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Tear-based screening test soon for childhood blinding condition

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Tear-based screening test soon for childhood blinding condition

By Dinesh C Sharma

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is one of the most common serious eye complications that occurs in premature babies. It can lead to incomplete blood vessel growth in the retina, and eventual loss of vision. A group of researchers in Hyderabad have identified a biomarker that can help in detecting the risk of ROP from just a drop of tear.

Premature babies are administered oxygen to help them survive in incubators. This process, however, has to be monitored carefully as overexposure to oxygen can be highly toxic to blood vessels including those in the retina. Overexposure to oxygen in neonatal care is a major cause of ROP. Low oxygen levels in the retina when the child is out of incubator cause abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina, which in turn causes loss of neurons and vision loss. About 40 to 50% of prematurely born infants develop ROP and of them 10 to 18% progress to develop severe stages of this disease leading to blindness.

Researchers at the LV Prasad Eye Institute, who have been working on genetic or protein-based markers for ROP for many years, have identified a few proteins that cause inflammation in the eye leading to abnormal blood vessel growth. The levels of these inflammatory proteins – Complement component C3 and Matrix metalloproteinases 2 & 9 – were found to be higher in tear samples of preterm babies with ROP. Based on these findings, the group is developing a diagnostic test for ROP.

Researchers have also explained the role of inflammation caused by reduced oxygen levels in the eyes in the development of this condition. During the past few years, a screening programme for ROP has been conducted at all major neonatal intensive care units in Hyderabad and Secunderabad.

Researchers at the LV Prasad Eye Institute

Researchers at the LV Prasad Eye Institute

“While several risk factors for ROP such as low gestational age, low birth weight, oxygen supplementation, sepsis, multiple births and maternal health during pregnancy were thought to help in predicting the risk of ROP progression in premature infants, but these factors can’t help in predicting the risk of severe ROP,” said Dr Inderjeet Kaur, a scientist at the Kallam Anji Reddy Molecular Genetics lab of LV Prasad Eye Institute, while speaking to India Science Wire. “Besides identification of biomarker for this condition, our team is also working to fill the gap in existing knowledge about underlying molecular pathology of ROP”.

ROP is a ‘self limiting’ condition and it disappears by itself in most premature babies while progressing to severe stage in some. Therefore, early diagnosis can help in identifying at risk. Vision loss in such babies can be prevented through early interventions like laser surgery or drug-based treatments likely to become available in future.

The research team included Sonika Rathi, Subhadra Jalali, Satish Patnaik, Shahna Shahulhameed, Ganeswara R. Musada, Divya Balakrishnan, Padmaja K. Rani, Ramesh Kekunnaya, Preeti Patil Chhablani, Sarpras Swain, Lopamudra Giri, Subhabrata Chakrabarti and Inderjeet Kaur. The research findings were published in journal Frontiers in Immunology.(India Science Wire)

Gadgets

Zepto to deliver Apple products within 10 minutes

This announcement follows closely on the heels of competitor Blinkit, which recently began its rapid delivery service for Apple products, including MacBook Airs, iPads, and AirPods, in select metropolitan areas across India.

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Zepto, the innovative quick commerce platform, has taken a significant leap forward by unveiling a comprehensive selection of Apple products in its electronics category. With the addition of renowned items such as iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, AirPods, and an array of accessories, Zepto is poised to enhance its competitiveness in the premium electronics sector. This strategic move expands its offerings to over 5,000 stock-keeping units (SKUs) available from diverse sellers on the platform.

This announcement follows closely on the heels of competitor Blinkit, which recently began its rapid delivery service for Apple products, including MacBook Airs, iPads, and AirPods, in select metropolitan areas across India.

In response to the escalating demand for immediate access to high-quality gadgets, Zepto aims to position itself as a go-to destination for consumers seeking high-end electronics. The company has reported a notable 35% month-over-month surge in the number of users actively searching for Apple products.

“Our partnership with Apple allows us to offer a broad array of cutting-edge technology, making it more accessible and revolutionizing the buying experience for premium gadgets,” said Abhimanyu Singh, business head of the electronics division at Zepto. He highlighted the increasing consumer interest, stating, “In just the past month, over a million users have searched for Apple devices—whether it’s the latest iPhone 16E, AirPods 4, or iPads—indicating a strong appetite for quick access to premium tech.”

Singh added that this expansion is not just about adding products; it is about enhancing the overall shopping experience. “With our sellers bolstering their collaboration with Apple, we’re redefining what it means to shop for electronics, ensuring the process is faster, more convenient, and seamless. We are grateful to our sellers for making this possible,” he noted.

Overall, Zepto proudly showcases a diverse catalogue of more than 45,000 products, spanning categories such as groceries, electronics, beauty items, and toys, serving customers across nearly 50 cities in India. With its commitment to excellence, Zepto continues to set new standards for quick commerce in the high-tech market.

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Samsung Galaxy S24 series gets LOG video recording with One UI 7 Beta update

Samsung’s One UI 7 Beta 5 update for the Galaxy S24 series introduces LOG video recording, allowing greater post-production flexibility, along with multiple bug fixes.

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Samsung Galaxy S24 series with One UI 7 Beta update

Samsung has introduced a major update for its Galaxy S24 series with the latest One UI 7 Beta 5 update, bringing LOG (logarithmic footage) video recording support. The update, reportedly available for the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and the Galaxy S24 Ultra, allows users to capture a wider dynamic range in their videos, preserving details in both bright and dark areas.

The South Korean tech giant states that LOG video recording retains more image data compared to standard formats, offering users greater flexibility in post-production. The format supports a 10-bit HEVC codec, which enhances codec compatibility and storage efficiency.

Samsung expands LOG video support

Initially introduced with the Galaxy S25 series, LOG video capture is now being extended to older devices, beginning with the Galaxy S24 lineup. Previously, the feature was exclusive to the Ultra model in the One UI 7 Beta 4 update.

Samsung claims that LOG recording not only reduces production time but also provides better control over colors, shadows, highlights, and other image elements, making it a valuable tool for content creators.

Other key fixes and improvements

Beyond the video recording enhancement, the One UI 7 Beta 5 update also addresses multiple system issues:

  • Fixes an intermittent display error in the Now Bar controller.
  • Resolves issues with small icons in the Widget Setting screen.
  • Fixes the Gallery Edit button malfunction.
  • Corrects font and image overlap problems.
  • Enhances media playback notifications in real time.
  • Improves spacing in the Quick Action menu.
  • Fixes a Notification History operation error.

This update, based on Android 15, aims to refine the user experience by introducing new features while resolving existing bugs.

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Mahindra unveils XUV700 Ebony Edition: Bold design meets powerful performance

Mahindra has introduced the XUV700 Ebony Edition, featuring an all-black design, R18 alloy wheels, and premium leatherette interiors. Price: Rs 19.64 lakh.

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Leading automaker Mahindra has unveiled a new addition to its popular XUV700 lineup – the Ebony Edition, priced at Rs 19.64 lakh (ex-showroom). This latest edition is available in both petrol and diesel variants, bringing a bold Stealth black exterior and premium interior upgrades.

Powertrain options and performance

The Mahindra XUV700 Ebony Edition is offered with two engine options:

Petrol variant: Powered by a 2.0L Turbo engine, delivering 200 bhp and 380 Nm of torque.

Diesel variant: Equipped with a 2.2L Turbo engine, producing 185 bhp and up to 450 Nm of torque.

Both variants ensure a dynamic driving experience, catering to different preferences for performance and efficiency.

Design and styling enhancements

The Ebony Edition embraces a striking Stealth black theme with refined design elements:

Brushed silver skid plates for a rugged yet sophisticated appeal.

Black-on-black grille inserts and blacked-out ORVMs for a dominant front look.

R18 black alloy wheels, enhancing the SUV’s road presence.

This meticulous black-and-silver interplay reinforces Mahindra’s bold design philosophy, making the Ebony Edition an unmissable sight on the road.

Luxurious blacked-out interiors

The interior of the XUV700 Ebony Edition exudes premium craftsmanship:

Black leatherette upholstery and blacked-out trims, ensuring a sleek aesthetic.

Silver-accented center console and door panels for a refined contrast.

Light grey roof liner, complementing the dual-tone interior theme.

Dark-chrome air vents, elevating the SUV’s luxury appeal.

According to Mahindra, this limited edition is designed for individuals who seek excellence in design, craftsmanship, and technology.

Whether for spirited weekend getaways or everyday city commutes, the Ebony Edition promises a premium driving experience with an imposing presence.

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