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Indian scientists testing dendritic therapy against cervix cancer

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7 years ago

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Indian scientists testing dendritic therapy against cervix cancer

By Dr. TV Venkateswaran and Jyoti Singh

Researchers at the National Institute of Immunology (NII) have identified a tumour antigen that promises to be a potent weapon in combating cervical cancer

New Delhi: Cancer of the uterine cervix, also known as cervical cancer, is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in India. Almost one lakh women fall victim to the insidious disease every year in the country.

Researchers at the New Delhi-based National Institute of Immunology (NII) are in the process of fine tuning a solution that promises to add a highly potent weapon to the armoury against this type of cancer. They have extracted and identified a tumour antigen which seems to hold a lot of promise. The antigen has been named SPAG9.

“The tumor antigen, which is expressed in reproductive tract cancers and a variety of malignancies, has proved successful in phase I trials. This means it has been proved to be safe on human subjects. Phase II clinical trials are presently underway to gauge its efficacy. We hope to get positive results by next year,” said Dr Anil Kumar Suri, NII director, in an interview.

The therapeutic vaccine based on the antigen is being tested among 54 patients at Cancer Institute (WIA) at Adyar in Chennai. The trials are being conducted by a team of oncologist led by Dr T. Rajkumar. If proven efficacious, it could change the face of cervix cancer treatment. The human trials are being conducted subsequent to elaborate trials with animal models.

Invasion of foreign bodies like bacteria or virus usually trigger a volley of fighter cells called T cells. These T cells surround germs and fight them. Each type of virus or bacteria requires specific antigen T cells. Vaccination primes the body to potential threats and keeps the arsenal of antigens ever ready to fight an invasion.

However, this cannot happen with cancer. Even though they are rogue elements, cancer cells are after all from within the affected persons themselves. Body’s immune system cannot normally recognize them as a ‘threat’. They, therefore, allow them to proliferate and spread all around the body.

Immunotherapy is a new approach that exploits body’s inner capability to put up a fight against cancer. Under the approach, either immune system is given a boost or the T cells are “trained’’ to identify recalcitrant cancer cells and kill them.

The NII scientists are using this strategy to develop the new weapon against cancer of the cervix.  “We take cells called monocytes from the patient’s blood and modify them into what are called dendritic cells. These cells have efficient antigens to stimulate the ‘fighter’ cells, or T-cells, in the body. They are then primed with the tumour antigen SPAG9, for ten days, and given back to the patients in the form of a vaccine. The ‘educated’ T cells are able to discriminate the cancer cells and put up a fight against them,” explained Dr Suri.

Poor health, malnutrition, unhygienic environment are the main cause of Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection that leads to cervical cancer. Normally our body has tumor suppressor genes and proteins which are able to suppress formation of tumours. The cells in a tumour multiply uncontrollably with hardly any cell death.

NII has outsourced the manufacture of recombinant SPAG9 to Syngene International (Biocon Limited), Bangalore. “If the trials succeed, it will be the first molecule identified in India and will be an example of translational research outcome. Our findings have opened new avenues for novel treatment modalities in battling the deadly disease of cancer worldwide,” said Dr Suri.

Dr. Suri graduated from Hans Raj College, Delhi University and after that did his post-graduation and doctorate from National Dairy Research Institute at Karnal. Subsequently, he did his post- doctorate from Laboratoire pour le contrôle des Reproducteurs, Maisons-Alfort, France. He returned to India in 1985 and joined NII as a scientist.

The thrust of his research is on early detection and diagnosis of cancer and development of targeted approaches for therapeutic interventions for cancer medicine.

Dr Suri has authored 63 high impact publications in reputed international journal and has 15 patents on novel immunotherapeutic method for cancer treatment and diagnosis in India and abroad. He has won the S.S. Guraya Memorial Award, Dr T C Anand Kumar Memorial Oration Award and Rabindra Nath Chakravarti Citation Award.

(This article is from a syndicated feed provided by the India Science Wire)

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Samsung set to unveil One UI 7 update featuring Android 15 OS

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23 hours ago

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February 4, 2025

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Samsung

Samsung is gearing up to significantly enhance its smartphone user experience with the release of One UI 7, which integrates the latest Android 15 OS. This update not only promises a host of new features and design tweaks but also introduces cutting-edge AI capabilities designed to streamline multitasking and boost productivity.

Innovative AI features


One UI 7 brings with it AI-powered tools like Now Brief and Circle to Search. Now Brief delivers tailored updates such as weather, health vitals, and other essential insights directly to the user’s home screen each day. The enhanced Circle to Search feature allows users to interact seamlessly with phone numbers, emails, and URLs through actionable searches that offer context-sensitive suggestions.

Productivity and media enhancements


The update includes productivity tools like Call Transcript, Writing Assist, and Drawing Assist, which help users summarize, organize, and integrate text and images effortlessly. Moreover, the Audio Eraser feature aims to improve the audio quality of videos, while the Personal Data Engine offers secure, personalized experiences through sophisticated on-device data processing.

One UI 7 release timeline and eligibility


The One UI 7 update debuted with the Samsung Galaxy S25 series at its launch event, showcasing substantial upgrades over the previous One UI 6. Initially available with the Galaxy S25 series, the update is set to expand to other models. Starting February 7, 2025, the stable One UI 7 update will roll out to the Galaxy S24 series. Subsequent releases will see the Galaxy S23 series receiving the update in mid-February, with other eligible devices following in the ensuing months.

Supported devices


The extensive list of devices slated for the One UI 7 update includes the Galaxy S24, S23, S22, and S21 series, along with the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Flip 6, and previous iterations down to the Fold 3 and Flip 3. Additionally, the Galaxy A series from A73 down to A05, and the M and F series, including models like M55 and F55, will also receive the update, ensuring a wide range of Samsung users can benefit from the latest improvements.

Samsung has not yet confirmed the complete official release timeline for One UI 7, but the phased rollout plan indicates a committed approach to updating its diverse lineup of devices, enhancing user experience with the latest technological advancements.

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Lenskart unveils phonic audio eyewear compatible with Android and iOS

Furthermore, the customizable nature of Phonic allows users to personalize their eyewear with either prescription lenses or sunglasses, making it adaptable to various visual needs and preferences.

Published

7 days ago

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January 29, 2025

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Lenskart, a prominent name in the eyewear industry, unveiled its latest innovation, Phonic, on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. This groundbreaking audio eyewear seamlessly blends style and technology, offering a unique hands-free experience for the modern individual navigating a busy lifestyle. Phonic’s sleek design caters to diverse preferences, with two distinct models—Navigator and Hustlr—each available in sophisticated Shiny Blue and Matte Black finishes.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Phonic boasts a range of impressive functionalities. The integrated speakers enable crystal-clear audio for calls, music streaming, and other digital interactions, providing a seamless blend of convenience and entertainment.

Powered by Bluetooth technology, Phonic ensures effortless hands-free connectivity, allowing users to stay connected without the hassle of holding a phone. A remarkable battery life of up to seven hours ensures users remain connected throughout their day.

Compatibility with both Android and iOS voice assistants further enhances Phonic’s versatility, enabling users to effortlessly manage their digital lives through simple voice commands. Whether needing to send a quick text, set a reminder, or access information, voice assistant integration provides an intuitive and efficient hands-free solution.

Furthermore, the customizable nature of Phonic allows users to personalize their eyewear with either prescription lenses or sunglasses, making it adaptable to various visual needs and preferences.

The intuitive smart button navigation system adds another layer of user-friendliness. Users can effortlessly switch between functions with a simple press of a button, ensuring a seamless and frustration-free experience. Priced affordably at ₹4,000, Phonic offers exceptional value for its advanced features and stylish design. Available for purchase both online and at select offline stores across India, Phonic promises to redefine the way individuals stay connected and experience the world around them.

Lenskart CEO and Founder Peyush Bansal expressed his enthusiasm for this new product, stating, “Phonic is for everyone who juggles multiple roles daily—whether it’s professionals in noisy offices, frequent drivers, or commuters who need hands-free convenience.

Phonic empowers users to stay connected, productive, and stylish, without adding complexity to their lives.” Phonic represents a significant leap forward in the world of audio eyewear, seamlessly merging functionality, fashion, and affordability to provide an unparalleled user experience.

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Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max: A comparative look at prices and specs in India

Published

2 weeks ago

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January 23, 2025

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Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra with car crash detection feature

Samsung has introduced its latest high-end flagship, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, in India, igniting a new chapter in its ongoing rivalry with Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max. Both phones represent the pinnacle of smartphone technology, but they come at distinct price points and offer different specifications that cater to various user preferences.

Price comparison in India

The Galaxy S25 Ultra is available in three variants: the base model with 256GB of storage is priced at Rs 1,29,999; the 512GB model at Rs 1,49,999; and the 1TB version at Rs 1,65,999. These variants are offered in four color options: Titanium Silver Blue, Titanium Gray, Titanium White, and Titanium Black.

In contrast, the iPhone 16 Pro Max starts at Rs 1,44,900 for the 256GB model, with the 512GB and 1TB versions priced at Rs 1,64,900 and Rs 1,84,900, respectively. Samsung’s offerings are notably less expensive across similar storage options, with the 1TB model being nearly Rs 19,000 cheaper than its Apple counterpart.

Specifications face-off

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra boasts a 6.9-inch display, slightly larger than its predecessor, and features a more contemporary design with rounded edges. Despite its larger size, it maintains a lightweight feel at only 218 grams and includes a robust 5,000mAh battery. The camera setup has been significantly upgraded, featuring a 200-megapixel primary sensor paired with a 50-megapixel ultra-wide and a 50-megapixel telephoto lens. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, enhancing both efficiency and performance.

The iPhone 16 Pro Max, also with a 6.9-inch display, utilizes Apple’s Super Retina XDR technology with Always-On and ProMotion features for a superior viewing experience. It includes a new gold color option and a novel Camera Control button, adding functionality exclusive to the Pro models. The device is equipped with the A18 Pro chipset and features a redesigned camera system with a 48-megapixel primary sensor and advanced video recording capabilities.

Performance and functionality

Both the Galaxy S25 Ultra and the iPhone 16 Pro Max are designed to offer top-tier performance. Samsung’s flagship includes 12GB of RAM, compared to the iPhone’s 8GB, potentially offering a smoother multitasking experience. The iPhone, however, continues to impress with its integration of hardware and software, leading to efficient performance in real-life usage scenarios.

This detailed examination highlights the strengths of each device, allowing consumers to make an informed decision based on their specific needs and preferences. Whether prioritizing camera technology, display features, or price, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max cater to all facets of premium smartphone requirements.

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