Cell Division

Cell division consists of two phases— nuclear division followed

by cytokinesis.Nuclear division divides the genetic material in the nucleus, while
cytokinesis divides the cytoplasm. There are two kinds of nuclear division—
mitosis and meiosis. Mitosis divides the nucleus so that both daughter cells
are genetically identical. In contrast, meiosis is a reduction division, producing
daughter cells that contain half the genetic information of the parent cell.
the chromosomes. Each chromosome is made of two identical halves called
sister chromatids, which are joined at the centromere. Each chromatid consists
of a single, tightly coiled molecule of DNA. Somatic cells (all body cells
except eggs and sperm) are diploid cells because each cell contains two
copies of every chromosome. A pair of such chromosomes is called a
homologous pair. In a homologous pair of chromosomes, one homologue
originates from the maternal parent, the other from the paternal parent. In
humans there are 46 chromosomes (23 homologous pairs). In males there
are only 22 homologous pairs (autosomes) and one nonhomologous pair
DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
The digestive system exerts a considerable influence on the efficiency and work
capacity of the body, and acute and chronic illnesses of the digestive system are
among the commonest causes of absenteeism and disablement. In this context, the
occupational physician may be called upon in either of the following ways to offer
suggestions concerning hygiene and nutritional requirements in relation to the
particular needs of a given occupation: to assess the influence that factors inherent
in the occupation may have either in producing morbid conditions of the digestive
system, or in aggravating others that may pre-exist or be otherwise independent of
the occupation; or to express an opinion concerning general or specific fitness for
the occupation.

Many of the factors that are harmful to the digestive system may be of occupational
origin; frequently a number of factors act in concert and their action may be
facilitated by individual predisposition. The following are among the most
important occupational factors: industrial poisons; physical agents; and
occupational stress such as tension, fatigue, abnormal postures, frequent changes
in work tempo, shift work, night work and unsuitable eating habits (quantity,
quality and timing of meals).