Ungulates
Wildlife Institute of India and National Tiger Conservation Authority did India’s first survey of ungulates (hoofed animals).
- Ungulates are hoofed mammals classified into two groups—Artiodactyla (even-toed) and Perissodactyla (odd-toed).
- Examples: Artiodactyls include cattle, deer, pigs, giraffes, while Perissodactyls include horses, rhinos, and tapirs.
- Evolutionary Significance: Ungulates evolved specialized hooves for efficient movement and grazing.
- Ecological Role: Many ungulates are herbivores, playing a crucial role in maintaining ecosystems by controlling vegetation.
SHUKR Gene
Researchers shed light on the molecular innovations in flowering plants that help explain abominable mystery through newfound gene, called SHUKR (or sperm).
- Discovery: Identified by CSIR-CCMB, Hyderabad, the SHUKR gene regulates pollen development in flowering plants.
- Function: It controls F-box genes, which remove old proteins and help pollen grow.
- Evolutionary Importance: First appeared 125 million years ago, aiding rapid diversification of flowering plants.
- Climate Adaptation: Helps plants adjust to harsh conditions like heat and drought, crucial for climate-resilient crops.
Kerch Strait
Recently, Ukraine claimed responsibility for the underwater explosion that damaged the Kerch bridge.
- Geographical Location: Connects the Black Sea and Sea of Azov, separating Crimea from Russia’s Krasnodar Krai.
- Strategic Importance: Houses the Crimean Bridge, a key military and economic route for Russia.
- Historical Context: Known as Cimmerian Bosporus in ancient times, it was a major trade route.
- Recent Conflicts: Ukraine has targeted the Kerch Bridge multiple times due to its role in Russian military logistics.
Article 311 (Indian Constitution)
J&K Lieutenant Governor dismissed three government employees for alleged terror links using powers under Article 311(2) (c).
- Purpose: Protects civil servants from arbitrary dismissal, removal, or reduction in rank.
- Safeguards: Ensures due process, requiring an inquiry before disciplinary action.
- Exceptions: Inquiry can be waived in cases of criminal conviction, impracticality, or state security concerns.
- Judicial Review: The dismissal authority’s decision on inquiry feasibility is final.
Nanozyme
Researchers at Indian Institute of Science (IISc) developed an artificial metal-based nanozyme (vanadium pentoxide (V2 O5 ) to clamp down on abnormal blood clotting caused by conditions like pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE).
- Artificial enzymes made from nanomaterials, mimicking natural enzyme functions.
- Biomedical Applications: Used in biosensing, targeted therapy, and diagnostics, especially in detecting diseases.
- Recent Innovation: IISc developed a vanadium-based nanozyme to prevent blood clotting without side effects.
- Advantages: More stable, cost-effective, and customizable than natural enzymes, with potential for clinical applications