[Newsbits] 11-19.06.2024: Nagastra Drone, Global Gender Gap Report, 2024 & More


Donanemab, developed by Eli Lilly, is an experimental antibody treatment targeting N3pG amyloid to slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s patients. Recently, an FDA advisory group unanimously approved it, highlighting its potential benefits despite risks like brain swelling and bleeding. The drug’s unique trial design and comparison to Leqembi show different safety and efficacy results. The FDA’s final decision, influenced by the panel’s approval, could impact future treatment cycles and management.

The World Bank and Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) aim to enhance Chennai’s waste management by 2026-2027, focusing on stopping trash at Kodungaiyur. Strategic meetings set Zero Waste as the goal, with plans to stop using Perungudi dumpsite. Over 20 years, the World Bank will study and improve waste management policies. Post-study, new rules will boost recycling and reduce landfill waste, creating a circular economy. Addressing administrative issues will improve civic response and efficiency, making Chennai a model for eco-friendly waste management.

The study by IIT-M and NASA on the ISS focused on Enterobacter bugandensis, a drug-resistant pathogen. This bacterium, part of the ESKAPE group, is highly resistant to antibiotics. Researchers found 13 genetically distinct strains on the ISS, which are more resistant to antimicrobials. These findings are crucial for managing infections in hospitals and protecting astronauts’ health. The ISS, a collaborative project of five space agencies, travels at 28,000 km/h and has been continuously occupied since 2000.

Dr. Michael Gottlieb’s 1981 research on pneumocystis pneumonia led to the first identification of AIDS. Despite 50 years of study, HIV’s high genetic diversity and error-prone replication hinder vaccine development. B-cells play a crucial role in immunity by producing antibodies. Advances in germline targeting and nanoparticle-based vaccines show promise. HIV-1 is the most widespread type, with significant genetic variability affecting treatment and diagnostics.

India is the world’s second-largest emitter of nitrous oxide (N2O), primarily due to agricultural activities, including the use of nitrogen fertilizers and animal waste. These sources account for 74% of anthropogenic N2O emissions. The atmospheric concentration of N2O has risen by 25% since pre-industrial times, contributing significantly to global warming. To mitigate this, India has implemented policies like the Nutrient-Based Subsidy and Soil Health Cards. Experts recommend further strategies such as using nitrification inhibitors and improving nitrogen use efficiency to reduce emissions by 20% by 2050.
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