A future where heart attacks, strokes, and even cancer might be predictable is coming near—not only cured—thanks to a small, new eco-friendly sensor that can detect harmful levels of cholesterol in real-time. Scientists in India have created a revolutionizing optical sensor that can immediately identify high cholesterol, which could change the way we check for heart disease around the world.

At the core of this innovation is a unique biosensing platform that's not just extremely sensitive and affordable but also eco-friendly. Created by scientists at the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, in India this next-generation optical sensing tool is constructed using silk fiber functionalized with phosphorene quantum dots. Their work, reported in the highly regarded Nanoscale journal by the Royal Society of Chemistry, breaks new ground for non-invasive, real-time disease monitoring.

Why Early Detection of Cholesterol is Important to Overall Health?

Elevated cholesterol levels, particularly high LDL (low-density lipoprotein) or "bad" cholesterol, are frequently associated with silent but lethal diseases such as atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, hypertension, venous thrombosis, and even some cancers. But the greatest concern? Most individuals never realize they're at risk until it's too late.

Cholesterol serves a double function in human physiology. It is required for the manufacture of vitamin D, bile acids, and steroid hormones and for the preservation of blood and nerve cell integrity. But too much—especially increased LDL (low-density lipoprotein, or "bad") and decreased HDL (high-density lipoprotein, or "good") cholesterol—can cause arteries to become clogged with plaque, blocking the flow of blood and causing life-threatening events.

That's why it is essential to detect these issues early on. And this new optical sensor might prove a breakthrough in the global battle against chronic illnesses by detecting risk signs before symptoms develop.

What makes this device a scientific milestone is the integration of materials and techniques that are innovative and environmentally friendly. The scientists employed silk fiber as the substrate and functionalized it with phosphorene quantum dots, which are renowned for their superior electrical and optical properties.

The sensor was also incorporated into a cellulose nitrate membrane to create an electrical sensing platform that can detect trace amounts of cholesterol—even below the normal detection limit. That's correct: this device can detect cholesterol changes before they reach clinical levels, making it perfect for regular health monitoring and preventive medicine.

This device produces no electronic waste, providing a green alternative to traditional diagnostic technologies.

How Does the Device Works?

In contrast to most experimental laboratory creations that fail to translate to real-world use, this device is highly compatible with real biological samples. It was able to detect cholesterol levels in human blood serum, rat blood, and even milk—showing its strength and versatility across mediums.

Such reliability makes it extremely versatile for application in point-of-care (POC) environments, possibly in clinics, pharmacies, or even at home. That translates to no more complicated lab tests or weeks of waiting for results.

One of the main causes of abnormal cholesterol is familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition in which the liver has difficulty breaking down cholesterol. This makes regular checks even more crucial, particularly for those with a family history of heart disease, says the British Heart Foundation.

Obesity, inflammation, smoking, alcohol consumption, and sedentary lifestyles all increase LDL levels while simultaneously reducing protective HDL cholesterol. In many cases, the symptoms remain invisible—making it a ticking time bomb inside the body.

Visible signs such as deposits of fat beneath the skin (xanthomas), yellowish spots on or near the eyelids (xanthelasmas), or white circles around the iris (corneal arcus) may appear in rare cases. But for many individuals, high cholesterol has no warning signals.

Can Lifestyle Changes Replace Statins?

Though statins, drugs that inhibit the liver production of cholesterol—are common and have been shown to be effective, they're not the only solution. Lifestyle modification continues to be the cornerstone. Physicians suggest:

Physical activity on a daily basis: A minimum of 30 minutes to increase HDL and decrease LDL.

Changes in diet: Increased fiber, reduced saturated fats, and decreased processed foods.

Smoking and alcohol avoidance: Both are bad habits that make LDL worse and are detrimental to heart health.

The objective isn't merely treatment but prevention, and that is where early diagnosis using devices like this optical sensor comes into play.

This emerging optical sensor, capable of detecting cholesterol, is more than an academic achievement—it's a sea change. It signals a new world where your health is cared for proactively, sustainably, and customarily. Beyond its current ability to be handheld, this equipment may be designed into wearable devices, home health test kits, or even phones that are smarter with health attachments.

Northern Europe is grappling with an intense early summer heatwave this weekend, with authorities in the United Kingdom and France issuing health alerts as temperatures soar well above seasonal norms.

The UK Met Office has forecasted highs of 34°C (93°F) in parts of eastern England on Saturday, marking a dramatic 12°C (22°F) increase above average for this time of year. The heat is part of a broader pattern affecting much of northern and western Europe, where unseasonably hot weather has settled in following a week of rising temperatures.

In France, the heat is even more severe. Meteo France, the national weather service, has predicted temperatures will reach 38°C (100°F) in parts of the western and southern regions of the country — particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations.

Heat Health Alerts Issued Across England

Responding to the escalating heat, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have jointly issued an amber heat health alert for the whole of England, in place through Monday morning. The alert specifically targets increased risks for older adults, especially those aged 65 and above, as well as individuals with chronic heart and lung conditions.

“Heat can result in serious health outcomes across the population, especially for older adults or those with pre-existing health conditions,” said Dr. Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme event health protection at the UKHSA. “It is therefore important to check on friends, family and neighbors who are more vulnerable and to take sensible precautions while enjoying the sun.”

Authorities are urging people to stay hydrated, avoid physical exertion during peak sunlight hours, and remain indoors where possible. The UK has increasingly been experiencing heatwaves in recent years, a trend that scientists say is likely to intensify due to climate change.

France Warns: No One Is Immune to the Heat

Meteo France has echoed similar concerns in its alerts for western and central France. The agency has cautioned that the current heatwave can pose health risks not only for vulnerable populations but also for healthy individuals, especially those exposed to prolonged sun or engaged in physical activity.

“Everyone is at risk, even healthy people,” the agency warned, underlining the importance of recognizing the early signs of heat-related illnesses like heatstroke and dehydration.

Real-Time Impact: Paris Air Show Attendees Seek Shade

The impact of the scorching temperatures was visible earlier this week at the Paris Air Show, held at Le Bourget airport north of the French capital. Aviation enthusiasts and industry professionals attending the event were seen clustering in the shade of aircraft wings — including that of a Boeing 777 — to escape the heat, as the mercury hovered in the low 30s°C (mid-80s°F).

The image has become symbolic of how Europe’s iconic summer events are being reshaped by climate extremes, with rising heat affecting not only public health but also tourism and outdoor activities.

Cooler Weather Expected Next Week

According to British forecasters, Saturday is expected to mark the peak of the heatwave. Temperatures are forecast to dip slightly on Sunday, followed by a gradual return to more typical early-summer levels by midweek.

While the immediate heat threat may ease in a few days, public health agencies are urging people not to drop their guard. “Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and more intense,” Dr. Sousa warned, “and our response must adapt accordingly.”

Premade chicken fettuccine Alfredo meals sold at Walmart and Kroger have been recalled following a multi-state listeria outbreak that has led to 17 illnesses, three deaths, and one pregnancy loss, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

What’s Behind the Outbreak?

The affected products were made by FreshRealm, a Texas-based food company. FSIS reports that the same strain of Listeria monocytogenes linked to the outbreak was found during routine testing at a FreshRealm facility in March 2025. Investigators are still working to determine whether a specific ingredient in the Alfredo meals caused the contamination.

So far, cases have been reported across 13 states between August 2024 and May 2025.

Which Products Were Recalled?

The recall involves chicken Alfredo meals sold at Walmart under the Marketside brand and at Kroger under the Home Chef brand. Specific items include:

• 32.8-ounce trays of “Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine”

(Best-by date: June 27, 2025, or earlier)

• 12.3-ounce trays of “Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli”

(Best-by date: June 26, 2025, or earlier)

• 12.5-ounce trays of “Home Chef Heat & Eat Grilled Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo”

(Best-by date: June 19, 2025, or earlier)

Consumers can check for establishment numbers Est. P-50784, Est. P-47770, or Est. P-47718 inside the USDA inspection mark on the packaging. Only these specific products are part of the recall. Other FreshRealm meals are not affected, CNN reported.

What You Should Do

FSIS warns that contaminated meals may still be in home refrigerators or freezers. If you purchased any of these recalled products, do not eat them. Instead, throw them away or return them to the store where they were bought.

To protect against illness, premade meals like these should always be heated to at least 165°F. Using a food thermometer is the only way to ensure the food reaches a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria, including listeria.

What Is Listeria?

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Listeria are bacteria or germs that can contaminate many food and those who eat can get infected with the bacteria. CDC mentions that it is rare, however, could be serious, though there exists steps to prevent this infection.

It is a foodborne illness caused by the bacteria L. monocytogenes. Symptoms include fever, chills, and headache. It can cause invasive illness and intestinal illness. It is also the third leading cause of deaths from foodborne illness in the US, with 1,600 people infected each year, out of which 260 die. It is especially dangerous for:

• Pregnant women: may lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature delivery
• Older adults
• People with weakened immune systems

Symptoms can include:

• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Confusion or loss of balance
• Convulsions

If you're in a high-risk group and experience symptoms within two months of consuming a recalled product, seek medical care immediately and mention possible listeria exposure. The illness is typically treated with antibiotics.

Yoga is more than just a form of exercise—it’s a way of life. Rooted in India’s ancient spiritual traditions, yoga nurtures the body, sharpens the mind, and uplifts the soul. On June 21 each year, the world unites to celebrate International Yoga Day, recognizing the profound and lasting impact of this holistic discipline on global well-being.

Theme of 2025: “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”

The theme for International Yoga Day 2025 is “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”. As we mark the 11th year of this global celebration, the theme emphasizes the interconnectedness between planetary health and human well-being. It underscores the role of yoga in creating a more sustainable and mindful lifestyle that nurtures both our inner world and the environment around us.

Why This Theme Matters

At a time when the planet is grappling with climate change, rising mental health concerns, and lifestyle-related diseases, this theme reinforces the idea that personal wellness and ecological balance go hand in hand. Yoga encourages conscious living, reduced consumption, and mindfulness—all of which are key to healing both people and the planet.

Why International Yoga Day Is Celebrated

The purpose of International Yoga Day is to raise awareness about the many benefits of practising yoga. In a world grappling with stress, sedentary lifestyles, and disconnection from nature, yoga offers a much-needed balance. It brings together physical strength, mental clarity, emotional resilience, and spiritual peace—making it a truly integrative practice for modern life.

How It Came to Be

The idea for an international day to celebrate yoga was first proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his speech at the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2014. He described yoga as an “invaluable gift” from India’s ancient tradition, highlighting its role in promoting harmony between mind and body, and between humanity and nature.

The proposal received overwhelming support—175 member states co-sponsored the resolution, and on December 11, 2014, the UN officially declared June 21 as International Day of Yoga. The first celebration was held on June 21, 2015, in New Delhi, where nearly 36,000 people from 84 countries participated, setting two Guinness World Records.

Why June 21?

The date June 21 was chosen for its symbolic significance—it is the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. This day is considered auspicious in many cultures and marks a transition to a more spiritually aware phase in the yogic tradition. It reflects the harmony between nature and human life, perfectly aligning with yoga’s core principles.

How India is Celebrating in 2025

This year, India is hosting 10 signature events, with ‘Yoga Sangam’ as the flagship initiative showcasing mass yoga demonstrations at 1,00,000 locations nationwide. Other events such as Yoga Bandhan, Harit Yoga, and Yoga Mahakumbh reflect the diversity of yoga practices and their relevance in different aspects of daily life.