1st August 2024

Explanation - Zika virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that was first identified in Uganda in 1947 in monkeys. It was later identified in humans in 1952 in Uganda and the United Republic of Tanzania. ZVD is caused by a virus transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes (AM), mainly

Aedes aegypti. This is the same mosquito that transmits dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever. Zika virus is also transmitted from mother to foetus during pregnancy, through sexual contact, transfusion of blood and blood products, and organ transplantation. Symptoms are generally mild and include fever, rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise or headache. Most people with Zika virus infection do not develop symptoms. Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause infants to be born with microcephaly (smaller than normal head size) and other congenital malformations, known as congenital Zika syndrome. There is no vaccine or medicine for Zika. 

Explanation - Landslides can be triggered by various factors including heavy rainfall, earthquakes, volcanic activity, and human activities. Deforestation removes the trees that help stabilise the soil, which can increase the risk of landslides. Construction of roads and buildings in hilly areas can disturb the natural stability of slopes, increasing the likelihood of landslides.

Explanation: Statement 3 is incorrect as the predominant vegetation type in Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is tropical moist deciduous forest, not dry deciduous. Statement 4 is incorrect as the Indian Giant Squirrel, is least concern on IUCN list .

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct as Nano-MIND uses magnetic fields and nanoparticles for remote activation of brain circuits.
• Statement 2 is correct as the research demonstrated manipulation of maternal and feeding behaviors in mice using Nano-MIND.
• Statement 3 is incorrect as Nano-MIND is not primarily designed to enhance cognition, but rather to understand and manipulate brain functions.
• Statement 4 is correct as the technology holds potential for BCIs due to its ability to remotely control brain circuits.

Explanation: While NCF supports the broader cultural landscape, its core focus is on preserving and promoting traditional and historical heritage, not necessarily contemporary art forms.