2025 Research Conference

 

Authors: Areeba Aamer¹, Isabel Reyes², Chengju Tian², Mohankumar Thangavel², and Arjun Masurkar²

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, New York, NY
²Department of Neurology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY

The CA1 region of the hippocampus bears the brunt of pathology and exhibits neuronal loss linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Perforant pathway fibers from the entorhinal cortex provide input to the Stratum Lacunosum Moleculare while CA3 Schaffer collaterals provide input to the Stratum Radiatum. Abnormal levels of Aβ 1-42 lead to clumps and disruption in cell function. We quantified the amyloid plaque burden and dendritic spine density (across genotypes) in the SLM and SR regions of the ventral CA1b in the 5xFAD transgenic model. We analyzed dendritic spine density and amyloid plaque to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying differential susceptibility of neurons in the CA1b region.

Neurons were filled with biocytin during whole-cell patch clamping via a glass pipette for approximately 10–15 minutes. 400 µm thick brain slices were stored overnight in 4% PFA to perform immunohistochemistry to visualize dendrites and Aβ 1-42 plaques (n = 4, ages 12–14). Confocal z-stacks were taken at 20x to visualize the entire neuron. Dendritic segments were imaged at 63x for spine density analysis (n = 12–9/group, ages 12–14). Plaque and spine analyses were performed using ImageJ.

Amyloid plaque pathology was more concentrated in the SR than in the SLM (p = 0.0312) in 5xFAD mice. There was no significant difference in dendritic spine density across genotypes.

Amyloid plaque concentration may be responsible for differential susceptibility of neurons in the CA1B region. Dendritic spine density does not account for reduction in EPSP in SR as observed in whole-cell patch clamp recordings.

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Mayar Abdelalim¹ , Huanhuan Sun² , Conor Buckley², Nora Rahimian¹, Katherine Bacchi², Dow Lukas²^,³, Despina Siolas²^,³

¹Hunter College, Department of Biology
²Hematology & Oncology Department, Weill Cornell Medical College
³Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) has an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, limiting the effectiveness of treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy. KRAS mutations are present in about 93% of PDA cases, yet their impact on the tumor microenvironment, immune evasion, and chemotherapy resistance remains poorly understood. Notably, patients with KRASG1²R mutations have better survival outcomes than those with KRASG12D mutations, though the reasons remain unclear. While most research focuses on KRASG12D, this study aims to explore how KRASG12R tumors differ, and the role of Major Histocompatibility Complex I (MHC-I) in KRASG12R mutant pancreatic cancer.

Our research employs in-vitro and in-vivo methodologies to investigate the role of MHC-I in tumorigenesis and immune evasion. We utilized RNA interference (RNAi) via short hairpin RNA (shRNA) to knock down MHC-I expression. Lentiviral vectors were generated by transfecting MHC-I shRNA constructs into packaging cells and then used to infect KRASG12R mutant pancreatic cancer cells. Following in-vitro validation through flow cytometry, KRASG12R shMHCI were injected into orthotopic mouse models in two groups: 10 replicates of empty vector controls and 10 replicates of MHC-I knockdown constructs, allowing us to assess their impact on tumorigenesis and immune evasion.

Successful transfection of target cells was confirmed through cell selection and fluorescence, while flow cytometry verified efficient MHC-I downregulation, confirming gene knockdown.

Our findings confirm successful MHC-I knockdown in KRASG12R cells, enabling further investigation into its role in tumor development and immune evasion. These results allow us to proceed with in-vivo studies, which may uncover immune vulnerabilities in KRASG12R mutant PDA, guiding potential therapeutic strategies.

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Aarti Kishore Jain¹, Eric A. Grin¹, Gaddah Abouzein¹, Matthias Tomschick², Asmita Mittal¹, Martha Feucht², Karl Roessler², Yosef Dastagirzada¹, Eveline Teresa Hidalgo MD MSc¹, Christian Dorfer MD²

¹NYU Langone Health, Department of Neurosurgery
²Medical University of Vienna

Corpus callosotomy (CC) is an established treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy with atonic seizures. CC has been associated with lower seizure control. We report our combined institutional experiences from New York University and Medical University of Vienna.

Retrospective chart review for twenty-three children who underwent CC for drug-resistant epilepsy with atonic seizures from 2020-2024. All surgeries were performed with iMRI. Patient epilepsy and seizure characteristics, surgical intervention, and clinical outcomes were analyzed.

Twenty-seven cases of iMRI-assisted CCs were analyzed. 44% of cases were complete callosotomy, 30% were posterior callosotomy, and 26% were anterior. Median age at seizure onset was 7 months (3mo-10yrs) and 7 years at surgery (2-10yrs). 77% of children experienced daily atonic seizures; 65% had Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. 61% underwent genetic analysis, findings included HEXA gene variant, DOCK6 mutation, SCN8A mutation, and PAFAH1B1/LIS1. Prior surgeries included VNS implantation (27%), stereo-EEG implantation (23%), thermal ablation (8%), focal resection (8%), and VP shunt placement (4%). 70% of children (14/20) were seizure free from atonic seizures 1 year post op.

CCs are effective in reducing atonic seizures in drug-resistant epilepsy. IMRI allows for verification of the intended extent of callosotomy and resulted in additional disconnection in 2 cases.

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Moises Acero¹

¹Hunter College

Lithium-ion batteries are ubiquitous in rechargeable devices because of their high energy density and long cycle life. They contain liquid electrolytes based on organic carbonate solvents, which are highly flammable. On the other hand, electrolytes based on ionic liquids (IL) and a gelling matrix, also called ionogels, are a promising alternative to replace conventional electrolytes. Ionic liquids are molten salts having a melting point below 100 °C and are non-flammable with negligible vapor pressure and high thermal and electrochemical stability. A suitable Li salt is then added to make the electrolyte. After adding a gelling matrix, a composite semi-solid electrolyte is formed. Here we investigate the molecular properties of ionogels formed by imidazolium ionic liquids and exfoliated boron nitride (hBN) nanoplatelets.

The particular ionic liquid studied is called 1- ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (EMIM-TFSI). When confined within the hBN gel, it becomes an ionogel (hBN-EMIM-TFSI). Two more of these samples were created and infused with lithium (EMIM-LiTFSI and hBN-EMIM-LiTFSI). For all samples, we measured the self-diffusion coefficients of the ionic species using pulsed-field gradient nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and the 1H and 19F longitudinal relaxation rate (R1) dispersions by using fast field cycling NMR.

Our results indicate that the presence of Li+ affects the rotational motion of the anion more than the IL cation in the bulk liquid. However, under confinement associated with the presence of hBN, the cation relaxes faster than the anion. This reversal of relative relaxation rates sheds light on the nature of the molecular-scale interaction between the IL and the hBN gelling agent.

For the first time, the molecular dynamics and transport properties of this ionogel have been elucidated. With this study, further advancements can be made with the material, potentially leading to a safer, more efficient electrolyte.

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Faiza Chowdhury¹, Alana Badillo¹, Daniela Avila¹, Lisbeth Arias¹, Fariha Ahmed¹

¹CUNY Hunter College

Traditional discussions on early puberty focus on genetic and socioeconomic factors. However, exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as phthalates, may play a crucial but underexplored role. This study hypothesizes that disparities in phthalate exposure contribute to earlier pubertal onset in Black and Hispanic female populations.

Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017-2018, this study analyzes menstrual onset age and urinary concentrations of mono-²-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP), a commonly found phthalate. Statistical methods, including ANOVA and Fisher’s Exact Test, assess correlations between ethnicity, EDC exposure, and pubertal timing.

While a direct link between phthalate exposure and early menstrual onset could not be confirmed due to limited self-reported data, analysis revealed significantly higher MEHP concentrations in Black and Hispanic participants compared to White participants. This finding aligns with broader environmental justice concerns regarding disproportionate exposure to harmful chemicals in marginalized communities.

The study challenges conventional narratives attributing early puberty solely to genetic and socioeconomic factors, highlighting the need for further research into environmental determinants. These findings emphasize the urgency of addressing racial disparities in EDC exposure and their potential long-term health impacts on reproductive development.

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Tasnia Akhter¹

¹Hunter College

There is a lack of representation and knowledge of United States immigrant’s survival stories. This leads to forgotten history and generational barriers. By creating a research based podcast for immigrants to share their survival stories, there will be an increase in representation and knowledge of history, which will bring families together rather than separated by generational barriers. Additionally, this will help people outside of the immigrant communities understand the reality of what being an immigrant is like.

A podcast is the best fit for this research project, because it’s a visual and auditory tool that allows viewers to connect with a number of unique individual immigrants in a casual, authentic and comfortable matter. Optionally, they can express their culture through traditional clothes and jewelry, bringing photos, etc. As the host, I ask questions such as: Why did you leave your native land? How did you get the opportunity to immigrate? How do you stay connected to your culture in foreign land? I will conduct research about the native origin of my guest before the episode..

Tasi’s Immigrant Podcast is dedicated to being a safe space and historical platform for immigrants to share their survival stories.

Viewers, especially children of immigrants discover the beauties and struggles of what their parents went through to raise a family here in a new world. The general public grows more respectful of their neighbors and peers who underwent such an experience.

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Samiha Alam¹, Ee Tay, MD²

¹Human Biology, CUNY Hunter College
²Ronald O. Perelman Department of Emergency Medicine, Bellevue Hospital

Early literacy is essential for childhood development, yet children in underserved communities face significant disparities in access to books and literacy resources. Bellevue Hospital’s pediatric emergency department (ED) serves a diverse patient population, including immigrants and uninsured families, making it a strategic setting for early literacy interventions. The Lil’ Bellevue Book Club was established to identify barriers to reading, distribute free books, and promote literacy among pediatric patients.

Over 8,000 books were collected through donations from schools, libraries, and NGOs. A survey-based approach over four weeks in English and Spanish assessed caregiver demographics, reading habits, and barriers to literacy. Spanish-speaking interpreters facilitated communication, and trained volunteers modeled reading strategies while sharing library resources to encourage sustained engagement.

Among 97 participating families (mean child age: 2.3 years), 74.2% read to their child for 0-30 minutes per week, 27.8% lacked book access, and 15.5% cited time constraints. After modeling reading strategies, 47.4% of caregivers planned to adopt new techniques. Additionally, 92.8% of caregivers supported expanding the program to other pediatric EDs. However, only 1.6% of the 8,000 books available were in Spanish, highlighting a critical gap in linguistic inclusivity.

The Lil’ Bellevue Book Club demonstrates the potential of healthcare settings to address early literacy disparities. Its positive impact on caregiver behaviors and strong participant support underscore its value as a replicable model. However, the limited availability of Spanish books emphasizes the need for more diverse resources to ensure equitable literacy promotion for all families.

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Zukruf Alam¹

¹Department of Economics & Accounting, Hunter College

U.S. states started introducing prenatal substance use policies (PSUPs) during the crack cocaine epidemic in the 1980s. Some prenatal substance use policies are supportive and prioritize access to substance use disorder (SUD) treatments and rehabilitation of pregnant women. Some PSUPs are punitive and could even lead to termination of parental rights. Past research focuses on the impact of these policies on newborn health and women seeking SUD treatment (Meinhofer et al., 2022; Atkins & Durrance, 2020; Faherty et al., 2019, 2022; Kozhimannil et al., 2019).

In this paper, I examine how punitive PSUPs affect women’s mental health and behavior compared to priority treatment PSUPs. I use the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The BRFSS is an annual cross-sectional survey conducted over telephone. 25 states implemented PSUPs between the years ²008 to 2018. I use BRFSS data from 2004 to 2018. Outcomes of interest include overall mental health, depression, smoking and drinking habit, and visiting a doctor for a routine checkup. I use a staggered difference-in-difference method (Deb et al. 2024) to conduct my analysis.

Preliminary results suggest that compared to priority treatment, punitive PSUPs cause worse mental health outcomes including depression. Also, punitive PSUPs are associated with higher rates of smoking and drinking indicating punitive PSUPs may lead to harmful behaviors. Another tentative finding suggests that punitive PSUPs may discourage women to visit a doctor for a routine checkup.

These findings help policymakers make evidence-based decision between two PSUPs.

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Jazmin Alderete¹

¹Department of Sociology, Hunter College

In the past year, the phenomenon of “Sephora kids” has swept social media, often in a negative light. These pre-teens have a newfound obsession with shopping at Sephora, and they receive criticism for shopping at a beauty store so young. My research seeks to extend this phenomenon to understand “Sephora moms” and the maternal influence in a daughter's life. I aim to explore how Sephora vlogs on YouTube and TikTok are used to shape mothers' and daughters’ relationships through this filmed shared experience. This research is of interest to scholars of the sociology of family and sociology of children and youth.

The videos of mothers taking their tween shopping, is telling of their dynamic. My research is not about daughters and mothers showing the vlog items that are purchased but about the conversation behind the purchase, the dialogue, and the interaction between them.

These interactions give us a different view of how the relationship and bonding experience is performed on camera. We are given unique insight into how mothers play a role in beauty consumption, and how the act of going to Sephora alone is a symbol of growing up.

From this research, we learned that mothers live vicariously through their daughters and encourage them to explore their identity through the means of makeup. This helps us understand their involved parenting style. The mothers want to give their daughters what they wished they had. We begin to understand their relationship and its influence on the daughter’s identity and consumption habits.

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Afeeda Ali¹, Praveena Naidu¹^,², Mandë Holford¹^,²^,³

¹Hunter College, The City University of New York
²The Graduate Center, The City University of New York
³Invertebrate Zoology, Sackler Institute for Comparative Genomics, American Museum of Natural History, New York

Influenza A virus (IAV) and Dengue virus (DENV) are major global health concerns, primarily affecting the lungs and liver respectively. The immune system helps fight these infections, but scientists don’t fully understand how some cells resist the viruses while others don’t. This study looks at how these viruses infect human lung (A549) and liver (HUH7) cancer cells and how the immune system responds. The aim of this research is to study how IAV and DENV spread in lung and liver cells, how the immune system reacts, and whether small proteins called micropeptides play a role in fighting the viruses.

To study this, we infected A549 and HUH7 cells with IAV and DENV, then added Natural Killer (NK92) cells to see how they responded. We used RNA sequencing, ribosome profiling, and mass spectrometry to look at which genes and proteins were active during infection. We also exposed some cells to the viruses’ multiple times to see if they could develop resistance and studied how their gene expression changed.

Both viruses successfully infected A549 and HUH7 cells. When these cells were placed with NK92 cells, there were changes in immune activity. Some cells that were repeatedly exposed to the viruses became more resistant, suggesting they had genetic changes that helped them survive. We were also able to find possible micropeptides that could be involved in fighting the infections.

This research helps us better understand how IAV and DENV infect lung and liver cells and how the immune system responds. Identifying new micropeptides involved in this process could lead to further studies in this area of research and to potential new novel treatments for these viruses in the future.

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Michele Arab¹

¹Sociology Department, Hunter College

Online pornography has increased in popularity at an astounding rate due to the creation of the Internet. With its easy accessibility, pornography use has become a frequently studied topic. The literature has been varied on whether sexually explicit content has mostly positive or negative effects. My research aims to explore the perceived effects of pornography use by men and women in romantic relationships. My research fills the gap in literature in regards to women's perspectives on pornography use as well as providing a critical analysis of how long-term pornography usage shapes sexual scripts.

This paper documents the perceptions of porn users and their partners to examine how the recorded effects influence relationships, the treatment of women, and self-perception as documented in personal Reddit posts. Through examining these personal testimonies, this paper aims to further the existing literature of how pornography influences sexual behavior and relationships.

Women in relationships with frequent porn users face aggression, mental health issues, and demands to participate in submissive sexual acts by their partner. Additionally, men perceived negative effects from pornography such as low self esteem and inability to perform sex. As pornography consumption increases the need for porn-like sex or visual stimuli depicting these acts become more necessary for arousal.

Pornography use and its effects in relationships are oftentimes perceived negatively by women and occasionally by men as well. Pornography is an incredibly effective tool of socialization that shapes how sex is acted out and perceived.

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Nishanth Araveti¹^,²^,³

¹Philosophy Department, Hunter College²
Biology Department, Hunter College
³Guest Researcher, Department of Bioethics, University of Copenhagen

Philosophers' and bioethicists' discourse about cognitive enhancement has fixated on novel neurotechnologies, pharmacological interventions, and speculative biotechnological modifications. This myopic focus ignores traditional forms of enhancement — like libraries, universities, and caffeine — which have long been socially integrated means of enhancement. Contemporary debates position novel interventions as fundamentally distinct from traditional mechanisms of augmentation. This paper contests that assumption, arguing that the ethical discourse on enhancement misframes the issue. The key question, is not whether novel enhancement is permissible, but how to implement it equitably. To that end, this paper advances three interlocking claims. First, novel enhancements — ranging from nootropics to brain-computer interfaces — do not represent ethically significant departures from traditional cognitive augmentation; neurotechnological and pharmacological interventions are best understood as being continuous with preexisting cognitive scaffolds rather than as radical departures. Second, enhancements’ permissibility must be grounded in equitable access rather than individual authenticity, requiring reconfiguration as a universally accessible public good. Third, the capability approach offers the strongest ethical framework for cognitive enhancement by focusing on the conversion factors that enable individuals to translate cognitive potential into meaningful action.

This paper draws on the philosophy of education, bioethics, and the capability approach to assess various means of enhancement.

While novel enhancements offer individual benefits, priority should instead go to methods that cultivate long-term capabilities and societal well-being – criteria that favor the historical approaches.

Rather than rejecting enhancement, ethical discourse should focus on ensuring cognitive resources are distributed in ways that enhance overall flourishing equitably.

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Solange Arias¹, Dr. Julia Lechuga¹^,²

¹Department of Psychology, Hunter College
²The Graduate Center, City University of New York

Approximately 6,000 immigrants from Cuba and Latin America are temporarily residing in Ciudad Juarez (CJ), a US-Mexico border city in hopes of initiating an immigration petition to immigrate to the US. Immigration is conceptualized as a social determinant of health (Castaneda et al., 2015). However, past research has focused mostly on understanding the conditions that affect the health of immigrants once they are settled in the destination country. There is agreement in the field that to develop a comprehensive theory of immigrant health, there is a need to document the experiences of immigrants temporarily residing in places while in transit to their destination, such as the US-Mexico border. The purpose of the study is to understand the lived experience of immigrant women who were temporarily residing in CJ awaiting the resolution of immigration petitions.

A snowball sampling approach was employed to recruit 20 immigrant women to participate in in-depth interviews. Eligibility criteria included residing in CJ for at least 12 months. Participants were interviewed about their immigration journey and their living situation in CJ including the context of engagement in behaviors that may promote acquisition of infectious diseases such as HIV. Data was content coded using a thematic analysis approach. The University of Texas at El Paso provided oversight for this study, protocol #1638988-1

Results indicate that structural level factors such as human rights violations and economic hardship influence participation in the drug selling economy, sex work economy, and engagement in behaviors such as injection drug use that may increase acquisition of infectious diseases.

Findings have implications for informing policy advocacy efforts for the provision of appropriate services to immigrants in countries facing an increase in the mobility of populations across the world.

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Alejandro Asencio¹, Andrew Reinmann¹^,², John Paul Hellenbrand³

¹Department of Geography and Environmental Sciences, Hunter College
²Associate Professor, Advanced Science Research Center
³Doctoral Student, The Graduate Center, City University of New York

Forest trees are essential in the removal of anthropogenic carbon emissions through their storage of carbon in wood as they grow, but many factors such as air temperature and precipitation influence the amount and timing of tree growth. The impact variations in local environmental conditions have on tree growth patterns on sub-annual timescales has been understudied despite shifts in climate and landscape. I hypothesize that (1) the majority of tree growth occurs shortly after precipitation events, particularly for species sensitive to water stress and (2) high water availability will ameliorate negative impacts of high heat events on growth.

This study uses data from the Climate Interactions with Forest Fragmentation (CLIFF) experiment at the Harvard Forest in Petersham, MA. CLIFF is a forest edge-to-interior study located within a cool, moist temperate mixed hardwood forest dominated by species such as Quercus rubra (red oak) and Acer rubrum (red maple). Across six plots, environmental sensors record temperature and water availability. Tree growth is measured using point dendrometers on 46 trees. For data analysis, I am using R for statistical analyses to determine relationships between tree growth and environmental variables.

There was a delay in growth for 2024 and possibly early growth cessation related to lower precipitation. I expect that most growth from precipitation will be seen among red maple trees.

The answer to this issue is important to determine how novel precipitation and heat patterns driven by climate change may impact forests, an ecosystem that we rely on for its carbon storage ability.

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Mary Avella¹^,², Shailesh Kumar², Moitrayee Bhattacharyya²

¹Department of Psychology, Hunter College, CUNY, New York, NY
²Department of Pharmacology, Yale School of Medicine Yale University, New Haven, CT

Psychedelics have become a new theraputic treatment for mental illnesses like depression. One key mechanism of the neural targeting of these drugs is the neurotrophic factor BDNF binds to the tyrosine kinase receptor B because both BDNF and TrkB contribute to cell growth, function, and death. A key feature of this dynamic is the change in the oligomeric distribution (interaction of subunits with each other), to see changes in function and structure. Our experiment aimed to see the oligomeric distribution of TrkB in response to BDNF on the membrane.

We grew Expi-293 cells and measured 24-hour and 48-hour periods. We broke open the cells, extracted and solubilized the membranes, and performed fluorescence size exclusion chromatography and native-nanobleaching to check TrkB protein quality and oligomeric distribution on the membranes.

We found better expression after 48 hours, with a more complex oligomeric distribution, and more dimer-trimer formation with BDNF.

Future research should look to solve the structure of full-length TrkB with detergent and native-nanodiscs, using Cryo-EM, with and without BDNF or psychedelics.

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Azmi Aziz¹^,², Kenji Fujihara², Richard Possemato²

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College
²Department of Pathology, Radiation Oncology and Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Grossman School of Medicine

Ferroptosis is a regulated cell death mechanism characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation leading to plasma membrane rupture. The clinical development pathway for ferroptosis inducers as targeted oncology therapies remains unclear. Early work leading to the discovery of prototypical ferroptosis inducers, erastin and RSL-3, emerged from phenotypic compound screens aimed at identifying small molecules with mutant RAS-specific lethality. However, large-scale cell line screens did not confirm this specificity, leaving the therapeutic index of ferroptosis inducers unresolved.

We used pharmacological and genetic approaches to induce ferroptosis. This was achieved either by directly inhibiting GPX4 with compounds like RSL-3 or by depleting its cofactor glutathione. Glutathione depletion was induced by inhibiting the cystine transporter SLC7A11 with erastin or the glutamate-cysteine ligase (GCLC) with L-buthionine sulfoximine (BSO). To assess ferroptosis sensitivity, we compared 90 cancer cell lines to 10 non-transformed controls using modulatory profiling. To evaluate ferroptosis induction in vitro and in vivo, we engineered cancer cell lines with doxycycline-repressible GPX⁴, GCLC, and SLC7A11.

Using modulatory profiling, we found an inverse therapeutic index of ferroptosis inducers between cancer and non-transformed cells under standard culture conditions. Further, whilst inducible repression of GPX4, GCLC and SLC7A11 resulted in ferroptosis induction in vitro, no response to suppression was demonstrated in tumor xenografts. Notably, one tumor cell line, SKMES1 which harbors biallelic inaction of TXNRD1, was found to undergo non-ferroptotic cell death upon GCLC inhibition with BSO. Importantly, TXNRD1-deficient tumor xenografts responded to BSO in a dose-dependent manner, demonstrating a therapeutic index for this form of non-ferroptotic cell death.

This study addresses longstanding discrepancies in the ferroptosis field and positions BSO as a potential anti-cancer agent for TXNRD1-deficient tumors independent of ferroptosis induction.

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Rukhshona Babakhodjaeva¹, Alain Bonny², Elaine Fuchs²

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College CUNY
²Robin Chemers Neustein Laboratory of Mammalian Cell Biology and Development, The Rockefeller University

Mammalian skin serves as a protective barrier against environmental stressors. However, in the presence of wounds and injuries, a coordinated repair process is activated. Resident stem cells and PDGFRA+ fibroblasts play a crucial role in wound re-epithelialization, yet the mechanisms regulating their interactions remain unclear. Fibroblasts subsets expressing the GFRA1 receptor interact with the GDNF ligand secreted by epithelial stem cells, facilitating wound repair. This study hypothesizes that GDNF is essential for recruiting GFRA1+ fibroblasts which allow for re-epithelialization of skin in the wound sites and that disruptions in this pathway impair wound repair.

To investigate this hypothesis, GDNF ligand within stem cells is overexpressed and knocked down using an in utero lentiviral transduction system with a doxycycline-inducible promoter and an inducible short hairpin RNA (shRNA) system to test its effects on wound repair. To test the role of the GFRA1+ receptor, a fibroblast-specific GFRA1 knockout will be made in mice mating using a CreER/LoxP system. PCR genotyping confirms genetic modifications. Microscopy is utilized to visualize fibroblast behavior and tissue morphology, providing further insight into the effects of GDNF-GFRA1 signaling on wound healing.

The experimental results indicate the role of GDNF-GFRA1+ in stem cell and fibroblast cross talk. Specifically, GFRA1+ fibroblasts migrate in response to GDNF, supporting its role in fibroblast recruitment. Both the transcriptional and supporting protein data confirm the presence of GFRA1+ receptor expressed in fibroblasts during wound repair and adjacent to stem cells.

A deeper understanding of the GDNF-GFRA1 signaling pathway may lead to improved therapeutic approaches for chronic wound healing defects and targeted skin cancer treatments.

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Prakaimuk Saraithong¹, Devika Baddhan¹, Hailey Cunningham¹, Sama Salih¹, Todd J. Herron¹

¹Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Frankel Cardiovascular Regeneration Core Laboratory, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

Artificial intelligence (AI)-guided laser processing approach can enhance the efficiency and reduce costs of human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocyte (hiPSC-CM) production, replacing traditional metabolic purification methods.

The AI-guided laser processing method was trained to discriminate between CMs and non-CMs using CM-specific GFP expression on days 8 to 12 of cardiac-directed differentiation, enabling it to identify and selectively ablate non-CMs using phase-contrast images.

CM health was evaluated using apoptosis detection (Annexin V), purity via flow cytometry and high-content imaging, and functional recovery through electrophysiological parameters and cardiac stress biomarkers. Cryopreservation viability was assessed post-thawing and replating.

AI-guided laser CMs were negative for Annexin V with apoptotic cells confined to laser-irradiated regions. AI-laser-processed CMs had 94% purity using the CM restricted GFP marker; yielding 2 × 107 cells per 6-well plate, ~4× greater than traditional magnetic-activated cell sorting. These CMs exhibited a round, homogeneous morphology, larger diameter, and stronger GFP intensity compared to CDML3-purified CMs. Importantly, AI-laser-processed CMs showed no expression of cardiac stress biomarkers (NPPA, NPPB), which were significantly elevated in CDML3-purified CMs. Cryopreserved AI-laser CMs yielded 80% recovery, forming functional 2D monolayers with visible contractions within 2 days.

Using an AI-guided laser for automated bulk processing of differentiated CMs, presents many advantages over currently available methods. The ability of AI-laser-processed CMs to be cryopreserved while maintaining normal structural, phenotypic, and genotypic characteristics makes them a valuable resource for high-throughput in vitro diagnostics, personalized medication screening, clinical trials in a dish, and cardiac regeneration research.

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Amina Bektasevic¹, Tasnia Ahmed¹, Viviana Allaham¹, Justin Lui¹

¹Department of Sociology, Hunter College

This project examines the distinctions in penalties and sentences between street crimes, such as homicide and domestic violence, and white-collar crimes, including tax evasion and marketing fraud, to explore how these disparities reflect broader questions of justice and inequality.

Drawing from sociological and criminological perspectives, the research investigates the factors that contribute to sentencing disparities, such as the social status of offenders, the perceived harm caused by their actions, and the systemic biases embedded in legal frameworks.

By analyzing scholarly works, legal case studies, and statistical data, the project highlights how the leniency often afforded to white-collar criminals perpetuates structural inequalities, while harsher punishments for street crimes disproportionately impact marginalized communities.

The findings aim to challenge traditional narratives about crime and punishment, advocating for reforms that address these inequities and promote a more equitable justice system.

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Anindita Bhattacharjee¹, Kirsty E. Graham¹

¹Department of Psychology, Hunter College, CUNY

Human reaction times give researchers the opportunity to better understand performance and decision making processes. Previous research indicates that males exhibit better performance in overall reaction time (Adam et al., 1999) and more accuracy in responses for certain tasks (Taraginm et al., 2019). Whether an individual's gender has an impact on response time and accuracy when identifying non-human primate gestures is an area that has not been considered.

This study will utilize data collected in 2017 in an online study (Graham & Hobaiter, 2023). Through the use of an online game, 5,625 participants were asked to indicate the gestural meanings of chimpanzee and bonobos. Data, which has been de-identified, from this study includes various demographic questions, including gender, as well as participant response times to recognizing non-human primate gestures.

This study will analyze response times and accuracy of participant responses in relation to a participant’s gender. It is expected that male participants will exhibit quicker reaction times when identifying non-human primate gestures, but we have no reason to expect a gender difference in response accuracy.

The original study found that people are generally successful at assigning the correct meanings to chimpanzee and bonobo gestures. Here we delve into accuracy and reaction times in more detail to understand whether gender may drive differences in participant success.

References: Adam, J. J., Paas, F. G., Buekers, M. J., Wuyts, I. J., Spijkers, W. A., & Wallmeyer, P. (1999). Gender differences in choice reaction time: evidence for differential strategies. Ergonomics, 42(2), 327–335. https://doi.org/10.1080/001401399185685

Graham, K. E., & Hobaiter, C. (2023). Towards a great ape dictionary: Inexperienced humans understand common nonhuman ape gestures. PLoS Biology, 21(1), e3001939.

Taragin, D., Tzuriel, D., & Vakil, E. (2019). Mental Rotation: The Effects of Processing Strategy, Gender and Task Characteristics on Children's Accuracy, Reaction Time and Eye Movements' Pattern. Journal of eye movement research, 12(8), 10.16910/jemr.12.8.2. https://doi.org/10.16910/jemr.12.8.2

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Rayyan Bhuiyan¹^,², Mojtaba Belali Koochesfahani²^,³, Mohamad FallahRad²^,³, Marom Bikson²^,³

¹Hunter College
²Neural Engineering Group at the City College of New York
³Department of Biomedical Engineering at the City College of New York

Electrical stimulation has emerged as a promising modality to accelerate wound healing. This study aimed to develop and validate a novel Wearable Disposable Electrotherapy (WDE) device designed to deliver low-intensity direct current stimulation to full-thickness wounds. The device integrates a single battery cell, stimulation hydrogel electrodes on both sides of a non-woven wound dressing pad, and a skin adhesive interface, matching the form factor of conventional bandages.

Battery sizing was guided by isotemporal trajectory theory, and finite element method (FEM) simulations predicted a uniform current density (~0.6 A/m²) across the wound area. In vivo efficacy was evaluated using a rodent model with full-thickness (6 mm diameter) excisional wounds. Wound areas were quantified by processing of images captured from wounds. Electrical stimulation (300 ± 50 µA for 120 minutes daily) was applied over 13 days, with bipolar stimulation electrodes positioned bilaterally across the wound. Control animals received sham treatment without electrical stimulation.

Results demonstrated that wounds treated with the WDE device closed significantly faster compared to sham controls (β = -0.011, SE = 0.004, z = -2.845, p = 0.004). These findings confirm that the device met design specifications and effectively delivered uniform current to the target region, thereby enhancing the wound healing process.

We showed the efficacy of the WDE device for accelerated wound healing in the rodent model. Future work will extend the evaluation of wound healing by incorporating histological analyses to complement area-based measurements, providing better evaluation of wound healing.

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Katrin Birgisson¹

¹Hunter College

Human evolution as developed in China is a continuously controversial topic in the field of archaeology, anthropology, and history. Many claim that China's bias toward nationalism has impacted their study of early humans, and thus cannot be verified by worldwide scientists. However, recent skeletal evidence from the region has provided us with a new perspective toward human evolution that objectively transcends nationalism. In my thesis, I aim to analyze what facts can be archaeologically backed without a nationalistic influence, and how scientists around the world shouldn't immediately dismiss claims made by Chinese archaeologists.

In my thesis, I studied the worldwide consensus around human evolution, as well as the history of nationalism and archaeological science in China. I then took recent research from China regarding the timeline of human migration that questions the general consensus and broadens our understanding of the nuance and complexity behind early human migration.

In my research I discovered that there is a solid presence of 'transitional forms', i.e. skeletal remains of a combination of Homo erectus and Homo sapiens skeletons that force us to reconsider the notion that human migration happened in one fell swoop from Africa into China. These transitional forms reveal a more nuanced reality, one in which humans slowly migrated into China (versus abruptly) and merged with the existing Homo erectus' already in the area.

Humans almost definitely migrated to Asia from Africa, but perhaps not in one fell swoop–over the course of tens of thousands of years, modern humans may have traversed across Eurasia and ended up in China, interbreeding with the archaic humans there. This conclusion can be made from the prevalence of transitional forms in the Chinese archeological record, and simultaneously makes the most sense–an abrupt transition of foreign bodies into China may be too simplistic in the overarching narrative of human evolution, which is never black and white, but often grey and up for discussion. Ultimately, in order to navigate this grey space, we must analyze and maintain the little evidence that exists, and patch together a story that most accurately describes the course of human evolution in Africa and China without dismissing backed scientific claims.

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Isabella Bodziony¹, Belkairys Taveras Tapia¹, Sadiyah Hanif ¹, Dr. Nesha Burghardt¹^,²

¹Department of Psychology, Hunter College
² Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience Program, The Graduate Center, CUNY

Curcumin is known to have anti-inflammatory properties that block the effects of stress. However, it is unknown if these effects stay consistent for adults when consumed prenatally. This study observes the effects of prenatal exposure to curcumin on depression and anxiety-like behaviors in mice once they reach 9 weeks of age.

Curcumin was administered in the chow given to dams throughout their pregnancy and removed from the chow shortly prior to the dams giving birth. Offspring were raised with no interaction with curcumin until adulthood, around 9 weeks of age. At that time multiple behavioral tests are administered to both male and female mice, the social interaction and forced swim test tested depression-like behaviors, and the elevated plus maze, open field, and novelty-suppressed feeding tested anxiety-like behaviors. Recordings of these tests from the group that were exposed to curcumin and a control group were later scored and the data was further analyzed.

Preliminary findings indicate that there is an increase in depressive-like behaviors in both sexes and anxiety-like behavior in male mice. However, more analysis is currently being done on other behavioral tests.

Findings from this study will guide our understanding of how curcumin affects stress and anxiety in adults when consumed prenatally and expand our understanding of its effects on stress and anxiety generally. These results will also be helpful when researching the possible benefits or harms of pregnant women ingesting curcumin for their children.

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Milany Bruno¹^,³^,⁴, Bernardo Gonzalez-Baradat PHD¹, Jayne Raper PHD¹^,²

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College
²Biology PHD Program, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY
³The National Institute of General Medicine Maximize Access to Research Careers Program, Hunter College
⁴Yalow Scholars Program, Hunter College

Trypanosoma brucei, a eukaryotic parasite, can cause African sleeping sickness in humans and nagana in cattle. Human resistance to most T. brucei subspecies is attributed to Trypanosome Lytic Factor, with the apolipoprotein APOL1 causing lysis in the parasite by forming channels in its membrane. T. brucei’s lysosomal cysteine protease, Cathepsin L (TbCatL), degrades APOL1, thereby inhibiting lysis. The presence of Inhibitor of Cysteine Proteases (TbICP) in trypanosomes is thought to modulate TbCatL, but the in-vitro interaction between TbICP and TbCatL is not well-understood. This project aims to express, purify, quantify, and analyze both TbICP and TbCatL through in-vitro transfection, as well as study their effect on human APOL1.

We transfected Chinese Hamster Ovarian suspension cells (CHO-S) with pcDNA plasmid containing Histidine-epitope-tagged TbCatL, followed by transformation of E. coli with pNic²8 plasmid containing Histidine-epitope-tagged TbICP. Nickel-column chromatography was utilized for protein purification and enzymatic assays used to analyze protein activity in collected fractions. Western Blot and Silver staining will determine the presence of the proteins of interest. Lastly, Bicinchoninic acid (BCA) assay will determine the expressed protein concentration in our model.

We have purified and isolated TbICP and TbCatL . The next steps are to analyze the enzymatic activity of TbCatL in the presence of TbICP at various pHs, as well.

Using our in-vitro assay, we aim to understand the interaction between purified recombinant TbCatL and TbICP through enzymatic analysis. Furthermore, we aim to derive how TbCatL and TbICP may interact and affect APOL1, using our purified proteins.

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Isaiah Caines¹, Monique James, MD², Lisa Diamond, MD, MPH, MHS², Gleneara Bates-Pappas, PhD²

¹Department of Africana, Puerto Rican, and Latino Studies, and Department of Chemistry, Hunter College
²Immigrant Health and Cancer Disparities Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Gynecological cancers disproportionately affect Black women, with higher diagnosis and mortality rates compared to other racial groups. The underrepresentation of Black gynecological oncologists may contribute to these disparities, and increasing their representation could improve care outcomes for Black women.

This mixed methods study includes: 1) a quantitative analysis of data from the American Cancer Society (ACS), American Medical Association (AMA), and the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) on clinician representation; 2) interviews with Black gynecological oncology clinicians to explore challenges and facilitators; and 3) a survey of Black/African American gynecological oncology patients to assess their experiences.

In 2022, ACS reported that 44% of Black/African American women were diagnosed with advanced uterine corpus cancers, compared to 29% of non-Hispanic White women. By 2024, an estimated 69.87% of new gynecological cancer cases will be uterine cancers. The mortality rate for uterine cancers is projected at 21.55%, with Black/African American women having a 65% higher mortality rate from cervical cancer compared to non-Hispanic White women. In 2023, the AMA reported 5.9% of gynecologic oncology residents identified as Black/African American, compared to 66.8% non-Hispanic White.

This study emphasizes the need to address disparities in diagnosis, mortality, and clinician representation. Increasing Black/African American clinician representation could lead to better patient outcomes and a culturally competent care environment, potentially saving thousands of lives annually. The findings suggest initiatives to enhance access to cancer screening and treatment for Black women.

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¹Katerina Cale, ¹Eugene Lempert

¹Department of Biology, Hunter College

In the mouse olfactory system, each olfactory sensory neuron (OSNs) expresses only one out of over 2,000 possible odorant receptor alleles. This leads to specific expression in each neuron and establishes its identity with a specific odorant receptor (OR) protein. We believe that OSNs cannot support maximum expression of multiple OR transgenes and expect a suppressive effect that requires maintenance of expression. We hypothesize that a loss of TetO-P2 expression leads to the activation of the suppressed 5O transgene.

We bred mice to contain two OR-expressing transgenic systems, “5O” using a canonical OR enhancer to drive OR1A1 expression and “GTP” representing a Gng8- tTA/TetOP² pair. Cilia containing OSNs were extracted and used in a competitive cAMP assay with MND to directly measure OR1A1 receptor activation and to indirectly measure 5O expression in different transgenic contexts.

The activation of the OR1A1 receptor by MND was elevated in mice with more than just the 5O transgene. Genotypes 5OG (5O transgene + Gng8-tTA) and 5OGTP (5O transgene + Gng8-tTA + TetO-P²) were shown to have the highest activation indexes compared to just 5O and wild-type mice.

The Gng8-tTA transgene is inactive in mature OSNs, leading to TetO-P2 inactivation, so the elevated OR1A1 activity in 5OGTP mice supports our hypothesis about suppression requiring continuous expression. We expected 5OG to serve as a control for 5OGTP since it is only a driver for TetO transgenes, but the results did not match our expectations, suggesting that tTA expression should be evaluated more carefully.

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Maritza Campoverde¹, Giselle de Araujo Lima e Souza¹, Thomas Zawodzinski², Zulqarnain Arif², Elgammal Ramez², and Steven Greenbaum¹

¹Department of Physics and Astronomy, City University of New York - Hunter College ²Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee - Knoxville

Background & Objectives: Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are widely used in portable electronics and electric vehicles due to their high energy density. However, conventional electrolytes pose safety risks due to high flammability. Deep eutectic solvents (DES) have emerged as safer alternatives due to their ease of synthesis, cost-effectiveness, and reduced volatility. This study examines a eutectic mixture composed of pyrazole (hydrogen bond donor) and lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI, hydrogen bond acceptor and lithium-ion source) to assess its potential as an improved electrolyte for LIBs.

Methods: Pyrazole and LiTFSI were mixed in molar ratios of 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, and 5:1 to form DESs. Self-diffusion coefficients were measured via Pulsed Field Gradient Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (PFG-NMR) at 300 MHz between 298 K and 338 K. Heteronuclear Overhauser Effect Spectroscopy (HOESY) NMR at 500 MHz was used to study intermolecular interactions in the PYR:LiTFSI (3:1) sample.

Results: Increased temperature enhanced ion mobility. The 4:1 sample exhibited the highest diffusion coefficient, consistent with reduced hydrogen bonding at lower pyrazole concentrations. Lithium ions diffused faster than TFSI anions, improving lithium transport efficiency. The lithium transference number ranged from 0.45 to 0.52, surpassing the typical 0.3, suggesting enhanced lithium selectivity. The Arrhenius model described the PYR:LiTFSI (5:1) system, while the Volmer-Fulcher-Tammann (VFT) model fit the 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1 ratios. HOESY data confirmed strong PYR-Li+ interactions, with a cross-relaxation rate (σ) of 0.0638 ± 0.00195.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the eutectic solvent supports efficient lithium transport, improving ion mobility and safety for LIBs. The high lithium transference number suggests DESs, particularly PYR:LiTFSI, hold promise as alternative electrolytes for energy storage applications.

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Christian Carrasco¹, Kim Kirchhoff², Mande Holford²,³,⁴

¹New York Research and Mentoring for Post-baccalaureates at Hunter College
²The City University of New York Hunter College
³The City University of New York The Graduate Center, The City University of New York
⁴Invertebrate Zoology, Sackler Institute for Comparative Genomics, American Museum of Natural History, New York

Animal venoms are promising for drug development because they are highly potent and target-specific, which addresses a common issue of low efficacy in clinical trials. The venom components found in cephalopods (squids, cuttlefish, octopuses) are an unexplored potential resource for identifying novel therapeutics. Cephalopods express their venom in their posterior salivary gland(s). The only characterized venom protein, cepholotoxin, is from the squid Sepia escolondes and is termed SE-CTX. There is a knowledge gap concerning the characterization of both cephalopod venom components and their posterior salivary gland(s) cellular morphology.

Here we use several single and multipronged histological imaging techniques to describe the histological architecture of the posterior salivary glands in the squid Euprymna berryi.

This data is a first step in identifying tissue types and structures involved in venom production and provides insight on potential neuronal control of venom release.

The results from this work provides a robust foundation of the venom gland’s structure and potential function that can be combined with effective characterization of E. berryi venom components to explore novel drug development in the same way that was done in the development of other venom derived therapeutics such as Ziconotide (Prialt) from cone snails.

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Nicky Yao Xun Chai¹, Shannon Wright², Jill Bargonetti¹^,²^,³

¹The Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, City University of New York
²Biology PhD Program, The Graduate Center of Biology, City University of New York
³Weill Cornell Medical College, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, New York, New York

TP53, the guardian of the genome, produces the p53 transcription factor that is involved in the response to DNA damage. A novel gain-of-function (GOF) activity uncovered by the Bargonetti Lab involves a strong association of mutant (mt)p53 and PARP-1 on chromatin. We propose, this GOF activity contributes to tumor survival and progression by promoting Cancer Persistent Repair (CPR).

Using C. elegans as a model, we address if Poly-ADP-ribose Metabolism Enzyme 2 (PME-2; homolog of human PARP-2) cooperates with CEP-1 (human homolog of TP53) to promote DNA repair in the germ line. We assess egg viability, worm lifespan, and PARylation levels (via western blot) in RNAi (RNA interference)-mediated PME-2-depleted wild-type CEP-1 JBC6 (glp-1 (ar202), ced-1::GFP) and mtCEP-1 JBC7 (cep-1 (gk138), glp-1 (ar202), ced-1::GFP) worms, both before and after UV treatment to evaluate DNA damage response. Additionally, we investigate the effects of PARP inhibitors on C. elegans to determine their impact on DNA repair and tumor suppression.

Before UV treatment, JBC7 worms showed minimal differences in egg viability, with 83.3% in controls and 76.3% in PME-2 knockdowns. Three lifespan trials were conducted, with only one showing a statistically significant decrease in lifespan for PME-2 knockdowns compared to controls.

Ongoing experiments include lifespan and egg viability assays on JBC6 & 7 worms following UV treatment, as well as Western blots to assess PARylation levels. Investigating this novel GOF interaction is crucial, as it may uncover a new and effective approach for treating cancers with mtp53.

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Janie Chan¹, Raheem Sheikh¹, Cheryl Zhang¹, Anthony Lin¹, Xiang Chen¹, Alexander Starr², Hunter Fraser², Yi-Chieh Nancy Du¹

¹Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine
²Department of Biology, Stanford University

The majority of cancer-related deaths are due to metastatic spread. Unfortunately, most pancreatic cancer patients are asymptomatic until the disease advances to later stages when the tumor has already metastasized to distant organs. In most cases, patients presenting with metastatic cancer have higher mortality rates than patients with a localized cancerous growth. Over 90% of pancreatic malignancies develop as Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) which is highly aggressive, characterized by rapid and infiltrative growth, and resistant to current therapies. We identified that the receptor for hyaluronan-mediated motility (RHAMM; gene name: HMMR) is overexpressed in PDAC, while undetectable in the normal adult pancreas. RHAMM binds to hyaluronic acid (HA) which is associated with increased migration and invasion capabilities in aggressive forms of cancer. RHAMM isoforms exist as products of alternative splicing. We found that human RHAMM isoform B (RHAMMB), which lacks exon 4, is the predominant isoform in pancreatic cancer and it is human-specific. Exon 4 encodes a domain that involves RHAMM’s ability to bind to hyaluronic acid and signal downstream pathways that promote cell migration, motility, and tumor metastasis. Exon 4 spliced out can lead to an increase in RHAMM protein function, causing enhanced cell detachment from the primary tumor site and invasion into surrounding tissues. We have demonstrated that RHAMMB promotes metastasis in cancer cell line xenografts. However, the role of RHAMMB in PDAC initiation and early-stage progression is still unknown. The goal of this project is to address this gap of knowledge.

To do this, we developed a mouse model expressing this human-specific RHAMM isoform by partially humanizing the mouse Hmmr using CRISPR/Cas9 knock-in technology. A long single-strand donor DNA (lssDNA) was designed to replace mouse exon 4 and the surrounding intronic sequences with the human sequences. Two LoxP sites were added in the lssDNA to flank the exon 4 to allow its excision by a Cre recombinase expressed under a pancreatic-specific promoter (p48-Cre), yielding RHAMMB expression in the mouse pancreas. We have crossed these mice with Hmmr conditional allele to p48-Cre; LSL-KrasG12D mice that develop precancerous lesions only in the pancreas. We are studying whether p48-Cre; LSL-KRASG12D mice expressing RHAMMB in the pancreas exhibit an earlier onset of invasive PDAC, larger tumor burden, and shorter lifespan compared to the control mice that do not express this RHAMM isoform.

Our preliminary data shows that homozygous expression of RHAMMB in the pancreas leads to shorter survival in p48-Cre; LSL-KRASG12D mice compared to those with one copy or none. This suggests that RHAMMB speeds up the progression from pre-cancerous pancreatic lesions (PanINs) to invasive PDAC formation. Additionally, when RHAMMB is combined with the loss of one or both copies of p5³, the mice develop invasive pancreatic cancer even earlier. The more copies of RHAMMB expressed in the pancreas, the higher the chances of spontaneous pancreatic tumors, metastasis to the liver, and earlier onset of death.

Rresearch into understanding the tumor microenvironment and metastasis mechanisms is crucial for developing possible therapies. Since RHAMM/HMMR protein is not expressed in most normal human tissues but upregulated in cancer cells and PDAC formation, this makes RHAMM a promising therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer. RHAMMB is unlikely to initiate pancreatic cancer independently but likely contributes significantly to its progression and metastasis. Its role may depend on other oncogenic signals and the tumor microenvironment. Understanding how RHAMMB interacts with pathways like KRAS mutations in pancreatic cancer could provide deeper insights into its function.

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Michelle Z. Chen¹, Devorah M. Natelson¹^,², Frida E. Kleiman¹

¹Chemistry Department, Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
²Ph.D. Program in Biology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY)

HuR is an RNA-binding protein that interacts with mRNA targets in the nucleus and escorts them to the cytoplasm, typically stabilizing them and affecting their translation, therefore, HuR regulates gene expression. HuR oligomerization is necessary for interaction with and stabilization of mRNA targets. Our previous work shows that HuR is ubiquitinated by BRCA1/BARD1 E3 ligase at lysine 313 (K313). Here, we sought to investigate the effects of BRCA1/BARD1-mediated ubiquitination on HuR oligomerization and binding/stability of one of its targets, CDKN1A mRNA.

Immunoprecipitation assays to test oligomerization, RNA-pull-down assays to test HuR binding to CDKN1A, and CDKN1A mRNA decay assays after Actinomycin D treatment to inhibit transcription were performed in cells expressing WT or K313R mutant HuR, which is not modified by BRCA1/BARD1. Breast cancer cell lines expressing BRCA1 (MCF7) or triple-negative lacking functional BRCA1 (SUM1315) were also analyzed.

Immunoprecipitation of endogenous HuR with Myc-tagged K313R HuR was lower than with Myc-WT HuR. However, oligomerization was similar for both WT and K313R HuR in BRCA1-deficient cells, indicating that BRCA1/BARD1-mediated ubiquitination is necessary for proper HuR oligomerization. K313R HuR interacted less with CDKN1A mRNA than WT HuR, and CDKN1A mRNA stability was reduced in cells expressing the K313R HuR mutant.

BRCA1/BARD1-mediated ubiquitination at K313 promotes HuR oligomerization, facilitating HuR’s binding and stabilization of mRNAs involved in cell-cycle, carcinogenesis and DNA damage. Breast cancer patients with BRCA1 mutations may have transcriptome and gene expression dysregulation, thus, targeting HuR’s ubiquitination pathway is a potential therapeutic strategy to improve disease outcomes.

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Piter Chernychko¹, Rabindra Mandal¹, John Dennehy², Monica Trujillo² ,Viet Phan³

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College of CUNY,
²Department of Biology, Queens College of CUNY

Bacteroides have been linked to an increased risk of severe malaria, and while antibiotics are a treatment option, they carry risks such as side effects and antibiotic resistance. This project aimed to assess hospital wastewater as a potential source of Bacteroides phages and characterize them for their potential use in phage therapy.

Wastewater samples were collected from Queens Hospital, Jacobi Hospital, PWVPCO-WWTP and NR. These wastewater samples were filtered and subsequently an enrichment against Bacteroides fragilis, Bacteroides caccae, Bacteroides uniformis, Bacteroides vulgatus and Bacteroides ovatus was performed. Next, the enrichment was filtered and streaked on agar plates. Plaques were purified three times. The purified phages were then subjected to a host range test, electron microscope imaging and genome sequencing.

43 Bacteroides phages were successfully isolated against all five strains. 41 of the isolated phages showed broad host ranges while only 2 portrayed a unique host range. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that most of the phages showed traits typical of the Myoviridae family, while a select few showed characteristics of the Siphoviridae and Podoviridae families. Genome sequencing was performed on 20 of the isolated phages, revealing that many of the bacteriophages contained up to 95% similar genomes to the ones targeting Escherichia coli or other members of the Enterobacteriaceae family.

These finding suggests that hospital wastewater contains a high prevalence of Bacteroides phages, which can be isolated and used for future projects. Their broad host ranges signal to the fact that a viable cocktail can be composed for effective phage therapy treatment.

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Mary Chong¹,Dominique Flores, BS, RN, CPN², Ray Gannon, PhD, MSN, AGPCNP-BC³, Carolyn Sun, PhD, ANP-BC, RN, FAAN¹

¹Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing
²New York-Presbyterian Weill Cornell
³New York-Presbyterian Institute of Nursing Excellence

Nearly one in five U.S. adults experienced mental illness according to the National Institute of Mental Health (2022), and this number rose due to pandemic-related social isolation. Reduced social contact impacted mental health, with isolation linked to loneliness (Lin et al., 2020), depression, anxiety, and irritability (Gabbiadini et al., 2020). In the field of healthcare, how did shift to remote work and virtual meetings on platforms, such as Zoom and Webex, impact work-life balance and mental well-being? This study assessed nurses' perceptions of virtual meetings and their association with mental health. This will provide insight on the mental health impacts of virtual versus in-person meetings for healthcare systems as well as the usability of remote meeting technologies.

Nurses were surveyed using the Health-IT Usability Evaluation Scale (Health-ITUES) for perceptions of remote meetings, the PHQ-9 for depression, and the GAD-7 for anxiety. Participants received a $15 Starbucks gift card and links to mental health resources. The cross-sectional study targeted 30 nurses at NYP-Weill Cornell, with recruitment through leadership announcements, emails, and fliers. Data collection occurred via RedCap over two weeks and analyzed associations between mental health and remote meetings.

Of 508 responses, 90 were incomplete. Data analysis is ongoing, with findings to be presented at the Undergraduate Research Conference.

This study explored the relationship between virtual meetings and nurses’ mental health, offering insights to inform organizational practices. While the adoption of virtual meeting platforms were accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic, the implications of findings will extend beyond the pandemic as virtual appointments become a mainstay in healthcare with the rise of telehealth. Future studies can expand to include the effect of virtual visits versus in-person visits on mental health as well as strategies to mitigate negative effects.

References:

Gabbiadini A, Baldissarri C, Durante F, Valtorta RR, De Rosa M, Gallucci M. (2020). Together apart: the mitigating role of digital communication technologies on negative affect during the covid-19 outbreak in Italy. Frontiers in Psychology 11, https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.554678
Lin, S., Liu, D., Niu, G. (2020). Active social network sites use and loneliness: the mediating role of social support and self-esteem. Current Psychology 41, 1279–1286. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-020-00658-8

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Subyeta Chowdhury¹^,², Dr. Mateusz Antoszewski³, Dr. Vijay Sankaran³

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, New York, New York
²Harvard-Amgen Scholars Program, Amgen Foundation
³Department of Hematology-Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School

Hematopoiesis is the continuous process of producing blood cellular components stemming from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow. The growth and expansion of mutated hematopoietic clones, known as clonal hematopoiesis, can be the precursor stage to malignant disorders and cancers. Clonal hematopoiesis can be characterized by mosaic chromosomal alterations, notably the loss of Y (LOY) chromosome in hematopoietic cells. This LOY in a clonal population is found in men with increasing age, predisposing this group to increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular diseases, and various types of cancer including hematologic cancers. We hypothesize that the successful genetic engineering of this LOY aneuploidy within hematopoietic stem cells will allow further studies on the genetics behind this hematologic disorder.

Human acute myeloid leukemia (AML) derived cell lines MUTZ-3 and MOLM-13 were used, along with a CRISPR-Cas9 based technology using single guide RNAs (sgRNAs) targeting chromosome-specific human centromeric repeats to direct a mutant KNL1/dCas9 construct to interfere with mitosis and generate missegregation. These AML cell lines were infected with lentivirus containing the mutant KNL1/dCas9 construct with a Western blot validating successful infection by showing expression of the mutant KNL1/dCas9 protein, which will be used for binding to the specific sgRNAs. These infected cells were also treated with drug inhibitors that can lead to spindle assembly checkpoint arrest by disrupting the kinetochores of centromeres during division to chemically assist in the induction of LOY aneuploidy. After transferring the sgRNAs into these cells via nucleofection, DNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is used to confirm the LOY aneuploidy at the expected centromere along with the presence of chromosomal missegregation through probe signaling.

From the DNA FISH results, Loss of Y chromosome signaling was observed in some cells, as indicated by the high percentage of aneuploids present. Cloning of a plasmid containing the necessary EF1ɑ promoter and KNL1/dCas9 construct is possible, and the drugs GSK and NMS are somewhat helpful in inhibiting proliferation and division of cells. While inducing LOY in leukemic cell lines was successful however it is important to consider the limitations of the methods used.

These results indicate that a model for the LOY anueploidy can be developed and further assist us in better understanding CH. Some limitations, however, are the presence of possible false positives, a lack of computational tools, and the reliance and difficulty of using multiple probes. In the future, we aim to test this system in human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells as well as apply additional methods such as karyotyping and ddPCR, hoping to generate a concrete model where the LOY in men as they age can be studied within the context of blood disorders and cancers.

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Tahmid Chowdhury¹^,², Chad Euler PhD¹^,³^,⁴

¹Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Hunter College, New York, New York
²Macaulay Honors College, Hunter College, New York, New York
³The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
⁴Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York

Streptococcus pyogenes is a gram-positive bacteria that causes strep-throat. Inadequate treatment of this infection can lead to autoimmune complications like rheumatic fever (RF). RF is the leading cause of preventable cardiovascular disease in children, infecting over 34 million people worldwide and leading to over 345,000 deaths annually. In RF patients, the immune cells and antibodies activated to stop the streptococcal infection cross-react with the antigens in their body, causing permanent damage to the heart. No clinical tests are currently available to determine the likelihood of individuals to develop RF. This project is a preliminary exploration to identify the D8/17 protein, an antigen biomarker with elevated concentrations in rheumatic fever patients. We hypothesize that antibodies against the D8/17 antigen will bind to unique biomarkers on the B-cell surface in rheumatic fever patients. To test this, we analyzed how these antibodies interact with proteins on B-cell membranes obtained from patient blood samples.

Immortalized B-cell lines were grown in cell culture media. We then lysed the cells and subjected them to immunoprecipitation with a D8/17 antibody, followed by western blot and mass spectroscopy to identify unique biomarkers.

Our analyses have identified elevated levels of cytoskeletal and membrane proteins that cross-react with the D8/17 in RF patients compared to healthy controls.

These experiments provide a better understanding of the biomarkers on RF B-cells. Our future direction is to further study their role in RF pathology and diagnosis.

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Emily Chu¹, Sereene Kurzum¹, Bruce Gelb¹, Tirtha Kamal Das¹^,²

¹The Mindich Child Health and Development Institute
²Department of Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

RASopathies are a group of genetic disorders arising from dominant mutations in the Ras/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Understanding how these mutations affect cellular processes is important for determining how the disease progresses and developing possible treatments. Drosophila melanogaster is a powerful genetically tractable model system used to study signaling pathways in rare disease models. Using LacZ reporter assays (encoding the enzyme β-galactosidase), we can examine the activity of multiple signaling pathways in different disease models using third instar larvae (L3) wing discs. We hypothesize that Drosophila melanogaster serves as an effective model to study the effects of disease variants such as MAGI2-mut/dup, NDUFAF-Y³01H, and SOS1-S548R, and how they might disrupt and alter normal cellular signaling.

L3 larvae expressing disease variants with lacZ reporters were dissected, fixed, mounted onto slides, and imaged using fluorescence microscopy. Qualitative analysis of generated samples depicted the effect of how each disease variant alters signaling pathways from a normal cellular state.

SOS1-S548R variant induced increased signaling of the Hippo pathway reporter ex-lacZ, whereas variant MAGI²-mut/dup induced ectopic signaling of FGFR/EGFR pathway reporter pnt-lacZ. Ectopic signals appeared in both reporters in regions of the wing discs where signaling expression had not previously been associated.

Repeating LacZ reporter assays and increasing the number of wing discs imaged will help confirm the observed changes in the Hippo and FGFR/EGFR pathways. A quantitative analysis will validate how these disease variants disrupt cellular activity and promote disease progression.

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Stephany Chuquimarca¹^,², John Watters²^,³, Shixin Liu²

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, The City University of New York
²Laboratory of Nanoscale Biophysics and Biochemistry, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
³Laboratory of Structural Biophysics and Mechanobiology, The Rockefeller Univers

Transcription is a core component of the central dogma of biology. The macromolecular machine RNA polymerase (RNAP) produces a complementary strand of RNA from the genome to produce RNAs responsible for various regulatory purposes and mRNAs necessary for translation. Transcription initiation, elongation, and termination are tightly regulated to ensure the production of accurate gene products. The genome is populated with DNA-binding proteins that serve as a barrier to elongation, and if bound tightly enough, it can completely stall forward elongation. Although previous studies have explored these collisions, the structural details of RNAP during such collisions remain unknown.

To address this, we used cryo-EM to investigate an actively transcribing RNAP colliding with a catalytically inactivated restriction enzyme acting as a high-affinity roadblock (EcoRI*). We resolved a 2.9 Å resolution cryo-EM structure of the collided EcoRNAP–EcoRI* complex.

The RNAP was visualized to adopt a moderately swiveled conformation, similar to paused states induced by transcription factor NusA or RNA hairpins. Backtracked RNA is observed in the structure, consistent with our bulk biochemistry assays. Adding the Gre family of transcription elongation factors could cleave the backtracked RNA to restart transcription and increase the bypass of roadblocks via a "battering" mechanism. Interestingly, the EcoRI* N-terminal helix near the collision interface is re-oriented in the structure, indicating that the RNAP collision is remodeling the roadblock. These findings provide new insights into how RNAP can translocate to remove roadblocks by partially unfolding them, thereby disrupting their DNA-binding interfaces. To further investigate this, we plan to introduce destabilizing mutation in EcoRI* away from its DNA-binding region and assess their effect on RNAP’s ability to facilitate transcription through obstructed genomic regions using biochemical bulk assays.

These findings provide new insights into how RNAP can translocate to remove roadblocks by partially unfolding them, thereby disrupting their DNA-binding interfaces. To further investigate this, we plan to introduce destabilizing mutation in EcoRI* away from its DNA-binding region and assess their effect on RNAP’s ability to facilitate transcription through obstructed genomic regions using biochemical bulk assays.

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Melissa Ching¹, Sarah Hunt¹, Ciara Zarete¹, and Jemma Clarke¹

¹Department of Sociology, Hunter College

This study examined the effects of government carceral programming on recidivism rates. We hypothesized that the more funding and programs a prison has, the lower the recidivism rate.

We focused on three states, Colorado, Georgia, and Florida, as well as three government policies enacted to reduce recidivism (the First Step Act, the Second Chance Act, and the Justice Reinvestment Initiative). We investigated public data released by these programs to examine their effectiveness. To provide depth to these results, we conducted semi-structured interviews with two participants who successfully navigated their re-entry. The conversations investigated themes such as access to support services, mental health resources, reintegration challenges, and individuals' roles in their rehabilitation process.

Our results did not entirely support our hypothesis; more funding was not necessarily associated with reducing recidivism. Some states with less funding had better recidivism reduction rates. Some programming does reduce recidivism, though the extent of reduction depends on the program type.

The results highlight the need for individualized and comprehensive reentry planning to successfully reintegrate people into society and lower recidivism rates. While the First Step Act, the Second Chance Act, and the Justice Reinvestment Initiative are slightly effective in reducing recidivism through programming, some states that received less funding had better results than those with more funding. Future studies should analyze cases where recidivism rates were reduced after receiving less funding to identify cost-effective and efficient approaches to tackling recidivism within the prison system.

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Ahava Collado¹, Li Li¹, Brandon Ely¹, Lia Di¹, Weigang Qiu¹^,²

¹Hunter College, City University of New York, USA
²Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA

Borrelia are tick-borne bacterial pathogens of Lyme disease and relapsing fever. To evade host immunity during infection, Borrelia generates antigenic variation via the exchange of genetic information between the variable major protein-like sequence Expressed (vlsE) gene and the neighboring vls silent cassettes. Through phylogenetic analysis of 30 Borrelia genomes, we aim to discover the evolutionary mechanisms of vls variability.

We developed a Biopython-based script to identify and extract co-linear vls sequences based on the whole-plasmid sequences from NCBI and the nucleotide coordinates from a recent publication (Norris & Brangulis, 2024) We align multiple vls sequences using MUSCLE, reconstruct phylogenetic trees using FastTree, and display the trees via ggtree. We have extracted a total of 369 vls sequences from 30 genomes encompassing 7 species from 3 continents: B. burgdorferi, B. garinii, B. afzelii, B. bavariensis, B. maritima, B. mayonii, and B. spielmanii. We have built phylogenetic trees and found evidence of gene duplication, recombination, and natural selection in generating vls antigenic variability.

The individual gene trees were inconsistent with the whole genome tree, an indication of horizontal gene transfer.

Constructing phylogenetic trees for the analysis of the vls gene system provides valuable insight into the evolutionary mechanisms affecting Borrelia’s antigenic variance. These methods include gene duplication and loss events, recombination between homologous cassette sequences, mutations, and selection for hypervariability. This understanding can be applied in the treatment of lyme disease.

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Laycha M. Contin Gautreaux¹^,², Olorunfemi Ayeotan²^,³, Andreia Lopes², and Lucia Borriello²^,⁴

¹The City University of New York, Hunter College, New York, NY, USA
²Department of Cancer and Cellular Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
³Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Cancer Biology and Genetics, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
⁴Fox Chase Cancer Center, Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Philadelphia, PA, USA

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive and deadly subtype of breast cancer. Although chemotherapy is the standard treatment, about 25% of patients develop lung metastases post-treatment. These metastases often arise from dormant Disseminated Tumor Cells (DTCs), which are resistant to chemotherapy. While chemotherapy targets actively growing primary tumor cells, dormant DTCs can evade treatment and act as a reservoir for metastasis development during or after treatment. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms underlying metastatic relapse is critical. Recent studies suggest that systemic changes induced by chemotherapy might awaken dormant DTCs, but the exact mechanisms are still unclear. Our preliminary data indicate that Paclitaxel, a common chemotherapy drug for TNBC, alters the lung microenvironment, potentially triggering the awakening of dormant DTCs and leading to lung metastases. However, the specific mechanisms remain unknown.

During my research summer experience, we tested the hypothesis that chemotherapy induces an infiltration of immune cells in the lungs, which subsequently awakens dormant tumor cells. To investigate this, we stained lung tissues from mice treated with either Paclitaxel or PBS with CD45+, a marker of immune cells.

Interestingly, our results show increased immune cell infiltration in the lungs of Paclitaxel-treated mice compared to the control groups.

These findings support the hypothesis that targeting both proliferating primary tumor cells with chemotherapy and inhibition of immune cell infiltration could be a strategy to prevent metastasis and improve outcomes for TNBC patients.

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Kaylyn Cortes-Munoz¹, Dr. Samuel Stabler²

¹Undergraduate Student, Department of Sociology, Hunter College
²Department of Sociology, Hunter College

The beige aesthetic popularized by influencer parents reflects broader societal values by promoting ideologies of calm, sustainability and curated perfection in modern parenting. While some mothers have adopted this aesthetic as a form of self-expression and as a means to regain their identity after motherhood, the widespread popularization of influencer culture has transformed this trend into a social standard that dictates what “good” parenting should look like. Online parenting communities have reinforced and challenged this ideology as some embrace the aesthetic lifestyle, while others critique its unrealistic representation of motherhood.

This paper qualitatively analyzed Tik Tok videos from various parenting influencers and videos by coding for key themes using the platform Taguette. The analysis of videos focused on examining how mothers navigate their identity through influencer culture, the incorporation of minimalistic trends in parenting, the role of brand promotion, the portrayal of the “perfect motherhood” and the way online decisions shared the perception of “good” parenting. By tracking the recurrence of these themes, this study reveals how the beige aesthetic trend is displayed and reinforced in influencer content.

Findings indicate mothers often adopt the beige aesthetic as a means of regaining their personal identity after motherhood. The carefully crafted neutral-toned environments provide a sense of calm and control while they learn to navigate the chaos of parenting. However, the trend also contributes to unrealistic portrayals of motherhood as it reinforces unrealistic standards and influences societal expectation of “good parenting.”

The beige aesthetic in influencer parenting culture reflects broader societal. While some mothers have embraced this trend as a way to reclaim their identity and establish control over the chaos of motherhood, its widespread popularity has reinforced unrealistic standards of parenting. The analysis of TikTok influencer content reveals that online communities both uphold and challenge this aesthetic as it shapes perceptions of what constitutes "good" parenting. The beige aesthetic is more than just a trend, it is a reflection of the pressures and ideals embedded in modern parenting culture.

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Jayline Coste¹

¹Hunter College, City University of New York

This research explores how residency duration and gender identity affect perceptions of NYC subway safety. It hypothesizes that newer residents and non-male individuals experience heightened safety concerns compared to long-term residents and males.

A survey of 200 NYC residents collected responses on transit crime perceptions, experiences, and demographics. Descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation were used to analyze patterns. Additionally, 2023–2024 NYPD crime data were reviewed to compare perceptions with reported trends.

Findings indicate that residents living in NYC for under a year reported the highest perception of subway crime. Interestingly, those with one to five years of residency showed reduced concerns, suggesting an adjustment period. Gender analysis revealed that women and non-binary individuals felt significantly less safe than men, with non-binary respondents most frequently attributing socioeconomic factors to their concerns.

The results underscore the influence of residency duration and gender on subway safety perceptions. Addressing these concerns requires targeted safety measures and inclusive policies. Additionally, the gap between public perception and crime data highlights the need for transparent communication to align public understanding with crime realities.

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Rania Darwish¹, Nicolette Pirjanian², Jimena Zulueta², Valentina Fossati²

¹ Macaulay Honors College, Hunter College of the City University of New York
² The New York Stem Cell Foundation Research Institute, New York, NY

Oligodendrocytes are cells responsible for producing the myelin sheath which insulates neuronal axons, allowing for rapid transmission of electrical signals. Understanding the mechanisms underlying oligodendrocyte degeneration is crucial for developing novel therapeutics for many neurological disorders. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be used to differentiate oligodendrocytes in vitro. Significant limitations in these models are lengthy differentiation protocol and limited cell viability following cryopreservation at intermediate stages.

Two cell lines were cryopreserved in three cryopreservation media to determine which conditions best support cell viability and oligodendrocyte differentiation. One line was derived from an MS progressive patient, and the other was an eGFP-MBP reporter line which allowed us to track oligodendrocyte growth and morphology live. For each line, neurospheres were cryopreserved in their respective freezing media. After thawing, progenitors were then differentiated towards oligodendrocytes and immunocytochemistry was conducted to identify canonical oligodendrocytes markers, followed by quantification using ImageJ.

To test which cryopreservation media was most effective on the recovery rate of oligodendrocytes, a pipeline was developed in ImageJ to quantify the number of oligodendroglial cells in each condition. Using confocal microscopy, the number of oligodendroglial cells normalized to the total number of cells in each condition was quantified. The live reporter line was used to determine when oligodendrocytes started migrating out of the spheres.

Optimizing cryopreservation conditions enables cross-lab collaborations, and supports large-scale differentiation across multiple lines, through banking oligodendrocyte progenitor cells in batches.

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Anahely C. Martinez¹, Brianna Dasrat¹

¹Department of Psychology, Hunter College

This study measures the effect of extroversion, introversion, and ambiversion on helping behaviors towards others in various contexts. We hypothesize that extroverted people will demonstrate more helpful behavior than ambiverts and introverts.

Participants (N=60) had their altruism tested through a series of scenarios, each with an increasing level of threat. Participants were asked to imagine they were experiencing five different hypothetical scenarios unfolding at a cafe, each riskier than the last, and instructed to choose how they would act in said situations. Answers were coded as either displaying altruism or not displaying altruism. A survey was used to administer the scenarios and collect answers. Research was conducted during an Experimental Psychology course with HRPP approval (2023-09-12-297).

A one-way ANOVA test found no significant difference between the frequency of helpful behavior and introverts (M=3.10, SD=1.41), ambiverts (M=3.69, SD=0.97), and extroverts (M=4, SD=1.05); F(2, 57) = 2.59, p = 0.084.

Our hypothesis was not supported by the data, and no significant relationship was found among the three personality types regarding their likelihood of assisting others. While previous research demonstrated the correlation between extroversion and altruism, our study may have been limited by the overrepresentation of women among participants and the small sample size.

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Amar Dhanjal¹^,²^,³, Sara Fresard, PhD²^,⁴, Jayne Raper, PhD²^,⁴

¹Macaulay Honors College, Hunter College, City University of New York
²Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College-CUNY
³The National Institute of General Medicine Maximizing Access to Research Careers Program, Hunter College
⁴Biology Program, The Graduate Center CUNY

African Trypanosomes are parasites that cause nagana in animals. Humans are innately protected against trypanosomes due to Trypanosome Lytic Factors (TLF). TLFs contain distinct proteins: haptoglobin-related protein (HPR) and apolipoprotein L-1 (APOL1). APOL1 forms cation channels and lyses trypanosomes through ion dysregulation. HPR, a 47kDa disulfide-linked inactive serine protease, shares homology with haptoglobin (Hp), which binds toxic free hemoglobin(Hb). Trypanosomes endocytose Hp:Hb complexes via the haptoglobin-hemoglobin receptor. HPR, only secreted in TLF due to an uncleaved signal peptide, binds Hb and can exploit HpHbR, resulting in TLF endocytosis and parasite lysis. The active site catalytic triad of serine proteases is aspartic acid(D), histidine(H), and serine(S). Two amino acids of HPR’s predicted “active site,” K144 and A297, may inactivate the enzyme. I hypothesize that HPR uses this inactive pocket to bind APOL1, protecting it from degradation.

Using site-directed-mutagenesis, I have made an N-6xHistidine-tagged, catalytically active, HPR (catHPR) predicted to restore enzymatic activity with K144H and A297S, and signal peptide cleavage with L20V and Y21D. Enzymatic activity of purified catHPR from transfected Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO-s) cells will be evaluated with recombinant APOL1.

Plasmids containing catHPR have been constructed. catHPR transfections show protein production, however, catHPR is retained inside cells.

The L20V and Y21D mutations were insufficient to generate a secretable product in the CHO cells. Using signal peptide cleavage bioinformatic analysis, adding two more mutations to catHPR may result in 98% cleavage, which will be evaluated with further rounds of mutagenesis.

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Tyler Diaz¹

¹Department of Music, Hunter College

Standard music education in the United States is rooted in European historical standards which have distanced music students from American music history. Furthering the divide, music by people of African descent is typically condensed into jazz history, which, by itself, omits centuries of musical development preceding its creation at the turn of the twentieth century. By delving deeper into American music history, I show that Philadelphia during the early nineteenth century emerged as a center for Black musical developments in the States, which further defined the advancement of music throughout the country.

In this project, I examine accounts in newspaper archives, personal reports, and concert programs. Genealogical tracing also provides critical context for this particular community.

Philadelphia was a hub for social activities for all citizens. Racial dynamics of the time found most Black musicians, enslaved or free, as mere commodities for the White host. Despite this, the nation’s most successful musician then was Francis Johnson, a free Black man from Philadelphia.

A concrete history of African American music has been largely omitted in music education at all levels. By revisiting the country’s fuller musical development during this period, it becomes clear that Johnson’s band was the premiere entertainment for most of the country, performing in 14 out of the 26 states (including three slave states), Canada, and Europe. Philadelphia’s Black community was at the center of a global cultural exchange through music, which deserves to be as widely known as New York’s Harlem Renaissance would be 100 years later.

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Veronica Douglin¹

¹Department of English, Hunter College

The Little Red Schoolbook is an example of children’s literature notable for its implementation of pedagogy rooted in the harm-reduction model. Respective concerns of the book’s proponents and detractors converge on children’s exposure to challenging subjects such as authority, political awareness, sex, drugs, and independence.

In the first part, I review early works of children’s literature that established a moralist precedent in the genre. In the second, I use textual analysis to examine the LRSB’s subject matter, language, and framework in context of authorial intent. In the third, I analyze a set of primary sources and situate the text amid public reception.

Authors Hansen and Jensen use positive elements to influence youth toward self-empowerment. However, the LRSB’s reception confirms a transnational investment in restricting children’s literature to a conservative norm. Less than a fear of children being exposed to sensitive information, adult speculations fixated on future interventions by texts which would work to educate children directly, in turn diminishing parental and administrative control over youth.

The crux of the LRSB’s impact is childhood and a triad concern with how to speak to children, how to guide their behavior, and what information or tools to provide them. Regarding the contention between censorship and children’s rights in the US, the last decade has marked a resurgence of threats to institutional funding and management of public libraries, reactionary book bans in schools, and restrictions on sex education. These efforts hark back to the moral project that shaped the genre’s rise.

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Sara Dove¹

¹Department of Classical and Oriental Studies, Hunter College

Brides belonging to elite classes in ancient Greece and Rome were often wed soon after their menarche. With the current average age of a menarche being around fourteen years old, ranging from ages as young as seven to the later teen years, this paper seeks to discover how the youth of brides in the ancient Greco- Roman world impacted their lives as wives and mothers, and how their relationships to men determined their status of “woman” or “girl”, and not necessarily the completion of puberty.

This paper analyses primary written accounts of prenuptial rituals, gynecological methods, and laws regarding women’s roles within marriage in both ancient Greece and Rome. It also uses material culture to support some of these claims, while comparing them to what is known about adolescent girls and puberty in the modern era.

Adolescent girls who entered marriage at young ages were considered women after their weddings. The patriarchal nature of ancient Greek and Roman society normalized just how young these brides were. Due to their lack of anatomical development, many young wives died in childbirth. Many prenuptial rites recognize the youth of brides and how the transition they faced could often mean death.

Scholarship today tends to overlook the fact that ancient Greek and Roman brides were often pubescents with underdeveloped bodies who were expected to give birth before the completion of puberty. This experience offers some insight into the personal lives of girls and women of that time, which is otherwise limited.

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Emily R. Drucker¹, Alisha B. Compton²^,³, Claire M. Tate³^,⁴, James R. Booth²^,³

¹CUNY Hunter College
²Vanderbilt Brain Institute
³Vanderbilt Psychology & Human Development
⁴Baylor College of Medicine

Early adversity is known to affect emotion and cognition, but more research is needed on distinct effects of varying types of adversity. The dimensional model of adversity groups experiences postulated to have similar consequences and includes the dimensions of threat and deprivation. This project aims to examine deprivation as a unique factor underlying language skill, threat as a unique factor underlying emotion reactivity, and the relation of both to working memory, but perhaps more for deprivation.

48 children, 7-12 years (Mage=10.11), completed an experimental rhyming task that manipulates lexical processing (low- vs. high-frequency words), affective valence (negative vs. neutral images), and working memory (2- vs. 1-back load). Parents completed surveys on the child’s threat (VEX-R) and deprivation (ECLS) experiences. Using hierarchical regressions, we examined variance explained by threat and deprivation, above and beyond age and the other, in lexical processing, affective valence, and working memory performance.

Trends suggest a unique relation of deprivation to lexical processing accuracy (ΔR2=7.44%, F(1,44)=3.91, p=0.054), and working memory reaction time variability (RTV; ΔR2=6.7⁴%, F(1,44)=3.89, p=0.055), in line with a dimensional model. We also see a significant unique relation of threat to lexical processing RTV (ΔR2=9.28%, F(1,44)=6.08, p=0.018) and a trend with reaction time (ΔR2=4.87%, F(1,44)=².96, p=0.09).

Prior literature suggests threat, but not deprivation, relates to processing speed and response caution. Yet other studies have found an association between deprivation and response inhibition. To further examine associations of the dimensional model with RTV we will analyze a larger sample and examine relevant neural correlates with fMRI.

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Laura Elliott¹

¹Hunter College

This study examines the gender differences in reactions to sexual and emotional infidelity in romantic relationships. The study involves the triggers for gender-specific reactions and the significance of relationship experience in determining distress levels, drawing on a literature analysis that includes studies by Murphy et al. (2006), Sabini and Green (2004), Takahashi et al. (2006), and Urooj, Haque, and Anjum (2015).

The study hypothesizes that males are more affected by sexual infidelity than women are by emotional infidelity, based on existing theories. The study included 40 individuals, 32 females, and 8 men, and used a between-subject design. Participants completed one of two surveys: one in which they chose between sexual and emotional infidelity scenarios, and the other in which they rated their distress level on a scale of 1-10 for each scenario.

The Z-test results show no statistically significant difference in the proportion of men and women upset by emotional or sexual infidelity. The results of the experiment don’t support my hypothesis. The results present a non-significant difference between the genders and their most upsetting type of infidelity.

In conclusion, the study discusses the consequences of these findings, dependent on relevant studies to provide insights into the challenges of understanding emotional and sexual infidelity. The study underlines the importance of future research into relationship status and longevity and proposes investigating cognitive factors through correlation research.

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Danielle Elterman¹^,², Dana Sylvan¹, Peter Craigmile¹

¹Hunter College
²John P. McNulty Scholar Program

Recent studies link air pollution exposure to human and environmental health. It is critical to identify time intervals and spatial regions where such exposure risks are high. For fine particles we need to be able to visualize and model effects of various quantiles, in addition to mean effects, since people are more adversely affected by excessive levels of pollution.

We propose versatile tools to describe and visualize quantiles of data with wide-ranging spatial-temporal structures and various degrees of missingness. We illustrate this methodology through dynamic visualization of spatial-temporal patterns to provide useful insights into where and when the process changes. This approach does not require strong theoretical assumptions such as normality of the data. This approach is useful to guide future modeling efforts.

The aforementioned statistical framework is applied to daily PM2.5 concentrations for the years 2020-2024 collected at 108 locations in the states of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. We show how the PM2.5 exposure risks evolve over space and time, and identify possible clusters.

Our approach demonstrates the importance of effective dynamic visualizations of complex spatial-temporal datasets by providing relevant summaries. In ongoing research, we are exploring data driven techniques for estimating uncertainty in these spatial-temporal patterns and plan to expand analysis to include recent years and additional regions.

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Sage Fairchild¹

¹Hunter College

This thought experiment uses poetry as a vehicle to explore identity, belonging, love, and their intersections within the modern landscape. I will use my voice as a young transgender poet to guide the reader to new realms of thinking and invite readers to seek their own truths, embrace their individuality, and deconstruct their individual barriers to authenticity. Ultimately, the work literarily deconstructs--and celebrates--the concept of queerness into the general human experience.

To accomplish my goal, I use diaristic poetry which focuses on the emotional ramifications of everyday life, including but not limited to the use of imagery, personal metaphors, and a free verse structure. Each piece reflects my experience, and in doing so, reveals a facet of overarching personhood.

This compilation seeks to empower readers to reflect on and embrace their own individuality, and to live freer lives.

In addressing each of our own personal individuality and the ways in which that individuality is repressed, we can learn to reinterpret and understand the perceived differences of others as facets of ourselves. This understanding has the capacity to bridge divides, protect the vulnerable, and create a better world.

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Khaja Faizuddin¹, Joseph Lawrence², Carmen Vasquez Melendez¹

¹Biology Department, CUNY Hunter College, New York, NY
²Ph.D. Program in Biology, The Graduate Center, CUNY, New York, NY

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disorder in the central nervous system (CNS) caused by the loss of myelin. Oligodendrocytes (OL) are the glial cells responsible for the formation of CNS myelin. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that facilitate cell-cell communication. Exosomes derived from OL (Ex-OL) are known to inhibit their own differentiation and myelin formation. Microglia are the resident immune cells of the CNS. In a healthy CNS, homeostatic microglia internalize Ex-OL which in turn modulate microglial responses and myelin formation. Our lab has shown that conditional ablation (cKO) of non-muscle myosin II (NMII) in OL enhances myelin formation and repair. Furthermore, cKO of NMII in OL reduces neuroinflammation and the severity of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), a preclinical model of MS. The mechanism(s) behind these neuroprotective effects is unknown, but we hypothesize that in the context of neuroinflammation, cKO of NMII in OL decreases the production/release of exosomes, thus inhibiting microglia activation and promoting myelin repair.

To test this hypothesis, wild type (WT) and NMII conditional knockout (cKO) mice were immunized with myelin associated glycoprotein to induce EAE. On day 10 when mice started to show the signs of disease with a limp tail (clinical score = 1), brain and spinal cord tissue was collected for immunostaining. Sections were stained with antibodies to Olig2 (OL-lineage), Iba1 (microglia morphology), PRDx1 (exosomes); and DAPI (nucleus). Confocal images were acquired and analyzed for integrated fluorescence intensity and colocalization of Prdx1 and Iba1 using Fiji.

Based on the colocalization analysis, we expect to observe a lower colocalization between microglia and exosomes in cKO mice when compared to WT mice and to see differences in microglia morphology such as a more amoeboid shape in WT which is compatible with higher activation when compared to cKO.

A lower colocalization value in cKO would indicate less exosomes being produced in cKO mice, thus inhibiting microglia activation and promoting myelin repair. Understanding of this mechanism can be leveraged in the development of therapeutics designed to promote remyelination and aid in the recovery of MS patients.

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Umar Faruque¹, Nan Jia¹, Anita Raja¹

¹Department of Computer Science, Hunter College

Missing data is a common challenge in real-world datasets, significantly hindering the performance of machine learning models. While researchers have developed various imputation methods to address this issue, these approaches often fail to leverage the underlying structure of data dependencies and struggle with complex missingness patterns. In this study, we extend the success of an existing novel reinforcement learning (RL)-based imputer and evaluate its performance across different types of datasets. We show that our algorithm is context-aware, reliable, flexible, and adaptive to a variety of use cases.

Our study follows a three-step approach: replicating the RL-based algorithm to validate its effectiveness, systematically comparing it with other traditional and state-of-the-art imputation methods, including Generative Adversarial Imputation Networks (GAIN); and finally applying hyperparameter tuning to optimize agent training for each specific dataset.

The results demonstrated that generative machine learning methods, such as GAIN, consistently outperformed other approaches, particularly in capturing complex interactions in non-linear datasets due to their adversarial learning framework. The RL-based method, on the other hand, performed well on datasets that contained simple patterns with fewer outliers in numeric values.

We have investigated the effectiveness of GAIN vs. RL-based methods on different types of missing data. In future work, we will assess their computational cost and robustness across varying levels of missingness, ranging from 10% to 50%.

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Alanna Fields¹^,², Jacob Fyda¹, Soundhar Ramasamy¹, Benjamin Kleaveland¹

¹Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine
²Macaulay Honors College at Hunter College

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) guide Argonaute (AGO) proteins to bind and repress target RNAs. However, some targets, called trigger RNAs, direct miRNA degradation instead. The CYRANO long noncoding RNA is a potent trigger, reducing miR-7 levels up to 50-fold. Preliminary studies in the Kleaveland lab determined sequences in CYRANO proximal and distal to the miR-7 binding site that enhance miR-7 degradation, however, this mechanism is unknown. We hypothesize that RNA structure(s) in and around the miR-7 binding site promotes CYRANO-directed miR-7 degradation.

To test our hypothesis, we aim to determine 2D structure(s) of these regions using dimethyl sulfate (DMS) chemical probing and high-throughput sequencing. DMS methylates accessible nitrogenous bases in RNA, which are detected as mutations after reverse-transcription. We then use deconvolution and annotation of ribonucleic conformational ensembles (DANCE-MaP) to identify unique structures and characterize their features. We perform in vivo DMS chemical probing of endogenous CYRANO in wild-type and miR-7-deficient cells to identify potential RNA structure(s) and determine how miR-7 levels affect structure.

After multiple rounds of optimization, we established a robust pipeline for DMS chemical probing and sequencing that maximizes RNA mutation rate while minimizing RNA degradation. We are currently analyzing sequencing data to determine reactivity profiles and ²D structures of the CYRANO miR-7 binding site and adjacent sequences.

By identifying structural characteristics, we may better understand how CYRANO induces miR-7 degradation. Our findings may also inform our understanding of how other triggers induce miRNA degradation and improve the design of synthetic triggers that degrade specific miRNAs.

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Sugar Galka⁵, Joni Sebastiano¹,²,³, Brian M. Zeglis¹-⁴

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, The City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
²Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
³Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
⁴Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA 
⁵New York Research and Mentoring for Postbaccalaureates, Hunter College, New York, NY, USA

Matrix metallopeptidase 26 (MMP26) is a relatively new member of the MMP family that has not yet been used as a radiotracer. MMP26’s primary function is to degrade collagen and fibronectin, and it is thought to promote cell invasion. MMP26 holds promise as a novel biomarker for imaging as it is found to be elevated in many diverse carcinomas with low levels in healthy tissue. Herein we describe the synthesis of an MMP26-targeting PET tracer that successfully delineates subcutaneous JEG-3 xenografts in a murine model of choriocarcinoma.

Immunocytochemistry (ICC) and western blotting were performed to evaluate MMP26 expression in a quartet of cancer cell lines: MDA-MB-231, Skov3, JEG-3, and LnCAP. Characterization of the MMP26-targeting antibody was performed via ELISA, SPR, and MALDI-ToF mass spectrometry. A small library of anti-MMP26 antibodies was bioconjugated to the chelator desferrioxamine (DFO) and subsequently radiolabeled with zirconium-89. The resultant radioimmunoconjugates were injected via tail vein injection into nude mice bearing subcutaneous JEG-3 xenografts (n=4). PET/CT scans were collected at 24, 72, and 120 hours and a terminal ex vivo biodistribution was performed at 120 h p.i.

ICC and western blot analyses illustrated that Skov3, JEG-3, and LnCAP cancer cell lines express high levels of MMP26. ImmunoPET results in the JEG-3 xenograft-bearing mice showed [89Zr]Zr-DFO-αMMP26 effectively delineates tumors and displays high tumor-to-background ratios in biodistribution studies.

Preliminary PET data in a subcutaneous murine model of choriocarcinoma underscores the potential of MMP26 as a novel biomarker for cancer-targeted radioimmunoconjugates.

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Francesco Gambino¹

¹Department of History, Hunter College

The academic study and analysis of individuals as social bandits originally came from historian Eric Hobsbawm’s work Primitive Rebels in 1959. In 1940s Sicily, Salvatore Giuliano proved to be a unique case among social bandits. He combined three aspects of banditry: the primitive social bandit, or the “Noble Robber,” as proposed by Hobsbawm, a political bandit in his fight for Sicilian separatism, and finally, an international bandit, becoming a weapon against communism in Sicily while receiving international coverage.

This paper uses Eric Hobsbawm’s social bandit theory as a framework and lens to evaluate Giuliano’s tenure as a bandit, as well as the breakthrough works of Anton Blok and Michele Pantaleone. Primary sources consist of Italian newspapers of the time reporting on Giuliano and his band’s actions, as well as testimonies of individuals taken years after the death of Giuliano.

Eric Hobsbawm’s “Noble Robber” archetype of the social bandit fits perfectly with the actions of Salvatore Giuliano. The Mafia played a significant role due to their deep social roots in the Sicilian peasant society from which Giuliano came. Furthermore, local and international politics deeply influenced Giuliano’s trajectory as a bandit as he utilized them as means to achieving his goals.

The social bandit framework must look beyond the individual bandit and consider external political and social forces. For Giuliano, the most influential were the impact of the Mafia on Sicilian society, the rise of Sicilian separatism, and an increasingly internationally connected world.

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Clara Glaaser¹

¹Women and Gender Studies Department, Hunter College

NCAA collegiate swimming competitions rely on a binary sex/gender categorization model of male/female and man/woman. This binary categorization model assumes that all athletes competing in the same sex/gender category have the same physical capabilities. I propose an alternate classification system to be used in collegiate swimming competition, of which reflects the expansive variability in physical capacity within people previously competing in the same sex/gender category. Taking inspiration from the Paralympics, an international elite athletic competition, I suggest a surrogate classification system dependent on athletes’ height, weight, muscle mass, and wingspan, of which can vary across the sex/gender spectrums.

In this paper, I conduct a case study of transgender athlete Lia Thomas, and her participation in the 500-yard freestyle at the 2022 NCAA Division I Women’s Swimming and Diving Championships, in conversation with Olympian Katie Ledecky’s performance in the same event in 2017. I also rely on feminist theory of gender, specifically that of Simone de Beauvoir, Anne Fausto-Sterling, and Judith Butler, to deconstruct the gender essentialism present in current NCAA transgender policies.

I find that current NCAA transgender policy, of which is obedient to recent Executive Order No. 14201 (2025), and bans transgender women’s participation in athletic competition, falls into the pattern of gender essentialism present in the history of non-men’s inclusion in sport. Using Lia Thomas and Katie Ledecky’s performance in the 2017 and 2022 NCAA Division I Women’s Swimming and Diving Championships as a case study to deconstruct the narrative that transgender women pose a threat to the integrity of women’s sports, I find that there is significant variability within people competing in the same sex/gender category, independent of their assigned sex at birth.

The exclusion of transgender women from the female/woman sex/gender category of NCAA collegiate swimming competition aligns with the historical narrative of gender essentialism present in governing athletic institutions and policies. Using data collected from a case study studying Lia Thomas and Katie Ledecky’s swimming performances in conversation with each other, I show that gender essentialism in collegiate swimming competition is socially constructed, and therefore propose alternative classification system for athletic competition, of which relies on individual physical capacity, independent of sex/gender.

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Isis Golden¹

¹Sociology Department, Hunter College

My study focuses on the Red Pill subgroup of the manosphere, a community that centers around the idea of awakening men to what they perceive as the hidden truths about gender dynamics, male oppression, and female manipulation. My goal is to further the existing literature on the effects of the manosphere and examine how the consumption of these ideas influences young men's perceptions of masculinity, gender roles, and feminism. I hypothesize Red Pill consumption leads to a negative influence or socially conservative view on masculinity, gender roles, and feminism.

Qualitative coding of TikTok video transcripts was utilized to analyze content relevant to the ideologies of the Red Pill. My sample consisted of ³0 video transcripts, selected based on search terms that reflect key Red Pill themes. Using Taguette, these were the five codes: Gender Stereotypes, Biological Essentialism, Antifeminism, Male Victimhood, and Self-Improvement.

Red Pill content on TikTok reinforces traditional gender roles, promotes antifeminism, and frames masculinity as under attack. Self-improvement is a dominant theme, encouraging men to adopt traits like confidence, dominance, and financial success to transition from “beta” to “alpha” status. The male victimhood narrative portrays men as marginalized by feminism and societal shifts, causing a sense of resentment towards them.

These findings support my hypothesis that Red Pill content influences young men’s perceptions of masculinity, gender roles, and feminism in a socially conservative direction. It frames feminism as an “oppressive force” and masculinity as something that must be “reclaimed.” The broader implications include reinforcing patriarchal structures, deepening gender divisions, and potential negative contributions or feelings towards socially progressive movements and public policies.

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Ariana Gonzalez¹, Nomi Uribe¹, Samuel Stabler¹

¹Sociology Department, Hunter College

Welfare Rights Initiative is a grassroots student-led organization at Hunter College that bridges the college access gap for vulnerable New Yorkers regularly at risk of losing their public assistance benefits. Connecting students with legal advocates, providing community organizing training, and acting as negotiators of the workfare system, organizations like WRI have ensured that few students receiving public benefits make steady progress in college and graduate. Studying WRI allows us to examine how students' welfare support at Hunter College has shifted over time, and how retention tactics have changed in response to the increasingly scarce benefits. Exploring how students learned to navigate the bureaucracy of NYC Human Resources Administration and CUNY allows us to think about how the self-empowerment resources at CUNY prepares and supports students for lives beyond their secondary education careers.

This project studies student experiences through a closed answer, and short answer survey of WRI’s 700 student-client population from the last 25 years.

Independent organizations are vital in welfare retention post-workfare reforms, as they develop self advocacy tools in students. Post-reforms, benefit enrollment has declined considerably, evident in the more general decline in benefit usage amongst college students and mothers. The current student welfare recipient population are children and families of recipients and facing the welfare system for the first time.

Our current system is failing mothers and their children, leaving nonprofit organizations as the last advocates defending their right to welfare and education. We show how such organizations impact how students’ access to higher education, their rights to stabilizing benefits, and urge for their support in an increasingly hostile policy environment.

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Eric Guan¹,Raj Korpan¹^,²

¹Department of Computer Science, Hunter College
²Director of the Trustworthy, Intelligent, and Explainable Robotics (TIER) Lab

Robots are increasingly being deployed for a variety of tasks, such as in healthcare or warehouse assistance. However, a key challenge robots need to overcome to be meaningfully integrated into the real world is to be able to navigate in human environments in socially acceptable ways

One approach to tackle this challenge involves modeling the environment’s social dynamics and using that information to make long-term, socially aware decisions while navigating. In order to capture this information, our algorithm draws ideas from machine learning, cognitive science, and psychology to predict human trajectories and detect human group formations. This algorithm expands on previous work involving a cognitively-based architecture for robot navigation.

We are in the process of evaluating our algorithm in a simulated environment with a variable number of humans. Following the simulation, we plan on evaluating the algorithm with an IRB approved human-subject study. Social and navigation metrics discussed in relevant literature are used for evaluation.

As the applications of robotics expands into the real world, it is increasingly important to ensure safe and intelligent behavior in deployed robots. Social robot navigation is one part of a wider set of challenges for deployed robotics.

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Tamar Gurgenidze¹, Valery Chavez¹^,², Dr. Jill Bargonetti¹^,²^,³

¹The Department of Biological Sciences Hunter College, Belfer Building, City University of New York, New York
²The Graduate Center Biology and Biochemistry Programs of City University of New York, New York
³Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York.

Mutant p53 (mtp53) drives the oncogenic progression of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), often acquiring gain-of-function (GOF) properties that promote tumorigenesis. The Bargonetti lab demonstrated that the loss of the C-terminal domain (CTD) of R273H mutant p53 reduces interactions with replicating DNA, Poly-ADP-Ribose Polymerase1 (PARP1), and Poly-ADP-Ribose (PAR). This study investigates the role of positively charged amino acids (AA) in the CTD of mtp53 in mediating interactions with negatively charged PAR. Replacing these residues with neutral alanines weakens electrostatic attraction between mtp53 and PAR, potentially altering mtp53’s oncogenic functions.

To assess amino acids in mtp53-PAR interactions the lab generated stable lines using retroviral gene transfer in MDA-MB-157 cells expressing R273H and R273H-5A (five CTD AA alanine substitutions). Stable cell lines were treated with the DNA-damaging agent Temozolomide (TEMO) for four hours, followed by a recovery period to observe DNA damage repair. Using western blot analysis, we assessed levels of total PARylation, PARP1, and γ-H2AX.

Untreated R273H-5A expressing cells exhibited significantly lower total PARylation levels compared to R273H. Following TEMO treatment, PARP1 activity remained reduced in R273H-5A cells. DNA damage was confirmed by increased γ-H2AX levels. After the repair, these cells maintained decreased total PARylation levels compared to R273H.

Findings suggest that positively charged CTD residues play a crucial role in PAR binding and PARP1 activity. Alanine substitutions disrupt these interactions, influencing mtp53-driven DNA repair and oncogenic functions. Understanding mtp53-PAR-PARP1 interactions could potentially expand the clinical applications of PARP inhibitors for TNBC.

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Saloni Sinha¹, Qazi Ali¹*, Silvia Hanna¹*, Jason Sethiadi¹, Rohit Chandwani²^,³^,⁴, Robert E Schwartz¹^,⁵^,⁶

¹Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York
²New York Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
³Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
⁴Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, New York
⁵Department of Physiology, Biophysics, and Systems Biology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
⁶Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York

*Contributed to this project equally

Epigenetic modifications have been in the spotlight for understanding many diseases. However, their role in liver disease is still largely unexplored. We aim to delineate the ubiquitous presence of memory of inflammation in the liver across multiple differentiated cell types. This can provide a promising direction for the prevention and treatment of chronic liver diseases by defining new targets for therapeutics.

To test memory, we established liver injury-recovery timelines for which we utilized carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) to induce reversible liver fibrosis. 8-week-old C57 male mice (n=6 per condition) were intraperitoneally injected with an acute dose of CCl4 (2.5 μL/g dissolved in corn oil biweekly for 4 weeks). We then let mice completely recover from this injury and rechallenged with CCl4.

After the initial acute dose of CCl4, the mice showed centrilobular hepatocellular injury and advanced fibrosis which recovered completely in a period of 12 weeks. Rechallenging these mice with CCl4 showed development of more rapid fibrosis (3 weeks) as compared to initial acute injury onset (4 weeks).

We found that rechallenge after acute liver injury led to more rapid fibrosis accrual, supporting our hypothesis that memory is a feature in liver cells. Therefore, prior inflammation may be an unrecognized and ubiquitous risk factor for hepatic injury, fibrosis, and tumorigenesis. We aim to expand our studies by defining the chromatin landscapes associated with this memory and functionally testing the relevance of inflammatory memory via specific genetic and pharmacologic perturbations.

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Tuli Hannan¹ - BSW Candidate, Care Coordinator and Clinical Social Work Intern

¹Silberman School of Social Work, CUNY Hunter

Despite working full-time, many New Yorkers cannot afford stable housing due to the high cost of living and stagnant wages. The common narrative surrounding homelessness focuses on unemployment or social service dependency, overlooking a growing demographic: individuals who are fully employed yet unable to sustain basic living expenses. This study investigates how rising rent, utilities, food, and transportation costs create a reality where full-time work is insufficient for financial stability. It challenges the notion that employment alone ensures housing security and examines how economic pressures are reshaping workforce housing conditions. This study also highlights the crucial role of social work in addressing these housing disparities through community advocacy, policy engagement, and direct support for affected individuals.

This study employs a Cost-of-Living Comparative Analysis to measure the gap between wages and necessary expenses, focusing on individuals earning NYC’s minimum wage ($16/hour) versus the actual income needed to afford housing independently. Data sources include reports from the New York State Comptroller, HUD, and NYC Department of Homeless Services. Additionally, qualitative interviews with working individuals experiencing housing instability provide insights into personal economic struggles. By utilizing social work education and practice, this research uncovers the housing crisis through a social justice lens and explores the role of social workers in addressing systemic barriers to affordable housing.

The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in NYC is $3,500/month, requiring an annual salary of $84,000 to afford independently—far above what most full-time workers earn. Essential expenses (rent, utilities, transportation, food, healthcare) total approximately $56,000 annually, yet NYC’s full-time minimum wage worker earns only $33,280/year before taxes. Many working New Yorkers must live with multiple roommates, stay in shelters, or rely on unsafe housing options to compensate for the cost gap. The number of employed yet homeless individuals is rising, exposing flaws in economic policies that assume full-time work guarantees housing security. Social workers play a key role in advocating for housing justice, providing case management, and facilitating access to resources that mitigate housing instability.

This study highlights the systemic financial strain on full-time workers in NYC and the necessity of reframing the housing crisis beyond unemployment. Without structural changes, working individuals will continue to struggle despite employment. To address this:

1. Restructuring zoning laws is critical to increasing housing supply and lowering rental costs
2. Cost-of-living wage adjustments must reflect NYC’s real expenses
3. Utility and housing subsidies should be expanded for full-time workers below a sustainable income threshold
4. Alternative housing models, such as cooperative housing and micro-unit developments, should be explored to provide more accessible living options
5. Increased representation of social workers on community boards can enhance community planning, ensuring that housing policies reflect the lived realities of vulnerable populations
6. Integrating social work students into internships on local community boards can offer hands-on experience in housing advocacy, allowing them to bridge social work practice with community-driven policy solutions
7. Community engagement initiatives led by social workers can facilitate discussions on affordable housing, empowering residents to advocate for their needs.

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Aminul Haque¹ Akira Kawamura¹

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York

The striped cucumber beetle is a significant agricultural pest, damaging crops by feeding on leaves, stems, and fruit. This reduces yield and increases reliance on chemical pesticides, which can harm the environment and human health. This study seeks to synthesize a vittalactone analogue, an aggregating pheromone used by these beetles, to manipulate their behavior and offer an eco-friendly pest control method. We are investigating the impact of aldehyde chain length on the synthesis process and biological response by using decanal, hexanal, and octanal in different trials.

The synthesis involves Evans chiral auxiliary methodology, using titanium tetrachloride (TiCl₄) and various aldehydes (decanal, hexanal, and octanal) to form stereoselective aldol products. The protocol includes dissolving the auxiliary imide in dichloromethane (DCM) and stepwise addition of TiCl₄ and TMEDA, followed by aldehyde addition. The reaction is quenched with NH₄Cl, and the product is extracted with DCM, dried, and purified via column chromatography using an ethyl acetate/hexane gradient. Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) monitors the reaction progress.

We expect to obtain stereochemically pure intermediates that will form the basis for further analogue synthesis. Comparing reactions with different aldehyde lengths will help determine the effect of chain length on the overall synthesis and pheromone activity. Successful results could lead to eco-friendly pest control solutions.

This research explores the synthesis of a natural chemical analogue that could significantly reduce the agricultural damage caused by squash beetles. By leveraging stereoselective synthesis, we aim to develop a pheromone analogue that could manipulate beetle populations without relying on harmful pesticides. The investigation into aldehyde chain lengths will provide insight into the structure-activity relationship of the analogue, potentially informing future applications in pest management. If successful, this research could present a sustainable approach to controlling squash beetle populations, benefiting both farmers and the environment.

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Tasmina Hassan¹^,²^,³^,⁴^,⁵, Ella Podvalny⁴^,⁵, Daniela Schiller⁴^,⁵

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Macaulay Honors College at Hunter College
²Department of Computer Science, Macaulay Honors College at Hunter College
³McNulty Scholars Program, Hunter College
⁴Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine

It is important for an organism’s survival to deploy rapid reaction to threatening stimuli. Such reaction takes place in space and, therefore, requires representation of spatial properties of the threatening stimulus. We are interested in the mechanism behind this quick detection of threat orientation. The amygdala is a region of interest, as it is the known brain structure that processes threatening stimuli. However, if and how it accounts for direction of such stimuli is a mystery. We hypothesize that we will find local field potentials and firing rate patterns within the amygdala that will peak for a specific orientation of threatening stimuli that is “preferred” relative to others, thus establishing a form of orientation selectivity. Given the exploratory nature of this project, we are also interested in studying other brain regions to determine their involvement in this rapid detection.

The experiment was implemented at the Mt. Sinai Epilepsy Monitoring Unit, where we recruited one surgical patient (N=1) undergoing intracranial electrophysiology (iEEG) monitoring for their intractable epilepsy. The patient performed a virtual two-dimensional paradigm resembling a space shooter. Stimuli were given two classes: friend or foe, which came from different directions and provided rewards and punishments respectively. The subject had four possible response options. These were subsequently analyzed using pre-existing Python pipelines.

The behavioral data revealed that the subject successfully received rewards for 66% of friend stimuli and evaded 80% of foe stimuli via shooting. The neural data is still being analyzed.

Understanding how the brain encodes information about threats enables us to better understand fear disorders, such as anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.

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Asim Khan¹, Caprice Golden², Cynthia Gutierrez Meza³, and Danielle Hoang⁴

¹Department of Sociology/Department of Psychology, Hunter College
²Department of Sociology/Department of German, Hunter College
³Department of Childhood Education/Department of Sociology, Hunter College
⁴Department of Sociology

Rather than being a purely biological phenomena, gender exists as a social construct. Thus, the concept of gender is never stagnant, as it is constantly informed by the changing dynamics of society’s cultural beliefs and values. Media acts as a reflection of society and serves to either reinforce or disrupt its norms, provoking the question as to what extent it may influence gender construction.

The research was empirically conducted through a survey consisting of six different sections containing multiple choice questions, matrix questions, slider questions, and a free response question. Participants answered questions based on their personal experiences and opinions. The survey employed control and experimental groups based on random assignment. To test media's influence over gender perceptions, participants either rated a series of gendered statements before or after watching a clip from the animated show Avatar: The Last Airbender.

Results from the survey reflected a societal shift away from traditional gender roles, and interestingly, rejected the binaries and favored a trend of androgyny in which either gender was very rarely prescribed certain traits or characteristics. Rather, as shown in responses rating the embedded clip, answers placed greater value in individuality.

Gender representation and diversity are considered as valuable aspects of modern day media. While media does not have an immediate effect on gender construction, it is worthwhile to study its influence in formative years due to society’s evolving perceptions on gender.

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Muhammad Hodzic¹

¹CUNY Hunter College

Gun culture is a concept that is widespread across American society. It is the unique belief in the notion that people's right to bear arms is the greatest protection and individual freedom that the United States provides to citizens. The introduction of Constitutional Carry grants people the right to carry a gun without the need for a permit. Alaska was the first state to adopt this, in 2003. Currently, there are 29 states that have adopted this legislation and the number keeps on increasing, with the addition of two states that passed it just last year. The question I seek to address is what effects does passing this legislation have on homicide and mental health rates of people exposed to this policy.

I study the effects of this policy on homicides and mental health in states that have implemented this policy using data from the Gun Violence Archive, a nonprofit organization that catalogs incidents of gun violence in the United States, and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, a health-related telephone survey that collects state data about people on their health behaviors and conditions. My samples span from 2014 to 2023. The sample from the Gun Violence Archive has 134,619 observations and my sample from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System contains 1,120,074 observations. I use a staggered difference-in-differences analysis following Callaway and Sant’Anna in 2021.

The results indicate that after the legislation is enacted, homicide rates tend to increase compared to before having the policy introduced. Mental health and stress rates follow the same generic trend.

These findings indicate that as policymakers allow for less restrictions to possessing firearms, this creates an unsafe environment for people to live in. The data shows that more homicides are being committed and more people report having stress than they did before being exposed to this policy. The ultimate implication is that deregulation of firearms creates potentially dangerous environments.

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Nadia Hossain¹, Ahmed Nadeem Shamsi², Hasan R. Kazmi², M. Raza Zaidi²

¹The City University of New York, Hunter College
²Fels Cancer Institute for Personalized Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine

Background: CTLA4 (Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte Antigen 4) is an immune checkpoint protein that suppresses T-cell immune responses, but its role in cancer cells is poorly understood. Previous research suggests that CTLA4 overexpression in melanoma cells promotes tumor progression and metastasis, although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Our preliminary studies indicate that CTLA4 affects protein translation without significantly altering transcription. This study investigates the role of AKT1 and AKT2 in CTLA4-mediated melanoma progression, as CTLA4 upregulates both proteins. We also analyze PDK1, Phospho-PDK1, p53, and Pan AKT to gain a comprehensive understanding of the signaling cascade influenced by CTLA4. mRNA and protein expression levels were measured and validated to explore the functional implications of CTLA4 overexpression. We hypothesize that CTLA4 overexpression in melanoma cells will lead to increased protein synthesis of AKT1 and AKT2 without significantly affecting their mRNA expression.

Total cellular RNA was isolated from CTLA4 overexpressing melanoma cell lines (SK-MEL-2-CTLA4-OE and WM3918-CTLA4-OE) and their empty vector controls (SK-MEL-2-EV and WM3918-EV). Quantitative RT-PCR and Western blot analyses were performed to measure mRNA and protein levels, respectively.

Preliminary results show no significant changes in AKT1 and AKT2 mRNA expression in the overexpressing cell lines. Western blot analysis indicated minimal changes in the protein levels of AKT1, AKT2, PDK1, and Phospho-PDK1, with a significant downregulation of p53.

Future research will clarify the downstream effects of CTLA4 protein overexpression on these signaling pathways and assess changes in cellular behaviors such as proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. Regulation of p53 expression by CTLA4 is a novel insight and warrants further investigation.

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Sanjana Hussain¹^,²

¹Hunter College
²Macaulay Honors Program

U.S. immigration policies induce multigenerational punishment, where the repercussions of undocumented status extend beyond individuals to their U.S. citizen children. Despite birthright legal status, these children face many of the same difficulties as those without legal status. To understand how political rhetoric contributes to the marginalization of mixed-status families, I focus on President Trump’s rhetoric. I hypothesize that his rhetoric frames undocumented immigrants as threats, draws a stark distinction between "legal" and "illegal" individuals, and negatively portrays citizen children of undocumented immigrants.

This study examines Trump’s rhetoric on Truth Social through 50 randomly selected immigration-related posts. By coding for themes of undocumented immigrants as threats, legal-illegal distinctions, and negative portrayals of citizen children, it analyzes how his messages shape public perception of citizenship and mixed-status families. Ultimately, the study explores how this rhetoric reinforces multigenerational punishment and systemic marginalization.

The analysis of rhetoric from Trump's Truth Social platform reveals a consistent pattern of language that reinforces the multigenerational punishment experienced by mixed-status families. Trump's posts often frame undocumented immigrants as a threat to American values and resources, emphasizes a distinction between “legal” and “illegal” individuals, and presents citizen children of mixed-status families unworthy of citizenship.

Trump’s rhetoric on Truth Social reinforces multigenerational punishment in mixed-status households. Despite U.S. citizen children having legal status, his language fuels distress, marginalization, and limited opportunities, subjecting them to their undocumented parents’ struggles. This research highlights the need to reform both policies and public discourse to protect these children’s rights and dignity while addressing systemic inequalities.

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Maryam Ibrahim¹, Jarvier Mohammed², Jesse D. Gelles³, Jerry Chipuk⁴

¹Hunter College, Department of Biology
²Ph.D. Candidate, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Mount Sinai
³Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
⁴Department of Oncological Sciences, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Apoptosis, a cell death pathway, is often dysregulated in cancer, allowing malignant cells to evade programmed death. BH³ mimetics, small molecules designed to target anti-apoptotic BCL-2 family proteins, have shown promise in restoring apoptosis by disrupting pro-survival protein interactions. However, their effects on effector proteins such as BAX remain unexplored. Given the structural similarities among BCL-2 family proteins, we hypothesize that BH³ mimetics also target and regulate BAX activity, potentially altering their intended pro-apoptotic function.

To test this hypothesis, fluorescence polarization assays were employed, which helped to determine qualitative binding interactions between BAX and a panel of BH3 mimetics. Additionally, Microscale Thermophoresis (MST) was performed to quantify binding affinities, using BAXWT and mutant variants. To evaluate functional consequences, large unilamellar vesicle (LUV) permeabilization assays were utilized to observe BAX activation and membrane permeabilization in response to BH3 mimetics. Additionally, BAX translocation assays helped to determine whether BH3 mimetics inhibit BAX activation before or after membrane localization.

MST data suggest that certain BH3 mimetics bind to the BAX binding groove, though further experimentation is required to achieve conclusive results. Functional LUV permeabilization assays indicated that a subset of BH3 mimetics inhibit BAX-mediated membrane permeabilization, highlighting the possibility of off-target interactions. Ongoing translocation assays aim to pinpoint the stage of BAX inhibition in the apoptotic pathway.

These findings suggest that BH3 mimetics may exhibit off-target interactions, potentially limiting their efficacy as pro-apoptotic agents. Understanding these interactions is crucial for refining BH3 mimetic design and improving therapeutic strategies for apoptosis-resistant cancers. Future work will expand these studies into cell-based models to further elucidate BH3 mimetic impact on apoptosis regulation.

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John Cris Ingles¹^,², Haocheng Yu, MA², Richa Rai, PhD², Bud Mishra, PhD³, Debashis Sahoo, PhD⁴, Amir Horowitz, PhD²

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, City University of New York, NY, USA. 
²Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Oncological Sciences, The Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, and Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, USA. 
³Departments of Computer Science, Mathematics and Cell Biology, Courant Institute, and NYU School of Medicine, New York University, NY, USA.  
⁴Departments of Pediatrics, Computer Science and Engineering, and Jacob’s School of Engineering, University of California San Diego, CA, USA.  

The complement system, a heat-labile component of serum with over 50 proteins primarily produced in the liver, was first identified for its role in “complementing” antibodies to kill bacteria. The classical pathway is activated by the C1-complex recognizing IgG1/IgG3 in humans and IgG2a/2b in mice. A long-held but poorly understood view is that classical complement activation competes with the FCGRIIIA (CD16A) Fc-receptor, which mediates antibody-dependent phagocytosis and cytotoxicity through monocytes/macrophages or natural killer (NK) cells. Our group discovered an invariant relationship between CD16A (gene encoding CD16A) and C1QA (gene encoding C1qA chain) in solid tissues of humans and mice, absent in blood, suggesting co-regulatory effects. Using mathematical models, we identified genes regulating C1q and hypothesized that targeting C1q regulators could enhance CD16-mediated effector functions.

We downloaded transcriptome data from public microarray and RNA-sequencing databases for human (n=25,955) and mouse (n=11,758) samples, categorizing tissues into blood (liquid), solid tissue (e.g., colon, lung), and cell lines. StepMiner and Boolean analyses were performed.

C1QA expression was abundant in almost all solid tissues, but absent in blood cells. Boolean analysis identified genes consistently expressed with C1QA, serving as potential activators in solid tissues(n=7), blood(n=5), and globally(n=5). We uncovered an unusual relationship: CD16A is expressed in blood independent of C1QA but requires C1QA co-expression in solid tissues.

Ongoing studies aim to selectively modulate C1q in using human monocytes and autologous tissue to measure CD16-mediated phagocytosis in response to IgG-antigen complexes with broad implications across diseases and biological processes.

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Sosmita Islam¹, Madhumathi Gnanaprakash¹^,², Carmen Melendez-Vasquez¹^,²

¹Hunter College, Department of Biological Sciences, NY,NY
²Graduate Center of CUNY, NY,NY

Myelination of axons by oligodendrocytes (OL) in the central nervous system (CNS) ensures rapid nerve conduction. In multiple sclerosis (MS), myelin is damaged, leading to demyelination and disrupted nerve signaling. Remyelination is the regenerative process carried out by oligodendrocyte progenitors (OPC), that restores myelin. Astrocytes, the most abundant glial cells in the CNS, play dual roles in MS pathology, contributing to tissue damage and repair. Our lab has found that mechanical cues from the extracellular matrix (ECM) are important for myelin repair and that increased ECM stiffness in chronic demyelination (CDL) inhibits OPC differentiation and myelination. These effects are correlated with increased expression of YAP, a mechanosensitive transcription factor in demyelinated lesions. We investigated the expression of YAP in astrocytes and OL in a model of CDL induced by feeding mice with cuprizone (CPZ), a toxin that targets OL.

We used a cuprizone (CPZ)-induced model of CDL by feeding mice with CPZ, a toxin that targets OL. Control and CDL mouse brains were examined using immunofluorescence to detect astrocytes (GFAP+, AQP4+), OL-lineage cells (Olig2+), and YAP expression. CPZ-fed mice were treated with a drug either before (prophylactic treatment) or after (therapeutic treatment) chronic demyelination. Immunofluorescence analysis was used to compare YAP expression levels across different treatment conditions.

We found that YAP expression in astrocytes is increased in CDL compared to controls. Expression of YAP in OL-lineage was very low compared to astrocytes. To test if pharmacological inhibition of the stiffness signal affects YAP expression, CPZ feed mice were treated with a drug before (prophylactic) or after (therapeutic) chronic demyelination. We found that prophylactic treatment results in a greater reduction in YAP expression in astrocytes compared to therapeutic treatment.

The data demonstrated that in chronic demyelination, increased extracellular matrix stiffness increases YAP expression in the astrocyte population. Pharmacological inhibition of stiffness signaling reduces astrocytic YAP expression, with prophylactic treatment having a more effect than therapeutic treatment.

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Merana Jahan¹^,², Sarah Ann King, PH.D.², Goutam Chakraborty, PH.D.²

¹CUNY Hunter College, Yalow Honors Scholar Program
²Department of Urology, Oncological Science and Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY

Prostate cancer (PC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men in the U.S. Men who lose their Y chromosome (ChrY) are at higher risk for diseases like PC. However, we still don't fully understand how losing the ChrY affects PC. Previously, our team demonstrated that the loss of the ChrY gene, KDM5D, leads to therapy-resistant and aggressive PC (Komura et al: JCI 2018). Furthermore, this study supported KDM5D purported role in regulating the expression of canonical DNA damage response (DDR) proteins. However, this role needs to be further elucidated; therefore, our present study aims to examine the impacts of KDM5D overexpression on the DDR pathway of PC3M cells, which harbors de novo complete deletion of Chr Y. We hypothesize that KDM5D demethylase activity would influence the expression levels of some DDR pathway constituents.

We performed TransIT-2x-mediated transient overexpression with a KDM5D cDNA-containing pGenLenti vector on PC³M cells. We examined the changes in selected DDR genes using RT-qPCR and Western blot.

Based on our preliminary data, we observed an upregulation of RAD51 and PARP1 as well as a downregulation of MYBL2 in PC3M cells overexpressing KDM5D compared to the control cells.

This study found that reintroducing KDM5D can influence specific genes in the DDR pathway, and therefore, KDM5D loss may be important for the DDR process. These findings can contribute to the scientific understanding of the biological mechanisms and signaling pathways associated with KDM5D loss and deletion of ChrY in PC progression.

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Judy Jiang¹^,³, Claire Otero², Sallie Permar²

¹Department of Chemistry, CUNY Hunter College
²Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine
³McNair Scholars Program, CUNY Hunter College

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the leading intrauterine viral infection, causing complications such as sensorineural hearing loss and neurodevelopmental disabilities in affected infants. Diagnosing CMV infection remains a challenge as a majority of immunocompetent adults are asymptomatic with infection. The risk of vertical transmission increases with advancing gestation, while disease severity in congenital CMV infections is greater if infection occurs in earlier trimesters. Thus, it is critical to identify the time of maternal infection; however, current serological testing can only distinguish acute from chronic CMV infections. To refine the time of infection in maternal CMV infections, we aim to characterize the antibody profile of proteins expressed across the viral replication cycle using longitudinal samples from the rhesus macaque model in which we experimentally infected pregnant animals. We expect the kinetics of IgM and IgG to fluctuate, allowing differentiation of acute infection stages.

We are currently producing envelope, tegument, and assembly proteins that play key roles in viral replication, regulation, and virion assembly. We will then assess antibody kinetics using a multiplex assay.

We have characterized the kinetics of antibody responses against highly immunodominant glycoproteins, glycoprotein B (gB) and the pentameric complex (PC). Both appear about 2 weeks post-infection, with IgG responses to gB peaking about 4 weeks before PC. However, there were high IgG levels against both glycoproteins maintained 12 weeks post-infection.

Measuring the antibody levels against CMV proteins can allude to better diagnostic testing and identification of transmission and severity risk in congenital CMV infections.

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Alston Jiang¹, Ashok R. Gudipally¹^,², Wayne W. Harding¹^,²

¹Hunter College
²CUNY Graduate Center

Berberine, a naturally occurring alkaloid, has demonstrated dual receptor activity, binding to D1-like and D2-like dopamine receptor subtypes. Molecules exhibiting a dual D1 receptor agonist and D3 receptor antagonist pharmacology have shown promise in moderating neurotransmitter activity to reduce drug-seeking behaviors. This highlights the therapeutic potential of berberine and similar compounds in addressing dopamine-related disorders. Building upon berberine the compound to improve its effect on the dopamine receptors can help better understand the various receptors. Our goal was to build upon tetrahydroprotoberberine (THPB) alkaloid, an analogy of berberine since it is one of the molecules that showed D1R agonist and D³R antagonist pharmacology. We hypothesized that structurally altering the (S)-isocorypalmine derivative of tetrahydroprotoberberine would yield novel dual-receptor activity.

The synthesis of (S)-isocorypalmine was accomplished starting from commercially accessible berberine through a series of established chemical transformations. Subsequently, the triflation of the C-2 phenolic group of (S)-isocorypalmine was performed, followed by its conversion into an amine utilizing Buchwald amination conditions; amine then underwent further cyclization to construct the thiazol-2-amine scaffold. The reaction of the amine with a diverse array of sulfonyl chlorides generated a library of sulfonamide analogs.

A subset of these analogs is presently undergoing evaluation for their affinity to dopamine receptors utilizing radioligand binding assays at the Psychoactive Drug Screening Program (PDSP, NIMH).

A total of 14 analogs were synthesized and submitted for evaluation of their affinity toward dopamine receptors using radioligand binding assays at the Psychoactive Drug Screening Program (PDSP) at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Currently, treatment options for cocaine use disorders (CUDs) primarily rely on psychotherapy. •Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) •Contingency Management (CM) •Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) However, there is a growing interest in exploring pharmacotherapeutic approaches to complement existing treatment methods. By developing pharmacological interventions that could enhance treatment efficacy when combined with psychotherapy can be a viable option for individuals who don’t find success with just psychotherapy alone. Moving forward, our objective is to design and synthesize additional analogs of (S)-isocorypalmine. •Modifying the C-2 carbon •Adding more polar/non-polar groups. Future studies will focus on conducting structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis to better understand how specific modifications influence binding affinity. Additionally, these investigations will provide valuable insights into the role of these compounds as molecular probes for dopamine-type receptors and potential therapeutic applications for other substance abuse disorders (SUDs).

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Sonia Jong¹, Jing Wu¹, Shengping Zheng¹

¹Chemistry Department, Hunter College

O-Iododiaryl ethers have been shown to be useful synthetic precursors for accessing biologically relevant dibenzofuran and dibenzoxazepine derivatives. Their synthesis from phenols bearing electron-withdrawing groups (EWG) in the para position is well elucidated, but more limited from phenols bearing electron-donating groups (EDG) in the para position. A one-pot synthesis of o-iododiaryl ether from p-ethyl phenol using phenyliodine(III)diacetate (PIDA) in an acetone and water mixture was previously reported, but afforded low yields. Our current research sought to enhance the yield and confirm the reaction mechanism by isolating each intermediate.

Numerous conditions were tested to increase the yield, including acidic and basic additives like pivalic acid and potassium carbonate (K2CO3). Reactions were monitored using thin-layer chromatography (TLC), which was developed on Chem Science HPTC Silica Gel 60 GF254, and visualized by ultraviolet radiation or cerium ammonium molybdate staining, followed by heating. Isolation of intermediates and pure product was performed by column chromatography, and characterized by 1H and 13C NMR on Bruker 500 MHz and 600 MHz machines.

Optimizing the reaction yield proved challenging, despite trying many different solvent conditions and additives. However, high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) could confirm the presence of key intermediates within the reaction mixture and each could be isolated and independently transformed to the desired o-iododiaryl ether.

By reproducing the conditions used to derive the o-iododiaryl ether from p-ethyl phenol and isolating key intermediates, we verify the accuracy of the proposed mechanism. Future work may focus on trying different oxidants and substrates to further elucidate the mechanism.

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Genessa Kahn¹, Soo Ryum Yang, MD², Alison M. Schram, MD²

¹Department of Biology, Hunter College, New York, NY
²Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY

Neuregulin 1 (NRG1) is a ligand that binds to HER3, promoting HER2-HER3 heterodimerization and activation of downstream signaling pathways. NRG1 fusions, rare oncogenic drivers occurring in approximately 0.2% of solid tumors, are a promising therapeutic target. Zenocutuzumab, a HER2/HER3 bispecific antibody, was recently FDA-approved for patients with NRG1 fusion-positive (NRG1+) pancreatic and lung cancer. We hypothesized that patients with NRG1+ tumors have distinct clinicopathologic features and patient characteristics compared to wild type.

Patients at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) with NRG1+ cancer were identified using the DARWIN cohort management system. Patients with in-frame NRG1 fusions preserving the functional EGF-like domain were selected. Clinicopathological and demographic characteristics were manually extracted from the medical record and analyzed.

48 patients were identified with NRG1+ cancers. The median age at diagnosis was 61 years (range, 9 to 83), and 56% were female and 44% male. Most were White (69%) and non-smokers (58%). The most common cancer types were lung (60%), pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (21%) and breast (10%). The most common fusion partners were CD74 (40%) and ATP1B1 (10%). Most patients were identified using RNA-based sequencing (71%). All lung cancers were otherwise driver-negative and all PDAC were KRAS wild-type.

NRG1 fusions reflect a newly targetable class of oncogenic drivers. Most NRG1+ patients at MSK have advanced lung and pancreatic cancer, diseases with significant unmet need. RNA-based genomic testing is superior to DNA-based testing in identifying NRG1 fusions. Identifying NRG1 fusions is critical to maximize outcomes for patients with NRG1+ tumors.

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Dr. Harlem Gunness¹,², Hunter Grogan³, Lucas Huang⁴, Mickens Mathieu⁵, Suborna Kar⁶, Pavithra Srinivasan7

¹CUNY Hunter College, MPH
²Rutgers University, PhD
³Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, MPH
⁴Columbia University, MA
⁵Rutgers University School of Public Health
⁶CUNY-Hunter College, BS
⁷Columbia University, MS

Misinformation disseminated by online sources regarding the COVID-19 vaccine has contributed to the proliferation of vaccine hesitancy within certain communities. Despite the institution of vaccine mandates and the circulation of educational materials on the COVID-19 vaccine, many communities remain vaccine-hesitant. In order to identify what communities should be targeted during vaccination campaigns and what communication strategies are effective in reducing vaccine hesitancy, this study surveyed the vaccination concerns and attitudes of New York City residents from different neighborhoods and different racial and ethnic groups after reading a COVID-19 factsheet. It was hypothesized that more New York City residents would agree to take the COVID-19 vaccine once better-informed about it.

This is a cross-sectional study of a convenience sample of 907 diverse racial and ethnic participants from mainly low-income communities in New York City. Participants were recruited from community-based agencies, social service programs, and religious institutions. Once consent was given, participants received the COVID-19 factsheet to review, followed by the completion of an online survey. As part of an educational intervention, the factsheet addressed myths regarding vaccine side effects, hesitancy, access, vaccine efficacy, and provided knowledge on the vaccine formula. The online survey gathered data on participants’ demographics, healthcare access, health status, history of flu vaccination, COVID-19 vaccine concerns, and the effectiveness of the factsheet. The study was IRB-approved, and all participants reviewed and signed a consent form. Trained public health research assistants administered the factsheet and provided access to the online survey via SurveyMonkey. Survey questions were developed from prior valid and reliable studies. Data from SurveyMonkey was exported to Python and Excel statistical software applications. We conducted analyses of demographics and frequency of data collected. We then used cross-tabulations and Chi-Square tests to evaluate the association between demographic features and participants’ vaccine concerns.

The study surveyed 907 respondents, achieving a high response rate of 74% (n=668). After reading the fact sheet, 47% of unvaccinated indicated a willingness to get vaccinated, though 18% remained uncertain (p<0.0001). Personal and health concerns significantly influenced vaccine hesitancy, increasing the odds of unwillingness by 6.6 times compared to those without those concerns. Conversely, access and logistical challenges were associated with an 89% decrease in unwillingness but increased uncertainty by 4.1 times. Among demographic groups, respondents of Black or African descent exhibited the lowest willingness, with 1³% being unwilling and 18% uncertain. Geographically, Brooklyn had the highest rate of vaccine hesitancy, with 21% of respondents unwilling and 14% remaining uncertain. An evaluation of willingness by age demonstrated that the 18–25 age group showed the highest level of uncertainty (15%), while the 26-40 age group had the highest rate of unwillingness (15%). Additionally, respondents without children or elderly persons in the home expressed the highest rate of unwillingness (11%) and uncertainty (16%).

This study provides important insights into associations regarding vaccination concerns among New York City residents and the impact on vaccine willingness. It highlights that individuals aged 18-25 showed the highest levels of vaccine hesitancy, potentially due to a lack of COVID-19 education, while those aged 26-40 demonstrated strong refusal, possibly linked to professional constraints. The study also reveals that Black individuals exhibited the highest vaccine hesitancy and distrust of vaccine information. These findings underscore the need for targeted communication strategies to build trust and increase vaccination willingness, especially among young adults and the Black community in New York City.

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Arnie Karapetyan¹

¹Hunter College

With New York City’s recent implementation of congestion pricing, knowledge of potential long-term effects is pertinent. In this project I will examine the effects of a congestion charge. This kind of policy can affect traffic volumes and may have secondary effects on health and financial outcomes. New York City is not the first major metropolitan area that has implemented this kind of policy. Other cities, such as London and Stockholm, have had similar policies for decades. Those policies, specifically the one in London, can be used as a point of comparison to predict policy effects in New York City. London instituted a congestion charge in 2003 on a zone mostly encompassing the city center. The policy’s goal is a decrease in traffic volume in London’s city center while using revenue to help fund city services such as public transport.

Using data from the Department for Transport in the United Kingdom, traffic counts are extracted. These data, containing 3,329 count points in London and 119,592 total vehicle observations, are categorized by vehicle type such as cars, taxis, trucks, and bicycles, and are geolocated to accurately reflect where the vehicles are spotted. The data are used to compare vehicle volumes before and after policy implementation with OLS, GLM, and FMM estimators and using difference-in-difference models.

Preliminary results show that the congestion pricing scheme decreases volumes of cars while increasing volumes of buses. In addition, there appears to be no effect on trucks.

Further study can help illuminate reasons for these disparate effects.

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Susanna Kasparov¹, Devika Baddhan¹, Eugene Lempert¹,

¹Department of Biology, Hunter College

The olfactory epithelium has millions of olfactory sensory neurons (OSN) that are defined by the expression of one odorant receptor (OR) protein from roughly 1000 different choices. We hypothesize that host neurons have a limited capacity to express multiple OR genes and/or transgenes and the process involves an orchestrated OSN maturation event. We propose that the expression of an OR transgene reduces the expression of endogenous OR genes and generates more mature neurons in the process.

We bred mice to carry two transgenic systems: 5O utilizes a canonical OR enhancer and GTP employs the tTA/TetO regulatory system. To assess the combinatorial impact on endogenous OR and 5O expression and the maturity state of the OSNs, we performed RT-qPCR analysis on a subset of OR genes including 5O and the immature/mature marker pair of Gap43/Omp, respectively.

Endogenous OR mRNA expression trends lower in 5O mice with G (Gng8-tTA) or GTP (Gng8-tTA/TetO-P2) compared to 5O alone. 5O transgene expression shows only subtle variation between transgenic backgrounds. Any transgene presence seems to elevate immature marker levels over wild type, but 5O alone correlated with higher mature marker levels.

The reduction of endogenous OR mRNA in 5OGTP compared to 5O alone supports the hypothesis that transgenic OR expression competes with endogenous OR gene expression. The Gap43/Omp results suggest that these transgenes have complicated impacts on the maturity state of the OSN population. Lastly, 5OG seemed to generate lower mRNA values, which necessitates further investigation into the tTA protein.

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Ajla Kastrat¹, Nahila Nzina², Perla Encarnacion², Nicole Serino², Robert Melara²^,³

¹Department of Psychology, Hunter College
²Colin Powell School for Civic and Global Leadership, Department of Psychology, The City College of New York
³Ph.D. in Psychology, New School for Social Research

Body dissatisfaction, reinforced by social media’s thin-ideal standards, is linked to anxiety, depression, and disordered eating, yet its neural mechanisms remain underexplored. This study examines frontal alpha asymmetry, an EEG marker of emotional processing, in relation to body dissatisfaction. Frontal alpha asymmetry reflects the balance of brain activity between the left and right frontal hemispheres, where greater right-sided activity is linked to negative emotions and withdrawal behavior. We hypothesize that individuals with higher body dissatisfaction will exhibit more negative frontal alpha asymmetry and greater attentional interference, shown by slower reaction times and reduced accuracy, particularly in response to high-weight body stimuli.

10 participants completed self-report surveys assessing body image concerns and eating attitudes before engaging in a modified Eriksen Flanker Task. The task included body-only stimuli categorized as underweight, healthy, or overweight, with targets superimposed to assess selective attention. EEG data were collected from 160 scalp electrodes to measure frontal alpha asymmetry during task performance.

Preliminary analyses indicate that participants with higher body dissatisfaction scores tend to exhibit greater right-sided frontal alpha asymmetry, particularly in response to overweight body stimuli. These individuals also demonstrate longer reaction times and lower accuracy, suggesting heightened attentional interference.

These findings may provide evidence for a neural basis of body dissatisfaction and suggest frontal alpha asymmetry as a potential biomarker of its cognitive and emotional components. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of attentional biases in body image perception and may provide objective measurements for interventions targeting body dissatisfaction.

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Emmanuella Katanov¹, Eugene Lempert¹

¹Department of Biology, Hunter College

The olfactory epithelium consists of millions of sensory neurons, each expressing a single odorant receptor (OR) from a repertoire of approximately 1000 genes. The process of OR selection is tightly regulated to maintain one-receptor-per-neuron specificity. Previous studies suggest that transgenic OR expression may participate in or interfere with the underlying mechanism of OR selection. We hypothesize that OR transgenes will interfere with each other's expression, leading to a reduction in OR protein, and a subsequent reduction in the activation of the OR.

We bred mice to force competition between two transgenic systems: 5O, which utilizes a canonical OR (olfactory receptor) enhancer to drive OR1A1 (olfactory receptor 1A1) expression, and a large, mixed tTA (tetracycline-controlled transactivator)/TetO (tetracycline operator) repertoire. To assess the impact on the 5O transgene, we employed an MND (miniature neuron detector)-induced cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate)-detection assay as an indirect measure of 5O (OR1A1) expression in various transgenic contexts. Some transgenic combinations expressed tTA transiently before 5O and others expressed tTA continuously starting before 5O. These tTA transgenes were paired with TetO transgenes expressing marker protein, OR protein, a translation toxin, or a mix.

The continuous expression of marker protein, OR protein or both, negatively impacts MND-induced (5O) OR1A1 activity. The expression of any tTA without a TetO or the expression of a transient tTA with a marker protein was not distinct from the 5O transgene alone. The expression of a transient tTA with a TetO-OR or any combination that involved the translation toxin seemed to elevate the MND-induced response.

Our results suggest that OR (odorant receptor) expression is not a strict requirement for tTA (tetracycline-controlled transactivator)/TetO (tetracycline operator) to influence 5O activity, but it is necessary if tTA expression is transient. The translation toxin adds a striking dynamic to the expression scenario, resulting in an effect that is similar to transient TetO-OR expression, which produces elevated 5O activity. Overall, our results reveal more about the interaction between these two systems in OSNs (olfactory sensory neurons) than previously suspected.

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Diana Katanov¹, Rusia Lee¹^,², Gu Xiao², Jill Bargonetti¹^,²

¹The Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
²Biology PhD Program, The Graduate Center of Biology, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA.

Mouse double minute 2 (MDM2) is a E3 ubiquitin ligase that negatively regulates p53, the most frequently mutated gene in human cancers. In eighty percent of triple negative breast cancers (TNBCs), TP53 is mutated, and in thirty percent of TNBCs, MDM2 and paralog MDMX are overexpressed. Both proteins possess p53-binding, central acidic, zinc finger, and Really Interesting New Gene (RING) domains. The conserved C-terminal RING domain is required for MDM2:MDMX heterodimerization, enhancing MDM2-mediated p53 ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. However, MDM2:MDMX heterodimers promote cell proliferation and metastasis through p53-independent mechanisms that remain unclear. Since many human tumors harbor wild-type p53, studying the dysregulation of MDM2 and MDMX in these cancers may shed light on understanding how they function in p5³-independent and mutant p53 (mtp53) environments.

To begin testing whether MDM2:MDMX heterodimer loss plays a role in cancers with mtp53, we used site directed mutagenesis (SDM) to introduce point mutations that disrupt dimerization activity. Confirmed by Sanger sequencing, the C449N1 missense mutation in MDM2 substitutes a cysteine with an asparagine at amino acid residue 449 and the C437DEL nonsense mutation in MDMX results in the deletion of the RING domain by substituting a cysteine with a stop codon. MCF-7 cells expressing wild-type p53 were transiently transfected using lipofectamine to exogenously express wild-type MDMX, MDMX-C437DEL, wild-type MDM2, and MDM2-C449N proteins. Western blot analysis of the cell lysates confirmed the exogenous expression.

In MCF-7 cells, exogenous wild-type MDM2 expression reduced p53 levels. Interestingly, MDM2-C449N expression increased p53 levels, suggesting a loss of E3 ubiquitin ligase function.

Current findings suggest that disrupting MDM2:MDMX heterodimerization prevents p53 regulation. Future studies will test whether mutated MDM2 and MDMX can regulate mtp53 levels or activate p53-independent DNA damage responses.

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Alif Kazi¹

¹Hunter College

Home, for many, represents not just a physical place, but a conceptual space shaped by memory, culture, and emotions. Although there has been much scholarship done on the focus of immaterial culture for South Asians in Mira Nair’s Mississippi Masala (1991) and Jhumpa Lahiri’s The Namesake (2003) to the U.S as they adapt, or refuse to adapt, there is a gap in the exploration of material culture—letters, books, and documents—that have become embedded with memory, playing a large role in the immigrant generations construction of home.

This project uses an analysis of literary South Asian immigrants and how the material culture they carry with them changes over time to imagine home in multiple spaces throughout their singular lifetimes. I also incorporate history and sociological theory to explore what is at stake when South Asians do not feel belonging in the United States.

Material culture, often imbued with memory, plays a significant role in negotiating home and belonging. A close look at the materials (passports, newspapers, letters, and official documents) that are carried, switched over, or given up by Ashima Ganguli, Ashoke Ganguli, and Jay represents the ways their locating of home changes over time. These immigrants continuously shift their conceptualization of home as scattered in different places throughout their lives.

The material culture found in The Namesake and Mississippi Masala serves to signify the importance of such items so scholars can observe how Indians in the U.S. reconceptualize home and belonging throughout their lifetimes to resist alienation.

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Fatima Khalid¹, Pollena Sangana¹, Mariam Gelashvili¹, Saurabh Attarde¹^,², James V. Parziale¹^,², Mandë Holford¹^,²^,³

¹Hunter College, The City University of New York
²The Graduate Center, The City University of New York
³Invertebrate Zoology, Sackler Institute for Comparative Genomics, American Museum of Natural History, New York

Animal venom is a complex cocktail of toxins used as a dynamic mode of defense and predation. Venom from snakes and mollusks has been used to develop therapeutics for treating human diseases. Unfortunately, drug discovery and development of venom compounds are hindered due to the lack of a robust and reliable molluscan model system. Our goal is to create innovative molluscan organoid cultures, inspired by existing venom organoid models in snakes, to advance the discovery and characterization of venom as a molecular innovation with potential applications in both nature and medicine.

To achieve this, we are examining tissue morphology through histological methods, focusing on the venom glands of cone snails Conus leopardus and Conus lividus.

We have successfully visualized venom-expressing tissue in Conus leopardus using transcriptome-derived hybridized chain reaction RNA (HCR-RNA) probes. We identified key tissue structures using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), and tetrachrome staining. This revealed organized venom-producing epithelia, smooth muscle, and collagen surrounding the ductal opening.

By analyzing our transcriptomic and proteomic data, we aim to identify markers specific to venom-producing tissues and their development. Our findings enhance our understanding of the tissue characteristics expected in our cultures and will guide the development of venom-producing organoid models.

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Khizr M. Khan¹^,², Jessica Das²^,³, Ottavia Busia-Bourdain², and Andrew L. Wolfe¹^-⁵

¹New York Research and Mentoring for Postbaccalaureates (NY-RaMP) Program, Hunter College, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
²Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA.
³Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Subprogram of the Biology Ph.D. Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA.
⁴Biochemistry Ph.D. Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA. 
⁵Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA.

Insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 2 (IMP2) is an RNA-binding protein involved in regulating the stability and translation of target mRNAs, sometimes driving disease. While several targets of IMP2 have been identified, the role it plays in promoting cancer and its therapeutic potential remains unclear. Notably, IMP2 has not been previously reported to upregulate KRAS, a pro-proliferative protein. Here we hypothesize that IMP2 stabilizes KRAS in colorectal cancer (CRC), enhancing mRNA stability and translation to contribute to CRC proliferation.

We performed eCLIPseq using an antibody against IMP2 to identify target RNAs bound in CRC. IMP2 overexpression and knockdown constructs were introduced into Caco-2 and DLD-1 CRC cell lines to access effects on the KRAS pathway using Western blot analysis. Small molecule inhibitors targeting IMP2, KRAS, and MEK were applied to evaluate KRAS pathway changes in response to IMP2 inactivation.

eCLIPseq demonstrated that IMP2 directly binds KRAS at novel sites. Inhibition of IMP2 reduced total KRAS protein levels in both Caco-2 and DLD-1 cells, while overexpression increased KRAS and p-ERK levels. IMP2 overexpression significantly increased KRAS levels in the context of MEK inhibition, suggesting that IMP2 acts upstream of MEK.

These findings identify IMP2 as a novel upstream regulator of KRAS in CRC, potentially serving as a target to limit KRAS activity and overcome resistance to existing KRAS-targeted treatments. Future research should explore the molecular-level binding of IMP2 to KRAS and access IMP2 inhibition in additional preclinical models to evaluate its potential in KRAS-driven cancers.

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Akriti Khanal¹^,², Ottavia Busia-Bourdain¹, Dennis Lam¹, Andrew L. Wolfe¹,³^-⁵

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY
²Macaulay Honors College, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY
³Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Subprogram of the Biology Ph.D. Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY
⁴Biochemistry Ph.D. Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY
⁵Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY.

KRAS is a frequently mutated oncogene that drives tumorigenesis in multiple cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), and colorectal cancer (CRC). While KRAS G12C inhibitors are approved for non-small cell lung cancer, their efficacy in other KRAS-driven cancers remains limited and resistance mechanisms often arise, necessitating novel combination therapies. One hallmark of cancer is the ability to change metabolic profile, particularly their reliance on aerobic glycolysis. Our hypothesis is that combining RAS inhibitors with glycolysis inhibitors can enhance anti-tumor responses in PDAC and CRC cell lines grown as 3-dimensional spheroids.

To test for inhibitor synergy, KRAS-mutant PDAC cell lines AsPC-1, PK-45H, and PSN-1 and the CRC cell line DLD-1 were treated with simultaneous dose courses of the glycolysis inhibitor 2-DG and the KRAS inhibitor RMC-6236 in both 2D and 3D spheroid cultures. Western blots were performed to evaluate the protein expression of KRAS and key glycolysis enzymes GLUT1 and HK-2.

Combination dose-courses identified significant synergy between RMC-6236 and 2-DG in both AsPC-1 and PSN-1 spheroids, and minor synergy in PK-45H and PSN-1 spheroids. Sensitivity to inhibitors was correlated with protein expression.

2-DG is used clinically for other indications and may become a promising strategy to combine with KRAS inhibition in cancer settings. KRAS mutation increases cancer metabolism and its inhibition stimulates an increased reliance on glycolysis. Future experiments will focus on understanding whether the relevant mechanism of action for 2-DG inhibition relies on glycolysis or glycosylation. Furthermore, to model synergy with immunotherapy, we will co-culture stimulated CD8+ T-cells with cancer spheroids treated with KRAS inhibitors and/or 2DG.

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Haeun Kim¹^,², Jose Rodriguez, Ph.D.² Hermann Steller, Ph.D.²

¹Department of Biology, Hunter College
²Strang Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Apoptosis, The Rockefeller University

As protein aggregation is a hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases, maintaining the process of protein degradation is critical for effective neuronal function. Mutations in the F-box only protein 7 gene (FBXO7), which encodes a component of SCF E3 ligase complex, is linked to early onset Parkinson’s Disease (EOPD). The protein Proteasomal Inhibitor of 31kD (PI31), a direct binding partner of FBXO7, has been found to be a proteasome regulator that functions in assembly and axonal transport of 26S proteasome. Thus, PI31 may rescue motor dysfunction and survival of FBXO7 mutant organisms.

To assess motor function of Nutcracker (FBXO7 homolog) Drosophila melanogaster and PI³1 rescue flies, negative geotaxis assay was performed. This test tracks the number of Drosophila that can climb past 4 cm within 10 seconds after being tapped to the bottom of the vial. Motor performance was tracked over the course of 10 days. Survival rate of the flies was also tracked as flies were transferred to new vials with fresh food every 3 days.

Homozygous ntcms771 flies displayed decreased motor performance. Trans-heterozygous ntcms771/ntcf07259 flies displayed significantly worse motor dysfunction. These mutant flies also had lower survival rates. PI31 was shown to rescue both motor function and expand life span.

Understanding functions of PI31 in proteasome regulation may contribute to treatment of both FBXO7 and non-FBXO7 neurodegenerative disease as PI31 may be able to target proteotoxic stress in neurons. To further examine whether PI31 is able to rescue defects in non-FBXO7 neurodegenerative disease, the negative geotaxis assay may be expanded to include other mutations linked to Parkinson's Disease.

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Emily Klapper¹

¹CUNY Hunter College

As digital and physical worlds merge, people increasingly share personal stories online, including domestic violence experiences. We wanted to see if Large Language Models (LLMs) can identify and understand these stories just as efficiently as humans. If successful, our goal is for this technology to develop into early risk detection and intervention tools.

In this study, we compared the ability of human annotators and LLMs to identify explicit events between victims and perpetrators in domestic violence narratives. Using LLM-based topic modeling, we analyzed the types of abuse most frequently discussed and the most common clustering of these abuse topics.

GPT-4 was able to identify 51.2% of the event sentences at 79.5% precision, while LlaMA-3 was able to identify a higher 64.6% of the events at a lower 51.2% precision. Then, we created topics for different types of abuse and found that many stories shared the same clusters of topics.

While the LLMs were not as accurate as humans in identifying specific events, they demonstrated potential in categorizing and linking abuse topics. This suggests that LLMs could serve as a supplementary tool in analyzing domestic violence narratives, particularly in identifying broader patterns and trends. Further refinement and training may enhance their ability to extract nuanced details, bridging the gap between human and machine analysis.

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Delsina Kolenovic¹, Serena Yang¹, Sargi Singh¹, Mia T. Minen, MD, MPH¹

¹Department of Neurology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY

Evidence-based nonpharmacologic migraine treatments are critical given their potential for excellent safety profiles and enduring benefits. Many people with migraine are interested in nonpharmacologic treatment options. Given the current standards for registering clinical trials and that clinicaltrials.gov is the largest registry for clinical trials, we sought to assess the current landscape of nonpharmacologic (non-device) migraine treatment research, including intervention types, study design methods, and funding mechanisms.

In June 2024, we downloaded all studies registered on clinicaltrials.gov with condition/disease of “migraine” and study start dates between December 2018-May 2024. A subset of studies with behavioral as the reported intervention/treatment was created. The subset was screened to only include nonpharmacologic (non-device) studies. Descriptive statistics were conducted.

Under 10% (8.4%, 48/573) of registered migraine studies were nonpharmacologic (non-device) studies. The most common interventions included educational courses/training programs (25%, 12/48), mindfulness/mind-body skills acquisition (18.75%, 9/48), cognitive behavioral techniques (16.67%, 8/48), and lifestyle modifications (14.58%, 7/48). The most common primary outcomes were headache frequency (16/48, 33.33%), quality of life measurements (16/48, 33.33%), and feasibility (7/48, 14.58%). Median duration of the primary endpoint was 56±60 days. The forty-eight studies are being conducted by 39 principal investigators. Few studies (18.8%, 9/48) are funded by the National Institutes of Health.

Despite significant patient interest, few nonpharmacologic migraine studies are registered on clinicaltrials.gov and less than 20% are federally funded. However, many investigators are conducting research in this area, which is promising for headache medicine and people with migraine.

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Laura Kot¹, Gillian H. Pavia^1,2, Tiffany M. Rodriguez^1,3, Katherine Bayona¹, Rawnna Elshita¹, Pernashee Dave¹, Doug S. F. Ling⁴, Peter A. Serrano^1,2

¹Department of Psychology, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, 10065, USA
²Masters Program in Cognitive Neuroscience, The Graduate Center of CUNY, New York, NY, 10016, USA
³Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of CUNY, New York, NY, 10016, USA

⁴Downstate Medical Center, SUNY Downstate, New York, NY, 11203, USA

 

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when the brain experiences a forceful blow or shock, which can lead to working memory deficits and increased anxiety-like behaviors. One potential prophylactic treatment for mitigating these symptoms is an FDA-approved, anticonvulsant drug, Levetiracetam (LEV). We hypothesize that mild TBI (mTBI) animals treated with LEV(150 mg/kg) 15 minutes prior to injury will demonstrate better performance in working memory tasks and will exhibit less anxiety-like behaviors compared to mTBI-only animals.

We performed a controlled cortical impact surgery on Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats to induce mTBI. The radial 8-arm maze (RAM) and elevated plus maze (EPM) are well-established paradigms for cognitive and emotional assessment. RAM assesses spatial working memory whereas, EPM measures anxiety-like behavior. One month post-injury, these tasks were performed to evaluate the long-term effects of mTBI and efficaciousness of LEV (150 mg/kg) treatment.

Our results show that mTBI post 1 month significantly increases short-term working memory errors compared to No-TBI (Saline) animals. Animals pretreated with LEV (150 mg/kg) following mTBI, had significantly decreased working memory deficits. In EPM, mTBI-only animals spent significantly more time in closed arms compared to no-mTBI (saline). Interestingly, mTBI+LEV (150 mg/kg) rats exhibited less time in closed arms compared to mTBI-only animals, indicating less anxiety-like behaviors.

LEV administration 15 minutes prior to mTBI effectively reduced working memory deficits and anxiety-like behaviors in rats. These results support LEV’s potential as a prophylactic treatment for mitigating cognitive and behavioral deficits that result from mTBI.

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Zara Kumar¹^,², Diana P. Bratu³^,⁴, and Livia V. Bayer³

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, CUNY
²MARC Scholars Program, CUNY, New York, NY, 10065
³Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, CUNY
⁴The Graduate Center, CUNY

During Drosophila melanogaster oogenesis, transposons – mobile DNA sequences that can induce genomic instability – are repressed by the PIWI pathway, with the RNA helicase Armitage (Armi), playing a crucial role. armi has two mRNA isoforms – armi-long and armi-short – which are differentially expressed in the egg chamber by distinct promoters. The “long” promoter is active in both the germline (nurse cells and oocyte) and soma (follicle cells), whereas the “short” promoter is exclusive to the soma. While armi-long has been linked to the PIWI pathway, armi-short remains unexplored. Knockdown (KD) of either armi-long or armi-both in the soma has shown an increase of total RNA via RT-qPCR. Hence, we hypothesize potential communication between the nurse and follicle cells of armi RNA expression.

Using the GAL4-UAS system, we conducted tissue-specific RNAi KDs to study the expression of either armi-long or armi-both in the germline and/or soma. Furthermore, our specific smFISH probes detected that armi is expressed until around stages 6-7, visualized via confocal microscopy.

We discovered that only armi-short is indispensable in the follicle cells for development. On the other hand, armi-long is vital in the nurse cells, as its absence causes early-stage egg chamber arrest. Surprisingly, KD of both isoforms in the germline rescued development, allowing progression to later stages.

These findings highlight the necessity of precise armi expression for egg chamber development and suggest unexpected communication between the nurse and follicle cells. Additionally, our observations may have broader implications for Armi’s human ortholog MOV10 – associated with cancer and antiviral activity.

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Kira Lai¹

¹Economics Department, Hunter College

Water fluoridation has been hailed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as one of the ten greatest public health achievements of the 20th century, and prior economic literature has also pointed to its economic benefits. Research in Sweden has linked fluoridation to positive effects on labor force participation and income (Aggeborn and Öhman, 2021), and US data has shown that fluoridation is linked to statistically significant increases in wages for women (Glied and Neidell, 2010). However, recent research (Roberts, 2024) has pointed to adverse health and economic effects of water fluoridation from young age.

This paper uses a difference-in-differences (DiD) strategy that takes advantage of staggered implementation of community water fluoridation to estimate the long-term effects of early childhood (ages 0-5) water fluoridation on physical ability and economic self-sufficiency.

Analysis is performed on U.S. Decennial Census and American Community Survey (ACS) data for 2001-2016, along with water fluoridation data from the 1992 Fluoride Census. The sample includes 29,150,000 individuals, with 24,850,000 in treated counties and 4,296,000 as untreated controls, which are organized into county-birth-cohorts by birth-county and birth-year. Preliminary findings suggest that fluoridation has no effects on self-sufficiency. While fluoride appears to improve health outcomes, some evidence also points to negative effects, especially in relation to severe fluorosis. Overall, results are inconsistent with Robert’s findings.

Water fluoridation has become a highly contested topic in recent months. This paper seeks to explore and confirm past and present research on economic effects of water fluoridation to determine proper policy direction.

Note: Dr. Partha Deb has asked that due to the uncertain direction of the findings at the moment, no policy directions be given. Please feel free to reach out with further questions.

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Michael P. Duffy¹, Wayne Lam²^,³, Austin Yang², Kai Tan⁴^,⁵^,⁶

¹Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
²Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
³Hunter College, New York, NY, USA
⁴Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
⁵Center for Single Cell Biology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
⁶Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA

Bone marrow is a highly diverse organ that undergoes compositional changes over time. Age-related changes in stem cells contribute to conditions like osteoporosis and immunosenescence. Mesenchymal stem cell differentiation favors adipogenesis over osteoblastogenesis while hematopoietic stem cells undergo lymphoid-to-myeloid skewing and senescence. The cellular events that trigger these changes are not completely understood. From literature, we expect to observe mesenchymal stem cells sending the most regulation and differentiation signals to hematopoietic stem cells. Furthermore, we expect to see higher expression of drivers of adipogenic differentiation over osteogenic differentiation in mesenchymal stem cells. This multiome bone marrow atlas will provide a reference to investigate cell-cell interactions that control aging.

Bone marrow cells from femoral heads of 14 geriatric patients, ages ranging from 44-85, were collected and enzymatically digested. Red blood cells and granulocytes were depleted using MACS (magnetic activated cell sorting). In one third of the cells, CD34 was enriched to isolate hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell populations. In another third of the cells, CD45 was depleted to enrich non-hematopoietic cell populations. The three fractions were collected and subjected to snRNA-seq and snATAC-seq of the same cell, termed multiomics. CellRanger was used to count genes and peaks and generate quality control (QC) metrics. scATACpro was used to recount peaks and generate additional QC metrics. QC metrics were used to assess overall cell quality for each sample and determine if any samples need to be removed from downstream analysis. Using Seurat, cells were filtered to have a total UMI count between 1000 and 40,000, percent of mitochondrial reads less than 10%, fraction of peaks in regions higher than 25%, and total unique fragments greater than 2000. Gene expression data was log normalized and ATAC data was term frequency-inverse document frequency (TF-IDF) normalized. The multimodal data was clustered into similar cell groups and visualized using weighted nearest neighbors and integrated into one dataset using RPCA. Finally, clusters were annotated using the scRNAseq bone marrow atlas from Shovik et al. (Cell, 2024) and using canonical marker genes of cell types. A CellChat analysis was conducted to identify probable interactions between cell types, which inform what cells are involved in regulation using what ligands. Enriched pathways related to hematopoietic stem cell maintenance or differentiation were identified.

Cells were successfully clustered and annotated with their cell type, crucial for downstream analysis and drawing biological conclusions. Fibroblast MSCs and THY1+ MSCs were found to be the most stem-like. TGFβ2, IGF1, CXCL12, MIF, SPP1, NAMPT, ANGPTL2, ANGPTL4, MDK, PTN, KITLG, SEMA3C were the statistically significant secreted ligands from mesenchymal stem cells to hematopoietic stem cells.

These ligands are highly likely to be occurring and actively contributing to the expression in HSCs. These can be experimentally validated to determine their role in hematopoietic regulation.

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James Lauren, NP¹

¹Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, City University of New York

Bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to rise, with CDC data showing over 600,000 gonorrhea and 1.8 million chlamydia cases reported in 2019. Despite established guidelines, STIs remain undetected due to inadequate screening practices. This quality improvement project’s purpose is to enhance screening, prevention, and provider STI knowledge.

A STI reduction bundle was implemented in a primary care clinic using STI screening tool, STI protocol, and provider education. Outcome measures included rates of gonorrhea (GC) and chlamydia (CT) screening, syphilis blood screening, doxycycline treatment prescriptions, doxy-PEP prescriptions, and provider knowledge scores.

Analysis demonstrated increased screening rates, Doxy treatments, and providers’ knowledge after the intervention. The number of urogenital screenings for GC/CT increased with statistical significance compared between September-November 2023 and September-November 2024 (t(435)= 1.965, p <.001). Blood screening for syphilis increased with statistical significance from September-November 2023 compared to September-November 2024 (t(342)= 1.967, p <.001). Extragenital GC/CT screening and Doxy-PEP preventive prescriptions increased, but the improvement was not statistically significant. The number of STI treatments with doxycycline increased with statistical significance compared between September-November 2023 and September-November 2024 (t(17) = 2.109, p <.001). The scores of the participants on the STI knowledge survey increased with statistical significance after the intervention (t(7)= 2.365, p <.001).

The STI reduction bundle improved STI screening and prevention in primary care. Results demonstrate that standardized protocols combined with provider education can significantly enhance STI detection and prevention, while demonstrating the feasibility of implementing complex practice changes in primary care settings.

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Jayden Leung¹, Li Li², Trami Dang³, and Rabindra K. Mandal¹

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College of CUNY
²Chinese Institutes for Medical Research (Beijing)
³Department of Physics/Astronomy and Computer Science, Hunter College of CUNY

Malaria, a devastating disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, affects millions globally. However, the factors contributing to severe malaria remain unclear. Previously, we have shown that gut microbiome, particularly Bacteroides species are causally linked to severe malaria. The exact mechanism, however, is still unknown. Here, we analyzed gut microbial pathways in mice susceptible to severe hyperparasitemia using shotgun metagenomics.

Cecal contents from mice susceptible and resistant to hyperparasitemia were sequenced using shotgun metagenomics. Low-quality reads and host DNA were filtered using KneadData. Microbial pathway analysis was conducted using GhostKOALA, DESeq2, p5-bpwrapper, MicrobiomeAnalyst, and MicrobiomeProfiler.

Several biological pathways were significantly enriched in hyperparasitemia-susceptible and resistant mice. Susceptible mice exhibited increased abundance of glycosphingolipid biosynthesis, glycosaminoglycan degradation, and sphingolipid metabolism pathways—all of which are uniquely associated with the Bacteroides genus, previously implicated in severe malaria. Conversely, resistant mice showed enrichment in limonene and pinene degradation and geraniol degradation pathways.

Sphingolipid metabolism-related pathways are enriched in mice suffering from severe malaria. Further investigation is needed to establish the causal relationship between sphingolipid metabolism and malaria severity.

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Chris Lin¹, Saumya Nigam²^,³, Katie Uhl⁴, Xiaopeng Li⁴, and Ping Wang²^,³

¹Ronald E. McNair Scholar, Trio Program, Hunter College
²Precision Health Program, Michigan State University
³Department of Radiology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University
⁴Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine

Pulmonary Fibrosis (PF) is a chronic and irreversible condition characterized by repetitive alveolar injury, leading to airway scarring and thickening. Current pharmacological treatments have limited efficacy in restoring lung function by primarily delaying the fibrotic process and providing temporary anti-inflammatory relief. Surgical lung transplantation carries significant risks due to its invasive nature and potential for pro-inflammatory responses. Stem cell therapy offers a novel treatment approach but faces criticism for its reliance on invasive methods to monitor effectiveness. This study utilizes Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI), an emerging technology that directly images iron-oxide nanoparticles, to longitudinally monitor and quantify progenitor cell transplantation. MPI provides high sensitivity for cell tracking with minimal background signals, offering a non-invasive technique to monitor the biodistribution of progenitor cells. In this study, human lung progenitor cells were labeled with Vivotrax+ at different doses and their 2D MPI signal intensity was acquired and analyzed. Based on the elevated signal intensity, a dose of 250 µg/ml was decided for cell labeling for future in vivo studies. The in vivo studies will be carried out on immunocompromised NOD/SCID mice. The labeled cells will be administered via oropharyngeal aspiration. These transplanted cells are expected to target the airway and alveolar epithelium and will be monitored over the course of three weeks. The 2D and 3D MPI scans will be acquired, which will help in assessing their deposition, migration, longevity, and therapeutic effects on damaged lung tissue. This non-invasive technique demonstrates the potential for effectively monitoring progenitor cell therapy in treating PF.

To find cell/NP uptake concentration, we first grow cells in a petridic dish. During the period of growth, cells undergo endocytosis where cells and plasma membrane components obtain nutrients by having non-specific adsorptive uptake[16]. KRT5 and P63+ markers progenitor cells are plated in a supplemented with media and allowed to adhere for 24 hours at 37°C. The test of concentration in 50, 100, 200, and 250 μg/ml with a size of 50 nm NP size is incubated in the petridic dish medium for an additional 24 hours. ~50 nm size is the optimal cellular uptake into the cells [16] being absorbed by endocytosis. After 48 hours the cells become labeled cells, and their internalization of NP is randomized, to quantify the signal procured by the cells, we use a hemocytometer to count the number of cells. We quantified 10,000 cells linearly from 10,000 to 60,000 cells, which were taken and scanned with the MPI to determine the intensity of the signal. Nitric acid is used with a 4% total volume of solution added to lysis the cell and dissolve everything to determine the amount of NP content needed to produce signals in a linear scale of 10,000 cells each. When the cell dies, internal cell content is released. There are contents like cytoplasm, proteins, lipids, glucose, and our incubated NP. ICP-OES machine is used to analyze elements specifics and one of the contents is the dissolved NP of Fe and O2. We use ICP-OES to find the Fe content to quantify the amount of NP internalized in a linear scale of cells. This will provide an estimate of the amount of NP internalized and the concentration used to produce signal intensities in future vivo studies

Signal intensity vs. 10^3 cells of nanorod particles in a linear scale increase of μg/ml concentration. Nanorod particle of ²50 μg/ml generates significant MPI intensity. Chosen for future in vivo cell labeling. (B) Cell labeling efficiency comparison of lab-synthesized nanorod particle and commercially available from Magnetic Insight nanoparticle, VivoTrax 250 μg/ml. Signal vs. 10^3 cells. *P<0.05 Rod-shaped nanoparticles were used to establish a linear correlation between cell density (in thousands) and signal intensity. Future investigations will use rod-shaped nanoparticles as a reference against standard commercially available VivoTrax. As depicted in Figure 1, a concentration of 250 μg/ml is identified as the most effective dosage for future in vivo studies, aimed at optimizing nanoparticle internalization by progenitor cells. Additionally, Figure 2 of different incubation durations of the nanoparticles are tested to assess potential differentiation and consistency in uptake.

Although pre-existing knowledge of stem therapeutic treatment is prevalent, effective monitoring for post-treatment has limited efficacy and requires invasive methods in longitutivity monitoring. Cellular internalization is unpredictable inside an artificial growth culture to mimic the natural formation of aggregation in the biological environment. To quantify an estimate of signals per thousand cells, we tested to find and optimize nanoparticles to provide the best signal intensity for cellular migration during treatment. In this study, we have established a desirable concentration of nanoparticles and cellular uptake for the prospective monitoring treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. Future vivo studies for treating PF would be carried out using NOD/SCID mice. It is a non-diabetic and immunocompromised mouse able to uptake any foreign injection without immune complications. A concentration of 250 μg/ml and 50,000 human lung stem/progenitor cells will be administered via oropharyngeal aspiration[17] into an induced artificial PF using bleomycin in vivo mix-gender 2-month-old PF mouse. The subject will be monitored through MPI scanning once every 3 days until 3 weeks. We will be measuring the biodistribution of the signal intensity’s wavelength induced by the pulmonary progenitor cells with histopathology on days 7, 14, and 21 with tagged markers, KRT5+ and P63+ to determine the progression of progenitor cell treatment. We will monitor and explore the effectiveness of the progressive progress of human progenitor cells with NP live-time tracking administered by oropharyngeal aspiration.

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Kelly Lin¹

¹Hunter College, City University of New York

The goal of this research proposal is to answer the question of whether humans will treat robots positively or negatively based on the design and implementation of the robots. It will explore how social values affect the treatment of humanoid robots and how integration of robots in the mainstream reflects the relationship of those in positions of power versus those in positions of service. My plan is to provide participants of this study with a real-world or simulated environment where they can interact with robot designs to observe and quantify human reactions. Other studies involving visual aspects of robots do not involve a higher degree of interaction that may affect the outcome of human-robot interactions, because they mainly rely on images or limited movements. Research Question: Does human-likeness in a social service robot influence human trust and cooperation in a stressful and complex environment and situation? H1: Participants will have the highest level of cooperation with the human-like social service robots when asked to do tasks. H2: Participants will assign more blame to human-like social service robots because they will initially trust them more in the situation. H3: Participants will likely not choose to trust a non-human-like social service robot over a human-like one if given the option to do so. H4: Participants may be more likely to choose to cooperate less with the non-human-like social service robot as easily or at all.

Experimental Design Participants will partake in a 3D simulated immersive environment of a stressful scenario where they traverse a world where fully autonomous social service robots are a part of daily life. The following variables are to be tested: Independent Variables: Robot Design - two types, one hyper realistic androgynous and one non-human-like (simple shape, akin to MTA police robot) Dependent Variables: Percentage of participants who chose human-like robots initially Percentage of participants who chose non-human-like robots initially Percentage of participants who switched robots based on design given the option to Percentage of participants who did not switch robots based on design given the option to Percentage of participants who chose to trust and cooperate with instructions Percentage of participants who chose not to trust and cooperate with instructions Percentage of participants who blamed robots for the outcome of the situation Percentage of participants who did not blame robots for the outcome of the situation

Incomplete

Incomplete

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Emira Lulanaj¹, Samira Khuseynova¹, Kirsten Ooi¹, Dianelly Rivera¹, Amy Munoz¹, Simra Ilyas¹, Mía Ortiz¹

¹CUNY Hunter College

This study investigates how group size (solo, duo, trio) and semantic priming (priming, false priming) affect problem-solving efficiency in Wordle. It aims to determine whether working in pairs enhances performance and if the use of a hint improves accuracy. The hypothesis predicted that duos would outperform solo and trio groups, and priming would enhance problem-solving.

This study used a 2x3 factorial design to examine the effects of group size and semantic priming on problem-solving in a custom Wordle game, with 92 participants (aged 16-41) randomly assigned to one of six conditions. The data was collected using recording sheets and analyzed using a two-way ANOVA.

Results showed that group size significantly affected the number of guesses needed to solve the Wordle puzzle, with duos performing better than solos. However, semantic priming did not significantly impact performance. An interaction between group size and primer type was observed, influencing the number of attempts required. These findings suggest that working in pairs enhances problem-solving efficiency, regardless of priming conditions.

The results indicate that working in pairs enhances problem-solving efficiency in Wordle compared to working alone or in trios, which highlights the cognitive advantage of small collaborative groups. These findings further contribute to group dynamic research.

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Nur Lyba¹, Dean Matthews²^,³, Ryann Callaghan²^,³ ,Mihir Pendse², Daniel Zegarra-Ruiz², Gretchen Diehl²^,³

¹Macaulay Honors College at Hunter College
²Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Immunology Program, New York, NY
³Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY

Immature T lymphocytes develop in the thymus, where they are screened for functionality and self-reactivity. The resulting T cells emigrate to peripheral tissues in the gastrointestinal tract, where they aid in discerning between harmful or commensal antigens. Dysregulation of this mechanism can lead to sustained inflammation against commensals, as in Crohn’s Disease. The Diehl Lab recently showed that colonization of mice at weaning with epithelial-adherent E.coli leads to its trafficking to the thymus, specifically by dendritic cells (DCs) expressing CX3CR1. This mechanism does not appear to function in adult mice, suggesting that it may have a role in the development of the mucosal immune system. The environmental factors in the early life gut that promote this thymus trafficking remain to be defined. The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) is an IgG receptor that can bind to IgG-bound commensal bacteria and promotes antigen sampling by DCs in the early-life intestine. This project focuses on how changes in FcRn expression in antigen presenting cells over developmental periods can affect the trafficking of microbes in early life.

First, immunofluorescent staining of the thymus from young and adult mice was optimized to visualize and quantify FcRn expression. Additionally, flow cytometry is used to analyze intracellular FcRn expression in CX3CR1+ DCs in the thymus and intestine of young and adult mice.

We show a slight, non-significant decrease in the average number of FcRn+ cells in the adult mice. In the thymus, FcRn was shown to have a higher expression in young mice, with a statistically significant drastic change from two weeks to three weeks. However, this intensity was similar in all age groups in the large intestine.

Altogether, our data suggests that thymic migratory DCs have a higher expression of FcRn in early life.

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Aaron Lyons¹ Ashok R. Gudipally¹^,², and Wayne Harding¹^,²

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College
²Ph.D Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center, City University of New York

Selective targeting of dopamine subtype receptors D1R and D3R appears promising as a psychostimulant addiction therapeutic strategy. Prior studies demonstrate that dual D1R agonism and D3R antagonism with a selective D1R agonist and a selective D³R antagonist, attenuates addictive behaviors in an apparently synergistic manner. However, there is a paucity of ligands that exhibit this dual selective D1R/D3R functional behavior. En route to the discovery of such dual-targeted molecules, we have taken the approach of utilizing the tetrahydroprotoberberine (THPB) scaffold of (S)-isocorypalmine as a lead template for structure-activity optimization. We hypothesize that strategic incorporation of a thiourea motif at the C-2 position of (S)-isocorypalmine will enhance dual-targeted D1R agonist/D3R antagonist activity, by improving H-bond donor interactions critical for receptor engagement.

A library of 22 thiourea analogs was synthesized via a seven-step sequence starting from berberine to yield the key precursor (S)-isocorypalmine. Thereafter, the phenolic hydroxyl group at the C-2 position was converted to an amine through sequential C-2 triflation and Buchwald amination, followed by coupling with diverse thiocyanates to introduce the thiourea motif.

The purified compounds are currently undergoing evaluation via radioligand binding assays, in hopes of confirming that the thiourea modification serves as an optimal bioisostere.

In our attempt to discover ideal therapeutics for psychostimulant addiction, we anticipate that the data we receive from the binding assays will confirm (S)-isocorypalmine’s potential as a dual-action therapeutic candidate.

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Afra N Mahmud¹, Ann K PierreLouis¹, Zachary T Pennington¹, Denise J Cai¹

¹Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

The grooming behavior of rodents has been proposed to capture various facets of neuropsychiatric illness, and in particular, to reflect animals’ emotional state. However, animals have been observed to exhibit both increased and decreased grooming in response to threatening/stressful events, making the interpretation of grooming fluctuations difficult. Here we tested the hypothesis that both increased and decreased grooming in response to threat might be explained by accounting for threat distance.

The grooming behavior of mice was recorded across various levels of threat, from no threat (home cage), to low threat (exposure to an uncertain environment), to moderate threat (exposure to a shock-associated context), to high threat (footshocks). Additionally, in a subset of mice, we measured grooming in the home cage before and after being exposed to a footshock stressor in a novel environment. R studio was used for analysis.

Across experiments, we found that the immediate response to threat was a decrease in grooming, and this decrease was proportional to threat level. However, when stressed mice were returned to their home cages, they displayed a significant increase in grooming compared to non-stressed animals.

These results demonstrate that grooming behavior is suppressed proportional to threat level, indicating that decreases in grooming reflect higher stress levels. However, after a threat has vanished, grooming increases, possibly as a recuperative behavior. This shows a more comprehensive perspective on grooming in relation to stress and offers grooming as a behavioral target for future neuropsychiatric studies.

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Michael Malak¹^,² and Khadijah A. Mitchell, PhD, MS¹

¹Mitchell Laboratory, Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple Health, Temple University
²Summer Cancer Research Institute, TUFCCC/HC

Lung cancer (LC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related death in the US. African Americans (AAs) have higher LC incidence rates than European Americans (EAs). AAs also have more problems with DNA repair due to greater rates of homologous recombination repair (HRR) deficiency (HRD), which may underlie the disparity. This study hypothesizes that AAs are born with greater HRD frequencies (through germline DNA changes) than EAs, and this genetic susceptibility contributes to increased LC risk.

HRD+ status was calculated based on three types of genomic scars (NtAl, LST, and HRD-LOH) and pathogenic variant (PV) profiling of HRR genes in large population-based discovery (1000 Genomes Project (1KG)) and validation (Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD)) cohorts of AA/African ancestry and EA/European ancestry populations without cancer.

1KG analyses revealed that both AAs (NtAI and HRD-LOH) and EAs (NtAI, LST, and HRD-LOH) had evidence of germline HRD. Ancestry-specific PVs were observed in 14/21 HRR genes. African and European ancestry populations (which include AAs and EAs) in the gnomAD cohort had similar HRD score frequencies (10/14 African vs 10/14 European), but different driver genes.

HRD+ cancer patients respond favorably to PARP inhibitor drugs (PARPi). HRD+ status in AAs may be driven by African ancestry. Integrating ancestry-informed HRD screening into LC risk assessment could enhance early detection and targeted interventions (like chemopreventive PARPi treatment for at-risk AAs). Further research should explore HRD+ cell line response to PARPi monotherapies and combination therapies.

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Jazmin D. Marquez¹

¹Hunter College

This ethnographic research explores social and cultural significance of names within a specific family context, by examining the naming practices of a Venezuelan family. By emphasizing the dynamic and fluid nature of identity.

Through participant observation, this ethnographic research investigates the social and cultural significance of names within a specific family. Three participants, all direct relatives, were involved in this study. The research engages with the concept of identity, grounded in five fundamental principles that understand identity as the “social positioning of self and others,” as opposed to fixed internal characteristics or categories of an individual (Bucholtz & Hall, 2005).

Within intimate family settings, all participants used the initial "D" when addressing each other, signifying familial familiarity and lineage. My sister's insistence on the correct Spanish pronunciation of her name acts as a subtle resistance to dominant English-speaking culture, highlighting her cultural and individual identity.

Labeling this trend (naming children after the father’s name and addressing each other by that name) as solely “cultural” overlooks the significant impact of gender dynamic and power relations within naming practices. While cultural factors undoubtedly play a role, the emphasis on my father’s name and the subtle ways in which patriarchal norms influence naming decisions within my family clearly demonstrate that these dynamics cannot be ignored. My observation that both parents, while adhering to traditional naming practices, ultimately prioritized the father's name in the naming of their children further emphasizes the potential for patriarchal influence in shaping naming decisions within the family.

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Amy Maurad¹, Yujia Xu¹

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College of City University of New York, New York, New York 10065

The collagen mimetic peptide Col108 has been proven to be fibril-forming. It is a tool in biochemistry analysis and applications for mimicking natural collagen fibrils' structural and functional properties. One challenge that limits its widespread application is its limited yield production in Escherichia coli. My project's goal is to determine if using an antibiotic, rifampicin, and adjusting growth time and temperature will increase the yield. Rifampicin is a semisynthetic antibiotic that inhibits the initiation of RNA synthesis by binding to the β subunit of the host RNA polymerase, meanwhile, the expression of Col108 is not inhibited because it is driven by T7 RNA polymerase. It is reported in some systems, that suppressing the expression of host proteins had favorable effects on the pronounced yield of the foreign protein under the control of the T7 polymerase.

This study analyzed several methods, including temperature variation (16°C to 37°C), use of fresh Lysogeny Broth media, and varying concentrations of Guanidine Hydrochloride. A Western blot was used to identify the Col108 band.

Currently, variations in incubation times (24, 48, and 72 hours) and the use of fresh media did not significantly improve Col108 yield. Previous lab results showed optimal growth at 16°C with rifampicin, and these findings are being reproduced with additional temperature variations. Final confirmation will be obtained through a Western blot for identification.

This increased expression enhances the limited yield production of Col108, enabling potential advancements to study its mimicked structural and functional properties to those of natural collagen fibrils.

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Sumiya Mayna¹

¹Hunter College

Standard economic models suggest money from work and other sources are treated equally. However, an RCT in a Rohingya camp in Bangladesh shows otherwise (Hussam et al. 2022). The Rohingyas, an ethnic minority from Myanmar, are displaced by political and religious conflicts.

In the RCT, 722 Rohingya refugees are randomly assigned to 200 blocks, with treatments including work cash, big cash, and small cash. Both work cash and big cash treatment earned 3,600 takas during the experiment but only work cash had to provide labor to receive the money. My research evaluates the effects of work cash and big cash treatments on expenditure patterns for items like healthcare, food, and savings. I also explore if these patterns fade over time and how the treatment affects one's perception of fairness.

Using the Mental Accounting Model, I aim to analyze how the two treatments affect income allocation based on its source. The results show individuals in the big cash treatment spent 121.15 takas, while those in the work treatment spent 64.19 takas. Individuals who receive big cash perceive their income differently than those who earn it through work.

I also use the Fehr-Schmidt model to explore fairness, focusing on how individuals consider their well-being and that of others. The likelihood coefficients for contributing to refugees are -0.148 for work cash and -0.074 for big cash. The work treatment may view giving away their earnings as unfair. The results show income source influences spending and fairness perceptions.

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Phill McCoy-Campbell¹

¹Hunter College

In this presentation, I maintain that revolutionaries must learn hope and high morale from the life of Langston Hughes. These are lessons in the working-class ideology of the blues that not only produces music, but poetry, oration, and action.

While the blues are most associated with sites like the cabaret, Hughes’s experiences show that Harlem’s 135th Street Library and Alabama’s Kilby Prison have hosted the blues epistemology.

Both locations can be considered allegorical classrooms of proletarian wisdom. At the library, Hughes learned the importance of hope for radical change from staff and attendees who resembled the protagonists of the blues. At the prison, Hughes taught the young “Scottsboro defendants” that lesson, which had been reinforced by the high morale of Ada Wright, Louise Thompson Patterson, and thousands of working-class activists fighting for their freedom.

In the spirit of critical educator Paolo Freire, I maintain that liberatory education must spring from the knowledge of the masses. Since the blue—its expressions and epistemology—is anchored in the wisdom of working Black Americans; since the blues takes humanizing emancipation as its raison d'être and its North Star, I maintain that it is a “pedagogy of the oppressed.” Thus, Hughes shows that the lessons of the blues are critical for navigating the contradictions of education in the United States and for the revolutionary movement necessary to resolve them.

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Jannae McFarlane¹^,², Maryam Syeda Azeem¹^,³, Shahana S. Mahajan¹^,⁴^,⁵^,⁶

¹Weill Cornell Medicine, Belfer Research Building
²Macaulay Honors College, Hunter College, City University of New York
³Ph.D Program in Biology (Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Sub-Program), The Graduate Center of the City University of New York
⁴Department of Biology and Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York
⁵Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Hunter College, City University of New York
⁶Brain Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College

 

Osteosarcoma predominantly affects young adults from the ages of 10-30 years old and is mainly localized in the long bones. Despite advancements in treatment, the current 5-year survival rate for osteosarcoma is 76% for localized tumors but drops drastically to 24% for metastatic cases. Riluzole, a drug primarily used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), has demonstrated anticancer potential by inhibiting glutamate secretion, a key factor in cancer cell survival. This study investigates the effects of Riluzole on the expression of Early Growth Response 1 (EGR1) gene in OS³9 cells, an osteosarcoma patient-derived xenograft cell line. EGR1 is a transcription factor involved in the regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis, acting as either a tumor suppressor or an oncogene in different cell types.

To assess the impact of Riluzole on EGR1 expression in OS39 cells, quantitative PCR (qPCR) was performed to measure changes in EGR1 mRNA levels, and Western blot analysis was used to examine EGR1 protein expression.

Current studies in Mahajan Lab have shown an upregulation of EGR1 in osteosarcoma cells, following Riluzole treatment, indicating a potential role in the drug’s mechanism of action. Based on these findings, we hypothesize that EGR1 protein expression will also be upregulated in response to Riluzole treatment in osteosarcoma patient-derived xenograft line.

Our results suggest that EGR1 may play a key role in mediating Riluzole’s impact on osteosarcoma cells. Future studies will aim to validate these findings in in vivo models to further investigate EGR1’s role as a potential therapeutic biomarker target.

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Elesha McGrath¹, Leonard J. Ash¹^,², Ottavia Busia-Bourdain¹, Dennis Lam⁴, Andrew L. Wolfe¹^,²^,³^,⁴

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY
²Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Subprogram of the Biology Ph.D. Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY
³Biochemistry Ph.D. Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY
⁴Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY

KRAS is among the most frequently mutated oncogenes and it is implicated in highly lethal cancers. KRAS inhibitors capable of targeting all RAS variants offer a promising new therapeutic avenue. RMC-6236 is a RAS(ON) noncovalent inhibitor that has demonstrated tumor regression in preclinical models. It is unclear whether resistance mechanisms that arise in response to treatment with RMC-6236 vary across different KRAS mutations.

We investigated the differential inhibitory effects and resistance mechanisms of RMC-6236 on an isogenic panel of SW48 cells with KRAS mutations G12C, G12D, G12R, G12S, G12V, or wild-type G12 after 2 hours and 2 weeks of treatment. The 2-week experiment generated drug-tolerant persister (DTP) cells, and included a second condition with a 3-day drug holiday to evaluate the reversibility of drug-induced changes. Following this experiment, dose-response viability assays and extracellular acidification rate assays were performed to determine the impact of RMC-6236 on cell viability and glycolytic rates. Macropinocytosis assays were performed to assess differential nutrient uptake.

Our experiments revealed significant variability in cell viability and glycolytic rates among the different cell lines. The G12R DTPs were significantly more resistant to RMC-6236 than all other genotypes. All lines exhibited reversibility of drug resistance upon drug holiday.

The reversibility of medium-term resistance to RMC-6236 suggests transcriptional mechanisms, not genetic mutations. These findings have potential clinical implications, as understanding the differential response and resistance mechanisms of KRAS G12 mutant cells to RMC-6236 could allow clinicians to tailor treatment plans for optimal patient outcomes.

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Saad Memon¹, Alliyah Byrd¹, Caroline Phan¹, Emilie Uffman¹, Maria Dennis¹, Genevieve Fouda¹, and Ashley Nelson¹

¹Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA

HIV’s rapid mutation necessitates a vaccine inducing broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) for broad protection. Infants living with HIV develop bnAbs more rapidly than adults, often within 1-2 years post-infection. While adult studies link bnAb development to high viral load and viral diversity, it remains unclear if these factors similarly influence bnAb development in children. This study amplifies the HIV envelope genome from two infants with neutralization breadth to identify mutation paths that may drive bnAb development. We hypothesize viral diversity promotes neutralization breadth development in children.

We utilized archived plasma from two ART-naïve, HIV-positive children aged 4 who showed broad neutralization against 10 global HIV strains by age 3. Single Genome Amplification via nested PCR was conducted to amplify the HIV envelope, followed by sequencing with Sequencher. Highlighter plots and phylogenetic trees (LANL HIV Database) visualized envelope mutations.

Both infants developed HIV neutralization breadth. Child 1 (PTD E00²0B1) showed breadth at age 1, maintaining it through ages 2 and 3. Child 2 (PTD S0016B1) developed breadth at age 2, with stronger breadth by age 3. For both children, highlighter plots showed significant envelope mutations at age 4 and phylogenetic trees revealed distinct viral sequence clusters, indicating sequence evolution.

We observed increased viral diversity in both infants with HIV neutralization breadth, suggesting co-evolution of the viral envelope and HIV-envelope specific antibodies of the infants. Future work will assess if mutations occur in bnAb-targeting epitopes. Our work defining virological factors linked to neutralization breadth development in children may inform HIV immunogen design.

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Andrea Mendoza¹

¹Hunter College

As of 2022, 70 million people in the United States reported that they have a disability. People with Disabilities (PWD) can have limited access to work and health depending on their condition. PWD can also have complex medical needs, which can make it difficult to find a physician to effectively treat them. Physicians may be reluctant to treat PWD for reasons ranging from plain ableism to historically low and inconsistent payments for their services.

I use data from the Social Security Administration on Medicaid payment rates to providers for Evaluation and Management (E&M) services and patient health outcomes data for people with and without disabilities from 2016 to 2021. We also merge data from the American Community Survey (ACS) which will allow us to regress payment rates on health outcomes over time with year and state fixed effects. We measure outcomes such as average number of physician visits, time between visits, and physician to patient ratios.

Preliminary results show there is a null and statistically insignificant association between higher payments and health outcomes for PWD and without disabilities.

Other factors such as access to transportation and telehealth use can explain the negative association between PWD and visits to their physician. In states that already have poor access to care, the increase in payments is not great enough to compensate for the lack of visits that are already being made to physicians. Physicians provide many more services than primary care consults, and data on these can help policymakers determine the best method for improving access to care for vulnerable groups.

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Isabelle Meneses¹, Sarah Sullivan, M.S.¹^,², Christina Rombola, MA¹, Muhammad Waseem, MD, MS³, Regina Miranda, Ph.D.¹^,²

¹ Department of Psychology, Hunter College, City University of New York
² The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
³ NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln, Bronx, New York, USA

Adolescent suicidal thoughts and behaviors have increased in the US over the past two decades. The present study examined how adolescents perceive others’ responses to their suicide-related disclosures to understand how unsupportive responses following adolescents’ suicide ideation or attempts may impact risk of a future suicide attempt (SA). This could lead to a greater understanding on how to inform emergency department practices.

Adolescents (N=22; 86% female at birth), ages 12-19 (M = 15.1) that received treatment at emergency departments in NYC and the surrounding area were recruited for this study. Over 90% of the sample identified as racial/ethnic minorities, with 59% self-identified as Hispanic/Latine. Adolescents were interviewed about their experiences with disclosing their suicide ideation/SA to other individuals, and if they perceived their responses as unsupportive. Thematic analysis by three coders was used to identify and categorize these perceived responses. The study procedures received full board approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of Hunter College. This study was not pre-registered.

Adolescents identified unsupportive responses, including invalidation of adolescents’ feelings, “guilt-tripping,” and anger. Common responses included dismissing or invalidating the adolescent’s feelings, showing apathy, or expressing insincere empathy. Some adolescents also reported harmful responses, such as calling the police or acting without informing the adolescent. Unsupportive responses increased adolescents’ distress.

Unsupportive responses may increase the risk of future SAs. Clinically, these results highlight the imperative need for resources informing others’ responses to adolescents’ suicidal crises, with potential to reduce suicide-related risk among adolescents and improve mental health outcomes.

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Kacey Merkelson¹

¹English Department, Hunter College

Previous studies concluded American English speakers choose address forms depending on the addressee’s status relative to the speaker and intimacy with the speaker. However, more recent research proposes that “the norms of address in American English have changed considerably over the past two generations” (Murray 57). Hunter College students’ address practices are used to perform politeness according to student/professor power relations and community norms.

This paper examines interviews I conducted with two undergraduate students and a professor at Hunter College. In addition, I analyze the notes I took as a participant-observer in an undergraduate class, focusing on how students addressed the professor. I was approved for HRPP/IRB Classroom Research Practice; my approved protocol number is 2024-09-20-011.

When speaking to professors, Hunter college students choose formal address terms or avoid identifiers, which are both primarily strategies of politeness. This desire to be polite stems from awareness of professors’ higher social status and socialization by authority figures in the university environment. However, rather than formality and intimacy being inversely linked, undergraduate students feel more comfortable being informal toward professors when they are in a less intimate relationship.

The behavior seen in Hunter students reinforces and complicates existing models of American English address practices, implying a more comprehensive reevaluation of these norms is needed. The motivations factored into the observed populations’ addresses point to a culture of social stratification between professors and students in American universities, and its impact on their communication warrants more thorough exploration.

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Fahima Miajee¹^,², Sheida Sharghi², Ipsit Srivastava², Akshara Vijay², Luca Posa²

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College
²Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA

Opioids remain the most effective drugs for alleviating both the sensory and emotional dimensions of pain. However, achieving sensory analgesia requires high opioid doses, limiting their clinical utility due to severe side effects such as tolerance, physical dependence, and abuse potential.Emerging evidence suggests that low opioid doses selectively reduce the negative affective states associated with chronic pain in both humans and animal models. Yet, the precise spatiotemporal activation of the mu opioid receptor (MOR)—the primary opioid target—within brain circuits modulating pain-related emotions remains unclear.

We employed the place escape avoidance paradigm (PEAP) to assess pain unpleasantness in a chronic neuropathic pain model, spared nerve injury (SNI), in mice. We observed that SNI mice displayed a preference for the dark chamber rather than the light chamber in the PEAP test, indicative of heightened pain aversion. This behavior was reversed by a low-dose intraperitoneal morphine injection (0.25 mg/kg), without altering mechanical sensitivity induced by SNI surgery in the von Frey test. Ninety minutes post-administration, brain tissue was collected and processed for c-Fos immunostaining, a marker of neuronal activation.

Morphine-treated SNI mice exhibited increased c-Fos expression in cortical regions implicated in pain and affect, including the medial prefrontal cortex, anterior insular cortex, and orbitofrontal cortex, but not in the periaqueductal gray, a key limbic structure involved in descending pain modulation.

These findings suggest that low-dose opioids modulate the affective, or emotional, component of pain via cortical engagement without direct activation of sensory analgesic structures. Understanding these mechanisms could inform targeted opioid therapies with reduced side effects.

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Emily Montanez¹^,², Mark Popinchalk²

¹Department of Physics and Astronomy, Hunter College
²Department of Astrophysics, American Museum of Natural History

Complex rotators are a recently identified classification of stars that are young (<200 Myr) M dwarves with fast rotation periods (~<2 days). Most M dwarfs have star spots that cause predictable changes in their brightness. However, complex rotators show irregular, repeating flux patterns instead of the usual smooth, sinusoidal wave variations. The cause of this phenomenon remains unknown. It is also unknown if pre-existing recorded complex rotators continue to portray complex behavior over time.

We analyzed 50 known examples using the 200-second full-frame images from the later cycles of NASA TESS mission (>Sector 56) and compared them to earlier cycles of the same objects. Using Lomb-Scargle periodograms to search for periodicities in the objects’ light curves, we looked for multiple surges of power, known as harmonics, in a star's period to determine whether it was complex.

Out of the 50 objects analyzed as being complex in earlier cycles (<Sector 56), we found 14 objects that lost their complexity in later cycles (>Sector 56).We present a novel way to observe this change by plotting and comparing harmonics over time and throughout different sectors. By examining these objects’ harmonics over time, we find a decrease in power that gradually depletes in increasing sectors, resulting in a star with a normal repeating flux.

Some stars are seen to have lost their complexity over time, carrying implications for the duration of complex light curve phenomenon as well as building onto future theories for the cause of complex rotators.

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Nushrat Mou¹, Genesis¹, Miriam¹, Lidia¹, Janet¹, Chrys¹, Rachel¹, Leo¹

¹CUNY Hunter College

This research focuses on the central problem of how recall is achieved from memory when performed through a term related memory card game or any other modality of a memory card game. More particularly, the focus of the study is whether game participants have better performance in a memory game when they match images, words, or both, as well as whether the terms used (associated vs. random) have any effects on the performance. The objective of the research is to figure out which means or ways of presenting learning information aid in remembering the information most and hence devise techniques of learning and information retention. The question the study is trying to answer is: Does memory game card modality and term-relatedness remembers the player in a card matching game? The hypothesis is that those people given Image + Word cards will make fewer moves and take less time to finish the game as compared to those who were given only images or words. And, also that those people given Associated Terms cards will perform better than those given Random Terms cards.

The study utilized a 3 × 2 factorial design, incorporating two independent variables: memory card game modality (images, words, and images + words) and term-relatedness (associated terms vs. random terms). This design allowed for the examination of how both factors influence memory recall performance. Population Studied: The study was conducted with a convenience sample of 47 undergraduate students from CUNY Hunter College. Participants were recruited through manual outreach and represented a diverse range of ages and genders. Study Procedures: Participant Assignment: Participants were randomly assigned to one of six conditions using a coded link that directed them to a specific version of the memory game. Pre-Game Instructions: Participants first completed a Google Form, which included a consent form and collected demographic information (age and gender). Memory Game Task: Each participant played an online memory card game hosted on Interacty. The game included 24 cards (12 pairs), where participants matched pairs based on the assigned condition (images, words, or both; associated vs. random terms). Before starting, participants had 5 seconds to view the cards before they were turned over. Researchers observed and recorded the number of turns taken by participants to complete the game. Post-Game Survey: After the game, participants completed Section 3 of the Google Form, which measured their perceived difficulty of the task. Measurement Techniques: Independent Variables: Modality of memory cards: Three levels (images, words, images + words). Term-relatedness: Two levels (associated terms vs. random terms). Dependent Variables: Time to complete the game Number of turns taken to complete the game Perceived difficulty rating (measured in Section ³ of the Google Form). Data Analytic Techniques: The study employed descriptive statistics to summarize the collected data (e.g., average number of turns and time taken for each condition). A two-way ANOVA was conducted to examine: The main effects of term-relatedness and visual modality on completion time. The interaction effects between these two variables. This structured approach allowed researchers to evaluate whether images, words, or a combination of both, as well as associative vs. random terms, influenced participants' ability to recall and match memory cards efficiently.

Term-Relatedness (Associated vs. Random Decks): The main effect of term-relatedness was not significant, F(1, 41) = 0.73, p = .40. This suggests that there was no significant difference in completion time between associative and random decks. Visual Modality (Images, Words, Images + Words): The main effect of visual type was significant, F(2, 41) = 5.96, p = .005. This indicates that completion times varied significantly based on the type of stimuli used in the memory task. Interaction Effect Between Term-Relatedness and Visual Modality: A significant interaction effect was found, F(2, 41) = 4.70, p = .015. This means that the effect of term-relatedness on completion time depended on the visual modality. Unexpectedly, participants using the associative deck performed slower when playing with words & images and words & words decks compared to those using the random deck.

Visual Modality: It was consistent with existing literature in the area of the modality effect which holds that recall performance is related to the manner in which the information is presented (e.g., sight versus sound). The finding that visual modality impacts memory performance is pronounced. Interaction Effect: This effect seems to operate in a more complicated way giving the result of the term relatedness as a type of visual stimuli. The nature of the visual stimuli seems to determine the effectiveness of semantic associations in different measures of memory recall. This finding contributes towards the understanding of how memory encoding can be done in a way that is efficient at varying levels for different materials. Impact on the Field: Our study integrates phenomena from cognitive psychology and educational researches in drawing attention to visual modality and semantic relations during learning. The findings indicate that educationalists and instructional designers need to purposefully mix and exploit visual aids and language symbols to achieve greater attention and retention of information learned. In summary, our work reiterates the crucial aspect of visual modality in performing memory tasks and indicates that the nature of the semantic associations is dependent on the nature of the visual presentation. These insights may aid in the developm

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Almas Mughal¹^,²^,³, Denize C. Favaro¹, Yara Rocha¹^,⁴

¹Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, New York, NY
²Maximizing Access To Research Careers (MARC) Program, National Institute of General Medical Sciences, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY
³Department of Chemistry, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY
⁴Institute of Chemistry, University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil

Understanding antibiotic resistance mechanisms is vital in combating drug-resistant bacterial infections. The class D β-lactamase OXA-143 has been described as an efficient penicillinase, oxacillinase, and carbapenemase. However, past findings showed contrasting characteristics among natural variants located in the conserved β5β6 loop. The goal of this study was to investigate how Acinetobacter baumannii evades carbapenems through novel OXA-143 β-lactamase variants: DM = OXA-143(D224A-P227S), DM(R261K), DM(F186L-F210V), OXA-143(D224C), and OXA-143(D224C-P227S). We hypothesized that the combination of D224A and P227S mutations could restore enzyme stability while maintaining enzymatic efficiency.

OXA-143 variants were expressed in BL21(DE3) and purified using an affinity column, followed by dialysis to remove imidazole. Purity was evaluated using SDS-PAGE. Circular dichroism (CD) experiments were conducted to analyze protein thermal stability, while nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was used for kinetic analysis and protein folding evaluation.

CD results showed that DM had the highest thermal stability (49.0 ˚C), while D224A, R261K, and DM(F186L-F210V) exhibited lower stability. NMR results indicated that the DM variant was the most efficient, hydrolyzing 20 mM of ampicillin in less than an hour.

The combination of D224A and P227S restored enzyme stability while retaining catalytic efficiency. The successful purification of cysteine-including variants enables further study of β5β6 loop mobility. These findings highlight key residues that influence enzyme evolution and may serve as targets for future inhibitor development.

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Benjamin Oduro¹, Arva Demaliaj¹, Sara Fresard PhD¹^,², Jayne Raper PhD¹^,²

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College-CUNY
²Biology Program, The Graduate Center CUNY

African trypanosomes are unicellular, eukaryotic parasites, that cause African sleeping sickness in humans and wasting disease in cattle. Humans and some non-human primates are protected from most species of trypanosomes due to a high-density lipoprotein called Trypanosome Lytic Factor (TLF). TLF carries Apolipoprotein L-1 (APOL-1), a cation channel-forming protein. The mechanism of APOL-1 mediated lysis remains controversial. We propose that after receptor-mediated endocytosis, APOL-1 is inserted in the endosomal membrane due to the acidic pH. Once the endosome is recycled to the neutral environment of the plasma membrane, the channel opens and ions move down their electrochemical gradient. Sodium and calcium ions influx, potassium ions efflux, and chloride ions influx causing an osmotic imbalance, resulting in water influx, cell swelling and lysis. Another model suggests that APOL-1 opens a megapore in the mitochondrial membrane, causing depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane and apoptotic cell death. We hypothesize that after treatment with TLF reduction of potassium efflux will cause potassium accumulation in the cell leading to mitochondrial membrane depolarization.

To reduce potassium efflux we are using a TbK1 potassium channel RNAi knockdown parasite coupled with flow cytometry to measure intracellular potassium and mitochondrial membrane depolarization.

After treatment with TLF and reduction of potassium efflux, more depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane is observed.

These data confirm that potassium ions efflux after TLF treatment. To further investigate TLF’s role, we will evaluate the timing of plasma membrane depolarization and cell death.

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Roseline Olumuyide¹^,², Adam Wang¹, Neha Maskey¹^,², Ahmad Huda¹^,², Jeffrey Friedman¹

¹Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Rockefeller University, New York
²Hunter College, New York

Leptin, a protein hormone known for its role in energy balance and appetite regulation, also functions as an adipokine involved in immune regulation, inflammation, and antiviral defense. Leptin deficiency has been linked to increased mortality in children, highlighting its crucial role in immune function. This study investigates leptin’s impact on survival during viral infection by examining its effects on immune response, autonomic function, and therapeutic potential in leptin-deficient (ob/ob) mice. We hypothesize that leptin supplementation will enhance antiviral immune responses and improve survival outcomes by mitigating autonomic dysfunction and immune dysregulation in ob/ob mice.

This study utilized an experimental design involving leptin-deficient (ob/ob) mice. Mini-osmotic pumps were implanted to administer recombinant mouse leptin or saline (control) prior to viral infection. The viral infection was administered through intranasal injection to increase possibility of virus entering blood stream. Post-infection, physiological parameters, including body temperature and heart rate, were monitored. Viral titers were assessed using quantitative PCR, and immune cell responses were analyzed using flow cytometry. Lung histopathology was evaluated to determine tissue damage and inflammatory responses. Data analysis included statistical comparisons of survival rates, immune activation markers, and physiological measurements between leptin-treated and control groups.

Leptin supplementation enhanced antiviral immune responses and mitigated severe bradycardia and hypothermia in ob/ob mice post-infection. However, there were no significant differences in lung viral titers or histopathology between leptin-treated and control groups.

Our findings suggest that leptin plays a critical role in modulating immune responses and maintaining autonomic stability during viral infection. While leptin treatment improved physiological parameters and immune function, it did not alter viral titers or lung pathology, indicating that leptin's protective effects may be independent of direct viral clearance. Future research will explore the underlying mechanisms by which leptin improves survival and whether its immunomodulatory effects can be leveraged for therapeutic interventions in leptin-deficient individuals.

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Tyjanae Orr¹,Steven Holochwost²

¹Hunter College
²Department of Psychology, Lehman College
^3The Graduate Center City University of New York

Art therapy has demonstrated effectiveness in alleviating mental health symptoms across various populations, including individuals with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and neurodevelopmental disorders like autism (Hu et al., 2021). However, its potential role in fostering emotional expression and linguistic development in children remains underexplored. This study examines how children’s ability to articulate emotions evolves through structured art-based activities. We hypothesize that engaging in guided art sessions will enhance children’s verbal expression of emotions, measured by vocabulary diversity and sentence complexity, while their visual representations will display identifiable patterns in color choice and imagery corresponding to specific emotional expressions.

This qualitative study involves four children, aged 10 to 16, recruited from local libraries in Suffolk County. Each participant will complete nine art sessions divided into three periods. The first period focuses on basic emotions (e.g., happiness, sadness), while the last two address complex emotions (e.g., bittersweetness, nostalgia). Participants create artwork based on emotion-driven prompts and subsequently describe their pieces verbally. Thematic coding will be used to analyze verbal descriptions for linguistic complexity and recurring themes, while visual analysis will identify patterns in color choice and imagery. Materials include colored pencils, paint sticks, chalk, and various other art supplies to allow for diverse artistic expression.

Findings will provide insights into how art facilitates emotional expression and cognitive-linguistic growth in children. This study contributes to the growing recognition of art therapy within STEM research, highlighting its significance for neurodivergent individuals and its potential applications in clinical and developmental settings.

By integrating psychology, art, and language development, this research aims to further bridge the gap between science and creative methodology in therapeutic interventions for neurodevelopmental disorders.

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Michael Ostrowski¹, Frida Kleiman¹^,², Jill Bargonetti¹^,³

¹New York Research and Mentoring for Postbaccalaureates Program at Hunter College ²Department of Chemistry, Hunter College
³Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College

Mouse double minute 2 (MDM2), an E3 ubiquitin ligase, and the tumor suppressor p53 play crucial roles in cell growth, apoptosis, and DNA repair. They form a negative feedback loop to regulate their functions, but are disrupted in ~30% of cancers. MDM2 also has independent functions of p53 status, activated by estrogen within estrogen receptor positive cell lines. Preliminary data indicates MDM2-depleted cells expressing a missense mutant p53 (L194F) show decreased phosphorylation in PARN, identified through mass spec in chromatin fractions. PARN is a multifunctional enzyme, removing poly(A) tails from the 3' end of RNAs and is involved in mRNA stability and turnover; therefore, it regulates the transcriptome and gene expression. We hypothesize that MDM2 might regulate gene expression by modifying PARN functions on the chromatin. When estrogen activates MDM2 synthesis and influences PARN, we will determine if estrogen affects PARN through upregulation of MDM2.

MDM2 and PARN expression levels were tested by western blot analysis in whole cell extracts from different breast cancer cells expressing either wild type p53 (MCF-7) or mutant p53 (T47D), and different levels of MDM2 (MDM2 knockdowns).

Western blot analysis confirmed the MDM2 depletion and p53 expression in the tested cell lines. We are currently testing PARN antibodies. Future studies will focus on testing if PARN levels on the chromatin are increased in MDM2-depleted cells. Future studies will also include an analysis of expression levels of PARN mRNA targets in those cells.

This would determine associations between Estrogen and PARN, as well as interactions MDM2 and PARN. This would help elucidate potential drug targets and help with understanding mechanisms associated with mutant p53 breast cancers that are estrogen receptor positive.

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Most Parvin¹^,²^,³, Maria Figueiredo-Pereira, PhD ²^,³

¹CUNY Immersive Research Experience fellow
²Department of Biological Sciences
³Hunter College of the City University of New York

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is an age-dependent neurodegenerative disease that gradually impairs memory and affects cognition. The limited treatment options for AD increase the urgency for effective therapies. Developing new drugs is costly, time-consuming and requires a lengthy FDA approval process. Our current research focuses on drug repurposing as a therapeutic strategy for AD. We aim to identify novel treatments by testing the efficacy of four FDA-approved existing drugs—Amibegron, Opicapone, Dobutamine, Piribedil—using human microglial clone 3 (HMC3) cells. These drugs mainly target adrenergic and dopaminergic pathways, which are involved in neuronal activity and neuroprotection. Our study evaluates the effects of these drugs on cell viability to explore their potential therapeutic applications.

In vitro experiments were conducted to assess the toxicity of the drugs. HMC3 cells were passaged, seeded into 24 well plates, then incubated for three days to allow adherence and growth. The cells were then treated with various concentrations of each drug for 24 hours. Cell viability was then assessed using the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay.

Opicapone treatment demonstrated decreased cell viability. Dobutamine did not show any effect on viability even at higher concentrations, Amibegron and Piribedil showed inconsistent results, requiring further investigation.

Since some adrenergic and dopaminergic receptors are also found on microglial cells, drugs targeting these pathways may influence immune responses in neurodegenerative diseases like AD. By targeting pathways implicated in neurodegeneration, particularly neuroinflammation, this work seeks to advance the development of effective treatments for Alzheimer’s disease.

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Nitya Patel¹^,²^,³, Madhura Deshpande³, Theodore Paniza³, Rebecca Brown³, Christina Anna Stratopoulou³, Jeannine Gerhardt³

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York
²Macaulay Honors College, City University of New York
³Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine

Breast cancer accounts for about 25% of all cancers among women, with BRCA1 mutation carriers facing a 57-65% risk of developing breast cancer. BRCA1 plays a role in key cellular pathways, including double-strand break repair pathway by homologous recombination and cell-cycle checkpoint regulation. BRCA1 carriers carry heterozygous BRCA1mut/+ cells, exhibit defects in repair of stalled replication forks, prompting an increase in error-prone repair and mutations. Atrazine (ATZ), a commonly used S-triazine pesticide and endocrine disruptor, affects development, reproduction, and behavior in aquatic organisms. ATZ activates aromatase and increases the estrogen level in cells. Estrogen is known to form DNA adducts which could inhibit replication fork progression. This study investigates the effects of ATZ on BRCA1mut/+ cells, hypothesizing increased replication fork stalling in ATZ-treated cells. We further examined indole-3-carbinol (I3C), a nutritional compound found in cruciferous vegetables. I3C has preventative anticancer properties and induces BRCA protein expression in human cancer cells. We aimed to investigate whether I3C could counter the effects of ATZ on BRCA1mut/+ cells.

To test this, DNA fiber analysis of control and BRCA1mut/+ MCF10A cells was conducted to quantify replication fork stalling. DNA fiber analysis allows us to linearly tag replicating DNA with IdU and CldU. A smaller IdU/CldU ratio represents increased fork stalling. Cell treatments consisted of: untreated, ethanol, ATZ, ATZ + I3C.

A significantly smaller IdU/CldU ratio was found in ATZ-treated BRCA1mut/+ cells, indicating increased replication fork stalling. In comparison, a significantly larger IdU/CldU ratio was observed in ATZ + I3C treated BRCA1mut/+ cells compared to ATZ alone.

These findings highlight ATZ’s negative impact on BRCA1 cells and reveal I3C’s ability to counteract ATZ’s effect. This study may aid in the development of a potential preventative measure for BRCA1 mutation carriers at risk due to estrogen surges.

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Nataliya Pavlyk¹^,⁴, Paola Colón De León¹^,²^,³^,⁴, Maeva Coste⁴, Hamish Swanson⁴, Raymond Tu⁵, Rein Ulijn¹^,³^,⁴

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College of CUNY, New York, NY
²Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The City College of CUNY, New York, NY
³Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center CUNY, New York, NY
⁴Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC) at the Graduate Center, Nanoscience Initiative, CUNY, New York, NY
⁵Department of Chemical Engineering, The City College of New York, New York, NY

Hydrophobic vitamins such as Vitamin B₂, Vitamin A, and Vitamin D₃, exhibit instability and degradation, limiting their broader applications. This study examines whether the tripeptides WYK and WKY can enhance vitamin stability through interaction and encapsulation. We hypothesize that these peptides will reduce degradation over time, improving stability in solution and dry storage.

The stability of Vitamin B₂, Vitamin A, and Vitamin D₃ was evaluated over one week in solution and dry state. Each vitamin was tested alone and in combination with the tripeptides WYK and WKY to determine changes in stability. Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to monitor degradation by measuring changes in fluorescence intensity over time. LC-MS analysis was used to quantify the percentage of vitamin remaining over time and to evaluate degradation. Microscopy was utilized for visual observation of encapsulation.

Fluorescence spectroscopy showed that Vitamin B₂ degraded over time, but its fluorescence decreased more slowly in the presence of WYK and WKY. LC-MS analysis of Vitamin B₂ confirmed stability after drying and rehydrating across various peptide concentrations. Vitamin A and Vitamin D₃ fluorescence increased with peptides, suggesting a possible interaction. Microscopy suggested possible encapsulation, though image quality limited further structural analysis.

These findings suggest that WYK and WKY tripeptides contribute to the stability of Vitamin B₂ by slowing its degradation. The impact on Vitamin A and Vitamin D₃ remains unclear. Further analysis via CD and LC-MS will be conducted to assess their stability and interactions with peptides.

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Emilia Pelegano-Titmuss¹, Giselle de Araujo Lima e Souza¹, Muhammad Zulqarnain², Ramez Elgammal², Thomas Zawodzinski², Steven Greenbaum¹

¹Department of Physics and Astronomy, Hunter College
²Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee - Knoxville

Eutectic solvents (ES) have emerged as promising candidates to replace conventional organic solvents in various technological applications due to their distinctive physicochemical properties, such as lower vapor pressure, low flammability, and ease of preparation at low costs compared to ionic liquids. Type IV ESs, formed by a molecular component and a metal salt, have recently garnered attention as electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to their potential to enable efficient charge-discharge cycles in LIBs. We studied different eutectic mixtures formed by pyrazole (PYR) and lithium bis(trifluoromethane)sulfonimide (LiTFSI) at varying compositions, focusing on their transport properties.

Measurements were conducted at 283 K. Fast Field Cycling NMR Relaxometry was utilized to investigate the dynamics of the system as a function of the magnetic field, ranging from 30 kHz to 15-35 MHz in 1H Larmor frequency. Additionally, Pulsed Field Gradient (PFG) NMR was used to measure the self-diffusion coefficients. All measurements were carried out in the 1H, 19F, and 7Li domains.

Our investigation revealed an intricate interplay between the lithium salt and pyrazole at different concentrations. Notably, the 1:2 LiTFSI:Pyrazole mixture exhibited a unique trend compared to other samples, with all nuclei relaxing faster and displaying higher R1 values at lower frequency ranges. Additionally, PFG NMR results indicated that Li+ ions have two distinct diffusion coefficients, likely due to their different local environments.

The lithium transference numbers in our ESs range from 0.13 to 0.47, underscoring their potential application in LIBs.

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Zicong Peng¹, Arnold Ou², Justin Rendleman², Viviana Risca²

¹ Department of Chemistry, Hunter College
²Laboratory of Genome Architecture and Dynamics, The Rockefeller University

Oligo-PROTACs (proteolysis-targeting chimeras) have been shown to degrade transcription factors, often thought of as undruggable targets, making them a potential therapeutic. However, large scale production of synthetic functionalized oligos is challenging due to cost and requires access to specialized equipment, making it difficult to study oligo-PROTACs in lab. To overcome this problem, we propose a new method of using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with alkyne functionalized primers to amplify large quantities of functionalized oligos to be able to perform assays in lab.

For this method, we cloned a dual-BbsI-TelN cassette into a pUC19 vector to allow for customization of transcription factor or DNA binding motifs via golden gate cloning. The cassette is flanked by the forward and reverse M13 sites, which allow for PCR amplification using functionalized primers. After PCR and purification, the product can then be conjugated via Click chemistry to a fluorescent dye or an E3 ligase ligand such as pomalidomide or VH282. To validate if the oligo-PROTACs constructed with our method are viable, we will first perform a transfection titration using fluorescently labeled oligos using Lipofectamine or poly(ethyleneimine) to determine the optimal delivery conditions. Afterwards, we will then transfect the oligo-PROTACs into MCF7s (breast cancer cell line) and use Western blots to determine if our targets have been degraded and use RT-qPCR to determine if target genes are downregulated.

Plasmids containing the NF-kB and ERα consensus motifs were successfully cloned and verified by whole plasmid sequencing. We also demonstrated that we can PCR amplify the desired amplicon using our homemade polymerase (Pfu-Sso7d), even with functionalized primers, with high yield. Azido-PEG-E3 ligase ligands (Cereblon and von Hippel-Lindau) were also synthesized and fully characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (1H and 13C) and high-resolution mass spectrometry.

PCR amplification using functionalized oligos provides an affordable strategy for producing oligo-PROTACs in large quantities, especially with our dual-BbsI-TelN plasmid, which allows for easy customization with different DNA binding motifs.

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Sviatoslav Pisarev¹, Danila Shiryaev¹, Emil I. Jaffal¹^,², Anton O. Oliynyk¹^,²

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY
²Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY

Lanthanides and actinides are key components of spent nuclear fuel. The increased demand for these elements has reached the point where efficient separation and recycling methods are required. The previously reported LaTmIr2Ge4 intermetallic compound sparked interest in exploring the expansion of the RERE'Ir2Ge4 series (RE = rare-earth element) and investigating the properties and limitations of a unique structure type, in which two rare-earth metals occupy different crystallographic sites. Expanding the structural series and synthesizing more similar structures with selective atomic environments will help to explore the feasibility of the structure-based separations.

The LaTmIr2Ge4-type compounds were synthesized by pressing metal powders into pellets, followed by arc-melting and annealing. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns and scanning electron microscopy metallographic data were collected, and the XRD data were refined for a detailed crystal structure analysis. Density Functional Theory calculations were performed using VASP software.

The RERE'Ir2Ge4 series was successfully expanded with the synthesis of 43 novel phases with RE = Y, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Lu, and the associated impurities were identified. The band structure analysis suggests that the material may exhibit interesting electronic properties.

The unique nature of the RERE'Ir2Ge4 series enables the separation of the rare-earth metals at an atomic level. A better understanding of the LaTmIr2Ge4-type may provide insights into the separation of f-block elements, which is essential for managing nuclear waste.

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Alahendra Arachchige Sandali Perera¹^,², Min A Kang¹^,², Fizza Aijaz¹, Mar Poltronier³^,⁵, Hiroshi Matsui¹^,²^,⁴

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College
²Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, CUNY Graduate Center
³Department of Biology, Hunter College
⁴Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College
⁵New York Research and Mentoring for Post-baccalaureates at Hunter College

Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that exhibit a very unique function: communicating with distant cells in specific organs with genetic information, giving an extensive advantage to these EVs for many applications of disease diagnostics. While having already shown the potential to impact important practical applications, exosome production from parental cells is limited. We propose the stimulation of cells to mass-produce exosomes with intracellular triggered self-assembly of synthetic peptides.

Triggered self-assembly of peptide NapFFK(NBD)Yp in the cytoplasm, utilizing Shrimp ALP to facilitate dephosphorylation, mimics misfolded proteins to trigger Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) in the ER. This interaction leads to the activation of ER stress pathways that crosstalk with exosome biogenesis machinery, and direct parental cells toward more exosome production, measured by NTA and visualized by TEM.

The self-assembly of our model peptide exhibited generation of exosomes 7 times higher than in untreated cells, indicating that peptide self-assembly is a far more effective alternative to enhance exosome production, supporting our hypothesis that increased ER stress caused by larger peptide assemblies leads to an increase in exosome biogenesis.

Our outcomes suggest that size and structure of peptide assemblies are crucial for selecting a signaling pathway of ER stress, and amplified exosome generation from parental cells depends on that selectivity. Our next step is investigating if they specifically select and control the dominant signaling pathway, to rationally increase exosome generation without interfering with the protein packaging for better functionality of exosomes for future clinical translation.

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Anna Ponomarev¹^,², Emil I. Jaffal¹, Balaranjan Selvaratnam¹, Anton Oliynyk¹

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY
²Honors College, McNulty Scholars, McNair Scholars

Quaternary Rare Earth Metal Germanides are used as functional materials in domains that require complex electron transport properties. Novel structures are needed to improve the performance and establish the fundamental structure-property relationship.

We are investigating various compound of rare-earth metals in combination with transition metals, and p-block metalloids. The current focus is on the RE4MInGe4 (RE= rare-earth metal, M = transition metal) series, which form a complex non-RE metal anionic network. To understand this network and find the relationship of our structure to other structures we employ high-throughput database analysis with materials informatics and experimental solid-state chemistry work. Our goal is to identify new compounds, their properties, and confirm the structures, establishing the structure design principle. X-ray diffraction and Energy dispersive spectroscopy are utilized to identify compound phases and their structures.

The systematic exploratory search resulted in the 10 main phase (RE4MInGe4) formations out of 13 samples. Besides expanding the series, we systematize the crystal structure with materials informatics tools. We found how our structure relates to other binary and ternary RE phases, which allows us to formulate the design principle to target the desired phase.

Intermetallics is a broad solid state structure family class that possesses interesting electron transport properties, from semiconductors to superconductors. Understanding the complex quaternary structures is the first step in unlocking the crystal structure design principles to develop more phases with the desired properties.

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Gwendolyn Posner¹, Samantha N. Milano¹^,², Diana P Bratu¹^,²

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, CUNY
²The Graduate Center, CUNY

P-bodies (processing bodies) are membraneless organelles containing mRNAs and proteins. They contribute to post-transcriptional regulation within cells by storing mRNAs. Recently, it was found that P-body organization is influenced by contact with the ER. The ER facilitates the unfolded protein response (UPR), a biological response that corrects repeated protein misfolding. We found that ER stress resulted in an increase in P-body size, presenting a novel ER stress outcome. In this project, we will investigate the potential role of P-bodies in specific UPR pathways as well as the possible impact of ER stress on P-body structure. If P-body morphology is affected by knocking down a specific transcription factor via RNAi, it would suggest that the change in P-bodies is related to a specific UPR pathway.

ER stress results in the activation of three transcription factors: ATF4, ATF6, and XBP1. We will image via confocal microscopy the endogenously tagged transcription factors ATF4, ATF6, and XBP1 during ER stress in the presence and absence of a P-body protein using RNAi facilitated knockdowns.

We have so far, found that ER stress results in an increase in P-body size. If the localization of ATF4, ATF6, or XBP1 changes, it would suggest that P-bodies could be involved in facilitating the UPR.

ER stress has been implicated in several diseases including cancer and neurodegenerative diseases which have also been tied to misregulated P-bodies. Understanding the connection between these two organelles could provide novel insight into disease mechanisms.

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Natalia Pozdnyakova¹, Emil I. Jaffal¹^,², Danila Shiryaev¹, Brook Xhabrahimi¹, Balaranjan Selvaratnam¹, Anton O. Oliynyk¹,²

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY
²Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY

Understanding structure-property relationships in intermetallic superconductors is crucial for designing new materials with tailored superconducting properties because they have potential applications in advanced electronics, energy storage, and quantum computing. Our motivation to investigate this structure series comes from a previously reported type-II intermetallic superconductor, namely Y7Ru4InGe12. We decided to further explore this intermetallic system with other rare earth (RE) and transition metal (M) elements and find the limits of the formation of this structure type, as well as assessing their superconductivity through first-principles calculations.

In order to synthesize the intermetallic compounds, arc-melting and annealing techniques were used. Stoichiometric amounts of RE (rare-earth) and M (transition metal) elements were mixed, pressed into pellets, arc-melted, and subsequently annealed at 800 °C for 96 hours with rapid quenching. Phase purity and structural characterization were performed using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) with Rietveld refinement to fit the diffraction patterns. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) was employed for compositional analysis. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations, using the VASP package, were conducted to study electronic structures. We further explore the relationship of the Y7Ru4InGe12 structure type to other intermetallic structures through a high-throughput crystallographic database screening based on the tri-capped (with M, In, Ge) trigonal prism (RE6) geometry around Ge atoms.

We have expanded the intermetallic RE7M4InGe12 (RE = Y, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er; M = Rh, Os) structure series with 11 new compounds exhibiting superconducting properties by examining their electronic structure and bonding properties. Of interest specifically were Y7M4InGe12 by analyzing their respective band structures and density of states.

Our investigation successfully expanded the RE7M4InGe12 intermetallic series with new potentially superconducting compounds, confirming the stability of this structure type across multiple rare earth and transition metal combinations. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of structure-property relationships in intermetallic superconductors, potentially guiding the design of new materials with tailored superconducting properties.

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Nicole Press¹, Nikita Meghani¹^,², Jill Bargonetti¹^,²^,³

¹The Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, City University of New York
²Biology PhD Program, The Graduate Center of Biology, City University of New York
³Weill Cornell Medicine Department of Cell & Developmental Biology

The ubiquitin ligase Mouse Double Minute 2 (MDM2) is a negative regulator of p53, and an oncoprotein frequently upregulated in cancer cells. The protein Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerase 1 (PARP1) binds to single-stranded DNA breaks, where it creates chains of PAR to recruit repair proteins. MDM2 ubiquitinates PARP1 in cells with wild-type p53 (wtp53). To observe if this interaction persists in a mutant p53 (mtp53) context, we tested if increasing or decreasing MDM2 affects the abundance of PARP1 in MDA-MB-231 cells.

Plasmids expressing MDM2 were introduced into MDA-MB-231 cell derivatives that express MDM2 (mlp) or do not express MDM2 (shMDM2). Cells were also treated with PARP inhibitor Talazoparib to verify presence of active PARP. Whole cell lysates were probed for levels of MDM2/X and PARP/PARylation via western blot.

Talazoparib inhibited PARylation as expected, caused accumulation of reduced-size PARP, and decreased MDMX levels. In MDA-MB-231 cells the knockdown of MDM2, or transient increase of MDM2 by transfection, did not significantly affect the amount of PARP/PARylation.

In MDA-MB-231 cells, we could not replicate MDM2-dependent downregulation of PARP1. The transfection efficiency should be further optimized to maximize protein overexpression. MDM2 and PARP1 can be checked for reduced interaction by proximity ligation assay. We can examine impacts of PARP-trapping on downregulation by performing Talazoparib treatment in conjunction with MDM2 transfection. To study if MDM2 ubiquitination of PARP1 is reduced in mtp53 cancers, the experiment should be extended to additional cell lines. Studying regulation of PARP1 can improve treating mtp53 cancers with PARP inhibitors.

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Djeneba Diop,¹ Anna Pun,² tahda queer³

¹Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Hobart and William Smith Colleges ²Department of Mathematics, Baruch College and Graduate Center, City University of New York ³Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Hunter College, City University of New York

The Tamari poset, introduced by Dov Tamari in the 1960s, is a fundamental structure in combinatorics, particularly known for its connection to binary trees, Catalan numbers, and associative operations. This poset not only serves as a combinatorial model for various algebraic and geometric structures but also plays a significant role in the study of lattice theory and planar triangulations. Building on this classical framework, we expand the poset to all non-negative integer sequences of the same length and explore further properties and structures. In this poster, we focus on the lower order ideal of sequences of the form (a, b, a) where a < b.

We used the open-source software SageMath to formulate and test conjectures. This approach enabled us to identify patterns and verify theoretical properties efficiently.

We found surprising connections between the number intervals of these lower order ideals and some known entries in the Online Encyclopedia of Integer Sequences (OEIS).

Our findings suggest unexplored relationships between these posets and other combinatorial objects. We also discuss open problems and potential directions for further research.

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Alimatu Radan Kay¹, Rukmini Mhaske², Wamiah Chowdury³, Elizabeth Campbell⁴

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College
²Campbell Laboratory of Molecular Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University
³Ph.D, Campbell Laboratory of Molecular Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University
⁴Principal Investigator, Ph.D in Campbell Lab

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2), the recent cause of a worldwide pandemic is a virus known for its ability to evade antiviral drugs due to the presence of an RNA exonuclease, which removes misincorporated events such as base mismatches or nucleoside analogs. It is postulated that the exonuclease requires the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) to back track so the exonuclease can access the misincorporation. This process makes drugs designed to inhibit transcription of the viral genome typically unsuccessful. Backtracking is a reversible mechanism in which RdRp temporarily moves backward along the replicating RNA strand, pausing transcription, and extruding the 3' end of the RNA out of a small channel. Backtracking is facilitated by a third protein, a helicase. RdRp is a proven target for a class of antiviral therapeutics known as nucleoside analogs which mimics the enzyme's natural substrates, NTPs. Nucleoside analogs are removed from the replicating RNA strand through an exonuclease hence preventing them from being incorporated into the genome. In order for the exonuclease to access these nucleoside analogs, a backtracking mechanism has to occur. The hypothesis is that misincorporation in the nascent RNA triggers backtracking and the helicase, nsp13 is required to push the RdRp back for backtracking to occur.

1. Competent BL21(DE3) cells were cultured and transformed: Further induction with IPTG for the expression of our protein of interest, the holo-RdRp enzyme nsp12-7-82. 2. Purification of nsp 12-7-82: Chromatographic purification including an Ion Exchange Q Column chromatography, Size Exclusion chromatography. 3. Labeling protein 12-7-82 with Cy5 fluorophore: RdRp, tagged with an S6 sequence (12 amino acids long) and fluorescently labeled. The S6 tag allows for the site-specific labeling of the RdRp with Cy5 fluorophore. 4. Labeled primer RNA(pRNA) is bought: To be used as the primer for transcription of the RNA in the experimental set-up. 5. Single molecule studies: Further experimental procedures such as the single molecule Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) Assay will be used for detection of the backtracking motion.

Goal: The experiment focuses on testing whether nucleoside analogs initiate a backtracking mechanism and more specifically if backtracking is facilitated by the nsp13 helicase protein. *The experiment is still currently ongoing and outcomes cannot be predicted as of yet*

Ongoing purification and labeling of the nsp 12-7-82 protein complex for single molecule assays. By far, challenges encountered were due to the inherent difficulty of purifying the protein and the hydrophobic nature of the S6 tag, which further complicated the process. Future directions include quantifying the extent of protein labeling and conducting a single-molecule FRET assay.

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Nora Rahimian¹, Andrew Wenger¹, Mayar Abdelalim¹, Whitney Sisso², Maria Paz Zafra³ , Lukas Dow², Despina Siolas²

¹ Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, USA; ² Department of Medicine, Weil Cornell Medicine, New York, USA
³Universidad Grenada, Grenada, Spain

Pancreatic cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death with a five-year survival rate of only 12.8%. One of the most common mutations in pancreatic cancer is the KRAS oncogene which is involved in approximately 90% of cases. Mutations in KRAS have been observed to drive abnormal activation of various signaling pathways and create an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. We hypothesize that KRAS-mutated pancreas tumors may be suppressing dendritic cells, which are key antigen-presenting cells that initiate immune response.

KrasG12R and KrasG12D mutant pancreatic organoids were cultured in-vitro and then orthotopically implanted into both wild-type mice and Batf3 -/- mice which lack a key transcription factor for developing conventional dendritic cells. After 4 weeks, tumors were dissected, weighed, and analyzed using flow cytometry to assess dendritic cell activation markers and immune infiltration.

Kras organoids were successfully cultured and implanted orthotopically for each genotype into 10 wild-type and 10 dendritic cell deficient mice. For both mutations of Kras, tumors were significantly larger in dendritic cell deficient mice than in wild type controls. Ongoing analysis via flow cytometry will aim to further characterize any differences in immune response. Immunofluorescence imaging will be performed to observe immune infiltration.

These findings indicate that dendritic cells play a crucial role in limiting tumor growth, but it is not clear whether Kras-mutated tumors suppress dendritic cells directly. Dendritic cell involvement could inform immunotherapeutic strategies targeting pancreatic cancer. Further analysis will explore immune cell populations within tumors to determine how dendritic cell absence affects immune surveillance and tumor progression.

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Abdulraouf Abdulraouf¹^,², Weirong Jiang¹, Zihan Xu¹, Zehao Zhang¹, Tanvir Raihan¹, Wei Zhou¹ Junyue Cao¹

¹The Rockefeller University
²Weill Cornell Medicine-Rockefeller-Sloan Kettering Tri-Institutional MD-PhD Program

Spatial transcriptomics has drastically transformed our understanding of cellular dynamics in aging and disease by allowing for detailed mapping of molecular and cellular organization across anatomical regions. However, despite these advances, current spatial transcriptomics technologies have limitations in throughput and cost that hinder their application in comprehensive studies.

To overcome these limitations, we present IRISeq (Imaging Reconstruction using Indexed Sequencing), a novel and optics-free spatial transcriptomics that removes the requirement of predefined capture arrays or extensive imaging, allowing for rapid and cost-effective processing of several tissue sections simultaneously. IRISeq reconstructs spatial images through the sequencing of local DNA interactions, enabling tissue profiling without constraints on size and at varying resolutions. These local DNA interactions are captured through barcoded receiver beads that capture cellular mRNA and barcoded sender beads with photocleavable linkers.

IRISeq was utilized to investigate gene expression and cellular dynamics across thirty brain regions of adult and aged mice in order to elucidate region-specific changes in gene expression associated with aging. Additionally, cell type-focused analysis was conducted to identify age-related cell subtypes and complex changes in cell interactions that are specific to spatial niches in order to elucidate unique region-specific aging processes. These investigations highlight the varied and diverse effects of aging across the brain spatially.

The cost-effectiveness, scalability, and simplicity of IRISeq give it the potential to be a versatile tool in mapping region-specific gene expression and cellular interactions across biological systems.

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Nishat Raihana¹^,²^,³^,⁴, Grace Terry²^,³^,⁴^,⁵

¹John P. McNulty Scholar
²Figueiredo-Pereira laboratory
³Department of Biological Sciences
⁴Hunter College of the City University of New York
⁵Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center, City University of New York

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disease characterized by memory deficits, Aβ plaques, and neurofibrillary tangles. It remains challenging to treat due to the complexity of its pathology. Agomelatine (AGO) is an antidepressant that was selected through a high-throughput drug repurposing algorithm as having potential for treating AD. AGO acts as an MT1/MT2 melatonin receptor agonist and a 5HT2C serotonin receptor antagonist. I hypothesize that AGO will mitigate AD pathology based on its synergistic mechanisms of action.

To investigate the impact of AGO on AD-pathology we used the TgF344-AD rat model, which expresses mutant APP (APPsw) and presenilin-1 (PS1ΔE9). Male and female transgenic and wild-type rats were treated orally with AGO (~10 mg/kg/day) from 5 to 11 months of age and compared to non-treated controls. To investigate AGO’s effect on amyloid processing, we probed for key proteins such as ADAM10, APP, BACE1, and Aβ using western blot analysis.

Previous studies found that AGO decreased Aβ plaque burden in the hippocampus of transgenic treated male rats but not female rats. In this study we expect to find upregulation of ADAM10 and reduced levels of BACE1 in AGO treated rats, leading to non-amyloidogenic processing of APP.

AGO’s ability to decrease amyloid beta burden in the hippocampus of male rats suggests potential sex differences in AGO’s mechanism of action. Further investigation of key proteins involved in amyloid processing will provide more information on AGO’s effect on amyloid processing in AD. This underscores its potential as a promising therapeutic agent for AD.

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Salma Ramirez¹, Melina I. Giakoumis²

¹Department of Biology, Hunter College
²Institute for Comparative Genomics at the American Museum of Natural History

Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding enhances biodiversity assessment by improving species detection and monitoring. In rapidly changing rocky intertidal zones, eDNA metabarcoding can provide valuable insights into temporal and spatial variability for early detection and mitigation of environmental threats. However, challenges in sampling and interpreting eDNA data remain significant obstacles.

The literature review conducted, assessed current uses of eDNA in coastal ecosystems, identified knowledge and methodology gaps. The goals were to (1) synthesize current knowledge and (2) guide future research in the field. Comparisons were made between studies that utilized metabarcoding assessments and traditional biodiversity surveys. Effectiveness of eDNA methodologies were also compared across studies.

Ongoing research indicates that metabarcoding improves species detection and provides estimates consistent, and in some cases more extensive, than traditional monitoring. When integrated with traditional monitoring for verification, this new method can enhance long-term monitoring efforts. However, challenges such as sampling difficulty, eDNA sequence quality, and a lack of standardized methodologies persist as significant barriers.

Metabarcoding holds great potential for long term marine biodiversity monitoring in rocky intertidal ecosystems. By improving protocols that address environmental and methodological challenges, its effectiveness can contribute to better conservation efforts.

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Erika Relyea¹, Lynn C. Francesconi¹^,², Donna McGregor²^,³, Benjamin P. Burton-Pye²^,³

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College
²Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center, City University of New York
³Department of Chemistry, Lehman College

Molten salt reactors (MSRs) present an alternative reactor design for nuclear energy production and waste processing that has garnered recent development interest. With nuclear fission occurring within the molten salt matrix, it is pertinent to assess the potential for the recovery of both fissile material and radiotoxic waste. Technetium-99 is a long-lived fission product of uranium-235 which currently poses complications for the processing of spent nuclear fuel. This project is based on the fundamental chemistry of rhenium as a congener of technetium-99. Studies in low-melting salts (ionic liquids, or ILs) can guide those of high-temperature melts required in MSRs. The behavior of rhenium as a proxy for technetium-99 can inform experiments aimed at extracting Tc-99 from molten salt matrices.

Chloride containing complexes of rhenium in oxidation states III-VI are first synthesized and characterized. The synthesis of a quadruple bonded rhenium dimer (Re2Cl82-) is explored using 1D and diffusion NMR spectroscopy. The oxidation state and structure of these complexes are then investigated as a result of solvation in ionic liquid [emim][NTf2] using a combination of techniques including X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS), cyclic voltammetry, and electronic absorption spectroscopy.

The characteristic electronic absorption profiles, XAS spectra, and redox behavior of these complexes, some previously unreported, have been established. Investigation into the synthesis of octochlorodirhenate(III) is ongoing, as well as XAS analyses.

These investigations can elucidate the speciation, local structure, and electron transfer properties of the rhenium complexes in the ionic liquid. Current results suggest a change in reduction behavior in the IL matrix. Further analyses in XAFS could determine the ratio of mixed species solutions and local structure. The speciation of rhenium in this novel solution are absent of the effects of ionizing radiation will contribute to technetium-99 studies about molten salts.

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Renee Ricevuto¹

¹Mellon Public Humanities Program and Music Department, Hunter College

The “prima donna” or “diva” is a controversial figure in popular culture. Hailing originally from opera, the term is now applied to anybody (usually a woman) who exhibits traits of selfishness, egotism, and domination. Scholars of “diva studies” have examined famous women operatic alongside pop singers, pointing to how both subvert traditional femininity through their performance of music and gender.

My project explores violent representations of femininity in both operatic and popular music. I focus on the coloratura soprano during the eighteenth century and Romantic era, highlighting figures like the Queen of the Night and Lucia di Lammermoor, then examine them alongside modern singers such as Sabrina Carpenter. I explore how the ironic gender performance Carpenter embodies in her music can be used to reinterpret these operatic heroines.

Irony enables the prima donna to dismantle gender roles while performing opera. A character like Lucia di Lammermoor, for instance, is traditionally interpreted as a “hysterical” woman who kills her husband due to insanity. Through ironic performance, however, she becomes a knowing agent in murder, feigning madness to avoid responsibility for her crime. This implicitly subverts the assumption that women cannot show agency concerning their fate.

Though opera (and much of popular music) is often written and produced by men, the prima donna’s interpretation offers a space for a female creative voice within a male work. Irony is a tool in the diva’s arsenal that enables her to critique patriarchal compositions through performance.

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Ariana Alma Rivera¹

¹Department of Classical & Oriental Studies, Hunter College

Despite the Persians’ superior military, Greece was victorious during the Persian Wars (492 – 449 BCE). Consequently, a pervasive confidence and introspection spread among its citizens. The Dying Warrior Pediments (c. 480 – c. 470 BCE) from the temple of the goddess Aphaia memorializes one of these battles. This conference paper examines the historical and cultural events that shaped how self-representation evolved in the narrative and physicality of these pediments.

Using the emergence of the origins of democracy and panhellenism as an analytical framework, I aim to demonstrate that a shift occurred in statuary technique which prefers narrative over symbolic, idealistic beauty to emphasize the pathos and ethos of a subject.

The east and west pediments represent the final moments of the dying soldier differently. This is due to the Aeginetans’ changing perspectives surrounding an individual’s role in the polis and their Greek identity. Following debates over what type of government would rule best, many Greeks began to accept the idea of supporting the polis rather than themselves. The glory one attains from defending their polis is captured in the west pediment with its archaic focus on idealism. Conversely, there is a sense of introspection for this sacrifice in the east pediment’s depiction of the dying soldier embodying the virtue of sophrosyne.

Understanding the narratives of these pediments provides us with a nuanced look at how the mass destruction and eventual victory of the Greeks heavily influenced the naturalism and emotionality of early classical period (480 – 450 BCE) statuary.

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Sofia Rodriguez¹, Jennifer Wang², Kayla Huang³, Kaitlyn Cui⁴, Christopher Asma⁵

¹ Paragon Policy Fellowship, Executive Director
²Brown University, Department of Computer Science
³Harvard University, Department of Government
⁴Paragon Policy Fellowship, Executive Director
⁵Paragon Policy Fellowship, Executive Director

As AI and emerging technologies become increasingly integrated into civic institutions, governments face mounting challenges in developing robust governance frameworks while lacking sufficient technical expertise and resources. With the growing belief of the social responsibility of institutions, many students have developed an increased awareness of the societal implications of public-interest technology. The Paragon Model seeks to develop a ground-up approach to technology governance in order to engage constituents in the policy making process to develop national standards in the long-term.

The Paragon Model operates on three pillars to support successful collaboration between governments and youth constituencies: empowering local government through a community-driven approach, increasing and maintaining diversity within the AI governance space, and building a grassroots-first network for digital cooperation, literacy, and advancement with potential for global scalability.

By operating simultaneously across diverse jurisdictions, the framework generates rich empirical data about how different communities experience and respond to emerging technologies. Our structure provides under-resourced local governments with key resources to more efficiently address emerging issues. With a 67% rate of integration of past projects into legislation or internal training tools, and a 35% increase in outreach to CBOs post-integration, these methods have proved effective in producing holistic community-driven policy.

The success of this initiative underscores a crucial insight: effective technology governance requires not just technical expertise, but also diverse perspectives and deep community engagement. And, as more communities address these problems locally, the better aligned national standards are with addressing the needs of constituents.

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Nathalia Rodríguez Puntiel¹

¹Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, Hunter College

Forest fragmentation is a ubiquitoius phenomenon that impact carbon cycling. Abiotic changes, such as increased temperature and decreased moisture, create edge environments likely to affect soil carbon cycling. While considerable evidence shows that edge effects in temperature ecosystem alter soil respiration, few have explored this response at recently created edges. This study aimed to examine soil characteristics at a recently disturbed forest edge.

Data for this study was acquired from the ongoing Climate Interaction with Forest Fragmentation (CLIFF) experiment at Harvard Forest, Massachussetts, where a forest edge was established ~2 years ago. Soil temperature, respiration, and moisture were measured at varying distances from the edge to the interior, with models assessing soil respiration's response to temperature and calculating Q10 and mean values for the growing season.

Results showed that soil respiration was suppressed at the forest edge, where soils were warmer and drier, contracting patterns observed in other studies. Soil temperature sensitivity increased exponentially with distance from the edge, although Q10 did not show significant variation. These edge effects appear to suppress soil respiration and reduce soil temperate responsiveness from the edge to the interior. Changes in soil respiration rates may be linked to aboveground biomass alterations and shifts in microbial community composition.

These findings contribute to the growing body of research documenting the impact of edge effects on soil respiration. They highlight the need to explore further how forest fragmentation influences carbon dynamics and land-atmosphere CO² changes.

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Lilly Rogovoy¹

¹Anthropology Department, Hunter College

New York City’s first municipal almshouse was constructed in 1735 as part of a shift from providing aid to the impoverished in their communities to consolidating them under one roof, ostensibly to reduce spending on poor relief. Residents were subject to strict regulations and mandatory labor, such as the manufacture of bone buttons. This paper explores the gendered labor performed by residents and how they reacted to the conditions imposed upon them. The restrictive rules, mandatory labor, and social isolation of the almhouse aimed to condition residents into ideal, productive citizens while simultaneously alienating them and creating hostility toward the poor.

I examine historic records and review scholarly material relating to the almshouse through a feminist lens, supported by a material analysis of button material, size, and potential use at the site. Additionally, I recreate these buttons to gain a fuller understanding of the skills and bodily experiences of almshouse residents.

The textile labor performed by the predominantly female residents of the almshouse reflects the city’s mission to inculcate traditional gender norms, enforce economic productivity, and deter people from seeking aid. There is evidence of residents’s resistance to the disciplinary efforts of the almshouse, such as leaving the building without permission.

The 1735 almshouse contributed to the construction of the poor as an immoral, feminized “other” that officials aimed to correct through labor and discipline as a response to the rapidly changing social and economic reality of the city.

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Alexandria Rohn¹^,²

¹ Women and Gender Studies, Hunter College, City University of New York
²CUNY Baccalaureate for Unique and Interdisciplinary Studies, CUNY Graduate Center

If gender, as Judith Butler posits, is a performative construct—a repetition of socially legible, stylized acts—then what does the existence of gendered artificial intelligence (AI), such as Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Alexa, reveal about the nature of gender itself? Butler’s earlier work conceptualized gender as primarily discursive and social performance. In response to criticism, their later refinements incorporated theories of materialization, embodiment, and psychoanalysis. However, their account still underemphasized embodiment and phenomenological experience. This is illustrated in cases of gender dysphoria and transition, where transgender individuals persist in their gender identity despite heavy social conditioning, suggesting that gender is an intrinsic, embodied phenomenon.

This study employs a theoretical analysis, synthesizing insights from gender theory, cognitive science, and AI ethics. By critically applying enactivist cognitive science to Butler's theory of gender performativity, and using current and future AI as test cases, this paper interrogates the limits of performativity.

Human-like gender requires an integrated cognitive-affective embodiment and social cognition. This challenges Butler’s performativity model, suggesting that gender is not primarily a socially enacted performance but also a cognitive and embodied process. Current gendered AI agents, lacking these requirements, engage in mere mimicry and thereby reinforce traditional gender norms.

This study highlights the limitations of Butler’s performativity theory, demonstrating the need for a more comprehensive account of gender. These findings contribute to discussions in philosophy of mind, cognitive science, and gender theory, raising critical questions about the ethics of gendered AI design and the foundations of gender identity.

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Julia Russ¹

¹Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, Hunter College

Big Oil has a long history of intentionally obstructing legislation in order to extend the lifeline of fossil fuels -- the leading contributor to global climate change. Conference of the Parties (COP) is a United Nations (UN) annual summit where countries from all over the world meet to negotiate climate change agreements. In 2023 at COP28, a record number of fossil fuel lobbyists attended the summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Big Oil has infiltrated the world's leading climate summit whose mandate is to address and diminish the use of the product that they pump out of the ground. This begs the question: How has fossil fuel lobbyist attendance increased at COP summits over the years, and how does that correspond to the climate goals of the Paris Accords being (or not being) achieved?

UN records of all attendees at every COP summit will be analyzed to determine changes in participation. The evolution of the summit goals and achievements will be tracked and synthesized with climate and climate projection data from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

Attendance data will be pulled directly from the UN and climate trend data will be pulled from the IPCC.

This research will document how participation by fossil fuel interests has evolved and influenced COP climate goals 10 years after the Paris Agreement. The analysis will be presented in the context of the most recent atmospheric CO² and climate trends.

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Bahar Sakar¹, Dana Kanso², Khilola Khusanova²

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College of CUNY
²Chemistry & Biochemistry Ph.D. Programs, The CUNY Graduate Center

Bacterial species use signaling molecules to communicate, but the mechanisms underlying communication in mixed-species environments are not well understood. Our study identifies signaling molecules produced by Wheatgrass mixed microbial culture (MMC), predominantly the (R)-isomer of 12-hydroxystearic acid (HSA) and a smaller quantity of the (S)-isomer. While the individual effects of each isomer on biofilm formation are explored, we also examine their combined effects, as interspecies communication appears to involve both enantiomers.

Using the Mitsunobu reaction, which can be used to invert the stereochemistry of secondary alcohols, we synthetically produce the (S)-isomer for further investigation of its role in biofilm formation. Individual (R) and (S)-isomers and both isomers in various proportions were subjected to E. coli growth and biofilm assays. The assays were performed at a concentration of 60 uM. E. coli biofilm growth was estimated by OD562 and quantified using the crystal violet assay.

Microbes may utilize stereochemistry to deliver specific messages, sometimes different messages when in varying concentrations. The commercially unavailable (S)-isomer of 12-HSA inhibits biofilm formation, even in minute quantities. A low concentration of 12-HSA does not show significant effects, but a higher concentration does, especially when (S)-isomer is predominating the ratio.

Understanding these mechanisms of bacterial signaling is critical, as biofilms pose challenges in healthcare and industry. By understanding how bacteria "talk" using (R) and (S)-12-HSA isomers, we may develop strategies to disrupt harmful biofilms and control bacterial behavior in complex ecosystems.

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Laila Salem¹

¹Silberman School of Social Work, Hunter College

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a global issue with culturally nuanced roots, particularly within the Muslim community where sexual education is often stigmatized. This research investigates how the lack of sexual education contributes to IPV among Muslim youth aged 14 to 25 involved in the MAS Youth Center. The hypothesis poses that insufficient sexual education correlates with higher IPV rates and limited awareness of healthy relationships. Addressing these gaps through culturally sensitive comprehensive sexual education may reduce IPV prevalence.

This study employs qualitative methods, including interviews with Muslim sex therapists, sexologists, and couples therapists, along with focus groups of MAS Youth Center members. Quantitative methods through data collection from surveys will explore participants’ educational experiences, attitudes toward sexual education, and perceived gaps. Thematic analysis will be used to identify systemic barriers and the correlation between sexual education and IPV.

Expected findings include a strong correlation between inadequate sexual education and IPV, highlighting gaps in knowledge about consent, boundaries, and relationship dynamics. Insights from therapists and youth are anticipated to reveal cultural stigmas surrounding sexual education and their impact on IPV rates.

This research underscores the need for culturally sensitive sexual education within the Muslim community. The findings aim to inform social work practices and policy advocacy, promoting comprehensive sexual education to prevent IPV and foster healthier relationships among Muslim youth in and out of academic settings.

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Cedrica Samuels¹, Giselle de Araujo Lima e Souza¹, Steven Greenbaum¹

¹Department of Physics and Astronomy, Hunter College, CUNY, New York, NY

This study focused on non-ionic eutectogels using type V deep eutectic solvents, specifically Thymol and Camphor in a 1:1 molar ratio. The gelator, 1,3:2,4-dibenzylidene-D-sorbitol (DBS), was chosen for its universality and cost-effectiveness, enhancing sustainability. Previous research suggests DBS selectively influences the molecular mobility of these solvents, potentially accelerating their actions. Eutectogels based on the thymol:camphor mixture were selected due to the convenient synthesis and low ecological footprint of the DES, as they can be easily prepared with 100% atom economy from readily available, low-cost, and predominantly non-toxic, biodegradable terpene precursors. This makes eutectogels an economically and environmentally sustainable choice for various technological applications requiring the immobilization of a solvent in a solid-like scaffold while maintaining its liquid-phase properties.

To investigate further, fast field cycling nuclear magnetic resonance (FFC NMR) was employed to analyze solvent dynamics at the gel-solvent interface across 5 DBS concentrations (1%, 2%, 5%, 8% and 10% wt.) by measuring the longitudinal relaxation rates (R1).

From the relaxation profile, the effect of the gelator on the molecular dynamics could be evidenced experimentally. (tentative results)

This research underscores DBS's role in influencing molecular dynamics within eutectogels, offering insights into their potential as sustainable materials.

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Leuna Sarah¹, Yu-Ren Chen², Manali Nikte², Soha Patil², Naresh Patel², Matt Zimmer², Michael Ferretti², Tasnim Sumaita², Dr. Josephine Wesely²

¹City University of New York, Hunter College
²The New York Stem Cell Foundation Research Institute.

Endogenous tagging in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is a powerful technique for visualizing cell compartments and modeling neurodegenerative. Double tagging two genes in the same cell line enhances these applications but remains time-consuming and labor-intensive. This study evaluates CRISPR/Cas9-mediated double tagging strategies to improve feasibility and efficiency.

Traditional double tagging involves sequential gene tagging, FACS sorting, clonal selection, and quality control, making the process lengthy. We tested three alternative strategies tagging LMNB1 (nuclear membrane) with RFP and LAMP1 (lysosomal membrane) with GFP to streamline this workflow. Strategy 1 tagged both genes simultaneously, followed by sorting and quality control. Strategy 2 tagged the first gene, sorted and enriched the pool, then tagged the second gene before a final sorting step. Strategy 3 tagged the first gene without sorting, followed by tagging the second gene and a final sorting step before quality control.

Strategy 2 achieved the highest success rate (8.33%), requiring two weeks and only 20 clones to obtain 12 monoallelic double-tagged lines. Strategy 3 had a slightly higher error rate (0.5%) but was faster, requiring just over a week and 300 clones. Strategy 1, while the fastest, had the lowest success rate (0.11%).

Our findings suggest Strategy 2 as the most effective method, though all three strategies remain applicable depending on research priorities. Future directions include optimizing monoclonalization techniques to further enhance efficiency and reproducibility for disease modeling applications.

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Meghan Scott¹^,², Edmondo Campisi³, Vincent A Fischetti³, Chad W. Euler ¹^,²^,³

¹NY-RaMP Program, Belfer Research Building, Hunter College, CUNY, New York, NY
²Medical Laboratory Sciences Department, Hunter College, CUNY, New York, NY
³Laboratory of Bacterial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY

Ocular infections, such as conjunctivitis and keratitis, can be caused by gram-negative bacteria. If not treated properly, these infections pose a risk of vision loss. Gramnegative bacteria are often associated with significant antibiotic resistance and diminished responsiveness to bacteriolytic agents. There is an urgent need for alternative treatment strategies to enhance health outcomes for ocular infections caused by these bacteria. Bacteriophage lysins present a promising new approach to tackle this challenge.

We utilized the bioinformatics program LyAR to search the genomes of gramnegative bacterial pathogens and the phages that infect them for bacteriophage lysin-encoding genes. E. coli transformation enabled recombinant protein production. Lysin expression was induced, and the activity of the purified protein was tested, measured, and optimized against S. marcescens, M. catarrhalis and N. gonorrhoeae. Kill assays were conducted to determine lysin specificity and quantify the minimum inhibitory concentration for treatment.

Gram-negative bacteriophage lysins were identified and successfully produced on a large scale with >90% purity. Lysin activity and effectiveness were confirmed by observing a 2-3 log reduction in bacterial CFU after applying lysin at 50 µg/mL for one hour at 37°C. We assessed its specificity through similar killing assay conditions that tested LysGN1 against other gram-negative bacteria associated with common ocular infections.

Bacteriophage lysins are a promising alternative to antibiotics, but further research is needed to assess their effectiveness against gram-negative bacterial eye infections. Future studies will include biofilm assays and animal models to demonstrate in vivo efficacy.

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Jason Sethiadi¹^,², Jason Sethiadi¹^,², Duc-Huy Nguyen², Sergey Tsoy², Robert E. Schwartz²

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College
²Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College

Organoids and three-dimensional spheroids are multicellular aggregates that can model tissue architecture and organ physiology in vitro. They have become a standard in tissue engineering, serving as extremely applicable tools in bioengineering, drug development, and investigating the effects of disease on cellular phenotypes and function

Specifically, we developed organoids that co-aggregate different hepatic cells to model liver function. To diminish the heterogeneity during organoid and spheroid formation, we used photolithography to build a polydimethylsiloxane-based (PDMS) multi-well system that accommodates the organoids. However, one substantial challenge in organoid biology is ensuring the spheroids’ survival over extended periods. Facilitating a conducive environment is crucial since organoids are prone to detaching from their wells or losing their spherical shape. This poses a problem for studies requiring the organoid to function for multiple weeks or months. Using stereolithography, we gained greater control over the design and specifications of each well and developed a more suitable environment for generating spheroid aggregates.

Optimizing the dimensions and geometry of the multi-well system for hepatocyte-fibroblast spheroids created a more stable environment for the organoids. Compared to previous multi-well systems, the optimized platform increased the spheroid’s lifespan. Furthermore, we observed that the organoids grown in the optimized system had significantly higher albumin secretion levels than current spheroids.

This demonstrates the versatility of stereolithography as a technique in engineering three-dimensional culture systems and presents an opportunity to modify and optimize these microwell patterns for culturing different types of organoids.

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Sarah Shafique¹, Rechuma Hafter¹, Jen Bohn, Ph.D.³

¹RockEDU Science Outreach, Rockefeller University

The innate immune system is the body’s first line of defense against potential pathogens. Macrophages are one immune cell that aid in detection of environmental bacteria in tissue, whose mechanisms were studied to better understand specific responses.

THP-1 dual cells were exposed to bacteria from snow/soil and stall lockers; activation of NFk-B and IRF-3 pathways was measured through dual reporter gene assays. After differentiation of THP-1 dual monocytes into macrophages and identification of bacteria, an immunofluorescence assay was used to measure bacterial uptake and macrophage behavior in response to a stressor, with nuclei, cytoskeleton, and LPS and flagella of bacteria fluorescently labeled. Western blotting was conducted to determine presence/absence of proinflammatory transcription factor NF-kB, in its phosphorylated and unphosphorylated form.

Bacteria were found to elicit the NF-kB pathway and no significant IRF-3 activation in macrophages, the former of which indicates activation of the inflammatory response in response to a foreign stressor. Fluorescently labelled bacteria with LPS and/or flagellin were uptaken by macrophages, showing how phagocytosis is a mechanism used by innate cells to fight infection. Immunofluorescence also showed secretion of macrophage extracellular traps (METs) by macrophages in response to a stressor.

The innate immune system responded to environment stressors like bacteria found in snow and soil through activation of proinflammatory transcription factors such as NF-kB, but no significant activation of IRF-3. Secretion of extracellular traps (METs) and phagocytosis were tools employed by macrophages to respond to bacteria in the innate immune response.

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David Shamalov¹, Jingli Cao²

¹Undergraduate Student, Hunter College
²Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI)- Weill Cornell Medicine

The pericardium is a membranous sac that encloses the heart, providing mechanical protection and structural support. While extensively studied in mammals, its potential role in cardiac regeneration remains largely unexplored. Given its proximity to the epicardium and shared embryonic origins, the pericardium may serve as a reservoir of progenitor cells or signaling factors that influence heart repair. One way to investigate the pericardium’s regenerative potential is through epicardial cell markers, such as transcription factor 21 (TCF21). TCF21+ epicardial cells play essential roles in fibroblast differentiation and cardiac remodeling following heart injury in mammals. In zebrafish, tcf21+ epicardial cells and their progenies are essential for successful heart regeneration. If tcf21+ cells are also present within the zebrafish pericardium, they could reveal a previously unrecognized pericardial-epicardial connection in cardiac repair. This study aims to characterize the potential role of zebrafish pericardium in heart regeneration by investigating tcf21 expression within the tissue. Specifically, it will determine whether tcf21+ cells reside in the pericardium and evaluate their response to cardiac injury.

Adult zebrafish carrying tcf21: EGFP reporter will be subjected to ventricular amputation injury using standard protocol. Fish will be fixed for cryosectioning, immunostaining (Tnnt and Tcf21 antibodies and DAPI dye), and confocal imaging. We will assess the tcf21 expression level and location within the pericardium during the heart regeneration process, compared to the uninjured control.

Tissue samples of the pericardium have been collected for immunostaining and confocal imaging.

The goal of this project was to determine if the epicardial cell marker, tcf21 is expressed in the pericardium and if so, whether it contributes to heart regeneration. With this, we could further investigate the roles of the pericardium in heart regeneration and explore more of the regenerative capacity of the pericardium through tcf21 expression.

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Raheem Sheikh¹^,⁴, Cheryl Zhang¹, Xiang Chen¹, Dunrui Wang², Alexander Starr³, Hunter Fraser³, Yi-Chieh Nancy Du¹

¹Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY ²Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
³Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
⁴Macaulay Honors College at Hunter College, New York, NY

Infertility affects one in six individuals worldwide, highlighting the need for accessible and effective treatments. With male factors contributing to 50% of cases, understanding the developmental mechanisms of gonadal tissue and cells is crucial. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a versatile macromolecule essential to both male and female reproductive systems. Disruptions in HA have been linked to atypical follicular maturation, while its modification enhances sperm binding and motility. The receptor for hyaluronan-mediated motility (RHAMM; gene name HMMR) is an HA-binding protein widely expressed during embryonic development but primarily restricted to reproductive tissues and high-grade cancer cells in adults. Human RHAMM undergoes alternative splicing, producing multiple isoforms, including RHAMMB, a human-specific isoform lacking exon 4. RHAMMB has been shown to promote cancer cell migration and metastasis, but its role in fertility remains unknown. We hypothesize that RHAMMB influences reproductive capacity and that its expression may affect fertility outcomes.

To investigate the role of RHAMMB in fertility, we analyzed HMMR RNA expression and identified RHAMMB as the predominant isoform in the testis and in cancer. Using CRISPR/Cas9, we partially humanized the mouse Hmmr gene by removing exon 4. We are monitoring litter sizes before and after male mice reach six months of age and evaluating whether the sex of the RHAMMB-carrying parent influences fecundity.

Preliminary findings suggest that RHAMMB-expressing male and female mice produce larger litters compared to wild-type controls at older ages. Notably, RHAMMB-expressing male mice exhibit significantly increased testicular width relative to wild-type counterparts.

Our findings suggest a potential link between RHAMMB expression and enhanced reproductive capacity in mice. Further research is necessary to determine whether individuals carrying this isoform experience altered fertility outcomes.

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Danila Shiryaev¹, Brian Hoang¹, Emil I. Jaffal¹, Anton Oliynyk¹

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, New York, NY

Predicting crystal structures using machine learning has been successful with supervised methods, where training data includes specified structure types. However, unsupervised learning presents a challenge because crystal structures are intrinsically related and cannot be easily distinguished based solely on chemical parameters calculated from their compositions. To address this, we aim to develop a method that enables the independent identification and classification of structural relationships using machine learning.

We developed software to extract meaningful descriptors from CIFs in a high-throughput manner, enabling unsupervised learning. The unsupervised approach allows the machine to independently identify differences between structures and predict the number of structure clusters. To enhance the capabilities of materials informatics tools, we developed a recommendation engine to automate traditional exploratory synthesis strategies. This engine was used to visualize clusters trends, obtained from unsupervised learning, and proposes the next best element to experiment with during exploratory synthesis. To experimentally validate this approach, we synthesized novel intermetallic compounds, TbIr₃ and Gd10RuCd3.

Our approach led to the discovery of (1) TbIr₃ intermetallic compound adopting PuNi₃-type structure, as predicted; (2) Gd–Ru–Cd phase, which exhibits excellent neutron absorption properties, along with negative thermal expansion.

The integration of unsupervised learning with STEx engine demonstrates significant potential for discovering and classifying novel materials, paving the way for advancements in materials informatics and functional materials.

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Shoykhet Joshua¹, Sclar Mia¹, Lynch Mc.Lyne², Likhtik Ekaterina ¹^,³

¹Biology Dept., Hunter College, City University of New York
²Psychology Dept., Hunter College, City University of New York
³Biology Program, The Graduate Center, City University of New York

Fear extinction is crucial for overcoming fear, allowing an organism to decrease defensive responses to aversive stimuli once they are no longer threatening. The infralimbic region (IL) of the medial prefrontal cortex is critical for fear extinction, but circuit dynamics with its subcortical projection targets during learning are not well understood. We recently showed that the IL has dense projections to the ventral pallidum/substantia innominata (VP/SI) of the basal forebrain, which become active and constrain defensive behavior during extinction learning. However, the cellular mechanisms the IL engages in the VP/SI to drive this outcome are unknown.

Here, we examined activity of inhibitory parvalbumin-expressing (PV) cells and cholinergic cells of the VP/SI, both of which receive IL input, during extinction learning. Mice (PV-Cre C57B6J x 129SvEv, n=16) first underwent fear conditioning (five trials, 8kHz tone, 0.7mA shock). The next day, mice underwent fear extinction training that lasted either 2 (Early) or 10 (Late) trials, and were perfused 90 min after their last trial for immunohistochemical staining, to visualize cholinergic and PV cell activity via co-expression with the immediate early gene cFos.

We are analyzing cell activity in the VP/SI in Early and Late extinction. We hypothesize that the Early group will show higher cholinergic activity whereas the Late group will show higher PV activity in the VP/SI.

IL targets inhibitory and cholinergic cells of the VP/SI, which help constrain defensive behavior during extinction learning.

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Anisa Siddikova¹^,²^,³^,⁴, Camilo Espinosa Bernal²^,³^,⁴, Nima Aghaeepour²^,³^,⁴ Ph.D.

¹Hunter College Macaulay Honors College, New York, NY
²Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, Stanford, CA
³Department of Pediatrics, Stanford, CA
⁴Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford, CA

Birth weight (BW) is a critical indicator of a newborn's health. Infants with low BW, defined as less than 2.5 kg at birth, are about 20 times more likely to die than heavier infants and face higher risks of respiratory distress, jaundice, infections, and long-term conditions such as developmental disabilities, obesity, and diabetes. BW is influenced by a variety of factors, including parental health, prenatal care, socioeconomic conditions, gestational age (GA), and parental height and weight. These relationships make it challenging to isolate the specific biological mechanisms which uniquely impact BW.

Here, we investigated biological signals of BW independent of GA and parental height, weight, and age. We analyzed clinical data from a cohort of 13,841 pregnant women and blood proteomics, metabolomics, and lipidomics data from a sub-cohort of 231 participants. We used multivariate linear regression to model the relationship between BW and these confounders and found an R2=0.348, indicating these factors explain some BW variability. We further analyzed the regression residuals to determine the confounder-independent biological signals of BW.

Using all multiomic features as predictors led to an R2=0.06, a small part of the leftover variability. Univariate correlation analysis between the residuals and these features revealed several significant correlations, including proteins SEMA3F, VSIG4, IL-12B, TNF-R1, IL-10, and SPINK1, which have all been previously linked to preeclampsia.

Overall, we furthered our understanding of the biology of BW independent of GA, parental height, weight, and age, which will inform future therapies to improve newborn outcomes.

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Sophia Smyth¹

¹Hunter College

Queer subsects gaining community online through their shared interests exists across many forms of media. When it comes to the Gaylors (Swift fans who speculate on her queerness) there is a strong, accompanying dislike and loathing that comes from non-gaylor swifties. Since this negative reaction is directed at a queer group, there is plausibility in dissecting the motives behind those feelings, and considering the possibilities of homophobia, or incredibly strong-willed heteronormativity. While the existing scholarship does lend itself to better understand queer community formation, it currently lacks in the vein of understanding how heteronormativity presents itself online, and interacts with queer contexts, which is the focus of my project. My findings rethink existing scholarship, as much of it on queer community formation only considers backlash from outright homophobes, and not from the larger community of unaware victims of mainstream heteronormativity

Using Youtube videos regarding gaylors, theories, and anti-gaylors, I used Taguette to code transcripts and comment sections to understand how community was being formed by use of popular lyric analyzation and queer theorization of Swift herself. I also coded for a heteronormative apathy for the subgroup, abrasive language, and outright homophobia. Both sides of this interaction were analyzed and coded for optimal understanding.

The main takeaway from my findings is that the observable, major motivation for the negative interactions posed by anti-gaylors is a strong kind of heteronormativity, one that perpetuates a continued lack of understanding for the queer community, and the practices they must carry out in order to find community and identity in the world. My findings also presented a clear discomfort with queer projection, which can lead to more questions about the ethics of these fans, considering Swift calls herself a proud ally.

My findings presented a clear discomfort with queer projection, which can lead to more questions about the ethics of these fans, considering Swift calls herself a proud ally. This discomfort though not outrightly homophobic, is potentially as dangerous since it lives under the surface in communities that queer folks also partake in. This broad stroke heteronormative backlash to a sort of para-social behavior uncovers a deep lack of empathy for queer communities. This project also helps show the lengths that people will go to to find community, which contributes to a larger conversation about community and identity formation online.

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Juniper Sokolov¹

¹CUNY Hunter College, B.A. Philosophy, Politics, and Society, Social Psychology, and Public Policy 2026

If language sculpts reality, then the realities that language cannot easily describe become unintelligible. Many people fail to understand and articulate their needs, histories, and experiences because their communities have been historically alienated from the process of sculpting terms. Miranda Fricker has described the pernicious wrongdoing that arises when linguistic systems render people’s experiences unspeakable as hermeneutical injustice.

This paper focuses on the material harms that occur when people cannot understand their menopausal experiences. I apply hermeneutical injustice as a diagnostic framework, arguing that it can be used to better understand the violence perpetrated by prisons and jails by banning medical texts as sexually explicit content. I consider euphemisms, taboos, and other linguistic barriers that create hermeneutical injustice in congruence with case studies of financially secure cisgender menopausal women, (non-incarcerated) gender-expansive menopausal and andropausal people, and incarcerated menopausal people to synthesize a working hypothesis that demonstrates the pedagogical violences of prison and jail censorship policies.

Barriers to access compounds for those with intersecting identities that limit people’s ability to change linguistic and conceptual power dynamics. For example, the sociocultural taboos that prevent women from candidly discussing menopause are magnified for andropausal men, and so forth with incarcerated people who must navigate the surplus challenges of prison censorship and dehumanization. My findings break from Fricker’s solution of virtuous hearers to qualify existing power structures.

Understanding the unique violence that prison censorship policies perpetuate helps legal theorists argue that book bans violate people’s 8th Amendment rights against cruel and unusual punishment.

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Angelene Soto¹, Okkeun Jung²^,³, Shahana Mahajan¹^,²^,³^,⁴

¹New York Research and Mentoring for Post-baccalaureates at Hunter College
²Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Ph.D Subprogram, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York
³Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Hunter

Osteosarcoma is a rare primary bone malignancy that often affects pediatric and young adult patients. Phospholipase D1 (PLD1) is a lipid-modifying enzyme that hydrolyzes phosphatidylcholine to generate phosphatidic acid (PA) and, indirectly, diacylglycerol (DAG), both of which serve as key lipid signaling molecules. While PLD activity has been proposed to stimulate pro-survival tumor cell pathways in cancer cell lines, it remains unclear how these effects are mediated in osteosarcoma. We hypothesize that inhibition of PLD1 suppresses proliferation and metastasis in LM7 osteosarcoma cells.

LM7 osteosarcoma cells were treated with the PLD1 inhibitor VU035959 at 2.5–10 µM for the following assays: Colony formation and scratch assays were performed to assess proliferation and migration. Western blots, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and gelatin zymography were conducted to analyze the expression and activity of metastasis-associated genes.

PLD1 inhibition resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in colony formation and impaired wound closure. qPCR and zymography analysis showed downregulation of expression and activity in matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), enzymes involved in extracellular matrix degradation and metastasis. Decreased expression of cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61 (CYR61) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), suggests correlation between PLD1 inhibition and pathways regulating cell growth and angiogenesis.

These findings indicate that PLD1 inhibition reduces osteosarcoma proliferation and migration. Further studies are needed to identify the transcription factors and signaling proteins that regulate the observed phenotypes. By determining this mechanism of action we will be better suited to propose novel therapeutics options for osteosarcoma patients.

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Menaka Srinivasan¹

¹Hunter College

The intellectual history of Japanese Pan-Asianism has evolved greatly since its conception in the post-war period. While historians initially viewed it as an adhoc narrative or a "cloak" to justify imperialist expansion, recent studies suggest that Pan-Asianism in and of itself was an ideologically mobilizing force. As revealed in the history of Kenkoku Daigaku, Pan-Asianism was a genuine hope for many of its students. This essay seeks to understand the influence of imperial masculinity on the administration and discourses at Kenkoku Daigaku.

This paper uses gender as an analytical framework for understanding the intellectual history of Pan-Asianism. Specifically, it focuses on the student body at Kenkoku Daigaku, a settler university located in Japanese-occupied Manchukuo. It uses the archival materials in Yuka Hiruma Kishida's seminal work on Kenkoku, as well as the oral histories of living alumni.

This paper finds that imperial notions of Japanese masculinity were deeply embedded into the administration and discourses at Kenkoku. From the university's promotion of a Confuscianist brotherly hierarchy to its emphasis on a rugged adventourus masculinity, this institution promoted gender ideals that alligned with Japan's manifest destiny.

These findings suggest the impact of gendered narratives in facilitating imperial expansion. Although Pan-Asianism advocated for a collective liberation from the West, collectivity did not mean equality. Japan's masculine self characterization as the "big brother", "father", and "mentor" of Asia created a paternalistic hierarchy that was easily abused by the imperial war machine. The legacy of imperial masculinity lives on in post-war Japanese society, and understanding these connections is vital to decolonizing this history.

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Isabel Stec¹^,², Dr. Ward Wheeler²

¹Department of Computer Science, Hunter College
²American Museum of Natural History

A phylogenetic tree, also known as an evolutionary tree, is a branching diagram or model that depicts the evolutionary relationships amongst a group of organisms. It represents the evolutionary history and ancestry of different species and shows how they are related through common ancestors. The Phylogenetic Graph (PhyG) is a program designed by Dr. Ward Wheeler to produce phylogenetic graphs from textual and graphical input data. This work centers on the optimization of model parameters for use with genomic and quantitative phylogenetic analysis through expectation-maximization techniques.

Branch lengths of phylogenetic trees are modified to see if the Phylogenetic Minimum Descriptive Length (PMDL) of the graph has improved using a method akin to Newton’s method. PMDL is an optimality criterion for phylogenetic analysis based on the Minimum Descriptive Length principle, where the shortest description of the data is the best model. This criterion generates natural weighting functions for different phylogenetic graph, data, and model types. In a Haskell algorithm that I wrote, the method used is that an initial guess is made, a process (in this case finding the PMDL) is repeated until the difference in PMDL’s is smaller than a predetermined amount.

If the output improves, the branch lengths are recursively modified until the PMDL ceases to decrease.

The use of Phylogenetic Minimum Descriptive Length (PMDL) as an optimality criterion provides a more robust framework for phylogenetic analysis. By selecting the shortest and most informative model, researchers can reduce bias and improve the reliability of phylogenetic trees.

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Tasnim Sumaita¹, Manali Nikte², Yu-Ren Chen², Soha Patil², Naresh Patel², Leuna Sarah², Michael Ferretti², Matt Zimmer², Grayson Horn², The NYSCF Global Stem Cell Array®², Josephine Wesely²

¹Department of Anthropology, Hunter College
²The New York Stem Cell Foundation Research Institute

Gene tagging, which attaches synthetic reporter sequences like Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) to a gene of interest, is valuable for visualizing real-time protein activity. However, most tagging protocols tag both alleles, failing to preserve an untagged allele, which can potentially disrupt normal protein function. To address this, we aimed to develop a modified protocol using dead-Cas9 and/or donor oligo while precisely tagging lysosomal-associated membrane protein LAMP1 with GFP in human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs).

Current tagging protocols utilize a ribonucleoprotein complex with Cas9 and sgRNA to make a double-stranded break (DSB), knocking in GFP on both alleles. We utilized NYSCF’s automated platform The NYSCF Global Stem Cell Array® for parallel gene tagging across two alternatively designed strategies, which were run in parallel across two feeding media types. Our first strategy utilizes dCas9’s ability to bind to a target site without making a DSB. Our second strategy utilizes a single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotide (ssODN) designed with silent blocking mutations at the PAM site to inhibit Cas9 recognition. The tagged population is sorted using flow cytometry, enriched, monoclonalized, and then validated by PCR and Sanger sequencing.

Freedom (FRD1) is observed to support greater editing efficiency than eTesr, with comparable recovery rates post-transfection. The ssODN strategy demonstrated higher monoallelic tagging efficiency than the dCas9 strategy.

Both dCas9 and ssODN methods are viable for precise monoallelic tagging. Further research will apply different tags across various genes to develop specialized monoclonalized tagged lines, which holds potential to refine real-time protein visualization and advance hiPSC disease modeling.

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Magdalena Szmitko¹, Sarah Sullivan², Christina Rombola¹, Jhovelis Mañaná¹, Regina Miranda¹

¹Hunter College, City University of New York
²Graduate Center, City University of New York

Despite adolescent suicide-related disclosure (SRD) to caregivers being a gatekeeping factor for mental health care (Bettis et al., 2023), most studies of adolescents' SRD rely exclusively on adolescents' perspectives. Few studies qualitatively and dyadically (adolescent and caregiver perspectives) evaluate SRD (Davies et al., 2024), which was the aim of the present qualitative study

Eighteen ethnoracially diverse adolescents, previously admitted to NYC Emergency Departments, and their primary caregiver, were recruited after participating in a prior study of adolescent suicide ideation.

Themes emerged related to factors that impacted SRD experiences and relationship trajectory. Adolescents reported not knowing how to disclose (e.g., “…I didn’t know how to put it into words at that moment. So there were a few things that I did leave out I guess”). A theme that emerged among caregivers was having to monitor their own emotions (e.g., “…Not letting her see my fear, not letting her see I’m too nervous”). Dyads noted that supportive SRD positively impacted the relationship (e.g., Caregiver: “She trust[s] me more so now;” Adolescent: “I was glad that I did tell her… it just made it a little bit easier for me to open up about those really hard feelings [post-SRD]”). Complete data will be presented at conference.

The SRD experience provides insight into the caregiver-adolescent relationship, how it may impact the relationship, and intervention targets to help adolescents learn how to disclose their suicidal thoughts and to help caregivers respond supportively to their adolescents’ SRD.

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Anvitha Tammisetti¹

¹Public Policy Program, Hunter College

The US’s estimated medical debt was $220 billion (Rakshit, 2024) at the end of 2021. This paper focuses on one factor that can influence medical debt for someone living in the US: insurance. The paper analyzes this correlation in order to find why this correlation exists. Then, the paper factors in the healthcare system of the US to be why this correlation exists.

To understand the different kinds of medical debt, the paper uses available literature, and current laws surrounding medical debt. Specifically focusing on Himmelstein et al (2022)’s and Kluender (2021)’s data to showcase the clear connection and aid in how it factors into the healthcare model of the US. This literature study aids in explaining why the proposed solutions are necessary.

I propose two policy solutions that aim to tackle the growing problem of medical debt by: educating the public and a restructuring of the healthcare system, involves getting rid of “bad” insurances.

The aim of this paper is to take one step closer in understanding the build-up of medical debt so the US can stop/slow down that growth.

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Antonio Benjamin Tan¹, Anthony Ramadei², Frida Esther Kleiman¹^,²^,³

¹New York Research and Mentoring for Post-baccalaureates Program
²The Graduate Center, City University of New York
³Department of Chemistry, Hunter College

p21 is a stress-responsive cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor that plays a key role in cell fate decisions; the goal of this project is to understand how p21 expression is regulated by a functional single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) at the CDKN1A canonical polyadenylation signal (PAS). This SNP has a high incidence among African Americans. We hypothesize that this SNP will decrease CDKN1A/p21 expression impacting cellular function and clinical outcomes related to deregulation in p21 expression such as cancer, COPD, muscular dystrophy, or kidney disease.

Using All of Us, a platform designed by NIH that includes electronic health records, the Kleiman lab found a SNP (T>C) in CDKN1A PAS, which might result in a defective addition of poly(A) tails, unstable CDKN1A mRNA and decrease in p21 protein levels. As patient samples carrying this SNP are unavailable, we used CRISPR strategies to develop an HCT116 colon cancer cell line expressing the discovered SNP; this cellular model will be used to test changes in the CDKN1A/p21 regulatory pathway. Using tools available on Benchling and NCBI primer blast, we designed three genotyping primers to confirm the nucleotide change. The primer specificity was confirmed by qRT-PCR followed by sequencing. We also have designed the sgRNA that will guide the Cas9 protein to a target sequence near the canonical PAS.

We identified primer pairs that provided a single product of the expected size and further DNA sequencing confirmed that the primers amplified sequences around CDKN1A PAS.

More results on this cellular model will be presented.

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Asha Taranson¹, Lisbeth Santos¹

¹Department of Psychology, Hunter College

This study explores how depth cues like line convergence and relative size affects depth perception while also considering the impact of participants’ first judgment. We predicted the overestimation of object height for relative size cues and the underestimation of line length for convergence cues.

Participants were presented with 6 visual stimuli that showed either convergence or relative size and were instructed to draw the top or bottom object/line first. Participants consisted of 24 men and women, half were randomly assigned to look at stimuli depicting relative size and the other half looked at stimuli with convergence.

Findings showed a significant main effect of image type on depth perception with images having considerable influence.

Initial judgment did not impact depth perception for images with relative seize. However, for convergence initial judgment heavily influenced perception while the image type was not significant. A significant interaction between initial judgment and image type for convergence was found. These findings supported the hypothesis that first judgment had an effect on depth perception but not the depth cue of relative size. We predicted they would overestimate for relative size, however they underestimated across all images and for convergence it was supported as they generally tended to underestimate.

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Maliha Tasnim², Liyan Gong¹, Juan Melero-Martin¹

¹Department of Cardiac Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA
²Macaulay Honors College at CUNY Hunter College, New York, NY

The human vasculature is a vital organ for the delivery of blood, nutrients and oxygen to all parts of the body. Successful development of vascular organoids in-vitro that mimic the structure and function of blood vessels, would allow for opportunities to understand critical physiological processes and diseases. However, current methods to form matured vascular organoids that faithfully recapitulate the complexity of in-vivo organs remains a challenge. This project’s goal was to study the impact of growth factors (VEGF) and key signaling pathways (Notch and TGF-β) inhibitors independently and in combination on vascular organoid formation. It was hypothesized that an increased concentration of VEGF would promote arterial-like endothelial cell differentiation and that the inhibition of the two pathways would promote venous-like endothelial cell differentiation.

The method entailed a differentiation period of 5 days and comprised two steps: (i) differentiation of hiPSCs into intermediate human mesodermal progenitor cells (h-MPCs) and (ii) organoid generation on day 3, grown in treatment accordingly. On day 5, the organoids were harvested. Techniques such as qPCR, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence staining were employed to analyze markers for specific cell types and tissues (arterial, venous, mural) and to analyze the structure of the organoids.

At the end of the experiment, 3D organoids were successfully generated using inducible ETV2 and NKX3.1 hiPSC coculture. Using these generated vascular organoids (VOs), it was demonstrated that VEGF promotes endothelial and arterial differentiation and that Notch inhibition inhibits arterial differentiation. However, no definite conclusion was reached about the effect of TGF-β on endothelial cell differentiation or the effect of VEGF and TGF-β on mural cell differentiation, but it was determined that TGF-β inhibitor plays an important role in directing mural cell formation.

Future steps will involve assessing the impact of TGF-β and Notch inhibition at different stages of organoid development, testing different dosages of inhibitors, and employing RNA sequencing and qPCR to analyze changes in gene expression associated with arterial, venous and mural differentiation markers at the different stage.

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Michelle Teitel¹, Alexandra Karas, MA², Tracey A. Revenson, PhD¹^,²

¹Hunter College, City University New York, USA
²The Graduate Center, City University New York, USA

Young adults (YAs) with cancer have greater emotional distress than their older and pediatric counterparts, yet receive substantially less research focus. YAs have expressed a desire for age-appropriate supportive services (Warner et al., 2016). The study aimed to identify the types of support that young adult cancer patients in active treatment perceive to be helpful or effective and whether that effectiveness depends on who is providing the support.

In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 10 YAs (ages 20-29) undergoing active treatment for blood cancers. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded, and analyzed using thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006).

Several common themes occurred. First, participants expressed their resistance to receiving support, most often when discussing emotional support they did or did not receive. Second, patients described the way they wished people would react, the information they wish doctors would have provided more of, and how they would like people to check up on them. Third, while participants understood why their friends felt uncomfortable, this still created negative feelings for the patients and, for some, created distance in friendships. Fourth, participants indicated that many of the support groups available to them were composed primarily of older adults, who did not share the same concerns.

The findings point to the unique difficulties faced by young people with cancer: the need for age-appropriate services, support in maintaining normalcy, and the importance of being treated as a person not just a cancer patient.

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Raj Korpan², Daniel Tiourine¹, Sami Chen¹, Susan L. Epstein²

¹Department of Computer Science, Hunter College
²Department of Computer Science, The Graduate Center, City University of New York

As autonomous robots become more commonplace in human environments, they must be able to seamlessly and effectively explain their actions to the people around them. Even when robots effectively complete navigation tasks, their choices may seem counterintuitive to human observers, potentially undermining trust and cooperation. This research aims to investigate which aspects of a robot’s explanations support and improve autonomous navigators’ ability to communicate effectively.

We conducted a human study with 1⁴6 participants divided into three groups: Explanation (n=53), Description (n=47), and Control (n=46). Each group observed eight robot navigation scenarios, receiving either detailed explanations, simple descriptions, or no explanation of the robot’s actions. Participants rated their understanding and acceptance of the robot's behavior through questions about action appropriateness, explanation comprehensibility, and other such topics.

Statistical analysis revealed that participants who received detailed explanations showed significantly higher confidence in the robot's ability to achieve its goals compared to those who received simple descriptions or no explanations. However, these detailed explanations were rated as less understandable than simpler descriptions. Notably, there were no significant differences in task completion time across groups, with participants averaging 10.6 minutes to evaluate all scenarios.

Our findings thus far indicate a trade-off between explanation complexity and user comprehension. While detailed explanations boost confidence in the robot’s navigation abilities, they may create a false sense of understanding. This highlights a critical design challenge in robot communication. Future work will expand on this study with additional participants and more realistic simulations.

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Anduena Toci¹^,², Han Tan¹, Jeffrey Friedman¹

¹Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Rockefeller University
²Yalow Honors Scholars Program, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY

The rising prevalence of obesity and obesity-related diseases is a significant public health issue. While insulin resistance is a well-established contributor to diabetes, leptin resistance plays a central role in the development of obesity. Through a negative feedback loop, leptin helps maintain the body weight within a relatively stale range. However, the brain becomes less responsive to leptin in obese individuals. In this state, despite elevated leptin levels due to excess fat, the brain does not receive signals to suppress hunger or increase energy expenditure. One promising approach is targeting downstream molecules involved in leptin signaling.

Through single-cell RNA sequencing, we systematically profiled the changes induced by leptin in individual neurons of different subregions of the hypothalamus, a key leptin target region and crucial for metabolic regulation. This analysis uncovered many novel cells and genes, including Nova1, which encodes a neuron-specific RNA-binding protein involved in regulating alternative splicing and polyadenylation.

The study examined the function of hypothalamus Nova1 in energy balance regulation. We used genetic tools to overexpress or knock out Nova1 in paraventricular hypothalamus (PVH) neurons and measured the ensuing effects on feeding and body weight. Our results showed that deleting Nova1 in PVH neurons caused the mice to become leaner with reduced lean and fat mass compared to control mice. The reduced body weight was driven by decreased food intake. Conversely, overexpression of Nova1 led to obesity, characterized by increased fat and lean mass and food intake.

These findings position Nova1 as a critical factor in body weight regulation, suggesting that targeting Nova1 could potentially provide a novel therapeutic strategy for treating obesity.

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Lam Trinh¹, Frank Kirkland²

¹Department of Philosophy, Hunter College
²Associate Professor of Philosophy, Hunter College

The meaning of “Racial Contract” in Charles Mills’ The Racial Contract (TRC) and Black Rights/White Wrongs is (BR/WW) unclear. In TRC, “RC” reveals racial exploitation as endemic to liberalism and its social contract. Along Marxian lines, it calls for the elimination of both. In the BR/WW, a “Black Radical Kantianism” (BRK) is proposed, a revisable social contract along Kantian lines using the “RC” to retrieve liberalism by contesting racial exploitation. Is this distinction between these two meanings of the “RC” legitimate or contradictory?

The “RC” reflects Mills’s use of “non-ideal theory” (NIT) in contrast to “ideal theory” (IT). IT, like the social contract, conceptualizes non-empirical conditions for a just political order. NIT challenges IT highlighting empirical setbacks to such ideals. The persistence of racial exploitation under liberalism represents such setbacks, exposing liberalism’s complicity in ignoring racial exploitation.

The two different senses of “RC” entail two different senses of NIT. The first reveals the social contract’s failure to warrant a fair and just liberalism under ideal conditions, providing accounts for liberal ideals but ignoring racial exploitation. The second emphasizes liberalism’s vigilance, even under the social contract, to combat racial exploitation and reverse its historical record of racial ignorance to ensure its expansion. The distinction between the two is justifiable.

But Kantians argue that Kant does not rely on a NIT of any kind. To place Mills’ BRK within Kant’s purview, I examine Kant’s own “pragmatic anthropology” as his way of bringing an NIT, compatible with the second sense of the “RC,” into contact with the IT of his moral/political philosophy.

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Mariya Trofymova^1,2

¹Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
²Department of Geography and Environmental Science, Hunter College

Permafrost, a significant carbon reservoir primarily found at high latitudes and altitudes, is rapidly thawing due to accelerated climate warming. This process poses critical challenges to global carbon budgets, as the thawing of permafrost releases potent greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄). Of particular concern is Yedoma permafrost, a relict, ice- and carbon-rich type of permafrost that is especially vulnerable to degradation under rising temperatures. This study examines the vulnerability of permafrost regions to increasing melt rates, focusing on identifying areas of significant warming, active layer thickening, and projected future trends to serve as the basis for permafrost vulnerability.

Mapping and data analysis were conducted in ArcGIS Pro using multidimensional rasters of Ground Surface Temperature (GST) and Active Layer Thickness (ALT) from 1998 to 2021. Linear trend analysis identified warming permafrost regions and optimized hot spot analysis identified ALT growth hotspots. Yedoma permafrost regions were analyzed for warming trends, and future surface temperature projections were compared to observational data.

Results indicate that 49.2% of the Arctic permafrost region is experiencing moderate to extreme warming, with pronounced changes concentrated along the Arctic Ocean coasts. Furthermore, 71.35% of Yedoma permafrost lies within warming regions, and 23.16% within areas of extreme warming. While significant ALT growth hotspots are observed along the southern permafrost boundary, high-latitude regions remain relatively stable in ALT growth despite evident warming.

This research calls attention to the alarming vulnerability of Arctic permafrost to climate change, with Yedoma permafrost regions at the greatest risk. Observational and projected trends suggest continued warming and permafrost degradation, emphasizing the need to incorporate permafrost-related emissions into global climate models and policy frameworks.

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Abigail Uchitelev¹^,², Rikki Rooklin¹, Sarah Giles³, Leia Laughlin³, Kevin T. Eade³, Joel W. Blanchard¹, Louise A. Mesentier-Louro¹

¹The Nash Family Department of Neuroscience at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Black Family Stem Cell Institute; Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer’s Disease; Friedman Brain Institute
²Macaulay Honors College at Hunter College, New York, NY
³Lowy Medical Research  Institute, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss after 50 years of age. The pathological hallmark of AMD below the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE), is the accumulation of lipid-rich deposits, drusen, leading to retina degeneration. Several risk variants for AMD occur in lipid-related genes, including the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene, but their role in AMD is unknown. Using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology, we developed an in vitro human induced outer blood-retina barrier tissue (BRB) to investigate the role of APOE variants on AMD.

We generated iPSC-derived RPE, pericytes and endothelial cells and combined them within a transwell system by adding RPE to the apical side and extracellular matrix-encapsulated vascular cells on the basal side. We also established protocols for reproducing drusen-like deposits in BRBs. Using iPSC lines that were CRISPR-edited, we engineered isogenic BRBs with different APOE genotypes within specific cell types.

Transepithelial electrical resistance of the RPE within BRB evolves and stabilizes at around ⁴ weeks. Staining of the BRBs showed a monolayer of ZO-1-positive retinal epithelial cells, and an underlying 3D vascular compartment staining positive for endothelial cell marker PECAM1. BRBs engineered with APOE3/3 RPE and APOE2/2 vasculature had larger deposits when compared to BRBs with APOE3/3 RPE and APOE3/3 or APOE4/4 vasculature.

We developed a human BRB isogenic model to study the effect of genetic risk factors on the development of drusen and other AMD-related phenotypes. This multimodal strategy will establish a versatile platform for modeling AMD and genetic vulnerabilities, opening new avenues for drug discovery and clinical translation.

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Deborah Ugo-Omenukwa¹

¹Macaulay Honors College, Hunter College

Restorative justice (RJ) offers an alternative to punitive justice systems by emphasizing healing, accountability, and community restoration. However, mainstream media largely perpetuates a punitive narrative, with over 65% of crime-related content, such as Law & Order: SVU and Chicago P.D., depicting incarceration as the primary solution. These portrayals shape public perceptions, often increasing support for harsher sentencing policies. Given the power of media in influencing societal views, it is crucial to examine how RJ is represented and whether these depictions affect its acceptance. This study analyzes how media shapes the public understanding of RJ, exploring whether portrayals contribute to misconceptions or increased support for restorative practices.

Using content analysis and thematic coding, RJ-related scenes from All Rise, Orange Is the New Black, and The Redemption Project were examined. Key themes, including RJ’s benefits, implementation challenges, and societal perceptions, were identified through transcription. Public perception was analyzed using IMDb ratings, blogs, and Reddit forums.

Scripted dramas tend to oversimplify RJ, leading to mixed audience reactions. All Rise was criticized for being "soft on crime" and offering overly simplified resolutions. Conversely, The Redemption Project presented authentic, emotionally resonant victim-offender dialogues, shifting public perceptions toward RJ as a transformative alternative.

While documentaries capture the complexity of restorative justice, scripted dramas often struggle to balance accuracy with entertainment. Dramatized adaptations like The Sound of Hope show promise in shaping public perceptions of justice. Further research is needed to determine if scripted dramas can merge engagement with authenticity for a more nuanced understanding of RJ.

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Tahmid Ullah¹, Dr. Richard Silverman^1, Jun dos Remedios¹

¹Northwestern University

In the Silverman laboratory, I was working on solving the two main issues seen with a specific compound with potential therapeutic benefits for ALS which is the low yield of its synthesis and the low blood-brain barrier permeability. The synthesis pathway for. This compound was discovered in the Silverman lab that a large percentage of the yield was lost in the formation of the cyclohexane 1,3-dione seen in the first step of the pathway. Hence, during my time in the lab, I tested and attempted various reactions to synthesize the first step of the reaction. Additionally, with the knowledge of how to synthesize our compound with an adequate yield we hypothesized potential pathways to increase its lipophilicity which can improve its blood-brain barrier permeability. We hypothesize if we were to derivatize the hydroxyl group seen in our final compound it would reduce the hydrogen bonding capacity of the compound which will reduce the polarity and increase the lipophilicity. Additionally, we also hypothesized attaching non-polar groups such as alkyl groups or aromatic groups to the hydroxyl group. This is to prevent any possible loss in activity seen in our compound as the hydroxyl group may contain hydrogen bonding capabilities with the targeted binding site which will be removed if it is not present. The outcomes of these studies can have strong implications for the discovery of a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of ALS. It will propose a suitable synthesis strategy for a compound that through previous studies has shown strong ADME profiles and activities for cortical neurons. Additionally, our studies on improving the lipophilicity of the compound can also have implications for similar compounds that treat neurodegenerative diseases that contain similar drug delivery issues through the blood-brain barrier.

To search for reaction procedures, we utilized SciFinder, where we provided our starting material/desired products and received reactions of similar structures. Common organic synthesis techniques were utilized such as TLC plating, liquid-liquid extraction with a separatory funnel, evaporation with a rotary evaporator, and purification with flash chromatography. Analysis of the product was conducted through a combination of Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). LCMS was utilized through the synthesis procedure ensuring the presence of our desired intermediates through comparing the molecular weight shown through the instrument and our calculated weights. 1-H NMR was utilized within the later stages of the synthesis, where we compared our experimental spectrum with the confirmed spectrums of our product.

The results of this study focused on discovering the most suitable synthesis pathway for the cyclohexane 1,3 dione. We began by testing three pathways utilizing Diethyl 2-(2-isopropyl)succinate as the starting reagent while changing the reaction condition. The first pathway revealed a small yield of ~10% after work-up. When we utilized sodium ethoxide and ethanol as a solvent at 70 degrees for 4 hours, we successfully obtained our product with a yield of 45% As determined by LC-MS and NMR. In alternative pathways, a reduction reaction was attempted using ethyl 3,5-dihydroxybenzoate as the starting reagent. However, no desired product was detected. Based of these results, we decided to move forward with the second pathway as our preferred conditions.

The experimental results indicate that the reduction of ethyl 3,5-dihydroxybenzoate to cyclohexane-1,3-dione is most effectively achieved via pathway 3, utilizing sodium ethoxide and ethanol at 70°C. This method yielded the highest product quantity with a straightforward procedure. In contrast, pathways 4 and 5, which employed Raney nickel reduction at 125°C, resulted in incomplete reactions, likely due to product instability or decomposition at elevated temperatures. Similarly, pathway 6, involving lithium aluminum hydride (LAH) reduction, failed to produce the desired product, possibly due to issues during the workup process, as LAH reactions require careful handling to prevent product loss. These findings suggest that milder reaction conditions, as in pathway 3, are preferable for synthesizing cyclohexane-1,3-dione from ethyl 3,5-dihydroxybenzoate. This insight is valuable for researchers focusing on the synthesis of cyclohexane-1,3-dione derivatives, which are important intermediates in various chemical and pharmaceutical applications. Optimizing reaction conditions to enhance yield and stability can significantly impact the efficiency and scalability of producing these compounds.

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Selene Urbatsch¹

¹Hunter College

The Medicare Part D coverage gap, a unique feature of the Part D benefits structure, has been shown to lead to high OOP costs and cost-related medication nonadherence for beneficiaries. Provisions in the Affordable Care Act sought to mitigate this issue by gradually closing the coverage gap, beginning in 2011.

I use annual prescription drug fill data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) prescription component between the years 2007-2019 and drug data from the RxNorm drug database to analyze the effect of the Medicare Part D coverage gap closure. I implement difference-in-difference and first-differenced DID specifications with linear, Poisson and GLM specification to compare Medicare Part D enrollees age 65 and above with no private insurance to a combined group of individuals age 65 and above with Medicare coverage, private drug insurance, and no Part D coverage and individuals below age 65 with private drug insurance and no Medicare coverage.

Those who hit the coverage gap in the prior year reduce their drug spending and prescription fills in the following year, filling 5.5 fewer prescriptions in the following year. As the coverage gap gradually closes, those who hit the donut hole are less prone to drop brand-name medications in the following year.

Before the ACA, beneficiaries who fell into the coverage gap sharply reduced their prescription fills in the following year, especially for brand-name drugs. After the ACA, brand-name prescription adherence improved, indicating that the policy was effective in addressing cost concerns for higher-priced medications.

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Jiada Valenza¹, Randye Rutberg¹, Kelsey Parker², Andrew Reinmann ¹^,²

¹Department of Geography & Environmental Science, Hunter College
²Reinmann Lab, The Advanced Science Research Center

As one of the key drivers of global change, invasive species are essential in our understanding of urban ecosystems, which act as hotspots for invasive establishment. In spite of the bioturbation services earthworms provide, when invasive, their diet of leaf litter can reduce nutrient availability within soils, having adverse effects on soil health. There is still research to be done on how earthworms establish successful communities in non-native urban environments. Research has shown that earthworm leaf litter selection is influenced by calcium availability (Holdsworth et al. 2012), as well as carbon nitrogen (C:N) ratios, (Hendricksen 1990). This study applies similar metrics to assess how urban leaf litter quality – as measured through C:N ratios and phosphorus availability – impacts earthworm establishment and detritic activity in Inwood Hill Park, an urban forest in Manhattan, New York.

The study area was divided into three main forest types, Native Maple (NM), Black Locust (BL), and Northern Forest (NF), to determine whether forest type influences leaf litter quality, as found in Holdworth’s study. Litter samples have been sorted from organic matter, and will be run through an elemental analyzer to obtain C:N ratios. Finally, mapping in ArcGIS will be used to determine whether a spatial connection exists between forest type plots, leaf litter quality, and earthworm establishment.

We expect to find that earthworms demonstrate a preference for tree species whose leaf litter has a higher potassium content, in alignment with Holdsworth’s findings on calcium acting as a limiting nutrient for invasive earthworm activity.

Our findings will improve our understanding of invasive earthworm activity in urban settings, allowing for further research into mitigation strategies to protect urban soils.

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Anna Vera¹

¹Hunter College, Economics

Terrorism and violent attacks cause fatalities, destroy infrastructure, and create an environment of fear, which can have consequences on health and human capital. India has been drastically affected by terrorist attacks. From 2002 to 2009, terrorism in India accounted for 11% of global terrorist incidents, and India ranked 4th most affected by terrorism in the world by the 2011 Global Terrorism Index. We utilize the spatial and temporal variation in terrorism events across districts in India to study whether exposure to terrorist incidents contributes to worse health-related behaviors, health, education, and labor market outcomes among adults.

Using data from the Global Terrorism Database (GTD), we restrict the sample to terrorism events in mainland India since the year 2000. Exposure is measured as the time since the first armed assault, bombing, or kidnapping in a district. We also use India’s National Family Health Surveys (NFHS) 4 and 5. These cross-sectional surveys provide data on men’s and women’s health-related behaviors, health, education and labor market outcomes. We adapt existing staggered difference-in-differences in two dimensions to estimate the average treatment effects on the treated (ATET) in aggregate and across exposure time and space.

Preliminary findings suggest that all three event types (armed assault, bombing, kidnapping) have statistically significant deleterious effects on health and human capital formation. The cumulative effect of exposure to different event types appears to be greater than the sum of the parts-effects.

Our study contributes to the existing literature by examining how the impact of exposure differs based on the individual’s age at the time of the event and the amount of time that has elapsed since the initial exposure.

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Daniela Villafuerte¹, Livia Bayer¹, Diana Bratu¹^,²

¹Biological Sciences Department, Hunter College, CUNY, New York
²The Graduate Center, CUNY, New York, NY

P-bodies are membraneless organelles that regulate mRNA fate, including translational repression and degradation, through liquid-liquid phase separation in the cytoplasm. While the exact mechanisms of P-body assembly remain unclear, it is known that proteins with intrinsically disordered domains and mRNA itself play key roles in their formation. These mRNAs and proteins form RNA-protein (RNP) complexes in the nucleus, essential for their regulation, before being exported through the Nuclear Pore Complex (NPC). Notably, nucleoporins in the NPC can also facilitate phase separation, leading us to hypothesize that, as mRNA is exported, nucleoporins like Nup62 interact with mRNPs to initiate P-body nucleation in the cytoplasm.

D. melanogaster egg chambers are an ideal system for studying P-body formation due to their abundance of P-bodies, genetic tractability, and ability to perform tissue-specific mRNA knockdowns via the RNAi-UAS Gal4 system. Fluorescently tagged proteins can be combined with these knockdowns to investigate P-body formation and assess the mRNA-P-body association using smFISH.

In Nup62 knockdowns, P-body expression is altered, with disrupted condensate organization reflected in changes in Cup and Tral localization. Additionally, large accumulations of oskar mRNA in the nucleus suggest a disruption in its coupling with P-body proteins, supported by the premature detection of Oskar protein in the cytoplasm.

These findings imply that Nup62 is essential for coupling oskar mRNA to P-body proteins at the NPC, and its absence impairs P-body assembly and disrupts the localization of Cup and Tral. Together, these results highlight Nup62’s crucial role in the nucleation of P-body formation in the cytoplasm.

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Dongxin Weng¹

¹Hunter College

Access to higher education is one of the most important ways for people to access higher-level jobs and more income throughout their life. Yet, as access to post-secondary education becomes more and more expensive, it has become harder and harder for people to gain access to higher-level education, especially for those who are undocumented. Starting from 2001, Texas passed a law that allows in-state tuition(IST) for undocumented immigrants after fulfilling certain criteria, which is much cheaper than paying out-of-state tuition. Since then, 21 other states have passed similar policies that allow undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients to access in-state tuition. This study aims to measure the impact of IST policy on the institution level through tuition, enrollment, and financial status.

Using institutional-level data on higher education colleges and universities from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, I examine how these institutions respond to IST policy. I use data from from 2002 to 2022,. This results in 91409 observations and 6255 universities throughout the country. Approximately 80% of the observations are concentrated around public and private not-for-profit institutions. I used a staggered difference-in-difference approach to estimate the impact of IST policy on the institution’s outcomes because each state adopted the policy at a different time.

The analysis reveals that the policy has a significant effect on the tuition charge per student, the number of enrollments during the academic year, operating revenue and government funding of the institution.

The result reveals that IST policy encourages more people pursue higher education.

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Imani Williams¹, Annmarie Gaglio²^,³, Jill Bargonetti¹^,²^,³

¹New York Research and Mentoring for Post-baccalaureates Program at Hunter College
²The Graduate Center Biology Department, City University of New York
³Hunter College Department of Biological Sciences, City University of New York

The tumor suppressor p53 is a transcription factor that regulates genes involved in DNA damage repair and replication. Missense mutations introduced to the DNA binding domain result in p53 losing the ability to carry out transcriptional activity. However, it maintains non-specific DNA binding abilities through the C-terminal domain (CTD). This project examines how the C-terminus of mutant p53 (mtp53) is involved in its “gain-of-function” (GOF) properties. Using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, a targeted mutation was introduced to the C-terminus of mtp53 R273H in MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cells. One double mutant obtained was R273H and 350stop31, containing a frameshift creating a stop codon 31 amino acids after the 350 position, causing a sequence alteration and small truncation of the CTD. We hypothesize that induced mtp53 R273H with 350stop31 will result in decreased MDA-MB-468 cell proliferation.

We assessed cell proliferation using a growth curve assay on 350stop31 and parental MDA-MB-468 cell line. Duplicate 6cm plates were seeded with 5x104 cells and counted for 5 consecutive days using a hemocytometer.

We found R273H with 350stop31 cells proliferate slower than the parental cell line. To further study this result, chromatin fractionation will be performed and visualized using western blotting to assess changes in protein localization as a result of the loss of the CTD of mtp53.

Loss of the C-terminus of mtp53 results in decreased breast cancer cell proliferation. It is possible that the change of amino acids in the C-terminus result in a decrease of GOF mtp53 activities.

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TJ Wilson¹

¹CUNY Hunter College

With the development of modern photography in the late 1800s, Blacks would embrace the photographed image, as in many instances, it would be the first time many were seeing themselves. During the Depression Era, the Black photographer, such as Gordon Parks, took ownership of the Black image through technique and artistry.

This paper is based on my formal analysis of Gordon Parks’ 1940s photograph entitled Negro Woman in her Bedroom. Included in the analysis is a comparison of this work to Parks’ best- known work of the period: his American Gothic which depicts Ella Watson, a cleaner in Farm Security Administration offices posed in front of American flag, and a discussion of the influence of the painters in Parks’ artistic circle in Chicago, prior to his work with the FSA. The research was guided by W. E. B. Dubois’s The Souls of Black Folks, Fredrick Douglass’ “Pictures and Progress: An Address Delivered in Boston, Massachusetts, on December 3, 1861,” and bell hooks’ Art on My Mind: Visual Politics

This paper discusses the duality of the Black community in relation to the photographic image. It addresses the difference between how Blacks are portrayed through the eyes of white photographers and presented to white audiences in popular media and that of the Black photographer. Using the comparative works of Black photographers of the day, specifically Gordon Parks to demonstrate how their black gaze captured the Black image in a more finessed manner.

Does being black make a difference in the photograph, as the photographer and being in front of a specific audience - southerners, northerners and first and second generation, Blacks born free of slavery? This paper demonstrates yes while at the same time discussing the use of the pictorial media as a messaging tool by President Roosevelt to manipulate the nation as government programming and the population worked to recover from economic down turn after World War I.

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Georgina Woo¹, Raj Korpan¹, Ioannis Stamos¹

¹Department of Computer Science, Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)

Traditional robot navigation algorithms primarily focus on obstacle avoidance and predefined path planning, often failing to account for the presence, movement, and social behavior of humans. This limitation makes it difficult for robots to navigate smoothly in human-populated environments, where movement patterns are dynamic and shaped by social context. Many existing approaches assume that a robot’s perception is around human eye level, while robots with lower or higher vantage points must recognize and respond to human interactions from different perspectives while still navigating safely and effectively.

This research proposes a vision-based framework for socially-aware navigation, integrating pre-trained 6D head pose estimation to infer human attention and movement intentions, along with F-formation analysis to classify common patterns of social interaction. By identifying social formations—such as face-to-face conversations, side-by-side walking groups, and open clusters—the system enables robots to predict pedestrian movement and adapt their navigation strategy accordingly. The framework is being developed and tested on the Misty II robot, using single-stream visual data.

Evaluations will assess the system’s accuracy in detecting social formations, efficiency in navigation paths, and adherence to social norms, with a focus on the unique perception challenges posed by lower or higher vantage points.

By enabling robots to proactively adjust to human motion and social context, this work aims to advance human-robot interaction and socially-aware navigation, paving the way for safer, more intelligent robot behavior in shared spaces. Future research will explore multi-agent coordination, semantic scene understanding, and predictive motion planning based on group dynamics and individual attention shifts.

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Georgina Woo¹, Claudia Orenstein¹

¹Hunter College Theatre Department, City University of New York

Puppetry traditionally relies on direct performer interaction, but increasing separation between performer and puppet—through hand-operated puppets, performer-triggered stage effects, 3D-printed masks, and tele-operated robotics—challenges assumptions about agency in performance. This project examines how audience perception shifts as separation increases. The hypothesis is that as the performer becomes increasingly removed from direct control, the audience’s perception of agency shifts, requiring new strategies to maintain expressiveness and engagement.

Four projects explore different levels of performer-puppet interaction: 1. Hand-operated foam puppets, using scale changes, fabric effects, and transformation to create illusions like growth, flight, and injury while maintaining direct performer control. 2. A stage rigging effect, where a visible performer uses a Kabuki drop to trigger falling leaves, blending performer agency with environmental spectacle. 3. A 3D-printed monster mask, obscuring facial expression and shifting expressiveness to body movement and voice, altering how audiences perceive the performer’s presence. 4. A tele-operated robotic puppet (a work in progress), designed to explore whether remote control could maintain expressive movement and audience engagement without direct human presence.

Audiences accept performer-operated puppets as extensions of the performer, treating both as a single entity. The robotic puppet remains an open question, but if completed, it may introduce a sense of autonomy distinct from human control, fundamentally changing audience perception of agency.

Greater performer-puppet separation alters perceptions of agency. While audiences embrace puppets as performer extensions, full autonomy could challenge traditional expectations of live performance. Future work will explore whether robotic puppetry can evoke the same suspension of disbelief and emotional connection.

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Jacky Wu¹

¹CUNY Hunter College

End of life represents possibly the most stressful period of one's life. For terminally ill patients, continued treatment may offer little benefit while imposing significant financial, emotional, and physical suffering. Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) is a controversial answer to help patients alleviate the pains and stress that end of life brings. MAiD is the process where doctors support patients in ending their life. MAiD is currently legal in only 10 U.S. states. There are still numerous concerns about MAiD and its unintended effects.

I exploit geographical and time variations in the enactment of MAiD across states with a staggered difference-in-difference approach to assess its impact on the behavior of U.S. citizens. My analysis focuses on individuals 70 and older, as they are the most affected by MAiD, more likely to contemplate end-of-life decisions, and thus most susceptible to behavioral changes. I utilize the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), a nationally representative survey that collects data on U.S. residents’ health-related risk behaviors and other health indicators. My sample of participants aged 70 years and older is around 1.8 million observations. I examine changes in smoking, drinking, exercise, physical and mental health dietary and health checkup habits in the years leading up to and following the implementation of MAiD in each state.

I find that MAiD implementation does have an effect on the behavior of elderly people.

Because MAiD implementation may have unintended effects on the behavior of the elderly, state policy makers should be careful when considering MAiD enactment.

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Brook Xhabrahimi¹, Emil I. Jaffal¹, Danila Shiryaev¹, Anton O. Oliynyk¹

¹Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY

Nuclear power is a rapidly expanding method of energy generation with increasing demand for affordable and safe energy. An effective absorption of neutrons helps to control the process and increase its efficiency. Searching for novel materials is beyond the stage of exploratory synthesis and should be targeted with data-driven approaches. This project explores the RE10MCd3 (RE = rare-earth, M = transition metal) series with a focus on elements with high neutron cross-section (e.g., Gd). As such, we predict, test, and synthesize a novel intermetallic Gd10RuCd3 with superior neutron absorption properties.

Using an in-lab developed recommendation engine, we synthesized Gd10RuCd3. Several variables were tested including reducing and increasing the mass percentage of one element at a time and decreasing and increasing the soaking temperature the samples would be placed in. When the variable of weight was considered, the intermetallic was pressed into a pellet and synthesized at 800 ºC with subsequent testing. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns and scanning electron microscopy metallographic data were collected, and the XRD data were refined for a detailed crystal structure analysis. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations were performed using VASP software.

The novel intermetallic Gd10RuCd3 exhibits negative thermal expansion and high neutron absorption, making it a potential control rod material. The electronic structure calculations reveal 0D-electride like behavior. Electronic and thermal transport properties measurements are in progress.

Gd10RuCd3 is a novel compound found in the lab with the help of a data-driven recommendation engine to expand crystal structure series. The compound exhibits unusual negative thermal expansion, with its electronic properties currently being investigated. Because the demand for energy generation and consumption is growing, the nuclear energy generation process will become more efficient, safer, and affordable with the newly discovered material.

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Avi Yakubov¹, Muhammad Naeem², Jingli Cao²

¹Undergraduate Student, Hunter College
²Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY

The remarkable regenerative capacity of zebrafish hearts makes them an excellent model organism for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac regeneration, with the goal of identifying regulators that could induce human heart repair. In a recent study (Cortada, Eric, et al., 2024 Commun. Biol), the gene guanine deaminase (gda), which catalyzes the conversion of guanine to xanthine, was found to be upregulated in a specific macrophage subtype during zebrafish heart regeneration. To dissect the function of the gda, we successfully inserted a red fluorescent gene (RFP) cassette under the control of the gda promoter. This reporter line allows for profiling of the spatiotemporal expression pattern of gda.

The RFP-gcry-mRFP reporter cassette was inserted into the translation starting site of the endogenous gda gene using the CRISPR/Cas9 technique. Following genotyping to confirm the expected insertion, heart samples were collected and fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde. The fixed heart was cryopreserved in optimal cutting temperature (OCT), embedded, stored at -80 °C, and subsequently cryosectioned and immunostained to analyze the RFP expression using confocal microscopy.

Confocal imaging confirmed the dynamic gda:RFP expression pattern during zebrafish heart regeneration.

The objective of the project is to generate the gda:RFP reporter lines to characterize the spatiotemporal expression profile of the endogenous gda gene in zebrafish heart regeneration. This reporter line will be used to elucidate the molecular crosstalk between gda+ macrophages and cardiac cells, with a specific focus on downstream signaling pathways critical for heart regeneration. Ultimately, this study may help identify novel therapeutic targets for human heart repair.

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Nishara Yapa¹^,²^,⁴, Elaine Camacho-Hernández²^,³^,⁴, Teresa Davoli²^,⁴

¹Department of Chemistry, CUNY Hunter College
²Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine
³Vilcek Institute of Graduate Biomedical Sciences
⁴Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine

Aneuploidy, the gain or loss of chromosome arms or segments, is found in 90% of solid tumors. Among cancer types, including oral, bladder, esophageal, and pancreatic, the loss of chromosome 9p arm is frequently present in about 30% of patients. This loss is further associated with poor response to immunotherapy and decreased levels of cytotoxic immune cells (such as CD8+ T cells and NK cells) within the tumor. In this study, we aimed to investigate if these genomic alterations are present in a variety of mouse tumors where mouse chromosomes 4 (chr 4) and 19 (chr 19) are of interest as they are in synteny with human chromosome 9.

The chemical aspects of my research project involve accurately sequencing a mouse genome by Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), a process utilizing the technique of Illumina Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). The cell lines investigated were Yale University Mouse Melanoma (YUMM), the YUMM Exposed to Radiation (YUMMER), and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cell lines.

WGS analysis in melanoma cell lines shows no selection for specific losses in chr 4 but suggests a gain in chr 19. In the PDAC lines, the results indicate a gain in chr 4 only for high immune cell infiltration tumors.

Our results suggest a potential role of chr 4 in immune cell infiltration and further investigation is ongoing. This investigation will help us better understand how genomic alterations can permit cancer progression and identify 9p loss as a potential novel biomarker for clinical prediction of immunotherapy response.

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Isabella Youssef¹

¹CUNY Hunter College

The question that the researcher sought to answer was why media coverage of the 2023 ethnic cleansing of Artsakh is limited in international media compared to other ongoing conflicts. Turkiye since its undertaking of the Armenian Genocide in 1915 has used its access to technology to limit the exposure of the atrocity in its country, and places where they hold a strong influence. Its denialism in the historical memory of the Armenian Genocide has allowed for the remembrance of the event to be forgotten in Turkish society, neighboring countries, and other communities throughout the world. The censorship before, during, and following the genocide, and in the current day has established an environment where the persecution of the Armenian community is overlooked in comparison to other atrocities happening in today’s day and age. Since Turkiye has censored Armenian struggles in the past, it limits media exposure to the contemporary issues facing the community such as the 2023 ethnic cleansing of Artsakh. The main topic of the piece is to provide reasoning as to why there has been limited media coverage on Azerbaijan’s campaign of aggression on Artsakh in late 2023. The objective of this paper is to emphasize the importance of national accountability for past crimes, and the dangers of selective journalism, and propaganda. Implications for advancing social justice are journalistic freedom and integrity, government transparency, and education reform about the history of persecuted minorities. The sources used were from journals like the Asian Journal of Psychiatry, the Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma, and more. Articles from various databases, historical books, peer-reviewed articles, and primary sources were also used. The main findings of this research were that through its international influence, Turkiye has utilized propaganda to push its narrative of historical events. As a member of OTS (Organization of Turkic States), NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), and as a top 10 global military power as reported by the Global Fire Index, Turkiye can leverage its historical account in its international dealings. Their control of major waterways and their geographic location for transit further carries weight in the way other countries conduct their affairs regarding their foreign policy with the nation. Due to this, other countries are subjected to compliance with Turkiye’s censorship. This results in political entities and populations being made less aware of Armenian issues and causing them to be uninformed of the nation’s contemporary struggles.

The sources used were from journals like the Asian Journal of Psychiatry, the Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma, and more. Articles from various databases, historical books, peer-reviewed articles, and primary sources were also used. I conducted my research by unfolding my argument in six sections. The first addresses the history of the Armenian Genocide. The second section surveys Turkiye’s role on the world stage. The third section explores the history of the Nagorono-Karabakh region. The fourth section examines the international response to the ethnic cleansing of Artsakh compared to other ongoing world issues. The fifth section discusses how German accountability after its role in several genocides has improved the conditions of formerly oppressed communities. The sixth section offers alternative arguments as to why there is a lack of media attention surrounding the conflict. Through the findings of these sections, my analysis affirms the claim of my research.

Starting from the late 1800s, the Turks have attempted to erase Armenian identity. First through state-sponsored massacres during the reign of Sultan Abdul Hamid II. Then through the radical and systematic application of Turkish nationalism that resulted in the Armenian Genocide. This has continued with the censoring of Armenian history in its past and contemporary national struggles. Through its international influence, Turkiye has utilized propaganda to push its narrative of historical events. Due to this, other countries and political entities have been made less aware of Armenian issues, and the ethnic cleansing of Artsakh by its ally Azerbaijan in late 2023.

My research explores how the lack of recognition by a government for past crimes enables the enduring suffering of minorities. The project revolves around the Armenian Genocide, its historical memory, and past and contemporary forms of Turkish propaganda utilized in an attempt to censor the incident. It aims to affirm the importance of reconciliation efforts done at the government level to foster generational healing, awareness, and the prevention of continued acts of discrimination toward a group of people. Furthermore, it addresses the dangers of media bias when concerning human rights. By exploring how propaganda and censorship can lead to these disasters, I hope to bring awareness to other current-day conflicts and promote preliminary efforts to prevent possible human rights atrocities. By providing an emphasis on how journalism and media coverage shapes public perception and the way we not only view an event but also the way we view the people involved.

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Wesley Yuen¹, Li-Tzu Chen², Jin Zhang, PhD²

¹Biology Department, Hunter College
²Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School

Stress is a major risk factor for various eating disorders, but how the physiological stress response regulates ingestion is unknown. The taste system detects and evaluates ingested substances, influencing food preferences and intake, so the effects of stress on taste perception represent one possible mechanism underlying the development of unhealthy eating behaviors. Classical response pathways often result in release of the hormone corticosterone, which binds glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) to influence gene expression and metabolism. Our study investigates the mechanisms behind stress-induced taste changes, focusing on the role of corticosterone and GRs in modifying taste bud responsiveness. We hypothesized that corticosterone is secreted from lingual salivary glands, with GRs concentrated in bitter, sweet, and umami taste receptor cells.

We used ELISA to quantify corticosterone levels and immunohistochemistry to confirm GR localization in mice tongue tissue.

We found that corticosterone is highly localized in the salivary gland, and GRs are concentrated in sweet, umami, and bitter taste receptor cells.

Our findings indicate that the salivary gland's localized regulation of corticosterone and GRs may play a pivotal role in modulating taste perception under stress. This work implicates the taste system as a potential therapeutic target for managing stress-associated eating disorders.

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Wei Zhu¹, Diego Loayza¹

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, City University of New York

The POL4 gene encodes the DNA Polymerase Beta gap repair polymerase involved in base excision repair (BER) and non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ). POL4 has an invaluable role in protecting the genome of S. cerevisiae. It has human orthologs, the members of the POLX family, specifically POLλ, POLµ and TdT. The POLX family is therefore important for preventing genomic instability, which is linked to early cellular transformation in cancer development.

In this study, we have set up a genetic assay for increased mutability in budding yeast. This assay was used to study the effects of a complete deletion of POL4, and high overexpression of the gene. An overexpression plasmid with POL4 was created and introduced into our reporter strain to assess mutability levels. The same was performed with a pol⁴∆ deletion.

This is an ongoing project with no preliminary results just yet.

These experiments are designed to ask whether loss of POL4, or its overexpression, or both, have an effect on endogenous mutability levels in cells. These results could establish POL4 as an oncogene or a tumor suppressor in mammalian cells, with relevance to our understanding of cellular transformation in cancer.

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Isteaq Zim¹, Adriana Mendez², Jessica L. Ables³

¹Department of Psychology, Hunter College
²Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
³Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Diabetes is highly comorbid with neuropsychiatric disorders, yet little research has explored their biological connection. The medial habenula (mHb) and its target, the interpeduncular nucleus (IPN), regulate both blood glucose and depression-related behavior in mice, suggesting a shared mechanism. Transcriptomic profiling of a diabetic mouse model has shown altered extracellular matrix (ECM) gene expression. The ECM is involved in neural structure and function. We hypothesize that diabetes-induced ECM dysregulation in the mHb-IPN leads to depressive-like behavior. In the present study, we aimed to recapitulate the dysregulation of the ECM in the mHb and IPN by using chondroitinase ABC (chABC), an enzyme that degrades the ECM.

We injected chABC via stereotaxic injection into the mHb and IPN of adult male C57BL6J mice (mHb n=5; IPN n=5). One mouse was perfused every 5 days with cold PBS followed by 4% paraformaldehyde. Brains were stained via immunohistochemistry with griffonia simplicifolia lectin-1 (GSL1) and datura stramonium lectin (DSL) to visualize the ECM and DAPI to visualize nuclei.

Preliminary results indicate that chABC is able to recapitulate the dysregulation of the ECM in the IPN, but not the mHb. This dysregulation was seen only after 20 days and was centered around the perivascular space.

Future studies will compare behavior in diabetic mice with ECM dysregulation against intact mice injected with chABC to determine how ECM changes in the mHb-IPN contribute towards mood disorders. These findings may reveal the ECM as a novel therapeutic target for diabetes-associated depression.