Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

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California has declared a state of emergency due to the H5N1 avian flu outbreak, affecting its dairy industry and causing human infections. H5N1 is a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, affecting birds and occasionally humans. Symptoms in humans range from mild (pink eye, cough) to severe (fever, shortness of breath, respiratory complications). It spreads through contact with infected animal fluids and is rarely transmitted between humans. Treatment includes antiviral medications like Tamiflu and supportive care. Preventive measures involve avoiding contact with infected animals and properly cooking poultry.

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India plans to launch a quantum satellite for secure communications within 2-3 years. A quantum satellite is a communication satellite that employs the principles of quantum physics to secure its signals, ensuring highly secure and tamper-proof communication by using methods like quantum encryption and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). The National Quantum Mission (NQM), launched by India in April 2023, aims to boost quantum technology for advanced communication and sensing systems. China launched the first quantum communications satellite, Micius, in 2016.

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Researchers at Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune developed a new aerogel capable of extracting gold from electronic waste, offering a solution to reduce e-waste and harmful mining practices. Aerogels were first invented in the 1930s and are made by combining a polymer with a solvent to form a gel, then replacing the liquid in the gel with air. They are the lightest solid materials, extremely porous, translucent, and have very low density. Aerogels are recognized for being among the finest insulation materials available due to their unique properties.

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IIT Madras has launched the AMOLED Research Centre (ARC) to develop next-generation AMOLED displays for smartphones, tablets, watches, and wearables. It is a National Centre of Excellence funded by MeitY, DRDO, and Tata Sons. AMOLED stands for Active-Matrix Organic Light-Emitting Diode. The initiative supports India’s goal of establishing a display manufacturing industry. The Centre includes researchers from diverse fields and features a state-of-the-art cleanroom with advanced fabrication and characterization equipment.

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BEML Ltd launched the BD475-2 Dozer, India’s largest and most advanced crawler dozer, showcasing the country’s engineering excellence and self-reliance. Powered by a 950 HP engine, it was developed entirely in-house at BEML’s Kolar Gold Fields facility. The BD475-2 Dozer enhances fuel efficiency and performance, supporting mining operations. This launch highlights India’s technological growth, aligning with the Aatma Nirbhar Bharat vision for sustainable development.

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The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted Blue Origin a commercial space launch license for the New Glenn rocket. The New Glenn rocket was developed by Blue Origin, an American space technology company. New Glenn is a heavy-lift, two-stage rocket named after John Glenn, the first American to orbit Earth. It stands 320 feet tall and has a 7-meter-wide payload fairing. The first stage is reusable, powered by seven BE-4 engines, producing over 3.8 million pounds of thrust. The second stage uses two BE-3U engines, powered by liquid hydrogen and oxygen, generating over 320,000 pounds of vacuum thrust.

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Researchers from IIT Guwahati and Bose Institute, Kolkata, created an advanced injectable hydrogel for localized cancer treatment. The hydrogel acts as a stable reservoir, releasing anti-cancer drugs in a controlled way. It minimizes harm to healthy cells while targeting cancer effectively. The breakthrough is expected to revolutionize breast cancer therapy. The hydrogel is made from protein-based ultra-short peptides, stable at injection sites, and insoluble in body fluids. The peptides are biocompatible and biodegradable, ensuring safety and effectiveness.

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A webinar on osteoporosis was organized by Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore recently. Experts highlight calcium intake, regular exercise, and healthy habits to prevent bone loss. Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens bones, making them thinner and more prone to fractures. It commonly affects bones like hips, wrists, and the spine. The condition occurs when bone loss outpaces new bone creation, often due to low hormone levels. The disease is often called “silent” because it shows no symptoms until a fracture occurs.

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India has officially banned nimesulide after research confirmed its toxic impact on endangered vultures. Nimesulide is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain and inflammation relief in conditions like osteoarthritis, menstrual cramps, and fever. The drug was widely used for treating animals like cattle, pigs, and horses. It causes kidney damage in vultures, leading to health issues and a decline in their population. Symptoms like visceral gout indicate kidney damage in vultures. Nimesulide is banned for pediatric use in several countries and now in India under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.

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Germany recently faced its first foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak in nearly 40 years, affecting water buffalo near Berlin. Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease impacting livestock like cattle, swine, sheep, and goats but not horses, dogs, or cats. The disease severely affects livestock production and disrupts trade in animals and animal products. It circulates in 77% of global livestock, mainly in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and parts of South America. FMD is not a human health risk and is transmitted through excretions, secretions, and aerosolized virus from infected animals.