science and tech

Sex Differences in Human Brain Structure at Birth

Context: A recent study published in the Biology of Sex Differences journal has examined the brain differences between newborn male and female infants. Different Brain Size and Composition Boys: Larger brain volumes: On average, male infants had significantly larger intracranial...

How Curiosity-driven Research into a Worm Won 4 Nobels

Context: The 2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded for discovery of microRNAs (miRNAs) and their role in regulating gene expression. This research, conducted using the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). About Caenorhabditis elegans (C. Elegans) It is...

Twigstats Cutting-edge Tool, Innovation and Advantages

Context: A cutting-edge tool named Twigstats was developed by an international research collaboration to trace individual-level ancestry. About Twigstats Twigstats is a new method developed by researchers to study the genetic history of populations. It helps scientists trace the ancestry...

Cowpea Seeds Sprout in Space – Achievements of POEM-4 Mission

Context: ISRO’s PSLV-C60 POEM-4 mission achieved a milestone by germinating cowpea seeds in space and operating India’s first space robotic arm. A batch of cowpea seeds which were taken into orbit by an Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) mission and...

India’s First Case of Avian Influenza Among Animals

Context: Three tigers and one leopard have died due to the H5N1 Virus (avian influenza) at the Gorewada Rescue Centre in Nagpur, Maharashtra, in December 2024. This is the first reported case of avian influenza among animals in India. About...

Indian Researchers Develop Injectable Hydrogel for Targeted Cancer Treatment

Context: Researchers from IIT Guwahati, in collaboration with Bose Institute Kolkata, have developed an injectable hydrogel aimed at revolutionizing breast cancer treatment. Key Features of the Injectable Hydrogel Innovative Design Composed of ultra-short peptides, which are biodegradable and biocompatible. The...

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Cases in China

China is currently experiencing a surge in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, raising concerns about another virus outbreak in the region. As reports of overwhelmed hospitals emerge, parallels are being drawn to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s everything...

Transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs) in Delhi

Context: Delhi faces severe air pollution, with the transport sector being the single largest contributor. Studies highlight the significant health and economic costs associated with pollution, particularly due to PM 2.5 emissions, which lead to premature deaths and high healthcare...

How In-flight Internet Works?

Air India has announced the rollout of Wi-Fi Internet connectivity services on select domestic and international flights. It is the 1st Indian airline to offer Internet connectivity on domestic flights. Technologies Behind In-Flight Wi-Fi Air-to-Ground (ATG) Technology Uses cellular towers...

Obesity and Undernutrition, Parameters, Causes, Socio-economic Factors

Context: Obesity and overweight are causing over 3.4 million deaths every year worldwide. Obesity and Undernutrition India faces a growing challenge of both obesity and undernutrition, co-existing within the population, as per a new Lancet study. This phenomenon, known as...