Priroda i Anomalnye Yavleniya - 1990 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Природа и аномальные явления" (Nature and Anomalous Phenomena), dated April 1990, is the first issue of Volume 1, identified as issue number 15. Published by the All-Union Association for Anomalous Phenomena SNIO USSR, it is a monthly special edition of the newspaper "Строитель" (Builder). The cover headline proclaims "И АНОМАЛЬНЫЕ ЯВЛЕНИЯ" (And Anomalous Phenomena), with a prominent image of a UFO. The price is listed as 1 ruble.

Editorial Introduction: To Our Readers

The editorial introduces the concept of "white spots" in history and science, particularly concerning UFOs and humanoid encounters, noting that such topics were long suppressed in the USSR. The publication aims to fill this knowledge gap and explore these phenomena in conjunction with scientists both domestically and internationally. The issue promises to cover information from across the country and abroad, including poltergeist activity and UFO sightings. A special section will be dedicated to alleged monuments on Mars, examining unusual terrestrial processes from a cosmic perspective. Future issues are planned to include materials on Chinese medicine, fasting, and flora and fauna of coastal nature reserves.

The Roswell Incident: A Story Told by Charles Berlitz

This section details the famous Roswell UFO crash of July 7, 1947. It begins with the account of Lydia Sleppy, a teletype operator who received a sensational call from Johnny MacBoyle, owner of a Roswell radio station, reporting a crashed "flying saucer" near the town. MacBoyle described the object as a large, dented bowl and mentioned that local farmers had towed it to a shed where military personnel were present, discussing "little men" on board. MacBoyle's subsequent transmissions were abruptly halted by an "Attention, Albuquerque! Do not transmit! Stop transmission immediately!" message.

The article explains that Roswell was a hub for atomic, rocket, and radar research, home to the 509th Bombardment Group. On July 8, 1947, information officer Walter Hott issued a press release announcing the recovery of a "flying disc" by the 509th Bombardment Group, based on reports from local ranchers. This press release was telegraphed worldwide. However, the military quickly retracted the statement, claiming the object was merely a weather balloon used for meteorological studies. The article notes that civilian engineer William Barnett was among the first witnesses to the crash of this "flying saucer" on July 3rd, describing a disk-shaped object 25-30 feet in diameter. He recounts seeing "dead bodies" on the ground and interacting with individuals who identified themselves as part of an archaeological expedition.

Brigadier General Roger M. Ramey, commander of the 8th Air Force, later informed the public via Texas radio that the debris found in Roswell was from a weather balloon. The article quotes Major Marcel, who was involved in examining some of the debris, stating it was not of human construction and not a weather balloon. He described various materials, including large, shiny pieces with indecipherable hieroglyphs and a parchment-like substance. Marcel also recalled seeing the bodies, describing them as human-like but not human, with round heads, large eyes, no hair, and small bodies. Their clothing was seamless and gray. He mentioned that Colonel Blanchard, who ordered the debris sent to Dayton, Ohio, for further study, is now deceased. Major Marcel is retired and living in Hume, Louisiana. He speculates that there might have been another disk that exploded in the air or that debris fell from the crashed disk described by Barnett.

Threat from Space

This section, featuring a photograph of a UFO, discusses the "threat from space" and the ongoing investigation into anomalous phenomena. It highlights the work of the Commission for Anomalous Phenomena, Far Eastern Group, and mentions the involvement of the "ICUFON" organization. The article touches upon the historical context of UFO research, including the alleged recovery of UFO debris and occupants by the Soviet Union in Siberia.

Chinese Medicine: History, Philosophy, Longevity

This extensive series of articles explores the rich history and philosophy of traditional Chinese medicine. The author, who has spent 15 years studying Chinese medical recipes under Professor I. I. Brekhman, aims to popularize this ancient practice.

Origins and Ancient Texts

The articles trace the origins of Chinese medicine to legendary figures like Emperor Shennong, credited with laying the foundations of pharmacology and agriculture. The ancient text "Bensao" (Herbs and Roots) is mentioned, though the original has not survived. The "Huangdi Neijing" (The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine), an 8-volume work from the 1st century BCE, is highlighted for its discussions on acupuncture, massage, anatomy, physiology, and diagnostic methods based on the philosophical concepts of "yin" and "yang" and the five elements. The text also covers infectious diseases and preventive medicine.

Key Physicians and Principles

Physicians like Bian Qiao (4th-5th century BCE) are discussed, known for his work on pulse diagnosis and his opposition to quackery. The article emphasizes that Chinese medicine treats the whole person, not just the disease, recognizing the interconnectedness of the body and its environment. The principles of "yin" and "yang" and the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, water) are central to understanding health and illness. Treatment is highly individualized, considering factors like age, gender, and season.

Comparison with European Medicine

The author contrasts the continuous development and respect for medical knowledge in China with the often turbulent and persecutory history of European medicine, citing examples like the ostracism of Dr. Ignaz Semmelweis for advocating handwashing.

Modern Applications and Research

The articles mention the extensive use of medicinal plants, animal products, and minerals in China. Despite the rich heritage, the author laments the limited application and research of traditional Chinese medicine in the USSR, particularly in the Far East. The issue notes that while acupuncture and massage are used, the full potential of Chinese medical knowledge remains largely untapped.

Secrets of Longevity: Fasting and Health

This section features an interview with L. I. Usaty, Deputy Chief Physician of Dalnegorsk City Hospital, who advocates for a healthy lifestyle and the establishment of a traditional medicine center in Primorye. He discusses overcoming laziness and ignorance to achieve health, emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition, hardening, and exercise. Usaty highlights fasting as a unique method for cleansing the body of toxins, rejuvenating it, and prolonging life. He recommends weekly one-day fasts and suggests that three- and seven-day fasts should be conducted under medical supervision. The article also references Professor Yu. S. Nikolaev's book "Fasting for Health."

April Folklore

A collection of Russian proverbs and sayings related to the month of April is presented, offering insights into traditional agricultural practices and weather observations associated with the spring season.

Chronicle

This section provides brief news items related to anomalous phenomena:

• Siberian UFO Recovery: Reports suggest Soviet authorities possess the bodies of two pilots from an interstellar spacecraft that crashed in Siberia. The craft, described as a silver disk, was allegedly recovered after an accident near Zhigansk on the Lena River. The bodies are described as small, with large heads and rough skin.
• Petrozavodsk Conference: A conference on anomalous phenomena was held in Petrozavodsk in September 1988, featuring reports on "black spots" in photographs, the "Dalnegorsk phenomenon," and UFO sightings by pilots.
• Kiev Scientific Meeting: The fifth scientific and technical meeting on the study of anomalous phenomena took place in Kiev in December 1988, with 128 participants, including doctors and candidates of sciences. Topics included nuclear energy, radio contact with extraterrestrial civilizations, and the search for alien life.

Sikhote-Alin Reserve

This brief report details a planned joint program between scientists from the Far East Branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences, the Sikhote-Alin Reserve, and the Wildlife Conservation Society (USA) to study the Amur tiger. The program, which involves tracking tigers using radio collars, is expected to begin in December and is largely funded by foreign donations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently promotes the exploration of unexplained phenomena, challenging established scientific and societal norms that have historically suppressed such topics. There is a strong emphasis on the potential for uncovering new knowledge through open investigation and international collaboration. The magazine also champions the revival and study of ancient wisdom, particularly traditional Chinese medicine, presenting it as a valuable and often overlooked resource for health and longevity. The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity, skepticism towards official explanations, and a belief in the existence of phenomena beyond current mainstream understanding.