Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

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Parrot fever, or psittacosis, has claimed five lives in a recent outbreak across Europe. Caused by bacterium Chlamydophila psittaci, it primarily affects birds but can infect humans through contaminated particles. Common in those close to birds, symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pains, and pneumonia-like symptoms. Severe cases may lead to complications, treated with antibiotics like doxycycline. Human-to-human transmission is rare, emphasizing the importance of proper hygiene and supportive care for recovery.

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Scientists recently discovered a massive volcano on Mars called Noctis, which is located on the eastern edge of Tharsis, a broad regional topographic rise. The volcano is 9,022 meters high and 450 kilometers wide, which makes it almost 200 meters taller than Mount Everest. It’s located south of Mars’ equator, in Eastern Noctis Labyrinthus, west of Valles Marineris, the planet’s vast canyon system. Scientists discovered Noctis using data from NASA’s Mariner 9, Viking Orbiter 1 and 2, Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Odyssey, and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter missions, as well as ESA’s Mars Express mission.

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The International Astronomical Union approved ‘Statio Shiv Shakti’ for Chandrayaan’s Vikram lander site. On August 26, PM announced Chandrayaan 3’s landing site would be named Shiv Shakti. Rooted in Hindu mythology, “Shivshakti” symbolizes determination and empowerment. PM highlighted the connection between humanitarian efforts and Shiva. The “Shakti” component honors women scientists.

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The World Health Organization (WHO) launched CoViNet, a global network of laboratories specializing in human, animal, and environmental coronavirus surveillance. It aims to detect and monitor emerging coronaviruses, including potential novel strains, enhancing risk assessment and informing WHO policies. CoViNet will expand surveillance capabilities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, to monitor MERS-CoV and other significant coronaviruses, contributing to global public health preparedness.

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Researchers have found evidence of ozone on Jupiter’s moon Callisto, revealing insights into chemical processes on icy celestial bodies. The study focuses on the chemical evolution of “SO2 astrochemical ice,” composed of sulfur dioxide under ultraviolet irradiation. Analysis of UV absorption spectra of irradiated ice samples unveiled a distinct ozone formation signature. Callisto’s stable surface suggests it may harbor subsurface oceans or potential habitats, making it a potential candidate for extraterrestrial life.

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India’s President, Smt Droupadi Murmu, launched the nation’s inaugural home-grown gene therapy for cancer at IIT Bombay. The groundbreaking “CAR-T cell therapy” offers affordable hope in the cancer fight. This medical milestone, a part of ‘Make in India,’ embodies ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’ Developed collaboratively by IIT Bombay, Tata Memorial Hospital, and ImmunoACT, it marks a significant achievement in research and development. Gene therapy holds promise in treating various diseases, heralding a new era in healthcare.

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India’s DRDO and Strategic Forces Command successfully tested the ‘Agni-Prime’ ballistic missile at Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha. Range sensors, including two ships, captured data. Witnessed by top officials, Agni-P is a medium-range ballistic missile with nuclear capabilities, designed as successor to Agni-I and II. It boasts a 1,000-2,000 km strike range, advanced technology from Agni-IV/V, and features composite materials for lightweight and strength. It’s a two-stage, solid-fueled, road-mobile missile with dual navigation.

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Researchers at the University of Kerala developed an innovative Airbreathing Magnesium-Copper/Cupric Oxide (Mg-Cu/CuO) Fuel Cell. Unlike its predecessor, the Mg-C fuel cell, it features a reusable copper-based cathode, offering enhanced operational stability. This eco-friendly technology utilizes air and seawater to generate power, emitting only water as a byproduct. Anticipated to rival the impact of Lithium-ion batteries, it exclusively produces electricity and heat during operation.

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Dr. Ashvini Keshavan, an Indian-origin neurologist and Senior Clinical Research and Honorary Consultant Neurologist Fellow at University College London (UCL), has been selected to be part of Britain’s research team on dementia. The team, called ADAPT (Alzheimer’s disease Diagnosis And Plasma pTau217), will focus on the biomarker p-tau217, which reflects the levels of two proteins found in the brain that are associated with Alzheimer’s disease: amyloid and tau. The team will conduct a clinical trial to see if measuring p-tau217 in the blood can increase the rate of diagnosis for Alzheimer’s disease in people with early dementia, as well as in those with mild, progressive memory problems.

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The forest department is monitoring an outbreak of mange among Asiatic wild dogs in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Mange, caused by mite infestations, leads to inflammation, itching, skin thickening, and hair loss. The severe form, caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites, also affects humans. All domestic animals can get mange, with specific mites infesting only one species. Transmission occurs through direct contact and contaminated objects. Most forms of mange are treatable.