Biotecnika Times 27th August 2019 Weekly Edition

August 27th, 2019

Vol. 03

NO 93

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PIG TO HUMAN HEART TRANSPLANTS POSSIBLE IN NEXT 3 YEARS LIFE FOUND ON MOON TARDIGRADES? GET THIS NEWSPAPER e-copy VIA WHATSAPP every week GIVE MISSED CALL TO

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DRDO - Defence Food

Research Fellowships

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August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

Pig to Human Heart Transplants Could Be a Reality in 3 years Adapted pig hearts could be possibly transplanted into individuals within three years. This is according to a report citing the surgeon who pioneered a heart transplant in the United Kingdom.

SIR TERENCE ENGLISH, ON THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FIRST SUCCESSFUL HEART TRANSPLANT, TOLD THE SUNDAY TELEGRAPH THAT HIS PROTEGE FROM THAT PROCEDURE WOULD CERTAINLY TRY TO REPLACE A HUMAN KIDNEY WITH A PIG’S THIS YEAR.

By Ria Roy

Sir Terence English, who is 87-year-old said that if the result of xenotransplantation is satisfactory with porcine kidneys to humans, then there is a chance that pig hearts would be used with good effects in humans within a few years.

He added that if it works with a porcine kidney it should definitely work with a heart which will have the capability to transform many issues faced currently.

Main consideration factor here is that the anatomy and physiology of a pig’s hearts are very similar to that of a human heart.

Thus they can be used as models for developing new treatments. It also leaves hopes for a successful heart attack treatment which were raised in May after a genetic thera-

py showed promise in pigs.

people in the UK live with heart disease. And millions more have high An international team of scientists, blood pressure as well as another risk including the scientists from the UK, factor in heart attacks. found that delivering a small piece of genetic material i.e, microRNA-199 Ajay Shah, the British Heart Founinto a heart damaged by an attack dation’s chair of cardiology, told the i newspaper that a treatment that helps caused cells to regenerate. the heart repair itself after a heart Myocardial infarction, which is attack is the main holy grail for carcaused as a result of the sudden diologists. This research study will blocking of one of the coronary arter- convincingly demonstrate for the ies, is one of the main reason for heart first time that this might actually be failure. Survivors of heart failure are feasible in case of human hearts and often left with permanent structural also will prove that it is not just a pipe dream. damage to their heart.

It was estimated that about 900,000

team and based on the findings from which were published in the journal Nature it was clear that scientists delivered microRNA-199 into pigs after myocardial infarction. And remarkably there was an almost complete recovery of cardiac function after a month which leaves hopes for a successful human heart attack treatment.

Considerable obstacles remain in this field of study, however, the study findings can be used before the gene therapy and it can be tested on human heart attack patients. Due to the overexpression of microRNA-199 in an uncontrolled way, most of the treated During this study by the scientist pigs died after the treatment.

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A Crashed Spacecraft Spilled Tardigrades On The Moon Did they survive after crash-landing on the moon? Tardigrades— also referred to as water bears– are a few of the toughest as well as most resilient creatures in the world, despite the fact that they are basically very tiny in dimension- virtually microscopic in size i.e, less than a millimeter long.

THEY’RE KNOWN TO BE ABLE TO SURVIVE NEARLY ANY TYPE OF ENVIRONMENT YOU CAN THROW THEM RIGHT INTO, EVEN INTO SPACE. NOW, IT SEEMS THAT SOME OF THEM (OR PERHAPS THEIR REMAINS) ARE CALLING THE MOON HOME, THANKS TO A CRASH LANDING OF AN ISRAELI LUNAR LANDER A FEW MONTHS AGO.

By Ria Roy

Yet while tardigrades could be sturdy, there’s no factor to think they’ll be taking over our nearby celestial neighbor, at any time soon. were sort of expected that the space- lunar library are still resting there in cate inscriptions in the nickel, which It was just before twelve o’clock at night on April 11 and also everybody, at the Israel Aerospace Industries mission control center in Yehud, Israel, was continuously monitoring the 2 large projector screens. On the left, it was a stream of information being returned to Earth by Beresheet, its lunar lander, which was about to become the very first exclusive spacecraft to come down on the moon. On the right screen, it featured a crude animation of Beresheet firing its engines as it planned for a soft touchdown in the Sea of Serenity. However, only secs prior to the scheduled landing, the numbers on the left screen just stopped! The mission control team had lost contact with the spacecraft, and it crashed right into the moon shortly after that.

Nova Spivack watched a Livestream of Beresheet’s mission control from a conference room in Los Angeles.

Spivack, is the founder of the Arch Mission Foundation which is a nonprofit organization whose goal is to create a backup of planet Earth, had a lot at stake in the Beresheet mission. The spacecraft was carrying the foundation’s first lunar library which is a DVD-sized archive containing 30 million pages of data including human DNA samples, and thousands of dehydrated tardigrades which was spilled then on the moon due to crashing effect.

Spivack said that for the first 24 hours they were just in shock and they

craft would be successful. Researchers in the team knew there were risks but they didn’t think the risks were that significant, he added.

Considering that Beresheet had actually crashed, Spivack and also others needed to know the fate of the “lunar library” that spacecraft was carrying. Did it survive the spacecraft crash? What about the tardigrades?

Were they strewn throughout the lunar surface when the crash occurred?

Because the library was designed to last numerous years as well as considering its structure– made of thin sheets of nickel– as well as the trajectory of the spacecraft in the last moments, Spivack thinks it most likely did remaining undamaged.

their dried inactive state as they were, waiting to be restored or revived once again. They can’t do that on their own, though; tardigrades require to be brought back to Earth so that they can be revived by exposing to an atmosphere once again. Once then can they be rehydrated, so there is little worry about these tardigrades taking control of and colonizing on the moon!

The concept was to see exactly how well the tardigrades made it through the journey to the moon as well as whether they could be revived once later. Tardigrades are understood for entering dormant states in which all metabolic procedures stop and the water in their cells is replaced by a protein that transforms the cells into the glass. This is completely typical and normal for them. Tardigrades have been restored as high as 10 years after becoming inactive, although researchers think they might possibly survive much longer without water.

Spivack had not originally intended to send any kind of DNA to the moon this soon, tardigrades or otherwise, but then he changed his mind a couple of weeks before the library was sent to the Israelis. In addition to the dried tardigrades, other examples were also included in the epoxy material between each layer of nickel.

These consisted of hair follicles and also blood from Spivack himself and 24 other people. Also, some examples from divine samples from holy sites were included like the Bodhi tree in India.

Probably then, the tardigrades in the

The library likewise includes deli-

Spivack is no stranger to the dangers of a space expedition. In the late 1990s, the serial business owner used cash from his web firm’s going public to hitch a ride to the edge of space with the Russian Air Force and to end up being an angel financier and investor in the Zero Gravity Corporation, which commercialized parabolic flights in the United States. Yet when Spivack started the Arc Mission Foundation in 2015, he wished to do something different. The plan was to develop archives of all human knowledge that could last for millions, if not billions, of years, as well as to seed them across our Planet and also throughout the solar system.

were done by scientist Bruce Ha, that had established a technique for engraving high-resolution, nano-scale images right into nickel. Pictures were engraved into the glass making use of lasers and after that nickel is transferred atom by atom in a layer on top. The photos look holographic– three-dimensional– and also are so small you need a microscopic lens with 1,000 x magnification to see them.

There was some problem that the resin may damage the nickel engravings however Spivack stated it might in fact have helped saved the collection from destruction on crash effect: There are almost 25 layers of nickel in the lunar library, each one just a few microns thick (one micron is one-thousandth of a millimeter).

Those layers contain a large range of earthly goodies: 60,000 high-resolution pictures of publication pages, consist of language primers, textbooks, and secrets and keys to translate or say decode the other 21 layers. This consists of almost all of the English Wikipedia, thousands of traditional classic books, as well as even the keys to David Copperfield’s magic tricks. Every one of those is discovered in only the first 4 layers.

Other layers have DNA examples and tardigrades.

Spivack intends to send even more comparable libraries to the moon as well as beyond in the future, consisting of DNA samples. The concept

By Diluxi Arya

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is to have several “back-ups” of life on our planet, including from endangered species. It’s an elegant option since hundreds of duplicates of the library can conveniently be made, and also terabytes of data can be kept in a tiny vial of liquid.

A brand-new AMF crowdfunding project this fall will certainly solicit DNA examples from volunteers to include on the next lunar mission. Presumably sensible to have backup copies of life on this world, as Spivack discussed. He said that their focus, as the hard backup of this planet, is to make sure that we protect our heritage including both our knowledge as

August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

well as our biology. He added that we have to sort of plan for the worst!

Luckily for Spivack and also the Arc Objective Foundation, leaving DNA and tardigrades on the moon is totally lawful. NASA’s Workplace of Planetary Protection classifies missions based on the chance that their targets are of the rate of interest to our understanding of life. Thus, missions destined for locations like Mars undergo more stringent sterilization processes than missions to the Moon, which has few of the required conditions permanently and also isn’t at risk of contamination. In fact, Spivack isn’t also the very first to leave DNA on the moon.

This honor comes from the Apollo astronauts, who left almost 100 bags of human feces on the lunar surface before they returned to our Planet.

Silicon Valley, however, Spivack is well on his way to turn it into a truth.

And also as the world faces the results from climate change, the prospect of nuclear battle, and also killer asterCreating a back-up of the entire oids, creating a back-up of human earth is the sort of high-minded op- civilization doesn’t seem like such a timism associated with the titans of bad suggestion after all!

DRDO Fellowships 2019 – Defence Food Research

Laboratory Recruitment – Rs. 54,000 + HRA pm Salary DRDO Fellowships 2019 for eligible candidates. Research Associate & Junior Research Fellow vacancies are up for grabs. MSc & PhD candidates are eligible to attend the walk-in interview. A high pay of Rs. 54,000 will be given.

INTERESTED AND ELIGIBLE CANDIDATES CAN CHECK OUT ALL OF THE DETAILS ON THE SAME BELOW:

By Diluxi Arya

Post I Name of the Post: Research Associate (RA) No. of Posts: 01 Area/s of Research: Food Science and Technology Essential Qualification: M.Sc & PhD with First class in their post-grad & PhD degree.

Monthly Stipend: Candidates should have a minimum of two Research Paper from 1. Research Associate: Rs. their thesis published in peer-re54,000/- + HRA as per DRDO viewed SCI journals. rules.

2. Jr. Research Fellowship (JRFs): Post II Rs. 31,000/- + HRA as per DRDO rules.

Name of the Post: Junior Research Fellow (JRF) Upper Age Limit: No. of Posts: 04 Research Associate (RA) and Jr. Research Fellowship (JRF): 35 years for RA and 28 years for JRF 1. Food Science and Technology according to the date of interview.

2. Food Science and Nutrition (Age is relaxable by five years forSC/ST and 3 years for OBC as per Essential Qualification: Govt. Rules)..

Area/s of Research:

M.Sc. With First-class & NET/ GATE Examination.

How to Apply: 1. The tenure of Research Associate will be for a period of 2 years only and will be ceased automatically after completion. The tenure of Jr. Research Fellowship is initially for two years and will be elevated for a single year as SRF, subject to satisfactory performance to be assessed by the Committee.

2. Qualification for the above post will be determined according to the date of Walk-in-Interview.

3. Application form be downloaded from www.drdo.gov.in 4. Candidates that aren’t fulfilling the above-mentioned qualification shouldn’t apply/attend the Walk-in-Interview.

5. Candidates working in Govt. /

Public Sector Undertakings/Autonomous Bodies should bring ‘No objection certificate’ -at the time of Walk-in-Interview.

6. Candidates will need to produce their original documents for proof of Caste. Age. Education Qualification/NET/GATE and NOC (wherever applicable) along with Passport size Photos.

Failing that, the candidate will be debarred from attending the Walk-in-interview. Candidates can bring project report/technical work demo in support of the candidature.

7. Application form appended in this advertisement could be typed and submitted together with copies of testimonials at the right time of Walk-in-interview.

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August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

8. The antecedent of chosen candidates will be verified at the time of joining. If chosen.

9. Admission shall not be claimed by any candidate as a matter of right. The admission shall be completely at the discretion of the Selection Committee of this Laboratory, which may refuse to admit any candidate without assigning any reason thereof. The number of seats for RA and JRF

may decrease or increase without prior notice.

10. It may please be noted that the offer of Fellowship doesn’t confer on Fellows any right of absorption in DRDO. 11. Reporting time is 0900 hrs on 18 Sep 2019 at the main gate of DFRL. Mysore. Latecomers won’t be allowed at any cost.

12. The Candidates who’re willing to attend a Walk-in-interview

can send their consent together with their Bio-Data.

13. The candidate will need to mention the Position and Subject for which he/she appears/applied.

14. How to reach the venue of Walk-in-interview: – DFRL is located 2 kms from Mysore Suburban Bus-Stand and 5 kms from Railway Station and nearest Land Mark is Mysore Milk Dairy, T. Narasipur Road, Mys-

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ore-570011.

15. No TA/DA is going to be compensated for attending Walk-in-Interview or for joining.

If selected.

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NEWS

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Billions of Bees in Brazil, Drop Dead – Scientists Indicate It As A Message For Humans Most of the bees found dead in Brazil showed traces of Fipronil, an insecticide prescribed in the European Union and classified as a possible human carcinogen by the US Environmental Protection Agency.

APIS MELLIFERA THE SPECIES OF HONEY BEES FOUND DEAD SHOWED SOME SIGNS OF SICKNESS AND WITHIN 48 HRS DROPPED DEAD!

By Rahul Mishra

Aldo Machado vice president of Brazil’s the Rio Grande do Sul beekeeping association said that as soon as the healthy honey bees got contaminated from the dead ones, the healthy honey bees stared dying en mass.

As many as half a billion bees died in four of Brazil’s southern states in the year’s first months. This event raised a question about the ocean of pesticides used in Brazil’s agricultural sector and whether chemicals are washing through the human food supply – even as the government considers permitting more usage of pesticides.

Brazil witnessed a whopping 27% increase in its pesticide sale since President Jair Bolsonaro took office. Some of the newly permitted pesticide manufacturers include Cropchem and Ouro Fino, Arysta Lifescience, Nufarm and Adama Agricultural Solutions.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Brazil’s pesticide usage increased by 770% from 1990 to 2016.

According to the Agricultural Ministry of Brazil, the ‘fertile nation’ ranks 44th in the world in the use of pesticides per hectare and that, as a tropical country, it is incorrect to compare Brazil’s practices with those of temperate regions.

Brazil’s health watchdog Anvisa, in its latest report, stated that 20% of

the food samples contained pesticide residues above-permitted levels or contained unauthorized pesticides.

Carlos Alberto Bastos, president of the Apiculturist Association of Brazil’s Federal District, said that the death of bees in Brazil is a warning sign. It proves to the fact that due to the overuse of pesticides, people are being poisoned.

Bees Dead in Brazil- The real scenario Agriculture accounts for about 18% of Brazil’s economy, the most significant contributor to its GDP. Bolsonaro was elected with strong support from agribusiness and has expressed disdain for environmental concerns.

Easing pesticide approvals was a commitment by President Bolsonaro. The agriculture sector has complained for years about slowness. His administration has allowed the industry-wide liberty to use whatever chemicals one likes.

According to Marina Lacorte, a coordinator at Greenpeace Brazil said that about 40% of Brazil’s pesticides are highly or exceptionally highly toxic. In the EU 30% is allowable amount. Approvals to use chemicals

are being expedited without proper evaluation by concerned institutions. She says politics is the crucial reason for this.

Andreza Martinez, manager for regulation at Sindiveg, a group representing pesticide producers, said that the government is essentially giving approvals to ingredients rather than the final product. Pests develop resistance to a particular chemical if it’s used repeatedly.

Brazil’s health ministry reported 15,018 cases of agricultural pesticide poisoning in 2018 but acknowledged that this is likely an underestimate.

The sudden death of honey bees is undoubtedly an indication of the disastrous effects of pesticides on the environment.

Andresa Batista, one of the victims of pesticide poisoning, recalls the day when she went to work picking soybeans on one of the plantations on the plains surrounding the capital, Brasilia. Soon, she started feeling dizzy and nauseous. More than 40 families fell ill that day, indicating the adverse effects of pesticides. Even one year later, Batista has difficulty in eating, and she has lost 30% of her vision. Doctors are unable to give

her a prognosis due to uncertainty about the type of pesticide that poisoned Andresa. Dupont do Brasil, the company that had the contract to manage the field, agreed to pay damages of 50,000 reais ($13,000) to one of Batista’s coworkers that day. Batista said the company paid her 40,000 reais. The sudden death of Bees in Brazil is proof that the pesticides are not just harming Humans but equally on animals as well.

Despite incidents such as the death of bees in Brazil, the Government may accelerate approvals yet further, rebranding pesticides as “agricultural defenses.”

Alceu Moreira, head of the lower house’s Agricultural Ministry says that the image of the Brazilian government is being downgraded by projecting that the nation is overusing pesticides, which they are not.

Though Small organizations and Startups are undertaking steps for organic farming. Tatiana Carvalho, a 31-year old who runs a small organically grown food delivery service in Brasilia, says sales have continuously increased since she started four years ago. She attributes her success to greater consumer awareness.

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Scientists Find High Levels of Plastic in The Arctic Region!

Plastic Found In Arctic signals to their ubiquity in the environment, and we are breathing them! The study reveals that Arctic surface waters have the highest microplastics concentrations of all the world’s oceans.

RESEARCHERS FROM GERMANY’S ALFRED WEGENER INSTITUTE FOR POLAR AS WELL AS FROM THE MARINE RESEARCH AND THE SWISS INSTITUTE FOR SNOW AND AVALANCHE RESEARCH HAVE FOUND A SUBSTANTIAL AMOUNT OF PLASTIC FRAGMENTS AND FIBERS ATOP ICE FLOES IN THE FRAM STRAIT WHICH IS AN UNPOPULATED EXPANSE OF OCEAN BETWEEN GREENLAND AND THE NORWEGIAN ARCTIC ARCHIPELAGO OF SVALBARD.

By Rahul Mishra

This study shows that Microplastic has invaded various parts of our Planet, including the most remote reaches of the Arctic.

Researchers have been trying to find out how Microplastics makes its way to such distant locations far from the urban centers where it’s usually generated. Samples from various remote areas of the Arctic Region were collected between 2015-17 reveling high levels of Microplastics. This study raises concerns about how much microplastics contaminate the Atmosphere, posing a potential health risk to people and animals.

Melanie Bergmann, a senior marine ecologist with the Alfred Wegener Institute, says that the significant exposure pathway may be the air that we breathe. Bergmann and her team had been studying plastics on the Arctic seafloor since 2002. They noticed a massive increase in Plastics found in the Arctic in the past decade, including a tenfold increase in some stations. This shows that though the Arctic is situated in a remote location, the world’s pollution eventually makes its way there.

While looking for Microplastics, the scientists found them in abundant quantity in the Arctic water column.

Around 6,000 particles were found in every 2.2 pounds of mud near the deep-sea sediments. Sea ice was found to have an enormous quantity of Microplastic- 12,000 particles per 34 ounces of melted ice! The Study reveals that Arctic surface waters had the highest microplastics concentrations of all the world’s oceans.

Plastic Found In Arctic- How do Plastics Travel to the Arctic?

Melanie Bergmann says that the primary source is the Gulf Stream and Strong Atlantic Currents, which starts from Northern Europe.

Another question of concern to the scientists was whether the Atmosphere contributes to Microplastic transportation.

A recent study shows that the Atmosphere contributed to the transport of Microplastics in the remote Mountain of Pyrenees. Bergmann and her team surveyed to find the answer.

Snow samples from ice floes in the Fram Strait had surprisingly high concentrations of microplastics.

The average across all samples was 1,800 particles. To be super sure the researchers co-related the data with snow near urban sites in Germany and the Alps. An average of 24,600 particles per 34 ounces was found showing a considerably high amount of Microplastic.

Scientists concluded that Microplastic found in the Arctic region was substantial and the data reveals a significant atmospheric role of Microplastic transportation across the globe!

Bergmann says that Microplastics are everywhere and aerial transportation is the pathway to transport Microplastic to the remotest parts of our Planet. This means that the Atmosphere is the principal source of exposure of Microplastics to humans and animals and some concentration of it may even make it to our lungs.

Jennifer Provencher, head of the wildlife health unit for the Cana-

dian Wildlife Service says that the new study reveals the reality of Microplastic traveling across the world.

She says that Microplastics in Snow was more deadly when compared to animals inhaling it. More damage is caused when these snow melts and enters the aquatic environment.

Jennifer Provencher says that Microplastics pose a significant threat to the environment as it harms terrestrial, water as well as tropical ecosystems.

Chelsea Rochman, University of Toronto microplastics researcher, who was not a part of this study, says that she was surprised at first to learn that the particles were being transported in the Atmosphere. Rochman noted that since we are aware of Microplastic transportation through the Atmosphere, we should not be surprised by its presence in the Arctic.

As far as human health is concerned, we have insufficient study data to confirm its ill effect. Rochman says we need more Study to fully understand the impact of Microplastic on human health though scientists have found that Microplastics enter every level of the food chain in aquatic ecosystems.

Even worse maybe the threat from airborne nano plastics. They are so small they’re mostly invisible and about which almost nothing is known so far. Bergmann says that nano plastics can enter into cells posing a threat to humans.

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Bengaluru Dengue Outbreak: BBMP Clueless On Vacant Post of Biologist!

The Bengaluru city accounts for an overwhelming 61% i.e, about 4,935 cases out of the 8,084 dengue cases reported in Karnataka till August 16 this year.

IN THE MIDST OF DENGUE OUTBREAK, THE ONLY POST OF A BIOLOGIST IN THE MOSQUITO CONTROL UNIT OF BRUHAT BENGALURU MAHANAGARA PALIKE (BBMP) WHICH WAS SANCTIONED UNDER THE URBAN VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES (VBD) SCHEME LIES VACANT.

By Ria Roy

A biologist might have aided in discerning a pattern in dengue incidence and assisted efficiently as well as a targeted treatment.

Besides this, there are no posts of entomologists in the city administration and management to work on mosquito-control actions and the civic body is depending on gang men (those spray insecticides) to implement the actions against dengue outbreak in Bengaluru.

Responding to the concern raised by Tejasvi Surya, Bengaluru South MP, BBMP claimed there are no posts of entomologists in the Palike. Asked if there was any proposal to hire entomologists as well as additional assistant entomologists to monitor vector-borne disease-control measures, BBMP in its reply (dated July 26) claimed there is no such proposal.

BBMP admitted that there was one post of biologist sanctioned in the mosquito-control unit of them under the vector-borne disease (VBD) system which is vacant currently.

Dr. BK Vijendra, BBMP’s chief health officer (public health) admitted he had no clue that the post of biologist was vacant when the dengue outbreak is happening in Bengaluru. he added that he is new to this role and was not aware of this. He didn’t know how a biologist’s functioning in BBMP could ease this situation.

He further included that the Palike is reviewing recruiting one assistant entomologist in each of its 8 areas for vector-borne disease-control steps. Nonetheless, several BBMP officers TOI spoke to confirmed they were not even aware of when the post was approved or why it has been vacant.

Jemla Naik, professor, University of Agricultural Sciences, department of entomology, said that entomologists in BBMP could have added value by taking measures and creating awareness among the public about dengue when Bengaluru is suffering from Dengue Outbreak.

He added that monitoring mosquito-breeding spots and guiding and by creating awareness on the public on keeping their houses and premises free from larvae breeding could have been effectively done by entomologists and biologists. The dengue causing mosquito Aedes aegypti hides in silent places, dark backgrounds, and even behind black clothes. There is a need to create awareness to control the Bengaluru Dengue Outbreak!

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New Pain Sensing Organ Discovered Scientists have discovered a new pain sensing body organ in the skin that detects discomfort and also might lead the way for more reliable and effective painkilling medication.

THESE PAIN SENSING CELLS DEVELOP A “MESH-LIKE NETWORK” WHICH IS SO COMPREHENSIVE IT NEEDS TO BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION AS A BODY ORGAN, RESEARCHERS CLAIM.

By Ria Roy

Previously it was thought the endings of nerve cells were unwrapped, yet this most current research recommends that is not the situation.

Patrik Ernfors, senior study author, from Sweden’s Karolinska Institute said that their study on new pain sensing organ shows that sensitivity to pain does not occur only in the skin’s nerve fibers, but also in this recently discovered pain sensing organ. He added that this discovery is going to change our understanding of the cellular mechanisms of physical sensation as well as this study may be of significance in the understanding of chronic pain.

This new pain sensing sensory organ has Schwann cells that have multiple long protrusions that wrap themselves around nerve cells. This helps keeps them to be alive, according to the paper published in Journal Sci-

ence.

These cells rest below the external layer of skin (the epidermis) and also their lengthy tentacle-like projections prolong up right into the outer layer. Not only do they wrap around nerve endings but, like nerve cells, they also produce pain and also are extremely sensitive to stimulation.

they licked and also trembled them, revealing that these cells i.e, pain sensing organ with Specialized cutaneous Schwann cells had actually caused them pain.

Feeling pain is needed for survival and also protects our bodies from damages by promoting response reactions, such as pulling away if you touch something very hot.

In experiments, Scientists genetically modified mice so that their Schwann cells were stimulated by light. When light shone on their feet

Almost one in 5 people experience continuous discomfort and pain and also a significant quantity of money and efforts are put into discovering

new painkilling medications.

Researchers say there is still more research to do on this new organ which is the specialized cutaneous Schwann cells that initiate pain sensation Dr. Ernfors said that they have not studied these organs in humans yet. However, when considering the fact that all previously found known sensory organs in the mouse had also existed in humans, there is a chance that it is possible if not likely that new pain sensing cell type does exist also in the human skin.

A Simple Blood Test Could Help Diagnose Glioblastoma in Future!

A group of scientists at the University of Sussex moves a step closer in developing Blood Test to diagnose Glioblastoma, the most aggressive type of brain tumor.

PROFESSOR GEORGIOS GIAMA AND TEAM AT THE UNIVERSITY OF SUSSEX HAS IDENTIFIED NOVEL BIOMARKERS WITHIN BODILY FLUIDS, WHICH SIGNAL THE PRESENCE OF THE TUMOR. THIS COULD BE THE FIRST STEP TO DEVELOP A BLOOD TEST TO DETECT GLIOBLASTOMA.

By Rahul Mishra

Biomarkers are a group of signatures molecules specific for a particular disease. These Biomarkers also indicates the presence of cancer in the body. Targeting Cancer biomarkers is critical to detect cancer. These are molecules that are either exclusively Next Page>>>>

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found or are over-expressed in cancer cells, as compared to normal, healthy cells.

This study has been published in Nature, wherein Professor Georgios and his team describe specific Biomarkers. These Biomarkers are associated with extracellular vesicles, which are released by Cancerous cells for Cell Signalling and Communication.

The discovery suggests that bodily fluids like blood could be a more natural way to detect glioblastoma.

A simple Blood Test For Glioblastoma would be an advantage over a biopsy, which is both invasive and painful for the patient as well as takes considerable time.

Georgios Giamas, Professor of Cancer Cell Signalling in the School of Life Sciences, said that Glioblastoma is the most aggressive form of brain tumor. He added that his team of scientists had discovered biomarkers, which helps in detecting Glioblastoma. Soon, there could be a way to use bodily fluids to test for the tumor.

Currently, a team of researchers is finding ways to develop Liquid Biopsies like blood tests to spot other types of cancers. Liquid Biopsies is a technique wherein it would allow doctors to take a small sample of blood and check for a range of biomarkers. This test will help identify the subtype of the tumor as well.

Dr. Thomas Simon, the co-author

of this research, said that Liquid biopsies would mean a less invasive procedure for patients leading to the generation of faster reports. The new Liquid Biopsies would prove to be invaluable to the patients with an aggressively developing tumor. He further highlighted the importance of discovering more such Biomarkers which would help in detection Glioblastoma.

Rosemary Lane, a Ph.D. student in Professor Giamas’ lab and co-author of the study, added that Glioblastoma subtyping is crucial for patient prognosis and personalized therapies. She said that molecular differences could be identified due to the extracellular vesicles. These molecular differences would lead to the discovering of more such Biomarkers to detect Glioblastoma subtypes.

There are three sub-types of Glioblastoma. All the sub-types have specific biomarkers. More clinical studies need to be carried out to detect these Biomarkers. This would be the key to improve the accuracy of diagnosis and develop a more personalized Blood test to detect Glioblastoma and its subtype.

The next challenging step for researchers is to test and validate the presence of these newly described biomarkers in glioblastoma patients.

Action Against Cancer, the charity funding this study said Liquid Biopsy Technique could ultimately become an option for diagnosing Glioblastoma.

Mystery of DNA Methylation Unlocked by Scientists Successfully coupled enzymes with specific methylation patterns in two bacteria. All species in the world mark their DNA with methyl groups.

THIS IS DONE TO CONTROL AND REGULATE THE GENE EXPRESSION AS WELL AS TO DIFFERENTIATE NATIVE DNA FROM FOREIGN DNA, OR TO MARK OLD DNA STRANDS THROUGHOUT DUPLICATION.

By Ria Roy

Methylation is accomplished by specific enzymes called methyltransferases. These enzymes decorate DNA with methyl groups in certain patterns to create an epigenetic layer on top of DNA. Until now, researchers have not been struggling to tell which enzymes in the organism’s body are responsible for which patterns. But in a recent study, published in journal Nature Communications, scientists from The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability (DTU Biosustain) at Technical University of Denmark have successfully coupled enzymes with specific methylation patterns in two bacteria.

Torbjørn Ølshøj Jensen from DTU Biosustain, Specialist and first-author of the paper on a method uncovering the mystery of DNA Methylation, said that by knowing which enzyme does what opens up to a lot of applications. With this knowledge of the function of enzymes, one can construct model organisms with ar-

tificial methylomes which are by mimicking the methylation pattern of the strain one wants to introduce DNA to. In this way one can ensure the survival of introduced DNA, he added.

Researchers often run into problems with methylation and give to much of attention to the methylation of DNA particularly when they try to introduce a foreign DNA to a host organism, for instance, bacteria or yeast. Introduction of foreign DNA to a host is essential when building the production hosts that are often called cell factories. This makes them capable of producing, for instance, medicine, sustainable

bio-chemicals, and food ingredients.

Often, to achieve this, the host needs genes (DNA) from other organisms i.e, foreign DNA in order to produce the sought-for compounds.

But in most of these cases, the host will reject the foreign DNA. The host chops the foreign DNA into pieces.

This rejection of foreign DNA is initiated by the host, happens because the methylation patterns in the Foreign DNA reveal that the DNA is alien or it isn’t a part of the Host system. Researchers working with E. coli for their experiments, usually don’t have that many problems. This is because when introducing new DNA as E. coli is well-known as

well as well-behaved it doesn’t create many problems and complications. But moving into lesser-known hosts can become a great problem.

Torbjørn Ølshøj Jensen led this study uncovering the mystery of DNA Methylation also added that working in other bacteria than E. coli, scientists often have to do a lot of trial and error when it comes to DNA transformation. But these trial and error methods are just not good enough. They need to have more knowledge as well as tools. With these tools and knowledge, they will have a systematic and rational way of fixing the problems associated Next Page>>>>

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with DNA Transformation.

The goal of this recent study was to find out, which enzymes are responsible for which patterns. In order to uncover this mystery of DNA Methylation, the scientist team constructed DNA-rings (extrachromosomal round DNA -plasmids) containing one of the methyltransferases and cassettes which holds multiple copies of certain DNA patterns. These DNA-patterns are called motifs.

They are the targets for enzymes methyltransferases. By coupling the methyltransferases with Cassettes with certain DNA patterns, the methyltransferase enzyme expressed by the plasmid would mark the DNA in a specific way. This reveals the methyltransferase enzyme’s methylation pattern.

This was done for almost all methyltransferases enzymes. After this coupling, all the plasmids (in a pool) were read using a sequencing method. This sequencing method is designed to reveal methyl groups.

This gave the scientists a library of enzyme-to-motif couplings.

This quick method of identifying methyltransferase enzyme methylation patterns on DNA holds great promise to other researchers struggling with DNA degradation as well as uncovers the mystery of DNA Methylation, according to the research team led the study.

To validate the method which reveals the mystery of DNA methyla-

tion, the researchers analyzed the genomes of the temperature-resistant bacterium M. thermoacetica as well as the bacterium A. woodii. Both of these bacterias are hosts with great potential for industrial applications and substantially modified genomes.

In total, the two bacterial organisms hold around 23 methyltransferase genes, but only show modification on 12 different DNA-motifs on their genomes. This means that not all methyltransferases are active in these bacterial organisms.

The scientist team of this study assessed all of the 23 methyltransferases from these bacterial organisms, looking for those being active on their genomes. For 11 motifs out

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of the 12 motifs, scientists were able to couple activity to specific methyltransferases gene.

Using this method that is capable of revealing mysteries of DNA Methylation, the scientist team hopes to design hosts with an unambiguous “methylome” — meaning that the organism only harbors wanted methyltransferases, which will ease the introduction of foreign DNA even into non-model organisms.

This study results can be useful when building cell factories based upon new or lesser-known hosts.

The study results can also be useful in order to understand the regulation of gene expression as well as cell differentiation.

Meet New Evolving Superbug That Thrives On Sugary Western Diets!

New Evolving Superbug found to cause diarrhea thrives on the sugar-rich Western diet, according to a new study.

NITIN KUMAR, A SENIOR BIOINFORMATICIAN AT THE WELLCOME TRUST SANGER INSTITUTE SAID THAT A BACTERIA CALLED CLOSTRIDIUM DIFFICILE. C. DIFFICILE PRODUCES SPORES THAT SPREAD THROUGH CONTACT WITH FECES.

By Rahul Mishra

They can commonly be found in bathrooms or on surfaces that people touch without properly washing their hands. He said that these bacteria have become increasingly resistant to disinfectants used in hospitals.

Mr. Kumar further added that the patients taking antibiotics were at greater risk of developing diarrhea from C. difficile- the New Evolving Superbug. This is because of the antibiotics that clear away the healthy gut bacteria that typically fight infection.

ered the same species, two groups of microorganisms should ideally share 95% of their genetic material.

This data indicates that they are on the verge of speciation. Speciation will result in the New Evolving Superbug. Mr. Kumar added that it is uncommon for bacteria to evolve.

For the study, 906 different strains of bacteria were collected by Mr. Kumar and the team from the environment, humans, and animals such as dogs, pigs, and horses. When an analysis was done the researchers found that C. difficile was emerging out as two separate species. This can be verified by the fact that the two species share around 94-95% of their genome. In order to be consid-

C. difficile clade A is one of the New Evolving Superbug that thrives in hospitals. 70% of the samples collected by the research team from the hospitals were dominated by them.

A detailed DNA Analysis revealed that this emerging species started evolving 76,000 years ago. Due to mutations in its genes, the bacteria species metabolize sugars and form disinfectant-resistant spores.

The researchers then introduced the C. difficile clade A bacteria to mice that were being given different diets. Results revealed that the New Evolving Superbug the C. difficile bacteria were more likely to thrive and colonize the gut when the mice ate diets rich in simple sugars, such as glucose and fructose.

Mr. Kumar said that our diet played a major role in the evolution of this Superbug. Other factors may include the type of disinfectant commonly used in hospitals. These factors are helping the bacteria to evolve more rapidly. These results suggest that it might be helpful if patients infected from C. difficile clade A bacteria were kept on a low sugar diet.

Hospitals should also consider using new disinfectants to avoid the development of resistance in these New Evolving superbugs.

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Scientists Successful In Reversing Ageing Process In Rat Brain Stem Cells New ways to reverse older cells to Younger! A new study that is published yesterday in Nature, reveals how increasing brain stiffness as we age causes brain stem cell dysfunction as well as demonstrates new ways to reverse older stem cells to a younger, healthier state.

THE RESULTS OF THE SUCCESSFUL REVERSE AGING PROCESS IN RAT BRAIN STEM CELLS RESEARCH STUDY HAVE FAR-REACHING IMPLICATIONS FOR HOW WE UNDERSTAND THE AGING PROCESS, AND HOW WE MIGHT DEVELOP MUCH-NEEDED TREATMENTS FOR AGE-RELATED BRAIN DISEASES.

By Ria Roy

Muscles and joints can become stiff as we age, making our everyday movements more and more difficult.

This successful reverse aging process research study shows the same is true in our brains. The age-related brain stiffening has a significant impact on the function of our brain stem cells.

A multi-disciplinary scientist team, based at the Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute (University of Cambridge), has studied young and old rat brain cells. This was to understand the impact of age-related brain stiffening and the reverse aging process on the function of brain cells like oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs).

These oligodendrocyte progenitor cells are a type of brain stem cell important for maintaining normal brain function. These cells have a major role in the regeneration of myelin i.e, the fatty sheath that surrounds our nerves, which is damaged in multiple sclerosis (MS). The effects of age on brain stem cells contribute to Multiple Sclerosis as well as their function also declines with age in healthy people.

To understand further and to determine whether the loss of function in aged OPCs was reversible, the researchers transplanted older oligodendrocyte progenitor cells from aged rats into the healthy, soft, spongy brains of younger animals.

Remarkably, the researchers found that the older brain cells were rejuvenated. The older brain cells then began to behave just like the younger, more vigorous cells.

To study the reverse aging process further, the researchers developed new materials in the lab with varying degrees of stiffness, toughness.

They used these materials to grow and study the rat brain stem cells in a controlled environment. The newly developed materials were engineered to have a similar softness or stiffness to either young or old brains.

In order to understand how brain softness and stiffness influences cell behavior, the scientists investigat-

ed Piezo1—a protein found on the cell surface, which informs the cell whether the surrounding environment is soft or stiff.

Dr. Kevin Chalut, who co-led the research, said that the research team was fascinated to see that when they could grow young functioning rat brain stem cells on the stiff material i.e on the cells that became dysfunctional and which had lost their ability to regenerate, and in fact, which began to function like aged cells. It was especially interesting when the old brain cells were grown on the soft material and they began to function like young cells, in other words, they were rejuvenated and a successful reverse aging process occurred.

Professor Robin Franklin, who coled the research with Dr. Chalut explained that when they removed Piezo1 from the surface of aged brain stem cells, researchers were able to trick the cells into perceiv-

ing a soft surrounding environment, even when they were growing on the stiff material. Researchers were able to delete Piezo1 in the OPCs within the aged rat brains, which lead to the cells becoming rejuvenated and once again able to assume their normal regenerative function. Franklin added.

Dr. Susan Kohlhaas, Director of Research at the MS Society, who part-funded the research, said that the Multiple Sclerosis is relentless, painful, and disabling. The treatments that can slow and prevent the accumulation of this disability over time are desperately needed. The discoveries by Cambridge team on how brain stem cells age and how this process might be reversed have important implications for future treatment. This is because the discoveries made by the research team gives us a new target to address issues associated with aging and MS, including how to potentially regain lost function in the brain, he added.

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Tokyo 2020 Paratriathlon Swimming Canceled Due to High Levels of E. Coli Tokyo 2020 Paratriathlon Swimming was Cancelled after tests showed levels of E. coli more than double the acceptable standard.

THE SWIMMING SECTION OF A PARA-TRIATHLON EXAMINATION EVENT FOR TOKYO 2020 WAS TERMINATED ON SATURDAY DUE TO HIGH LEVELS OF MICROORGANISMS IN THE WATER.

By Rahul Mishra

This is the latest development from the event, which has faced a series of difficulties over water quality and high-temperature standards.

Olympic organizers have actually won great appreciation for their preparation, but extreme summer conditions and inadequate water quality have actually brought many roadblocks at the practice events.

With less than a years time to go until the opening game, the International Triathlon Union (ITU) canceled the swimming section after examinations showed levels of E. coli more than double the acceptable standard.

The 70 para triathletes instead competed in a duathlon format with two runs and a bike race.

Shinichiro Otsuka, managing director of Japan’s Triathlon Union, said that he was sorry for the athletes as the management could not prepare the competition conditions adequately due to which the Tokyo

2020 Paratriathlon Swimming test was canceled. He said that his team would take adequate steps to make the event a success.

the para triathletes falling sick have been reported due to the extreme heatwave and weather conditions.

Clare Cunningham Former British paralympic triathlete tweeted that Saturday’s decision to abridge the race was a significant setback for the para triathletes adding that it was disappointing for all.

Competitors at Tokyo 2020 Paratriathlon Swimming swimming test event on Sunday complained of smelly water and high water temperature at Odaiba Bay, the location for long-distance swimming and triathlon.

Recently, French triathlete Cassandre Beaugrand was taken to the hospital for suspected heatstroke. After this, the women’s triathlon run was cut short due to extreme heat in Tokyo on Thursday. More such cases of

Organizers of the Tokyo 2020 Paratriathlon are desperate to avoid the embarrassment of the 2016 Olympics in Rio when the pool used for diving events turned an unsettling shade of green overnight.

In October 2017, Tokyo 2020 organizers were shocked after the tests revealed that the levels of E. coli were more than 20 times higher than international standards, sparking doubts about the venue’s safety.

Organizers said that tests using underwater “screens” to filter the water had successfully reduced bacteria levels at the venue.

Masa Takaya Tokyo 2020 Paratriathlon spokesperson said that the team would do their best to prepare a safe environment for the events which are scheduled to take place next year.

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Dog Detectives Detect Pathogenic Bacteria Causing Lung Infection Dog Detectives detect the pathogenic bacteria that cause lung infections in Cystic Fibrosis (CF) patients. These Sniffer Dogs are specially trained to detect ultra-low concentrations of these pathogens.

BACTERIAL INFECTIONS ARE A MAJOR CAUSE OF LUNG DAMAGE IN PEOPLE WITH CYSTIC FIBROSIS (CF) PATIENTS. PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA IS ONE OF THE PATHOGENS THAT IS INVOLVED IN CAUSING INFECTION, CHRONICALLY INFECTING AROUND 60% OF AROUND 10,000 CF PATIENTS IN THE UK.

By Rahul Mishra

In a study by Imperial College London and the charity Medical Detection Dogs, scientists found that specially trained medical detection dogs were able to detect ultra-low concentrations of the pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa), which is the most common cause of lung infection in that these Dog Detectives that detect pathogenic bacteria had a positive people with Cystic Fibrosis. impact on patients as they can now This finding was published in the send samples from their home for its European Respiratory Journal. It re- processing by these Dog Detectives. veals that these Dog Detectives were These dogs were trained to recognize able to differentiate between Pseu- cultured liquid samples containing domonas aeruginosa and other path- Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Whenever they gave positive indication while ogens. sniffing samples, they were rewardResearchers consider these trained ed. They were further trained by givdogs to be more sensitive and af- ing them a variety of samples. These fordable at the same time when com- included samples included either Pa, pared to the existing technologies for other cultured bacteria, or sterile liqscreening lower airway infections in uid in a random sequence.

CF patients.

The team of scientists measured the sensitivity and specificity of the aniProfessor Jane Davies, from the National Heart and Lung Institute at mals—where sensitivity is how accuImperial College London, said that it rately they correctly identify the presis challenging to develop advanced ence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and technology to detect respiratory in- specificity is to what degree of accufections. Training of these dogs was racy they can rule it out in a sample. done on cultured samples. This would In trials with samples of Pseunow serve as a foundation for testing domonas aeruginosa versus other patients samples directly. He termed bacteria familiar to the dogs, a mean sensitivity of 94.2% and a specificity this as an ‘exciting development’. of 98.5% was recorded. But when the Professor Davies further explained dogs came up against Pseudomonas

aeruginosa versus previously unencountered bacteria, two of the animals maintained average sensitivity above 90%. When it came to the detection of heavily diluted samples of Pseudomonas aeruginosa as well as samples that were mixed with other pathogens, the dog detectives had a sensitivity of more than 93% and 86%, respectively.

Dr. Claire Guest, Chief Executive and co-founder of Medical Detection Dogs, said that this was one of the first studies carried out in the world and its findings will have a remarkable contribution to saving human lives.

The infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa can be successfully treated with the proper administering of appropriate antibiotics, but frequently reoccurs and in later stages, they acquire antibiotic resistance.

Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa is closely linked with faster lung function decline and earlier mortality.

tion may often be harder to diagnose and once it takes hold of the lungs it becomes extremely difficult to cure the infection. These patients may typically be prescribed broad-spectrum antibiotics which may have a limited effect on Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Early detection of the cause which generally goes unnoticed, could lead to prescribing more targeted antibiotics.

Dr. Guest added, that In the UK thousands of cases were reported on Pseudomonas infection. He further said that these Dog Detectives that detect Pathogenic bacteria would definitely help tackle this situation.

Dr. Janet Allen, Director of Strategic Innovation at the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, said this quick and easy way to detect Pseudomonas would make a massive difference to people with cystic fibrosis and their families. He said that scientists are working on advancing this project so that patients with cystic fibrosis can live longer In children, the root cause of infec- and healthier lives.

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Stem Cell Grown Mini Kidneys Provides In-depth Insights Into Kidney Diseases Stem Cell Grown Mini Kidneys has paved the way for researchers to tailor treatment plans specific to each patient, which could be extended to a wide range of kidney diseases.

A TEAM OF MEDICAL RESEARCHERS FROM THE NANYANG TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY, SINGAPORE (NTU SINGAPORE) HAS GROWN ‘MINI KIDNEYS’ THAT COULD BE USED TO UNDERSTAND BETTER HOW KIDNEY DISEASES DEVELOP IN INDIVIDUAL PATIENTS.

By Rahul Mishra

These mini kidneys also called kidney organoids, were grown in Laboratory from skin cells derived from a single patient who was suffering from polycystic kidney disease.

Polycystic Kidney Disease is one of the most common causes of kidney failure in adults. The Mini Kidneys were grown outside the body from of kidney disease such as Diabetic Neskin cells derived from a single patient phropathy. who was suffering from Polycystic Professor Juan Carlos Izpisua BelKidney Disease. monte, an international collaborator The researchers reprogrammed these of this study, said, that this study has skin cells to obtain patient-specif- made a small step closer to using these ic pluripotent stem cells. These skin kidney organoids for replacement cells, when supplemented with right therapies. conditions, can develop into kidney organoids similar to human fetal kid- The kidney organoids developed by neys. This took around three to six Prof Xia Yun and her team may also offer new insights into human kidney months for complete development. development. While the origin of kidThe Stem cell mini kidneys were then ney blood vessel networks is not fully used to validate the therapeutic effects known, it is widely accepted by the of two drug molecules. They had the scientific community that a specific potential for treating genetic polycys- type of stem cell known as ‘vascular tic kidney disease. This study demon- progenitors’ is involved in their formastrates that the research could be of tion by developing into blood vessel significant value in developing per- cells. sonalized treatments for people with The NTU-led team also discovered this disease. a new source of stem cells called the Scientists have paved the way for tai- Nephron Progenitor Cells. These stem loring treatment plans specific to each cells are known to contribute to makpatient, which could be extended to a ing these blood vessel networks. Berange of kidney diseases by generating fore this discovery, these cells were induced pluripotent stem cells from an known only as precursors to nephrons, adult patient with genetic kidney dis- the kidney’s filtering units. ease and then growing kidney orgaFoo Jia Nee, NTU LKCMedicine noids from them.

Assistant Professor, said that by using Xia Yun and her team led this re- this novel organoid platform, researchsearch work at the Nanyang Techno- ers unexpectedly discovered a new logical University, Singapore. She said source of renal blood vessels that may that patients genetic makeup played a improve our understanding of kidney crucial role in the development of kid- development. ney disease. They type of mutation The mini kidneys may also be used within the disease-causing gene differs to understand the development of from patient to patient. She highlight- nephrons in the kidney better. Some ed the role of mini kidneys grown with new known facts about kidneys which the help of stem cells to administer researchers found are that the number drugs for a specific patient suffering of nephrons at birth is inversely relatfrom Polycystic Kidney Disease. The ed to the incidence of hypertension researches believe that this approach and kidney failure later in life. They can be followed to study other types also noticed that being born with a

high nephron number appears to pro- disease and genetically reprogrammed vide some degree of protection against them into stem cells. these conditions.

As an adult human body does not Dr. Jonathan Loh Yuin-Han a Stem have any Kidney Stem Cells, the creacell scientist, senior principal inves- tion of these induced pluripotent stem tigator at the Institute of Molecular cells is necessary. and Cell Biology at the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research These organoids developed flusaid that this study represents a mas- id-filled cysts that are characteristic sive transformation in this field. These of the disease four to five weeks later.

Mini Kidneys are anatomical, and This signaled that they were ready to functional hallmarks of the real organ be used to test the efficacy of potential hence provide deep insights into the drug candidates for drug development. kidney developmental processes.

When these mini kidneys were imUnderstanding the inner workings planted into mice, the blood vessel of a diseased kidney with the help of network of these organoids successMini Kidneys fully connected with the host mice circulation system. Later, they developed To study the effects of genetic poly- a more mature organ that is capable cystic kidney disease, Prof Xia and her of preliminary filtration and reabsorpteam first took regular adult cells from tion. an adult patient suffering from this

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SCHOLARSHIPS

August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

Shah Rukh Khan Scholarship at La Trobe, Australia – Applications Open

D

ear Biotecnikans, Picture abhi baki hai, mere dost, and in the honour of SRK, a scholarship has been introduced at La Trobe, Australia to pursue a PhD Degree in varying fields. Exclusive to Indian Nationals, so all of you interested, do check out the information on the same that has been detailed below:

Shah Rukh Khan Scholarship at La Trobe Aligned to Shah Rukh Khan’s leadership on social and humanitarian justice causes, this esteemed fouryear PhD scholarship intends to inspire a female researcher from India to undertake research to help find solutions to the growing challenges of the time. The scholarship has been introduced in recognition of Mr Khan’s dedication to women’s empowerment, through his Meer Foundation.

Registrations opened today for research candidates to submit their interest for the scholarship by 30 August 2019. The successful candidate will be a female Indian national who has finished a Masters by Research degree (or equivalent) over the past ten years.

The candidate will be supported with a four-year research scholarship valued in excess of $200,000 (AUD) to be finished at La Trobe’s state-ofthe-art facilities in Melbourne, Australia. They’ll undertake research supervised by the University’s leading experts in health sport, information technology, cybersecurity or engineering.

The announcement was made during Shah Rukh Khan’s visit to La Trobe University as the chief guest of the 2019 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. La Trobe is the first Australian University to award Shah Rukh Khan with an Honorary Degree, Doctor of Letters (honoris causa), in recognition of his wide-ranging humanitarian work, such as establishing the Meer Foundation to encourage and empower women who’ve survived acid attacks in India.

La Trobe Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Dewar, said Mr Khan’s philanthropic leadership drove the decision to make a PhD scholarship in

his name.

“The Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship recognises Mr Khan’s extraordinary altruism, demonstrated in his work to advocate for women’s empowerment,” Professor Dewar stated.

“Reflecting La Trobe’s values of inclusivity, equity and social justice, this scholarship will offer a special and potentially life-changing opportunity for an Indian woman to conduct research in a critical area affecting the world such as cybersecurity, health or engineering.”

Shah Rukh Khan welcomed the announcement of a scholarship in his name.

“As a passionate advocate for women’s equality and empowerment, I’m delighted that this scholarship will give an Indian woman a chance to pursue research in a field which is likely to lead her towards an exciting and successful career. I thank La Trobe University wholeheartedly for giving someone this wonderful opportunity,” Mr Khan said.

The Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship recipient will receive benefits such as: • A four-year La Trobe University Full-Fee Research Scholarship • a La Trobe Graduate Research Scholarship for 3 and a half years, with a value of $27,596 (AUD) per annum (2019 rate) to support living costs • visa length Overseas Student Health Cover for a single candidate • access to La Trobe’s world-class research facilities, a suite of professional development programs and supervision by award-winning researchers Interested applicants should submit their eligibility for the Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship by 30 August 2019.

To learn more regarding scholarship eligibility criteria, please refer to www.latrobe.edu.au/srk • La Trobe University is ranked in the top 1.2 percent of Universities worldwide

• *Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2019 | Webometrics Ranking Web of Universities 2019 • Dignitaries that La Trobe University has hosted from the Indian subcontinent include, Prime Minister Mrs Indira Gandhi, Kapil Dev, Malaika Arora Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Rajkumar Hirani and Abhijat Joshi • La Trobe University is one of only two universities in Australia teaching Hindi, along with the only Australian University to teach a subject on the history, music, and storytelling of popular Hindi cinema • La Trobe University is among the founding members of the Australia India Institute • In 2005, La Trobe’s Melbourne campus in Bundoora was showcased in the first major Bollywood blockbuster film to be made entirely in Australia, Salaam Namaste, the film collected close to $10mil US at the box office.

• La Trobe University alumni currently hold senior positions on boards throughout the world with over 19,000 graduates with Indian and Chinese heritage.

• The La Trobe Library collection houses over 38,000 volumes of monographs, magazines, journals and government publications from India, among the biggest collections in Australia.

For enquiries concerning the PhD Scholarship, please email: srk.scholarships@latrobe.edu.au

The Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship The Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship recognises Mr Khan’s humanitarian and social justice accomplishments inspiring communities throughout the world to make positive change. This research scholarship intends to deliver a life-changing chance for an aspiring female researcher from India to make a significant influence in the world.

The successful candidate will be supported with a four (4) year research scholarship valued in excess of $200,000 (AUD) to be undertaken at La Trobe’s prestigious campus in Melbourne, Bundoora. She is going to have the chance to explore a research focus from a vast assortment of themes under the supervision of world-leading experts at a university ranked in the top 1.2% globally *.

Applications are only being accepted in 2019 as part of the celebrations for Shah Rukh Khan’s visit to La Trobe’s Melbourne Campus, where he received his first Australian university Honorary Degree, Doctor of Letters (honoris causa). This prestigious scholarship is presented in recognition of Mr Khan’s wide-ranging humanitarian work, including establishing the Meer Foundation to encourage and enable women who’ve survived acid attacks in India.

Shah Rukh Khan’s philanthropic leadership reflects the University’s values of inclusiveness, equity and social justice. Our scholarship with the Indian icon continues our Next Page>>>>

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August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

five-decade history of involvement with Indian culture — from academic programs to study tours, research partnerships and student exchanges.

Interested candidates who meet the scholarship criteria are encouraged to submit an eligibility form by 12 pm (AEST) 30 August 2019 through the online submission form.

People who fulfil the eligibility criteria and can secure supervision will be invited to apply. The application has to be submitted by the closing date: 30 September 2019. It’s anticipated that the successful candidate will start her research placement at La Trobe University in early 2020.

Concerning the scholarship: The Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship is offered to a female Indian applicant to undertake a PhD at La Trobe University in one of the following research areas: • • • • •

Engineering information technology cybersecurity health sport.

Applicants need to have a high level of achievement, such as a Masters by research degree in a related discipline completed within the previous ten years assessed at a La Trobe Masters by research degree standard of 70 or over, or equal.

The recipient will be supported with a variety of benefits, such as:

• A La Trobe Full Fee Research Scholarship for four years to undertake a PhD at La Trobe, Melbourne, Australia • a La Trobe University Graduate Research Scholarship for 3 and a half years, with a value of 27,596 AUD per annum (2019 rate) to support her living costs • visa length Overseas Student Health Cover for a single candidate • chances to work with award-winning researchers and also have access to our suite of professional development programs.

If you are not eligible for the Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship have a look at La Trobe’s other scholarship opportunities.

Eligibility criteria: To qualify for the scholarship, you should be a female Indian national with a Master’s by research degree in a related discipline completed over the last ten years. Your final grade has to be equal to a La Trobe Masters by research degree standard of 70 or above.

How to apply for the Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship Step 1: Check your eligibility and submit an eligibility Please complete and submit the eligibility form.

We recommend that you submit your

eligibility form as soon as possible.

Submissions close at 12 pm (AEST) on 30 August 2019.

Step 2: Eligibility Assessment, supervisor confirmation and submit your application If we evaluate that you’re possibly eligible for the Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship, then we’ll contact prospective supervisors in your proposed research area on your behalf. In case you’ve already made contact with any academic supervisors at La Trobe, or you’ve got suggestions of that could be right for your project, please supply details in your eligibility form.

After we determine that you’re potentially eligible and supervision is available, you’ll get an invitation to submit your application along with the application form will be emailed to you.

If invited to apply, you’ll be asked to submit your application by 12.00pm (AEST) 30 September 2019.

Please, notice that the following documents will Have to Be included with your application: • Your University academic transcripts and completion certificates (originals or certified copies) • your professional CV (resume) outlining relevant work experience, academic awards, prior research background, etc.

• A copy of any publications you’ve been involved in

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• a copy of your Master’s thesis or equivalent (with at least two chapters translated into English if it’s not written in English) • a preliminary research proposal of no more than 300 words (should you require assistance, use our Guide to Writing a Research Proposal [PDF 68KB]) • your birth certificate or citizenship certificate to confirm you are an Indian national • documentary evidence of your English language proficiency (if required).

You’ll also have to organise two academic referees, that will need to complete a referee report form and email it directly to us. We’ll provide additional instructions once we invite you to submit your application.

We anticipate you’ll be notified of the outcome of your application by mid-December 2019. If you’re unsuccessful for the Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship you might be considered for another La Trobe University Graduate Research Scholarship. You’ll be informed of the alternate opportunity when advised of the outcome of your application for the Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship.

1 scholarship will be offered along with the successful candidate will be notified in mid-December 2019.

To learn more, please contact La Trobe University at srk. scholarship@latrobe.edu.au

ICAR PDF Fellowships 2019 – Rs. 75,000/- per month + Rs 2 Lakh Research Grant

I

CAR PDF Fellowships 2019.

ICAR Post- Doctoral Fellowship (ICAR-PDF) Scheme at IARI, New Delhi for 2019-20.

Interested and eligible candidates are requested to check out all of the details regarding the guidelines, the objectives, the eligbility criteria, mode of application, selection and more on the ICAR PDF Fellowships 2019-2020 below: INDIAN COUNCIL OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH EDUCATION DIVISION KRISHI ANUSANDHAN BHAVAN II NEW DELHI 110 012

Guidelines for ICAR Post- Doctoral Fellowship (ICAR-PDF) Guidelines for ICAR Post- Doctoral Fellowship (ICAR-PDF) The ICAR Post- Doctoral Fellowship (ICAR-PDF) is a new programme approved under the ongoing’Strengthening and Development of Higher Agricultural Education in India’ Scheme of Agricultural Education Division (ICAR) to encourage both the bright and talented researchers to pursue Post- Doctoral programme to build capacity in frontier areas of national interest in Agriculture and Allied Sciences.

1. Aims 1.1 Identify and encourage motivat-

ed young researchers for conducting research in frontier areas of agriculture and allied sciences to build the

national capacity.

1.2 Provide them with a platform Next Page>>>>

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SCHOLARSHIPS

to develop as an independent researcher capable of initiating a new programme in nationally important priority areas under the supervision of a mentor.

2. Number of Fellowships Ten annually for ICAR-IARI Pusa, New Delhi and five each annually for ICAR-IVRI Izatnagar, ICAR-NDRI Karnal & ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai respectively.

3. Qualification Criteria 3.1 The applicant must be an Indian citizen.

3.2 The candidate should have obtained a PhD degree (with course work) from a recognized University and ought to be working (in-service) in an institution under ICAR-AU System.

3.3 He/she must have finished minimum 3 years of services (such as clearance of probation) in a regular capacity as a Scientist or equal in ICAR-AUs system working in any field of Teaching/Research/Extension.

3.4 The upper age limit for the fellowship is 40 years on the last date of submission of application. Age relaxation of five years will be awarded to applicants belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Physically Challenged and Women candidates.

3.5 ICAR-PDF could be availed only once by a candidate in their own career.

3.6 The selected fellows aren’t permitted to work with their PhD guides/Co-guides.

3.7 Mentor should hold a regular academic/research position in concerned ICAR-DU with a PhD degree and must be a faculty member.

August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

3.8 The mentor should have a minimum of 10 years of service experience in the appropriate field of work together with the experience of guiding a minimum of two Ph. D. students.

3.9 A Mentor will not have over two ICAR-PDF fellows at any given time.

3.10 The candidates of ICAR-DUs aren’t qualified to apply for Post-Doctoral Fellowship in precisely the exact same ICAR-DU. 4. Mode of Application & Selection 4.1 The application shall be invited by the concerned ICAR-DU once in a calendar year.

4.2 The host institutes shall identify the research areas, mentors and labs in which the PDF will get the job done. The thrust areas for research are needed to be notified at the time of advertising the PDF slots.

4.3 The candidate will highlight the objectives, outline of their proposed research work and its utility to the parent Institute.

4.4 Together with the application, the candidates should furnish a letter of approval of the research plan from the mentor such as a declaration regarding the availability of adequate infrastructural facilities and equipment to execute the work plan. The work plan ought to be endorsed by the respective Director of ICAR Institute/Vice-Chancellor of Agricultural University under the ICAR-AU system.

4.5 Each Mentor provides a maximum of two consent letters for each cycle/calendar year. 4.6 The selection will be based on screening and recommendations by a Selection Committee comprising of the following:

i. Director of the concerned ICAR-DU

Chairman

ii. Joint Director Research or equivalent of the concerned DU

Member

iii. DDG (Agril. Edn.) or his representative

Member

iv. Two Subject Matter Specialists (not below the rank of Prof./ Prin. Sci.) from outside the host institute

Member

v. Joint Director (Academic) or equivalent

Member Secretary

4.7 The candidates will be evaluated according to the parameters/weighted scale by taking into account the relevance of this region of study, the proposed research plan, academic records, achievements and their past work experience. The candidates will be called for personal interview/presentation of the research plan by the Selection Committee.

4.8 Once chosen, the candidate should register for the programme according to the schedule, time and date intimated by the respective ICAR- DU. In the event of a delay, the offer will probably get terminated automatically and no separate communication towards cancellation will be issued.

At the time of joining he/she must provide an undertaking in accordance with the format at Appendix-1.

4.9 During the programme, the awardees won’t hold any other responsibility/ post/position/work and will need to devote their full time for the proposed research work.

5. Nature & Duration of Support 5.1 The fellowship is only a temporary assignment and is tenable for a period of one year. 5.2 The host institution must provide necessary administrative, infrastructural and lab facility support to the awardees. In the event, appropriate accommodation isn’t available at the host institution, awardees will need to make their own arrangements in this regard.

6. Amount and terms of Fellowship

6.4 The fellowship together with a research grant is going to be released in two instalments.

6.5 The fellows aren’t eligible to receive any additional fellowship from any Government or Non-Governmental source during the tenure of this fellowship.

6.6 The fellow must serve the sponsoring institution at least for a year following completion of PDF and also to this effect he/she must execute a bond (specimen of the bond at Appendix-2) compulsorily at the time of joining in the DU. 7. Leave Rules 7.1 ICAR-PDFs will be entitled to avail leave according to GOI rules of the host institution. Participation in Scientific Conferences/ Seminars/ Symposia/Workshops will be treated as on duty.

7.2 Maternity leave According to the Govt. Of India, instructions issued from time to time will be available to female applicants of categories. Fellowship wouldn’t be admissible during the leave period if the duration of leave exceeds three months.

7.3 The fellow should seek the consent of host ICAR-DU and can avail leave of the kind due if he/she plans to be away from the institute/University (except for fieldwork regarding the project and Scientific Conferences/ Seminars/Symposia/Workshops).

8. Termination of this Fellowship

8.1 If any fellow wishes to terminate the fellowship, he will inform the ICAR throughout the mentor and host institute immediately. The implementing institute shouldn’t incur any expenditure from the date of conclusion of the project or the date of resigBudget Head Amount nation of the Post -Doctoral Fellow.

8.2 ICAR reserves the right to termiRs. 75,000/- per nate the Fellowship at any stage if it’s Fellowship month (consolidatconvinced that satisfactory progress isn’t being made by the awardees ed) or the grant hasn’t yet been utilized Research properly.

Rs. 2,00,000/Grant 8.3 If the fellow leaves within a month of joining, the position can solidated) will be over and above the be filled from the panel of waitlisted salary amount received by the awar- candidates. dees and the amount would be taxable according to the Govt. of India rules. 9. Project Monitoring 6.3 The research grant may be used for the purchase of minor equipment, 9.1 The progress of the ICAR PDF consumables, contingencies and do- vis-à-vis projections made and targets mestic travel. There’s no provision set in the work plan of the approved for providing contractual manpow- projects will be quarterly reviewed by er (RA/SRF/YP) support under this an Institute level Committee comprisscheme. The expenditure on purchas- ing Director of the ICAR-DU, cones of small equipment, consumables, cerned Head of the Department and contingencies and domestic trav- Mentor of the ICAR-PDF. el, shall be incurred after following 9.2 Half-yearly progress of the procodal formalities and within the ambit ject will be reviewed by precisely the of applicable rules.

Next Page>>>> 6.1 The fellows will be entitled to receive the grants through concerned ICAR-DUs as under: 6.2 The fellowship amount (Rs.75,000/- p.m. con-

SCHOLARSHIPS

August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

exact same Selection Committee for ICAR-PDF. In the event of a satisfactory report, Council will release the 2nd instalment of grant.

9.3 The Annual Performance Appraisal Report (APAR) of this ICAR-PDF shall be made by the Mentor as Reporting Officer and also be reviewed by the Director of the concerned Institute/concerned authority of this University.

9.4 The observations/comments of the Institute Committee of this ICAR-DU at which the progress of the work was presented could be invariably attached together with the APAR.

9.5 The ICAR-PDF will be expected to publish/communicate his/her research findings in a peer-reviewed journal having NAAS rating not less than 7.0. The proof of this ought to be submitted together with the final project report.

9.6 The progress of the ICAR-PDF project should invariably form part of the Annual Report of the Host Institute and final report of this project shall be uploaded on the Agricultural Education Portal.

10. General

10.1 The ICAR-PDF is expected to protect the Intellectual Property Rights generated or Likely to be generated during his or her tenure.

The Council will have the appropriate share On the patents/protections/ knowledge generated according to the”ICAR Guidelines for Intellectual Property Management and Technology Transfer/Commercialization” as amended from time to time. When the fellow enters into any other IP agreement, exactly the same Will be appropriately communicated to and shared with the Council. In all publications Arising out of this ICAR-PDF

19

project, the support from the Council ought to be acknowledged.

10.2 For any clarification regarding the ICAR-Post Doctoral Fellowship, the Deputy Director-General, Agricultural Education, ICAR, New Delhi can be contacted.

10.3 The Director-General ICAR & Secretary DARE will be the final authority in resolving And accepting the decision on any situation/conflict and his decision will be binding on all parties concerned.

10.4 For any dispute, the applicable law will be the Indian law under the jurisdiction of Courts in Delhi only.

Deakin-MAHE PhD Program Admission January 2020

D

eakin University Australia and Manipal Academy of Higher Education Joint PhD Admission 2020 have announced the Deakin-MAHE PhD Program Admission January 2020. Interested applicants are asked to check out all of the details regrading the phd program, eligibility, application procedure and timelines below:

Joint PhD Program Deakin University Australia and Manipal Academy of Higher Education Deakin University Australia and Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), India have partnered to offer opportunities for high-quality PhD Scholars to acquire an international degree.

Applications are invited for admission to the Regular (Full-time) PhD program offered jointly by MAHE and Deakin University. Selected scholars will be located at MAHE with travelling to Deakin University, Australia, for a minimum of one year.

• A generous scholarship covering living and travelling expenses in India and Australia • A doctoral degree awarded jointly by Deakin and MAHE upon successful defence of this thesis Eligibility for application Applicants should have completed a postgraduate degree, that comprises a major thesis, from a recognised leading university.

Applicants should have achieved an aggregate percentage over 70 percent in their master’s degree.

Preference given to UGC/NET/ GATE Qualified Preference is given to applicants with a publication profile.

Eligibility: A. A candidate seeking admission to the PhD Program must have an aggregate of 60 percent * or an equivalent grade in one of the following:

By engaging in this program you will receive:

• Postgraduate degree or equivalent from universities/institutions recognized by UGC • Postgraduate degree in Medical Sciences, Dental Sciences or Engineering • MBBS or BDS or an undergraduate degree that’s of at least 5 years’ duration • Pharm. D. / Pharm. D. (Post Baccalaureate) • *If you are seeking admission to the Deakin-MAHE Cotutelle Program, You Have to have a minimum of 70 percent

• accessibility to world-class facilities at both institutions • Global expertise and dual supervision between MAHE along with Deakin

B. Candidates with UGC – CSIR – NET-JRF/ ICMR -JRF / DBT-JRF/ JEST / INSPIRE Fellowship or with qualified additional UGC recognized state or national level eligibility test

This Joint PhD program is a multi-disciplinary course offered with the intention to promote high quality doctoral research on thematic areas concerning machine learning, water management, IoT, robotics, image processing and microfluidics.

with a valid fellowship at the time of admission are exempted from the qualifying written test conducted by MAHE Such students may contact cds.mahe@manipal.edu C. You need scanned copies of the following documents as You’ll be asked to upload them as you fill out the application form 1. Scan copy of passport size Photo (JPEG Format Only) 2. Scan backup of Signature (JPEG Format Only) D. Fees: Each candidate must pay a fee of Rs.2000 at the time of registration. That is non-refundable.

E. Test centers: Manipal, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata.

Candidate can apply in almost any one of the discipline.

NRI Applicants has to take a test in any of the aforementioned centres.

The question paper will be in Eng-

lish language only.

F. All updates pertaining to the PhD online examination will be posted onto the website, and no separate communication will be sent to the individual candidates.

G. Other information, if any, will be communicated to the individuals concerned through the registered email.

H. Candidate must produce an original copy of the following document along with a single set of photocopies in the time of Interview/Selection at Manipal institutions.

1. Aadhar card.

2. Permanent address proof.

3. Degree certificate of qualifying examinations. (Attested) 4. Mark card of qualifying examinations. (Attested) Terms and Conditions: 1. MAHE reserves the right to re-schedule the test and/or the test centre at its sole discretion, Next Page>>>>

20

SCHOLARSHIPS

without assigning any reasons thereof, and as warranted by the circumstances.

2. MAHE reserves the exclusive right to reject applications without assigning any reasons there-

August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

of.

3. A non-refundable registration fee for the online application is payable by each candidate at the time of registration for PhD Programme.

4. All disputes in this regard are all subject to the legal jurisdiction of Udupi.

How to apply:

• Online application will be available on www.manipal.edu/phd.

• For more information, please contact cds.mahe@manipal.edu

SEQUENCE OF EVENTS: Online application opens By

August 10 2019

Students have to apply online By

September 15 2019

Application/registration closes By

From September 21 2019 to October 05 2019

Online test (All India)

October 06 2019 Test centers : Manipal, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai , Delhi , Chennai and Kolkata.

October 13 2019 Test center : Only for Manipal

Interview/Selection at Manipal institutions

From November 15 2019 to November 30 2019

Communication to Students about selection By

December 10 2019

Fee payment By

December 25 2019

Course commences

January 02 2020

Timeline for admissions: Applications open

August 10 – September 15

February 10 – March 15

All India Online entrance test

October

April

Admissions Period

January

July

MACS – ARI Dr. R.B. Ekbote & Shri V.P. Gokhale Award

I

ndian nationals are invited and encouraged to apply for two awards that are available with a citation and cash prize being awarded to the winners. Maharashtra Association Awards for eligible candidates. Interested applicants are encouraged to check out all of the details on the same below: MAHARASHTRA ASSOCIATION FOR THE CULTIVATION OF SCIENCE GOPAL GANESH AGARKAR ROAD, PUNE 411 004 www.aripune.org Nominations are invited for the following two Awards

1) Dr. R.B. Ekbote Award: The award is in recognition of significant research Contribution in the numerous regions of Botany such as Agricultural Botany, Plant Breeding/Genetics and Cytogenetics and

includes a citation and a token Money award of Rs. 5,000/-.

2) Shri V.P. Gokhale Award: The award is in recognition of important research Contribution in the numerous regions of Phytopathology and includes a citation and a Token money award of Rs. 5,000/-.

The awards will be given on November 18, 2019, during the Founder’s day function.

How to Apply: Nominations of interested Scientists may be sent for the preceding two awards individually Giving the information like Name of this candidate, Address for correspondence, Institutional Affiliation, Educational Qualifications from 1st degree onwards, Special Honours/Awards/ Prizes, Professional career with

designation of Post(s) held, Names Of two referees with addresses, who could be contacted for writing reference on your Behalf, Brief Statement about important (basic and applied) research contributions Made by the candidate in last five years (more than 250 words), List of Publications during the previous

ten years, Future Plans for Research and extension work (not over 250 words). The emphasis is on the research work completed during the last five years. Nominations must reach the Hon. Secretary, M.A.C.S. by 15th September 2019.

Deadline: by 15th September 2019.

VOICE OF BIOTECNIKA

August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

21

Can Superhuman Abilities Be Engineered?

Episode 45

By Dr. Nidhi Hukku

Superhuman, a word that brings along with it lots of anticipation and buzz. What is a superhuman and how he owns qualities that exceed those found in humans, this question can initiate agitation in anyone’s mind?

We invite you all to join our host for today – Nidhi, in this expedition, through this podcast where we will be heading to dig answers to these creepy but amazing curiosities. Let’s get started. to create a superhuman. Can we have real-life superheroes? Now, this is I am very sure most of you might something we are certainly interesthave watched one or more superhe- ed to know. Genetic mutations may ro movies which have been aired in contain the answer to this and prothe past few years or certainly in your vide with the possibility of mastering childhood. Are you able to recapitu- those extraordinary abilities. Now late? Well, we have a long list indeed. we all know that genetic mutations To begin with ‘Spiderman’ is one are alterations in the sequence of the such movie which is imprinted on our gene. Depending upon where they athearts and brains where an ordinary tack they may prove as constructive student accidentally got bitten by a or detrimental or sometimes even genetically – altered spider and sur- neutral. These small mutations can be prisingly acquired the characteristics responsible for bringing alterations in of a spider. Remarkably he could be traits reflecting as super human’s suseen clinging to walls or any other per abilities. hard surfaces with his altered fingers having those unique web-slinging Let’s visualize it in this way any muabilities, gets a muscular body with tation in the gene coding for muscle all extensive superpowers thus turn- protein myostatin can lead to an uning up into a complete superhuman. natural condition known as myostatin He takes vows to use his superhu- related muscle hypertrophy where man strength to serve people fighting muscles grow giving muscular phyagainst crimes, and in that way grows sique even in children. Normally inas everyone’s favorite human. side the human body, myostatin binds to receptors on skeletal muscle cells Well, we have more interesting su- activating the pathways ending up in perman and superwoman depicted in initiating the growth and division of an entertaining manner in other mov- muscle cells. When that doesn’t hapies as well, like Batman, Ant-Man, pen naturally people and even small Iron Man, Batman forever, Avengers: children may turn up into superhuAge of Ultron, X-men, The Wolver- mans flaunting with their muscular ine, and the list goes on. Well, our bodybuilder looks and people that very own Bollywood doesn’t lag be- too without exercising. Sounds interhind anyways. RA-one or Krish can’t esting? I have even more fascinating be forgotten. Tell me honestly friends examples to tell. after watching these movies have you ever felt a secret desire rooting inside Exceptional bone strength and exyou to boast up with these superpow- tra energy may be observed in a few ers and thus becoming a superhuman? people having beneficial mutations.

I am sure you had.

Bursts of force letting people sprint fast come from the rapid contraction It is very natural to have that desire of fast-twitch muscle fibers in musto chase unnatural things. We may cle cells. Researchers believe that alturn to science to ask if it is possible pha-actinin, proteins present in skel-

etal muscle fibers break down sugar stored in glycogen converting them into energy-containing compounds making muscles work and thus stabilizing these fast twitching fibers.

Top sprinters and weightlifters have at least one working copy of this gene providing them with a superhuman package of bursts of speed energy and power.

Real superpowers or abnormal abilities more appropriately can be seen as a result of certain mutations eventually leading to certain disorders like adermatoglyphia where a person is born without fingerprints. Nevertheless, in movies, we have seen criminals trying to get their fingerprints removed but it is hard to digest this condition in a reality where actually people suffer from this unique and rare disorder of not born with fingerprints. Back in the year 2011, a group of dermatologists discovered this rare genetic disease arising due to single mutation and dubbed as “immigration delay disease”. Interestingly, a woman could not enter the United States and border control authorities found it troubling allowing a person without fingerprints. Although, physically healthy people suffering from dermatoglyphic have flat finger pads and are devoid of arching or looping ridges characterizing the fingerprints of all normal humans. Now you may consider it as a superpower one may own just like spider man who also has no fingerprints. NFJS and dermatopathia pigmentosa are other genetic disorders causing the same condition leading to missing fingerprints.

Extensive bone strength can be established by another mutation in the

gene LRP5 involved in cell signaling between cells and as an important part of pathways affects cell development.

People who experience function mutation in this gene enjoy the complete new function of the protein coded by this mutated gene accelerating certain signaling pathways on bone cells making them grow bulkier and thicker leading to a condition known as osteosclerosis and hyperostosis.

We could see this way that mutations can make us stronger, faster strengthening the fact that if someday we could have a control over our genome or genetic makeup probably getting mutations incorporated in right place and right time it is possible to acquire much better young looks, tremendous intelligence, disease resistance, and unmatched strength basically all those exceptional superpowers which a superhuman flaunts with.

Since long scientists have been using gene manipulation as a podium where by using various molecular engineering techniques targets such as human organ development through harvesting stem cells is being attempted. Even scientists have not skipped trying their hands in developing animal human hybrids like humanzee who was believed to be a human-chimp- hybrid. Although ethical issues associated enforced that convoluted research to be discontinued. Recently a team of researchers claimed to create a sheep human hybrid and the study was targeted to grow human organs in animals so that defective ones could get replaced by almost identical organs developed in hybrids. It might surprise you but Next Page>>>>

22

VOICE OF BIOTECNIKA

you have to believe, many countries are quite interested to create super-intellect super soldiers who would be immune to agony and will be pockets of strength and unrivaled stamina.

Yes who could overcome the need for sleep and work just like machines but with that super intelligence and wisdom. I am sure that remembers you of your favorite comic or cartoon characters. Ya I know that sounds more like science fiction. But as you know discoveries start with craziness. Even a famous poet has said: “We all exist in our own personal reality of craziness”. Unless you affirmatively imagine something to happen you might not get even a step closer to it. ‘There is no genius without some touch of madness’ rightly said by Aristotle. So Let’s start digging more to get at the roots of this engrossing quest of superpowers.

Dear people, have you ever heard about genome editing? Where geneticists are getting more and more successful not only in removing and replacing genes but rewriting the entire genomes. They claim by using gene editing they can create any kind of life form, produce synthetic macromolecules of their own choice eventually reprogramming entire organ-

isms. Even though it’s a far-fetched tale but scientists are shedding their blood to attain success. Nonetheless, in plants or animals, selective breeding has been expansively used to modify DNA and opt for specific mutations to manipulate the work done by evolution at our own pace.

Today most of the foods we are consuming have been genetically modified to provide them the best of color, shape, and nutrients. Animals are also bred selectively to improve their fat content. So aren’t they being provided with superpowers? Is it wrong to call them a superfood, superfruits or super vegetables? So with that precise techniques, that day can’t be seen far off when humans with super abilities can be created but that definitely requires the manipulation or replacement of exact genes specifically identified for particular traits which may impart special features in humans.

With that ability to edit genetic sequences to produce those superhuman traits, gene editing can lay the foundation of a future dream of having perfect humans on earth. This underlines the need to understand gene editing and to learn more about CRISPR. People do you have any

August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

idea about CRISPR i.e. Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Repeats, let me tell you it is a much-studied defense system in the last 30 years which bacteria have been using to fight off diseases and which is paving the floor for developing humans’ resistance against life-threatening and incurable ailments. CRISPRs being a specific kind of gene sequences are used in gene editing for creating small spaces in DNA sequences that further act as a defense against harmful mutations. Nowadays they are broadly being in use as tools for gene editing because of their advantages over conventional methods. They can be simply and less expensively created in the lab unlike the expensive and tediously produced proteins ZFNs and TALENs previously used in gene targeting.

Briefly, If I explain it for you in this method scientists create an RNA sequence for guiding CAs9 enzyme into a cell’s nucleus to eradicate any portion of DNA which has become offending due to any viruses or diseases. The cell turns smarter and more proficient in defending against any sort of threats thus chances of cell longevity increases. This technique assures that in future genome

therapy could be sturdily worked out to increase the likelihood of saving lives. Early investigations of a fetus with any genetic disorders could be assisted by CRISPR not only to prevent the inheritance of disease to the developing baby’s DNA sequence but also saving it from being a carrier thus improving the future gene pool.

So people thought we have a long way to reach that world of fantasy where unrivaled intelligence and extraordinary physical strength could be achieved, nevertheless we could visualize them as the future of gene therapy but again not to be missed it requires extreme precision, accurate understanding of the interactions between the DNA sequences and exact outcomes of the mutations being occurring. Don’t forget every coin has two sides so superpowers creation definitely initiates a crucial concern of generating them in a beneficial way that does not perturb the world peace.

There is a saying “The Science of today is the technology of tomorrow” – this may give you the reason to turn those dreams of being a phantom or batman into reality.

AIMGATE TEST SERIES SCHEDULE

August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

23

GATE Online Test Series – AIMGATE 2020 For GATE Biotech & GATE XL Papers GATE Biotech Exam 2020 (GATE BT 2020) and GATE Life Science Exam 2020 (GATE XL 2020) is tentatively scheduled to be held next year in between 1st Feb to 9th Feb 2020. While most of the aspirants out there think that GATE Exam is easy to crack compared to other Biotech Examinations. Well, it’s true to some extent but without practice, revision & proper preparation strategy even a smart person can fail. Hence – Start smart preparation today for GATE Biotech & GATE XL exams with GATE Test series – AIMGATE 2020 test series by Biotecnika.

GATE Biotech & GATE XL exam aspirants since past 10 years for their subject revision. In short its the best online test series available which can fetch you a high rank in the GATE Exam just like our student Ali Aktara who secured GATE AIR 5 in GATE XL exam.

REGISTER FOR AIMGATE 2020 Test Series AIMGATE Biotech – GATE BT Test Schedule • Total No of Tests: 15 Test • No of Question in Each Test: 50 • Negative Marking: Yes

GATE Test Series – AIMGATE 2020 test series is specifically designed for GATE Biotech & GATE Life Sci- -1 Negative marking will be there for ence Exams. AIMGATE Test series every wrong answer marked, +4 for has been the very first choice for all every correct answer AIMGATE BT 2020 Schedule Number

Date

Syllabus

AIMGATE-BT-0

Aug 31st 2019

AIMGATE-BT-1

Sep 7th 2019

AIMGATE-BT-2

Sep 14th 2019

AIMGATE-BT-3

Sep 21st 2019

AIMGATE-BT-4

Sep 28th 2019

AIMGATE-BT-5

Oct 12th 2019

AIMGATE-BT-6

Oct 19th 2019

AIMGATE-BT-7

Nov 2nd 2019

AIMGATE-BT-8

Nov 9th 2019

AIMGATE-BT-9

Nov 16th 2019

AIMGATE-BT-10

Nov 23rd 2019

Full Syllabus Engineering Mathematics Engineering Mathematics General Biotechnology- Biochemistry General Biotechnology- Microbiology General Biotechnology- Cell Biology General Biotechnology- Molecular Biology & Genetics General Biotechnology- Immunology General Biotechnology- Bioinformatics Recombinant DNA Technology Recombinant DNA Technology

AIMGATE-BT-11

Nov 30th, 2019

Plant & Animal Biotechnology

AIMGATE-BT-12

Dec 7th, 2019

Plant & Animal Biotechnology

AIMGATE-BT-13

Dec 14th, 2019

AIMGATE-BT-14

Dec 28th, 2019

AIMGATE-BT-15

4th Jan 2020

Bioprocess Engineering & Process Biotechnology Bioprocess Engineering & Process Biotechnology Full Syllabus

REGISTER FOR GATE Biotech 2020 Test Series AIMGATE XL – GATE Test Series Schedule (GATE XL / Life Science) : • • • •

Total No of Tests: 10 Test No of Question in Each Test: 50 Negative Marking: Yes Subjects:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

AIMGATE-XL-Chemistry AIMGATE-XL-Biochemistry AIMGATE-XL-Botany AIMGATE-XL-Microbiology AIMGATE-XL-Zoology AIMGATE-XL-Food Technology

-1 Negative marking will be there for every wrong answer marked, +4 for every correct answer.

AIMGATE XL – Chemistry Schedule

Number

Date

Syllabus

AIMGATE-XL-Chemistry- 0

Aug 31st 2019

Full Syllabus

AIMGATE-XL-Chemistry-1

Sep 7th 2019

Atomic Structure and Periodicity

AIMGATE-XL-Chemistry-2

Sep 14th 2019

Structure and Bonding

AIMGATE-XL-Chemistry-3

Sep 21st 2019

s, p and d Block Elements

AIMGATE-XL-Chemistry-4

Sep 28th 2019

Chemical Equilibria

AIMGATE-XL-Chemistry-5

Oct 12th 2019

Electrochemistry

AIMGATE-XL-Chemistry-6

Oct 19th 2019

Reaction Kinetics

AIMGATE-XL-Chemistry-7

Nov 2nd 2019

Thermodynamics

AIMGATE-XL-Chemistry-8

Nov 9th 2019

Structure-Reactivity Correlations and Organic Reaction Mechanisms

AIMGATE-XL-Chemistry-9

Nov 16th 2019

Full Syllabus

AIMGATE-XL-Chemistry-10

Nov 23rd 2019

Full Syllabus Next Page>>>>

AIMGATE TEST SERIES SCHEDULE

24

AIMGATE XL – Biochemistry Test Schedule

AIMGATE XL – Microbiology Test Schedule Number AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology- 0 AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology- 1 AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology- 2 AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology- 3 AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology- 4 AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology- 5 AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology- 6 AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology-7 AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology- 8 AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology- 9 AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology- 10 AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology- 11 AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology- 12 AIMGATE-XLMicrobiology- 13

Date

Syllabus

Aug 31st 2019

Full Syllabus

Sep 7th 2019

Historical Perspective

Sep 14th 2019

Methods in Microbiology

Sep 21st 2019

Microbial Taxonomy and Diversity

Sep 28th 2019

Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells: Structure and Function

Oct 12th 2019

Microbial Growth

Oct 19th 2019

Control of Micro-organisms

Nov 2nd 2019

Microbial Metabolism

Nov 9th 2019

Microbial Diseases and Host-Pathogen Interaction

Nov 16th 2019

Section-8Chemotherapy/ Antibiotics

Nov 23rd 2019 Nov 30th 2019

Section 9: Microbial Genetics Section 10: Microbial Ecology

Dec 7th 2019

Full Syllabus

Dec 14th 2019

Full Syllabus

August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

Number

Date

Syllabus

AIMGATE XL – Biochemistry Test Schedule

Aug 31st 2019

Full Syllabus

AIMGATE-XLBiochemistry- 1

Sep 7th 2019

Section 1

AIMGATE-XLBiochemistry- 2

Sep 14th 2019

Section 2

AIMGATE-XLBiochemistry- 3

Sep 21st 2019

Section 3

AIMGATE-XLBiochemistry- 4

Sep 28th 2019

Section 4

AIMGATE-XLBiochemistry- 5

Oct 12th 2019

Section 5

AIMGATE-XLBiochemistry- 6

Oct 19th 2019

Section 6

AIMGATE-XLBiochemistry- 7

Nov 2nd 2019

Section 1,2,3

AIMGATE-XLBiochemistry- 8

Nov 9th 2019

Section 4,5,6

AIMGATE-XLBiochemistry- 9

Nov 16th 2019

Full Syllabus

AIMGATE-XLBiochemistry- 10

Nov 23rd 2019

Full Syllabus

Next Page>>>>

AIMGATE TEST SERIES SCHEDULE

August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

AIMGATE XL – Botany Test Schedule Number

Date

AIMGATE-XLBotany- 0

AIMGATE XL – Zoology Test Schedule

Syllabus

Number

Aug 31st 2019

Full Syllabus

Sep 7th 2019

Full Syllabus

Sep 14th 2019

Plant Anatomy

AIMGATE-XLBotany- 3

Sep 21st 2019

Morphogenesis & Development

AIMGATE-XLBotany- 4

Sep 28th 2019

AIMGATE-XLBotany- 5 AIMGATE-XLBotany- 6

AIMGATE-XLBotany- 1 AIMGATE-XLBotany- 2

AIMGATE-XLBotany- 7 AIMGATE-XLBotany- 8 AIMGATE-XLBotany- 9 AIMGATE-XLBotany- 10 AIMGATE-XLBotany- 11

AIMGATE-XLZoology- 0

Date

Syllabus

Aug 31st 2019

Full Syllabus

Sep 7th 2019

Animal world

Sep 14th 2019

Evolution

AIMGATE-XLZoology- 3

Sep 21st 2019

Genetics

Physiology and Biochemistry

AIMGATE-XLZoology- 4

Sep 28th 2019

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Oct 12th 2019

Genetics

AIMGATE-XLZoology- 5

Oct 12th 2019

Cell Biology

Oct 19th 2019

Plant Breeding and Genetic Modification

AIMGATE-XLZoology- 6

Oct 19th 2019

Gene expression in Eukaryotes

Nov 2nd 2019

Economic Botany

Nov 9th 2019

Plant Pathology

Nov 16th 2019

Ecology and Environment

Nov 23rd 2019

Full Syllabus

Nov 30th 2019

Full Syllabus

AIMGATE XL – Food Technology Test Schedule Number

Date

25

Syllabus

AIMGATE-XLFood Tech- 0

Aug 31st 2019

Full Syllabus

AIMGATE-XLFood Tech- 1

Sep 7th 2019

Food Chemistry

AIMGATE-XLFood Tech- 2

Sep 14th 2019

Food Chemistry

AIMGATE-XLFood Tech- 3

Sep 21st 2019

Food

AIMGATE-XLFood Tech- 4

Sep 28th 2019

Food

AIMGATE-XLFood Tech- 5

Oct 12th 2019

Food Products

AIMGATE-XLFood Tech- 6

Oct 19th 2019

Food Products

AIMGATE-XLFood Tech- 7

Nov 2nd 2019

Food

AIMGATE-XLFood Tech- 8

Nov 9th 2019

Food Engineering

AIMGATE-XLFood Tech- 9

Nov 16th 2019

Full Syllabus

AIMGATE-XLFood Tech- 10

Nov 23rd 2019

Full Syllabus

AIMGATE-XLZoology- 1 AIMGATE-XLZoology- 2

AIMGATE-XLZoology- 7 AIMGATE-XLZoology- 8 AIMGATE-XLZoology- 9 AIMGATE-XLZoology- 10 AIMGATE-XLZoology- 11 AIMGATE-XLZoology- 12 AIMGATE-XLZoology- 13

Nov 2nd 2019 Nov 9th 2019

Animal Anatomy and Physiology Parasitology and Immunology

Nov 16th 2019

Development Biology

Nov 23rd 2019

Ecology

Nov 30th 2019

Animal Behaviour

Dec 7th 2019

Full Syllabus

Dec 14th 2019

Full Syllabus

26

BIOTECNIKA TIMES

August 27th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 93

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