Gayathri Kallukaran is a Junior Journalist with Eastern Eye. She has a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from St. Paul’s College, Bengaluru, and brings over five years of experience in content creation, including two years in digital journalism. She covers stories across culture, lifestyle, travel, health, and technology, with a creative yet fact-driven approach to reporting. Known for her sensitivity towards human interest narratives, Gayathri’s storytelling often aims to inform, inspire, and empower. Her journey began as a layout designer and reporter for her college’s daily newsletter, where she also contributed short films and editorial features. Since then, she has worked with platforms like FWD Media, Pepper Content, and Petrons.com, where several of her interviews and features have gained spotlight recognition. Fluent in English, Malayalam, Tamil, and Hindi, she writes in English and Malayalam, continuing to explore inclusive, people-focused storytelling in the digital space.
Fire hazard prompts urgent recall of air fryer model
Lidl GB has recalled a popular kitchen appliance due to serious safety concerns. The Lidl Tower air fryer recall affects all stock of the Tower 8Ltr Dual Basket Air Fryer, model number T17129L, after the discovery of a potential fire risk linked to overheating.
The retailer’s supplier identified that the affected units may overheat during use, posing a fire hazard. As a result, Lidl has urged customers to “stop using it immediately” and begin the return process.
Details of affected model and safety risk
The product in question is the Tower 8Ltr Dual Basket Air Fryer, with the specific model number T17129L. The recall covers all units of this model sold at Lidl GB.
No other Tower products sold at Lidl are impacted by this safety notice. The supplier has set up a dedicated website atwww.tower-safety.co.uk, where customers can confirm whether their unit is affected and arrange a return.
How to check and return the product
Consumers who believe they have purchased the affected air fryer can visit the Tower safety website for detailed instructions on identifying the model and returning it. Customers can also contact Lidl’s Customer Care team:
Email: customer.care@lidl.co.uk
Phone: 0203 966 5566
Lidl has apologised for the inconvenience caused and thanked shoppers for their cooperation.
Earlier concerns over Tower air fryer safety
This is not the first time Tower air fryers have raised safety alarms. Earlier in 2024, officials warned that certain Tower models posed a risk of overheating and ignition during use.
Consumers are reminded to always check product recall noticesLidl
These models had been sold at various major UK retailers, including Tesco, Argos, B&M Bargains, Poundland, Robert Dyas, and the Tower Housewares website. The warnings led to heightened consumer concern around the safety of air fryers sold under the Tower brand.
Recent Lidl product recall over food safety
The Lidl Tower air fryer recall comes shortly after another urgent product warning from the supermarket. Lidl had previously recalled a popular breakfast food product found to contain pieces of metal, which the Food Standards Agency (FSA) confirmed as a choking risk.
Affected customers were advised to return the item to Lidl stores for a full refund.
Reminder to take recalls seriously
Both food and product recalls are issued to protect public health and safety. The FSA has also recently issued a warning about sweets containing unauthorised mineral oils, advising consumers not to purchase or consume them.
Consumers are reminded to always check product recall notices and take appropriate action to avoid any health or safety risks.
Labubu rakhis and lumbas are outselling other novelty designs in India and gaining traction among British Asian buyers.
UK toy retailer The Entertainer is now stocking official Labubu dolls; over 100,000 fake units have been seized by UK Border Force.
Indian rakhi prices range from £0.38 (₹40) to £5.70 (₹600); Labubu collectibles in the UK cost £13.50–£211 (₹1,420–₹22,200).
Social media tag #LabubuRakhi is trending as pop culture blends with festive traditions.
Raksha Bandhan 2025 has taken a pop culture twist. Labubu-themed rakhis and lumbas are selling out in Indian markets from Delhi to Mumbai, with demand also emerging among British Asians. Known for its quirky charm, the Labubu character is now part of festive shopping lists, combining modern collectibles with the festival’s traditional ties.
Labubu rakhis sell out across India and spark early interest in British Asian communities Instagram/mannatindia.in/the_crazyowl
Why Labubu rakhis are selling out in India
In Delhi and Mumbai, market vendors say Labubu designs, especially lilac versions, are among the fastest sellers this season. Personalisation has boosted sales further, with customers requesting custom name tags. Online seller Nidhi Gupta admits she didn’t anticipate such high demand, while designer Richa Raj Shah confirms, “Lilac Labubu rakhis are leading the trend.” Families are also buying Labubu lumbas for sisters-in-law, often pairing them with small gift items.
Labubu collectibles in UK stores and the counterfeit problem
The Entertainer, a major UK toy chain, has begun stocking genuine Labubu dolls, giving British shoppers direct access without overseas shipping. But the craze has also brought a rise in counterfeit imports. UK Border Force has seized over 100,000 fake Labubu dolls, some with hazardous flammable materials. Buyers are being advised to check packaging details, QR codes, and official retailer listings before purchasing.
Despite the buzz around Labubu, traditional rakhis remain a strong choice for many households. Ganpati motifs, rudraksh beads, evil-eye charms, and thewa work continue to appeal to shoppers who value handmade artistry. Prices for these range from £0.38 (₹40) for simple threads to £5.70 (₹600) for ornate bhaiya-bhabhi sets. Mumbai resident Preety Gada says, “The handmade ones feel more personal and meaningful.”
This year’s Raksha Bandhan falls on Saturday, 9 August, with shubh muhurat timings observed in both India and diaspora communities abroad. The surge in Labubu rakhi sales reflects a wider shift in festive shopping, where global pop culture merges seamlessly with age-old customs, attracting both young collectors and tradition-focused families.
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Kiara Advani as Kavya Luthra in War 2 after months of disciplined preparation
Kiara Advani followed a structured, protein-rich diet for her War 2 role alongside Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR.
Nutritionist Nicole Linhares Kedia revealed her meals included protein pancakes, grilled chicken, avocado and sattu chaas.
The transformation was achieved without crash diets, focusing on balance, recovery and a strict sleep schedule.
Kiara’s first on-screen bikini appearance comes in the YRF Spy Universe’s highly anticipated 2025 release.
Kiara Advani’s striking new look in War 2, her debut in the YRF Spy Universe, is the result of months of planning, discipline and precision. Starring alongside Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, the actress plays Kavya Luthra, and her first-ever bikini scene on screen has already become a talking point.
Speaking to Pinkvilla, Kiara’s nutritionist Nicole Linhares Kedia revealed that the goal was to get the actress in “the best shape of her life” without resorting to shortcuts. “She didn’t want crash diets or quick fixes. She wanted something sustainable, holistic and something that made her feel strong,” Nicole said.
Kiara Advani as Kavya Luthra in War 2 after months of disciplined preparation Instagram/bollyhunter
What was Kiara Advani’s diet plan for War 2 ?
Kiara’s mornings always began with protein pancakes, a non-negotiable part of her day. Made from oat flour, walnut flour, protein powder, maple syrup or monk fruit, water, and topped with fresh berries and homemade hazelnut butter, the dish was so integral that her team recorded a video tutorial before her European shoot.
Her main meals were built around lean protein and fresh produce, including grilled chicken, light curries, asparagus, baby potatoes, avocado, edamame and hummus with vegetable crudités. For hydration and recovery, she relied on sattu chaas, a protein-rich buttermilk drink with roasted Bengal gram flour, cumin and coriander, perfect for long shooting days in the sun.
Nicole emphasised that nothing about her diet was extreme. “We didn’t do any drastic cutting or water depletion. Everything was planned to maintain her energy levels while keeping her in peak condition,” she explained.
Kiara followed a sustainable protein-based diet for her War 2 roleInstagram/kiaraaliaadvani
How did Kiara prepare for her bikini scene?
The preparation for the much-discussed bikini sequence in War 2 focused on steady, sensible adjustments rather than sudden transformations. Sodium, water and fibre intake were tweaked gradually, ensuring Kiara stayed energised while looking her best on camera.
Even on location in Tuscany and Rome, her team coordinated with local chefs to ensure meals aligned with her nutritional needs. Fresh local produce was sourced, menus were tailored to her macros, and every dish was designed to match her training demands.
War 2 marks Kiara Advani’s debut bikini scene in the YRF Spy UniverseInstagram/realbollywoodhungama
Why recovery and rest were just as important
Nicole highlighted that sleep was as crucial as diet. “We were intentional about setting a circadian rhythm. Everything, including meal timings, training sessions and even caffeine, was structured around it,” she said. With an early bedtime of 8 pm, Kiara ensured her body had enough time to recover from intense workouts and long shoot days.
Her disciplined approach meant she could balance high-energy action scenes with demanding training sessions, avoiding burnout while maintaining her physique.
Kiara’s transformation stands out because it wasn’t built on deprivation. Instead, it was about how sustainable eating, consistent workouts and proper rest can deliver results without compromising health. The actress has not only impressed fans with her glamorous War 2 look but also set an example of balanced preparation in an industry often known for extreme methods.
With the film’s release set to be one of the biggest in Indian cinema, her turn as Kavya Luthra could mark a defining career moment, one fuelled by discipline, planning and an unshakable commitment to her craft.
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A 34-year-old woman developed 43 aggressive skin cancer lesions triggered by HPV
HPV, a common STI, is now potentially linked to a deadly form of skin cancer
A 34-year-old woman developed 43 aggressive skin cancer lesions triggered by HPV
Researchers say this discovery could shift the approach to diagnosing and treating some skin cancers
Protection measures include vaccination, safe sex practices, and regular screening
Human papillomavirus (HPV), one of the most widespread sexually transmitted infections in the UK, is already associated with several serious cancers — cervical, throat, penile, anal, and head and neck cancers among them. Now, researchers in the US have raised concerns that it may also contribute to certain forms of skin cancer, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
Scientists from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found signs of beta-HPV triggering squamous cell carcinoma in a young woman who had no major history of sun damage or other typical causes.
Case study reveals viral link to aggressive skin cancer
The patient, a 34-year-old woman, was referred to NIH after developing 43 lesions of squamous cell carcinoma on her face, legs, and hands. Despite undergoing surgery and immunotherapy, the cancer repeatedly returned.
Initial suspicions pointed to sun exposure and immune deficiency, but further investigation revealed that beta-HPV had inserted its genetic material into her skin cells’ DNA, enabling the virus to take over and fuel cancer growth.
Dr Andrea Lisco, a virologist and lead author of the study, said:
"This discovery could completely change how we think about the development, and consequently the treatment, of [skin cancer] in people who have a health condition that compromises immune function."
The woman was eventually diagnosed with a genetic immune disorder that left her T-cells – vital immune system fighters – impaired. After receiving a stem cell transplant to restore immune function, her skin cancer disappeared and other HPV-related symptoms, including growths on her tongue and skin, also resolved.
The findings were published in the New England Journal of Medicine. While they are preliminary, the research adds to the growing concern about HPV’s role in cancer development beyond the cervix or throat.
3 ways to reduce the risk of HPV-linked conditions
1. Get the HPV vaccine
The HPV vaccine is the most effective protection available. In the UK, it is routinely offered to all children aged 12 to 13, but those who missed it – particularly individuals at higher risk – can still get vaccinated. It is most beneficial before sexual activity begins, but remains helpful afterward.
2. Practise safer sex
Using condoms or dental dams during vaginal, anal and oral sex can significantly reduce the risk of transmission, although not entirely, as HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact. Maintaining a mutually monogamous relationship can also help lower exposure risk.
3. Undergo regular screenings
Routine screening, especially for women, is crucial. Pap tests and HPV tests help detect abnormal changes in the cervix early, reducing the chance of progression to cervical cancer. Current guidelines recommend starting screening at age 21 and continuing up to age 65.
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McDonald’s credited the sales rebound to “standout marketing”
McDonald’s launches its largest-ever marketing campaign, centred on “A Minecraft Movie” meal.
US same-store sales rise 2.5% in Q2, ending a two-quarter decline.
Global same-store sales increase 3.8%, with revenue up 5% to $6.8 billion.
Campaign includes kids’ Happy Meal, adult meal, and crispy chicken strips.
CEO flags concern over declining visits from low-income consumers.
New nostalgic “McDonaldland” meal and revamped drinks to launch next.
McDonald’s has reported a return to sales growth in the second quarter of 2025, driven by the success of what it called the largest marketing campaign in the company’s history — a global promotion tied to A Minecraft Movie. The campaign featured themed kids’ Happy Meals, an adult meal offering, and a major merchandise push across 100 markets.
Same-store sales in the United States rose by 2.5% for the three months ending 30 June, reversing two consecutive quarters of decline. Global sales at comparable locations increased 3.8%, while total revenue rose 5% year-on-year to reach $6.8 billion.
McDonald’s credited the sales rebound to “standout marketing,” particularly the Minecraft tie-in and the launch of new crispy chicken strips.
Minecraft Movie meal attracts customers worldwide
Launched in late March, the Minecraft-themed promotion was timed with the theatrical release of A Minecraft Movie, which was distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures and went on to gross nearly $1 billion globally. The campaign included a Happy Meal with themed toys for children and a special adult meal — a move aimed at attracting both family and nostalgic audiences.
The promotion rolled out in 100 international markets, significantly boosting traffic and interest in McDonald’s offerings during the quarter.
Pricing challenges and low-income consumer pullback
Despite the successful campaign, McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski noted ongoing challenges, particularly among low-income consumers, whose visits dropped by double digits compared to the same period last year. That demographic, he said, continues to pull back on spending, even as middle-income customer visits show improvement.
Kempczinski emphasised the importance of re-engaging lower-income consumers, who typically visit McDonald’s more frequently than others. To that end, the company has extended the $2.99 Snack Wrap promotion through the end of 2025 and is continuing to focus on value-oriented menu strategies.
He admitted that “consumers’ value perceptions are most influenced by our core menu pricing,” pointing to a rising concern that combination meals often cost more than $10 — a price point that may be contributing to negative perceptions about value.
McDonald’s is currently in talks with US franchisees to explore pricing solutions, though no specific changes were announced.
Nostalgia and new drinks
Following the success of the Minecraft promotion, McDonald’s plans to maintain marketing momentum. Next week, it will debut a new “McDonaldland” meal aimed at nostalgic adults, featuring a mystery-flavoured shake. The company will also roll out a revamped drink menu in 500 US locations under its CosMc’s branding in September, following the closure of its short-lived spinoff.
McDonald’s shares opened nearly 3% higher on the back of the results announcement.
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The approach aims to reduce pain, shorten hospital stays, and improve patient outcomes
Glasgow-based CardioPrecision completes first clinical cases of robotic aortic valve replacement (AVR) through a small neck incision.
The procedure was carried out at Cleveland Clinic in the United States.
It uses the company’s CoreVista® Robot Enabling Platform to perform minimally invasive surgery.
The approach aims to reduce pain, shorten hospital stays, and improve patient outcomes.
Early results presented at major international conferences show clinical promise.
Glasgow medtech firm CardioPrecision has successfully performed the world’s first clinical cases of robot-assisted aortic valve replacement (AVR) using a small transcervical incision. This breakthrough could significantly reduce the need for traditional open-heart surgery.
The pioneering operations were carried out at the Cleveland Clinic in the United States, a centre globally recognised for its cardiovascular care. The procedures used CardioPrecision’s proprietary CoreVista® Robot Enabling Platform, offering a new route for accessing the heart valve via the neck rather than the chest.
Building on previous cadaver-based demonstrations of the AVATAR (Advanced Videoscopic Aortic Surgery by Transcervical Approach using Robot-assisted) concept, this marks the company’s transition from proof of concept to successful human application.
A move from concept to clinical reality
In 2023, CardioPrecision demonstrated its AVATAR technique in a series of cadaveric cases in Chicago. The procedures confirmed the feasibility of robot-assisted AVR using the CoreVista® platform. The company, spun out from the NHS with support from InnoScot Health, has since refined the technology for use in live patients.
This vision became a clinical reality in 2025, when a team led by Dr Marijan Koprivanac at Cleveland Clinic completed a small series of successful robot-assisted AVR procedures. The CoreVista® platform allowed surgeons to implant either conventional sutured or newer sutureless heart valves through a small neck incision.
Dr Koprivanac presented early data at the American Association for Thoracic Surgery and the International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery meetings in May, noting significant advantages for patients.
He stated:
“Combining the artificial heart valve with this new surgical technology means patients should experience less pain and less time in the hospital. In fact, we believe this may be one of the least invasive surgical heart valve replacement options available.”
Scotland’s role in cardiac surgery innovation
The successful clinical deployment of the CoreVista® system marks a milestone for Scotland’s life sciences sector. CardioPrecision’s long-term vision has been to enable totally endoscopic heart surgery through a neck incision — an ambition now beginning to show tangible patient benefits.
Fraser Sutherland, Chief Medical Officer of CardioPrecision, said:
“The journey to realise our vision – to enable heart surgery to be performed through a small incision in the neck – began over a decade ago. Initially developed as a totally endoscopic procedure, we incorporated robot assistance to harness the dexterity of surgical robotics.”
Chief Executive Officer Ying Sutherland added:
“We are delighted to introduce this groundbreaking procedure to the medical community. Our unwavering commitment to advancing cardiovascular care has driven us to develop this innovative product, which we believe could revolutionise the approach to cardiac surgery.”
Support from InnoScot Health
CardioPrecision was originally formed through support from InnoScot Health, which works with NHS Scotland to bring new healthcare innovations to market. The organisation continues to play a role in the company’s governance and strategic direction.
Graham Watson, Executive Chair of InnoScot Health, commented:
“We congratulate CardioPrecision on its landmark breakthrough in robotic-assisted aortic valve replacement. It represents a vital step in producing improved outcomes through minimally invasive techniques. We are proud to continue supporting its world-leading capabilities.”