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ATHLETE TEMPERATURE SENSOR:
A Novel Approach to Heat Stress Monitoring in Student Athletes
While vacationing with his family, Cuauhtémoc witnessed his father administer first aid to an elderly woman who had fainted from heat exhaustion while waiting for a taxi. That same year, he read about the death of a fellow local high school athlete due to heat stroke. This prompted Cuauhtémoc to begin researching heat stress identification and treatment. His research revealed that heat-related illness was the leading cause of death among US high school athletes. Furthermore, the standard method of monitoring athletes for signs of heat stress was too generalized. To address this problem Cuauhtémoc developed a system for monitoring signs of heat stress that centered on a temperature-sensing device worn beneath an athletes' uniform. This sensor links to a web-based interface, enabling remote, real-time temperature monitoring of athletes by coaches and trainers. Each Athlete is depicted on the interface by their uniform number, with an associated thermometer that changes color as their temperature nears dangerous levels. Additionally, the system can trigger an SMS alert to coaches and trainers as an athlete approaches a temperature "danger zone," signaling the need for immediate evaluation and removal from the field.
HEATSCREEN:
A Novel Approach for Monitoring Heat Stress in Individuals
Cuauhtémoc expanded upon his previous research on monitoring student athletes for signs of heat stress to encompass any individual at risk of experiencing heat-related events. This led to the creation of "Heatscreen," a user-friendly system enabling individuals to self-monitor their temperature during outdoor physical activities. He was able to achieve a reduction in the sensor's size and weight, making it more discreet and comfortable to wear. However, his most important innovation was the development of a smartphone application that allows users of the system to autonomously track heat stress indicators. This app notifies wearers when their temperature reaches concerning levels and offers guidance based on CDC recommendations for lowering their body temperature. Furthermore, in cases where the wearer's temperature becomes dangerously high, the app can swiftly send a text message to a pre-designated emergency contact, alerting them to check on the user via call or text.
Colormetric Smart Packaging System:
A Carbohydrate-Based Plastic Alternative for Detecting Food Spoilage
Food safety is one of the most important components of human life. The World Health Organization estimates that foodborne contamination kills 420,000 people per year worldwide, causing enormous social and economic losses. To combat this problem, early detection of contaminated food is essential. To address this issue, Cuauhtémoc developed a smart packaging system using a pH-sensitive, carbohydrate-based film that not only changes color when food begins to spoil, but is also biodegradable. This film was developed by crosslinking guar gum and chitosan, then adding a pH indicator made up of bromocresol green and anthocyanin derived from red cabbage to the hydro-film, giving it the ability to change color. As food spoils, it releases organic compounds called amines, which have a high pH value. As they accumulate, they cause the anthocyanins in the smart film to change color, indicating food spoilage. The data collected from the tests of this film showed that not only was the smart film able to change color in response to food spoilage, but it was also able to last over 10 days submerged in water before showing signs of deterioration. The results indicate that this smart film could potentially be used as a visual indicator for food freshness. However, its most promising application could be in its ability to perform as a possible alternative to petroleum-based plastics for specific food-based usage.
The State of Civics Education in America
This study investigates the current state of civics education among American high school students, focusing on its impact on voter preparedness and political engagement. Given increased misinformation and voter apathy, this study examines whether students possess the basic knowledge needed to fully participate in US elections. Utilizing a survey given to students at five different South Texas high schools, the study assesses students' knowledge of federal, state, and local government as well as political engagement. The findings show strong foundational knowledge of government but reveal large gaps in student knowledge of current political office representatives and showed a general lack of political engagement. The study suggests that the gaps in knowledge are what lead to disengagement in elections and perpetuate voter apathy. The study highlights socioeconomic disparities in civics education, as it is often provided informally through family and social networks. The research suggests that effective civics education should encompass both civic knowledge and skills to enable responsible participation in democracy. The research underscores the need for improved civics education programs to prepare young people for civic engagement, reduce political polarization, and increase voter participation.
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