IIT Madras unveils new 8.5-kg wheelchair that enables independence
The device has a single frame made of aerospace-grade material. It can be fully customised and is available in sizes from 13 inches to 18 inches. So, what is so special about it? 'With the monoframe, minimalistic design, you slap 120 kg on it and make it run through two lakh cycles of double drum test, and then drop it for 6,666 times for drop test; the device cannot even have a small crack or scratch. That is precision engineering and innovative geometry,' Justin Jesudas, founder and CEO, THRYV Mobility, asserts.
Most wheelchairs in the market were heavy and hospital grade, which were unfit for community use, he said. 'This was the reason why you find this population largely invisible, despite being high in numbers. We wanted to change this narrative,' said Mr. Justin, who is himself a wheelchair user for the past 15 years.
Twenty beneficiaries, many of them para-athletes, were given YD One wheelchairs as part of a CSR initiative of Trimble, a Silicon valley-based industrial technology company. For the beneficiaries, it meant enabling bike travel, easier and longer journeys, greater portability, and manoeuvrability.
Speaking about his experience with the struggles of soldiers injured and impaired in the line of duty at the launch, Surgeon Vice Admiral Anupam Kapur, Director General, Hospital Services (Armed Forces), said that freedom and independence meant different things to different people. 'Independence is not merely personal, it is social, economic, and technological. It is the freedom of a visually impaired student to navigate a campus independently; it is the ability of a stroke survivor to communicate with his or her loved ones; it is the right of a rural woman to access digital health; and it is the power of a veteran amputee to walk unassisted again if possible. In the armed forces, we see this pursuit of independence not just in theory, we see it happening everyday.'
V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, said that the device may appear simple but it required deep application of mathematics, physics, mechanical engineering, and material sciences to be built. IIT Madras' innovation push is symbolised by the 400-odd patents the institution filed in the past one year that were heavily deep tech and focused on solving the problems in society, he added.
Ravinder Singh, scientist, Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR), said that ICMR was instrumental in creating the National Centre for Assistive Health Technology at several institutions, including IIT Madras, enabling research and development in assistive technology. It plans to undertake more initiatives to promote and improve accessibility and affordability of assistive products through health systems in India.
Manish Anand, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Madras, who was the project coordinator, said that the device was co-designed with users and with inputs from clinicians as well.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
Why is 'Fibermaxxing' trending? Viral wellness fad might be worth the hype, but there's one catch
Why This Nutrient Deserves Attention The Best Fiber? It's on Your Plate, Not in a Pill You Might Also Like: Apple vs lemon vs banana: Who wins the healthiest fruit trophy? Science has the answer Oats and whole grains Chia seeds and flaxseeds Lentils, beans, and peas Leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables Berries, apples, and pears Nuts and seeds Too Much of a Good Thing? Yes, Even Fiber iStock Fibermaxxing isn't without its caveats. According to Syn, suddenly ramping up fiber intake, especially past 70 grams per day, can lead to digestive discomfort. Fiber and Disease Prevention Is Fibermaxxing Healthy or Hype? If 2024 was all about tracking protein, the latest buzzword in the world of wellness is 'fibermaxxing.' Across TikTok and Instagram, influencers and everyday health enthusiasts are flaunting their high-fiber meals under hashtags like #Fibermaxxing, showcasing colorful bowls brimming with fruits, chia seeds, lentils, and leafy to a report from CNBC Make It, this viral trend marks a notable shift from protein powders and meat-heavy meal plans to plant-based plates aimed at hitting — and sometimes exceeding — the daily recommended fiber intake. But is more always better?According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Dietary Guidelines, women under 50 should consume 25 to 28 grams of fiber per day, while men in the same age group should aim for 31 to 34 grams. Yet most Americans fall far short, averaging only 10 to 15 grams daily. A 2016 analysis published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine found that only 5% of U.S. adults get enough Syn, a registered dietitian and author of Mostly Plant-Based, explained in an interview with CNBC Make It that fiber is 'kind of becoming the new protein.' Its growing popularity is due to its well-documented benefits: better digestion, enhanced gut health, lower cholesterol, improved blood sugar levels, and even support for weight agree that the most effective (and safe) way to increase fiber intake is through whole foods. Syn advises skipping supplements and instead embracing a more plant-forward diet. Foods high in fiber include:These foods contain both soluble fiber, which helps with heart health and glucose control, and insoluble fiber, which aids in regular bowel movements and prevents constipation. Fibermaxxing isn't without its caveats. According to Syn, suddenly ramping up fiber intake — especially past 70 grams per day — can lead to digestive discomfort. Harvard Health Publishing echoes this, warning that excessive fiber can result in bloating, gas, diarrhea, or cramping if the body isn't eased into the also plays a critical role. Without adequate hydration, even moderate increases in fiber can backfire, causing more harm than good. Experts recommend drinking at least 64 ounces of water daily to support proper digestion when fiber intake goes best approach? Add one new high-fiber food to your routine each week and monitor how your body responds. Gradual incorporation, not radical overhaul, is the key to long-term everyday wellness, fiber also plays a role in disease prevention. Low-fiber diets are linked to higher risks of conditions like Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and colon issues such as diverticulosis. In fact, Harvard Medical School notes that incorporating high-fiber foods into each meal can help prevent diverticulitis — a painful inflammation of colon pouches often caused by low fiber strategies include replacing white rice with brown rice or lentils, snacking on nuts and fruit instead of processed foods, and adding vegetables to every meal. Reading food labels for at least 5 grams of fiber per serving is another quick most viral trends, fibermaxxing comes with both promise and pitfalls. The core message — eat more plants, support gut health, stay hydrated — is backed by science. But overdoing it can lead to discomfort and may not suit every body type or Mia Syn puts it, 'There is such a thing as too much of a good thing.' Staying within the recommended fiber range — or slightly above, with professional guidance — is likely safe for most healthy individuals.
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
JSS hosp offers affordable heart tests amid rising cardiac concerns
Mysuru: In response to a recent spike in number of people visiting city hospitals for heart-related issues, Mysuru-based JSS Hospital is offering a range of cardiac tests to address growing public concern. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Dr Sunil Kumar, head of the cardiology department, said the spike in patients stemmed largely from panic among residents. "We have decided to provide tests at affordable prices," he said. "This initiative is also aimed at promoting heart wellness among the people of Mysuru and surrounding districts," he explained. "In today's demanding lifestyle, many people unintentionally ignore their cardiac health. Hectic work schedules, high stress, unhealthy diets, and sedentary routines have made heart problems increasingly common, even among younger individuals. Unfortunately, most people do not realise the condition of their heart until symptoms appear or an emergency occurs," he stated. "This is why regular cardiac health check-ups are more important than ever. Routine heart screenings help in the early detection of risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and abnormal ECG or heart function, which can be effectively managed if identified early. People who undergo regular cardiac check-ups are more likely to maintain better heart health, adopt preventive measures, and avoid serious complications in the future," he stated. Dr CD Madhu, director of JSS Hospital, and cardiologists Dr Manjappa and Dr Vinay Kumar were present.
Hindustan Times
9 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Radiologist shares 5 common breast cancer signs most women overlook: ‘If it looks like an orange peel, get it checked'
Many women unknowingly overlook subtle signs that could be early indicators of breast health issues. From minor changes in skin texture to unexpected discomfort, these symptoms often go unreported until it's too late. Breast imaging expert highlights subtle signs of cancer patients often ignore. (Pexels) "In my 15 years of experience as a breast radiologist, I've seen countless cases where early warning signs were overlooked or dismissed. While most women diligently check for lumps during self-examinations, I frequently encounter patients who've ignored other critical symptoms for months or even years. As someone who interprets thousands of mammograms and breast imaging studies annually, I want to share the subtle signs that often slip under the radar but deserve immediate attention," says Dr Namrata Singal Sawant, a Mumbai-based senior radiologist. She further shared with HT Lifestyle 5 subtle symptoms you shouldn't ignore and why early detection matters. 1. Changes in breast texture and appearance One of the most significant findings I encounter in my practice is architectural distortion, changes in breast skin texture that many patients attribute to normal ageing. The most common early signs of the same are: Any dimpling or puckering of the skin can suggest an underlying carcinoma pulling the skin or Cooper's ligament. Characteristic orange-peel appearance (peau d'orange) can be a sign of inflammatory breast carcinoma. Shrinking of the size of any one of the breasts. This can be seen in some lobular carcinomas, which are difficult to diagnose. Increase in the size of the breast. We must be aware of the natural asymmetry of our breasts, if any. Any increase in the size of the breast, especially asymmetrical, must be viewed with caution. We must contact our medical professional about this. Nipple changes and lymph node evaluations are often overlooked yet crucial in diagnosing breast cancer.(Pexels) 2. Nipple changes and discharge Nipple changes often provide crucial diagnostic clues that patients initially overlook. Nipple discharge, particularly when unilateral, spontaneous and blood-stained, has led me to identify high-risk lesions and early-stage ductal carcinomas. Nipple retraction. Some ladies give a history of their nipples being inverted from childhood. However, if the nipple retraction is a new finding, then it must be looked at with suspicion. Nipple directional changes or scaling. Many of the ductal abnormalities, like papillomas, papillary carcinomas, atypia, dysplasia, DCIS or even Intraductal carcinomas can present with any of the nipple symptoms. With the help of advance technologies especially high resolution ultrasonography, MRI and DR mammograms these diagnosis can be made at and much earlier stage. Further evaluation with guided biopsies are suggested. 3. Any lump in the armpits From my experience interpreting breast MRIs and ultrasounds, lymph node evaluation is a critical component that patients rarely consider during self-examinations. I've diagnosed several cases where palpable lymph nodes were the presenting symptom, leading to the discovery of occult breast cancers that weren't detectable through conventional screening. My clinical advice: Any palpable lump in the armpits must be evaluated with ultrasonography and SOS, as well as further investigations like FNAC, biopsy, mammography, MRI, etc. Even primary breast cancers are found in the axillary tail of the breast, which is found in the armpit. Any lymph node that remains palpable for more than two weeks, especially if it's firm, fixed, or progressively enlarging, requires immediate imaging evaluation with ultrasound and possible tissue sampling. 4. Any skin discolouration over the breast In my radiological practice, inflammatory changes represent some of the most challenging cases to diagnose early. Inflammatory breast cancer, while rare, can initially present as simple skin irritation that patients often treat with topical remedies for weeks before seeking medical attention. Through my imaging experience, I've learned that skin changes that don't respond to conservative treatment within 1-2 weeks, particularly when accompanied by breast swelling or warmth, require immediate evaluation with specialised imaging protocols. I've diagnosed several cases of inflammatory breast cancer where patients initially attributed symptoms to allergic reactions or skin conditions. 5. No signs at all I can not stress enough this last point that most of the breast cancers can only be caught at an early stage with the help of screening. Screening implies the patient does not have any complaints and still gets a routine checkup, and a mammography is done. According to the recommendations by the Breast Imaging Society of India (BISI), annual screening mammograms are recommended for those between the ages of 40 and 70. In case of high-risk individuals with a family history of breast cancer or BRCA 1 or 2 genes positive amongst others, the screening starts at a much earlier age. After years of interpreting breast imaging and counselling patients, I cannot stress enough the importance of trusting your instincts about your body. In my practice, I maintain an open-door policy for patients who notice changes, no matter how minor they may seem. Also, the take-home message again is that to diagnose this disease early, we must understand the importance of screening protocols and consult our medical professionals for annual clinical breast examinations. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
