Plasticity Lab Conclusion

Yesterday, we did a lab which not only showed the property of plasticity, but also demonstrated in smaller form of how the mantle works. Firstly, while mixing the two ingredients, corn starch and water. The reason it was so difficult to stir is because the proportion of corn starch and water was unbalanced. Furthermore, the corn starch never really dissolved as the viscosity grew. When you pushed the mixture quickly, the indent was reasonably small, and went away at a rapid speed. However, when the mixture was pushed slowly; the indent was comparatively larger, and took much longer to erase. When rolled into a ball, the mixture tended to break apart easily, however it stayed solid when handled, however, when left alone on the palm of the hand, it melted into a liquid. Moreover, this relates in a smaller form of the properties of the mantle, that with heat and pressure, it stays solid.

Response to "October Sky"

Recently, the Omega unit viewed the movie "October Sky" featuring Jake Gyllenhaal. In this movie there were shared messages of science and also of good character. Several scenes depicted Homer Hickam completing intricate and complicated mathematic equations and processes in order to create his rocket. This is true for real life as well, because without math, scientific innovations would be quite impossible. In addition, Homer Hickam was able to prove his innocence of starting the fire at the mine solely due to mathematics. Furthermore, by using a parabola, he was able to prove that the rocket's full horizontal distance did not even reach the mine. Finally, without sciences such as physics and engineering Homer and his friends would never be able to complete such endeavors.

Secondly, throughout the movie Homer showed constant characteristics that brought him as far as he came. For example, by using perseverance, Homer was able to overcome the many obstacles he faced, including many non-supportive people such as his dad and his principal. Moreover, his perseverance proved that through anything, ones will can build barriers against the toughest things thought possible. In addition, all four friends showed cooperation. Without it, they would never be able to come to collaborative decisions. Above all, however, "October Sky" shows that an independent and determined mind will take you farther than anyone else's expectations.

Response to Phenylketonuria

Phenylketonuria is a extremely saddening disease, which effects mostly new borns. PKU is caused because of an excess amount of protein in the body. If not treated immediately, it could eventually result in brain damage. Initial symptoms include, eczema, seizures, musty odor, delayed development, behavioral problems, etc. Despite all this, PKU can be treated, for example, a low protein diet should be fed 7-10 days after the birth of the baby, additionally, "Kuvan", a medicine may be prescribed. This disease is most common amongst Asians and Whites. Personally, reading this saddened me not only for the victim, but also the family, because most commonly it affects infants, therefore, the baby you never even got to know, could die. In addition, it makes you wonder, that does a little infant really deserve such a short life, just because their alleles happen to carry a wrong mutation? However, despite my depressed attitude, it gave me hope, that there is still treatment, if the baby is regimented on a proper low-protein diet. Above all, though, I am most respectful towards the families and the victims who deal with this very unfortunate disease, and I revere that they understand first hand, that life is precious and short.

http://www.glowriter54.blogspot.com/

Fragile X Syndrome

Fragile X Syndrome, is a genetic disease, which is more common amongst males than females. This genetic disorder is the most common form of inherited mental impairment, which strikes 1 in 32000 Americans yearly. Many with Fragile X Syndrome, are often mistaken for people with autism, due to similar physical traits, and also behavioral similarities. Because this disorder is genetically passed, the problems that cause it start in the cell itself. For example, the average human has a mutation call FMRP (fragile x mental retardation protein) in some of their cells, however, those with Fragile X Syndrome, the FMRP mutation is absent, and instead have the FMR1 (fragile x mental retardation 1), gene in the DNA which makes up the x chromosone. This mutation causes the methylate the regulatory region of the FMR1, which turns it off; this triggers Fragile X Syndrome. Some of the symptons include- short attention span, poor eye contact, simian crease, hyper extensible MP joints, hand flapping, long faces, prominent ears, etc. In addition, a woman, even one who is only a carrier, can experience complications during pregnancy. Though there is no cure for Fragile X Syndrome at this time, treatment is available for many of the uncomfortable symptoms of it. Unfortunately, research has proven that Fragile X Syndrome patients' life spans are approximately 12 years shorter. Overall, researching this specific disease made me feel sadness for those who experience this terrible disease on a normal basis.

Sources : www.fragilex.org

www.lib.bioinfo.pl

www.fraxa.org