Science Horizon

5TH YEAR 2ND ISSUE FEBRUARY,2015

President, Odisha Bigyan Academy Editorial Board Prof. Uma Charan Mohanty Prof. Gopendra Kishore Roy Advisor Prof. Sodananda Torasia Prof. Govind Chandra Sahoo Chief Editor Prof. Tarini Charan Panda Prof. Niranjan Barik Prof. Arun Chandra Sahu Editor Prof. Niraj Kanti Tripathy Prof. Tarani Charan Kara Prof. Satyaban Jena Managing Editor Dr Rekha Das Prof. Bijay Kumar Parida Secretary, Odisha Bigyan Academy Prof. Madhumita Das CONTENTS

Subject Author Page 1. Editorial : Science for the Benefit of Mankind Prof. Tarani Charan Kara 2 2. Prof. B. K. Behura, An Eminent Zoologist Dr. Prafulla Kumar Mohanty 3 3. Importance and Usefulness of Ants on this Earth H. P. Patnaik 6 P. K. Sadangi 4. Capuchin Monkeys : The New World Primates Prof. Animesh Kumar Mohapatra 11 Anirban Roy 5. Lethal Mutation Dr. Dwijesh Kumar Panda 17 6. Jonas Salk - Father of Polio Vaccine Professor Guru Prasad Mohanta 19 7. Glutathione, An Important Antioxidant Dr. Debendra Nath Nayak 21 8. Depression : A Global Health Crisis Dr. Debakanta Behera 24 9. Second-hand Smoking Dr. Niraj K. Tripathy 26 10. Ozone Depletion - Causes and Consequences Dr. Biswajit Rath 29 Harekrushna Jena 11. Eco Friendly Pesticides Sri Sanjeeb Kumar Das 34 12. Rhodiola Rosea - A Medicinal Herb of the High Altitude Prof. Gopendra Kishore Roy 36 13. Bamboo : A Forest Wonder Er. Ramesh Chandra Sahoo 38 14. Brown Manuring : A Tool for Sustainable Rice Cultivation Dillip Ranjan Sarangi 40 Biswanath Sadangi 15. Green Concrete an Eco-Friendly Product Dr. Bishnu Prasad Behera 42 16. Megatons to Megawatts Er. Mayadhar Swain 45 17. Quiz : Founders of Medical Science Sri Himansu Sekhar Fatesingh 47

The Cover Page depicts : Blue Sea & Raman Effect. Cover Design : Sanatan Rout EDITORIAL SCIENCE FOR THEBENEFITOF MANKIND From the dawn of human civilization to the part of its benefits has not yet reached the poor in the presentage,quantumleapsinhumandevelopmentand developing and even in developed nations. The gap well-beingwere madepossible onlythroughexplosion betweenthe rich and the poor is getting widened. On of novel ideas leading to breakthrough scientific and the other hand, S&Thas beenmissued tocreatehavoc technological innovations in diverse fields such as for the community by creating weapons of mass infrastructure, agriculture, biotechnology,biomedical destruction for warfare. Further, rising population sciences, energy, communication, industry and growth and the resulting environmental degradation transport among others enhancing the quality and pose seriouschallenges for the livingorganisms inthis comforts of human life. earth. InIndia, likemanyother scientificallydeveloped countries, the benefits of S&T are yet to reach the Our country has had very rich traditions of socially excluded and marginatized sections of the Science & Technology (S&T). Science in India was society.Interms ofHuman DevelopmentIndex(HDI) always very closely intertwined with culture and as published by the UNDP in 2014, India ranks 135 philosophy. It was also tempered with very unusual among 187 countries across the world and is wisdom. India's contributions to astronomy, categorized among the "medium development" mathematics, medicine etc. in the past have been countries suchasEgypt,SouthAfrica, Phillippines and truly amazing. The award of Nobel Prize to Dr. C. Indonesia asagainst the neighbouringSriLankahaving V. Raman in Physics in 1930 in recognition of his 73 rankin HDI. Our policy-planning and governance discovery "Raman Effect" on February 28, 1928, need to focus on exploiting the scientific knowledge related to the scattering of light is a testimony of and technologicalexpertise tothe fullest advantage of excellency in Indian Science. all sections of the society. If the S&T achievements Today,India has developed a strongcapacityto are not shared equallyamongst nations and the people design, fabricate, develop and test its own launch of allthe strata of society, then the technologywould vehicle and satellites. It has moved from one become a source of exclusion. It would create the sophisticated launch vehicle to the other more spectre of a technological divide in which those with sophisticated ones such as from SVL to ASLV to access achieve unprecedented levels of prosperity PSLV to GSLV and has sent its own satellite to Mars whilst the majority who are without it lose (MOM) without any help from others. India has competitiveness and are marginalized from the world achieved international competitiveness in remote economy and its development. Therefore, our sensing and developed early cyclonewarning system innovationand diffusionsystem shouldbe so balanced for the commonmass. The realimpact ofIndianSpace as to serve the needs ofbig business and government programmehasbeenintermsofnationbuildingthrough as well as those of the great majoritywho depend on accelerated socio-economic development byimpacting them for their bare necessities and livelihood. onproblems rangingfromeducationtodrinkingwater. The challenge can only be met with extensive India's progress in space research has "reached the and equitable applicationofS&T to five criticalareas unreachables" living inremote and inaccessible areas like water,energy,health, agricultureand biodiversity of the country. We are witnessing a connectivity as identified by UN. While prioritizing innovation- revolution today which has brought our vast nation intensive research activities, the outcomes in these together with the entire globe. Our transport and areas need to be deeply focused for meeting the telecommunicationinfrastructure has been developed aspiration of common people and strengthening the considerably reducing the 'time-space' among our economyofthe nation. Herescientistsand technocrats people. Our health system has delivered to a majority have a greater role to play keeping in mind the of people by providing access to life saving medical convictionofAlfredNobel"Science forthe benefit of technologies, and in eliminating or bringing under Mankind" in order to put in place the technological control a range of diseases such as small pox, polio, applications that act as drivers of inclusive tuberculosis, sexuallytransmitted diseasesand others. development and make sure that India secures a Nanomedicine, drug targeting and telemedicine have rightfulplaceintermsofHDIalongwithtopfivenations also become a reality today. in "high development" category including Norway, ThecontributionofS&T thoughconsidered vital Australia, Switzerland, Netherlands and the USA in a inachieving sustainable human development, a large few years of time from now. Prof. Tarani Charan Kara e-mail : [email protected] FEBRUARY,2015

PROF. B. K. BEHURA, AN EMINENT ZOOLOGIST Dr.PrafullaKumarMohanty

Service Career Dedicated Writer Some individuals read science, some During the service career, apart from forcibly learn science, some try to get the teaching, Prof. Behura was actively engaged in science by heart and a very few love science, writing popular science articles in various apply science, reply scientifically and lead science magazines namely Science Reporter, their life through scientific approach. Professor Science Today, Bigyan Diganta etc. Besides Basanta Kumar Behura was one such these, he had also published some books personality of the last category who was the pertaining to the animal world (Table-2). quintessence of scientific spirit and temper in Table - 2 : List of popular sciencebooks in Odia his day to day life. Year of Name of the book publication Prof. B. K. Behura was born in the year 1966 Frogs of Odisha 1922 and passed away in 2015. During the 1967 Snakes of Odisha period of his academic life, he had contributed 1977 Dinosaurs significantly in the field of Zoology (Table-1). 1981 Wildlife Table - 1 : Service Career of B. K. Behura 1999 Man: A different Animal 1999 Bhitarkania : The Wonder Tenure Nature of Post Land of Odisha. 1947-1957 Lecturer in Zoology 2008 Snakes 1948 (Jan.) - Research at Edinburgh 2010 Turtles of Odisha 1949 (Dec.) University, Scotland Serious Translator 1949 Obtained Ph.D. Degree Apart from the stated original creative 1949-1950 Served at British Museum books, he had translated some important books 1950-1957 Lecturer (first Odia Zoologist) in on animals (Table 3) in Odia language to cater Odisha 1957-1960 Reader in Zoology to the need of the common people of Odisha. 1960-1982 Professor of Zoology, Table - 3 : Translated books in Odia UtkalUniversity Yearof publication Name of the book 1982-1984 Director, College Development 1972 Wildlife (Protection)Act Council (CDC), UtkalUniversity 1975 and 1979 Snakes of India, NBT 1985-1986 VisitingProfessor,MeerutUniveristy 1980 Common Birds, NBT 1986, 1987, VisitingProfessor, 1996 Biodiversity 1988, 1990 DibrugarhUniversity To be published Dinosaur

Science Horizon 3 FEBRUARY,2015

Analytical Researcher Prof. Behura had published more than During professional teaching, Prof. 240 research papers in various national and Behura had guided and supervised some M.Sc. international journals of repute including students in research leading to Ph.D.and D.Sc. "NATURE". Quite for so many years, Prof. degrees (Table-4). His field of research was Behura also managed the Zoological Society animal kingdom and insect world especially of India and had been publishing the journal on aphids (very small insects) of the plants. he behalf of the society. The most spectacular ensured perfection among his scholars and contribution in the field of his research is the students in research activities. discovery and reporting of a new species of Table - 4 : Name of Ph.D. and D.Sc. insect which was scientifically named as students of Prof. Behera "Granthakita Cuttackae". Year of award Name of the Ph.D./ Basing on the devoted, dedicated and of Ph.D. & D.Sc. student continuous research inthe field of entomology, D.Sc. degree three species of animals are named after him. 1974 Ph.D. WilliamAthonyZilka, USA Outof threespecies, twoare flatwormsnamely 1974 Ph.D. MurariMohan Dash Gameo behuri and second one as Urocleidus 1979 Ph.D. Aditya Prasad Das behuri. The third animal was an insect (an 1980 Ph.D. Lala AswiniKumar Singh aphid, a type of insect) whose biological name 1983 Ph.D. Sudhakar Kar is Dactynotus behuri. These reflect the 1983 D.Sc. KalyaniBohidar potential research ability of such renowned 1984 Ph.D. Dillip KumarRoy zoologist of Odisha. 1985 Ph.D. BijoylaxmiSwain Scientific Excellence 1994 D.Sc. Aditya Prasad Das Prof. Behura was so much dedicated, 2001 Ph.D. Narayan Chandra Satapathy sincere, meticulous in the field of Zoology, 2001 Ph.D. Debabrata Swain that he had served different societiesin various He was also the Editor of the journal capacities and awarded prizes and medals entitled "PRAKRUTI",published by the Utkal (Table5). He was the only zoologist of Odisha University.The editorial service was extended who was awarded the highest number of prizes from 1962 to 1982, almost for two decades. and awards both from the Government of Further, another journalnamely 'PRANIKEE", Odisha and non-government organizations. In published by the Zoological Society of Orissa," was his creation and edited by him his life time, he had realized the value of time since 1983. Although "Prakruti" is closed, and was engaged in writing, translating, "Pranikee" is continuingits publicationby the reviewing, analysing and interpreting science Post-Graduate Department of Zoology, Utkal articles on Zoology and environment. This, in University through the assistance of the fact, epells the class of academic excellence facilities of the department. and attitudeof percolatingsciencetothe society.

4 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015

Table 5 : Prizes and Awards of Prof. Behura Sl. Year of award/ Name of the award, organisation etc. No. distinction 1. 1978 Sectional President of the Section Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries of 69th Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA). 2. 1980 General President of 5th All India Zoological Congress, Bhopal. 3. 1985 General President of 7th All India Zoological Congress, Meerut. 4. 1978 Raja Jitendro Mallik Gold Medal by Zoological Society of India. 5. 1980 Sir Dorab Tata Gold Medal by Zoological Society of India. 6. 1981-1982 Popular Science Awardby the Utkal University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. 7. 1987 Samanta Chandra SekharAwardby Odisha BigyanAcademy. 8. 1990 NandighoshAward, Odisha. 9. 1998 Senior Scientist Awardby Odisha Bigyan Academy. 10. 2000 Swami Satya PrakashAwardbyArya Samaj. 11. 2000 Dr.PranakrushnaParijaAwardbyPranakrushnaParijaMemorialTrust,Cuttack. 12. 2000 Pranakrushna Parija Science Literature Awardby Utkal Sahitya Samaj. 13. 2001 Bigyan-Gobinda MemorialAward, Cuttack. 14. 2002 Felicitated by Odisha Bigyan 'Prachar Samiti', Cuttack 15. 2003 Ray Saheb Banabihari MohantyAwardby Odisha Bigyan Prachar Samiti, Cuttack. 16. 2007-2008 Biju PattanaikAward by the Govt. of Odisha. 17. 2013 Kalinga Samman.

A Person with Dignity and Divinity Government Colleges of Odisha are the Prof.Behurawasamultifaceted personality creations of Prof. Behura. The growth and havingall round academic qualities. He was an development of the Zoology has attained the AcademicLeader,SocialOrganizer,Disciplinarian, existing height because of his vision, mission Teacher, Translator, Writer, Reviewer, and passion towards the subject. The image Researcher, Administrator, Conservationist & and foot prints left by him will cerainly be Consultant all rolled into one. remembered by all the Zoologists of India and Odisha in particular. The Post-Graduate Department of  Zoology, Utkal University, Ravenshaw Professor and Head, Post Graduate Development of Zoology, Utkal University, Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar-751004 University and Zoology Department of Mob. -9238571378, E-mail - [email protected]

Science Horizon 5 FEBRUARY,2015

IMPORTANCE AND USEFULNESS OF ANTS ON THIS EARTH H. P. Patnaik1 and P. K. Sadangi2

Ants are very often crushed under our requirements, some serve in the colony as feet knowingly or unknowingly, but it is a fact scavengers and necrophagous (that eats dead that these tiny and elegant creatures share a or decaying animal flesh), while a majority of place which cannot be compared with any species serve as general predators on other formof lifeon thisearth, the human dominated insect groups exerting enormous pressure on biosphere. Bert Holldobbler, an ant specialist other invertebrate populations in their habitats. and Edward O. Wilson, a great biologists in In general there are two categories of their book - 'The ants', published in 1990 ants : one is designated as the introduced or stated that "the neglect of ants in science and tramp ants which were brought to new natural history is the shortcoming that should environments by human beings through trade be remedied, for they represent the culmination or commerce. Usually,such type of ants occur of insect evolution in the same sense that in many places/habitats, such as human humanbeings representthe summitof vertebrate modified habitats quite away from their place evolution". Manyresearchers acrossthe world of origin. These ants are polymorphic workers have now realized to recognize theperspectives and rely on omnivorous diet. The second of ants in their natural eco-systems. category of ants is termed as 'invasive ants' or Ants, like other social insects take care introduced ants which penetrate the natural of their own brood (the eggs and larvae) on a ecosystems and reduce the native ant diversity. cooperative basis and therefore they are These small creatures have existed on categorized as "eusocial insects". Since, ants the surface of the earth much before the tend to be very aggressive and have great arrival of human beings and originated 145 ability to dominate themselves, their direct million years ago, for which they have every interactions with plants, other arthropods and right to dominate the planet earth. Because of insects become quite spectacular. this, ants constitute a great part of animal Food preference is extreme in ants biomass forming an important component of exhibiting high variability in food selection. the ecosystem. Ants can invade any type of Some ants survive on plant exudates secreted habitat from the Arctic Circle to the Equator, from flowers and extra floral nectarines or except Iceland, Greenland and Antarctica. derived as honey dew like secretion of There are about 9000 species of ants homopterous insects. A few ant species described from world-over representing 296 cultivate fungus gardens to meet their food genera and 16 subfamilies The Indian

6 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015 subcontinent records ant species under 8 Ants influence the soil environment and subfamilies representing 600 species and 92 concurrently affectthe activity and abundance genera. In late 90's it was evidenced by the of soil microorganisms (fungi, bacteria, researchers that ants are potential bio- actinomycetes), nematodes and soil insects. indicators among the terrestrial invertebrates. Ultimately, soil abiotic and biotic changes Ants exhibit a greater resistance to generated by ants have an effect on the pollutantsin comparisonto other invertebrates, performance and diversity of vascular plants. especially to radioactivity and to industrial Changes in ant communitystructure following pollutants because of the fact that; only some disturbances have been found to reflect 10% of ants remain outside their nest to be changes in many other invertebrate groups. exposed to these negative effects and ants can Therefore, P. J. Folgarait, in his review article change their patterns of activity at times when "Ant biodiversity and its relationship to exposure to pollutants is less dangerous. ecosystem functioning" published in However, the density of ant colonies and their Biodiversity and Conservation during 1998, sizes usually decrease with increasing levels rightly opined that ants are useful organisms of pollution. for ecological studies and are valuable biological indicators of environmental change. Thus, studies on ants at the genus-level InAustralia, ants have been used extensively as can provide useful information on bio-indicators, particularly in relation to environmental monitoring, conservation disturbances such as fire and grazing. evaluation, and ecological research. In view of their diversity, abundance and hypersensitivity As ants invade new habitats very to environmental changes, ants are now being efficientlyand reckoned as bio-indicators, they used for monitoring the health of ecosystems. are now being used for biodiversity Each ant species may have a unique response assessments and comparison of habitats and to the changes in climate. ecosystem. Therefore, in most terrestrial ecosystems ants are now said to play a major Due to high diversity, high abundance, role. In agricultural ecosystems they serve as intricate relations and mutualistic behavior biological control agents and are increasingly with both flora and fauna, ants qualify as appreciated as bio-indicator for environmental excellent ecological indicators. Most of the monitoring system. antshave eithera directoranindirectrelationship with vegetation. Some of these are highly The unique position of ants in the insect specific to the habitat in which they occur world was attributed to their relation to man - and this depends on the benefits they avail they are beneficial, harmful and competitors for nesting, mating and food availability. of man. The knowledge of biodiversity of ants Science Horizon 7 FEBRUARY,2015 is useful for clear understanding of food web, which are important in the functioning of ecosystem. Most of the ants have multiple relationships with plants either for getting food from the plant or from the plant- dependent sucking pests or for protecting the plant from natural enemies. Role of Ants in Ecosystem Ants have unique features and behavioral attributes that help them to render different Ants harvest these exudates and may services in an ecosystem and some of these protect the insects from predators or are narrated below : parasites. They may also even transport the insects to more favourable locations (a) Ants disperse seeds: 'Myrmecochores' on the host plant. are the plant species, the seeds of which are dispersed by ants and about 3000 (c) Ants Control Insect Pests in such plant species are known to exist Agricultural Ecosystems: Ants are across the world. These plants produce biological control agents in agricultural seeds that have lipid-rich appendages ecosystems. Many predatory ant species known as 'elaiosomes'. The mutualistic have been found to significantly reduce ants feed on such lipid rich portion agricultural pests and damage in annual leaving the remaining seed untouched and orchard crops. Solitary hunting is which they disperse and bury in the soil the most common method employed by benefitting the plants. predatory ants and in some cases recruitment of nest mates is done if (b) Ants defend plants for food and necessary for transporting the prey. The shelter: Certain ant speciesdefend plants publishedliterature hasemphasized seven in exchange for food and shelter. Ant genera of dominant predatory ants viz., plants, or myrmecophytes, have natural Oecophylla, Dolichoderus, Anoplolepis, hollows or cavities in thorns, stems, and Wasmannia and Azteca in the tropics; even leaf petioles which shelter the ants. Solenopsis in the tropics and subtropics; Trophobionts insect species like mealy and Formica in temperate environments. bugs, aphids, treehoppers and scale However, the ants of leaf litter are mostly insects produce bodily exudates which considered as specialized predators and are rich in carbohydrates or amino acids. are of interest to researchers. 8 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015

'cocktail ants' or 'acrobat ants'. Acrobat ants hunt bothlargeand small prey which typicallyincludes grasshoppers, termites, wasps and other small insects. However, the impact of predatory ants in the natural control of insect pests and their potential as biological control agents in ephemeral annual vegetable The individuals of the genus, Pheidole cropping agro-ecosystem has so far not also evidenced their role as efficient being explored critically. Some ant predator, because of their wide species like Oecophylla smaragdina distribution, high species richness, and and Solenopsisspp. though identified as good adaptation to the physical potential biological control agents, but conditions of the environment. Pheidole at times these ants act as pests. Therefore as a bio-control agent against their utility as biological control agents Anthonomus grandis (Coleoptera: need attention. Curculionidae) has been demonstrated (d) Ants are ecosystem engineers:Among in cotton fields of Brazil. Similarly, in soil dwellers, earthworms, termites and ephemeral, annual cropping agro- ants havebeen identifiedas the main soil ecosystems, the above predatory ants engineers. Because of this attribute are also reported as important natural ecologists have considered ants as an enemies of lepidopteran pests of important component of ecosystems. cauliflowerand fruitflylarvae. Therefore, Ants play several important roles as soil ants of this genus can contribute to turner, channelers of energy, pollinators, regulate crop pest population and with scavengers, biological control agents, and other control methods ants' activity can are important components of our food reduce the cost of insecticides and chain. Food storage and accumulation of thereby it can offer as an important tool feces, corpses and food remains by ants in integrated pest management. The ants have been shown to rapidly and of the genus Crematogaster are also extensively change the soil conditions ecologically diverse which are found within the nest area by affecting: soil worldwide and are characterized by a texture; chemical composition i.e., C, P, distinctive heart shaped gaster (see N and K content and microbial and figure). These ants are also known as microfaunal communities.

Science Horizon 9 FEBRUARY,2015

(e) Ants as a source of human food and (f) Ants as a source of Pharmaceuticals: nutrition: Many species of ants 'Ethnoentomology'has revealed that apart constitute a cheap, unconventional from the consumptive value, some ant protein source in human nutrition. species are also remarkable for their A variety of ant species are used as food medicinal value, predominantly inAsian by tribal people in many countries and Latin American countries and to a including India, Indonesia, Thailand, lesser extent in Australia and Africa. In China, South and Central America, traditional entomotherapy ants are Australia and Africa. In India many utilized as an alternative medicine in families in the Kanara region of South manypartsoftheworld.Recentbiochemical India, parts of Nagaland, Chhattisgarh and pharmacological investigations are and parts of Odisha supplement their providing evidence regarding the family income by harvestingand selling medicinal significance of ant species. ant species. Mostly the mashed up The well-developed immune systemand workers of weaver ant, O. smaragdina anti-microbial chemicals that evolved in are used as food by various tribes. The ants as a means of defense against protein content of O. smaragdina ants pathogens are now being exploited for is reported to be comparable to that of the treatment of human diseases. chicken eggs. Published reports The therapeutic uses of weaver ant, evidenced that the extracts of ants of the O. smargdina have been widely genus Polyrhachis contained about 30-70% protein and more than 50 documented and some of these are nutritional elements, including 26 kinds indicated as per the following; of amino acids. Ant colonies are - Ammonia-like fumes produced by populous, easily located and have a rubbing weaver ants were inhaled by relatively high multiplication rate Tamil labourers in India to relieve compared with vertebrate meat sources. symptoms of the common cold. Therefore, ants can be excellent nutritive - The ants are useful in the treatment of substitutes for conventional vertebrate cold and cough in Australia. meat, with the additional advantage that they are less expensive and more - Tribal people in Koraput District of abundantlyavailable.Inviewof the above Odisha eat the brood, reportedly to facts entomophagy is suggested to serve keep the body and mind cool in hot as a significant measure not only in summer, and they also utilize workers obtaining inexpensive protein-rich foods, caste of these ants as food so as to but alsoin avoiding mineral deficiencies. improve their eyesight. 10 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015

- The weaver ants are also used for CAPUCHIN MONKEYS: enhancement of immunity, treatment THE NEWWORLDPRIMATES of gastric problems, asthma/cough, Prof. Animesh KumarMohapatra arthritis and cold in India. Anirban Roy - The natural silk fibers of the weaver Introduction ants can serve as a cell matrix for cell adhesion and thus have application in "If humans descended from apes, how tissue engineering and wound healing. come there are still apes!" is one of the most Recent research demonstrates that social frequently enquired questionswhen evolution insects including ants possess well developed isthe topicof discussion. The apesand monkeys immune systemsand disease resistance ability. are the most prominent examples as the closest Ants secrete antibiotics externally by the relatives of Homo sapiens and humans are metapleural glands to protect themselves primates themselves. Great scientist Stephen against pathogenic fungi and bacteria. They Hawking opined- "We are just an advanced also harbor the antibiotic-producing bacteria breed of monkeys on a minor planet of a very on special structures located on their cuticle. average star. But we can understand the Thus, exploitation of such well-developed universe. That makes us something very immune system and anti-microbial chemicals special."Humansarethe ultimatesocial product for the treatment of human diseases is felt with an intelligence evolved from monkeys. essential. Therefore, this important taxon is Monkeys are of various types; about 225 reported to have enormous potential for different species of monkeys are recorded till providing future benefits to mankind as a date. Out of which, Capuchin monkeys are source of pharmaceuticals for an increasing considered to be the most intelligent. human population.  Capuchin monkeys 1Professor &Head, DepartmentofEntomology,CollegeofAgriculture; 2Associate Director of Research, RRTTS, The Capuchin monkeys are new world Mahisapat, Dhenkanal, OUAT monkeys belonging to the subfamily Cebinae. They are considered to be the most intelligent and a d v a n c e d monkeys among the New World

Science Horizon 11 FEBRUARY,2015 of monkeys and are extensively being used monkeys. The monkeysarebroadly categorized in various experiments to learn behavioral as new world monkeys and old world monkey aspects. andmarmosets. Thenew worldmonkeys differ Natural habitat from old world monkeys in having 36 teeth while old world monkeys have 32 teeth. The Capuchin monkeys inhabit in low-lying oldworld monkeyshave narrowspace between forests, mountain forests and rain forests. The their nostrils, which open downwards and environment is suitable for them providing resembles with the apes and men. Thus, the access to shelter and food.They are found in new world monkeys with prehensile tail give countries like Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, evidence of a separate branch under the Honduras, Paraguay and Peru. Thus their range categorization of monkeys. of inhabitance includesCentral America and SouthAmerica as far south as North America. Systematic position Etymology, evolution and systematic Capuchin monkeys of Kingdom- classification Animalia, Phylum- Chordata, Class- Mammalia,Order- Primates, Family-Cebidae, Theword 'Capuchin'derivesfroma group Sub family- Cebinae and Genus- Cebus. of friars (group of evangelist counsels) who are named as 'Orderof Friars Minor Capuchin', an offshoot fromthe Franciscans,who are seen wearingbrown robes with largehoodscovering their heads. On the contrary, the scientific name of the genus, Cebus, comes from the Greek word k?bos which means a long tailed monkey. The capuchins are new world

Physical characteristics Capuchins are black, brown, buff or whitish, but their exact colour and pattern varies withspecies. The length of their body

12 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015 reaches up to 30cm to 56cm with tails as long as body. They are very agile with long limbs and longtailthat assist the monkey in climbing trees and move through them. They are good jumpers and can jump a distance of as long as 9 feet fromone tree to the other. They have big toes and thumbs for foraging food and holding the trees branches tightly. Paying Back to Nature C a p u c h i n & alpha female. Communication of the group monkeys use the occurs by vocalization & mutual grooming. forest for food during They are very cautious about the territory as the day and as a home they are territorial animals, protecting them during the night. from intruders. There are more than 5 types of These monkeys are capuchin monkeys, like blackstriped capuchin omnivorous, eat monkeys, kaapori capuchin monkeys, white different fruits, head capuchin monkeys,large headed capuchin weeds, seeds, insects, spiders, bird's eggs monkeys, brown capuchin monkey, golden and small vertebrates. Forestserves as a lifeline tufted capuchin monkey, tufted capuchin for them. Their behavior is actually beneficial monkeys and so on. to the forest ecosystem. They help in seed Life History dispersal, by spreading seeds they have Mature are capable of bearing young consumed, either by dropping them or via ones on every two years following a gestation faecal matter, helping new plants to grow. Social Structure and Types Capuchins live in groups consisting of 10 to 40 members. Each groups consist of several females, males and their off springs. The groups are dominated by a single male who holdsthe fundamental rights to mate with the females of the group, though the white headed capuchinsare headed by thealpha male

Science Horizon 13 FEBRUARY,2015 period of 160 to 180 days. The capuchin tool to "fish" or "dip" for termites. Soon after monkey depicts parental care when the young her initial discovery of tool use, Goodall ones cling to their mother's chest, until they observed other chimpanzees picking up leafy are larger, when they move to mother's back. twigs, stripping off the leaves and using the Adult male capuchins are seldom involved in stem to fish for insects. This change of a leafy nurturingthe siblings, Juveniles become mature, twig into a toolwas a major discovery. Prior to withinfour years for females & eightyears for this, scientists thought that only humans males. The average life span of these monkeys manufactured and used tools, and that this is 15 to 25 years. ability was what separated humans from other Sharp mind and Intelligence animals. In 1990, it was claimed the only primate to manufacture tools in the wild was The use of tools by primates is varied the chimpanzee. However, since then, several and includes hunting(mammals, invertebrates, primates have been reported as tool makers and fish), collecting honey, processing food in the wild. (nuts, fruits, vegetables and seeds), collecting water,weapons andshelter.Thetuftedcapuchins Capuchinsrarely leavethe safetyof trees. are famous for their long term tool usage. In If they have trouble in finding food during 1960, Iane Goodall observed a chimpanzee foraging, they will use tools to get it. Upon poking pieces of grass into a termite mound seeingmacaws eatingpalmnuts, crackingthem and then raising the grass to his mouth. After open with their beaks, these capuchins will he left, Goodall approached the mound and segregate and choose a few of ripest fruits, nip repeated the behavior because she was unsure off the tip of fruit and drink down the juice, what thechimpanzee wasdoing. She found that then discard the rest of fruit with the nut the termites bit onto the grass with their jaws. inside.When the discarded fruitshave hardened The chimpanzee had been using the grass as a and become slightly brittle, these capuchins will collect themagain and take themto a large flatboulder where they hadpreviouslygathered a few river stones up to a mile away. The stones, some weighingas much as the monkey, are used to crack open the fruit to get nut. Young capuchins observe the process but it takes nearly 8 years to master them. Even the stones are used to crack the shells of shellfish & crab by the capuchins, for eating them.

14 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015

Self Awareness Capuchin monkeys react in a way when presented with a mirror to see their reflection that indicates an intermediate state between seeing the mirror as another individual and recognizing the image as self. This shows a remarkable difference between other animals andcapuchinmonkeys. The other animals react to the reflection as if encountering another animal that they don't recognize. A strange and were used as service animals, thus, aptly phenomenon was observed with the capuchin referredtoas"nature'sbutlers".Feworganizations monkeys when they were provided with their are known to train them to assist quadriplegics reflection in the experiment, they reacted in (patient withparalysis of all fourlimbs, usually three different ways: as a resultof injurytospine)as monkey helpers, 1) Seeing an unfamiliar, same sex monkey somewhat similar to mobility assistance dogs. on the other side of a clear barrier. The monkeys are sympathetic which is proved 2) Seeing a familiar, same sex monkey on when they help thequadriplegic bycarryingout the other side of a clear barrier. like microwaving food, washing their face and 3) A mirror portraying a reflection of the other such activities. In some regions they monkey. plunder crops and field and are seen as troublesome by nearby human populations. Behavior Capuchins are usually calm. They have different calls for the definite purposes and are very interdependent of each other. When a monkey produces an alarm call, all other monkeys would take precautions; the entire response is based on trust. When a capuchin Relationship with humans feels threatened, it will scream a lot. They For years Capuchin monkeys were the usually swing and remain suspended from the favorite monkeys of organ grinders (A street branches of trees by their prehensile tail and musician who plays a barrel organ) and are still produce soundtocommunicate. They micturate one of the best pet monkeys. They are easily on their hands, and then rub their urine on their recognized as the"greyhoundjockey" monkeys fur; to signal their sexual status.

Science Horizon 15 FEBRUARY,2015

Why Capuchin monkeys are intelligent? Cebus monkeys display unusually fast same age. Corpus callosum of females showed postnatal brain growth and motor skill significant age related changes while nothing development. The neonatal capuchin monkey is seen in males. brain, at approx. 29 to 34g, is a smaller Conclusion proportion of the adult brain weight than is the Capuchin monkeys are the most brain of other primates except humans and intelligent new world monkeys. A researcher great apes. It has also been reported that the aptly suggested "You should really think of a corticaldevelopmentinthebrainusually occurs capuchin as a bottomless stomach of want". at an early stage. Brain development in 29 Capuchin monkeys are slowly depletingdue to brown capuchinmonkeys usinghigh resolution destruction in natural habitat which should be MRIon brain volume, cortical grey and frontal checked to preserve this witty organism. lobe gray suggested non linear age related Reference changes in total brain volume; cortical white Books mattervolume andfrontal white matter volume were detected from birth to 5 years. There are Herbert S. Zim (1974). Monkeys. Illustrated byGardell D. differences in corpus callosum between male Christensen. and female Web links Capuchin. Males en.wikipedia.org/wiki/capuchin_monkey have a 10% www.felid.org/activities/page_249.htms smaller corpus www.bbc.co.uk/life/animals/mammals/monkeys callosum and www.stir.ack.uk.news/newsarchive http:// www.yale.edu/monkeylab/main/researchfile/ brain ratio of chenetal.2006.pdf males smaller  Regional Institute of Education, Bhubaneswar-751022, Odisha than females of e-mail: [email protected]

16 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015

LETHAL MUTATION Spontaneous mutations cause many common human diseases. Genetic diseases Dr.Dwijesh KumarPanda arise by spontaneous mutations in germ cells Almost every species of animals has (eggs and sperm), which are transmitted to defects of one kind or another caused by future generations. Sickle cell anemia is the mutations. Some of these mutations are lethal, result of this mutation. The erythrocytes of some merely disadvantageous. In nature most the patient become rigid and their transit departures from normal cannot survive long. through capillaries is blocked, causing severe pain and tissue damage. The red cells are Sometimes a mutation is so radicalthat nothing resistant to the parasite causing malaria. can be done to prolong the animal's life to Spontaneous mutation in somatic cells is an maturity. This is what is known as lethal important mechanism in certain human mutation. Often it killsthe animal while it is in diseases, includingretinoblastoma.It isa retinal embryonic stage. Most lethal mutations are tumor of the eye in children. The cell recessive, and are carried unsuspected by proliferates in an uncontrolled manner, giving normal looking animals. Some mutations are rise to retinal neoplasm. dominant, their effects are visible. Lethal mutations exist in man. Babies with fatal congenital malformations are born in large numbers. Miscarriages and abortions of defective fetuses are more common. Some of these defects may be due to accidents or infections, butheredity plays a major role. The quickest way to expose lethal traits is by intense and continued inbreeding. In man such mating are generally illegal or taboo. But brother-sister mating in animals and self- pollination in plants are a standard laboratory Lethal X-linked Rett syndrome practice. Theoutcome is generally detrimental- Changes in DNAcaused by mutation can unless inbreeding has been customary in the cause errors in protein sequence, creating species. When inbreeding begins, the heredity partiallyor completely non-functional proteins. seems to be breaking down.All sorts of defects Each cell, in order to function correctly, and weaknesses appear.The average life- span depends on thousands of protein molecules to decreases. After a few generations the family function in the right places at the right time. becomes extinct. When a mutation alters a protein molecule

Science Horizon 17 FEBRUARY,2015

DNA damage repair is an important way in which the body protects itself from disease. Once a DNA is damaged, it will give rise to a mutation, which cannot be repaired. Spontaneous changes in genes- mutations- do not occur frequently. The probability that a given gene will mutate to a defective form can increase a hundred -fold or more by so called mutagenic (mutation producing) agents. These include X-rays, neutrons and other ionizing radiations, ultraviolet radiationand mustard gas. Radiations are believed to cause mutations by literally Covalent adduct between benzo[a]pyrene, the major "hitting"the genes causing ionization within mutagen in tobacco smoke, and DNA them or causing internal rearrangements of that plays a critical role in the body, a medical the chemical bonds. The body is built by condition can result. A condition caused by repeated division of the cells. Every cell of mutations in one or more genes is called a our body such as liver cell, brain cell, and genetic disorder. Some mutations alter a gene's kidney cell-carries chromosomes and genes DNA base sequence but do not change the from both parents. function of the protein molecule made by the The occurrence of a lethal condition in a gene. If a mutation does change a protein family is a tragedy. It is a matter of concern molecule this will probably be harmful. with the accumulation of defective genes in If a mutation is present in a germ cell, it the population. Such recessive defects may cangive rise to offspring that carry the mutation eventually accumulate to the point where in all of its cells. This is the case in hereditary eliminating them will be virtually impossible. diseases. A mutation can occur in a DNA The advances in science is expected to solve within a germ cell. Humans carrying such the problem of detecting the hidden recessives. germ line mutations may have an increased Acknowledgement: chance of cancer. Mutation may occur in a somatic cell of an organism. This can be a The author wishes to acknowledge cause for the cellto become malignant, leading Professor (Dr.) Trilochan Pradhan for the to cancer.A DNAdamage can be a cause of an necessary help and guidance in the preparation error when the DNA is replicated. Thiserror in of this article.  replication can lead to cause a gene mutation Senior Scientist, Vigyan Academy, M5/12. Acharya Vihar, Bhubaneswar, 751 013 giving rise to genetic disorder . The process of Mob. - 94384 70777

18 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015

JONAS SALK - FATHER OF Polio virus enters the body through POLIO VACCINE mouth and grows in the intestine. It causes symptoms like fever, fatigue, headache, Professor GuruPrasad Mohanta vomiting, stiffness in the neck and pain in the India is declared polio free and it is a limbs. In some cases the virus attacks the great relief not only to the citizens of the nervous system causing irreversible paralysis country but also to the public health usually of legs. Usually 5 to 10% of the professionals. This is achieved through paralysed patients die. Polio was America's several years of persuasion for complete greatest fear after Atomic Bomb. In 1952, immunization under polio vaccination nearly 58,000 polio cases were reported. This programme. The credit of first developing was perceived as worst polio outbreak in safe and effective polio vaccine goes to an America'shistory.Atthepeak ofitsdevastation, American scientist, Jonas Salk. He was a Jonas introduced the vaccine. Jonas discovery medical scientist who refused to patent his was made known to the public on April 12, invention of polio vaccine for the sake of 1955 and he became an instant celebrity.Jonas humanity. He is reported to have forfeited Salk was hailed as 'miracle worker' and 12th an estimated seven billion US Dollars. But April was like a National Holiday! Naturally his interest was to save as many lives as polio was eliminated in US in 1979. possible and he became successful in achieving it. A great service to the mankind! Born in New York City to a Russian - Jewish Parents in 1914, Jonas had his early education in a good school known as school for intellectually gifted students. His friends termed him as a perfectionist. As a child he was not interested specifically in Sciences but on humansand human side of nature.The basic interest in human beings led him to the discovery of polio vaccine that saved millions of innocent lives around the globe. He studied Medicine in New York University Medical School where he also worked as a technician and camp counsellor. Due to his interest on research, he took leave for a year to study biochemistry. His focus on microbiology

Science Horizon 19 FEBRUARY,2015 replaced the interest on practicing medicine insane asylum without their knowledge and and his desire to help mankind in general than consent. The informed consent of field trial in to treat single patients, made him to choose human beings is the fundamental ethical research as a career. requirement to biomedical research. Dr. Albert Sabin, another contemporary researcher, Dr. Jonas while working in University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine received an discovered a live polio vaccine. This raised controversy over usefulness of Salk's killed invitation in 1948 to join the National vaccine. Salk's killedvaccine was for injection Foundation for Infantile Paralysisto participate andSabin's live vaccine fororal administration. in the polio research project. The National The live vaccine has a risk of causing polio in foundation for Infantile Paralysis (now known some cases. In one of the worst disasters, the as the March of Dimes Foundation) was live oral polio vaccine caused 56 cases of established by President FranklinD. Roosevelt. paralytic polio and five deaths in USA during Roosevelt himself was a polio victim. Several 1955 due to production error. In India, oral years of untiring hard work finally paid polio vaccine (Sabin's vaccine) is used in dividend. He could cultivate large quantity of immunization practice. virus in the test tubes using tissue culture techniques and developed vaccines. Following In 1960 Dr. Jonas established the Salk a successful testing in monkeys, he first field Institute for Biological Studies. This is now a tested thevaccine incrippled children in school centre for medical and scientific research. In dedicated to the care and education of children the later part of his life, he devoted himself to with disabilities. Jubilant Salk on success of searching for cures for AIDS and Cancer but first field testing, continued testing on him, without success. Salk died on June 23, 1995. his wife and children. That showed his He received several awards and many confidence level. After that Dr. Jonas initiated honorary degrees. Some of them were : a nationwide clinical trial involving two million Congressional Gold Medal, Presidential Medal children and the vaccine was an instant success of Freedom, and a day named in his favour preventing polio. (May 6 as Jonas Salk Day). Dr. Jonas, trained Dr. Jonas life and research was not free as medical professional, chosen to do medical from controversy and challenges. His work on research instead of becoming a practicing influenza vaccine raised a seriousethical issue. physician, was hailed as one of the greatest He used to inject the experimental vaccine and medical researchers of the modern times!  then exposed the virus later to check the Department of Pharmacy, Annamalai University, P. O. Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu - 608002, vaccine's efficacy. This testingwas done in an E. mail: [email protected]]

20 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015

GLUTATHIONE, AN IMPORTANT ANTIOXIDANT Dr. Debendra Nath Nayak

In the present world to stay healthy is a by the cells, participating directly in the big challenge. Every moment free radicals are neutralization of free radicals and reactive busy attacking our bodies at the cellular level. oxygen species, as well as maintaining By fighting free radical damage it is thought exogenousantioxidants such as Vitamin C and that we can age better and live longer and E in their reduced (active) forms. healthier lives. Apart from free radicals It is known that the nitric oxide cycle thousands of toxic chemicals are polluting our which regulates various metabolic reactions air, water and soil. All of us are paying heavy such as DNA synthesis and its repair, protein tax in terms of our health by eating processed, synthesis, prostaglandin synthesis, aminoacid nutrient-depleted diet and absorbinghigh doses transportand enzyme activation is very critical of electromagnetic radiation. for life. All these processes are affected by The situation however is nottotally black the level and action of glutathione in the body. as it appears to be. Nature has equipped all of Besides it has a vital function in iron us with basic version of the genetic metabolism. Yeast cells depleted of or detoxification software encoded in our genes containingtoxic levelsof GSHshow an intense which is good at ridding the body of toxins. iron starvation like response and impairment The "mighty chemical" is called glutathione of the activity of extramitochondrial enzymes (GSH). It is an important antioxidant present in plants, animals, fungi and some bacteria followed by death. preventing damage to important cellular Chemically, glutathione is a simple components caused by reactive oxygen species molecule havingmolecularformulaC10H17N3O6S. such as free radicals and peroxides. It is one of It is synthesized from 3 aminoacids, like the major endogenous antioxidants produced cysteine, glycine and glutamic acid.

r-glutamate Cysteine Glycine O O II II  OOC CH CH2 CH2 C N CH C N CH2 COO I I

CH2 H I SH Glutathione [GSH] reduced Science Horizon 21 FEBRUARY,2015

Thus glutathione is a tripeptide with a The ratio of reduced glutathione to gammapeptide linkage between the carboxyl oxidized glutathione within cells is often used group of the glutamate side chain and amino as a measure of cellular toxicity. group of cysteine (which is attached by a The sulfhydryl group (SH) of cysteine peptide linkage to glycine). serves as a proton donor and is responsible for Thiol groupsare reducing agents existing its biological activity. Cysteine is the rate - at a concentration of around 5 mM in animal limiting factor in cellular glutathione synthesis, cells. Glutathione reduces dinulfide bonds since this aminoacid is relatively rare in food. formed within cytoplasmic proteins to Even if all cells in the human body are capable cysteines by serving as an electron donor in of synthesizing glutathione, liver glutathione synthesis has been shown to be very important. the process, glutathione is converted to its In healthy cells and tissues more than 90% of oxidized form, glutathione disulfide (GSSG) the total glutathione is present in reduced also called L - (-) - glutathione. form (GSH) and less than 10% exists in r - Glu - Cys - Gly oxidized disulfide form (GSSG).An increased r - Glu - Cys - Gly GSSG to GSH ratio of a tissue is considered as an indication of oxidative stress. Glutathione (GSSG) Beingpresentwithineverycell, glutathione (Oxidized) is known to be the primary defense molecule Once oxidized, glutathione can be reduced against free radicals damages of the body. back by glutathione reductase, using NADPH Unfortunately, the body's need for glutathione as an electron donor. is sometime out paced by its abilityto produce

Soluble Reactive it. Glutathioneisatitslowestlevelinthe morning Oxygen Species andshouldbereplenisheddailythrough healthy diet and supplementation. Even though our Glutathione Perodidase body produces its own glutathione but there are several factors like poor diet, pollution, toxins, medications, stress, trauma, aging, Glutathione Oxidized gluatathione GSH (GS-SG) infections,radiationetc.whichcauseitsdepletion. Itisnowknown thatglutathionedeficiency is found in nearly all critical patients. These

Glutathione include people with chronic fatigue syndromes, Reductase heart disease, cancer, chronic infections,

NADP+ NADPH autoimmunedisease,diabetes,Alzhemer'sdisease, arthrities, kidney problems, liver disease etc.

22 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015

Our ability to produce and maintain a Research has shown that rained glutathione high level of glutathione is critical to recovery level decrease muscle damage, reduce recovery from nearly all chronic illness - and preventing time, increase strength and endurance and shift diseases and maintaining optimal health and metabolism from fat production to muscle performances. development. Glutathione is critical for one simple If one is sick or old or is just not in a reason of its capacity to recycle antioxidants. peak shape, he/she is likely to have glutathione The molecule pass from Vitamin C to Vit. E to deficiency. It has been reported in the Lancet lipoic acid and then finally to glutathione la medical Journal), that thehighest glutathione which cools off the free radicals and also levels is found in healthy youngpeople, lower recycles other antioxidants.After thishappens, levels in healthy elderly, and it is still less in the body can 'reduce' or regenerate another sick elderly and the lowest of all is reported in protective glutathione molecule ready to start the hospitalized elderly people. However, the the process again. level of glutathione in the body can be However, problemsoccur when toomuch maintained by food supplements (like garlic, oxidative stress or too many toxins are to be onion, cabbage, cauliflower, grape, meat, sea tackled. Then theglutathionebecomes depleted food, egg etc.) and regular exercise. and one can no longer protect oneself against So finally it can be said that glutathione free radicals, infectious or cancer and toxins is a powerful molecule present in our body to start accumulating. This leads to further fight diseases and keep us healthy. By taking sickness and soon we are in the downward the above mentioned food and supplements spiral of chronic illness. one can enhance the glutathione level and Glutathione is also the most critical and enjoy a healthy life. integral part of our detoxification system. De Reference : toxification or glutathione is the highest in  Nuttall S, Martin U, Sindair A, kendall M. 1998, liver and help to get rid of the toxins form the Glutathion; is sickness and in health. The Lancet 351 (9103) : 645-646. body produced or accumulated from smoking, intake of pesticides, heavy metals on food and  Nencinic, Giorgi G. Micheli L (2007) "Protective affect of silymeron on oxidative stress in rat brain" water impurities. All these toxins stick to the Phyto medicine 14 (2-3) 129-35. glutathione, which then carries them into the  Shayk P, Moreau RF, Smith EJ, Smith AR, Hagen bile andfinallyremoved from the body through Tm (2009), 'Alpha-lipoicacid asa dietarysupplement : Molecular Mechanisms and therapentic potential" fecal matters. Biochem Biphys Acts (Aug. 4).  Last but not least glutathione also helps Ex-Principal, Dhenkanal Autonomous College, 158/2223, Nigamananda Nagar, Lane-2, Bhubaneswar - 751010 us reach peak mental and physical function. Mob. - 9437635800

Science Horizon 23 FEBRUARY,2015

DEPRESSION : A GLOBAL HEALTH CRISIS Dr. Debakanta Behera

Depression is a common mental illness is quite shocking, given the factthat depression in India. Worldwide more than 1 in 20 people can affect anyone of us. suffer from depression. Yet the continuing How to know if you have Depression stigma associated with it prevents it from ThemostcommonsymptomofDepression being discussed, diagnosed and treated early. is the lasting feelings of sadness and loss of In a developing nation such as ours the scale of interest in the things you used to enjoy before. the infectious diseases takes priority at the Often you will feel very tearful, irritable and cost of mental illnesses such as depression. hopeless about your life and future. Many Even though it affects all age groups , women people feel guilty about their past deeds. You are affected by it disproportionately. In many may blame and hate yourself. You can also cases it isassociated withchildbirth commonly sufferfrom anxiety,worry and apprehension. known as Post Natal depression causing huge distress to the entire family. In its most severe There can be physical symptomssuch as form, it can be fatal with 10 percent people feeling constantly tiredand exhausted. Many a suffering from depression killing themselves times people suffer from aches and pains such by committing suicide. There are more than 8 as headachenot explained by any otherphysical Lakh suicides occuring every year worldwide. illness. Your sleep can be disturbed at night According to the World Health Organisation such as too little or too much, commonly (WHO), people with severe mental illness known as Insomnia. Youmay suffer from poor such as depression live at least 10 years less or reduced appetite, lack of concentration and than those of the general population due to poor sex drive. high risk behaviours such as heavy smoking, Depression can disrupt your quality of excessive alcohol use, suicide and neglect of life and can cause straininfamilial relationships. physical illnesses such as diabetes, heart In its severe form you may feel life is no problems and cancer etc. globally depression longer worth living and want to end your life. is the main cause of the disabilitywhich affects Suicide is not uncommon in Depression. quality of life and reduces productivity of What causes Depression working class population. Continuing stigma in the society associated with depression The exact cause of depression is not prevents people from discussing it and many known. It can be triggered by stressful life facediscrimination and isolation in the society. situations such as bereavement (death of a Thereis lackof understandingaboutdepression family member) or a relationship breakdown. as a real and serious illness in the society.This People suffering froma longstanding(chronic)

24 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015 or a life threatening illness such as heart kinds of antidepressants available (such as problems or cancer have a high risk of Fluoxetine, Sertraline and Venlafaxine) and developing depression. Other physical they have to be prescribed by a doctor or a problems such as under active thyroid psychiatrist.Antidepressants are usually given (hypothyroidism) can also present as for a few months and sometimes you need to depression. Some people are more vulnerable take it for longer. to depression than others such as people with Prevention of Depression low self esteem and self confidence. Exercise and a healthy diet can have a Depression can run in families and it is positive impact in preventing. It also helps to linked to chemical imbalance in the part of recover quickly fromit.Beingphysically active brain controllingmood and emotions.Alcohol can lift your mood and reduce your stress and and drugs such as cannabis used as a means to improve your self esteem. It is important that cope with stress can result in depression. people who suffer from depression should take Often women after giving birth feel depressed due to hormonal and physical changes (called their medication regularly as prescribed even as post partum blues) as well as due to added after feeling better for few more months as responsibilities to a new life. In its severe advised by thedoctor to prevent relapse from it. form it is called Post Natal Depression. Sharing the experience of Depression How to treat Depression Sharing your experience of depression Depression can be treated involving a with someone close to you such as a friend and combination of, self help, talking therapies a relative who can listen sympathetically and (Psychological therapy) and medication. support you, can be very helpful. There are Depression can be mild or severe. In mild some well informed and educational videos depression (when you are still able to do your available in YouTube by international mental daily activities such as going to school or healthcharities (viz.MIND UK and depression work), talkingthrough your feelings to a friend Alliance)which will be very helpful andcan be or a relative, exercise, meditation and yoga educational. Inthe current era of Internet Social can be helpful. Talking therapies such as media such as Facebook, Twitter and Google+, counselling, family therapy and Cognitive there are forums and supportive communities behaviourtherapy (CBT) bya trained counsellor who support through peer discussion and or a psychologist is helpful. information sharing about depression and its In severe depression however, medicines treatment. They try to improve awareness commonlyknown as antidepressants along with among public and reduce stigma associated Talkingtherapy are helpful. There are different with depression. Science Horizon 25 FEBRUARY,2015

Rukmini's Story, Aged 19 SECOND-HAND SMOKING Dr.Niraj K. Tripathy "I was 19. I was studying in the second semester of a highlydemanding Engineering One does not smoke because he college in the city. I have always been a top understands the dangers associated with achiever in the class. After first semester smoking. But, one may be exposed assignments, I started feeling low, often inadvertently to second-hand smoke. Since teary eyed. I could not concentrate on my second-hand smoke causes or contributes to studies, and ashamed of myself. My friends various health problems, including heart noticed that I am tired all the time and disease, lung disease and various types of irritable at times. I used to be happy and cancers, it is imperative to understand what it bubbly, but could not know why and is and why it is so important. stopped going to my music lessons which Second-hand smoke is otherwise known I used enjoy. I could not sleep properly at as environmental tobacco smoke, involuntary night. Increasingly I became dissatisfied smoke, and passive smoke. It is a mixture of with my life. the smoke given off by the burning end of a cigarette, pipe, or cigar, and the smoke exhaled My mother noticed and started discussing by smokers, i.e., thecombination of side stream with me about how I feel. Slowly I started to smoke and mainstream smoke. The smoke see how depressed I was. I was taken to a given offby a burning tobacco product between psychiatristand following consultationgiven puffs is called side stream smoke while the antidepressants and counselling. He also smoke exhaled by a smoker is called main provided leaflets about depression which stream smoke (NTP, 2005). Small additional helped me to learn more about it. After few amounts are contributed from the tip of the weeks thingsgradually started to change and cigarette, through the cigarette paper during a I am feeling much better now". puff, and from the mouth end of the cigarette References : between puffs.

NHS Choices: Clinical depression (www.nhs.uk/ The physicochemical properties of conditions/depression) mainstream (MS) and side stream smoke (SS) Depression: Royal College of Psychiatrists are qualitatively similar but quantitatively Depression Alliance (www.depressionalliance.org) different. The quantitative property of second- World Health Organisation: Depression Factsheet hand tobacco smoke is different from that of  MBBS from MKCG, 1997, MD from Lady Hardinge, New Delhi, mainstream smoke and side stream smoke Lead Consultant Psychiatrist, National Health Service, UK, because of its rapid dilution and dispersion and Tutor in Royal College of Psychiatrist, London, UK. E-mail: [email protected] intothe indoor environment. The SS:MSratios

26 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015 are: nicotine, 7.1; carbon monoxide, 4.8; products. Second-hand smoke exposure can ammonia, 455; formaldehyde, 36.5; acrolein, be measured by testing indoor air for nicotine 18.6; benzo [a] pyrene, 16.0; N'- or other chemicals in tobaccosmoke. Exposure nitrosonornicotine (NNN), 0.43; to second-hand smoke can also be tested by (methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1- measuring the level of cotinine (a by-product butanone, 0.40 (IARC, 2004). Concentrations of the breakdown of nicotine) in the non- of individual constituents in second-hand smokers' blood, saliva, or urine (NTP, 2005). tobacco smoke can vary with time and For children, in the age group of 13-15, environmental conditions. The amount of the home environment may be a significant smoke created by a tobacco product depends source of exposure to second-hand smoke, on theamountof tobacco available for burning. while other sources may be schools and public It is estimated that the amountof second-hand transportation. Four out of every ten children smoke emitted by smoking one large cigar is (approximating to 700 million children similar to that emitted by smoking an entire globally) have at least one parent who smokes, pack of cigarettes. predisposing them to be exposed to second- Out of more than 7,000 chemicals that hand tobacco smoke at home (WHO, 2010). have been identified in second-hand tobacco In India, 21.9 % of children are exposed at smoke, at least 250 are known to be harmful home and 36.6% outside homes. Country- and, at least 69 are carcinogenic to man. Some level estimates on second-hand tobacco smoke of them include arsenic, benzene, beryllium, exposure at home and in public places among cadmium, chromium, nickel, polonium-210, youth are available in the WHO Reports on the 1.3-butadiene, ethylene oxide, vinyl chloride, global tobacco epidemic (WHO, 2011).Almost toluene, etc. Second-hand smoke has been half of the youth are exposed to second-hand classified as a known human carcinogen by the tobacco smoke in public places. Again, for IARC (IARC, 2004). Many factors such as the most women, the home environment is the type of tobacco, the chemicals added to it, the primary source of second-hand tobacco way the tobacco product is smoked, and the smoke, which may be enhanced by their material in which the tobacco is wrapped for exposure at the workplaces.About one third of cigarettes and cigars determine the nature of adults worldwide are regularly exposed to chemicals in second-hand smoke (NTP,2005). second-hand tobacco smoke (IARC, 2012). People can be exposed to second-hand More than 50 epidemiological studies smoke in homes, cars, workplaces, public since 1981 have concluded the association places, such as bars, restaurants, and places between second-hand tobacco smoke and lung meant for recreation. The source of most cancer as well as cancers in the nasal sinus, second hand smoke is from cigarettes, larynx and pharynx among the non-smokers. followed by pipes, cigars, and other tobacco According to NCI(2003), approximately 3,000

Science Horizon 27 FEBRUARY,2015 lung cancer deaths occur each year among and nose irritation. It may lead to premature adult non-smokers in the United States as a deathin non-smokingadultsandchildren when result of exposure to second-hand smoke. It is they are constantly exposed. It irritates the estimated that living with a smoker increases respiratory passagesand has immediate harmful a non-smoker's chances of developing lung effects on a person's heart and blood vessels cancer by 20 to 30 percent. Lee et al. (2009) and may increase the risk of heart disease and have shown the association of parental tobacco stroke with hardening of the arteries. smoking with the risk for lymphatic and There is no safe level of exposure to haematopoietic cancers and brain tumours in second-hand smoke. Even low levels can be children. Second-hand tobacco smoke might harmful. The only way to fully protect non- have a stronger effect on breast cancer than smokers from second-hand smoke is to active smoking (Collishaw et al., 2009). completely eliminate smokinginindoor spaces, Some of the health problems associated cleaning the air, and ventilatingbuildings. The with the pregnant woman being exposed to World Health Organization's Framework second-hand smoke are miscarriage and Convention onTobacco Control(WHO FCTC) premature birth. Women exposed to second- is a multilateral treaty with legally binding hand smoke for 6-8 hours a day as children and obligations for its 174 Parties according to as adults have a greater chance of having which supplyand demand reduction measures difficulty in conceiving and suffering more are available to countries to counter the tobacco miscarriages and an increased risk of failed epidemic. Article 8 of the Treaty specifically embryo implantation. Second-hand smoke addresses the need for protection from second- poses additional risks for children, whose hand tobacco smoke and to meet the highest mothers are especially exposed to second- standards of protection from its menace and to hand smoke during pregnancy, include low provide a clear timeline for Parties to adopt birth weight, childhood asthma, infections in appropriatemeasures withinfive years of entry the middleear, bronchitis, pneumonia, learning intoForce of the WHO FCTC. Many countries or behavioral deficiencies, negative effects on including India have passed several laws the immune system, and Sudden Infant Death restricting smoking in public places. Smoking Syndrome(SIDS). Second-hand tobacco smoke is banned in airline flights, buses, trains, all exposure raises adolescents' risk of metabolic Government owned offices, schools, colleges, cinema halls, hospitals, airports, bus terminals, syndrome, a disorder associatedwith excessive belly fat that increases one's chances of heart parks, restaurants and bars as well as private workplaces. disease, stroke, andtype IIdiabetes (Weitzman, 2005). Second-hand smoke also causes chronic In order to be on the safer side, one has coughing, phlegm and wheezing,as well as eye to quit smokingalthough it is very difficult as

28 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015 it is highlyaddictive. Further, do not smoke or OZONE DEPLETION- CAUSES allow anyone to smoke in your home and AND CONSEQUENCES vehicle. Insist that smoking restrictions are 1 strictly enforced at your work place and other Dr.Biswajit Rath HarekrushnaJena2 public places where itis banned and tryto walk away from smokers. The Earth's atmosphere is divided into References severallayers. The lowestlayer, the troposphere, Collishaw, N.E. et al. (2009). Canadian Expert Panel on extends from the Earth's surface to about 10 TobaccoSmoke and Breast Cancer Risk, in OTRUSpecial kilometers (km) in altitude. Virtually all life Report Series. Ontario Tobacco Research Unit: Toronto. activities includingthat of humans occur in the IARC (2004). Tobacco smoke and involuntary smoking. IARC Monograph on Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks troposphere. The next layer is the stratosphere to Humans, 83: 1-1438. which continues from 10 km to about 50 km IARC (2007). Smokeless tobacco and some tobacco-specific vertically. Most of the commercially operated N-Nitrosamines. IARC Monograph on Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 89: 419-553. airline traffics occur in the lower part of the IARC (2012). Chemical agents and related occupations. stratosphere. The ozone layer is mainly found IARC Monograph on Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to in the lower portion of the stratosphere from Humans, 100E: 213-263. approximately 20 to 30 kms above the Earth Lee,K.M, Ward, M.Hand, Han, S. (2009). Paternalsmoking, genetic poly-morphisms in CYP1A1 and childhood surface when its thickness varies seasonally leukemia risk. Leuk. Res., 33: 250-258. and geographically.This Ozone layer provides NCI(2003). Cancer Progress Report 2003. U.S. Department a protecting shield against the harmful solar of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, National Institutes of Health, 2004. ultraviolet radiation reaching the earth. Even NTP (2005). Report on Carcinogens. 11th Edition. U.S. minor problems of ozone depletion can have Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health major effects. Every timeeven a small amount Service, National Toxicology Program. of the ozone layer is lost, more ultraviolet Weitzman, M., Cook, S., Auinger, P., Florin, T.A. and Daniels, S. (2005). Tobacco Smoke Exposure Is Associated light from the Sun can reach the Earth. With the Metabolic Syndrome in dolescents. Circulation, 112 (6)doi: 10.1161/ CIRCULA- TIONAHA.104.520650. Ozone is a molecule containing three WHO (2010). Global estimate of the burden of disease oxygen atoms. The high energy ultra-violet from second-hand smoke. Oberg, M., Woodward, A., rays of the sunlight causes an oxygen molecule Jaakkola, M.S., Peruga, A. and Pruss-Ustun, A. World Health Organization. http://whqlibdoc.who.int/ to split into two oxygen atoms: publications/2010/9789241564076. OOO2   WHO (2011). WHO report on the global tobacco epidemic: In the second step one of the oxygen Warning about the dangers of tobacco. World Health Organization, Geneva. atom joins with another oxygen molecule to  form a molecule of ozone (O ) (Fig.1) : Retired Professor of Zoology, Berhampur University, 3 Flat No.401, Bivab Gulmohar Apt., Behera Sahi, OOO 2 3 Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar Email:[email protected] However, Ozone may be destroyed by combining with a lone oxygen atom to get

Science Horizon 29 FEBRUARY,2015

Ozone Depletion: The ozone layer can be depleted by free radical catalysts such as : nitric oxide (NO),

nitrous oxide (N2O), hydroxyl (OH), atomic chlorine (Cl), and atomic bromine (Br). The concentrations of chlorine and bromine in the atmosphere have increased markedly in recent years due to the release of large quantities of

Fig.1 : Ozone formationpathway man made organohalogen compounds, especially chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and back to molecular oxygen again. Ultra-violet bromofluorocarbons. Chlorine molecules light is required for the formation of ozone in arising from various other sources like : large the stratosphere, and then the ozone absorbs fires and certain types of marine organisms, theultra-violetlight andstopsitreachingdeeper swimming pools, industrial plants, sea salt and into the earth's atmosphere. Normal oxygen, volcanoes do not reach the stratosphere which we breathe, has twooxygen atoms and is colorless and odorless. The properties of ozone because the Chlorine compounds from these layer was first explored in detail by the British sources readily combine with water and are meteorologistG.M. B. Dobson, whodeveloped removed from the troposphere as acid rain. a simple spectrophotometer (the Dobson meter) The CFCs and other widely-used that could be used to measure stratospheric chemicals produce roughly 84% of the ozone from the ground. The concentration of chlorine in the stratosphere, while natural ozone in the atmosphere is measured in sources contribute only 16%. Incontrast, CFCs "Dobson Units" in honor of Dobson. are very stable and do not react with other Ozone is much less common than normal elements in the atmosphere. Thus, there is no oxygen. Out of each 10 million air molecules, natural process to remove the CFCs from the about 2 million are normal oxygen, but only 3 lower strata of the atmosphere. Over the period are ozone. However, even the small amount of of time, winds drive the CFCs into the ozone plays a key role in the atmospheric stratosphere. These highly stable compounds chemistry. The ozone layer absorbs 97-99% are capable of surviving in the stratosphere, of UV rays from about 200 nm to 315 nm wavelengthswith a maximal absorption at about where Cl and Br radicals are liberated by the 250 nm. Ozone molecules are constantly action of ultraviolet light. In the presence of formed and destroyed in the stratosphere. The ultraviolet light these gases release Cl and Br radicals (atoms) which then react with the O total amountof O3 in theatmosphere, however, 3 remains relatively stable. and start destroying ozone in the ozone layer

30 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015 leading to ozone depletion. Each radical sun rises above the horizon and provides (Cl/Br) is then free to initiate and catalyze a energy which starts the photochemical chain reaction capable of breaking down over reactions. The clouds melt and the trapped 100,000 ozone molecules. compounds (chlorine and chlorine monoxide The breakdown of ozone in the from the CFCs) are released. Ozone in the stratosphere results in a reduction of the lower stratosphere is destroyed and the ozone absorptionofultravioletradiation.Consequently, hole appears (Fig. 2). the unabsorbed ultraviolet radiation reaches Bythe end ofspringatwarmer December, the Earth's surface. Ozone levels over the temperatures break up the vortex and destroy northern hemisphere have been dropping by the clouds. Sunlight starts creatingozone again 4% per decade. The average concentration of and the hole begins to repair. A similar hole ozone in the atmosphere is about 300 Dobson appears in the Arctic during spring, but it is Units. The ozone hole is considered to be smaller because of warmer temperatures. formed when the concentration of ozone drops below 220 Dobson Units. Polar stratospheric cloud is present at about 80,000 feet altitude. These are the Ozone hole form over Antarctica : highest flying clouds and occur only in polar During the Antarctic winter something region where the temperature in the upper special happens to the Antarctic weather. atmosphere dips below minus 1000F. They are During the extreme cold of winter, withno sun sometimes called "nacreous clouds" as they for six months, strong polar winds blowing are coloured like the nacre of mother of pearl around the continent form the "polar vortex" with coloured bandsthat move withthe position which isolatesthe air overAntarctica from the of the cloud and the observer (Fig.3). rest of the world. The polar vortex traps and chills the air to temperature below -800 Health effects of OzoneandUV exposure Celsius. The ice in these polar stratospheric due to Ozone Depletion: clouds provides surfaces for the chemical There is a great deal of evidence to show reactions that destroy the ozone. This needs that groundlevel ozonecan harmlungs function light to kick-start the reactions. In spring the and irritate the respiratory system. Exposure

July August September October November December

Fig.2 : The ozone hole builds up over the winter months, peaking at around September and breaking upagain by December Science Horizon 31 FEBRUARY,2015

the skin caused by dilatation of the superficial blood vessels in the dermis as a result of exposure to UV radiation. High UV doses may also results in edema, pain, blistering, and peeling of the skin a few days following exposure. UV-B radiation is believed to be mainly responsible for sunburn as it is more erythmogenic by a factor of 1,000, however since there is more UV-A radiation reaching Fig.3. Nacreous clouds over antarctica the earth's surface, UV-Acontributes 15-20% to the sunburn reaction in the summer months. to ozone and the pollutants that produce it is Risk factors for sunburn include fair skin, red linked to premature death, asthma, bronchitis, or blond hair, blue eyes, and freckles. For heartattack,andothercardiopulmonaryproblems. peoplewithfairskin,ittakes only15-30minutes Long-term exposure to ozone has been shown toincreaserisk ofdeath fromrespiratory illness. in midday sun to induce erythema. In terms of areas of the body that are more susceptible to UV rays that comes from the sun are of sunburn, the face, neck, and trunk are two to three types : UV-A (400-315 nm), UV-B four times more sensitive than the limbs. In (315-280 nm) and UV-C (280-100 nm). They addition, children and the elderly are believed differ in their biological activity and the extent to be more sensitive to UV radiation and may to which they can penetrate the skin.The burn more easily. Sunburn reaches its harmful effects from exposure to ultraviolet maximum redness eight to 12 hours after (UV) radiation can be classified as acute or exposure and fades within one to two days. chronic. The acute effects of UV-Aand UV-B exposure are both short-lived and reversible. Tanning: These effects include mainly sunburn (or Tanning refers to delayed pigmentation erythema) and tanning(or pigment darkening). of the skin, or melanin pigmentation. Tanning The chronic effects of UV exposure can be results from an increase in the number of much more serious, even life threatening, and functions melanocytes (pigment cells) include premature aging of the skin, resulting in increased activity of the enzyme suppression of the immune system, damage to tyrosinase. This leads to the formation of new the eyes, and skin cancer melanin and an increase in the number of Sunburn (Erythema): melanin granules throughout the epidermis. Sunburn (or erythema) is redness of the However, there is another mechanism that skin, which is due to increased blood flow in may provide more protection for subsequent

32 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015 exposures. In addition to tanningand sunburn, Put simply, UV radiation induces a state of thickening (or hyperplasic) of the epidermis relative immunosuppression that prevents also occurs and is thought to be a significant tumor rejection. This is mainly accomplished component of a mild sunburn reaction.Asingle by interfering with the normal surveillance moderateexposuretoUV-Bradiationissufficient functionof antigen-presentingLangerhans cells to induce 3-fold thickening in the stratum in the epidermis, which are responsible for T- cornea that lasts one to two months. This lymphocyte activation in response to foreign thickening is likely to be more important than antigens. The number of Langerhans cells and tanningforprovidingendogenousphotoprotection. their characteristics are altered from exposure Premature Aging of the Skin: to UV radiation while similar cells that are responsible for the selective induction of One of the chronic effects resulting from suppressor lymphocyte pathways are resistant repeated exposure toUV radiationis premature to UV damage. This creates an imbalance in agingof the skin,which encompassesa number the local T-cell function and a shift from of clinical signs that reflect structural changes helper to suppressor pathways, which in the dermis. These clinical signs include ultimately favors tumorigenesis and dryness, wrinkles, accentuated skin furrows, progression. Grossman and Leffell conclude sagging, loss of elasticity, and mottled that the immunosuppressive effects of UV pigmentation, and arethe resultof degenerative may be as importantas the carcinogenic effects changes in elastin and collagen. The of UV radiation in the establishment and degenerative changes accumulate over time progressive growth of UV-inducedskin tumors. and are largely irreversible. It is believed that as much as 80% of premature aging of the skin Damage to the Eyes: may occur within the first 20 years of life. UV- UV rays can alsodamage the eyes leading A radiation has been found to be an important to Corneal damage, cataracts, and macular contributor to premature aging of the skin. degeneration whichultimatelyleadstoblindness. Whereas UV-B is 1,000 to 10,000 times more Melanoma,a typeofskincancer,canalsodevelop efficient than UV-A in terms of induction of within the eye. The Melanomas originate in sunburn and nonmelanoma skin cancer, the uveal melanocytes, which are found in the respectively,with premature aging of the skin. iris, ciliary body, and choroids of the eye. Suppression of the Immune System: Skin Cancer : Suppression of the immune system Skin cancer is the most common type of resulting from exposure to UV radiation is cancer occurring in the world. There are believed to be an important contributor to the different types of skin cancer such as the development of nonmelanoma skin cancers. nonmelanoma skin cancers, basal cell Science Horizon 33 FEBRUARY,2015 carcinoma(BCC)and squamouscell carcinoma ECO FRIENDLY PESTICIDES (SCC), and melanoma. Exposure to UV Sri Sanjeeb Kumar Das radiation is thought to be an important factor Introduction in each of these cancers as it induces DNA Pesticides are chemical compounds used damage, however the types of exposure in controlling pests of various kinds which necessary to cause the different types of skin cause great harm to human life. Most of the cancer may vary. For the nonmelanoma skin pesticides are organo-chlorine and organo- cancers, cumulative sun exposure is believed phosphorous in nature. Organo-phosphorous to be important, whereas for melanoma the insecticides are much more toxic to vertebrates intermittent exposure hypothesis has been than Organo-chlorines and these neuro postulated. This hypothesis proposes that toxicantsinhibitvitalenzymeslikeCholinesterase infrequent intense exposure of unacclimatized of the nervous system of the pests. skin to sunlight is related to the increasing Chemical Pesticides andResidualEffects incidence of melanoma and is more important Pesticidesare one ofthe major instruments than chronic sun exposure. The incidence of of Green Revolution,by playing a vital role all types of skin cancer is increasing. against insect pests and plant diseases. However, indiscrimate use of pesticides have Conclusion : resulted in the developmnet of complex According to an estimate of the U.S. problems of the environment in many forms Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 60 likesoilandwaterpollution.Agriculturalresidues millionAmericans born by the year 2075 will containing pesticides, fertilizers etc. move get skin cancer because of ozone depletion. downward with percolating water and join the aquifers and ground water slowly causing the About one million of these people will die. In contamination of the ground water system. addition to cancer, some research shows that a decreased ozone layer will increase rates of While spraying the pesticide on crop plants, the residues are deposited on the plants. malaria and other infectious diseases and 17 The same pesticide can enter into the body of million more cases of cataracts patients. So if poultry, domestic anials and human beings we make awareness amongpeople we can save through fodder and food. Experimental studies ozonelayerfromdepletion,ecosystemimbalance, have shown that eggs, milk, food grains and andother healtheffects caused due toUV light. vegetables commonly used by human beings  are contaminatedwith pesticidesand ultimately 1Reader, Department of Biotechnology, North Orissa University, Baripada, Odisha affecthumanbeingsbydevelopingnew diseases. Email: [email protected] 2M.Phil. in Biosiences, Therefore, in recent days one of the Department of Biosciences and Biotechnology major thrusts of agricultural researchhas been Fakir Mohan University, Balasore, Odisha Mob. - 9438703534 to reduce the requirement of chemical Email: [email protected] pesticides without affecting crop yield, by

34 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015 adopting various biological measures, suitable pests. Azadirachtin repeals insects, inhibits scientific crop management techniques and their feeding(Antifeedant), pattern andaffects use of eco-frinedly pesticides. hormonal balance in insects. Salanin a neem Need of Biopesticides product on the other hand, is much more effective than the synthetic chemical Diethyl The scenario therefore inevitably toluamide, widely used as an insect repellant. demands the development of some new methods andthe useof natural products derived The powerful toxic principle present in from plants is one such method. Because plant the oil extract of custard apple seed is Anonnceous-acetogenins. The leaf extract of products are biodegradable, ecologially safe and have significant toxicity on target species. custard apple is also reported to have all the bioactive compounds, contained in the seed There are some plants which contain alkaloids and isoflavonoids which act as insecticides. extract and both are almost equally effective against pests. The root and leaf extract of Alkaloids such as nicotine from tobacco, Catharanthus roseus has antifeedant rotenone from Derris elliptica and properties. The whole herb of Tridax Pyrethrins and Clinerins from Pyrethrum procumbens has insecticidal action and are good plant pesticides. hence it can be used to control mosquitoes Pesticidal Action and Significance houseflies and cockroaches. Most Plant insecticides act as contact The extractsofthe seedofAcacianilotica, poisons which enters into the body of insect Citrellus colocynthus, Madhuca longifolia pests through their cuticular openings (Pore). affect the fertility of female mosquitoes. The The plant Millettla pachycarpa contains two products ofPongemia,Neem, Castor, Mahagani insectidal compounds known as rotenone and seeds and Mohua oil are good sources of toxic saponine which act as contact and stomach principles having anti termite properites. poisons. The plants belonging to the Conclusion solanaceae (Potato family) are also insecticidal plants. They contain alkaloids To ensure a pollution free environment called solanaceou alkaloids. Plants like for our future generation it is our duty to make Ricinus communis (Castor), Ocimum everybodyawareofusingpollutionfreechemicals bacilicum (Common basil), Haplopnyton and accordingly environment management is (Cockroach plant), and several others also alsovery importanttopreventfurtherdegradation have insecticidalproperties. whichwork against of nature and ecological imbalance. many domestic and agricultural pests. References The pesticidal effect of Neem was well 1. Singh, Dwijendra - Advances in Plant Bio-pesticides, Springer 2014 edition. known to India since ancient times. 2. Mahulikar, Pramod P. - Botanicals as ecofriendly Azadirachtin and other limonoids like Pesticdes - New India Publishing agency, 2007. meliantiol and salanin extracted from the 3. Dodia, D. A. Patel, I.S. - Botanical Pesticides for Pest Management Scientific Publishers. leaves, bark and seeds of neem are quite  effective against a large number of insect Regional Institute of Education, Bhubaneswar-751022, Odisha Mob. : 9437194035, E-mail: [email protected] Science Horizon 35 FEBRUARY,2015

RHODIOLA ROSEA - A MEDICINAL HERB OF THE HIGH ALTITUDE Prof. Gopendra Kishore Roy

Rhodiola rosea or simply 'Rhodiola' Present use also called 'Arctic root' or 'Golden root' is a Rightly named as 'golden root', it is the wonder herb that grows generally at high extract from the rhodiola root which has been altitudes (1800-4000 metre) in the arctic in use for multifarious medicinal purposes. regions of Europe, Asia and Alaska. The aerial portion of the herb is consumed as Mentioned as a medicinal plant by Greek food in some parts of the world, sometimes as physician Dioscorides in the first century, the herb was used in Iceland, France, Russia a component of the salads. and Greece. In 1755, rhodiola rosea was In keeping with its use in traditional included in the Swedish pharmacopoeia.In medicine in different parts of the world, 1961, G.V. Krylov- a Russian botanist led an research investigations have authenticated to expedition to the cedar taiga in the Altai many of the beneficial effects of this wonder mountains of southern Siberia and located herb. Evidences of the diverse health benefits the 'golden root.' Over the years, there has of the herb, based on more than thirty years of been investigations on the beneficial root scientific research including previously ' top extract of the plant in keeping with the secret' Soviet studies have been made public mention of it in the ancient literature as a to the world. herbal medicine for various ailments. A numberof chemicalcompounds, which Historical link include anti-oxidants, anti-fatigue and anti- As a traditional folk medicine rhodiola depression agents have been identified in the has been in use to increase physical rhodiola extract. endurance, work productivity, longevity, resistance to high altitude sickness and to Rhodiola is being used for increasing treat fatigue, depression, anaemia, energy,stamina, strength and mental capability impotence, infections and nervous system and is considered an 'adaptogen', meaning disorders. In Russia and Scandinavia, it is in thereby that it acts in non-specific ways to use for centuries to cope with the Siberian increase resistance to stress without disturbing cold climate and the stressful life. The plant normal biological functions. It is also used for has been in use in the traditional Chinese improving athletic performance shortening medicine to prevent altitude sickness. recovery time after long work outs and for

36 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015 heart disorders like irregular heart beats systematic study of the plant more than a and high cholesterol. Other uses include: decade back.According to R.B.Srivastava, the director of DIHAR, while adaptogenic qualities (i) Treating cancer and tuberculosis of rhodiola can help the soldiers adjust to low (practised by the physicians of Mongolia) pressure and low oxygen environment, the (ii) Preventing cold and flu plant has also been found to possess anti- (iii) Anti-ageing process depressant and appetizer properties which is (iv) Strengthening the nervous system of specific relevance in case of altitude living. The Institutehas developed herbal adaptogenic (v) Enhancing immunity appetizers and herbaladaptogenic performance A'miraculous cure': Some years back, a enhancers that can improve performance in lady named Patricia Gerbergsuffered from an highaltitude conditions, whichhave been highly unexplained and incapacitating decline in her appreciated by the IndianArmy.While Russian physical and mental energy and was ultimately investigators established its impact on athletes discovered of undiagnosed 'Lyme disease'.She and thereafter on cosmonauts, the findings of wasgiven rhodiola rosea which could replenish DIHAR reveal the potential of rhodiola for energy stores at the cellular level and within anti-ageing, tissue regeneration, protecting ten days of use could feel better. Of late, it has neurons during lack of oxygen, protection been established that the symptoms found in fromradioactivity and cognitive improvement. the above case corroborates to a tick-borne The Institute has started a two-acre plantation infectiousdisease caused by speciesof bacteria of rhodiola in its premises. belonging to the genus Borrelia. The disease With versatile and multifarious affects multiple body systems and is treated therapeutic values and as specific treatment- by antibiotics. The disease is named after the aid for altitude-related ailments, rhodiola-the town Lyme,Connecticut, U.S. where a number wonder drug in the cold and high Himalayas of cases were identified in 1975. has led Indian scientists to wonder if it is Indian efforts goingtobe theend of the questfor 'Sanjeevani'- the mythical herbthat had given fatally-injured Locally called 'solo'in Ladakh, the leaves Lakshman ( younger brother of Lord Rama) a areedible. Themedicinal propertiesof rhodiola renewed life in the Rama-Ravana battle of the herb were more or less unknown till the epic Ramayana. scientists of the Leh-based Defence Institute  Plot No.451/1766, Nuasahi, Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar-12 of High Altitude Research (DIHAR) took a E-mail:[email protected]

Science Horizon 37 FEBRUARY,2015

BAMBOO :  Tensile strength is superior to mild steel, A FOREST WONDER weight-to-strength ratio is better than graphite, strongest contender of all other Er.Ramesh Chandra Sahoo known variety of biomass on earth. Bamboo is a forest product. It is known But it is yet to get its proper place in as the tallest grass in the world. Plantations are forestation activities in India. Number of found both in deep jungles and social forest. It plantations are dwindling down due to heavy is used both by the rich and poor alike. The consumption, natural calamities including rich use it for decorative furnitures and show forest fire. Awareness is yet to develop for its case items where as the poor use it as their replenishment, mainly among the rural poor, cheap construction material in thatched and who are its real beneficiaries. In all plantation low quality houses. It has got a huge potential activities to fightglobal warmingand pollution, to bring about a revolution as a bio-energy stress has been put on wood based trees resource. Therefore, considering its forgetting bamboo. But in honest comparison importance, awareness building is necessary bamboo should overtake other trees. among the common people. All parts of a bamboo plant can be used Bamboo has a good number of charms as profitably for different purposes. Root for a forest tree. sapling, trunk for construction, lighter parts  It's grwoth of 1-1.5 mtrs per day in its for board fabrication and furniture.Top portion tenderstageisfastestinthe plant kingdom. of the tree being tapered is used for fiber

 It has more than 5000applications which extraction for end use in household utilities. include domestic, industrial, energy and Remaining portion is used for fencing and carbon sequestration. other sundries. Dry leaves are generally used for cooking, room heating, biomass briquettes  Its forest colleague timber does not and carbon powder etc. match with it in longevity, softness, versatility and economy. Recently research organizations are working for its use in producer gas, a much  Bamboo plantation produces large sought after industrial energy. Average amount of biomass and 30% more oxgen bamboo consumption is 1.14kg per one unit than a hardwood forest of similar size. of energy with a dual fuel engine with diesel  It can bend but seldom, breaks in storms replacement of 77%. It produces the most and cyclones. Protection ability of efficient blue flame. Its ash content is only Bamboo surpasses all other variety of 6% which is comparable to any other solid trees and bushes. fuel for producer gas. 38 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015

Selective harvesting from the bamboo Growing of Bamboo in Odisha can be bush isanother advantage of thisforest product. attempted as small forestation projects in Annual harvestingofonly 15to20% of matured primary schools to educate students from the stock can be effected without damaging its very early stage. Saplings may be supplied to productivity and environment. Its carbon sink the schools free of cost by social forestry per hectare is similar to other wood species division. Students can be guided to develop a bush each either on their own land or village like eucalyptus and teak. Its carbon dioxide waste land. It would meet fuel requirement of sequestrate ratingis nearly12 tonne per hectare midday meals, besides cleaning the of plantation. environment by removal of wastages. Next Bamboo has another edge over other step is to produce bamboo briquettes with forest products as regards to poverty local available binding materials. It may alleviation. Unlike the tree crop plantation, promote small industries in the village while bamboo is highly suitable for cultivation educating the students with its technology. specifically for pro-poor development. It very These briquettes have a calorific value of often grown in small plots of marginal lands 5500 to 7500 kcal/kg. Further step is to be managed by poor people. It is possible to taken for anaerobic digestion of bamboo group many small plots under one project to plantation waste. The process products are qualify for carbon trading as small scale forest cooking gas and solid and liquid fertilizer of project. Gift of a bamboo bush has religious superior quality. Excess gas, if available, can impact in China. They believe it brings good be used for electricity generation to meet the requirements of the same school. Such effort luck to people and environment. would make the schools independent in energy Massage and medicine consumption related to fuel and electricity. It is the use of hollow bamboo canes that Our countryis nowimplementing several are warmed or used at room temperature in missions for energy security and pollution general massage. They are used as a tool in all control. The emphasis should be given in modalities of massage. The treatment is educating students from the early stage to currently gainingpopularity in spas and salons deliver the mission objectives at their ripe and by beauty therapists. They can be used in a age. Schools should be made into training various treatment process in their own right or grounds for the technologies. Bamboo in conjunction with hot stones. Bamboo plantations should be initiated at the earliest.  cupping jars were used in Traditional 403, Sahid Nagar, Bhubaneswar Mob. - 9438011072 Chinese medicine.

Science Horizon 39 FEBRUARY,2015

BROWN MANURING : A TOOL FOR SUSTAINABLE RICE CULTIVATION *Dillip Ranjan Sarangi& **Biswanath Sadangi

Rice is the staple crop of Odisha. It is nutrients for farm production and maintaining cultivated in most of the cultivated area (4.41 the soil fertility and sustainability. This has m ha) in our state yielding 6.94 million tonnes generated a lot of attention for the integration of rice for our consumption. But, the average of nutrients form organic, inorganic and production of rice in our state 1572 kg/ha is biological sources. But, it is still far from very meager when compared with that of our practice. In practice, farmers either use very national average 2118 kg/ha. This low yield of less organic manure or no manure in rice rice can be due to various reasons like cultivation. The practice graduallyreduces soil imbalanced nutrient application, improper fertility and productivity. In our state many cultivation practices and ignorance about farmers cultivate rice in their fields one after micronutrient application. As farmers solely another mostly in irrigated lands. This method depend on farmmanure andchemical fertilizers for rice cultivation, the imbalance supply of of cultivation reduces the soil pH leading to nutrients take place. Lack of adequate higher soil acidity. knowledge and limited facility for soil testing Green Manuring in the state also results in fertilizer application Forimprovingcrop production, nitrogen, without any scientific basis. The major phosphorus and potassium are the most nutrients in excess in the soil or deficient in important elements. Nitrogen is needed for them are not clearly known. The use of single growth and metabolic activities. Usually nutrient fertilizers adds to the misery.There is nitrogen is supplied throughchemical fertilizer also increasing advocacy for use of green manure and natural nutrients for preventing the urea and farm manure. Green manuring is harmful effects of chemical fertilizers. being used in many parts of India to supply nitrogen in its organic form. For this, different Recently, Dr M.S. Swaminathan, the species of plants having specific microbes in "Father of Green Revolution in India" called their root nodules that fix atmospheric nitrogen for "Evergreen Revolution" by use of organic are used e.g. Sesbania spp. In Dhaincha (Sesbania spp.) plant root nodules Rhizobium species of bacteria reside and fix nitrogen found abundantly in the air. These plants are grown before rice cultivation and when

40 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015 ploughed after 45 days of growth the nitrogen  As most of the Indian rice growers are mixes in the soil and available to the rice resourcepoor,thetechnology canaddmore plantsplanted afterwards. This method is very benefit with very marginal input cost. effective where monsoon is predictable and Benefits : assured irrigation facility is available. But, in  Brown manuring increases the soil India and more typically in Odisha green organic carbon content, thereby manuring has varying degree of adoption due supplying required nitrogen for the rice to untimely monsoon setting and lack of plants. Thus, a part of nitrogenous assured irrigation facility in addition to lack of fertilizer (upto 25%) can be replaced by knowledge about its benefits. brown manuring. Brown manuring  It also increases the rice yield as shown Brown manuring is similar to green in our experiments, thereby improving manuring, except the fact that rice and Sesbania the economical benefit of the farmers. spp. are both grown together and when these  It also improves the soil health dhaincha plants overtake the rice plants in parameters like organic carbon content height at about 25 days of co-culture, a and earthworm population of the soil. weedicide 2, 4-D is applied to kill these  Brown manuring reduces the weed Sesbania plants. After 4-5 days of spraying population in the early stage due to its Sesbania plants will appear brown and then high growth rate and competition with start dying. As it is a selective herbicide, it the weeds. kills only Sesbania plants and not the rice plants. This is called knocking down effect. Conclusion Brown manuring is usually recommended for As there is a rising trend in chemical the rice which is directly seeded, but not when fertilizer cost, brown manuringcan be used as transplanting is done. If the rice is broadcasted an alternative approach for higher production then at the time of beusaning dead sesbania and thereby more benefit for the farmers. As plantpartswill be incorporated insoil, whereas, the brown manuring practice is eco-friendly in case of line sowing at the time of weeding and improves the overall soil health, it should it mixes in the soil supplying the nitrogen and be widely advocated by the extensionagencies other nutrients to rice. torealize its benefitsforthefarmingcommunity of the nation. Social Feasibility of the Technology:  *Subject Matter Specialist (Soil Science)  The technology is more suitable for risk **Head, Social Science Division prone agro-ecosystems in which direct Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack-753006, Odisha seeding of rice is done. E-mail: [email protected], Mob: 9438843142 Science Horizon 41 FEBRUARY,2015

GREEN CONCRETE AN ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCT Dr. Bishnu Prasad Behera

Introduction or in some cases better concrete. In the "Green concrete" is a revolutionary industry, green concrete can be prepared by concept in the history of concrete industry. using recycled materials in the concrete mix. This was first invented in Denmark in the year With the help of a new advanced concrete 1998 by Dr. W. G. Concrete. Green concrete crushing equipment, old concrete blocks can requires less energy for its production and be crushed and the resultant aggregates could be used in new concretemixes. Supplementary produces less CO2 than the normal concrete. It is a type of concrete which resembles cementitious materials like fly ash and slags conventional concrete but requires minimum are replacing some of the cement content in amount of energy in production and causes the mix reducing the overall need to produce leastharmto the environment. Itis environment green concrete. friendly.Concrete is one of the most consumed Green buildings and bridges (Fig. 2) entity after water and accounts for around 5% constructed from using green concrete mixes of the world's total CO emission. Green 2 i.e. using recycled materials are known to be concrete follows reduce, reuse, and recycle as strong as the concrete mixes that use all techniques or any two processes in its new ingredients. Thus the use of recycled production technology. The major objectives water, crushed concrete aggregates and behind green concrete 1) are to reduce green supplementary cementitious materials like fly house gas emission, 2) to reduce the use of ash and slag greatly reduce carbon foot print waste materials in production leading to and provide alternate sustainable building sustainable development without destruction material for the industries. of natural resources. Features of green concrete Usually concrete is a mixture of cement,  Optimizes use of available recycled sand, aggregates and water. Most of these materials. materials can be recycled, or supplemented  Better performance with other recycled materials to make as good  Enhanced cohesion, workability and consistency  Reduced shrinkage and creep

Fig. 1 : Principles of green concrete preparation Fig. 2 : Green buildings Fig. 3 : Green concrete bridge

42 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015

 Durability, better service life important in mass concrete structures, like  Reduced carbon footprint large foundations, bridges, dams and piers.  No increae in cost High fly ash concrete exhibits less bleeding  LEED India certification and shrinkage than straight cement mixes.

Cement and CO2 emissions Use of slag Portland cement, an essentialcomponent Slag is the byproduct produced during of concrete, isthecementing material that binds the smeltingof ores to purify metals. In nature, theconcretetogether.However,in recentdecades, metal ores are usually found in impure state the process of production of cement has been often oxidized and mixed with silicates or known to be a major source of green house gas other metals. During smelting, when the ores emission. Worldwide production of Portland are exposed to high temperature, the impurities cement accounts for 5% of the man made CO 2 normally attached to the metal get separated generation. The green house gas is most from the molten metal and can be removed as attributed as the source of global warming.The slag. Ground granulated slag reacts with water

CO2 generation is due to decarbonation from to produce cement like properties. It could lime stone, klin fuel combustion and cement therefore be used inthe productionof concrete, transportationby vehicles. It has been reported in combination with Portland cement, as a part that production of one ton of cement releases of the blended cement. Concrete containing aboutoneton ofCO intothe atmosphere. Hence 2 ground granulated slag develops strength over the use of cementitous materials like fly ash a longer period, leadingtoreduced permeability and slag are advisable for their use in green with better durability properties. Most concrete production as they are eco-friendly significantly, slag, decreasesportland cement to the environment. usage by as muchas 50%, thereby diminishing

Use of fly ash CO2 emissions. Fly ashes are the mineral residue, Production of green concrete obtained from the combustion of powered Green cement can be prepared by using coal in thermal power generating plants. Fly fly ash, micro silica in large amount, stone ash consists mostly of silicon dioxide, dust, marble sludge power, quarry rock dust. aluminumoxide and iron oxide. Itis pozzolanic Suitabilityof Greenconcreteinstructures in nature. Fly ash can replace up to 50% of the Portland cement required in the manufacturing Green concrete is suitable in reducing of concrete. Fly ash can be used to improve the dead weight of a structure. It also reduces workability and consistency of concrete. Due crane age load, allow handling, lifting to its slower rate of hydration, fly ash can flexibility with lighter weight. It has good lower the heat of hydration and is therefore thermal and fire resistance, sound insulation

Science Horizon 43 FEBRUARY,2015 capacity than traditional granite rocks. It up very fast both at the gobal level as well as improves damping resistance of the buildings. in India too. There is an increased need for The speed of construction can be enhanced, green building materials and product in with the use of green concrete so that overall industries. Use of green concrete can help construction period is shortened. It has greater us to reduce a lot of wastage of several strength and durability than conventional products. Various non-biodegradable concrete. The heat of hydration of green products can also be used and thus avoiding concrete is significantly lower than the the issues of their disposal. traditional concrete. This results in a lower Conclusion temperature rise in large concrete pours, Green concrete is very effective in which is an advantage for green concrete. reducing energy consumption due to its solar Advantages of Green Concrete relfectivity and high thermal mass. It reduces

Some of the advantages of the green world's total CO2 emission by 1.5-2%. So the use of green concrete will not only reduce the concrete are, the emission of CO2 which can be reduced by 30% in the concrete industries. emission of CO2 into the environment but also It is best suited for controlling environmental be cost effective in future. Green concrete is pollution. Green concrete requires less also very often cheap to produce, as the waste maintenance and repair. It has good thermal products are used as a partial substitute for resistance and fire resistance capacity. The cement, production. Further charges for the compressive strength behavior of green disposal of waste are avoided, energy concrete with water cement ratio is similar to consumption in production is lower, and conventional concrete. The flexural strength durability is greater. Waste can be used as a of green concrete is almost equal to that of resource to produce new products and the conventioanl concrete. It also reduces the environment is protected. overall consumption of cement. By using fly Reference : ash,its workabilityincreases and redcues extra i) Green Concrete TechnologybyR. M. Swamy, Indian load on landfills and mitigates the wastages of Concrete Journal, Vol.77, Jan.2013, p.878. aggregates.As most of the recyclable materials ii) Green Concrete: need ofEnvironment, D. B. Desai, A. K. Gupta and Pradeep Kumar International areused inthemanufacturing ofgreen concrete, Journal of Adv. Sciences, Engg. and Technology, it leads to sustainable development. Vol.2,issue-2, 2013, p134-137. iii) www.greenconcrete.dk Scope in India iv) www.greenconcrete.infor Green concrete is a revolutionary v) Green concrete, Google images. concept in the history of concrete industry.  Associate Professor, Deptt. of Agril. Structures, As green concrete is made from concrete Civil & Environmental Engineering, CAET, OUAT, Bhubaneswar-751003 wastes, the green building concept iscatching

44 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015

MEGATONS TO MEGAWATTS the war and took the lead on Allied side. It manufactured the atom bomb under Er.MayadharSwain Manhattan project. The first atombomb named The "megatons to megawatts program" Little Boy was dropped on Hiroshima city of was a good effort for the benefit of the humans. Japan on August 6, 1945 and the second Megaton andmegawatt areboth unitsof energy. bomb named Fat Man was dropped on But while one has become the symbol of Nagasaki of Japan on August 9, 1945. In both destruction, the other is the example of the cities almost two lakh people died and peaceful use of energy.The capacity of atomic more than that were wounded. bomb is expressed in megatonsof TNT and the After the war, nuclear reactors were unitof electrical power is megawatt. The bomb established to produce electricity from dropped on Hiroshima of Japan has the power Uranium. The first nuclear power plant was of 20 kilotons TNT. Modern bombs have the established in USA in 1951. Gradually, the power in megatons. One megaton is equal to technology was used in many more countries. 1000 kilotons. The capacity of a power After World War II, conflict developed generating station is expressed in megawatts. between USAand Soviet Union. Each country For example, the capacity of Indravati had its own block of other nations and each Hydroelectric Project (Odisha) is 600 feared that the other would attack on it. It was Megawatt and the capacity of TarapurNuclear termed as Cold War. As a result, both USA Power Plant (Maharashtra) is 1400 Megawatt. and Soviet Union stockpiled thousands of The "megatons to megawatts program" was to atom bombs. utilize the uranium of atom bombsto generate electrical energy. Soviet Union was disintegrated on December 26, 1991 under severe economic The story of nuclear energy goes back to conditions. Then the big country Russia was the WorldWar II.Although Albert Einstein, in no longer to match with USA in terms of his special theory of relativity,has formulated power and economic growth. The so called the mass-energy equation (E = mc2) in 1905, Cold War was over after disintegration of the it was in 1938 that Otto Hahn, Lise Meitner, Soviet Union. But the newly independent and Fritz Strassmann discovered the method republics hadmore than 2400 nuclear weapons. for splitting Uranium to get nuclear energy. After the Cold War, there was no need of Nuclear power can be used for both pilling of nuclear weapons. Further, Russia destructive and peaceful purposes. But the was struggling to get itself stable both irony of fate is that it was first developed and economically and politically. So it wanted to used for destructive purpose. After Japan dismantle a few thousand atombombs and sell bombarded Pearl Harbour port of USA on the the nuclear fuel. The nuclear weapons usually morning of December 7, 1941, USA joined contain a substantial amount of valuable Science Horizon 45 FEBRUARY,2015

Uranium that can be utilized in commercial USAwould not buy the material, agents in the nuclear power plants to generate electricity. former Soviet Union might get it and buy to But the Russians had little cash to do it safely. highest bidders with probable proliferation to Again care had to be taken so that it didnot fall non-nuclear countries. He estimated that a into wrong hands. Hence, it was important to typical nuclear warhead might yield nuclear carry out the program keeping the non- fuel worth $200,000 and 10,000 warheads proliferation objective in mind. would fetch $ 2 billion. Uranium-235 is used as a fissionable After this, USA negotiated with Russia material to extract nuclear energy. Natural to purchase the uranium of warheads. Both Uranium contains about 0.72 percent of countries initiated this 20-year agreement in Uranium-235 and 99.27 percent of Uranium- Moscow onAugust 28, 1992 when George W. 238. The commercial power plant reactors Bush was the president of USA. Later President use Uranium with about 3 percent to 5 percent Clinton signed the agreement in 1993. of Uranium-235. Hence, the natural Uranium Under theprogram, both USAand Russia is enriched via suitable processes to get this got benefitted. Russia down-blended 500 tons value. Enrichment to levels of 20 percent or of enriched Uranium into 15,259 tons of greater produces highly enriched Uranium reactor-grade Uranium over a period of 20 which is used in nuclear weapons. years and shipped these to USA. USA paid to For using the highly enriched Uranium- Russia the charges to down-blend the highly 235 available in Russian atomic bombs for enriched Uranium. USA also gave back to commercial reactors, the uranium has to be Russia a similar quantity of natural Uranium. down-blended or diluted so that the amount of Russia got a rich bonanza of about $ 13 Uranium-235 becomes lower enough to be billion. USA was happy to get Uranium from suitable for commercial reactors. For safe 20,000 warheads of Russia and fuelled its down-blending of enriched Uranium available nuclear power reactors which provided 10 in nuclear bombs, right technology and cash percent of electricity produced in USA over were required. the past 20 years. Dr. Thomas Neff, a physicist of the The historic project was concluded on Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA December 31, 2013 and is considered as the proposed a scheme for utilizing the uranium most successful nuclear non-proliferation of nuclear weapons in commercial reactors. He published an article in the editorial page of program.  the New York Times on October 24, 1991. Deputy General Manager PP & EE Section, MECON Limited, Ranchi-834002 This proposal turned out to be "Megatons to Mob. 09470193755 Megawatts program". Dr. Neff warned that if E-mail: [email protected]

46 Science Horizon FEBRUARY,2015

QUIZ FOUNDERS OF MEDICAL SCIENCE Sri Himansu Sekhar Fatesingh

1. Who is considred as the father of modern 8. Who is regarded as the founder of medicine ? homeopathy ? (a) Aristotle (b) Hippocrates (a) Hippocates (b) SamuelHahnemann (c) Charaka (d) Galen (c) Carl Linnaeus (d) Phillip Miller 2. Who is regarded as the father of plastic 9. He is considered to be the father of audiology. and cosmetic surgery ? (a) Raymond Carhart (b) Carl Linnaeus (a) Galen (b) Imhotep (c) Niels Finsen (d) Carles Laveran (c) Aristotle (d) Sushruta 10. Who is regarded as the father of 3. Who si remembeed as the founder of emergency medicine ? microscopic anatomy ? (a) Niels Finsen (b) Karl Landsteiner (a) Claude Bernard (b) MarcelloMalpighi (c) Thomas Morgan (d) Peter Safar (c) Karl Landsteiner (d) William Harvey 11. The credit of "the father gynaecology" 4. He is described as the father of goes to - physiology. (a) J. Marion Sims (b) Alfred Binet (a) Claude Bernard (b) Leeuwenhoek (c) Carles Sherrington (d) Thomas Morgan (c) Imhotep (d) Galen 12. The title of 'father of experimental 5. Who is credited as the father of modern psychology' is given to human anatomy ? (a) Gaustav Fechner (b) Alfred Binet (a) hippocates (b) Georges Cuvier (c) Wilhelm Wundt (d) Gerhard Domagk (c) Vesalius (d) Luigi Galvani 13. He has been widely accepted as the founder modern nursing ? 6. Who is often respected as father of (a) Ignaz Semmelweis modern dentisty ? (b) Rosalind Franklin (a) Niels Finsen (b) Pierre Fauchard (c) Corneille Heymans (c) Alexis Carrel (d) Robert Barany (d) Florence Nightingale 7. He is usually acknowledged as the father 14. Who is given with the title 'the father of of vaccination. psychoanalysis' ? (a) Emil Behring (b) Ronald Ross (a) Sigmund Freud (b) Carl G. Jung (c) August Krogh (d) Edward Jenner (c) Nikolas Tinbergen (d) Ivan Pavlov

Science Horizon 47 FEBRUARY,2015

15. He is acknowledged as the father of 22. Who is considered as the father of test radiation therapy. tubetube baby ? (a) Marie Curie (b) HassanK.Awwad (a) Max Theiller (b) George Beadle (c) Pierre Curie (d) Emil Fisher (c) William Bateson (d) Sir Alec Jeffreys 16. he isconsidered as the fatherof antiseptic 23. He is regarded as the founder of gene medicines ? therapy. (a) Louis Pasteur (b) Hans Spermann (a) Hugo de Vries (b) William FrenchAnderson (c) joseph Lister (d) James Simpson (c) William Bateson 17. Who is often regarded as the father of (d) Sir Alec Jeffreys chemotherapy ? 24. Who isdescribed as the fatherof artificial (a) Paul Ehrlich organs ? (b) Hermann Muller (a) Willem Johan Kolff (c) Alexander Flemming (b) Thomas Straz (d) Jonas Salk (c) Jules Bordet 18. Who is acknowledged as the father of (d) Konard Bloch bactriology ? 25. Who is credited as the founder of (a) Robert Koch (b) AlexandrFlemming nephrology ? (c) Louis Pasteur (d) Ronald Ross (a) JuliusAxelrod 19. Whois regarded as the father of (b) George Palade molecular biology ? (c) Michael E. DeBakey (a) G.N.Ramachandra(b) Max Theiler (d) John P. Merrill (c) Linus Pauling (d) Otto Warburg

20. The title of "fatherof pediatrics" is given to- ANSWER (a) Karl Landsteiner 01. (b) 02. (d) 03. (b) 04. (a) 05. (c) (b) Elie Metchnikoff 06. (b) 07. (d) 08. (b) 09. (a) 10. (d) (c) Sir Frederic Hopkins 11. (a) 12. (c) 13. (d) 14. (a) 15. (b) (d) Muhammad ibnZafariya Razi 16. (c) 17. (a) 18. (a) 19. (c) 20. (d) 21. He has been described as the father of 21. (b) 22. (c) 23. (b) 24. (a) 25. (d) medical ultrasound.  (a) George Minot (b) John J. Wild Abhyarthana, Qrs. No. F/554, ITPS Colony, P.O. - Banharpali, Dist.-Jharsuguda, Odisha-768234 (c) Willem Einthoven (d) Hugo Theorell Email : [email protected]

48 Science Horizon