Prof. B.L.Kaul

Athwajan stone quarry has been there, I believe forover a hundred years now. At least, I am sure that it exist-ed when I was a child sixty years ago. But then it wasoutside the city limits and quarrying was done on a smallscale. Now Athwajan is very much a part of Srinagar cityand a sizeable population lives in the area and aroundit. Besides a well reputed Public School, Governmentschools ,offices and a large number of police and para-

military forces units exist near the quarry.The quarry operators start blasting early in the morn-

ing disturbing sleep of the people and creating noise pol-lution. Clouds of dust arise and spread in and around thearea polluting all house- holds, offices and institutions.Thick layers of dust cover furniture, clothes, utensils, oth-er household items, roofs and even the trees. The resi-dents of the area just watch helplessly. Then starts anoth-

er activity namely movement of men and machines. Thenoise of the machines and vehicles continues throughoutthe day till late hours. The people of the area watch all thisactivity like mute spectators.

It is a well known and documented fact that quarryingof all sorts and mining are a great environmental andhealth hazard (Refer " Ecodegradation of Himalayas-Causes and Remedies-B.L.Kaul Ed. 1995-Vinod Publish-ers").Stone quarrying generates dust particles which may

contain radioactive substances. As thedust is carried by wind it enters thehuman respiratory system duringbreathing and creates respiratoryproblems and allergies. In case thedust carries radioactive substances itmay cause health problems of veryserious nature. I am told that a recenthealth status study, of the people ofAthwajan and surrounding areas bymedical professionals have revealeda high incidence of respiratory dis-eases compared to other parts of Sri-nagar..

True the stone quarrying activitymust be earning revenue to the Statebesides providing employment tosome people at the cost of Publichealth. Is it worthwhile ? Certainly not.Firstly it is to be understood thatnowhere in the country and the worldquarrying and mining activity isallowed within city limits. Secondlypublic health can't be risked for rev-

enue and employment generation alone. The stone quar-rying at Athwajan needs to be stopped immediately. Anewstone quarrying location outside the city limits and awayfrom any habitation should be found to meet the require-ment of stones for construction purposes. It will alsoensure that those employed in stone quarrying don't losetheir jobs and there is no loss of revenue to the State.

(The author is an Environmentalist)

Dr Richa Sharma

It of course a hope- better selection,,better embryos, better implanation,less multiples so less risk both to babiesand mother so improving live birth rate.

Quality better judge of outcome thanQuantity !!

Ideal and the only way of eSETBest treatment option for RIFMore chances to survive freezing

effects in lab storageWe can choose whats the best .The first thing that usually comes to

mind when people hear the term, "infer-tility treatment," is the risk of multiplebirths. The incidence of triplets or high-er-order births as a result of assistedreproductive technology is of great con-cern to all infertility practitioners andpatients. But now there is a way toreduce or even eliminate the risk of mul-tiples.The new technology not onlyhelps more couples become parents, italso decreases maternal and neonatalrisks. The new technology is known asblastocyst transfer. With blastocysttransfer, fewer embryos are transferredwhile maintaining and even increasingpregnancy rates. This technique virtu-ally eliminates the risk of triplets orgreater.Also we have a chance to selectthe best quality embryos.Its based onthe concept of Survival of Fittest -so thatfittest of all embryos will survive uptothat stage.Its more physiological as itsat this stage the embryos normallyimplant in body and this stage is rela-tively independent with full activation ofembryonic genome !!

'Blastocyst culture provides morephysiological synchronization of theembryo with the endometrium, improv-ing implantation rates'Blastocyst cul-ture eliminates aneuploidic embryosleading to a better implantationrate.Minimizing exposure of theembryo to a hyperstimulated uterineenvironment.

In a typical non-blastocyst in vitrofertilization (IVF) cycle, a woman'seggs are retrieved and fertilized. If allgoes well, the embryos are transferredinto the uterus three days later. Due tothe fact that it is difficult to predict onday three which embryos are more like-ly to produce a pregnancy, four or more

embryos are frequently transferred inhopes that at least one will result in alive birth. Until now, this has been a rea-sonable approach in order to achieveacceptable pregnancy rates.

The downside is that sometimes allthe embryos become ongoing preg-nancies and the result is high-ordermultiple gestations (triplets or greater).In such pregnancies, there are consid-erable medical risks as well as financialand emotional considerations. So thecouple is faced with the agonizing deci-sion of whether to opt for selectivereduction (the removal of one or more

embryos) or to continue with a riskypregnancy. Although everyone agreesthat every possible safeguard shouldbe in place to avoid such unfortunatesituations, the distressing reality is thatmultiple pregnancies sometimes dooccur.

However, with blastocyst transfer,only two healthy embryos are trans-ferred, practically eliminating the pos-sibility of triplets or greater. And thesame pregnancy rates are achieved aswould be expected when three or moreembryos are transferred on day three.

Blastocysts are "heartier& healthier"than day three embryos and producehigher implantation rates (the percent-age chance that an embryo will initiatea pregnancy). Studies at some somecenters report achieving even betterpregnancy rates with blastocysts.

Doctors are limited by law to trans-

ferring a maximum of 2 embryos (in

women under 40), it can be difficult to

select the one embryo that may devel-

op into a healthy baby. All 6 embryos

may look like they have the same

potential on day 3. Two additional days

development in the blastocyst culture

medium allows the natural selection

process to continue. Thus, after 5 days

of growth in the laboratory, only 2 or 3

of the original embryos may remain

viable. This gives the doctors the best

way to analyze which is the best

embryo to transfer leading to a healthy

pregnancy and baby.

So ultimately not the quantity but

quality counts to add to outcome which

every couple wants and interested -

Take home baby rate.

Taran Adarsh

Biopics are fast gaining popularity in Hindi movies andseveral conscientious film-makers are attempting moviesbased on the life events of iconic and distinguished person-alities. THE LEGEND OF BHAGAT SINGH and BOSE: THEFORGOTTEN HERO won immense critical acclaim... PAANSINGH TOMAR not only won critical and commercial suc-cess, but fetched the most prestigious honor as well -- Nation-al Award... THE DIRTY PICTURE, on the life and times of anactress, too made waves... Another biopic on a sportsper-son, Mary Kom, is currently taking shape… Biopics on gang-sters have been attempted in the recent past... A biopic onthe life of legendary singer Kishore Kumar is on the cards,while the one on the 19th century artist, Raja Ravi Varma[RANG RASIYA], is already complete. Expect many more indays to come. Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's biopic BHAAGMILKHABHAAG, based on the life of legendary athlete MilkhaSingh, the country's national treasure, is now ready for view-ing.

A handful of films sprint that extra mile beyond providingmeager entertainment to its spectators. BHAAG MILKHABHAAG is one such cinematic experience. However, direc-tor Mehra and writer Prasoon Joshi encompass pertinentepisodes/chapters from the icon's life and create a filmthat makes you salute the sportsperson, besides evok-ing the spirit of nationalism in the spectator.

BHAAG MILKHA BHAAG chronicles the life of Indiansprinter Milkha Singh from his childhood to achieving theiconic standing. The film takes you back in time when Milkhalost his family members during the partition and his rise tothe celebrated status without any prescribed guidance ormonetary backing. The film also encapsulates his attach-ment to his sister [Divya Dutta] and the woman he gavehis heart to [Sonam Kapoor]. Also depicted in this 3-hour+film are the conquests, the lows, the rise to splendor anddistinction, the skilful attainment...

The supremely talented directorRakeysh Omprakash Mehra and theproficient writer Prasoon Joshiamass the varied occurrences fromthe phenomenon's life, although thefocus is clearly on the documenta-tion of Milkha's illustrious career,his uphill struggle, impedi-ments, apprehensions andeventual triumph. Besides stay-ing true to Milkha's life and con-quests, Mehra and Joshi inter-weave a spellbinding screen-play that doesn't limit it to beinga mere sports-based film. Infact, the writer comes up with anincredible script that keeps youhooked from commencementto conclusion. There are a num-ber of sequences that make youmoist eyed, besides leaving anindelible impression. The sharpedit [P.S. Bharathi] and the electrifyingbackground score further elevate the film toan exceptional level.

There's no denying that Mehra has a earfor superior melody and the soundtrack ofRANG DE BASANTI and DELHI 6 bear testi-mony to the fact. However, this time, Mehra opts for Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy. This one's a plot-motivated movie; consequent-ly, the songs cater more to the situations than creating asound-rich album. Binod Pradhan's cinematography is ofinternational grade. He captures every beat, every tone, everynuance with mastery.

Hindi movies offer infrequent opportunities to actors todepict iconic and inspirational characters and Farhan getsthe opportunity of portraying the most demanding role of hiscareer so early in his acting vocation. Over the past few years,Farhan has progressively evolved into a superior actor, buthe outshines himself -- and also the spectator's expectations-- with BHAAG MILKHABHAAG. Farhan delivers an enchant-ing performance as the Flying Sikh, leaving the spectatorawe-stuck in several sequences. His brilliant portrayal andmeticulous interpretation of the character is sure to win him

colossal admiration, approbation and respect from all quar-ters.

What's noteworthy is the effort the actor has invested in look-ing the part. Right from his chiseled, athletic physique, the hair,the body language et al, Farhan has pushed himself beyondlimits to illustrate the eminent and renowned character of MilkhaSingh with precision. He leaves you astonished at varied stagesand you can't help but admire the hard slog, passion, commit-

ment and earnestness of the actor. This is anunblemished, memorable performancethat should find a strong nomination in the

year's best performances.Milkha learnt some of life's most

crucial and critical tutorials from hissenior, portrayed luminously byPawan Malhotra. He inculcatedvalor and determination in Milkha toencounter the uphill struggles in lifeand I genuinely believe that anyamount of admiration will not do ade-quate justice to the extraordinary

depiction of this character by PawanMalhotra. Cricketer Yuvraj Singh's

actor-father Yograj Singh, who hasbeen an integral part of several films

in the past, excels as Farhan'scoach. He is simply

incredible here.Prakash Raj, castin a positive role, isin fine form too.

Sonam putsher best foot for-ward as well.

Although thecharacter is brief,

she shines inthose pertinent

m o m e n tsnonethe-less. Aus-t r a l i a na c t r e s sRebecca

Breedshas apivotalp a r t

and thechemistryshe shares

with Farhan is super. Divya Dutta is simply outstanding asFarhan's sister. An extraordinary actor, she handles thedemanding part with flourish.

British actor Art Malik seems most appropriate in the roleof Farhan's father. Dalip Tahil [as Pandit Nehru], K.K. Raina[as Mr Wadhwa], Nawab Shah [as Coach Javed], MeeshaShafi [as Perizaad], Dev Gill [as Abdul Khaliq] and ShantaKumar [as Gen. Ayub Khan] are wonderful in their respec-tive parts. Jabtej Singh, as the young Milkha, is superb.

On the whole, BHAAG MILKHA BHAAG is sure to winaccolades, admiration, respect and esteem, besides emerg-ing as a champ. Reserve the applause for Milkha Singh andthe team behind BHAAG MILKHA BHAAG. Give it a stand-ing ovation!

Courtesy: bollywoodhungama.com

Dr Sanjay Sachdeva

Glaucoma is the term used to describe a number of relat-ed conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve, whichtransmits information from the eye to the brain. It usually(but not always) is associated with high intraocular pres-

sure (IOP). Left untreated, glaucoma can cause blindness.Does increased eye pressure mean that I have glau-

coma?Not necessarily. Increased eye pressure means you are

at risk for glaucoma, but does not mean you have the dis-ease. Aperson has glaucoma only if the optic nerve is dam-aged. If you have increased eye pressure but no damageto the optic nerve, you do not have glaucoma. However,you are at risk.

Who is most at risk for glaucoma?If you're over age 60, diabetic or have a family member

with glaucoma, you are at higher risk for glaucoma than oth-ers.

What are the different types of glaucoma?Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most com-

mon form of glaucoma. The other types are: normal-ten-sion, narrow-angle, closed-angle, congenital, pigmentaryand secondary.

How can I prevent the disease from occurring?early detection and treatment of glaucoma, before it

causes major vision loss, is the best way to control the dis-ease. So, if you fall into one of the high-risk groups for thedisease, make sure to have your eyes examined regularly.

What are the symptoms of glaucoma?Although acute angle-closure glaucoma may cause

pain, redness, haloes, and blurred vision, most people withglaucoma do not experience any symptoms until they havelost a significant amount of vision.

How is glaucoma detected?Glaucoma is detected through a comprehensive eye

exam that includes a visual acuity test, visual field test, dilat-

ed eye exam, tonometry, and pachymetry.What glaucoma treatments are currently available?Doctors usually prescribe specia lglaucoma eye drops

that reduce intraocular pressure. These are used one orseveral times a day, depending on the medication. If the

drops don't work, surgery may be the next step. In somecases, surgery might be the first option for glaucoma treat-ment.

What can I do to protect my vision?If you are taking medicines for glaucoma, be sure to take

them every day as directed by your eye care professional.People at risk for glaucoma should have a dilated eye examat least every two years. If you have been diagnosed, youmay need to see your eye care professional more often.

What can I do if I already have lost some vision fromglaucoma?

If you have lost some sight from glaucoma, ask your eyecare professional about low vision services and devices thatmay help you make the most of your remaining vision.

What should I do for a family member or friend whomay be at risk of glaucoma?

Encourage them to have a comprehensive dilated eyeexam at least once every two years. Remember -- lower-ing eye pressure in glaucoma's early stages slows progres-sion of the disease and helps save vision.

If a Person Has Glaucoma, How Often Do They Needto Be Checked?

The frequency of checkups depends on the severity ofone's glaucoma. If the person is a low-risk glaucoma sus-pect, they may only need to be examined on an annualbasis. For more severe glaucoma, examinations may needto be done monthly, or possibly even more frequently, untilthe glaucoma stabilizes. Once the glaucoma is stable,examinations every 3 to 4 months are usually appropriate.

SUNDAY, JULY 14, 2013 (PAGE-4) EExxcelsiorcelsior MAMAGAZINEGAZINEdaily

Bhaag Milkha Bhaag

Treating Glaucoma

Stone Quarrying at Athwajan

ENVIRONMENT

MOVIE REVIEW HEALTHLINES

Blastocyst Transfer

New hope for intfertile couplesBHAAG MILKHA BHAAG chronicles the life of Indiansprinter Milkha Singh from his childhood to achieving the

iconic standing.

If you're over age 60, diabetic or have a family member with glaucoma, you are at higher risk

for glaucoma than others.