Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

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Researchers are developing an mRNA-based vaccine for Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile), a highly contagious bacterium. C. difficile causes an infection of the colon, the longest part of the large intestine, with symptoms ranging from diarrhea to life-threatening colon damage. The infection often occurs after antibiotic use and mainly affects older adults in hospitals or long-term care settings, but others can also get infected. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, mild belly cramping, dehydration, and in severe cases, toxic megacolon (colon inflammation and enlargement). The vaccine aims to tackle this difficult-to-treat infection.

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South Korea is becoming a key testing ground for the sweetener allulose, also known as D-allulose or d-psicose. It naturally occurs in foods like wheat, raisins, figs, and molasses, and is commercially produced from beet sugar or corn. Allulose is 70% as sweet as sugar and nearly calorie-free, making it a popular sugar substitute, especially for people with diabetes. High doses may cause nausea, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues. The U.S. FDA has approved it as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS), and it is also approved in Japan, Mexico, Singapore, and South Korea.

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World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) 2024 is celebrated from November 18–24. The theme for the World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) 2024 is “Educate. Advocate. Act now.” This theme emphasizes the need to raise awareness about antimicrobial resistance (AMR), advocate for policy changes, and take concrete actions to address this global health concern. WAAW is a global campaign that aims to raise awareness and understanding of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This year’s World AMR Awareness Week emphasizes the need for effective training of health workers to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through improved infection prevention and control (IPC) practices. Despite some progress, many countries still face challenges in integrating AMR education into health worker training.

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IIT Ropar researchers developed a patented mechanical passive motion machine for knee rehabilitation (Patent No. 553407). Unlike motorized CPM machines, this device is entirely mechanical, using a piston and pulley system, needing no electricity or batteries. The lightweight, portable machine allows for smooth, controlled knee motion, aiding recovery post-surgery. It provides an affordable alternative to costly electric machines, beneficial in rural or off-grid areas. The device can be used at home, reducing hospital visits and promoting faster recovery.

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The Ministry of Science and Technology launched Operation Dronagiri at IIT Delhi under the National Geospatial Policy 2022. This pilot project aims to showcase geospatial technology’s role in improving citizen quality of life and business ease. The first phase covers Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra, focusing on agriculture, livelihoods, logistics, and transport. DST partners with government, industry, and startups, supported by the Integrated Geospatial Data Sharing Interface (GDI) for data access. IIT Tirupati oversees the project, with IIT Kanpur, IIT Bombay, IIM Calcutta, and IIT Ropar as operational hubs. The Geospatial Innovation Cell at DST drives implementation.

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China’s Chang’e-6 mission made history by retrieving the first surface samples from the moon’s far side, revealing volcanic rock fragments dating back 4.2 billion years. This discovery provides crucial insights into the moon’s geological history and long periods of volcanic activity, suggesting that the far side was once more dynamic than it is today. The mission highlights the differences in composition between samples from the near and far sides of the moon, enhancing our understanding of lunar volcanism and its cessation due to dwindling internal heat sources over billions of years.

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The Ministry of Defence recently launched the AI-enabled e-Tarang System. Developed with Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N), it improves the planning and operation of defence equipment in both wartime and peacetime. The system enables automated, efficient management of Defence Spectrum and supports the development of new technologies in higher frequency bands. It aids rapid decision-making and facilitates the integration of modern technologies for defence applications. BISAG-N is an autonomous body under MeitY, focused on research, technology development, and cooperation in geo-spatial technology, supporting capacity building and entrepreneurship.

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Pathogen spillover from managed honey bees to wild pollinators poses a significant threat. Thai Sacbrood Virus (TSBV) affects honeybee larvae, killing them and hindering colony growth, particularly endangering Asiatic honeybees (Apis cerana indica). The virus spreads through the movement of bee colonies for pollination and honey production. TSBV caused a major outbreak in South India in 1991-1992, wiping out about 90% of Asiatic honey bee colonies. The virus resurfaced in Telangana in 2021 and has also been reported in countries like China and Vietnam.

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Recent research has identified Candidatus Phytoplasma as the causative agent of a peculiar disease in sesame fields in Midnapore, West Bengal. Sesame, known as the “Queen of Oil,” is an ancient oilseed crop with medicinal properties. The disease causes disfigurement and virescence in the plants, impacting their yield. Researchers, led by Prof. Gaurab Gangopadhyay, have been studying this issue and aim to improve sesame varieties through molecular marker-assisted breeding to combat this threat and enhance the crop’s benefits.

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Sjögren’s disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks moisture-producing glands, particularly the salivary and lacrimal glands, leading to symptoms like dry mouth and dry eyes. It is significantly more common in women and often remains undiagnosed for years, causing considerable distress. Awareness and proper diagnosis are crucial for effective management, which may involve lifestyle adjustments and medications to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected.