Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

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Stanford researchers, driven by curiosity and “recreational biology,” discovered how a simple cell exhibits complex behavior without a nervous system. In biology, origami involves folding molecules like DNA into specific shapes, inspired by Japanese paper origami. Applications include synthetic biology for designing new proteins, drug design for targeting protein structures, and nanotechnology for creating nanoscale devices and materials.

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Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a patented three-step process to remove heavy metal contaminants like arsenic from groundwater. This method ensures eco-friendly disposal of removed heavy metals, preventing their re-entry into groundwater. Arsenic levels exceed permissible limits in 113 districts across 21 Indian states, while fluoride levels surpass standards in 223 districts across 23 states, as reported by the Bureau of Indian Standards and the WHO.

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Scientists from CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology highlighted Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF), derived from microalgae ‘Chlorella sorokiniana’, as beneficial for food and feed applications. Microalgae, microscopic and mostly unicellular, thrive in diverse aquatic environments and lack roots or stems. They are crucial in ecosystems as primary producers, offering nutritional benefits due to their richness in lipids, proteins, and pigments. Examples include Spirulina and Chlorella, commonly used as dietary supplements for their health benefits.

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India ranks as the world’s second largest emitter of nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas. In 2020, India contributed nearly 11% of global man-made N2O emissions, following China’s 16%. These emissions primarily stem from nitrogen-based fertilizers and animal manure used in agriculture. Despite this, India’s per capita emissions are relatively low at 0.8 kg/person compared to other top emitters like China, the US, Brazil, and Russia.

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Scientists from the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in Ahmedabad discovered three craters on Mars within the Tharsis Volcanic Region, known for extensive lava flows. Named Lal, Mursan, and Hilsa, these craters offer insights into Martian surface geology and age. Named after Indian towns and a renowned geophysicist, these discoveries contribute to our understanding of Mars’ stable crust and geological processes, contrasting with Earth’s active geology and erosion.

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Researchers from IISc’s Department of Bioengineering have developed a 3D hydrogel culture system that mimics the mammalian lung environment. This innovation allows precise tracking and study of tuberculosis bacteria infection in lung cells. The system serves as a robust platform for testing the effectiveness of TB therapeutics.

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Due to continued rain in Kerala, the health department cautioned against amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare, usually fatal brain infection caused by Naegleria fowleri. This amoeba thrives in warm, shallow waters and enters the brain through the nose. Early symptoms include fever, headache, and vomiting, progressing to stiff neck, seizures, hallucinations, and coma. Symptoms typically appear within five days of infection.

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The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) recently approved a wireless network architecture developed at IIT Bombay for affordable rural broadband access. This system uses a cellular network, like 5G, comprising network equipment and communication links to transfer data between devices and the Internet. The network is divided into two sub-networks: the access network (AN) and the core network (CN).

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In Bengaluru, the Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (inStem) has developed an innovative anti-insecticide fabric. This fabric utilizes nucleophilic small molecules that covalently bond to neutralize organophosphate-based pesticides upon contact, even after 150 washes. It aims to protect farmers from chronic pesticide toxicity by detoxifying pesticides through nucleophile-mediated hydrolysis. Nucleophiles are attracted to electron-deficient areas in molecules, enabling effective pesticide neutralization and enhancing agricultural safety.

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The Philippine Army confirmed the imminent withdrawal of the “deadly” Typhon Weapons System, used by the US in joint military exercises. Also known as the Strategic Mid-Range Fires (SMRF) System, Typhon includes Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) for ballistic defense and ship targeting up to 370 km. It also deploys Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles and comprises four launchers, a command post, and support vehicles on trailers. Using Mk 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS) technology, it integrates various missiles and sources external targeting data.