Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

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Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee signed an agreement under the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) to develop a 5G “millimeter wave transceiver” for rural connectivity. Millimeter waves (30-300 GHz frequency) allow high-speed wireless communication with low latency and less interference. The project promotes local manufacturing, encouraging small and medium industries, creating job opportunities for engineering graduates. The use of polymer-metal structures reduces dependence on semiconductor industries, with a small development cost. It aims to generate Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) and build a skilled workforce for 5G/6G technology.

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Chikkamagaluru health officials are on alert to prevent Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), also called Monkey Fever. KFD is a tick-borne viral haemorrhagic disease first reported in Karnataka’s Kyasanur Forest in 1957. The disease is caused by the Kyasanur Forest Disease Virus, part of the tick-borne encephalitis complex. It spreads through tick bites or contact with infected animals, especially monkeys, but not between humans. Symptoms include high fever, nausea, diarrhea, and sometimes neurological or haemorrhagic issues. With a 5–10% fatality rate, there is no cure; supportive care is vital. A vaccine is available in affected regions.

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Delhi has reported a single case of Japanese Encephalitis in a 72-year-old man. The patient received treatment and has been discharged. Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is a zoonotic viral disease primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Culex mosquitoes, particularly the Vishnui group. These mosquitoes breed in areas with stagnant water, such as rice fields and irrigation canals, which are prevalent during the monsoon season. JE is endemic in several states in India, with outbreaks typically occurring from July to October. Vaccination and vector control are key preventive measures against this disease.

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A female elephant recently died of suspected anthrax at Bandipur Tiger Reserve. Anthrax is caused by Bacteria ‘Bacillus anthracis’, a spore-forming bacterium found in soil. It primarily affects livestock and wild animals through contaminated soil, plants, or water. Humans can contract anthrax by contact with infected animals or their products, contaminated food or water, or spores entering the skin. Anthrax is not contagious between people and occurs in three forms: cutaneous, gastrointestinal, and inhalational. The bacteria’s spores can survive in soil for years, posing long-term risks to animals and humans.

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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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India’s first analog space mission, named Hab-1, was tested in Ladakh to simulate space conditions for astronaut training. This mission is part of ISRO’s preparations for the Gaganyaan project, which aims to send astronauts into low-Earth orbit. Hab-1 is designed to replicate the limited living conditions expected on the Moon or Mars, featuring essential amenities like a kitchenette and a dry toilet. The extreme environment of Ladakh, with its rocky terrain and high altitude, provides an ideal setting for such simulations, helping to prepare astronauts for future missions.

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Russia has developed an mRNA-based cancer treatment vaccine, set to launch in early 2025 and offered free to citizens. The vaccine, costing the state 300,000 rubles (USD 2,869) per dose, uses genetic material from a patient’s tumour to train the immune system. It works by stimulating antibodies to target unique proteins (antigens) on cancer cells, effectively destroying them. Cancer rates in Russia are rising, with over 635,000 new cases in 2022, including colon, breast, and lung cancers. Similar personalised vaccines are under trial in the US (glioblastoma) and UK (melanoma), showing promising results.

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The Jetson Orin Nano Super is a compact generative AI supercomputer launched by Nvidia, priced at $249. It features enhanced performance with 67 TOPS and is designed for developers and students to create AI tools. Equipped with Nvidia’s Ampere GPU architecture, it supports various applications, including robotics, smart surveillance, and healthcare. The device is compact yet powerful, making generative AI accessible for businesses of all sizes, with connectivity options for various peripherals and a focus on efficiency and performance in edge computing.

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India plans to launch a quantum satellite for secure communications within 2-3 years. A quantum satellite is a communication satellite that employs the principles of quantum physics to secure its signals, ensuring highly secure and tamper-proof communication by using methods like quantum encryption and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). The National Quantum Mission (NQM), launched by India in April 2023, aims to boost quantum technology for advanced communication and sensing systems. China launched the first quantum communications satellite, Micius, in 2016.

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Norovirus outbreaks in the United States (U.S.) have risen sharply, with 91 cases in early December, up from 69 in late November. Norovirus is a highly contagious virus causing gastroenteritis, also known as the “stomach flu” or “winter vomiting bug.” It affects people of all ages and spreads quickly through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or close contact. Noroviruses cause 90% of viral gastroenteritis outbreaks and nearly 50% of cases worldwide. People can get infected multiple times due to the variety of norovirus strains. Preventive measures focus on hygiene and proper food handling to limit its spread.