Current Events in December 2018

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2018

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    China court orders sales ban of older iPhone models

    Qualcomm says the tech giant violated two of its patents

    Qualcomm announced this week that it won two preliminary injunctions against Apple that would stop the sale and import of seven major recent iPhone models in China, specifically the iPhone 6S, iPhone 6S Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X.

    The microchip maker, which has been engaged in a years-long legal battle with Apple, alleges patent violations on features that let consumers reformat the size and appearance of photos and manage applications on a touch screen when navigating through phone apps. Qualcomm originally filed its case against Apple in 2017.

    In a statement, Apple claimed that its latest operating system, iOS 12, does not violate Qualcomm patents and that all iPhone models remain available in China.

    “Qualcomm’s effort to ban our products is another desperate move by a company whose illegal practices are under investigation by regulators around the world,” Apple said. “All iPhone models remain available for our customers in China. Qualcomm is asserting three patents they had never raised before, including one which has already been invalidated. We will pursue all our legal options through the courts.”

    Patent dispute

    Qualcomm has insisted that the upgrade of the operating system isn’t enough to allow the company to get around the ban.

    “The orders aren’t specific to the operating system installed on the phones,” said Don Rosenberg, general counsel and executive vice president of Qualcomm, in a statement to Yahoo Finance.

    Apple said it’s planning to fight the injunctions, stating that it’s filed a request for reconsiderations with the Chinese court. Qualcomm has said it will enforce the injunction.

    "If Apple is violating the orders, Qualcomm will seek enforcement of the orders through enforcement tribunals that are part of the Chinese court system," Don Rosenberg, general counsel for Qualcomm, said in a statement.

    Qualcomm announced this week that it won two preliminary injunctions against Apple that would stop the sale and import of seven major recent iPhone models...

    Study finds financial literacy courses can raise credit scores

    Consumers who enrolled saw scores rise after one year

    If you've considered enrolling in a financial literacy program, consider this: doing so just might help your credit score.

    Admittedly, it's a small study, but a San Diego-based non-profit credit counselor assembled a focus group of 116 clients who have participated in a counseling session. In the session, they reviewed their credit report, got some advice on budgeting, and enrolled in a debt management program.

    DebtWave Credit Counseling ran the debt management course and then provided clients with an additional financial literacy course, the Smart With Your Money Financial Education Program.

    A year after starting the course, DebtWave and participating clients reviewed their credit scores and compared them to what they were at the start of the training. After another year, they reviewed the scores again.

    The results

    Of the 116 clients, 79 percent saw their credit scores rise from an average of 625 to 638. Twenty-nine of the 116 clients continued the course for a second year, and 25 of them saw their scores go up from an average of 612 to 686.

    “The data shows us that time and time again financial literacy is instrumental in ensuring an individual’s success in the future,” said Mike Marsden, DebtWave’s operations director.

    Marsden says the goal of the training is to help consumers learn the basics of credit reporting, the importance of budgeting, and how to pay off debt.

    Non-profit credit counselors, who charge small fees or no fees at all, usually start with a review of a consumer’s credit report because it contains so much information about the client’s financial health. The report is the basis for the consumer’s credit score, which is a key factor in financial stability.

    Why your credit score is important

    A consumer’s credit score affects their ability to purchase a home, rent an apartment, buy or lease a car, get a good rate on insurance, and even get a job. If you qualify for a loan, it will also determine the interest rate you pay.

    The easiest way to improve your credit score is to pay all of your bills on time every month. A second step is to have access to credit but not to carry a large balance. Paying off your credit card bill in full each month will not just save interest charges but can help boost your credit score.

    You can find a non-profit credit counselor in your area using the National Foundation for Credit Counseling’s locator tool.

    If you've considered enrolling in a financial literacy program, consider this: doing so just might help your credit score.Admittedly, it's a small stud...

    Women at increased risk for breast cancer for up to 20 years after childbirth

    Researchers say age and heredity could play a large role

    Pregnancy comes with several health risks, both for mothers and their babies. Though nine months of pregnancy come with countless doctor’s appointments and a keen sense of attention to women’s bodies and overall health, research has shown why that shouldn’t stop after the baby is born.

    A new study conducted by researchers from the University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health found that women could be at risk for developing breast cancer for up to 20 years after childbirth.

    “What we saw was this pattern where risk was highest about five years after birth, and then it gradually declined as time went on,” lead researcher Dr. Hazel Nichols told CNN.

    Women at risk

    The researchers collected data from 15 cohort studies to explore the likelihood of women developing breast cancer post-childbirth. All of the women involved in the study were under the age of 55, and those who had given birth were compared with those of the same age who had not.

    For the women who had experienced childbirth, their risk for developing breast cancer was higher than for those who hadn’t. The researchers found that the risk could last for up to 24 years post-birth, but it was at its highest level five years following childbirth.

    The risk of developing breast cancer was highest for women who had the disease in their family lines, in addition to women who had children later in life. However, a mother’s decision to breastfeed didn’t affect their risk of developing breast cancer.

    The researchers are hopeful that the findings from this study will urge healthcare providers to make the most informed choices for their patients and promote preventive breast cancer measures.

    Other breast cancer risks

    With nearly one in eight women in the United States at risk of developing invasive breast cancer, it’s important that consumers know some preventive measures associated with the disease.

    Last year, researchers found that women that took just 81mg of aspirin on a regular basis were less likely to develop breast cancer. However, that wasn’t the case for women that took a different painkiller or a higher dosage.

    The researchers explain that aspirin can work as an aromatase inhibitor, which reduces the amount of estrogen in the blood and can therefore help to reduce the risk of breast cancer.

    “We did not by and large find associations with the other pain medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen,” said Dr. Christina A. Clarke. “We also did not find associations with regular aspirin since this type of medication is taken sporadically for headaches or other pain, and not daily for prevention of cardiovascular disease.”

    Researchers also found that for postmenopausal women, losing weight was effective in reducing the risk of breast cancer.

    While gaining weight wasn’t found to be a direct link to breast cancer, the study participants that gained weight were over 50 percent more likely to develop triple negative breast cancer -- a strain of the illness that doesn’t respond to traditional hormonal therapy. Conversely, those who lost weight over the course of the study were just 12 percent likely to develop breast cancer.

    Pregnancy comes with several health risks, both for mothers and their babies. Though nine months of pregnancy come with countless doctor’s appointments and...

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      Volkswagen recalls previously repaired Audi Q7s and Q5s

      The interim repair may allow fuel to leak

      Volkswagen Group of America is recalling 5,987 model year 2007-2012 Audi Q7s and model year 2009-2012 Audi Q5s.

      These vehicles were previously repaired with an interim repair of installing butyl tape to the fuel pump flange, until replacement remedy parts became available.

      The butyl tape may not prevent fuel from leaking. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

      What to do

      Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump flange and install butyl tape, free of charge.

      The recall is expected to begin December 31, 2018.

      Owners may contact Audi customer service at (800)-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 20BJ.

      Volkswagen Group of America is recalling 5,987 model year 2007-2012 Audi Q7s and model year 2009-2012 Audi Q5s.These vehicles were previously repaired...

      Amboy Group recalls chicken breasts

      The products may contain milk, egg and soy, allergens not declared on the label

      Amboy Group of Woodbridge, N.J., is recalling an undetermined amount of raw boneless and skinless chicken breasts.

      The products may contain milk, egg and soy, allergens not declared on the label.

      There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions.

      The following raw boneless and skinless poultry items, produced from December 5, 2016, through December 5, 2018, are being recalled:

      • 16-oz. plastic trays of “Shop Rite Ready To Cook BONELESS & SKINLESS Chicken Breast Italian Style Panko Breaded.”
      • 16-oz. plastic trays of “Shop Rite Ready To Cook BONELESS & SKINLESS Chicken Breast Sundried Tomato Panko Breaded.”
      • 16-oz. plastic trays of “Shop Rite Ready To Cook BONELESS & SKINLESS Chicken Breast Parmesan Panko Breaded.”
      • 16-oz. plastic trays of “Shop Rite Ready To Cook BONELESS & SKINLESS Chicken Breast Mustard Panko Breaded.”

      The recalled products, bearing establishment number “EST. P-33789” inside the USDA mark of inspection, were shipped to retail locations in New Jersey.

      What to do

      Customers who purchased the recalled products should not consume them, but discard them or return them to the place of purchase.

      Consumers with questions about the recall may contact Logan McNamara at (732) 682-8329.

      Amboy Group of Woodbridge, N.J., is recalling an undetermined amount of raw boneless and skinless chicken breasts.The products may contain milk, egg an...

      Honda recalls model year 2019 Honda Ridgelines and Pilots

      The right side curtain airbag may not deploy properly

      American Honda Motor Co. is recalling 403 model year 2019 Honda Ridgelines and Pilots.

      The mounting holes for the clip that secures the right center pillar trim panel may be larger than intended.

      In the event of a crash necessitating right side curtain air bag deployment, the clip may not hold the center pillar trim panel in position and it may potentially interfere with the curtain air bag deployment.

      If the curtain air bag does not deploy as intended, it can increase the risk of injury.

      What to do

      Honda will notify owners, and dealers will install a bracket on the right center pillar that will securely hold the center pillar trim clip, free of charge.

      The recall is expected to begin January 25, 2019.

      Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is D3D.

      American Honda Motor Co. is recalling 403 model year 2019 Honda Ridgelines and Pilots.The mounting holes for the clip that secures the right center pil...

      Skip Hop recalls convertible high chairs

      The legs on the highchair can detach from the seat

      Skip Hop of New York is recalling about 41,000 Tuo convertible high chairs sold in the U.S. and Canada.

      The legs on the highchair can detach from the seat, posing fall and injury hazards to children.

      The firm has received 17 reports of the legs of the high chairs detaching. No injuries have been reported.

      This recall involves Skip Hop’s Tuo convertible high chairs with charcoal gray or silver/white with clouds fabric.

      They have a reversible seat pad, removable tray, 5-point harness, beechwood footrest and legs. The high chairs can be converted into a toddler chair.

      One of the following style numbers and corresponding date code can be found on the back of the chair:

      Style Number

      Date Codes

      304200

      (charcoal gray)

      HH5/2017, HH6/2017, HH7/2017, HH8/2017, HH9/2017, HH092717, HH030518, HH05182018, HH05312018

      304201

      (silver/white with clouds)

      HH092917,  HH010518

      The high chairs, manufactured in China, were sold at Babies ”R” Us, Buy Buy Baby, Target, Kohls, Dillards and other children specialty stores nationwide and online at Amazon.com and Skiphop.com from June 2017, through December 2018, for about $160.

      What to do

      Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled high chairs and contact Skip Hop for a full refund or an e gift card of equal value.

      Consumers may contact Skip Hop toll-free at (888) 282-4674 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (ET) Monday through Friday, or online at www.skiphop.com and click on “Product Recalls” at the bottom of the page for more information.

      Skip Hop of New York is recalling about 41,000 Tuo convertible high chairs sold in the U.S. and Canada.The legs on the highchair can detach from the se...

      iPhone users report major headaches with cellular data not working

      If you haven’t upgraded to the newest version of iOS, wait until the coast is clear

      Apple woke up on Monday to a giant problem attributed to its latest iPhone operating software update. Forbes reported that iOS 12.1.1 is "killing" the data of many iPhone users and forcing them to go online via WiFi.

      "Major issues using cellular data," and "I’m concerned that this is potentially a bigger issue than just iOS 12.1.1" commented frustrated users on Twitter.

      Gordon Kelly, Forbes’ consumer tech reporter, deduced that with more than a billion iPhones in active use, the issue "is clearly having a sizeable impact on a number of users."

      Apple’s newest iPhone software had good intentions -- stability improvements for dictation, DoNotDisturb upgrades, the ability to make iPhone use "less addictive," and FaceTime improvements among them -- yet, the company apparently failed to heed reported issues from users and released the update anyway.

      "Consequently, I would advise anyone who has yet to upgrade to iOS 12.1.1 to do so cautiously," Kelly wrote. "With any minority problem, the odds are on your side that you will escape unharmed, but those who are affected are hit with one of the worst problems a smartphone owner can have."

      What to do

      While this problem can be a giant hassle, it’s not Apple’s modus operandi to leave issues like this unmet.

      In fact, the company is already addressing the problem on its Twitter channel.

      "We want to help resolve any issues you may be experiencing with iOS 12.1.1. Have you noticed whether these issues seem to be happening only with certain apps? Please DM us the answer here to get started," the company tweeted. Its support team is available every day to answer your questions, from 5am-8pm PST, on the company’s Twitter channel.

      Should you be worried?

      While the company won’t "confirm security issues until an investigation has occurred and patches or releases are available," there are no reports that personal data has been breached as part of the issue iPhone users are experiencing.

      ConsumerAffairs searched for proven fixes but was unable to find any that users claimed success with -- restarting and resetting network settings and rolling back the system software to a previous version among them.

      If you have an iPhone that’s impacted by the data/WiFi issue, your best bets are to either a) be patient until Apple rolls out a fix; or b) contact Apple and ask for help.

      However, if your operating system hasn’t been updated to 12.1.1, it may be wise to turn off "Automatic Updates" in your system settings until the problem has been corrected.

      Apple woke up on Monday to a giant problem attributed to its latest iPhone operating software update. Forbes reported that iOS 12.1.1 is "killing" the data...

      Feds launch investigation into fake net neutrality comments

      Sources say the Justice Department is looking into whether crimes were committed

      The Justice Department has launched an investigation into the fake comments that were submitted to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the runup to the agency’s controversial net neutrality vote.  

      The Justice Department is looking into whether the fraudulent comments, which potentially number in the millions, constitute a crime based on the fact that millions of people’s identities were posted on the FCC’s website without their permission.

      BuzzFeed News reported over the weekend that two organizations that had previously received subpoenas regarding a separate New York attorney general’s office investigation confirmed that they had received new subpoenas from the FBI.

      “The reports are the first that federal investigators are taking in interest in the case, which was already subject to an investigation previously announced by the New York Attorney General’s office,” BuzzFeed reported. “Both organizations had previously been subpoenaed by New York and said the scope of those subpoenas were similar.”

      Fake net neutrality comments

      Over 22 million comments were filed to the FCC’s digital comment system ahead of its vote to ultimately roll back Obama-era net neutrality rules. Since then, researchers have analyzed how many of the comments were actually unique and in favor of rolling back the regulations.

      A study conducted earlier this year found that 99.7 percent of unique comments (meaning those that weren’t made through campaigns that filed fake comments using the names of real people) were in favor of keeping net neutrality protections.

      The FCC maintained for several months that its comment system was the target of a cyberattack, preventing consumers from utilizing the website to voice their opinion on the proposed net neutrality decision. Chairman Ajit Pai later admitted that the so-called cyberattack never took place.

      Pai said recently that about 500,000 of the comments were linked to Russian email addresses. However, he has refused to release the data logs because he says the information must be kept private in order to help prevent cyber attacks.

      Releasing the data logs would also violate the privacy interests of Americans who commented on the net neutrality repeal, he said.

      Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel, the agency’s only Democratic chairperson, argued that the regulator is trying to "hide" behind Freedom of Information Act exemptions.

      The Justice Department has launched an investigation into the fake comments that were submitted to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the runup...

      Utility companies preparing for a winter of outages

      The latest storm has left hundreds of thousands in the cold

      In the wake of a massive winter storm stretching across the middle of the nation, Duke Energy is predicting the severe weekend storm has caused as many as 500,000 power outages in its service area.

      The company says it typically takes up to 24 hours to assess the full extent of the outages since winter storms present challenges to moving people and equipment around. It says more than six inches of snow or a quarter inch of ice will cause branches to sag and trees to come down, dragging power lines with them.

      Parts of North Carolina got more than 18 inches of snow Sunday and up to seven inches covered wide areas of Virginia and Georgia. At least four deaths are blamed on the winter storm with officials warning the toll could go higher.

      As many as 1,700 flights in and out of Richmond, Durham, and Charlotte were canceled because of the icy conditions, with the bulk of them in Charlotte. Operations aren’t expected to return to normal until late Monday.

      Georgia Power is another utility with customers in the path of winter storm Diego. Over the weekend, the company advised customers to make preparations but did not offer an estimate of how many homes would lose electricity.

      The storm has impacted a wide area from Arkansas to Virginia and the Carolinas as it moved east over the weekend. Parts of Texas also got hit with heavy snow, stressing the need for all consumers in colder winter climates -- and even some areas where winters are typically mild --  to prepare for the worst since forecasts call for a colder-than-normal winter.

      Winter emergency kit

      Every household should have a winter emergency kit containing flashlights, a battery-powered radio, energy bars or food that doesn't require preparation, and several extra warm blankets.

      If you have a generator make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure safe and proper operation. The generator must remain outside at all times. Its gasoline-powered engine emits carbon monoxide exhaust that will fill a closed building with poisonous gas.

      Cooking on a barbecue grill is fine but the grill must remain outside for the same reason the generator does.

      Steer clear of downed wires

      If you must leave your home, stay clear of power lines that have fallen or are sagging. For safety's sake consider all lines, whether they are down or still on lines, like live wires. Downed lines should be reported to your utility company.

      In the event a power line falls across a car in which you're an occupant, stay in the vehicle. If you must exit the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.

      When a winter storm is forecasted for your region, conduct a check of your emergency winter kit to make sure you have what you need and fully charge your cell phone. For several hours it could be your only connection to the outside world.

      In the wake of a massive winter storm stretching across the middle of the nation, Duke Energy is predicting the severe weekend storm has caused as many as...

      Amazon reportedly evaluating airports as potential Go store locations

      The company could open its grab-and-go stores at major U.S. airports

      Amazon is eyeing airports as locations for its cashier-less Go stores, according to Reuters.

      The e-commerce giant -- which has opened seven Go stores since January and has plans to open as many as 3,000 by 2021 -- reportedly spoke to officials at several major U.S. airports regarding the possibility of putting Go stores in terminals.

      “The lead for Amazon Go requested a meeting,” said a June 27 email from a technology adviser who supports Los Angeles International, according to Reuters. “Interested?” To which the representative replied, “Yes. Thanks!”

      A representative for Amazon's cloud unit also asked San Jose International Airport for a meeting and referenced Amazon Go as "one of many possibilities we can discuss.”

      However, since these initial exchanges with airport contacts, no additional information has been provided by Amazon about whether its Go stores are headed to the nation’s busiest airports.

      Considering airports

      Amazon’s Go stores allow shoppers to move through aisles and pick up items such as ready-made snacks, lunches, drinks, frozen dinners, and basic groceries. When shoppers are ready to leave, they can simply walk out of the store without having to pay a cashier first.

      The company is able to fulfill its “no lines, no checkouts, no registers” promise by relying on sensors and cameras placed throughout the store. These allow Amazon to track what customers take out of the store and charge customers’ credit cards accordingly.

      The company hasn’t offered any further details on whether its automated stores will be built into airports, but that may be because it’s taking time to consider how to navigate the challenges of operating in airports. For example, workers would need a security clearance to staff concessions after security checkpoints.

      Financial constraints may also be under consideration. Previous reports suggested that just one Amazon Go store required more than $1 million in hardware to build. Additionally, leasing retail space at airports can be costly.

      Amazon is eyeing airports as locations for its cashier-less Go stores, according to Reuters. The e-commerce giant -- which has opened seven Go stores s...

      Uber files for initial public offering

      The ride-hailing company is racing against its smaller rival, Lyft

      On Thursday, Lyft confidentially filed for an initial public offering set to take place in March or April of 2019. The timing of Lyft’s filing put it ahead of its competitor Uber, which was also reportedly planning to get an IPO in the coming year.

      On Friday, sources familiar with Uber’s plans told the Wall Street Journal that Uber had also filed paperwork with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Thursday for an IPO, putting it on track to happen earlier in 2019 than previously anticipated.

      “Each company is rushing to beat the other to the public markets in the first half of next year amid a fair climate for technology I.P.O.s and worries of a potential economic recession,” the New York Times reported.

      Both transportation apps are expected to go public in 2019, but Uber could debut on the public market perhaps "as soon as the first quarter," according to the Journal.

      Bankers have estimated Uber's IPO value at $120 billion. Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley are expected to advise Uber on the listing.

      Since taking the helm in 2017, Uber’s CEO Dara Khosrowshahi has had plans to take the ride-hailing startup public. Each transportation company stands to raise billions through their respective IPOs, allowing them to finance their expansion plans.

      On Thursday, Lyft confidentially filed for an initial public offering set to take place in March or April of 2019. The timing of Lyft’s filing put it ahead...

      Georgia seeks sales tax revenue from Uber

      Ride-sharing firms don’t pay the tax cut taxi services do

      The state of Georgia says Uber is not paying sales tax as required by state law and is seeking millions from the ride-sharing company.

      Uber says it believes it has abided by Georgia law and says the state is misinterpreting the law governing sales tax. The dispute is likely to end up in court with a lot riding on the outcome.

      The Georgia Department of Revenue has sent Uber a bill for back taxes totaling $22.1 million dollars. It maintains that Uber should have been collecting sales tax and other fees for rides it billed within the state.

      The question is whether a ride is a service that qualifies for the state sales tax. Published reports say the company does not collect sales tax while the state insists that it should.

      The state bases its argument on the fact that taxi services collect and pay sales tax. The state of Georgia says ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are essentially taxi services and should abide by the same rules.

      For now, Uber has appealed the Department of Revenue’s claim to the state tax tribunal, which is designated under Georgia Law to settle these kinds of disputes.

      Should Uber ultimately lose the case, not only will it have to pay Georgia the back taxes it will undoubtedly increase fares in the state of Georgia.

      One group cheering on the state of Georgia is the taxicab industry, which does pay sales tax. John Boit, a spokesman for the Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association told the Atlanta Journal and Constitution that making exceptions to the sales tax rule creates an unfair business advantage.

      The state of Georgia says Uber is not paying sales tax as required by state law and is seeking millions from the ride-sharing company.Uber says it beli...

      Children with infections during childhood could be at greater risk for developing mental disorders

      Researchers suggest this is further proof of the connection between the body and mind

      For many parents with young children, germs often spread like wildfire, and keeping kids safe from illness can often be difficult.

      Now, a new study found that infections children develop in childhood could eventually lead to an increased risk for developing mental disorders.

      “Hospital admissions with infections are particularly associated with an increased risk of mental disorders, but so too are less severe infections that are treated with medicine from the patient’s own general practitioner,” said researcher Ole Köhler-Forsberg.

      Monitoring risks

      To explore the relationship between the body and the brain, the researchers analyzed medical records from children born between January 1, 1995 and June 30, 2012.

      Over the course of the study, the researchers studied both severe infections that required hospitalizations and less intense ones that required antibiotics. They then explored mental health diagnoses following infection.

      The study found that, overall, there was an increased risk of children developing conditions like  OCD, autism, ADHD, psychotic disorders, tics, and personality disorders when there was a previous infection.

      Children who required a hospital stay for an infection were at an even greater risk, as the researchers found they were 84 percent more likely to develop a mental disorder and 42 percent more likely to be prescribed medication.

      The results also showed that risk was highest right after the infection manifested. Though the researchers note that some people are more genetically predisposed to developing a mental disorder, they say there is a tangible relationship between the ways the brain is affected by the body.

      “The temporal correlations between the infection and the mental diagnoses were particularly notable, as we observed that the risk of a newly occurring mental disorder was increased by 5.66 times in the first three months after contact with a hospital due to an infection and were also increased more than twofold within the first year,” said researcher Michael Eriksen Benrós.

      The researchers are hopeful that these findings will lead to even more studies focused on this issue and help as many children moving forward as possible.

      Childhood mental health struggles

      Early last month, researchers found that the number of childhood mental health diagnoses and subsequent hospital visits continue to skyrocket across the United States.

      The researchers found that the number of children going to the emergency room for a mental health-related issue increased by 30 percent between 2012 and 2016, and nearly 300,000 children had received a mental health diagnosis.

      “Access to mental health services among children can be difficult, and data suggest that it can be even more challenging for minority children compared with non-minority youths,” said Monika K. Goyal. “Our findings underscore the importance of improving access to outpatient mental health resources as well as expanding capacity within the nation’s emergency departments to respond to this unmet need.”  

      Researchers suggest that physical activity, lack of sleep, and smartphones can all contribute to changes in children’s mental health, and monitoring these things can be beneficial over the long term.

      For many parents with young children, germs often spread like wildfire, and keeping kids safe from illness can often be difficult.Now, a new study foun...

      Big tobacco eyes cannabis industry and Juul

      The parent company of Philip Morris is investing in a Canadian cannabis firm

      When the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced last month that it would crack down on e-cigarette companies that sell their products online or in convenience stores, citing research that e-cigs were getting teens and other non-smokers hooked, Juul steadfastly denied that its products were intended for anyone other than consumers trying to quit cigarette addictions.

      That already questionable assurance from Juul just became a little more difficult to believe. Altria, the parent company of tobacco giant Philip Morris, has announced that it is discontinuing MarkTen and Green Smoke, their two lines of e-cigarette brands. In place of those, Altria is instead reportedly planning to buy a stake in Juul, sources familiar with the deal told CNBC.

      Juul has yet to officially confirm the news. But it wouldn’t be the brand’s first partnership with a tobacco company. The e-cigarette brand, valued at $16 billion, partnered with Japan Tobacco International back in 2011.

      The news comes as some consumers’ rosey views of legal cannabis also appears poised to get corrupted by tobacco interests. Altria is reportedly investing $1.8 billion in Cronos, a Canadian cannabis firm that is taking off with legalization up north.

      "Investing in Cronos Group as our exclusive partner in the emerging global cannabis category represents an exciting new growth opportunity for Altria," Howard Willard, Altria's CEO, said in an announcement.  

      When the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced last month that it would crack down on e-cigarette companies that sell their products online or in co...

      Flu shots could be beneficial to patients with heart failure

      Researchers suggest the shot could be life-saving

      Getting a flu shot has become pretty standard procedure for many consumers, as it’s a quick and easy way to prevent the flu and its associated health risks -- particularly during the cold winter months.

      Though the flu shot can benefit anyone, new research shows why patients with heart failure should ensure they’re vaccinated.

      Researchers, led by Daniel Modin of the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, explored the ways patients with newly-diagnosed heart failure responded to the flu shot and found that there were countless health benefits.

      “Recent studies have indicated that the influenza vaccination coverage of patients with heart failure is inadequate,” said Modin. “I hope that our study can assist in making physicians and cardiologists who care for patients with heart failure aware of how important influenza vaccination is for their patients. Influenza vaccination may be regarded as a standard treatment in heart failure similar to medications.”

      Key findings

      The researchers studied medical data for over 134,000 patients who were diagnosed with heart failure over the course of 12 years. The study started in 2003, when 16 percent of the participants were getting a flu shot; it ended in 2015, when 52 percent received the shot.

      The researchers were most curious as to how the flu shot affected the mortality of patients with new cases of heart failure.

      For starters, they found that getting vaccinated early proved to be beneficial for participants. The risk of death decreased when patients were vaccinated earlier during flu season, as opposed to during the heart of flu season.

      Perhaps the most significant finding was that the risk of premature death decreased by 18 percent for those who received a flu shot, regardless of any other health complications.

      For yearly flu shot recipients, the risk of death -- both heart-related and otherwise -- decreased. Getting a flu shot on a regular basis reduced cardiovascular deaths by eight percent, and all deaths by 13 percent.

      The results also proved to hold up over the long term, and showing that flu shot continued to be effective over time. Patients who received flu shots each year following a heart failure diagnosis reduced their risk of death by 19 percent, compared with those who didn’t get a flu shot at all.

      Though Modin notes that the study focuses solely on heart failure patients who are newly diagnosed, he’s confident that the flu shot would be beneficial for anyone suffering with heart disease.

      Importance of getting vaccinated

      Though many parents may be skeptical about having their child get the flu shot, following last year’s high-severity flu season, it can be critical -- especially for those with compromised immune systems.

      Earlier this fall, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned consumers that they should get vaccinated early in preparation for the heart of flu season. During last flu season, 180 children died from the sickness, and 80 percent of them weren’t vaccinated. Additionally, over 700,000 people landed in the hospital from the flu.

      The CDC says that the flu shot is “the best way reduce your risk of getting sick with seasonal flu and spreading it to others.”

      Not long after that warning, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) urged that all children six months and older receive the flu as early as possible.

      “The flu virus is common -- and unpredictable,” said Dr. Flor Munoz. “It can cause serious complications even in healthy children. Being immunized reduces the risk of a child being hospitalized due to flu.”

      Getting a flu shot has become pretty standard procedure for many consumers, as it’s a quick and easy way to prevent the flu and its associated health risks...

      Study: Millennial renters face huge obstacles to buying a home

      Nearly half have nothing saved for a down payment

      There's a new survey of millennial renters, and it's not good news for the housing market. Apartment List surveyed 6,400 millennial renters about their plans for homeownership.

      The good news? Most want to purchase a home at some point in the future. The bad news? Most currently lack the financial means to do so. Nearly half admit to having saved nothing for a down payment.

      It's significant because this younger generation of renters makes up what should be the next wave of homebuyers. Today, millennials nearly outnumber baby boomers, most of whom already own a home.

      Facing headwinds

      But millennial renters face a number of headwinds. There is a shortage of available housing for entry-level buyers. Sales of expensive homes have slowed considerably, but a starter home is still hard to find.

      Because of declining inventories, starter homes that are on the market are carrying a higher price tag than just a few years ago. Meanwhile, mortgage rates are rising, making a monthly payment more expensive.

      The Apartment List survey found just 4.9 percent of millennial renters expect to purchase a home within the next 12 months, while a third say they don't expect to become homeowners for at least five years. And even that might be overly optimistic, the study shows.

      "We analyze millennial saving rates to estimate that two-thirds of millennial renters would require at least two decades to save enough for a 20 percent down payment on a median-priced condo in their market," the authors write. "Just 11 percent would be able to amass a 20 percent down payment within the next five years."

      Student loan debt

      Student loan debt appears to be the major contributor to a lack of savings. The study estimates that 23 percent of college graduates who are not still paying off student loans will be able to save enough for a down payment within five years. Only about 12 percent of those still paying off loans will be able to do that.

      A recent study by real estate marketplace Zillow estimates student loan debt reduces a buyer's budget by $100,000. According to the study, the maximum a renter with student debt could afford to pay without spending more than 30 percent of their income on housing and student debt is $269,400. That means they could buy just over half of the homes currently for sale.

      There's a new survey of millennial renters, and it's not good news for the housing market. Apartment List surveyed 6,400 millennial renters about their pla...

      Model year 2016-2018 Ford Focus vehicles recalled

      The clutch may fracture

      Ford Motor Company is recalling 2,828 model year 2016-2018 Ford Focus vehicles equipped with a 1.0L Fox GTDI engine and a 6-speed manual transmission.

      The clutch may fracture, resulting in damage to the transmission assembly and possibly a transmission fluid leak.

      A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components can increase the risk of a fire.

      What to do

      Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update vehicles with software that detects and prevents prolonged clutch slip, and will replace the clutch, as necessary, free of charge.

      The recall is expected to begin January 7, 2019.

      Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S07.

      Ford Motor Company is recalling 2,828 model year 2016-2018 Ford Focus vehicles equipped with a 1.0L Fox GTDI engine and a 6-speed manual transmission.T...

      Kawasaki USA recalls off-highway utility vehicles

      The rollover protection structure can fail to protect consumers

      Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. of Foothill Ranch, Calif., is recalling about 1,000 Kawasaki Mule Pro off-highway utility vehicles.

      The rollover protection structure (ROPS) can fail to protect consumers, posing an injury hazard.

      No incidents or injuries have been reported.

      This recall involves 2018 and 2019 Mule Pro utility vehicles.

      The four-wheel, off-highway utility vehicles were sold in black, green, white, red, bronze, silver, camo and blue. They have side by side seating for three to six people and automotive style controls.

      Mule Pro is printed on the right and left front fender. Kawasaki is printed on the cargo box. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the steel frame between the right front lower A-arm mounts.

      Year

      Model

      Model Code

      Vin Range

      2018

      Mule Pro-DXT (EPS)

      KAF1000AJF

      JKAAFCA1XJB501117 through JKAAFCA11JB501152

      2018

      Mule Pro-DXT (EPS)

      KAF1000BJF

      JKAAFCB18JB503625 through JKAAFCB18JB503642

      2018

      Mule Pro-DX (EPS)

      KAF1000EJF

      JKAAFCE1XJB502410 through JKAAFCE18JB502437

      2019

      Mule Pro-FXT

      (EPS/LE/Camo/Ranch)

      KAF820AKF

      JKBAFSA13KB501645 through JKBAFSA14KB501671

      2019

      Mule Pro-FXT

      (EPS/LE/Camo/Ranch)

      KAF820BKF

      JKBAFSB15KB513858 through JKBAFSB18KB514230

      2019

      Mule Pro-FXT

      (EPS/LE/Camo/Ranch)

      KAF820CKF

      JKBAFSC19KB513036 through JKBAFSC19KB513361

      2019

      Mule Pro-FXT

      (EPS/LE/Camo/Ranch)

      KAF820DKF

      JKBAFSD18KB506741 through JKBAFSD1XKB506787

      2019

      Mule Pro-FX (EPS/LE)

      KAF820FKF

      JKBAFSF13KB506336 through JKBAFSF10KB506603

      2019

      Mule Pro-FX (EPS/LE)

      KAF820GKF

      JKBAFSG18KB504354 through JKBAFSG1XKB504355

      2019

      Mule Pro-FXT

      KAF820JKF

      JKBAFSJ19KB508972 through JKBAFSJ15KB509343

      2019

      Mule Pro-FXR

      KAF820KKF

      JKBAFSK14KB504620 through JKBAFSK17KB504630

      The utility vehicles, manufactured in the U.S., were sold at Kawasaki dealers nationwide from August 2018, through September 2018, for between $13,000 and $17,000.

      What to do

      Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled utility vehicles and contact a Kawasaki dealer to schedule a free repair. Kawasaki is contacting all known purchasers directly.

      Consumers may contact Kawasaki toll-free at (866) 802-9381 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (PT) Monday through Friday or online at www.Kawasaki.com and click on “Recalls” at the bottom of the page for more information.

      Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. of Foothill Ranch, Calif., is recalling about 1,000 Kawasaki Mule Pro off-highway utility vehicles.The rollover protectio...

      Mercedes-Benz vehicles with seatbelt issue recalled

      The seatbelt pre-tensioners may not activate in the event of a crash

      Mercedes-Benz (MBUSA) is recalling 5,433 model year 2019 C300 4Matic Cabriolets, C43 AMG Cabriolets, C300 Cabriolets, C300 Coupes, C300 4Matic Coupes, C43 AMG Coupes, E450 Coupes, E53 AMG Cabriolets, S450s, S560s, E450 Cabriolets, E450 4Matic Cabriolets, E450 4Matic Coupes, E53 AMG Coupes, S450 4Matics, S560 4Matics, S63 AMGs and S65 AMGs, and Mercedes-Mayback S650s and S560 4 Matics.

      A correctly fastened seatbelt may be inaccurately detected as being unfastened, preventing the seatbelt pre-tensioners from activating in the event of a crash.

      If the seat belt tensioning does not activate in the event of a crash, the risk of injury can increase.

      What to do

      MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seat belt buckles, free of charge.

      An interim letter will be mailed beginning January 25, 2019, to notify owners of the issue. A second letter will be mailed once remedy parts are available.

      Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

      Mercedes-Benz (MBUSA) is recalling 5,433 model year 2019 C300 4Matic Cabriolets, C43 AMG Cabriolets, C300 Cabriolets, C300 Coupes, C300 4Matic Coupes, C43...