BARC - Current Affairs Questions and Answers

ANSWER: Deep Brain Stimulator

Explanation:
The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology, Thiruvananthapuram have signed an MoU to develop Deep Brain Stimulator/DBS.

• DBS is currently being imported limiting its wider usage to high cost.
• Planned joint development is targeted to provide an alternative that is affordable.
• DBS involves implanting electrodes within certain brain areas and regular electrical pulses generated by pacemaker like device placed under the skin in upper chest regulates abnormal impulses of the brain.
• It is used in neurological conditions of essential tremor, dystonia and Parkinson’s Disease.
• DBS comprises implanted pulse generator, electrodes and extension cable which interface with external programmer modules and wireless battery chargers.
• As per the MoU, BARC will develop the device as per specifications provided by SCTIMST and the latter will manage clinical trials, testing and qualifications.
• Electronics Division Reactor Control Division and Centre for Design & Manufacture of the BARC will participate in developing various subsystems.

ANSWER: None of the above

Explanation:
Distinguished scientist KN Vyas has taken over as Director of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre on 23rd February 2016, taking over from Dr. Sekhar Basu, Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission and Secretary to Union Government DAE. Prior to this, Vyas was Associate Director for Reactor Projects Group in BARC and joined the institution after graduating from BARC training school. He has over 35 years of experience in the field.