CURRENT-AFFAIRS

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• 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.

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• 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.

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• 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.

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• 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.

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• 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.

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• 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.