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Is this robot after our hospitality, retail and healthcare jobs?

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As you navigate through your daily routine, whether it’s grabbing a meal at a restaurant, visiting a healthcare center or checking into a hotel, you might soon encounter a new kind of robot at these places. 

It’s called the FlashBot Arm, and Pudu Robotics is behind it. 

This semi-humanoid robot combines advanced manipulation capabilities with intelligent delivery features, making it a significant innovation in the service robotics sector. Unlike traditional robots, the FlashBot Arm is designed to interact with its environment in a more human-like way.

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robot doing jobs 1

FlashBot Arm in a hotel. (Pudu Robotics)

What is the FlashBot arm?

The FlashBot Arm is an upgraded version of Pudu’s FlashBot Max, a wheeled cube used for autonomous item delivery within buildings. This new model adds two robotic arms with seven degrees of freedom each and dexterous hands featuring 11 degrees of freedom, allowing it to perform tasks such as pressing elevator buttons, swiping card keys and carrying objects. 

These enhancements enable the robot to adapt effortlessly to various tasks without requiring costly modifications to existing infrastructures.

robot doing jobs 2

FlashBot Arm in a hotel. (Pudu Robotics)

AI ENABLES PARALYZED MAN TO CONTROL ROBOTIC ARM WITH BRAIN SIGNALS

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 21.22 x 20.28 x 56.7 inches
  • Weight: 33 lbs
  • Battery life: Up to 8 hours on a single 4-hour charge
  • Automatic recharging: Automatically returns to the charging station when the battery is low, ensuring safety and convenience
  • Maximum reach: 6.6 feet operational range for both arms
  • Display: 10.1-inch touchscreen capable of displaying facial expressions
  • Navigation: VSLAM + LiDAR SLAM for real-time mapping and obstacle avoidance
  • Payload capacity: Can carry up to 33 lbs
robot doing jobs 3

FlashBot Arm in a restaurant. (Pudu Robotics)

CHINA’S TRON 1 ROBOT HURDLES OVER OBSTACLES LIKE IT’S NOTHING

Advanced features and capabilities

One of the FlashBot Arm’s standout features is its ability to navigate complex environments entirely on its own. Using advanced VSLAM and laser SLAM technologies, it creates detailed 3D maps, allowing it to move through spaces and avoid obstacles in real time. This is especially valuable in places like hotels, where traditional robots often struggle with elevator navigation due to infrastructure limitations. The FlashBot Arm overcomes these challenges seamlessly, handling tasks from picking up items to operating elevators and delivering them with precision, which significantly boosts service efficiency.

The robot also incorporates cutting-edge large language models that enable it to hold natural conversations with people. Through these interactions, it can understand verbal delivery instructions and coordinate with other robots in the vicinity to analyze tasks and break them down for efficient execution. This conversational capability makes the FlashBot Arm a more interactive and responsive tool, elevating the overall experience by providing personalized service tailored to specific needs.

robot doing jobs 4

FlashBot Arm in a restaurant. (Pudu Robotics)

SCARY AI-POWERED SWARM ROBOTS TEAM UP TO BUILD CARS FASTER THAN EVER

Applications across industries

The FlashBot Arm is designed for diverse commercial settings:

  • It can deliver items to guests autonomously in hotels while navigating elevators.
  • In restaurants and retail spaces, it assists staff by transporting goods or interacting with customers.
  • In healthcare facilities, it supports medical staff with logistical tasks like moving supplies.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

robot doing jobs 5

FlashBot Arm in a service environment. (Pudu Robotics)

Safety and user interaction

The FlashBot Arm is designed with safety and seamless interaction in mind. It’s packed with high-precision sensors like RGBD cameras, LiDAR, panoramic cameras and pressure-sensitive skin, which help it understand its surroundings in real time. These features allow the robot to navigate safely and stop immediately if it encounters an obstacle, ensuring smooth human-robot interactions. You can communicate with the FlashBot Arm using voice commands, gestures, or even through its expressive touchscreen face, making the experience feel natural and intuitive. Its sleek design also makes it approachable and engaging, breaking down barriers for anyone interacting with this cutting-edge technology.

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robot doing jobs 6

FlashBot Arm in a hotel. (Pudu Robotics)

Cost and availability

The FlashBot Arm is priced at approximately $28,000, making it a premium solution for businesses looking to integrate advanced robotic assistance into their operations. As for availability, Pudu Robotics has established a presence here in the U.S. with headquarters in Santa Clara, California, and a fulfillment center in Hamilton, New Jersey. This setup ensures that the FlashBot Arm is accessible to businesses across the U.S. through authorized distributors. However, specific pricing and availability details may vary, so it’s best to contact Pudu Robotics directly for more information.

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robot doing jobs 7

FlashBot Arm in a hotel. (Pudu Robotics)

Kurt’s key takeaways

As impressive as this technology is, it’s impossible to ignore the concerns it raises. For some, the FlashBot Arm represents progress — streamlining tasks and enhancing services in ways that were once unimaginable. For others, it’s a sign of growing automation that could displace human workers, particularly in roles traditionally filled by manual labor. While robots like the FlashBot Arm can create new opportunities in areas like maintenance and programming, they also bring the risk of job displacement for those without access to retraining or alternative career paths. The reality is that automation isn’t going away — it’s expanding. But its adoption isn’t instantaneous, giving us time to adapt and find ways to balance innovation with workforce stability.

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Experimental drug reduces little-known cholesterol that raises heart attack risk

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Researchers have discovered an experimental medication that significantly reduces a cholesterol-like particle that can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Many Americans are unaware that elevated levels of this particle — known as lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a) — are circulating in their blood.

Elevated Lp(a) cannot be modified with lifestyle changes, and has been called “one of the last untreatable frontiers of cardiovascular risk” by Cleveland Clinic, who led the study.

LOW-CARB KETO DIET MAY NOT RAISE HEART DISEASE RISK, NEW STUDY SUGGESTS

This new research confirmed earlier findings showing that the experimental drug — lepodisiran, made by Eli Lilly, who funded the study — can “silence” the main gene responsible for synthesizing Lp(a).

(Other experimental gene therapies with a similar mechanism of action are also in development, according to Cleveland Clinic.)

Researchers have discovered an experimental medication that significantly reduces a cholesterol-like particle that can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. (iStock)

The findings were published in The New England Journal of Medicine and were also presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Cardiology on March 30.

What to know about Lp(a)

Lipoprotein(a) levels are elevated in approximately 20-25% of people worldwide, according to the American Heart Association. 

This equates to approximately 64 million people in the U.S. and 1.4 billion people globally.

Lp(a) shares similarities with another lipoprotein that doctors target to reduce the risk of heart disease, known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL) – often referred to as “bad cholesterol.”

HEART DISEASE RISK HIGHER FOR WOMEN WHO HAVE THESE UNHEALTHY LIFESTYLE HABITS

But lipoprotein(a) is more prone to plaque buildup and clots in the arteries than LDL, according to lead author Steven Nissen, M.D., chief academic officer of the Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute at Cleveland Clinic.

“Lipoprotein(a) is an independent risk factor for heart disease that is largely determined by genetics — that is, it is inherited,” added Dr. Deepak L. Bhatt, director of Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital and a professor of cardiovascular medicine at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, told Fox News Digital. (He was not part of the study.)

Cholesterol in arteries

Lipoprotein(a) levels are elevated in approximately 20-25% of people worldwide, according to the American Heart Association.  (iStock)

Lp(a) is primarily determined by differences in one gene, while LDL cholesterol levels are influenced by multiple genes.

“That’s a very big difference, and LDL has a much larger environmental component,” Nissen noted.

“Lp(a) is an independent risk factor for heart disease that is largely determined by genetics.”

Diet, exercise and weight loss can help decrease LDL levels, but they do not have an impact on Lp(a) levels, experts say.

And unlike LDL, which can be reduced with medications like statins, there are currently no approved drug treatments that lower Lp(a).

“There is no approved pharmacotherapy for lipoprotein(a) by regulatory authorities in any country in the world,” Nissen confirmed.

Study design

The researchers performed a clinical trial of 320 individuals from Argentina, China, Denmark, Germany, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Romania, Spain and the U.S. from Nov. 11, 2022, to April 17, 2023.

The participants were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or one or two subcutaneous injections of lepodisiran.

Man doing push-up

Diet, exercise and weight loss can help decrease LDL levels, but they do not have an impact on Lp(a) levels, experts say. (iStock)

The normal level of Lp(a) is less than 75 nanomoles per liter and the average level for people in the trial was about 250 nanomoles per liter, Nissen told Fox News Digital.

“They were very high — more than three times the upper limit of normal,” he added.

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After one injection of the highest dose, participants showed a nearly 100% reduction in levels of lipoprotein(a) at six months.

Those who received a second dose at six months maintained an almost 100% reduction at the one-year mark.

In other words, the therapy removed virtually all lipoprotein(a) from the blood, according to Nissen.

Heart doctor with patient

Unlike traditional cholesterol, which doctors typically monitor over time, lipoprotein(a) only needs to be checked once in a lifetime. (iStock)

Cardiologists say these findings may ultimately help treat millions of Americans who have elevated levels of Lp(a).

“The results are very impressive,” Bhatt said.

Potential limitations

The researchers noted that there were no major safety concerns, but 12% of participants reported mild reactions at the injection site.

The study had only a few Black participants — a population that needs more research, as they are more likely to have elevated lipoprotein(a) concentrations than White persons, according to previous studies.

(To address this concern, the researchers are enrolling many more Black patients in their larger phase 3 clinical trial.)

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Another limitation was that only two doses of lepodisiran were administered in the trial, so the effect of more doses is not known.

The study also did not show that reducing Lp(a) levels also reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes, outside experts noted.

heart shaped bowl with fruits and vegetables

The European Society of Cardiology and the National Lipid Association in the U.S. both recommend that all adults check their Lp(a) levels. (iStock)

“A phase 3 trial testing the clinical impact of this drug is needed to see if the large reduction of Lp(a) translates into lower rates of heart attack,” Bhatt said.

Nissen confirmed that the phase 3 trial to address this question is already underway.

“Whatever your level is when you’re 24 years old is the level when you’re 64 years old – it doesn’t change, because it’s genetic.”

The European Society of Cardiology and the National Lipid Association in the U.S. both recommend that all adults check their Lp(a) levels.

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“I have been checking Lp(a) levels in all patients for many years,” Bhatt said.

But unlike traditional cholesterol, which doctors typically monitor over time, Nissen pointed out that lipoprotein(a) only needs to be checked once in a lifetime.

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“Whatever your level is when you’re 24 years old is the level when you’re 64 years old – it doesn’t change, because it’s genetic,” he said.

“So you only need to get it once, and if you get it early in life, then you know you’re at risk, and you can live your life accordingly.” 

Seat-swapping family guilts flight passenger into changing spots over baby

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An airline traveler said he or she recently encountered a seat swapper on a flight — and claimed a family “guilted” the person into switching seats.

In the forum “r/delta” on Reddit, the post was titled, “Yep. Happened to me,” as the person was heading out on a ski trip.

“Checked in early, got my seat by the window. And I really like seeing snow out from the window plane,” the user wrote. 

FLIGHT PASSENGER SAYS MAN DELIBERATELY SQUATTED IN WINDOW SEAT, IGNITES SOCIAL MEDIA DEBATE

“And [at] the last minute, I was pulled aside by the attendant.”

The person said the flight attendant “asked me if I can change my seat with a family traveling with an infant — and they asked [for] my window seat. Flight attendant told me they have paid for my seat, to which I replied I paid for mine, too.”

A flight passenger says a family guilted them into switching seats so their baby (not pictured) could get a window spot, sparking a debate on Reddit. (iStock)

The flyer initially refused, but then “walked past a family with a baby only a few months old. And I just thought, what if that family had a similar situation? Maybe the parents are obnoxious but the child is innocent.”

The user went on, “I hate th[ose] stupid parents for guilt-tripping me [about] the baby… ugh, FINE,” wrote the user.

“Ask for a voucher or some sort of compensation.”

“I planned my trip 2 months in advance! I hate it when people do stuff like [this] and expect everyone to accommodate them! Nonetheless, they are parents, too … Have some sense of responsibility,” the flyer added.

FLIGHT PASSENGER SAYS TRAVELER SENT $150 OVER VENMO IN SWAP FOR AISLE SEAT

Reddit users took to the comments section to discuss the swapping encounter.

“Next time that happens, ask for a voucher or some sort of compensation,” suggested one user.

Baby feet on airplane seat

The Reddit post sparked a debate about blaming “families” for seat changes, with parents chiming in on the issue. (iStock)

A Redditor commented, “You could have just … you know, not moved. Keep the seat you paid for.”

Joked another user, “Sure, I’ll switch. Bump me up to first class.”

Another user said, “Never cave. I’d sit there and enjoy every bit of attitude from them.”

FLIGHT PASSENGER ‘FINALLY’ REJECTS SEAT-SWAP REQUEST, TRIGGERS SOCIAL MEDIA DEBATE

People also commented on the notion of blaming “families” for seat changes — with other parents chiming in.

“My family was flying together and purchased seats long in advance so we could sit together. Fast-forward to check-in, and our seats were all over the place, which doesn’t work when you are flying with a 4-year-old. Not all of us [in] these issues are [at] fault,” shared a flyer.

Portrait of the crying boy on the flight

“I have a small child (not pictured) and when we travel I pay to reserve seats together. It’s not that hard,” said one user. (iStock)

Another user said, “You don’t know if they planned in advance or not. Airlines mess up those reservations all the time.”

Yet another parent added, “I always reserve well in advance and select seats together, but there have still been times Delta has separated me from my kids. Cancellations, equipment changes, missed connections, you name it.”

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A user added, “I have a small child and when we travel I pay to reserve seats together. It’s not that hard.”

Gary Leff, a Texas-based travel industry expert and author of the blog “View From the Wing,” told Fox News Digital that passengers should plan ahead for their desired seats.

Baby sits up in first class plane bassinet

Passengers looking to trade seats might bargain with fellow passengers, suggested a travel expert. (iStock)

“Sometimes they book late, and there’s little available. Or a flight gets canceled, they’re put on a new flight, and they need help staying together,” said Leff.

In those cases, he said, it may not be reasonable to expect other passengers to inconvenience themselves to help. 

“A toddler wanting a window makes sense. The child might even melt down without it!  But the baby isn’t going to have a strong window preference,” said Leff.

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He added, “it sounds like the parents were using status as parents to get what they preferred.”

Leff suggested passengers looking to trade seats consider bargaining with fellow passengers. 

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“You’re far better off looking to trade seats by offering something just as good – or better – than asking someone to give up what they prefer and get something worse in return,” said Leff.

Derek Carr’s season in jeopardy after latest injury: report

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The NFL Draft later this month may get more interesting due to an injury to a veteran quarterback.

The New Orleans Saints may be looking at signal-callers with the ninth overall pick because Derek Carr has an injury that may keep him out this year.

According to NFL Network, Carr is dealing with a shoulder injury that “threatens his availability for this season,” and surgery is an option.

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New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr prepares to throw a pass during the second half against the Los Angeles Rams Dec. 1, 2024, in New Orleans.  (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

Carr joined the Saints ahead of the 2024 season after spending his first nine seasons with the Raiders in Oakland and Las Vegas.

It hasn’t exactly been a great tenure. In 27 games, Carr has completed 68.2% of his passes for 6,023 yards, 40 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. Carr missed seven games during the 2024 season due to a a concussion and a left hand fracture.

That said, combined with Carr just turning 34 years old, the Saints may have already been eyeing quarterbacks.

We recently projected Jaxson Dart of Ole Miss going to New Orleans with the ninth overall pick.

Derek Carr chomps on his mouthguard

New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr reacts after a loss against the Carolina Panthers Nov. 3, 2024, in Charlotte, N.C.  (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman)

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And if Shedeur Sanders falls, that suddenly seems like an ideal landing spot.

Spencer Rattler figures to be the backup in New Orleans.

Carr signed a four-year, $150 million deal with New Orleans, with $100 million of it guaranteed. 

The Saints finished 5-12 and in last place in the NFC South last season, fired head coach Dennis Allen in the middle of the season and hired Kellen Moore as their new head coach.

Derek Carr looks on

New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr and Philadelphia Eagles leaves the field after a game in New Orleans Sept. 22, 2024.  (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

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Moore spent recent seasons as the offensive coordinator at different stops. Since 2022, he has been with the Cowboys, Chargers and reigning Super Bowl champion Eagles.

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Strict fasting diet helped golfer Phil Mickelson lose 25 pounds

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Professional golfer Phil Mickelson, who made his 32nd start in The Masters this week, has been open about his commitment to health and wellness.

The six-time major champion and three-time Masters winner has said he follows a five-day prolonged fast, which led to him dropping 25 pounds in 2023.

Intermittent fasting (IF) has become a popular weight-loss strategy in recent years.

THIS WEIGHT LOSS PLAN PERFORMS BETTER THAN TRADITIONAL DIETING, STUDY FINDS

There are several types of intermittent fasting — but they all follow the same concept of alternating between fasting and eating. 

Phil Mickelson is pictured competing in golf tournaments 24 years apart, in 2001 (left) and 2025 (right). The six-time major champion and three-time Masters winner has said he follows a five-day prolonged fast, which led to him dropping 25 pounds in 2023. (Reuters / AP )

With a time-restricted approach, the dieter only eats during a certain window. For example, with the 16/8 method, the person fasts for 16 hours and then can eat within an eight-hour span, between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. 

Other versions involve fasting for a full 24 hours once or twice per week — or only consuming limited calories on fasting days.

FASTING-LIKE DIET COULD SLOW THE AGING PROCESS, STUDY SUGGESTS: ‘LIVING LONGER AND HEALTHIER’

Dr. Christopher Rhodes — a longevity, fasting and biomimetics researcher in California, shared his thoughts on Mickelson’s radical fasting program, which also includes drinking coffee with supplements.

“A five-day prolonged fast like the one Phil Mickelson follows will have profound effects on metabolism and weight loss,” he told Fox News Digital.

Phil Mickelson watches on the sixth hole during the first round at the Masters golf tournament, Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Augusta, Ga. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Phil Mickelson watches on the sixth hole during the first round at the Masters golf tournament on April 10, 2025, in Augusta, Georgia. The athlete has been open about his commitment to health and wellness. (AP Photos)

“It fundamentally shifts the energy state and fuel sources in the body and forces stored fat to be burned as energy, but certainly at the expense of elite athletic performance, especially in the later stages of a fast.”

Potential risks

Fasting for longer than 24 hours will deplete the body’s glycogen stores and cause it to enter ketosis, a state where it primarily burns fat and ketones for energy, according to Rhodes, who is also the founder of nutrition company Mimio Health.

“While this will accelerate fat loss and provide benefits to overall metabolic health, the body will still need to produce some of its own glucose in order to support brain function and will start to break down protein sources, like muscle, to maintain proper glucose levels.”

“A five-day prolonged fast like the one Phil Mickelson follows will have profound effects on metabolism and weight loss.”

Over time, this will result in muscle breakdown, strength loss, fatigue and lower overall energy levels, which could hinder athletic performance, according to the expert.

Mickelson has spoken about his own muscle loss as a result of his fasting.

“I also lost muscle, so I had to start lifting, and I’ve been lifting and slowly have been getting my speed and strength back to where I need it to be,” he said during the 2023 Masters.

Intermittent fasting

There are several types of intermittent fasting — but they all follow the same concept of alternating between fasting and eating.  (iStock)

For elite athletes, maintaining muscle mass and metabolic flexibility is critical, Rhodes said.

“Extended fasts may slow down recovery, impair high-intensity exercise performance and even reduce power output if not properly managed.” 

The doctor cautioned that a prolonged five-day fast should not be performed more than a few times per year, with plenty of recovery time in between.

FASTING COULD REDUCE SIGNS OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE, STUDIES SUGGEST: ‘PROFOUND EFFECTS’

Certain groups — such as those at risk of muscle loss, like the elderly — should avoid five-day fasts, he said.

“While fasting can improve insulin sensitivity, cognition, cellular function and metabolic efficiency, shorter intermittent fasting windows or fasting-mimicking strategies may offer similar metabolic benefits without the drawbacks of extreme caloric restriction,” Rhodes added.

Smart supplements

Mickelson reportedly drinks coffee with supplements during his fasts, something Rhodes recommends as a means of preserving energy and muscle mass during weight loss.

“During prolonged fasting, the body begins to break down both protein and fat for energy, which can lead to muscle loss,” he said.

hot pot of coffee

Mickelson reportedly drinks coffee with supplements during his fasts, something Rhodes recommends as a means of preserving energy and muscle mass during weight loss. (iStock)

“Supplements such as amino acids, fatty acids, electrolytes and certain metabolic bioactives can help mitigate this.”

The doctor noted that supplementing with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), creatine or HMB (hydroxymethylbutyrate) can help to preserve muscle tissue, performance and strength while staying in a fasted state. 

INTERMITTENT FASTING COULD REDUCE HAIR GROWTH, STUDY REVEALS

“Likewise, supplementing with essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids and omega 3s like EPA and DHA, which the body cannot produce on its own, would be crucial for maintaining high-level functionality during prolonged multi-day fasting,” he added.

Masters Golf Photo Gallery

Phil Mickelson hits from the fairway on the first hole during the first round at the Masters golf tournament on April 10, 2025, in Augusta, Georgia. For elite athletes, maintaining muscle mass and metabolic flexibility is critical, Rhodes said. (AP Photos)

Caffeine from coffee can also serve to provide calorie-free energy, Rhodes noted, while also suppressing appetite and providing a cognitive boost to combat potential fasting-induced brain fog. 

“Prolonged fasting can deplete electrolytes like sodium, potassium and magnesium, which are essential for muscle function, hydration and energy production,” he said. “If his supplements include these electrolytes, they may help prevent cramping and fatigue.”

Importance of strength training

Regarding Mickelson’s comments about lifting weights during his fasting stints, Rhodes agreed that weightlifting is essential for preserving and building muscle during weight loss. 

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“The body operates on a ‘use it or lose it’ principle, especially during periods of caloric restriction or fasting, where it’s actively needing to mobilize energy sources from the body to sustain itself,” the doctor said. 

“Muscle is one of the most energetically costly tissues to sustain, so if we’re not using it on a daily basis, the body will preferentially start breaking down muscle to conserve energy.”

Woman lifting weights

Weightlifting is essential for preserving and building muscle during weight loss, experts agree. (iStock)

Resistance training sends a signal to the body that lean mass is essential for survival and tells it to prevent excessive muscle breakdown, prioritizing fat for fuel.

“For athletes like Mickelson, weightlifting also helps maintain neuromuscular coordination, joint integrity and power output,” Rhodes said. 

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“Strength training improves insulin sensitivity, enhances metabolic rate and ensures that weight loss comes primarily from fat rather than muscle.”

It’s also important to refuel after a fast with adequate protein intake, the expert added.

Finding healthy patterns

Ultimately, according to Rhodes, the best way to support long-term weight loss and metabolic health is to find a pattern of eating that works for the individual and can be sustained for the long haul. 

“During prolonged fasting, the body begins to break down both protein and fat for energy, which can lead to muscle loss.”

“While some find that periods of fasting are helpful in resetting their hunger and satiety cues and developing a better relationship with food, others may find it too restrictive and overwhelming, setting themselves up for failure and rebound binging down the road,” he said. 

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“Every person is different, but prioritizing nutrient-dense, minimally processed foods that are rich in fiber, protein and healthy fats can aid significantly in reducing cravings and improving quality of life and meal satisfaction.”

Brain damage more likely with heavy alcohol use, study finds

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Drinking eight or more alcoholic beverages each week could have a damaging effect on the brain, according to a new study published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN).

That volume of alcohol was linked to a higher risk of developing a type of brain lesion called hyaline arteriolosclerosis, which causes a narrowing and thickening of blood vessels and impedes the flow of blood in the brain.

This can lead to memory and cognition problems, according to a press release from AAN.

STROKE, DEMENTIA AND DEPRESSION SHARE THESE 17 PREVENTABLE RISK FACTORS

“Heavy alcohol consumption is a major global health concern linked to increased health problems and death,” said study author Alberto Fernando Oliveira Justo, PhD, of University of Sao Paulo Medical School in Brazil, in the release. 

Drinking eight or more alcoholic beverages each week could have a damaging effect on the brain, according to a new study. (iStock)

“We looked at how alcohol affects the brain as people get older. Our research shows that heavy alcohol consumption is damaging to the brain, which can lead to memory and thinking problems.”

The researchers examined brain autopsies of 1,781 people averaging 75 years of age, focusing on any signs of brain injury or damage.

DIABETES ‘REWIRES’ THE BRAIN IN SURPRISING WAY, STUDY FINDS

They then gathered information about the participants’ alcohol consumption from family members, the AAN release stated.

Those who were classified as heavy drinkers had a 133% greater risk of having vascular brain lesions (abnormalities in the brain’s blood vessels) compared to people who never drank.

The risk was 89% higher than former heavy drinkers and 60% higher than moderate drinkers.

Woman drinking beer

“Heavy alcohol consumption is a major global health concern linked to increased health problems and death,” the study author said. (iStock)

The heavy drinkers and former heavy drinkers were also more likely to develop tau tangles, which are protein deposits in the brain that are a common marker of Alzheimer’s disease. 

When determining the level of consumption, the researchers defined one drink as containing 14 grams of alcohol, equating to about 350 milliliters (ml) of beer, 150 ml of wine or 45 ml of distilled spirits.

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Among those who used to be heavy drinkers, researchers noted a decline in cognitive function and lower brain mass proportional to body mass, an effect that was not found among current heavy drinkers or moderate drinkers, the release stated.

Heavy drinkers had an average 13-year shorter lifespan compared to those who never drank alcohol.

“Heavy alcohol consumption is a major global health concern linked to increased health problems and death.”

“We found heavy drinking is directly linked to signs of injury in the brain, and this can cause long-term effects on brain health, which may impact memory and thinking abilities,” said Justo in the release. 

“Understanding these effects is crucial for public health awareness and for continuing to implement preventive measures to reduce heavy drinking.”

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Dr. Frances Lee, who treats alcohol-related liver disease at Mount Sinai Health Systems in New York City, previously spoke with Fox News Digital about the effects of alcohol on the brain.

Lee said that alcohol — a known depressant — readily crosses the blood-brain barrier, which plays a role in its depressive and addictive effects.

Brain scans

A doctor said that alcohol — a known depressant — readily crosses the blood-brain barrier, which plays a role in its depressive and addictive effects. (iStock)

Heavy alcohol use has also been found to increase the risk of dementia, she warned.

“Alcohol intake can worsen cognitive decline, causing issues with memory, as well as worsening some behavioral issues like depression,” Davis told Fox News Digital.

One key limitation of the study is that it did not assess participants’ health before death. There was also a lack of information about how long the alcohol consumption lasted.

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The researchers noted that the study only shows an association and does not prove that heavy drinking causes brain injury.

The study was supported by The São Paulo Research Foundation.

‘Super rare’ albino squirrel is spotted on South Dakota golf course

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The sighting of an extremely rare animal wasn’t a hard nut to crack.

A resident of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, recently spotted an albino squirrel hanging out in a tree near the Prairie Green Golf Course.

Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation officials announced the sighting in a Facebook post.

EXTREMELY RARE ‘ALBINO’ DEER SPOTTED BY FAMILY DRIVING HOME ON BACK ROADS

They also shared a video of the woodland creature.

“Spotted in a tree just off hole 1, this little guy was taking in the incredible views of our beautifully mowed grass and watching you go to battle with the sand trap,” according to the post.

A rare albino squirrel was spotted in a tree near the Prairie Green Golf Course in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.  (Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation)

Officials joked, “We’re pretty sure he’s only judging your swing, but in a cute, albino squirrel kind of way.”

“Word on the street is that these little guys are SUPER rare, about 1 in 100,000,” the post also mentioned. 

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Albino squirrels have pink or blue eyes and no dark pigments anywhere on their bodies, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division.

albino squirrel

Officials say albino squirrels are about 1 in 100,000. These animals have pink or blue eyes and no dark pigments anywhere on their bodies.  (iStock)

“Keep an eye out near Prairie Green, and if you’re lucky enough to see it, toss this guy or gal a few nuts, grab a phot and send it our way – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime sighting,” the post concluded. 

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Albino squirrels “can’t produce melanin, period, skin or eyes.”

That’s because the “subcellular structures where melanin is typically stored are empty,” according to the White Squirrel Institute.

WHITE SQUIRREL BACKYARD

Officials named the Sioux Falls albino squirrel “Q-Tip” (not pictured).  (White Squirrel Institute)

The unusual animal was named “Q-Tip,” officials shared in a follow-up post. 

Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation officials asked locals to respect the animal’s space.

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“He or she deserves to live a long and happy life in peace!! Please refrain from trying to catch or hunt it down,” officials added. 

Here’s how to track down your missing Android

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You’re about to run out of the house, and suddenly your phone is nowhere to be found. Or you get in your car after being at the store, and your phone’s not in your bag.

Does this scenario sound familiar? Whether you’re someone who loses or misplaces your phone frequently or just once in a blue moon, we’ve all been there.

Unfortunately, finding your phone is not so easy. Perhaps you try calling it, but your ringer is on silent. Or it fell into the cracks somewhere, and you can’t see the screen light up. Luckily, there’s another way to find your Android phone if you’re unsure where you last left it. 

iPhone users, be sure to check out four ways to find your lost iPhone, with and without other devices.

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man looks at watch

A man looking at his smartwatch (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

1. Ping your phone using your smartwatch

One way to find your Android phone if you’re not quite sure where you last left is to rely on your smartwatch, which you can use to ping your phone. This feature sends a signal to your phone, making it ring loudly even if it’s on silent, helping you locate it quickly.

  • Open the watch app: On your Android watch (such as a Samsung Galaxy watch), swipe down to access the quick settings menu.
  • Find the Find My Phone icon: Look for an icon that resembles a phone with sound waves around it.
  • Ping your phone: Tap the icon, and your phone will start ringing, making it easier to find.

2. Use your Google Account to ‘Find My Device’

If you have access to a device connected to your Google account, such as a laptop, tablet or another smartphone, you can use it to find your Android phone. This feature is part of Google’s ecosystem and allows you to locate your phone through the Google Play Store or any web browser.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

To use Google’s Find My Device feature, a few things must have been set up on your Android phone before it was lost:

  • Your phone must be signed into your Google account
  • Location Services must be turned on
  • The Find My Device feature must be enabled:Go to Settings → Security → Find My Device and ensure it’s on
  • Your phone must be powered on and connected to mobile data or Wi-Fi for real-time tracking
  • (Optional but helpful) Your device should be visible on Google Play. You can check this at play.google.com/settings and ensure visibility is turned on

If these conditions are met, you can use any device (such as a laptop, tablet or another phone) connected to the internet to find your lost Android phone:z

  • On any device, open a web browser or the Google Play Store app
  • Log in with the same Google account linked to your lost phone
  • In the web browser, go to Find My Device. If using the Google Play Store, open the menu and select Find My Device
  • Google will display your phone’s last known location on a map
  • You can also use options to make it ring, lock it or erase its data to protect your personal information
find my device

Find My Device map (Google)

LOOKING FOR MORE WAYS TO LOCK DOWN YOUR ANDROID? HERE’S HOW TO DO IT

3. Utilize the old-school method

It may go without saying, but with all this convenient technology, sometimes the tried-and-true methods are easily forgotten. If you happen to lose your Android, consider retracing your steps: call the places you visited within the last few hours, ask employees if anyone found their phone, and check all the nooks and crannies in your car, bag, etc. You can also try calling your phone to see if anyone answers, and if they’re honest, you can find a safe, public place to meet up. Also, if you happen to lose your phone in a ride-share, those apps have methods to communicate with the driver in order to get your phone back.

BEST ANTIVIRUS FOR ANDROIDS – CYBERGUY PICKS 2025

What to consider if you lose or misplace your Android

Anyone can lose their phone at some point. Therefore, be careful what apps and security you have on your phone. For instance, if you have banking apps, notes with your passwords listed or private messages and emails, you’ll want to have an extra layer of security on your phone, like a keypad lock or biometric security. This way, if your phone is placed in the wrong hands, they can’t access your sensitive data.

Even if you have those security features on your Android, if you call your phone and someone happens to answer, be wary of what information you give them. Though one would hope the finder would be honest, you never know. They could set you up for a scam, so trust your gut.

Other tips to protect your Android phone: Essential accessories

To minimize the risk of damage happening to your Android phone, whether that damage is from when you lost or misplaced it, it may be worth investing in some protective gear and tools. Here are some must-haves for any smartphone owner.

1. Install strong antivirus software to keep your Android safe

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

2. Invest in a durable phone case

A sturdy phone case can prevent damage from drops, bumps and scratches. Consider cases from reputable brands offering shock absorption, reinforced corners and raised edges to protect the screen and camera. Look for materials such as silicone, TPU or hybrid constructions that combine multiple layers for enhanced durability. Additionally, some cases come with added functionalities like kickstands or cardholders, making them both protective and practical.

3. Opt for a high-quality charger

Using a high-quality charger ensures your phone charges efficiently and safely. Look for chargers that offer fast charging capabilities and are certified by your phone’s manufacturer. Plus, investing in a reliable charger can save you from the frustration of slow charging times and potential damage to your device. It’s always worth having a dependable charger on hand, especially for those busy days when you need a quick power boost.

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dead android

A woman with a dead Android (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

UPDATED ANDROID MALWARE CAN HIJACK CALLS YOU MAKE TO YOUR BANK

4. Consider a privacy screen

Privacy screens can prevent prying eyes from viewing your phone’s display, adding an extra layer of security. They are especially useful in public places. Imagine being on a crowded train or in a busy cafe, these screens can give you peace of mind knowing your personal information stays private. Plus, they can also reduce glare, making it easier to see your screen in bright environments.

BEST ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR ANDROID

Kurt’s key takeaways

Losing your phone can be a frustrating experience, but with the right strategies and tools at your disposal, you can recover it quickly and efficiently. Whether you rely on your smartwatch to ping your device, utilize Google’s “Find My Device” feature or revert to the classic method of retracing your steps, there are multiple ways to help you locate your Android phone. So, the next time you find yourself frantically searching for your phone, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and tools to handle the situation with confidence.

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What strategies or tools have you found most effective for locating your lost phone, and do you have any personal stories to share about your experiences with misplaced devices? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

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Medieval skeletons found in the heart of major city during archaeological excavation

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Some commuters in a cosmopolitan European city may be shocked to learn they’ve been walking over ancient skeletons for many years.

Officials in Brussels, Belgium, announced on April 9 that public works projects have led to the discovery of at least 30 skeletons in the heart of the city – and there may be more still to come.

The archaeological excavation began when workers recently stumbled across the skeletons while working on tram tracks. 

ANCIENT SETTLEMENT REVEALS REMAINS OF 1,800-YEAR-OLD DOG, BAFFLING EXPERTS: ‘PRESERVED QUITE WELL’

Pictures show sharply dressed locals walking about the charming European city as excavators dig deep into a pit full of skeletons.

Ans Persoons, secretary of state for Brussels, shared details about the excavation in an April 9 Facebook post written in both Dutch and French. 

Brussels officials recently announced the discovery of dozens of skeletons in the city’s central district. (@anspersoonsbxl via Facebook)

Persoons identified the mass grave as the remnants of the old Saint-Jean Hospital, established in 1195.

“Thanks to preventive excavations, 30 skeletons have already been cleared,” the translated post read. 

ARCHAEOLOGISTS DISCOVER LONG-LOST TOMB OF UNKNOWN PHARAOH IN EGYPT

“It’s hard to imagine, but so many traces of our history are hidden under the pavements of Brussels!”

Close-up of excavation

The mass grave is part of the remnants of the old St-Jean Hospital, or Clinique Saint-Jean. (@anspersoonsbxl via Facebook)

The excavation is being conducted with the help of the Brussels Intercommunal Transport Company (MVIB) and workers from the city’s public water operator VIVAQUA.

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In a video posted by the MVIB, the agency wrote that the “centuries-old cemetery” was found while employees worked on the tram tracks in the Regentstraat, in central Brussels.

Brussels buildings behind excavation

Pictures show Brussels residents walking about as excavators unearth medieval skeletons close by.  (@anspersoonsbxl via Facebook)

“Between the 14th and 18th centuries, [the cemetery] offered the final resting place to the sick and local residents,” read the post, translated from Dutch to English. 

“Archaeologists are at work right now and hope to better understand everyday life in old Brussels through the excavations,” the agency added.

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The find is one of many European mass graves discovered in the past several months. 

Last summer, 50 “exceptionally well-preserved” Viking skeletons were discovered by archaeologists in Denmark.

Archaeologists digging out skeletons

The skeletons are described as “medieval” by Belgian officials, and date back as many as 700 years. (@anspersoonsbxl via Facebook)

More recently, the Vienna Museum discovered the skeletons of more than 129 Roman and Germanic soldiers. 

Found under a soccer field, the mass grave dates back to the first century A.D. 

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Fox News Digital’s Kyle Schmidbauer contributed to this report.

Teenager goes from 10 nightly seizures to zero with brain implant

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Imagine waking up seizure-free after years of suffering. 

For 17-year-old Clara Fuller, this dream became reality thanks to groundbreaking brain implant technology. 

Her journey from relentless seizures to a normal teenage life highlights the incredible potential of medical innovation.

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clara fuller

Brain implant patient Clara Fuller (NeuroOne)

A life turned upside down

At just 13, Clara began experiencing uncontrollable seizures that baffled doctors. Initially misdiagnosed with anxiety and gallbladder issues, she even underwent unnecessary surgery before doctors finally identified the real culprit: epilepsy. But this wasn’t just any epilepsy; Clara had multifocal epilepsy, a rare and severe form that resists all medication.

“Every night I would have seizures, up to 10, and it was just miserable,” Clara said, recalling the years lost to her condition.

Her adolescence was marked by sleepless nights and constant medical challenges, robbing her of the simple joys of being a teenager. For years, there seemed to be no solution in sight.

clara fuller 2

Brain implant patient Clara Fuller (NeuroOne)

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A revolutionary solution

Everything changed this past summer when Clara became the first pediatric patient to undergo a minimally invasive procedure at the Mayo Clinic using NeuroOne’s cutting-edge brain implant technology. The device, known as the NeuroOne OneRF Ablation System, is the first of its kind FDA-cleared technology designed for both diagnosing and treating neurological disorders in one procedure.

“It took them maybe 30 minutes, and the longest part was setting up,” Clara said about the procedure that transformed her life.

Dr. Brin Freund, a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, explained Clara’s case in more detail: 

“Clara has had a history of seizures that, unfortunately, were uncontrolled with medications. In these cases, surgery may be the only option to reduce and potentially cure the seizure disorder. After a thorough diagnostic evaluation, our group at Mayo Clinic Florida recommended implantation of electrodes (stereoelectroencephalography, or stereo EEG) in the brain to determine where her seizures were originating, in order to develop a surgical plan to treat them. 

“Clara and her family were very much in agreement with this plan, given how debilitating her seizures had been and the failure to control her seizures with medications. Clara underwent implantation of NeuroOne electrodes in order to record seizure activity to determine where her seizures were arising from and then to potentially treat them by performing radiofrequency ablation in these areas.”

clara fuller in hospital

Brain implant patient Clara Fuller (NeuroOne)

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How NeuroOne’s dual-function system works

The NeuroOne system uses ultra-thin electrodes to pinpoint the exact source of seizures in the brain. Once identified, it employs radiofrequency energy to disrupt abnormal electrical signals in problematic brain tissue without permanently damaging surrounding areas. This dual functionality, diagnostic and therapeutic, is what sets it apart from traditional methods that require two separate surgeries.

NeuroOne CEO Dave Rosa explained: 

“What separates our technology from others is that our device can be used for both the diagnostic part – finding the area of the brain – and then ablating or destroying that tissue, all in the same hospitalization.” 

He added that this approach minimizes patient risk by reducing the number of procedures and hospitalizations required.

Freund emphasized this advantage:

“Stereo EEG electrodes provide the ability to localize seizure onset with excellent precision as long as the electrode implantation is planned thoroughly and accurately. With regards to the NeuroOne electrodes, they allow for radiofrequency ablation to be performed while the electrodes are still implanted without having to remove them. We can therefore not only localize the seizure onset but provide a surgical treatment and potentially avoid a second and potentially more extensive or invasive procedure such as a craniotomy and resection of brain tissue. 

“The NeuroOne electrodes allow us to control the conditions of the ablative procedure. They also provide us more confidence that the electrodes will withstand the duration of the implantation, which would include recording seizure data, performing the ablation and then recording more data after the ablation to ensure that the treatment achieved the intended goal.”

clara fuller in hospital bed

Brain implant patient Clara Fuller (NeuroOne)

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The results

The results have been nothing short of life-changing for Clara. Since undergoing the procedure, she has been completely seizure-free. She’s now back to enjoying school, sports and uninterrupted sleep – things most people take for granted but were once unimaginable for her.

According to Freund:

“Regarding the implantation itself, she did very well and there were no adverse effects. The first ablation did not cause any acute complications. We then performed a second ablation a few days later after data was recorded from the electrodes demonstrating ongoing seizure activity to ensure that her seizures would not recur. This was also well-tolerated without complications. We have now followed up months after the electrodes were removed and there have been no signs of ill effects due to the implantation or the ablations. She has been seizure-free since the ablation and has done amazingly well.”

Clara’s story offers hope for others living with drug-resistant epilepsy, which affects about one-third of the 3 million Americans with epilepsy. According to Rosa, “The desire to expand ablation therapy to patients suffering from seizures that do not respond to drug therapy was our driving force.”

seizure fix 5

NeuroOne One RF Ablation System (NeuroOne)

A broader impact on medicine

NeuroOne’s innovative technology isn’t just limited to epilepsy treatment. The company plans to expand its applications to other areas, such as pain management for facial pain and lower back pain, using the same RF ablation technology. Rosa also sees potential for treating neurological conditions beyond epilepsy: 

“Pain management appears to be the largest opportunity outside of brain ablation.”

Dr. Freund believes this technology could dramatically improve long-term care for pediatric epilepsy patients like Clara: 

“This technology could allow for limiting the number of procedures that are required to treat drug-resistant focal epilepsy and also provide immediate feedback as to whether or not a surgical treatment was effective. This could potentially reduce the risk of adverse events by limiting the number of times that a brain surgery would be needed. This technology also allows us to access deeper parts of the brain to provide surgical treatment.”

He added that the impact may soon be widespread:

“In our practice, we are now using these electrodes in every case that requires Stereo EEG for treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy. I think as these types of electrodes are used at more centers and they get more experience, there would be no reason not to use them.”

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seizure fix 6

NeuroOne One RF Ablation System (NeuroOne)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Clara’s remarkable journey from a life plagued by seizures to one of freedom and normalcy underscores how advancements in medical technology are transforming lives in profound ways. Her story offers hope for those struggling with drug-resistant epilepsy and other neurological conditions.

As technology continues to push boundaries, we can expect even more groundbreaking treatments to emerge, offering new possibilities for those who once felt limited by their conditions. In the words of NeuroOne’s CEO, this revolutionary technology promises a future where fewer surgeries and safer outcomes become the norm.

If you or someone close to you had epilepsy, would you consider trying innovative treatments like this? Why or why not? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

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Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:

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