16.4 C
New York
Thursday, November 6, 2025
Home Blog Page 622

Look what’s being made to fly inches from your face

0


The HOVERAir X1 is a self-flying camera drone that can fly inches from your face and take amazing shots from different perspectives.

Imagine a camera that is able to fly around you and capture your best moments and the perfect shot from just about any angle. 

Think of it as your personal flying photographer.

That is the latest innovation from China called the HOVERAir X1, a self-flying camera drone that can fly inches from your face. The HOVERAir X1 is not like any other drone you have seen before. It is small, simple, and smart.

UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS: JOIN KURT’S CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER FOR FREE TO GET SECURITY ALERTS AND LIFE-CHANGING HACKS TO YOUR INBOX

drone camera 1

Woman taking a selfie with HOVERAir X1 (HOVERAir)

What makes the camera drone really stand out?

The HOVERAir X1 has the ability to fly on its own without any controller. It uses its main camera and artificial intelligence to follow you wherever you go and capture videos and photos.

You can choose from five different flying modes, each with a single button press on the drone. Whether you want it to hover, zoom out, follow, orbit, or capture a bird’s eye view, the HOVERAir X1 will do it for you. You can totally enjoy the moment while the drone captures it for you instead of worrying about manually piloting it.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

To record clear audio, you should wear a microphone to plug into your phone. You could use your phone, but it may not be as clear. To use the microphone, you’ll need to have the drone’s HoverAir app downloaded on your phone.

The pocket-sized drone flies without FAA registration

With folded dimensions smaller than your mobile phone, it can fit in your pocket, so you can take it with you anywhere you go. It also weighs only half a pound, which means it’s ultra-light, and you don’t need to register it with the FAA or worry about any regulations.

DRONE cam 2

Man holding the HOVERAir X1 (HOVERAir)

MORE: IT MAY LOOK LIKE AN EAGLE BUT ITS ACTUALLY A STEALTHY BIRD-DRONE FOR COVERT MISSIONS

The drone’s advanced technology for a smooth and safe flight

The HOVERAir X1 is also equipped with advanced technology that helps it avoid obstacles and stay stable in the air. It uses visual inertial odometry (VIO) and a ToF laser altitude positioning system to sense its surroundings and adjust its flight accordingly.

DRONE Cam 3

HOVERAir X1 flying (HOVERAir)

It also has a triple stabilization system that combines a gimbal, electronic image stabilization, and horizon leveling to ensure super smooth videos.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

drone cam 4

HOVERAir X1 following child (HOVERAir)

MORE: HOW THIS NEW HEAVY-DUTY DRONE CAN CARRY UP TO 88 POUNDS OF CARGO LIKE IT’S A FEATHER

A powerful and portable camera drone

The HOVERAir X1 can take stunning videos up to 2.7K resolution and photos with a 12-megapixel camera. It has 32GB of storage, enough to hold hours of footage and thousands of photos. The battery lasts for about 20 flights per charge and can be recharged in 35 minutes with a charging hub or 55 minutes with onboard charging.

DRONE cam 5

Man holding the HOVERAir X1 (HOVERAir)

MORE: HOW SMUGGLING GANGS USE DRONES TO DELIVER DRUGS ACROSS THE BORDER

How to fly the camera drone in manual mode

If you ever want to take control of the drone, you can do so with the HOVERAir X1 app on your smartphone. You can enter manual mode and fly the drone with a virtual joystick. You can also view the live feed from the drone’s camera and adjust the settings.

6 Look what China is making to fly inches from your face

A person using the HOVERAir X1 app (HOVERAir)

How safe is the camera drone?

The fully enclosed design makes it safe to launch from your hand and fly around crowds or children. However, the HOVERAir X1 is not waterproof, and the company says it should not be used in rainy conditions. They also recommend that it not be used in a strong wind environment.

How to get your hands on one of these camera drones

You can order the HOVERAir X1 by clicking here

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Kurt’s key takeaways

The HOVERAir X1 is a self-flying camera that can fly inches from your face and take amazing shots from different perspectives. It is a drone that you can take anywhere and use anytime. It is a drone that can do almost anything. What can’t drones do these days?

What do you think of the HOVERAir X1? Would you buy one for yourself or as a gift for someone else? How would you use it to record your memories? Let us know in the comments below. Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.



Source link

Samsung’s big leap in technology with its AI-powered Galaxy S24 series phones

0


The Samsung Galaxy S24 series is here.

This latest rendition in Samsung’s Galaxy lines is the company’s first foray into the world of mobile artificial intelligence, featuring a ton of advanced intelligence features. It also features an upgraded camera and better battery than previous phones in the Galaxy S line.

We got the chance to test out the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra to see just how the phone’s new AI features translate in the real world. Let’s break it down for you.

UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS: JOIN KURT’S CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER FOR FREE TO GET SECURITY ALERTS AND LIFE-CHANGING HACKS TO YOUR INBOX

samsung big leap 1

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra specifications

First and foremost, let’s get the technical stuff out of the way. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is big. It boasts a 6.8-inch screen, which is nearly the size of a phablet. That said, it feels really good in your hand and doesn’t feel too bulky in your pocket.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

Samsung big leap 2

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra in man’s pants pocket (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Its partly made from recycled steel, which gives the phone some heft that gives you a sense of security in case you drop it. The Corning Gorilla Armor screen also gives you some peace of mind.

Speaking of the screen, the phone features a QHD+, Dynamic AMOLED 2x display, with a 120Hz refresh rate. In layman’s terms, the video looks fantastic. Streaming 4K video was a breeze.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

Out of the box, Samsung included the S Pen stylus and a charger. While using a stylus comes with a bit of a learning curve, it does make navigating the phone and using certain features so much easier. It also pops right into the phone, making storage convenient.

SAMSUNG big leap 3

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra & S Pen stylus (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra’s camera

Samsung has a reputation for having some of the best cameras on the market, but the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra really outdoes itself. It features five back-facing cameras, ranging from a 10-megapixel telephoto lens to a 200-megapixel-wide camera.

samsung big leap 4

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

It also features a 100x digital zoom, which does a solid job of capturing things up close despite pixel distortion and noise.

That’s all to say, this phone takes super high-quality photos. It has some great depth, and the color quality really pops in your photos.

samsung big leap 5

Photo showing digital zoom feature with Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: HOW TO DOUBLE YOUR BATTERY LIFE WITH A SIMPLE ANDROID SETTING

AI photo editing

If you’re like me and struggle to get the perfect shot every time, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra comes with generative AI photo editing. It allows you to select a subject and either move it or erase it from the photo entirely. If you use the S Pen, it’s super easy to do. You can also use your finger, but I found using the stylus allowed you to select things more precisely.

However, it’s not perfect. While it does a solid job at removing an object, generating a background seems like it’s a struggle. In several tests, the area where you removed the object becomes a jumbled mess. And if you missed a part of the object you were trying to remove, cleanup can be a bit of a headache.

That said, this is Samsung’s first attempt at a generative AI photo editor. So it’s understandable if it’s not quite the best on the market just yet.

Samsung big leap 6

Photo taken with Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: BEWARE OF NEW ANDROID MALWARE HIDING IN POPULAR APPS

Incorporating AI while using your phone

One of the big goals of the Samsung Galaxy S24 series seems to be normalizing AI in everyday life. This phone is packed with AI features designed to make tasks more efficient.

Summarize and translate web content with Samsung’s browser

For instance, if you use Samsung’s built-in browser, you have the option to summarize and translate articles and web pages. All you have to do is click the AI option and select which option you’d like to use. As you can see below, the summary option sums up an article in just a few bullet points. Again, it’s not perfect as it couldn’t summarize some articles. Generally speaking, however, it gets the job done.

samsung big leap 7

Example of AI photo editor use with Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Chat assist: A smart editor for your messages

The phone also comes with a chat assist. The feature is like having a mini editor in your pocket. It analyzes what you write and shows you ways to say your message in different tones, depending on who you’re having a conversation with. If you’re using Android Auto, it will automatically summarize messages and even suggest replies to keep you focused on the road.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

samsung big leap 8

Example of Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra being used to summarize and translate (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: 3 MUST-HAVE APPS FOR A LIGHTNING-FAST CLEAN-UP ON YOUR ANDROID

Samsung Notes: A powerful AI-enhanced note-taking app

The Samsung Notes app also gets a big boost from AI. Not only does it include summarization and translation features, but it also includes options to let AI format your notes, turn them into bullet points, and even transcribe voice recordings with multiple speakers.

How to buy the Samsung Galaxy S24 Series

The Samsung Galaxy S24 is out now. You can purchase a Galaxy S24 for $799, a Galaxy S24+ for $999, and a Galaxy S24 Ultra for $1,299. You can get up to $550 off the Galaxy S24, up to $650 off the S24+, and up to $750 off the S24 Ultra with an eligible trade-in on Samsung.com.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Using this phone for the past few days has been a great experience. I use an iPhone regularly, but I love to research and test new tech products, and with all the buzz around the Samsung Galaxy S24, I was curious to see how it stacks up. Using Android came with a bit of a learning curve. But after a day and a half, operating the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra was easy. The phone is super powerful, and I found myself utilizing some AI tools, especially in the Samsung Notes app.

That said, I would like to see Samsung really perfect the AI photo editing and the summary option in the browser. I’d also like to see AI integration outside of Samsung’s native apps — such as exporting the AI tools to Google Chrome and bringing its live translation feature in the phone app to a service like WhatsApp.

Which AI feature of the Samsung Galaxy S24 series are you most interested in or excited about? Let us know in the comments below. Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.



Source link

Music could be the secret to fighting off dementia, study says: ‘Profound impact’

0

There’s nothing like a nostalgic song to transport you back to a special time and place — and now a new study has shown that music could help protect those memories for a lifetime.

Researchers at the University of Exeter discovered that people who “engage in music” over the course of their lives tend to have improved memory and better overall brain health as they age, according to a press release.

The findings were published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.

IMPROVING MEMORY MAY BE AS EASY AS POPPING A MULTIVITAMIN, STUDY FINDS: ‘PREVENTS VASCULAR DEMENTIA’

“The main message here is that different ways of engaging with music throughout life could be linked to different benefits,” lead researcher Anne Corbett, professor of dementia research at the University of Exeter, told Fox News Digital. 

“This has implications for public health, on the importance of including music in general education, and of keeping it up throughout life, or revisiting in mid to late life,” she went on. 

A new study has shown that music could help protect memory and cognitive function for a lifetime. (iStock)

The scientists analyzed data for more than 1,107 people 40 and older who had not been diagnosed with dementia. They were all participants in the PROTECT study, a long-running U.K. research initiative focused on brain health and dementia that has been running since 2015.

BOOST BRAIN HEALTH AND SLOW MENTAL AGING WITH 10 INTRIGUING TIPS FROM LONGEVITY EXPERTS

The data for this particular study was collected between March 2019 and March 2022. Participants completed questionnaires in which they reported their experiences with playing a musical instrument, singing, reading music and listening to music.

 They also rated the level of their abilities.

The participants, who were 83% female and had an average age of 67, also took an online cognitive test to gauge their memory and executive function.

Seniors singing

Those who regularly sang were also shown to have better brain health, the study found, but researchers noted that could also be a result of social factors. (iStock)

The participants who played a musical instrument were found to have higher cognitive skills and enhanced memory compared to those who did not.

The piano was shown to have the biggest cognitive benefit. The longer the person played, the greater the benefits.

Those who regularly sang were also shown to have better brain health, the study found, but researchers noted that could also be a result of social factors.

“Our findings indicate that learning and engaging with music can enhance the brain’s resilience in a similar way to learning a new language.”

“Because of the scale of our study, and the information we have available, we were able to break down the results to look at the association from different types of musicality,” said Corbett. “Singing was associated with better executive function, which could be because of the social aspect of being in a choir.”

People who learn more through written music seemed to have better numerical memory abilities, she noted, whereas playing a keyboard was linked to benefits across the board. 

“We found no effect from listening to music alone – formal learning was key,” Corbett added.

Woman playing guitar

Participants who played a musical instrument were found to have higher cognitive skills and enhanced memory compared to those who did not. (iStock)

Based on these findings, the researchers recommend promoting musical education and engagement — from childhood onward — as a means of protecting brain health.

“We think this could be incorporated into general lifestyle advice such as eating healthy and being active, which is geared toward keeping our brains sharp in later life,” said Corbett.

“Our findings indicate that learning and engaging with music can enhance the brain’s resilience in a similar way to learning a new language.”

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE FOUND TO BE TRANSMITTED THROUGH MEDICAL PROCEDURES DECADES AGO, STUDY FINDS

The study did have some limitations, the researcher shared.

“The number of people in our study who played certain instruments was quite small, so this may have accounted for part of the effect we found,” Corbett said. 

“We also didn’t look at whether taking up an instrument for the first time in later life would have benefit, though it certainly doesn’t do any harm and people would benefit from enjoyment and social interaction. Looking at any impact on the brain could be an interesting avenue for future research.”

Piano nursing home

The piano was shown to have the biggest cognitive benefit. The longer the person played, the greater the benefits. (iStock)

Dr. Brandon Crawford, a functional neurologist at the NeuroSolution Center of Austin, who was not involved in the study, confirmed the “profound impact” that musical activities, including playing instruments and singing, have on the brain. 

“Playing musical instruments and singing engage and strengthen various cognitive processes, including memory, attention and executive functions,” he told Fox News Digital. 

“The key is consistent engagement and enjoyment, which are crucial for sustaining the activity and reaping the neurological benefit.”

“They enhance neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new neural connections, fostering an environment conducive to learning and growth,” Crawford went on. “Music also stimulates emotional processing and can improve mood, offering a therapeutic benefit.”

The benefits of musical activities are both preventative and rehabilitative, the doctor said. 

“For individuals without cognitive impairments, these activities can help maintain and even improve cognitive functions, serving as a protective measure against cognitive decline,” he said. 

Reading music

“Instruments like the piano or violin demand coordination between both hands, reading music and emotional expression, engaging a wide range of brain areas,” a neurologist said.  (iStock)

“Meanwhile, [for] those already experiencing symptoms of cognitive decline, musical activities can slow the progression of such symptoms and, in some cases, restore cognitive functions thanks to the brain’s remarkable ability to adapt and change.”

Some of Crawford’s own patients have experienced noticeable improvements in memory, mood and cognitive functions as a result of musical activity, he said. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

“For example, patients with early signs of dementia who started playing the piano or singing regularly have shown improvements in recall abilities and a reduction in the progression of their symptoms,” he shared. 

While all musical activities offer benefits, Crawford noted that some instruments might provide more significant cognitive stimulation due to the complexity of the skills they require. 

Singing in choir

“Singing was associated with better executive function, which could be because of the social aspect of being in a choir,” said the lead researcher. (iStock)

“Instruments like the piano or violin demand coordination between both hands, reading music and emotional expression, engaging a wide range of brain areas,” he said. 

The most important thing is that the person enjoys the activity, according to Crawford.

“The key is consistent engagement and enjoyment, which are crucial for sustaining the activity and reaping the neurological benefits,” he said.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Corbett added, “We know that lifestyle factors are important for keeping our brains as sharp as possible in later life.”

“Engaging with music throughout life could form part of this lifestyle advice, alongside factors including exercise, eating a healthy diet, giving up smoking and not drinking too much alcohol.”

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

Nine people hospitalized after rush of 200 inmates at California prison

0

Nine people were hospitalized after around 200 inmates rushed correction officers at a Southern California prison.

According to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, eight corrections officers and an incarcerated man were injured during the violent rush at Ironwood State Prison in Blythe, California.

Authorities said that officers were escorting an inmate across the prison for a contraband investigation “approximately 200 incarcerated people, on the yard, rushed toward the officers, attacking them with fists and rocks.”

After shooting a rifle warning round, officers used “chemical agents and non-lethal impact rounds” to get the prisoner under control.

TAGGERS VANDALIZE 27 FLOORS OF LUXURY LOS ANGLES HIGH-RISE LEFT ABANDONED BY CHINESE DEVELOPERS

The riot happened at Ironwood State Prison in Blythe, California on Thursday, Feb. 1 at approximately 10 a.m. PST. (Google Maps)

Eight staff members and one inmate were treated at a local hospital and later returned to the prison, officials said.

BEVERLY HILLS POLICE DETAIN ARMED SUSPECT AT WALDORF ASTORIA HOTEL AHEAD OF GRAMMYS PARTY

Authorities did not immediately share the extent of their injuries.

Barbwire at a prison

An inmate rush on Thursday at the Ironwood State Prison left 9 people injured. (Getty Images)

Ironwood, a minimum-medium security facility in the desert east of Los Angeles, opened in 1994 and houses about 2,500 male inmates.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP 

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Ex-Trump White House Adviser Makes Surprise Confession On Fox Business

0

One of Donald Trump’s leading economic advisers now admits he was wrong about the predictions he made for the economy under President Joe Biden.

“Mea culpa,” Fox Business host Larry Kudlow said on the air Thursday. “I was wrong about the slowdown and the recession, so was the entire forecasting fraternity.”

Fox News host Sandra Smith, however, tried to get him to back out of it.

“I don’t think you were wrong,” she said.

But Kudlow, who was director of the National Economic Council under Trump for nearly three years, stuck with it.

“The Fed, everyone was wrong,” he said, referring to widespread predictions of a recession in 2022 and 2023 that never came to fruition.

Kudlow noted that unemployment numbers will come out Friday after a month of headline-making layoffs.

“My guess is that the Federal Reserve is looking more closely at that than inflation,” Smith said in a clip posted on Mediaite, noting that the agency is hoping to tame inflation, which could lead to job losses.

“If the labor market takes a significant hit, we could see a significant downturn in the American economy,” she predicted.

Kudlow made a similar confession about the strength of the economy last month when the gross domestic product GDP jumped faster than expected.

“He gets his due,” Kudlow said of Biden. “If I were he, I would be out slinging that hash, too. No problem.”

He did, however, add that a chunk of the growth was from government spending.

Taylor Swift, Drake and other megastar music pulled from TikTok

0


In a significant blow to TikTok, Universal Music Group (UMG) has initiated the removal of its extensive music catalog from the platform, impacting global superstars such as Taylor Swift, Drake and Olivia Rodrigo.

This drastic action comes as a result of failed negotiations to renew the licensing agreement that allowed TikTok to feature music from some of the biggest names in the industry.

With the previous deal expiring on Jan. 31, the inability to reach a new agreement has led to a notable void in the platform’s music offerings.

TAYLOR SWIFT IS THE LATEST HIGH-PROFILE DEEPFAKE VICTIM. HERE’S WHAT LAWMAKERS ARE DOING TO PROTECT THEM

tiktok removal 1

Universal Music Publishing Group website (UMG)

It’s a fight over money and residual amounts paid by TikTok 

The discord between the two giants centers on several critical issues, including financial compensation for artists and songwriters, the handling of AI-generated music, and measures to ensure online safety, safeguarding against hate speech, bigotry, bullying, and harassment. UMG’s decision to pull its music from TikTok marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over the value and protection of creative content in the digital age.

MORE: ASK KURT: ARE TIKTOK VIDEOS SAFE TO VIEW OUTSIDE OF THE APP?   

tiktok removal 2

TikTok app on smartphone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

UMG has publicly accused TikTok of trying to coerce them into accepting an unfavorable agreement, one that falls short of addressing the record label’s concerns over fair artist remuneration, the implications of generative AI on copyright and creativity, and the assurance of a safe online environment for both creators and users.

AS ‘MANIC CLEANING’ TRENDS ON TIKTOK, PSYCHOLOGISTS REVEAL REASONS, RISKS BEHIND IMPULSIVE TIDY

TIKTOK removal 3

Universal Music Group website (UMG)

In retaliation, TikTok expressed disappointment, suggesting that UMG’s actions were motivated by self-interest, undermining the benefits offered by a platform that boasts a user base of over a billion people. TikTok criticized UMG for prioritizing profit over the interests of the artists and songwriters it represents.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

Tiktok removal 4

TikTok app (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: TIKTOK STILL IRRESISTIBLE? 5 STEPS TO RACHET UP YOUR FAMILY’S PRIVACY NOW  

Until a new agreement is reached, some major music titles will be missing on TikTok

The fallout from this dispute means that TikTok users will find UMG-owned tracks silenced in their videos, forcing them to seek alternatives from the catalogs of other music labels.

This development could significantly alter the landscape of music usage on social media, potentially affecting how users interact with and discover new music on the platform.

TikTok removal 5

Universal Music Group (UMG)

What this means to people who post and share on TikTok

TikTok users, you’ll face immediate changes to the music available for your content creation, which could influence your content strategy and follower engagement.

Titles from Taylor Swift may disappear along with those of a large percentage of major recording artists. It also invites you to be more cognizant of the business and ethical dynamics at play in the platforms you use, potentially shaping your expectations and demands as a consumer in the digital content landscape.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

As both parties stand their ground, the broader implications for the music industry and content platforms are clear. This standoff not only highlights the complexities of licensing agreements in the digital age but also underscores the growing challenges faced by artists, record labels, and platforms in navigating the intricate balance between innovation, copyright protection, and fair compensation.

We reached out to both UMG and TikTok for a comment but did not hear back before our deadline.

tiktok removal 6

TikTok app (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: DON’T USE TIKTOK? THE CHINA-OWNED SOCIAL NETWORK MAY STILL HAVE YOUR DATA 

Kurt’s key takeaways

The resolution of this conflict, or lack thereof, will likely set precedents for future negotiations and collaborations between music rights holders and digital platforms, signaling a new era in the ongoing evolution of music distribution and consumption.

How do you feel about UMG’s decision to remove its music from TikTok? Do you agree or disagree with their reasons? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.



Source link

Marijuana use linked to increased asthma risk in youth, says study: ‘Worrisome’ health implications

0

Where there’s smoke, there’s … asthma?

That’s the concern among some experts, as a recent study from the City University of New York (CUNY) identified a link between cannabis legalization and asthma among kids and teens.

The research, published in the journal Preventive Medicine in its Feb. 2024 issue, found that in states where marijuana is legal, the share of teens with asthma is slightly higher than in states where it remains illegal.

The recreational use of cannabis is now legalized in 24 states.

LOOK WHO’S EXPERIMENTING WITH MARIJUANA TODAY MORE THAN ANY OTHER AGE GROUP

In the study, a research team at the CUNY School of Public Health (SPH) analyzed data pulled from the 2011-2019 National Survey on Children’s Health, which comprises a “representative sample of the population of minor children in the U.S.,” according to a press release from the university.

The sample consisted of 227,451 U.S. children 17 years old and younger, with an average age of 8.56. 

In states where marijuana is legal, the share of teens with asthma is slightly higher than in states where it remains illegal. (iStock)

“In the first nationally representative study of cannabis use and asthma in the U.S., a consistent positive linear relationship (dose-response) was observed between frequency of cannabis use and asthma prevalence among both youth and adults,” Renee Goodwin, CUNY SPH professor and lead author of the study, told Fox News Digital.

MARIJUANA USE AMONG AMERICA’S SENIOR CITIZENS RISES AS INTEREST IN THE DRUG IS ‘REIGNITED’ TODAY

“The relationship was not explained by confounding cigarette smoking, and an even stronger relationship between the frequency of blunt smoking and asthma was found,” he added. (Blunts are hollowed-out cigars filled with cannabis.)

Exposure to secondhand smoke has historically been a key factor in childhood asthma, the researchers noted.

There are currently some 4.5 million children under age 18 living with asthma in the U.S., according to the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America.

Marijuana asthma split

Exposure to secondhand smoke has historically been a key factor in childhood asthma, the researchers noted. (iStock)

As Goodwin pointed out, there is “very little information available” on the potential respiratory health risks associated with cannabis use. 

“It took decades for the public to receive information on the impact of cigarette smoking and exposure to secondhand cigarette smoke on respiratory and lung health,” he pointed out.

Goodwin recommends people consider that smoking cannabis may have health risks similar to those posed by cigarettes, especially for people with asthma. 

“The accessibility of marijuana and other cannabis products has increased exponentially in the last three years.”

Just because there is “no public health education” on the potential health risks of cannabis use doesn’t mean they don’t exist, Goodwin warned. 

“The commercialization and advertising of cannabis use by cannabis companies and state and local governments’ promotion of cannabis use for all adults is the only information the public is receiving, which may lead people to believe it is risk-free,” he said. 

“That is not based on science or any data on long-term outcomes.”

Teens smoking

“Because these products are so easily accessible, the long-term health implications are worrisome and likely to increase in frequency and severity across the spectrum of occurrences,” an addiction doctor told Fox News Digital. (iStock)

The researcher also indicated that today’s cannabis may pose a greater risk than that of decades past.

“Products commonly sold in vapes and other forms of cannabis administration have THC concentrations upwards of 90% versus the ‘joints’ of decades ago, which were approximately 2.5% THC,” Goodwin said.

Cannabis oils and waxes are also chemically manufactured substances, which pose their own risks, the expert warned.

ASTHMA AND ECZEMA COULD INCREASE RISK OF OSTEOARTHRITIS, STUDY FINDS

“The potential short- and long-term effects of exposure to this level of THC on the human brain, respiratory or other aspects of physical health have never been studied,” he said. 

“Consumers should demand that information on safety and purity — as well as dose, potency, and health and safety risks — be available in any commercial cannabis retail outlet, and that the state governments enforce the laws their states have passed,” Goodwin went on.

Woman vaping

“Products commonly sold in vapes and other forms of cannabis administration have THC concentrations upwards of 90% versus the ‘joints’ of decades ago, which were approximately 2.5% THC,” the author of a new study said. (iStock)

Dr. Eric Heffelfinger, staff physician at Caron Treatment Centers, an addiction center in Pennsylvania, was not involved in the research but commented on the findings.

POPULAR ASTHMA INHALER NOW DISCONTINUED, WHAT OTHER OPTIONS DO PATIENTS HAVE?

“This study is significant not just in its size, but in its findings that asthma risks increase significantly for those who smoke marijuana, especially those who smoke blunts for more than 20 days per month,” he told Fox News Digital. 

This was not surprising, the doctor noted, as previous studies have shown that nicotine is linked to asthma risk.

“We expected this to be the case for marijuana, but now we have the data to prove it,” said Heffelfinger, who spent more than 25 years specializing in pulmonology and critical care before transitioning to addiction medicine.

Man chest pain coughing

There is “very little information available” on the potential respiratory health risks associated with cannabis use, the study author said. (iStock)

The actual increase in asthma risk could be even higher than the study implies, he noted, as the data was collected in 2020 and likely underestimates current exposure.

“The accessibility of marijuana and other cannabis products has increased exponentially in the last three years,” he said. “We anticipate that the number of people impacted with asthma because of marijuana use will also have increased significantly.”

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

This applies not only to those who use marijuana directly, but also to people who have increased secondhand exposure, Heffelfinger added.

“The known health impacts from marijuana and cannabis products – increased asthma, psychiatric symptoms, psychosis and cannabis use disorder — are just the tip of the iceberg,” he warned. 

Oklahoma marijuana

The recreational use of cannabis is now legalized in 24 states. (© DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK)

“There is so much we don’t know because these are genetically and chemically enhanced products with delivery methods such as smoking or vaping that cause lung damage,” he went on. 

“Because these products are so easily accessible, the long-term health implications are worrisome and likely to increase in frequency and severity across the spectrum of occurrences.”

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

When contacted by Fox News Digital for comment, the National Cannabis Industry Association responded by stating that it is a business trade association and does not have a medical expert immediately on hand to discuss the new report.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

Ditch your password, switch to a passkey for your Amazon account

0


Amazon has introduced a new way of signing in to your Amazon account that does not require a password.

It’s called a passkey. Amazon is an early adopter of this new authentication method.

With a passkey, you can sign in to your Amazon account using the same biometric methods you use to unlock your device, whether it’s through a fingerprint, facial recognition or a lock screen PIN.

UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS: JOIN KURT’S CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER FOR FREE TO GET SECURITY ALERTS AND LIFE-CHANGING HACKS TO YOUR INBOX

Amazon passkey 1

Sign in with a passkey on Amazon shopping app (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What is a passkey?

A passkey is designed to replace traditional passwords with a safer and more convenient alternative. Unlike passwords, which are often vulnerable to theft or guessing, passkeys offer enhanced security by linking your identity to a specific device.

Essentially, a passkey proves that you have physical access to your device and can unlock it. This means you no longer have to rack your brain remembering complex passwords or resorting to easily guessable information like names or birthdays.

Additionally, passkeys are less susceptible to phishing attacks compared to traditional passwords or one-time codes sent via text messages, making them a more secure option for Amazon customers.

MORE: 10 INSIDER TIPS TO GET STUFF ABSOLUTELY FREE ON AMAZON

amazon passkey 2

Signing in to an Amazon account using a biometric method (Amazon)

MORE: A PRIVACY WIN: AMAZON LIMITS POLICE ACCESS TO YOUR RING CAMERA

3 important things to know about Amazon’s passkeys

Here are three key features of Amazon’s passkeys:

1) Cross-platform compatibility: Passkeys work seamlessly across various platforms and browsers, including iPhones, laptops, Android phones, and the Chrome browser.

2) End-to-End Encryption: Your passkeys and biometric data remain private, as they are never shared with Amazon, safeguarding your account against phishing attacks and data breaches.

3) Option to Use Password: If you prefer, you can still use your Amazon password to sign in even after enabling passkeys.

FACIAL RECOGNITION IS EXPANDING ITS WATCHFUL EYE BUT SUFFERS FROM NOTABLE FAILS

Requirements and additional information on Amazon’s passkeys

To enable passkeys, your device must meet specific software requirements:

  • For iOS users: iOS 16 or later
  • For macOS users: macOS Big Sur or later
  • For Android users: Android 9 or later

Additionally, ensure that you are using the latest version of your web browser and have both screen lock and Bluetooth enabled on your device. In the event you need to sign in to another Amazon Marketplace from your browser, you will either need to set up a new passkey or sign in using your Amazon password.

MORE: 6 IMPORTANT AMAZON PRIVACY SETTINGS TO CHANGE RIGHT NOW

How to set up an Amazon passkey for your Amazon account

Switching to a passkey is simple if you have an existing Amazon account along with either an iPhone, Android, or Mac with the latest software.

Setting up a passkey on the Amazon shopping app

If you don’t see that prompt when you sign in or you’re a new Amazon customer, here’s how to set up a passkey on the Amazon app. First, if you don’t already have the Amazon Shopping app, download it from the App Store or Google Play. Setting up a passkey is similar for iOS and Android devices, but you may see some variations in the screens and messages.

  • Launch the Amazon shopping app and sign in with your Amazon account.
  • Tap the profile icon on the bottom toolbar
  • Tap Your Account
  • Under Account settings, tap Login & security
  • Enter your email and press continue
amazon passkey 3

Steps to set up passkey on Amazon shopping app (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Enter your password, then click Sign in
  • You may need to enter a verification code that Amazon will send to your phone or email, then click Sign in
  • Next to the word Passkey, click on Set up
  • The next screen explains how passkeys work. Tap the Set up button.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

amazon passkey 4

Steps to set up passkey on Amazon shopping app (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Then, it will ask you, “Use your Face ID to sign in? Click on Continue
AMAZON passkey 5

Steps to set up passkey on Amazon shopping app (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Setting up an Amazon passkey on your computer

If you don’t see a prompt when you first sign in or you’re a new Amazon customer, here’s how to set up a passkey on your computer.

  • Log in to amazon.com with your existing account, then hover over “Account & Lists” in the upper right corner, scroll down, and click Account
  • Click Login & Security and enter your password, then click Sign in
  • You may need to enter a verification code that Amazon will send to your phone or email.
  • Click on Set up next to the word Passkey
  • Then click on Set up
  • Then, it will ask you, “Use Face ID, or Touch ID to sign in?” Use your face or thumb to finish the Set up

Now you can use your passkey to sign in to your Amazon account without a password. Just enter your email and choose Sign in with a passkey. Your device will ask you to authenticate with your face, fingerprint, or PIN.

MORE: 9 BEST FEATURES OF AMAZON PRIME YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT

Kurt’s key takeaways

Amazon’s passkey is a new way of signing in to your Amazon account that does not require a password. It is a safer and more convenient alternative to traditional passwords, as it uses your biometric data or lock screen PIN to verify your identity. Passkeys work across different platforms and browsers, and they are encrypted end-to-end, so your data is never shared with Amazon or anyone else.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

What do you think of Amazon’s passkey? Are you going to make the switch or stick with using a password? Why or why not? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.



Source link

Filtering flights by aircraft type up 15X following 737 Max 9 incident

0


In the shadow of a recent incident involving an Alaska Airlines flight, where a door plug blew out from a Boeing 737 Max 9, Kayak has observed a significant shift in user behavior. 

The travel search engine reports a staggering 15-fold increase in the usage of its aircraft filter. 

This surge reflects a growing trend among travelers: a heightened desire to know the exact model of aircraft prior to booking their flights.

UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS: JOIN KURT’S CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER FOR FREE TO GET SECURITY ALERTS AND LIFE-CHANGING HACKS TO YOUR INBOX

737 Max 1

Kayak search engine (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Fliers avoiding the Boeing 737 Max aircraft

The genesis of this trend can be traced back to an unsettling event three weeks ago. It was then that travelers’ trust in aircraft safety was shaken, prompting them to seek more information about their flights.

Recognizing this concern, Kayak CEO Steve Hafner emphasized the company’s commitment to providing peace of mind. “Kayak makes it easy for concerned travelers to avoid 737 Max flights,” he stated, acknowledging the nervousness surrounding this particular aircraft model.

737 Max 2

MORE: THE BEST TRAVEL GEAR FOR 2024

Filtering flights is made easier by aircraft type

In response to this increased demand, Kayak has strategically enhanced its platform. The aircraft filter, once a more obscure feature, now takes a prominent position, readily accessible to users. Moreover, Kayak has refined its search capabilities, allowing users to distinguish between the 737 Max 8 and 737 Max 9 models. Previously, these models were grouped together.

737 Max 3

Kayak search engine (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Boeing 737 Max’s tragic troubled past

This feature traces its roots to a response to earlier Boeing-involved tragedies – the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crash in March 2019 and the Lion Air Flight 610 crash in 2018. Both disasters involved 737 Max planes and led to the initial creation of the aircraft filter. The recent surge in the filter’s usage marks a notable departure from its previously modest use, though Kayak did not disclose specific usage statistics.

FAA WILL HAVE ‘BOOTS ON THE GROUND’ AT BOEING 737 MAX FACTORY UNTIL QUALITY CONTROL DEEMED APPROPRIATE: REPORT

737 MAX 4

MORE: 3 WAYS TO INCREASE YOUR PRIVACY AND SAVE MONEY WHEN BOOKING TRAVEL

FAA says 737 Max 9 can fly again yet consumers still wary

The recent decision by the FAA to lift the grounding order of the Boeing 737 Max 9, following thorough inspections, has done little to assuage the concerns of wary flyers. Despite regulatory assurances, a segment of the traveling public remains apprehensive about boarding any 737 Max aircraft.

737 MAX 5

Hafner, while advocating for the use of the filter during booking, also urges continued vigilance. He notes that airlines frequently substitute aircraft, a practice that necessitates travelers to verify their aircraft type even after purchasing their tickets.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

737 Max 6

MORE: UNEXPECTED HERO APP TURNS AROUND TERRIFYING TRAVEL TROUBLE 

Not all travel sites offer aircraft sorting in searches

This heightened consumer awareness around aircraft types is not universally catered to in the travel industry. Competitors like Google Flights display aircraft types in search results but stop short of offering a dedicated filter. Similarly, Skyscanner, another major player in the field, does not currently provide such a filter.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Kurt’s key takeaways

As travelers navigate through a landscape marked by safety concerns and a desire for transparency, Kayak’s adaptation to these evolving needs reflects a broader shift in the travel industry towards greater consumer empowerment and awareness. I just checked my upcoming Alaska Airlines flight and switched to an American non-737 Max flight, opting to fly across the country on an Airbus A321 instead.

For the time being, some airlines are showing consideration for passengers wary of traveling on the 737 Max aircraft by, in some instances, offering the option to switch to different flights, steering clear of the aircraft that has faced criticism over its manufacturing standards.

How do you think the travel industry can restore trust and confidence in the safety of air travel? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.



Source link

Alzheimer’s disease found to be transmitted through medical procedures decades ago, study finds

0

Alzheimer’s disease has been considered something that happens from within, generally speaking — but for the first time, researchers have identified cases that were triggered by a specific medical treatment.

The most common type of dementia, Alzheimer’s is caused by a buildup of amyloid proteins in the brain, with risk factors including age, family history, unhealthy lifestyle behaviors and certain medical conditions.

But in a study published in Nature Medicine, researchers from the University College London (UCL) linked growth hormone treatments to the development of Alzheimer’s, according to a UCL press release.

NEW ALZHEIMER’S TREATMENT ACCELERATES REMOVAL OF PLAQUE FROM THE BRAIN IN CLINICAL TRIALS

The researchers studied patients who received a type of human growth hormone that was extracted from the pituitary glands of deceased people (c-hGH). 

The c-hGH has been shown to lead to greater amounts of amyloid-beta protein in the brain, the researchers found.

The researchers (not pictured) studied patients who received a type of human growth hormone that was extracted from the pituitary glands of deceased people (c-hGH).  (iStock)

Of eight people studied who were treated with c-hGH as children, five developed symptoms of dementia and had already been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or met the criteria of the disease.

All of them were between ages 38 and 55 when they began experiencing symptoms of cognitive decline, the paper indicated. Genetic testing confirmed that the early disease was not inherited.

ALZHEIMER’S PATIENTS DIVIDED INTO 5 SUBGROUPS, POTENTIALLY ENABLING ‘PERSONALIZED MEDICINE,’ STUDY FINDS

“We have found that it is possible for amyloid-beta pathology to be transmitted and contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease,” said first author Dr. Gargi Banerjee, a researcher at the UCL Institute of Prion Diseases, in the press release.

“This transmission occurred following treatment with a now-obsolete form of growth hormone, and involved repeated treatments with contaminated material, often over several years,” he went on.

“There is no suggestion whatsoever that Alzheimer’s disease can be transmitted between individuals during activities of daily life or routine medical care.”

The researchers emphasized that Alzheimer’s disease cannot be transmitted from person-to-person contact.

“There is no suggestion whatsoever that Alzheimer’s disease can be transmitted between individuals during activities of daily life or routine medical care,” said the lead author of the research, Professor John Collinge, director of the UCL Institute of Prion Diseases and a consultant neurologist at UCLH, in the release.

“The patients we have described were given a specific and long-discontinued medical treatment that involved injecting patients with material now known to have been contaminated with disease-related proteins,” he added.

Postmortem brain tissue

Amyloid deposition in brain tissue, seen in post-mortem analysis, as captured by University College London researchers. (University College London)

The type of growth hormone treatment named in the study was suspended in 1985 when it was found to cause Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) in some people. 

CJD is a degenerative brain disorder that causes dementia and death.

The findings should be used to help prevent any “accidental transmission via other medical or surgical procedures” in the future, Coolidge stated.

Fox News Digital reached out to the UCL team requesting additional comment.

Alzheimer’s disease

The most common type of dementia, Alzheimer’s is caused by a buildup of amyloid proteins in the brain. (REUTERS/Brian Snyder/File Photo)

Dr. Rehan Aziz, a geriatric psychiatrist with Jersey Shore University Medical Center, was not involved in the study but recognized that the paper shows potential evidence for a “very rare but transmissible form” of Alzheimer’s disease.

“The study describes just five Alzheimer’s patients out of the more than 1,800 people who were known to have received growth hormone in this way,” Aziz noted. 

THE 8 BIGGEST ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE MYTHS — AND THE TRUTHS BEHIND THEM

“Remarkably, the patients all developed Alzheimer’s dementia at young ages, though several of them had complicated histories that may have contributed.”

The unusually young age at which these patients developed symptoms suggested they did not have the usual form of Alzheimer’s associated with old age, Aziz said.

“The research raises the question of whether beta-amyloid protein can propagate itself, leading to cascading memory loss and worsening Alzheimer’s pathology,” he added.

A PET scan in Washington, D.C.

A man who suffers from Alzheimer’s prepares to receive a PET scan. (Michael Robinson Chávez/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

Christopher Weber, PhD, director of global science initiatives at the Alzheimer’s Association, was also not involved in the UNC research but reiterated that Alzheimer’s is not contagious.

“You can’t catch Alzheimer’s by taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s,” he told Fox News Digital. “Alzheimer’s disease is not transmissible through the air, or by touching or being near someone with Alzheimer’s.”

“We shouldn’t put amyloid-beta into people’s brains, either accidentally or on purpose.”

In analyzing the study, Weber noted a few limitations.

“Based on the handful of cases they examined, the authors propose the idea of a ‘rare acquired’ Alzheimer’s, a third explanation for the beginnings of the disease along with sporadic Alzheimer’s and genetic Alzheimer’s,” he said. 

“However, the study population (eight in this paper) is very small, and these are the only known cases in the literature. Thus, this possible third type of Alzheimer’s is a novel idea, but needs replication and confirmation to add credibility.”

Woman caregiver happy

“You can’t catch Alzheimer’s by taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s,” an expert told Fox News Digital. “Alzheimer’s disease is not transmissible through the air, or by touching or being near someone with Alzheimer’s.” (iStock)

The possibility of creating abnormal amyloid buildup isn’t new, Weber noted, as it’s been demonstrated via injections into animals’ brains.

“We also transfer human Alzheimer’s genes into animals to initiate abnormal, Alzheimer’s-like processes in their brains — but these things do not happen in daily life or in routine medical procedures,” he said. “They are extraordinary occurrences.”

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Although the type of transmission of amyloid beta identified in the UNC study is rare, Weber emphasized that “the scientific and clinical communities must understand the possible risks and ensure that all methods of pathogen transmission are eliminated.”

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

One of these methods is the “complete and conscientious sterilization of surgical instruments,” Weber said, which is common practice today. 

“Bottom line: We shouldn’t put amyloid-beta into people’s brains, either accidentally or on purpose,” he said. “And appropriate measures should be in place to ensure that doesn’t happen.”

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.