eChapters

1. Introduction

Web 2.0 speaks about the second version of web advancement and draft that aims to make it easier to communicate and safer to share information, as well as to make the web more interoperable and user-centered. Social networking sites, video-sharing sites, Wikis, blogs, and folksonomies are just a few of the web-based communities, hosted services, and apps that have grown and changed because of Web 2.0 ideas. (King and Brown, 2009; Wikipedia, 2010c). According to Birdsall (2007) web 2.0 is a social revolution since these tools have brought new changes in the society. According to O'Reilly (2005) the advent of Web 2.0 has revolutionized the way individuals and organizations interact with the internet, marking a significant shift from a static web experience to a dynamic, user-driven environment. This transformation is characterized by the emergence of platforms and tools that empower users not only to consume content but also to create, share, and collaborate on it. As a result, Web 2.0 has fostered a more participatory online culture, where users actively engage in the generation and dissemination of information.

1. Introduction

Today, all the organisations rely on assessments of data provided by their users, consumers, internal procedures, and day to day operations to find new avenues for betterment and expansion of the product and services. These insights provide a large and intricate set of professionally generated, maintained, analyzed, and modified facts. "Big Data" refers to the vast amount of data (Bansal, 2022, April 6). For instance, social media platforms facilitate human contact every day and millions of people connect and share a vast array of diverse types of information through these platforms. Big Data is viewed as "incredibly significant" in academic research. In the Big Data context, data visualization tools and technologies are essential for analyzing large amounts of data and making decisions based on facts (Adilin Beatrice, 2021, March 2). Information and data are represented graphically in data visualization. By using visual components like charts, graphs, and maps, data visualization tools provide an intuitive way to observe and understand trends, outliers, and patterns in data. The process is called Big Data Analytics that describes the process of uncovering trends, patterns, and correlations in large amounts of raw data to help make data-informed decisions in various research works.

1. Introduction

The idea of Green Libraries transcends mere energy conservation or waste reduction. It encapsulates a broader commitment to sustainability, encompassing green building practices, sustainable operations, environmentally friendly collections, and programs that educate and engage communities on sustainability issues. This essay explores the multifaceted nature of Green Libraries, examining their significance, the principles that guide them, and their impact on communities and the environment.

2. The Emergence of Green Libraries

The Green Library movement is relatively recent, gaining momentum in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. This movement arose from a growing recognition of the library's role in society as a community hub and educational institution. Libraries, traditionally seen as repositories of knowledge and culture, began to evolve in response to societal shifts towards environmental consciousness.

1. Introduction

Electronic theses and dissertations (ETDs) are a great resource for scholars in academic institutions. They assist academics in comprehending the study carried out in prior years. When study results are made accessible on an open access platform, they are extensively utilized for further inquiry and teaching purposes. Theses and dissertations need to be made publicly available so that the users can get access to it. So, the emergence of Shodhganga proves to be very useful to the students, researchers, faculties and all other users (Vijayakumar and Vijayakumar, 2007). A significant number of doctorate research projects are now being conducted worldwide in several fields within the natural sciences. Bibliometrics focusses on analyzing the attributes of published literature, such as the distribution of literature on different subjects, statistical examination of content kinds, references, citations, and co-citations within and across fields (Pritchard, 1969). Davarpanah and Aslekia (2008) conducted bibliometric research on PhD theses, however these investigations were often limited to a certain university or department. Shodhganga serves as a digital archive for freely accessible whole texts of Indian electronic theses.

1. Introduction

Climate change includes higher temperatures, changes in rainfall patterns, alterations in the frequency and distribution of weather events such as droughts, storms, floods, and heatwaves, sea-level rise, and the consequent impacts on human and natural systems (Riedy, 2018). Climate is the average weather in a given area over a longer time. A description of climate includes information on, for example, “the average temperature in different seasons, rainfall, and sunshine. Also, a description of the chance of experiencing extremes is often included. Climate change is any systematic change in the long-term statistics of climate variables such as temperature, precipitation, pressure, or wind sustained over several decades or longer. Climate change can be due to natural external forcings (changes in solar emission or changes in the Earth’s orbit, natural internal processes of the climate system), or it can be human-induced” (Buonocore, 2022).

1. Introduction

Organizing and disseminating the amount of information being generated in the age of information explosion is the challenge for library staff. According to Ranganathan’s fourth law of library science it is very important factor today, that how quickly library provides its information to the users. So, in this modern era to do this work beautifully, it needs the help of advance technology. Not only that, but also requires staff training.Even the library continuously changes its concepts to keeping the modernity, like library known as ‘Knowledge Resource Centre’, the books and non-book materials known as information and so on.Now a day the library has made its services better and better by using several technologies. From this point of view, the use of RFID technology is very important. RFID consists of four components vis Tags, Antenna, RFID Reader and Software. Though its use, we make the work of circulation easier, we can identify any missing documents very easily. After all, we can say that no document can be taken out of the library without a proper way. So there is acceptance of stock verification work.

A poster is a printed or digital graphic display designed to convey information or messages to a target audience. Posters can include a combination of text, images, and graphics and are often used for advertising, educational purposes, propaganda, and events promotion. They are typically displayed in public spaces to reach a broad audience.

Historical Background and Origins of Posters

Early History

Ancient and Medieval Times: Early forms of posters can be traced back to ancient civilizations where announcements and decrees were inscribed on stone tablets and walls. The use of posters as we know them began with the invention of printing technologies.

15th Century: The invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century paved the way for mass production of printed materials, including early forms of posters.

Charts and graphs are essential tools for visualizing data and presenting information in a clear and comprehensible manner. They transform raw data into visual representations, making complex data easier to understand, analyze, and communicate. Various types of charts and graphs serve different purposes and are chosen based on the nature of the data and the message intended to be conveyed.

Historical Background and Evolution

The use of charts and graphs dates back centuries, evolving alongside advancements in mathematics, statistics, and technology.

Early Developments

Ancient Civilizations: Early forms of data visualization can be traced back to ancient civilizations. For example, Egyptian hieroglyphics and Babylonian cuneiform tablets included basic graphical representations of information.

William Playfair (1759-1823): Often considered the father of statistical graphics, Playfair introduced several fundamental chart types, including the bar chart, line chart, pie chart, and circle chart, in his works such as “The Commercial and Political Atlas” (1786) and “The Statistical Breviary” (1801).

Over the past thirty years, digital imaging methods have gained prominence in the food and agricultural industries due to their non-invasive nature and high throughput capabilities. These techniques provide precise and quantitative descriptions of biological products. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence, particularly deep learning, have significantly enhanced computer vision, making it a crucial element of smart food and agricultural systems. Common applications include quality control of bioproducts, plant disease detection, plant phenotyping, crop yield estimation, animal production, and animal welfare. Studies indicate that the market for agricultural-related machine vision and AI is projected to quadruple to $4 billion globally by 2026, driven by the anticipated increase in the world’s population to nearly 10 billion by 2050 and the existing 50% food gap needed to feed this population.

The Red-Green-Blue (RGB) color imaging system, which provides information on objects’ color, texture, and 2D morphology, is one of the most widely used computer vision techniques. However, 2D color imaging systems are limited in that they cannot capture the 3D spatial location information of objects. This 3D information is vital for describing the physical properties of bioproducts, such as size, and is essential for guiding autonomous robotic systems in precision tasks like pruning, harvesting, and cutting. With the development of affordable 3D imaging hardware, it is expected that 3D imaging techniques will become more prevalent in food manufacturing and agricultural engineering. However, various 3D cameras have different design principles and imaging capabilities, resulting in varying camera parameters like resolution and frame rates. Selecting the most appropriate 3D imaging system for specific applications is crucial to provide accurate information and ensure functionality under challenging environmental conditions, such as occlusions and lighting variations. Additionally, the extra 3D data, including point clouds and depth information, complicates data analysis, necessitating the design of efficient 3D analysis models for successful implementation. Following figure provides a timeline of the development of crop modelling approaches.

Flashcards are a study aid that typically consists of a set of cards bearing information, such as vocabulary words, questions, or concepts on one side, and their corresponding answers or explanations on the other. They are used to enhance memory through active recall and spaced repetition.

Planning for Flashcards

1. Define the Purpose and Scope

• Determine the subject or topic you want to study.

• Identify the specific concepts, terms, or questions that need to be included.

2. Gather Resources

• Collect textbooks, lecture notes, or other educational materials related to the topic.

• Ensure you have reliable and accurate information. 

Specimens serve as enduring records of a species or population as they existed at a specific time and location. The future value and utility of any specimen are heavily influenced by the meticulousness with which the collector selects, gathers, and prepares the specimens. The following guidelines and recommendations on specimen preparation, field equipment, and field records are provided to help collectors produce high-quality herbarium specimens with comprehensive field notes.

Collecting Objectives and Planning

The specimens you collect should align with your specific objectives, which will determine the techniques used, the amount of material collected, and the type of field data recorded. The following suggestions can help you maximize the benefits of valuable field time:

1. Outline Objectives

• Clearly define the goals for your specific expedition.

2. Prepare Equipment List

• Make a comprehensive list of all equipment needed for the field expedition.

3. Identify Localities

• Use herbarium specimens to determine specific localities if needed materials are known.

• Have multiple localities in case some areas are disturbed.

• Check flowering and fruiting dates on herbarium specimens.

A puppet is an object resembling a human, animal, or mythical figure, animated or manipulated by a puppeteer. Puppetry, an ancient form of theatre dating back to the 5th century BC in Ancient Greece, encompasses a wide array of puppet types, crafted from diverse materials to suit various forms and purposes.

Puppets vary greatly in complexity, from simple constructions to intricate designs. The puppeteer controls movements using hands, arms, or devices like rods or strings, manipulating the puppet’s body, head, limbs, and sometimes its mouth and eyes. Often, the puppeteer provides the character’s voice, synchronizing speech with puppet movements, which together convey narratives and stories.

Among the simpler puppet types are finger puppets, miniature figures fitting onto a single finger, and sock puppets, created and animated by inserting a hand into a sock, manipulating the hand to simulate the puppet’s mouth movements. Hand puppets, including live-hand puppets operated by one hand inside the puppet, and larger versions like live-hand puppets requiring two puppeteers, also feature prominently.

What is Audio

Audio refers to sound that is within the range of human hearing. This encompasses everything from the spoken word and music to ambient sounds and electronic signals. In technical terms, audio often refers to the representation of these sounds in a form that can be recorded, transmitted, and reproduced, typically using electronic devices.

History and Evolution of Audio Communication and Aids

Ancient to Early Modern Period

1. Early Communication

• Oral Tradition: In ancient times, communication was predominantly oral. Stories, knowledge, and news were passed down verbally.

• Musical Instruments: Early instruments like drums, flutes, and stringed instruments were used for communication, rituals, and entertainment.

2. Writing and Instruments

• Written Language: The invention of writing allowed for more permanent records of communication but was separate from audio.

• Bell Towers and Horns: In medieval times, bells and horns were used for signaling and communication over distances.

Exhibition

An exhibition is a public display of works of art, artifacts, products, or other items of interest. Exhibitions are typically organized in galleries, museums, trade shows, or public spaces and can be focused on a single theme or a wide range of subjects. They aim to inform, educate, and engage the audience, offering an opportunity for visitors to experience and interact with the displayed items.

Audio Visual Aids

Audio visual (AV) aids are tools that use both sound and visual components to enhance the communication of information. Examples include videos, slideshows, interactive displays, projectors, speakers, and digital screens. These aids are used in various settings, such as classrooms, corporate presentations, and exhibitions, to make the content more engaging and easier to understand.

Integration of AV Aids in Exhibitions

Integrating AV aids in exhibitions involves incorporating technologies like projectors, speakers, touchscreens, and interactive kiosks to enhance the visitor experience. This integration can bring static displays to life, provide deeper insights into exhibits, and create an immersive environment. Proper integration requires careful planning to ensure that the AV aids complement the exhibits and do not overshadow them.

Introduction

The ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (NAARM) was established in Hyderabad in 1976 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. Its primary mission is to enhance the capacities of agricultural research, education, and extension education systems, and to offer policy advocacy for the National Agricultural Research and Education System (NARES). To achieve this, NAARM conducts various capacity-building programs for researchers, educators, extension personnel, scholars, and other stakeholders within NARES. The Academy aims to boost both individual and institutional capabilities for innovation within NARES. Given the critical role of agricultural research in the nation’s food security and economic development, leadership, governance, and innovation are essential for transforming NARES into a more diverse and innovative system. With this in mind, NAARM has crafted its vision, mission, and mandate.

Camera Technology Overview

A camera is a device used to capture and store images and videos, either digitally through an electronic image sensor or chemically using a light sensitive material like photographic film. This technology has been crucial in the fields of photography and videography, significantly impacting visual arts, media, entertainment, surveillance, and scientific research. Since its invention in the 19th century, the camera has undergone numerous technological advancements, resulting in a diverse range of types and models in the 21st century.

Getting familiarized with a video camera involves several steps. Here’s a guide to help you get started:

1. Read the Manual: Start by reading the camera’s user manual. It provides detailed information about the camera’s functions, features, and settings.

2. Identify the Parts: Physically handle the camera and familiarize yourself with its various parts, such as the lens, viewfinder, controls, and ports.

3. Basic Operations: Learn how to power the camera on and off. Practice adjusting basic settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO if your camera allows manual control.

4. Practice Recording: Start by recording simple videos. Experiment with different settings and angles to understand how they affect the footage.

5. Explore the Menus: Navigate through the camera’s menu system to explore and adjust various settings like resolution, frame rate, and audio levels.

6. Use the Viewfinder/Screen: Get used to composing shots using the viewfinder or LCD screen. Practice framing your subject and adjusting focus.

7. Experiment with Lenses: If your camera allows, try using different lenses to see how they impact your footage. Learn how to change lenses and understand the effects of zoom and focus.

8. Check the Audio: Test the built-in microphone and, if possible, use an external microphone to see the difference in audio quality. Adjust audio levels as needed.

In addition to the camera itself, there are several accessories that can enhance  your video recording experience. Here’s a list of common video camera  accessories:
1. Tripods
Purpose: Stabilize your camera for steady shots.
Types: Standard tripod, monopod, mini tripod, and fluid head tripod for  smooth panning.
2. External Microphones
Purpose: Improve audio quality compared to built-in microphones.
Types: Lavalier (clip-on), shotgun, and handheld microphones.
3. Lighting Equipment
Purpose: Enhance lighting conditions for better video quality.
Types: LED lights, softboxes, and ring lights.
4. Camera Bags
Purpose: Protect and carry your camera and accessories.
Types: Shoulder bags, backpacks, and hard cases.
5. Extra Batteries and Chargers
Purpose: Ensure you have enough power for extended shoots.
Types: Spare batteries, battery chargers, and portable power banks.
6. Memory Cards
Purpose: Store recorded video footage.
Types: SD cards, microSD cards, and CF cards depending on camera compatibility.

A video camera is an optical device designed to capture videos, differing from a movie camera that records images on film. Initially developed for the television industry, video cameras are now widely utilized for various purposes.

Video cameras are primarily operated in two modes. The first mode, prominent in early broadcasting, is live television, where the camera transmits real-time images directly to a screen for immediate viewing. While a few cameras still support live television production, most live feeds are now used for security, military/tactical, and industrial applications requiring covert or remote monitoring. In the second mode, images are recorded onto a storage device for archiving or further processing. For many years, videotape was the primary format, but it has been gradually replaced by optical discs, hard disks, and eventually flash memory. Recorded video is utilized in television production and is increasingly used for surveillance and monitoring tasks, where unattended recording of a situation is necessary for later analysis.

Composition is a fundamental element of cinematography, essential for creating engaging video content. When designing shots and angles, videographers must consider not only technical aspects like lighting and sound but also creative choices that set the mood. Video composition helps filmmakers craft a narrative, influencing how viewers engage with the story. Effective composition goes beyond just framing; it involves color grading and the strategic placement of elements within the frame, making it vital for captivating the audience.

Video Composition Tutorial

A tutorial from B&H Photo’s YouTube channel outlines five crucial rules of video composition that should not be broken. These rules serve as a foundation, providing structure and consistency to the creative process

Understanding focus is a crucial technique in photography, especially for beginners. If your photos aren’t properly focused, they’ll turn out blurry even with perfect camera settings. The ease of focusing depends on your subject it’s simpler for stationary objects like landscapes but more challenging for moving subjects like birds in flight. This guide will cover all the essentials for achieving sharp, focused images.

What is Focus

In every photo, there’s a plane of focus, an area that can be as sharp as possible. Imagine this plane as a window intersecting your scene; any object touching this window is “in focus.” Adjusting this plane to get your subject sharp is known as focusing. Modern lenses achieve this by moving internal glass elements to alter the light’s optical path. You can also change the focus plane by moving the lens physically, a technique used in macro photography with extension tubes.

What is a Camera Shot

A camera shot consists of a sequence of frames captured continuously from when the camera starts recording until it stops. This uninterrupted footage is crucial in filmmaking and video production. By utilizing various types of shots, angles, and camera movements, filmmakers can highlight particular emotions, ideas, and actions within each scene.

Camera Shot Size Overview

The following shot size cheat sheet illustrates how different shot sizes appear on screen, helping to distinguish between them.

Understanding Shot Sizes

The essential shot sizes, ranging from establishing shots to extreme close-ups are explained in this chapter.

Lighting is a fundamental aspect of filmmaking and photography, crucial for setting the mood and tone of a scene. Different lighting techniques can evoke various emotions and atmospheres, helping to tell the story visually. Here are some common lighting techniques and the moods they create:

Types of Lighting Techniques

1. Three-Point Lighting

• Key Light: The main source of light, providing the primary illumination.

• Fill Light: Reduces shadows created by the key light.

• Back Light: Adds depth by separating the subject from the background.

An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is any aircraft or flying machine that operates without a human pilot. UAVs can be controlled autonomously or remotely by a human operator using onboard computers and robotic systems. In surveillance or military operations, UAVs are often part of an unmanned aircraft system (UAS). Drones, a common term for UAVs, have gained popularity for various applications such as photography, videography, surveying, inspection, and delivery.

The essential components of a drone include the frame, motors, propellers, battery, flight controller, and sensors. Let’s explore these components in detail:

1. Frame

2. Battery

3. Flight Controllers

4. Sensors

5. Motors and Propeller

Drone cameras have gained popularity due to advancements in technology and decreasing prices. Today, you can find various types of drones, from beginner models with cameras to those equipped with powerful HD and high-resolution 4K cameras. Despite the diversity of models, most drones share similar controls and functionalities. Thanks to technological advancements, drone cameras have become essential tools for aerial photography and videography. This article will explore the components of a drone camera, its functionality, and its diverse applications across various industries.

A drone camera is a specialized device attached to an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), designed to capture high-quality aerial images and videos. These cameras vary in size and design, from compact versions for hobbyists to professional-grade models used in commercial applications.

Introduction

In agricultural extension and education, video production plays a pivotal role in disseminating information, training farmers, and promoting best practices. The effectiveness of these videos is often determined by the quality of their scripts. This chapter explores three primary types of video scripts: basic production scripts, storyboard scripts, and camera scripts. Each type fulfills a distinct role in the production process, and understanding their unique functions is crucial for creating engaging and informative content. By examining these script types, this chapter aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the scripting process, helping to enhance the quality and impact of educational and promotional videos.

Script

A script is the written content for visual stories, such as plays, television shows, or movies. While scripts often include stage directions and production notes for performers and crew, their primary focus is on the dialogue between characters. Scripts serve as a blueprint for the entire production, guiding actors and technical crew through their roles and responsibilities. For example, a script for a stage play will detail character interactions, emotional tone, and specific actions, ensuring that all elements of the performance align with the director’s vision.

A One-Minute Video Script

A one-minute video script is a brief yet powerful tool that can make a significant impact. The goal is to convey your message quickly and clearly within a short amount of time. This script should have a strong structure, starting with a powerful beginning to grab the audience’s attention and ending with a clear call to action (CTA). Crafting your video script allows you to tailor your message precisely to your target audience, ensuring maximum engagement.

Key Elements of an Effective One-Minute Video Script

• Powerful Beginning: Start your script with an attention-grabbing intro. This could be a surprising fact, a bold statement, or a question that piques the audience’s curiosity.

• Clear Main Narrative: Focus on the main narrative. Ensure your message is clear and easy to follow, keeping the audience engaged throughout.

• Strong Call to Action: Conclude with a strong CTA that encourages viewers to take the next step, whether it’s visiting your website or subscribing to your channel.

Introduction

Planning scripts for documentary production and drama is crucial for creating compelling and effective visual narratives. Documentaries focus on presenting factual content and real-life stories, aiming to inform or inspire audiences through a detailed exploration of a specific topic. In contrast, dramas revolve around fictional stories designed to evoke emotions, explore complex characters, and engage viewers with imaginative scenarios. Both genres require meticulous planning and scripting to ensure clarity, coherence, and impact. For documentary production, the script serves as a blueprint that guides the storytelling process, balancing factual accuracy with engaging presentation. In drama production, the script outlines the narrative structure, character development, and dialogue to create an immersive and emotionally resonant experience. Understanding the nuances of scripting for both types of productions allows creators to effectively communicate their messages and captivate their audiences.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to writing a documentary script, but there are best practices that can streamline the process. Here are some key tips for crafting a compelling documentary script:

Choose a Story You’re Passionate About

Start by asking yourself why you want to create this documentary. What message do you want to convey? Why are you the best person to tell this story? These are questions that producers and executive producers will expect you to answer in a pitch, but it’s crucial to first address them for yourself. The answers will guide you to a story that you’re genuinely passionate about, making the long and challenging process of documentary filmmaking worthwhile. Once you have clarity on these questions, you can dive into the task of researching your material, identifying the story, and crafting the script.

Humans possess an innate tendency to preserve their experiences and knowledge. Throughout evolution, this inclination led to the recording of text and images on materials such as stone, rock, leaves, bark, and eventually paper. The desire to preserve not only written and visual content but also sound culminated in the invention of sound recording in the late 19th century. This innovation enabled humanity to capture and reproduce auditory experiences.

In 1924, Western Electric in the United States developed the first electromagnetic sound recording machine. This device marked a significant advancement, as it allowed for the conversion of acoustic waves into electrical signals that could drive a stylus to inscribe the sounds onto a medium, such as wax records. Over time, the technology evolved, leading to the widespread adoption of electromagnetic recording on plastic tapes coated with materials like ferrous oxide and ferric oxide. The late 20th century saw the introduction of Compact Discs (CDs), followed by DVDs and Blu-ray discs. Today, sound recordings are commonly stored on hard drives, flash drives, and memory cards.

In this unit, we will explore the essential skills necessary for presenting radio and television programs in a way that ensures they are engaging, effective, and successful in communication. It is widely recognized that even a program with strong content and a well-crafted script can fail to achieve the desired impact if it is not delivered in an appealing manner. We will analyze the key qualities of an effective presenter and examine the process of refining a script before it is presented on air, whether through a microphone or in front of a camera.

Presentation Techniques for Radio

The overall impact of a radio program is determined by the script, production quality, and the manner of presentation. While it can be argued that presentation and packaging fall under production quality, it is crucial to recognize that in an aural medium, the choice of words in the script is just as important as their delivery. Therefore, radio producers must be equally adept at presentation techniques, as these can significantly influence the success or failure of the entire production.

Homeopathy

The word ‘Homeopathy’ is derived from two Greek words “Homeos” and “Pathos” meaning “similar” and “suffering” respectively (Mukherjee and Wahile,2006). This system of medicine is based on the principle of ‘Similars’ propounded by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann in late 17th century. The practice of Homeopathy came into being and gained wide spread popularity too early in the history of medicine at a time when it was impossible to provide any kind of explanation for its clinical efficacy. It is a complete and separate approach to health care using dynamized micro doses of herbs, minerals or animal products to stimulate the body’s innate healing mechanism. Homeopathy is claimed to be more ecological, compassionate and comprehensive owing to use of micro doses. Clinical anecdotal evidence exists to indicate that homeopathy is beneficial in veterinary practice also. The homeopathic remedies stimulate the body defense to heal itself. The practice of homeopathy began first and science in its efficacy is being discovered later as was in case of immunology. An increasing interest is being shown in Homeopathy as a complementary and alternative treatment for both human and animal diseases owing to ever increasing problem of emergence of resistance in micro-organisms to antibiotics, their residues in animal products, and side effects of modern drugs. But critics of homeopathy are not reconciling with the use of highly diluted homeopathic remedies and considering it as a controversial therapy. Researches with the help of modern technology are now illustrating science in homeopathy.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy is a different system of health care being practiced across the world. It is not only an alternate health approach but a distinct full-fledged complete rational system of medicine having holistic, individualistic, and dynamistic approach to life, health, disease, remedy and cure. This system of health care science is offering treatment option for acute and chronic ailments of humans and animals. Homoeopathy takes a holistic approach towards the sick individual through promotion of inner balance at mental, emotional, spiritual and physical levels.

Birth of Homeopathy

Homeopathy was founded by Dr Hahnemann who was more concerned to evolve a safe and effective therapeutic paradigm around the key concept of similia. Dr. Hahnemann codified a new medical system with seven principles/ concepts when vital force theory , miasmatic theory of causation of diseases (Bhalwar, 2009) were prevalent and the concept of drug proving on healthy human being was proposed by Albrecht von Haller (Hahnemann,1922) .He fortified his key concept of “similia” with drug proving, drug dynamisation and individualization, and four ancillary theories viz. chronic diseases (Miasm), vital force (vital principle), single medicine and minimum dose. He named his new system of therapy as “Homeopathy” and published the first edition of Organon of Medicine in 1810.

Organon

Organon of Medicine, a document of Homeopathic philosophy articulated by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, is the corner stone of Homeopathic principles and practices being followed by homeopaths throughout world. Before Organon of Medicine Dr. Hahnemann published an article “Essay on a New Principle” in 1796. The article was based on his first experience of the effect of Peruvian Bark Cinchona in 1790. The Organon of Medicine developed slowly out of Hahnemann’s research and experimentation over a period of time and newer experiences were added in subsequent editions. With more personal observations and experimentation, he published his new account of Homeopathy in 1810 in the form of a book entitled “Organon of Rational Art of Healing (Organon der rationellen Heilkunde). It was the 1st edition. Dr. Hahnemann laid out the doctrine of his ideas of Homeopathy in this book. The book contains the principles and philosophical back ground of the Practice of Homeopathy. The work was repeatedly revised by him and published in six editions, with the name changed from the second edition onwards to Organon of Medicine (Organon der Heilkunst). The book saw its five editions in the life time of Hahnemann and the 6th edition was published long after the death of Dr. Hahnemann. The 2nd edition was published in 1819, with the revised title Organon of Healing Art. The 3rd edition of the book came in 1824. The 4th edition was published in 1829 and introduced Hahnemann’s “Theory of Chronic Diseases”. The 5th edition of the book was published in 1833, that contained the doctrine of vital force and drug-dynamization. The sixth edition, written in 1842, a year before his death, was retitled Organon of Medicine and published in 1921 (78 years after his death in 1843).

The concepts of health, disease, symptoms, constitution, cure, vital force, suppression of the disease, individualization, totality of symptoms, and dose etc. are unique in homeopathy differing from concepts of modern medicine.

Health

Generally, health is considered as freedom from disease. According to World Health Organization health is “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” (WHO, 1946). In homeopathy, it is defined as mental, physical and emotional wellbeing (Mondal, 2006 a) and the healthy body has been described as one in balance and equilibrium. The equilibrium of internal parameters is maintained by “life forces” corresponding to a general interpretation of immune system . In fact ‘Life force” is the actual energy behind the biochemistry of the body. It ends with death of the organism.

Analysis of Symptoms

Symptoms are deviation from a state of health perceptible to by the patient, people around and the doctor/veterinarian. Symptoms can be physical and mental. Symptoms narrated by the patients are subjective and observed by the doctor / veterinarian are objective. Animals lack subjective symptoms. The word analysis means “careful examination of the different parts or details of something.” According to Castro “The act of resolving or reducing or breaking the whole in to pieces or groups is called analysis”. When analyzing a case, the value of symptoms is taken in to consideration on several points such as personality, and categories of symptoms as subjective, objective, general, common and uncommon symptoms. Symptom analysis gives an opportunity to learn when the symptoms developed, the feeling that those circumstances evoked the symptoms, and the ways in which those symptoms may have served some useful purpose to the patient. The main purpose of analysis is to identify the prescribing symptom in the given case.

Major source of common homeopathic drugs are plants, animals and minerals and the drug is prepared by dilution and vigorous shaking.

Origin and Source of Homeopathic Drugs

Homeopathic medicines/drugs are prepared from following sources.

Plant Source

Homeopathic drugs are prepared from different parts of the plants and herbs viz. whole plant, whole herb, flowers, stem, leaves, bark, root and seeds. Example- Aconite, Belladonna, Arnica, Bryonia, Calendula etc.

Animal Source

Homeopathic drugs are also prepared from some parts of animals (worms, insects, flies, lizard, crabs, toads and snakes) and their secretion. Example Coccus cacti, Lachesis, Naja tripudians etc.

Many human illnesses are contacted from animals and plants; and are also due to imbalance in the environment. Mental, emotional and relational symptoms seen in humans are absent in animals. Nevertheless, careful observations on the behavior of the animal and its relation with others may play key role in homeopathic prescribing in animals. No doubt the use of homeopathy in animals is challenging. Homeopathic treatment of pet animals has many similarities with homeopathic treatment of babies and children such as non verbal communication, the socialization and the relationship with third parties (owners in case of pets and parents in case of children).There are many prescribing strategies in veterinary homeopathy.

Homeopathic Prescription

A basis for homeopathic prescription involves identifying all the aspects of the case (detailed questioning to get the history in respect to animal, its behavior, its nutrition and management, vaccination and deworming status, past and present illness etc.), objective investigations (instrumental and laboratory), coupled with an overview of the picture and dynamics of the patient (it is more philosophical and subjective).

In recording symptoms (both present and past), special attention is to be paid to peculiar symptoms, mental state and generalities. Then appropriate remedy is selected through a process called “reportization”. After selecting an appropriate remedy, its correct potency is determined. Selection of the potency depends on the strength of vital force of the ailing individual, degree and extent of physical pathology and disease chronicity (Hahnemann,1994). Higher potency is selected if vital force is strong. For example higher potency are more suitable for young and growing animals. If tissue pathology is more, lower potency drug is advisable. The effect of higher potency drugs is for greater period of time. Effect of 1M potency may last for a month while that of 30C potency may last for a week. If pathology is not severe, 200C potency may be selected. In case pathology is significant, potency below 200C may be chosen. For weak and emaciated animals, potency 30C or below is advisable. Clear cut cases with strong mental symptoms are right candidates for high potency. Unclear case should be given low potency drug (Pitcairn, 1992). As soon as relief is observed, the drug administration should be stopped. Overmedication is the great error in homeopathic prescribing. In homeopathic prescribing, number of pillules taken in a single dose is less important. What matters is its potency and frequency.

Case taking in homeopathy is based on five themes such as Philosophy of Homeopathy, Materia Medica of Homeopathy, The case, Case Analysis and Case Management (Owen, 2007).

Themes

i. Philosophy – Clinical practice of homeopathy is based on the principles and key concepts of homeopathy as detailed in Chapter 2 and 12.

ii. Materia Medica- It is in the core of understanding of the practice of homeopathy providing the information how the remedy pictures are developed and expressed in different ways. It allows the practitioner to understand the patient and prescribe rationally.

iii. The Case- The relationship between a homeopath (human /veterinary) and patient (animal or human) is in the center of the therapeutic process in case taking in homeopathy. It is more than a record of the consultation as case skills facilitate the level of revealing by the patient and the depth to which the homeopath perceives.

iv. Case Analysis- Case analysis allows the matching of what is perceived of the patient with what is known of the remedies. Case analysis governs the order, pattern and interpretation that emerge in the healing process. The variety of case analysis strategies and methodologies available to the homeopath is a major factor that determines the breadth of their clinical competence.

Materia Medica

The word ‘Materia medica’ is a Latin term that means medical matters or materials of medicine. All systems of medicine, based on drug therapies, have their own Materia medica. It is known by different names in different systems of medicine. It is termed as pharmacology in Allopathy, Dravya Guna in Ayurveda, Guna Padam in Siddha, and Materia Medica in Homeopathy. Pharmacology is based on physico-chemical properties of drug substances. Dravya Guna is based on Thridosa Sidhanda (vatha, pitha and kapha). Guna padam is based on Mucheer Amaippu (vatham, pitham, silatumam). Materia medica is based on dynamic properties of drugs applied on Law of Similars.

General Materia Medica

It is the body of collected knowledge about the therapeutic properties of any substance (drug) used for healing with their sources, preparations, doses, and use.

Constitution

The word ‘constitution’ is derived from a Latin word “Constituere” that means to set up or to make up or to establish. Therefore, it is the structure, composition, physical make up or nature of something consisting inherited qualities modified by environment. Constitution in homeopathy is defined as the physical and mental makeup which is expressed through physical built, characteristics, desires, aversions, reaction including emotional and intellectual attributes. In other words constitution incorporates the individual’s combined physical body type (including nervous system and metabolism), mental thinking, style, emotional reactivity and temperament.

Classification of constitution

Human constitution has been classified in different ways in different systems of health care.

Homoeopathy is a different system of health care with a holistic, logical and philosophical tailor made approach in the treatment of an individual. The principles of management of diseases or treatment of diseases using homeopathy in animals are in no way different from that of human homeopathy. Homeopathy has potential to cure both human and animal diseases.

Homeopathic Philosophy or Principles

Management of diseases of humans or animals using homeopathy is based on eight basic principles or philosophies.

1. Similia Similibus Curentur- The basic philosophy of homeopathy is based on the ‘Similia Similibus Curentur’ (Latin) or Law of similars (like cures like) , natural law of healing. Which states that a disease can be cured by a drug or substance which is capable of producing similar symptoms in healthy subject when given in minute doses. The treatment in homeopathy is based on the similarity of symptoms of the patient to those of a drug described in Homoeopathic Materia Medica. Drug selection is based not only on the similarity of the presenting symptom, but also on modalities, constitution and temperament of the patient and exciting and fundamental causes.

Mastitis

Mastitis is an economically important disease of dairy animals (cows and buffaloes) caused by a wide variety of pathogens (bacteria, some viruses, fungi).Major pathogens are Streptococcus agalactiae, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Streptococcus uberis, Str. Dysagalactiae, Campylobactor, Corynebacterium pyogenes, Klebsiella spp. Pasteurella, Pseudomonas, Mycoplasma, Enterobactor, Trichosporon spp., Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida spp., Leptospira spp. and many more. Mastitis is also seen in lactating goats and sheep. As compared to ruminants mastitis is less common in bitches. Mastitis is an inflammatory disease of the udder parenchyma irrespective of its etiology. The disease occurs in clinical and subclinical forms. Clinical mastitis is of two types viz. acute mastitis and chronic mastitis. Subclinical mastitis is characterized by an increased number of somatic cells (>100,000 cells/ml) and/or pathogens in the milk with no apparent clinical change in the udder and milk. While clinical mastitis is associated with local (hot, pain full swelling of the udder) and general symptoms along with change in milk (increased cell count, increased pathogens, physical and chemical changes in the milk).

The practice of veterinary homoeopathy has existed since Hahnemann’s time. During recent years it has emerged from the shadows and appears to be growing exponentially, expanding in many directions. Veterinary homeopathy has strongest modern tradition in Europe particularly in Germany, France and Great Britain. European Union committee has urged recently to cut the use of antimicrobials in human as well as in animals to an essential level for maintaining the effectiveness of antimicrobials and to deal with the problems of emergence of resistance among microbes.

Tradition of veterinary homeopathy is as old as humans. Initially homeopathic drugs viz. Aconitum napellus, Camphora, Nux vomica and Opium were used for the treatment of certain diseases of horses and cattle as early as 1833 by German Practitioner – Guillaume Lux. Since then veterinary homeopathy has progressed considerably despite the apparent difficulty in adopting the patient questioning technique, lack of expression of subjective feelings and lack of experimental data.

Preventive Homeopathy

Homeopathy is entirely a unique philosophy different from that of conventional modern medicine. It is considered as a tailor made system of therapy administering a medicine fitting well in the totality of physical and psychological symptoms seen in an ailing individual whether it is human or animal. Homeopathy does not restrict to restoring health of ailing subjects (treatment of clinical diseases) but also offers scope for preventing diseases as well. It can play significant role in preventing enzootic and epizootic infectious diseases through administration of nosodes.

Nosodes

Nosodes are important class of homeopathic drugs specifically prepared from secretions or fluids of the diseased subjects or their infectious agents in the similar manner as other homeopathic drugs are made (process of dilution and succession). The word “nosode “ is derived from the Greek “nosos” (disease) and “eidos” (like). Nosodes are potentized remedies prepared from diseased tissues , discharges (products of disease) or disease causing agents (bacteria or virus) in a specialized manner following standard protocol. Dr. Samuel Hahnemann first prepared remedies from diseased tissues (mainly the miasmatic nosodes) for the three miasms (Psora, Sycosis and Syphilis) corresponding as Psorinum, Medorrhinum, and Syphylinum. Of which first two have common use in veterinary homeopathy. The nosodes have undergone proving similar to other drugs, and their use in veterinary homeopathy is in the same manner as with any other remedy i.e. matching patient symptoms with those of the remedy.

In India there are many scattered case reports on the use of homeopathic drugs in the treatment of certain ailments in animals with individual claims but these reports suffer from lack of evidence, repeatability, documentation and scientific fervor. During last 2-3 decades some reports on the evaluation of homeopathic medicines in the management of animal diseases have appeared in the literature as well as in professional seminars and conferences in India. The abstract summary of these works are given in this chapter.

Clinical Studies

Clinical Management of Udder Diseases of Riverine Buffaloes With A Homeopathic Complex

J.P. Varshney and Ram Naresh (2004)

An uncontrolled observational study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of a homeopathic complex in the management of clinical udder health problems of riverine buffaloes. Cases of subclinical mastitis were excluded from the study. A total of 102 mastitic quarters (fibrosed – 40, nonfibrosed – 62) and five cases each of blood in milk and udder oedema in lactating buffaloes were treated with a homeopathic complex consisting of Phytolacca 200C, Calcarea fluorica 200C, Silicia 30C, Belladonna 30C, Bryonia 30C, Arnica 30C, Conium 30C and Ipecacuanha 30C. The diagnosis of udder diseases and recovery criterion was based on physical examination of udder and milk and CMT/WST score. Bacteriological analysis and somatic cell count were not performed.Treatment was 80 and 96.72% effective in cases of fibrotic mastitis and non-fibrosed mastitis respectively. Recovery period was 21-42 days (fibrosed) and 4-15 days (non-fibrosed). Udder oedema and blood in milk responded favourably in 2-5 days. Cost of treatment was US$ 0.07 per day. The homeopathic complex medicine may be effective and economical in the management of udder health problems of buffaloes. Definitive conclusions are premature due to the limited number of observations and lack of control group.

Migration is inevitable in the process of economic development (Afsar, 2003; Ballard, 2005). There exists a two-way causation between migration and economic development. Migration induces economic development while economic development induces further migration. Migration can be two types: international migration and internal migration. International migration deals with migration across the countries of the world, while internal migration deals with migration within the national boundary of a country (Zohry, 2005). There are four streams of internal migration which are rural-rural, rural-urban, urban-rural, and urban-urban. Among these four streams, rural-urban migration has certain distinct characteristics which affect developmental aspect of both places involved namely, place of origin and place of origin and place of destination. It is well known that developmental disparities between rural and urban triggers rural-urban migration. People generally migrate from less developed rural countryside to more developed urban centers they left farming and engaged in modern works which are more profitable and low risk oriented (Bhattacharya, 1993; de Haan, 1997). The impact of migration can be assessed in several ways; therefore welfare impacts, social impacts, economic impacts etc. For example, remittance send by the urban migrants to their native villages help them to evade poverty; increase consumption; invest more in agriculture, education, health. Remittances have certain social impacts as well.

The economics of migration has drawn attention of many economists and social scientists over the years. Decision making in migration has certain inherent complexities as it takes into account the characteristics of both areas of origin and areas of destinations. Similarly it involves the status of agricultural productivity and efficiency, extant of urban informal sector along with various other amenities available in the destination urban areas. The subject of rural-urban migration and its inter-linkage with urban informal market and agricultural productivity have received considerable attention in theoretical framework as well as in empirical research. Among these vast literatures, the study has reviewed some of them and made a synoptic assessment on these issues in general. Moreover an attempt has been made to review the existing literature on rural-urban migration in West Bengal.

2.1 Migration Decision Making

Migration decision can be two types: individual decision making and family decision making. These two sets of migration decision involve distinctly different sets of factors. Stark (1991) has rightly pointed out that “….the family, should not be treated as if it were an individual”. So there are differences between individual migration decision and family migration decision. Migration decision depends on a host of factors, some are economic, some are demographic and some are sociological in nature. However, individual and family migration decisions are determined by two distinctly different sets of factors.

3.1 Introduction

In developing and in semi-developed countries, rural-urban migration is driven by the uneven distribution of employment, income-opportunities etc. (Skeldon, 1990). Rapid population growth, especially in rural areas, provides an important demographic backdrop to these rural-urban population shifts. Given the growing and well-known difficulties that are faced by the overall Indian population in f inding productive employment, it is important to study the characteristics of labors that migrate from rural-urban areas. Under this backdrop, attempts have been made in this study to examine the nature, pattern and determinants of rural urban migration and the spread of urban informal sector and the likely impact of rural-urban migration on agricultural productivity and efficiency.