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18th April 2024 current Affairs

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)

Environment and Ecology

  • The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is a scientific body established by the United Nations in 1988.
  • Its primary role is to provide policymakers with regular assessments of the scientific basis of climate change, its impacts, and potential adaptation and mitigation strategies.
  • The IPCC does not conduct research itself but assesses thousands of scientific papers to produce comprehensive reports.
  • These reports are widely regarded as the most authoritative sources of information on climate change, influencing global climate policy.
  • The IPCC operates through three working groups: Working Group I focuses on the physical science basis of climate change, Working Group II assesses impacts, adaptation, and vulnerability, and Working Group III addresses mitigation of climate change.
  • Its assessments are based on contributions from thousands of scientists from around the world, ensuring a broad and diverse perspective.
  • The IPCC's reports undergo a rigorous review process involving both experts and governments to ensure accuracy and credibility.
  • The IPCC also publishes special reports on specific topics and methodologies to address emerging issues in climate science and policy.
  • Its work plays a crucial role in shaping international agreements such as the Paris Agreement, by providing scientific evidence to guide policy decisions.

 

PSLV Orbital Experimental Module-3 (POEM-3)

Science and Technology

  • PSLV Orbital Experimental Module-3 (POEM-3) is a payload developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
  • It's designed to study microgravity conditions and space environment.
  • POEM-3 was launched aboard the PSLV-C52 mission on December 8, 2023, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, India.
  • It consists of several scientific experiments and payloads aimed at conducting research in areas like fluid dynamics, materials science, and life sciences in microgravity.
  • The module is equipped with sensors and instruments to gather data and perform experiments during its time in orbit.
  • POEM-3 is part of ISRO's efforts to advance its understanding of space science and technology and to support future space missions.

 

Prostate Cancer

Science and Technology

  • Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, excluding skin cancer.
  • It develops in the prostate gland, a walnut-sized gland located just below the bladder.
  • Risk factors include age (risk increases with age), family history, ethnicity (African American men are at higher risk), and certain genetic factors.
  • Symptoms may not appear in the early stages, but can include difficulty urinating, blood in semen, erectile dysfunction, and bone pain in later stages.
  • Screening for prostate cancer typically involves a blood test called PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test and a digital rectal exam (DRE).
  • Treatment options vary based on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer and may include active surveillance, surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
  • Regular screenings and early detection are crucial for better treatment outcomes.
  • Lifestyle factors such as maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and a balanced diet may help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer.

 

Municipal elections in India

Polity

  • Municipal elections in India are conducted at the local level to elect representatives for urban local bodies (ULBs) such as municipal corporations, municipalities, and town councils.
  • These elections are crucial for governing urban areas, managing local administration, and addressing civic issues.
  • Municipal elections are typically held every five years, although the frequency may vary from state to state.
  • The elections are conducted by state election commissions or designated authorities, following guidelines set by the Constitution of India and relevant state laws.
  • Candidates from various political parties as well as independents contest these elections, vying for positions such as mayor, councilors, and ward members.
  • Issues such as sanitation, infrastructure development, water supply, waste management, and urban planning often dominate the electoral discourse.
  • Voter turnout in municipal elections varies across regions and is influenced by factors such as voter awareness, local issues, and political mobilization efforts.
  • The outcome of municipal elections shapes the governance and development trajectory of urban areas, impacting the quality of life for residents.
  • Municipalities play a crucial role in implementing central and state government schemes at the grassroots level, making these elections significant for effective governance and service delivery.

 

Meningitis disease

Science and Technology

  • Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord known as the meninges.
  • Caused by viral, bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections, with bacterial and viral being the most common types.
  • Bacterial meningitis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
  • Symptoms include sudden onset of fever, headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion, and vomiting.
  • Diagnosis involves a physical exam, blood tests, imaging studies like CT scans or MRI, and a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to analyze cerebrospinal fluid.
  • Treatment depends on the cause, with bacterial meningitis often treated with antibiotics, while viral meningitis typically resolves on its own.
  • Vaccines are available for certain types of bacterial meningitis, such as those caused by Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae.
  • Prevention strategies include practicing good hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and vaccination.

 

Giant rogue waves

Geography

  • Giant rogue waves are massive and unpredictable ocean waves that can reach heights significantly larger than surrounding waves.
  • They often occur in open oceans, far from coastlines, and are a threat to ships and offshore structures.
  • These waves can be several times taller than the average waves in the area and can appear suddenly without warning.
  • The exact cause of giant rogue waves is not fully understood, but they are believed to result from a combination of factors such as constructive wave interference, ocean currents, and atmospheric conditions.
  • Despite their rare occurrence, giant rogue waves pose a significant danger to maritime activities, including shipping, offshore drilling, and recreational boating.
  • Advanced technologies like radar and satellite monitoring have improved the ability to detect and predict rogue waves, allowing for better safety measures for ships and offshore platforms.
  • Research into understanding the mechanisms behind rogue wave formation continues to help improve predictive models and enhance safety at sea.

 

Fourth global mass coral bleaching event

Environment and Ecology

  • The fourth global mass coral bleaching event began in 2014 and continued into 2017.
  • It affected coral reefs worldwide, from the Great Barrier Reef to the Caribbean and Pacific regions.
  • Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel algae living in their tissues due to stress, which often results from high sea temperatures.
  • This bleaching weakens corals, making them susceptible to disease and death if the stress persists.
  • The 2014-2017 event was the longest and most widespread coral bleaching event on record, impacting over 70% of the world's coral reefs.
  • Human activities, including climate change and pollution, are major contributors to coral bleaching events by raising sea temperatures and reducing water quality.
  • Efforts to mitigate climate change, reduce pollution, and establish marine protected areas are crucial for protecting coral reefs and preventing future mass bleaching events.

 

Soil Acidification

Environment and Ecology

  • Soil acidification is the process by which soil becomes more acidic over time.
  • It occurs due to various factors, including acid rain, use of acidic fertilizers, and leaching of basic nutrients.
  • Acidification impacts soil health and fertility by altering nutrient availability and microbial activity.
  • It can lead to decreased crop yields, reduced plant diversity, and increased vulnerability to soil erosion.
  • Acidic soils can also affect groundwater quality by leaching heavy metals and other contaminants.
  • Mitigation strategies include liming to neutralize acidity, careful fertilizer selection, and sustainable land management practices.
  • Monitoring soil pH levels is crucial for early detection and management of acidification to maintain soil productivity and environmental health.

 

Pink bollworm

Environment and Ecology

  • Pink bollworm (Pectinophora gossypiella) is a major pest of cotton crops.
  • It is native to Asia but has spread to other cotton-growing regions worldwide.
  • The larvae of pink bollworm feed on cotton bolls, damaging the fibers and reducing yield and quality.
  • Female pink bollworm moths lay eggs on cotton plants, and the larvae bore into the bolls to feed.
  • Control measures include the use of insecticides, genetically modified cotton varieties resistant to pink bollworm, and cultural practices like crop rotation and sanitation.
  • Resistance to insecticides and Bt cotton, which produces a toxin lethal to certain pests like pink bollworm, has emerged in some populations, posing challenges for control.
  • Integrated pest management strategies that combine various control methods are often recommended to manage pink bollworm effectively while minimizing environmental impact and resistance development.

 

Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC)

International Relations

  • The Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) is an international forum established in 1993.
  • Comprising space agencies from various countries, including NASA, ESA, Roscosmos, CNSA, and others.
  • Its primary goal is to coordinate activities related to the mitigation of space debris and the long-term sustainability of space activities.
  • IADC members collaborate on sharing data, developing guidelines, and conducting research to minimize the risks posed by space debris to spacecraft and satellites.
  • They work on debris mitigation strategies such as spacecraft disposal, designing satellites for re-entry, and preventing collisions through improved tracking and maneuvering.
  • The committee also fosters international cooperation and dialogue to address the challenges posed by the increasing amount of debris in Earth's orbit.
  • It plays a crucial role in promoting responsible space activities and raising awareness about the importance of space debris mitigation among spacefaring nations and commercial entities.

 

Nitroplast

Science and Technology

  • Nitroplast is a type of explosive composed mainly of nitrocellulose and a plasticizer.
  • It is often used in industrial applications, such as in mining, demolition, and military munitions.
  • Nitroplast is highly stable compared to other explosives, making it safer to handle and transport.
  • Its stability allows for controlled detonation, which is crucial in many applications where precision is required.
  • The plasticizer in nitroplast helps in shaping the explosive into various forms, such as sheets or pellets, enhancing its versatility.
  • Despite its stability, nitroplast still requires careful handling and storage to prevent accidents or unintended detonations.
  • The composition of nitroplast can vary depending on its intended use, with different formulations optimized for specific applications.
  • Overall, nitroplast plays a significant role in various industries where controlled explosions are necessary, offering a balance between stability and explosive power.

 

Gray Slender Loris

Environment and Ecology

  • The Gray Slender Loris (Loris lydekkerianus) is a small, nocturnal primate found in South India and Sri Lanka.
  • It belongs to the Lorisidae family and is known for its large, round eyes adapted for night vision.
  • Their gray fur helps them blend into the forest canopy where they spend most of their time.
  • Gray Slender Lorises primarily feed on insects, small reptiles, birds, and fruits.
  • Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, they are listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.
  • They have a slow reproductive rate, with typically one offspring born after a gestation period of around six months.
  • These primates face threats from deforestation, illegal wildlife trade, and being captured for the pet trade.
  • Conservation efforts include habitat preservation, anti-poaching measures, and public awareness campaigns to discourage keeping them as pets.
  • Research on their behavior and ecology is ongoing to better understand their needs and develop effective conservation strategies.

 

National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission

Polity

  • National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) is a quasi-judicial body in India established under the Consumer Protection Act, 1986.
  • It is headquartered in New Delhi and was set up to provide a forum for consumers to seek redressal for their grievances.
  • The commission is empowered to entertain complaints where the value of goods or services and compensation claimed exceeds Rs. 10 million.
  • It hears appeals against the orders of State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions and has appellate jurisdiction over District Consumer Forums.
  • The NCDRC comprises a President and such number of members as prescribed, including judicial and technical members.
  • The commission has the authority to issue various orders such as compensation to consumers, refunds, and punitive actions against erring businesses.
  • It plays a crucial role in protecting consumer rights and ensuring fair practices in the marketplace.
  • NCDRC's decisions can be challenged in the Supreme Court of India under certain conditions.
  • The commission also plays an advisory role in matters related to consumer protection laws and policies.

 

Ashwagandha

Science and Technology

  • Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine.
  • Originating from India, it has been used for centuries for its various health benefits.
  • Adaptogen: Ashwagandha helps the body manage stress by balancing cortisol levels.
  • Boosts immunity: It has immunomodulatory properties, aiding in fighting infections.
  • Enhances cognitive function: Studies suggest it may improve memory, focus, and cognitive abilities.
  • Anti-inflammatory: Contains compounds that reduce inflammation, potentially helpful for conditions like arthritis.
  • May reduce anxiety and depression symptoms: Some research indicates it can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
  • Supports muscle strength and recovery: Athletes often use Ashwagandha for its potential to increase muscle mass and strength.
  • Improves sleep quality: It has a calming effect, promoting better sleep.
  • Considered safe for most people, but consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications.

 

Tachyons

Science and Technology

  • Tachyons are theoretical particles proposed in physics.
  • They are hypothetical particles that always move faster than light.
  • The concept of tachyons arises from certain solutions to the equations of motion in relativity theory.
  • According to special relativity, particles with mass cannot reach or exceed the speed of light.
  • Tachyons, if they exist, would have imaginary mass and travel faster than light, violating the principles of causality.
  • Their existence is not supported by experimental evidence, and they are primarily a theoretical construct.
  • Tachyons have been explored in various speculative physics theories, including string theory and certain models of quantum field theory.
  • Despite their speculative nature, the study of tachyons contributes to discussions about the fundamental nature of space, time, and the universe.