There’s something about senior year that feels threatening. Everyone keeps asking you the same question:

What college are you going to?

What are you majoring in?

Are you thinking of staying in state or out of state?

What's next for you after your graduation?

Do you have your outfit for prom/graduation??

And suddenly instead of enjoying football games on Sunday night, group “study” sessions, spirit week, assemblies, and rallies. We are calculating out GPA, financial AID packages, and 5 year plans. Senior year turns into a countdown.  But. No one talks about senioritis.

Senioritis doesn't just come out of nowhere. It didn't randomly become a word people joke about. There's a reason it exists, some people argue its laziness and some can argue that its just a break needed after trying their hardest after 3 years, especially after junior year being one of the hardest years to go through. It's an emotional overload, burnout after years of performance. Its the pressure of knowing your entire life is going to be different then what you've got accustomed to for the last 4 years of high school. 

Most of us are told to finish strong, and yes effort matters but somewhere between college applications and graduation requirements we forget that senior year isn't just about what comes next it's also about what we have left to enjoy. 

This is the last year we get to sit in these classes, see the same faces, walk through the hallways, last spring break, last pep rally, these moments won't come back.

We put so much pressure on ourselves to have everything figure out at 17 or 18, as if one decision can ruin our lives, but our lives are always fixable and it may take months or years to figure out what you're interested in, paths change, plans change, and people grow.

If you need a break, take out

If you need to take a breather, take one

If you want to have a non spirit drink on a random Tuesday afternoon or morning (its 5pm somewhere in the world) instead of being in school and stressing, TAKE ONE.

Ambition is important but having a clear relaxed mind to get and think clearly though what you need to is even more important. 

Well get into the future. Whatever is meant for you will come to you, whatever isn't, won't have your best interest.  For now, lets not miss the ending while we’re stressing over the beginning.

By: Heidi P

All About Blood: What it Does For You, How it Helps Others, and What You can do to Keep it Healthy.

Rose C

Existing in the bodies of every animal is a highly specialized type of liquid connective tissue called blood. Blood is essential to the functioning of the body; it distributes oxygen and nutrients around the body, and aids in wound and injury repair and illness management. Blood is also highly specialized to its host organism, and this is especially important regarding the human technology of blood transfusion.

The studies that blood workers (such as laboratory technicians and phlebotomists) facilitate helps us to have a more concrete understanding of blood health, and how to know if you might be in need of a check-up! This article goes into detail regarding all of the topics mentioned above. 

What is Blood?

First of all, let’s talk about the structure and function of blood itself. As aforementioned, blood is a type of connective tissue. Connective tissue in the body usually helps to give structure to body parts or organs, but blood is different in that it is a fluid and that it is constantly moving. 

Blood resides in a network of blood vessels that stretch all throughout the body. The movement of blood is dependent on the heartbeat, as the heart creates a pulse that moves the blood itself. Blood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and blood plasma. 

Blood plasma serves as the “extracellular matrix” of the blood itself. It is the fluid that all other components of blood are suspended in. Plasma contains proteins, hormones, electrolytes, and nutrients important to the upkeep (or the “homeostasis,” as it’s sometimes put) of the blood tissue and the body itself. 

Platelets help activate what are known as “clotting factors,” are essential in the healing of injuries that rupture, or break, the blood vessels. Clotting factors stop bleeding by forming a clot around/within the point of injury. 

White blood cells are the other specialized type of blood cell, other than red blood cells, of course. White blood cells can be monocytes, lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, and macrophages. Despite being listed here, macrophages actually leave the blood stream and are the “clean-up crew” of the inner tissues. White blood cells can have lobed (segmented) nuclei---or, the organelle that houses genetic information/DNA. White blood cells are important regarding the body’s natural immune responses to irritation, infection, illness, and inflammation. 

Red blood cells are a major component of the blood. These cells are disc shaped and possess a dimple in the middle of the cell. This dimple assists the cell in carrying oxygen to different parts of the body. Blood cells are red because of a protein found in them; this protein is called hemoglobin. The protein hemoglobin has within its structure an atom of iron---a metallic element. This atom of iron allows hemoglobin to carry oxygen in the first place, and once oxidized, the blood cell appears red (the hemoglobin turns red). In some parts of the body, the blood in the blood vessels carry less oxygen because it has been utilized already by the body. Such blood is a more dark red than the vibrant red of oxygenated blood. 

Blood really is an essential part of the human body. Blood constitutes ~8% of total body weight, totaling around 10 pints of fluid. In situations where one has lost much blood, blood donation helps to supplement the blood lost and helps to restore homeostasis of circulatory functions.

I’ve Always Wondered About Blood Types!

As aforementioned, blood donation assists in the facilitation of blood transfusions, where more blood is added to the body to supplement the amount of blood the patient has lost. Blood transfusions do save lives, and it is all thanks to the fact that so many people are able to donate blood. Everyone has some variation of one of the main 4 blood types: A, B, AB, and O. Special proteins called “Antigens” are usually found (or “presented”) on the surfaces of red blood cells---allowing the cells to recognize each other as “not foreign” to the body. These antigens on the blood cells also are what determines blood type.

Blood types follow a Mendelian pattern of inheritance, specifically the ABO system. 

The alleles for types A and B are codominant, and the allele for type O is recessive. Type A parents (AA x AO or AO x AO) may have AA, OO, or AO (type A) children. Type B parents (BB x BO or BO x BO) may have BB, OO, or BO (type B) children. Type AB parents (AB x AB) may have AA, BB, or B (type A, AB, or B) children. Type O parents (OO x OO ) may have only OO (type O) children.

Since there are different blood types, blood transfusions cannot utilize just “any blood.” Those with type A blood can receive type A and type O blood, and type B blood can receive type B and type O blood. Type AB blood can receive types A, AB, O and B blood. Type O blood receives blood only from other type O donors, but can give type O blood to any other blood type. When getting a blood transfusion, it is crucial that the donated blood is compatible with the patient’s blood. If the donated blood is not compatible with the patient’s blood, the patient’s body may reject the new blood. The immune system recognizes the blood as foreign and attacks it. 

Blood Testing…Do I Need to Study?

Phlebotomy labs determine blood type, but they also are used to screen for blood glucose levels and bodily hormone levels. Phlebotomy is the science behind drawing blood from a vein. Such blood is sent to labs where a number of things are tested for.

Blood tests go hand-in-hand with endocrinology, the study of hormones. Endocrinologists use test results of hormones in blood to accurately provide assistance to patients whose hormone levels may need/are being monitored. Most trans people who use HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) regularly visit an endocrinologist who monitors the transitional hormone dosage and concentration in the body. Those who undergo menopause or use puberty blockers---for any reason---may consider advice from an endocrinologist. 

Endocrinology and blood tests are crucial in the diagnosis of thyroid disorders or other hormone disorders. Diabetes is a disorder of the hormone Insulin, and can be tested for with an “A1C” blood test that targets recent blood sugar levels. Those who are diabetic regularly have their blood glucose levels monitored. 

Blood…Disorders?

Yes, you’ve read that right; blood can in fact “get sick.” Diseases such as sickle-cell disease, anemia, hemophilia, and blood cancer all influence how the body reacts to blood. 

Sickle-cell disease is a genetic disorder that is caused by a mutation in the gene that encodes the protein hemoglobin. This mutation undermines the ability of hemoglobin to function properly; the blood cell, because of this mutation, is therefore not of a circular shape,  but of a curved sickle shape, due to the mutated hemoglobin. Sickle-cell disease causes pain and organ failure.

Anemia is another blood-related condition in which those affected do not have enough healthy blood cells in their blood. This condition can cause fatigue and motor issues such as trouble standing or walking due to decreased oxygen saturation in the blood. 

Hemophilia is a genetic disorder of the blood in which one of the genes encoding  clotting factors has a mutation. This mutation makes clotting factors virtually of no use in cases of blood loss, since a clot cannot form. Hemophilia is able to be treated with clotting factor supplement therapy. 

There are many different forms of leukemia/blood cancer, and leukemia is usually attributed to the white blood cells. Leukemia occurs when your bones produce an unusually high number of abnormal white blood cells, and those white blood cells may not function like they are supposed to---they eventually outnumber healthy white blood cells. Leukemia, like other cancers, may include treatment options such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiation therapy. 

My Blood seems healthy…How can I Keep it that Way?

The best things you can do to improve blood and circulatory health are to have a good diet, and to exercise. Hydration and electrolytes are important for the body because water maintains the isotonic environment inside blood vessels and electrolytes are essential to the functioning of muscles and the brain. Diets with much sodium without proper management may create an environment in the bloodstream that shrivels blood cells due to the lack of hydration. 

As aforementioned, excess sugar in the bloodstream may exhaust the pancreas and its insulin production, causing diabetes to develop. Risk of diabetes can be reduced by monitoring sugar intake so as not to raise your A1C. Like foods high in sugars, foods high in fats contain components that, if introduced in excess to the body, may clog arteries and cause circulatory congestion and heart problems. 

Exercise is important in all of these cases. When you exercise, your blood vessels dilate (get larger) and this allows waste products to diffuse through the surface of the skin and escape the body through sweat. Exercise burns calories from the food you eat, and keeps your body in check, helping to prevent acquired negative conditions like diabetes. 

Donate Blood Today!

Yes, I do understand that this last section may sound a bit cliche, but blood donation is really useful to both those in need of blood transfusions, and health workers who use the blood/plasma in transfusions and supplementations. Look for blood drives in your area---most websites provide a search menu where you can enter your zipcode. If you can, ask care providers at local clinics if and when they offer blood drives, and another good thing to consider is figuring out how to prepare for, and recover from, donating blood, since blood takes a while to regenerate to the level it once was before the donation. Below, I will provide some useful websites to visit if you are interested in donating blood.

To end, here’s a fun fact: Blood is produced in the bones of the body, and red blood cells do not have a nucleus. Therefore, they do not store/hold DNA. They eject their nucleus when entering the bloodstream for the first time; they do this in order to leave more room to carry oxygen throughout the body.

Massachusetts General Hospital Kraft Family Blood Donor Center | Massachusetts General Hospital

Local Blood Drives & Donation Centers Near You | Red Cross

Find a Center - Donating Blood

The Monster Isn’t the Only Thing in the Closet: The Queerness of the Horror Genre

By: Nico J.

Vampires. Werewolves. Frankenstein. These are the cult classic monsters that have been seen in pop culture media for centuries. So iconic, so identifiable, and so familiar… but what’s the origin behind them? Why do they still stay relevant today? Why do franchises like Scream or Megan receive such poor reviews while retellings of the same old cliche folklore receive such high praise?

The familiarity of these cult classic horrors isn’t just because it’s the stories we grew up on. Rather, it’s the way they symbolize human experiences despite being anything but a human. Even after centuries of retellings and adaptations, the allegories behind these creatures still remain strong and a core part of these characters.

One of my first experiences with the horror genre was a story about vampires that a friend had told me on the school playground. The notion of a gaunt, pale corpse vying for my blood terrified me as a child.

But it also intrigued me. The melodramatic flourish of a cape, the grandeur of an empty gothic castle, the extravagance of vampires… I’ve come to realize that the reason that vampirism remains one of my favorite horror tropes is because of the queer allegories behind it that I can personally relate to. 

There exists a vampire in almost every culture. However, the modern depiction of vampires today was popularized by novels such as Dracula by Bram Stoker.

Dracula, in particular, represented the conflict between the traditional and changing views of Victorian society at the time. In the novel, vampirism turns a person into the exact opposite of themselves. This is most evident in the character Lucy, who, once a “pure” and “respectable” woman, becomes the exact opposite as a vampire: she is frenzied, “voluptuous” (as Stoker put it), and shows an unapologetically sexual desire.

Dracula showcases the traditional views of women in Victorian society and serves as a warning against women openly expressing their sexuality. Vampirism has evolved into more and more of an allegory for queerness as the trope has developed in modern times. The repression of sexuality to fit society’s traditional ideals is a major problem the queer community faces; the ostracization and dangers they face are almost directly parallel to how vampires are hunted down.

And in a way, coming out of the closet as a queer person is much like how a human is “turned” into a vampire. To embrace your immortal, undead life is to embrace your full identity.

A werewolf boils down to this simple concept: a human conflicts with their monstrous, violent, and carnal side. They’re unable to repress the urges of their lycan side, and eventually they lash out. 

The only way to kill a werewolf is by using a “pure” silver weapon. Like vampires, they are seen as impure and are shunned by society-- much like queer people. The lycan side of a werewolf represents the animalistic and true desires someone holds at heart, and is regarded as something that should be culled. Again, werewolves are quite similar to vampires in this regard, as both traditionally stand as warnings against embracing your “carnal” desires and urges.

However, whereas vampirism is often depicted as a reversible curse, the only way to stop a werewolf is to kill it-- or, symbolically, crush any desires one might have in their heart. Like previously mentioned, the repression of sexuality is a problem many queer people face.

But the lesson behind werewolves is that eventually, when the full moon comes around, the wolf will come out. One day, you’ll be able to embrace that side of yourself.

Frankenstein-- or rather, Frankenstein’s monster-- could allude to a struggle with gender identity. Mary Shelley, the author of Frankenstein, has been deemed by several scholars to be bisexual herself, citing her letters as evidence. Considering Shelley’s sexuality and avid activism, Frankenstein being a queer allegory does not seem far-fetched.

Frankenstein tells the story of Victor, a scientist, who steals body parts to create a man from scratch. However, Victor’s creature is nothing like he imagined; it is hideous and monstrous. In horror of what he has created, he rejects the creature. It’s notable that throughout the novel, Frankenstein’s monster is never explicitly given a name. There is a lack of acknowledgement of the humanity within the creature; it was not born with evil within its heart. In fact, the creature is highly emotional and does its best to fit in with society; it only begins to seek revenge when it is repeatedly rejected and shunned by society.

The disgust that Frankenstein’s monster faces is so similar to the discrimination queer people face. It specifically reminds me of the body dysmorphia that many transgender people feel when forced to stay confined to gender roles that fit their biological sex; there is a deep, innate feeling of hatred for their own body and such disgust, but there is also the fear of being viewed as unlovable and unacceptable by society if they choose to fully embrace their inner identity. 

Horror media is constantly evolving to be more and more complex. The scares and the dramatic scenes in movies make it easy to look past the subtext that is often right in front of us. Sure, I love to casually enjoy a scary movie on a cold, rainy night. But I can also appreciate the deeper context behind it, and I implore you to as well.

Horror has queer allegories, but there are so many other things behind the genre. For example, the origin of the modern-day zombie was due to the brutal French colonization of Haiti; the inhumane and extreme conditions the enslaved were subjected to spawned the concept of a zombie: even in death, one could not escape their shackles. The history behind the horror genre is rich and expansive, and is worth learning more about. Who knows? Soon, you might be able to look past the flashy lights and bloody handprints and realize that there is so much more to horror hidden behind it than just the monsters under your bed.

Everyone is Tired—But Why?

By: Madison C

School has never been easy. It can be time-consuming, boring, and most of all draining. In nearly every period, you could spot at least 1 or 2 kids snoozing in the back. However, as time has changed, more and more kids have been sleeping in class, at home, or simply in general. I myself have noticed an increase in naps I’ve been taking, not only after school but also during class. Students are constantly complaining of fatigue and exhaustion. The classroom is turning into one big bedroom, and it's everyone’s naptime. But why is this happening? When did it start, and what can we do about it? Studies regarding student sleep may have many different factors explaining why nobody is feeling their most energized. 

At first glance, the obvious answer might simply be a lack of sleep. It’s no surprise that teens and students have a reputation for staying up late, damaging their sleep schedule. While irregular sleeping patterns are a big factor, there are other things that contribute to the overbearing fatigue many adolescents experience. A major part of this sleepless picture is mental health. Stress, depression, and anxiety can cause one’s sleep to be lighter and lead to a disrupted sleep schedule. Adolescence is a time when many psychosocial and psychological changes are present. 

Besides biological/developmental factors, academic workload and pressure can lead to stress, which can lead to a lack of sleep. Workload, regardless of the subject, can become incredibly overwhelming. Many teens and students can recall feeling nothing but stress and panic over tests and quizzes that truly won’t be as meaningful as they believe. Students pull all-nighters with the use of caffeinated drinks such as coffee, energy drinks, or tea to keep themselves awake and aware enough to crunch in more study time. The overwhelming amount of work a student must complete per night can intrude on a student’s sleeping schedule. One’s diet can also affect energy levels and sleep. Not consuming enough nutrients, such as iron (which allows for red blood cells to be made), can make one feel weakened. A healthy palette is incredibly important for overall health and sleeping.

Multiple roads lead to a lack of sleep, which leads to a never-ending exhaustion during the day. Of course, other factors may not be as common as mental health or poor nutrition (chronic illness, medication side effects). What matters most is identifying the cause of the fatigue and finding a solution. Getting enough sleep is the biggest priority, so tackling the little things that may be preventing that is just as important. Eating balanced meals and committing to a routine can make all the difference. Attempting to balance out assignments and communicating about mental health is another step in the right direction. These solutions take time, patience, and effort to truly make a noticeable difference. Putting all these factors into play, soon adolescents will be awake and ready to take on the world. 

Women-Owned Businesses in Quincy for Woman's History Month

By: Jennifer Y

It is currently the beginning of March, and it is officially Women’s History Month! Women’s History Month begins on March 1st and continues through March 31st. March celebrates and honors women’s contributions to American history. For Women’s History Month, here are some women-owned businesses to check out!

Phone Ban

By: Samar S.

The state of Massachusetts has proposed a new phone band for schools. Many students feel like this is a huge shift, not just a rule change. For teenagers, phones are a big part of their daily routines, whether it's checking their schedules, messaging friends or family between classes, listening to music or podcasts, or even just taking a quick break when life may feel overwhelming. The supporters of this alone believe that moving phones and students' learning environments would help the students stay more focused, participate more in class, become more extroverted, and reduce distractions like the notifications or the doom scrolling on social media. They also argue that it would encourage students to have more face-to-face interactions and help the students stay present and mindful during the school day. It would help students and give them a sense of reality and make them more outgoing. Although it could be argued that banning phones isn't the best solution. Many students and even some families feel that the law is too strict and does not truly reflect how much we normally rely on our phones for communication and organization. Some families also worry that they would not be able to reach their parents or their children during the school day, especially for family emergencies and unexpected situations. Many parents also raised concerns that they feel uneasy about losing a direct line of contact with their children. The main issue that gets brought up regarding the phone ban is the fact that we all know American schools might not be the safest, looking back at the amount of school shootings that have happened. Many people expressed their concerns that they do not feel that we are in the time or age or even situation to be able to go no contact with families during the school day, as you never know what might happen, and it would be worrisome for the students and the parents if a situation like this ever were to occur. Teachers have also spoken out, having mixed opinions about this, as they see the situation for someone who may be in a dangerous situation at school while having no way to contact their family and also being on the other side where their child might be at school and they are worried about them. Although it would be nice for students to favor disruptions and to be more focused and mindful in school, you would also have to weigh the cons on this based on the reality of our school, which, as sad as you may be, is true, and it should be accounted for and debated on with their districts to see how they would like to handle this. I feel like there should be a certain extent to which students should be allowed to use and to not use their phones. I think the phone caddies that are being implemented in some schools, which cover the cameras and are locked on the top so students get logged and unlocked before and after school, are a good idea, as students are still allowed to use their phones, but they can also be locked for times when they are in the classroom, but still allowing them to be able to have their phone in case of any emergencies or even if they just want a break for a little bit. I think overall this law has its pros and cons and would probably just have to go with a majority rules as I feel like this is a gray area that can be taken either way, although I do think that if it were to be seen in the positive aspect, it has the potential to change and mold students, setting them up for success and their future, giving them good characteristics and routines, which would be helpful in the long term, also improving social dynamics. 

Behind the wrapping paper

By: Bekah H

An unspoken rule. An expectation that simply exists without ever being stated. One which reveals itself not through an individual's words, but a community's shared behavior. Such a rule takes its shape during the holiday season, specifically gift giving. It has become a common assumption that gratitude and care are best expressed when packaged with a pretty bow. And yes, packaging does matter, but such expectations lay the foundation of this gilded construct in which we are more frequently associating with the idea of Christmas. After all, it seemed simple. If you care about someone and want to display such admiration, you buy them a present. But what we truly don’t see is how such an outlook on a common social and familial tradition affects teens financially and adds a sense of obligation just to prove their appreciation for those they love. Thus teens are forced to grapple with societal, social and even internal pressures to conform to the “traditional” expectations of gift giving during the holiday season. 

As a student navigating this pressure myself, I wanted to understand where it stems from and how it affects others in different situations. Afterall, not just one individual's situation can characterize such a broad perspective. But rather, everyone possesses a different outlook and approach to holiday spending based solely on their personal beliefs, culture, and financial circumstances. While we are all grappling with the same issues, the ways in which we respond to them and which we resist them, are where we truly differ. 

For most of my peers, this pressure to give gifts is tied to reciprocity. Reciprocity is a social expectation that if someone gets you a present you are to get them something in return. It acts almost as an obligation, and a constant cycle between giving, receiving, and reciprocating. Reciprocity is human nature. We do it in response to maintaining social relationships and building trust. It demonstrates respect and acknowledgement of the other person, strengthening mutual friendship and appreciation. What’s most important about such reciprocity is financially, it isn’t always equal. Rather, it's about the thought behind the present and the idea of being seen. A simple comparison would be a gift card and a box of crayons. From any external outlook, the gift card holds more value. Afterall, a box of crayons, even a jumbo pack, would never compare to the worth of a gift card. But it’s what you don’t see that truly matters. In this situation, the gift card was simply a visa, a broad and impersonal present. While the box of crayons was a childhood connection. A throwback to 5th grade when for a single day you wrote with only crayons instead of pencils because you left your pencil case at home. A meager memory, but one which resonated with your friend, something they remembered when you immediately forgot. It's truly the story and connection to both a present and who is giving the present, that makes it worth reciprocating.

 What this idea looks like in practice, however, depends largely on circumstance. For those with jobs and financial flexibility, gift giving feels more joyful and they are much more eager and motivated to make someone happy rather than just meet an expectation. This is because they don’t feel such an immense financial burden with gift giving, but in most cases know exactly what they will buy and be able to buy it. Those without steady income are able to do the same but with slight compromise. Several alternative ways can be used to insure everyone they want to buy a gift for will receive a meaningful one. These include budgeting, cooperation and alternative gifting. By sticking to a specific budget, teens feel less financial stress and can insure at least one gift for each person is wrapped beneath the tree. Additionally, many of my peers pool their money with their siblings to splurge on an expensive gift for primarily their parents. Always purchased with a reason, the gifts bought may be small in quantity but are typically necessities that the receiver always shows gratitude towards. Finally, going beyond traditional store bought presents, my peers promise experiences or handmade gifts. A way to show their appreciation that doesn’t empty their pockets. Such gifts are a commitment, but certainly don’t go unappreciated. A little goes a long way, especially when it's made or carried out with love. 

Yet, even with these adaptations, pressure doesn’t fully disappear. My peers found that the holiday season in itself creates an atmosphere naturally encouraging gift giving. The dazzling decorations, constant music, blissful snow, and the bright sparkling lights collaboratively reinforce the idea that Christmas is meant for generosity.  It’s a collective mindset that feels expected, not just by social obligation but merely because it is embedded in the spirit of the season. It adds external pressure but not in a negative light. Rather, it associates gift giving in an uplifting manner, and encourages gift giving purely for the joy on peoples faces and the love in their hearts. Afterall, Christmas is characterized by Santa Clause, the jolly good fellow, who brings joy on children's faces from homemade gifts. By partaking in such experiences, we hold onto that childlike wonder and foster a sense of connection far beyond materialistic objects in itself. It's during those moments when a present is no longer defined by its price tag or its wrapping but the intention behind it. 

Overall, the holiday season invites reflection on not just what we give but why we give. When we as teens start to prioritize value and intention over cost, the pressure which once weighed us, lifts and bliss returns. Christmas, freed from its gilded expectations, becomes less about what's under the tree and more about what exists between the people that surround it. Perhaps that is what has been hidden behind the wrapping paper all along, but we were so content with its beautiful exterior that we never attempted to uncover it. 

NQHS SCIENCE TEACHERS SHARE THOUGHTS ON BENNU ASTEROID SAMPLES

By: Rose C

Glucose…in Space!

On December 2nd of this year, a team of scientists led by Yoshihiro Furukawa of Tohoku University in Japan published a paper regarding the analysis of samples taken of the Bennu asteroid. Found in the samples, among other very important molecular components of life, were the molecules glucose and ribose. Glucose serves as the main energy source for all living cells, and ribose is a component of ribonucleic acid, a nucleic acid in the body that carries out various metabolic functions.

Teachers Talk!

“The presence of ribose may support the “RNA World” hypothesis,” says Mr. Cuccia, a genetics and biology teacher at NQHS. The RNA-World Hypothesis is a hypothesis that discloses that “...[E]arly life was RNA-based rather than DNA-based,” as Mr. Cuccia explains it. Mr. Cuccia then told me RNA carries genetic information---much like DNA---and that it can act as a “...protein and/or regulatory molecule.”  RNA is very flexible---more flexible than DNA, and this is how it can configure itself into the shapes such as those created by tRNA, or transfer RNA, the type of RNA that brings amino acids to a ribosome during the creation of a protein. Since RNA is so versatile, there's no doubt that it could have been a possible precursor to DNA. This goes along with the fact that deoxyribose has one less oxygen atom than Ribose. Mr. Cuccia is excited to learn more about how this finding could advance our understanding of the aforementioned hypothesis, and says that life on Earth could have emerged “...relatively quickly,” as opposed to over a lengthy period of time---all due to the presence of the sugars on the Bennu samples. 

In relation to the concept of life elsewhere, I talked to Dr. Kymissis, who teaches AP Biology at NQHS. She is excited about the news of what was found on the samples, and absolutely feels that these findings have implications that point to the possibility of life existing elsewhere in the universe. She asked me excitedly, “...why are we the only unique planet?” Since sugars such as glucose are absolutely essential for metabolic processes such as photosynthesis and cellular respiration, the presence of glucose in the samples point to evidence that traces of complex life may exist elsewhere. She told me that recently, a planet like Earth was found that houses water, and therefore, life may proliferate there. Dr. Kymissis tells me that these discoveries give more definitive evidence that there are complete answers to how life on Earth began. It is beautiful to realize that the critical compounds that make up the human body are found in space---where they originated! How I see it, It’s almost like opening a letter from your long lost family every time a space sample reaches Earth. Dr. Kymissis is looking forward to figuring out how such molecules ended up on asteroids like Bennu in the first place. She tells me, “...everything starts with exploration.”

Dr. McKibben, the Advanced Applied Biotechnology and chemistry teacher at NQHS, informed me that the reason why such biomolecules have formed the way they have and are able to power life in the first place is because that the structures contain the most “...energetically favorable conformation of the most commonly abundant elements.” This makes sense; glucose and ribose molecules have very specific molecular structures that produce very specific chemical reactions and results when interacting with other molecules, and that’s why the fact that even under all of these circumstances, life could form, is incredible and shows just how special Earth is because it harbors conditions such as those aforementioned that allow for life to proliferate. Dr. McKibben referenced the Miller-Urey experiment conducted in 1953, where the electrocution of molecules in a closed model of Earth’s early atmosphere stimulated complex chemical reactions such as those that are able to create biomolecules. Again, considering how large the scale of the universe is, Dr, McKibben says that “...statistically speaking, it is likely that [life] can be out there.” Dr. McKibben says also that there has been discovered on these samples “weird, flexible sugars” that are able to form polymers. While she believes this discovery to be super interesting, she says it’s “...not necessarily direct evidence of more life elsewhere.” 

Dr. Pekarcik, who is now a former Zoology and Biology teacher at NQHS, and presently the acting coordinator of science for grades K-12 in the Coddington building tells me, “...the finding of glucose and ribose may affect the way scientists look for evidence of organic compounds in space.” She tells me how her research regarded more the realm of looking for single elements. “Understanding that larger molecules are 'out there' may help to modify or expand detection methods that may lead to broader discoveries,” says Dr. Pekarcik. She says that “Any news about discoveries in science always gives me hope....I never want our curiosity and exploratory nature to dwindle.” Dr. Pekarcik looks forward to what these discoveries mean for the future of molecular science.

Afterword:

For more information on the discovery, see below:

"Space gum" and sugars discovered in asteroid Bennu samples, NASA reveals - CBS News

Sugars, ‘Gum,’ Stardust Found in NASA's Asteroid Bennu Samples - NASA

Holiday Spending: Are Students Feeling Financial Pressure This Year?

By Kiara I

As the weather gets colder and the holiday season approaches, there is high demand for gift-giving and participation in social events and activities, often while running on a budget. The majority of people participating in such activities are not only adults but also usually teenagers looking to enjoy the holiday season with loved ones. As many may know, most teenagers don’t have much money to spend and often rely on their parents/guardians or other family members for help daily. To explore how teens are feeling financially during this holiday season, I conducted a small survey by interviewing four classmates, Ana, Matthew, Johanna, and Maddie. I asked each person three main questions: Have you felt more pressure this year to spend on gifts or holiday events? Why or why not? How does holiday spending make you feel? And what strategies do you use to save money or manage money during the holidays? Ana and Matthew said that they don’t feel any pressure because they don’t have enough to spend on gifts. Whereas Johanna says she ends up finding a way to spend money on gifts, and Maddie says she feels pressure as she gets older. Matthew and Johanna also stated that holiday spending makes them feel broke, Ana doesn’t find holiday spending interesting, and Maddie finds the process of holiday shopping annoying overall. Lastly, Ana and Matthew concluded that they don’t have any formulated strategies for saving money or managing expenses during the holidays. Johanna takes advantage of Black Friday sales, and Maddie cuts down on whom she gets gifts for. Although this survey is limited in scope, it offers a preliminary look at teens' financial feelings during the holidays, highlighting the need for further research. 

Holiday Shopping: Online vs. In Person

By: Ana G

As the holiday season approaches, shoppers face a tough choice: scroll through online deals or go to crowded malls. While online shopping offers convenience and fast delivery, in-person shopping provides hands-on experience many still value. Some pros for shopping online include convenience, deals and price comparisons, and no crowds. Unfortunately there are cons when it comes to online shopping. When people buy Christmas gifts online, they can experience shipping delays, wrong sizes,  and overall lack of physical convenience. Pros for shopping in-person are actually seeing the items in person to see if you like it or not, and instant purchase. There are also cons for shopping in person, which includes waiting in long lines to check out, difficulty finding parking, and huge crowds. 

“I prefer to shop in person because you can really see what a thing is like instead of buying it blind, it’s also more fun to go out.” A student from NQHS shared. For some families, going shopping together in stores has become a tradition that adds meaning to the holiday season. 

“I prefer shopping online since it’s easier to find stuff I need and it’s faster when I don’t have the time or energy to go to an actual store.” Another student shared. 

Both online and in-person shopping come with their own challenges. Online shoppers can deal with shipping delays or incorrect orders, while in-person shoppers often face long lines and crowded spaces. As a result, many people choose to combine both methods, buying some gifts online and others in-person. As technology continues to shape how people shop, the debate between online and in-person holiday shopping is likely to continue. While convenience and efficiency make online shopping appealing, the experience and atmosphere of in-person shopping still hold a special place for many. The best choice depends on personal preferences, schedules, and what makes the holiday season feel most meaningful. 

Five Books to Read this Winter

By: Therese W

Below are a few suggestions to read in the coming winter months. I have included the title, a brief description (spoiling as little as I can), and the first few lines of each story. I hope you find one that sparks your interest.

I hope these books serve you well. May they provide comfort and a cozy world to cuddle up in, to escape to, to explore, and to dream in. If not, I'm sure there's another book out there for you — one you can find someday.

Mariah Carey, Boycotts, and Young Consumers Today:

“It’s tiiiiiiiiime!”

For five consecutive years, Mariah Carey’s yearly internet tradition of her defrosting has been uploaded. But this year, some netizens are less than pleased, citing the video as “insensitive in these times” and a mockery of the “corrupt capitalist system”. Corporations are starting to lose their audience of younger consumers this year.

The video’s plot goes as such: Mariah Carey starts her high note, but is interrupted by an elf stating that they were all going on strike and he was stealing her makeup products to pay for “elf therapy”, and saying that Christmas was “canceled”. Carey reacts indignantly by freezing the elf. 

The video, sponsored by the multinational cosmetics retailer Sephora, has sparked outrage in many people online. Many claim that it is a mockery of those who are boycotting companies and the capitalist system. In a survey conducted on thirty-two people ranging from ages 14-20, 46.9% of the participants stated that they had boycotted at least one company in the past year. The most mentioned corporations on the chopping block were Sephora, McDonalds, and Starbucks. When asked for a reason, most answered that they were boycotting in support of Palestine in the Palestine-Israel conflict or protesting their removal of DEI programs. 

Boycotts are not a new thing, however. There have been many successful boycotts in history, such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott from December 5, 1955, to December 20, 1956, which ended segregation on buses.

In modern times, however, it seems that boycotts are less successful.

Christopher Wong Michaelson, a business ethics professor at NYU and the University of St. Thomas, states that “even when boycotts impacts a company’s bottom line, the effect is often temporary.” Mega corporations no longer prioritize catering to a specific demographic because everyone shops at them now; customers will come regardless of the removal of their policies. For every boycotter, there is always another consumer to fill the void. 

It all comes down to this one question: if this is useless, what can I do about this?

Boycotts are only successful if everyone does it. Spread awareness on boycotts and social issues. Financial instability is greater than ever, with 83% of the participants answering with a 3 or less on a scale from 1-5, so consumers should be more aware of what they purchase. Regardless of boycotts and a company’s political ideations, consumers should be aware of where they’re buying from; several participants of the survey have stated that they boycotted companies such as SHEIN and Amazon for the poor treatment of their workers. A certain responsibility falls upon younger consumers today, and while they do not have to uphold that, it is more important to do so now than ever.

By: Nico J