Published Research

Despite the progress made in antiretroviral therapy, numerous individuals living with HIV still face cognitive challenges referred to as HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders (HAND). This paper investigates the persistence of HIV in the brain, where it hides within glial cells—specifically microglia and astrocytes—that maintain chronic inflammation, thereby disrupting neuronal connectivity. Additionally, genetic and epigenetic factors play a role in modulating these effects, which accounts for the variability in cognitive decline observed among patients. Neuroimaging and biomarker research have identified subtle alterations in white and grey matter that are associated with inflammation and cognitive impairments. The proposed model of "Viral–Glial–Genetic Convergence" synthesizes insights from virology, neuroimmunology, and genetics to elucidate this complex interaction, highlighting that HAND is not merely a residual condition but rather an active and ongoing neurobiological phenomenon. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms may facilitate biomarker- driven monitoring and the creation of therapies that integrate antiviral precision with neuroprotective approaches.

This research project, motivated by my own experiences with Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), explored the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) as a potential, non-pharmacological alternative to traditional treatments like IVIG and plasmapheresis for Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). By reviewing the pathophysiology of GBS and the anti-inflammatory mechanism of VNS: the "inflammatory reflex", I aimed to conceptualize how AI techniques, such as reinforcement learning and adaptive control, could create a closed-loop system. This system would personalize VNS parameters in real-time based on patient-specific biosignals (like heart rate variability), ultimately offering a safer, more effective, and more adaptive treatment pathway to reduce neuroinflammation and minimize dependence on high-dose drugs for patients with immune-mediated disorders.

This study investigates consumer behavior in the fast fashion industry and its impact on sustainability. Through a survey of 683 participants conducted between March 13 and April 4, 2025, the research evaluates purchasing habits, clothing longevity, disposal practices, and awareness of sustainable fashion. Findings reveal that while affordability remains a top priority, a majority of consumers express willingness to adopt more sustainable habits if made convenient and affordable. Most respondents retain clothing for over three years, and many are open to donating or repairing garments. However, awareness of textile recycling programs remains low. This study underscores the importance of education, accessibility, and incentives in fostering more responsible fashion consumption.

Non-Revenue Water (NRW) refers to water that is produced but lost before it reaches customers, making it unbillable. According to estimates, NRW cost India $5 billion in 2019 and the global economy $39 billion. India also faces other water challenges like groundwater depletion, river pollution and growing demand. The root causes include ineffective planning, malfunctioning systems, and ineffective utility operations. Although national policies have attempted to integrate technology, they have not been successful. However, AI offers a powerful tool the government can use to help solve the problems related to these issues and reduce NRW. Moreover, India has a rare chance to capitalize on the momentum being created globally and apply AI to revolutionize its water and sanitation industries.

As society progresses, the responsibility of our economic status rests with the young adults of our world. With the increasing distractions young people face through media, like music, analyzing its impact on how young adults spend money becomes imperative. This study focuses on young adults aged 13–17 and how pop music affects their spending habits. Through a series of questions given to over 50 participants, as well as inferential statistics and quantitative analysis, a link between songs promoting careless spending habits and a correlative increase in such habits may be present.