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Zydus Life receives final USFDA approval to market acne-treating gel

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

Zydus Life Share Price | The gel is used to treat acne and will be manufactured at the pharma company’s topical manufacturing facility at Changodar in Ahmedabad.

Zydus Life on Thursday, May 9, said it has received the final approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) to market the Dapsone Gel, 7.5%.

The gel is used to treat acne and will be manufactured at the pharma company’s topical manufacturing facility at Changodar in Ahmedabad.

As per the IQVIA MAT March 24, the Dapsone Gel had 7.5% annual sales of $35.8 million in the US.

The company now has a total of 395 approvals and has filed more than 460 ANDAs since the beginning of the filing process in FY2003-04.

On another note, last week, CNBC-TV18 accessed the 10 observations the USFDA had issued for Zydus Life’s Jarod facility. The USFDA had inspected the facility from April 15 to 23. The observations stated that the facility failed to establish procedures to establish purity and quality of products, employees engagid in manufacturing drug product lacked the required training, the sampling plans and test procedures were not followed, among others.

The company had said it will work closely with the USFDA to address and respond to the observations.

Last month, the company also launched a tablet — Mirabegron Extended-Release tablets, 25 mg — in the US market to treat overactive bladder. It is to be manufactured at the pharma’s company’s manufacturing facility in Ahmedabad SEZ.

Zydus Life shares were trading 0.43% lower at ₹1001.3 apiece at 11.55 am. The stcok has gained 63.6% in the past six months and 90.9% in the past year.

Also Read: SKF India gains over 11% on 43% surge in Q4 net profit

 

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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It’s not every day we get to see Bill Gates stick wall posters

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

Bill Gates shared a video on social media in which he can be seen putting up posters sharing “some amazing news of global health progress” in the capital city of Germany.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates joined hands with young activists at the international organisation ONE on Wednesday to put up posters at Brandenburg Gate in Berlin spreading the word about global health progress.

Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, posted a video in which he is seen putting up posters, sharing “some amazing news of global health progress” in the capital city of Germany.

“In Berlin, I got to work with my friends from ONE to spread the word about some amazing news of global health progress. When it comes to fighting disease, saving lives, and lifting people out of poverty, there are few tools more powerful than developmental cooperation,” Gates wrote alongside the video.

In the video, the billionaire can be seen carrying a brush and a bucket in his hand as he sticks a poster on the wall that reads, “Child mortality has been cut in half”. Later, he passes the brush to social media influencer Aminata Belli, who then joins the young activists to put up more posters in the city.

With this campaign, the organisation aimed at showcasing the “successes of development policy and at the same time warning of further financial cuts,” read a statement.

Commenting on the campaign, Gates noted that child mortality worldwide was halved between 1990 and 2019 and called it “one of the most significant achievements the global community has ever achieved.”

He further hailed Germany for playing a major part in this success story and added, “Germany’s strength as a driving force in global health and development is needed now more than ever.”

Earlier on Tuesday, Gates addressed the Global Solutions Summit 2024 and expressed his enthusiasm about the advancements and future potential of fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and biology.

The two-day summit was held in Berlin on May 6 and 7. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and other prominent personalities also attended the event.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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Alembic Pharma gets USFDA nod for five drugs in over a month

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

Alembic Pharma Share Price | The USFDA clearances include both tentative and final approvals, the drug maker said in a stock exchange filing.

Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd on Thursday, May 9, said it received approvals from the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) from April 1 to May 8, to launch five drugs.

The USFDA clearances include both tentative and final approvals, the drug maker said in a stock exchange filing.

During the period, Alembic Pharma obtained final approval for Diazepam Syringe, which is used to treat anxiety disorders and short-term relief of anxiety symptoms.

The company also got the final nod for Tretinoin Cream USP, 0.1% and Clindamycin 1% Gel. Both of the products are indicated for the treatment of skin diseases.

The company received tentative approval for Selexipag tablets, which are used in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), as well as Binimetinib tablet, which is recommended for the treatment of unresectable or metastatic melanoma.

With these, the company now has a total of 201 ANDA approvals from the USFDA, consisting of 173 final approvals and 28 tentative approvals.

Alembic Pharmaceuticals is poised to announce its results for the fourth quarter of FY24 on Thursday, May 9.

Earlier this week, Alembic Pharmaceuticals said that it obtained an establishment inspection report (EIR) from the USFDA for its oncology facility in Gujarat.

The inspection took place at the facility from February 28 to March 8. Additionally, the company notified the stock exchanges that EIRs have been secured for all of its facilities inspected by the USFDA.

Shares of Alembic Pharma were trading 0.68% lower at ₹996.95 apiece at 11 am.

Also Read: ICICI Lombard Block Deal Exclusive: ICICI Bank buyer, while Bharti Enterprises sells

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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56.4% of disease burden in India due to unhealthy diets, says ICMR

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

The NIN recommended restricting salt intake, using oils and fat in moderation, doing proper exercise, minimising sugar and ultra-processed foods.

Estimates show that 56.4% of total disease burden in India is due to unhealthy diets, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said as it released 17 dietary guidelines to meet the requirements of essential nutrients and prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity and diabetes.

The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) under the apex health research body said that healthy diets and physical activity can reduce a substantial proportion of coronary heart disease (CHD) and hypertension (HTN) and prevent up to 80% of type 2 diabetes.

“A significant proportion of premature deaths can be averted by following a healthy lifestyle,” it said, adding that the upsurge in the consumption of highly processed foods laden with sugars and fats, coupled with reduced physical activity and limited access to diverse foods, exacerbate micronutrient deficiencies and overweight issues.

The NIN recommended restricting salt intake, using oils and fat in moderation, doing proper exercise, minimising sugar and ultra-processed foods.

It also suggested adopting a healthy lifestyle to prevent obesity and reading information on food labels to make informed and healthy food choices.

The Dietary Guidelines for Indians (DGIs) has been drafted by a multi-disciplinary committee of experts led by Dr Hemalatha R, Director, ICMR-NIN and has undergone several scientific review.

Seventeen guidelines have been listed in the DGI.

“Through the DGIs, we emphasise that the most logical, sustainable, and long-term solution to all forms of malnutrition is ensuring the availability, accessibility and affordability of nutrient-rich foods while promoting the consumption of diverse foods. The guidelines contain in them scientific evidence-based information that would facilitate the attainment of goals stated in the National Nutrition Policy,” Hemlatha said.

The dietary habits of Indians have undergone significant changes over the past few decades, leading to an increase in the prevalence of non-communicable diseases while some of the problems of undernutrition continue to persist, said Dr Rajiv Bahl, Director General, ICMR.

“I am pleased that these guidelines have been made very relevant to the changing food scenario in India with the addition of practicable messages and suggestions on handling food safety choosing minimally processed foods, the importance of food labels, and physical activity. I am sure these will complement the government’s efforts to promote holistic nutrition and health of our people,” Bahl said.

Referring to non-communicable diseases, the NIN said that 34% of children between 5-9 years of age suffer from high triglycerides.

A balanced diet should provide not more than 45% calories from cereals, and millets and up to 15% of calories from pulses, beans and meat. Rest of the calories should come from nuts, vegetables, fruits and milk, the guidelines said.

Due to the limited availability and high cost of pulses and meat, a significant proportion of the Indian population relies heavily on cereals, resulting in poor intake of essential macronutrients (essential amino acids and essential fatty acids) and micronutrients, the NIN said.

Low intake of essential nutrients can disrupt metabolism and increase the risk of insulin resistance and associated disorders from a young age, it said.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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Google DeepMind unveils next generation of drug discovery AI model

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

DeepMind said the findings, published in the research journal Nature on Wednesday, would reduce the time and money needed to develop potentially life-changing treatments.

Google Deepmind has unveiled the third major version of its “AlphaFold” artificial intelligence model, designed to help scientists design drugs and target diseases more effectively.

In 2020, the company made a significant advance in molecular biology by using AI to successfully predict the behaviour of microscopic proteins.

With the latest incarnation of AlphaFold, researchers at DeepMind and sister company Isomorphic Labs — both overseen by cofounder Demis Hassabis — have mapped the behaviour of all of life’s molecules, including human DNA.

The interactions of proteins — from enzymes crucial to human metabolism to the antibodies that fight infectious diseases — with other molecules are key to drug discovery and development.

DeepMind said the findings, published in the research journal Nature on Wednesday, would reduce the time and money needed to develop potentially life-changing treatments.

“With these new capabilities, we can design a molecule that will bind to a specific place on a protein, and we can predict how strongly it will bind,” Hassabis said in a press briefing on Tuesday.

“It’s a critical step if you want to design drugs and compounds that will help with disease.”

The company also announced the release of the “AlphaFold server”, a free online tool that scientists can use to test their hypotheses before running real-world tests.

Since 2021, AlphaFold’s predictions have been freely accessible to non-commercial researchers, as part of a database containing more than 200 million protein structures, and have been cited thousands of times in others’ work.

DeepMind said the new server required less computing knowledge, allowing researchers to run tests with just a few clicks of a button.

John Jumper, a senior research scientist at DeepMind, said: “It’s going to be really important how much easier the AlphaFold server makes it for biologists — who are experts in biology, not computer science — to test larger, more complex cases.”

Dr Nicole Wheeler, an expert in microbiology at the University of Birmingham, said AlphaFold 3 could significantly speed up the drug discovery pipeline, as “physically producing and testing biological designs is a big bottleneck in biotechnology at the moment”.

Also Read: US researchers develop a framework to filter out AI nonsense

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

 Daily Newsletter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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AstraZeneca begins worldwide withdrawal of COVID-19 vaccine

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

Media reports said that the company has admitted in court documents that the vaccine causes side-effects such as blood clots, low blood platelet counts and “in very rare cases, cause TTS or Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome”.

AstraZeneca has initiated the worldwide withdrawal of its COVID-19 vaccine Vaxzevria due to a “surplus of available updated vaccines” which has led to a decline in its demand.

“As multiple, variant COVID-19 vaccines have since been developed there is a surplus of available updated vaccines,” the company told Telegraph. The vaccine is neither being manufactured nor supplied.

The report said that the firm’s application to withdraw the vaccine was made on March 5 and came into effect on May 7. The report said the vaccine cannot be used in the European Union after the company withdrew its “marketing authorisation”.

Media reports said that the company has admitted in court documents that the vaccine causes side-effects such as blood clots, low blood platelet counts and “in very rare cases, cause TTS or Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome”. The company is being sued by more than 50 alleged victims and relatives in a High Court case.

The drugmaker faces a £100 million lawsuit in the UK over claims that the Covid jab caused deaths and injuries to several people.

Without referring to the side effects, the company said, “we are incredibly proud of the role Vaxzevria played in ending the global pandemic. According to independent estimates, over 6.5 million lives were saved in the first year of use alone and over three billion doses were supplied globally. It added, “Our efforts have been recognised by governments around the world and are widely regarded as being a critical component of ending the global pandemic.”

In India, over 220 crore dosages of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered and a majority of those were Covishield.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

 Daily Newsletter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Previous Article

Oil Fluctuates as Traders Assess China’s Vow, Unrest in Libya

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today's market

index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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Elon Musk’s Neuralink technology — how its potential empowers paralysed individuals

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

Neuralink’s brain-computer interface technology offers a glimmer of hope by providing a direct communication pathway between the brain and external devices, bypassing damaged nerves and restoring a degree of independence to individuals who have lost mobility, writes Apollo Hospitals’ Senior Neurosurgery Consultant Dr Hrishikesh Sarkar.

In a ground-breaking development that blurs the lines between science fiction and reality, a quadriplegic patient has accomplished a remarkable feat — playing chess with nothing but the power of their mind and thoughts. This extraordinary achievement heralds a new era in neurotechnology, made possible by the innovative brain-computer interface (BCI) technology developed by Neuralink, the US neurotechnology company founded by Elon Musk and a team of seven scientists and engineers in 2016. 

As the world marvels at this incredible milestone, it’s essential to understand the profound implications of Neuralink’s technology for individuals living with paralysis.

Imagine being unable to move a single muscle due to a spinal cord injury or neurological disorder. Tasks that most people take for granted, such as picking up a cup of coffee or typing on a keyboard, become insurmountable challenges for those with severe paralysis.

Also ReadNeuralink Telepathy —all you need to know about first wireless brain chip implant

However, Neuralink’s implantable BCI offers a glimmer of hope by providing a direct communication pathway between the brain and external devices, bypassing damaged nerves and restoring a degree of independence to individuals who have lost mobility.

At the heart of this brain-computer interface technology is a network of ultra-thin electrodes, thinner than a human hair, implanted into the brain. These electrodes, intricately woven into the neural tissue, detect and record electrical signals produced by the firing of neurons. By deciphering these neural patterns, Neuralink’s advanced algorithms translate the brain’s intentions into actionable commands, enabling users to control computers, prosthetic limbs, and other devices with unparalleled precision and speed.

For quadriplegic patients, the implications of Neuralink’s technology are profound. No longer confined by the limitations of their physical bodies, they can interact with the world around them in ways once thought impossible. Tasks that were once arduous or unattainable, such as communicating with loved ones, browsing the internet, or engaging in recreational activities, are now within reach, empowering individuals to lead more fulfilling and independent lives.

The ability to play chess, a game that demands strategic thinking and mental acuity, purely through the power of the mind showcases the incredible potential of Neuralink’s BCI. It demonstrates that the human brain, even in the face of severe physical impairment, retains its capacity for creativity, problem-solving, and expression. By harnessing the brain’s innate abilities, Neuralink’s technology transcends the boundaries of disability, offering a glimpse into a future where limitations are defined not by the body but by the imagination.

However, Neuralink’s impact extends far beyond the realm of individual empowerment. The widespread adoption of BCIs has the potential to revolutionise healthcare, education, and industry on a global scale. By enhancing our ability to interface directly with the brain, BCIs could revolutionise the treatment of neurological disorders, enabling more precise diagnosis and targeted therapies. They could also reshape education by providing new avenues for learning and communication, particularly for individuals with disabilities or learning differences.

In the evolving world of industry and technology, BCIs hold the promise of unlocking unprecedented levels of productivity and innovation. Imagine a workforce where individuals can control machinery and devices with nothing but their thoughts, eliminating the need for manual input and streamlining complex tasks. From manufacturing to aerospace, BCIs could optimise efficiency, enhance safety, and open up new frontiers of exploration and discovery.

Of course, with such transformative potential comes a host of ethical, legal, and societal considerations. As we venture into uncharted territory, it’s imperative to address questions surrounding privacy, consent, and the equitable distribution of neuro technologies. Safeguarding against misuse and ensuring that BCIs are accessible to all who could benefit from them will be essential in realising their full potential while minimising risks and disparities.

Furthermore, as Neuralink continues to push the boundaries of neuro-technology, it’s crucial to prioritise rigorous scientific research and regulatory oversight. While the prospects of BCIs are undeniably exciting, they must be developed and deployed responsibly, with careful attention to safety, efficacy, and long-term implications for both users and society as a whole.

Overall, the recent achievement of a quadriplegic patient playing chess with their mind serves as a testament to the transformative power of Neuralink’s brain-computer interface. By bridging the gap between the human brain and external devices, BCIs have the potential to revolutionise the lives of individuals with paralysis, unlocking new opportunities for communication, independence, and expression.

 

The author, Dr Hrishikesh Sarkar, is Senior Consultant–Neurosurgery, at Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai. The views expressed are personal.

 

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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Multiple cases of West Nile fever reported in Kerala; know its symptoms

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

An official of the district surveillance team said that the infected people, including children, in Kozhikode, are all fine and back at their homes.

At least five cases of West Nile fever have been confirmed in Kozhikode, north Kerala, health officials said. The infected people, including children, are all fine and back at their homes, an official of the district surveillance team said.

At least one individual, suspected of suffering from the vector-borne infection, is currently undergoing treatment, the official said.

Besides Kozhikode, West Nile fever cases have also been reported in Malappuram district of Kerala, reports said.

Meanwhile, the Kerala government on Tuesday said West Nile fever cases have been reported from Thrissur, Malappuram and Kozhikode districts of the state.

State Health Minister Veena George confirmed that cases of the viral infection have been reported in the state and that all the districts have been asked to be vigilant.

There was no need to be concerned, but requested anyone showing signs of fever or other symptoms of the West Nile infection to seek treatment immediately, the minister said in a statement.

Samples of people, who showed symptoms of the disease and underwent treatment, were sent to the Pune-based National Institute of Virology as a routine exercise.

“The results came back now and indicated that they were suffering from West Nile fever. They are all better now,” PTI quoted the official as saying.

What is West Nile fever?

The West Nile Virus (WNV) was detected for the first time in a woman in the West Nile district of Uganda in 1937. The fever is spread by the Culex species of mosquitoes. In India, the fever was first detected back in 2011. A six-year-old boy from Kerala’s Malappuram had passed away due to the fever in 2019.

Later, a 47-year-old man died of the fever in Thrissur district in May 2022.

According to the state health department, the WNV can cause a fatal neurological disease in humans, however, most of the persons who are infected by it may not show any symptoms. It is mainly transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes.

WNV is majorly found in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America and West Asia, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Symptoms

Around 80% of people infected with West Nile Virus are asymptomatic and do not show any symptoms, while in several cases it can lead to West Nile fever or severe West Nile disease.

Some of the major symptoms seen among patients infected with West Nile fever include fever, headache, tiredness, body aches, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes and swollen lymph glands.

Besides this, some patients can even show severe symptoms including neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, and paralysis, the WHO stated.

It is further estimated that one in 150 persons infected with the West Nile virus may develop a more severe form of the disease.

In most of the cases, the incubation period is usually three to 14 days.

Who is at risk of contracting infection?

Anyone can acquire a WNV infection. However, persons who are at the highest risk for serious illness are persons over 50 years of age.

What is the mortality rate?

The death rate is relatively low compared to Japanese encephalitis which shows similar symptoms and is more dangerous. Those who get infected with the virus tend to develop lifelong immunity.

What are the preventive measures against the spread?

The minister said there was no need to be concerned, but requested anyone showing signs of fever or other symptoms of the infection to seek treatment immediately.

The statement said that instructions to begin pre-monsoon cleaning activities were already given in a high-level meeting held last week and now the District Medical Officers (DMOs) have been directed to further intensify the same.

There is no medicine or vaccine available against WNV. So only, symptomatic treatment and prevention are key, according to the health minister. As part of the preventive measures, she suggested wearing clothing that completely covers the body, use of mosquito nets and repellants and keeping one’s home and surroundings clean.

 

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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Heart stents will soon cost more as inflation plays spoilsport

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) regulates the costs of heart stents based on the Wholesale Price Index (WPI), which measures inflation based on the cost of goods before they reach consumers. With the rising inflation, the drug regulator has allowed the revision of prices for 2024.

India has a high prevalence of coronary heart diseases (CAD) or artery blockages and the number has rising quite noticeably. Unfortunately, even as cases rise, so will the heart patients’ medical bills as the maximum selling price of stents is set to rise.

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) regulates the costs of heart stents based on the Wholesale Price Index (WPI), which measures inflation based on the cost of goods before they reach consumers. With the rising inflation, the drug regulator has allowed the revision of prices for 2024.

The two types of stents — bare metals and DES — are mostly imported. “One unit of Bare Metal Stent (BMS) currently costs ₹10,509.79 while the Drug Eluting Stents (DES) including metallic DES and Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffold (BVS)/ Biodegradable Stents cost ₹ 38267.18 based on the WPI at 0.00551 of year 2023 over 2022,” a NPPA notification stated this year.

A stent is used to provide support when the arteries are blocked or narrowed and the blood flow is inadequate. It helps supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart.

In 2023, BMS per unit was priced at ₹10,509.20, and DES, BVS cost ₹ 38,265.07, based on the WPI at 12.12% for year 2022 over 2021. In 2019, the hike of cardiac stents was 4.26% as per the WPI of the previous year.

“In the past few years, the cost of these bare and DES/BVS stents has increased only by ₹3,200 and ₹9,000 respectively,” said Abhay Kumar, the National President of the Indian Pharmaceutical Association. The total cost incurred by the patients depends on the units of stents the surgery required.

To keep the price of imported stents in control, NPPA took over the regulations in 2023. “It is still in the power of the organisations and hospitals to subsidise the costs,” Kumar added.

On a positive note, the stent manufacturing setup in India is under process. In the next three years, they will be manufactured in India and the prices are expected to be accommodative.

“Once the production units are set up, the BMS and DES will cost a maximum ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 respectively,” says Kumar.

In the month of March, the NPPA also revised the cost of 700 drugs due to inflation.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

 Daily Newsletter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

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Oil Fluctuates as Traders Assess China’s Vow, Unrest in Libya

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today's market

index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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Pharma major Lupin receives US FDA approval for generic eye solution

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

 Listen to the Article (6 Minutes)

Summary

Travoprost ophthalmic solution USP, 0.004%, is specifically indicated for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients diagnosed with eye conditions like open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Global pharmaceutical giant Lupin announced on Monday (May 6) that it has secured approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) for its abbreviated new drug application (ANDA) for travoprost ophthalmic solution USP, 0.004% (ionic buffered solution).

This approval allows Lupin to market a generic equivalent to the reference listed drug (RLD) Travatan Z ophthalmic solution, 0.004%, which is manufactured by Sandoz Inc.

The generic product, travoprost ophthalmic solution USP, 0.004%, will be produced at Lupin’s facility in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh.

Travoprost ophthalmic solution USP, 0.004%, is specifically indicated for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients diagnosed with eye conditions like open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. This approval is poised to offer patients in the United States access to a more affordable alternative.

According to IQVIA MAT March 2024, the reference listed drug (RLD) Travatan Z ophthalmic solution, 0.004%, had estimated annual sales of $77 million in the US.

Also Read: Aurobindo Pharma’s Rajasthan unit gets 7 observations from US FDA

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

 Daily Newsletter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Previous Article

Oil Fluctuates as Traders Assess China’s Vow, Unrest in Libya

Next Article

Shanghai residents turn to NFTs to record COVID lockdown, combat censorship

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today's market

index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
Quiz
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Should Elon Musk be able to buy Twitter?