MAGAZINE

the
bulleteen

Orsa
WEBSITE

@thebulleteen
[Link]

issue 1 JULY 2024

 from the
editor’s desk
T he first issue of the Bulleteen, “Orsa”, which means "New Beginnings" in Latin, is true to its
name in every way. It is always the image of a plant blooming from the hardships it went through as
a seed that conjures in our minds when we think of new beginnings. The Big Bang, the first cry of a
newborn child, every eureka after a discovery and every change that has ever occurred all
throughout time helps us realise that good and bad things alike start and continue to flourish in the
pages of the Book of Time. With these thoughts in mind, The Bulleteen starts its journey with this
first issue.

Issue 1 heralds the start of an informative and inclusive student-led publication with teenagers from
over 10 countries at the present moment. This first issue introduces STEM to our readers through
the favourite topics of our writers. Ranging from topics such as preserving history through
technology to gender bias in STEM and STEM cells and the SPARROW algorithm, the articles bring a
fresh perspective to many STEM topics and their insertions with other disciples.

The Bulleteen aims to increase the STEM participation of teenagers in an era where discoveries are
made frequently and the world evolves faster than ever. Introduction to nuanced and niche STEM
topics for everyone, even teenagers who do not intend to pursue STEM in their later years, is
important now more than ever and we here at the Bulleteen are to do just that. We implore you to
increase your curiosity and hope that this publication will aid you in doing so. Enjoy reading,
understanding, learning and living through our issue!

Yours Truly,
Rhea Agrawal
Editor-In-Chief and Director of the Bulleteen
 table of
contents

01 05 09
Science Isn’t Neutral, Are Our Minds at Risk Overcoming
Actually Of Being Replaced By Stereotypes for Women
By Teela Steinert, p. 3 Technology? in STEM
By Lasya Revuri, p. 11 By Aiza Ahmad, p. 17

02
The Reign of Numbers: 06 10
Data is Shaping Digital Addition Anxiety: A Biological
Our Lives By Chang Lu, pp. 12-14 Perspective
By Teela Steinert, p. 3 By Maryam Asim, pp. 18-19
07
03 SPARROW: The Most 11
History Reimagined: Promising Algorithm of Illuminating Pathways:
How Tech is Bringing the Century? Empowering Future
the Past to Life By Eashan Rautaray, p. 15 Generations Through
By Khansa Aamer, pp. 4-5 Eco-Literacy
08 By Oluwapelumi Solagbade, pp. 20-22

04 Antisense Technology:
Stem Cells: The Basics Revolutionizing Gene
By Lasya Revuri, pp. 6-10 Therapy
By Lasya Revuri, P. 16
 The Reign of
Numbers: Data is
Shaping Our Lives
Nowadays, numbers have become more powerful than ever.
Data Analysis is used in every part of our day-to-day-lives, from
corporate decision-making to personal self-tracking. This "reign

Science Isn’t
of numbers" is transforming society and individuals alike,
promising clarity and control, yet often merely subjecting
individuals to the interests of those who control the data.

Neutral, Actually. Transforming Work

People analytics is becoming increasingly common in large
STEM fields are commonly considered the purest form companies. It describes the usage of data to monitor workers’
of objectivity. They are believed to uncover universal performances by collecting huge amounts of data on employee
and unbiased insights into the workings of the natural behavior, productivity and engagement. This data is then
world. However, feminist theory offers a more analyzed to optimize work processes and improve efficiency.
nuanced perspective. It suggests that science is
shaped by the underlying assumptions and When people analytics is used for decision-making about hiring
perspectives of those conducting it. and promoting workers, biases in the training data or
algorithms can cause and perpetuate inequalities. Another
An example of this is given by the advances Barbara criticism is the lack of employees privacy. Extensive use of
McClintock made in the field of genetics. Until then, keyloggers and other monitoring can lead to feelings of
DNA was considered the main decisive and steering constant surveillance, stress, and anxiety. These measure
factor in cellular organization. McClintock broke with become impossible to escape, especially once people analytics
this paradigm, proposing a more holistic framework becomes more wide spread. Platform workers are facing the
that considers environmental influences as well as reality of algorithmic control already today
interactive processes. In 1983, McClintock was
awarded a Nobel Price for her groundbreaking work.
Illusion of Control
According to Evelyn Fox Keller, the misconception that On a personal level, self-tracking technologies are pretending to
DNA alone exerts rational control over the chaotic help individuals to take control of their health and wellbeing.
nature of cells mirrors a broader tendency in modern Fitness trackers, smartwatches, health apps and alike
science to dominate nature through rationality. Keller’s encourage users to track anything from physical activities and
feminist analysis reveals a connection to patriarchal sleep patterns to heart rates and their diets. This constant flow
ideas. Historically, traits such rationality and objectivity of data should allow individuals to make informed decisions
were associated with masculinity, while women were about their lifestyle and health. Yet, goals for weight, heartrate,
considered emotional and closer to nature. speed, calorie-intakes and so on are based on societal and
Consequently, science itself reflects these gendered algorithmic norms rather than individual needs. The perceived
biases and assumptions. control through self-tracking turns into a mean of subjecting
oneself to cultural ideals and algorithms. All to often, the
As McClintock’s example shows, changing the interests of corporations and organizations providing the
underlying assumptions made in science is not only a software are underestimated.
matter of inclusion but a matter of the validity of
science in general. There is no clear distinction
between researcher and researched, subject and
Moving Forward
object. Our experiences and the systems we operate in From optimizing workplace performance to improving personal
limit the insights we can have. For genetic researchers, health: data analysis offers huge opportunities. However,
it had been simply impossible to phantom an drawbacks and risks cannot be neglected. The reign of numbers
organism without a rational control center. comes alongside with biases, breaches of privacy, and
Acknowledging this situative nature of knowledge is corporate interests. Before we submit to the power of data,
what Keller calls dynamic objectivity. According to her, broader impacts on society and individuals must be considered,
embracing dynamic objectivity and aiming to ensuring that striving for efficiency does not come at the
understand rather than dominate allows us to start expense of democracy and humanity.
doing science not as a masculine, but as a human
project.

3
the bulleteen
HISTORY
REIMAGINED: HOW
TECH IS BRINGING
THE PAST TO LIFE
In the immersive world of the digital age, gone are the day when preserving history was a mere process of poring over
ancient documents, fragile scrolls, and dusty artifacts. Technology is rewriting the rules on how we preserve our history
and connect with it; from digitizing archives to virtual tours of ancient places, innovation and technology are the new
guardians of safeguarding our history and heritage.
 Digital Archives
and Libraries
Have you ever come across a faded photograph or document and
wondered about the story it holds? Here, digital archives and libraries
come to the rescue. With the help of digital archives and libraries, we
can ensure the longevity and accessibility of a vast array of information
by digitizing and electronically storing pictures, documents,
manuscripts, and even videos! Digital archives are mainly hosted on
websites, allowing users to navigate and find what they need easily and
efficiently. Removing the need to travel physically to a specific location,
users can benefit from interactive features like annotation and
comments. Many illustrious institutions:, such as the Metropolitan
Museum of Art, are leading the change. The Met's digital collection
consist of high resolution images of fashion artwork, along
with articles and catalogs. With one click of
a finger, users can dive into a trove
of historical treasures from anywhere
in the world – even from the comfort
of their living room.

Virtual Reality
Virtual Reality is transforming the monotonous history classes into time-travelling
quests. By digitally reconstructing sites, buildings, and events, VR offers an
innovative approach to learning and experiencing the past beyond the heavy
history books. With just a pair of VR goggles, users transported to meticulously
reconstructed historical sites. You can be a fly witnessing the Great War of
Panipat or a wealthy merchant roaming the Turkish Bazaar during the Ottoman
Empire -the choice is yours. These virtual environments are digitally constructed
with remarkable accuracy, offering insights to the public which are difficult to
grasp through textbooks and static displays. Furthermore, it not only provides
access to a greater audience, but also safeguards the physical integrity of fragile
artifacts from physical wear and tear. By leveraging VR technology, the future
generations can experience the stories of their ancestors in a more meaningful
way.

With the meticulous digitization of archives, precision of 3D scanning and printing,

and the interactive environments created by Virtual Reality, technology is
revolutionizing the preservation of history. These advancements not only provides a
meaningful experience to learn and study the wonders of history, but also safeguards
it for generations to come. As we continue to innovate, the stories and the heritage of
our ancestors will be preserved with unprecedented detail and preciseness, allowing us
to appreciate our rich heritage and be proud of it.

3D Scanning and Printing

Another wonder of modern technology, without the risk of damaging the original artifacts, including the infamous Rosetta
3-Dimensional scanning and printing, items. It allows an immersive experience Stone, and made the digital replica
has marked a new era in the for the researches, who can zoom on available to the audience for their
preservation of ancient artifacts. These the intricate details and study them studies and researches. Hence, the
technologies aren't just a fantasy; they without the risk of the physical wear and stories of yesterday are presented and
can produce accurate digital replicas of tear of the original. Moreover, any faults experienced in new ways with the use of
artifacts, capturing the size, shape, color, in the artifacts can be easily scanned innovative technologies, safeguarding
and texture of the original objects. and fixed by 3-D printing the missing the past for the future.
These replicas can be analyzed and parts. The British Museum has scanned
studied extensively numerous

5
the bulleteen
STEM CELLS:

THE BASICS
 WHAT ARE STEM
CELLS AND WHY
ARE THEY
IMPORTANT?

Pluripotent
Stem cells are like cookie dough that can cells into pluripotent stem cells
be turned into many different shapes (iPSCs), which behave like
and flavours of cookies. They can turn

Stem Cells
embryonic stem cells.
into many different types of cells in the

Adult
body for a variety of reasons, like to
regenerate a damaged tissue or in an
embryo to develop the baby. They are These can become ANY cell type in

Stem Cells
essential because they help us grow and the body! They include embryonic
repair our bodies. Researchers have stem cells (from early embryos) and
studied the various types of stem cells induced pluripotent stem cells
and classified them on the basis of their (iPSCs), which are made by These are found in specific tissues
potential, donor source and maturity. reprogramming adult cells to act like or organs and help repair and
The main differentiation potential embryonic stem cells. In early maintain those areas. They can
groups are Totipotent, Pluripotent, embryos, there are two main types of become specialised cells of that
Multipotent, Oligopotent and Unipotent. cells: the inner cell mass (which tissue or [Link] our
The various types of stem cells on the becomes the entire body) and the lifetime the adult stem cells act as a
basis of their maturity are Embryonic, trophectoderm (which forms the repair system for the body. They
Induced Pluripotent, Adult and placenta). Scientists learned how to replace cells lost through normal
Mesenchymal stem cells. The extract and grow stem cells from the wear and tear, injury, or disease.
researchers mainly focus on these cell inner cell mass of human embryos in These cells are found in many
types: 1998. And in 2006, they found a way organs and tissues and stay inactive
to reprogram adult until needed.

7
the bulleteen
 What Growing
Makes Stem Cells in
Stem the Lab
Cells
Unique? HowareStemCellsGrown?

1. Self Renewal
Stem cells can divide and create more stem
cells. Unlike muscle, blood, or nerve cells,
which don’t usually replicate, stem cells can
keep producing more cells. Understanding
how this process works is extremely crucial
for developing new treatments and growing
cells in the lab.

They are grown through Cell Culture. Stem cells are grown in lab
dishes with a nutrient-rich medium. They attach to the dish, divide, and
spread out. When the dish gets crowded, scientists move some cells to
new dishes (a process called subculturing). This can go on for months,
producing thousands and even millions of stem cells.

Howare
RegularCells
Reprogrammed?
2. Differentiation Scientists can turn regular cells, like skin
cells, back into pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)
Stem cells can become any type of cell in the
by forcing them to express specific genes.
body. Pluripotent stem cells can turn into
This process reverses their development,
any cell type, while adult stem cells
making them versatile again. Isn’t that
specialise in the tissue or organ they are
absolutely fascinating!
found in. Scientists are learning what signals
trigger these changes to better control cell
differentiation for therapies.

Howare
StemCells
Differentiated?
To make stem cells turn into specific types
of cells, scientists change the conditions in
the culture dish, like the chemicals in the
medium or the surface they grow on.
They may also modify the cell's genes.

8
the bulleteen
 01
Study normal
How and Why are human
Stem Cells Tested? development
Scientists test stem cells to ensure they have the right
properties. They check gene expression, cell division rates,
and aging
genome integrity, and the cell’s ability to differentiate. They
are tested for a variety of reasons such as:

02 03
Verify their Generate
fundamental healthy cells for
properties as regenerative
stem cells medicine

04 05
Test new To model
drugs for different
safety and diseases,
effectiveness etc.

9
the bulleteen
 HOW ARE STEM
CELLS USED IN
RESEARCH AND
THERAPY?
Understanding Cell-Based Current FDA-
Diseases and Therapies Approved Uses
Testing Drugs Stem cells could be used to generate
tissues and organs for transplants. While
adult stem cells are limited in number
Currently, the FDA and many other
administrations around the world have
approved only blood-forming stem cells
Scientists use stem cells to study how and renewal potential, pluripotent stem from cord blood for treating blood-
diseases develop and to test new drugs. cells offer a renewable source. The related disorders. Bone marrow is also
They can create small models of organs scientists, though, must ensure these used for such treatments but isn’t
(organoids) or tissue chips from patient- cells can proliferate, differentiate, regulated by the FDA in the same way.
derived iPSCs for personalised research. survive, integrate, avoid rejection, and
function properly for successful Stem cells hold great promise for future
therapies. therapies, but there is still much to
learn. The ongoing research is essential
to unlock their full potential.

10
the bulleteen
 ARE OUR MINDS AT
RISK OF BEING
REPLACED BY
TECHNOLOGY?
As AI evolves, the line between human intellect and machine intelligence becomes
increasingly blurred. Once confined to theoretical discussions, AI has now
integrated into various aspects of our lives, from education to medicine. AI-powered
tools assist in diagnosing diseases, creating websites, driving autonomous vehicles,
and curating our social media feeds. According to a survey by Authority Hacker
(2024), “72% of companies using AI believe it simplifies their jobs. (Mark Webster)”
indicating that a significant number of companies find AI beneficial in their work.
With such advancements, one might wonder: are we approaching a future where
machines can think and feel for us? In this article, we’ll explore how AI-powered
machines are becoming smarter, their capabilities compared to humans, and what
this means for the future.

Human Mind
imitating existing genres. This means
that AI cannot replicate the creative and
inventive processes that are specific to
Future
vs. Artificial humans.

This distinction means that while AI can

Advancements
Intelligence support decision-making, it frequently
needs human oversight to manage
emotions and moral dilemmas.
in AI
Neuralink:
The human brain is extraordinarily AI may grow even more intelligent and
adaptable. Experiences and emotions beneficial in the future. It may be able
can help it learn, memorize, and adapt. to converse with humans intelligibly and

Bridging
They are also capable of critical thought, human-like. AI could make learning
situation analysis, and innovative more enjoyable and individualized for
children. AI could help physicians

the Gap
problem-solving. This creativity comes
from a special combination of feelings, diagnose and treat patients more
experiences, and mental processes that rapidly. Self-driving vehicles may get
AI is not yet able to imitate. Individuals more popular and safer. AI may also
are capable of making snap decisions facilitate the creation of stories, music,
One of the most innovative
based on a "gut feeling," frequently and other artistic works, enhancing the
developments in this sector is
incorporating a lifetime of experiences. creative process.
Neuralink, an Elon Musk-founded
Which makes AI unsuitable for handling neurotechnology business. This private

Conclusion
social interaction and comprehending company was founded in 2016 and
human emotions. AI is also unable to promised that its brain implant would
comprehend intuition since it cannot help paraplegics move again and give
conclude past experiences or feelings. Although artificial intelligence (AI) and
blind individuals their sight back. Mr.
cutting-edge technologies like
Musk also announced Neuralink’s first
Even with its enhanced powers, artificial Neuralink are revolutionizing human
product, telepathy which will make
intelligence is not conscious or cognition and talents, the human
people capable of using their phone
selfaware. It cannot comprehend mind still possesses unique traits like
with the aid of their brain.
emotions or ethical issues; instead, it creativity, intuition, and emotional
makes decisions based only on data intelligence. Instead of replacing
This shows how technology can replace
and algorithms. Although AI can be human intelligence, these
parts of our brain, improve our physical
designed to behave morally, it lacks technologies are more likely to
condition, and enhance our cognitive
human moral reasoning. Artificial strengthen and augment it, paving
behavior. Neuralink is a prime example
intelligence cannot develop unique art the way for a time when AI and
of how technology may augment rather
or music; instead, it can produce it by humans collaborate to accomplish
than replace our minds by adding new
amazing feats.
functions and improving our innate
skills.

11
the bulleteen
 Symbolic Representation

DIGITAL
ADDITION The figures above shows the NOT, AND, and OR logic gates.
Adding a circle to the right of a gate inverts the signal.

Usage
Logic Gates Here is an XOR gate made up of these fundamental circuits:

History
Leibniz, in 1705, published the binary number system, which
laid the foundations to digital arithmetic and logic. Later,
Peirce first described the idea of electrical circuitry carrying out
operations in an 1886 letter. Here, logic gates are an
abstraction of a collection of MOS FETs. We also will omit
power and ground connections, which typically should be part
of a logic gate.

Asymptomatic
Notation There are two things we can analyze about the configuration:
the time it consumes and the space it consumes. The space it
consumes can be thought of as simply the number of logic
It is arguable both ways as to how much exactly a gate delay is, gates it has, but the time is a little harder to analyze.
and it is often cumbersome to decide between n² gate delays
and n² − 1 gate delays. Therefore, we’ll use asymptotic notation Consider the critical path to be the path of longest delay from
and denote both as Θ(n²). input to output. [20] One of the critical paths of the XOR gate is
highlighted in red:
Definition 4.1. Define f(n) ∈ Θ(g(n)), if and only if there exists
positive constants c₁ and c₂ such that there is a k satisfying f(x)
< c₁g(x) and c₂g(x) < f(x) for all x > k.

Example 4.2. Consider g(n) = 2ⁿ. g(n) ∈ Θ(g(n+1)), since we can

set c₁ = 3 and c₂ = 1. However, g(n) ̸∈ Θ(g(2n)) since we can set
x = max{log₂ (c₁), k + 1}.

Theorem 4.3. If f(n) ∈ Θ(F(n)) and g(n) ∈ Θ(G(n)), then f(n) +

g(n) ∈ Θ(F(n) + G(n)) and f(n) · g(n) ∈ Θ(F(n) · G(n)).

Proof. Let the constants for f(n) ∈ Θ(F(n)) be f₁, f₂, and fₖ, and
the constants for the other one be similarly g₁, g₂, and gₖ.
Taking c₁ = max{f₁, g₁}, c₂ = min{f₂, g₂}, and k = max{fₖ, gₖ} solves
both statements.
Counting the number of logic gates on that route yields 2 gate
Asymptotic Notation will prove to be essential when analyzing delays.
different ways to implementing addition using logic gates.

12
the bulleteen
Full Adders
This way takes Θ(n) space and Θ(n) time, Although this means that the calculation
where n is the number of bits we wish can proceed parallel, the two red arrows
to add. Later, we will look at schemes to are dependent. That is, the second
optimize this time. person depends on the result of the first
Composition person.
Each half adders adds two numbers to This is called the Ripple Carry Adder,
create a sum bit and a carry bit, since the carry ripples across each full This is analogous to reporters reporting
representing the sum of the two inputs. adder in the worst case: on an event. There are, say, two likely
(Figure 22) results of an event, and the reporter
would like to report on it as soon as
possible. Instead of waiting for the event
to conclude, the reporter can simply
draft up both versions beforehand and
then select one.

In our scenario, the second person can

carry out both possibilities of the carry
in at the same time and then use a
multiplexer to select the one needed.

In Figure 23, the red outlines show two

half adders chained together that have
an OR gate connecting the outputs. This
produces a Full Adder. (Figure 24)

(Note that often times a buffer is added

to the end to standardize the input,
which we have omitted. Additionally, the
effect of inaccuracies in the logic gates
are exaggerated.)

Carry Select
It is trivial to reach the conclusion that
both adders takes Θ(1) time.
Adder Using n/2 MUX gates, we can create an
n/2 bit MUX. Therefore, an adder could
Currently, what we have is n full adders look like this:
Usage chained together to create an n-bit
adder:
Suppose we wanted to add longer
integers. The easiest way is to chain
together multiple Full Adders. Figure 25
demonstrates a 4-bit adder computing
11 + 13 = 24. (The red wires are high,
while the grey wires are low.)

Suppose we can split the work among k

people, such that each person computes
n/k bits of the sum:

13
the bulleteen
Extending to 16 bits, it would be:

This has Θ(n) time complexity, since

you simply halved the time, but it
does no effect asymptotically.

However, by getting k people instead

of just 2, we can optimize this further.
Except here, we actually have to create replicas of each sub-problem to feed
through a multiplexer:

Since for an n-bit adder, we compute 4 n/2-bit adders simultaneously and then
select the output, we have the recurrence relation:

T(n) = T(n/2) + Θ(1)

which easily resolves to T(n) = Θ(log n). (As an overkill, you can apply Master
Theorem.

Setting k = Θ(√ n) yields the time What about the space? Since an n-bit adder requires 4 n/2-bit adders and an n-bit
complexity of Θ(√ n). Note that the multiplexer, we have:
space used is asymptotically equal to
two sets of ripple carry adders, so it is T(n) = 4T(n/2) + Θ(n)
still Θ(n), although it is twice as big.
Invoking Master Theorem, the recurrence relation simplifies to Θ(n²). This gives it a
However, we can improve beyond significant disadvantage.
that.

Using divide and conquer, we can

divide each problem into smaller
subproblems until they become
trivial.

14
the bulleteen
 SPARROW: THE
MOST PROMISING
ALGORITHM OF
THE CENTURY?
We are now in an age where AI is increasingly indispensable to humanity and
several of our most important industries, yet seemingly it still remains
synonymous with the likes of Chat-GPT and copilot. At the cutting edge
intersection of pharmaceuticals and computer science, MIT researchers have
crafted an algorithm designed to identify the most promising molecular candidates
for new medicines, effectively streamlining the drug discovery process. This tool,
named the Synthesis Planning and Rewards-based Route Optimization Workflow
(SPARROW), leverages AI to navigate through the complex landscape of variables
that often impedes the development of new medications.

The compounds for drug development are complex to prioritise due to the
effective weighting of several variables. SPARROW, like many other algorithms,
identifies accurately the best molecules to test as potential new medicines.
However what sets it apart is the ability to identify the materials and experimental
steps needed to synthesise them while considering the cost of synthesising
multiple molecules at once, as multiple candidates can be derived from some of
the same chemical compounds.

In addition, the approach captures crucial information on molecular design,

property prediction and synthesis planning from online repositories and widely
used artificial intelligence tools. When evaluated across three case studies based
on real-world problems faced by chemists, SPARROW effectively captured the
marginal costs of batch synthesis and identified common experimental steps and
intermediate chemicals, as well as scaling up hundreds of potential molecular
candidates. SPARROW collects information on the molecules and their synthetic
pathways, weighs the value of each one against the cost of synthesising a batch of
candidates and automatically selects the best subset that meets the user’s criteria
by finding the most cost-effective synthetic routes for these compounds.

Researchers at MIT (C. Coley, J. Fromer) have stated that the key challenge in each
design iteration is to downselect and prioritise, among all possible molecules that
could be made and tested, which candidates are worth pursuing. This challenge
exists across molecular design applications, including in the discovery of
therapeutic candidates, organic catalysts, battery materials, and sustainable
solvents.

So let’s cut the technical jargon, in simple english, SPARROW can find a
compromise by accurately weighing the cost of making the product to the
potential efficiency of the molecule, saving time and money in further research
and development processes. Sounds simple, but what are the impacts that this
program brings?

With continued development, the SPARROW framework promises a smarter, more

systematic method for drug discovery, by not only accelerating the process but
also potentially reducing prescription drug prices—a boon for both the
pharmaceutical industry and cwith onsumers. Experts outside of the study, like
Patrick Riley and John Chodera, recognized the value of SPARROW in relieving the
workload of medicinal chemists and contributing to more autonomous drug
discovery methods. As noted by MIT News, this research also received support
from entities such as DARPA, the Office of Naval Research, and the National
Science Foundation, highlighting the broader interest and advancements in AI
applications across disciplines.

15
the bulleteen
 ANTISENSE TECHNOLOGY
Revolutionizing Gene Therapy
Imagine your body's cells are tiny factories that produce different products, such as
proteins, which are essential for your health. The instructions for making these
proteins are stored in your DNA. When a certain protein needs to be made, the DNA
instructions are copied into a molecule called messenger RNA ,AKA the mRNA. This
then travels to the factory of the cell (which is the ribosome) where the protein is
made.

Now here is where the Antisense technology is involved. It is a tool used to create
short, synthetic pieces of DNA or RNA, called antisense oligonucleotides
(ASOs).These are designed to bind to the mRNA instructions. By Doing so, these
antisense molecules can block the production of certain proteins. This can be useful
in situations where a specific protein is causing a problem, such as in some genetic
diseases, cancers, or viral infections.

For example, if a particular protein is promoting cancer growth, an antisense

oligonucleotide can be designed to bind to the mRNA of that protein. This prevents it
from being made and thereby helping to stop the cancer from growing.

Antisense technology is leading the charge in genetic medicine, offering a fresh

approach to tackle various illnesses by honing in on the genetic instructions in our
cells.

Therapeutic In-Cell Trading & Bio

Breakthroughs Chit-Chats For antisense tech to
understanding how ASOs behave inside
your body is key. The work by R. Geary,
shine,

One super exciting thing about The success of antisense tech also leans D. Norris, etc., "Pharmacokinetics,
antisense technology is its potential for on how ASOs mingle with components biodistribution and cell uptake of
battling genetic disorders. Dr. C. Frank within cells. The project by Liang et al., antisense oligonucleotides," dives into
Bennett's review titled "Therapeutic "Identification and characterization of these crucial factors. This study peeps
Antisense Oligonucleotides Are Coming intracellular proteins that bind into how ASOs spread all over your
of Age" strides through the evolution of oligonucleotides with phosphorothioate body, how cells slurp them up, and how
this tech. Bennett highlights that ASOs linkages," dives into these interactions. long they hang around in different
have moved from being a theoretical Liang and his team pinpointed several tissues. This intel is vital for fine-tuning
concept to having real-world proteins inside cells that bond with ASOs the delivery and impact of antisense
applications, with several antisense sporting phosphorothioate tweaks - a drugs, ensuring they reach target cells in
drugs now greenlit for clinical use. These common chemical move used to amp up just-right amounts to do their job.
drugs are in use for various genetic ASO stability. Grasping these bonds
disorders like spinal muscular atrophy helps create more effective ASOs and
and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, predict their actions within cells is key
proving how flexible and effective when crafting safer, more potent
antisense therapies can be. therapies.

Futuristic Antisense Wonders

Advances in antisense tech point toward a bright future for gene therapy. By laser-
focusing on genetic disease roots, antisense oligonucleotides offer a potent weapon
against previously challenging conditions. Ongoing research continues to polish
these molecules, enhance delivery methods, and broaden therapeutic uses. As our
grasp on genetic diseases deepens and our knack for tweaking gene expression
evolves, antisense technology is geared up for a starring role in modern medicine.

Takeaway
In conclusion, antisense technology is flipping the script on how we tackle genetic
disorders. With its precision targeting and gene modulation chops, it offers fresh
hope for patients dealing with various conditions. The research contributions from
scientists like Bennett, Geary, and Liang are shaping the path toward next-gen
genetic therapies - inching us closer to a future where managing if not curing genetic
diseases becomes reality."

16
the bulleteen
 OVERCOMING
STEREOTYPES FOR
WOMEN IN STEM
Introduction they will probably face before pursuing
careers in STEM or any other profession,
as this will create an unfair and difficult
It is no longer shocking that women are work environment.

Role models
consistently undervalued in a variety of
fields. Despite continuously exhibiting
their full talent, they are unfairly judged.

in STEM
Every woman I know aspires to be better
and endures in the face of adversity,
especially those in STEM professions.
Women in STEM continue to be denied
respect despite overcoming many The success of antisense tech also leans
challenges and consistently on how ASOs mingle with components
demonstrating their ability. This within cells. The project by Liang et al.,
problem is mostly caused by a male- "Identification and characterization of
dominated social structure that intracellular proteins that bind
supports the idea that women are not oligonucleotides with phosphorothioate
capable of accomplishing the same linkages," dives into these interactions.
objectives as men. Women thus Liang and his team pinpointed several
experience discrimination at work, proteins inside cells that bond with ASOs
receive little credit for their efforts, and sporting phosphorothioate tweaks - a
run into difficulties when speaking out common chemical move used to amp up
for themselves. Unfortunately, a lot of ASO stability. Grasping these bonds
well-known organizations reduce helps create more effective ASOs and
women to stereotypes by dismissing predict their actions within cells is key
them as inexperienced, unreliable, and when crafting safer, more potent
under-competitive. Women should be therapies.
aware of the harsh reality of prejudice

Common
Stereotypes
For Women
Women are frequently
misinterpreted as being extremely
competitive, which gives rise to
beliefs that they are attempting to
challenge or outshine their male
coworkers. Some women are
disregarded because it seems they
have too much confidence in their
abilities, leading people to believe
they are inexperienced. In addition,
women are sometimes written off as
being unintelligent and unclear-
headed, purportedly due to their
Strategies for Change
preoccupation with domestic tasks The purpose of mentoring programs should be to empower women by increasing
and issues. They are often excluded their self-assurance and ability to withstand discrimination in the workplace. Policies
from leadership posts because they that promote effective collaboration between men and women should be put in
are viewed as insufficiently qualified place to create a healthy work environment. It is important to support STEM
for them. In addition, women are organization leaders in their efforts to encourage young females to pursue STEM-
seldom given priority for critical jobs related education and employment. Lastly, women in STEM should be celebrated
at work and typically earn less and respected equally.
money than their male coworkers.
17
the bulleteen
ANXIETY : A
BIOLOGICAL Neurotransmitters
Serotonin
PERSPECTIVE Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood,
sleep and appetite. Decreased serotonergic activity
Anxiety is one of the prevalent psychiatric disorders among results in . People with imbalances in serotonin levels
the youth, significantly compromising an individual’s quality of are more prone to impulsive actions, agitation, fatigue,
life, relationships and well being. It is described as persistent insomnia as well as trouble with memory and learning.
feelings of apprehension and worry. This article aims to dive
into the biological factors that contribute to depression
disorders, limited to genetic, endocrine and neurotransmitter Dopamine
systems as well as certain brain areas associated with anxiety, Dopamine is a hormone and a neurotransmitter that
in order to enhance their understanding among young people contributes to feelings of happiness, motivation and
and aid them in seeking effective interventions to improve focus. It is often referred to as the “feel good
their mental health. hormone”. Dysregulation in dopamine levels causes
several symptoms of depression and depression
including fatigue, sudden mood swings and brain fog.

Specific Genetic
Variations
Serotonin transporter gene (5-
HTTLPR)
The serotonin transporter (SERT) regulates serotonin
signaling by rapidly transporting extracellular serotonin into
the presynaptic terminal. The short allele of this gene can
pose a higher risk of developing depression. Individuals
carrying this gene interpret and understand information in a
pessimistic manner and can be perceived as negative or
cynical.

COMT gene
The COMT gene codes for an enzyme COMT that breaks
down the catecholamines (dopamine, epinephrine and
norepinephrine). Mutations in this gene can cause

Hormones
imbalances in dopamine and epinephrine levels. These can
have adverse effects on the stress levels and emotional
responses of individuals leading to the development of
anxiety.
Cortisol
Cortisol is a steroid hormone released during stress.
Elevated cortisol levels in the body damages brain
areas such as the hippocampus which further
exacerbates depression. It also slows down
metabolism and weakens immunity thus inhibiting an
individual’s ability to function and perform well in
academic and practical aspects of life

Epinephrine
Epinephrine is released in response to acute stress and
fear. It is the “fight or flight” hormone. It causes
symptoms such as rapid heart rate, erratic breathing,
trembling, dizziness and perspiration, which can also
be characterized as physical symptoms of depression.
Prolonged or frequent release of this hormone can be
damaging to a person’s mental and physical health and
also increases risk of heart disease.

18
the bulleteen
Brain Structures
Prefrontal Cortex
This region is responsible for higher cognitive functions such as decision-making,
judgment and planning. The PFC plays a pivotal role in regulating emotions by
modulating activity in the amygdala. Failure to do so can lead to anxiety and fear.
Dysfunction in this area also increases the tendency to overthink or ruminate on
potential negative outcomes.

Amygdala
The amygdala is involved in the expression of fear and aggression. It plays a role in
the formation and retrieval of emotional and fear-related memories. Larger
amygdala volumes are associated with depression. Overactive amygdala causes
intense emotional responses and causes the individual to panic.

Hippocampus
Hippocampus regulates stress responses and transfers short term memories to long
term memories. People with anxiety and other stress disorders have reduced
hippocampal volume and density as shown by structural imaging studies. A smaller
hippocampus might result in disturbance of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal
(HPA) axis, which controls the release of stress hormones like cortisol. This
dysregulation can cause elevated anxiety levels.

Conclusion
Usually, when people address anxiety, they are most likely to say “it’s all in your head.” However, neuroscience research studies
show that there are various aspects to anxiety and consider it a serious disorder. Young people with anxiety should not be
humiliated by this condition but rather feel heartened to seek therapy and medications.

19
the bulleteen
ILLUMINATING PATHWAYS
Empowering Future Generations Through Eco-Literacy

Abstract
Climatic change is a global phenomenon. It looms as one of the greatest challenges of our time, threatening the very foundation
of life on Earth. In the midst, of the fight against is where eco-literacy seems to take the lead of bold action. Eco-literacy is among
the most powerful tools to fight climatic change. Enhancing Eco-literacy by incorporating emerging technologies, social media
and integration into the curriculum can unlock new pathways towards sustainability and resilience.

Keywords: Climatic change, eco-literacy, tool and sustainability

Introduction climate change, eco-literacy emerges as

a beacon of hope, offering a pathway
towards resilience and adaptation. By
1. Leveraging emerging
cheap technologies
In the vast of human existence, there equipping individuals with the To create immersive learning
exists a thread that binds us all – the knowledge and skills to address experiences, harnessing the arts to
intricate relationship between humanity environmental challenges, we can foster evoke emotional connections with
and the environment. This delicate a culture of stewardship and collective nature, and fostering partnerships
interplay has endured through action. between schools, communities, and
millennia, shaping cultures, economies,
environmental organizations. Emerging
and ecosystems. However, in our
technologies where users embark on

The Role of
modern era, this relationship has
virtual journeys to explore different
become strained, frayed by the
ecosystems, learn about environmental
consequences of our unsustainable

Education
issues, and take action to make a
actions. Climate change looms as one of
positive impact are required. These
the greatest challenges of our time,
technologies work like this:
threatening the very foundation of life
on Earth. Climate change is arguably the
Central to the cultivation of eco-literacy Virtual Eco-Adventures: Users can
major environmental challenge for
is education – education that transcends choose from a variety of virtual eco-
future economic or GDP growth, since
the boundaries of traditional classroom adventures, such as exploring the
climate damages are predicted to
settings and embraces experiential Amazon rainforest, diving into coral
generate substantial economic costs and
learning, critical thinking, and reefs, or trekking through Arctic tundra.
stringent climate policies may curtail
interdisciplinary approaches. Nelson These adventures are presented as
growth (van den Bergh, 2017). Yet,
Mandela said ‘education is among the immersive 3D experiences, allowing
within this challenge lies an opportunity
tools to change the world’, in my opinion users to virtually "travel" to different
– an opportunity to cultivate eco-literacy,
eco-literacy is the most powerful tool to locations around the world.
to empower future generations with the
knowledge and understanding needed fight against climate change. It is
through education that we can instill in Interactive Learning Modules: Along
to navigate the complexities of our
future generations a deep appreciation the way, users encounter interactive
changing world.
for the environment and empower them learning modules that educate them
about various environmental topics,

The Urgency of
to become agents of change. From early
childhood through adulthood, eco- such as biodiversity, climate change,
literacy must be woven into the fabric of sustainable living, and conservation

Eco-Literacy
education, shaping curricula, efforts. These modules incorporate
pedagogies, and learning environments multimedia elements, including videos,
to reflect our interconnectedness with infographics, quizzes, and mini-games,
the natural world. to make learning fun and engaging.
Eco-literacy is more than just an

Innovative
understanding of ecological principles; it Challenges and Missions: To encourage
is a holistic perspective that active participation, users can take on
encompasses environmental awareness, challenges and missions related to eco-

Approaches
sustainability practices, and a sense of literacy. For example, they may be
interconnectedness with the natural tasked with identifying plant and animal
world. Eco-literacy entails acquiring species, calculating carbon footprints, or
knowledge about the creating eco-friendly lifestyle plans.
interconnectedness between humans To truly unleash the transformative Completing challenges earns users
and the natural world, including floras, power of eco-literacy, we must embrace points, badges, and rewards.
faunas, and geological formations innovative approaches that engage,
(Abdullah, K. H. 2023). In the face of inspire, and empower. This includes:

20
the bulleteen
Community Engagement: The
technologies foster a sense of
community by allowing users to connect
with like-minded individuals, join virtual
eco-groups, and participate in
discussions about environmental issues.
Users can share their experiences,
insights, and achievements with others,
inspiring and empowering each other to
take action for the planet.
Real-World Impact: To translate virtual
learning into real-world impact, the
technologies partner with environmental
organizations and initiatives. Users can
support conservation projects, donate to
causes, participate in volunteer
opportunities, and track their
contributions through the app. This
gamified approach to eco-activism
motivates users to make tangible
differences in the world around them.
Data Collection and Analysis: These
technologies also serve as a valuable
tool for data collection and analysis.
Through user-generated content and 3. Eco-Literacy Into understanding of the
interconnectedness of the natural world.
feedback, the app gathers insights into
environmental awareness, attitudes, and
Curriculum Lifelong Learning Pathways: to offers
Many countries like Nigeria have failed lifelong learning pathways that
behaviors. This data can be used to
to incorporate qualitative eco-literacy accommodate learners at different
inform research, advocacy campaigns,
education into their curriculum. Eco- stages of life, from early childhood
and policy interventions aimed at
literacy has been considered a sub-topic through adulthood. For example, there
promoting eco-literacy and
under ecology in biology in many are modules tailored specifically for
sustainability.
country curriculums. Attempt has been preschoolers, elementary school
made by examination board like West students, teenagers, adults, and seniors,
By more leveraging cheap emerging each addressing age-appropriate
Africa Examination Board to ensure
technologies to transform eco-literacy concepts and skills. 
active knowledge of high school student
into an engaging and accessible Community Engagement and Action:
to know about eco-literacy, but this has
experience for users of all ages will to emphasizes community engagement
not seen to people of all ages. Rather
inspires a new generation of and action by encouraging learners to
than this, the education board in each
environmental stewards who are apply their eco-literacy knowledge and
country should enforce.
informed, empowered, and ready to skills to real-world challenges and
take on the challenges of a changing opportunities in their local communities.
Modular Curriculum: to offers a
planet. This may involve citizen science projects,
modular curriculum framework that can
be adapted to different age groups and environmental monitoring initiatives,
2. Social Media educational settings, including schools, community gardens, advocacy
Social media platforms’ proliferation and community centers, and online campaigns, and sustainability projects.
widespread adoption in contemporary platforms. Each module is designed to
digital landscapes have substantially cover key environmental topics, such as
transformed how individuals establish biodiversity, climate change,
connections, communicate, and obtain conservation, sustainable living, and
information (Masele JJ.2021). The environmental justice.
connection of social media and eco- Interactive Learning Experiences:
literacy has given rise to a captivating Rather than relying solely on traditional
field wherein their convergence is to be textbooks and lectures, they should
acknowledged. Social media has provide interactive learning experiences
provided a wider room to enhance eco- that engage learners through
literacy among the public achieved by multimedia content, hands-on activities,
utilizing innovative communication simulations, virtual field trips, and
strategies that place audience gamified challenges. These experiences
engagement as a top priority. Examples cater to diverse learning styles and
of such systems include immersive foster active participation and critical
journalism and the creation of thinking.
promotional content within metaverse Cross-Curricular Integration: to
platforms (Hui X, 2023). Social media like promotes cross-curricular integration by
Twitter, Facebook, Whatsapp, Instagram connecting eco-literacy with other
etc. has become our part of life where subject areas, such as science, social
we not only access to entertainment but studies, language arts, mathematics, and
also educational information to. Utilizing the arts. This interdisciplinary approach
these platforms will not only enhance helps learners make connections
eco-literacy but also consciousness of between environmental issues and real-
emerging environmental issues. world contexts, fostering a deeper

21
the bulleteen
 Organizing competitions is an excellent way to promote eco-literacy across all age groups and foster engagement, creativity, and
collaboration. Here's how competitions can be incorporated into eco-literacy initiatives:

Green School Eco-Innovation Youth Debates:

Competitions Challenges Environmental
Eco-literacy is more than just an

is a holistic perspective
Policies
understanding of ecological principles; it
that
Organize competitions that encourage
participants to develop innovative
solutions to environmental challenges.
encompasses environmental awareness, These challenges could focus on Organize debates or mock legislative
sustainability practices, and a sense of designing eco-friendly products, sessions where young people can
interconnectedness with the natural implementing sustainable technologies, discuss and debate environmental
world. Eco-literacy entails acquiring or creating community-based initiatives policies and solutions. This encourages
knowledge about the to address issues like waste critical thinking, research skills, and civic
interconnectedness between humans management, energy conservation, or engagement while fostering dialogue on
and the natural world, including floras, water pollution. pressing environmental issues and
faunas, and geological formations policy options.
(Abdullah, K. H. 2023). In the face of

By harnessing the creativity and ingenuity of humanity, we can unlock new pathways towards sustainability and resilience.

Looking Ahead
As we stand at the crossroads of history, the choices we
make today will reverberate through the annals of time. In
cultivating eco-literacy, we are not only preparing future
generations to confront the challenges of climate change,
but we are also sowing the seeds of a more harmonious
relationship with the planet. It is a journey fraught with
obstacles and uncertainties, yet it is also a journey filled with
hope, possibility, and boundless potential.

Conclusion
In the grand of human existence, let us be the weavers of
change, the architects of a more sustainable future. Through
eco-literacy, we can illuminate pathways towards resilience,
empowerment, and renewal. Let us seize this moment, this
opportunity, to embark on a journey of discovery,
understanding, and action. For in the end, it is not only our
planet that stands to gain, but the very essence of what it
means to be human

22
the bulleteen
 Director and Editor-in-Chief
Rhea Agrawal

Art Director
Angelika Nobleza

Social Media Director

Paulan Gozun

Chief Human Resources Officer

Souyma Manola
thank you

Head of Website Design

Felix Myrie

Contributing Writers
Chang Lu
Maryam Asim
Aiza Ahmad
Eashan Rautaray
Lasya Revuri
Oluwapelumi Solagbade
Khansa Aamer
Teela Steinert

instagram
@thebulleteen
website
[Link]