Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

Notes:
Recently, the Gujarat government reported six children dying from suspected Chandipura virus (CHPV) infection since July 10. CHPV, part of the Rhabdoviridae family, is transmitted by sandflies and mosquitoes, including Aedes aegypti. The virus, residing in the insects’ salivary glands, can infect humans and domestic animals through bites. It can quickly progress to encephalitis, causing inflammation of the brain’s active tissues and potentially affecting organs like the kidneys and liver.

Notes:
Kerala has issued technical guidelines for diagnosing and managing amoebic meningoencephalitis. Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is a rare, often fatal infection caused by the brain-eating amoeba Naegleria fowleri, found in freshwater. Symptoms include headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting, typically after exposure to warm, stagnant freshwater. PAM has a high mortality rate over 97%. Treatment remains uncertain but should involve amebicidal drugs that can cross the blood-brain barrier.

Notes:
World Hepatitis Day, observed on 28 July, raises awareness about viral hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver that can lead to severe liver disease and cancer. Millions die from hepatitis-related illnesses globally, highlighting the need for better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Hepatitis is typically caused by viral infections but can also result from autoimmune conditions, medications, drugs, toxins, and alcohol. The theme for World Hepatitis Day 2024 is “It’s Time for Action,” emphasizing the urgency of addressing hepatitis to improve global health outcomes. This day aims to increase knowledge and inspire positive changes in combating hepatitis worldwide.

Notes:
China plans to launch the world’s first thorium molten salt nuclear power station in the Gobi Desert in 2025. Unlike traditional reactors that use uranium and require water for cooling, this station will use thorium and liquid salt or carbon dioxide for heat transfer. This design reduces meltdown risks. Thorium, a naturally occurring element, must be converted to U-233 in a reactor to produce nuclear energy.

Notes:
Researchers from the Korean Institute of Basic Science, South Korea have developed Nano-MIND, a magnetogenetics technology that allows precise, remote control of brain circuits using magnetism. Tested on mice, it can activate specific neurons to alter behaviors such as maternal instincts and feeding. This breakthrough advances brain research and could impact brain-computer interfaces and treatments for neurological disorders.

Notes:
Researchers found that gene mutations in Parkinson’s disease patients are more common than expected, suggesting broader genetic testing. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder affecting movement and body balance, usually starting around age 60. Men are more likely to be affected. It is caused by the degeneration of nerve cells in the substantia nigra, leading to a lack of dopamine, which results in slowed movements and tremors.

Notes:
World Lung Cancer Day, observed on August 1st, raises awareness about lung cancer, highlighting its impact and educating the public on risks, symptoms, and treatments. The day advocates for early detection, better treatment options, and more research funding. This year’s theme, “Close the Care Gap: Everyone Deserves Access to Cancer Care,” emphasizes the need for equitable healthcare access for all cancer patients.

Notes:
Scientists have identified Ladakh as a potential site for a Martian or Lunar analogue research station. Such stations simulate planetary conditions for testing space technologies and studying human behavior in extreme environments. Ladakh’s dry, cold, and rocky landscape resembles early Mars and the Moon, with features like permafrost, volcanic rocks, and saline lakes. Its conditions, including high radiation and low atmospheric pressure, make it an ideal location for this research.

Notes:
Astronomers are watching Eta Carinae, a hypergiant star 7,500 light-years away, as it might soon explode as a supernova. About 170 years ago, it had a major outburst, creating the Homunculus Nebula. Eta Carinae is unique for emitting natural laser light and recently showed intriguing details in the nebula. When it eventually goes supernova, it could provide a spectacular light show and valuable insights into massive stars.

Notes:
Researchers have recently identified a new clade of Candida auris, increasing the total number to six globally. Candida auris is a multi-drug-resistant fungal pathogen that can cause a range of infections, from skin infections to severe, life-threatening bloodstream infections. It was first identified in Japan. It spreads mainly in healthcare settings through contaminated surfaces or person-to-person contact. The fungus can either colonize parts of the body without symptoms or cause serious infections if it enters the bloodstream or wounds.