Anomalija - No 09

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Аномалия" (Anomaliya), identified as N 8 and dated August 1991, is a scientific-informational bulletin from TASS and the Association "Ecology of the Unidentified." The cover prominently features the headlines "HUMANOID WITH A STAFF IN HAND" and "UFO CATASTROPHE OVER THE KYZYLKUMS?", suggesting a focus on anomalous events and phenomena.

Letters to the Editor

The issue begins with an "Appeal to Readers" which includes a letter from G.M. Zaridze, a corresponding member of the Georgian Academy of Sciences. Zaridze praises "Anomaliya" as a unique publication offering interesting and useful articles, predicting a significant growth in its readership. The editorial acknowledges this positive feedback and notes the general lack of critical letters, though some express mild reproach. One such letter from E.F. Bachurin from Perm questions the accuracy of material published concerning the "Perm Zone," suggesting it might contain "obvious disinformation." The editor defends the magazine's policy of presenting diverse viewpoints, stating that "Anomaliya" aims to give a platform to anyone who can articulate their perspective, even if it involves skepticism towards certain materials, as seen with P. Mukhortov.

The editorial also addresses a call from two prominent researchers who questioned the publication of A.I. Veinik's work in issue No. 5-91. These researchers disagreed with Veinik's concepts. The editor defends the decision to publish differing opinions, arguing against the isolation of dissenting scientists and encouraging debate based on logic, facts, and experiments rather than prejudice. The magazine promises to publish Veinik's opponents in a future issue.

Today in this Issue

The table of contents outlines the diverse topics covered:

• Appeal to Readers
• Paths of Knowledge: HOW TO 'SEE' THE PAST AND FUTURE? This article delves into the methodology of constructing hypotheses and the theoretical underpinnings of axiomatic theory, referencing the works of mathematicians like A. Robinson and A.I. Maltsev, and concepts of multidimensional worlds.
• Hypothesis: ON THE CHARGE OF THE 'BARE' ELECTRON This section explores theoretical physics, specifically the charge of an electron, referencing Albert Einstein's early work and modern concepts of physical vacuum.
• Introducing Italian Ufologists: THE DATABASE IS ACCESSIBLE TO ALL
• 'Perm Zone': opinions and doubts This appears to be a continuation of the discussion mentioned in the editorial, with titles like "I'M NO LONGER READING 'MUKHORTovSHCHINU'..." and "AND THE PEOPLE OF PERM 'SWALLOWED THE BAIT'."
• UFOs: observations and comments This section includes reports such as "UFO CATASTROPHE OVER THE KYZYLKUMS?" and "UNIDENTIFIED OBJECTS IN THE SKY OF IRAN."
• Ufology: A COMPLEX SCIENCE
• On Astrology Seriously: YANTRA, MANTRA, HOROSCOPES AND THE VICISSITUDES OF FATE
• Question Mark: THE MYSTERY OF 'GIRLS' VILLAGE'
• Chronicle

Paths of Knowledge: HOW TO 'SEE' THE PAST AND FUTURE?

This extensive article by R. Varlamov, a Doctor of Technical Sciences, examines the construction of hypotheses and the nature of knowledge. It critiques the common practice of combining disparate ideas to form hypotheses without a solid theoretical foundation. Varlamov introduces the concept of axiomatic theory, drawing from mathematics and topology, to propose a more rigorous approach. He discusses the idea of multidimensional worlds and how beings from different dimensions might perceive each other, using the analogy of one-dimensional, two-dimensional, and three-dimensional beings. The article also reinterprets the concept of time, moving from a linear "arrow of time" to a volumetric concept within a three-coordinate space. It suggests that the probability of an object's existence is linked to its dimensionality and ability to self-reflect, referencing the work of R. Bartini. The article concludes that understanding higher dimensions, while challenging, is possible through abstract theoretical frameworks and potentially advanced instruments.

Hypothesis: ON THE CHARGE OF THE 'BARE' ELECTRON

This section features two related articles. The first, by Oleg Spiridonov, a docent and candidate of technical sciences, revisits Albert Einstein's 1907 attempt to derive the elementary charge (e) from fundamental constants (h and c). Spiridonov argues that Einstein's intuition about the simplicity of nature was profound and that modern physics, particularly the concept of the physical vacuum, offers a new interpretation. He proposes that the "bare" electron, stripped of its surrounding cloud of virtual electron-positron pairs, possesses a charge (q) that is approximately 30 times larger than the conventionally measured elementary charge (e). This larger charge, q = √hc, is presented as the true quantum of electric charge. The article suggests that the observed smaller charge 'e' is due to the screening effect of the physical vacuum.

The second part of this section includes commentary on Spiridonov's hypothesis from two physicists: Larisa Borisova (candidate of physical-mathematical sciences) and Dmitry Rabunsky. Borisova's commentary, presented as a review, is critical. She acknowledges the originality of Spiridonov's work on virtual particles and the physical vacuum but finds it lacking in practical application. She states that the work does not provide a testable physical theory with calculable parameters or experimental measurement methods. Borisova also points out the absence of a definition for physical vacuum and a clear description of the electron-vacuum interaction. She concludes that without these elements, the hypothesis remains a declaration rather than a useful scientific theory.

Rabunsky's commentary, however, is more supportive. He frames Spiridonov's work within the historical context of Einstein's ideas about the relationship between charge, h, and c, which were initially met with skepticism and seemed to contradict experimental results like those of R. Millikan. Rabunsky notes that modern physics, particularly the concept of the physical vacuum, has provided a new framework for understanding phenomena that were previously problematic. He agrees that the physical electron is a complex formation and that the "bare" electron's charge is a significant concept that has not been experimentally determined due to the high energies required.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Anomaliya" demonstrates a commitment to exploring fringe science, paranormal phenomena, and speculative physics. The editorial stance clearly favors open discussion and the presentation of diverse, even conflicting, viewpoints. The magazine acts as a platform for researchers to share their hypotheses and engage in debate, as evidenced by the discussions surrounding the "Perm Zone" and A.I. Veinik's theories. The inclusion of both scientific hypotheses (like the "bare" electron charge) and more traditional UFO reports indicates a broad interest in the unexplained. The magazine appears to be a significant outlet for disseminating information and fostering discussion within the Russian ufological and paranormal research community of the early 1990s.

This issue of "АНОМАЛИЯ" (Anomaly) from August 1991, titled "Представляем итальянских уфологов" (Introducing Italian Ufologists), delves into the world of ufology with a focus on Italian researchers and their organizations, alongside a critical examination of the "Perm Anomalous Zone" in Russia.

Italian Ufologists and Research

The magazine introduces the Italian Center for Ufological Research (ICUR) based in Turin. ICUR is described as a public non-commercial organization with approximately 200 permanent members and associates dedicated to the study of UFO phenomena. Its primary goals are to promote the study of UFOs, facilitate the dissemination of information, coordinate the collection of eyewitness accounts nationwide, and study the phenomenon. ICUR's activities are divided into two main areas: the collection and search for UFO data, and the creation of archives, classification, and study of the gathered information. Their research adheres to a "Methodological Instruction" to gather maximum reliable and credible information. The archival work involves collecting, storing, and classifying all documentary material related to UFOs, including search reports, press communications, researcher reports, scientific experiments, and special publications from Italy and abroad. The research activities focus on evaluating collected data to understand the nature of specific phenomena and comparing facts with statistical analysis to develop theoretical models.

ICUR also engages in popularization efforts, aiming to spread facts and information through seminars, conferences, radio and television programs, articles, and interviews. The center's work is conducted both centrally and at local levels through provincial departments and representatives across Italy.

Several ongoing projects are highlighted: "Local Catalogs" for creating archives and lists at regional and provincial levels; "Italy-3" for cataloging and studying close encounters of the third kind in comparison with other archive materials; and "Itakat," a project nearing completion that lists about 500 close encounter cases. The "Origin" project aims to collect information from the press over the decade following the emergence of interest in UFOs (1947) to analyze the initial penetration of the phenomenon into Italy.

ICUR's archives form a "UFO Data Bank," accessible to all researchers. A portion of this information is stored electronically and can be accessed via personal computers. The bank includes the "ITALIAN FACTOLOGICAL ARCHIVE," containing reports and information on UFO phenomena in Italy, with over 10,000 cases forming a substantial collection in Europe. The "PRESS ARCHIVE" compiles reports from the periodical press concerning UFOs and their study, containing thousands of articles published since 1947. The "ARCHIVE OF Ufological PUBLICATIONS" includes a collection of Italian and foreign journals and books on the subject. The "Documentary Archive" contains scientific and technical material useful for ufological research.

ICUR publishes a bi-annual bulletin, "UFO - Review of Ufological Information" ("UFO Rivista di informazione ufologica"), which contains research and commentary and is described as the only Italian journal exclusively dedicated to ufology. Other publications for information exchange among members include "UFO News," "Bulletin of the Press Archives," "Foreign Documentation Service," "UFO Computer Network Bulletin," and "Factological Collection." The Center also publishes monographs in the series "UFO Documents."

In recent years, informatics has been increasingly used in Italian ufological research, with personal computers being employed for various tasks, including data cataloging and information dissemination. The "Computerized Ufological Network" (CUS), established in 1985, aims to coordinate ufological activities on personal computers, facilitating data cataloging and text preparation for ICUR publications. CUS has involved tens of thousands of people and provides specialized software. Since 1985, a telephone secretariat has been available at the Turin office to collect data on unusual phenomena, ensuring anonymity for witnesses.

UFO Sightings in Italy

The issue presents several typical UFO cases from Italy. Mass UFO phenomena were reported in Italy during 1950-1954, 1962, 1973, and 1978, with peak activity in 1978. Activity increased again after a lull in 1980-1982, reaching a peak in the summer of 1985, with over 100 phenomena reported annually since then.

Specific incidents include:

• April 24, 1985: A young man in San Quirino (Pordenone) observed a large oval silver spot that descended towards trees, appearing as a semi-spherical, yellow object with smaller lights. Other light phenomena were also observed in the area that evening.
• August 13, 1979: A pilot near Treviso was asked to investigate an unidentified object on radar, which was a dark cylindrical object moving at approximately 1500 meters.
• June 5, 1983: Residents in Varzi (Pavia) observed an object reflecting sunlight that moved a few meters above the ground, resembling a silvery trout, before disappearing.
• October 28, 1986: A couple near Viareggio (Lucca) saw a large triangular object with four yellow lights over the port, which emitted a loud rumble and caused their car to slow down and its rear to lift.
• September 2, 1978: A boy in San Michele di Alessandria saw a metallic, cigar-shaped object take off vertically from a cornfield with an unusual sound.
• October 9, 1984: A farmer near Prata Principato Ultra (Avellino) encountered a humanoid creature about 1.3 meters tall with a helmet and a staff, which then rose and disappeared.

Following the humanoid encounter, a flying "box-like" object with a small dome was observed. Police found traces of the creature and six conical indentations in the ground.

The Perm Anomalous Zone: Opinions and Doubts

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a critical discussion of the "Perm Anomalous Zone" (PAS) in Russia, presenting differing viewpoints and questioning the validity of certain claims and investigations.

Emil Bachurin, director of MNTЦ "ESTOR," recounts the discovery of the PAS in late October 1983 when he observed a glow and heard dog barks in the Kishtym district of the Perm region. He inferred that a "flying saucer" had landed or hovered there. Subsequent expeditions, including one in July 1986 involving the Perm Commission on Anomalous Phenomena (PKAY) and a Gorky group, are mentioned, though Bachurin notes a lack of concrete research results from PKAY. He emphasizes the importance of professionalism in ufology and criticizes the involvement of dilettantes.

Bachurin also addresses claims made by P. Mukhortov, who published articles about the PAS in "Sovetskaya Molodezh." Bachurin disputes Mukhortov's sensationalist reporting, stating that he and other professional researchers were not invited to participate in Mukhortov's expeditions. He refutes specific claims made by Mukhortov, such as the observation of a "hat-shaped UFO" and "phosphorescent silhouettes of robot-people," and clarifies his own actions during the expedition, denying Mukhortov's descriptions of him running.

Bachurin criticizes Mukhortov's interpretation of events, particularly regarding a "contact" incident, suggesting it was a mundane interaction rather than an extraterrestrial encounter. He also disputes Mukhortov's claims about the presence of quartz veins and the proximity of the zone to gas pipelines, providing geological and geographical counter-arguments. Bachurin also questions the duration of "plasmoid" sightings, suggesting that their energy potential is maintained on the surface, which is atypical for natural plasmoids like ball lightning. He notes that plasmoids often exhibit intelligent behavior, such as forming geometric patterns and reacting to human presence.

Another article critiques an article by Yu. Fomin, which allegedly contains inaccuracies and aligns with the author's concept of psychotronic phenomena. Bachurin, a geologist, also refutes claims about mercury deposits in the region, stating that the geological conditions are unsuitable for their formation and that the described mercury vapor phenomena are fictional, possibly inspired by science fiction.

Bachurin expresses his disappointment with the lack of financial support from "Soyuzufocenter" for the MNTЦ "ESTOR"'s research station in the PAS. He states that MNTЦ "ESTOR" can only work on two specific themes: "Affecting Impact" and "Assessing the Credibility of Contactee Information," and only when they can self-finance these efforts.

The "Permyak" Fell for the Bait

This section, attributed to Emil Bachurin, further elaborates on the discovery and subsequent public attention to the Perm Anomalous Zone. Bachurin describes how, in late October 1983, he observed a glow and heard dog barks near Molebka, leading him to believe a "flying saucer" had landed. He notes that the area became a subject of intense media attention, particularly after an article in "Molodaya Gvardiya" newspaper titled "Anomalous Zone." This led to a surge of visitors, described as a "flood of people" driven by curiosity and the desire for unusual experiences.

Bachurin criticizes the composition of the expeditions, stating that most participants were dilettantes with limited knowledge of anomalous phenomena. He also points out the lack of scientific equipment and professional researchers in many of these gatherings. The harsh conditions, including continuous rain and mosquitoes, reportedly led to a deterioration of the participants' mental state, with some engaging in fervent calls to extraterrestrials.

Bachurin also addresses P. Mukhortov's role, noting that Mukhortov quickly took center stage, captivating the female participants. He describes the atmosphere as resembling a theatrical performance in a psychiatric ward, with participants praying and seeking contact.

Bachurin refutes several specific claims made by Mukhortov, including the observation of a "hat-shaped UFO" and "phosphorescent silhouettes of robot-people." He also clarifies his own movements during the expedition, denying Mukhortov's assertion that he was running. Bachurin also disputes the claim of a "contact" involving "guests," suggesting it was a human interaction. He also mentions that the term "Trom" planet, used by Mukhortov, was something he had heard from T.M. Upenik earlier.

Bachurin concludes by stating that he no longer reads Mukhortov's writings, finding them to be a waste of time. He also corrects factual inaccuracies in articles by B.A. Artamonov and Yu. Fomin regarding the geography and geology of the Perm region and the nature of plasmoids.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue highlights the contrast between organized ufological research, exemplified by ICUR in Italy, and the more chaotic and sensationalist approach often seen in public discourse, particularly concerning the Perm Anomalous Zone. The magazine seems to advocate for a more rigorous, data-driven, and professional approach to studying anomalous phenomena, while also acknowledging the public's fascination with the unknown. There is a clear critique of unsubstantiated claims and sensationalism, particularly in media reporting. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based investigation and a healthy skepticism towards unverified accounts, while still recognizing the potential for genuine anomalous phenomena.

This issue of "НЛО: наблюдения и комментарии" (UFO: Observations and Commentary) from August 1991 (08.91) focuses on UFO sightings, anomalous phenomena, and the burgeoning field of ufology.

Key Articles and Reports

Catastrophe Over Kyzylkumy?

The lead article investigates strange occurrences in Zarafshan and its surroundings. Following reports of UFO sightings and contacts, an expedition was sent to the Kyzylkumy region. Local authorities and residents reported numerous UFO visits, suggesting that these events had become commonplace. A special service was created to register these cosmic visits. The expedition visited Daugyztau, where residents claimed to have been visited by "cosmic robots." A significant part of the expedition focused on the site of a supposed crash of an extraterrestrial ship. A local psychic claimed to have received telepathic information about a ship being destroyed in near-Earth orbit due to damage, with two bio-robots aboard being eliminated by the extraterrestrial civilization.

On September 26, 1990, two geologists discovered two large, unexplained spots on the ground. One oval spot, measuring 6x4.5 meters, showed signs of brief but intense thermal impact. The sand in the western sector of the oval fused into a single thin plate, which cracked upon cooling. This melted material had a porous, cavernous structure, resembling pumice, indicating rapid melting. The color ranged from greenish-gray to black, with the black color attributed to scorched plants. The article contrasts this with terrestrial explanations like meteorite impacts or electrical discharges, which would leave mechanical damage and scattered material. It also dismisses the possibility of metallurgical slag from ancient local industries due to the absence of mining and smelting traces and the specific characteristics of the melt.

The author suggests a plasma-like mass from the destroyed ship slowly descended and cooled, with variations in temperature and mass affecting the ground. Areas with higher temperatures resulted in melting, while lower temperatures caused biomass to char. Rare wormwood bushes were scorched to the root within a 14-meter radius of the epicenter. A dowsing rod spun intensely 8 meters from the edge of the scorched area. Magnetic anomalies were not detected, and radio reception was unaffected. The radiation level was normal.

Samples of the melt and soil were sent for analysis, but results are pending. A Moscow ufologist, M.A. Milkhiker, reported that the found material was of non-terrestrial origin. A Japanese entrepreneur, Isao Enekawa, also took samples for examination.

The "UFO-Center" in Tashkent plans further observations and expeditions, despite financial difficulties. They intend to explore the Central Kyzylkumy mountains, where rock carvings reportedly depict alien ships and pilots, and to visit Barsakelmes Island in the Aral Sea, known for its fantastical stories.

Separately, a contactee named Kh. Madrakhimov claims to have received instructions from extraterrestrial civilizations on how to save the Aral Sea. He stated that disappearing water enters cracks and pits, and that by spending several days in late spring near the sea for five consecutive years, cosmic rays passing through his body would heal the sea floor, using him as a relay. He was also warned of minor floods and earthquakes accompanying his departure from Tashkent, which reportedly occurred.

Unidentified Objects in the Skies of Iran

Residents of the northern Iranian city of Resht observed three luminous objects flying in formation in mid-June. The objects were about five meters apart, made no noise, and vanished into the night sky. Professor Iraj Malek Pour of Tehran University commented that these could be "flying saucers," spy equipment, or advanced weaponry. He noted that UFOs can hover, move at high speeds, and cause vehicle engines to stall. He also mentioned that about half of UFOs have crews that communicate with humans in English, French, and Russian.

This report is compared to similar incidents over Tehran 13 years prior, where Iranian military pilots reported encountering an unknown object that caused communication loss and instrument malfunction. Attempts to approach the object were unsuccessful.

Professor Malek Pour confirmed the existence of UFOs, tracing their observation back to 1947 in the USA. He described them as wingless, egg-shaped, or resembling Boeing aircraft.

Ufology - A Complex Science

This section presents several eyewitness accounts of UFO observations.

• Kaliningrad, April 20, 1991: A witness observed a bright, rainbow-colored object from a 5th-floor apartment. The object remained stationary for 5-7 minutes, then moved north at an estimated speed of 300-900 km/h. A second, similar object was observed later, which disappeared completely within seconds.
• Moscow, March 1991: An observer saw an elliptical object with two triangular protrusions, emitting white light and hovering. The object moved slightly before rapidly departing.
• Chapayevka, Lakhdenpokhsky district, Karelia, January/February 1982: Several witnesses observed a "flying saucer" with red-yellow light and extending structures. The object moved up and down, sometimes appearing to touch the ground. After the object departed, a figure resembling an old man with a white beard appeared briefly before vanishing when the light turned on.
• Kaluga, August 1989: A witness observed a "tracer" light moving and turning towards the observation point, estimated to be at an altitude of 500-1000 meters.
• Obninsk, December 1989/January 1990: Witnesses saw bright rays emanating from a cloud.
• Obninsk, April 1990: A fast-moving object that changed shape was observed.
• Obninsk, July 14, 1990: A luminous object emitted three colored rays from a cloud.
• Krekshino, Moscow Oblast, August 20, 1990: A woman was illuminated by multi-colored light from an object, while another saw its rear and a beam.

Further Observations and Ufology's Future

Another report details a sighting from the early 1970s in the Kirov region, where a thin, scarlet line moved from the horizon to the zenith, then opened into a cone shape and faded. The observer, Anatoly Shcherbakov, head of the NGO "Energiya" sector, noted the light's constant intensity during the process.

Vladimir Plekin, a candidate of technical sciences and associate professor at MAI, describes an elliptical object observed in Moscow in March 1991. The object had two triangular protrusions and emitted white light. He estimated its angular size to be 2-3 degrees at a distance of 3-5 km.

A report from the bulletin "Unidentified in Karelia" describes a UFO sighting in Chapayevka in January/February 1982. Witnesses saw a "flying saucer" with specific features, and after its departure, a figure appeared briefly. The report notes that the problem of UFOs is becoming increasingly ingrained in public consciousness.

Geodesist Gennady Komov from Obninsk shares several observations: a "tracer" flight in Kaluga (August 1989), bright rays from a cloud near Obninsk (December 1989/January 1990), a fast-moving object changing shape (April 1990), and colored rays from a cloud (July 1990).

Schoolboy Ilya Zadorsky reports an incident involving his grandmothers in Krekshino, Moscow Oblast, on August 20, 1990. They observed a multi-colored, iridescent formation about 500 meters away. The report highlights features common to classic UFO sightings, such as multi-colored luminescence.

The magazine addresses questions about obtaining education in ufology. It states that there is no official profession of ufologist. While courses exist, they offer limited scope. The field is described as complex and multidisciplinary, requiring knowledge in various natural sciences and independent thinking.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the reporting of unexplained aerial phenomena and the scientific investigation of such events. There's a clear interest in physical evidence, eyewitness accounts, and the potential for extraterrestrial contact. The magazine promotes a serious, albeit speculative, approach to ufology, encouraging further research and observation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting various cases and expert opinions without definitive conclusions, while acknowledging the growing public interest and the need for a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon.

This issue of "Об астрологии всерьез" (On Astrology Seriously), dated August 1991, delves into various aspects of astrology, numerology, and related anomalous phenomena. The magazine features articles on the use of gemstones in astrology, an in-depth interview with an Indian astrologer, a report on a conference about anomalous phenomena, and an investigation into a peculiar demographic anomaly in China.

Astrology and Gemstones

The issue opens with a discussion on gemstones like rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, not just as jewelry but as talismans believed to possess protective astrological powers. It highlights how astrological calculations were used to match specific stones to individuals, with merchants assuring customers of the natural origin and quality of their stones.

The Precision of Indian Astrology

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an interview with J.M. Lal Mahajan, an Indian astrologer and numerologist. Mahajan stresses the critical importance of precise data – birth time, date, and location – for accurate astrological predictions. He contrasts this with generalized zodiacal horoscopes, which he believes offer only a superficial and often coincidental match. Mahajan explains that even minor variations in planetary positions can lead to different outcomes, and that astrological calculations must account for specific geographical coordinates.

He recounts how he used astrological data, specifically the time of the start of military operations and the geographical coordinates of the conflict zone, to predict the end of the Persian Gulf War. His prediction, sent to TASS, accurately foretold the war's conclusion around March 2nd, attributing the outcome to planetary movements and Saddam Hussein's own recklessness. Mahajan also notes that the timing of events, like military operations, is crucial from an astrological perspective, suggesting that the "Desert Storm" operation might have been initiated after consulting astrologers.

Mahajan believes that astrology's purpose is not just to predict but to help individuals "build their future." He explains that all living and non-living things on Earth are influenced by celestial bodies, including the Sun, nine planets, and lunar/solar eclipses. While negative influences can be mitigated, he suggests that specific astrological tools like yantras and amulets can help, but their effectiveness depends on precise planetary alignments. He acknowledges that astrology cannot help in truly fatalistic situations where an individual is unable to act on warnings.

When asked about what to rely on, Mahajan emphasizes the power of willpower, urging people to believe in their ability to overcome life's adversities.

The 'Village of Girls' Enigma

Another article investigates a mysterious anomaly near Shaou city in China's Fujian Province, dubbed the 'Village of Girls.' Geologists discovered that in the village of Gaoyang, located at the foot of Mount Wu, the female population overwhelmingly outnumbers the male population. While the older generation showed a mix of genders, the younger generation was predominantly female. Detailed research confirmed that in 1950, the ratio of newborn boys to girls was 1.4:1, but this trend reversed dramatically. Over forty years, only 11 boys were born out of 136 children, a ratio of more than ten to one in favor of girls. Since 1976, no male births have been recorded in the village. Investigations into living conditions, habits, intellectual development, health, and marriage customs revealed no significant differences between Gaoyang and neighboring villages. Water analysis also showed no unusual chemical elements that could cause genetic changes. The cause of this anomaly remains a mystery, and research is ongoing.

Conferences and Seminars

The issue also includes a "Chronicle" section detailing recent and upcoming events in the field of anomalous phenomena. The "AY-VOLGA-91" regional conference on anomalous phenomena was held in Samara on April 13-14. V.I. Avinsky, the organizer, stated that a goal of the conference was to educate the public about phenomena like the "Belgian triangle" and encounters with unusual beings. The conference featured presentations by ufologists from various Russian cities and included the premiere of the documentary film "Planet of Aliens."

Announcements are made for two upcoming events: a seminar on "Objective Methods of Studying UFO Traces" from August 31 to September 3 at the Institute for Professional Development, and the third cycle of the all-union ufology seminar "Zigeler Readings" on November 20, organized by the "Ecology of the Unknown" Association and the Moscow House of Scientific and Technical Propaganda. The latter focuses on UFO problems and related phenomena.

Editorial Information

The magazine lists its editorial staff, including Editor S.F. Bulantsev and Scientific Coordinator A.E. Semenov. The publication details indicate it is from Moscow, published by TASS, with a print run of 51,000 copies and a price of 1 ruble.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the serious study of astrology, its practical applications, and its potential to influence human destiny. The magazine also shows a strong interest in anomalous phenomena, including UFOs and unexplained demographic patterns, as evidenced by the conference reports and the special investigation into the 'Village of Girls.' The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these topics with a degree of scientific inquiry, emphasizing precision in data and analysis, while also acknowledging the mysterious and unexplained aspects of these phenomena. The inclusion of quotes from prominent figures like J.M. Lal Mahajan and the detailed reporting on conferences suggest a commitment to exploring these subjects thoroughly.