Symposium on Science, Technology and Health

Mukilan Narayanamoorthy
M.S. in Cybersecurity
Katz School of Science and Health

M. Harish, D. Suresh Kumar and Dr. Angel Latha Mary
Karpagam College of Engineering

Abstract: This project aimed to identify the most secure and efficient approach to user authentication for social networking sites. As technology use increases rapidly across the globe, the number of active social media users has reached 3.7 billion within just the last three years. This increasing demand urges social networking companies to introduce more and better security mechanisms to protect the authenticity of their users. Several companies have introduced two-step verification mechanisms like verification codes and graphical passwords, but these can easily be compromised with simple techniques like sim hijacking. To create a more secure environment, this paper proposes a two-factor facial-recognition authentication engine using a dHash algorithm.

Benjamin Cohen
M.S. in Data Analytics and Visualization

Abstract: This project aimed to apply deep learning methods to classify audio data. Traditionally, audio classification has been studied by manually selecting features from spectrograms. However, in the past few years, a lot of interest has been raised about how deep learning can make this process more effective. This project applied deep learning methods to speech emotion recognition (the ability to discern a person’s emotions solely from their tone of voice). To do this, we gathered a base dataset of approximately 1400 audio clips, labeled as angry or not angry; augmented the dataset using a generative model; and then used transfer learning with a pre-trained Yamnet model to predict whether the clip was angry or not. Ultimately, our predictions achieved accuracy greater than 90 percent. This work demonstrates that deep learning approaches work well with audio data, and even with limited data, as it is possible to augment datasets.

Anam Khalid
M.S. in Biotechnology Management and Entrepreneurship
Katz School of Science and Health

Abstract: This project, conducted on behalf of early-stage biotechnology company GritBio, explored the market potential and commercialization feasibility for LIGRECA, GritBio’s proposed antibody drug conjugate (ADC) treatment for hypopharyngeal cancer. This paper presents a market analysis, commercialization strategy and financial implications for the successful development and commercialization of GritBio’s new treatment. Specific recommendations include that GritBio apply for fast-track FDA approval, partner with a CDMO for manufacturing, prioritize sales and marketing and consider mergers and acquisitions with larger companies to expedite R&D, bypass competition and reduce cost.

Benjamin Goykadosh
M.A. in Physics
Katz School of Science and Health

Fredy Zypman
Physics Department Chair
Katz School of Science and Health and Yeshiva College

Abstract: In this project, we propose a theoretical method to recover the energy and force vs. indentation curves produced by deformation using an Atomic Force Microscope. Currently, there are many methods to determine the forces and energy necessary to deform cells. These methods, however, are slow and require testing outside of the body. Our theory depends on parameters such as Young’s Modulus, object length and Poisson’s ratio, which are obtained by fitting our mathematical expressions to experimental force vs. indentation curves. Our results provide a systematic way to measure those material parameters in general and, in particular, in soft matter where the materials are highly heterogeneous and their properties are often dependent on external stresses.

Hannah Kraitberg, Tomer Mendler, Jingyuan Wang, Panxinyue Zhang and Linyu Zheng
M.S. in Digital Marketing and Media
Katz School of Science and Health

Abstract: In this collaborative project, the Katz School's digital marketing and media team developed a comprehensive brand and marketing strategy for Adbot, a startup company aiming to change the way YouTube creators monetize. The resulting strategy leverages deep customer and competitor insights as well as the company’s business purpose and differentiators. The strategy also combines all relevant marketing channels. It provides a roadmap to steer Adbot’s successful brand development and a clear framework for reaching Adbot’s target audience, including details on planned activity and the relevant methods of communication.

Jonathan E. Taub
M.S. in Biotechnology Management and Entrepreneurship
Katz School of Science and Health

Abstract: This project, conducted on behalf of therapeutics startup GritBio, aimed to understand the market landscape for a novel topical treatment of Actinic keratosis (AK). Incidence of AK remains underestimated, and AK management may soon become a public health issue due to aging populations and the risks of transformation to squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). While there are numerous treatment options for AK, no data have been published regarding the overall effectiveness of these therapies. Immunocompromised AK and SCC sufferers, particularly those with transplants, might find even more restricted treatment options in a crowded therapeutic field, as current treatments fail to address their increased vulnerability to toxic side effects. GritBio proposes a combination of two drugs—miltefosine and carmofur—in a novel composition for topical administration for the treatment of AK, which would provide the requisite cytotoxicity without the attendant adverse effects on immune cells. This project provides background on AK classification, existing treatment options and the potential market for GritBio’s new treatment option. Findings suggest a large potential market for GritBio’s proposed treatment, particularly among transplant and immunosuppressed patients.

Manveet Singh Nanda
M.S. in Biotechnology Management and Entrepreneurship
Katz School of Science and Health

Shanza Baseer Tariq
M.S. in Biotechnology Management and Entrepreneurship
Katz School of Science and Health

Abstract: This study aimed to show that KAP1 regulates SUMOylation in testicular Sertoli cells. The molecular regulation of Sertoli cells and their crosstalk with germ cells has not been fully characterized. Small-ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMO) proteins are essential for normal sperm development and are expressed in mouse and human Sertoli cells. However, the cell-specific role of SUMOylation in those cells has only started to be elucidated. In other cell types, including granulosa cells, SUMOylation is regulated by a SUMO ligase KAP1/Trim28. Deletion of KAP1 in Sertoli cells causes testicular degeneration. However, the role of KAP1 in those cells has not been identified. The results of this study show that both murine and human Sertoli cells undergo apoptosis upon inhibition of SUMOylation with a chemical inhibitor or via a siRNA technology, coupled with changes in the Sertoli cell proteome. Findings suggest that, among others, the expression of ER/stress-related proteins is highly affected by this inhibition. SUMOylation may also regulate the NOTCH signaling , which is important for the maintenance of the developing germ cells. Furthermore, siRNA-down-regulation of KAP1 in a Sertoli-derived cell line causes an almost complete inactivation of SUMOylation. In conclusion, SUMOylation regulates important survival and signaling pathways in Sertoli cells, and KAP1 can be a major regulator of SUMOylation in these cells.

Kevin Suckiel
M.S. in Cybersecurity

Abstract: This study explored the application of Capture the Flag (CTF) events as an instructional approach in cybersecurity and information security (IS) curricula. In a classroom environment, technical skills can sometimes be overshadowed by theoretical knowledge. CTF events remove those barriers by allowing cybersecurity and IS students to use any tools in their arsenal to complete challenges related to the subject matter. CTF challenges range in difficulty and give students a snapshot of problems they may face in the real world. While CTF events are commonly used in the professional arena, they are often overlooked in academic settings because they are considered too gamified. In this project, we hypothesized that incorporating CTF events into the core IS and cybersecurity curriculum could promote students' learning and ultimately increase their chance of employment. The findings of this preliminary study support the use of CTF events as an instructional approach to support cybersecurity and IS students’ learning. Further research is warranted.

Brian Livian
M.A. in Mathematics
Katz School of Science and Health

Atreish Ramlakhan
M.S. in Artificial Intelligence
Katz School of Science and Health

Aishwarya Singh
M.S. in Artificial Intelligence
Katz School of Science and Health

Abstract: This collaborative project between ’s Katz School of Science and Health and S&P Global Market Intelligence sought to quantify the financial effects of tropical cyclones on the U.S. real estate market. Using hurricane data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), and proprietary real estate trust data from S&P databases, we analyzed the growing impact of tropical cyclones in the United States as well as the relationships between climate change and Real Estate Investment Trust (REITs) financial losses. The analysis shows a relationship between the increasing frequency of hurricanes and the financial impact on RIETs, suggesting that REIT owning companies should invest in property risk mitigation expenditures before significant damage is done to their assets by tropical cyclones.

Marsha Firmin
M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology
Katz School of Science and Health

Abstract: This paper provides a review of scholarly sources aiming to identify the possible effects of dual language exposure for individuals with central auditory processing disorder (CAPD). CAPD is a cognitively and auditorily demanding deficit affecting a person's ability to internally process sounds. It becomes increasingly difficult for an individual with CAPD to isolate, process, and/or comprehend sounds in overwhelming listening situations. Dual language exposure is also cognitively and auditorily demanding; however, research has shown it to be advantageous, stimulating auditory processing and increasing processing effectiveness in demanding listening situations. Based on a review of literature, it was found that for individuals with CAPD, dual language exposure may be more of a hindrance than a benefit, potentially leading to confusion in either language. In addition to specifying potential consequences and benefits, this paper provides implications for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) working with individuals concerned.

Morgan Rosman
M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology
Katz School of Science and Health

Abstract: The purpose of this literature review was to explore studies discussing the effects of societal changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic on children’s expressive language development. Relevant studies addressed the effects of mask wearing on communication; the effects of providing speech-language pathology services remotely via tele-practice; and revised CDC milestones for children’s speech, language and literacy development. These societal changes have implications for the diagnosis and treatment of speech and language disorders. Further research is warranted to determine the extent of these effects as well as implications on children’s expressive language abilities after the COVID-19 pandemic.