Sin eHo i n c c e ro z

2 DY A N E R 1 T IS E S S U J N A Y21 A U R ,02

O IS BG A A A E RS A I Y N C D MY

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OB ITU ARY

Prof. (Dr.) Surjyonarayan Behera, an eminent Physicist of Odisha, Ex-Director of the Institute of Physics, Former Vice-Chancellor, Berhampur University and ex-Director, Institute of Materials Science, Bhubaneswar left for his heavenly abode at Bhubaneswar on 14.12.2011. He was 70. His demise is a great loss to our State and Country. Prof. Behera's research studies in Solid State Physics and especially his significant contributions to the understanding of the phenomenon of high temperature superconductivity in the Cuprates made him famous both internationally and nationally. Renowned Journals of national and international repute viz. Pramana, Indian Journal of Physics, Journal of Pure and Applied Physics, Bulletin of Material Science, Solid State Communication, Physical Review, Physics Letters, Phase Transaction etc. have published his research papers breaking new grounds for further research work. Some of the publications are either incorporated or referred to in treatises like the "Developments in Theoretical Physics", "Advances in Photon Physics" etc. Also, he has edited a book captioned "Electronic Correlation and Disorder Effects in Metals". He was also the Editor of "Science Horizon" published by O disha Bigyan Academy. He was a Visiting Professor and Visiting Scientist at the Simon Fraser University and McMaster University, Canada, Universitat G.H. Duisburg, Germany, Australian National University, Canberra and International Centre for Theoretical Physics, Trieste, Italy.

Prof. Behera was the recipient of 'Samanta Chandrasekhar Award' (1991).

ODISHA BIGYAN ACADEMY, BHUBAESWAR

Science Horizon
2ND YEAR 1ST ISSUE JANUARY, 2012

President, Odisha Bigyan Academy Prof. (Dr.) Basudev Kar Vice President, Odisha Bigyan Academy Prof. (Dr.) Shashi Narayan Mohapatra Editor Prof. Sodananda Torasia Language Expert Prof. (Dr.) D. K. Ray Managing Editor Sri Sanatan Rana Secretary, Odisha Bigyan Academy

Editorial Board Dr Ramesh Chandra Parida Dr Nityananda Swain Dr Pramod Kumar Mahapatra Dr Prahallad Chandra Nayak Dr Bhabendra Kumar Patnaik Prof. (Er) P.C. Patnaik

CONTENTS
Subject 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 11. Species Diversity in Plant Kingdom : An Overview Clinical Trials : Human Experimentation in search of New Medicines Lemon and Bittergourd Radio Frequency Ablation Therapy Preventive, Protective and Curative Measures for Biodiversities of Odisha Fertigation Protect Land to Avoid Pollution Chemical Disaster and Human Future The World of Microbes Biofuel : A Need of Tomorrow Something to know about Triglycerides Levitation Train : A Transport for the Future X-Factor : Is there life on Mars ? Future in our Hands : Human Clones Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) : A Threatening Evolution Quiz : Elements 5W'S+H : Crying away Emotions Author R. B. Mohanty Guru Prasad Mohanta Pramoth Ku. Pani Prem Chand Mohanty Nadiya Chand Kanungo Jagadish Chandra Paul and Jayanarayan Mishra S. M. Behera Prafulla Kumar Mohanty Basanta Kumar Choudhury Adwesh Behera Kalyanee Dash Nikunja Bihari Sahu Gopal Krishna Das Sashibhusan Rath G.C. Sahoo and Nidhi Mathew Smt. Archana Panigrahi Nityananda Swain Page 1 3 5 9 13 16 19 21 25 28 30 32 34 35 38 43 44

The Cover Page depicts the DNA Molecule, the Fullerene, the IVF Cell division and the Graphene.

EDITORIAL
UNESCO KALINGA PRIZE - 2011
With the dawn of the year 2012, Bhubaneswar witnessed a spurt of activities in the field of Scientific Research and Popularization of Science. The 99th Indian Science Congress was inaugurated on the 3rd January, 2012 in theKIIT University Campus by the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh. More than 15000 scientists from different fields, including 7 Nobel Laureates and winners of several awards, participated in the Congress which continued till the 7th January. During this period, the Children's Science Congress was inaugurated by the Hon'ble Former President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on the 4th, in which 95 teams participated. The Women's Science Congress was held on the 5th, graced by high dignitaries. Concurrently, the International Conference for Celebration of the 60th Anniversary of UNESCO Kalinga Prize for Popularisation of Science was organised at the KIIT Convention Centre, on the 4th & 5th January. The conference was jointly organised by the Kalinga Foundation Trust (KFT), Odisha; UNESCO, France; Dept. of Science & Technology (DST), Govt. of India and DST, Govt. of Odisha. Hon'ble Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the conference. Eleven, out of twenty seven living Kalinga Prize Laureates, five members of the Jury and two senior officers of UNESCO participated in the conference. The Kalinga Chair Award - 2009 was presented to Prof. Trinh Xuan Thuan from Vietnam. On this occasion it was declared that the prestigious UNESCO Kalinga Prize for 2011 will be awarded to Dr. Rene Raul Drucker Colin of Mexico. He will get a cash prize of US $ 20,000, the Silver UNESCO - Albert Einstein medal and a citation. He will also get the Kalinga Chair2011. A large number of scientists, faculty members and students from different academic institutions participated in the program. During the technical sessions, the Kalinga Laureates addressed the participants on important issues of science popularization and frontiers of science. The Valedictory ceremony was held at the end of the second and concluding day which was attended by academicians and dignitaries. His Excellency, the Governor of Odisha, Shri M. C. Bhandare graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He presented the Kalinga Samman - 2011 to the octogenarian scientist, Prof. Gokulananda Mohapatra, an eminent popular science writer and activist. Prof. Mohapatra is a pioneer in publishing several books on popular science including science fiction. In the field of popularisation of science, the promotional activities of Prof. Mohapatra, spanning over more than five decades, includes writing articles for print and electronic media, organising all facets of Bigyan Prachar Samiti, publication of science magazine and delivering talks in schools, colleges and public meetings. The Kalinga laureates attending the conference interacted with the scientists and students of Odisha during the conference and beyond it. All these programmes had a great impact on the youth and the scientific community of Odisha in general and students in particular. It is hoped that in future the name and fame of Odisha in the field of Popularisation of Science will spread far and wide.
Sodananda Torasia

JANUARY, 2012

SPECIES DIVERSITYIN PLANT KINGDOM : AN OVERVIEW

R. B. Mohanty

Plants have inhabited this earth for the last 500 million years i.e. from the Cambrian period of Paleozoic era, as per the fossil records and the Geological time scale. They initially originated in water, evovled from unicellular to multicellular forms, gradually bec am e co mple x in the ir str uc tu ra l organization and finally adopted to land life. Passing through different intermediate phases, they have attained their present form, the Angiosperms or the seed bearing plants. In course of this long period of evolution, innumerable varieties of plants, ranging from microscopic and aquatic Diatoms to gigantic 'Sequoia' like plants, measuring about 125 meters in height, 30 meters in girth and with an average life span of 3000 to 4000 years developed, who invade and adapt all possible habitats available on this earth. Observing such numerous varieties of plants with all possible shapes, sizes, structures, colours, habitats, distinct modes of life and longevity, a question very often haunts the minds of even non-biologists : as to how many types of plants are there on this earth ? How many of them are benficial to the mankind ? We cannot get a concrete answer to these questions because the plant scientists have also no definite idea about the exact number of species in the plant kingdom.
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Taxonomic literature of course offers different estimates of the size of the plant kingdom from time to time. Carlous Linnaeus (1707-1778), the pioneer explorer and father of modern taxonomy has identified and named about 7700 species of plants. He has asserted in his book Genera Plantarum that the total variety of plants may be hardly 1000, which is much less than what was commonly believed. The next detailed cataloguing was done by John Lindley (1847) who credited the plant kingdom with a total 92,930 systematists, have identified and described 97,205 plant species in his monumental work during 1862-1883. Further explorations were carried out in different parts of the world in the later part of the 19th and the early 20th century by famous botanists like Engler and Prantl (1884-1938), A.B. Rendle (1865-1938), William Roxburgh (1832), Oswald Tippo (1942) and Hutchinson (1884-1972) et al., as a result of which more and more new plants were discovered and taxonomisists gradually increased their estimation. The botanists till now presume the size of the plant kingdom to be between 3,50,000 to 4,00,000 species distributed roughly as follows : Algae-18,000, Fungi90,000 to 1,00,000, Lichen s -15,000,
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Bryophytes-14,000 to 20,000, Pteridophyta6000 to 9000, Gymnosperms around 1000 and Angiosperms about 2,00,000 species. But this estimation now appears to be antiquated in view of the addition of around 5000 new species and varieties each year, discovered from inaccessible and remote areas of the world. Moreover, greater parts of the tropical Asia, South America, Arctic Tundra and Oceanic flora are yet to be thoroughly explored. Hence, it will take many more years to measure the size of the plant kingdom existing on our mother earth. Moreover, regarding the numberof useful or beneficial plants, the answer is also the same i.e. not exactly known till date. It is because, man from the very beginning has depended on and exploited the plants of his surrounding to fulfil all of his concrete (food, shelter, medicine, agricultural operation and other numerous domestic uses) as well as abstract (faith, taboo, avoidance, sacred plants, worship etc.) requirements. People in different parts of the world have utilized the plants of their habitats differently. A survey carried out to assess the extent of plant utility in India may highlight the multifarious use of number of plants by mankind. The Indian sub-continent possesses rich floristic wealth of over 15,000 species of higher plants and about one third of
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the flora is endemic. AnAll India Co-ordinated Research Project on Ethnobiology, functioning under the Department of Environment and Forest, has once esitmated that, of the total, 7500 plants are medicinal, 3999 edible, 700 culturally important, 525 plants are used for fibre, 400 for fodder, 300 for pesticides and insecticides, 300 for gum, resin and dye and another 100 provide incense and perfumes (Anon 1994). Among them 3000 to 5000 species are of much economic value. Studies during the last three decades in India have brought on record some seven thousand (7000) uses of plants, of which about two thousand (2000) are new or havinglittle known uses (Jain, 1992). The number of useful plants and their multifarious uses in the whole world can be well imagined from this estimate. Now the important question is can all these plant species survive till their complete survey, identification and assessment is done ? With wanton destruction of forest and vegetation in the name of development, man is destroying this priceless gift of nature so rapidly that, the majority of plant species both known and unknown are going to be wiped out in the next few decades. So it warrants some serious thought and immediate action to check this devastation and to save this planet.

Reader in Botany, N.C. College, Jajpur, Odisha-755001 Ph. : 06728-223058, Mob. : 9861013069

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JANUARY, 2012

CLINICAL TRIALS : HUMAN EXPERIMENTATION IN SEARCH OF NEW MEDICINES

Guru Prasad Mohanta

New medicines are needed to fight the diseases for which no cure is available at present, or as an alternative to existing me di cin es wi th imp ro ve d sa fet y and effectiveness. The development of new medicines is a lengthy, risky and tedious process. The experimental medicinal substance can't be directly tested on human beings. The animal testing data (pre-clinical testing) forms the foundation for the clinical testing. The testing of experimental medicinal substance passed through the preclinical phase is a potential candidate fortesting on human beings. The animal models can neither completely simulate the disease conditions of human beings nor the experimental toxicity data obtained from animals be extrapolated to humans. Hence testing of promising medicinal substance in humans is a must before being approved for mass use as medicine. The testing of this new substance in healthy human beings and then on patients is known as 'clinical trial'. The clinical trial has three distinct phases which must be carried out before the test medicinal substance is approved for mass use. The clinical trial cannot be carried out without the permission of the Drugs Controller General India. The Drugs Controller General is the head of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization, the Department
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responsible for maintaining the quality and stadnards of medicines in our country. In addition to this permission, the approval from the ethics committee is also essential to carry out clinical trials. Out of the three phases mentioned above, the phase - I is performed on healthy human volunteers, while the other two phases; phase II and phase -III, are carried out on patients. Thephase - I study is initial human testing in a small group of healthy human beings, termed as volunteers. The number of healthy volunteers required to participate in the study vary from 20 to 100. The study is aimed at deciding the safe dosing range which can be used for next phase study. For the first time, the effects of the substance, as well as how the body handles it, are studied in humans. The phase-II is a controlled clinical study in a small group of patients ranging from 100 to 500 in number with disease to assess the test medicinal substance's effectiveness, side effects and risks. Each patient is monitored as dose is increased. This phase of study aims to decide what is the minimum dose required to produce a beneficial effect and what is the ma xi mum dos e tha t pro du ces se ve re undesirable effects. The phase-III is a controlled and uncontrolled clinical trial involving around
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1000-5000 patients to generate statistical data about safety, efficacy and overall benefit-risk relationship of the test medicinal substances. The results of the study are the basis for approval of the test substance as medicine for mass use. Based on animal testing, the Drugs Controller General of India allows the initiation of clinical trials. The permission for clinical trials in different phases is issued successively, based on the outcome of the previous phase. Finally, after the phase-III study demonstrates that the use of substance has more beneficial effects than the risks involved in using it, permission is granted to market the medicine. However, the study does not end here. The clinical trials are limited studies and many of the adverse effects of medicines cannot be captured. When the medicines are used in large scale after marketing permission, often many adverse effects are noticed. If serious side effects appear, the decision is often taken to restrict its use or ban its use (withdrawing the medicine from the market). The phase of study, that is continued after marketing appproval, is called phase - IV study or Post Marketing surveillance. The post marketing surveillance is meant for monitoring adverse effects of medicines during use. While the clinical trials are useful to protect the people from large scale exposure from unsafe medicines, the people who participate in these studies need to be treated with dignity and protected from exploitation.
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Hence, the Government of India outlines the Ethical Guidelines to be followed in carrying out biomedical experiemnts on human beings including clinical trials. The basic principles of the ethical guideline are to safeguard the interest of human subjects participating in clinical trials. These four basic principles are: Beneficence (this requires that good should result, harm should be avoided, or that the benefits should justify the risk on harm, NonMaleficence (do not harm), Respect for rights (this requires that the human subjects have free choice whether to participate or not), and Justice (this requires an equal distribution of burden and benefit). These basic principles of ethics are universal and followed throughout the world. India is being increasingly seen as site for clinical trials. A large number of trials, now ongoing are mostly global ones. The people of India are often alleged to have been treated as experimental guinea pigs even if the strict regulations are in force. The ethical guidelines are reported to have been violated and the trials are very often conducted without the permission of the Drugs Controller. These are the cases of our ignorance, leading to exploitation. The general understanding of clinical trials not only help us while carrying out clinical trials in scientific and ethical way but also protect us from being exploited while participating is such research as participants.

Department of Pharmacy, Annamalai University, P.O.-Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu-608002, E.mail : gpmohanta@hotmail.com

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JANUARY, 2012

LEMON AND BITTERGOURD

Pramoth Ku. Pani

LEMON Lemon, the wonder fruit is very well known for its wide range of culinary and nonculinary uses. It is a native of Asia and is presumed to be grown first in India and China. Later on it entered into Paris, Iraq and Egypt in about 700 AD. The scientific name of lemon is Citrus Limoni (L.) and it belongs to family Rutaceae. Plants are best grown in temperate climate but are susceptible to cold. It can be grown both in dry and humid atmosphere. Though it can be grown in infertile and poor soil but for better yield, a little manure and fertilizer is necessary. Plants are mostly grown from seeds. Plantation should be made at 25ft. apart for spread of canopy and better growth. Complex nitrogen and potash in equal proportion may be added thrice a year in the first year of plantation for better yield. India occupies top position in lemon production and contributes to about 16% of world's production. It is followed by Mexico-14.5%, Argentina-10%, Brazil-8% and Spain-7%. Lemon plant is a medium sized tree, reaching a height of 10-20ft. Plants are evergreen, branched and the twigs have sharp thorns.

Leaves are ovate, unipinnate compound , flowers are bisexual, solitary or in clusters of 2-many develop in the leaf axis. Fruits are oval with nipple like protuberance, green in color and light yellow at maturity. Leaves and fruits are aromatic with oil glands. Lemon has different varieties like Clementine, Grapefruit, Rangpur, Eureka, Lisbon, Meyer etc. Lemon has a wide variety of culinary applications. It is used 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. in sweetened lemon juice from with salt and water, as soft drink. as preservative in certain foods. as pickle. in raw tea, rice(lemonrice),certain curries. in dairy farm for preparation of curd and cheese. in baking food, pudding etc. Lemon slices and peels are used as food and drinks. There are a significant non-culinary uses of lemon. These include : 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. It is a source of commercial citric acid. Lemon juice removes stain and grease from the fabrics. Removes stains and grease in kitchen. Remove oil from hair and dandruff. Deodorize refrigerator and kitchen. The peels are dried and used as cattle feed.
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7.

Powered peels are added to potted plants to keep the flowers fresh for long period. Peel and leaf powder or juice can be applied in soil to prevent or reduce bacterial diseases in crop plants.

In addition to the culinary and nonculinary uses of lemon, the nutritional value cannot be over looked. The average lemon contains about 3 table spoons of juice. Nutritional value of 100g of lemon is given in the table below. NUTRITIONTABLE Lemon, raw, without peel Nutritional value per 100 g (3.5 oz) Energy 121 kJ (29 kcal) Carbohydrates - Sugars - Dietary fiber Fat Protein Thiamine (Vit. B1) Riboflavin (Vit. B2) Niacin (Vit. B3) Pantothenic acid (B5) Vitamin B6 Folate (Vit. B9) Vitamin C Calcium Iron Magnesium Phosphorus Potassium Zinc 9.32 g 2.50 g 2.8 g 0.30 g 1.10 g 0.040 mg (3%) 0.020 mg (1%) 0.100 mg (1%) 0.190 mg (4%) 0.080 mg (6%) 11 (3%) g 53.0 mg (88%) 26 mg (3%) 0.60 mg (5%) 8 mg (2%) 16 mg (2%) 138 mg (3%) 0.06 mg (1%)

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Peel oil can be used to polish furniture. Lemon has a wide range of therapeutic

uses. These are : 1. Sweetened lemon juice along with salt and water is administered to check loose motion and to prevent dehydration of the body. 2. 3. 4. Sweetened lemon juice can prevent summer dehydration and sun stroke. It prevents vomiting during journey in public vehicles. It is believed that lemon juice, honey and luke warm water reduces appetite and prevents fat deposit. Lemon juice has anti bacterial properties and can be used1. 2. 3. 4. 5. With honey for cold remedy. Withsweetener for preventing gingivitis. With caustic soda and salt for whitening and strengthening the teeth. For stomatitis, inflammation of tongue etc. With salt and ginger, prevents indigestion. Everyone must have used lemon for one or other purpose.
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The economic and useful lemon plants suffer from a number of fungal, bacterial and viral diseases .The common diseases are -scab
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disease of fruits, leaves and twigs, damping off, leaf spot, root rot, green, blue and pink mold etc. (fungal diseases), wood rot (bacterial disease), canker diseases (viral disease). In addition to these diseases sometimes white ants, some insects and larvae consume the leaves and tender twigs. Control of these diseases through bio materials, bio agents and biocides (integrated method of control and management of diseases) may be useful to protect the plant. Considering all these uses of lemon everybody should grow lemon plant in house gardens to meet the day to day requirements. BITTERGOURD : SWEET PROMISES FROM THE BITTER Bitter gourd is indigenous to Asia but is cultivated widely in different parts of the world and especially in Asia and Africa. The plant vine grows prostrate or twins over a support by developing tendrils and attains a length of 3-5metres. The leaf is simple, alternate and lobed. Though the plant is monoecious it bears separate yellow male and female flowers. Fruits are in different shapes and sizes but most often oblong in shape with warty and rough exterior. It can be cultivated throughout the year and is an important plant in kitchen gardens. Its cultivation earns good income. Scientific name of bitter gourd is Momordica charanta and it belongs to family Cucurbitaceae.
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Though the name bitter gourd signifies "betterness", it promises sweet due to its wide range of uses. It is commonly used for culinary purposes and the non culinary medicinal use is not insignificant. It is enriched with dietary fiber, carbohydrate, fat, protein, vitamins and minerals and the detail nutrient value is given in the table below. Bitter gourd (boiled, drained, no salt) Nutritional value per 100 g (3.5 oz) Energy Carbohydrates - Sugars - Dietary fiber Fat - saturated - monounsaturated - polyunsaturated Protein Water Vitamin A equiv. Thiamine (Vit. B1) Riboflavin (Vit. B2) Niacin (Vit. B3) Vitamin B6 Folate (Vit. B9) Vitamin B12 Vitamin C 79 kJ (19 kcal) 4.32 g 1.95 g 2.0 g 0.18 g 0.014 g 0.033 g 0.078 g 0.84 g 93.95 g 6 (1%) g 0.051 mg (4%) 0.053 mg (4%) 0.280 mg (2%) 0.041 mg (3%) 51 (13%) g 0 (0%) g 33.0 mg (55%)
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Vitamin E Vitamin K Calcium Iron Magnesium Phosphorus Potassium Sodium Zinc

0.14 mg (1%) 4.8 (5%) g 9 mg (1%) 0.38 mg (3%) 16 mg (4%) 36 mg (5%) 319 mg (7%) 6 mg (0%) 0.77 mg (8%)

It contains quinine (Its bitterness comes from quinine). So it is useful for prevention and treatment of malaria.

Juice extract of leaf is used as traditional medicine for colic, fever, painful menstruation, birth control and help child birth.

It is considered valuable in piles and urinary disorders. The juice extract of fresh leaves mixed with milk may be taken every morning for a month. Paste of root and other plant parts may be applied over the piles for better results.

Percentages are relative to US recommendations Bitter gourd is consumed cooked in mostly green stage. It is fried as a whole or in pieces, fried with other vegetables, cooked with spices and vegetables etc. The young shoots and leaves may also be eaten as greens. It adds significant bulk in modern cooking. Bitter gourd contains several biological active compoundslike momordicin, cucurbitacin, cytotoxic proteins like momorcharin and momordin. Therefore, it has been used in various traditional medicine systems for a long time. These uses include Stimulates digestion and thus helps treat dyspepsia and constipation. Used for the treatment of gastro intestinal diseases. Juice extracts of fruit is used against nematodes and round worms. Juice extract of root, fruit and other plant parts is used for prevention and treatment of type 1 and type 2 diabetes and is considered as natures answer to diabetes.
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It has antimicrobial property and can heal infected wounds.

Bitter gourd capsules can be used against excessive thirst due to diarrhoea, it purifies blood, reduces fat, activate liver and spleen. Bitter gourd has little adverse effect.

Its seed contains vicine that can trigger favism in susceptible persons. Sweet promising bitter gourd suffers from a number of diseases like powdery mildew, downy mildew, yellowing from the base of the plants (fungal ), mosaic disease (vi ral) et c. Hence a proper management of the crop can provide more yield with sweet returns.

Lecturer in Botany, Charampa Mahavidyalaya, Bhadrak, Odisha

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JANUARY, 2012

RADIO FREQUENCY ABLATION THERAPY

Prem Chand Mohanty

From ancient Indian and Greek history, it is known that physicians of those era were using hot objects and heat energy for healing diseases. For example to relieve pain, hot compression and hot vapours were applied locally. In India hot metallic bars and in Greece hot stones were applied to stop bleeding. In the present day Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) technique is being used as a method of treatment , where thermal energy is used for destroying tumours. In this case, the source of heat energy is radio frequency. Radio waves are electro magnetic radiations having wave length 3x10 13 CM, frequency = 10 5 Sec-1 and energy = 3.99 x 10-8 KJ/Mole. Most mammalian cells can not withstand a temperature more than 420C. Death begins to occur within 4-6 minutes at 50 0C. It becomes instantaneous at a temp. above 600C. At 1000C, the cell membra ne melt s, in fra ce llul ar wate r evaporates and thetissues get charred. Tumours are abnormal outgrowths which arise due to unusual enhancement of cell division. These may be benign or malignant. In case of cancerous tissues, the tumours may also be due to metastasis. Such abnormal growths are also observed in some delicate internal organs like liver, pancreas, heart, lungs, kidney, breast adrenal bones etc. The primary option before
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such patients is surgical removal of the tumour. But, for those patients who are not surgical candidates or who have failed in conventional therapies, RFA is an attractive option. It has a potential to replace the surgical reaction as a curative treatment for tumours, particularly in old and deb il it at ed pat ie nt s. Rec en t developments have made ablation of larger volume of tissues, rendering RFA as more effective and a safer method for the local control of tumours, than ever before.

Instruments used for this technique

Since this technique involves the burning of cells or tissues with thermal energy, it is also called cooking of tumours with needles. Here, special type of needles (which are actually the electrodes) are used. They are connected to a radio frequency generator which produces electrical pulses in the range of radio frequency waves. The patient's back part or thigh is attached to grounding pads. The needles are of 2 types i) Simple straight needles 2) A hollow needle that contains several retractable electrodes which can be extended to different shapes as & when required. Other instruments essential for this procedure are Computed Tomographic Scanner,
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MRI or Ultrasound machines which help in guiding the needle electrodes into the proper site. A computer station that processes the imaging information is located in a separate room, where the radiologist sits. Other equipments that may be used during the procedure includes an intravenous line and an instrument to moniter the patient's heart beat and blood pressure.

macroscopic tumour mass other than the one that is treated. It can treat only localized tumour mass of both primary and metastatic types.

Procedure
It can be performed in 3 different ways 1) Percutaneously 2) Laparoscopically 3) Operatively (open method). Out of these the percutaneous method is most common, as it is less invasive and can be repeated. But the other two methods can be used if the first method is not accessible. During the procedure the patient is instructed to lie on the operation table being connected to moniters that track the heart rate, blood pressure and pulse rate. The pa ra me di ca l st af f in se rt a sed at iv e intravenously. The area of the prick of needle is sterilized and covered with a surgical drape. After providing proper anaesthesia, the physician inserts the needle electrode through the skin and advances it to the site fo the tumour. This operationa is being guided and mo ni te re d by MRI , CT sca n or by Ultrasonography. Once the needle reaches the proper site, radiofrequency is given for a specific time. If the tumour is large, multiple ablations may be needed by keeping the needle in different positions. At last the electrodes are removed and pressure is applied to stop
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Mechanism
When radiowaves are passed between the needle electrodes and the grounding pads placed on the patient's skin, the heat energy spreads into the surrounding needles forming a thermal sphere. When this enery is stimulated to fall on cancerous tissues for a certain time range, the temp prevailing on the probe start breaking the cells apart from the tissues and die. Heat is also generated from frictional movement of ions within the tissues near the tip of the needle. This heat spreads out to destroy the tumour and surrounding small rim of normal tissues. The dead tumour cells are gradually replaced by scar tissues that shriks over time. The success rate of this procedure significantly depends upon 1) The organ involved 2) Tumour size 3) It's location 4) It's nature. Unlike chemotherapy RFA does not address the (3) microscopic disease or
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bleeding and the opening of the skin is covered with a dressing. Each RFA operation takes about 10 to 30 minutes. If multiple ablations are required, it may consume additional time. The deposition of RF energy into the body may be painful. So it is usually performed undergeneral anaesthesia. This pain may persist from about 12 hours after the procedure to one week. Depending upon the size of the lesion, the patient may have to stay for one or two days. If all goes well the patient can go home in the same evening or next morning .

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If ablation is not carried out with suf fi ci en t al er tn es s, the n th e neighbouring delicate organs may succumb to injury.

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Less than 1% of patients may develop a localised infection at the site of ablation, 3-4 weeks after the treatment. This can be handled with proper antibioties.

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Women patients should well inform their physician about their status, that is whether they are pregnant or allergic to radiations like X-rays etc.

What are the risks ?

1) Any procedure involving a rupture of skin is susceptible to infection. In this case, the chance of infection requiring antibiotics treatment is rare. 2) In so me cas es sho ul de r pa in ,

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In exceptional cases radiation risks may be found, however it is not so harmful.

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Sometimes a collapsed lung symptom may be observed under the diaphragm. To remove this a small tube may be placed between the lung and the chest wall to reinflate the lung.

inflammation of the gallbladder can occur. But it is not long lasting. 3) In some cases (25%) a post ablation syndrome with flu like symptoms may appear, which usually last for about 5 days. Fever can be controlled by Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen. 4) In some patients bleeding may occur, but it generally stops on its own. If bleeding is severe, an additional surgery may be needed to stop it.
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10) Experience has shown that all of these complications are uncommon, occurring in 5% or less cases.

Follow-up programme
A follow up CT Scan, one month after the procedure is advised, because this will decide the rate of success and about the healing process. If the lesion is large, several sessions of ablation may be necessary to completely remove it.
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Benefits of RFA
i) It is a cost effective treatment option for delicate organs which are unsuitable for surgical resection. ii) Here the recurrent rate is negligible. 3)

fibrillation, super ventricular tachy cardia and some types of ventricular arrhythmia. In atrial flutter, the abnormal electro physiology can also be corrected by RFA technique. In Pain Management : In those persons suffering fromchronic lumbar pain, RFA can be used to produce heat on specifically selected nerves, surrounding the facet joints on either side of lumbar spine. As a result of this, the ability of the spinal cord to transmit pain signals to the brain is destroyed. So the person gets relief from pain. Of course this pain relief lasts only for 6-24 months. 4) Thi s te ch ni qu e is als o us ed in radiofrequency lesioning, somnoplasty and for vein closure in areas whose intrusive surgery results in trauma. 5) This process has also been used to trap sequence in multiple gestation pregnancies. 6) To control bleeding due to hemostasis in liver resection this technique is being used. 7) For treatment of Uterine fibroids, a system has been developed by Hatt Medical Institute, where RF energy is being used to ablate the fibroid tissues.

Head, Department of Chemistry, NAC College, Burla, Sambalpur

iii) Treatment related complications are less and discomfort is minimal. iv) The same treatment can be repeated time and again to remove recurring tumours. v) It is a rapid procedure, so time of recovery is less. vi) Here no surgical incision is required. Only a small nick in the skin is made which does not have to be stitched.

Other applications
1) Besides treating cancerous tumours, now a days RFA technique is being used to treat anomalies of lungs, kidney, pancreas, breast, bone and liver. Mainly in hepatocellular carcinoma, the low level heat created by RFAcauses heat sensitive liposomes to release concentrated levels of chemotherapy around the ablated tissue. 2) In Cardiology : This technique can be used to destroy unusual electrical pathways in heart tissue. It can also be used in recurrent atrial flutter, atrial
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PREVENTIVE, PROTECTIVE AND CURATIVE MEASURES FOR BIODIVERSITIES OF ODISHA

Nadiya Chand Kanungo

The Biodiversities of Odisha are depleting very fast for various reasons including developmental activities for last few decades. The Biological diversities of the State are the Biological Resources which govern the prevailing general climate of the state itself and the south-eastern region of the country as well. This region includes part of Eastern-Ghats; which is the lifeline of Tamilnadu, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. Moreover, Eastern-Ghat of India sustains the precious minerals mines throughout its range covering Tamilnadu, Andhra Pradesh and Chhatisgarh, which is the main reason for the exploitation of Biological Resources of the State and the Region. If such exploitation goes on unprevented, the whole tract coming under climate-whip and discipline of Eastern-Ghat will crumble and the people, rather the whole civilization of this region will suffer and for which there is no remedial measures. Grossly, the Biodiversities of Odisha based on Ecological systems, are distinct from Ecological complexes in other parts of the country. The first and the most important ecological complex of the state is EasternGhat region. The biological diversity is clearly
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demarcated in this complex among dividing organizations within the species and between the species of the Eco-system. While Sal (Shore Robusta) is the climatic climax species in plant kingdom, the Tiger is the peak animal of the animal kingdom. When the whole ecological complex of Eastern-Ghat consists of Ever Green, Semi-evergreen and Deciduous forest covers, the varieties of Carnivores and Herbivores are present within this complex including various types of reptiles amphibians, lizards and birds. The whole river systems' of Odisha is the creation of Eastern-Ghat. The Whole Soil profile of Eastern-Ghat and the plains, including the sea-coast of Odisha, is influenced by the rivers of Odisha. So also the biological resources of Odisha are also monitored by the said river systems. When Biological resources means plants, animals and micro-organisms or parts there of, their genetic materials and by-products with actual or potential use or value, thse should be duly protected for the common of the State and our Union. The second major Biological complex, excluding the edaphicbase biocomplexes in coastal plains extend up to foothills of Eastern13

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Ghat. The Biodiversities of this complex altogether varies from Eastern-Ghat regions. The flora and fauna of this plain are mostly evergreen sp ecie s an d sub- spec ie s of carnivores and Herbivores including rodents and Binds. As the forest covers of this region are exploited for extension of urbanizations and Industrial activities, the sub-soil water table is lowering-down very fast and becoming depleted for meeting the usual requirement of water of the growing human population and also of the animals. The rivers of this region are gradually losing the perennial character of water flow depriving the man and animal to depend upon them for sustaining and supporting the lives. As the water table of the ground below and the river bed is sinking very fast the conflict between the man and animal is rising very fast and every week one or two animals are being either killed by man or severely wounded. The third Biotic-complex in Odisha is marine-build complex, where 75 to 80% of biodiversity of coastal body is noticed. Here is also scarcity of fresh water to support and sustain the biodiversity of the Estuarine Creation. The mangrove fauna and flora are the main criteria of this unique complex. The main higher fauna of this complex are herbivores as compared to Sundarvan of
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Bangladesh and West-Bengal in India, except Royal-Bengal-Tiger, is absent in Odisha Estuary-Eco-system. Previously, many decades back, the royal tigers were also seen in this Coastal Eco-region but due to adverse conditions, made due to severe interference of man within the Eco-system, the tiger habitat is no longer conducive for Tigers but the subspecies of tigers are now noticed in this Eco-complex. In the sandy shores, the species, generally found having symbiotic relationship with lower plants for getting nitrogen for their sustenance through nitrogen fixing bacteria. The life-style of coastal plants other than that of estuaries is quite different from any common plant of the coastal plain. Considering all these facts and factors, how best preventive, protective and curative measures can be taken to protect the Biodiversities of Odisha state should be checked out to save the unparallel heritages of this state without further deterioration. Prevention is better than any curative measures. So all the catchment areas of Rivers, small and big, springs, streams, water Holes, Reservoirs, Water bodies, small and big, should be duly protected. These are to be declared as prohibited areas. These areas should be duly surveyed and demarcated.
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(2) All the rivers, rivulets, water bodies, springs and reservoirs should be free from any kinds of pollution. (3) The habitats of residential animals and birds should be protected from any kind of interference, these areas to be enriched with edible species of herbivorous animals and birds.

(4)

Proper monitoring of the whole process

should be done through control-room devices to get first hand information and by the authorities at higher levels. (5) Functioning of water towers should be

built to check fire incidences.

Curative Measures
If all these efforts fail and the poaching

(4) Game Tanks should be made within reasonable proximity to avoid conflict between animal and their predators. The previously worked out tanks should be renovated. (5) Rigid fire protection measures should be taken to check highly destructive fire incidences.

and other crimes are committed anywhere within any Eco-complex (to maintain the Ecological balance right from seashore to Eastern-Ghat regions, the law should be enforced to punish the offender). The Dutch pe op le of Ne th er la nds have re ce nt ly formulated law on animal rights; and separate police force is deployed to enforce the said law to book the culprits. We should formulate such type of separate Act on Animal Rights to avoid the crisis.

Retired Forestor, Govt. of Odisha, Sailashree Vihar, GA Plot - 479, Bhubaneswar - 751 021 Mobile: 9937460649

Protective Measures:
Adequate field staff should be deployed to protect the natural as well as the artificial infrastructures made to monitor the preventive measures. (2) Th e lo ca l yo ut hs and the non governmental organizations should be given the responsibilities to cooperate in the process. Adequate funds should be provided for the process. (3) Th e grass- ro ot le vel shou ld be

strengthened to collect intelligence against poachers and criminals.

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FERTIGATION
Jagadish Chandra Paul and Jayanarayan Mishra

The application of fertilizers through irrigation system is known as 'Fertigation' and has become a common practice in modern irrigated agriculture. Increased yields, improvement in quality of product, enhanced irrigation and fertilizer use efficiencies and protection of the soil environment are some of the main characteristics of this method, which has made it very popular throughout the world. In some countries fertigation is regarded as second green revolution. This method of fertilizer application can be used with any of the pressurized irrigation methods, such as sprinklers, micro-sprinklers and drip irrigation systems. From experiments it has been found that, fertigation is more effective when applied through drip irrigation system.

Fertigation offers a potential alternative to reduce the fertilizer wastage and increase fertilizer application efficiency. Typical efficiencies of conventional use of fertilizer are 50 % for Nitrogen, 10 - 30 % for Phosphorous and 50 % for Potassium fertilizers (Table 1). Fertilizers are not fully utilized by plants when applied by traditional methods in basal dose or top dressing. Rather, a significant amount is lost due to leaching, volatilization, nitrification, denitrification and fixation in the soil. The main reason of this low fertilizer use efficiency is the traditional water application methods. Approximately, two-third amount of fertilizer is used only in irrigated area, in our country. The traditional irrigation methods followed are flooding,

Fig. 1 : Drip irrigation with fertigation unit

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border strip, furrow and check basin methods. Due to these methods, applied fertilizers are leached downwards below the root-zone depth of the plants and the plants use only a little of it. Therefore, for better crop production an alternative irrigation and fertilizer application method is required. Drip irrigation along with fertigation provides a viable alternative. Table 1 Comparison of fertilizer use efficiency in fertigation vrs conventional application Types of fertilizers Conventional fertilizer application Fertilizers applied through fertigation Nitrogen 50 - 60 % 90 % More than 80 % 80 - 90 %

nutrients can be applied to plants in the correct dosage and at the appropriate time depending upon the stage of the crop. When plants receive conventional fertilizers as basal and two top dressings, they get a larger dosage of fertilizer than they require at the time it is applied and between two successive applications there may be a deficiency of fertilizer. On the other hand, in fertigation, nutrients are 'spoon fed' to plants, that is, small doses, more frequently, eliminating the feast and famine cycles usually found wi th trad itional applicat ion. In fertigation, plants receive small amounts of fertilizer early in the crop's season, when plants are at vegetative stage. The dosage is increased as fruit load and nutrient demands grow and then decreased as plants approach the end of crop's cycle. This gives plants the needed amounts of fertilizer throughout the growth cycle, rather than a few large doses. In drip irrigation, only the active crop root zone is wetted. Therefore, an adequate supply could be achieved by synchronizing the supply of water and nutrients. Irrigation water is an ideal carrier of nutrients into crop root zone. These are the reasons for higher fertilizer use efficiency and increase in yield in fertigation. Also, it was found from an experiment, a saving of 50 man-hours in fertigation using granular fertilizer as compared to broadcasting in an area of 2 hectares.
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Phosphorous 10 - 30 % Potassium 50 - 60 %

Most of the conventional fertilizers are not suitable for applying the drip fertigation as they are not fully water soluble and leave precipitation which eventually create problems of clogging at discharge and reduces system life. In order to avoid the above complications, new classes of completely water soluble fertilizers have come up. The commercially available water soluble fertilizers are given in Table 2. As these are completely water soluble the efficiency of these fertilizers are higher than traditional fertilizers. In drip fertigation
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Table 2 Product

Commercially available water N: P: K 19 : 19 : 19 20 : 20 : 20 13 : 40 : 13 13 : 0 : 45

soluble fertilizers NPK Triple 19+MN NPK Triple 20 NPK 13-40-13+MN Potassium Nitrate

Mono Ammonium Phosphate 12 : 61 : 0 Mono Ammonium Phosphate 0 : 52 : 34 Sulphate of Potash Calcium Nitrate *MN - Micro Nutrient 0 : 0 : 50 15:0:0:18.8Ca

Table 3 Effect of fertigation on various crops Sl. Crop Saving in Increase No. fertilizer (%) in yield (%) 1 Okra 40 18 2 Onion 40 16 3 Potato 40 30 4 Tomato 40 33 5 Broccoli 40 10 6 Litchi 20 16 7 Banana 20 11 8 Sugarcane 50 40 9 Castor 60 32 10 Cotton 30 20 Precautions needed to be taken for successful fertigation are : Proper design and maintenance of drip irrigation system. Selection of suitable fertilizer according to crop and soil. Proper working of fertilizer injecting equipment and uniform application of fertilizer with water. Acidic and alkaline fertilizers should not be applied at the same time. Therefore, it can be concluded that, if more area can be covered with drip and fertigation, this will ensure proper utilization of fertilizer and water, consequently increase the yield along with quality of the produce. This way the production cost can be lowered and the soil and water pollution due to fertilizer can be reduced.

College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar-751003. Email: jagadishc_paul@rediffmail.com.

Advantages of fertigation
Uniform application of fertilizer Placement in root zone Quick and convenient method Saving in fertilizer Possibility of frequent application Possibility of application in different grades to suit the stage of crop Micronutrient application along with NPK Saving in time, labour and energy Reduce groundwater pollution

The three components generally used in fertigation are venturi injector, fertilizer tank and fertigation pump. In India it is slowly gaining momentum. The farmers are slowly accepting the drip irrigation and mostly use in fruits and vegetable crops. The results of the experiments conducted on fertigation for various crops are presented in Table 3.
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PROTECT LAND TO AVOID POLLUTION

S.M.Behera

The issue "pollution control" "vis--vis go for clean and green environment" is being discussed for the last several years. This has become a global issue due to various factors lik e ra pi d in du st ri al iz at io n, rut hl es s exploitation of natural resources, global warming, deforestation etc. Further, population explosion and consequent urbanization, setting up of small & big industries etc are regarded as the main factors behind such concern. If one looks at the history of pollution awareness among countries of the world, it was the environmental calamities during 1950s & 1960s that generated a wide spread awareness about the dangers of environmental pollution. Recurrence of the killer smog in New York and London which claimed more than 5000 lives in a single year i.e. in 1952, Mercury poisoning from contaminate sea food in Japan, disappearance of several spices of birds due to the use of pesticides like DDT & etc. are some of the examples. The global concern engineered by these incidents led to holding of the 1st UN conference on Human Environment from June 5 to July 10, 1972 at Stockholm which set up the on going United Nations Environment & Programme (UNEP). The Uni te d Na ti on s Co nf er en ce on
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Environment & Development (UNCED) or Earth submit at Rio-de-Janeiro, the capital of Brazil from June 3 to June 14, 1992 marked the 20th anniversary of the Stockholm conference and the founding of UNEP. From that year onwards till the present day, many remedial measures on air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, radioactive pollution, thermal pollution, noise pollution, conservation of forests, conservation of wild life & issues relating to other factors have been undertaken & stringent laws have been framed for the erring large scale industries, small scale industries etc. throughout the world. Even as a token of appreciation and recognition, National and State awards have been instituted for the prevention of pollution. Further, National awards for clean technology, naming it as Rajib Gandhi Environment award have also been instituted. The basic objective is to make everybody in the society aware of the hazards of air, water & soil pollution and everybody should join hands to curb such hazards to make the environment clean for a healthy society for sustainable development. In spite of all such efforts, if one looks at the success statistics, pollution control
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vis--vis environment protection measures are still quite unsatisfactory. Time has come now to understand that our earth is very precious as it creates favourable conditions for the existence and development of living organisms. But now we use our renewable resources of air, water soil and vegetation to sustain economic developments. Overexploitation of natural resources is visible in soil erosion, deforestation, siltation, floods and floral destruction. The depletion of these resources tend to be irreversible. Since human beings depend on these natural gifts to meet their basic needs. I.e. fuel, fodder and food, it has meant a critical deterioration in their living standards. Therefore, protection of our land, which is the wide storehouse of all living organisms, is not a luxury but an extreme necessity. On critical analysis, the following four major problems rather main worries, have to be sorted out in order to overcome such burning hurdles, well thought of measures are to be taken. i. Stop conversion of agricultural land to other non-agricultural uses. ii. iii. iv.
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Possible Measures
Conversion of agricultural land to nonagricultural purposes like setting up of medium & small industries, steel plant, thermal power plant etc are to be planned properly keeping in view to the issues like soil infertility, soil erosion, desertification, degradation of watersheds, and catchments etc. Hence the following steps could be beneficial. (a) Preparation of accurate land use data through remote sensing. (b) Nation wide survey programme to enact a set of land use policy. (c) Educate people by identifying land use classes (d) Controlling population growth (e) Review of the existing legislation and subsequent amendments Similarly soil erosion which is regarded as a comprehensive natural process of detachment and removal of loosened material by exogenetic process. It can be controlled by growing vegetation, crop rotation, strip cropping, dryland framing, gully control by constructing dams, drains or diversion afforestation etc.
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Stop soil erosion. Stop increasing salinity of soil and Reduce water supplies and diversions to non-agricultural uses.

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Moreover, measures should be taken for reducing the effect of the salinity of soil which affects the plant growth and obviate the difficulty in reclamation of such soil for agricultural proposes, use of chemical fertilizers containing macronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulphur and iron are to be properly monitored. With regard to reducing water supply and diversion to non-agricultural uses, proper planning has to be chalked out before such faciilities are provided to industries. Hence to avoid pollution,it is necessary to maintain proper balance between the biotic & abiotic components present in the earth's environment. The life supporting systems namely soil, air and water are to be carefully handled by giving special emphasis on land protection.

Head, Department of Chemistry & Dean, Student Affairs, Trident Academy of Technology, Bhubaneswar Mobile : 09437696140

CHEMICAL DISASTER AND HUMAN FUTURE

Prafulla KumarMohanty

Definition of Disaster
The term disaster is derived from two Latin terms namely, that is, dis means away and 'astrum' means star (Gr. aster - star). This is defined as an adverse or unfortunate event or a great or sudden unexpected incident or more simply a calamity affecting a good number of life on earth. Disasters are broadly divided into two categories such as (i) natural disasters and (ii) man made (artificial) disasters. Long back people believed that disasters may be explained in terms of CDEF which speak of C-CYCLONE, D - DRAUGHT,
E-EARTHQUAKE AND F-FLOOD. Recently

this number, which was restricted to four, has been increased to ten. The additions are (Cyclone, Draught, Earthquake, Flood). Fire, Heat wave, Lightning, Thunder, Tsunami and Volcanic eruption. Because of all these natural disasters, many people suffer and lose their lives each year. Apart from natural disaster, artificial disaster has been a matter of serious concern. This artificial disaster is mostly human made. This is, therefore, known as the anthropogenic disaster which directlyorindirectly affects human life and other life support system on earth. The

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spectacular artificial disaster is chemical disaster which has been observed to occur in various ecosystems like air, water, soil etc.

3.

Vario us che mi ca ls or sy nt he ti c pesticides, insecticides, miticides, weedicides, rodenticides, larvicides used in soil or agricultural fields to increase agricultural production in various forms, gardens and orchards.

Chemical Disaster and Human Life

Life or or gani sms de velo p fr om chemicals. But excessive use, abuse or misuse of chemical substances has brought out the problems not only in the environment but also in health system. Chemical disaster may be grouped into two types such as (i) chemicals released to atmosphere and (ii) chemicals from different sources to animal body including huma n beings directly or indirectly. The simple example of chemical disaster is the chemicals released from Union Carbide. The gas produced from this was Methyl Iso Cyan ate (MIC), which killed so many human beings some years back. In fact, there are several ways of these chemicals spreading to animals, some of which are enlisted below. 1. Pollutants like heavy metals namely cadmium, read, mercury etc. from various industries in the form of industrial effluents and from immersed idols in water. 2. Production of toxic gases from chimneys of factories and various industries namely ceramics, glass, asbestos, fertilizers etc.
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4.

Ce rt ai n che mi ca ls li ke Di ch lo ro Diphenyl Trichloroethane (DDT) and ga mm exane used in houses for protection against ants, white ants and cockroaches etc.

5.

Certain chemicals used in various edible items. Food preservatives, fixatives, retention agents, colouring agents, stabilizers and flavour enhancers are profusely used either for attraction or for flavour.

6.

Use of chemicals in houses like toilet cleaners, mothballs, window or glass cleaners, insect sprays, spray perfumes, mosquito repellants etc.

Food Items and Chemicals

Chemicals play a major role in our everyday life. But many chemicals are hazardous or toxic and can be harmful to humans, animals as well as the environment. Apart from the use of chemicals to clean, control disease causing organisms, insects, weeds or various other pests, many types of chemicals are now used in food items. In modern civilized era, fast life, busy schedule,
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people feel that they do not have time to cook or prepare their food. Accordingly, they depend on the food varieties available in markets and fast food centers. Let us enlist few products in which additives are added. 1. We can start from common salt especially iodised salts which are of 'free flow' in nature. Free flow salts contain some chemicals which make them free flow. 2. Pesticides in vegetables and fruits are also very common. The chemicals are mostly applied or sprayed on cucumber, brinjal, bitter gourd, cabbage and cauliflower. We directly consume cauliflowers which are completely sprayed with chemical substances. 3. Various colour additives are observed to have been added in certain soft drinks, junk food or convenience food especially in Chinese food items, sweets, namkeens, pastries, cakes, biscuits, pizza etc. 4. Flavour enhancers are mixed in ice creams, puddings, soups, sweets soft drinks, artificial fruit juices and many other foods including ready made foods. 5. Some chemicals are also added in chocolates, toffees to increase its self life and maintain their texture and structure appropriately. 6. Profuse use of medicines by human beings ever in minor ailments where it is
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undesirable and even without physicians' recommendation and prescription.

Chemicals and Health Hazard

Co nti nu ou s us e of ch emica ls or chemical-added products or prolonged exposure to chemicals are, no doubt harmful for the body, health and mind. Although some chemicals and medicines are banned, but those are still available in the market. Farmers, venders, manufacturers and sellers keep on adding various spurious substances to attract the attention of customers especially the young's. Recently, it is observed that children do suffer from "3I Syndrome". This 3IS is IImpatience, I-Instability and I-Irritability. This particular syndrome is caused due to habitual intake of fast food or junk food. The other problems owing to easy fast foods are gastritis, allergy, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, revel failure, cardiac disorder, dental disorder, optic problems, burning sensation and even tumor. Health is wealth as a proverb is believed to be the best proverb in the world. But now people have forgotten this dictum, instead discuss about good health. Recently, the problem with our children and parents is the food. Neither the parents nor the children are careful or cautious as to the food and are attracted towards the ready made food in the market.
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Life-style has been observed have changed significantly which has started with modern or synthetic food. Therefore, this has led to various health disorders. Secondly, the family members are more interested for nonvegetarian food instead of vegetarian diet. It is very important to record that vegetables are essential for a balanced diet. Not only do these help keep the body fit and fighting, vegetables also prevent the occurrence of several diseases. Food-based approaches are emphasized as the only sustainable method to improve the nutritional status and health profile of the individual, family, society and the nation as a whole.

Green chemistry has been acclaimed to be a practice for sustainable health and society. It is an approach encouraging the design of the products and processes that eliminates the use and generation of harmful and hazardous chemicals. This concept took momentum in 1990s as a mission in developed countries like USA, UK, Germany and Japan to make chemical reactions safe and hazardless up to the maximum extent. It is believed that this endeavour would certainly push us towards a better future instead of a disaster.

References:
1. Chawoli, R.P. (2011) Green Chemistry: an approach to clean, safe and sustainable future. Everyman's Science, 45(5): 296-300. 2. Kulshrestha,K.(2011) wonders ofa veggie diet. Science Reporter, 48(10): 45-48 and 52. 3. Mohanty, P.K. (2000) Illustrated Dictionary of Biology, KalyaniPublishers, Ludhiana, PP 1-384. 4. Mohanty, P.K. (2009) Festivaland Pollution Bigyan Madhupa, 6(2): 5-8. 5. Mohanty P.K. (2011) Biodiversity and sustainable future. Science Horizon, 01(01): 34-37.

Solution for Pollution

The causative agents of health hazard or pollution are certainly established. The solution of this problem lies specifically in "green chemistry". It is an approach to design the safe chemicals and chemical processes without causing harm to the environment and human life. The term green chemistry was introduced in 1991 by an American chemist, Dr. Paul Anastas who is regarded as the "Father of Green Chemistry". Green Chemistry should not be confused with that of "environmental chemistry". The former is related to the design of chemical products and processes in a hazardless or less hazardous manner, while the latter deals with the study of various chemical reactions taking place in atmosphere.
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Professor and Head, Post Graduate Department of Zoology, Utkal University, Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar-751004, Telephone : 0674-2581483 (Res.) E-mail : prafulla.mohanty3@gmail.com

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THE WORLD OF MICROBES

Basanta Kumar Choudhury

When we are asked to name the living organisms that present around us, we cite the examples of the plants, insects, birds, reptiles and other such organisms which we come across in our day-to-day life. But, in reality, there also, exist a large number of invisible living forms in our surrounding. These minute living entities are called microorganisms are complete living beings since they carry out all the functions that signify life. They are generally unicellular and can be seen only under the microscopes. Our healthy unaided eye can see objects up to one tenth of an mm, i.e. about 100 microns. So, the microorganisms have dimension below that unit and are hence, measured in microns. These unique organisms are present everywhere in nature, in the soil, water and air. They are also, present in and on the bodies of

the plants and animals. Microorganisms differ widely in size and shape. Variations in shape, cell structure, physiology and many other biochemical characteristics actually form the criteria for their classification. Roughly, they are categorized in 5 groups : Protozoa, Algae, Fungi, Bacteria andViruses.As per Whittaker's 5 ki ng do m sy st em of cl as si fi ca ti on , microorganisms, on the basis of their energy yielding system and cell anatomy, distributed among the kingdoms of Monera, Protista, Fungi and a part of plants. Woese et al (1990) noted that the bacteria are distant from plants and animals. On the other hand, plants and animals are not far from each other. Therefore, they established a new superior concept of domains over the kingdoms and proposed three domains, Archaea, Bacteria and Eukarya in 1991.

Fig 1 : Friendly Microbes

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Fig 2 : Harmful Microbes

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In a modern sense, bacteria, cyanobacteria, actionmycetes etc. are distributed in the domains of Bacteria. Similarly, methanogens, extremely thermophilic organisms, extremely halophilic organisms etc. are in the domains of Ar ch ae a an d th e moul ds , ye as ts , basidiomycetes, algae and protozoa etc. are placed in the domains of Eukarya. Hence, microorganisms were regarded as collections of organisms at different evolutionary level. Protozoans are the smallest type of animal life, being made up of a single cell. They have, at least, one well defined nucleus. Generally, these organisms are oval or cylindrical in shape and found in the stagnant water or mud. They are capable of locomotion by pseudopodia. Fig 4 : Avian Flu Virus Algae are simple, photosynthetic plants that grow in water or in damp places. They may be unicellular or multicellular and exist in variety of shapes. Some algae like giant kelps or seaweeds are, however, gigantic in their dimension. Hence, they cannot be called microbes. Fungi are nucleated, spore bearing, achlorophyllose organisms with cell walls of cellulose or chitin or of both. These are, usually filamentous, branched structures, reproducing sexually or asexually by means of spores. Fungi are cosmopolitan, in nature and are found growing luxuriantly in any conceivable organic media. A piece of bread, cooked food, even raw vegetables when left unattended in moist air can support the growth of fungi. Ba ct er ia lik e fu ng i gr ow fre el y everywhere in nature. The bacteria cells are Fig 3 : Influenza Virus
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smaller than the algal or fungal cells.

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Structurally, the bacterial cells contain cytoplasm and the nuclear matter in diffused state. These microorganisms do nto have wlel defined nucleus. Viruses are the smallest entities among the microorganisms and the visible only under the electron microscope. Viruses have no cellular structure. These are composed of nucleic acid core which are surrounded by a co at of pr ot ei ns . Th es e ar e ob li ga te parasites, i.e. can thrive and grow in the living cells only. Outside the living cells, the organisms are inert. When the viruses come in contact with their specific host cell, they transfer their genetic material into the host cytoplasm. In a very short span of time, viruses control the host cell machinery and produce their progenies by diverting the host's replication process. Viruses have either DNA or RNA never both as their genetic material in sharp contrast to all other living beings of the world. It is established that the microorganisms are the man's best friends as well as the worst enemies. There are microbes that cause diseases in plants and animals as well as they cause spoilage of food. Infections by protozoa, bacteria and viruses cause havoc in the living world. Tuberculosis, cholera, leprosy, plague
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are only a few examples, that cause mass destruction of the humans. Malaria and amoebiasis (dysentery) are prevalent among us due to infections of protozoa. Common cold, small pox, chicken pox, various flue, dengue, chickenguinea, jaundice etc. are the manifestations of viral ailments. Fungal diseases are restricted, by and large, to our skin. They cause predominatly diseases to our crop plants and thereby, causing widespread damage to the crop production. On the other hand, life would not have be en pos si bl e in the ab se nc e of th e microorganisms. Most of them are beneficial to us. They cause decay and disintegration of complex organic substances so that it can be made available to the plants as their nutrients. Microbes exclusively help in biogeochemical cycle in an ecosystem. Besides, they give us food, medicines to combat diseases and useful chemicals. Industrial fermentation can only be possible by these invisible microorganisms. Application of microorganisms in the field of biotechnology has a great potential. Therefore, microorganisms have contributed in a variety of ways to make our life healthy, comfortable and our food tastier. We strive to know them properly and handle them carefully.
SIDHI, 24/732, Shree Vihar, Bhubaneswar-751024 Email : choudhurybasanta@yahoo.com 27

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BIOFUEL: A NEED OF TOMORROW

Adwesh Behera

Recently, we witnessed the rise in the price of petroleum products: - i.e. petrol, diesel , etc. As they have beco me an unavoidable part of us, we can not dream of staying apart from them. Some estimates show that they would be out of common use within a few decades. So, rise in the cost of these fuels is not an unexpected matter. Here arises the question, "what is the solution to it?" Scientists all over the world are engaged to find out a solution to it. Some nonconventional energy sources have been discovered, but they are not efficient up to the mark. Still we have no choice rather than to use them. It is almost clear that we can no longer, depend on them. Here comes the question: - what about using 'biofuel'? 'Biofuel' refers to a fuel that is obtained from the biosphere. But, biofuel may harm the ecosystem adversely. For example obtaining biodiesel from jatropha would involve destruction of the trees. If it is cultivated we would have to replace the crops. So, at present we have no absolute solution to it. So, rather than showing agitation, going on strikes, rallies, etc. we should take some measures so that at least we can cope-up with that. Here comes an excellent idea of obtaining biofuel, from waste products.
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How to obtain Biofuel from Waste Products:

Rice is an indispensable part of our diet. Boiling ricein water takes much of carbohydrate with it. Generally, this water is given to cows in rural areas but most of us use to throw it. This waste is produced in all of our houses and can be used as an energy source. Here are the steps for producing it efficiently and cheaply in house without being dependent on industries. (i) Collect the rice water in a container. On e ca n add ot her ca rboh yd rate containing waste food into it. One can add some other wastes also. (ii) Let it cool. When it cools, add yeast to it. Please be careful that you keep the container airtight. Keep the container in a cold and dry place away from sunlight. (Under normal conditions). It would be better to put the rice water produced next time to keep in another container. Otherwise, it would hamper cent percent output production. (iii) Allow it to ferment completely. The time taken to ferment completely would depend on the amount of carbohydrate present and the amount of yeast added.
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The chemical reaction going on is

Carbohydrate/Glucose In absence of oxygen (in Yeast)

Ethanol burns with a transparent flame liberating a large amount of heat, as it is a saturated hydro-carbon Ethanol can be mixed with petrol or diesel and can be used as fuel in automobiles. Ethanol does not produce any harmful gases like carbon monoxide and sulphur dioxide. This type of fuel is known as power alcohol or simply power, petrol. It would also increase the efficiency of the automobile. C2H5OH+O2 (Ethanol) Brazil produces automobile fuel in this way. In a state like Odisha, where large amount of such waste is produced, this is really a reliable option. We can also set up small industries that would do so. But, after all, domestic one would be costless. Main point is that, sufficient amount of ethanol can be produced, which would really be beneficial to a common man. Although, this is not a permanent option, it would help us till we find a new way and reduce dependence on it.
Student Class - X Aum Valley Educational Institution, Titilagarh - 767033

Ethanol + CO2 + E (Used by Yeast) (C2H 5OH) (iv) It would give a solution of Ethanol and water. If a strong alcoholic odour comes when the sealed container is opened, it can be confirmed that ethanol has been produced by fermentation. (v) Ethanol has a boiling point of 780C where as water has of 100 C. So, we can separate ethanol by the process of distillation. You can also add little of the solution in newly prepared rise water. It would trigger fermentation in it. (vi) It is better to use, solar energy for distillation. Ethanol is a volatile liquid and can be collected easily. We can also use other sources of heat but it would mean that : to get heat we are applying heat; Itwould makeits net energy negative which is never desirable (vii) Be careful that the system you make is airtight. Otherwise, it would close much of the much needed output.
0

CO2 +H2O + Head Energy

Other Inputs with Rice Water: Sugarcane pulp This ethanol produced can be used as a fuel, mixing it with other petroleum products.
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SOMETHINGTO KNOW ABOUT TRIGLYCERIDES

Kalyanee Dash

What are Triglycerides ?

There are different types of fat in our body. They are HDL (High Density Lipidsgood cholesterol), LDL (Low Density Lipids - Bad Cholesterol) and TGS (Triglycerides). Among them Triglycerides are common types of fat which circulates in the body and stored in the fat cells. It is a major source of energy. When we eat, our body gets the calories and uses this for a quick source of energy. The extra calories are converted to fat and triglycerides which are stored in fat cells of the body for future use. Thus the extra calories which we get from our fat (fat, carbohydrates or protein) are converted to triglycerides by the liver and stored as fat. This can be well tolerated occasionally. But if it continues and we take extra calories on a routine basis (more than we can use it or burn it), we will have high serum triglycerides. Fat in food Triglycerides Stored fatin body

combination of (a) High Blood Pressure (b) High blood Sugar (c) Too much fat around the waist (d) Low HDL (High density Lipid good Cho le st er ol ) an d (e ) Incr ea se d Triglyceride level - which is known as metabolic syndrome. People in this group (i.e. metabolic syndrome) usually have an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke. When we estimate the lipid profile of our blood, the level of triglycerides is measured. Under normal conditions it should be less than 150mg/dl of blood and any amount >200 mg or more/dl of blood is high. In normal conditions, the level of different fat elements in our blood is a) b) Total cholesterol 200mg/dl. HDL (good cholesterol) (i) Male 65 mg/dl (ii) Female 75 mg/dl c) HDL/Total cholesterol 0.30 or more. Triglycerides 150 mg/dl - 199mg/dl Triglyceride/HDL 2 or less LDL (Bad cholesterol) 100mg/dl129mg/dl LDL (in heart patients) should be so mg or less/dl
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Normally the level of triglycerides is 150mg/dl to 199mg/dl of blood. Generally, the level of triglyceride in blood is important for our good health. When it is elevated, then there is an increased risk of heart disease. But it is not clear whether this high level directly increases the risk of heart disease or not. It is because we observe that some people have a
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d) e) f)

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Why the Serum Triglyceride level increases ?

For our good health, the level of serum Triglyceride in our body should be <150mg/ dl. The conditions which cause high triglyceride lev el of bl oo d ar e - (a ) Ob es it y (b) Hypothyroidism (c) Uncontrolled Diabetes (d) Kidney disease (e) Regular consumption of calories more than we can burn (f) Regularly drinking more of alcohol. Th er e ar e so me me dic in es lik e Tamox iphe n, Ster oids , Be ta bl ockers , Diuretics, Estrogen, Birth Control pills which can increase the level of Triglyceride in blood. Sometimes both Cholesterol and Triglyceride level increase in some rare genetic conditions.

known as Xanthomas. In some rare cases, patients with very high triglyceride level may ha ve inf la mmat io n of Pan cr ea s, i.e. Pancreatitis with symptoms of fever, sudden and severe abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. In this condition we should immediately consult qualified doctors and continue treatment.

How to reduce elevated Serum Triglyceride level ?

(1) If we are over weight in respect to our age and height try to reduce the body weight there will be lowering of serum triglyceride level. (2) Reduce the calorie intake and reduce the quantity of both carbohydrate and fat in food. It is better to have "Right fat diet" instead of "Low fat diet". (3) (4) Reduce or totally stop intake of alcohol. Change the life style and change the food habit. (5) Regular exercise of walking. If the triglyceride remains high in spite of the above procedures, we should consult qualified medical practitioner and take medicine. The commonly used drug to lower the LDL is "stations". But Nicotinic acid (Niacin) and "fib rates" are better for lowering
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Effect of increased Triglyceride level:When the triglyceride level increases, fat plaque are deposited inside the coronary arteries (which supply blood oxygen to heart muscles) and their lumen is narrowed. As a result, the blood supply and oxygen supply to the heart muscles is reduced and it leads to death of cardiac muscles Heart Attack or Myocardial Infarction.

Symptoms of increased Triglyceride level in Blood:Usually it is a silent condition and shows no symptom. In rare genetic conditions these are visible as fatty deposits under the skin
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triglycerides. So by increasing fibers in food is also helpful. If both triglyceride and LDL are high with low HDL, more than one type of medicine are helpful in addition to increased physical exercise and physical exercise, along with change in diet. "Lovaza" is a naturally produced item which is rich in "Omega-3 fish oil "which he lp s to red uc e the en ha nc ed ser um triglycerides. It should be tried. Con cl us io n : Incr ea se d se ru m

LEVITATIONTRAIN: A TRANSPORT FOR THE FUTURE

Nikunja Bihari Sahu

Man has always tried to conquer time and space. To realize this goal, he has strived to develop faster and cheaper modes of transport. Magnetic levitation or Maglev trains in short, are a step forward in this direction. Research into this totally new form of transportation system commenced in Japan in 1962 and running tests in the Yamanashi test line began in 1967. Many areas of the system have been gradually tested with positive results. The first levitation running test was conducted on 30th May, 1997. A speed of 581 km per hour was achieved on 2nd October, 2003. This speed was recognized by Guinness World Records in February, 2004 as the world's highest speed ever realized. In a subsequent running test carried out on 7th November, 2003 the railcar traveled a total distance of 2876 kilometers. The interim report submitted in March, 2005 by the Min ist ry of La nd In fra str uct ure an d Tr ansport's Maglev Technologi cal Practicality Evaluation Committee was extremely optimistic confirming that a viable technology for the Maglev railway has been achieve d. Thus the next generation transportation system is about to be unveiled!
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triglyceride level gives rise to hardness of blood vessels, narrowing of their lumen, poor blood supply to different important organs. Finally it leads to Heart attack (Myocardial Infarction), Brain Stroke, Pancreatitis etc. To prevent all these serious and fatal conditions we should have well balanced diet, less sugar and fat in our diet, more of fiber food, regular physical exercise and adopt changed life style. By this we can surely avoid high serum triglyceride and its complications; thus leading a healthy and long life. But in spite of these if we have some rare genetic reasons, we should get the serum lipid profile tested and consult a qualified medical practitioner for treatment.
D-46 - Green Garden, Kalinga Vihar, Patrapada, Bhubaneswar - 751 019

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Levitation Train Levitation

Both the train and the track carry superconducting coils cooled to near absolute zero temperature by using liquid Helium. As electric current passes through these coils, it produces powerful magnetic fields that are strong enough to push the train above the metal track by a height of nearly 10 centimeters. This drastically reduces the track friction enabling it to achieve astonishing speeds. As the electric current meets no resistance, it does not need to be renewed and the electromagnets need no fuel except liquid Helium. This greatly increases the 'efficiency' of the train. the opposite poles and repulsive force of the like poles between the ground and the superconducting magnets placed inside the vehicle.

Superconductivity
When temperature of certain metals, alloys, oxides falls below a certain level, the electrical resistance almost vanishes. This phenomenon is known as 'superconductivity'. When the electrical current is applied to a coil in a superconductive state (superconducting coils) this current continues to flow permanently resulting in the creation of very large magnetic field. Niobium-Titanium alloy has been used in the superconducting Maglev to increase superconductive stability and a superconductive state is achieved by cooling liquid helium to a temperature of - 269 degrees Celsius.
Education Officer, Regional Science Centre, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, Bhubaneswar - 751013 Mobile:- 9938974485

Propulsion
Propulsion coils are laid on the ground. Electric current passing through these coils produce a series of magnetic poles (i.e. North and South poles) on the track. Thus the train is propelled forward by the attractive force of
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X-FACTOR : IS THERE LIFE ON MARS ?

Gopal Krishna Das

Water is more than the key to the origin of life. Water on mars raises intriguing questions. Can people build settlements on mars ? Is it suitable for colonisation ? Can we learn more about our planet by studying the martian climate ? Did Mars go through the same geological processes as Earth ? Water plays a major role in answering these questions or to be more precise, the possibility of a water cycle on Mars. The first photos obtained from the Martian Orbit registered guides any canyons, which could have been formed several million years ago by the displacement of large water masses. Scientists believe taht Mars may hold enormous reserves of ice and whole seas of water. Several years ago, they developed a new strategy of martian research, whcih was called "Following the water."

Gamma-ray and neutron spectrocopy is the most effective way of finding water on Mars. This planet has a very "fine" atmosphere without a strong magnetic field, making it easy for scape rays to reach its surface. At a depth of one meter to three meters, they generate fast neutrons. The nucleuses of the ground's chemical elements react with them and generate Gamma radiation. Since each nucleus has a unique spectrum of radiation, it is possible to establish the relative number of nucleuses for this or other elements in the martian ground. This also applies to hydrogen, wh cih is wa te r's pr imar y compon ent. Correlation of radiation streams indicates the presence of ice or water in the study area. In order to study the composition of the martian ground and find ice, scientists from the Russian Academy of Sciences Institute of Space research developed a high energy neutron-detector (HEND) at the direction of Rososmos (Russian Federal SpaceAgency). It has been operating on board the American Mars Odyssey Spacecraft in a near martian orbit for more than seven years now. It has detected huge water reserves immediately under the planet's surface and registered the dynamics of seasonal carbon dioxide deposits

Chemicalanalysis of Martian soil hasshown that it contains all elements required to sustain life
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on its surface.

FR-71/8, Ph-II, S.S. Vihar, Bhubaneswar-751021

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FUTURE IN OUR HANDS : HUMAN CLONES

Sashibhusan Rath

A.

Scientific Breakthrough :
Dr. Ian Smith, British scientist created

Human being is the result of 50% nature and 50% nurture and both make the individual. In case of human beings, the number of environmental factors which activate or deactivate genes are not only more, their interactions are too complex to be determined or plotted on pattern graph. Making a human clone is not easy as one has to know the entire human genetic make up i.e. 3 billion base pairs; 1,00,000 genes and then add on the positive genes selectively. Adding genes is very dangerous; any mistake in adding genes is ok for animals but not human beings. One just can't play with human lives in laboratory. Dr. Jarnes Dewey Watson, co-discoverer of DNA has stated in a recent interview that he is not interested in human clones, as till date only 2 % of the genetic material functioning is known, 98% remains a mystery. Human genetic research is primarily driven by the families of people who suffer and do not want unhealthy children. Most of them belong to the affluent levels of society. Alvin Toffler, in The Future Shock (1970) wrote, "Cloning would make it possible for people to see themselves anew, to fill the world with twins of themselves". Some however say that we should not permit a cottage industry in the God's business.
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the first clone of an adult animal - a lamb named Dolly (named after singer Dolly Parton) produced from a sheep. Like this fact of science Louise, the test tube embryo was created by Dr. Robert Edwards & Patrick Steptoe. Both cases have arisen out of manipulation of nature. Louise was the outcome of test-tube fertilization which let nature take her own course (sperm from father, egg from mother); whereas cloning is asexual, it is single parent reproduction. Instead of single mixture of genes from two parents clone is a genetic copy of its single parent. Clone is from klon (which means twig or slip). Crocodile embryos have a set of sex determining genes. Genes incubated at 31.5 degree centigrade hatch into males whereas those kept at 29.5 become females. The switching off and on of genes depend on environmental factors. Entwicklungsmechanik, a German school of developmental biology, postulates that a small preformed counterpart of an organism exists in its reproductive cells in is counterpart can be called a 'designer gene' !
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The Fruits :
Dr. Wilmut says the human being can be created by fusing an adult human cell with a human egg to create an embryo; key cells can be extracted from the embryo and can be used to treat human diseases. During this medical exercise the embryo would die but the mankind may have a remedy in lieu there of. This method can treat life threatening conditions. For example, for a man having bone marrow problem, a cell from him can be extracted from his body, then fused into an egg which would then be fertilised. Fresh bone marrow cells could be extracted from the resulting embryo and put back into his body, where healthy bone marrow would grow. Many behavioural disorders are related to genes. Violent behaviours are related to mutant genes. Those who are violent do not have adequate quantity of particular enzyme that breaks down neurotransmitters, leading to the persistence of destructive thoughts and consequent aggression. Another way of looking at things is : we have been altering our gene pool for millennia through wars, selective mating, better diet and evolution of medicine. Therefore changing our biological blue-prints in pursuit of a longer, healthier life is welcome. But genetic scourge, blueprint ofbad and deviletc.are tobecontrolled.
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The Fallout :
Nobel laureate physicist Joseph Rotblat warned that this creation of clone represents "science out of control" and such sensitive genetic engineering could result in a "means of mass destruction". As such there will be confrontation between biologists and those who deal with ethics. Politicians and scientists raise doubts on the ethics of this work. Dr.Roblat has su ggest ed fo r an Intern at iona l Ethi cs Committee (IEC) to be constituted to monitor the developments in area of human clones. Producing a cloned baby from a live adult is morally repugnant and illegal. However certain di se as es lik e can cer, cys tic fi br osi s, emphysema etc can be prevented. Roman catholic church has expressed its opposition to any form of reproduction divorced from the sexual act and safeguarding those values that constitute the human being and his existence. German newspaper commented : "the cloning would have fitted well to the world view of Adolf Hitler and there is no doubt that he would have used the technology intensively if it were available at that time. Thank God it wasn't !" It further asked "How long will it take from now until a new Einstein, Lollobrigida, Monroe or even Hitler to populate the brave new world ?"
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Genetic engineeringmay take away many privileges of human beings. There will be invasion of genetic privacy like: * People will look at other's DNA and spot defects in genes * Genetic discrimination. A job or a life insurance policy may be denied for undesirable genetic makeup. Marriage methods may change * Genetic manipulation. State will decide the quality of off-springs. People may manipulate genes to protect their interest. Human clones, in fact, strike at the very root of raison d'etre of mankind. Genes and politics have also been intricately linked. Stalin banned genetic research as it makes people unequal. Hitler discriminated those having inferior genes.

And it is in the right direction. Science cannot progressif weworry undulyabout consequences of knowledge whatsoever. Scientists can provide the knowledge; but to have a Hitler like aspect or not shall lie solely with the individual people and there shall be ethical dilemma in the conscience of the scientist, in spite of the work which shall go on. Finding the molecular basis of a disease and developing an effective strategy to prevent or to cure is a great challenge. Genetics, per se, is not evil. Its use or misuse brings in morality. Gene basically is the source of information about life and can help progress of species. It is wise to face the ethical conundrum than not to use it for fear of misuse. Gen et ic lit er ac y is of cr uc ia l

significance. Let people decide about its use. Although breast cancer genes were isolated, 50% of women carrying such genes prefer uncertainty and do not want to be tested. In antenatal diagnosis women are to be allowed to decide to have an unhealthy child or abort the foetus. A child when grown up may sue his/her parents for not undergoing the test as a result thwarted his competitiveness in the world !

B-174, Sector-18, Rourkela-769003, Mobile : 09437220892

Epilogue :
Harnessing nuclear power was confined to nations but Human Genome Project (HGP), if confined to a nation or a race, it would be wrong rather it should be of the world's people. It is precisely for the reason that such scientific experimentation may be disatrous to mankind as a whole. Six million dollars have been granted to HGP for studying ethical implications only.
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AVIAN INFLUENZA (BIRD FLU): A THREATENING EVOLUTION

G. C. Sahoo and Nidhi Mathew

Introduction
Avian Influenza or Bird flu is an infectious disease of birds, ranging from a mild to a severe form of illness, which is spreading like wild fire from Cambodia to Croatia and Romania to Russia, including India since 2006, engulfing more than seventeen countries. The genetics of the H5N1 virus plays an important role in the virulence and the impending threat of the influenza pandemic for which more than 150 million chickens have died or culled in Hong Kong only. Recent deaths in migrating birds also have been reported from China, Russia and Mongolia including 70 deaths in human beings. Report of Bird flu epidemic on chickens from West Bengal during the current year (2011) is alarming.

humans in 1997 and caused an outbreak in Hongkong. There have been regular outbreaks during 1996 to 2006 in Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Turkey, Laos, Malaysia, Ukraine, Iraq, Egypt, Nigeria, India and European countries etc. The largest number of cases has occurred in Vietnam. The first great influenza pandemic of last century in 1918-19 affected more than 25% of the total population, world wide, with an estimated 40-50 million death within a single year without any warning and causing unprecedented illness with maximum of death in the young and healthy persons in the age groupof 15to35years. Thesubsequentpandemics in1957 and 1968, includingSpanish flu,spreading rapidly also killed millions of people.

Virus and Vector Incidence

Out of the three types of influenza virus The first epidemic of avian influenza was reported from Italy more than 100 years ago. But in recent years there has been regular outbreak of influenza which was first detected in 1996 in a domestic goose from the Guangdong province of China. Avian flu first jumped the species barrier from birds to
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(A,B,C) the avian influenza virus is the subtype of Type A influenza virus. The morphology of influenza A (H5N1) is basically that of an orthomyxovirus as it is a subtype of the type A influenza virus. The typical virion is enveloped, spherical (100 nm), with a nucleocapsid of helical symmetry surrounding a single stranded
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8 segmented RNA. The envelope is internally lined by a matrix protein (M) and externally with glycoprotein peplomers-rod shaped haemagglutinin (HA) and mushroom shaped neuraminidase (NA). There are 16 known HA subtypes and 9 known NA subtypes of influenza viruses which can recombine in permutation and combination to create novel combination of influenza. The eight separate gene segment composing the influenza A virus has the capacity of reassortment of these gene segments to develop a novel virus leading to pandemics due to the lack of immunity. This major antigenic change is known as antigenic shift, in contrast to the typic al se asona l inf luenz a virus exhibiting frequent point mutation, leading to more gradual shifts in their genome, which is known as antigenic drift, the reason for which new influenza vaccines must be prepared every year.

enough viral particles to infect one million birds. The virus can survive potentially for indefinite period in frozen materials. The main role of transmission of avian influenza on humans is via inhalation of respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. As the humans are very rarely exposed to avian influenza virus, so there is very minimal immunity in the general population which could become an epidemic or pandemic very rapidly. The three prerequisites to start an influenza pandemic are (a) Emergence of novel susceptible virus.

(b) Ability of the new virus to replicate an d cause disease in humans and (c) New virus transmitting efficiently from human to human. The first two of the above prerequisites have already been met by the current H5N1 outbreaks in Asian birds. All the conditions

Transmission
The disease is transmitted to humans by direct or indirect contact with infected wild ducks and chickens through infected aerosols, discharges and surfaces. The influenza viruses are highly resilient, which can survive in contaminated manure for at least three months and one gram of H5N1 manure can contain
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for a pandemic will be fulfilled if the last criteria of human to human transmission is met by the H5N1 virus, the potential candidate for the next pandemic. Other than the morbidity and mortality, the direct economic loss in the current H5N1 outbreaks to the affected countries were to the tune of 8 to 10 billion US dollars. A modest pandemic lasting over
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one year may result in a loss of 150 to 200 billion dollars on GDP which is equivalent to 3% of GDP of Asia.

by immunofluorescence assay using specific monoclonal antibody and haemagglutination inhibition assay have been used for diagnosis. X-ray of the chest is useful in detecting early viral pneumonia.

Signs and Symptoms

They are very similar to that of the disease caused by other influenza viruses. Fever, malaise, myalgia, sore throat and cough are fo un d in most of the pa ti en ts wh il e conjunctivitis is seen in some. Persistent high fever is an useful sign. Life threatening complications like vi ra l pne umonia , re sp ir ato ry dis tr ess syndrome and multi organ failure may result in the death of the patient. Individuals at high risk of deve loping influenza complications like primary viral pneumonia, multi organ failure etc., are usually children, old people, pregnant women, immuno compromised patients etc.

Treatment
The drugs which can be used both for the prophylaxis and therapeutic are Zanomivir (Relanza) and Oseltamivir (Tamiflu). Belonging to a group of medicines called Neuraminidase inhibitors. Although approved doses of oseltamivir (75 mg twice daily for five days in adults) are reasonable for treating early, mild cases of influenza A. Higher doses (150 mg twice daily in adults) and treatment for 7 to 10 days are considerations in treating severe infections. Corticosteroids have been used frequently in treating patients with influenzaA (H5N1), with uncertain effects.

Diagnosis
Specimens like nasopharyngeal aspirate, endotracheal aspirate, sputum and serum from clinically suspected cases are subjected to la bo ra to ry inv es ti ga ti on s fo r fu rt he r confirmation. Rapid antigen detection by immunoflurescence assay and enzyme immuno assay, virus isolation by culture in HeP-2, RD cells or MDCK cell lines and indentification
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Prevention : Immunization
At present there is no specific vaccine to prevent avian influenza in human beings, although clinical trials have started. One such inactivated vaccine with the use of a human H5N1 isolate from 2004 has been reported to be immunogenic at high hemagglutinin doses. Live attenuated, cold-adapted intranasal vaccines are also under development.
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Important measures for the pandemic preparation as per the guide lines of the center for disease control and prevention are based on surveillance for avian influenza infection control of the poultry and animals including healthy poultry and infection control on medical settings. WHO is planning to stock pile 1 to 3 million courses of anti avian influenza drugs which could be used as a preemptive measures anywhere in the world for the impending pandemic. There is global concern about the spread of avian influenza and the possibility of pandemic for which international organizations like WHO, FAO and international organization for animal health are exchanging information, advising national governments and assisting in resource mobilization. The formulation of a national pandemic preparedness is fundamental to harness the national resources and activate the systems in health and veterinary sectors to respond rapidly to the threat of pandemic. The concern of environmentalist about the want on killing of birds and animals, though normally justified, but past experience shows that prompt culling of birds is the only effective way to control the epidemic before it is pandemic. The role of WHO is very significant to avoid an avian influenza pandemic if the guide lines
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are followed strictly. WHO can play a major role on averting a pandemic by providing technical support develop guidelines, assist outbreak investigation, provide diagnostic reagents, stock pile anti-virals, develop vaccine strain and support research.

Conclusion
The present scenario in India is very vulnerable and precarious in the event of a pa nd em ic as th e nu mb er of immunocompromised people are growing due to HIV/AIDS. With a growing number of immunocompromised people in addition to diabetes, malnourishment, geriatric and pediatric age group, an infectious disease like avian influenza will have devastating effect an d growin g chan ce of ac hi evin g it s pandeminion vision is very much possible. The lac k of rea dy and rep ea ta bl e transmissibility of the avian influenza between humans is one of the only factors preventing a potential H5N1 pandemic in human beings. However, there is a high possibility of further mutation in the H5N1 virus and/or intermixing with human influenza virus, which may remove this last hurdle of crossing the species barrier, thereby fulfilling all the condition for a H5N1 virus, the potential candidate for the next pandemic.
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Although no one can predict with certainty the timing of pandemic, there is a concern that it is imminent and there is a great possibility that it would occur sooner than later beginning from Asia. References
1. World Health Organization; H5N1 avian influenza, http://www.who.mt/Qntity/csr/ disease/avian_influenza/timeli ne_3_03 .pdf. 2. Centre for disease control and prevention. Avian mttmemam current situation, http:// www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/outbreaks/current.html 3. U.S. Department of labor occupational safety and Health Administration. Guidance for protecting workers against avian flu. http:// www.osha.gov/dsg/guidance/avian_flu.html. 4. Bio-security for the Birds, Avian influenza (AI). http://www.usda.gov/agency/oc/design/ test/bird biosecurity/ hpai. html

5.

Centre for Disease control and prevention. Key factsabout avian influenza (Bird Flu) and Avian influenza A (H5N1) virus. http:// www.cde.gov/flu/avian/gen_info/facts.html

6.

Centre for Disease control and prevention. Transmission of influenza A viruses between animals and people, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/ avi an/gen_info/ transmission.html.

7.

Centres for Diseases control and prevention. Prevention and contro l of influenza: Recommendations of the Advisory

Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). MMWR 2005; 54:(RR-8). 8. Avian influenza a (H5N1): A preliminary review. Ind ian Jo urnal of Medical Microbiology. 2004; 22 (3): 143-146. 9. Avian Influenza A (H5N1) infection in Humans. N Engl J Med. 2005; 353: 13741385.

*Professor & H.O.D (E.N.T.), ** Junior Resident, Rajah Muthiah Medical College, Annamalai University, Chidambaram

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QUIZ : ELEMENTS
Smt. Archana Panigrahi

7.

Which is the most electro negative

element ? a. Cadmium (Cd) Lead (Pb) b. Fluorine (F) d. Polonium (Po)

1.

A Russian chemist gave the periodic table

c. 8. a. c. 9.

in a complete form. He even predicted the properties and existence of the elements which were not discovered then. He was a. c. 2. John Dalton Mandeleef b. Mosley d. Robert Boyle

Which is the least electronegative element ? Barium (Ba) Tantalum (Ta) b. Hafnium (Hf) d. Cesium (Cs)

Which element has the highest value of

melting point among metals ? a. c. Almunium (Al) Gold (Au) b. Tungsten (W) d. Cesium(Cs)

Which is the heaviest, non-radioactive

element with fixed nucleus ? a. c. 3. Bismuth (Bi) Sodium (Na) b. Indium (In) d. Gallium (Ga)

10. Which element has the highest density among solids ? a. c. Iridium (Ir) Carbon(C) b. Sulphur(S) d. Phosphorus(P)

Which of the following elements is a

metalloid ? a. c. 4. Indium (In) Platinum (Pt) b. Xenon (Xe) d. Germanium (Ge)

11. Which is the most poisonous element ? a. c. Dubnium (Db) Osmium(Os) b. Bohrium(Bh) d. Plutonium(Pu)

Which of the following elements is a

metal ? a. c. 5. Boron (B) Silicon (Si) b. Mercury (Hg) d. Silver (Ag)

12. Which element has the lowest melting point ? a. c. Chromium(Cr) Osmimum(Os) b. Titanium (Ti) d. Zinc(Zn)

Which of the following elements has

13. Which is the first man made element ? a. Niobium (Nb) Osmimum(Os) b. Technetium(Tc) d. Zinc (Zn) c.

maximum number of isotopes ? a. c. 6. a. c. Xenon (Xe) Antimony(Sb) b. Tungsten(W) d. Silver (Ag)

14. Which element has the highest atomic volume ? a. c. Francium (Fr) Neon(Ne) b. Iodine (I) d. Lead(Pb)
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Which is an inert gas ? Oxygen(O) Hydrogen(H)

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b. Nitrogen(N) d. Argon(Ar)

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15. Which element has the lowest atomic volume ? a. c. Beryllium (Be) Boron(B) b. Bromine(Br) d. Tin(Sb)

5W'S + H :
(Why, Who, What, When, Where and How)

CRYINGAWAY EMOTIONS
Nityananda Swain

16. Which is the lightest element ? a. c. Hydrogen(H) Oxygen(O) b. Helium(He) d. Lithium(Li)

Does crying help ? If so, how ?

A professor once admitted that when he felt severe stress and frustration, he put everything aside and went to see a sentimental movie and bawl like a baby.

17. The elements are arranged in the periodic table in order of their a. c. atomic mass neutron number b. atomic number d. atomic volume

A mother of three children says, "when my budget can not be stretched to support my children, I close the door and weep. In half an hour I feel fit to face my wretched fate again". Crying is, no doubt, a harmless and effective way of getting rid of feelings that might otherwise be damaging. Crying at times appears to be a very disgusting but strange trait. There are people, especially women, who have no control over their tears. Any trifle induces them to weep. One may wonder, therefore, whether tears have minds of their own or people pour their minds through tears? It appears that women cry more often than men. When men choose to tighten their lips and hold on their tears in the most demanding environment, tears well up in the eyes of our womenfolk in response to a very trivial issue.
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18. Which element has the highest value of melting point among non-metals ? a. c. Carbon Oxygen(O) b. Sulphur(S) d. Chlorine(Cl)

19. Which is the most ductile metal ? a. c. Copper(Cu) Gold (Au) b. Silver(Ag) d. Iron(Fe)

20. Which is the most harmful radioactive element ? a. c. Uranium (U) Actinium(Ac) b. Thorium(Th) d. Radium(Ra)

ANSWERS
1. (c), 2. (a), 3. (d), 4. (b), 5. (a), 6. (d), 7. (b), 8. (d), 9. (b), 10. (a), 11. (d), 12. (c), 13. (b), 14. (a), 15. (c), 16. (d) 17. (b), 18. (a), 19. (c), 20. (d)
Teacher, C/o: Kalpana Mishra, At-Bhugudakata (Near Akhandalamani Mandira) PO - Bhanjapur, Baripada, Dist - Mayurbhanj - 757002. Mobile : 9861144690

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All of you know that lachrymation is a physiological phenomenon. It keeps the surface of the eyes moist and optically smooth. Tear contains mucoid materials which enable the tear to spread uniformly over. The C=cornea, Oily outer layer of the tear film on the eye surface retards evaporation of the tear. Tear also contains lysozyme which destroy bacteria. Hence, weeping serves as an antiseptic wash of both the eyes and the nasal passages. It is generally accepted that only the human beings shed tears in happiness as well as in sorrow. In some, tear automatically rolls down while watching a tragic movie, during exchange of a lot of heated words, witnessing a wedding ritual or standing at the bed side of any dead dear and near ones. No other animal species is capable of weeping, it is supposed. So, we are the only crying animals inhabiting the earth. But we have not yet been successful in exploring as to why we do cry? Is it just to moisten the eyes and wash away the wastes from its surface or it has a more mysterious meaning? If waste-disposal is its primary objective, why is that the chemical composition of tear varies in accordance with the variation in stimuli to cause its shedding? Why do most people feel better after crying? Those who are
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in the habit of crying more often, why are they less vulnerable to stress-related diseases like peptic ulcer, colitis, heart diseases and hypertension? Man is probably the only thinking animal in this habitat. Does he, therefore, cry shed tears in response to emotional stress? Is emotional tear chemically different from that of the tear flowing through as a result of eye irritation while peeling onions or due to exposure to toxic fumes? Tears are no doubt, the products of an excretory process like urinating and sweating. But what does it eliminate? Does it expel the emotional stress out? It is suggested that when people become sad or depressed, there occurs a biochemical change resulting in a chemical imbalance in the body. That might have been partially corrected by the release of certain chemical substances in tears. It is found that tears shed in response to watching tear-inducing movies contain more manganese than its concentration in serum. Does driving away manganese through tears in any way responsible for easing out emotions? In an experiment it was observed that women had an average of 5.3 episodes of
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crying in response to emotional stress as against an average of 1.4 episodes in men during the experimental period of 30 days. Out of 331 volunteers aged 18 to 75 forming the study group, only 6 percent of he healthy women and 45 percent of the healthy men did not cry during those 30 days period. It was more significant to note that 85 percent of the women and 73 percent of the men reported a sense of more relaxed feeling after each crying episode. Crying was found to generate new hope for living and to hold optimistic outlook for future. Although sadness, happiness and anger were various causes of initiating emotional tears, when virtually all of the women gave tears as one of their responses to anger, virtually none of the men did.

not through public weeping. That might have been the reason perhaps, that men avoid to be around women who are crying. Quite a lot of people agree that it is healthy to cry and crying is good for the soul, but they feel ashamed to exhibit their tears in public. The concentration of the hormone prolactin is more in tears of women than in age -matched men. Does prolactin induce crying in women? Because of the high levels of this hormone, pregnant women seem to be more weepy. If people would really break down and cry, they would enjoy immense relief from heart attack, hypertension, tension headache, asthma and sleep disturbances etc. Evidence for tear research indicates that

Further, it has been found that women, who cry an average of six times a month are less prone to suffer from ulcers than men who cried less than once a month. A higher incidence of stress-related diseases in men has possibly been attributed to their inability to cry. When situations are favourable for crying, the responses from the women are usually more positive. But men prefer to distance themselves from such situations and try to swallow their emotions in silence and
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crying is a natural physiological response to various emotional stimuli. Hence one should not feel ashamed of the act of crying. Having a good bawl can, therefore, enrich, lengthen and even save lives. Crying de-pressurizes us emotionally and thus lessens our stress.
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