KEPLER 10-C

Kepler-10C is an enormous and dense rocky planet. It inhabits the constellation Draco (560 light-years away). The most intriguing aspect of this planet is its weight which is 17 times greater than that of the earth, but is is also 2.3 times larger than the earth. The planet is mainly composed of heavy solids, which is quite perplexing considering its size. Kepler-10C's solar system is estimated to be 11 billion years old and what is most astonishing about this calculation is that it insinuates that dense planets that were not "gas giants" (e.g. Jupiter) were able to form after the formation of the universe. The number of planets fostered by the Kepler system seems to be around 2,700. But, what is the main factor that contrubtes to the astonishment of the discovery of this planet? Well, this information suggests that extraterrestial life may be found within a few years and that is truly an exiting prospect. 

Physics and the World Cup?

According to National Geographic, the new World Cup soccer ball, named Brazuca, is a six-panel ball that is said to move in a much more predicatble manner than previous balls. Traditional soccer balls are composed of 32 leather panels that are hand-stitched, but since 2006 soccer balls were modified in order to include balls that contained less panels and whose panels were glued and not stitched. Physicist Sungchan Hong from the University of Tsukuba, along with his colleagues, conducted an experiment in which the new ball and previous balls were sent in a specific direction in a wind tunnel. They concluded that the new brazuca ball was much more reliable in terms of movement and experienced less drag while in the air. However, the the majority of the variables in the study were controlled unlike the conditions that would affect a ball in a normal stadium.

Personal Update #2

My first "real" run in several months was yesterday during practice! I ran well for my first time since running my race in April and my first time actually training in over 4 months. I ran four miles with a minute break between the first and last two miles (our coach had to document our times and separate us into groups). My first two miles I completed in 14:20 (not great, but okay) and I came in third place while my last two miles I completed in 15:05 and came in third once again. I am not sure when I will fully recuperate from my knee ailments, as well as other debilitating issues, but for now I am going to strive for improvement. My goal is to run two miles in at least 13:20 min/sec and to run three miles in 17:00 min/sec. However, I do enjoy bodyweight strength training, so I will have to balance these exercises in order to accomodate my goals and my schedule. My debilitating issue aside from my knee pain has prompted a decrease in my fitness capacity, but I am sure that my future appointment with a specialist will aid in the resolution of this issue. I plan to spend my summer as an intern at Children's Hospital, advance in my schoolwork by taking AP courses online, and run as well as improve in all of the aspects of my life. 

Personal Update #1

Currently, I have just complted all of my required AP exams for this year and I plan to prepare even more extensiviely for my upcoming AP courses (US History, English Language, Calculus, and Chemistry). I am quite distruaght at my productivity which has diminshed, as a result of some personal issues. My running endeavors have been halted at the current moment since I have not been feeling well. I hope that I am admitted into the SMARTS program since it seems like a worthwhile summer program that will probably bestow me with an illustrious amount of experience in the science and mathematics fields.

Is education really necessary for success?

In my opinion education is not a vital factor in success. A proper education acts as a vector to success, but you must know how to properly apply your knowledge in order to succeed. There are numerous examples of individuals who did not attend a prestigious university or received what is considered a proper education and they are quite successful (i.e. Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, etc.) Education is perceived as absolutely necessary, but in reality the correct education that is based on preferances, which is hard to define, is more effective. But other aspects of learning should not be ignored. I do not belive that our education system is to blame, but rather the lack of initiative of the school to inspire an adavnced cirriculum. Until now they have realized this and will implement such aspects with the common core regime. 

Heart Of City 5K Reflection

A few weeks ago, I completed a 5K in Los Angeles. It was a wonderful experience, since it was my second race. Although I hadn't ran in a few months, I quickly adjusted to it, and I ran at a comfortable pace. When my family and I arrived verything was already set up and volunteers where passing out snacks and such. I was incredibly nervous since there were various athletic individuals preparing for the race. I have always wondered why many individuals purchase advertised "running" equipment such as specialized backpacks. I mainly run with an adequate shirt that is not comprised of cotton and running shorts. Anyhow, when the race commenced I ran, but my legs were incerdibly stiff. Since I do not like eating anything before a run, I became a little light-headed, but this feeling soon dissipated as I continued to run. My two older brothers, my twin and my older brother who trains for triathlons, were ahead of me, since they had been running and training. I ran by the Staples Center, a cool plaza with a target, and I veered to the right when I was approaching 7th street. The city was a spectacular sight, specially in the morning with no cars in sight and very little people on the sidewalks, but this soon proved to be a disadvantage since the calm ambience made me feel a little lethargic. I then began racing with a twelve-year old competitor, and we then completed the race at the same time. Overall, I enjoyed this experience, and I hope to race much more often during the summer.

Heart of the City LA 5K Race Results

HEART OF CITY 5K

OVERALL PLACE

8

of 784

MENS RANK

8

of 317

AGE GRADE

67.8%

PACE

06:28

mins/mile

What do I want to achieve in life? and Introduction!

I aspire to obtain a degree (PhD) in physics, genetics, medicine (not specified, but preferably a surgeon (thoracic, general, etc.)). I would also like to advance in my piano playing. I have a passion for running, mathematics, and science (expressed by my blog's topic); therefore, I aspire to continue incorporating them into my every day life. I am currently in the 10th grade. I was running in the varsity team in Cross-Country during my early 10th grade year, but health complications complicated my running and I had to cease my activity. I run a few times a week, but I have not fully recovered. There are also an abundance of ambitions that I want to accomplish (i.e. run 40 miles, earn three PhD degrees, etc.) and I believe that if I organize my life adequately I can accomplish such. 

Moral Aspects?

I belive that porper moral foundations are vital for success in any endeavor, primarily those related to your education. Many, who are unaware of it, are taught some moral values within their classrooms such as responsibility, integrity, etc. These moral aspects are vital for success in every aspect of life. For example, responsibility is pivotal when you aspire to achieve anything in life (i.e. attain a career, maintain a friendship, organize a wedding, etc.) There are numerous moral issues within society, but some might argue that "not everone is perfect..blah..blah..". But is perfection something that we must strive for? If you would like to do such then do so, but if you do not, then you don't have to. Despite this being an "optional" endeavor, it is still an important characteristic.  

Injury

My knee injury has almost fully recovered, as well as my hip injury, but I am resolving other issues that are impeding me from fully running. i encountered a helpful article by greatist.com/fitness:

RUNNING RAGGED — THE NEED-TO-KNOW

• Runner’s knee. Experiencing a tender pain around or behind the patella (or kneecap) is a sure sign of patellofemoral pain syndrome, a fancy term for runner’s knee. (And yep, this ailment is so common among runners it was named after them.)
  Find relief: The repetitive force of pounding on the pavement, downhill running,muscle imbalances, and weak hips can put extra stress on the patella, so stick to flat or uphill terrain,and opt for softer running surfaces when or wherever possible. To treat the pain, some experts suggest knee taping and/or braces, anti-inflammatory medications, and cutting back on the mileage [1].

• Achilles tendinitis. The swelling of the Achilles, the tissues that connect the heel to lower-leg muscles, can be the result of many finicky factors: rapid mileage increase, improper footwear, tight calf muscles, or even having a naturally flat foot [2].
  Prevent the pain: To help sidestep this pesky pain, make sure to always stretch the calf muscles post-workout, and wear supportive shoes. Also, chill out on all the hill climbing, which puts extra stress on tendons. Anti-inflammatories, stretching, and the ol’ R.I.C.E strategy (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) are the best ways to get back on the path to recovery.

• Plantar fasciitis. This tricky-to-pronounce pain is due to the inflammation, irritation, or tearing of the plantar fascia — tissue on the bottom of the foot [3]. Just some of the causes include excess pounding on the roads or strapping on unsupportive footwear (read: flip-flops) to go the distance The result: extreme stiffness, or a stabbing pain in the arch of the foot (sounds like fun right?).
  Soothe the sole: Wearing shoes with extra cushion, stretching and rolling a tennis ball over the heel, and getting ample rest can help dull the pain. If the problem persists, doctors recommend wearing custom-made orthotics, a night splint, or in some cases getting a steroid shot into the heel (ouch!) to speed up recovery and keep on keepin’ on.

• Shin splints. If you’re a runner who’s never experienced that aching, stabbing sensation in the shin, please tell us your secret! Among the most nagging of injuries, shin splints occur when the muscles and tendons covering the shinbone become inflamed.
   
• Stop the stabbing: Try icing the shins for 15-20 minutes and keeping them elevated at night to reduce swelling. Prevention is a liiiittle trickier, but some researchers find shock-absorbing insoles that support the arch may help [4]. Also make sure those sneaks are the right fit for the foot, and stick to running on softer grounds whenever possible. Avoid hills, too, which put extra force on the shin’s tibialis muscle.
   
• Iliotibial band syndrome. Distance runners take note: This injury is not your friend. ITBS triggers pain on the outside of the knee, due to the inflammation of the Iliotibial band, a thick tendon that stretches from the pelvic pone down the tibia (the bone that runs down the thigh). Common culprits include increased mileage (half-marathon training, anyone?), downhill running, or weak hips [5].
   
• Ease the ache: Give those muscles some love. Specific stretches, along with foam rolling, may decrease inflammation and help reduce pain.​
   
• Stress fracture. Non-contact sports can have some bone breaks, too. Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bone caused by repeatedly pounding greater amounts of force than the leg bones can bear.
  Find time to chill: Taking some time off is a must and usually involves some crutches with a side of physical therapy. And in some cases, an x-ray may reveal it’s time to go under the knife (yikes!). To avoid the sidelines, make cross-training your BFF to avoid overuse, wear proper shoes, and get enough calcium to keep bones strong.

• Patellar tendinitis. It’s often referred to as “jumper’s knee,” but this is one injury that’s just as common among distance runners [6]. Patellar tendinitis strikes when overuse (sensing a pattern here?) leads to tiny tears in the patellar tendon (the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shinbone). Overpronation, over-training, and too many hill repeats are likely causes.
  Tenderize it: To reduce the risk of patellar tendinitis, strengthen the hamstrings and quads (at the gym or at home!), and ice the knee at the onset of pain. Doctors also recommend physical therapy to help soothe and strengthen the tendon.

• Ankle sprain. A sprain occurs when the ankle rolls in or outward, stretching the ligament (and causing some serious pain). Curbs, potholes, tree branches (or just an unfortunate landing) can be just a few of the unfortunate culprits.
  Straighten Out: Recovery may be a little shaky at first, but many experts suggest doing balance exercises (like single-legged squats) to strengthen the muscles around the ankle [7]. Stick to some solid rest after the sprain occurs; how long depends on the sprain’s severity, so see a doc for a more specific game plan. They might also recommend an ankle brace or air cast, and taping it up when you’re ready to get back out there to prevent re-twisting.

• Pulled muscles. When a muscle is overstretched, fibers and tendons can tear and cause a pulled muscle. (The calf and hamstring are common muscle pulls among runners! [8]). Overuse, inflexibility, and forgetting to warm-up are a few possible causes.
  Prevent the pull: A proper warm-up, cool-down, and dynamic stretching pre-workout is the best way to avoid a pesky pull. While the pain persists, lay off (up to five days!), and stick to gentle stretching and icing the muscle.

• Blisters. More annoying than a younger brother, blisters can pop up when we least expect it. As the heel rubs against the shoe, the top layer of skin can tear, leaving a bubble between the layers of skin.
  Stop it or pop it: The best way to beat ‘em is prevention: Make sure the shoe (literally) fits, and wear a good pair of synthetic socks [9]. If a blister still appears, cover it up with special Band-Aids, moleskins, or gels.

• Chafing. For most, there’s no escaping it. When skin rubs against skin (we’re looking at you, thighs), the skin can become angry and irritated.
  Stop the sting: Avoid those short-shorts and throw on a pair of longer running shorts or capris to avoid that skin-on-skin action. When in doubt, there are also products like body-glide to keep things moving.

• Side stitch. Ever get that awful pain on the side of the stomach? Formally called exercise-related transient abdominal pain (ETAP), side stitches can really creep up — affecting nearly 70 percent of runners. Many experts believe the pain is caused by the diaphragm beginning to spasm from being overworked and suggest poor running posture could be to blame.
  Nix the stitch: Remember to stand up straight to help prevent a stitch. If it strikes, try bending forward and tightening the core, or breathing with pursed lips to help ease pain [10] [11].

JUST BEAT IT — YOUR ACTION PLAN

Still hell-bent on racking up the miles? (Yeah, most runners are.) Remember there’s a fine line between pushing through and pushing your luck — and only you (and your doctor) will know what’s best when the running gets rough. To minimize the aches and pains, though, consider these general tips to help stay on the safe side:

• Stick to the 10 percent rule. Don't increase mileage by more than 10 percent each week. Upping those miles unexpectedly is a major reason overuse injuries occur!

• Warm up and cool down. Heading for an intense run? Remember to warm up and cool down to ease the body in and out of a workout. This will help keep injuries at bay [12].

• Fix your form. Smooth and efficient is the key. Not only will poor form hinder performance, it could lead to unnecessary pain. So make sure to use correct running technique to prevent injuries, especially shin splints and back aches. Imbalances in the body can also lead to problems down the road, and it never hurts to visit a skilled physical therapist who can help identify and address any biomechanical issues.

• Replace the sneaks. Keep track of how many miles those shoes have logged, and replace them every 600 miles — if not sooner! It’s also worth swinging by a specialty running shoe store, where they can help you figure out which shoe is the perfect fit.

• Keep it even. Avoid running on uneven surfaces that put unnecessary stress on ligaments. And while off-roading is a fun change of pace, rough terrain may make it easier to twist an ankle — so be extra careful on the trails.

• Strength train. Don’t disregard those dumbbells, even if running’s your main gig. Lifting can increase structural fitness — which helps bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles endure all that pounding. Pay special attention tostrengthening hips, too, since weak hips are linked to higher rates of injury [13].

• Know your limit. Shocker: Overtraining can cause overuse injuries. Make sure to take at least one day off per week, and mix up those fartleks and hill-repeats with some easier recovery runs. Don’t forget to pencil in regular rest days, too. You (and your body) deserve it!

Disclaimer: Remember that none of this information should substitute professional medical advice. Definitely check with a doctor or physical therapist first once those aches and pains arise!

This article was read and approved by Greatist Experts Mike Reinold and Terra Castro.

Wonderful Reflection (Applicable to every aspect of life)

Student Success Statement

“Cowardice asks the question “Is it safe?”

Expediency asks the question “Is it politic?”

Vanity asks the question “Is it popular?”

But, conscience asks the question, “Is it right?” And there comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but one must take it because one’s conscience tells one that it is right.”

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

This is an amazing statement by Mr. King who implies that the correct decisions aren’t always included within the best of situations. Proper actions require sacrifice, but not many individuals are prepared for such. Everyday, numerous individuals are tantalized by uncertainty and must ask themselves numerous questions pertaining to their decisions. But what is the source of such indecision? The answer is, their conscience; if you attempt to commit an indecent action then you will surely struggle. This is a result of your inner struggle, as you challenge your conscience, you become much more corrupt. You are defying your own moral structure. Some individuals might argue that they do not have a moral structure? Everyone has a moral structure, it just depends on how corrupt it is. For example, say a student is about to expose a rigged election for the school council, but fears that his “friends” would become angry at him for such claims. His vanity is condemning him to unnecessary uncertainty, which shouldn't even be challenging his righteous intentions. Overall, good deeds require sacrifice, but prompt prosperity not chaos.

Puppets!! The Bohr-Einstein Debate

The Bohr-Einstein Debates, With Puppets from Chad Orzel on Vimeo.

Persistence!!!!

Student Success Statement

“Persistence can change failure into extraordinary achievement.”

Matt Biondi

This is an amazing statement by former Olympic swimmer Matt Biondi. Mr. Biondi conveys that persistence can alter your perception of failure and prompt you to achieve extraordinary wonders. For example, say a student receives an atrocious grade on his essay. Even though, the student is terrible at writing essays he persists and attends each tutoring session provided by his teacher. The student’s persistence allows him to improve his writing skills. The student then begins earning much better grades on his essays and improves every time he writes an essay and finally attains a wonderful grade. I have numerous goals, over 100, and if I would like to achieve every single one of them then I will have to persist since life is not a sleek road, it is a turbulent road full of numerous obstacles. I overpower numerous obstacles everyday of my life and with this persistence I am sure that I will succeed. Overall, persistence is an amazing quality that promotes success among us.

Are Black Holes Actually Grey Holes?

A few weeks ago renowned physicist Stephen Hawking wrote a new paper pertaining to black holes. Mr. Hawking has been debating whether the theoretical "firewall" of a black hole which was proposed by a group of physicists in 2012. Mr. Hawking conveyed that the "firewall" and the alleged event horizon (the line that cannot be crossed unless you would like to be teared to pieces by the potent gravitational forces). Mr. Hawking invokes an "apparent horizon" alters the manner of quantum fluctuation within a black hole. Ergo an alleged grey area. Although Stephen Hawking is a trustworthy physicist, I await more definitive answers such as one that pertains to ECOs (Eternally Collapsing Objects) or other explanatory wonders that would explain these apparent horizons.

What is your opinion on Mr. Hawking's theory? Leave your response on the comment section!!

Global Achievement Gap

The Global Achievement Gap from Asia Society Education Programs

Running Is my Passion???

Many individuals who excel in running are pressured into joining a cross-country or a running team/group. I for one run because it is my passion not because I excel at it. If you are a decent runner, but prefer basketball then join the basketball team. Peer pressure or self induced prefer should not interrupt your decisions to pursue your passion. I enjoy running, but I do not advertise running to all of my friends (i.e "Running is AWESOME, you should join the Cross-Country team!) If you are passionate about something then you will surely enjoy doing it many days of the week, but if you do not enjoy something and only do it because you are pressured to then you will feel as if you are being tortured, that your life slips away, that you are continually falling down a bottomless pit. Overall, what I am attempting to convey is that you should only participate in an activity that you truly enjoy.

Lighting!!

2011 New York City Marathon from Andrey Blanco on Vimeo.

Best Running Shoes?

I AM NOT ADVERTISING ANY BRAND OF SHOES, THIS IS SIMPLY A DISCUSSION, NO DEBATES!!!

Personally, I prefer ASICS since they are sturdy and very adequate for long distance runs. I find ASICS to be very comfortable shoes, especially the Gel Noosa Tri 8 and the Gel Kayano. Since my knees are vulnerable ASICS shoes allow me to traverse through rough terrains. There are other great brands such as Mizuno (really good sprinting shoes), Nike Zoom, Altra Lone etc.

What are your favorite running shoes? (Leave your answer in the comment section below.) I currently own Gel Noosa Tri 8 shoes and I find them very comfortable since they stabilize my knees, both of which are in deplorable conditions.

Decimated Lungs?

Why Do Many Shy Away from Running?

I am perplexed by why many kids my age do not enjoy running. Many probably perceive it as torture, when they are running they complain about how tiring it is and how it is not even worthy doing. It is not because running is hard, is it? When you practice running you become much more skillful. Running technique is important; there is no one running technique that everyone must abide by. You must run at the most comfortable pace you can and at time attempt to increase your pace. I for one run at about 75% of my full speed the entire run then on my final lap I begin to speed up then take a very, very minuscule break, about halfway through the last lap,  from my pace and then I sprint, breathing through my mouth and moving my arms as fast as possible and willing my legs to gallop through the terrain. Ask yourself why do many people dislike running? Post your answer in the comment section.

Inspirational Runner!!

Glenn Cunningham

Glenn Verniss Cunningham was an American athlete who was a distance runner and is considered the greatest mile runner of all time. Glenn Cunningham is a very inspirational runner. Glenn Cunningham was injured in a fire which resulted in severe burns afflicted to his legs when he was eight years old (his brother Floyd, who was thirteen, perished in the fire). Many doctors stated that Cunningham’s legs would have to be amputated, but due to his grieving state his parents did not allow it. Cunningham later began a contemporary method of therapy and first attempted to walk about two years after the accident. Cunningham later began running and after that began competing. He competed in the 1932 Summer Olympics and the 1936 Summer Olympics. During the 1936 Olympics he met one of his most revered friends, Jesse Owens.

Glenn Cunningham is a very inspirational figure. I myself am a long distance runner. After learning about Mr. Cunningham I am excited to run once again after my knees have recovered. Mr. Cunningham confronted and surpassed numerous adversities and his story has inspired me to confront all of my adversities and achieve all of my ambitions. Running is my favorite sport and I would very much like to return once I have recovered.

Physics!!!!

Quantum physics from Vichitra Kumar,Student At University Of Petroleum And Energy Studies