STEMATIX Magazine | Issue 9

STEMATIX

DESIGN YOUR FUTURE

ISSUE 8: JUNE 2020

ARE WE THERE YET?

STEMATIX MAGAZINE | OPENING NOTE

LARRY KLEIN MAYOR, CITY OF SUNNYVALE

Greetings from Sunnyvale, California!

These are historic times, no matter what part of the world you live in. Yet whether you live here in Sunnyvale, in Seoul or Santiago, in Madrid or Mumbai, we are united in the challenges we face.

We are all part of the human race and our commonalities outweigh any differences we may have.

As Mayor of Sunnyvale, my job is to be “counselorin-chief” to our residents and to advocate for our City at a County, State and Federal level. That job has changed dramatically in the last few months in response to the COVID-19 state of emergency.

Sunnyvale is the sixth biggest city in California’s Bay Area with a population around 155 thousand people. Our city’s immediate response was to suspend certain services and pivot to assist our residents and businesses to survive during difficult times.

For residents, we passed an eviction moratorium and funded our local service agency (Sunnyvale Community Services) with almost a million dollars to help with rent, utilities and food for families impacted by COVID-19. For our businesses, we created a small business assistance grant program which now has more than 1.3 million dollars (between the City’s contribution and donations

Mayor Klein at the Murphy Awards

from our larger companies like Google, LinkedIn, Intuitive Surgical, Jay Paul Development and Intuitive Surgical). The need is greater than what we can provide, and I am constantly working on new ways to help close the gap.

Sunnyvale is facing the same budget issues that all cities across the world are dealing with: managing budget shortfalls, making hard decisions on staffing and service levels, all while trying to protect the health and welfare of our residents and city staff. It’s not easy, but we hope to guide our community through a path to recovery.The issues we face with the physical and mental stress of sheltering-in-place is universal. These have not been easy times for anyone, but our efforts have helped save lives. My heart especially goes out to the students who have lost the face-to-face social interaction of going to school and seeing classmates, friends and teachers on a daily basis.

ZOOMing is nice; but the lack of physical proximity to friends and relatives can be very difficult.

Remote learning has been difficult for teachers, students, and parents.

These times are not only about difficulties and problems; I have also been inspired by how some people have pulled together in response to the pandemic. Residents have sewn face masks, picked up and delivered food and medication for strangers, and shared supplies and baked goods to help their neighbors. Our Maker community banded together with our MakerNexus non-profit to 3D Print face shields for the health workers on the front line of this pandemic. I’ve seen innovation and collaboration throughout our community by people just looking for ways to help. Look for ways to unify your community every day.

We’ve learned that science matters and that collaboration is critical to finding new solutions to problems. Staying at home has helped save lives, but so does planning for a response to the future issues.

Now more than ever, we are dependent on the Internet to stay connected, but we’ve seen the effects of the digital divide on those in our community who don’t have access.

On a personal note, my job as Sunnyvale Mayor has been to publicize the good deeds, lobby for donations and support, and find ways to bring people together during this time of social distancing. I’ve become a defacto restaurant reviewer - highlighting a different local restaurant each day, thanking the owner and workers for serving our community, and promoting that the restaurant is open during these difficult times (with the hope that residents will help support them).

I believe that we can come out of this as a stronger and better community. We can create a better world for everyone. I call on you to: THINK BIG, EXPLORE INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS, CONNECT WITH OTHERS, and CREATE A BETTER FUTURE!

To the STEMATIX team: we need to create a new vision of the world. A vision that focuses on the health and well-being of everyone in our society, so we are prepared for the next emergency.

Stay safe and dream!

Sincerely,

The world has changed and continues to change. Air quality has improved from reduced traffic and people telecommuting. People are growing their own produce, baking bread, and cooking their own meals. People across the world are rediscovering the value of family time at home and supporting your neighborhood.

Larry Klein Mayor, Sunnyvale, California kleincouncil@sunnyvale.ca.gov www.larryklein.com www.facebook.com/larryforcouncil www.instagram.com/larrykleinsunnyvale

Tracy McClennan Trigonometry & Calculus Teacher

STEMATIX TEAM The noted

people

contributors

EDITOR

LITERATURE

Saurav Gandhi

Ryan Liu Aminah Hedges Sindhu Saggeri

LAYOUT Ein Hong Akshita Ponnuru Vivek Atmuri Rhea Jain Tyler Louie Frank Hui Saurav Gandhi Jessica Wang Sindhu Saggeri Sanjna Jain Sahana Moogi Javeria Ahmed Nabiha Jawad

Cover Design Tyler Louie

around

PHOTOS & DIY Jessica Wang Sahana Moogi

Kaitlyn Butcher

Omar Montoya

Tanisha Grover Risha Koparde Kaushik Salem Alondra Rodriguez Dana Choi

Mayra Candido

Curtis Leung Luke Huang

Juan Alejandro Pulido

Arnav Dayal

John Rodríguez

Aayush Sugali

José Juan Rodríguez Joaquín Salas Samuel Salas

Andrés Martínez

Sydney Chou

Aristarco Cortés

Daniel Janusz

Avaneesh Aruva

Jose Dominguez

Mokshi Dhamotharan

Ignacio Genovese

Sohan Nannra

Fillipi Vianna Joana Mineiro

Frederico Salas

Rhea Jain

Vaneza Caycho Ñuflo

Serena Gandhi

W.J.A Kernkampweg

Achouak Abdelkrim Ethan Buriel

Amanda Kay

Tjeerd Zijlstra

Suparn Posina

Kerensa Strijker

Anwar Mujeeb

Naomi Jung Gina Choi

Sofia Porras

Austin Wu

Kaitlyn Nguyen

Maisha Thomas

Thomas Mathew

Mindi Lam

Adreema Ahsan

Kenzo Abiko

Stella Uzochukw Denis

Jeevan Navudu

Tyler Louie Joshua Antony

Carlos Junio

Isha Puri

Aleena Bosky

Avishai D'Souza Kavi Rajesh

Carlos Araya

Saurav Gandhi

Tiffany Lam Jasmine Kelly-Tanti

Raiyaan Mulla

Johana Contreras

Grace Muresan

Hemanth Dinesh Stephanie Samame

Israel Rangel

Neha Mandava

Nirathi Cherukuri

Josh Bayog Shreya Handa

Alberto Camacho

Shim Valui

Xavier Cairel

Rhea Nair Neha Agrawal

David Medina

Raúl Rodea

Will Zhou

Naomi Jung Darshna Kulkarni

Rohan Malyala

Dagoberto Pulido

Rhea Nair

Aleena Bosky Tyler Louie

Regina Hernández

Regan Schmidt

Jackson Moody

ART

Daniel Martinez

Nikhil Somanchi

Sherif Abdou

world

Israel Cruz

Maria Ivone Paniagua

Aryo Nabyzadeh

the

Othón González

James Pham

Alexis Houle

www.stematix.org

issue

Daniela Basurto

James Thornton

Department Director

from

this

Alyssa Boutouchent

Quoc Bui

B

behind

Angel Rala Curtis Leung Kavi Rajesh Kaitlyn Liu Brian Sawaya

Dahon Helios Bert Heijenga MS Raynsford Robert Lou Ma Angela Flores Sofia Fabrega Martín Escalona Cristian Ríos Vicente Paredes

4

Curiosity: the Cure to our Fear of the Unknown DEAR READER, It's

human

nature

such as the environment, government, economy,

to

fear

the

unknown.

This

social

distancing,

preparing

kindergarten was an experience that has stuck

checking. These topics approach how COVID-

with

19

to

this

day.

I

remember

crying

and

is

the

next

treatments,

natural, primitive instinct is why my first day of

me

for

potential

shaping

refusing to get out of the car because I

perspectives,

didn't know what would happen when I walked

reporters!

our

all

pandemic,

world

through

and

from

the

lens

fact-

multiple of

young

through the doors of Millikin Elementary School.

My mom eventually coerced me with ice cream

Our fundamental human nature has allowed us

(my greatest weakness) to get me to enter the

to

classroom. In the afternoon, I walked out of my

adapt to an everchanging world. All around the

school with a smile on my face and a big fan of

globe, companies are developing vaccines for

The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

the

I'm not the only

pick

ourselves

virus,

up,

nonprofits

dust

are

providing

and

support

to

vulnerable

to

are on the frontlines battling the virus in their

makes

us

more

uncertain

about

medical

off,

one who fears the unknown. Not knowing what expect

populations,

ourselves

ourselves, our environment, and whether or not

communities,

we

Coronavirus,

mysteries of the virus and exploring new ways to

psychoanalysts and health experts state public

treat it, and government officials are working

anxiety is at an all-time high, and it's mainly

towards stabilizing our economy. Nevertheless,

kindled by a feeling of powerlessness.

you don't have to be a billionaire, politician, or

are

safe.

Due

to

scientists

are

professionals

unraveling

the

CEO to contribute to the COVID-19 relief. This While

it

may

unknown,

be

the

human

human

nature

race

is

to

fear

the

curious

and

resilient. Humankind loves to find the answers to questions,

even

benefit.

These

statements

if

have

there two

led

me

is

no

issue highlights numerous global changemakers who've

started

various

initiatives

to

support

their communities during this difficult time.

discernible

pscyhoevolutionary

This

to

designed to spark curiosity and inspire change.

conclude

that

curiosity is the cure to our fear of the unknown.

We

very

at

special

STEMATIX

issue

of

STEMATIX

encourage

everyone

was

to

channel their anxiety and uncertainty about the Curiosity is a single common trait that lies in

novel

each

world, as we know it is on the move, and there

and

contributors

every across

one the

of globe.

our

STEMATIX

Many

consider

Coronavirus

into

curiosity

because

the

is no end in sight.

teenagers not to be capable of contributing to the COVID-19 response. However, that notion holds little truth. While being stuck at home, our global network of 200 STEMATIX contributors has converted their fear of the unknown into curiosity.

They

have

identified,

researched,

analyzed, and curated 26 articles highlighting different

aspects

of

how

our

world

is

responding and protecting humankind from the Coronavirus. This issue focuses on critical topics

5

Stay safe and happy reading!

SINCERELY,

Saurav Gandhi

Founder, Editor-in-Chief STEMATIX Magazine www.stematix.org

STEMATIX Magazine

â—? Editor's Note

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I am inevitable

Was it Enough?

Environmental Improvements from COVID-19 Government Role in the COVID-19 Pandemic Types of People during Quarantine Comic The Environment & Economy during COVID-19 Opinion: The Controversy Surrounding the Response to COVID-19 Shifts & Drifts COVID-19 Initiatives Around the World How did we respond to SARS & MERS Pandemic Paranoia Comic Ethical Shopping Perspectives in Education Coming Together: Distance Learning

Pandemic Aiding Robots What is Social Distancing & Why does it Matter?

The Importance of Flattening the Curve Masks and Respirators Can UV Rays Kill COVID-19 Is Hydroxychloroquine a cure for COVID-19?

Cepheid develops a fast way to test for COVID-19 Fun Activities to do in Quarantine Disease X: Preparing for the next Pandemic Pandemic Protection Robots Stanford Science Penpals: Can you hear me Now? Fact-Checking & the Coronavirus

Response

I am inevitable

Aleena Bosky

By Regan Schmidt

COVID-19 in the US By: Rhea Jain and Daniel Martinez

s

ase c 0 64 , 0 4 1

6 cas es

62 cases

NY

WA

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ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTS FROM COVID-19

By Alexis Houle

Sydney Chou COVID-19

has

outbreak

to

grown a

from

an

worldwide

isolated

pandemic,

traffic

to

shutting

a

minimum.

down

airports,

except

for

reduction

in

are

a

few

necessary

all seen the devastating impacts that this

trade

virus has had on humanity to date with no

changes

solution at hand to manage it medically. It

significant

may

and

pollution levels around the world, as both oil

economies of countries to recover, and the

consumption and greenhouse gas emissions

world may never be the same again. In the

have lowered. NASA released data showing

midst

atmospheric

of

years

all

for

this

the

death

health

and

tragedy,

has

A

bans

presenting new challenges daily. We have

take

flights.

Travel

slowed to

ship

travel.

everyday impact

life

on

nitrogen

of

have

air

levels

All

global these

made

quality

down

by

a

and

30%

however, there are a few positive impacts

from their normal levels in New England and

that

China.

this

pandemic

has

brought

to

the

world, specifically for the environment.

areas

This

improvement

where

air

is

pollution

good has

news a

for

severe

health impact on the population. Scientists As

a

result

lockdowns everyday

of

many

government-issued parts

activities

greenhouse

13

in

gases

of

that are

the

world, release

significantly

remain

skeptical,

changes lasting climate

are

however,

enough

effect

on

change,

to

global or

whether

make

any

warming

whether

they

these longand will

reduced. Most areas allow only essential

rebound after lockdowns are released. The

trips outside of one's home, reducing

possibility of overcompensation for the

● Environmental Improvements from COVID-19

STEMATIX Magazine

missed time after lockdowns and a massive surge

share

of

environment.

pollution

poses

a

significant

threat

to

our

this

appreciation

for

Several

wildlife

oil

and

the

companies

and

environment. We, as a collective world, need to

corporations that depend on polluting practices

be very cautious about how we slowly transition

are

back

set in place to protect the environment to regain

to

normal

life

so

that

we

don't

end

up

further damaging the environment.

requesting

their

leniency

economic

on

stability.

regulations

Experts

say,

that

are

however,

that there is no proof that removing these policies There is another silver lining to this devastating

will

Coronavirus; animals are finding ways to thrive in

Additionally,

our absence. Stories of wild animals taking over

might

abandoned

change

the

world.

streets In

are

being

Scotland,

wild

reported

goats

all

are

over

roaming

empty towns and enjoy snacking on gardens. In Brazil,

peacocks

roam

the

streets

while

affect

their

push

financial

situation

discontinuing the

issue,

world and

these

into

might

in

a

any

restrictions

deeper

result

way.

in

climate

additional

adverse effects from viruses of the likes of the Coronavirus.

people

shelter in place. In Colorado, mountain lions are

This pandemic is easily the worst happening of

coming closer to humans than ever before and

the decade, but the environment has found a way

can

out.

to flourish. Precautions to protect people such as

live

These

peacefully

magical

without

moments

wildlife

social distancing and the shelter in place have allowed people to take a step back from their

their restricted areas once people reclaim their

busy

cities. In Rio de Janeiro, hundreds of baby sea

environment is better off. This positive impact on

turtles can hatch safely on beaches. Andrade, a

the environment shows how important it is to pay

wildlife activist, dedicated his life to educating

attention to one's carbon footprint and how much

people about the fragility of sea turtles and the

of an effect every person has on the environment

importance

and

creating

a

freely

driven

are special to this time, for they will go back to

of

of

being

safe

living

environment

for

lives

to

wildlife.

see

As

how,

without

inhabitants

of

humans,

the

Earth,

the

we

them to hatch, for only two out of every thousand

should prioritize our planet and not merely rush

born

this

back into our old lives. Our current situation is

worldwide panic, he described it as surreal to be

proof that change needs to be made and that it

able

is

reach

to

adulthood.

experience

Now,

watching

amidst

these

creatures

possible

to

improve

our

global

warming

and

hatch safely. "You see nature living out its role in

climate state. For example, 2020 is expected to

this way . . . Things fit together. We saw nature

have a total greenhouse gas emission rate of 4%

birthed

lower

Although

without this

THE ENVIRONMENT HAS FOUND A WAY TO FLOURISH

human

pandemic

interaction."

he

has

horror

brought

said.

than

that

of

2019.

We

should

also

to

appreciate the beauty of mother nature and have

many, there are a few special moments that make

respect for the other species on this planet and

it seem a little less dark.

that we are not alone. What we do affects not only us, but also all the other organisms sharing

There are many businesses, however, that don't

BEFORE

the planet.

AFTER

Sydney Chou

www.stematix.org

14

RESPOND

GOVERNMENT ROLE IN THE

COVID-19 PANDEMIC

BY AAYUSH SUGALI

RECOVER

The U.S government plays a vital role in preventing COVID-19 from spreading. They are the people who must look at the political and economic side of the coronavirus, and decide when to open up the country's economy again.

THRIVE

The U.S government followed many other countries and shut down to prevent close contact with people. This shutdown, in turn, led to many "nonessential" workers losing their jobs, throwing the U.S economy off balance. Stocks dropped drastically, and people lost a lot of money. As of April 15, the S&P 500 dropped by 2%.

According to the Commerce Department, retail sales in March fell 8.7% as consumers were

15

â—? Government Role in the COVID-19 Pandemic

STEMATIX MagazineÂ

required to stay home.

The government's job is to look after the people who lost their jobs and smaller companies and businesses that require financial support during this hard time. The government has sent two stimulation checks so far, totaling to upwards of 2 trillion dollars, to aid the people who need the most help.

In addition to providing financial support, the government is expected to fulfill medical needs, such as personal protective equipment (PPE) and COVID-19 test kits. The U.S government bought upwards of 500 million masks from places like China and Taiwan, in addition to various other PPE, such as gowns.

Ventilators and breathing devices were a significant problem in the U.S, as there were too few of them for the demand.

After the President used the defense production act, many U.S companies, including General Motors, started producing ventilators.

In addition to ventilators, test kits were also of great concern. Early test kits were not very abundant and took too long to give results.

The government's job was to ramp up testing and test accuracy, so they purchased many more from other countries like South Korea.

DOW JONES STOCKS TO WATCH BR HY E A JAIN

APPL HD JNJ MSFT DATE: 5/13/20

www.stematix.org

Apple 1.2% Home Depot 1.3% Johnson & Johnson 1.03% Microsoft 1.51% 16

Types of People During Quarantine We are going to run out of food. Must buy EVERYTHING!!

ne : *B u rn s B ef o re Q u ar an ti u ar an ti ne : W at er * A ft er Q re I co m e! *M as te r- ch ef , he

Wasting Time? No such thing. MUST STAY BUSY!!

ve th at th e I' m 10 0% po si ti en d! w o rl d is go in g to

in ing e b e nd sta for on t ' n I ca house nute! this ore mi m

*Breaking News* All Streaming Platforms have crashed due to increased amount of viewers.

p. eu k o w ly just l's on I ol! hoo .

Scho ell. Sc away w s p Oh ste e v i f

I've found the perfect place to spend my quarantine in!

BY KAVI RAJESH AND SAHANA MOOGI

environment

&

economy

DURING COVID-19 D

1

Due to worldwide social distancing measures, pollutions have lowered. The air is much cleaner now.

2

Transport makes up 23% of global carbon emissions. Slow economic activity has driven down greenhouse emissions.

3

Lack of vehicular activity in the water has resulted in clearer water. In Venice, usually cloudy canals have gotten crystal clear, to the point where fish are spotted.

In India, 475,000 endangered species have come ashore to lay eggs.

4

Although there are positive impacts on the environment due to the restricted movement of people during this pandemic, climate change will not be easily reversed.

1 2

Business closures, soaring unemployment, and loss of income have fueled financial anxiety. Some go to the extent of saying that the world is facing two pandemics - one medical, one financial.

Because of social distancing, many hands-on jobs are eliminated. As per UN labor agency, COVID-19 job cutbacks amount to 195 million worldwide.

3

The four worst affected sectors are food & accommodation, retail & wholesale, business services & administration, and manufacturing.

4

The healthy economy is said not to come back anytime soon, and many lost jobs are expected never to return.

However, governments all over the world are trying to stimulate their economy and employment and emerge from this crisis.

Jasmine Kelly-Tanti

ID-19

COV

ARGENTIN

THE SCENES

o c i x e m

peru FAB LAB IFURNITURE IN LIMA, PERU IS JOINING MAKERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD TO HELP THE INITIATIVE TO MAKE MEDICAL MASKS FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS.

NETHERLANDS making masks healthcare healthcare workers workers

this

country took a

spin on their

NETHERLANDS

where we don't going to go back

to our colorful lives completely completely, decides to make our MORE MORE KID-FRIENDLY KID-FRIENDLY

NG NI G? AN NI N SC SIG 3D DE OR

X FI

Netherlands not only decided to make toys but also took the initiative to fix broken things around the house but not with ordinary materials like nails and wood but with 3D Filament.

EN OK BR E A IK B

ALGERIA

THE ONLINE SAFETY WOMENATHON M'SILA IS AN EXTENDED PART OF WOMEN’S SAFETY HACKATHON WHICH IS A SERIES OF COMMUNITY EVENTS BRINGING TOGETHER WOMEN ACROSS THE GLOBE TO APPLY TECH-BASED SOLUTIONS TO CHALLENGES OF WOMEN’S SAFETY ONLINE.

HOW DID WE RESPOND TO SARS & MERS?

By Sherif Abdou

With the current coronavirus pandemic infecting people and spreading throughout the world, it's useful to analyze how we responded to other pandemics. Two of these previous pandemics include SARS and MERS. SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) first appeared in Asia, and MERS (Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome) first appeared in Saudi Arabia in 2003. Both of these new diseases became global outbreaks, occurring in 2003 and 2012, respectively. Looking at the past responses to disease outbreaks can help inform us on how to handle our current pandemic and future pandemics.

SARS is thought to have come from a particular type of animal, possibly bats, that spread to other animals and eventually to a human. Symptoms of SARS are similar to influenza, including fever,

33

STEMATIX MagazineÂ

malaise, headaches, diarrhea, and shivering. Modes of transmission for SARS include close to close personal contact and coughs and sneezes.

Furthermore, the virus can also be spread on surfaces. However, unlike COVID-19, SARS does not appear to be able to be spread asymptomatically. This means only a person with symptoms of SARS can spread the virus to others. The lack of asymptomatic spread, combined with a slower transmission in general, makes SARS a lot easier to control and isolate compared to the current COVID19 pandemic. Despite having a lower transmission, SARS appears to be a lot more lethal than COVID-19 currently.

Currently, the mortality rate of COVID19 hovers around 0.25 to 3 percent, but SARS has an estimated mortality rate of 10%.

â—? How did we Respond to SARS & MERS

The World Health Organization issued a global health alert about SARS on March 12th, 2003. In the United States, the CDC issued a health alert notice to all travelers to Hong Kong and Guangdong Province in China on March 20th, 2003. The CDC then issued health precautions to laboratories and health care providers in late March of 2003. By April 4th, suspected U.S. SARS infections reached 115 people between 29 states. The CDC expanded its guidance to people throughout April, and the genome of the SARS outbreak was found by midApril. On May 6th, the U.S. did not report any new SARS cases for 24 hours.

Throughout May, the CDC slowly released travel alerts on other afflicted countries as they contained the outbreak in their own countries. The WHO declared the SARS outbreak to be contained on July 5th.

MERS is thought to have come to humans from camels in the Middle East. Key symptoms of MERS include a fever, a cough, and shortness of breath. Other possible symptoms include pneumonia and diarrhea. Most transmission of MERS isn't human to human, but from non-human to human. The main animal that can spread MERS is dromedary camels, present in much of the Middle East. The virus doesn't transmit itself easily from human to human. So compared to Covid-19, MERS is far less transmissible due to the minimal amount of human to human contact.

However, the recorded death rate of MERS is far higher than both Covid-19 and SARS, around a 35% mortality rate. The virus especially hits men over 60 with preexisting conditions.

The MERS outbreak itself mainly hit Saudi

Arabia and South Korea. In South Korea, the virus would've spread in the very hospitals that are supposed to treat people with the virus. Despite this, MERS didn't spread to the levels of the current COVID19 pandemic due to its less transmissive nature. Despite this, South Korea did improve its health care and pandemic capabilities as a result of the MERS outbreak. This improvement significantly improved South Korea's ability to respond to Covid-19 effectively. As for Saudi Arabia, the CDC placed a travel health alert to Saudi Arabia, since the outbreak was occurring during the period of the Hajj.

The outbreak spread through Saudi Arabia, infecting 688 people.

Although both of these outbreaks were much smaller in scale than the current COVID-19 pandemic, both of these outbreaks taught us valuable lessons about how to respond to this infection. From social distancing to forensic virology, many things can be done to help combat the spread of disease.

With our susceptibility to pandemics on full display today, it's essential to recognize the past and especially learn from it so as not to make the same mistakes in the future.

SARS

MERS

"PANDEMIC PARANOIA" written and drawn by Brian Sawaya

35

● Pandemic Paranoia

STEMATIX Magazine

ETHICAL

SHOPPING

During a pandemic where the world is suffering, one needs to have a clear conscience when shopping essential as well as nonessential items.

Most of us think that buying essential items like food and medicine is always ethically accepted. However, when scared due to pandemic induced fear, we all tend to hoard the essential items, and that hoarding behavior is extremely unethical. We might not realize, but this mad scramble has a lot of unintended consequences. Anne Sanders, a worker for Just Harvest, says, "A lot of seniors and folks who are immune-compromised who rely on SNAP (food stamps) to buy food aren't able to use that benefit in the way they need to use it to get their food safely." One way we can help support them is by 37

checking labels when checking out food items while shopping to see if it has the SNAP certification.

Another way is to shop for groceries online because they don't offer food-stamp, authorized food for purchase. What is essential for us is also essential for the rest of the world, who might be in a worse situation than we are during this pandemic, and so one needs to be considerate.

Blue collared workers face a huge struggle at the moment; they must decide between not going to work and facing financial struggles or going to work with the risk of catching this dangerous virus. Many might not even have an option. Therefore, the ethics of ordering nonessential items during pandemic needs to be carefully considered.

"WHEN SCARED WE ALL TEND TO HOARD, BUT THIS IS EXTREMELY UNETHICAL"

â—? Ethical Shopping

STEMATIX MagazineÂ

There is a lot of chaos and confusion during these times. A true hero will realize that others are in need and will step up to support our restaurants, small businesses, neighbors, friends, anyone in need. Hopefully this article inspires you to go out and do your part to help the human race.

NO RUSH DELIVERIES

No bulk buying

prioritize

ETHICAL

SHOPPING

medical supplies

BY RHEA JAIN, NAOMI JUNG, AND JOSH BAYOG

ONLY TOUCH PRODUCTS YOU WILL BUY

ONLY BUY THE ESSENTIALS maintain distance

be kind www.stematix.org

38

in education advice from SCUSD public school teachers What's one thing you like about the Distance Learning Program?

Distance learning allows for greater flexibility in student schedules. I think it's great that through platforms such as Google Classroom and Edpuzzle, students can always access lesson content even if they cannot physically make it to class during the scheduled time.

What's one request you have for students during Distance Learning?

Students, please recognize the hard work that all of your teachers have put into restructuring their lessons so you can continue learning in a changed environment. Even more so, recognize your own accomplishments and be proud of what you are able to do without being measured by grades in the classroom.

What advice do you have for students?

I hope that my college-bounds students recognize that the study skills needed for distance learning isn't very different from the skills they need to succeed through higher education. I want all of my students to know that having the discipline to focus on learning in an environment that may be full of distractions will benefit them for the rest of their lives.

JULIE CHEN

What's one thing you like Distance Learning Program?

No physical travel time required.

about

the

What's one request you have for students during Distance Learning?

Find a place where you can sit up, remove distractions (phone/tv) and focus when class is in session.

What advice do you have for students?

Make the best of the situation. Since we have less time "at school", use the extra time to learn something new, refine/improve on a skill, dive into your passions and spend quality time with people you care about.

ALAN TAN What's one thing you like about the Distance Learning Program?

I like the reduced workload on both the student and teacher ends. These are extremely stressful times. Both teachers and students need the opportunity to address their mental and physical health now more than ever. I think reducing the school day and focusing only on essential curriculum helps to achieve this.

THERESA SHAW-IYER

What's one request you have for students during Distance Learning?

I would like to request that students not give up. I know distance learning takes a lot of self discipline and can be difficult at times, but keep going. Take small breaks if you need to, but keep going. Ask your teachers for help or accommodations, but keep going. Remember, everyone is in the same boat and will understand what you are going through.

What advice do you have for students?

I would like to let all of my students know that I am proud of them and that I miss seeing them in the classroom. I would also like to tell them to stay connected with one another, support each other, and raise each other up.

Distance learning is an adjustment that everyone is trying to make. It can be difficult not seeing friends every day or not being in an environment which we are so used to.

It may take a toll on many UNESCO people but it is good to see the district coming together and stats of facing this pandemic.

Distance learning worldwide

BY RHEA JAIN AND NEHA AGRAWAL THE PANDEMIC INTERRUPTED

191 COUNTRIES

LEARNING FOR AT LEAST

HAVE CLOSED

9 OUT OF 10 STUDENTS

THEIR SCHOOLS

706 MILLION LEARNERS DON'T HAVE INTERNET 43 67

●●

STEMATIX for Together Support STEMATIXMagazine Magazine Notes Coming

Protection

PANDEMIC ROBOTS PANDEMIC-AIDING ROBOTS AND TECHNOLOGY When it comes to pandemics, especially COVID-19, social distancing and avoiding contact with others is vital. Those who must continue to work, like medical personnel, remain at high risk. The answer to this dilemma is robots. Whether their use is for strictly clinical purposes or delivery tasks, robots have many apparent benefits. The use of robots reduces the number of people required to remain working in close proximity of other people, thus directly helping limit the spread of the virus. Robots are already being implemented in this fight and are showing significant progress. Aside from their proven success, there are so many ways they can be improved upon in the future.

The list of benefits from robots replacing humans is infinite. Although they may not all be capable of independently handling situations without human assistance, by being able to record a patient's symptoms while the medical staff is remotely assessing the data, the risk healthcare

Tiffany Lam

workers face is significantly reduced.

Additionally, these robots can also be utilized to care for pandemic victims in their own homes. Not only does this make hospital environments safer while allowing doctors to monitor patients remotely and requesting patients to be brought in only when necessary, but is even preferred for the patients, as they can rest in the comfort of their own homes. These robots can also actively work to disinfect anything either they or a patient come into contact with, reducing time spent by caretakers or personnel. Today, many robots are programmed to scan for COVID-19, but with time it could be for an entirely new infection or pandemic.

The virus is spreading at a rapid rate, and many are fighting to slow it down not only in hospitals but remotely with their creations like Spot, a robot developed by Boston Dynamics. This robot was not explicitly designed to be placed in a hospital environment, connected to a medical technician, and remotely interviewing patients.

However, it is configured to adapt to the hospital environment, and is helping reduce the number of workers required in hospitals. Other robots being brought into the field are sanitizing robots in China. They are remotely controlled and driven around public parks and through roads spraying disinfectant everywhere they go. Some hospitals are implementing temperature-checking robots that are being used to monitor daily check-ins.

Other robots that help prevent the pandemic spread include cooking robots, making meals in high-risk environments, and delivering robots for distant medicine transportation.

Tiffany Lam

"Some hospitals are implementing temperaturechecking robots that are being used to monitor daily check-ins."

One of the main reasons that the use of robots is currently limited is because of their obvious drawbacks, and gaps in necessary technologies. Many believe that until robots are directly able to scan for infections or get actively involved in patient matters, the cost of mass-producing these robots is ineffective. However, while the robots may not directly be capable of treating patients today, it still is a giant leap for the future possibilities of utilizing robots in medical situations. While today they may be limited to remote data collection from patients, and serve primarily as communications methods between doctors and patients, they are still helping limit the number of people exposed to the virus. This interface that robots provide between doctors and patients is more than just cost-efficient; it is the equivalent of saving a life. The future of pandemics can be made less dangerous and more simple as technology continues to advance along with the resources available.

When it comes to managing the spread of infection through physical contact, it makes the most sense to utilize robots to reduce the number of people at risk.

Although robots may not be as effective as in-person medical personnel, they work to keep as many patients and people out of harm or risk's way. Why continue to leave doctors and nurses exposed to the disease when a solution lies within reach, utilize robots today for stopping the pandemic tomorrow?

The Fashionable History of Social Distancing

BUBONIC PLAGUE

VICTORIAN ERA Women wore crinolines (big skirts), which acted as barriers from men. Additionally, it also protected them from smallpox & cholera.

Doctors wore pointed face masks to keep themselves at distance from sick patients.

1890s to 1900s

1900s to PRESENT

Large hats and hat pins offered women protection from harassers.

Masks became a common fashion during modern pandemics to tell others to stay away.

Source: The Converstion

What is Social Distancing and Why Does it Matter?

By Will Zhou

The coronavirus's current impact on most

people like me to comprehend just why

of

we have to stay inside and apart from

our

lives

governments

is

the

policy

that

many in

others. To "flatten the curve," we must all

response to it, most commonly known as

do our part as responsible citizens, but

social distancing. The fortunate truth for

that

many of us, myself included, is that we

listen to everything the government tells

are

us, right?

not

have

directly

implemented

impacted

by

the

doesn't

mean

we

have

to

blindly

coronavirus, for instance, being infected or

having

an

infected

family

member.

Because of this, it is challenging for

47

An Epistrophe on History The history of social distancing is a

● What is Social Distancing and Why Does it Matter?

STEMATIX Magazine

unique

one.

social

first

distancing

century, space more

We

when

back

this

between purpose

see

the

in

mid-19th

of

creating

process

addition

of

the

individuals

in

usage

served to

we must all do our part as responsible citizens, but that doesn’t mean we have to blindly listen to everything the government tells us, right?

one

preventing

health crisis like our current situation. In the past,

maintaining

a

distance

between

gender, classes, and race was an essential aspect of life. Various fashion and clothing techniques

were

employed

to

maintain

physical distance. Enormous dresses known as crinolines helped keep gender barriers.

So What is Social Distancing Now?

It may be exceedingly difficult for many of

Currently,

us to imagine how crinolines look, but they

distancing

are

Victorian times

quite

dresses

like

that

augmented, trail

on

the

long

wedding

ground

in

all

the is

way

ăƒź

much

dresses

especially

strangers

and

to

them

outdoors,

and

this

potential

that

suitors

men,

(think

of

as

bachelors),

would

have

to

stay

a

reasonable

distance

from

the

ladies

so

simpler

social

than

in

it merely means to stay

we

so

practice

away from others. When we were young,

directions. The original intention for these was

we

were

taught

to

be

distrustful

remain

wary

is

an

just

of

while

extreme

version of what we learned many, many years

ago.

The

Red

Cross

recommends

being at least 6 feet away from others if

that the woman's purity will be preserved.

you have no other choice but to be near in

someone else. The reason for this magical

with

number is because it is approximately the

large wooden spoons that were held by a

combined distance of 2 arms. That means

nearby servant. Nevertheless, these dresses

if you do have exceptionally long arms,

had

you

Interestingly, these

you

dresses

had

and

many

to

must

flaws.

eat be

standing served

Besides

being

should

extraordinarily cumbersome and hot, they

from

often

probably

other

stay

people.

even

further

Currently,

social

almost

distancing dictates that you should order

inevitably caused the wearer's death. On

medication through the mail, consider a

the other hand, many suspect that these

grocery

dresses also aided in lowering the nobility's

other activities that would encourage you

rates of smallpox and cholera. Still, these

to

dresses later gave way to the more classic

achieve?

dress, the one that all our favorite Disney

everyday people who are not scientists or

princesses wear: the bustle. The danger of

doctors to see the impact of just staying

male

harassers

remained,

home.

were

designed

to

caught

on

fire,

hide

which

so

pins

large that

hats many

delivery

stay

from

home; It

is

service,

but

and

what

perform

would

exceptionally

this

difficult

for

Harry Stevens, a graphics reporter The

Washington

Post,

drives

the

defend

point home by creating online simulators

themselves. Social distancing was initially

of the spread of coronavirus and methods

developed, as its name would suggest, to

that are currently being used to "treat it."

promote

amongst

From a bird's eye view, people are dots.

gender, class, and race. Yet, the purpose it

We enjoy pleasantries called moving and

is

women

used

were

able

social

for

impactful

now

to

to

use

distancing

is

the

to

arguably

much

more

interacting.

economy,

and

more

simulation, he creates little bouncing dots

importantly, to society.

in

a

2D

Life

box.

is

Each

simple.

dot

So,

in

represents

his

a

person or a family.

www.stematix.org

48

The

rules

with

a

person,

are

simple.

Every

dot

representing

who

will

infect

box

an

starts

infected

others

if

they

come in contact with them. Those who are infected can also infect others. In the box where everyone roams around, like

pre-quarantined

China,

the

box

is

quickly infected, and the cure is slow to start. In a forced quarantine situation, there is a barrier between the infected population

and

the

non-infected

population. However, accidents happen, and

the

person

virus

still

practicing

leaks social

out.

Now,

a

distancing

in

this environment is represented by a still dot.

In

the

simulation

with

social

distancing, the still dots do not continue to

infect

others

and

are

often

not

infected or even close to those that are.

In a perfect world, all the dots would be still, but, of course, there are still those who are ignorant in this world, who see a dire situation but act like it doesn't exist.

Those

enjoying

the

people

want

amenities

of

to

continue

an

outdoor,

social life, which really can't be faulted.

Even I would jump at any opportunity to meet my friends face-to-face as soon as possible.

But

to

protect

society,

and

more importantly, yourself, follow social distancing rules. They aren't that difficult to comprehend or extensive to perform and have far greater importance than

solitary

punishment,

and

is

such

what

a

we

harsh

are

all

experiencing has its similarities. How do we fulfill our innate desire to be social most effectively and safely possible? The simple

answer

is

to

get

together

with

your friends online. There are many free party

games

online

that

you

and

your

friends can play. Sports events are still being hosted, albeit very different from what you would expect. They come in the

form

curling,

of

and

turtle

many

racing,

others.

Roomba

If

that's

not

enough, then this is the perfect time for you to pick up a hobby! Choices can include anything from an instrument or gardening and

to

ping

professional

pong

trick

shots.

tic-tac-toe Of

course,

social media is still an option, but this is the perfect time to develop yourself as a person.

This

interaction learn

time

is

what

the

you

with time

limited when

genuinely

social

you

like

will

versus

what you are doing just because your friends

are.

something

This

is

the

completely

time

to

learn

pointless

and

show it off to your friends and family online. This is the time to do many dumb, frivolous,

and

ridiculous

activities

and

get away with everything without looking like a baby bird trying to fly on its first day.

Just

do

anything.

It

is

like

my

parents used to and still say: "There are no

perceived at face value.

confinement

boring

things

or

places.

There

are

only boring people."

So What can I do During this Time?

Having fun might be the most important part of anyone's life, and many people crave

human

interaction,

especially

when they are deprived of it, which is, unfortunately,

what

is

happening

currently. It is the very reason why

49

2 M / 6FT

â—? What is Social Distancing and Why Does it Matter?

STEMATIX MagazineÂ

The Importance of Flattening the Curve Before we discuss how to flatten the curve, we must first understand what it is.

The curve refers to the increase or decrease in cases of COVID-19. As the number of cases increases, a line on a graph slowly starts to go upwards. With proper precautions against the virus, the line reaches its peak, and it starts to curve downwards as the cases decrease.

This pattern of increase to decrease is referred to as the curve due to the shape of the line created by the number of cases on a graph. As COVID-19 wasn't taken as seriously at first, the number of cases spiked up exponentially. With the infectious capabilities the virus has, the number of cases continued to increase rapidly everywhere as outbreaks began all around the world. The initial location of the virus, China, soon had an infection rate high enough to cause panic in the rest of the world. Following shortly were the outbreaks in countries such as Italy and Spain. From there, you can only assume that the number of cases started to spread even faster. It wasn't long after the infection reached the US, a landmass across an entire ocean, which has now become the most infected country in the whole world. This alarming increase of cases across the globe has now transitioned into the upward slope of the curve. However, governments around the world finally made some right moves, and the number of cases started to go down.

The standard worldwide goals right now are first to find a vaccine, and second, which is just as important, to flatten the curve.

Now, what is flattening the curve specifically? Flattening the curve is slowing the number of new infections while giving those already infected time to recover.

This decline is essential, as it provides the hospitals that were initially overflowing with patients' time to get back on their feet and work efficiently. A significant factor of this is trying to stop the virus from spreading more than it already has. The first step was the temporary shutdown of schools across the globe, as well as public events where many people would gather. The next step was the implementation of shelter in place orders as well as social distancing rules in countries across the world.

As more and more guidelines were set in place, the curve is finally starting to flatten. However, not everybody follows the guidelines despite the seriousness of the situation. So, how can you help flatten the curve?

The most important part of helping to flatten the curve is to follow the guidelines set for the shelter in place. To do anything else is incredibly selfish, and would mean you are valuing momentary satisfaction during your lifetime over the lives of billions of people.

You have to have the right mindset about the situation. The thoughts, "I'm just hanging out with one or

two friends, neither of us has it, we'll be fine," are extremely irresponsible. You do not know who or what they have come in contact within these past few days, or if they have contracted the virus themselves, even if they feel fine. The same could be said for you. You do not know what you have come in contact with either and could also have the virus without knowing. You could then spread it to your friend, who then spreads it to their family. This is why the shelter in place has been enacted. By following it, you eliminate your chances of meeting any people who have possibly contracted the virus. You also reduce the chance of spreading the virus yourself if you have unknowingly contracted it. If you do have it without knowing, the shelter in place gives you time to recuperate and beat the virus. That is why following the shelter in place is essential. However, it is impossible for many to stay inside due to their professions. Many families provide essential services; many need to provide for themselves by working, and some need to go out to get food for themselves.

So how do you flatten the curve even while going outside?

When it is necessary to go out for certain things, make sure it truly is essential. If you need to go out to make money, do it while maintaining the social distancing rules. Try to lower the number of times you need to come in contact with other people. Always wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap, the basic precautionary hygienic methods. You can also wear gloves and masks to reduce your chances of spreading or receiving germs. If you go out to buy things, you should only be purchasing the essentials, and make sure once again to follow the social distancing rules. Try to buy items that can be washed or cooked, so the potential of the virus lingering is eliminated. Another essential part of going out and shopping

is only to take what you need. By doing this, you reduce the scramble for supplies, which allows you and others to get what you need and to leave faster.

Less time spent in public is better for everyone. The importance of going out for only the essentials cannot be stressed enough. The essentials do not include a cup of boba or a fast-food sandwich; the essentials are the things you need to survive. When ordering stuff online, a precautionary tip is to let it sit outside for a couple of days and let any potential germs die. If you're ordering food online, transfer the food to a different container while minimizing any contact with the original container it came in, and then warm up the food in the new container. All these precautions are to reduce your chance of contracting the virus.

As more and more people start to become increasingly aware, more and more people are trying to flatten the curve. We are beginning to care more for the situation as a whole, and as a result, the curve is starting to flatten. Do your part in flattening the curve by following guidelines. If everybody were to do their part, this whole situation would be over much sooner, and we would be able to return to a normal lifestyle.

BY JOSH BAYOG AND SAHANA MOOGI

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Flatten the Curve SELF HYGIENE 1. Always wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.

2. Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.

3. Disinfect everyday items such as your phone, clothes, and door knobs.

QUARANTINE 1. Only go out for essential things like grocery shopping or work.

2. If you have symptoms of COVID19, call a doctor and self isolate yourself for at least 14 days.

SOCIAL DISTANCING 1. Maintain at least 6 feet from other people.

2. Don't gather in groups.

3. Avoid mass gatherings and crowded places.

Serena Gandhi

MASKS AND RESPIRATORS

By Avaneesh Aruva

The rapid spread of coronavirus, declared a pandemic, increased the demand for masks and respirators far beyond the production capabilities of many companies. Masks and respirators both prevent the spread of viruses by keeping germs and fluids contained. They block the nose, and the mouth, which is two areas germs can leave and enter the body and filter airborne particles to a certain extent.

There are many different types of masks and respirators, varying in their effectiveness and function.

These are just some of the common types you will likely see: SURGICAL FACE MASKS

Surgical masks are FDA approved loose-fitting face masks widely used by medical personnel. These masks prevent bodily fluids from escaping from beyond the mask.

They also protect your nose and

53

mouth from splashes coming from other people, like coughs or sneezes. However, while surgical masks protect you from large-particle droplets, they can’t filter out smaller particles. The smaller particle droplets can still be virus carriers, which makes surgical masks not as effective as respirator masks. In addition to that, since these masks are loose-fit, they do not provide complete protection, and germs can still get in through the gaps on the sides. Surgical face masks are disposable masks. They should not be shared with other people and should be appropriately discarded after use.

N95 RESPIRATOR MASKS

N95 masks are CDC and NIOSH approved respirator face masks that are capable of filtering 95% of airborne particles. The name N95 comes from the fact these masks filter 95% of particles.

The N95 is capable of protecting you from both large and small particles, making it much more effective than surgical face masks at protecting from particles that could potentially carry viruses.

N95 masks are designed to closely fit the face, the edges forming a seal around the nose and mouth. Once the gaps around the edges are eliminated, chances of germs entering through the sides are lower. The better the fit, the better they look. Just like the surgical masks, N95’s should not be shared with other people.

CLOTH FACE MASKS/FACE COVERINGS

Cloth face masks or cloth face coverings are simple masks that can be used if you don’t have access to surgical masks or N95 masks. Cloth masks can be used in public settings where there may be more than a few people. Although cloth masks don’t offer the same levels of protection as surgical or N95 masks, they can still help to slow the spread of viruses if the majority of the public uses them. Cloth coverings keep the people who don’t show symptoms from spreading the virus.

Cloth masks and coverings are easy to make at home and can be made with bandanas, t-shirts, and other fabrics. Cloth masks should fit snugly across the face and cover the nose and mouth.

These masks are easy to wash and can be reused.

● Masks & Respirators

STEMATIX Magazine

MASKS & RESPIRATORS

by Avi De Souza and Sahana Moogi

N95 RESPIRATOR MASKS

SURGICAL FACE MASK

"N95 masks are CDC and NIOSH approved respirator face masks that are capable of filtering 95% of airborne particles."

"Surgical masks are FDA approved loosefitting face masks widely used by medical personnel."

CLOTH FACE MASKS "Cloth face masks or are simple masks that can be used if you don’t have to access to surgical masks or N95 masks."

www.stematix.org

54

With the fear of COVID-19 becoming a seasonal

outbreak,

scientists

are

looking

DNA into cells and multiply when the cell does.

at

The reason that UV light can combat this is that

numerous ways to protect the human race from

UV rays can damage and deactivate DNA. On a

another outbreak. Scientists and doctors have

molecular level, the UV rays will fuse the

been desperately working to achieve this goal.

nitrogen base thymine, which ruins the whole

However, that doesn’t mean that other members

DNA sequence and makes it so that the

of society haven’t looked into the issue as well.

infected DNA cannot reproduce any longer.

Thus, the UV rays can deactivate viruses.

One possible solution that has risen through all the chaos is using UV lighting. The reason why

With that knowledge behind us, we now have

this was considered an answer is that UV rays are

to ask the question of if the UV rays can help

known to deactivate viruses. To understand this

cure or reduce the effects of COVID-19. The

possibility better, one must first have a basic

answer is, possibly. The thing about COVID-19 is

understanding of how UV rays and viruses work

that it is a new type of virus; Scientists and

and interact. Viruses don’t exactly reproduce the

doctors haven’t had a chance to explore this

way that cells do. Instead, they inject their viral

avenue thoroughly quite yet.

The Electromagnetic Spectrum

Cosmic Rays

Gamma Rays

X-Rays

UV Rays

Visible Light

UV Light is classified into 3 wavelength ranges

UV-C 100-280 nm

UV-B

only type of UV that can kill COVID-19 particularly good at destroying genetic material – whether in humans or viral particles scientists discovered that they could harness UVC to kill microorganisms capable of frying one's skin

280-315 nm

can damage the DNA in our skin, leading to sunburn and eventually skin cancer

UV-A 315-400 nm

makes up majority of ultraviolet radiation reaching Earth’s surface capable of penetrating deep into skin and thought to be responsible for up to 80% of skin aging

By Akshita Ponnuru & Raiyaan Mulla

One important thing to note is that UV rays can be very harmful to humans. A common effect of the rays is sunburn.

However, concentrated amounts of UV can lead to even more damaging effects such as skin cancer, eye cataracts, and other dangerous conditions.

The most common types of UV rays are called UVA and UVB, which make up most of the UV spectrum and most of the UV rays in the world. Although there is one more obscure type of ray, it has contrasting effects on UVA and UVB but still is particularly good at destroying viral DNA. This may sound frightening because of the information presented before. Thankfully, several

www.stematix.org

scientists have discovered that UVC can successfully inactivate viruses without damaging mammalian skin because UVC has a naturally strong absorbance into biological materials, making it (supposedly) ideal for helping develop a vaccine for COVID-19.

COVID-19 has unexpectedly affected our world. It has hurt so many people, families, and even societies. A vaccine is something that everyone is desperate for and is still in the works. However, current speculations, such as using UV rays to combat the virus, have yet to be proven effective. For the time being, the best course of action is to stay home and stay clean.

56

Is Hydroxychloroquine a potential cure for COVID-19?

by Mokshi Dhamotharan

Surely you have seen the term hydroxychloroquine if you keep up with the news nowadays. With a global pandemic that’s taking countless lives day after day, everyone is either searching for a cure or hoping to find one soon. In desperate times, we have discovered that Hydroxychloroquine may be a potential cure for COVID-19 based on recent studies on how the drug responds to the virus.

Hydroxychloroquine is a prescription drug commonly known as Plaquenil and comes in the form of a white tablet. It is used to treat illnesses such as Malaria, Lupus Erythematosus, and Rheumatoid Arthritis. The drug is approved for long term use to treat only those diseases given that there is a sufficient amount of research proving its effectiveness. However, recent in vitro studies done in petri dishes have shown that Hydroxychloroquine contains

anti-viral properties against SARSCoV-2, which is the virus that causes COVID-19.

The medication fights against SARS-CoV-2 by interfering with the chemical environment of human cell membranes. This medication blocks the virus from entering and multiplying inside the cells. From studies, it seems that the medication hydroxychloroquine works when tested in a lab environment, but there is still a catch. These experiments have been deemed in vitro experiments, as mentioned before, meaning that there is a chance that the drugs won’t work once it enters a human body.

You know the saying, desperate times require desperate measures? That can be applied to our current situation now with Hydroxychloroquine and patients diagnosed with COVID-19.

Scientists have only tested how the drug reacts to the virus in labs, not in people. There is not enough medical data to prove that Hydroxychloroquine will work entirely in curing COVID-19, and there is certainly no guarantee that patients will be safe consuming Hydroxychloroquine. There are several warnings and side effects that come

● Is Hydroxychloroquine a potential cure for COVID-19?

57 STEMATIX Magazine

with taking the drug. Some common side effects that occur are headaches, dizziness, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting. Additionally, severe side effects such as blurred vision or other vision changes, heart disease, angioedema (rapid swelling of your skin), hives, mild or severe bronchospasm, severe hypoglycemia, unusual bleeding or bruising, muscle weakness, hair loss or changes in hair color, and lastly mental health effects can also occur.

Consuming Hydroxychloroquine comes with several side effects and dangers, yet hospitals worldwide have started using it as a treatment for COVID-19. On March 28, 2020, the FDA issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) that lets providers request a supply of Hydroxychloroquine for hospitalized patients with COVID-19 that are unable to join a clinical trial. The FDA has not approved these medications for the treatment of COVID-19 yet. Still, the EUA intends to help increase access to these medications by allowing doctors to request supply from the Strategic National Stockpile for specific cases like these.

The high demand for Hydroxychloroquine is making it almost impossible to find this drug for patients that have Malaria, Lupus Erythematosus, or Rheumatoid Arthritis. Patients with those illnesses depend on that

www.stematix.org

Consuming Hydroxychloroquine comes with several side effects and dangers, yet hospitals worldwide have started using it as a treatment for COVID-19.

specific medication; however, with the global pandemic, they are starting to suffer the consequences of the depleting supplies of the medicine. There are many drawbacks as well as advantages to using Hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID19.

There have been several successful and failed studies across the world using the drug to treat COVI-19.

There is not enough research or statistics to solidly prove that Hydroxychloroquine is a cure. What we do know is that people are working hard to find something to help us all. The best way to do yout part is to stay at home and follow the shelter in place order and practice social distancing.

58

HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE

by Kavi Rajesh and Sahana Moogi

A quinoline medicine used to treat malaria, which is caused my mosquito bites Also used to treat certain auto-immune diseases such as lupus, and arthritis Comes in the form of tablets/pills Common brands: Plaquenil

Headache with chest pain, dizziness Slow heart rate, weak pulse Muscle weakness, numbness Low blood sugar: hunger, fatigue Low blood cell counts: fever, chills, sore throats Visit a doctor right away if experiencing these effects COVID-19 is an illness caused by a virus transmitted from person to person There are not enough trials to officially declare it as a cure Has antiviral properties against SARSCo-V-2. the virus that causes COVID-19 Studies have tested positive in certain areas of China and France, but negative in Shanghai, China and other areas of France

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

SUNNYVALE COMPANY CEPHEID DEVELOPS A FAST WAY TO TEST FOR COVID-19

BY SOHAN NANNRA A new COVID-19 test that can produce results in 45 minutes has recently earned emergency permission from the Food and Drug Administration to distribute the tests to hospitals and medical facilities. The developer of this new test is Cepheid, a leading molecular diagnostics company headquartered in Sunnyvale, California. It is a company that focuses on molecular diagnostic research and is committed to improving healthcare by designing, producing, and selling reliable and easyto-use molecular systems and tests.

Through automating increasingly complicated and time-consuming manual processes, the company's technologies offer a more straightforward way to conduct advanced genetic testing for diseases and genetic-based disorders for organizations of any scale. Through its strong expertise in molecular biology, the company focuses on those applications where reliable, fast, and actionable test results are most needed, such as managing infectious diseases and cancer.

The Cepheid test is known as SAR-CoV-2 XpertÂŽ Xpress and is designed to operate on any of Cepheid's automated GeneXpertÂŽ Systems worldwide. This diagnostic test is the first Coronavirus test that can be performed directly at the point-of-care for patients and produce results in less than an hour. Usually, with other tests, samples are sent to central reference laboratories, which can take several days to produce results. The

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company stated that there are now 23,000 automated GeneXpert systems worldwide, and approximately 5,000 in the U.S. According to Cepheid, there's no specialized training needed to introduce the new exam. The company has also released a video demonstrating how the test works. First, the technicians collect a nasal swab, after which the technician moves the sample to a cartridge that is placed into a test device capable of detecting the virus. As per Cepheid, the results are available in less than an hour.

The Cepheid test is the thirteenth COVID19 test approved by the FDA for use during an emergency in public health. But, again, it's the first that can be performed at the point of treatment and doesn't require sending samples to an external laboratory, which saves crucial time that can significantly impact the safety of everyone. "During this time of increased demand for hospital services, clinicians urgently need an on-demand diagnostic test for real-time management of patients being evaluated for admission to healthcare facilities. An accurate test delivered close to the patient can be transformative — and help alleviate the pressure that the emergence of the 2019nCoV outbreak has put on healthcare facilities that need to properly allocate their respiratory isolation resources," said Dr. David Persing, the chief medical and technology officer at Cepheid, in the announcement.

60

Fun Activities

To Keep Yourself Occupied At Home

By Sofia Porras

Meditation Mediation and Yoga guide with quieting of the mind which helps one achieve mindfulness. Both practices use controlled breathing to reduce stress. As a result, it promotes better sleep, decreased blood pressure, more control in anxiety, improves attitude with oneself and others, and the ability to stay focused and productive during the day. Some say it is hard to stay focused on the breath the first few practices, however it does get easier along the way and is worth a try.

Three Levels of Meditation Presence

Stillness

Inquiry

pay attention to the present, relax tension in the body, let go of distracting thoughts

find a balance between attention and relaxation, allow stillness in the body and mind

take a moment to selfquestion, and explore yourself without expectation of an answer

Exercise

Exercise is another excellent way to fill time. There are no current vaccines to treat COVID-19, and therefore one’s immunity system is the best bet against this virus. Regular exercise encourages a more robust immune system meaning it “allows the cells and substances of the immune system to move through the body freely and do their job efficiently,” according to Harvard Health Publishing. Not a bad idea after taking into account how we most likely stay stationary at home most of the time, and movement can help burn those calories. And before you say you do not enjoy running, exercise could easily be dancing (like the ones on TikTok), walking, swimming, hiking, and biking. It is up to you to find something you will enjoy.

61

● Fun Activities

STEMATIX Magazine

Hobbies Moving on to activities that require less dedication is one’s hobbies. There are no more excuses as to why one is not improving, especially anything along the lines of the mantra “I don’t have enough time.” Hobbies can range from illustrations, writing, music, baking; the goal is to take what you are feeling and make something fun out of it!. Even just taking the time to finish a book, hear a podcast, and pamper yourself is considered a hobby.

More Ideas Still, having a hard time finding what to do? Here is another shortlist to think about: complete a puzzle, learn a language, take photographs, write letters to friends and family, clean or organize your house, try origami, sing, paint an object, try new outfits, and learn to be ambidextrous.

If All Else Fails...

Lastly, if all the above seemed a bit too hard or boring, you could easily take a walk, a mindful walk, particularly while exercising social distancing. If you don’t want to go outside, you could get on a call with friends and family you miss or have not been in touch with lately. It will help you understand how they are coping with this situation. Remember, you are not alone, take advantage of this quarantine to learn and respect yourself; soon enough, you will realize the time you have is not enough to embrace everything this world has to offer. Relish every moment, have fun, and stay safe.

IT'S NORMAL TO FEEL SAD, STRESSED, CONFUSED, SCARED OR ANGRY DURING A CRISIS.

TALK TO PEOPLE YOU TRUST, SUCH AS FRIENDS AND FAMILY OR YOUR FELLOW COMMUNITY MEMBERS.

● Disease X

STEMATIX Magazine

62

by Thomas Mathew

Joshua Lederberg Nobel Prize Winning Biologist

COVID-19 happened. We weren't ready, and the damage was irreparable. Many epidemiologists, public health officials who try to understand the patterns of disease, have been warning us many years prior that something like this would strike. They predicted the incredible impact a pandemic like this would have on the world. Our economy would plummet, and more importantly, many lives would be lost. The epidemiologists even provided us with the steps we needed to take to prevent something like this from happening, and yet it still happened. Why were these measures not taken? What did we do wrong, and how would we prevent ourselves from making the same mistakes again? Here are some potential answers to these questions.

Neha Agarwal

Most people didn't see COVID-19 coming. We go about our daily lives with a list of problems and worries. The last thing anybody wants to deal with is a potential global pandemic. Our local communities, the United States Government, and the world as a whole decided not to put pandemics on their list of worries.

In the last fifty years, our world was hit with AIDS/HIV, SARS, MERS, Zika, and Ebola. Yet after every single one, not much has changed. This fear of disease seems to die out right after the infection itself dies out. We go back to our daily lives without a second glance. In 2018, our National Pandemic Response Team was dismantled to cut the government's national budget.

Then COVID-19 struck, and what happened?

We are all stuck at home, a once booming economy is in decline, and by the beginning of May, 240,000 lives have been lost around the world. The message is clear: this non-living thing called a virus cannot be disregarded.

Now the question is if we knew a pandemic was coming, what should we have done? For starters, we should have prepared a stockpile of emergency medical equipment and medicines that can be used in a time of the pandemic.

One of the biggest problems faced throughout the globe in nations like Italy and even the United States is a lack of ventilators and masks.

While these times have brought forth many heroes who have dedicated their time to creating homemade masks for health care workers, the healthcare environment would be much safer with proper masks and the right equipment to take care of a sudden rush of people. The Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) is responsible for preparing for a situation like ours, but it is clear that the job has not been done correctly. Greg Burel, the recently retired director of the SNS, stated that the SNS's resources were depleted, and machines like ventilators were not appropriately maintained.

The best thing we can do to prepare for the next pandemic is to prevent the next pandemic. This means that we need our government to devote more resources to medical research. What does research look like? Often, when we think of research, we imagine huge labs where people are staring at viruses through microscopes. It turns out; research is much more diverse.

A critical form of research is out in areas that have a higher chance for epidemics to start.

Usually, these are places where animals that are especially good at transmitting viruses are present. This is called cross-species virus transmission or zoonotic diseases. One such species that is especially good at transmitting viruses to humans are bats. Researchers go to caves, capture bats, and analyze the viruses that are contained within them. They then

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"Humanity should not be decimated by a nonliving entity that is too small to see. COVID-19 was a lesson for us." predict the likelihood of these viruses to transfer to a human and how deadly it would be. If this virus poses a threat, further action will be prompted. Another goal of this type of research is to understand how viruses are able to mutate or change. While a virus in its current state may not be deadly to humans, it is possible that it can mutate and become harmful. By understanding how viruses can mutate, scientists can then run simulations to see how a virus could become deadly and prevent the virus from mutating to that point by eradicating it.

Bill Gates predicted that a global pandemic could cost the world 3 trillion dollars! By devoting more money now to research, we can potentially save billions down the line.

Preparing for another pandemic is not easy. We live in a world with constant worries, and pandemics are never going to be our biggest worry until we're in the middle of one. We need to change this mindset. Looking towards the future is key to our survival. This means that we have to run simulations, conduct research, and prepare a reserve of healthcare workers. This is war. Humanity should not be decimated by a non-living entity that is too small to see. COVID19 was a lesson for us. Just imagine if COVID-19 was more deadly. Imagine if it were transmitted much quicker. The damage would be much more catastrophic. Please don't count on the next virus to go easy on us. They will continue to mutate, and they will "learn" how to survive.

At the end of the day, viruses don't have brains.

Humans do. We need to collectively use our resources and our minds to defeat the next virus. Disease X will have no idea what hit them.

64

DIGITAL INVENTORY AT SUPERMARKETS

Simbe Robotics' Autonomous Solution Tally is the world's first fully autonomous in-store product auditing robot. It provides retail store associates timely information to ensure products are always stocked, in the right place, and correctly priced.

More Info: www.simberobotics.com

TELEPRESENCE ROBOT

A telepresence robot, RP-Vita, helps facilitate specialist visits instantly, irrespective of location. It provides a safer way for patients to be visited by family members and a safer and effective way for doctors to help in emergencies instantly instead of driving to the location.

More Info: www.telepresencerobots.com

AWARENESS SPREADING ROBOTS

Two robots were launched by Startup Asimov Robotics to spread awareness of the coronavirus in India. These robots are also distributing hand sanitizer and face masks.

More Info: www.asimovrobotics.com

SOCIAL DISTANCING ROBOTS

Boston Dynamics' four-legged robot Spot is being used in Singapore parks, telling people to socially distance. It is also being used in a Boston hospital to help doctors evaluate potential COVID-19 patients without risking infection themselves.

More Info: www.bostondynamics.com

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66

WHO ARE THE ASTROBRUINS?

highschoolers hours of enrichment

robot @schsastrobruins @SCHSAstroBruins astrobruins.com

Can You Hear Me Now?

Katharine M. Postdoctoral scholar Stanford University

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68

Headphones people

in

blasting the

classes,

music,

hallway

a

200

between

one-on-one

to the top. Inside the cochlea are rows

of

cells

important

that

to

our

are

incredibly

ability

to

hear.

conversation, a clock ticking in the

These cells run along the length of

corner

the

of

your

room.

Even

with

cochlear

such a wide range of intensity and

is

variety,

to

to

a

sounds

of

sound.

we

distinguish from

one

are

somehow

each

of

another.

able

these Our

ears

pick

In

brains

organization

process on

different

them, or

noises

allowing

filter

us

in

the

resembles

us.

But

one

how exactly does hearing work?

ears

three

are

actually

different

made

regions:

cells

up

the

of

or

if

to

cell

react

frequency,

you

straight of

a

end

took

the

the

react

to

on

line,

the

these

piano

of

whereas Our

tone,

fact,

a

out

around

each

cochlea and unwound it so that it lay

focus

and

calibrated

different

up these different sounds and our

to

turns,

specifically

cells

keyboard.

On

“keyboard” very

the

low

other

the

notes,

end

they

react to very high notes.

outer

ear, the middle ear, and the inner

These cells that react to different

ear. The outer ear is exactly what

frequencies

you

think

word

of

ear

when

–

it’s

you what

pierced,

it’s

where

earbuds,

it’s

what

loud

siren

shape

of

collect

suddenly your

sound

them

into

leads

to

you you

ear

the

beginning

of

the

because they have tiny protrusions at

put

your if

off.

and

a

The

helps

to

funnel

canal,

middle

cells

get

cover

eardrum

the

hair

you

ear

waves

the

called

hear

goes

outer

are

which

and

the

ear.

Just

their

These

tops

that

“hairs”

look

are

like

actually

hairs. called

stereocilia, and they are arranged into

rows

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(tall,

cochlea, pushed sail

medium,

vibrations

move

the

of

a

much

sailboat.

hair

cell

is

the

When

the

stimulated

a

pushed, a chain reaction is started

layer

across

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ear

canal

inside

is

the

also

the

shouldn’t even

stick

reason

why

you

things

(yes,

yes,

a

ear,

heard

Q-tips)

into

because

it

order

transfer

to

known and

to

three as

the

needs

to

your be

these

tiny

bones.

the

hammer,

stirrup,

these

intact

in

vibrations Commonly the

of

hair

the cell

hair to

specific

hair

cell.

tell

together,

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the

are this

is

is

When

being how

are

allows

brain

frequency

somewhere. cells

stereocilia

by

vibrations,

thin

the

are

like

like a musical drum, the eardrum is

that is vibrated by sound waves. It

and

the

stereocilia

backwards,

correct

short).

through

that

being lots

of

stimulated

we

can

hear

different types of sounds.

anvil,

bones

pass

the vibrations from the middle ear to the inner ear.

The

inner

ear

called

the

like

snail

a

executed

contains

cochlea, shell

soft

or

serve

an

organ

which a

looks

perfectly

ice

cream,

spiraling in ever tighter circles up

69

SO WHAT IF THE TREATMENT PROCESS ISN'T WORKING?

● Can you Hear me Now?

STEMATIX Magazine

Two

to

are

three

born

with

around

half

caused

by

most

babies

of

1000

take

many

more

loss,

and

years before scientists are able to

are

develop a gene therapy that works

The

to

by

of

genetic

mutations.

therapies are

wearing

hearing

implant.

therapies

have

a

used

deaf

aids

cochlear

include

or

having

Both good

of

a

these

chance

to

significantly increase the ability of person

probably

cases

who

deaf

will

these

people

a

It

hearing

of

common

out

to

hear,

restore

hearing.

progress

recently,

and

been

many

around

the

similar

techniques.

for

hearing

However,

has

world

loss

are

universities working

Gene

may

lots

made

be

on

therapy closer

than we think!

however,

neither of them restore hearing to 100%,

nor

do

underlying reason,

many

interested types

they

fix

problem.

of

are

developing

treatments.

of

DNA MUTATIONS

other

One

treatment

application

this

researchers

in

possible

the

For

such

is

the

something

called

gene therapy.

In

cases

caused ideal

of

by

genetic

way

hearing

deafness

to

that

mutations,

completely

would

be

are

to

fix

the

restore

the

piece

of DNA – or rather, the gene – that is

mutated.

This

“gene

therapy”

is

very difficult to perform in humans and would be even harder to do in the

hair

cells

because fragile.

the

are

However,

studying

specific

this

viruses.

of

types. could

As

you

are

methods

pieces

cell

cochlea extremely

scientists

different

transferring

doing

of

they

be

may

DNA

One

of into

way

by

of

using

already

know,

viruses that cause disease are very good into

at

human

found do

inserting

ways

NOT

designed human

cells. of

cause

DNA have

viruses

disease

These

own

Scientists

using

pieces

cells.

their

of

to

insert

DNA

pieces

that

of

into DNA

could be used to fix the mutations in genes, which would allow us to cure

different

diseases

or,

in

this

case, restore hearing.

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