Daily Current Affairs Quiz: December 12, 2024

Notes:
The latest Consumer Confidence Survey (CCS) by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) shows weakened consumer confidence in the economy, employment, income, and spending. The survey indicates that consumer optimism drives higher spending, while pessimism can lead to recession. It is released bi-monthly by RBI. It uses the Current Situation Index (CSI) and Future Expectation Index (FEI) as key indicators. The FEI improved by 0.5 points to 121.9, indicating higher optimism for future spending. The CSI declined by 0.7 points to 94 in November 2024, reflecting weaker sentiments, except in household spending.

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Scientists at the University of Bristol, United Kingdom and UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) developed the world’s first carbon-14 diamond battery using radioactive decay, synthetic diamonds, and plasma chemistry. It uses carbon-14, a radioactive isotope with a 5,700-year half-life, emitting short-range radiation absorbed by solid materials. The battery functions like solar panels but captures fast-moving electrons within the diamond structure. It powers healthcare devices like pacemakers, hearing aids, and ocular devices, lasting years without replacement. It is ideal for extreme environments on Earth and in space, offering a long-lasting power source for spacecraft without needing recharging or replacement.

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Ecologist Madhav Gadgil received the UN’s Champions of the Earth award on December 10, 2024, for his work in the Western Ghats, a global biodiversity hotspot. Gadgil chaired the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel, studying the region’s challenges from population pressure, climate change, and development. The Champions of the Earth award, established in 2005 by UNEP, is the UN’s highest environmental honor. It recognizes individuals and organizations creating sustainable solutions to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Gadgil was the only Indian among this year’s awardees for his contributions to environmental conservation.

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Researchers at IIIT-Delhi developed AgeXtend, an AI-powered platform to discover molecules that slow ageing and promote healthier lives. AgeXtend uses bioactivity data from geroprotectors to predict new molecules with anti-ageing properties. Its AI modules evaluate geroprotective potential, toxicity, target proteins, and mechanisms of action for safe and accurate discovery. It successfully identified benefits of known compounds like metformin and taurine during testing. AgeXtend screened over 1.1 billion compounds and validated promising candidates using yeast, nematodes, and human cell models. It also analyzed natural compounds in the human microbiome and their role in controlling cell ageing.

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Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu unveiled the new logo for the 4th Eaglenest Bird Festival, set for January 17-19, 2025, in West Kameng District. The festival celebrates Arunachal Pradesh’s rich biodiversity and promotes community-led conservation and sustainable eco-tourism. It highlights the state’s commitment to preserving nature and fostering environmental awareness through engaging events and initiatives.