Daily Current Affairs
To The Point Notes
Geography
1.INCOIS Develops BCNN for El Niño/La Niña Prediction
What is BCNN?
- A Bayesian Convolutional Neural Network (BCNN) is a new technology using artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning, and machine learning (ML)
- Developed by the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) in 1999
- Improves prediction of El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phases (El Niño, La Niña, neutral) up to 15 months in advance (compared to 6-9 months previously)
How BCNN Works
- Combines a dynamic model with AI for improved forecasting
- Analyzes slow oceanic variations and their atmospheric connection
- Calculates the critical Nino3.4 Index Value with higher precision
- This index reflects sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies in the central equatorial Pacific Ocean
Benefits of BCNN
- Offers more reliable and timely weather predictions
- Crucial for sectors like agriculture, fisheries, and disaster management
Additional Information
- INCOIS is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
- ENSO is a climate phenomenon impacting global weather patterns
- Occurs in cycles of 2-7 years with three phases: El Niño (warm), La Niña (cold), and neutral
- El Niño: weaker trade winds lead to warmer eastern Pacific waters, potentially causing weak monsoons in India
- La Niña: stronger trade winds push warm water westward, potentially bringing strong monsoons to India
Source : https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sci-tech/incois-new-product-forecast-enso-9394168/
Geography
2.Alaknanda River
Why in News ?
Fourteen people lost their lives when a vehicle fell into the Alaknanda River in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district.
- Alaknanda River is one of the source streams of the Ganges River in Uttarakhand, India.
- It originates at the confluence of Satopanth and Bhagirath Kharak glaciers.
- Key tributaries (left bank): Dhauliganga, Nandakini, Pindar
- Key tributary (right bank): Mandakini
- Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers converge at Devprayag to form the Ganges River.
Source : https://indianexpress.com/article/india/several-feared-dead-as-tempo-traveller-falls-into-river-in-uttarakhand-9394257/
Health
3.Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS)
Why in News ?
- Japan is currently grappling with a health crisis as Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS) continues to spread.
What is STSS?
- A severe illness caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria.
- This bacteria triggers an intense inflammatory response throughout the body, potentially damaging multiple organs.
Symptoms
- Early symptoms include:
- Fever
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- If left untreated, these symptoms can rapidly worsen and lead to organ failure.
Treatment
- Early medical intervention is crucial. Treatment may include:
- Antibiotics
- Fluids
- Surgery (in severe cases)
Key takeaway
- STSS is a serious illness requiring prompt medical attention.
Source : https://www.business-standard.com/world-news/spread-of-deadly-flesh-eating-bacteria-in-japan-raises-global-concerns-124061700622_1.html
Health
4.Digital Health Incentive Scheme (DHIS)
What is DHIS?
- Launched by the National Health Authority (NHA) in 2023.
- Extended till June 30, 2025.
- Aims to encourage digitizing patient health records and linking them with ABHA IDs.
How Does it Work?
- Provides financial incentives to hospitals, clinics, etc. for each digital record created (over a baseline).
- Applicable to both public and private healthcare providers and digital solution companies.
- Offers incentives up to Rs. 4 crore per facility/company.
Significance
- Reimburses hospitals for digitization costs.
- Encourages a shift from physical to digital healthcare practices.
- Enables better healthcare services and patient convenience.
ABHA ID
- A unique digital ID for storing and sharing medical records.
- Links all a patient’s medical records from various healthcare providers.
- Allows secure storage, access, and sharing of medical records.
Environment
5.Filoboletus Manipularis Discovered in Western Ghats
A New Bioluminescent Find
- Scientists recently discovered a rare bioluminescent mushroom, Filoboletus Manipularis, in Kerala’s Western Ghats.
More Information
- Light Fantastic : This fungus belongs to the Mycenaceae Family and is unique for its ability to emit a greenish light at night. The light is most visible on the stipe (stem) and pileus (cap).
- Ideal Habitat : The Western Ghats’ high humidity and low light provide the perfect environment for bioluminescent species like Filoboletus Manipularis.
- Role in the Ecosystem : In general, mushrooms are secondary saprophytes, decomposing plant litter and playing a vital role in forest health.
- Lighting Up the Life Cycle : Bioluminescence in fungi is likely used to attract insects that help disperse spores, crucial for reproduction.
- The Chemistry of Light : The green glow is a result of a chemical reaction involving luciferin (pigment), luciferase (enzyme), and oxygen. This process is similar to bioluminescence in fireflies and some marine creatures.
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