Sci - Tech Feb 15 To Feb 28

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sciNtech Feb 15 to Feb
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Content
Africa to see more GM crops
Biotech blues
India tops Canada as 4th largest country growing GM crops
Cabinet approves continuation of nano-science mission
Akash bang on target in flight test
Heavy Satellite Launch Vehicles: An Assessment
Revised cost estimates of Geo-synchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle project for
the scope of development programme and experimental flight
Curiosity rover drives in reverse on Mars
China's moon rover goes into third planned dormancy
Steps to check Soil Erosion
Anaerobic Biodigester Technology to Conserve Nature at "Anusandhan Vihar"- DRDO
New Ecofriendly Residential Complex Inaugurated
Bitcoin world in turmoil as exchange shuts down after theft
Bit of a problem
No need to make cellphone tower radiation norms more stringent, says government
Japan's Fukushima plant leaks radioactive water
Bio-Toilets in Gram Panchayats
Notes by vineetpunnoose on www.kiwipaper.com
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Content
Heavy metals in cosmetics: government silent on tightening rules
Clear the air on mobile tower radiation, WHO tells India
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National Guidelines for Stem Cell Research
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Third Line Treatment of HIV/AIDS
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Iron deficiency may increase stroke risk
11
Determination of Brain Death
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Presence of Heavy Metals in Cosmetic Products
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Pepper spray: Why it is so dangerous
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ICMR launches three new diagnostic kits
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Cases of Bird Flu/Avian Influenza
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Neo-addiction
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Inhibit the Calpain to Climb the Mountain
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Parliament passes bill that eases rules on narcotics used in palliative care
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launches 3 different kits for Detection of Food Borne Pathogens, Diagnosing Iron
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Anaemia, and Vitamin-A Deficiency
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Asbestos Related Diseases
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President of India inaugurates national conference on TB and allied diseases
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Diseases Due to Air Pollution
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Content
Resistant to fluorosis
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The internet through a light bulb
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'Indian science should embrace an interdisciplinary approach'
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Continuation of the Mission on Nano Science and Technology in the 12th Plan Peri
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Through the looking glass
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Management of bacterial blight of rice
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Algae proposed as a viable source to produce cheaper biofuel
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Japan readies hi-tech satellite to monitor global rainfall
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China's moon rover goes into 3rd planned dormancy
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New clean energy targets for Europe
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Yellow Rust Attack is not likely to have significant impact on Wheat Production
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DRDO brings high altitude waste disposal technology to homes
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First beam of anti-hydrogen atoms at CERN
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Africa to see more GM crops
Wed, Feb 26, 2014
The Hindu, agriculture, science & tech, GM crops, africa,
Africa is expected to be the next target of GM food companies, as European scientists

and policymakers travel to Ethiopia to boost the prospect of growing more of the controversial
crops on the continent. Western push The talks take place as industry data shows the
planting of GM crops has practically halted in the U.S. and as G8 countries, led by the
U.S. and Britain, press African states to liberalise their farming as part of the New Alliance
for Food Security and Nutrition initiative. The New Alliance is intended to accelerate
African agricultural production, but farmers have widely criticised it as a new form of
colonialism. According to the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech
Applications (ISAAA), South Africa grows GM food crops, and Burkina Faso and Sudan
cotton. Seven other African countries -- Cameroon, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria
and Uganda -- have conducted GM field trials. The first drought-tolerant genetically modified
maize is expected to be grown on the continent in 2017, it says. Annual figures from ISAAA
show that U.S. farmers planted 70.1 million hectares (173 million acres) of GM crops
in 2013, less than one per cent more than in 2011 and 2012. Latin American and Asian
farmers grow more than half of the world's GM crops, mostly for animal feed or cotton
production. The latest figures show that 77 per cent of the world's GM crops are grown
in three countries -- 40 per cent in the U.S., 23 per cent in Brazil and 14 per cent in Argentina
-- with plantings in Europe and Africa negligible, and concern growing worldwide about
the emergence of herbicide-resistant "superweeds." -- (c) Guardian Newspapers Limited,
2014
Biotech blues
Fri, Feb 28, 2014
biotech, science & tech, GM crops, Businessline,
Environment Minister Veerappa Moily has done the right thing by allowing field trials
of genetically modified (GM) cotton, maize, rice and castor lines ahead of the new kharif
planting season. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) had given the
go-ahead for these trials on March 22 last year. Moily has rightly pointed out that the
Court has not imposed an embargo and the mere existence of a PIL cannot be a ground
for not permitting field trials. Moreover, the GEAC is the official biotech regulator constituted
under the Environment Protection Act. To overturn its recommendations is tantamount
to going against your own ministry; which is what Jairam Ramesh did by unilaterally announcing
a 'moratorium' on the commercialisation of Bt brinjal. The Centre should clearly tell the
Supreme Court that it is not opposed to either field trials or commercialisation of GM crops,
subject to their receiving the necessary bio-safety and other clearances from the competent
body: the GEAC. This clarification must be in the form of a joint affidavit from the agriculture
and environment ministries. Resisting the formulation of a common position of all stakeholder
departments amounts to undermining the country's official policy on GM crops, which
is not characterised by blind opposition but a qualified acceptance subject to scientific
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scrutiny. It is for the Centre to convey this stance unambiguously to the apex court if it
wants the current uncertainty over the future of GM crop technology in India to end. In
the long run, the country needs anindependent biotech regulator, preferably a statutory
authority empowered through legislation. This is unlike the GEAC, which is now practically
a department of the environment ministry. The next government at the Centre should accord
top priority to the passage of the Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India Bill, which
will set the stage for field trials and commercial release of GM products to be decided
on transparent scientific principles rather than ideological considerations or ministerial
whimsy. A country whose food, feed and fibre requirements will only multiply in the coming
years can ill-afford the luxury of saying no to a technology that has benefited its own farmers
-- the success story of cotton is proof of this. We need a regulatory regime that allows this
to be replicated in more crops with multiple technology providers.
India tops Canada as 4th largest country growing GM crops
Mon, Feb 17, 2014
agriculture, science & tech, GM crops, Businessline,
India has overtaken Canada to emerge as the fourth largest country to grow biotech or
genetically modified (GM) crops in 2013 as farmers here planted Bt cotton in about 11
million hectares. In the previous year, farmers in India had planted Bt cotton -- the only
approved GM crop for commercial cultivation -- in about 10.8 m ha. The global acreages
under GM crops continued to expand through 2013, albeit at a sluggish pace of around
3 per cent. Acreage under GM crops increased to 175.2 million hectares in 2013, about
five million hectares more than last year, according to the International Service for Acquisition
of Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA) that tracks the GM acreages. The US continued
to be the largest country under GM crops, accounting for 40 per cent of the total planted
area globally. The GM acreage in Brazil expanded at a faster pace last year compared
to other countries, followed by Argentina. While Egypt has stopped planting GM crops,
reducing the total number of countries to 27, countries such as Canada saw a decline in
area. Of the 27 countries that planted GM crops last year, 19 were developing nations and
eight were industrialised countries. Developing nations planted more GM crops than their
developed counterparts the second consecutive year with farmers in Latin America, Asia
and Africa accounting for 54 per cent of the 175 million hectares. Bangladesh approved
the commercial planting of Bt brinjal, while the situation in Egypt put planting on-hold,
pending a Government review, ISAAA said. Panama and Indonesia were two other nations
that approved cultivation of biotech crops. About 18 million farmers planted the biotech
crops in 2013 compared with 17.3 million in 2012. Besides economic gains, farmers benefited
enormously from at least a 50 per cent reduction in the number of insecticide applications.
In the European Union, five nations -- Spain, Portugal, Romania, Czech Republic and
Slovakia -- planted 15 per cent more area than last year at 1.48 lakh hectares under Bt maize.
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Cabinet approves continuation of nano-science mission
Thu, Feb 20, 2014
The Hindu, science & tech, nano science mission, nano science,
The Union Cabinet on Thursday gave its clearance for the continuation of the National
Mission on nano-science and technology in its second phase in the 12th plan period at
a cost of Rs. 650 crores. Launched in May 2007, the mission has been working to help
scientists, institutions and the industry in terms of promoting basic research, development
of adequate manpower resources, augmentation the infrastructure for research and generation
of socially useful products. It also noted that Indian scientists now have access to global
state-of-the-art facilities like the photon factory at Tsukuba, Japan and Petra III in Hamburg,
Germany and that the mission has created a platform for a national dialogue towards development
of standards for nanotechnology and for laying down a regulatory framework roadmap
for the cutting edge technology.
Akash bang on target in flight test
Fri, Feb 21, 2014
air missile, defense, akash, The Hindu, science & tech,
The Army on Friday successfully flight-tested Akash, the surface-to-air missile developed
by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, from the Integrated Test Range
at Chandipur, Odisha. The missile was bang on target -- a pilotless aircraft. The Akash
weapon system is an all-weather, air defence system for defending valuable assets from
aerial attacks. The missile can engage adversarial aircraft flying at a distance of 25 km.
It can target fighter-aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, helicopters and cruise missiles.
The advantages of Akash are that it thrusts all the way to intercept the enemy aircraft;
it can engage multiple targets; it can be transported by rail, road and air; and it boasts of
C4I, that is, command, control, communication and computers, and intelligence.
Heavy Satellite Launch Vehicles: An Assessment
Wed, Feb 19, 2014
IDSA, Heavy Satellite Launch Vehicles, science & tech, ISRO, Space,
A satellite launch vehicle (rocket) is designed to lift a satellite from the earth and to deliver
it to the desired orbit. The strength of such a vehicle depends on the weight of the satellite
and the nature of the orbit in which it is to be placed. Technically, launch vehicles could
be categorised based on various features. It could be based on the number of stages the
vehicle use for launching a satellite like single stage, twin stage, etc. It could also be based
on method of assembly like vertically or horizontally assembled. However, the most common
approach of classification could be based on the payload carrying capacity. There could
be further sub-classifications in this category based on the orbits in which the payload
is to be delivered. On January 5, 2014, India conducted a successful launch of GSLV-D5
under its Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle programme. With this launch India, has for
the first time, succeed in demonstrating its indigenous cryogenic technology. For India
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mastering this technology is extremely important because without cryogenic/semi-cryogenic

technology it is not in a position to further develop its rocket programme for launching
heavy satellites. What India has achieved with the successful launch of GSLV-D5 on January
5, 2014 (approximately two tones payload) could be viewed as a first step in the direction
of developing a reliable launch system for the delivery of heavy satellites into different
orbits India's cryogenic engine development programme was in making for many years.
In fact during early 1990s India was denied this technology. Russia was then supposed
to transfer this technology to India but was pressurised by the US not to do so owing to
the nuclear and missile related policies prevalent then. Since 2001, the Indian Space Research
Organisation (ISRO) has been involved in the development of cryogenic engine. It witnessed
one failure on April 15, 2010 when the launch using indigenously developed cryogenic
engine failed. The failure to develop cryogenic technology appears to be almost universal.
Mostly cryogenic engine technology has been at heart of development of various launch
vehicles designed for launch of more than 2 tonnes weight into GTO and other orbits. Vehicles
of Russian, Chinese and Indian origin are three/four stage vehicles while that of Western
and Japanese origin are two stage vehicles. Except India in all other cases the combination
constitutes of stages with liquid and semi cryogenic or cryogenic propellants. For Indian
vehicle the first stage is with solid propellant. The specific details about the propellant
are discussed in next section. Participation of private sector towards the overall development
of the launch vehicle family is evident barring India and China where no major involvement
of the private sector is evident. The payload capacity of GSLV-MK II is comparatively
very low in comparison with other vehicles. However, GSLV-Mk II is the first variant
of GSLV family and further modifications of this system are in the pipeline. Currently,
GSLV-Mk III launch vehicle is under development and is expected to launch payload
weighing 4500 to 5000 kg. The vehicle envisages multi-mission launch capability for GTO,
LEO, Polar and intermediate circular orbits. GSLV-Mk III is designed to be a three stage
vehicle. First stage comprises two identical S200 Large Solid Booster (LSB) with 200
tonne solid propellant, which are strapped on to the second stage, the L110 re-startable
liquid stage. The third stage is the C25 LOX/LH2 cryo-stage. 2 The time taken for the
development of cryogenic engine technology appears to be quite significant in each case
mostly more than ten years. ISRO took about fourteen years for this development and
it appears that they had no late starter advantage. One of the reasons for this could be the
cryogenic haves club been tight-lipped about the technological knowhow. One another
important aspect could have been that during 1994 two important ISRO scientists working
on cryogenic project were falsely named in some scam and by the time their innocence
was proved their careers and India's cryogenic programme suffered significantly. 3 The
success rate for India and China is lowest, hovering around 50%. In case of India it may
be noted that number of launches are two, one failure and success. Therefore critical assessment
is foreseeable only by their future launch record. In the Indian case, the thrust produced
by CE7.5 GSLV MKII cryogenic engine is comparatively less. However, it also needs
to be considered that the GSLV-D5 launch was with small payload. Propellant Propellant
is the chemical mixture burned to produce thrust in rockets. Presently, most rockets operate
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with either solid or liquid propellants or combination of both. The propellant does not
mean simply fuel; it means both fuel and oxidizer. The fuel constitutes of the chemical
the rocket burns but, for burning to take place; an oxidizer (oxygen) is required to be present.
Jet engines draw oxygen into their engines from the surrounding air. However, the rockets
do not have the luxury that jet planes have; they need to carry oxygen with them into space,
where there is no air. 4 It may be noted that cryogenic is low temperature physics and
propellants used for cryogenic stage in the overall rocket assembly usually involves a combination
of liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen or methane and liquid oxygen. The Specific impulse
(Isp) is an important factor to measure efficiency of rocket. Specific impulse is defined
as the thrust divided by the mass of propellant consumed per second. The result is expressed
in seconds. The higher the specific impulse, the less propellant is needed to gain a given
amount of momentum. Isp depends on combination of propellant and medium in which
they are employed. In general trend propellant gives less Isp at sea level than vacuum.
The following table indicates Isp of various combination commonly used in HLV: The
above table indicates that cryogenic engines are much more efficient in delivering high
Isp. Liquid Oxygen and liquid Hydrogen combination is one of most energetic chemical
reaction to produce high Isp used by rocket industry so far. However, due to its complex
storage systems (it may be noted that Hydrogen remains liquid at temperatures of -253oC
and Oxygen remains in a liquid state at temperatures of -183oC) high overall cost of propellants
and highly corrosive nature makes it less attractive option to be used in all stages of rocket.
Majority of the heavy lift vehicles use cryogenic in its upper stage, while for other stages
there is a shift for semi-cryogenic propellants. This includes combination of liquid oxygen
as oxidizer and kerosene (RP-1) as a fuel. Kerosene offers less Isp than cryogens, but due
to its other properties like earth storable, no requirement of handling of any extremely
low temperatures and ease in fabrication of the propellant chamber, they are preferred
over other propellant combinations. Mixture ratio is another important factor which explains
the importance of the type of propellant put in use. Mixture Ratio is the ratio of oxidizer
mass to fuel mass. We define the optimum mixture ratio as that which will produce the
highest specific impulse for the given reactants. An engine with a high combustion chamber
pressure and a low nozzle exit pressure, i.e. a large section ratio, will have the highest
optimum mixture ratio. A propellant's optimum mixture ratio is a function of the pressures
at which the rocket engine will operate. Higher mixture ratio means the propellant have
fuel rich mixture and burn much more efficiently by producing higher thrust. This mixture
ratio is also extended to oxidizer to fuel ratio (O/F). It is similar to air to fuel ratio in combustion
engine 10 . This means that the amount of oxidant present in the reaction is just enough
to completely burn the fuel. Therefore higher ratio indicates complete combustion hence
better efficiency. Following table indicates the mixture ratio and O/F ratio to various compositions.
It is obvious that cryogens is undoubtedly has edge over other propellants. Semi-cryogens
have higher O/F and mixture ratio, hence performs better than hypergols and solids. Density
of the propellant affects the design, manufacture and the efficiency of rocket engines. Propellant's
density depends on the nature for fuel (like solid, liquid etc.) being used. It is important
to note that both high and low density of any propellant has both advantages and limitations.
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For a given weight, dense propellant can be carried in smaller and lighter tanks, resulting
in low overall weight of rocket 11 . Beside, higher density also implies higher mass flow,
resulting in high exhaust velocity. Lower density propellant can results in complication
related to their storage. Liquid hydrogen for example has a very low density (0.071 g/cc)
and, therefore, requires a storage volume many times greater. Nevertheless the overall
density could be enhanced and compensated with high mixture ratio, resulting in reduction
of storage volume. Hypergolic has better overall density, thus can be stored in smaller
tanks. Hence, normally for a heavy lift vehicle the last stage is a cryogenic stage and earlier
stages are hypergolic stages.
Revised cost estimates of Geo-synchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle project for completing
the scope of development programme and experimental flight
Fri, Feb 28, 2014
gslv, PIB, science & tech, isro, space, GSLV Mk lll,
The additional fund requirement is Rs. 464.78 crore to complete the scope of the project
including one experimental flight called LVM3-X and two developmental flights called
GSLV Mk-lll D1 and GSLV Mk-lll D2. Development of the GSLV Mk-lll launch vehicle
is expected to augment the capacity of the Indian space programme to launch 4T class
satellites to Geo!synchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO)and thereby significantly reduce the
demand-supply gap of transponders in the country. The indigenous development of the
GSLV Mk-lll will facilitate launching of four ton class of communication satellites to Geo-synchronous
Transfer Orbit, benefiting all sections of the society, including remote and far-flung areas
of the country. The Geo-synchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk-lll)
project was approved in 2002 with an outlay of Rs. 2498 crore. The GSLV Mk-lll Launch
Vehicle Programme involves a major leap in technological complexity as compared to
the ongoing Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and GSLV programmes. The original
financial sanction needs to be revised, considering the cost escalation in the project elements,
modifications in design, new elements etc. required to complete the scope of the project
including two development flights. The scope of the project is also required to be augmented
to include an experimental flight (Launch Vehicle Mark-Ill - Experimental: LVM3-X)
to validate the critical atmospheric regime of the flight. The Experimental flight of GSLV
Mk-lll (LVM3-X) with flight versions of Solid Stages (S200), Liquid Stage (L110) and
a passive cryogenic stage (C25) is planned in 2013-14, to validate some of the new systems
and flight sequences, hitherto not demonstrated in PSLV/GSLV flights.
Curiosity rover drives in reverse on Mars
Sun, Feb 23, 2014
Curiosity Mars rover, NASA, science & tech, space, Businessline,
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China's moon rover goes into third planned dormancy
Sun, Feb 23, 2014
The Hindu, science & tech, moon rover, space, China,
China's first lunar rover Jade Rabbit, which woke up ten days ago after being declared
dead, has entered its third "planned dormancy" even as mechanical issues that might cripple
the vehicle still unresolved. The rover named Yutu (Jade Rabbit) in Chinese entered its
14-day dormancy on Saturday, with the mechanical control issues unresolved, state-run
Xinhua news agency reported. Yutu's radar, panorama camera and infrared imaging
equipment are functioning normally, but the control issues that have troubled the rover
since January persist. During the lunar night, when there is no sunlight to power rover's
solar panels, it is expected to stay in a power-off mode and communication with Earth
is cut. Yutu touched down on the moon's surface on December 15, some hours after
lunar probe Chang'e-3 landed. The Chang'e-3 lunar probe, which carried Yutu to the
moon's surface, also entered dormancy in the wee hours on Sunday, after carrying out
observations of celestial bodies and the Earth's plasmasphere using its optical telescope
and extreme ultraviolet camera. China is the third country to soft-land on the moon after
the United States and the Soviet Union. Chang'e-3 is part of the second phase of China's
lunar program, which includes orbiting, landing and returning to Earth.
Steps to check Soil Erosion
Tue, Feb 18, 2014
PIB, science & tech, sub surface drainage technology, gypsum technology, soil erosion,
The extent of Land degradation reported was 187.7 and 146.8 million ha during 1994
and 2004, respectively and more recently (2010) over 120 million ha based on the harmonized
database comprising of 82.6 million ha under water erosion, 12.0 million ha under wind
erosion, 24.7 million ha under chemical degradation and 1.0 million ha under physical
degradation. In order to prevent soil erosion and land degradation, Ministry of Agriculture
is implementing various watershed programmes, namely; National Watershed Development
Project for Rainfed Areas (NWDPRA), Soil Conservation in the Catchments of River Valley
Project and Flood Prone River (RVP&FPR) and Reclamation and Development of Alkali
& Acid Soils (RADAS) across the country. Besides, 1.5 million ha sodic land has been
reclaimed using gypsum technology and 0.5 million ha saline land have been reclaimed
using sub-surface drainage technology across the country.
Anaerobic Biodigester Technology to Conserve Nature at "Anusandhan Vihar"- DRDO'S
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New Ecofriendly Residential Complex Inaugurated
Wed, Feb 26, 2014
Ecofriendly Residential Complex Inaugurated Anaerobic Biodigester Technology, PIB,

science & tech, Anusandhan Vihar,
A Bio-Digester park equipped with DRDO developed Bio-Digester was also inaugurated
by Shri Amitabh Kant, IAS, CEO and MD Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor Development
Corporation (DMICDC), who appreciated the layout, its novel concept and the quality
of works executed by the DRDO.
Bitcoin world in turmoil as exchange shuts down after theft
Wed, Feb 26, 2014
Bitcoin, science & tech, Bitcoin theft, Businessline,
The stolen Bitcoins amount to about 6 per cent of all the Bitcoins in circulation. At peak
value of $1,200 per Bitcoin, the lost currency represents over $893 million. But the value
of Bitcoin has fallen sharply in recent months, including a more than 10 per cent drop
on the news of Mt Gox's trouble, and was trading at less than $500 on Tuesday. Other
Bitcoin exchanges sought to distance themselves from the website troubles issuing a joint
statement that called Mt Gox's action "a tragic violation of the trust of users," and assuring
that other companies "would continue to build the future of money by making Bitcoin
more secure and easy to use for consumers and merchants."
Bit of a problem
Thu, Feb 27, 2014
crypto currency, science & tech, bitcoin, Businessline,
Those transacting in bitcoins were aware, or should have been aware, of the underlying
risks. Given the large community of professional and amateur hackers trolling the internet,
the software controlling trading in bitcoins was always vulnerable to malware injections
by such cyber-miscreants If only the bitcoin ecosystem had the sanction of a government
or monetary authority, even stolen digital money could be reported and recovered. In the
case of bitcoins, the fact of being a computer-generated currency not subject to regulation
by a central bank, was touted as a unique selling point; it not only enabled speedier transactions
at lower cost, but also guaranteed anonymity that many (including online drug traffickers)
sought. But now, the very absence of that regulation has turned out to be its biggest liability.
Those who traded in MtGox are today left with no recourse but to quietly bear the loss.
No need to make cellphone tower radiation norms more stringent, says governmentFri,
panel
Feb 28, 2014
radiation, Down to Earth, cellphone, telecom, science & tech,
The committee was set up last year on August 20. Its report was submitted to the court
as a counter affadavit in February this year. The next hearing is scheduled later in March.
Among other things, the report says the petition is based on data prepared by Girish Kumar,
a faculty of IIT-Mumbai. Kumar has been actively campaigning for more atringent norms
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for mobile phone towers. The report says the human body has the capacity to counter thermal
effects through its thermo-regulatory mechanism and that the duration of EMF exposure
is not significant as long as the prescribed limits for specific absorption rate (SAR) from
mobile phones are met. The report, however, calls for more funding to further understand
the biological effects of EMF radiations. It also recommends that DoT should undertake
more initiatives to educate the public on mobile phone use and EMF radiations. While
the debate continues about the possible health impacts of EMF radiations, it is the public
health that needs to be safe guarded without delay. In this context, it would be important
to find out why countries such as Russia and China have more stringent EMF standards
than India and how they are able to manage the increasing data traffic at such levels. The
report does not satisfactorily address this aspect. Vulnerability of sensitive populations
such as children, the pregnant and the elderly to increasing EMF radiations owing to presence
of mobile tower clusters in thickly populated urban settings also needs to be assessed and
mitigated through appropriate cell tower location policy across the country, says experts.
Japan's Fukushima plant leaks radioactive water
Thu, Feb 20, 2014
Fukushima, japan, The Hindu, radioactive water, science & tech, health,
About 100 tons of water containing high levels of radioactive material leaked at the damaged
Japanese nuclear power plant in Fukushima, the operator of the plant said on Thursday.
The leaked water contained 230 million becquerels per litre of beta-ray emitting substances,
consisting mainly of strontium 90, broadcaster NHK reported, citing Tokyo Electric officials.
The level is about 7.6 million times the government's limit for water allowed to be released
into the ocean, NHK said. The cause of the leak is still under investigation, said Tokyo
Electric spokesman Masaaki Fukai. But he said it was likely to have been caused by a
faulty valve in the pipes that transfers water from a decontamination facility to storage
tanks.
Bio-Toilets in Gram Panchayats
Tue, Feb 18, 2014
Bio Toilets, PIB, bio digesters, science & tech, health,
Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation (MDWS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) with Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for implementation
of bio-digester/bio-tank based eco-friendly toilets developed by DRDO, in Gram Panchayats.
It has been decided that willing States may implement the projects with technical assistance
from DRDO.
Heavy metals in cosmetics: government silent on tightening rules
Fri, Feb 21, 2014
Down to Earth, cosmetics, science & tech, health, heavy metals,
Concerns over presence of heavy metals in cosmetic products in India persist even after
the matter was raised in Rajya Sabha. The government has not given any commitment
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on saving consumers from these toxic cosmetic products. The question then arises how
mercury found its way into these products when it is banned. When CSE had sought clarification
from the companies selling these fairness creams, most of them claimed that it was "trace"
presence and unintended [5] . The industry responses said that heavy metals found were
low in concentration and their presence was unavoidable because it is found in the ingredients
used. "But the Indian regulations on cosmetics do not recognise such trace presence of
mercury, thereby, making these products unlawful," said Amit Khurana, project manager
of food safety and toxins in CSE. But the existing regulations do not seem to be effective.
CSE's research suggests that there is a great degree of laxity in monitoring as 56 per cent
of fairness creams tested were not found to contain mercury. It also suggested that the
focus of certain state regulators has been on spurious products and not on quality testing.
After the study, CSE has written letters to policymakers and regulators on the need for
regulatory reforms. Specifically, it has sought setting standards for finished products,
independent assessment system to approve products, strengthening of existing implementation
framework to check compliance with law and a public disclosure and warning system.
Clear the air on mobile tower radiation, WHO tells India
Wed, Feb 19, 2014
radiation, The Hindu, mobile tower radiation, science & tech, health,
WHO has been investigating the health effects of electromagnetic fields for 18 years. The
EMF project noted in September: "Despite extensive research, to date there is no evidence
to conclude that exposure to low-level electromagnetic fields is harmful to human health."
The limits in international standards have not changed for over 15 years because no research
has found any health effects below these levels. Prof. Repacholi has said there needs to
be research on the effect of mobile phones on children. Studies conducted so far have not
shown that they are more sensitive to EMF than adults. However, more research was needed
to confirm this observation. Prof. Repacholi has asked India to open a website that explains
EMF and its health effects, describes the standards and how they are derived. According
to him, there must be a government spokesperson on EMF who can respond to media questions
and issue fact sheets and press statements. "The government should speak with one voice
on this sensitive issue and provide all the information on EMF people need," he said.
National Guidelines for Stem Cell Research
Fri, Feb 21, 2014
stem cells, PIB, science & tech, health,
* National Guidelines for Stem Cell Therapy - 2013 reiterate that the general principles
of biomedical research involving human participants shall also be applicable to all human
stem cell research. * The guidelines have been laid down to ensure that research with
human stem cells is conducted in a responsible and ethical manner and complies with all
regulatory requirements pertaining to biomedical research in general and of stem cell research
in particular. * Updated guidelines have incorporated advances in the field with regards
to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), xeno-free cultures, characterising cell product
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for therapy and to harmonize them with the internationally revised guidelines. * One
major recommendation of the Committee has been to omit the word Therapy from the
title of the Guidelines. This has been done to emphasize the fact that stem cells are still
not a part of standard of care; hence there can be no guidelines for therapy until efficacy
is proven.
Third Line Treatment of HIV/AIDS
Tue, Feb 18, 2014
AIDS, PIB, science & tech, HIV, health,
The first line and second line antiretroviral therapy (ART) is given to HIV/AIDS patients
free of cost in all ART Centres across the country presently. The Technical Resource Group
on ART on 27th December, 2013 recommended providing third line antiretroviral therapy
for HIV/AIDS patients through 10 centres of excellence across the country. The process
for the same has been initiated at Department of AIDS Control.
Iron deficiency may increase stroke risk
Sun, Feb 23, 2014
stroke, Iron deficiency, science & tech, health, Businessline,
Iron deficiency may increase stroke risk by making the blood more sticky, scientists have
found. Several studies in the last few years have shown that iron deficiency, which affects
around two billion people worldwide, may be a risk factor for ischaemic stroke in adults
and in children. Ischaemic stroke occurs because the blood supply to the brain is interrupted
by small clots. "Since platelets in the blood stick together more if you are short of iron,
we think this may explain why being short of iron can lead to strokes, though much more
research will be needed to prove this link," said Dr Claire Shovlin, from the National Heart
and Lung Institute at Imperial College London. The study found that even moderately
low iron levels, around 6 micromoles per litre, approximately doubled the risk of stroke
compared with levels in the middle of the normal range of 7--27 micromoles per litre.
Determination of Brain Death
Fri, Feb 21, 2014
PIB, science & tech, health, brain death,
As per sub-section (d) of section 2 of the Transplantation of Human Organs Act 1994,
the "Brain Stem death" means the stage at which all functions of the brain stem have permanently
and irreversibly ceased and is so certified under sub-section (6) of section 3, which is reproduced
below: Where any human organ is to be removed from the body of a person in the event
of his brain-stem death, no such removal shall be undertaken unless such death is certified,
in such form and in such manner and on satisfaction of such conditions and requirements
as may be prescribed, by a Board of medical experts consisting of the following namely:
(i) the registered medical practitioner in charge of the hospital in which brain-stem death
has occurred; (ii) an independent registered medical practitioner, being a specialist, to
be nominated by the registered medical practitioner specified in clause (i), from the panel
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of names approved by the Appropriate authority; (iii) a neurologist or a neurosurgeon

to be nominated by the registered medical practitioner specified in clause (i), from the
panel of names approved by the Appropriate Authority;
Presence of Heavy Metals in Cosmetic Products
Tue, Feb 18, 2014
Cosmetic Products, PIB, science & tech, health, Heavy Metals,
The Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945 prohibit cosmetics containing Mercury compounds
and also the use of lead and arsenic compounds for the purpose of colouring cosmetics.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) provides for 30 Indian Standards on finished cosmetics.
Out of these 24 standards have specified the limits for heavy metals, namely, lead (Pb)
and arsenic (as As2O3). The prescribed maximum limits are 20 ppm for lead and 2 ppm
for Arsenic.
Pepper spray: Why it is so dangerous
Sat, Feb 15, 2014
pepper spray, Down to Earth, science & tech, health,
The study notes that when a person's skin is exposed to OC spray, people can experience
"tingling, intense burning pain, swelling, redness, and, occasionally, blistering." If it gets
in the eyes, it can cause pain and stinging -- and temporary blindness that lasts 30 minutes
or so. Inhalation of high doses of some of these chemicals can produce adverse cardiac,
respiratory, and neurological effects, including arrhythmias and sudden death. Studies
also reveal that a commercial-grade pepper spray is listed between 2 million and 5.3 million
Scoville units -- a measure of "hotness" that hinges on capsaicin content. Compare that
to between 200,000 and 350,000 Scoville units for habanero peppers, a variety of widely-used
and one of the most painful peppers. When pepper is sprayed, the eyes clamp shut; if people
manage to open them they most likely will not see anything because the capillaries in their
eyes will be dilated, causing temporary blindness. There may also be an incontrollable
fit of coughing which doubles the person over, bringing them down to their knees. This
may be why most MPs, on Wednesday, were seen coughing, with their nose covered, when
they came out of the Parliament after the incident. What the law says In the United Kingdom
and many other European countries, pepper spray is classified as a weapon and nobody
is allowed to use it without permission from the Home Secretary.
ICMR launches three new diagnostic kits
Thu, Feb 20, 2014
Food Safety, ICMR, Down to Earth, science & tech, health,
They will help reduce costs of detecting pathogens in food, estimating iron levels in blood
and determining vitamin A levels in blood under public health programmes These include
a polymerase chain reaction or PCR-based kit to detect pathogens in food and water, an
ELISA-based kit to estimate iron in the blood and a sample collection kit for blood that
can be used to test the levels of vitamin A in a person. All three have been developed by
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the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad. The new kits are the latest in the
series of diagnostic kits launched by ICMR in recent months. These include an affordable
glucose monitoring kit [2] for diabetics, and a diagnostic kit to detect genetic disorders
thalessemia and sickle cell disease in unborn children [3] . PCR-based food/ waterborne
pathogen detection kits This can detect the five most common food borne pathogens in
India--Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria, Vibrio parahaemolyticus. This will
help determine the causes of outbreaks of food poisoning and food-borne common infections
caused by eating of contaminated eggs, poultry, meat, dairy products as well as vegetables.
The kit will be of help not only to the Food Safety Authority of India but also the Integrated
Disease Surveillance Programme. About 13 per cent of deaths among children aged less
than five years are because of diarrhoea, which is mainly caused because of consumption
of contaminated food/water. ELISA for ferritin estimation This test will help to diagnose
iron deficiency with certainty in the body. This would help treating physicians, policy
makers and programme managers to formulate appropriate intervention strategies and
monitor the impact of the strategies. Useful to decide supplementation of iron according
to the need and also to avoid iron dosing in conditions where iron accumulates in the body
like in case of repeated blood transfusions in patients of Thalassemia and Haemophilia.
The present estimates of anaemia due to iron deficiency in different groups vary widely
from five per cent to 50 per cent. Dried blood spot collection kit This is a field-friendly
method for blood sample collection for vitamin A analysis. The simple system makes it
possible to collect blood on a special type of filter paper which can be stored for seven
days at room temperature and for several days at refrigerated temperature. This will allow
transport of blood samples from community to lab for mass screening. With this, there
would now be no need for the patient to travel to get the test done. Blood samples too would
not need to be collected, stored and transported. It will be valuable for mass screening
for deciding on Vitamin-A supplementation.
Cases of Bird Flu/Avian Influenza
Fri, Feb 21, 2014
PIB, science & tech, health, avian influenza, Bird Flu,
No human case or death attributable to avian influenza (bird flu) has been reported from
India during last three years and the current year till date. Action plan, guidelines and standard
operating procedures for containment of avian influenza outbreak in birds and for managing
human cases were prepared and made available to the States. Government of India procured
the drug Oseltamivir and personnel protection equipment and provided them to the States
affected by avian influenza. This drug was used for preventing infection among the poultry
workers, cullers and those exposed to infected birds. For managing potential human cases,
ventilators were procured and provided to affected states during 2007-2009. No vaccine
has been developed against avian influenza / bird flu for human use. Cell Culture Anti
Rabies Vaccine are produced and used in the country. Vaccine against Japanese Encephalitis
(JE) has been procured. Indian Council of Medical Research has also developed an indigenous
JE vaccine. MV/GM (Release ID :104101)
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Neo-addiction
Sat, Feb 15, 2014
Down to Earth, science & tech, health, e-cigarettes,
ELECTRONIC or e-cigarettes are smartly marketed as a healthier alternative to smoking

because they are smokeless--a liquid solution containing nicotine and flavourings is vaporised
to simulate tobacco smoking in them. Recent researches, however, show that these battery-powered
cigarettes are doing more harm than good by getting youngsters addicted to nicotine. The
studies have also not found any proof to substantiate e-cigarette manufac - turers' claim
that their product helps quit smoking. "Alternative tobacco products are attractive to smokers
who want to quit smoking, but these data did not indicate that alternative tobacco products
promote cessation. Unsubstantiated overt and implied claims that alternative tobacco products
aid smoking cessation should be prohibited," stated the study published in the American
Journal of Public Health in May 2013. Even the claim of e-cigarette manufacturers that
the product curbs passive smoking is not completely correct. A research, published in the
International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health in December 2013, found
that ecigarettes impaired indoor air quality. Use of the product released substantial amounts
of 1,2-propanediol, glycerine and nicotine in the air, along with particulate matter PM2.5.
The research concluded that e-cigarettes are not emission-free and their pollutants could
be a health concern for users and second hand smokers. The researchers suggested e-cigarettes
should be officially labeled with appropriate warnings of potential health effects. Health
experts suggest that the product should be regulated either by recognising it as a drug or
by putting checks similar to that on cigarettes. Pankaj Chaturvedi, associate professor of
Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, says e-cigarettes need to be registered with the Drug
Controller General of India (DCGI) because they are being sold as a cure for smoking
and contain nicotine. The government body, he says, has only approved nicotine lozenges
and gums of 2 mg and 4 mg, and nicotine transdermal therapeutic patches. "Its supporters
argue that this is the same as nicotine gum, but they need to understand that it needs registration.
And once it goes to DCGI for registration, evidences in its favour or against would be
discussed," he says. New York banned the use of e-cigarettes at public places in December,
2013. As per media reports, New Jersey, Utah and North Dakota have already banned
the product, while Los Angeles and Chicago are considering bans. Even Canada has not
approved e-cigarettes.
Inhibit the Calpain to Climb the Mountain
Fri, Feb 28, 2014
PIB, science & tech, high altitude, health, thrombosis,
The thrombosis developed at regions like Siachin Glaciers may lead to life threatening
events such as pulmonary embolism, stroke, and limb amputation.
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Parliament passes bill that eases rules on narcotics used in palliative care
Fri, Feb 21, 2014
Down to Earth, science & tech, palliative care, health, narcotics,
The Rajya Sabha on Friday passed a legislation that will bring much-needed relief to terminally
ill patients who need palliative care. It passed the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances
(Amendment) Bill which was passed by Lok Sabha a day ago. ad Rajya Sabha not passed
it, the bill would have lapsed along with the expiry of the present of Lok Sabha. Cancer
experts have been urging the Indian government to ease regulations on narcotic drugs [2]
that are recommended for alleviating excruciating pain in cancer patients, especially those
who are terminally ill. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Amendment)
Bill, 2011 was introduced in the Lok Sabha on September 8, 2011 by Pranab Mukherjee,
the then Union finance minister. Subsequently, it was referred to the parliamentary standing
committee on Finance on September 13. The bill amends the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic
Substances Act of 1985, which provides for confiscation of illegally traded narcotic drugs
and psychotropic substances. The National Policy on Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic
Substances, a document approved by the Union Cabinet on January 12, 2012, states that
tens of thousands of patients in India suffer from avoidable pain because of the strict regulations.
The document says that India is home to one-sixth of world's population, but it consumes
only one-thousandth of the total morphine used in the world. Experts have been highlighting
that excessive regulations and cumbersome procedures in many states discourage doctors
from prescribing and chemists from stocking narcotic drugs like morphine.
launches 3 different kits for Detection of Food Borne Pathogens, Diagnosing Iron Deficiency
Anaemia, and Vitamin-A Deficiency
Thu, Feb 20, 2014
PIB, science & tech, vitamin a, health, Food Borne Pathogens,
Shri Azad said that the kit for detection of food borne pathogens will be very useful to
determine the causes of outbreaks of food poisoning and food borne common infections
caused by eating of contaminated eggs, poultry, meat, dairy products as well as vegetables,
contaminated with water borne infections. The Minister highlighted that this easy, user
friendly and rapid detection system will be of immense use not only to the Food Safety
Authority of India but also to the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme, which reports
on food poisoning outbreaks and to diagnostic laboratories in Government as well private
sector. Studies show that about 13% of deaths among children of less than five years of
age are due to diarrhoea, which is caused essentially due to consumption of contaminated
food/water. The kits developed by NIN in collaboration with Bioserve Biotechnologies
are indigenous, less time consuming and cost 1/3rd of the imported kits costs. The rapid
testing of food samples for microbiological contamination will reduce the morbidity and
mortality in the society. Use of the kits by the food industry will not only help domestic
consumers in having safe food but also helps reducing export rejections on account of
microbiological contamination. The second kit launched by the Health Minister estimates
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the quantity of ferritin and helps in diagnosing iron deficiency anaemia individually as
well as for mass level screening. Shri Azad said that this test will be useful to decide supplementation
of iron according to the need and also to avoid iron dosing in conditions where iron accumulates
in the body; for instance due to repeated blood transfusions in cases of Thalassemia, Haemophilia
and others. In India anaemia control strategies are based on haemoglobin levels. However,
estimation of serum ferritin has been found to be the specific diagnostic tool for early detection
of iron deficiency leading to anaemia. Therefore a ferritin test helps to diagnose with certainty
and the extent of iron deficiency in the body thus avoiding unnecessary iron supplementation.
It is based on ELISA principle and is specific, very accurate, cost effective and convenient
method comparable to other commercially available kits. Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad launched
the third kit for diagnosing Vitamin-A deficiency. The dried blood spot collection system
for Plasma Vitamin-A estimation is a simple system that allows the blood to be collected
on a special type of filter paper which can be stored for 7 days at room temperature and
for several days at refrigerated temperature. It will be valuable for mass screening for deciding
on Vitamin-A supplementation as and when required. It is a field friendly method for blood
sample collection and transportation from remote areas to screen population for sub-clinical
vitamin A deficiency.
Asbestos Related Diseases
Fri, Feb 21, 2014
asbestos, PIB, science & tech, health,
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has informed that major health hazards
of asbestos include cancer of lung, mesothelioma of pleura and peritoneum and specific
fibrous disease of lung known as asbestosis. All types of asbestos fibers are responsible
for human mortality and morbidity.
President of India inaugurates national conference on TB and allied diseases
Mon, Feb 24, 2014
PIB, science & tech, Tuberculosis, health,
Speaking on the occasion, the President said that global TB control is unattainable without
controlling the incidence of TB in India. Nearly 20 years after WHO's declaration of Tuberculosis
as a global public health emergency, major progress has been made towards attainment
of the global targets defined in the context of the Millennium Development Goals. India
has been an able partner in this progress. The President stated that the Revised National
Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP) has become one of India's largest public health
achievements. The endeavor should now be to aim for universal access focusing on improved
diagnosis of TB patients through improving outreach, vigorously expanding case-finding
efforts among vulnerable sections of the society, deploying better diagnostics, and extending
services to patients diagnosed and treated in both the public and private sectors.
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Diseases Due to Air Pollution
Tue, Feb 18, 2014
Air Pollution, PIB, science & tech, Health, NRHM,
Air Quality is monitored under integrated Ambient Air Quality Management System called
National Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP). The Government of India notified the National
Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) in 2009, which are applicable uniformly in the
country. The National NAAQS cover twelve parameters. As reported by the Central Pollution
Control Board (CPCB), no conclusive information is available regarding high prevalence
of respiratory and other diseases due to air pollution. As reported by Central Bureau of
Health Intelligence (CBHI), there is no specific information available on the number of
cases and deaths due to air pollution in the country.
Resistant to fluorosis
Sat, Feb 15, 2014
Down to Earth, fluorosis, science & tech, health,
Fluorosis is a medical condition caused by excessive intake of fluoride. It is characterised

by discolouration of the teeth, and in severe cases by dark brown stains. Understanding
what protects camels from the disease could help find ways to protect other animals. Young
adults of most species are susceptible to fluorosis. It occurs mainly due to continuous intake
of fluoride through water and diet. "In India, fluoride content in groundwater is relatively
high in Rajasthan,"
The internet through a light bulb
Fri, Feb 21, 2014
The Hindu, science & tech, internet,
Imagine an office where every computer, mobile phone and tablet is connected to the Internet,
not through an ethernet connection or via Wi-Fi, but just through the overhead lights. That
is the vision that Harald Haas lays out for me when he visits my office to demonstrate
his LiFi technology. They set up two laptops on a table, one with a conventional connection
to the Internet, linked to a piece of kit which is in turn connected to a conventional light
fitting. The other computer has a bulky unit attached to it, effectively a light receiver. It's
by making the light flicker very rapidly that data is conveyed from one computer to the
other. It's a bit like Morse code, explains the professor, but in a very sophisticated way,
achieving very high data rates. Even then, there is a more important question. Why do
we need an alternative means of connecting to the Internet when Wi-Fi works so well?
Wi-Fi is indeed a great success, says Mr. Haas, so much so that the radio spectrum is getting
overcrowded. We have deployed so many wireless access points that they interfere with
each other and slow down the actual data rates. We need other pipes, fatter pipes, and light
is a big pipe for wireless connectivity. He also maintains that there are security benefits.
Light-generated Internet connections do not travel through walls, so cannot be intercepted
like a Wi-Fi signal. The professor looks forward to a future where the much-hyped Internet
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of things becomes a reality; where there is wireless connectivity everywhere; where your
fridge talks to your toaster. This provides the means to achieve that.
'Indian science should embrace an interdisciplinary approach'
Thu, Feb 20, 2014
The Hindu, science & tech, research,
Science funding is nowhere near being two per cent of the GDP as you have recommended.
Is the space programme getting greater prominence in terms of scientific activity in India,
and a larger share of funding? But that [space programme] has nothing to do with science.
Often when we talk about the science budget, we are told about space and atomic energy.
But that has nothing to with science. Most of it is about technology. There is very little
new science in space technology. It is all known science. So they should not be included
in science funding. Science funding is about funding required by little people like me.
Right now, our total science funding, including space and atomic energy, is still less than
one per cent of the GDP. We have been promised by the Prime Minister that it will be
two per cent. But for that, the industry has to contribute and directly support research.
If I were in America, half of my research money would have been granted by industrial
support. In the U.S. and in South Korea, for instance, nearly 45-50 per cent of research
is industry funded. In India, their contribution towards scientific activity is less than 10
per cent. So we really need industry support. They should support both long-term and
short-term research. They will after all benefit from it in the future. Why do you believe
the space programme and atomic energy have very little "new science" to offer? Both
these mission-oriented agencies are involved in developing technology such as reactors,
rockets and so on. These are important things. However, progress in real science occurs
through small science done in little laboratories by individual scientists. For example,
progress in biology, chemistry or physics, is not because of the work of big agencies or
mission-oriented programmes. They may support basic science in some of their institutions,
but their own mission, where much expenditure is incurred, is not related to fundamental
science. If we want to be world leaders in science, it will have to be by supporting the
little science of people in educational and research institutions.
Continuation of the Mission on Nano Science and Technology in the 12th Plan Period
Thu, Feb 20, 2014
PIB, science & tech, nano, nano science,
The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for continuation of the Mission on Nano Science
and Technology (Nano Mission) in its Phase-II in the 12th Plan Period at a total cost of
Rs. 650 crores. The Mission's programmes will target all scientists, institutions and industry
in the country. It will also strengthen activities in nano science and technology by promoting
basic research, human resource development, research infrastructure development, international
collaborations, orchestration of national dialogues and nano applications and technology
development. The Nano Mission, in this new phase, will also make greater effort to promote
application-oriented R&D so that some useful products, processes and technologies also
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emerge. It will be anchored in the Department of Science and Technology and steered
by a Nano Mission Council chaired by an eminent scientist. The Government of India
launched the Nano Mission in May 2007 as an "umbrella capacity-building programme".
As a result of the efforts led by the Nano Mission, today, India is amongst the top five
nations in the world in terms of scientific publications in nano science and technology
(moving from 4th to the 3rd position). The Nano Mission itself has resulted in about 5000
research papers and about 900 Ph.Ds and also some useful products like nano hydrogel
based eye drops, pesticide removal technology for drinking water, water filters for arsenic
and fluoride removal, nanosilver based antimicrobial textile coating, etc. Two institutions
and large number of sophisticated characterization and fabrication facilities have been
set up in the country. Indian scientists have been given access to global state-of-the-art
facilities like the Photon Factory at Tsukuba, Japan and PETRA III in Hamburg, Germany.
The Nano Mission has orchestrated national dialogues to promote R&D in development
of standards for nanotechnology and for laying down a National Regulatory Framework
Road-Map for Nanotechnology (NRFR-Nanotech). The Nano Mission has thus helped
establish a good eco-system in the country to pursue front-ranking basic research and also
to seed and nurture application-oriented R&D, focused on useful technologies and products.
Through the looking glass
Mon, Feb 24, 2014
science & tech, Google Glass, Businessline,
The suggestions notwithstanding, this wearable tech-product does raise concerns on intrusion
of privacy. Big Brother's everywhere - from the state to the bespectacled guy next door
- ask Edward Snowden. Besides, does Google really think its suggestions can be voluntarily
enforced? Incredible though the Glass technology is, there is no ignoring the disconcerting
possibility of someone taking your picture in a coffee-shop or bookstore or anywhere else,
and your having to get into an unnecessary confrontation with the Glass-owner. Whether
or not the Glass becomes a mass product, the fact is consumers are still grappling with
the implications of mobile phone misuse and the law still has to keep pace with the speed
of changing technology.
Management of bacterial blight of rice
Thu, Feb 20, 2014
rice, The Hindu, agriculture, science & tech,
Bacterial blight is a major disease of rice. The disease is observed in both seedlings and
older plants. On seedlings, infected leaves turn greyish green in colour and roll up. Appearance
of a milky or opaque dewdrop on young lesions early in the morning is one sign of infestation.
The entire plant wilts. The infected field should be kept well drained soon after infection
is detected (in conventionally flooded crops). Apply potassic fertilizer in two split doses
at tillering and pre-flowering stages.
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Algae proposed as a viable source to produce cheaper biofuel
Thu, Feb 27, 2014
The Hindu, science & tech, biofuel, algae,
At a time when scientists around the world are experimenting with making cheaper alternative
energies for our future, a team of scientists has invented a new technology that increases
the odds of helping algae-based biofuels cross the gap and come closer to reality. The team's
invention -- the environmental photobioreactor (ePBR system) -- is the world's first standard
algae growing platform, one that simulates dynamic natural environments. The ePBR system
is like a pond in a jar that helps identify, cultivate, and test algal strains that have the potential
to make the leap from lab to pond -- proliferate in real-world, real-pond settings and produce
the most oil.
Japan readies hi-tech satellite to monitor global rainfall
Thu, Feb 27, 2014
science & tech, global rainfall, Businessline, Japan,
The H-IIA rocket will blast off from a southern Japanese island at 3:37 am tomorrow,
(1837 GMT today) with the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) core observatory
aboard, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) said. The satellite, jointly developed
by Japan and the United States, is designed to collect data from several other satellites
in orbit and add that to its own measurements to build up a detailed picture of precipitation
around the planet.
China's moon rover goes into 3rd planned dormancy
Sun, Feb 23, 2014
science & tech, moon rover, Businessline, China,
China's first lunar rover Jade Rabbit, which woke up ten days ago after being declared
dead, has entered its third "planned dormancy" even as mechanical issues that might cripple
the vehicle remain unresolved. The rover named Yutu (Jade Rabbit) in Chinese entered
its 14-day dormancy yesterday, with the mechanical control issues unresolved, state-run
Xinhua news agency reported. Yutu touched down on the moon's surface on December
15, some hours after lunar probe Chang'e-3 landed.
New clean energy targets for Europe
Fri, Feb 21, 2014
clean energy, europe, Frontline, science & tech,
THE European Commission's (E.C.) policy framework for energy and climate in 2030
covers the decade after the current 2020 policy set, which stipulated a 20 per cent reduction
of emissions, 20 per cent renewables in the energy mix and a 20 per cent increase in energy
efficiency by that date. All of these targets remain binding on all member states in what
E.C. President Jose Manuel Barroso called a "top-down" approach. By contrast, the framework
announced for the period from 2020 to 2030 takes a "bottom-up" approach where each
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member state will construct a "holistic" plan for a "competitive, secure and sustainable
energy" mix. Across the European Union as a whole, these national plans must add up
to show greenhouse gas emissions reaching 40 per cent below 1990 levels, and a market
share for renewables of at least 27 per cent of energy. Each country's contribution to the
targets remains to be negotiated among the group of 28 states. National plans covering
the details would then be developed in an "iterative process" that the E.C. said would "ensure
the national plans are sufficiently ambitious, as well as their consistency and compliance
over time". According to senior E.C. officials, emissions cuts pledged by each country
would be enacted in legislation and would become binding. It is anticipated that renewables
will provide about 45 per cent of electricity in 2030, including about 12 per cent from
hydro. Nuclear power is expected to stay at around 27 per cent, leaving 26 per cent for
fossil fuels. Balancing the needs of the 28 member states has been difficult, with a range
of policies and desires represented in various countries for renewables, shale gas, nuclear
power and coal. In this context Poland's recent new policy for the construction of the
country's first nuclear power plants, while continuing to rely on its supplies of cheap domestic
coal, is to be noted.
Yellow Rust Attack is not likely to have significant impact on Wheat Production
Tue, Feb 18, 2014
wheat, PIB, agriculture, science & tech, yellow rust,
Wheat yellow rust has been observed in Haryana (05 districts), Punjab (04 districts), Himachal
Pradesh (01 district) and Jammu & Kashmir (01 district). Wheat yellow rust is appearing
since 2006-07 in parts of Punjab, Haryana, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttrakhand and Himachal
Pradesh due to occurrence of Puccinia striiformis pathotypes. The situation in the current
year is under control and wheat production is not likely to be affected. Wheat yellow
rust is being managed by taking various preventive measures like promotion of yellow
rust resistant varieties, timely arrangement of fungicide, regular survey and surveillance,
detection of disease through establishment of trap nurseries at various hotspot locations,
organization of awareness campaigns and trainings.
DRDO brings high altitude waste disposal technology to homes
Wed, Feb 26, 2014
science & tech, Businessline, waste disposal technology, DRDO,
The biodigestor technology turns human waste into biogas and odourless compost. It was
developed by the research team of the Defence Research and Development Organisation
(DRDO) several decades ago. The technology was used by defence personnel in high altitudes.
The technology, to accelerate microbial degradation of organic waste, has now been used
in a residential complex for the first time. The entire water would be recycled for various
purposes. A bio digester park equipped with the DRDO developed biodigester was also
inaugurated by Amitabh Kant, CEO, Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor Development Corporation.
The complete complex has been designed and developed under the aegis of Directorate
of Civil Works and Estates in collaboration with the Directorate of Life Sciences, DRDO.
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The 5.4 acres eco friendly complex consists of residentail accommodations, along with
a sports complex and children's park facility.
First beam of anti-hydrogen atoms at CERN
Fri, Feb 21, 2014
anti hydrogen atoms, Frontline, science & tech, CERN,
THE ASACUSA (Atomic Spectroscopy And Collisions Using Slow Antiprotons) experiment
at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research's (CERN) Antiproton Facility has
for the first time succeeded in producing a beam of anti-hydrogen atoms. These are the
antimatter equivalent of hydrogen atoms. They are identical to hydrogen atoms except
that the electron and the proton of normal atoms are replaced by an anti-electron, called
a positron, and an antiproton. The objective of the experiment is the study of anti-hydrogen
and exotic atoms known as antiprotonic helium (which consists of an antiproton and an
electron orbiting around the helium nucleus). The anti-hydrogen experiment aims at high-precision
microwave spectroscopy of hyperfine transitions in a weak magnetic field region. Primordial
antimatter has so far never been observed in the universe, and its absence remains a major
scientific enigma. Nevertheless, it is possible to produce significant amounts of anti-hydrogen
in experiments at CERN by mixing positrons and low-energy antiprotons produced by
the Antiproton Decelerator. The spectra of hydrogen and anti-hydrogen are predicted to
be identical, so any tiny difference between them would immediately open a window to
new physics and could help in solving the antimatter mystery. With its single proton accompanied
by just one electron, hydrogen is the simplest existing atom, and one of the most precisely
investigated and best understood systems in modern physics. Thus, comparisons of hydrogen
and anti-hydrogen atoms constitute one of the best ways to perform highly precise tests
of matter/antimatter symmetry.
Page 22

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sciNtech Feb 15 to Feb

India tops Canada as 4th largest country growing GM crops

Cabinet approves continuation of nano-science mission

Akash bang on target in flight test

Heavy Satellite Launch Vehicles: An Assessment

Revised cost estimates of Geo-synchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle project for

the scope of development programme and experimental flight

Curiosity rover drives in reverse on Mars

China's moon rover goes into third planned dormancy

Steps to check Soil Erosion

Anaerobic Biodigester Technology to Conserve Nature at "Anusandhan Vihar"- DRDO

New Ecofriendly Residential Complex Inaugurated

Bitcoin world in turmoil as exchange shuts down after theft

Japan's Fukushima plant leaks radioactive water

Bio-Toilets in Gram Panchayats

Notes by vineetpunnoose on www.kiwipaper.com

Clear the air on mobile tower radiation, WHO tells India

National Guidelines for Stem Cell Research

Third Line Treatment of HIV/AIDS

Iron deficiency may increase stroke risk

Determination of Brain Death

Presence of Heavy Metals in Cosmetic Products

Pepper spray: Why it is so dangerous

ICMR launches three new diagnostic kits

Cases of Bird Flu/Avian Influenza

Inhibit the Calpain to Climb the Mountain

Anaemia, and Vitamin-A Deficiency

Asbestos Related Diseases

President of India inaugurates national conference on TB and allied diseases

Diseases Due to Air Pollution

Notes by vineetpunnoose on www.kiwipaper.com

The internet through a light bulb

'Indian science should embrace an interdisciplinary approach'

Through the looking glass

Management of bacterial blight of rice

Algae proposed as a viable source to produce cheaper biofuel

Japan readies hi-tech satellite to monitor global rainfall

China's moon rover goes into 3rd planned dormancy

New clean energy targets for Europe

DRDO brings high altitude waste disposal technology to homes

First beam of anti-hydrogen atoms at CERN

Notes by vineetpunnoose on www.kiwipaper.com

Africa to see more GM crops

Wed, Feb 26, 2014

The Hindu, agriculture, science & tech, GM crops, africa,

Africa is expected to be the next target of GM food companies, as European scientists

Fri, Feb 28, 2014

biotech, science & tech, GM crops, Businessline,

Notes by vineetpunnoose on www.kiwipaper.com

Mon, Feb 17, 2014

agriculture, science & tech, GM crops, Businessline,

Notes by vineetpunnoose on www.kiwipaper.com

Thu, Feb 20, 2014

Fri, Feb 21, 2014

air missile, defense, akash, The Hindu, science & tech,

Wed, Feb 19, 2014

Notes by vineetpunnoose on www.kiwipaper.com

mastering this technology is extremely important because without cryogenic/semi-cryogenic

Notes by vineetpunnoose on www.kiwipaper.com

Notes by vineetpunnoose on www.kiwipaper.com

Sun, Feb 23, 2014

Curiosity Mars rover, NASA, science & tech, space, Businessline,