VOLUME 22
SEPTEMBER 2024
NUMBER 9
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
PHYSICAL DISABILITY
According to the World Health Organisation, around
1 billion people in the world live with disabilities. Physical disabilities are
one of the most common types of disabilities and can have a profound impact on
a person’s daily life, including their mobility, ability to work, and mental
and emotional health. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of
physical disabilities, the challenges people face due to physical disabilities,
and how communities and institutions can support people with physical
disabilities.
A physical disability is a condition that affects a
person’s ability to move or control their body. Physical disabilities can be
either congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developed later in life due
to injury or illness). Some common physical disabilities include cerebral
palsy, spinal bifida, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord
injuries.
Physical disabilities can impact different parts of
the body, including limbs, muscles, bones, and nerves. People with physical
disabilities may have difficulty walking, standing, sitting, or performing
daily tasks like dressing, bathing, and eating.
People with physical disabilities often face
significant challenges in their daily lives. These challenges can vary
depending on the severity and type of disability, but some common issues
include:
1. Access to
public spaces: People with physical disabilities may have difficulty
accessing public spaces like parks, museums, and restaurants due to physical
barriers like steps, uneven walkways, and narrow doors.
2. Employment:
People with physical disabilities may face discrimination when seeking
employment due to employers’ perceptions about their abilities. They may also
struggle to find work that is physically compatible with their disability.
3. Social
isolation: People with physical disabilities may face social isolation due
to physical barriers that make it difficult to leave their homes or participate
in social activities.
4. Mental
health: People with physical disabilities may experience mental health
challenges like anxiety, depression, and stress due to the physical limitations
and social barriers they encounter.
How can communities and institutions support people
with physical disabilities?
Communities and institutions have a critical role
to play in creating a more inclusive and supportive society for people with
physical disabilities. Here are some ways they can help:
1. Accessibility: Public spaces like parks,
museums, and restaurants should be designed to be accessible for people with
physical disabilities. This can include ramps, wider doorways, and accessible
bathrooms.
2. Employment: Employers should have policies in
place to support employees with physical disabilities, including accommodations
like assistive technology, flexible work hours, and modified duties.
3. Social inclusion: Communities can work to create
a more inclusive environment by providing accessible transportation, community
support programs, and social activities that are accessible to people with
physical disabilities.
4. Education and awareness: Institutions like
schools and workplaces can raise awareness about physical disabilities and promote
a culture of inclusivity and acceptance. This can include disability awareness
training, inclusive curriculums, and guest speakers who share their experiences
of living with physical disabilities.
SCIENCE
Science has had a profound impact on every aspect of society. From medicine to communication and transportation to entertainment, science has improved the quality of life for millions of people around the world. It has revolutionised the way we live, work, and interact with one another.
One of the most significant impacts of science on
society has been in the field of medicine. The development of vaccines,
antibiotics, and medical procedures has saved countless lives and reduced the
impact of diseases and illnesses on society. Science has also allowed us to
better understand the human body, leading to more effective treatments and
cures for a range of illnesses.
Science has also had a significant impact on
communication. Thanks to advances in technology, we can now communicate with
people in different parts of the world in real-time. Social media platforms
such as Facebook and Twitter have connected people like never before,
facilitating the spread of ideas and information across the globe.
Communication technology has also made it easier for people to work remotely,
reducing transportation costs and improving work-life balance.
Science has transformed transportation as well. The
development of automobiles, airplanes, and trains has made it possible to
travel long distances quickly and safely, connecting people from different
parts of the world. The advances in transportation technology have also made it
easier to transport goods, reducing the cost of goods and services.
Finally, science has impacted entertainment, with
numerous technological innovations in the field. The development of the
internet, streaming services, and virtual reality has forever altered the way
we consume entertainment. People can now access an unlimited amount of music,
movies, and other forms of entertainment from anywhere in the world.
In conclusion, science has had a profound impact on
every aspect of society, from medicine to communication, transportation to
entertainment. As science continues to evolve, we can expect even more
significant advancements that will further improve our quality of life. It is
up to society to wisely use these advancements for the betterment of humanity.
NUMBER 13
The belief that the number 13 is unlucky is very ancient. The
Romans believed the number 13 was a symbol of death and destruction. The
Christian belief that the number brings bad luck is often said to come from
the Last Supper, when Christ sat down with his 12 disciples, making 13 people.
Some people think that the first person to leave a dinner table at which there
are 13 diners will die before the end of the year.
Unlucky for some:
·
The
13th Apollo space mission was known as Apollo 13. On 13 April 1970,
there was an explosion on board, and the spacecraft began to leak oxygen. This
happened two days after it took off at 13:13 (1.13 pm). The spacecraft only
just made it back to Earth.
·
On
Friday, 13 September 1928, a hurricane killed 2000 people in Puerto Rico,
Florida and the Virgin Islands, and caused approximately $25 million in damage.
·
There
is no building in Paris that bears the number 13.
·
Italy
omits the number 13 from its national lottery.
Lucky for Others:
·
The
number 13 was sacred for Mayans and Aztecs of Central America, and it is
traditionally a lucky number in China.
·
Buddhists
pay homage to the number 13. Buddha and the orthodox Jewish prayer book hold 13
principles of faith.
GLOBAL WARMING
Controlling global warming requires a multi-faceted approach
involving various sectors and individuals. Here are some key strategies to
address and mitigate global warming.
1.
Transition to renewable energy: Reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote the use of renewable
energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro power. Encouraging investments in
renewable energy infrastructure and supporting research and development in
clean technologies can accelerate this transition.
2.
Energy efficiency: Improve
energy efficiency in industries, transportation, and buildings. This can be
achieved through the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, better
insulation, efficient appliances, and transportation systems.
3.
Sustainable transportation: Encourage the use of public transport, walking, cycling,
and the adoption of electric vehicles. Promote carpooling and reduce air travel
when feasible.
4.
Forest conservation and reforestation: Protect existing forests and promote reforestation effects.
Trees absorb carbon dioxide, helping to reduce greenhouse gas levels in the
atmosphere.
5.
Sustainable agriculture: Promote sustainable farming practices such as organic
farming, agro forestry, and precision farming which can reduce greenhouse gas
emissions, preserve soil health, and enhance resilience to climate change.
6.
Waste management: Encourage recycling, compositing, and waste
reduction. Landfills produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas, so reducing
waste can have a positive impact.
7. International cooperation: Foster global
collaboration and agreements such as the Paris Agreement, to set targets for
greenhouse gas emissions reduction and work together to achieve them.
8.
Education and awareness: Raise awareness about the causes and impacts of global
warming. Educate individuals, communities, and organizations about sustainable
practices and the importance of reducing carbon footprints.
It is crucial to
remember that individual actions, collective efforts, and policy changes at all
levels are essential to effectively control global warming. By implementing
these strategies and promoting sustainable practices, we can make a significant
contribution to mitigating the effects of global warming and protecting our
planet for future generations.
TO QUOTE
We have, in fact, two kinds of morality side by side; one which we preach but do not practice, and another which we practice bad seldom preach. – Bertrand Russel
Everything you do directly or indirectly affects
everything and everyone around you. – Pope Francis
It’s not tomorrow’s problem. It’s today’s problem. And
if we don’t do something about it, it will become tomorrow’s disaster. - Lady Brown
LINES I LIKED
Ø
Change your
surroundings every once in a while and break free from the monotonous and
exhausting routine.
Ø
Close-mindedness is
the enemy of progression, and it prevents us from opening up new ideas, opinions,
and ways of doing things.
Conclusions are important, not the contradictions.
Meet you next month –2025
Professor A. Narayanan, Ph. D., FISPP
SEND YOUR COMMENTS TO:
E-mail: arumugakannu@gmail.com
Ph: 0422 4393017 Mobile: 75399 15614
(NARA’S
NOTEPAD)
Thursday, July 31, 2025
POLITICAL SYSTEMS
Let's start
off with the most well-known political system in the world - democracy.
Democracy is a form of government where power is held by the people, either
directly or through elected representatives. It's a system that values
individual freedom, equality, and representation. Countries like the United
States, Canada, and Australia are all democratic countries, and it's a system
that has been praised for its ability to promote civil liberties and respect
for human rights.
However,
democracy isn't perfect. One of the biggest criticisms of this system is that
it can lead to the tyranny of the majority. This means that the majority can
vote to enact laws or policies that can negatively impact minority groups.
Additionally, democracy is often slow-moving and bureaucratic, making it
difficult to get things done quickly.
On the other
end of the spectrum, we have totalitarianism. Totalitarianism is a political
system where the government has complete control over all aspects of citizens'
lives. This means that there are no free elections, no freedom of speech, and
no individual rights. Countries like North Korea and China are examples of
totalitarian states.
Totalitarianism
is often criticised for its lack of respect for human rights and its tendency
to disregard the needs and well-being of its citizens. However, it can also be
highly efficient in achieving its goals, as there are no checks and balances to
slow down or hinder progress.
Somewhere in
between democracy and totalitarianism lies communism. Communism is a political
system where all property is publicly owned and each person works and is paid
according to their abilities and needs. This system values equality and the
elimination of class distinctions. Countries like Cuba and China are examples
of communist states.
Communism is
often praised for its ability to provide for the basic needs of its citizens,
such as healthcare and education. However, it can also lead to a lack of
innovation and limited economic growth due to the lack of incentives for
individual achievement. Lastly, we have fascism. Fascism is a political system
where the government is led by a strong leader who has complete control over
all aspects of life. This system values nationalism, hierarchy, and the
suppression of individual rights. Countries like Italy under Mussolini and
Germany under Hitler are examples of fascist regimes. Fascism is often
criticized for its tendency towards xenophobia and its disregard for individual
rights. However, it can also be highly efficient in achieving its goals, as
there is no opposition or dissent allowed.
In
conclusion, there are many different political systems in the world, each with
its pros and cons. While democracy is often praised for its promotion of civil
liberties and individual rights, other systems like totalitarianism and fascism
can be highly efficient in achieving their goals. It's important to understand
the strengths and weaknesses of each political system and to strive towards
creating a government that values equality, individual freedoms, and
representation.
NATIONAL PARKS AND THEIR USES
National parks are areas of special scenic,
historical, or scientific importance set aside and maintained by a national
government and, in some cases, by an act of Congress. They are usually intended
to preserve the natural environment and provide opportunities for public
recreation and enjoyment, or education. Most of the landscapes and their
accompanying plants and animals in a national park are kept in their natural
state.
National parks vary in size, location, and
purpose across different countries and regions. The first national park in the
world is widely considered to be Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, USA,
which was established in 1872. However, some sources claim that Bogd Khan
Mountain National Park in Mongolia, which may date from as early as 1778, was
the first national park. Since then, many other countries have followed the
example of creating national parks to protect their natural and cultural
heritage. Some of the most famous national parks include Yosemite National Park
in California, USA; Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada; Serengeti National
Park in Tanzania; Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in Australia; and Galapagos
National Park in Ecuador.
National parks have many benefits for both
humans and nature. They can help conserve biodiversity, ecosystem services, and
geological features; they can provide recreational, educational, and scientific
opportunities for visitors; they can support local communities and economies
through tourism and employment; they can foster national pride and identity;
and they can inspire people to appreciate and respect nature. However, national
parks also face many challenges and threats, such as climate change, species, poaching, pollution, overdevelopment, overcrowding, and conflicts with
local people. Therefore, national parks need careful planning, management, and
monitoring to ensure their long-term sustainability and effectiveness.
PALMISTRY
Palmistry is the art of telling the future from the lines on the palms of your hands. The lines are unique to each person and are said to each person and are said to show the person’s character and what will happen in the future. Palmistry began in India thousands of years ago as a form of counselling. The heart, head and life lines are especially important. They are judged by their length and strength. The life line shows how healthy you are and how much you enjoy life. The head line shows how intelligent you are, and the heart line reveals the physical condition of the heart as well as a person’s sexual and emotional nature.
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Bill Clinton is a prominent political figure who served as the 42nd President of the United States from 1993 to 2001. He was a member of the Democratic Party, and his presidency was marked by economic prosperity, social progress and international leadership. Clinton was born in Arkansas in 1946 and showed an early interest in politics. He went on to attend Georgetown University, and then Yale Law School. After completing his education, Clinton returned to Arkansas where he became the youngest governor in the history of the state. Clinton's tenure as governor was notable for his progressive policies, including his emphasis on education reform and health care. In 1992, Clinton announced his candidacy for the presidency and he went on to win the election, defeating incumbent George H. W. Bush. During his presidency, Clinton worked to reduce the budget deficit and oversaw the longest period of economic growth in U.S. history. He also signed into law the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), advocating for free trade and workers' rights. Clinton also sought to promote democracy and peace around the world, intervening in conflicts in Bosnia and Kosovo and negotiating the Oslo Accords for peace in the Middle East. However, Clinton's presidency was marked with controversy and scandal. In 1998, he was impeached by the U.S. House of Representatives on charges of perjury, obstruction of justice, and abuse of power related to his affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky. However, he was acquitted of the charges by the Senate. Despite the controversies surrounding him, Clinton remains a respected and influential figure in American politics. He has continued to be active in public life, campaigning for various political causes and serving as a global advocate for HIV/AIDS and climate change. He has also authored several books, including his autobiography "My Life" and "The President Is Missing," a collaboration with James Patterson.
Overall, Bill Clinton's presidency was a
transformative period in American politics, marked by both successes and controversies. His leadership and legacy
continue to be studied and debated today.
WHAT IS AGEING? WHY IT HAPPENS?
Ageing is simply the process of becoming older. Superficially, as we age, we appear to have more wrinkles and blemishes in the skin, and perhaps grayer hair. We don’t have the same strength, endurance, and even body shape as we did when we were younger. But on a molecular and cellular level in the body, what is driving these changes?
Cells are the building blocks that form all
our tissues. As we age, our cells age too. Stem cells, which are cells that are
capable of becoming a range of different tissues (bone, muscle, blood, etc.),
lose the capacity to undergo differentiation—the ability to change from one
cell type to another. This is problematic because stem cells are responsible
for replenishing damaged tissue, for example, damaged cartilage in joints. So,
the body cannot regenerate as effectively.
Unlike the cells in young bodies, cells in
the older person’s body also lose some of their metabolic capacity and start to
accumulate waste proteins, resulting in malfunction. This is thought to occur
because of several different reasons:
DNA
damage arising from exposure to free radicals (free radicals are high-energy
molecules in the body
capable of destroying or damaging
other molecules). Shortening of
telomeres (telomeres are structures on the end of your DNA that protect it from
degradation). Advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs) (destructive molecules
created from sugar) abnormally bond with other normal proteins and fat
molecules, and over time, these altered molecules accumulate. Our cells may be
intrinsically programmed genetically to age and stop working.
Thus, the body loses its ability to replace
old or damaged cells, and those older cells start to malfunction. This disrupts
the complex biological processes in the body. Cellular aging processes affect
the musculoskeletal system, and we know that three things happen:
Bones lose
density, becoming weaker and more brittle (aka osteoporosis and osteopenia)
Muscle mass and density decreases (a.k.a. sarcopenia)
The smooth cartilage which covers our joints wears down. In the spine, all three of these processes occur in addition to degeneration of the intervertebral discs—the structures which are responsible for linking our vertebrae together.
TO QUOTE
We see that some people do not want to have a child, while others have one, and that’s it. However, they often have dogs and cats that take the place of children. This may seem amusing, but it is a reality. – Pope Francis
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