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The types of insurance that aren’t worth your while

While it’s important to make sure you’ve been covered, some forms of insurance aren’t really worth your while in the long run. We’ve taken a look at several types of insurance you shouldn’t really bother with, why they’re not worth your money and how you can find an alternative. Yes, it’s essential to make sure you’re covered, but at the same time you don’t need to waste any money. Extended warranties Many a salesperson has made a customer fork out that little bit extra for an “extended warranty” to go with a major electronic purchase. The thing is though, in many cases the period of time covered by the warranty is actually exactly the level you’re automatically entitled to under consumer law. Credit protection insurance While this type of insurance can be useful and a way to insure yourself against the possibility of something happening to your income as the result of an injury or a condition, credit protection insurance has tendency to be pretty expensive. A more cost effective way to ensure your payments to your credit card, personal loans or mortgages are fulfilled would be to take out a life insurance or total and permanent disability insurance policy through your individual superannuation fund. Funeral insurance Many people see this as a good way to ease the financial burden on their family that comes with their passing, but in reality funeral insurance is quite expensive and the premiums add up every year. A far better option is a prepaid funeral, funeral bonds life insurance or even a special savings account with money set aside. Just make sure you let your family know! ID theft insurance This is one of those types of insurance that isn’t really protecting your from becoming a victim, rather helping you deal with the costs once it’s already happened. And what’s more, you bank is usually willing to cover the costs of credit card fraud, which is one of the major problems to be associated with ID theft. Instead of spending money on a policy you can protect yourself from ID theft by simply keeping your personal documents safe, shredding documents such as bank account statements before throwing them away, and using antivirus software that is up to date. You can also check your credit file each year to make sure nobody’s using your identity for fake accounts. Image credits: Getty Images

Money & Banking

Gift-giving taboos that aren’t as bad as you think

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mary-steffel-213379">Mary Steffel</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/northeastern-university-1644">Northeastern University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/elanor-williams-213382">Elanor Williams</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/indiana-university-1368">Indiana University</a> There are many social norms that dictate gift-giving, including when, how and what to give as gifts. Interestingly, these norms don’t seem to be about making sure that recipients get the gifts they want. What makes for a good or bad gift often differs in the eyes of givers and recipients. In fact, behavioral science research shows that gifts that may seem “taboo” to givers might actually be better appreciated by recipients than they might think. <h2>Taboo #1: giving money</h2> Givers often worry that giving cash or gift cards might be seen as impersonal, thoughtless or crass. Yet <a href="http://static1.squarespace.com/static/5399fab2e4b083bff5af4518/t/5499c4fee4b0bb5843a0b371/1419363582068/Giver-Recipient+Discrepancies+in+Gift+Giving+Draft+12-17-14+FINAL.pdf">research</a> we have done with Robyn LeBoeuf of Washington University in St Louis shows that recipients prefer these more versatile gifts more than givers think they do. We find that givers underestimate how much recipients like seemingly impersonal monetary gifts, mistakenly thinking that they’ll prefer a traditional gift to a gift card, for instance, or a gift card to cash, when the opposite is true. And, contrary to givers’ expectations, recipients think that these less personal gifts are more thoughtful, too. Why don’t givers realize this? We find that givers tend to focus on recipients’ enduring traits and tastes and choose gifts that are tailored to those characteristics, and recipients are more likely to focus on their varying wants and needs and prefer gifts that give them the freedom to get whatever they currently need or desire most. Prompting givers to shift their focus from what recipients are like to what they would like makes them more likely to choose the versatile gifts that recipients prefer. <h2>Taboo #2: giving a practical gift</h2> A classic sitcom plotline involves the <a href="http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/GiftGivingGaffe">gift-giving gaffe</a>, with a prime example being the husband who buys his wife a vacuum cleaner or something else practical when the occasion seems to call for something more sentimental. These blundering husbands might not be as wrong as you’d think, though: research suggests that practical gifts are actually better-liked by recipients than givers expect. For instance, <a href="https://msbfile03.usc.edu/digitalmeasures/wakslak/intellcont/baskin%20wakslak%20trope%20novemsky%20(2014)-1.pdf">research</a> by Ernest Baskin of Saint Joseph’s University and colleagues demonstrates that givers tend to focus on how desirable a gift is, when recipients might prefer they think a little more about how easy that gift is to use. A gift certificate to the best restaurant in the state might not be so great a gift if it takes three hours to get there; your recipient might think that a gift certificate to a less noteworthy but closer restaurant is actually a better gift. In fact, even gifts that aren’t much fun at all, like the fabled vacuum cleaner, can make for great gifts in recipients’ eyes. <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/50a5e160e4b0e80bad9bfe3d/t/567755bbc21b8664a205e822/1450661307640/SJDM+2015+Submission_ER_EFW.pdf">Work</a> that Williams has done with Emily Rosenzweig of Tulane University shows that recipients have a stronger preference for useful rather than fun gifts than givers expect them to have. We find that the best gifts people have received are much more useful than the best gifts they think they have given, and they want givers to put less emphasis on the fun features of a gift and more emphasis on its useful features than they themselves would when picking out a gift to give to someone else. <h2>Taboo #3: giving an ‘uncreative’ gift</h2> Givers often feel pressure to think of creative gifts that demonstrate how much thought they put into the gift and how well they know the recipient. This means that, even when they are given explicit instructions on what to purchase, givers frequently ignore recipients’ wish lists or gift registries and instead try to come up with ideas for gifts by themselves. Givers think that their unsolicited gift ideas will be appreciated just as much as the ideas on wish lists and registries, but <a href="http://static1.squarespace.com/static/55dcde36e4b0df55a96ab220/t/55e746dee4b07156fbd7f6bd/1441220318875/Gino+Flynn+JESP+2011.pdf">recipients would rather</a> have the gifts they requested. Another implication of this is that givers often pass up gifts they know would be better-liked in favor of getting different gifts for each person they give a gift to, according to <a href="http://static1.squarespace.com/static/5399fab2e4b083bff5af4518/t/539a15b3e4b0bf580fb57539/1402607027977/SteffelLeBoeuf2014.pdf">research</a> by Steffel and LeBoeuf. Givers feel like they are being more thoughtful by getting something unique and creative for each person on their shopping list, but recipients would rather have what’s on the top of their wish list, especially if they are unlikely to compare gifts. We find that encouraging givers to consider what recipients would choose for themselves before choosing a gift makes them more likely to go ahead and get the same better-liked gift for more than one recipient. <h2>Taboo #4: giving a gift that can’t be unwrapped</h2> The very idea of exchanging gifts suggests to people that they need to give something that can be tied up with a pretty bow and then unwrapped, but, in fact, some of the best gifts aren’t things at all. A <a href="http://static1.squarespace.com/static/5394dfa6e4b0d7fc44700a04/t/547d589ee4b04b0980670fee/1417500830665/Gilovich+Kumar+Jampol+%28in+press%29+A+Wonderful+Life+JCP.pdf">wealth of research</a> has shown that money is often better spent on experiences than on material goods, and this seems to be true for gifts as well as personal purchases. Joseph Goodman of Washington University in St Louis and Sarah Lim of Seoul National University <a href="http://apps.olin.wustl.edu/faculty/goodman/Giving%20Happiness.pdf">have found</a> that givers think that material items that can be physically exchanged and unwrapped make for better gifts, when gifts that are experiences actually make recipients happier. Experiential gifts have benefits beyond simply boosting their recipients’ enjoyment, as well. Cindy Chan of the University of Toronto and Cassie Mogilner of the University of Pennsylvania <a href="https://www.rotman.utoronto.ca/-/media/Files/Programs-and-Areas/Marketing/papers/ChanMogilner2013.pdf">have shown</a> that receiving an experiential gift prompts stronger emotional reactions in recipients, and this makes them feel closer to the person who gave them the gift. In other words, opt for the swing dance lessons over the sweater – it will make the recipient happier, and bring the two of you closer together, to boot. <h2>If you still can’t think of a gift…</h2> Gift-giving, especially around the holidays, can be a stressful process for both giver and recipient. An understanding of which gift-giving norms are misguided can perhaps relieve some of this stress and lead to better gifts and happier recipients (and givers, too). But even if givers ignore this advice, there is hope: one last taboo to bust is the taboo on regifting. According Gabrielle Adams of the London Business School and colleagues, givers <a href="http://www.people.hbs.edu/mnorton/adams%20flynn%20norton.pdf">aren’t as bothered</a> by regifting as recipients think. Even if what you get is not what you want, you can pass it along to someone else, and hope that next time, the norms will work in your favor.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/52293/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mary-steffel-213379">Mary Steffel</a>, Assistant Professor of Marketing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/northeastern-university-1644">Northeastern University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/elanor-williams-213382">Elanor Williams</a>, Assistant Professor, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/indiana-university-1368">Indiana University</a> Image credits: Getty Images This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/gift-giving-taboos-that-arent-as-bad-as-you-think-52293">original article</a>.

Money & Banking

No, antibiotics aren’t always needed. Here’s how GPs can avoid overprescribing

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mina-bakhit-826292">Mina Bakhit</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/bond-university-863">Bond University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/paul-glasziou-13533">Paul Glasziou</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/bond-university-863">Bond University</a> The growth in antibiotic resistance threatens to return the world to the pre-antibiotic era – with deaths from now-treatable infections, and some elective surgery being restricted because of the risks of infection. Antibiotic resistance is a major problem worldwide and should be the concern of everyone, including you. We need to develop new antibiotics that can fight the resistant bacteria or antibiotics that bacteria would not be quickly resistant to. This is like finding new weapons to help the immune system fight the bacteria. More importantly, we need to use our current antibiotics – our existing weapons against the bacteria – more wisely. <h2>Giving GPs the tools to say no</h2> In 2022, more than <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/publications-and-resources/resource-library/aura-2023-fifth-australian-report-antimicrobial-use-and-resistance-human-health">one-third of Australians</a> had least one antibiotic prescription, with <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/publications-and-resources/resource-library/analysis-2015-2022-pbs-and-rpbs-antimicrobial-dispensing-data">88%</a> of antibiotics prescribed by GPs. Many people <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28289114/">mistakenly think</a> antibiotics are necessary for treating any infection and that infections won’t improve unless treated with antibiotics. This misconception is found in studies involving patients with various conditions, including respiratory infections and conjunctivitis. In reality, not all infections require antibiotics, and this belief drives patients requesting antibiotics from GPs. Other times, GPs give antibiotics because they think patients want them, even when they might not be necessary. Although, in reality they are <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17148626/">after symptom relief</a>. For GPs, there are ways to target antibiotics for only when they are clearly needed, even with short appointments with patients perceived to want antibiotics. This includes: <ul> <li> using <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32357226/">decision guides</a> or tests to decide if antibiotics are really necessary </li> <li> giving <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/our-work/partnering-consumers/shared-decision-making/decision-support-tools-specific-conditions">patients information sheets</a> when antibiotics aren’t needed </li> <li> giving a “<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33910882/">delayed prescription</a>” – only to be used after the patient waits to see if they get better on their own. </li> </ul> All these strategies need some <a href="https://www.nps.org.au/assets/NPS/pdf/NPS-MedicineWise-Economic-evaluation-report-Reducing-Antibiotic-Resistance-2012-17.pdf">training</a> and practice, but they can help GPs prescribe antibiotics more responsibly. GPs can also learn from each other and use tools like <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24474434/">posters</a> as reminders. To help with patients’ expectations, public campaigns have been run periodically to educate people about antibiotics. These campaigns <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35098267/">explain why</a> using antibiotics too much can be harmful and when it’s essential to take them. <h2>Giving doctors feedback on their prescribing</h2> National programs and interventions can help GPs use antibiotics more wisely One successful way they do this is by <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34356788/">giving GPs feedback</a> about how they prescribe antibiotics. This works better when it’s provided by organisations that GPs trust, it happens more than once and clear goals are set for improvement. The NPS (formerly National Prescribing Service) MedicineWise program, for example, had been giving feedback to GPs on how their antibiotic prescriptions compared to others. This reduced the number of antibiotics prescribed. However, <a href="https://australianprescriber.tg.org.au/articles/the-end-of-nps-medicinewise.html">NPS no longer exists</a>. In 2017, the Australian health department did something similar by sending <a href="https://behaviouraleconomics.pmc.gov.au/projects/nudge-vs-superbugs-behavioural-economics-trial-reduce-overprescribing-antibiotics">feedback letters</a>, randomly using different formats, to the GPs who prescribed the most antibiotics, showing them how they were prescribing compared to others. The most effective letter, which used pictures to show this comparison, reduced the number of antibiotics GPs prescribed by <a href="https://behaviouraleconomics.pmc.gov.au/sites/default/files/projects/nudge-vs-superbugs-12-months-on-report.pdf">9% in a year</a>. <h2>Clearer rules and regulations</h2> Rules and regulations are crucial in the fight against antibiotic resistance. Before April 2020, many GPs’ computer systems made it easy to get multiple repeat prescriptions for the same condition, which could encourage their overuse. However, in April 2020, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) <a href="https://www.pbs.gov.au/pbs/industry/listing/elements/pbac-meetings/psd/2019-08/antibiotic-repeats-on-the-pharmaceutical-benefits-scheme">changed the rules</a> to ensure GPs had to think more carefully about whether patients actually needed repeat antibiotics. This meant the amount of medicine prescribed better matched the days it was needed for. Other regulations or policy targets could include: <ul> <li> ensuring all GPs have access to antibiotic prescribing guidelines, such as <a href="https://www.tg.org.au/">Therapeutic Guidelines</a>, which is well accepted and widely available in Australia </li> <li> ensuring GPs are only prescribing antibiotics when needed. Many of the conditions antibiotics are currently prescribed for (such as sore throat, cough and middle ear infections) are self-limiting, meaning they will get better without antibiotics </li> <li> encouraging GP working with antibiotics manufacturers to align pack sizes to the recommended treatment duration. The recommended first-line treatments for uncomplicated urinary tract infections in non-pregnant women, for example, are either three days of trimethoprim 300 mg per night or five days of nitrofurantoin 100 mg every six hours. However, the packs contain enough for seven days. This can mean patients take it for longer or use leftovers later. </li> </ul> <h2>Australia lags behind Sweden</h2> Australia has some good strategies for antibiotic prescribing, but we have not had a sustained long-term plan to ensure wise use. Although Australian GPs have been doing well in <a href="https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/our-work/antimicrobial-resistance/antimicrobial-use-and-resistance-australia-surveillance-system/aura-2021">reducing antibiotic prescribing</a> since 2015, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35098269/">more</a> could be done. In the 1990s, Sweden’s antibiotic use was similar to Australia’s, but is now less than half. For more than two decades, Sweden has had a national strategy that reduces antibiotic use by about <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5677604/">7% annually</a>. It is vital Australia invests in a similar long-term national strategy – to have a centrally funded program, but with regional groups working on the implementation. This could be funded directly by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing, or with earmarked funds via another body such as the Australian Centre for Disease Control. In the meantime, individual GPs can do their part to prescribe antibiotics better, and patients can join the national effort to combat antibiotic resistance by asking their GP: “what would happen if I don’t take an antibiotic?”. <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mina-bakhit-826292">Mina Bakhit</a>, Assistant Professor of Public Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/bond-university-863">Bond University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/paul-glasziou-13533">Paul Glasziou</a>, Professor of Medicine, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/bond-university-863">Bond University</a> Image credits: Getty Images This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/no-antibiotics-arent-always-needed-heres-how-gps-can-avoid-overprescribing-213981">original article</a>.

Caring

Maccas aren’t lovin’ the over 60s

A McDonald’s in Auckland Central has landed itself in hot water after posting a job ad that wanted nothing to do with the over 60 workforce. The post, shared to the establishment’s Facebook page and since removed, sought new staff to cover the 10pm to 6am ‘graveyard’ shift. The usual benefits and various position criteria were listed, but it was one line at the bottom that caught the attention - and ire - of the masses. “Any age from 16 to 60,” the listing read. Feedback came fast and furious, with many outraged by the blatant ageism the fast food giant was peddling. And while McDonald’s tried to pass it off as the fault of a franchisee, the store’s manager instead said that their head office was at fault. Social media users were vocal about what they thought of the ad, and it wasn’t long before legal experts and union representatives got involved in the ongoing uproar - and even the big wigs over at McDonald’s. “We’ve been made aware that a job ad by one of our franchisees has created some debate on social media like Reddit, as it references an age range of 16-60,” company spokesperson Simon Kenny said. “The reference in the copy was intended to illustrate that people of all ages are welcome. We’ve asked the franchisee to update the copy to avoid any potential confusion.” As Joe Carolan from New Zealand’s Unite Union told the New Zealand Herald, “contrary to the myth that most McDonald’s jobs are [ideal for] part-time students, improvements made by the union throughout the years have seen many workers stay in these jobs into their 50s. “Older workers bring experience, stability and maturity to a workplace and we call on McDonald's to end this discriminatory ageism.” Employment law expert Max Whitehead added that the pay - $22.80 per hour - combined with the age restrictions, were a “blatant” breach of the Human Rights Act. And for those who thought the line had just been an ill-advised marketing move, Whitehead noted “if it really is to get a catchy cliche going, it’s a stupid thing to do.” Whitehead’s fellow expert, Professor Bill Hodge, had more to say on the matter of ageism too, noting that The Human Rights Act actually bans discrimination against people over the age of 60, though he saw no issue with the teenage half of the equation. “We discriminate against people 14 or 15 all the time and it’s justifiable to say ‘no, you can’t drive a car, you can’t leave school’,” he said. “On the face of it I see no obvious requirement that would exclude people over 60.” As a spokesperson for the Humans Right Campaign informed the New Zealand Herald, The Human Rights Act 1993 had rendered it unlawful for people to be treated differently for their age during the employment process. “It is unlawful to discriminate against employees, job applicants, voluntary workers, people seeking work through an employment agency and contract workers because of age,” the spokesperson explained. “The only exception is where, for reasons of authenticity, being of a particular age is a genuine occupational qualification for the position or employment.” Images: Shutterstock, Facebook

Money & Banking

6 travel myths that aren’t true

There are many myths out there regarding travel.And while some are grounded in truth, that doesn’t mean they’re completely factual.We’re going to take a look at six travel myths that simply aren’t true. If you haven’t been away for a while, this might just be your prompt to do so. 1. Myth – Travel has to be expensive Nothing in the world is free, but travelling doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive. Budget travel alternatives are becoming increasingly popular and there are plenty of ways you can get out there and experience the world without having to break the bank. 2. Myth – Booking well in advance will save me money and is the best way to go While this is rooted in truth and some attractions are best booked before you leave, there is something to be said for the flexibility of booking on the fly. While you may have to pay a little more in some instances, it’s worth it to be able to be impulsive. 3. Myth – Haggling is expected in most countries In many tourist locations you can expect the initial asking price to be as much as four times what something is worth. But when you’re travelling through an impoverished country, sometimes you have to ask yourself whether haggling is really worth it. 4. Myth – Tours don’t make for an authentic travel experience Some people may look down on their nose at your for booking a tour, but there’s something to be said for having an expert guide to take you around an area and point out little things that you may have missed otherwise if you’re directing yourself. 5. Myth – People more or less understand English While English is becoming increasingly popular and the global economy is dominated by English-speaking nations, it’s a travel myth to believe that everyone speaks. Many places in the world that retain a strong national identity and refuse to speak in English. 6. Myth – There’ll be plenty of time to see anything Unfortunately this is not true. With threats like global warming, civil unrest and overcrowding, many amazing tourist locations are becoming more difficult to visit. Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/02/tips-for-handling-flight-delays/">5 tips for dealing with flight delays</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/02/photo-shows-german-shepherd-enjoying-flight/">German Shepherd really enjoys plane ride</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/02/tips-for-travelling-with-people-that-get-on-your-nerves/">Tips for travelling with people that get on your nerves</a> Image credit: Shutterstock

Travel Tips

Rebel Wilson reveals her girlfriend's family aren't "accepting" of their relationship

Rebel Wilson has shared that her girlfriend's family has not been "accepting" of their relationship. In a candid interview with the Life Uncut podcast, the Aussie actress admitted that Ramona Agruma's family have had a difficult time coming to terms with their almost year-long relationship. "My family has been so amazing. Ramona's family hasn't been as accepting. In many respects it's been a lot harder on her," Rebel told hosts Brittany Hockley and Laura Byrne. "With her, she's not in the public eye, it's much harder on her. It's so sad to see what happened with her family over it. Hopefully, people will change their attitude about things." Rebel shocked her fans in June 2022 with the news of her relationship with Ramona, announcing her happy news on Instagram saying, "I thought I was searching for a Disney Prince… but maybe what I really needed all this time was a Disney Princess." <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CelyiLZLHa2/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CelyiLZLHa2/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Rebel Wilson (@rebelwilson)</a> </div> </blockquote> Elsewhere in the tell-all interview, the 42-year-old actress opened up about her difficult journey to motherhood and the lengths she went to have a family, resulting in the birth of her daughter, Royce. "I really didn't think pieces were going to fall in line," she said. "I tried with one surrogate to have a baby and sadly the embryo miscarried. Luckily I didn't make it public and then had to say it didn't work out." Despite the devastating setback, Rebel persevered with her dreams of having a family. "Then to have a second embryo, to have it implanted and go well. It was amazing," she recalled. "I really do think it's a bit of a miracle. I've been through quite a bit on the fertility journey, and now I've got an instant family." <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CkqsdK1pzN2/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CkqsdK1pzN2/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Rebel Wilson (@rebelwilson)</a> </div> </blockquote> "It's so surreal and so awesome. Little Roycie is so amazing. She's such an angel and I can't wait to bring her to Australia." While Rebel is completely smitten with her three-month-old daughter, she admitted she felt "disconnected" from her child given she did not carry Royce. "It's so hard. You're a little disconnected having the surrogacy and not going through the pregnancy, but that was my best option medically, only having the one embryo," she said. Image credits: Getty Images / Instagram

Relationships

10 things aeroplanes aren’t cleaning as they should

<h2>Illness breeding ground</h2> Sitting amongst strangers in a confined space for any amount of time just feels like a breeding ground for illness. But how well are these aircrafts being cleaned? The answer may make you pack your own sanitising wipes ahead of your next flight. <h2>Seatbelt buckles</h2> Unless you ask the person sitting next to you to buckle your seatbelt (which we don’t recommend), you’re going to touch that piece of metal at least twice during a flight, once before takeoff, and once when you land. Unfortunately, these oft-used items aren’t getting the spick and span treatment you’d like. According to Travelmath, the average aeroplane seatbelt buckle tested for 230 colony-forming units (CFU) per square inch. <h2>Seatback pockets</h2> That slim seatback pocket looks innocent enough at first glance. After all, it holds your passenger safety information and inflight magazine. But the cloth that covers it isn’t getting much attention from cabin cleaners. According to a study conducted at Auburn University, the pocket is pretty darn disgusting. Seeing as passengers often stuff trash in that pocket (think used tissues and dirty diapers), it sees its fair share of bacteria. In fact, their study showed that the germs found in this location survived the longest out of any surface on an aeroplane at around seven days. <h2>Tray tables</h2> Cabin cleaners only do a speedy wipe down of aeroplanes in between flights because they simply aren’t given enough time to do more during these quick turnovers. Believe it or not, tray tables aren’t typically among the surfaces that get cleaned between domestic flights, according to the Wall Street Journal. They typically are only addressed during overnight cleanings. <h2>Headrest</h2> A different study of airline hygiene conducted by Marketplace and analysed in a laboratory at the University of Guelph cited a different surface as being the most bacteria-laden – the headrest. According to their study, the “highest total aerobic count, hemolytic bacteria, and E.coli” were found here. The headrest is nearly impossible to avoid unless you bring something to slip over it, which makes sense that it would come into contact with the most germs. <h2>Blankets</h2> Complimentary blankets are pretty much a thing of the past among airlines these days, particularly in economy class, and that might just be a good thing. Back in 2008, the Wall Street Journal revealed that these once common aeroplane items were only washed every five to 30 days. When flying, BYOB (Bring Your Own Blanket). <h2>The floor</h2> A quick vacuum job in between flights does not a clean carpet make, especially when you have hundreds of pairs of shoes traipsing up and down the aisles of an aeroplane day-in and day-out. According to an article in USA Today, cleanliness isn’t regulated by the FAA. It’s standard that a plane goes through a deep clean about once a month and perhaps then that carpeting will get extra attention. Even so, it’s best to steer clear of placing your belongings on the floor if you can help it. Once you’ve reached your destination, here’s how to have a healthy and clean hotel stay. <h2>Bathroom surfaces</h2> Yes, cabin cleaners do a wipe down of lavatories after an aircraft’s passengers have deplaned, but think about how many people use the facilities during the flight and how many hours go by before that cleaning happens. In an interview with TIME, University of Arizona microbiologist Dr Charles Gerba said, “It’s hard to beat the restroom because the water shuts off so people can’t complete hand washing. The sinks are so small that people with large hands can’t even fit them fully underneath the faucets.” <h2>Menus/safety information pamphlets</h2> We’ve already addressed the icky stuff that often contaminates seatback pockets, but consider the material that’s actually supposed to be in this area. With barely ten to 15 minutes to tidy a cabin, according to the New York Times, cleaners don’t have time to wipe down every menu and safety pamphlet in those pockets. When you consider how often they are touched by human hands (and the garbage that gets tossed into the pockets), this literature is a breeding ground for gross. <h2>Overhead air vent</h2> Adjusting that overhead air vent is something most passengers do to personalise their limited space for comfort, but who is cleaning that surface? Likely no one. It’s one of the dirtiest spots on an aeroplane according to Travelmath. This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/travel/flights/10-things-aeroplanes-arent-cleaning-they-should" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>. Image: Shutterstock

Travel Trouble

Manipulating light can induce psychedelic experiences – and scientists aren’t quite sure why

For millennia, people have used mind-altering techniques to achieve different states of consciousness, envision spiritual figures, connect with nature, or simply for the fun of it. Psychedelic substances, in particular, have a long and controversial <a href="https://theconversation.com/psychedelic-drugs-can-be-almost-as-life-altering-as-near-death-experiences-189325">history</a>. But for just as long, people have been having these experiences without drugs too, using <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/11/1/101">rhythmic techniques such as rocking, chanting or drumming</a>. Perhaps the most powerful technique of this kind is flickering light, called “ganzflicker”. Ganzflicker effects can be achieved by turning a light on and off, or by alternating colours in a rapid, rhythmic pattern (like a strobe). This can create an instant psychedelic experience. Ganzflicker elicits striking visual phenomena. People can see geometric shapes and illusory colours but sometimes also complex objects, such as animals and faces – all without any chemical stimulants. Sometimes ganzflicker can even lead to altered states of consciousness (such as losing a sense of time or space) and emotions (ranging from fear to euphoria). Although its effects are little known today, ganzflicker has influenced and inspired many people through the ages, including the two of us. We are an art historian and brain scientist working together on an interactive showcase of ganzflicker techniques used in science and art. Our collaboration has culminated in the museum exhibition <a href="https://reshannereeder.com/ganzflicker-exhibit">“Ganzflicker: art, science, and psychedelic experience”</a>, which is part of the 2022 <a href="https://www.beinghumanfestival.org/">Being Human festival</a>. Ganzflicker’s effects were first documented in 1819 by the physiologist <a href="https://www.karger.com/Article/FullText/235945">Jan E. Purkinje</a>. Purkinje discovered that illusory patterns could appear if he faced the sun and waved his hand in front of his closed eyelids. Near the end of the 19th century, an English toymaker and amateur scientist, <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/051200c0">Charles Benham</a>, produced the first commercially available flicker device: a top with a monochrome pattern that, when spun, produced illusory colours that swirled around the disc. Modified versions of Benham’s “artificial spectrum top” were used in experiments well into the 20th century. William Grey Walter, a pioneering neurophysiologist and cybernetician, <a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-70911-1_17">pushed flicker effects further</a> by using electric strobe lights, synchronised with the brain’s rhythms. Fascinated by the mind-altering potential of Walter’s machinery, the artist Brion Gysin, in collaboration with writer William S. Burroughs and mathematician Ian Sommerville, invented the <a href="http://mindcontrol-research.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/14_2_dream-machine-plans.pdf">Dreamachine</a> (1962). <h2>The swinging 60s of drug-free psychedelics</h2> A Dreamachine consists of an upright cylinder with patterns cut into it and a lightbulb suspended at its centre. When spun on a turntable at 78rpm, the flickering patterns (viewed through closed eyelids) can cause trance-like hallucinations. Gysin thought of the Dreamachine as a new kind of artwork – “the first art object to be seen with the eyes closed” – and a form of entertainment, which he believed could replace the television. Others saw the Dreamachine’s potential to be a source of spiritual inspiration. Burroughs thought it could be <a href="https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/brion-gysin-the-pioneering-artist-who-invented-the-dreamachine/">used to</a> “storm the citadels of enlightenment”. The poet Alan Ginsberg said: “It sets up optical fields as religious and mandalic as hallucinogenic drugs – it’s like being able to have jewelled biblical designs and landscapes without taking chemicals.” Flicker experiments in art did not stop with the Dreamachine. Others included Tony Conrad’s groundbreaking structuralist film <a href="https://fourthree.boilerroom.tv/film/flicker-tony-conrad">The Flicker</a> (1966), which was the first artwork to include the warning “may induce epileptic seizures or produce mild symptoms of shock treatment in certain persons”. The conceptual artist James Turrell’s <a href="https://jamesturrell.com/work/bindu-shards/">Bindu Shards</a> (2010) was an enclosed globe that bombards the observer with strobe light. And, more recently, Collective Act created its own <a href="https://dreamachine.world/">Dreamachine</a> (2022) , a public planetarium-style artwork inspired by Gysin’s which toured the UK. <h2>The science of ganzflicker</h2> Two hundred years after Jan Purkinje documented the physiological properties of ganzflicker, scientists still do not have a definitive explanation for how it works. A recent theory proposes that visual phenomena may be the result of interactions between external flicker and the brain’s natural rhythmic electrical pulses, with more intense images manifesting <a href="https://theconversation.com/pseudo-hallucinations-why-some-people-see-more-vivid-mental-images-than-others-test-yourself-here-163025">when the frequencies of flicker and the brain are closest</a>. It is also likely that a strong visual flicker influences brain states. Meaningful visions, altered conscious states and heightened emotions may be the result of <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-18591-6">imaginative suggestion</a>, which is amplified by the trance-inducing properties of <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/11/1/101">rhythmic stimulation</a>. What is perhaps most powerful about ganzflicker is its universality. Engineers, mathematicians, artists, historians and scientists have all been united by this modest, drug-free means of eliciting dramatic changes in consciousness. The new wave of popularity on this topic will undoubtedly lead to illuminating discoveries in the coming years. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/manipulating-light-can-induce-psychedelic-experiences-and-scientists-arent-quite-sure-why-192885" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>.

Art

Sneezing with hay fever? Native plants aren’t usually the culprit

Hay fever is a downside of springtime around the world. As temperatures increase, plant growth resumes and flowers start appearing. But while native flowering plants such as wattle often get the blame when the seasonal sneezes strike, hay fever in Australia is typically caused by introduced plant species often pollinated by the wind. <h2>A closer look at pollen</h2> Pollen grains are the tiny reproductive structures that move genetic material between flower parts, individual flowers on the same plant or a nearby member of the same species. They are typically lightweight structures easily carried on wind currents or are sticky and picked up in clumps on the feathers of a honeyeater or the fur of a fruit bat or possum. Hay fever is when the human immune system overreacts to allergens in the air. It is not only caused by pollen grains but fungal spores, non-flowering plant spores, mites and even pet hair. The classic symptoms of hay fever are sneezing, runny noses, red, itchy, and watery eyes, swelling around the eyes and scratchy ears and throat. The problem with pollen grains is when they land on the skin around our eyes, in our nose and mouth, the proteins found in the wall of these tiny structures leak out and are recognised as foreign by the body and trigger a reaction from the immune system. <h2>So what plants are the worst culprits for causing hay fever?</h2> Grasses, trees, and herbaceous weeds such as plantain are the main problem species as their pollen is usually scattered by wind. In Australia, the main grass offenders are exotic species including rye grass and couch grass (a commonly used lawn species). Weed species that cause hay fever problems include introduced ragweed, Paterson’s curse, parthenium weed and plantain. The <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5102629/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">problematic tree species</a> are also exotic in origin and include liquid amber, Chinese elm, maple, cypress, ash, birch, poplar, and plane trees. Although there are some native plants that have wind-spread pollen such as she-oaks and white cypress pine, and which can induce hay fever, these species are exceptional in the Australian flora. Many Australian plants are not wind pollinated and <a href="https://blog.publish.csiro.au/austpollinatorweek/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">use animals</a> to move their clumped pollen around. For example, yellow-coloured flowers such as wattles and peas are pollinated by insect such as bees. Red- and orange-coloured flowers are usually visited by birds such as honeyeaters. Large, dull-coloured flowers with copious nectar (the reward for pollination) are visited by nocturnal mammals including bats and possums. Obviously Australian plant pollen can still potentially cause the immune system to overreact, but these structures are less likely to reach the mucous membranes of humans. <h2>What can we do to prevent hay fever attacks at this time of the year?</h2> With all of this in mind, here are some strategies to prevent the affects of hay fever: <ol> <li>stay inside and keep the house closed up on warm, windy days when more pollen is in the air</li> <li>if you must go outside, wear sunglasses and a face mask</li> <li>when you return indoors gently rinse (and don’t rub) your eyes with running water, change your clothes and shower to remove pollen grains from hair and skin</li> <li>try to avoid mowing the lawn in spring particularly when grasses are in flower (the multi-pronged spiked flowers of couch grass are distinctive)</li> <li>when working in the garden, wear gloves and facial coverings particularly when handling flowers consider converting your garden to a native one. Grevilleas are a great alternative to rose bushes. Coastal rosemary are a fabulous native replacement for lavender. Why not replace your liquid amber tree with a fast growing, evergreen and low-allergenic lilly pilly tree?</li> </ol> <h2>If you do suffer a hay fever attack</h2> Sometimes even with our best efforts, or if it’s not always possible to stay at home, hay fever can still creep up on us. If this happens: <ul> <li>antihistamines will reduce sneezing and itching symptoms</li> <li>corticosteroid nasal sprays are very effective at reducing inflammation and clearing blocked noses</li> <li>decongestants provide quick and temporary relief by drying runny noses but should not be used by those with high blood pressure</li> <li>salt water is a good way to remove excessive mucous from the nasal passages.</li> </ul> Behavioural changes on warm, windy spring days are a good way of avoiding a hay fever attack. An awareness of the plants around us and their basic reproductive biology is also useful in preventing our immune systems from overreacting to pollen proteins that they are not used to encountering. This article first appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/sneezing-with-hay-fever-native-plants-arent-usually-the-culprit-190336" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. Image: Shutterstock

Body

Experts warn new homes aren’t future-proof

With thousands of new homes being built across <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/industry/building-and-construction/building-activity-australia/latest-release" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Australia</a> and <a href="https://www.stats.govt.nz/information-releases/building-consents-issued-april-2022/#:~:text=Key%20facts,the%20year%20ended%20April%202021." target="_blank" rel="noopener">New Zealand</a>, industry experts have raised concerns that they are already outdated. In a world of pandemics, working from home, and climate change, experts say these new homes aren’t fit for purpose now, let alone for whatever the future holds. Electric vehicle charging stations, multi-split air conditioners, double-glazed windows and built-in 5G technology top the list of features that could help achieve this, according to Peter Li, general manager of Sydney-based apartment marketing agency Plus Agency. Li told the <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/property/news/what-are-the-top-ways-to-future-proof-your-home-and-increase-its-value-20220729-p5b5nw.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sydney Morning Herald </a>that multi-split air conditioners, where air isn’t circulated throughout an apartment block or even a single unit, is particularly crucial in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. “You basically have your own air within your own property but also within separate rooms. So if someone gets COVID, and they’re isolating in the master room, the other bedrooms won’t be affected,” he said. With a growing market for electric vehicles, Li said charging stations in homes are also key. “If you compare to Asian countries, a lot of Australian apartment building blocks don’t even have electric vehicle charging stations,” he added. “Even though we are pushing green energy, the buildings don’t come with electric car charging stations, how green is that?” Li noted that adding these features when homes are first being built will also be cheaper than years down the track, with most of the infrastructure being provided by telcos and electric vehicle companies. Andy Marlow, an architect and the director of sustainable architecture firm Envirotecture, said a majority of new homes are also “baking in” carbon emissions from the energy used to build and the energy produced to run the home, which Marlow said contributes to emissions and creates health problems. “These buildings are not fit for purpose now, and they are definitely not fit for purpose in the future,” he said. “When you build something that is substandard, which is basically our entire housing stock, it is very unlikely somebody will fix that soon.” Marlow said the key to building future-proofed homes lies in building comfortable dwellings with good insulation, good quality air, and reliable ventilation, and that existing products like double-glazed windows that address these issues should become standard. “Single glazing is just crap. Science shows us that single glazing will get condensation on it, it’s just physics,” he said, adding that this leads to mould and asthma. “Everything has been solved, every technical problem has been fixed. There’s a wonderful bit of evidence out of California, where they mandated double glazing and within nine months it was cheaper than single glazing.” Wealth over shelter Professor Alan March, an expert in urban planning at the University of Melbourne School of Design, explained that the problem stems from the perception of the property market as a vehicle for creating wealth rather than providing shelter. “The land value and the overall value is so inflated that people are not so interested in the interior and actual benefit they receive from the structure itself as to secure the number, the numeric value, and so that changes the nature of the housing market towards wealth building, or just avoidance of renting,” March said. One feature he said is key for Australian housing is resistance and adaptability to heat waves through natural ventilation and the ability to retrofit cooling systems or integrate battery-powered solar panels. Though building codes could change to allow for the construction of homes that suit the country’s varying climates, March said recent Covid-induced financial challenges have meant the building and construction industry are and will remain conservative. With Covid looking to be an ongoing challenge the world will face alongside increasing effects of climate change, here’s hoping that can change before it’s too late. Image: Getty Images

Real Estate

22 uses for dryer sheets (that aren’t laundry)

Along with making clothes soft and sniffably fresh, dryer sheets can be used in dozens of ways around the house. Their clean scent covers up plenty of odours, and they’re abrasive enough to clean, but won’t damage most surfaces. Here are the most unexpected uses for dryer sheets. Clean skirting boards Vacuum the carpet or sweep the floor, then wipe a dryer sheet along the skirting boards to remove stubborn dust and pet hair. Bonus: It repels dust later, too! Dust your TV screen The sheets have anti-static properties that will help prevent dust from settling on the screen. Clean window blinds Just like with the TV, dryer sheets will repel dust and make blinds easier to clean over time. Tame flyaway hair Did dry air make your hair static-y? Rub a dryer sheet between your brush’s bristles to smooth things over. Clean up pet hair Dryer sheets are great grabbers. Rub one along the floor or couch to pick up pet hair – or clippings from at-home haircuts. Freshen up your shoes Stick a dryer sheet in your flats or sneakers overnight to get rid of stinky odours. Scrub away soap scum Rub a sheet on glass shower doors to clean caked-on grime. Easily scour pans If food gets burned on a pan, let it soak overnight with water and a fresh dryer sheet. Give chrome a polish From bathrooms to vehicles, dryer sheets can help restore chrome’s trademark shine. Clean up pantry spills From bathrooms to vehicles, dryer sheets can help restore chrome’s trademark shine. Freshen the air fast Place sheets in vents or behind fans to fill your home with a fresh, clean scent. Cover up nappy smells Tuck a fresh sheet into your nappy bag or bathroom garbage bin can help take the edge off odours. De-musk old books You scored some great reads at a garage sale – but they’re a little musty. Put old books in a bag with some dryer sheets – after a few days, they’ll smell as good as new. Remove crayon marks Lightly rub walls with a sheet and watch the crayon disappear. Magic! Get paint off brushes Put a dryer sheet in warm water along with the brush – within a few minutes of soaking, the paint should wash right off. Sharpen scissors Run a used dryer sheet along the blades to restore their snipping power. Repel insects Mosquitoes don’t like the smell of dryer sheets, so slip one into your belt loop to ward off the pesky insects. Keep camping gear fresh Toss dryer sheets into your tent and sleeping bags to stave off a mildewy smell. Banish post-beach sand This is one of the most surprising uses for dryer sheets! Wipe yourself and your kids with a dryer sheet to rid skin of dry sand before getting in the car. Keep cars smelling fresh Put a few sheets underneath the seat to freshen up your car without hanging something from your rear-view mirror. Clean the toilet Dryer sheets are great to use for cleaning the toilet – especially that crevice at the back that traps all kinds of hair and dust. Remove deodorant stains Keep your clothes streak-free (and smelling fresh) with a quick dryer sheet wipe on deodorant stains. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/food-home-garden/home-tips/22-uses-for-dryer-sheets-that-arent-laundry?pages=2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Home & Garden

How does Spotify use your data? Even experts aren’t sure

Spotify has revolutionised the music industry, and its ability to recommend music tailored to your personal taste has been a standout feature. But it isn’t the only app to provide this kind of personalised experience, with Artificial Intelligence being used to create your personalised newsfeeds on Facebook and Twitter, recommend purchases on Amazon, or even the order of search results on Google. To achieve this, these apps and websites use our data in their recommendation algorithms - but they are so secretive about these algorithms that we don’t fully know how they work. In a search for answers, a team of New Zealand legal and music experts <a href="https://www.scimex.org/newsfeed/tinder-and-spotifys-fine-print-arent-clear-about-how-they-use-our-data-for-recs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pored over</a> several versions of the privacy policies and Terms of Use used by Spotify and Tinder to determine how our data is being used as new features have been rolled out. Their work, published in the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/03036758.2022.2064517" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand</a>, found that Spotify’s privacy policy has nearly doubled since its launch in 2012, which reflects an increase in the amount of data the platform now collects. The algorithm hungers for data Originally, Spotify collected basic information such as the kinds of songs played, the playlists created, and the email address, age, gender, and location of a user, as well as their profile picture, and the pictures and names of their Facebook friends if their profile was linked. In the 2021 policy, Spotify collects voice data, users’ photos, and location data - and the team of experts have connected this expansion to the patents the company owns. That same year, “Spotify was granted a patent that allows the company to promote ‘personalised content’ based on the ‘personality traits’ it detects from voice data and background noise,” the authors wrote, suggesting the algorithm has changed to capture voice data. As for its Terms of Use, the authors found both Spotify and Tinder used ambiguous wording and vague language, despite expectations that it would be somewhat transparent because it is a legal agreement between the platform and its users. They noted that the opaque style of the Terms of Use made analysis more difficult. Despite this, they found that from 2015, Spotify’s recommendations were also influenced by “commercial considerations”, including third-party agreements Spotify had with other companies. The team of experts argue that this particular change “provides ample room for the company to legally highlight content to a specific user based on a commercial agreement”. Meanwhile, Spotify has also started offering artists the option to lower their royalty rate “in exchange for an increased number of recommendations”. Taken together, the authors argue that this means that the playlists made specifically for us could be influenced by factors outside of our control, “like commercial deals with artists and labels”. Users deserve answers Though they made these findings, the authors note that some will still be speculative while companies stay tight-lipped about how their algorithms work. “When companies are uncooperative, and typical academic inquiry cannot be complete without breaching contractual agreements, we maintain that scholarly investigation can have a speculative character,” they wrote. “This suggestion does not mean that a less academic rigour can be expected or granted about making assumptions on the basis of partial, observable data. Instead, we propose that it is the companies’ remit and burden to refute such assumptions and communicating the clarity of their systems.” With many of us using services like Spotify, Tinder, Google and Amazon on a daily basis, it’s up to these companies to become more transparent in how they use our information with the understanding that we deserve to know what happens to the data that makes us, us. Image: Getty Images

Technology

Readers respond: What are some things your grandkids aren’t allowed to do?

Having the grandkids come round to visit can be such a joy and the perfect way to create some sweet memories with them. As much as it’s a chance to spoil them, there are some things grandkids can’t get away with. From trampolining off the furniture to improper manners, when we asked our readers what they wouldn’t allow their grandkids to do, this is what you had to say. Shena Wood - All my grandkids are so good when they come. Only one real rule and that is we eat at the table. Shirley Gaye Howearth - Nothing, they are allowed to do whatever pleases them. Jill Edwards - No tech while eating! This is for all meals, (whether) at the table or on the couch. Joy Scott - Sit at table to eat and little ones wipe hands before leaving. Saves a lot of work. Dalena Lee - Jump on the couch. I tell them that when they see me jump on the couch, then they can. Jan Bradley - Table manners, respect, no jumping or climbing on furniture! Aside from that I don’t have any rules, just love spending time with them. Helen Vella - My kids weren’t allowed to do anything, my grandkids can do whatever they want. Jennifer Slack-Smith - I say ‘Whatever happens at Nanny’s stays at Nanny’s.’ Heather Cassey - Torment the cat, disrespect me, or anything that will hurt them. Other than that they pretty much have me twisted around their little fingers. Douglas Jones - I always send my grandchildren home with a tube of glitter. To read what else you said, head <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oversixtys/posts/3315334072030189" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. Image: Getty Images

Caring

“Aren’t you my psych?” Woman “matches” with her psychologist on dating app

Bored at home, swiping left or right on potential dates, an Australian woman was shocked to find that her psychologist allegedly matched with her on a dating app. The woman from Byron Bay was on the dating app Hinge and claims to have “matched unintentionally” with the mental health professional. She took to Facebook for advice on what to do, supported with screenshots of the alleged message exchange. “I need a bit of help and don't know what to do,” the young woman started. “My psychologist, who I haven't seen in a few months but have been in contact with, messaged me on Hinge. “I matched with him unintentionally and didn’t realise it was him until he messaged me.” The man reached out first writing, “Hey,” along with a heart eye emoji. “I feel like we’ve matched before.” The woman did not hesitate to ask him, “Aren’t you my psych?” Upon realising the “gross” nature of the situation, the psychologist immediately apologised to the woman, but continued the conversation and asked her how she was. She admitted to feeling “scared and violated” and wanted advice on how to approach the alleged situation. “A part of me wants to do something about it because I worry about other patients of his who he might do this to. Any help and advice on whether I should do something or not would be appreciated,” she said. She also shared a screenshot of a previous text message from the psychologist informing her that it’s been “months” since her last appointment. The woman explained that the reason she “matched” with him is because he was using a different name on the app. The psychologist eventually found out that the woman had shared screenshots of their interaction and threatened to sue her for defamation. “Hello, I believe you have been spreading slander about me on social media. Please expect to be hearing from a lawyer in regard to defamation over the next week or so,’ the psychologist allegedly texted the woman. “How is it defamation when everything is true?” she responded. “What you’ve done is grossly inappropriate and violates ethical codes. You’re not allowed to approach me in public let alone instigate contact on a dating app. Even after I said “aren’t you my psych?”, you still tried to continue the conversation knowing full well my status as a patient of yours. I will be reporting to AHPRA.” “I genuinely did not know that you were a client before you told me. I’m sure you can appreciate that I see a lot of clients and it’s been months since you have had a session,” he concluded. The Health Care Complaints Commission (HCCC) is understood to be investigating the alleged matter, according to <a href="http://news.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a>. Image: Facebook

Relationships

The 5 best films for cat lovers (that aren’t the movie Cats)

Traditionally, Boxing Day is a great day to go to the cinema in Australia. Previous offerings include <a href="https://theconversation.com/jojo-rabbit-hitler-humour-and-a-childs-eye-view-of-war-make-for-dark-satire-128622">Hitler comedy Jojo Rabbit</a>, Ken Loach’s <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8359816/">Sorry We Missed You</a> and Cannes Film Festival hit <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8613070/">Portrait of a Lady on Fire</a>. Perhaps the strangest offering is <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5697572/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Cats</a>, the big screen adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical, itself based on T.S. Eliot’s cycle of poems.From the trailer, glimpses of a creepily transformed all-star cast (a sinisterly sibilant Judy Dench, Idris Elba and Taylor Swift to name but a few) and a darkly glamorous cat-fight vibe <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/film/2019/jul/19/cats-movie-trailer-internet-reacts-horror-demented-dream-ballet">raised more than a few hackles</a> – so much so, <a href="https://www.vice.com/en_uk/article/m7qq43/the-cats-in-cats-movie-have-changed-after-the-creepy-trailer-everyone-hated">elements have been “subtly” reanimated</a>. Reviews of the film have been overwhelmingly negative.It remains to be seen whether Cats will land as deftly with film goers as it did in the theatre. But if nothing else, its release provides a timely reminder of how the big screen has gifted us many memorable feline performances.Here are five of the very best.<h2>Keanu (2016)</h2>“That’s the cutest cat I’ve ever seen!” No, it’s not a Disney movie or an internet meme; it’s a line that speaks for every adult male who crosses paths with the adorable tortoiseshell tabby kitten <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4139124/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Keanu</a>. We first meet this eponymous feline amid the corpse-strewn detritus of a meth lab that has been shot up by two hefty gangster assassins. Keanu’s escape to suburbia and subsequent kidnapping from his newly adopted human, the nerdy Rell (Jordan Peele) provides the catalyst for this delightfully idiotic <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9zy27apgI8">buddy/action movie spoof</a>. Director Peter Alencio and writers Peele and Alex Rubens milk full comedic value from vicious killers turned into cooing, kitten kissing softies – and bumbling middle-class cowards Rell and Clarence (Keegan-Michael Key) into badass, kitten rescuing heroes.Viewers familiar with Peele’s <a href="https://theconversation.com/jordan-peeles-us-black-horror-movies-and-the-american-nightmare-114334">directorial work</a> will know he is no respecter of cuteness. Rest assured, a walk on the wild side only sees Keanu’s adorable qualities further enhanced by rocking a wicked black bandanna. In a dream sequence, his voice is provided by some actor called Reeves.<h2>Alien (1979); Aliens (1986)</h2>Those with an attentive eye for cats on screen and/or for what makes feminist icon Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) tick won’t be surprised to see the trouble-making ginger Jonesy from the first two films in the <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0078748/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Alien</a> franchise on this list. This (space) ship cat is no mere piece of fluff: he serves a significant plot function, raises tensions at key moments and importantly provides the first film’s only love interest. Rescuing the moggy complicates Ripley’s escape and reveals a tender, protective side to her steely nature. This is even more powerfully highlighted in the sequel Aliens, even if Jonesy himself only makes a brief early appearance: “and you, you little shithead, you’re staying here”.<h2>Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1962)</h2>This iconic adaptation of Truman Capote’s novel <a href="https://www.bfi.org.uk/news-opinion/news-bfi/lists/10-great-films-featuring-cats">frequently tops</a> cat movie lists, but while I am more than happy to include Holly Golightly’s flatmate Cat, “poor slob without a name”, near the top of my list I must confess I’m no great fan of the film overall – a ham-fisted, sanitised Hollywood do-over. Capote, as is well known, <a href="http://www.today.com/id/27841277/ns/today-today_entertainment/t/capote-never-liked-hepburn-iconic-role/">was not keen</a> on the casting of Audrey Hepburn as drifter-turned-grifter Holly Golightly, apparently preferring Marilyn Monroe. Little is known of his view of the casting of Orangey – <a href="https://www.womansworld.com/posts/breakfast-at-tiffanys-cat-169893">an award-winning performer</a> – as Cat, but for mine this handsome fellow is a far better actor than George Peppard, the film’s wooden, (Hollywood confected) male lead. You don’t have to be a cat lover to know who Holly’s true soul mate is.<h2>A Street Cat Named Bob (2016)</h2>This adaptation of <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12394068-a-street-cat-named-bob">a best-selling book</a> tells the true story of a homeless, heroin addict, James Bowen, (Luke Treadaway) who finds love and redemption when he meets Bob, a doughy but lovable ginger who chooses him as his human. While James is busking or selling The Big Issue, Bob is perched on his shoulder and proves a magnet for punters. When Bob is injured in a fight, James takes on new responsibilities as provider and carer.After a young friend dies from an overdose, James decides to get clean and is helped by the presence of the watchful, patient Bob. Sure, it’s no <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0117951/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Trainspotting</a>, but there’s enough grit, vomit and despair to avoid the overly sentimental and Bob – played by none other than the real Bob himself – is a delight, exuding an aura of streetwise empathy to a kindred spirit, and adding a dash of mischief, too.<h2>Kedi (2016)</h2>Turkish director Ceyda Torun’s <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4420704/">sublimely shot documentary</a> focuses on Istanbul’s many thousands of street cats and the humans whose turf they share, who tend them and take solace in their company without seeking to constrain their freedom. Torun skilfully intertwines the stories of several cats into the fabric of the places in which they (and, in some instances, their young) survive. She captures them wandering through street markets, cafés, artists’ studios, workshops and patches of wasteland. We watch them hunting, scavenging and charming their way around fishing boats, riverbanks, tips, kitchens and jetties. They nip in and out of the windows of cramped, ageing flats, through backyards, shops and crowded alleys. Kedi’s central message is that the centuries-long interdependence of human and feline – marked by easy tolerance, respect and not a little folklore and superstition – is a distinctive marker of Istanbul’s culture, one potentially under threat by the inexorable creep of high rise, urban redevelopment. It should be cherished and preserved as a civilised and civilising point of pride.Image credits: Getty ImagesThis article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-5-best-films-for-cat-lovers-that-arent-the-movie-cats-128128" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>.

Movies

Why some twins aren't identical

When a mother gives birth to twins, the offspring are not always identical or even the same gender. Known as fraternal twins, they represent a longstanding evolutionary puzzle. Identical twins arise from a single fertilised egg that accidentally splits in two, but fraternal twins arise when two eggs are released and fertilised. Why this would happen was the puzzle. In research <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-020-1173-y" title="An age-dependent ovulatory strategy explains the evolution of dizygotic twinning in humans">published in Nature Ecology & Evolution</a> we used computer simulations and modelling to try to explain why natural selection favours releasing two eggs, despite the low survival of twins and the risks of twin births for mothers. Why twins? Since Michael Bulmer’s landmark 1970 <a href="https://books.google.com.au/books/about/The_Biology_of_Twinning_in_Man.html?id=awo-AAAAYAAJ">book on the biology of twinning in humans</a>, biologists have questioned whether double ovulation was favoured by natural selection or, like identical twins, was the result of an accident. At first glance, this seems unlikely. The embryo splitting that produces identical twins is not heritable and the incidence of identical twinning does not vary with other aspects of human biology. It seems accidental in every sense of the word. In contrast, the incidence of fraternal twinning changes with <a href="https://doi.org/10.1017/S0021932000007896" title="Ethnic differences in twinning rates in Nigeria">maternal age</a> and is <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(03)14237-7" title="Twinning">heritable</a>. Those do not sound like the characteristics of something accidental. The twin disadvantage In human populations without access to medical care there seems little benefit to having twins. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1420-9101.2001.00287.x" title="The fitness of twin mothers: evidence from rural Gambia">Twins</a> are more likely to die in childhood than single births. Mothers of twins also have an increased risk of dying in childbirth. In common with other great apes, women seem to be built to give birth to <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1558-5646.1990.tb05211.x" title="ON THE EVOLUTION OF HUMAN BROOD SIZE">one child at a time</a>. So if twinning is costly, why has evolution not removed it? Paradoxically, in high-fertility populations, the mothers of twins often have <a href="https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1420-9101.2001.00287.x" title="The fitness of twin mothers: evidence from rural Gambia">more offspring</a> by the end of their lives than other mothers. This suggests having twins might have an evolutionary benefit, at least for mothers. But, if this is the case, why are twins so rare? Modelling mothers To resolve these questions, together with colleagues Bob Black and Rick Smock, we <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41559-020-1173-y" title="An age-dependent ovulatory strategy explains the evolution of dizygotic twinning in humans">constructed simulations and mathematical models</a> fed with data on maternal, child and fetal survival from real populations. This allowed us to do something otherwise impossible: control in the simulations and modelling whether women ovulated one or two eggs during their cycles. We also modelled different <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tree.2007.09.002" title="The status of the conditional evolutionarily stable strategy">strategies</a>, where we switched women from ovulating one egg to ovulating two at different ages. We could then compare the number of surviving children for women with different patterns of ovulation. Women who switched from single to double ovulation in their mid-20s had the most children survive in our models – more than those who always released a single egg, or always released two eggs. <a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/333966/original/file-20200511-49558-4l8o82.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/333966/original/file-20200511-49558-4l8o82.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="" /></a> Author provided This suggests natural selection favours an unconscious switch from single to double ovulation with increasing age. A strategy for prolonging fertility The reason a switch is beneficial is fetal survival – the chance that a fertilised egg will result in a liveborn child – <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aaa3337" title="Common variants spanning PLK4 are associated with mitotic-origin aneuploidy in human embryos">decreases rapidly as women age</a> So switching to releasing two eggs increases the chance at least one will result in a successful birth. But what about twinning? Is it a side effect of selection favouring fertility in older women? To answer this question, we ran the simulations again, except now when women double ovulated the simulation removed one offspring before birth. In these simulations, women who double ovulated throughout their lives, but never gave birth to twins, had more children survive than those who did have twins and switched from single to double ovulating. <a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/333982/original/file-20200511-49558-d6tomg.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/333982/original/file-20200511-49558-d6tomg.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" alt="" /></a> Author provided This suggests the ideal strategy would be to always double ovulate but never produce twins, so fraternal twins are an accidental side effect of a beneficial strategy of double ovulating.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/138209/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/joseph-l-tomkins-311105">Joseph L Tomkins</a>, Associate Professor in Evolutionary Biology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-western-australia-1067">University of Western Australia</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rebecca-sear-1067265">Rebecca Sear</a>, Head of the Department of Population Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/london-school-of-hygiene-and-tropical-medicine-859">London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/wade-hazel-1067264">Wade Hazel</a>, Professor of Biology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/depauw-university-1274">DePauw University</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/not-all-twins-are-identical-and-thats-been-an-evolutionary-puzzle-until-now-138209">original article</a>.

Body

Why having thoughts that aren't yours doesn't make you delusional

Any thought that occurs within our minds is undoubtedly our own thought – and when we say, “I think”, there will be absolutely <a href="http://www.jstor.org/stable/2024121">no mistake about the “I”</a> to which we refer. In fact, only very few of us would even question whether we are thinking our own thoughts, and those who do are most likely pursuing a philosophical enquiry rather than physically questioning the nature of one’s thinking. Isn’t “I think, therefore I am” the most basic of all prerequisites for one’s existence? For a small minority, however, being able to think one’s own thoughts is not always a given condition or even applicable to this “I”. Some report having thoughts being put into their heads by another person, or simply “receiving” external thoughts originating from an outside source – an experience which, unsurprisingly perhaps, can be extremely frightening. How is something like this even remotely possible? The answer is, it isn’t. At least not with our current understanding of the laws of physics. As a result, this experience of severe interference is <a href="http://bjp.rcpsych.org/content/182/4/293.short">termed “thought insertion”</a>, and is defined as one of the key delusions – <a href="http://archpsyc.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=490920">a “first-rank symptom”</a> – indicative of a schizophrenic illness. Compared with some delusions that might just carry a hint of reality (such as believing neighbours are spreading rumours about you), thought insertion seems to be the most bizarre of them all. Delusions as beliefs Current psychiatric diagnostic systems view delusions as beliefs. For a certain idea to be delusional, someone must first believe in this idea, often with absolute conviction, even when faced with evidence to the contrary. In my view, however, thought insertions don’t always fit in with this definition, and <a href="http://psycnet.apa.org/journals/cns/2/3/291/">so don’t qualify as delusions</a>. If one investigates the actual subjective experience of thought insertion – beyond what is written in clinical files and medical textbooks –- the richness and even reality of the experience begins to emerge. Orthodox definitions of delusion are being <a href="http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01612840.2016.1180725?journalCode=imhn20#.V1xyXaK1ivc">increasingly challenged</a> by <a href="http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/17522439.2015.1100670#.V3AefZMrLBJ">philosophically-minded researchers</a>; psychotic or not, individuals experiencing external thoughts often find it extremely difficult to put into words “what it is like” to have such thoughts. Some of them report these thoughts as sensory, even auditory (but still claim they are thoughts and not voices); others can quite literally feel the “point of entry” to a certain locality inside their minds. In fact, the boundary between <a href="http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/17522439.2016.1162839#.V1xyKaK1ivchttp://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/17522439.2016.1162839">thinking and perception is so blurred</a> that one person used the term <a href="http://psycnet.apa.org/journals/szb/26/1/243/">“thought-voices” to describe her experiences</a>. Then what is thought insertion, if it is not always a delusion? I argue that <a href="http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13164-015-0232-9">thought insertion is a duplex phenomenon</a> which may or may not be a delusion. The delusion may be created by having thoughts in which someone has lost their sense of agency (the feeling that a given thought is generated by one’s self), and ownership, (the endorsement that this thought belongs to one’s self). But <a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1053810007000268">agency and ownership are not all or nothing concepts</a>, neither do they always come hand-in-hand – you can, for example, feel like you generated a thought but that it isn’t yours, so though you have agency, there is no ownership. Depending on how much of one’s sense of agency and ownership is lost or damaged in relation to a given thought, it may feel unfamiliar or even alien. But it is only when an external attribution to another agent occurs, for example, “this thought is given to me by Chris”, can we call it a delusion. In other words, simply having a foreign thought is not a delusion in itself, even though it may very often lead to a delusional explanation. The experience of thought insertion can be sensory, perceptual or physical. So, to me, it is more appropriate to say “delusions in thought insertion” rather than “delusions of thought insertion”, and I am not just playing a game of lexicon. It is crucial to differentiate the processes that produce these acts of thinking and the thoughts that ensue, no matter how much such notions challenge our common sense. Some of us may argue there is nothing about a delusion that is worth listening to, let alone explain, because the implausibility and apparent meaninglessness is beyond what a “rational” person could ever understand. But by acknowledging the complexity and mystery of thought insertion, clinicians might just be a little more understanding towards their patients’ subjective experiences. By removing the assumption that all thought interference is delusional by nature, we close the gap between “us normal people” and “those mad people”. Even in cases where delusions are present, they still carry <a href="http://schizophreniabulletin.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2012/04/19/schbul.sbr075.short">important meanings about the individual</a>. Before we make assumptions and call someone delusional, perhaps we should question our own “reality” as well.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/60864/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> Written by Clara Humpston, PhD Researcher, Cardiff University. Republished with permission of <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/why-having-thoughts-that-arent-yours-doesnt-make-you-delusional-60864" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>.

Mind

Fingerprint and face scanners aren't as secure as we think they are

Despite what every spy movie in the past 30 years would have you think, fingerprint and face scanners used to unlock your smartphone or other devices aren’t nearly as secure as they’re made out to be. While it’s not great if your password is made public in a data breach, at least you can easily change it. If the scan of your fingerprint or face – known as “biometric template data” – is revealed in the same way, you could be in real trouble. After all, you can’t get a new fingerprint or face. Your biometric template data are <a href="https://www.gemalto.com/govt/inspired/biometrics">permanently and uniquely linked to you</a>. The exposure of that data to hackers could <a href="https://dl.acm.org/citation.cfm?id=1387883">seriously compromise user privacy and the security of a biometric system</a>. Current techniques provide effective security from breaches, but advances in artificial intelligence (AI) are rendering these protections obsolete. How biometric data could be breached If a hacker wanted to access a system that was protected by a fingerprint or face scanner, there are a number of ways they could do it: <ol> <li> your fingerprint or face scan (template data) stored in the database could be replaced by a hacker to gain unauthorised access to a system </li> <li> a physical copy or spoof of your fingerprint or face could be created from the stored template data (with <a href="http://vkansee.com/this-guy-unlocked-my-iphone-with-play-doh/">play doh</a>, for example) to gain unauthorised access to a system </li> <li> stolen template data could be reused to gain unauthorised access to a system </li> <li> stolen template data could be used by a hacker to unlawfully track an individual from one system to another. </li> </ol> Biometric data needs urgent protection Nowadays, biometric systems are increasingly used in our civil, commercial and national defence applications. Consumer devices equipped with biometric systems are found in everyday electronic devices like <a href="http://www.m2sys.com/blog/biometric-resources/biometrics-on-smartphones/">smartphones</a>. MasterCard and Visa both offer <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2017/04/20/mastercard-trials-biometric-bankcard-with-embedded-fingerprint-reader/">credit cards with embedded fingerprint scanners</a>. And wearable <a href="https://singularityhub.com/2018/01/30/smart-homes-wont-just-automate-your-life-theyll-track-your-health-too/#sm.00001gaw7sovv9frwrel7ol9kfq1j">fitness devices</a> are increasingly using biometrics to unlock smart cars and smart homes. So how can we protect raw template data? A range of encryption techniques have been proposed. These fall into <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2073-8994/11/2/141">two categories</a>: cancellable biometrics and biometric cryptosystems. In cancellable biometrics, complex mathematical functions are used to transform the original template data when your fingerprint or face is being scanned. This transformation is non-reversible, meaning there’s no risk of the transformed template data being turned back into your original fingerprint or face scan. In a case where the database holding the transformed template data is breached, the stored records can be deleted. Additionally, when you scan your fingerprint or face again, the scan will result in a new unique template even if you use the same finger or face. In biometric cryptosystems, the original template data are combined with a cryptographic key <a href="https://dl.acm.org/citation.cfm?id=2905118">to generate a “black box”</a>. The cryptographic key is the “secret” and query data are the “key” to unlock the “black box” so that the secret can be retrieved. The cryptographic key is released upon successful authentication. AI is making security harder In recent years, new biometric systems that incorporate <a href="https://www.sas.com/en_au/insights/analytics/what-is-artificial-intelligence.html">AI</a> have really come to the forefront of consumer electronics. Think: smart cameras with built-in AI capability to recognise and track specific faces. But AI is a double-edged sword. While new developments, such as <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nature14539">deep artificial neural networks</a>, have enhanced the performance of biometric systems, potential threats could arise from the integration of AI. For example, researchers at New York University created a tool called <a href="https://www.wired.com/story/deepmasterprints-fake-fingerprints-machine-learning/">DeepMasterPrints</a>. It uses deep learning techniques to generate fake fingerprints that can unlock a large number of mobile devices. It’s similar to the way that a master key can unlock every door. Researchers have also demonstrated how deep artificial neural networks can be trained so that the original biometric inputs (such as the image of a person’s face) <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/1703.00832">can be obtained from the stored template data</a>. New data protection techniques are needed Thwarting these types of threats is one of the most pressing issues facing designers of secure AI-based biometric recognition systems. Existing encryption techniques designed for non AI-based biometric systems are incompatible with AI-based biometric systems. So new protection techniques are needed. Academic researchers and biometric scanner manufacturers should work together to secure users’ sensitive biometric template data, thus minimising the risk to users’ privacy and identity. In academic research, special focus should be put on two most important aspects: recognition accuracy and security. As this research falls within <a href="https://www.industry.gov.au/data-and-publications/science-and-research-priorities">Australia’s science and research priority of cybersecurity</a>, both government and private sectors should provide more resources to the development of this emerging technology. Written by Wencheng Yang and Song Wang. Republished with permission of <a href="https://theconversation.com/fingerprint-and-face-scanners-arent-as-secure-as-we-think-they-are-112414">The Conversation</a>.

Technology

10 more facts you believe that aren't actually true

We Showed you some of the most <a href="http://www.readersdigest.co.nz/true-stories-lifestyle/thought-provoking/51-favourite-facts-youve-always-believed-are-actually?items_per_page=All">believed 'facts' that are actually not true at all.</a> Here's ten new facts that are actually false. 1. Sugar = Hyperactivity Studies have disproved this. Poor or rowdy behaviours still occur in children with sugar-free diets. 2. Bulls hate red Bulls are colour-blind. They actually perceive the motions of the bullfighter’s cloth as a threat. 3. Your hair and nails keep growing after death Wrong – but your skin tissue does recede, making them appear longer. 4. Celebrities die in threes Of the celebs who have died since 1990, only in seven cases did three die in the same five-day period, according to data from the New York Times. 5. Bananas grow on trees Actually, they grow on massive herbs that just resemble trees. 6. Bagpipes are Scottish Sorry, Braveheart fans: they were prevalent in the Middle East centuries before Western Europe. 7. Adam and Eve ate an apple They ate the forbidden “fruit” of the tree of knowledge – nowhere in Genesis does it say it was an apple. 8. Sleepers swallow eight spiders per year Spiders usually don’t crawl into beds during night-time wanderings because they offer no prey. You probably swallow zero spiders per year. 9. All your fingernails grow at the same rate Because blood flow stimulates nail growth, the nails on your dominant hand actually grow faster. 10. Van Gogh cut off his ear for a lover It was just a small piece of lobe, and he did it during a violent spat with Pat Gauguin. Whether Van Gogh then gave it to a local girl remains unknown. Written by David McCandless and Brandon Specktor. This article first appeared in <a href="http://www.readersdigest.co.nz/true-stories-lifestyle/thought-provoking/51-favourite-facts-youve-always-believed-are-actually">Reader’s Digest.</a> For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.co.nz/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRN87V">here’s our best subscription offer.</a> <img style="width: 100px !important; height: 100px !important;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7820640/1.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/f30947086c8e47b89cb076eb5bb9b3e2" />

Caring

10 places to visit in France that aren’t Paris

Paris is undoubtedly one of the world’s greatest metropolises, but if that’s your only stop on a trip through France you’re doing yourself a disservice. There’s so much to see and do in this beautiful country besides the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, and travellers who are willing to get off the well-worn tourist track are bountifully rewarded. We’ve put together a list of 10 incredible places to visit in France that are not Paris. Not only will you get a deeper, more unique experience, odds are you won’t have to deal with as many annoying tourists during your stay. To see the places, scroll through the gallery above. What are your thoughts? Have you been to any of the places mentioned?

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