PG & Research Department of Biochemistry

COVID-19  COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is a respiratory illness that emerged in late 2019.  Overview Transmission : Spread mainly through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread via surfaces and aerosols in enclosed spaces. Symptoms : Common symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, and difficulty breathing. Some individuals may experience mild symptoms, while others can develop severe illness. Variants Multiple variants have emerged, including Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Omicron. Variants can have different transmissibility and severity, affecting public health responses. Prevention Vaccination : Vaccines have been developed and authorized for emergency use, significantly reducing the severity of illness and transmission rates. Public Health Measures : Wearing masks, maintaining physical distance, and practicing good hand hygiene are crucial for preventing the spread. Treatment Mild Cases : Ofte...

  Room fresheners Room fresheners, while popular for improving indoor air quality and creating pleasant scents, can have some side effects.  1. Respiratory Issues Irritation : Some fresheners contain chemicals that can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. Allergic Reactions : Certain ingredients may trigger allergies or asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals. 2. Chemical Exposure Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) : Many air fresheners release VOCs, which can contribute to indoor air pollution and may have long-term health effects with prolonged exposure. Endocrine Disruption : Some synthetic fragrances may contain phthalates, which have been linked to hormonal disruptions. 3. Headaches and Nausea Fragrance Sensitivity : High concentrations of artificial scents can trigger headaches, migraines, or nausea in some individuals. 4. Skin Reactions Contact Dermatitis : Direct contact with certain fresheners can cause skin irritatio...

  Types of Food Coloring Agents Natural Colorants : Plant-based : Derived from fruits, vegetables, and plants (e.g., beet juice for red, turmeric for yellow). Animal-based : Includes cochineal (carmine) from insects, often used for red. Synthetic Colorants : Artificial Dyes : Created through chemical processes (e.g., Red 40, Yellow 5). Lake Colors : These are dye salts used in products that contain fats and oils. Common Food Coloring Agents Beet Red (Beet Juice Extract) : Used for red/pink hues. Carotenoids : Found in carrots and tomatoes, used for yellow/orange colors. Annatto : Derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, used for yellow/orange. Spirulina : A blue-green algae used for blue coloring. Titanium Dioxide : A white pigment often used in dairy products and sauces. Regulatory Aspects Approval : In many countries, food colorants must be approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA in the U.S., EFSA in Europe). Labeling : Products containing synthetic dyes must list these on in...

  cancer statistics in India  Incidence and Prevalence New Cases : India reports over 1.5 million new cancer cases annually. Common Types : The most prevalent cancers include breast, cervical, lung, oral, and stomach cancers. Gender Differences : Breast cancer is the most common among women, while lung cancer is prevalent among men. Mortality Death Rates : Approximately 800,000 cancer-related deaths occur each year. Survival Rates : The overall five-year survival rate varies by cancer type, with some cancers like breast cancer showing better outcomes due to early detection and treatment. Risk Factors Lifestyle Factors : Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, unhealthy diet, and physical inactivity are significant contributors. Infections : Certain cancers, such as cervical and liver cancer, are linked to viral infections like HPV and hepatitis B/C. Regional Variations Urban vs. Rural : Incidence rates tend to be higher in urban areas, but rural populations face challenges in access...

 carcinogenic foods Some cancer risk factors are modifiable. This means people can alter their risk by making changes, such as with their diet. Alcohol, red meat, and highly processed foods all have links to a higher risk of cancer.

  Balanced Diet A balanced diet is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. It provides the body with the necessary nutrients it needs to function effectively. Here’s an overview: Components of a Balanced Diet Macronutrients : Carbohydrates : Primary source of energy. Include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Proteins : Essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. Sources include meat, fish, eggs, beans, and nuts. Fats : Important for energy, hormone production, and nutrient absorption. Focus on healthy fats like those from avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. Micronutrients : Vitamins : Essential for various biochemical functions (e.g., vitamin C for immune function, B vitamins for energy). Minerals : Important for bone health, fluid balance, and nerve function (e.g., calcium, potassium, iron). Fiber : Found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Water : Essential for...

 Various chemicals are used in the production, preservation, and processing of fruits. Here’s an overview of some common types and their purposes: 1. Pesticides Purpose : Protect fruits from pests, diseases, and weeds. Examples : Insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides. Concerns : Residues can remain on fruits and may pose health risks; proper washing is recommended. 2. Fungicides Purpose : Prevent fungal infections and extend shelf life. Examples : Azoxystrobin, thiabendazole. Concerns : Can affect human health if not used properly. 3. Ripening Agents Purpose : Speed up the ripening process of fruits. Examples : Ethylene gas, calcium carbide (though the latter is banned in many places due to safety concerns). Concerns : Improper use can lead to health hazards and may affect taste and texture. 4. Preservatives Purpose : Extend shelf life and maintain quality. Examples : Sulfur dioxide, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), sodium benzoate. Concerns : Some people may be sensitive or allergic ...