Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

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African Swine Fever (ASF), a highly contagious pig disease, has been reported in Kerala’s Kottayam district, prompting culling measures and infected zone declarations. ASF has a 100% mortality rate in pigs and is caused by a large, double-stranded DNA virus of the genus Asfivirus in the family Asfarviridae. The virus can survive long periods in pork and meat products but poses no risk to human health or food safety. ASF originated in sub-Saharan Africa and has spread to Asia and Europe; it was first confirmed in India in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam in 2020. With no cure, vaccine, or prevention available, culling is the only effective control measure.

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The European Union launched the IRIS2 (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite) space programme to rival Elon Musk’s Starlink. It is the EU’s third major satellite project after Galileo (navigation) and Copernicus (Earth observation). The European Space Agency developed the programme, featuring a 290-satellite constellation in medium and low Earth orbit. IRIS2 provides secure, resilient, and high-speed connectivity in remote areas. It supports applications in surveillance, crisis management, security, and defence.

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Speed guns are widely used by law enforcement officials to monitor traffic speed. Speed guns measure the speed of moving objects without physical contact by bouncing electromagnetic waves off them. They use the Doppler Effect to calculate speed based on frequency changes between transmitted and reflected waves. A speed gun consists of a radio transmitter that emits waves and a receiver that collects the reflected waves. If an object approaches, the frequency of reflected waves increases, allowing a computer in the gun to calculate speed. Originally developed during World War II for military purposes, speed guns utilize radio waves instead of sound waves for precise measurements.

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Rwanda has declared its first-ever Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak over, with 42 days without new cases, confirmed by WHO. MVD is a severe, often fatal hemorrhagic fever caused by the Marburg virus, with no approved vaccines or treatments. First identified in 1967 in Marburg, Germany, linked to infected green monkeys. Outbreaks are mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, including Tanzania, Uganda, Angola, Ghana, Kenya, and Zimbabwe. The virus is transmitted from fruit bats to humans, spreading through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces.

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BEML Ltd launched the BD475-2 Dozer, India’s largest and most advanced crawler dozer, showcasing the country’s engineering excellence and self-reliance. Powered by a 950 HP engine, it was developed entirely in-house at BEML’s Kolar Gold Fields facility. The BD475-2 Dozer enhances fuel efficiency and performance, supporting mining operations. This launch highlights India’s technological growth, aligning with the Aatma Nirbhar Bharat vision for sustainable development.

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Manastu Space, a start-up from IIT Bombay, successfully tested its green propulsion system, VYOM 2U. This environmentally friendly technology represents a significant advancement in satellite propulsion, offering a safer alternative to conventional toxic propellants. The test was conducted aboard ISRO’s PSLV C60 as part of the POEM-4 initiative, which provides a platform for innovative space experiments. The successful test marks a key milestone in the commercialization of sustainable propulsion technology for future space missions.

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Scientists have shown that a nano-formulation of melatonin enhances its antioxidative and neuroprotective properties, offering potential for treating Parkinson’s disease (PD). Melatonin is a neurohormone secreted by the pineal gland in response to darkness, regulating sleep-wake cycles. It peaks secretion in the middle of the night, gradually reducing toward morning. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder affecting movement, balance, and the nervous system. The average onset age for PD is 60 years, with men being more commonly affected than women. Risk of Parkinson’s naturally increases with age.

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The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India clarified the use of methylcobalamin (MeCbl), an active form of Vitamin B12. Methylcobalamin, structurally distinct from other Vitamin B12 forms, contains a methyl group bonded to a cobalt atom. It is found in supplements and food sources like fish, meat, eggs, milk, and milk products. Vitamin B12 is essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and neurological function. Deficiency can cause severe health issues, often requiring supplementation. It supports vital functions like cell growth, blood formation, and protein synthesis.

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Nadi Tarangini, India’s first Ayurvedic medical device, received approval from Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). It costs ₹55,000 and is manufactured by Atreya Innovations in Pune. The device analyzes 22 Ayurvedic parameters and provides a 10-page report in 10 Indian languages. It has an accuracy of 85% and is used in over 1250 Ayurvedic clinics. Nadi Tarangini received patents in the US, Europe, Indonesia, and India.

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AnemiaPhone, developed by Cornell University, is now part of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) programs for anemia, women’s health, and maternal and child health in India. It offers quick, accurate, and low-cost iron deficiency assessment. Anemia affects 50% to 70% of pregnant women in India, with iron deficiency as the main cause. The device uses a drop of blood on a test strip, similar to a COVID-19 test, providing results in minutes. Data is uploaded to a clinical database via mobile devices, enabling healthcare workers to provide immediate guidance, referrals, or interventions.