Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
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Antibiotic Properties of Soil on Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy Grounds
No full textBacteria that have developed resistances to multiple antibiotics continue to be a growing threat in today’s human health. These bacteria are becoming even more dangerous with time due to the lack of new antibiotics being developed in the drug industry because of the large hurdles and great risks that come with developing antibiotics. To combat these antibiotic resistant bacteria, I will be collaborating with Tiny Earth (TE), a studentsourcing antibiotic resource created by the University of Wisconsin Madison, by using their techniques of testing the zones of inhibition of the isolated bacteria are going to be applied to soil samples within the grounds of the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy in this research project. Results of the experiments will be presente
Using Neuronal Networks to Mimic Boolean Logic Gates
No full textClassical computers use diodes and transistors to act as electronic switches, allowing the processing and storage of information. These switches are building blocks for logic circuits, which provide the basis for computing. After significant years of research, advancements in computing architecture have led to more efficient systems. However, classical computing architectures struggle with parallel processing, where a system will do multiple tasks simultaneously. The human brain, in contrast, processes information through a network of approximately 86 billion neurons, accounting for environmental perception, decision creation, and motor control. Modeling electronic circuits using neurons poses fundamental issues with splitting signals and timing. This project proposes two systems to help facilitate the switch from classical hardware circuits that use transistors to neuronal circuits. By developing the Yield Neuron Circuit which allows neuronal circuit signals to propagate simultaneously and the Clone Neuron Circuit duplicates the state of a neuron, the study presents an effective way to duplicate neuron states and match neuron signal propagation timings. The study presents a model that computes arithmetic, comparisons, and sends flags while continuing the utilization of registers throughout the CPU bus. In conclusion, the goal of this study is to propose a neuronal circuit model that is capable of complex functions similar to that of an Arithmetic Logic Unit
Synthesis of Potential Therapeutic Methods for Mycetoma
No full textMycetoma is a deadly disease that most commonly affects areas that are unable to obtain treatment for it in time. It is most often caused by a fungus called Madurella mycetomatis, but it can also be caused by bacteria called actinomycetoma or fungi called eumycetoma. The most common location for mycetoma is usually on the foot, with it usually affecting males between 11 and 40 years of age. The most common areas where mycetoma is reported are India, Mexico, and Sudan. There is currently a need for a cheaper and more effective therapeutic for mycetoma. The Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) is dedicated to addressing tropical diseases like mycetoma. DNDi\u27s Open Synthesis Network collaboratively develops drugs with universities and other organizations. My project synthesizes derivatives of the hit compound DNDI0003105207 in OSN Project 4, with modifications to the structure. The synthesized compounds will be sent to DNDi structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies. The data collected will help in developing a lead therapeutic for mycetoma
Targeting Oxygen-Induced Mitochondrial Fission to Improve Post-Resuscitation Outcomes Following Cardiac Arrest
No full textSudden cardiac arrest (CA) is a leading cause of death, and post-resuscitation injury risks survival in the days following. Recent studies suggest excessive oxygen following CA may contribute to poor outcomes. We hypothesize that oxygen-mediated mitochondrial injury is caused by Dynamin-Related Protein 1 (Drp1), and if we target Drp1, it can alleviate oxygen toxicity, improving survival and recovery. To test this hypothesis, a mouse model of CA is utilized, in which the mice undergo 12 minutes of asystole followed by cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). One hour after resuscitation, mice are separated into groups, receiving hyperoxia (33% O2), hypoxia (10% O2), or normoxia (21% O2) for 6 hours, 24 and 240 hours post-resuscitation, mitochondrial function, cardiac function, neurological scores, and survival rates are assessed. Then Drp1 GTPase inhibitor is administered. Hyperoxic mice showed significantly lower 10-day survival rates (15%) than hypoxic mice (92%, p \u3c 0.05). Hyperoxic mice also showed reduced myocardial fractional shortening and neurological scores (p \u3c 0.05), and increased expression of Drp1 in the heart. In hyperoxic mice the Drp1 inhibitor significantly improved survival, myocardial function, and neurological scores, suggesting that oxygen-induced mitochondrial injury can be reduced with lower oxygen saturation and Drp1-driven mitochondrial fission can improv outcomes
2025 Coke Scholar
No full textIMSA student Jaden Blankenship \u2725 has been named a 2025 Coca-Cola Scholar!https://digitalcommons.imsa.edu/homepage/1064/thumbnail.jp
AI and Neuroscience: Hope, Humbug, or Hype
No full textThis session explores the rapidly evolving intersection of artificial intelligence and neuroscience. Through case studies, interactive discussion, and hands-on exploration, participants will gain an understanding of AI as a Co-Scientist, as well as how insights from neuroscience have and continue to inspire design of AI approaches. Attendees will explore practical applications where AI and neuroscience already meet (such as brain–computer interfaces, mental health technologies, and cognitive modeling); consider ethical, societal, and educational implications of merging these two powerful domains and aim to distinguish between genuine advances, exaggerated claims, and common misconceptions
Generative Music
No full textThere is a lot of buzz about text generation using tools like Chatgpt. There is a lot of work going on for music generation. We will look at the history of music generation and look at the tools available for music generation. All the current work for music generation is from machine learning (or AI)
Use Your Words: Positive Interims & Engagement
No full textThis year in particular, Faculty have been encouraged to establish connections with their students, which lead to my experiment with using regular interim comments for every student as a tool for improving my connection to them and their families. Along the way, I learned something about how to reach my most isolated students and how to pay attention to my classroom in new ways
Family Reading Night 2025
No full textFamily Reading Night 2025 at IMSA.
Illustrated by Mercy Hunley \u2728https://digitalcommons.imsa.edu/homepage/1079/thumbnail.jp