Published Papers

This research paper aims to investigate the activity of the catalase enzyme under varying environmental conditions, including pH value, glucose concentration, and temperature. Catalase is a crucial antioxidant enzyme that breaks down hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), a highly reactive oxygen species (ROS), into water and oxygen. In diabetic cells, activities like glycation can impair catalase activity. This stimulates how hyperglycemia in diabetes reduces catalase efficiency. We hypothesize that high glucose and extreme pH or temperature will lower enzyme activity and produce less O₂ gas. Our experiment involves Solanum tuberosum (potato) derived catalase extract, observing its reactions with H₂O₂ and measuring O₂ evolution as an indicator for catalase activity through biological assays under varying environments. The results showed the expected trends: maximum activity at neutral pH and moderate temperature, and reduced activity with high glucose (mimicking diabetic glycation of catalase). 

This paper reviews literature where AI chatbots have been experimented with in psychotherapy. In 2015, nearly half the  population lived in countries with fewer than one psychiatrist per 100,000 people. Considering the global shortage, AI chatbots may provide more economic and accessible solutions, though they struggle to replicate the values of human therapists. A conversational AI chatbot can strengthen the therapeutic bond. However, they cannot imitate the emotional depth of a therapist. Of the three dimensions of empathy— cognitive, emotional, and motivational—AI chatbots currently lack two (emotional and motivational). Statistically, chatbots are more effective at reducing symptoms of certain mental conditions, but discontinued use causes a relapse, which is also possible with therapists. Qualitatively, there are mixed opinions on which is better. Overall, all the studies agree that chatbots lack the human touch and sensitivity required to deal with emotions. 

Creatine monohydrate is one of the most widely researched and utilized supplements in the fitness industry, known for its role in enhancing athletic performance, muscle growth, and recovery. Naturally obtained through dietary sources such as red meat and seafood, as well as being produced by the liver, creatine plays a critical role in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) regeneration, providing energy for high intensity exercise. This paper explores the physical impacts of creatine supplementation, its benefits in resistance training, and potential reasons to not supplement creatine into one’s diet. A review of existing literature indicates that consistent creatine intake, paired with structured training, leads to increased muscular strength, enhanced training capacity, and reduced injury risk due to improved hydration and muscle integrity. However, some studies present conflicting evidence, suggesting minimal performance enhancement in certain exercises, while others raise concerns about potential adverse effects, particularly for individuals with renal complications. This paper synthesizes these findings to provide a comprehensive evaluation of creatine monohydrate's impact on athletic performance and overall muscle health

This paper presents the findings of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy experiments conducted on two different samples: 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and Manganese Chloride (MnCl2) dissolved in H2O. EPR spectroscopy is used to study the electronic and magnetic properties of paramagnetic materials, providing valuable information about their identity, oxidation and spin states, ligand environments, and interactions with the lattice.

Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopy is a useful analytical technique that provides insight into the chemical nature of a variety of species: complex, inorganic, organic, lattices, free radicals etc. in different states. It is primarily used to understand the identity, oxidation and spin state of the paramagnetic ion(s) in a sample, the nature of ligands, and the interactions of the ion(s) with the lattice. Thus, the technique finds broad biological, biochemical and medical applications. EPR spectral analysis of DPPH (at room temperature) and MnCl2 in aqueous solution (at low temperature) were performed at Prof. Doros Petasis' laboratory at Allegheny College. Properties such as the g-factor, hyperfine coupling constant and linewidth for the two samples have been analysed and discussed.

Motor neuron disease (MND) is a progressive neurological disorder, previously thought to exclusively affect the motor system. However, we now know that cognitive and behavioral change is also a part of the condition. MND exists on a spectrum with frontotemporal dementia (FTD),  with up to  15% of people with  MND  also meeting diagnostic criteria for  FTD. The overlap in symptoms can make diagnosis more difficult, but also offer new opportunities for intervention and treatment. Aim: Our aim is to systematically review the academic literature to explore what behavioral symptoms have been identified as occurring in people with MND, FTD and MND-FTD.