AN ENDING AND A NEW BEGINNING

The year 2016 is ending and we need to keep our heart open to the dynamic energy of the year which is going to begin. We need to be imaginative and think about an incredible new year which brings with it a great sense of freedom and satisfaction because, as we already know, every tomorrow is our today’s dream.

We all have a relationship with this world because this is where we learned how to stay hopeful and unbroken, how to let go and bear the weight of yesterday, and how to be in harmony with life itself. We have learned that life does not change based on our reaction of like and dislike, instead, we should use the reservoir of our courage within and help to create what benefits us and all other beings.

Today, life on our planet Earth has become a question of profound concern because, as we all know, human activity has been the dominant influence on climate and environment for a long time and with negative impacts. Some of the impacts are mentioned as follows:

    

Occupation of significant part of earth by humans

Greenhouse gas effects due to CO2 liberation

Increase in surface temperature

Raising of sea level due to melting of glaciers

Overpopulation of humans

Extinction of 7% of animal species

Massive destruction of forests

Effects of litter and debris on biodiversity in coastal areas

Presence of high concentration of radionuclides

Effects of contamination of soil by different chemicals

Etc.

At the same time, we also know that a lot has been done and continue to be achieved through the creative use of science and technology hoping that one day the human species can move beyond all the existing limitations. As we leave this year behind I am reminded by Kahlil Gibran the poet and philosopher who says:

“Let us embrace the past with remembrance and the future with longing!”

THE EVER-CHANGING LIFE

WORDS OF SPIRITUAL TEACHERS

Change is synonymous with life.

(Buddha's Philosophy)

Just when I think I have learned the way to live, life changes and I am left the same as I began. 

(Hugh Prather)

You humans cling to the known. You even expect one another to always be the same, instead of realizing that you are creatures different from what you were in the last second of time, and that you have infinite possibilities to be still more different.

(Dorothy McClean)

There is a contradiction in us, there is in us a constant state of denial and assertion – what we want to be and what we are. There is a lack of peace in us and therefore outside us. There is constant denial of one desire by another desire. If we regard life not as a permanent desire but as a series of temporary desires which are constantly changing, then there is no contradiction. When the mind does not regard all desires as moving, transient, but seizes upon one desire and makes that into a permanency – only then, when other desires arise, is there a contradiction.

(J. Krishnamurti)

There is nothing stable in worlds of the one who forever expresses life and love in an outgoing manner. How then can anything stay as it was.

(Dorothy McClean)

Existence is beyond the power of words. To define terms may be used but are none of them absolute.

(Lao Tzu)

We crave to find permanent security in something distinct from and unrelated to ourselves. But no lasting security can be found however much we manipulate the external elements of the world.

(Stephen Batchelor)

In all Chinese art, there’s not symmetry. There’s not complete balance between two sides of the painting, because the moment you have symmetry you have something static.

(Alan Watts)

The clouds above us join and separate

The breeze in the courtyard leaves and returns

Life is like that, so why not relax

Who can stop us from celebrating?

(Benjamin Hoff)

There is only a moment, an instant of flame. There is only this moment. And actually, you, who come in at the door are not the same people who are sitting here. Just as in the whirlpool of water – there is no constant water. There is only going on a continuous behavior, whirling in the water – but no water stays in it. So, in exactly the same way you who came into the door a few minutes ago, and are now sitting here, are entirely different, only you are clinging to the idea of your continuity.

(Alan Watts)

DID WE PERMANENTLY CHANGE THE PLANET?

The term “Anthropocene” is composed of anthropo (humankind), and cene (new), in Greek language. It is viewed as the period during which human activity has been the dominant influence on climate and the environment. Experts believe that the new epoch has started 66 years ago with the start of industrial revolution in early 19^th century. Main indicators in relation to human influence are summarized as follows:

- Humans occupied a significant part of the Earth as hunter gatherers, communities and farmers.

- Burning carbon rich fossil fuel liberated CO2 (referred to as greenhouse gas) which allows the     sunlight in, but traps the heat radiation that the earth and its oceans emit in return.

-The liberated CO2 does not escape the earth and the level has increased from 280 ppm to 413         ppm at present.

-The average surface temperature over the past two centuries has gone up by 1.5 degrees  centigrade. This has led to global warming, and consequently, melting of glaciers and raising of    the sea level by 3.2 mm every year.

-Increase in human population from 1.2 billion in 1850 to the current 7 billion.

-Massive destruction of forests, animals and the Earth’s sixth major extinction proves that the  biodiversity crisis is real, and that 7% of all species on Earth may have disappeared already.

-Plastics, litter and debris carried by rivers and creeks accumulate in the marine environment    particularly, in coastal areas, affecting biodiversity.

-The bones of domestic chicken, the world’s most common bird through human breeding and  consumption, with over 60 billion consumed a year become fossilized in landfill sites.

-The atomic weapon testing programs, coal plants, nuclear fallout and tests of thermonuclear  devices have left a clear and global signal of high concentration of radionuclides.

-Human activity has affected the soil through repeated ploughing, addition of fertilizers,  contamination, sealing, and much more.

An indication of unawareness and a depiction of total neglect of wholeness of life!

Sources

m.thehindu.com

Earthsky.org

Wikipedia

GENETICS: A BRIEF ACCOUNT

In 1860s an Austrian scientist named Gregor Mendel, while experimenting with pea plants, discovered how traits are transmitted from parents to offspring. This discovery laid the foundation for modern genetics, the study of genes and their role in inheritance.

The three major macro-molecules essential for all known forms of life are Nucleic Acids, proteins and carbohydrates. A gene is the basic unit of heredity information located in the chromosome of the nucleus of the cell. A chromosome consists of a long strand of DNA containing many genes. Genes are made up of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) which stores genetic information and encodes (carries) the instructions for proteins that direct the activities of cells and functions of the body. Most DNA molecules consist of two strands coiled around each other to form a double helix. Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) is similar to DNA but it is single stranded and transfers the genetic information obtained from DNA to the proper location for protein synthesis.

Genes control how a cell functions, including how quickly it grows, how often it divides, and how long it lives. To control these functions, genes produce proteins that perform specific tasks and act as messengers for the cell. That’s why it is essential that each gene have the correct instructions or “code” for making its protein so that the protein can perform the proper function for the cell. There are approximately 20,000 to 25,000 genes in each person’s genetic makeup, or genome. Every cell in a person’s body has the same DNA. If all of the DNA in our body were connected, it would stretch about 67 billion miles! Genes direct cells to make proteins and guide almost every aspect of operation and repair of cells.

A person’s genes can have a profound impact on health and disease. More than 4000 diseases are thought to be related to altered genes. Genomics is the study of all of a person’s genes (the genome), including interactions of these genes with each other and with the person’s environment. Genomic factors play a role in the leading causes of death in the United States including heart disease, cancer, diabetes mellitus, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease. These diseases are typically caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Any change in the usual DNA sequence is called a mutation. Subtle or simple variations in DNA are called polymorphisms (many forms) which account for slight variations among people such as hair and eye color. However, some gene variations may result in disease or an increased risk for disease. The change in gene structure may alter the type and/or the amount of protein produced. 

Genetic mutation can be inherited or can occur during cell division, DNA replication, and from environmental factors like UV radiations leading to skin cancer. Toxins in cigarettes, and also in chemotherapy which also targets the healthy cells. Cells have built-in mechanisms that catch and repair most of the changes that may happen but as we age the DNA repair does not work as before and changes accumulate.

Genetic disorders can be prevented or treated by gene therapy approaches which include but may not be limited to the following:

Replacing a mutated gene with healthy copy of the gene.

Inactivating a mutated gene that is functioning improperly

Introducing a new gene into the body to help fight a disease through a viral vector

Stem cell therapy which allows for regeneration of lost tissue and restoration of function in various diseases.

CRISPER/Cas9 and targeted gene editing is now widely used in different cell types and organisms and has potential applications in human gene therapy.

·       

Sources

Sharon L. Lewis, et al.

Pathophysiologic Mechanisms of Disease

Genetics and Genomics 2014

Genetic-Science-The Guardian

Nicola Davis

New research about Alzheimer’s Disease 2016

Wikipedia

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: A BRIEF ACCOUNT

Intelligence by definition is “the capacity for learning, reasoning, understanding and similar forms of mental activity”. However, “artificial intelligence” (AI) is intelligence exhibited by machine, a machine that mimics “cognitive” functions associated with human minds including “learning” and “problem solving”.

The four basic ingredients needed for making AI are:

1. Data at large scale and high quality
2. Computer resources (hardware)
3. Algorithms (i.e. software)
4. Talent to put it all together

The field of AI draws upon computer science, mathematics, psychology, linguistics, philosophy, neuroscience and artificial psychology. Artificial psychology is a largely theoretical discipline which addresses dysfunctionality of AI when it approaches certain level of complexity. The center of AI world has shifted from academic labs to applied research labs at large technology companies.

The examples of AI are as follows:

1.  The AI that takes part in conversation or dialogue such as Siri or other personal assistants.
2.  A mechanically embodied AI where intelligence moves and acts as seen in robots.
3.  AI as reasoner and problem solver achieving goals in a wide range of environments such as  playing  chess, solving logical proofs, and planning complex tasks.
4.  AI as big data learner (Deep learning) mining user data, recognizing interrelations and catering  to our needs.
5.  AI as a model builder, planning for development using local probabilistic models combining  an AI  planner with a real time system.
6.  The specialized AI which helps improve aspects of management such as productivity,  performance,  and talent mobility.
7.  Natural language processing AI which is the ability of a computer to understand and use  human  speech.
8.  Neural network which is a form of information processing that uses multiple nodes to imitate  and surpass the biology of the brain.
9.  The Strong AI when AI fully rivals, or even exceeds, our own

The machine’s ability is tested by Turing test which was originally developed by Alan Turing in 1950. The test states that if a human being can’t tell the difference between an AI and a real human over a chat program, the AI has passed the test. However, there is still plenty of controversy over the rules.

There are demands and suggestions for Open AI in order to avoid economic displacement and actual conflicts. The goal is to maximize the chances of developing “friendly” AI that will help, rather than harm humanity.

Sources

1.      Wikipedia

2.      Beau Cronin:

                     AI’s dueling definitions, June 2014.
                    The dynamic forces shaping AI, July 2016.

3.      Mike Loukides, Ben Lorica. What is AI? June 2016.

4.      MIT-Sloan. Using AI to humanize management, June 2016.

5.      Philippe Roi -Tristan Girard:
   A brief glossary of the ideas behind AI, July 2016.

CRYSTAL CLEAR!

My story about crystals goes as far back as when I lived and worked in South East Asia region. There, I observed people from all walks of life keeping a few pieces of crystals at home on their coffee table or elsewhere. When I asked them about this, almost all of them believed that crystals absorb negativity and protect them from negative energy. For that reason they also believed that we should rinse the crystals with salt water, every now and then, in order to wash away the negativity which they absorb. It was fascinating to observe this practice in every household and hear their convictions about crystals. In time, I started to search and read the available literature about crystals and, just for the fun of it, I even bought a few of them and kept at home.

Crystals by definition are “solids whose constituents, such as atoms, molecules or ions are arranged in a highly ordered microscopic structure, forming a crystal lattice (ordered set) that extends in all directions”.  A summary of what I learned about a few types of crystals are presented as follows:

1. Clear Quartz

Clear quartz is transparent and colorless. It is the second-most-abundant mineral in Earth’s continental crust after feldspar (rock-forming that make 60% of the Earth’s crust), and is most commonly used in the making of jewelry. 

There are many different varieties of quartz, several of which are semi-precious gemstones. The word “quartz” is derived from the German word “quarz” meaning “hard”. The ancient Greek referred to quartz as “icy cold” because some philosophers believed the mineral to be a form of supper cooled ice. Today, the term rock crystal is sometimes used as an alternative name for the clear and purest form of quartz.

Quartz is the most common material identified as the mystical substance. It is found regularly in passage tomb cemeteries in Europe in a burial context. It was also used in many countries as stone tools by prehistoric people. Quartz has also the ability to split light into a spectrum.

2. Clear Quartz Crystal Egg

Quartz crystal eggs are nicely cut and polished in China. They are known as “Master Healer” and they amplify any energy or intention including the power of other stones. They are used or held during meditation, they protect against negativity, attune to your higher self and relieve pain. Gazing into the crystal relaxes the mind and open it up to the vast energies of the other working stones. They are known as “Power Stones”.

3. Smoky Quartz

Smoky quartz is a grey, translucent variety of quartz. It ranges from almost complete transparency to a brownish-gray crystal that is almost opaque. Some can also be black. Smoky quartz is a silicon dioxide by natural irradiation. Sunglasses, in the form of flat panes of smoky quartz were used in china in the 12^th century.

This mineral draws white light energy from the crown down through the body to be deeply rooted into the physical plane. It initiates movement of primal forces within the body and activates one’s survival instinct in a purified way. It brings strength and stability, and a sense of personal pride in walking the Earth and inhabiting a human form. Has emotional healing energy and metaphysical properties. The healing properties include grounding, absorbing negativity, protection from negative energy and transforming them to positive energy. In general, it brings prosperity and good luck and helps in overcoming negative emotions.

4. Amethyst

Amethyst is a popular form and a violet variety of quartz often used in jewelry. The name comes from the ancient Greek which means “not intoxicated”, a reference to the belief that the stone protected its owner from drunkenness. The medieval European soldiers wore amethyst as protection in battle in the belief that amethysts heal people and keep them cool-headed. Amethyst is a semi-precious stone and is the traditional birthstone for February. Tibetans consider amethyst sacred to the Buddha and make prayer beads from it. Amethyst is the official state gemstone of South Carolina.

The World AUTISM AWARENESS DAY

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) was first diagnosed in the U.S. and since then the month of April is observed as autism awareness month. On the other hand, April the 2^nd is the world autism awareness day based on a WHO Resolution which was adopted by more than 60 countries in May 2014. The resolution is entitled “Comprehensive and coordinated efforts for the management of ASD”.

The need for such a resolution was based on the inadequate knowledge and misconceptions of health care providers about ASD, unmet health care needs and vulnerability of individuals with ASD for not having access to health care services, unjust deprivation of health, education and opportunities for individuals with ASD to engage and participate in their communities, significant emotional and economic burden on individuals with ASD and their families including being subject to stigma and discrimination, impact of ASD on social participation and employment opportunities of individuals, and the need for inclusive and supportive environment for people with ASD.

ASD begins in childhood manifesting during the first 5 years of life. It is an umbrella term covering conditions such as childhood autism, atypical autism and Asperger syndrome which is a developmental disorder but not delayed cognitive abilities. It is characterized by severely impaired social skills, repetitive behavior, and often a narrow set of interests. The level of intellectual functioning of individuals with ASD is extremely variable and the condition may be associated with depression, anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Available scientific evidence suggest that environmental and genetic factors can be the cause of ASD but on the contrary vaccination is not a risk factor at all.

Individuals with ASD often suffer from numerous co-morbid medical conditions which may include allergies, asthma, epilepsy, digestive disorders, viral infections, feeding problems, sensory integration dysfunction and sleeping disorders. About 40% of children with autism do not speak or might speak later in childhood. ASD is diagnosed more often in boys than girls.

Monitoring of child development and early childhood care is an important part of caring for individuals with ASD including providing relevant information, services, referrals and support based on needs assessment. Mortality among individuals with ASD is twice as high as the general population, in large part due to drowning and other accidents.

According to WHO 1 in 160 children has ASD and the prevalence appears to have been increasing globally in the past 50 years but at the same time awareness of people and diagnostic tools and reporting have also improved. Efforts are now focused on enhancing commitment of governments and international advocacy on autism, creating appropriate action plans and policies, and developing effective strategies for assessment and treatment of ASD and other developmental disorders.

Sources:

1. WHO fact sheet, Jan. 2016

2. National Autism Association fact sheet