Epistemia-Journal of High School Research
type: channel
description: Epistemia envisions publishing research articles authored by high school researchers. This international, peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary journal is the first from India dedicated to encouraging the research writing of young researchers in high school. Epistemia ensures peer-review by seasoned researchers for all the submitted articles and reverts with thoughtful suggestions to improve their manuscript. The manuscript will be accepted only if the reviewer recommends publication after the author addresses the comments and suggestions. Epistemia conducts workshops to instill and enhance research writing skills and offers mentorship for high school researchers to finetune their manuscripts.
publisher: Epistemia
language: en
publication name: Epistemia-Journal of High School Research
items: Comparative DFT Investigation of Electronic Structure and Reactivity Descriptors of Dopamine, Serotonin, and Acetylcholine
items: Listening Through Time with the Medical Stethoscope
items: Cystic Fibrosis as a Multisystem Disease: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Advances in CFTR-Targeted Therapy
items: Kathak Dance and Neuroplasticity: Implications for Cognitive Health
items: Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Glaucoma Prevalence and Outcomes
items: Government-Led Educational Policies and Their Impact on Girls’ Secondary School Enrolment and Dropout Rates in India
items: Liquid Biopsy in Cancer: Advances, Clinical Applications, and Future Directions
items: The Effect of Social Media on Consumer Behaviour in Dubai
items: The Nexus Between Financial Literacy and Consumption–Savings Patterns: Behavioral and Socioeconomic Insights
items: Quantitative Validation of Fibonacci Patterning in Pineapple Phyllotaxis
items: Influenced Minds: The Psychology Behind Social Media and Consumer Choices in Mumbai
items: Empowering Women through Microfinance: A Study of Its Impact in India
items: Toward a Sustainable Battery Future: Comparative Review of Lithium and Its Alternatives for Grid Storage
items: Triggering the Buy: A Study on Impulse Purchasing Behavior and Consumption Patterns in Mumbai
items: A Study on Food Insecurity Among School-Age Children: A Cross-Cultural Perspective
items: Osteoporosis-Related Fractures- Burden, Risk Factors, and Preventive Strategies
items: Navigating the Atmosphere and Beyond: The Role of Aerodynamic Chemistry in Modern Spacecraft Propulsion
items: The Psychological and Immune Effects of Stress
items: Gut Feelings: How Microbes Make Your Mind
items: The Rising Tide of Electric Vehicles: A True Environmental Solution or a Hidden Problem?
items: Avian Flight Mechanics: A Synergy of Biology and Physics
items: Unleashing the Power of Social Media: Insights from Hyderabad's Consumer Engagement and Modern Marketing Strategies
items: Introduction to Health Care Projects Instituted by the Government of India
items: The Rise of the Antibiotic Resistance Crisis

Comparative DFT Investigation of Electronic Structure and Reactivity Descriptors of Dopamine, Serotonin, and Acetylcholine
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description: Neurotransmitters are biologically significant molecules responsible for chemical communication within the nervous system. Understanding their electronic structure is essential for explaining their biochemical reactivity, intermolecular interactions, and functional behavior under physiological conditions. In the present study, Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations were employed to comparatively investigate the electronic properties of Dopamine, Serotonin, and Acetylcholine in both gas and solvated phases. Geometry optimization and frequency calculations were performed using the B3LYP functional with the 6-31G basis set in Gaussian 09. Solvent effects were modeled using the Conductor-like Polarizable Continuum Model (CPCM). Frontier Molecular Orbital (FMO) analysis was conducted to determine HOMO and LUMO energies, while Koopmans’ approximation was used to calculate global reactivity descriptors, including chemical hardness, softness, chemical potential, electronegativity, and electrophilicity index. The results demonstrate clear structure–property relationships among the neurotransmitters. Serotonin exhibits the highest stability due to its extended π-conjugated indole system, while dopamine displays intermediate reactivity associated with its catechol functionality. Acetylcholine, lacking aromaticity, shows distinct solvent-dependent stabilization attributed to its quaternary ammonium group. Solvation significantly influences orbital energies and global descriptors, particularly in acetylcholine. The study highlights the importance of conjugation length, functional groups, and charge distribution in governing electronic behavior. Overall, the work demonstrates the applicability of conceptual DFT in understanding biologically relevant molecules and provides insight into molecular reactivity relevant to neurochemistry, pharmacology, and biosensor design.
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creator: Prisha Vijay Shah
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-05-26
publication date: 2026-05-26
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.20400046

Listening Through Time with the Medical Stethoscope
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description: The term "stethoscope" is derived from the Greek words "stethos" (chest) and "skopein" (to examine), reflecting its fundamental role as a medical instrument used to listen to internal body sounds. Beyond its functional purpose, the stethoscope has become one of the most widely recognized symbols of medicine, representing healthcare, healing, and trust worldwide. Clinically, it is indispensable for auscultation, enabling physicians to detect internal sounds such as heart murmurs, wheezes, crackles, and stridors for the diagnosis of cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. Its utility extends further to assessing bowel sounds, measuring blood pressure, and identifying carotid bruits that may indicate an increased risk of stroke, underscoring its versatility, practicality, and importance in both routine examinations and emergency settings. This article examines the historical evolution of the stethoscope from its invention by René Laennec in 1816 as a simple wooden tube to its progressive development, shaped by key contributors including Pierre Adolphe Piorry, George Philip Cammann, and David Littmann. The transformation over two centuries into modern acoustic and electronic stethoscopes is examined, highlighting how innovations have enhanced diagnostic accuracy while preserving the device’s cost-effectiveness and non-invasive nature. Additionally, the article discusses the emerging role of artificial intelligence in stethoscope technology, recent advancements improving diagnostic quality, and the basic anatomical components of the instrument.
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creator: Rajul Svaria
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-02-10
publication date: 2026-02-10
starting page: 48
ending page: 56
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.18600466

Cystic Fibrosis as a Multisystem Disease: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Advances in CFTR-Targeted Therapy
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description: Cystic fibrosis (CF) remains a life-limiting and multisystem genetic disease with high morbidity and mortality, making it a critical focus of biomedical research. It affects tens of thousands of individuals worldwide. It leads to progressive organ dysfunction, particularly in the lungs and pancreas, resulting in chronic respiratory infections, pancreatic insufficiency, and reduced life expectancy. CF’s complex disease mechanisms, involving more than 2,000 distinct CFTR gene mutations, contribute to its heterogeneous clinical expression and systemic impact across multiple organs, including the gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary systems. Furthermore, populations in low-resource settings face high morbidity and mortality due to underdiagnosis and delayed treatment, underlining the global need for improved understanding and interventions. Historically, cystic fibrosis management emphasized prevention and treatment of disease complications. Advances in CFTR-modulating therapies now enable the direct correction of the underlying ion channel defect, representing a significant shift in care. Assessing the long-term effects of emerging therapies on disease progression and patient quality of life is critical as CFTR-targeted treatments continue to transform clinical practice and research paradigms. Continued investigation is therefore essential not only to optimize existing therapeutic approaches but also to develop more effective, accessible, and mutation-inclusive treatments, alongside improved strategies for early diagnosis, disease monitoring, and sustained enhancement of patient quality of life.
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creator: Jenny Nimeshbhai Patel
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-02-10
publication date: 2026-02-10
starting page: 27
ending page: 47
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.18600394

Kathak Dance and Neuroplasticity: Implications for Cognitive Health
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description: Dance is a complex form of physical and emotional expression; in addition to providing embodiment and communication, it also offers many neurological benefits and is a creative art form. This article focuses on Kathak, an Indian classical dance that involves rhythm, coordination, and emotional cognition, along with other neurologically beneficial factors. By engaging many parts of the brain, such as the hippocampus and cerebellum, dance strengthens synapses and other functional neural pathways, which boosts brain health. The review also explores how neuroplasticity can affect learning and memory, and it especially highlights key frameworks, such as increased levels of brain-derived neurotropic factors and synaptogenesis. Emphasis is also placed on elderly populations and individuals who may have neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, where dance has many positive effects. Although it can't completely prevent neurodegenerative diseases, it can certainly delay or slow progression and provide calming benefits for individuals suffering from these diseases. Overall, this article reviews how dance is an approachable form of art that has many cognitive benefits; it supports neuroplasticity, cognitive resilience, and strong neurological health throughout life.
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creator: Dhyana Patel
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-02-10
publication date: 2026-02-10
starting page: 11
ending page: 26
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.18600149

Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Glaucoma Prevalence and Outcomes
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description: Glaucoma, often termed the “silent thief of sight,” is a progressive optic neuropathy that causes irreversible vision loss, typically resulting from damage to the optic nerve due to elevated intraocular pressure. Because the disease advances gradually and without early symptoms, it often remains undetected until significant visual impairment has occurred. Although glaucoma can affect individuals of all racial and ethnic backgrounds, disparities in its prevalence and outcomes are evident. People of African, Hispanic, and Asian descent experience higher rates of glaucoma and poorer visual outcomes compared to White populations. These differences extend beyond biological susceptibility and are influenced by social determinants such as unequal access to healthcare, limited screening programs, socioeconomic barriers, and low disease awareness. This article examines how racial and ethnic disparities shape global patterns of glaucoma incidence and outcomes. Framing glaucoma as not only a medical condition but also a public health issue linked to social inequality underscores the need for targeted interventions. Expanding access to routine eye examinations, improving public awareness, and implementing equitable screening initiatives are essential strategies to reduce disparities and prevent avoidable blindness in at-risk populations.
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creator: Chahat Desai
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-02-10
publication date: 2026-02-10
starting page: 01
ending page: 10
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.18599903

Government-Led Educational Policies and Their Impact on Girls’ Secondary School Enrolment and Dropout Rates in India
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description: For decades, the landscape of girls' education in India was marked by a stark reality: classrooms that emptied out as girls reached adolescence, their potential curtailed by a complex web of social, economic, and cultural barriers. However, the past few decades have witnessed a significant, albeit uneven, transformation, a shift profoundly influenced by a sustained series of government-led educational policies. This article argues that to a significant and substantial extent, these policies have been the primary catalyst in boosting secondary school enrolment and curbing dropout rates among girls in India. It examines the pivotal role of targeted interventions such as the Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) scheme, which provided residential schools in educationally backward areas, and conditional cash transfer programs like the National Scheme of Incentive to Girls for Secondary Education (NSIGSE), which directly mitigated the economic opportunity costs for families. Furthermore, the analysis explores how broader initiatives like the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) and the Right to Education Act (RTE) created a more enabling ecosystem through infrastructure improvements, including gender-segregated toilets, and a strengthened legal framework. While acknowledging the persistent challenges of deep-rooted social norms, safety concerns, and questions surrounding educational quality that limit the absolute efficacy of policy, the article concludes that governmental action has been decisive in dismantling key barriers, demonstrating a clear and measurable correlation between strategic policy implementation and the advancement of female secondary education in India.
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creator: Svara Kasliwal
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-10-21
publication date: 2025-10-21
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.17403442

Liquid Biopsy in Cancer: Advances, Clinical Applications, and Future Directions
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description: Liquid biopsy has emerged as a minimally invasive approach for cancer detection, monitoring, and treatment guidance. It enables the analysis of tumor-derived components circulating in body fluids such as blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid. These include circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), cell-free DNA (cfDNA), and circulating tumor cells (CTCs), which can provide important insights into tumor heterogeneity, disease progression, and therapeutic resistance. This article discusses the principles of liquid biopsy and highlights the latest technologies used for its analysis, including next-generation sequencing (NGS), droplet digital PCR, and advanced molecular profiling techniques. The clinical applications of liquid biopsy covered in this review include early detection of cancer in healthy and high-risk individuals, real-time monitoring of treatment response, detection of drug resistance, assessment of minimal residual disease, and prognosis prediction. In addition, liquid biopsy provides a unique advantage by capturing material shed from multiple metastatic sites, thereby offering a broader view of tumor diversity compared to traditional biopsies. Limitations such as low biomarker abundance in early disease and confounding factors like clonal hematopoiesis are also addressed. In conclusion, liquid biopsy represents a transformative tool in precision oncology, offering dynamic and repeatable insights that can improve early diagnosis, personalized therapy, and long-term disease management. Future perspectives include expanding its use to other body fluids and integrating multi-omic and artificial intelligence approaches for greater clinical accuracy.
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creator: Ayman Yakubbhai Mansuri
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-09-28
publication date: 2025-09-28
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.17217990

The Effect of Social Media on Consumer Behaviour in Dubai
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description: This study explores the influence of social media on consumer behavior in Dubai, a cosmopolitan city with a diverse and affluent population. Using survey data from a varied demographic sample, the research examined platform preferences, purchasing habits, and attitudes toward online marketing. Findings indicate that social media plays a significant role in shaping brand engagement and customer loyalty, with platforms such as Instagram and WhatsApp emerging as dominant spaces for consumer interaction. E-commerce and quick commerce platforms also showed strong integration into daily consumer practices, particularly when paired with promotional incentives. Discounts, convenience, and quality were identified as primary motivators of purchase decisions, while fashion trends and peer recommendations further reinforced buying behavior. Although influencer endorsements had a limited impact, peer recommendations were highly persuasive, highlighting the role of trust and personal experience in consumer decision-making. Overall, the study suggests that Dubai consumers are highly active on social media, yet their purchasing decisions remain anchored in tangible value propositions, underscoring the need for brands to balance digital engagement strategies with value-driven offerings to foster long-term loyalty.
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creator: Arjun Krishnani
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-09-25
publication date: 2025-09-25
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.17198730

The Nexus Between Financial Literacy and Consumption–Savings Patterns: Behavioral and Socioeconomic Insights
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description: Financial literacy is increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of economic resilience, yet its critical link to the everyday financial decisions of saving and spending remains underexplored in the complex urban environment of India. This article investigates how key competencies, including practical budgeting, an understanding of compounding interest, credit awareness, risk assessment, and the implications of inflation, directly shape financial behavior among a diverse sample of Mumbai residents. Drawing on questionnaire data from multiple age and income groups, the analysis examines whether theoretical knowledge translates into tangible action, namely disciplined saving and controlled consumption, or if it is overshadowed by behavioral biases and structural pressures. Situating these behavioral patterns within Mumbai’s high-cost, high-inflation context allows the study to highlight specific gaps in applying knowledge and to pinpoint opportunities for targeted, context-aware financial education that addresses the real-world challenges faced by urban Indians. Keywords: Financial literacy; Savings behavior; Spending patterns; Credit awareness; Inflation; Compound interest; Mumbai case study
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creator: Aniket Srivastava
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-09-25
publication date: 2025-09-25
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.17198699

Quantitative Validation of Fibonacci Patterning in Pineapple Phyllotaxis
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description: This study provides a quantitative, reproducible analysis of the Fibonacci structures alongside the Golden ratio within Ananas Comosus (Pineapple) using calibrated ImageJ measurements and a Python program alongside it. Three mature pineapples of different sizes were photographed under controlled conditions, and their interscale distances alongside the number of visible spirals have been calculated. We then compared these measurements to the theoretical expectations derived from the golden ratio and evaluated the proximity of both the Fibonacci and Lucas sequences. Our results support the hypothesis that pineapple scale arrangements tend towards Fibonacci structures, with occasional anomalies toward Lucas numbers. We discuss the biological mechanisms that form these regularities, and we outline the limitations of our methodology for further work.
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creator: Shrey Nautiyal
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-09-25
publication date: 2025-09-25
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.17198642

Influenced Minds: The Psychology Behind Social Media and Consumer Choices in Mumbai
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description: Social media refers to digital platforms that allow users to create, share, and engage with content across a wide audience. Social Networking Sites (SNSs), such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, have become powerful tools not only for communication but also for marketing and influencing consumer behaviour. These platforms enable hyper-targeted advertising, influencer collaborations, interactive engagement formats, and peer-driven product recommendations. The emotional connections users form with brands on social media, combined with psychological triggers such as FOMO (fear of missing out), trust, and reputation, have significantly altered online purchasing behaviour. The study is an examination of how social media impacts buying decisions among consumers in Mumbai city, famous for its diversity, internet acumen, and high concentration of e-commerce shoppers. Being a high-penetration internet urban hub with a mix of traditional and contemporary consumer culture, Mumbai presents a special context to study how online interaction influences consumer behaviour. This research explores how factors such as influencer marketing, user-generated content, emotional engagement, and social endorsement influence brand loyalty and purchasing behaviour in this urban environment.
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creator: Zaena Lakhani
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-08-27
publication date: 2025-08-27
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.16958332

Empowering Women through Microfinance: A Study of Its Impact in India
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description: Self-help groups (SHGs) have played a pivotal role in empowering women in India by offering a collective platform for social support, financial access, and community participation. This article explores the evolution, significance, and impact of SHGs and microfinance initiatives, with a focus on enhancing women's economic status and agency in rural India. By enabling marginalized women to improve their livelihoods and gain social recognition, SHGs have contributed to poverty reduction, financial inclusion, and grassroots development. The paper traverses the historical development of microfinance in India, analyzes the theoretical framework behind SHG formation, and integrates multiple perspectives to assess their functioning and long-term impact. Comparative analyses of microcredit and microsaving models are presented, alongside a discussion of institutional case studies such as SEWA Bank and Kudumbashree. In addition, the paper evaluates dynamic risk and default behavior in SHGs and offers an overview of relevant mathematical models used to analyze financial sustainability. Despite the sector’s measurable contributions, challenges such as high interest rates, borrower over-indebtedness, and the need for stronger regulatory oversight persist. Looking ahead, community-based innovations like KIVA and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) suggest the potential for integrated, locally driven approaches to address systemic financial and social challenges. Ultimately, the study positions microfinance not as a standalone solution, but as a critical component of a broader, inclusive development strategy aimed at achieving gender equity and sustainable rural transformation.
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creator: Swasti Loya
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-08-16
publication date: 2025-08-16
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.16885350

Toward a Sustainable Battery Future: Comparative Review of Lithium and Its Alternatives for Grid Storage
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description: Lithium-ion batteries currently dominate the market for energy storage due to their high energy density, fast charge/discharge rates, and long cycle life. However, deploying them at a large grid scale is significantly hindered by very high production costs, environmental impact, and reliance on scarce raw materials. Due to these challenges, there is an increasing demand for a low-cost and environmentally friendlier alternative. The article outlines the key electrochemical properties that make lithium so uniquely effective and reviews the drawbacks that limit its large-scale viability. The existing alternatives (eg, NaIB, ZEBRA, VRFBs, etc.) are explored in terms of how they work and their electrochemical properties in comparison to LiIBs, and the unique challenges that each alternative face that makes it unviable to replace LiIBs. This review considers emerging battery technologies and future directions in grid storage. By combining the information from recent scholarly literature, this article evaluates the readiness of each technology for commercial use and explores potential directions leading to a post-LiIB storage future.
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creator: Aaryan Shailendra Sainani
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-07-29
publication date: 2025-07-29
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.16552160

Triggering the Buy: A Study on Impulse Purchasing Behavior and Consumption Patterns in Mumbai
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description: In a city like Mumbai - India’s financial capital - pulsing with advertisements, both digital and in-store retail mega-giants, impulse buying has become more than just a mere habit. Today, with the various marketing strategies employed by retailers, and, together with growing economic stability and digital convenience-based payments, impulse buying has become a reflection of Mumbai’s bustling retail culture. This study explores impulse buying and consumption patterns among Mumbai residents through a mixed methodology approach, combining primary research data obtained from a questionnaire with secondary sources such as academic literature. Together with the empirical data and secondary sources, the research paper reveals key triggers of impulse purchases, including both physical and emotional triggers. Key findings highlight that while younger consumers are more akin to impulse buying, middle-aged consumers are also driven towards impulse spending through factors like income level, credit loans, lifestyle, and access to digital platforms.
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creator: Celine Pinto
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-07-27
publication date: 2025-07-27
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.16455549

A Study on Food Insecurity Among School-Age Children: A Cross-Cultural Perspective
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description: Food insecurity continues to be a pressing global issue, impeding socioeconomic development and disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, especially children. According to recent UNICEF reports, malnourished children facing food insecurity urgently require long-term humanitarian aid and government policy reforms that ensure access to essential services such as food, clean water, shelter, education, protection, and healthcare. This article explores the multifaceted nature of food insecurity, examining its root causes, including climate change, economic instability, political corruption, and conflict, and delves into various methods for assessing malnutrition, such as Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC), Body Mass Index (BMI), SD-Z scores, and the presence of edema. Drawing upon original data and BMI analysis, the study proposes comprehensive, sector-specific strategies for combating food insecurity. Key recommendations include enhancing agricultural productivity through vertical farming, reducing food wastage, optimizing food distribution systems, and implementing robust policy measures. Additionally, the article emphasizes the critical roles of technology, education, and community-based initiatives in building resilient food systems. Through an integrated and data-backed approach, this article offers actionable pathways toward achieving sustainable food security.
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creator: H. Jatin Vikash
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-07-21
publication date: 2025-07-21
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.16230614

Osteoporosis-Related Fractures- Burden, Risk Factors, and Preventive Strategies
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description: Osteoporosis is a progressive skeletal disorder characterized by decreased bone mass and structural deterioration, leading to increased fracture risk, particularly in the wrist, hip, and spine. It is most prevalent among postmenopausal women due to hormonal changes and lower peak bone mass. The condition arises when the rate of bone resorption exceeds bone formation, a process influenced by both modifiable (e.g., diet, smoking, exercise) and non-modifiable (e.g., age, genetics, sex) risk factors. Although fractures related to osteoporosis, especially hip fractures, pose a significant economic and health burden, they are often undiagnosed until after injury. Screening techniques such as DXA and pQCT, along with mechanical tests like torsion analysis, can aid in early detection, though no single method reliably identifies all at-risk individuals. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is effective in reducing bone loss but remains controversial due to its associated cancer risk. Non-HRT treatments, including bisphosphonates, calcium, vitamin D, and calcitonins, offer alternative prevention strategies. Prevention remains the most effective approach, emphasizing adequate nutrition, regular weight-bearing exercise, and avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol. While irreversible once bone strength is lost, early identification of risk factors and timely interventions, particularly around menopause, can significantly reduce the impact of osteoporosis and enhance long-term quality of life.
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creator: Shanaya Shah
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-07-19
publication date: 2025-07-19
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.16136613

Navigating the Atmosphere and Beyond: The Role of Aerodynamic Chemistry in Modern Spacecraft Propulsion
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description: The development and selection of materials used in aircraft construction have undergone significant evolution since the dawn of aviation. Early aircraft were primarily constructed from wood and fabric, but as performance demands increased, so did the need for stronger, lighter, and more durable materials. New aerospace materials must be created to tolerate greater temperatures, stronger forces, and be utilized over a longer period of time. The concerns include greater usage of aerospace materials that allow for lighter yet equally strong compositions, better fatigue resistance capabilities, and new thermal stabilities for better engine systems and hypersonic velocities. This article reviews the progression of aerospace materials, from aluminum alloys and titanium to modern composites such as carbon-fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP). Each material’s mechanical properties, weight-to-strength ratios, corrosion resistance, and manufacturing considerations are analyzed in the context of their application in airframes, engines, and control surfaces. The study also investigates how advancements in material science have contributed to improvements in fuel efficiency, structural integrity, and aerodynamic performance. Furthermore, the environmental impact and lifecycle sustainability of traditional and modern materials are discussed.
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creator: Ahyaan Bondre
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-07-19
publication date: 2025-07-19
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.16133825

The Psychological and Immune Effects of Stress
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description: Stress is a multifaceted biopsychosocial response triggered by demanding or threatening situations, activating complex psychological and physiological mechanisms. This article provides a comprehensive overview of stress, with a particular focus on chronic stress, its underlying biology, and broad-ranging implications. It distinguishes between acute and chronic stress, examining the physiological and neurological responses, especially the central role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the consequences of cortisol dysregulation, such as immune suppression and systemic inflammation. The review delves into the psychological and emotional consequences of chronic stress, including its links to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), while also discussing how chronic stress alters brain structures like the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, impairing cognitive function and emotional regulation. Behavioral and social effects are explored, such as maladaptive coping strategies, increased aggression, social withdrawal, and interpersonal conflicts. Stress is no longer viewed as a short-term, adaptive mechanism but as a chronic condition deeply embedded in modern life. The shift from acute to chronic stress reflects broader lifestyle and environmental changes that make effective coping more difficult and long-term consequences more severe. Finally, the article reviews current interventions and coping strategies, highlighting both individual and systemic challenges in stress management. It emphasizes the need for accessible, evidence-based approaches that address emotional, cognitive, and social dimensions of stress. The conclusion calls for integrated mental health policies and proactive support systems to reduce the burden of chronic stress and enhance collective well-being across different sectors of society.
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creator: Safwaa Ameer Bondre
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-07-19
publication date: 2025-07-19
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.16131605

Gut Feelings: How Microbes Make Your Mind
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description: The human gut is a complex ecosystem inhabited by trillions of microorganisms that play a fundamental role in maintaining overall health, including immune function, digestion, and metabolism. Beyond these well-known functions, emerging research reveals that gut microbes also actively produce neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers such as serotonin, dopamine, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and acetylcholine, which are critical for brain function. These neurotransmitters regulate mood, cognition, and behavior, highlighting a direct link between gut microbiota and mental health. The gut and brain communicate bidirectionally through the gut-brain axis, a network involving the vagus nerve, hormonal signaling, and immune pathways. This connection allows gut bacteria to influence brain activity and emotional states. For instance, certain probiotic strains have been shown to increase serotonin production, which may alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Conversely, disruptions in gut microbial diversity, often caused by poor diet, stress, or antibiotics, have been linked to neuropsychiatric disorders, including major depressive disorder and autism spectrum disorders. Recognizing the profound impact of gut microbiota on mental health, scientists are exploring microbiome-targeted therapies, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary modifications, as potential treatments for neurological conditions. Future research aims to identify specific bacterial strains that can modulate neurotransmitter levels, paving the way for personalized mental health interventions. This review helps in understanding that this intricate relationship could revolutionize how we approach mental well-being, shifting focus toward gut health as a key factor in brain function and emotional regulation.
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creator: Diya Patel
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-18
publication date: 2025-06-18
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.15689087

The Rising Tide of Electric Vehicles: A True Environmental Solution or a Hidden Problem?
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description: Over the past few decades, the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has surged, driven by the belief that they significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, EVs contribute far less to air pollution, positioning them as a cleaner alternative. However, a critical question remains: Are EVs truly solving the problem of air pollution, or are they simply replacing it with another set of environmental challenges? Most current research highlights well-known drawbacks of EVs, such as their high upfront cost, uneven distribution of charging infrastructure, and battery recycling hurdles. Yet, there are deeper, often overlooked environmental consequences tied to their production, energy sourcing, and end-of-life disposal. This study delves into these hidden impacts, shedding light on the lesser-discussed ecological harms of EVs, and proposes sustainable solutions that could benefit both society and the planet.
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creator: H. Jatin Vikash Vikash
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-12
publication date: 2025-06-12
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.15651344

Avian Flight Mechanics: A Synergy of Biology and Physics
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description: Avian flight mechanics represent a remarkable evolutionary achievement. Numerous technological advancements have drawn inspiration from the flight capabilities of birds. This ability to fly is made possible through a sophisticated interplay of anatomical structures, aerodynamic principles, and specialized muscular adaptations. This article aims to review the physics and mechanics underlying avian flight. It explores skeletal adaptations such as the keel, furcula, and the presence of lightweight, hollow bones, as well as key flight muscles like the pectoralis and supracoracoideus. The review also delves into the complex dynamics of wing movement during upstroke and downstroke, emphasizing the critical role of wing shape and size in generating lift. Furthermore, it highlights the evolutionary transition of birds from their dinosaur ancestors, who initially developed gliding capabilities as a means of predator evasion, eventually leading to powered flight. By integrating biological and physical perspectives, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of how birds achieve and sustain flight.
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creator: Desai Moksh
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-03
publication date: 2025-06-03
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.15580911

Unleashing the Power of Social Media: Insights from Hyderabad's Consumer Engagement and Modern Marketing Strategies
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description: This study explores the transformative impact of social media marketing on consumer engagement and purchasing behaviors, with a particular focus on Hyderabad, India. By leveraging interactive and adaptable features, social media platforms enable businesses to shape consumer buying intentions, foster direct interactions, and enhance profitability. The research investigates how social media, as a contemporary marketing tool, has reshaped traditional marketing strategies, offering businesses a powerful platform to engage with diverse demographic groups. Using Hyderabad as a case study, the study examines the influence of social media on the city's varied population across different age groups, reflecting on how the growing adoption of online trends has influenced consumer behavior. The findings suggest that social media marketing has become a cornerstone of modern marketing, enabling companies to refine strategies, build customer trust, and drive long-term business growth.
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creator: Snigdha Jasthi
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-01
publication date: 2025-06-01
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.15580991

Introduction to Health Care Projects Instituted by the Government of India
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description: This paper examines three pivotal Healthcare Schemes in India – Ayushman Bharat, Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), and the Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) program. While Ayushman Bharat strives to broaden healthcare access, PMMVY addresses maternal health and ASHA facilitates community healthcare. The paper discusses the challenges faced by these schemes, including awareness gaps, administrative complexities, and resource constraints. These initiatives underscore the government's commitment to well-being, but their success hinges on collaborative efforts to overcome obstacles and create a healthier, more equitable society.
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creator: Muskaan Gupta
creator: Varsha Lisa John
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research
date: 2024-01-30
publication date: 2024-01-30
starting page: 12
ending page: 12
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.10653439

The Rise of the Antibiotic Resistance Crisis
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description: The evolution of modern medicine and the rise of antibiotics revolutionized the treatment of bacterial infections. Alexander Fleming's accidental discovery of penicillin in 1929 marked a significant moment in medical history, commencing a new era where once-fatal diseases became manageable. However, the misuse of antibiotics, driven by a misconception that they work against viral infections, has led to a global crisis of antibiotic resistance. Bacteria naturally evolve mechanisms to withstand drugs, posing a threat to human health. Antibiotic resistance, categorized into restrictive drug uptake, target alteration, drug inactivation, and efflux pump, jeopardizes sectors like government, agriculture, and healthcare. The rise of superbugs, fast-spreading and incurable bacteria, poses a significant global health concern. The UN predicts over 10 million deaths by 2050 due to antibiotic resistance, surpassing annual cancer fatalities. The economic disincentive for pharmaceutical companies to develop new antibiotics greatly worsens the problem. A potential solution lies in creating an economic case for sustainable investment and incentivizing antibiotic innovation. Antibiotic resistance surveillance, clinical guidelines, and public awareness efforts contribute to mitigating the crisis. However, without conscious global efforts and collaboration among stakeholders, the crisis will never come to an end.
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creator: Sharanya Raman
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Epistemia-Journal of High School Research
date: 2024-01-29
publication date: 2024-01-29
starting page: 08
ending page: 08
doi: 10.5281/zenodo.10579472