKNOW: An Assessment of the Invasive Spotted Lanternfly in New York City Using Community Science Data Presenter: Sheldon Garrick II – Sophomore Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Max Falkenberg Program: Fordham University- CSTEP Contact: Carolina Salane- [email protected] The invasive spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) has wreaked havoc on North American ecosystems since its arrival in 2014, particularly impacting urban parks crucial for maintaining green spaces in cities. To aid in mitigation efforts, our study focused on assessing L. delicatula population density in the Mitsubishi Riverwalk, an urban park adjacent to the Bronx Zoo. We hypothesized a correlation between higher population density and healthier trees. Surveying 25 trees across 12 species and three health levels, we counted L. delicatula specimens and evaluated tree health. Bycatch insects in traps were also quantified for exploratory purposes, revealing a substantial presence of Diptera species. Analysis showed nearly equal L. delicatula density across trees of different health levels, yet certain tree species harbored significantly higher densities. Additionally, observations from the public science platform iNaturalist, spanning May to November from 2020 to 2023, indicated a seasonal pattern with fewer sightings in May and June followed by a surge in summer months. Literature reviews suggested the abundance of bycatch, particularly Diptera species, might result from the release of methyl eugenol, a chemical compound emitted when pest insects feed on trees. Our findings provide valuable insights for managing L. delicatula populations in urban parks, highlighting the need for targeted interventions based on tree species composition and seasonal dynamics. Title: The Impact of Cardiac Dysfunction on the Severity of Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Infants with Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy Presenter: Guadalupe Ortega- Junior Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Rossana Romero Orozco Program: Fordham University- CSTEP Contact: Carolina Salane- [email protected] Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) in infants leads to multiorgan damage, including cardiac injury. Recent findings suggest a correlation between cardiac dysfunction and adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in HIE infants. This study aimed to investigate this correlation. A retrospective review of infants with moderate-severe HIE, echocardiograms, and MRIs within the first ten days of life, along with neurodevelopmental testing within two years, was conducted. Cardiac dysfunction was defined clinically by hourly systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressures trends over time, and by echocardiogram using Fractional Area Change (FAC) and Left Ventricular Fractional Shortening (LVFS) as RV and LV

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 15 | Page systolic dysfunction surrogate markers, respectively. Analysis of the infants’ echocardiograms was performed according to a standardized protocol by the pediatric cardiology team, who was blinded to the patients’ records. Low scores on Neurodevelopmental testing, presence of seizures, and abnormal MRI were considered adverse neurological outcomes. Statistical analysis performed included ANOVA test and Chi-square. Of the 39 infants analyzed, those with neurodevelopmental delays exhibited significantly higher mean arterial and diastolic pressures in the first five days of life. However, no significant difference was observed in the presence of seizures or MRI abnormalities between cardiac dysfunction and non-cardiac dysfunction groups. Thus, cardiac dysfunction does not appear to drive neurological impairment in moderate-severe HIE infants. However, elevated blood pressures in the neonatal period may be associated with neurodevelopmental delays. Early identification and intervention of cardiac abnormalities may improve long-term outcomes in HIE patients. Title: Epigenetic deregulation of miRNAs laters BRCA1 expression in breast cancer Presenter: Jaxon Tartaglia- Senior Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Lissette Delgado-Cruzata, PhD, MPH Program: CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice- CSTEP Contact: Edgardo Sanabria-Valentin- [email protected] BRCA1 is a tumor suppressor gene that plays an important role in DNA repair and replication, regulating double strand break repair through homologous recombination. Loss of functional BRCA1, which is highly associated with breast cancer, activates error-prone repair pathways leading to mutations which cause cells to become cancerous. In addition to mutations, dysregulation of BRCA1 occurs through epigenetics (methylation of CpG islands in the promoter region, preventing transcription) and through the action of microRNA (miRNA). To explore the epigenetic regulation of BRCA1 we induced the loss of DNA methylation by treating breast cancer cells with 5-aza-cytidine or with DNMT1 siRNA, then determined BRCA1 expression using RT-PCR and determined levels of miRNAs using the Human miRNA CodeSet from NanoString. Measurements of DNA methylation in the promoter of BRCA1 suggest loss of DNA methylation leading to an increase of expression of BRCA1. DNA methylation levels showed no change after exposure to 5-aza-cytidine or DNMT1 siRNA. These results suggest changes in expression of BRCA1 are not directly dependent on loss of DNA methylation in its promoter region. A total of 93 miRNAs are predicted to regulate BRCA1 using the informatic prediction software miRDB and miRTarbase. Of these, 10 miRNAs were deregulated in response to 5-aza-cytidine and DNMT1 siRNA treatment. Eight were underexpressed and could be potential downregulators of BRCA1 expression in these cells. This work can aid us in better understanding the epigenetic mechanisms regulating BRCA1, one of the most common molecular targets in this disease.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 16 | Page Title: Phishing in High Tide Presenter: Gladys Hughes- Junior Category: Technology Mentor: Professor Alex Gordon Program: CUNY Hostos Community College - CSTEP/Oral Contact: Briseida Cortez-Rodriguez- [email protected] Living in a world where technology has catapulted from being a simple telegraph courier to emails, text messages and voicemails has opened doors to high-tech criminal activities by malicious social engineers, whose goal is to devastate lives through tactics called cyberattacks. Social engineers have brought forth a wave of change in society by targeting victims through a diabolical tool called Phishing, one of the most dangerous cyberattacks, which creates data breaches to steal identities, passwords and financial information through personal and organizational attacks. Phishing has further evolved into smishing and vishing, creating a broader network of attacks. The 2023 IC3 FBI Crime Report states that in the United States, there was a loss of over 12.5 billion dollars and daily reports of over 2,412 complaints per day; the report also details that in New York, there were 26,948 victims of internet crimes with a loss of $749,955,480. The report further states that the victims of Phishing/Spoofing were 298,878 , making it one of the top criminal activities(Langan, 2024). As a stem major, learning the operation of a social engineer equips us to adequately safeguard database systems in the corporate world and our personal lives. Through research, we collected data from multiple sources to better understand social engineering, what Phishing is, its impact on our neighborhood and our lives, and how to build a wall of defense against an attack. Title: Understanding the role educational attainment in triple negative breast cancer immunotherapy decision-making in Black and Hispanic women: A qualitative analysis Presenter: Samantha Cajamarca- Senior Category: Social Sciences Mentor: Devika Jutagir Program Institution: CUNY The City College of New York- CSTEP Contact: Nkem [email protected] Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive breast cancer subtype distinguished by high recurrence rate, poor prognosis, and lack of targeted treatments. Relative to non-Hispanic white (NHW) women, TNBC incidence is three times higher for Black and 22% higher for Hispanic women. However, there are lower rates of immunotherapy use among Black and Hispanic versus NHW patients. This study explored how education may play a role in TNBC immunotherapy decision-making among Black and Hispanic women. From April 2022 and July 2023, 35 TNBC patients, self-identified as Black or Hispanic, aged 18-85, with stage II-IV TNBC, treated in the NYC metropolitan area, and eligible for immunotherapy, participated in 30-minute semi-structured interviews. A team of three coders conducted a rapid qualitative analysis. Themes were compared between low versus high education, and between Hispanic ethnicity versus non-Hispanic Black race. Preliminary analysis indicated 9 themes spanning race, ethnicity, and education. One theme specific to patients with high education was taking source credibility into account when conducting independent research about treatment options. Three

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 17 | Page themes specific to patients with low education were: 1) Placing trust in their oncologist due to religious faith; 2) Decisions were influenced by television advertisements about immunotherapy; and 3) Feeling lack of choice about treatment. Themes did not differ based on race or ethnicity. Results highlight the role of education in TNBC immunotherapy decision-making among Black and Hispanic women. Future empirical studies can develop and test interventions to address specific educational needs to empower individuals to make well-informed decisions about TNBC treatment. Title: Monoclonal Antibodies Targeting Cholinergic Primary Cilia in the Striatum Unveil Insights into Parkinson's Disease Pathology Presenter: Jordan Nacimba-Senior Biological/Life Sciences Mentors: Jonathan Levitt, Andreas Kottmann Program: CUNY The City College of New York- CSTEP Contact: Nkem [email protected] Parkinson's disease (PD) poses a significant challenge to the aging population, particularly males, with its progressive neurodegenerative effects (Sairam Ramesh et. al, 2023). While dopaminergic neuron loss in the substantia nigra is a hallmark of PD, emerging evidence suggests the involvement of other brain regions, including the striatum (Kai Yang et. al, 2023). Mutations in the LRRK2 gene, associated with familial and sporadic PD, have been linked to disruptions in primary cilia formation, impacting neuronal signaling pathways (Herschel S Dhekne et al, 2018) Primary cilia, acting as cellular antennae, play pivotal roles in signal transduction within the central nervous system (Ji E. Lee and Joseph G. Gleeson, 2014). Interestingly, cholinergic neurons in the striatum exhibit decreased ciliation in PD-associated models, indicating potential implications for neurotransmission regulation. Understanding the role of primary cilia in cholinergic neurons offers insights into cortical synapse dynamics and PD pathology. In this project, we aimed to produce monoclonal antibodies (MABs) targeting cholinergic primary cilia in the striatum. Through hybridoma cell culture and antibody purification, a specific MAB, N295B/66, was obtained. Initial immunohistochemistry trials aimed to optimize MAB concentration for efficient staining of cholinergic primary cilia. Subsequent experiments using commercially available MABs were additionally proposed. Future studies will investigate the differential expression of neurotrophin receptors in cholinergic primary cilia within distinct striatal regions. Finally, comparisons between wildtype and Parkinson's mice models will elucidate the impact of specific mutations on ciliary morphology and function.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 18 | Page Title: Documented ecologically driven differences in salamander morphology with live and museum specimens Presenter: Abigail Diaz-Oblitas Esquivel- Sophomore Category: Biological/ Life Sciences Mentor: Gerardo Carfagno Program: Manhattan College – CSTEP Contact: Costin Thampikutty- [email protected] Body size in animals is an essential factor in their lives across generations. Biologists consider body size and other morphological characteristics when researching amphibians to catch any variations between organisms. Changes in morphology may lead them to new ideas and clues as to how they evolve. We documented ecologically driven differences in the red-back salamander Plethodon Cinereous head morphology. Head morphology is significant because these salamanders directly interact with their environment with their head, primarily for food. We compared salamanders of this species from the years 1967 and 2023 while observing climate and environment variability. I narrowed it down to groups of salamanders from 1967 and 2023 from the Bronx, NY. We found that the variation in head size was significant. The red-back salamanders from 1967 had larger heads than those from 2023. Our analyses and results conclude that food items may have gotten small, possibly selecting for smaller heads.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 CSTEP POSTER PRESENTATIONS

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 19 | Page Title: Contribution of the ventral subiculum to age- and sex-related differences in hormonal stress reactivity Presenter: Juliet Ortiz – Senior Category: Biological/ Life Sciences Mentor: Dr. Russell Romeo Program: Barnard College- CSTEP Contact: Elida Martinez-Gaynor- [email protected] The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is the primary mediator of the hormonal stress response. As stress-induced hormone levels rise to enable an individual to cope with the stressor, negative feedback is engaged to reduce further release of stress-related hormones. Lesion studies in rats reveal that the ventral subiculum (vSUB), a major hippocampal output, is involved in the negative feedback of the HPA axis. Although it is known that pubertal development is marked by significant changes in HPA stress-induced hormonal reactivity, such that prepubertal animals display a significantly prolonged hormonal stress response compared to adults, the role of the vSUB in age- and sex- related differences in hormonal stress reactivity has yet to be investigated. Thus, to bridge this gap in our understanding, this study will utilize FOS immunohistochemistry to examine metabolically active cells to determine whether there is any differential stress-induced activation in the vSUB of prepubertal and adult male and female rats. Title: Determination of the Chemical Composition and Cytotoxicity of e-Cigarette Aerosols Presenter: Aliesha Hetnarine- Junior Category: Physical Sciences Mentor: Yi He Program: CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice- CSTEP Contact: Edgardo Sanabria-Valentin- [email protected] E-cigarettes generate aerosols composed of fine droplets of liquid and gas phases of the vaporized eliquid. It is challenging to analyze the chemical profiles of the aerosols, but doing so would allow us to better understand the properties and potential toxicity of the aerosols. In this study, we aim to develop a fast and accurate analytical method to determine the chemical composition, and especially flavorants, in e-cigarette aerosols. Such a method is crucial for investigation of the potential health impact and toxicity of the e-liquid aerosols. To achieve this goal, nicotine and menthol, the major toxic components in e-liquid, and seventeen e-cigarette flavorants standards were analyzed using Gas ChromatographyMass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Characteristic information such as retention time and mass spectrum were obtained. A linear calibration curve was generated for each compound. Commercial e-cigarettes were then vaped through an e-smoking machine and the aerosols were collected by the trapping method and analyzed by GC-MS. Nicotine, menthol and flavorants in the e-cigarette aerosols were determined and quantified with comparison of the standard chromatogram and mass spectrum. This method will be used to aid in supporting the findings of e-cigarette aerosol’s potential toxicity.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 20 | Page Title: Determining the role of TkmA extracellular domain in biofilm formation Presenter: Samantha Daiz- Junior Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Dr. Sarah Wacker Program Institution: Manhattan College- CSTEP Contact: Costin Thampikutty- [email protected] Biofilms are structural microbial communities created by bacteria that produce an extracellular matrix. This matrix protects the cells as well as allowing them to attach to and communicate with nearby cells. Biofilms can cause various infections which bring harm to humans; however, biofilms can also have beneficial roles. For example, the bacteria in biofilms can break down organic matter and recycle these nutrients which greatly benefits our ecosystem. I am studying biofilm formation in the model organism Bacillus subtilis. In this organism PtkA and EpsB are tyrosine kinases that promote biofilm formation. The activity of each of these kinases are regulated by their own modulator protein called TkmA and EpsA, respectively. Experiments have shown that EpsA binds to EpsB to activate kinase activity for biofilm formation, but little is known about TkmA. Open questions include whether TkmA is a modulator that replaces EpsA or if it has its own role in biofilm formation. To characterize the role of TkmA in biofilm formation, I transduced several different strains of TkmA and EpsA bacteria and examined them on different biofilm-promoting media. Afterwards, I compared each strain to see if any biofilms had formed and checked what each strain contained so I could distinguish whether or not the modulator proteins had a significant role in biofilm formation. While more research is needed, these results provide insight on the role of tyrosine kinases in biofilm formation. Title: Preparation of Enantioenriched Acylcarbastannatranes and Thioesters as Acyl electrophiles for Stereospecific Cross-Coupling Reactions Presenter: Tanvin Farjana- Senior Category: Physical Sciences Mentor: Mark Biscoe Program Institution: CUNY The City College of New York- CSTEP Contact: Nkem [email protected] The advancement of transition metal-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions has significantly impacted the approach to synthesizing complex organic molecules. Numerous methods now exist for forming C(sp2)- C(sp2) bonds, with recent efforts focused on utilizing C(sp3) electrophiles and nucleophiles. However, incorporating secondary and tertiary alkyl nucleophiles into cross-coupling reactions has been challenging due to the tendency of these alkyl groups to undergo isomerization during the reaction. In this study, we present a breakthrough in the field—a universal Pd-catalyzed process for stereoretentive cross-coupling of secondary acyl azastannatrane nucleophiles with aryl chlorides, bromides, iodides, and triflates. This reaction demonstrates excellent tolerance towards coupling partners with diverse electronic characteristics. Notably, the process exhibits minimal isomerization of the secondary acyl nucleophile and retains the absolute configuration. This pioneering method represents a significant milestone as it is the first general approach to effectively employ secondary acyl reagents in crosscoupling reactions. The goal of this study is to expand the utility of Pd-catalyzed stereospecific Stille

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 21 | Page cross-coupling reactions developed in the Biscoe lab, while gaining laboratory skills necessary for future extensions of this chemistry. The experiments focused on preparation of cross-coupling products via a stereoretentive reaction mechanism. Another focus of this study is exploring the possibility of using thioesters as acyl electrophiles in stereospecific cross-coupling reactions because thioesters are more stable and more easily handled than their corresponding acid chlorides. Title: Methotrexate: an antirheumatic drug impacted by recent US anti-abortion legislature Presenter: Maisha Ahmed- Senior Category: Human Services & Technology Mentor: Lissette Delgado-Cruzata, PhD, MPH Program: CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice- CSTEP Contact: Edgardo Sanabria-Valentin- [email protected] After the US Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe vs Wade in June 2022 some US states restricted access to abortions by criminalizing providers, regulating abortion procedures, and prohibiting abortive medications. The impact of these legislations goes beyond abortion, reducing access to drugs used to treat rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. These disorders affect the joints, bones, muscles, and connective tissues in the body resulting in pain, swelling, and deformities. A common drug to treat these disorders is methotrexate. Studies show that methotrexate can induce abortions, which puts it under the abortive medications umbrella. Data suggests that abortion restrictions are impacting methotrexate access. We conducted a mixed methods study using social media (SoMe) to understand the experiences of people with rheumatic diseases after the abortion ban. We performed two data collection trials on the first anniversary of the overturn for six weeks using key terms “methotrexate” and “methotrexate and abortion”. We retrieved X (formerly Twitter) posts using Keyhole software. We then conducted a content analysis of the posts using Leximancer software, which revealed a high association between methotrexate and abortion-related topics through concept mapping. Our results highlight that abortion legislation has endangered access to this drug, posing a significant threat to the health of people with rheumatic disorders, especially for women of reproductive age as they are likely to lose access to their treatment due to scrutiny from abortion restrictions and enforcers.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 22 | Page Title: Analysis of a Toothache Reliever Product Presenter: Kayla Lucas- senior Category: Physical Sciences Mentor: Elmer-Rico E. Mojica Program Institution: Pace University- CSTEP Contact: Dr. Elmer-Rico E. Mojica- [email protected] Eugenol is a naturally occurring phenolic compound found in various essential oils, most notably in clove oil. With its distinctive spicy, clove-like aroma, eugenol has been widely utilized for its diverse range of applications. A toothache reliever product containing eugenol was analyzed by gas chromatographic mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method to determine other compounds present. Infrared (IR) analysis was also performed to identify functional group that may be responsible for the analgesic property of eugenol. The experimental data was compared with theoretical data obtained from computation calculation. Simultaneously, theoretical calculations utilizing advanced quantum mechanical methods are applied to predict these properties. Through a meticulous comparison between theoretical and experimental absorbance spectra, this study offers valuable insights into the agreement and discrepancies between theoretical models and empirical observations. The findings contribute to refining our comprehension of eugenol's molecular properties and advance the application of absorbance spectroscopy in similar studies, highlighting its utility in characterizing complex molecular structures. Title: Characterization of Tris(6-bromo-2-pyridylmethyl)amine using Crystallographic and Spectroscopic Techniques Presenter: Trinit'y Mitchell- Junior Category: Physical Sciences Mentor: Professor Rita K. Upmacis Program: Pace University -CSTEP Contact: Dr. Elmer-Rico E. Mojica- [email protected] The compound of tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine (TPA) acts as a tripod ligand and forms coordination compounds with metals, such as copper, iron and zinc. Coordination compounds with copper have been used extensively in the field of bioinorganic chemistry as models for reaction centers in complex enzymes, such as those involved in oxygen activation. Another field in which such complexes are actively used is catalysis. To this end, it has been found that certain metal derivatives of TPA are efficient catalysts in reactions that include (i) alkene epoxidation (to make substances such as common household epoxy resins, commercial plasticizers, and precursors to coatings) and (ii) cycloalkane hydroxylation by hydrogen peroxide (used in, for example, bleaching processes). In this research study, a TPA derivative containing bromine, known as tris(6-bromo-2-pyridylmethyl)amine (TPABr3), was employed. The crystal structure of the TPABr3 ligand has not previously appeared in the literature. For this reason, we attempted to grow crystals of TPABr3 and to collect X-ray diffraction data. The results from these studies as well those employing spectroscopic techniques to further characterize TPABr3 will be discussed.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 23 | Page Title: Exploring the Health Benefits of Ready-to-Drink Teas Presenter: Daphne Hernandez- Senior Category: Physical Sciences Mentor: Elmer-Rico Mojica Program: Pace University- CSTEP Contact: Dr. Elmer-Rico E. Mojica- [email protected] The goal of this study was to analyze and compare the antioxidant activity of ready-to-drink beverages including Snapple, Arizona, and Pure Leaf tea. The tea with the highest average total antioxidant activity based on the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS (2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6- sulphonic acid) assay was Pure Leaf followed by AriZona, then Snapple. The highest average total phenolic content was found in Pure Leaf followed by Snapple then AriZona. Pure Leaf was also found to have the highest phenolic and flavonoid content based on the Folin-Ciocalteu(F-C) and aluminum chloride colorimetric assay, respectively. The findings reveal that Pure Leaf had the highest average total in both antioxidant activity and phenolic and flavonoid content which is found to be beneficial in counteracting oxidative stress. Title: Investigating Academic Pressure and Motivation within Immigrant Families: A YouthLed Participatory Action Research Project Presenter: Violeta Rosario- senior Category: Social Sciences Mentor: Lindsay T. Hoyt Program: Fordham University- CSTEP Contact: Carolina Salane- [email protected] Previous research has highlighted immigrant children’s heightened gratitude and indebtedness for parental support through sacrifice (Turjanmaa & Jasinskaja-Lahti, 2019). Given feelings of gratitude and indebtedness, one may make academic and career decisions around the goal of repaying for parental sacrifice. Ensuring one completes this goal can be related to feelings of educational pressure. This study aimed to qualitatively explore academic pressure and motivation, and its potential relationship to familial obligations. Students from Fordham University and All Hallows (AH) High School, an all-boys school, partnered for a Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) project. YPAR is an innovative approach involving youth in research examining their communities to promote positive youth development (YPAR Hub, UC Berkley). Co-investigators created a focus group script with questions exploring students’ academic motivation, expectations, and pressures. The study included 2 focus groups (n = 10). Participants needed to have at least one parent born outside the United States. 2-3 coinvestigators facilitated focus groups. Thematic analysis revealed students experienced high academic pressure from themselves and their parents despite parental unfamiliarity with the American education system. Students viewed school as a stepping stone to a successful career that could help ultimately provide for their families, giving context for higher pressure and motivation to succeed academically. These findings have important implications for ensuring students are receiving proper academic support. As part of YPAR’s aims, these findings informed a Mental Health Day at AH High School, an event designed to destigmatize mental health and promote an understanding of identity among the student body.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 24 | Page Title: BDNF Met Prodomain Changes BDNF Signaling Presenter: Perla Encarnacion -Junior Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Johana Giza Program: CUNY The City College of New York -CSTEP Contact: Nkem [email protected] In contrast to brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which enhances the spine head diameter, its prodomain containing Val66Met polymorphism has been shown to shrink it. Both BDNF and prodomain can be found separately or can recombine to create the complex. Therefore, we decided to examine the effect of these two molecules bound together. We found that when Met prodomain creates the complex with BDNF, its effect switches from enlargement and reduction of the spine size. We hypothesized that this switch is caused by signaling modification. In fact, we also observe the lack of classical TrkB internalization mediated by BDNF. These findings suggest the reduction of BDNF signaling regulated by the presence of the Met prodomain, which may underlie the mechanism responsible for the susceptibility of Met polymorphism carriers to developing neuropsychiatric disorders including Alzheimer’s disease and PTSD. Unlike BDNF, which enlarges spine head diameter, its Val66Met prodomain, when combined, shrinks it. Studying this complex, we observed a switch from enlargement to reduction in spine size, possibly due to signaling modification. The absence of classical TrkB internalization by BDNF further supports reduced signaling. These findings imply that the Met prodomain's presence may contribute to susceptibility to neuropsychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease and PTSD, by regulating BDNF signaling in Met polymorphism carriers. Title: The Interactions of DnaB Helicase and λP (BP) with Chaperone Proteins DnaJ and DnaK Presenters: Jefferson Estrada- Senior, Aya Sara Elwassif- Senior Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: David Jeruzalmi Program: CUNY The City College of New York -CSTEP Contact: Nkem [email protected] In bacterial replication where DNA is circular, three steps occur: initiation, elongation, and termination. During the initiation step, initiator proteins bind to the origin of replication, creating two replication forks where helicase unwinds the DNA strands. In the elongation stage, DNA polymerase III synthesizes new DNA strands in the 5’ to 3’ direction. Finally, when the entire circular DNA molecule is copied, the two replication forks meet at the termination site on the opposite side of the origin, separating two complete circular DNA molecules. Our project aims to study the initiation mechanism of DNA replication in Bacteriophage λ, a virus that infects Escherichia coli. Specifically, we seek to understand the opening and closing mechanism of DnaB helicase with the λP loader attached (BP). In the existing literature, chaperone proteins DnaJ and DnaK contribute to the detachment of λP from DnaB. However, the complex nature of these interactions is not clearly defined. In this experiment, we perform a Ni-NTA affinity pulldown binding assay, to obtain complex formations between BP and chaperone proteins. After forming the complex, we employed mass photometry to determine its stoichiometry and characterize interactions.  Our findings show that when a complex forms with BP-DnaJ-DnaK, the LP loader begins detaching from the complex when Oriλ-93-135 (RM55) is omitted but remains in tacked when RM55 is present.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 25 | Page Title: Investigating the Electrochemical Properties of New Organic Electrode Materials for Rechargeable Aluminum-Organic Batteries Presenter: Blerina Sehitaj- Sophomore Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Robert J. Messinger Program: CUNY Hostos Community College - CSTEP Contact: Reginald Dorcely- [email protected] Sustainable energy storage technologies made from earth-abundant materials are required to support the budding need for electronic devices. We have coupled aluminum, a high theoretical capacity, safe, and earth-abundant metal anode to cathodes designed from organic materials that are renewable and tunable at a molecular level. Organic electrode store energy through a multielectron transfer process without bond cleavage, which can enhance their cyclability. However, organic electrodes face challenges like low voltages and dissolution in the electrolyte, which affects their energy density and cycle life. Here, we synthesized the organic molecules oxygen-bridged tetrakislawsone (OBTKL) and dicyanoquinoneimine (DCB) and tested their electrochemical feasibility in aluminum-organic batteries for the first time. Chloroaluminate ionic liquid electrolytes were used, which enable the reversible electrodeposition of aluminum metal at room temperature. DCB achieves a higher discharge voltage compared to the benchmark organic molecule, anthraquinone, achieving its first discharge voltage plateau over 2 V vs Al/Al(III). Meanwhile, OBTKL demonstrates innate insolubility in the ionic liquid electrolyte. We observed that the specific capacity of the cells is significantly influenced by the areal mass loading, which we hypothesized to be due to ion mass transport limitations. The effects of current density and cut-off voltages were studied to see how they vary electrochemical performance. Additionally, we systematically optimized cell performance by varying resting periods before cycling and varying electrolyte volume. The results suggest that sufficiently wetting the cell by using a sufficient resting time improves the specific capacity and cycling stability of the organic electrodes. Title: ENSO Influence on Northeastern US Weather and Climate: Unraveling the Impacts of Transition Periods Presenter: Yuren Rangel- Senior Category: Physical Sciences Mentor: James F. Booth Program: CUNY The City College of New York- CSTEP Contact: Nkem Stanley-Mbamelu- [email protected] The El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is a climatic phenomenon of global significance that has farreaching impacts across the world. This research project delves into the complex relationship between ENSO phases and the variability of weather trends in the Northeastern United States. This study places a particular emphasis on the impact of transitioning in and out of ENSO phases on Northeastern US weather variability. Employing the Nino 3.4 index data from NOAA's Extended Reconstructed Sea Surface Temperature version 5 (ERSST.v5), we categorize various ENSO states, including El Niño (EN) and La Niña (LN), alongside their transitional periods. The investigation extends to an analysis of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) ERA5 (Copernicus Climate Change Service 2017) reanalysis weather data, focusing on the Northeastern United States. Through composite

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 26 | Page analysis, the study seeks to identify and quantify potential teleconnections between ENSO regimes and regional weather anomalies, particularly temperature variations. The findings reveal notable temperature anomalies during the transition from EN to LN, accentuating the importance of ENSO transition periods in influencing weather patterns. This work aims to enhance the understanding of ENSO's influence on the Northeastern US and to inform climate forecasting and adaptation strategies. This project also provides a novel analysis of how transition periods between ENSO regimes impact regional variability. Title: Exploring Moss Biodiversity: A Study of Randall’s Island Presenters: Alexis Ayala – 1st year, Meriem Bouteldja Izzy Holmes 1st year Category: Biological/Life Sciences Mentor: Dr. Raffaella Diotti Program: CUNY Bronx Community College- CSTEP Contact: Seher Atamturktur- [email protected] Mosses are a diverse plant group that play a crucial role in contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem sustainability. Given their sensitivity to environmental factors, mosses serve as invaluable indicators of environmental health. Our research is focused on exploring moss biodiversity on Randall’s Island, which faces significant impacts from human activities such as bridge traffic and pollution. Notably, one area had been used as a dumping site by a construction company. To conduct our study, we’ve chosen sample locations including the Freshwater Wetlands, Hell Gate Pathway, and the Harlem River pathway. We will analyze moss specimens for morphological variations and conduct DNA barcoding to identify different species. Expected differences in species composition in different locations will reflect variations in physical environment and pollutant levels, informing future conservation efforts. Title: Hydrogenation of Sb2Te3 and (Sb2Te3)1-x (MnSb2Te4)x Thin Films Presenter: Amy Lopez Navarro-Junior Category: Technology Mentor: Maria C. Tamargo Program: CUNY The City College of New York - CSTEP Contact: Nkem [email protected] Topological Insulators (TIs), such as Sb2Te3, are a family of materials having distinct, highly conducting metallic surface states and an insulating bulk region. They are of interest for quantum computers and thermoelectric devices, and they also serve as test beds for new physics such as Majorana fermions. The surface states are gapless and the electrons in these states have spin-momentum locking which constrain the spin perpendicular to its momentum, giving them unique features. When magnetic impurities are introduced, a gap in the surface states emerges, and the system transforms into a magnetic topological insulator. Previously, it was shown that the electronic and magnetic properties of the 3D topological insulators could be changed, if they are van der Waals materials, by a process known as hydrogenation.This process, the hydrogen ions intercalate into the van der Waals gap are expected to reduce the bulk doping which changes the position of the Fermi level. The unique features of TI surface states may be examined by changing the Fermi level of the material. For hydrogenation, the samples are

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 27 | Page dipped in 0.5 M solution of hydrochloric acid for different amounts of time, and Hall measurements are used to measure the electrical/magnetic properties. MBE, a high vacuum deposition technique was used to grow the TI materials, Sb2Te3 and MnSb2Te4. For characterization, Hall effect focuses on the electrical and magnetic properties of the material before and after hydrogenation. Here we demonstrate that, the hydrogenation is more effective for the thinner samples compared to the thicker ones. Title: Optical Properties of CrSbr Presenter: Dicken Martinez Rivadeneira- Sophomore Category: Physical Sciences Mentor: Vinod Menon Program: CUNY City College of New York- CSTEP Contact: Nkem [email protected] CrSBr is a 2D material with intriguing electronic, magnetic and optical properties that are of importance both for fundamental and technological applications. This material is an antiferromagnet (AFM), meaning that the total electron spin of the whole system is canceled. Furthermore, it is also classified as a semiconductor. As a consequence of these two properties, the material hosts both electronic excitations called excitons and spin waves called magnons. CrSBr is stable in air meaning that it doesn’t react with the atmosphere and hence does not disintegrate easily. This feature makes it easy to handle the material. For the present study we are investigating a multi-layer stacking of CrSBR with other materials. Specifically, we will create a stack order of (Gr - Graphene, hBN- Hexagonal boron nitride, SiO2 - Silicon dioxide, Si - Silicon), in which the material in study (CrSBr) will have a bilayer thickness. The main objective of this research is to investigate previous hypothesis of this set of materials called A-type antiferromagnetic, which present alterations when an electric field is induced on them, changing its antiferromagnetic nature to ferromagnetic. There are theoretical predictions that CrSBr can also follow this pattern. Our main objective is to apply a controlled voltage through a bilayer CrSBr stack, and to measure the photoluminescence, an optical property, as a function of the electric field. In the case of results in line with the theoretical predictions, the outcome can open new fields of investigation and diverse applications, such as inside hard drives or electronic devices. Title: Classification of Quivers and Seiberg dualities with the use of programming Presenter: Raymond Saldana- Sophomore Category: Physical Sciences & Technology Mentor: Sebastian Franco Program: CUNY The City College of New York - CSTEP Contact: Nkem [email protected] Seiberg dualities emerge as a fascinating phenomenon in the strong coupling regime of certain supersymmetric quantum field theories by extension, in string theory. Classifying such dualities are very useful techniques, as there's an interesting connection between quantum field theory and string theory that come about in such dualities. Namely the Seiberg duality where it's a particular type of strong-weak coupling duality. Before classifying these dualities we must classify the quivers associated with them.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 28 | Page Doing so we must employ quiver gauge theory which uses quivers to represent the exchange of quantum fields and gauge groups that serve as representation of the interaction between particles and fundamental forces in string theory. Quivers are representative diagrams that comes in the form of a combinatorial graph which contains very useful information. Due to the natural combinatorial structure of our quivers, we're enabled to encode information about our quivers into a matrix using a computer program. This computer code essentially gave us a matrix that served as a new representation of the quiver, which allows us to perform more systematic operations such as dualization in our quivers. Dualization is key as it reveals the symmetric nature of our quiver and adds more properties into the mix such as the mesons, which result from performing Seiberg dualities on quivers. This interesting property alongside our programming can provide a more widespread classification of our quivers and the Seiberg dualities associated with them. Title: Living Shorelines in Urban Settings: Promoting Ecological Restoration and Community Well-being Presenters: Lesly Munoz- Sophomore, Kenneth Arguedas- Senior Category: Physical Sciences Mentor: Dr. Shakila Merchant Program: CUNY The City College of New York -CSTEP Contact: Nkem Stanley-Mbamelu- [email protected] The New York City coastline has lost over half of its tidelands since colonial times due to urban development, erosion, and sea level rise. To provide more pragmatic solutions to coastal protection, this research delves into the advantages of living and coastal shorelines as a resilient alternative to traditional gray infrastructure, unveiling their potential in safeguarding our shores and nurturing thriving ecosystems and habitats for marine life. Living shorelines offer nature-based coastal protection in floodprone areas and stand out from seawalls, floodwalls, and riprap by providing valuable wildlife habitat, sequestering blue carbon, and enhancing human well-being. Monitoring living shorelines is vital to understand their impact on communities, safeguard coastal ecosystems, and foster resilient coastal zones. This study investigates the geomorphological features, soil composition, and flora dynamics of estuarine ecosystems in New York City (NYC). The research provides valuable insights for sustainable urban planning, infrastructure development, and environmental preservation efforts among communities that are most vulnerable to flooding and storm surge damage. Title: Purification of S. aureus Cap proteins to study their dynamics and interactions Presenter: Darren Zheng- Senior Category: Biological Sciences Mentor: Ranajeet Ghose Program: CUNY The City College of New York - CSTEP Contact: Nkem [email protected] The virulence of gram-positive such as Staphylococcus Aureus is attributed to the capsular polysaccharides (CP) on their peptidoglycan layer. In S. aureus, CapB, the bacterial tyrosine (BY) kinase, is activated by the transmembrane activator CapA and dephosphorylated by the protein-tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) CapC to regulate its autophosphorylation and the phosphorylation state of endogenous proteins. There are two variants of CapA, B, and C: CapA1/A2, CapB1/B2, and CapC1/C2.

BRONX-MANHATTAN REGION RESEARCH EXPO 2024 29 | Page While CapB2 is activated better by CapA1 than CapA2, CapB1 is void of any kinase activity despite sharing sequence homology around their catalytic sites. The overall goal is to use solution-state NMR and ITC to study the dynamics and interaction, respectively, between the CapAB and CapC1 variants to see if the interaction seen between gram-negative E. coli BY kinase Wzc and LMW-PTP Wzb is also seen in Gram-positive bacteria. We also want to compare the phosphorylation mechanism within CapAB and that of CapO. A hindrance in studying their interactions is finding the conditions to purify them stably. CapO was purified and eluted as a dimer via size-exclusion chromatography (SEC), and it was stable in a wide variety of conditions. The B2 variants were more stable than the B1 variants in NMR-competent conditions (low pH, NaCl, glycerol conc.). CapC1 and CapC2 were difficult to purify even after expression at low IPTG concentrations, at low temperatures, or from Lemo21 (DE3) cells as they ended up in inclusion bodies. To test Cap protein interactions, different approaches toward expression and purification must be considered. Title: Treatment Options for Posttraumatic Headache: A Current Review of the Literature Presenter: Naoroz Mahmood-Senior Category: Biological/Life Sciences & Human Services Mentor: Mia Minen Program: CUNY The City College of New York - CSTEP Contact: Nkem [email protected] PTH is a secondary headache disorder resulting from traumatic brain injury (TBI), comprising nearly 4% of all symptomatic headache disorders. PTH classification depends on headache persistence post-injury, with <3 months as acute and >3 months as persistent. Current treatment approaches are often based on the presenting phenotype, most commonly migraine-like or tension-type. We reviewed current PTH treatments using PubMed, Google Scholar, and scientific journals including Neurology and Headache. Search criteria included, but were not limited to PTH, nonpharmacologic, and pharmacologic treatment. For acute PTH, a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of metoclopramide with diphenhydramine found that the treatment group (N=81) experienced greater pain improvement than placebo by 1.4 points. For persistent PTH, an open-label study of erenumab (N=89), found that 28% of participants reported ≥ 50% reduction in moderate-to-severe headache days. A randomized crossover study of 40 patients with persistent PTH found that onabotulinum toxin-A decreased cumulative number of headaches/week by 43.3% in the treatment group. In a study of military veterans with severe posttraumatic stress disorder and persistent/delayed onset PTH (N=193), patients who received Cognitive Behavioral Therapy reported significant improvements in headache-related disability compared to usual care (aggregate mean HIT-6, -3.4). A study of transcranial magnetic stimulation (N=24) found that 58% of participants with mild TBI-related headache experienced a 50% reduction in headache frequency. New studies indicate promise in improving clinically important outcomes of PTH. More research is necessary to determine the optimal treatment and might examine whether combining pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment versus a single modality is more effective.

Our thanks goes out to Barnard College for providing us the space. Funded By: New York State Education Deparment, Albany, New York