Scientia, Volume 9 (2018)

From the Editors *Scientia* is, at its core, undergraduates supporting the research efforts of other undergraduates. From ensuring that students of all backgrounds are able to engage more fully in research opportunities through the Charles Edison Foundation Fellowship to promoting the dissemination and discussion of scientific endeavors through platforms such as “Talk Science” seminars, *Scientia* is committed to recognizing the importance of undergraduate research here at the University of Notre Dame. In our annual publication, we endeavor to highlight the talented students and faculty who make up this strong community of scientists. We ask that you view this publication of student research not as the conclusion of various projects, but rather as the beginning of a new dialogue. Be inspired, ask questions, critique. After all, the late Stephen Hawking once said, “Mankind’s greatest achievements have come about by talking, and its greatest failures by not talking.” Over the course of the 2017-2018 academic year, we have been pleased to see *Scientia* grow and continue to develop. At our monthly “Talk Science” lectures, we have brought together professors and students across a wide variety of disciplines in the College of Science. These presentations have allowed students and faculty to engage in conversation about exciting research that is going on at Our Lady’s University. We are extremely grateful for the participation of several passionate faculty and student researchers, who have undoubtedly contributed to the success of these events. At two of our seminars, we were excited to recognize David Shaw and Sarah Herzog, the 2017-2018 Charles Edison Foundation Fellows. With the ongoing support of the Charles Edison Foundation and the College of Science, *Scientia* is pleased to continue to offer this award in its second year. We are proud to introduce the 2018 edition of *Scientia*, now in its ninth year. This year’s journal offers a diverse collection of high-caliber research, highlighting three diverse topics in physics alongside stimulating research in areas of biology and health. This publication is the culmination of the dedication and time that our editorial staff and reviewers have invested in the journal. The success of this journal would not be possible without the undergraduates who submitted their research and their faculty advisers, and we are grateful for their engagement with *Scientia*. In celebrating the publication of this journal, we wish to formally acknowledge the tremendous support that *Scientia* has received from Dean Galvin and the College of Science. Furthermore, we are thankful for the guidance of our new faculty advisor, Dr. Xuemin Lu. As a mentor, Dr. Lu has modeled dedication to promoting an enthusiastic culture that recognizes the importance of undergraduate research by organizing annual student research conferences for the College of Science. Her input and experience have been invaluable. As we look ahead to the 2018-2019 academic year, we are pleased to leave *Scientia* in the capable hands of Ruby Hollinger and Eric Sah as Co-Editors in Chief. With combined backgrounds in neuroscience, mathematics, and fine arts, Ruby and Eric have demonstrated tremendous leadership and dedication to this journal. We are excited to see *Scientia* excel under their guidance and continue to promote undergraduate research. In Notre Dame, Elizabeth McGough Candice Park *Scientia* Editors in Chief