Research is an integral core to the maintenance and progression of our world. Fueled by curiosity and tempered by patience, it is the very vessel for the innovation that builds the tomorrow we shall inherit.

Take a moment to pause and look around you. The stranger analyzing the micro-expressions of their friend in a conversation. The stress-modeled arch framing the main entrance. The cellist probing the harmonics of Le Cygne. The prosthetic arm being calibrated for optimized neuromotor precision. Whether noticeable or not, the efforts of experimentation have always been a part of our daily routines and spirit. A part that is crucial for our society and the world as a whole to survive and thrive.

Ascher Shostak

Undergraduate Cancer Biology Program

Introduction

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and modern medicine both play major roles in the treatment of people with illnesses and injuries in China. The coexistence of these two approaches reflects the rich cultural heritage and the continuous pursuit of advancements in healthcare. This essay explores the historical context, key figures, and the impact of TCM and modern medicine in China. Influential individuals in both traditions are analyzed, and various perspectives are considered to provide a balanced, well-rounded analysis. The paper will examine both benefits and limitations, and conclude with potential future developments that reflect China’s evolving healthcare landscape.

Anushka Patel

Undergraduate Neuroscience Program

E-cigarettes have been at the forefront of discussion in the realm of public health in the country. Specifically, youth in America have been targeted by this phenomenon. In 2024, e-cigarettes were the most commonly used tobacco related product amongst United States middle school and high school students with 1.63 million students currently using these devices.¹ Students and young adults are targeted by vape companies through flashy advertising, various e-liquid flavors, and devices disguised to be everyday items such as USBs or pens.² For example, Juul Labs, a prominent producer of vapes, advertises its vapes to be sleek, rechargeable, and incorporated with nicotine salts, but the authenticity of those claims falls short with harmful concentrations of nicotine affecting American youth.³ Beyond the marketing strategies used on social media through influencer paid promotions, vapes inherently market false claims. Students have misconceptions that these e-cigarettes are not as harmful as combustible cigarettes as well as vapes aiding in stress relief. However, the harsh reality is that e-cigarettes can have short term and long-term impacts on the health of our future generations.

Victoria A. Boatright, Shannon M. Kirshy, Caroline G. Richter

Department of Psychology

Abstract

This literature review explores research on sex and puberty education for autistic children, emphasizing the need for customized educational approaches. By analyzing existing studies, it identifies key themes, instructional strategies, and obstacles to effective education. The findings reveal a significant research gap, as much of the literature emphasizes the challenges faced by autistic children rather than evidence-based interventions. When strategies are discussed, they highlight the importance of individualized, structured, and visual learning methods. Additionally, this review underscores the necessity of incorporating caregiver and educator perspectives to develop holistic educational models that support informed decision-making and overall well-being. By addressing these gaps, this synthesis lays the groundwork for developing targeted interventions that enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of sex and puberty education for autistic children.

Emily Dolan^{1, 2}, Cassandra Newsom², Melissa Smith³, Rushambli Patel¹, Maureen Lichtveld⁴, Wilco Zijlmans⁵, Hannah Covert⁴, Ashna Hindori-Mohangoo⁶, Anisma Gokoel⁷, Jeffrey Wickliffe⁸

¹Undergraduate Neuroscience Program; ²Civitan Autism and Neurodevelopment Research Core; ³Department of Biostatistics; ⁴Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; ⁵Faculty of Medical Sciences, Anton de Kom University, Paramaribo, Suriname; ⁶Perisur, Paramaribo, Suriname; ⁷Academic Hospital Paramaribo; ⁸Department of Environmental Health Sciences

Abstract

It is imperative to investigate potential risk factors associated with the increased appearance of neurodevelopment-related diagnoses and delays in children. Toxic exposure to lead and mercury has been shown to have significant correlations with impaired neurodevelopment. This study aims to examine if prenatal exposure to these metals in Suriname affects aspects of neurodevelopment and if this exposure varies by region.

Julia M. W. Hall and Sylvie Mrug

Department of Psychology

Abstract

In 2020, COVID-19 pandemic restrictions reduced social interactions and altered routines, increasing feelings of social isolation and instability. These restrictions increased adolescents’ psychosocial problems, likely due to COVID-19 related stressors. However, relatively few studies directly examined differences in psychosocial functioning before and during the pandemic. This study will examine psychosocial functioning before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in adolescents.