Current Events in August 2017

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2017

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    YouTube provides update on its war against extremist and terrorist content

    Company officials say that progress is being made on all fronts

    Back in June, Google announced that it was going to be taking a tougher stance on terrorist and extremist content on platforms like YouTube.

    Among the changes, the company said that it would be using machine learning systems to detect and remove terrorist videos, hiring more experts to review problematic content, and cracking down on videos that don’t necessarily violate its policies but still contain offensive, extremist, and inflammatory religious and supremacist messages.

    Now, the company has released an update on how those efforts are paying off. In a blog post released on Tuesday, company officials said that progress is being made on all fronts.

    “Altogether, we have taken significant steps over the last month in our fight against online terrorism. But this is not the end. We know there is more work to be done," the company said.

    "With the help of new machine learning technology, deep partnerships, ongoing collaborations with other companies through the Global Internet Forum, and our vigilant community we are confident we can continue to make progress against this ever-changing threat.”

    Making progress

    When it comes to its machine learning systems, YouTube says that they are faster, more accurate, and more efficient than ever before. The company notes that over 75% of videos showcasing extremist content were taken down after receiving a single human flag in the past month.

    Additionally, the systems have more than doubled both the number of videos removed for violent extremism and the rate at which YouTube has taken those kinds of videos down. Officials say that they are encouraged by the improvements, but that the company will continue to invest in experts and technical resources to improve outcomes.

    Speaking of experts, YouTube says that it has added 15 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and institutions to its Trusted Flagger program to help identify hate speech, radicalization, and terrorism in videos that are used to recruit extremists. Some of the groups include the Anti-Defamation League, the No Hate Speech Movement, and the Institute for Strategic Dialogue.

    “We will…regularly consult these experts as we update our policies to reflect new trends. And we’ll continue to add more organizations to our network of advisors over time,” officials said.

    “Limited state”

    Finally, YouTube says that it has taken several steps in the past month to impose tougher restrictions on videos that are not technically illegal but are flagged by users for showcasing hate speech and violent extremism.

    The company says that although these videos will not be taken down from its site, they will be placed in a “limited state."

    “The videos will remain on YouTube behind an interstitial, won’t be recommended, won’t be monetized, and won’t have key features including comments, suggested videos, and likes,” the company said, adding that this new treatment will soon be rolled out to videos on desktop versions of YouTube. 

    Officials say that further updates on its progress will continue to roll out in the coming months.

    Back in June, Google announced that it was going to be taking a tougher stance on terrorist and extremist content on platforms like YouTube.Among the c...

    Gas prices up a dime a gallon in the last month

    Much of the increase is centered in Midwestern states

    Gasoline prices have risen in the last four weeks, pushed higher by a rise in oil prices and a larger than expected drop in gasoline stockpiles.

    The AAA Fuel Gauge Survey shows the national average price of self-serve regular is $2.33 a gallon, a dime a gallon higher than a month ago. Half of that increase has come in the last seven days.

    The average price of premium gas is $2.85 a gallon, up seven cents in the last month. The average price of diesel fuel is $2.49 a gallon, five cents more than last month.

    Midwest leads prices higher

    Motorists in Indiana saw prices at the pump surge 26 cents a gallon in the last month. Prices are up 20 cents in Ohio, 17 cents in Michigan, 15 cents in Kentucky, 13 cents in Florida and Oklahoma, and 11 cents in South Carolina and Kansas.

    “As summer moves forward, the days of dropping summer gas prices appear to be behind us for now,” said AAA spokesperson Jeanette Casselano. “U.S. crude inventories are moving in the opposite direction of demand – a perfect storm for continued price increases heading into August.”

    After flirting with the $40 a barrel mark, oil prices are back around $50 a barrel, increasing the cost of making gasoline. But motorists who have watched the mid-summer rise in prices at the pump probably should not be too concerned. As oil prices get back to $50 a barrel, U.S. production usually increases, bringing prices back down again.

    Stable West Coast

    West Coast gasoline prices, among the most expensive in the nation, remained stable last week, with the exception of California. AAA says drivers there saw prices jump due to an equipment breakdown at Phillips 66’s Wilmington, Calif., refinery and ongoing planned maintenance at Tesoro’s Golden Eagle Refinery in Martinez.

    Even so, the Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports West Coast gasoline inventories actually rose after a significant one-week drop. Prices there should not go much higher.

    States with the cheapest gas this week include South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Virginia, and Texas.

    States with the most expensive fuel include Hawaii, California, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Idaho.

    With another month left in the summer driving season, gasoline prices could well drift slightly higher in the coming weeks. However, prices normally start going back down after Labor Day, when demand falls and refineries switch over to producing winter grade fuel, which costs less.

    Gasoline prices have risen in the last four weeks, pushed higher by a rise in oil prices and a larger than expected drop in gasoline stockpiles.The AAA...

    Panelcraft recalls children’s building sets

    Exposed magnets can create a choking hazard

    Panelcraft of Dearborn, Mich., is recalling about 2,000 children’s magnetic building sets.

    The building sets corner welds can break, allowing the panels and frames to separate and release magnets during play. When released, exposed magnets can create a choking hazard.

    No incidents or injuries are reported.

    This recall involves two styles of Panelcraft Rainbow magnetic building sets: Rainbow Dream Builder and Rainbow Solid Builder.

    The solid builder set includes 19 pieces: 11 solid panels in red, yellow, green, blue and purple and 8 white windows that measure 9 inches by 9 inches.

    The rainbow dream builder set includes 19 windows in red, yellow, green, blue and purple colors that measure 9 inches by 9 inches.

    The building sets, manufactured in China, were sold at Discount School Supply, Kaplan Early Learning Company, Panelcraft and Tout About Toys from November 2016, through January 2017, for between $120 and $150.

    What to do

    Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled building sets and take them away from children. Contact the firm to receive a prepaid shipping label for returning the recalled sets for a free replacement set including shipping.

    Consumers may contact Panelcraft toll-free at 888-288-7615 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (ET) Monday through Friday or online at www.panelcraft.com and click on Contact Us for more information.

    Panelcraft of Dearborn, Mich., is recalling about 2,000 children’s magnetic building sets.The building sets corner welds can break, allowing the panels...

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      Lender rolls out 1% down mortgage for first-time home buyers

      The new program will help buyers overcome the challenge of coming up with a down payment

      One of the biggest challenges to buying a first home is coming up with the down payment. Garden State Home Loans, a mortgage lender, says it has an answer for that.

      The company has launched a new home loan program for first-time buyers in its market area. A prospective homeowner only has to come up with 1% down.

      FHA loans, a common way many consumers purchase their first home, requires as little as 3.5% down. Some conventional loans now only require 3% down.

      If letting homeowners buy a home with only 1% down sounds risky, it's really no different from other low down payment loans. It's actually a 3% down loan, but Garden State Home Loans says it will put up the other 2%. The new homeowner starts off with 3% equity.

      Significant savings

      The savings are not insignificant. On a $200,000 mortgage, coming up with 3% down would be $6,000. A 1% down payment is only $2,000.

      Not everyone will qualify, of course. The loan is only available to first-time buyers or buyers who haven't purchased a home in the last three years.

      Additionally, the home must be used as a primary residence. The buyer's credit score required for this program is a hard 720 minimum, and the debt-to-income ratio (DTI) must not be in excess of 43%. But the loan is available with no private mortgage insurance.

      One of the biggest challenges to buying a first home is coming up with the down payment. Garden State Home Loans, a mortgage lender, says it has an answer...

      New app guides homeowners who are remodeling

      Buildshop offers free tools for planning and budgeting

      The shortage of homes for sale suggests more homeowners are staying put. But while they might not be moving, they are spending money on making improvements to their current homes.

      Buildshop Inc., which produces software for building professionals, has launched a new app to help homeowners manage their building and remodeling projects.

      The Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA) predicts continued growth in home improvement spending for the rest of 2017, and home center stores like Home Depot and Lowe's are reporting healthy profits as a result.

      Two things may be at work; a healthy economy gives homeowners more disposable income and home improvement shows on HGTV are giving them inspiration. The free app is designed to make these projects easier and more successful.

      Aids planning and communication

      "Buildshop is a game changer for homeowners looking to build or remodel," said company co-founder Shawn Pace. "As a builder, I've personally seen the negative effects poor planning, lack of communication, and poor organization can have on a project. Buildshop offers free premium tools and building tips that will help homeowners enjoy a more successful remodeling experience every time."

      Pace says homeowners can use the app to either build or remodel. It has tools for planning, budgeting, and organizing the project, and it can help the user find qualified contractors. The company produced the video below to show how the app works.

      Homeowners can access the app on the Buildshop website.

      The shortage of homes for sale suggests more homeowners are staying put. But while they might not be moving, they are spending money on making improvements...

      Model year 2016 smart fortwo vehicles recalled

      The parking brake lever may have to travel farther before the parking brake engages

      Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) is recalling 5,061 model year 2016 smart fortwo vehicles.

      The lock nut that secures the parking brake cable to the parking brake lever may loosen over time, resulting in increased parking brake lever travel before the parking brake engages.

      As the parking brake lever travel increases, the holding force may decrease to a point where the vehicle is no longer safely secured in all parking situations, allowing the vehicle to unexpectedly move when parked on a slope, increasing the risk of a crash.

      What to do

      MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the parking brake cable lock nut, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in early September 2017. 

      Owners may contact smart customer service at 1-877-496-3691

      Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) is recalling 5,061 model year 2016 smart fortwo vehicles.The lock nut that secures the parking brake cable to the parking bra...

      Hackers find way to turn older Amazon Echo devices into live microphones

      Owners of over 7 million affected devices share the privacy risk

      Consumers who rushed to buy an Amazon Echo in 2015 or 2016 may be at risk of having their conversations and commands recorded.

      According to a report from the Verge, hackers have recently discovered a vulnerability in the device that can turn it into a live microphone. Researcher Mark Barnes says that the attack is limited because it requires physical access to the device. However, he points out that product developers shouldn’t take it for granted that customers won’t expose their devices to uncontrolled environments.

      “The Amazon Echo is vulnerable to a physical attack that allows an attacker to gain a root shell on the underlying Linux operating system and install malware without leaving physical evidence of tampering,” he said. “Such malware could grant an attacker persistent remote access to the device, steal customer authentication tokens, and the ability to stream live microphone audio to remote services without altering the functionality of the device.”

      A live microphone

      In a blog post detailing how the attack works, Barnes explains how hackers who gain access to an Echo can rewrite the device’s firmware to send all captured audio from the microphone to a third party, with consumers being none the wiser.

      After the changes have been made, the Echo is able to function normally and gives no indication that it has been tampered with. Luckily, the attack only works on 2015 and 2016 models, since changes to the internal hardware of the 2017 model effectively make the hack impossible.

      However, Barnes says that the 2015 and 2016 models will likely always be vulnerable to the exploit at a software level. That’s bad news for the owners of nearly 7 million affected devices that were bought over a two-year span. In a statement, Amazon stressed how important it is for consumers to make sure their devices remain updated.

      “Customer trust is very important to us,” the company said in a statement. “To help ensure the latest safeguards are in place, as a general rule, we recommend customers purchase Amazon devices from Amazon or a trusted retailer and that they keep their software up-to-date.”

      What to do

      Barnes says that consumers can identify if their device is vulnerable by checking the Echo’s original pack for a 2017 copyright and a model number that ends in “02”. Any devices that do not meet these criteria are potentially at risk.

      If you own one of these vulnerable Echo devices, Barnes points out that there are steps you can take to ensure that your voice isn’t being recorded without your knowledge.

      “The Amazon Echo does include a physical mute button that disables the microphone on the top of the device or can be turned off when sensitive information is being discussed (this is a hardwire mechanism and cannot be altered via software),” he said. 

      Consumers who rushed to buy an Amazon Echo in 2015 or 2016 may be at risk of having their conversations and commands recorded.According to a report fro...

      'Air rage' incidents might not be as common as you think

      Official statistics show there were more incidents a decade ago

      "Air rage" is a recently-coined term for people on airliners who go a little crazy, cause a disturbance, and sometimes pose a threat to other passengers and crew members. It seems each week brings another story about it.

      Just last week a passenger aboard a Spirit Airlines flight reportedly stripped naked during the boarding process. This was before the flight had even left the ground. In another case, a young passenger reportedly tried to open the emergency door once the plane touched down.

      Previously, there have been numerous reports of passengers and members of the flight crew getting into altercations, some of which have been recorded on smartphones and distributed for all to see. So it might be understandable to assume that the situation aboard commercial airliners is getting worse.

      'Unruly passenger' statistics

      However, that might not be the case. It turns out the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) keeps statistics on "unruly passenger" reports, with data going back to 1995. An analysis of the numbers suggests that the air rage factor isn't something new.

      In 1995 the FAA reported 146 such incidents, which increased to a high of 310 in 2004 -- an increase of 112% in nine years.

      But since 2004, the number of unruly passenger reports has been on the decline. The FAA records show there were 205 in 2005, 137 in 2006, and only 97 last year. Since 2004, the number of incidents has averaged 143, three less than in 1995, the year the FAA began keeping records.

      To make it into the official records, an unruly passenger incident has to be reported to the FAA, and reporting is at the discretion of the flight crew. To qualify as an incident, it must interfere with the duties of a flight crewmember.

      It may seem like there are more of these incidents because now, each one seems to be reported on social media, sometimes with accompanying video that can reach millions of people.

      Being an "unruly" passenger can be costly. Since 2000, the FAA has been able to fine individuals $25,000 per violation, with one incident sometimes resulting in multiple violations.

      "Air rage" is a recently-coined term for people on airliners who go a little crazy, cause a disturbance, and sometimes pose a threat to other passengers an...

      T-Mobile says its customers get fewer scam calls

      Screening service lets customers know if a scammer is on the other end of the line

      When you answer the phone, you sometimes know the person on the other end of the line is a scammer in the first few seconds of conversation.

      But if you're a T-Mobile customer, you might know before you even answer the call. Thanks to a recently introduced, free feature from the mobile provider, your phone's caller ID will display the message "scam likely."

      The carrier says its Scam ID service flashes the warning when it sees an incoming call from a number used by a known scammer. It says the service works on all cell phones that have Caller ID.

      Consumers aren't required to install anything and it's provided on all post-paid plans. Last month T-Mobile expanded the service to all Metro PCS customers.

      Scam Block

      A companion service, Scam Block, actually blocks calls from known scammers from ringing a customer's phone. It's available on all post-paid plans at no additional charge.

      Since launching in April, T-Mobile says Scam ID and Scam Block have identified or blocked more than 243 million calls and estimates the services have prevented more than $130 million in scams.

      “Scam ID and Scam Block are perfect examples of what the T-Mobile and MetroPCS are all about—we give you more without asking more from you,” said Mike Sievert, T-Mobile's chief operating officer. “These advanced protection technologies put our customers in control, and even better, they are totally free!"

      Scammers keep bankers' hours

      T-Mobile says it's also learned something about scammers' habits since it launched the new service. Most scammers, it says, like to work normal business hours, from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

      Peak time for scam calls is late afternoon. On average, it identifies a half-million scam calls per hour as the business day draws to a close.

      Scammers also try to hide their tracks by using a new number every few calls. Of over 500,000 scammer phone numbers the system identified, T-Mobile says only around 24,000 numbers repeatedly make scam calls.

      When you answer the phone, you sometimes know the person on the other end of the line is a scammer in the first few seconds of conversation.But if you'...

      Teens become riskier drivers as they get older, study finds

      Overconfidence in driving abilities can lead to risky driving behaviors among older teens

      A nationwide survey of 2,800 teen drivers conducted by Liberty Mutual Insurance and SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) finds that teens become riskier drivers as they rise up the ranks.

      Despite only having been behind the wheel a year or two longer than their younger peers, older teen drivers perceive themselves as safer drivers. The study suggests older teens may be overly confident in their driving abilities, as 57% of high school seniors have experienced an accident or near miss compared to only 34% of sophomores.

      Older teen drivers tend to engage in riskier behaviors such as using their phone, having three or more passengers, and speeding. And often, older teens’ risky driving behaviors aren’t followed by a parental reprimand.

      Lack of consequences

      The study suggests parents may be doing too little to dissuade their older teens from engaging in risky driving behaviors.

      Nearly 70 percent of younger teens (ages 15 and 16) said they would lose their driving privileges if they were to get into an accident, but only half (55 percent) of teens 18 and older believed they would experience the same consequence.

      "Older teens are still inexperienced drivers -- even if they feel otherwise -- as they only have one to two years of real-world practice under their belts,” said Mike Sample, lead driving safety expert at Liberty Mutual. “That's why it is important to continue to emphasize the effects and potential consequences of phone use while driving to this age group."

      Encouraging safe driving  

      Teens are often tethered to their devices, but using an app behind the wheel -- even for just a second -- can “set off a chain reaction that could lead to a near miss or crash,” says Sample.

      He recommends reminding teens to always pull over before using their phone. “It’s just not worth the risk of crashing,” he says, adding that parents are key influencers when it comes to their kids’ behaviors behind the wheel.

      Parents should strive to continually encourage safe driving habits, even as teens get older and gain driving experience and confidence.

      What parents can do

      The following tips can help parents encourage safe driving habits:

      • Keep practicing. Driving practice shouldn’t stop once your child gets their license. Parents should continue to drive with their teens and remind them of safe driving behaviors, says Liberty Mutual.
      • Hold each other accountable. Help set a good example for your teen by using driving behavior monitoring technology right along with them. The HighwayHero app can help to hold the whole family accountable for their driving behavior with its ability to track behind-the-wheel phone usage, hard braking, speeding, and other risky behaviors.
      • Reward safe driving. Practice positive reinforcement of good driving habits rather than negative consequences for bad driving behavior. Parents can use rewards like a break from a specific chore or a $10 gift card to remind teens to think about their actions while driving.
      • Set expectations. Create a Teen Driving Contract to help teens stick to family driving rules.

      A nationwide survey of 2,800 teen drivers conducted by Liberty Mutual Insurance and SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) finds that teens become r...

      Solar sales, used car leasing a new source of consumer complaints

      Consumer Federation of America compiles list of fastest-growing issues

      Sales of solar energy equipment have increased in recent years, so it's not that surprising that consumer complaints related to these sales have also risen.

      The Consumer Federation of America (CFA) surveyed 39 consumer agencies in 23 states and found that solar energy sales emerged as a new area of concern for consumers. As the industry grows, so do the complaints.

      “Solar energy is good for the environment and for consumers’ pocketbooks, but there are starting to be complaints concerning misleading sales practices, confusing contracts, and shoddy installation” said Susan Grant, director of consumer protection and privacy at CFA. “Consumers should check out the company and make sure they understand the terms of the agreement before they sign on the dotted line for solar contracts.”

      An analysis of reviews of solar purchases posted at ConsumerAffairs revealed a number of different kinds of complaints, ranging from the installation under-delivering to the addition of solar equipment making it difficult to sell the house.

      Used car leasing

      The CFA survey found that solar panels aren't all consumers have to worry about, though. The agency says that used car leasing -- a new financing option that has emerged in the wake of a growing number of new car leases -- is also emerging as a new area of consumer complaints.

      It's true that monthly payments are lower, but CFA found that interest rates can be high and that state lemon laws and some other consumer protections might not apply when a used car is leased instead of purchased.

      “Consumers who lease used cars may be stuck with lemons or be on the hook for costly repairs,” Grant said.

      Fraud complaints on the rise

      Lastly, state officials have told CFA that fraud complaints are becoming a quickly growing problem for consumers.

      Amber Capoun, a legal assistant in the Office of the State Banking Commission in Kansas, says imposter scams, where the scammer pretends to be from some government agency, are among the worst -- and most effective. These criminals either try to scare victims into sending money with a gift card or promise thousands of dollars in grants, as long as the victim pays a small upfront fee.

      The state consumer agencies have recommended new laws to better protect consumers. In particular, they suggest that telephone companies should be required to take additional steps to block illegal robocalls and other scam calls.

      CFA says the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering a rule to allow phone companies to block calls when the Caller ID appears to be spoofed.

      Sales of solar energy equipment have increased in recent years, so it's not that surprising that consumer complaints related to these sales have also risen...

      State officials join fight to preserve consumers' right to sue

      Congress is poised to repeal the Arbitration Rule

      The House of Representatives has approved a measure that essentially repeals a consumer's right to sue a financial services firm. As the measure heads to the Senate, various state officials are appealing to lawmakers in that chamber to not follow the House's lead.

      The issue is the Arbitration Rule, adopted by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). It prevents companies that provide financial services to consumers from requiring customers to agree to arbitration to resolve any dispute. Companies generally prefer arbitration because it eliminates most consumer lawsuits.

      The House passed what's called a "Joint Resolution of Disapproval" that would nullify the CFPB's rule under the Congressional Review Act. Various state attorneys general and the heads of state consumer protection agencies have signed a letter to Senate leaders, asking them to oppose the resolution. They argue that consumers should have the right to take their claims against financial institutions to court.

      Stand up for consumers

      “Banks and Wall Street financial institutions have huge advantages over consumers,” said Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh. “The Arbitration Rule at least allows customers to go to court when they have been cheated. Congress should stand up for consumers, not bow down to Wall Street.”

      Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey says state officials have seen consumer abuses up close, helping consumers to fight back against companies that bury tricky terms in the fine print.

      “This rule would put an end to hidden clauses that prevent consumers from going to court and banding together to fight unfair and illegal practices," Healey said. "We urge the U.S. Senate to keep the rule in place so that all consumers have a chance to be heard in court.”

      Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan says the CFPB's rule would prevent financial institutions from shielding themselves from class action suits through arbitration clauses, restoring consumers' right to form or join a class action in a judicial forum.

      Madigan said class actions are a "critical tool" for individual consumers without resources to hire an attorney and pursue claims against a large company.

      The House of Representatives has approved a measure that essentially repeals a consumer's right to sue a financial services firm. As the measure heads to t...

      Study suggests e-cigarettes may help smokers quit

      Researchers note a big jump in the number of smokers who quit

      Americans are smoking fewer cigarettes and health researchers at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine and Moores Cancer Center think e-cigarettes might have something to do with it.

      Introduced about a decade ago, e-cigarettes provide some of the same effects as smoking a cigarette. They are in the shape of a cigarette and deliver a water vapor containing nicotine instead of smoke.

      Anti-smoking advocates have never liked the devices and have worried that they will hook a generation of non-smokers on nicotine.

      But the California researchers analyzed smoking surveys conducted in the U.S. between 2001 and 2015 and found that the number of smokers who quit rose for the first time in 15 years. They conclude that e-cigarettes are helping smokers kick the habit.

      A higher quit rate

      “Our analysis of the population survey data indicated that smokers who also used e-cigarettes were more likely to attempt to quit smoking, and more likely to succeed,” said Shu-Hong Zhu, a UC San Diego professor. “Use of e-cigarettes was associated both with a higher quit rate for individuals as well as at the population level; driving an increase in the overall number of people quitting.”

      The researchers say they were impressed that the rate of smokers who quit stayed fairly stable at 4.5% for years. Then in 2014 to 2015, it rose to 5.6%.

      That's significant, they say. The 1.1% increase represents about 350,000 smokers who quit in a single year.

      The survey provided additional evidence that e-cigarettes may have played a role in the reduced smoking rate. It asked smokers whether they used the devices. Sixty-five percent of smokers who used e-cigarettes within the previous 12 months had tried to stop smoking. Only 40% of smokers who did not use e-cigarettes attempted to quit.

      E-cigarette users more likely to quit smoking

      When measuring success, the researchers found 8.2% of smokers who also used e-cigarettes were able to stop smoking, while 4.8% of those who didn't use e-cigarettes were able to quit.

      “The cessation rate among those who did not use e-cigarettes remained the same compared to previous years,” said Zhu. “These data suggest that e-cigarettes play the role of a cessation tool.”

      But the researchers are not ready to give e-cigarettes an unqualified endorsement as a smoking cessation tool. They say it is possible that smokers who used e-cigarettes were more serious and motivated to quit smoking, and were therefore more likely to succeed than smokers who did not use the device.

      The study also did not investigate whether using e-cigarettes makes a non-smoker more likely to start using tobacco. However, they point to research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) which shows e-cigarette use among young people is rising but smoking rates are not.

      Americans are smoking fewer cigarettes and health researchers at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine and Moores Cancer Center think e...

      Remodeling your kitchen for resale

      Four low-cost kitchen upgrades potential buyers will appreciate

      From decluttering your home to having it professionally staged, there are a number of ways to potentially decrease the amount of time it spends on the market -- and not all of them need to cost an arm and a leg.

      Kitchen remodels are one such improvement that should be kept simple and cost-effective. Sellers should aim to enhance the visual appeal of their kitchen without going overboard, real estate experts say.

      According to Cedric Stewart, team leader of Entourage RG in the Washington D.C. area, sellers shouldn't spend more than 10 percent of their home's value on a kitchen remodel.

      Avoid overdoing it

      “Making improvements to increase the home’s value is a delicate process,” Stewart told Quicken Loans’ ZING blog.

      “Fully renovated kitchens with high-end appliances and finishes usually get folks excited and a nod of approval from appraisers, but one must be careful not to ‘overdevelop’ the home," he said, adding that "clean, modern, functional kitchens sell faster in today’s market.” 

      To help your home sell faster, real estate experts like Stewart recommend focusing on projects that will enhance the visual appeal of your kitchen. These can help make a good first impression on potential buyers, making them more likely to make an offer.

      Ways to boost visual appeal

      In its blog, Quicken Loans names several kitchen upgrades that can enhance the look of your kitchen without driving up costs.

      • Backsplashes. Installing a bright, clean backsplash won’t cost you a fortune, but it will make your kitchen look more luxurious.
      • Appliances. New appliances appeal to buyers who are on the hunt for a move-in ready home. For sellers who are considering upgrading their appliances, New York-based realtor Don Stevens has a piece of advice: skip black and white options and go for stainless steel instead. Stevens says he’s confident these appliances help sell a home faster.
      • Cabinets. Because most buyers aren’t interested in having to upgrade cabinets as soon as they move into a home, new cabinets can be a big selling point. Although this upgrade typically doesn’t allow sellers to recoup their investment, new cabinets can do wonders for the look and feel of a kitchen.
      • Little details. “Thoughtful ideas can pique a buyer’s interest,” said Stewart, who recommends adding small-yet-appreciated features like built-in wine racks, lazy Susans, soft-close drawers, pot fillers, pot racks, USB outlets, and built-in speakers.

      From decluttering your home to having it professionally staged, there are a number of ways to potentially decrease the amount of time it spends on the mark...

      Honda delivers new electric sedan in California and Oregon

      Honda Clarity Electric one of three alternative energy models

      One possible reason U.S. gasoline demand has nearly flatlined in recent months is the increasing number of electric and hybrid vehicles on the road.

      Despite the fact that gasoline prices remain relatively low, it seems each day brings new deliveries of a new electric vehicle. Last week it was the much-hyped Tesla Model 3. This week it's Honda's new electric, the Clarity.

      Honda has begun delivering the 2017 Clarity sedan at select dealerships in Oregon and California, with an introductory lease costing $269 a month for 36 months. Honda says that price reflects the federal tax credit and requires a little over $2,000 at signing. It's a fairly low-mileage lease, however, limited to just 20,000 miles per year.

      Honda says the Clarity sedan runs on a 161-horsepower electric motor producing 221 pounds per foot of torque, drawing power from a 25.5 killowatt lithium-ion battery pack. The company says the car can be fully charged in just over three hours at 240 volts. Using the SAE Combined Charging System, it can rev up to an 80% charge in just 30 minutes.

      The car has an EPA fuel economy rating of 126/103/114 MPGe (city/highway/combined) and has a range of 89 miles on a full charge. Honda plans to have a series of alternative-fueled Clarity models. The Clarity Fuel Cell came out last December and the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid will launch before the end of this year.

      Sales have risen

      Sales figures suggest electric vehicles have finally captured consumers' attention, at least on a global basis. After being non-existent for years, the International Energy Agency reported that new registrations of electric cars hit a record last year, with over 750,000 sold worldwide. Previously, it was thought low gasoline prices were putting a damper on sales.

      At the same time, the average transaction price (ATP) for electric vehicles is going down, making them more affordable. According to Kelley Blue Book (KBB), the ATP for electric vehicles in July was $37,976, down 6.8% from July 2016

      The ATP for hybrid and alternative energy cars also declined in July, but not nearly as much. KBB shows the year-over-year decline of 0.2%, at $26,034.

      One possible reason U.S. gasoline demand has nearly flatlined in recent months is the increasing number of electric and hybrid vehicles on the road.Des...

      Why exercising early in life can combat the effects of a high-fat diet

      Researchers say exercise reduces inflammation and risk of disease

      It goes without saying that exercise is good for our health, but findings from the University of Auckland show that those who pick up this healthy habit at a young age can protect themselves from many of the drawbacks of a high-fat diet.

      In a study using rat models, researchers working at the Liggins Institute discovered that exercise helps bone marrow create a “memory” that encourages healthy bone formation and changes the way the body metabolizes fat. The results indicate that people who exercise from a young age are less affected by inflammation that is characteristic of a high-fat diet and less prone to contracting many diseases.

      Dr. Justin O’Sullivan says the study underscores how important it is for consumers to exercise at a young age, and that it emphasizes the health benefits of exercise for children.

      Fewer negative effects

      The researchers examined bone health and metabolism in rats that were split into one of three different diet/exercise groups. Group one was fed on a high-fat diet but had access to an exercise wheel; group two was fed on a high-fat diet but did not have access to an exercise wheel; and group three was fed on a normal diet without access to an exercise wheel.

      The results of the analysis showed that rats in group one were not as negatively affected by their high-fat diet as rats in group two. Further investigation showed that genes that usually cause inflammation in the body had been “turned down” due to this group’s access to exercise, and that their bodies also metabolized energy from food differently.

      "What was remarkable was that these changes lasted long after the rats stopped doing that extra exercise -- into their mid-life," said O'Sullivan. "The bone marrow carried a 'memory' of the effects of exercise. This is the first demonstration of a long-lasting effect of exercise past puberty. The rats still got fat, but that early extra exercise basically set them up so that even though they put on weight they didn't have the same profile of negative effects that is common with a high fat diet."

      Preventing disease

      The researchers explain that the reduced inflammation that comes from exercising could be monumentally important in mitigating diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Study author Elwyn C. Firth also points out that exercising early in life can reduce the risk of injury and effectively combat obesity.

      "If you reach optimal bone mass early in life, you're less likely to suffer from broken bones or other bone-related problems as an adult. Load-bearing from exercise and higher bodyweight is good for growing bones,” he said.

      "Bone metabolism strongly influences energy metabolism in the body, and metabolism -- what you do with energy from diet -- is the central crux of why some children and adults become obese."

      The full study has been published in Frontiers in Physiology.

      It goes without saying that exercise is good for our health, but findings from the University of Auckland show that those who pick up this healthy habit at...

      Self-driving car bill wins bipartisan support

      It appears to be one issue in Washington on which Republicans and Democrats can agree

      Congress appears to be speeding toward streamlining the process of putting self-driving cars on the road.

      The House Energy & Commerce Committee has given its approval to H.R. 3388, the Safely Ensuring Lives Future Deployment and Research in Vehicle Evolution Act -- otherwise known as the “SELF DRIVE Act.”

      Unusual in bitterly polarized Washington, the measure cleared the key committee on a unanimous 54-0 vote.

      The committee said the legislation will prioritize consumer safety, reduce traffic-related fatalities, and clarify federal and state roles covering automated vehicle technologies.

      Unifying issue

      The committee said members in both parties recognize that self-driving cars have the potential to reduce traffic accidents and resulting deaths. But some consumer groups remain skeptical and suggest Congress should tap the brakes in its rush to put autonomous cars on the road. That sentiment is echoed by Teamsters Union President James Hoffa.

      "The Teamsters Union will continue working with lawmakers to improve the initial legislation that was recently passed out of the House Energy & Commerce Committee," Hoffa said in a statement. "Much work remains to be done and the bill faces a long path forward where numerous issues must be addressed."

      Hoffa was pleased, however, that the initial legislation has no impact on commercial trucking or the union drivers who pilot them. Hoffa said the Teamsters intends to have its say before Congress takes up any rules to cover autonomous trucks.

      "The millions of workers who make their livelihood in these industries will have an active role to play in shaping the future of their jobs and their industries," Hoffa said. "It is vital that Congress ensure that any new technology is used to make transportation safer and more effective, not used to put workers at risk on the job or destroy livelihoods and chip away at the middle class."

      Backers say autonomous vehicles are safer

      Lawmakers say the driving force behind autonomous vehicles is to prevent the thousands of crash-related deaths that occur each year.

      The committee says the current legislation, which now heads to the full House for a vote, will improve safety for consumers, redefines the roles of state and federal government agencies, and updates the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards to account for highly sophisticated automated vehicles.

      Consumer groups have raised concerns, however, that the measure will allow widespread testing of autonomous vehicles on public highways before all safety questions have been asked and answered.

      Congress appears to be speeding toward streamlining the process of putting self-driving cars on the road.The House Energy & Commerce Committee has give...