Current Affairs – 13 May 2024
Kamikaze drone
In the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Russia’s utilization of the Lancet Kamikaze drone, which incorporates American AI technology, highlights complex global supply chain issues.
- Lancet-3 drone is a type of loitering munition, meaning it is designed to hover or loiter around a target area until a target is detected and engaged.
- It integrates the Jetson TX2, which is described by Nvidia as the most power-efficient embedded AI computing device. This suggests that the Lancet-3 drone likely incorporates advanced artificial intelligence capabilities for target identification and engagement.
- Like kamikaze drones, loitering munitions such as the Lancet-3 can be used for precision strikes against enemy targets.
- The use of advanced AI technology allows the Lancet-3 to potentially autonomously identify and engage targets, reducing the need for constant human control or intervention.
- The inclusion of AI computing in the Lancet-3 likely enhances its ability to navigate complex environments and adapt to changing battlefield conditions.
Mammoth carbon capture Plant
Recently, the world’s largest facility designed to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere started operations in Iceland.
- Direct air capture (DAC) is a process that involves extracting carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere at any location.
- Unlike traditional carbon capture methods, which capture CO2 emissions at the point of release, such as from industrial facilities or power plants, DAC can be deployed virtually anywhere.
- DAC technology typically involves large structures or facilities equipped with specialized filters or sorbents that selectively capture CO2 from the air.
- Once captured, the CO2 can be stored underground in deep geological formations, where it is permanently sequestered.
- Alternatively, the captured CO2 can be utilized for various applications, such as in carbon-neutral fuel production, greenhouse agriculture, or industrial processes.
- Direct air capture is considered a promising technology for mitigating climate change by removing CO2 directly from the atmosphere, thereby reducing its concentration and mitigating its impact on global warming.
Indian Ocean basin-wide (IOBW) Index
According to a study, Indian Ocean basin-wide (IOBW) index exhibits a close association with dengue outbreaks in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres.
Indian Ocean basin-wide (IOBW) Index:
- Represents average sea-surface temperature variations across the tropical Indian Ocean.
- Key indicator for predicting magnitude and timing of dengue epidemics.
- Stronger association with Southern Hemisphere compared to Northern Hemisphere.
- More pronounced impact on temperatures in tropical regions.
- Positive index correlates with higher dengue incidence; negative index correlates with lower incidence.
- Influence on regional temperatures through teleconnections, transferring heat and moisture across vast distances.
Key facts about Dengue:
- Caused by the dengue virus (DENV), transmitted by infected female mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti.
- Severe form (dengue hemorrhagic fever) can cause serious bleeding, sudden drop in blood pressure, and death.
- Common in tropical and subtropical climates.
- Symptoms include high fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and rash.