DNA Repair
Recently, scientists have discovered a new target for cancer treatment which is used by cancer cells to regulate DNA repair during Cell division.
- A mechanism of a cell to maintain the integrity of its genetic code.
- Exists in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms.
- DNA repair ensures the survival of a species.
- 3-types of repair mechanisms – Direct reversal of the damage, excision repair, and post-replication repair.
Polygraph Test
CBI has recently conducted polygraph tests, in connection with the rape of a resident doctor at the R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata.
- Operates on the presumption that specific physiological responses are triggered when a person is lying.
- Tests measure physiological responses like blood pressure, sweat to determine truthfulness or deception.
- However, the efficacy of such tests remains contentious in the medical field
Windfall Tax
The Centre has reduced the windfall tax on domestically produced crude oil.
- A tax imposed by governments on certain industries that experience significantly above-average profits due to favorable economic conditions.
- Purpose is to redistribute excess profits in one area to raise funds for the greater social good.
- Governments justify the tax by asserting that these profits are not solely due to the taxed entity’s efforts but also due to external factors.
Paleogenomics
Gene of thrones: rulers’ genomes reveal how empires rose and fell
- Study of the genomes of ancient organisms.
- Involves extracting and analyzing DNA from fossils to understand the genetic makeup of extinct species and their evolutionary relationships with modern species
- Applications –
- Understanding the genetic differences and similarities between ancient and modern humans.
- Tracing the migration and interbreeding patterns of ancient human populations.
- Studying ancient pathogens to understand the evolution of diseases
Su 30 MKI
Nod for procurement of 240 aero-engines for Su-30MKI aircraft
- A twin-engine, multirole air superiority fighter developed by Russia’s Sukhoi and built under license by India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
- Manufacturer – Sukhoi Aviation Corporation (Russia) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (India).
- Role – Multirole air superiority fighter.
- Maximum Speed – Mach 2 (approximately 2,120 km/h).
- Range – 3,000 km without refueling; extended with aerial refueling.