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New device could help GPs detect Alzheimer's in minutes

GPs could soon be able to screen their patients for Alzheimer's Disease in a matter of minutes, using a handheld device the size of a credit card. The first-of-a-kind finger-prick blood test was developed by engineers at Melbourne's Monash University and it can detect the hallmark protein biomarkers of early Alzheimer's Disease within minutes. This could become an important tool for doctors in diagnosing patients before the symptoms progress. In Australia alone there are around 420,000 people living with dementia, with that number set to double by 2054. Associate Professor Sudha Mokkapati, from Monash Materials Science and Engineering, helped lead the development of the testing device. "Detecting very early disease in large populations could dramatically change the trajectory of this burdening disease for many patients, and shave millions off associated healthcare costs," Mokkapati said. "We've completed testing that shows the technology is highly advanced by design and capable of detecting ultra-low levels of several disease biomarkers in blood." The device also has the potential to remove the need for laboratory-based pathology tests, making diagnoses faster and cheaper. The university is currently seeking funding to complete the next stage - clinical validation, which will help bring the device one step closer to reality. "Most patients with neurodegenerative disease are typically diagnosed at advanced stages. Sadly, treatments targeting late-onset disease provide limited therapeutic benefit," Associate Professor Matthew Pase, at Monash's School of Psychological Sciences, said. "Earlier screening could change the outlook for many patients diagnosed with cognitive impairment, increasing the chance of halting or slowing symptom development and the rapid progression of the disease." Image: Monash University/ Nine

Caring

5 tech mistakes not to make while travelling

In the hustle and bustle of preparing for a holiday away we sometimes forget about the small little things. We’re sure you’ve checked off all those big things you needed to do before you jet off but have you considered these simple tech mistakes people often made? We’ve rounded up the top five you’ll want to avoid to ensure your trip is easier and more enjoyable. Not backing anything up You might only be away for a week and it’s just a few hours away so it’s unlikely anything will happen, right? But what if the unexpected does happen and you lose your photos from your phone? What if your tablet gets stolen or lost? What if the memory card goes bust? Back up your phone, tablet and digital camera before you go away and if you’re holidaying for a while, it’s worthwhile to bring a USB stick to periodically back-up. Using your cell data For those going overseas, roaming rates can cost an arm and a leg. Either check if your mobile company has a reasonable international package or switch off the cellular data so your phone won’t use it. Instead limit yourself to wi-fi – most countries have public wi-fi hotspots and most accommodation usually has internet. Remember not to do anything personal on an unsecure wi-fi connection. Making calls instead of using Skype Rather than paying for international calls and texts, Skype will let you stay in touch with friends and family for free. Just make sure you’re connected to wi-fi so you’re not paying for cellular data. Stowing electronics in your check-in luggage You might be tempted to throw some of your electronics in your big luggage, after all you’re not going to be using them on the plane. But remember your check-in bag has to survive manhandling and an unpredictable luggage belt and we’ve all heard stories of items mysteriously disappearing from bags. Keep your expensive electronic with you on your carry-on. Not keeping devices close When you’ve settled into a hotel room, it’s easy to forget they’re not very secure. Think of all the people who have access to your room when you’re not in it. Even leaving valuables behind the desk can bring with it certain risks depending on the establishment you’re staying at. The best advice is to keep your electronics on you at all times. Image credits: Getty Images

Travel Tips

Do you clean your phone and other devices? Here’s why you should do it. NOW!

How many different places and things do your hands touch during the day? Now think about how many times you touch your phone… It should be no surprise that many smartphones and tablets are dirtier than a toilet seat. And a study from the University in Surrey has actually proved it. Researchers dipped phones into Petri dishes and watched growths of bacteria flourish and explode. Touchscreen phones were found to be one of the dirtiest surfaces people touch all day – even dirtier than public toilet seat or your pet bowl. Yet our electronic devices – the very ones we tend to use daily – are often the ones we forget to clean. The remedy is clear, just remember to give your phone, tablet and other electronic devices a clean every now and then again. <ol> <li>Turn off your device and unplug any cables, if there are any. Remove cases or covers.</li> <li>The screen of touchscreen devices are often the dirtiest parts. Use a dry, lint-free microfiber cloth (often it comes with your device so it’s a good idea to keep it) because even the softest tissues can scratch the surface. Don’t use any cleaners with alcohol or ammonia on electronic devices. These are too harsh. Lightly dampen cloth and clean touchscreen, shell and camera lens.</li> <li>Clean your keyboard, stylus, mouse and other accessories you often use too. If there’s debris in the ports of your device, do not use compressed air to blast it away as it causes damage. Use a dry paint brush or tooth brush to loosen any dirt.</li> <li>Clean your cases and covers. With plastic cases, use a cleaning wipe or multi-purpose disinfectants or if it’s a leather case, use an appropriate leather cleaner.</li> </ol> Image: Getty Images

Technology

Why it's important to install updates on your device

Ever wondered if installing updates is worth the bother? Here's what you need to know. Whether you use an iPad, tablet, laptop or desktop computer, you have probably been prompted at one point to update your device. While these pop-up boxes may look like the spam you see on websites, they’re far from it. The device you use will have an operating system built into it, so iPads or Mac laptops will operate on Apple’s iOS system while tablets and laptops not made by Apple will run on Windows. Whichever system your device uses, it will eventually need an update. While it can be easy to dismiss the update notifications when they pop up on your screen, here’s why you shouldn’t. What’s the point? When a software program is developed, it is put through tests and quality checks and only once that has been satisfied is it released to the general public. However, once the software is out there in the world, and being used in real-life environments, it can come across little issues which get reported back to the developer. These companies then fix the issues and release the solutions as software updates. For electronic devices, especially laptops and desktop computers, security issues can be a big problem. Software updates include security solutions to malware or hackers, as well as fixes to bugs and any other issues that have occurred since the software was released. Is it different to an upgrade? While they may sound similar, a software update and an upgrade provide two different functions. An update will install a current version of your software to your device, so basically updating your existing version of iOS or Windows. On the other side of the coin is an upgrade, which allows you to upgrade a program to its next major version. Generally, there will be a cost for a software upgrade. How do I get updates? If your device is connected to the internet and it detects an update is available, it will prompt you with a notification message. This will alert you to the fact that an update is available and advise you of the next steps to step, such as clicking on a button on the notification message which will start the process for you. In System Settings on Apple devices and Control Panel for Windows devices, there’s an option where you can turn on automatic updating. This can provide significant benefits, such as improved security and reliability. Ultimately, software updates exist for a reason. While they may take a little while to download and install on your device, they are worth it. So, the next time that grey box pops up on your screen saying there’s an update available, click on it. It’ll keep your tablet or laptop secure and up-to-date with your software’s latest features. Image credits: Getty Images

Technology

Morphée review: Will this tiny device help you sleep better?

Sleep is a necessity so often sacrificed, and quality sleep is so hard to achieve when we need it most. As we get older, getting enough sleep is still important, with the <a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/good-nights-sleep#aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Institute of Ageing</a> recommending that older adults still aim to get between seven and nine hours of sleep. However, pain, certain medications, feeling sick, stress from daily life (or <a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/covid-19-insomnia-tips/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">living through a global pandemic</a>) and even conditions such as Alzheimer’s can affect the quality and quantity of sleep we get each night. This is where sleeping aids such as the Morphée have come in. The tiny sleep aid has quickly grown in popularity within its home country of France and 12 other countries, including Australia - which is no surprise considering how many have reported sleeping poorly during the last two years. As one of those people who has experienced poorer sleep lately, I gave the Morphée a try to see how it stacks up. So many choices, so little time Encased in a beech wooden case (which also makes for a handy stand), the Morphée offers over 200 guided sessions to choose from and makes for an aesthetically pleasing addition to the bedside table. The three brass keys allow you to choose one of the sessions from eight modes (from guided meditations to quiet music), eight different options in each mode, and whether it runs for eight or 20 minutes. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/03/morphee2.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Image: Matt O’Rourke You can even choose to be guided by a male or female voice, and start, stop and control the volume of the session from several buttons and switches along the side of the device. If guided meditation isn’t really your thing, the nature soundscapes and selection of music are soothing and varied enough so that you have plenty of choice. The fact that each sound comes from a different location around the world is also a nice touch - the Swedish log fire and purring Burmese cat in a Parisian apartment were definitely my favourites. Does it work? Having tried the Morphée on my own and with my partner, who also struggles to get to sleep, I can say it largely works, but that it involves a decent amount of trial and error. We began with the nature sounds ahead of a mid-afternoon nap, and found that it helped us get to sleep more easily. My partner noted it was easier to focus on the sounds rather than attempt to drift off in silence, and that before he knew it, he was asleep. Next, I tried the specific nap setting with the hope of re-energising with a quick power nap after work. Starting with a four-minute relaxation period, with a soothing voice helping to focus on breathing and sinking into the bed, you can choose between an eight and 20-minute silent nap session ending with nature sounds to wake you up. Initially, I found it hard to focus, but after just a few minutes I was ready to fall asleep. Since I’m a heavy sleeper that only the loudest of alarms can wake, the gentle sounds of nature failed to wake me up, and my 20 minute nap became closer to an hour-long one. With that in mind, having longer napping options and different wake-up settings to choose from might be a good addition for heavy snoozers like me. The same night, we tried a body scan with a visualisation exercise. Unlike other body scans, which draw your attention to various areas of the body, this particular one leaned more towards breathing and visualising a mountain scene. I still found it quite relaxing and that it helped me wind down for the night, but my partner ended up feeling significantly worse than when he got into bed - an experience shared by about <a href="https://www.newscientist.com/article/2251840-mindfulness-and-meditation-can-worsen-depression-and-anxiety/">one in 12</a> people who try mindfulness meditation and particularly by those <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/choosing-your-meditation-style/202006/trauma-informed-mindfulness" target="_blank" rel="noopener">who are trauma survivors</a>. So overall, the modes I tried were successful and have left me looking forward to testing the rest, while my partner enjoyed the nature soundscapes and music, but will steer clear of the body scans and other modes with vocal guidance. Sound quality and other notes Although intended for helping you drift to sleep, I found the Morphée was also quite effective as background noise during the day while working or settling in with a good book. Though more of a nitpick than an outright con, the sound was rather tinny when I was using the Morphée’s speakers. Luckily this is only a short-lived problem while you’re falling asleep. Meanwhile, using wired headphones was a whole different situation, and was particularly immersive for the nature sounds. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/03/morphee1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Image: Matt O’Rourke However, the totally analog technology means that Bluetooth earphones won’t be compatible. I found this made using the Morphée slightly daunting, as I was worried I would fall asleep while listening and run the risk of being tangled up in my headphones. Final verdict Retailing at $149, the Morphée initially feels like a pricey purchase. But after giving it a try, seeing how many options it offers, and its absence of bright screens, it feels like an investment that will be worth it over time, especially when it’s priced similarly to yearly subscriptions for popular apps such as Headspace and Calm. Though it might not be a cure for sleep problems, it works as a tool to help you relax and be more mindful before bed, all while enjoying a better night’s sleep. In summary, here are some pros and cons to consider if you’re looking to try the Morphée for yourself or gift it to someone else: Pros <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Portable and handy protective cover/stand </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Beautiful and functional design </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Plenty of sounds and modes to choose from </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Excellent battery life, helped by the fact it turns itself off </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Can be used for more than just sleeping </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Sounds amazing with headphones </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Makes for a great gift for the poor sleepers in your life </li> </ul> Cons <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> The tiny buttons and text might be a challenge for some </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Sound is slightly tinny </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> A setting longer than 20 minutes would be a nice bonus </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Difficult to fall asleep if using wired headphones </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Not compatible with Bluetooth or wireless headphones </li> </ul> The <a href="https://www.morphee.co/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Morphée</a> is available to purchase from Officeworks, JB Hi-Fi, Amazon AU, and Temple & Webster for $149. Unfortunately, the Morphée isn’t available in New Zealand yet, but here’s hoping that will change soon. Image: Supplied

Technology

"Thank you Woolies": New trolley device causes sensation

A TikTok video has gone viral online for showing a new COVID-safe technology being trialled at Woolworths stores. TikTok user @shereenchadoud captioned the short clip: “Thank you Woolworths for looking after us”. In the video, a customer can be seen using a new sanitising machine for trolleys outside a Woolworths store by pushing her trolley into the large green unit and pressing a button. “You can now disinfect your trolley at Woolworths Bankstown,” a voiceover says during the clip. Many users from around the world have praised the technology and expressed their wish to try it for themselves. “What a good idea Woolworths,” one person commented. “I wanna go there and try it,” another said. “They should have this everywhere,” a third wrote. Some of the thousands of comments have questioned the effectiveness of the new device. “But you already touched the dirty trolley to push it in there,” one person said. “The trolley is safe but not the thousands of products for sale,” another noted. Others noticed that the light that appears in the disinfecting unit looks like it uses UV technology and were quick to scrutinise its use. But a Woolworths spokesperson has confirmed it is not the case. “Customers simply push their trolley into the unit at the front of the store, which sprays it with disinfectant spray in under two seconds,” the spokesperson said. The Bankstown store is the latest location to trial the tech, after the Oran Park store first implemented it in April and received widespread customer approval. A Woolworths spokesperson has confirmed that the new devices have been a hit with customers. “As a food retailer, we already have very high standards of cleaning and hygiene, including the thorough cleaning of high-touch surfaces, like trolleys and baskets,” the spokesperson said. “As part of our COVID Safe program, we’re trialling new trolley disinfectant units in six of our stores across Greater Sydney. “The units have been very popular with our customers, helping start their COVID-safe shop with extra confidence,” they said. “We’re always looking for ways to make the in-store customer experience more convenient, and will closely monitor customer feedback on the trial in the coming weeks.” Other stores trialling the unit in NSW include Wetherill Park, Glenrose, Bonnyrigg, and Carnes Hill. Image: Shereenchadoud / TikTok

Caring

New inhalable device could be lifesaving for new mums

A new inhalable product more than a decade in the making could save the lives of tens of thousands of new mothers. The device, developed by Melbourne researchers, looks like a small whistle and allows oxytocin to be inhaled rather than injected, to prevent postpartum haemorrhages. Postpartum haemorrhages happen when a new mother experiences excessive blood loss after giving birth. As the leading cause of maternal mortality globally, these haemorrhages occur in up to 18 percent of births and result in an estimated 60,000 deaths each year across the world. Oxytocin is the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.aafp.org/afp/2007/0315/p875.html" target="_blank">recommended first choice</a> for preventing postpartum haemorrhage due to its greater effectiveness in comparison to other drugs and has fewer side effects, and is currently administered via an injection. Researchers from the Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Monash University partnered with Johnson & Johnson have developed a new inhalable form of oxytocin that, unlike the injectable form, doesn’t need to be refrigerated, making it a less invasive and easier to distribute option for developing countries. “Many women in Australia will receive an oxytocin injection after every childbirth to prevent or lower risk of postpartum haemorrhages,” project leader Michelle McIntosh said. “We needed something that was really low cost and simple to use, but just as effective.” The World Health Organisation recommends every woman in the world to be given an injection of oxytocin after they give birth, but Professor McIntosh said this isn’t always possible. “Unfortunately, in a lot of low-resource settings, having access to someone present when you give birth, someone who is trained to give an injection and a product that has been maintained in cold storage, is very challenging.” Even in Australia, Professor McIntosh said the rate of postpartum haemorrhages has been increasing significantly. “While our focus has always been on low-resource settings, obstetricians in Australia and other developed countries [are] also quite keen to look at inhaled oxytocin,” she said. “That’s because it would take away the risk of needlestick injuries, it’s less invasive than a painful intramuscular injection and there are cohorts of patients we think would benefit from inhaled administration.” Clinical trials of the device, which could still be several years away from commercial use, have been funded by the Victorian government’s Medical Research Acceleration Fund, which allows researchers to develop new healthcare solutions in partnership with experts from Johnson & Johnson. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Research and innovation to address the leading cause of maternal mortality 💕 Excited about our ongoing partnership <a href="https://twitter.com/JNJInnovation?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JNJInnovation</a> Wonderful to visit <a href="https://twitter.com/MIPS_Australia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MIPS_Australia</a> Thanks to Delia for sharing her story with <a href="https://twitter.com/bridgerollo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bridgerollo</a> <a href="https://t.co/4lPRvIC8h7">https://t.co/4lPRvIC8h7</a> — Jaala Pulford MP (@JaalaPulford) <a href="https://twitter.com/JaalaPulford/status/1415507837925531651?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2021</a></blockquote> “When medtech, biotech, and pharmaceutical businesses innovate, they change lives,” said Victoria’s Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy, Jaala Pulford. “This new powder is going to be an extraordinary additional tool for women and their doctors and midwives and nurses [to deal] with something that comes on very suddenly and would be extremely terrifying.” Image: Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences / Twitter

Body

Are your grandkids safe? It’s far too easy for abusers to exploit smart toys and trackers

The wearable technology market is booming, with <a href="https://news.strategyanalytics.com/press-releases/press-release-details/2021/Strategy-Analytics-Half-Billion-Wearables-Sold-Worldwide-in-2020/default.aspx">half a billion wearables</a> sold globally in 2020. Apps on these devices, or the devices themselves, often claim to monitor our health to spot illnesses, track our workouts to help us reach our fitness goals, or keep an eye on our children’s whereabouts to enhance their safety. But they’re also divisive. Supporters of wearable technology claim that health trackers should be <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-the-nhs-should-prescribe-wearable-fitness-trackers-60817">prescribed by the NHS</a> and could even deliver an <a href="https://theconversation.com/wearable-fitness-devices-deliver-early-warning-of-possible-covid-19-infection-143388">early warning</a> of a possible COVID-19 infection. GPS tracking devices designed to be worn by children, meanwhile, are seen as a <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-04-04/digitally-tracking-kids-more-parents-use-devices/10957906">safety asset</a> for parents. Yet studies have found fitness trackers to be too <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-fitness-trackers-may-not-give-you-all-the-credit-you-hoped-for-128585">inaccurate</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/do-fitness-trackers-make-you-fitter-52404">misleading</a> to be used by <a href="https://eu.usatoday.com/story/tech/2019/08/14/how-doctors-really-feel-data-your-apple-watch-fitbit/1900968001/">medical professionals</a>, and that, because they’ve been rushed to market, wearables of all kinds are an insecure “<a href="https://theconversation.com/why-health-apps-are-like-the-wild-west-with-apple-just-riding-into-town-103512">Wild West</a>” region of technology that requires urgent regulation. In <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/978692/The_UK_code_of_practice_for_consumer_IoT_security_-_PETRAS_UCL_research_report.pdf">a recent report</a>, we looked at the security risks associated with wearable devices, as well as “smart toys” that can record children in their homes. We found a concerning lack of security – especially for devices aimed at children – which lack even the most basic cybersecurity precautions, leaving them open to abuse. Fitness trackers and personal data One key issue with wearables is the data they generate and share. For instance, many fitness trackers rely on data on a person’s location to map their workouts. That’s great if you’re keen to track the distance of your jogs, but it’s not especially sensible if you’re embarking on those jogs <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-42853072">from a military base</a> in hostile territory. Beyond that specific example, which caused some embarrassment for the US military in 2018, it’s clear that sharing your location publicly, even in a safe civilian setting, comes with significant risks. And it’s not just the real-time tracking of your running route that could expose your whereabouts. Because these trackers upload your workouts to an app and share them publicly, it’s possible for predators to use historic running, biking or hiking routes to predict where you might be at a given time. This safety issue isn’t only restricted to workouts. Even something as innocuous as <a href="https://www.wareable.com/wearable-tech/terms-and-conditions-privacy-policy-765">sharing a photo through your Apple watch</a> can give away your geolocation. Are trackers safe for children? Even more concerning are devices designed to be worn by children, sales of which are expected to reach <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/global-kids-smartwatch-market-valued-at-364-3-million-us-in-2018-and-will-reach-873-5-million-us-by-the-end-of-2025-at-a-cagr-of-13-19-between-2019-2025-valuates-reports-814713277.html">$875 million (£620 million)</a> by 2025. These watches are marketed as wearable tech to keep kids safe, tracking their location and alerting parents when the watch’s onboard “SOS” button is pressed – or if the child travels beyond a geofenced area. Smart watches as safety devices on children’s wrists may sound like a <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/wearable-gps-tracking-for-children-to-ease-parents-minds/">boon for anxious parents</a>, but a <a href="https://fil.forbrukerradet.no/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/watchout-rapport-october-2017.pdf">2017 survey</a> of children’s smart watches found that the all-important “SOS” button either got stuck or didn’t work at all in most cases. Additionally, flaws in some smart watches’ accompanying apps have raised <a href="https://www.which.co.uk/news/2019/11/which-tests-for-security-flaws-in-kids-smartwatches/">serious safety concerns</a>. <a href="https://consumerfed.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/smart-watch-security-assessment.pdf">Security researchers</a> have found they could not only easily access children’s historical route data – like their path to and from school – and monitor their geolocation in real time, but they could also speak directly to the child, through the watch, without the call being reported in the parent’s app. Connected toys Fears that internet of things devices can give people unauthorised access to children also extend to <a href="https://theconversation.com/4-ways-internet-of-things-toys-endanger-children-94092">the “smart toy” market</a>. Some of these toys contain hidden cameras and microphones which, if hacked, could be used to record the interior of your home, including children’s rooms. In 2017, German regulators recognised this danger by <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-39002142">banning the sale</a> of the Cayla “smart doll”, labelling it as the kind of “de facto espionage device” that Germany’s <a href="https://www.bundesnetzagentur.de/SharedDocs/Pressemitteilungen/EN/2017/17022017_cayla.html">Telecommunications Act</a> legislates against. In an unusual and unsettling move, the regulator went further by asking parents who’d bought one to <a href="https://www.dw.com/en/german-regulator-tells-parents-to-destroy-spy-doll-cayla/a-37601577">destroy the doll</a> to prevent illicit surveillance. Even if the manufacturers of smart toys and children’s smart watches can guarantee far better security than that which led to the Cayla ban, there remain other surveillance concerns. In 2019, a <a href="https://www.unicef.org/innovation/reports/memoAIchildrights">UNICEF-led report</a> highlighted how children’s rights – to creativity, freedom of choice and self-determination – are challenged by smart devices. Present in schools, at home, and on the wrist, this kind of round-the-clock surveillance, the report argues, restricts carefree childhood and hurts kids’ development. Making trackers safer Trackers and toys can be made safer. Before we allow these devices to flood the market, it’s essential <a href="https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/10117734/">we standardise</a> the minimum security requirements that manufacturers must comply with – no matter where in the world these devices are made. Key among these standards should be the removal of <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/971440/Code_of_Practice_for_Consumer_IoT_Security_October_2018_V2.pdf">factory-default passwords</a> on devices – which, like “admin” or “1234”, are easily guessed or discovered by even the most novice hacker. Manufacturers should also publish a <a href="https://www.iotsecurityfoundation.org/expanding-the-view-of-consumer-vulnerability-disclosure-practice/">vulnerability disclosure</a> to help users understand risks, and make regular software updates in response to vulnerabilities unearthed by security researchers. Clearly, monitoring people’s health via wearable trackers has the potential to radically improve access to medical care. Likewise, every parent wants their child to be safe, and smart devices, like mobile phones before them, could be a reliable tool for checking in with them. But without safety standards, these devices have the potential to cause more harm than they offset. Regulators must act fast to stop this growing market from leading to significant harms. Written by <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/saheli-datta-burton-1061974">Saheli Datta Burton</a>, UCL and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/madeline-carr-1148007">Madeline Carr</a>, UCL. Republished with permission of <a href="https://theconversation.com/its-far-too-easy-for-abusers-to-exploit-smart-toys-and-trackers-161946">The Conservation.</a>

Caring

“You’re just a little boy”: Listening device captures disturbing claims in William Tyrrell case

Listening devices captured a person of interest in toddler William Tyrrell’s disappearance telling his dead wife to “make sure you don’t tell anyone … they’re after me”, heard a Sydney court. Paul Savage was also recorded saying “you’re a little boy” at his home in Kendall three years after the young child went missing. Mr Savage lived across the road from the mid-north coast property, where the three-year-old disappeared in 2014 and was interrogated by authorities over the case. Former detective chief inspector Gary Jubelin lodged a dispute over allegations that he went beyond listening device warrants and illegally recorded four conversations with Mr Savage in 2017 and 2018. According to Jubelin, the recordings were fully legal. During the court hearing, Jubelin’s barrister read a transcript of audio from the devices planted in Mr Savage’s home in late 2017. It recorded a conversation the retiree had with his wife Heather, who died of cancer two years earlier in April 2015. “Make sure you don’t tell anyone, love … they’re after me, love, they’re right after me,” Mr Savage said, Margaret Cunneen SC told Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court on Thursday. But the 75-year-old denies being responsible for William’s disappearance. He said in 2019 he always showed his full cooperation to the police when asked about what he remembered, including taking part in interviews and walk-throughs when detectives arrived unannounced at his home. The court heard that Mr Savage often spoke to himself at home, including on July 29, 2017 when he was heard saying: “You’re a little boy, you’re nobody, you’re just a little boy, you don’t tell me, I tell you.” One of Jubelin’s former colleagues told the court on Thursday she didn’t believe Mr Savage was responsible for the disappearance. “I couldn’t prove it beyond reasonable doubt,” said Detective Sergeant Laura Beacroft. “There were a few different things that firmed that up for me (but) there was nothing concrete that could put Mr Savage in or out.”

News

Why women are more likely to have dodgy hip implants or other medical devices

The past year has seen <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-11-26/implant-files-shine-light-on-medical-device-industry/10521480">wide concern</a> about the safety of medical implants. Some of the worst scandals have involved devices for women, such as textured <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/directly-linked-to-patient-harm-worldwide-recall-of-textured-breast-implants-20190725-p52ai9.html">breast implants</a> with links to cancer, and transvaginal mesh implants, which were the subject of a <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Community_Affairs/MeshImplants/Report">senate inquiry</a>. But women are harmed not only by “women’s devices” such as breast implants and vaginal mesh. Women are also more likely to be harmed by apparently gender-neutral devices, like <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/1653996">joint replacements</a> and <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/JAHA.118.010869">heart implants</a>. In recently published <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/hypa.12483">research</a>, I explored the reasons for this. I found gender biases at all stages of design and use of medical implants. Proposed changes to how devices are regulated, such as introducing <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-03-27/pelvic-mesh-implants-tracking-medical-devices/9588070">a national register of all implants</a>, will make it quicker to identify dodgy devices. But this will not address gender bias in how devices are designed and used. <h2>Bias starts with design, then lab testing</h2> Biological and social factors <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3013263/">can affect</a> how women present when injured or ill, and how well treatments work. Often, device designers <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17483107.2018.1467973">do not take these differences into account</a>. The lab tests used to make sure implants are safe often ignore the possibility women could have <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935106001745">different reactions to materials</a>, or their activities could <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/jor.23374">place different loads on implants</a>. <h2>Bias continues with clinical trials</h2> Some medical device companies <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/2011/may/16/medical-devices-lack-clinical-data">have exploited regulatory loopholes</a> to get devices to market in the UK without clinical trials. Even when trials take place, women <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11999-015-4457-9">are not always included</a>. Or researchers <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11999-015-4457-9">do not analyse the data for gender differences</a>. Regulators such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States and Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2645146">often approve devices</a> without data split by gender on how well devices perform or how safe they are. <h2>Then there’s the doctor-patient relationship</h2> The gender of the doctor and patient can make a difference to what women learn about their implant. The <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/hidden-curriculum-surgeons-women-gender-equity-20180508-p4ze0w.html">very low numbers of women in surgery</a> mean female patients often see male surgeons. And there is <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S073839910900264X">some evidence</a> male doctors tend to treat female patients in a more paternalistic and less patient-centred way. Then there’s the issue of whether surgeons raise important safety issues with their female patients. For example, some surgeons <a href="https://journals.lww.com/clinorthop/Fulltext/2004/11000/Surgeons_Rarely_Discuss_Sexual_Activity_with.37.aspx">feel uncomfortable</a> discussing whether it’s safe to have sex after a hip implant, especially with female patients. This is important as some sexual positions <a href="https://www.arthroplastyjournal.org/article/S0883-5403(13)00561-5/fulltext">are safer</a> than others. <h2>Let’s look at one example, a hip implant</h2> The DePuy ASR (articular surface replacement) hip implant caused serious complications for <a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/342/bmj.d2905">patients around the world</a>, <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2079-4983/6/3/486/htm">including Australia</a>, such as inflammation, painful growths, dislocations and metal toxicity. Despite <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-03-31/class-action-over-defective-hip-replacements-settles-for-%24250m/7288350">media coverage</a>, few were aware this hip implant was <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11999-015-4227-8">more than twice as likely</a> to fail in women. In the case of hip implants, the same models are available for women and men, implying these devices are gender neutral. Most models come in a range of sizes, with some having <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1098301518361606">better outcomes for women</a>. But women are not small men, and there are gender differences in basic activities involving the hip, <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12147-016-9151-z">such as walking</a>. When <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0954411913483639">women stand up from sitting</a> or <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0883540313005615">have sex</a>, the fragile edges of their hip sockets tend to bear greater loads than men’s. This “edge loading” increases the risk hip implants will wear down and release dangerous metal particles. These differences would not matter if lab tests showed equal safety of hip implants for men and women. However, evidence is not collected on this. In fact, international standards for lab tests that measure rates of wear in hip implants ignore gender differences, and only test <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0954411913483639">normal walking</a> rather than more stressful activities, such as running or having sex. The FDA, TGA and other regulators often approve new hip implants based on their similarity to already approved models. This <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp1211581">happened</a> with the ASR hip implant. Regulators did not need new data, let alone evidence the hip was equally safe for women and men. <h2>It’s a concern internationally</h2> Internationally, there is increasing concern about the regulation and safety of medical implants. An international group of journalists released a <a href="https://www.icij.org/investigations/implant-files/">damning report</a> late last year. The <a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/device-approvals-denials-and-clearances/510k-clearances">FDA’s 510(k) process</a>, which approves new devices based on their similarity to existing ones, allows approval of some high-risk implants <a href="http://bleedingedgedoc.com/the-fdas-overhaul-of-the-510k-process/">without additional evidence</a>. The situation is no better <a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/342/bmj.d2973.extract">in Europe</a>, where commercial agencies do the approvals. This system has been criticised for approving devices <a href="https://medtech.pharmaintelligence.informa.com/MT095225/EU-must-tackle-clinical-trials-shortfalls-as-current-lack-of-evidence-is-quotappallingquot">without good data</a> and for <a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/342/bmj.d2973.extract">lacking transparency</a> when it comes to implant recalls. The FDA has taken some steps to address gender bias, <a href="https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/evaluation-sex-specific-data-medical-device-clinical-studies-guidance-industry-and-food-and-drug">issuing guidance</a> for companies to provide data on their devices in women and men. However, this is not binding. A study of devices approved after its introduction found <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2645146">only 17%</a> included data analysis by sex. <h2>How could we improve things?</h2> In Australia, scandals with implants have led to <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-tgas-proposed-breast-implant-ban-exposes-a-litany-of-failures-and-fails-to-protect-women-120281">calls for bans</a> and <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-03-27/pelvic-mesh-implants-tracking-medical-devices/9588070">registries</a>. These are good ideas, but will not prompt new devices to be designed with women in mind, nor improve patient communication. Surgeons need to raise topics important for their patients to know about surgery, however uncomfortable it makes them feel. Current efforts to improve the <a href="https://www.surgeons.org/about-racs/about-respect">culture of surgery</a>, and to attract trainees <a href="https://ama.com.au/sites/default/files/documents/RACS_diversity_and_inclusion_plan.pdf">who better reflect</a> the communities they serve may help. But there is a long way to go. Regulators like the TGA and FDA can influence device design by requiring data on the safety and performance of all new (and modified) devices in both women and men. The FDA experience <a href="https://medicine.yale.edu/news/article.aspx?id=15444">shows</a> these requirements must be binding if they are to work.<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/121363/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> Written by Katrina Hutchison, Postdoctoral research fellow, Macquarie University. Republished with permission of <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/why-women-are-more-likely-to-have-dodgy-hip-implants-or-other-medical-devices-121363" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>.

Body

How you can skip fights about digital devices over the holidays

Holidays are a time for family and friends to come together, to celebrate and to enjoy each other’s company. Older adults, who are often <a href="https://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/aarp_foundation/2012_PDFs/AARP-Foundation-Isolation-Framework-Report.pdf">lonely and socially isolated</a>, can particularly <a href="http://assets.pewresearch.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2013/12/Christmas-survey-2013-full-report.pdf">look forward</a> to reconnecting with family and friends. However, when technology enters the picture, gatherings may not be quite so positive. All across the U.S., people of all ages are <a href="http://www.pewinternet.org/2017/02/09/digital-divides-feeding-america/">increasingly using technology</a> – including <a href="http://www.pewinternet.org/2017/05/17/tech-adoption-climbs-among-older-adults/">adults 65 and older</a>. My research, and that of others, has found that using computers, smartphones and the internet can help seniors <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/geronb/gbu018">fight depression</a> and <a href="http://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.2306">loneliness</a>, and <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/geronb/gbw130">enhance their sense</a> of <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/03601277.2016.1205425">well-being and self-worth</a>. Technology use can also help older adults <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-40542-1_49">feel like they matter to others</a> and help them stay connected with loved ones. However, my research, with colleagues, has also found that older adults still <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/03601277.2015.1083392">prefer in-person social interactions</a>. This can cause problems during holiday-season family gatherings, when younger relatives are likely to want to spend lots of time on their smartphones and other devices, often ignoring others in the same physical location. It’s a conflict one of my Ph.D. students, <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=edkc4HUAAAAJ&hl=en">Christopher Ball</a>, has called the “<a href="https://doi.org/10.1177/0733464817732518">physical-digital divide</a>.” Fortunately, our work both offers explanations for these difficulties and suggests ways to turn holiday disagreement and disappointment into increased family connection that can last all year long. <h2>Conflicting feelings</h2> When they’re away on family visits that can last several days, it’s common for young people – tweens, teens and those in their 20s – to want to stay connected to their friends. However, older adults nearby may feel frustrated, disrespected, isolated and even offended. In our study, older adults told us they often attempt to limit this and other negative effects of digital devices by <a href="https://doi.org/10.1177/0733464817732518">declaring tech-free “bubbles” at particular times or places</a>. They ask their friends and relatives to put devices aside during mealtimes and other key activities, to better focus on engaging with others face to face. But that’s not the only way to create a balance between using technology and interacting directly. <h2>Finding opportunities</h2> Certainly there can be times when devices should be put down and in-person interaction comes first. Yet all generations can benefit when older family members see how <a href="https://www.crcpress.com/Designing-Technology-Training-for-Older-Adults-in-Continuing-Care-Retirement/Cotten-Yost-Berkowsky-Winstead-Anderson/p/book/9781498718127">they can use technology</a> to <a href="https://doi.org/10.1177/0733464811431824">improve their own lives</a>. Our work suggests that situations with potential for intergenerational conflict can be shifted to bring relatives together: Younger generations can show their older family members about technological devices. Grandchildren, for example, can demonstrate to their grandparents how they use mobile phones, tablets and social media, explaining what they like about the technologies. It might even turn into a teaching opportunity, helping older family members learn to entertain themselves online. They might even want to find out how to text – or even video chat – with geographically distant relatives. Using these technologies can help people stay connected to friends and family once the holidays are over. That will likely require some additional patience on the part of the younger technology coach. Older adults <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24475051">learn at slower rates than younger generations</a>. And it may be harder for them to <a href="http://www.apa.org/research/action/memory-changes.aspx">remember instructions</a>, so they might need to be shown how to use the device or app several times. A key factor is making sure the relatives know they <a href="http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0733464815609440">can ask for help</a> when technical difficulties inevitably strike. If older family members see how excited their descendants are about using digital devices, they may decide to cross the generational digital divide – which can help them live more enjoyable, connected lives not just during the holidays, but all throughout the year.<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/88763/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> Written by Shelia R. Cotten, Professor of Media and Information, Michigan State University. Republished with permission of <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/skip-fights-about-digital-devices-over-the-holidays-instead-let-them-bring-your-family-together-88763" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>.

Relationships

Alone together: How mobile devices have changed family time

There is now widespread concern about the <a href="https://theconversation.com/too-much-screen-time-linked-to-an-epidemic-of-myopia-among-young-people-111599">amount of time</a> children spend staring at screens – with many people worried about the <a href="https://theconversation.com/mental-health-risks-to-girls-who-spend-more-than-an-hour-a-day-on-social-media-new-study-93406">negative impacts</a> mobile devices might have on health and well-being. Concerns have also been raised about the influence of technological change on relationships and face-to-face interactions. Sherry Turkle, a professor of the social studies of science, came up with the famous term “<a href="http://alonetogetherbook.com/">alone together</a>” – which is also the name of her book. “Alone together” captures this idea of spending time on devices to the neglect of interacting with those who are physically nearby. Many people believe that technological changes have had a detrimental impact on the time family members spend together – with “alone together” time colonising family life. Yet, to date, very few studies have actually been done in this area. Our new <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jomf.12564">research</a> looks to change this, by providing the first real insight into how technology has impacted the way families spend their time in the UK. To do this, we analysed time diaries collected by parents and children aged eight to 16 years-old in 2000 and then again in 2015 – a period that has witnessed rapid technological change. <h2>More time at home and alone</h2> Contrary to expectations, we found that children spent more time around their parents in 2015 than in 2000. This equates to just over half an hour extra a day (347 minutes per day in 2000 and 379 minutes in 2015). Notably, all of this additional time near parents was spent at home. This was a surprising finding. But looking closer, we found that children reported they were “alone” during all of this additional time at home with their parents. In this sense then, “alone together” time has increased. Our analysis also showed some relatively small changes in time for shared family activities, with contemporary families spending less time watching TV and more time on leisure activities and family meals. But the overall time spent in shared activities has remained the same. Our data shows that mobile device use cuts across all aspects of family time. We found that children and parents both spent approximately the same amount of time (around 90 minutes) using mobile devices when together. We found all these patterns to be particularly pronounced among young people aged 14 to 16. Young people in this group spent around one hour more at home “alone” with their parents in 2015 than in 2000. Mobile device use when near their parents was also more frequent and heavily concentrated. <h2>Lack of quality time?</h2> Academics have long noted the capacity for <a href="http://sk.sagepub.com/books/families-and-time">technology to bring families together at home</a>. And while our research does seem to indicate this could be the case, this increase in time at home may also be associated with other issues such as the <a href="https://theconversation.com/helicopter-parents-the-real-reason-british-teenagers-are-so-unhappy-111673">parent’s concerns for their children’s safety</a>. <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2017/09/has-the-smartphone-destroyed-a-generation/534198/">Research in the US</a> finds similar patterns of change – with teens spending less time outside the home away from their parents. There is increasing evidence that the mere presence of a phone <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0265407512453827">negatively affects face-to-face interactions</a>. This may go some way then to explain <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/02614367.2016.1141974">parents’ perceptions</a> of decreasing family cohesion and time together with their children, reported in earlier studies. Indeed, we found that both children and parents were using mobile devices during family meals, television viewing, and other activities. So even though this was for a relatively small amount of time, it may have a disproportionate impact on the quality of this time for family members. Of course, in some cases, it is possible that mobile devices are in fact complementing family interactions. If, for example, family members use them for video streaming, to play group games or to contact other relatives. And further research on mobile device use and content is now necessary to help ascertain their full impact on daily life and move beyond commonly held negative assumptions. But what is clear, is that although a rise in “alone together” time means families now spend more time at home, it is not necessarily in a way that feels like quality time.<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/111478/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> Written by Stella Chatzitheochari, Associate Professor in Sociology, University of Warwick and Killian Mullan, Lecturer Sociology and Policy, Aston University. Republished with permission of <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/alone-together-how-mobile-devices-have-changed-family-time-111478" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>.

Relationships

Don’t try and take this item on checked luggage anymore: The everyday device now banned from Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin

Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Australia have banned passengers from bringing Apple MacBooks in their checked-in luggage due to safety concerns. Following the worldwide recall of some MacBooks over battery issues, Virgin announced that all MacBook laptops will have to be carried into the cabin with a passenger. The ban applies to all models. “Due to the worldwide recall of some Apple MacBooks, we are requesting all guests take their Apple MacBooks as carry-on luggage as a safety precaution,” a Virgin spokesman said in a statement. “The safety of our guests and crew is always our highest priority.” Qantas and Jetstar also confirmed in a <a href="https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-advice/flights/virgin-australia-announces-ban-on-macbooks-from-checkedin-luggage/news-story/c66101dc1a2e1fb82781fe73bc81f33f">joint statement</a> that they would ban MacBook Pros from checked-in baggage. “Until further notice, all Apple MacBook Pros must be carried in cabin baggage and switched off for flight following a recall notice issued by Apple,” the statement read. It is not known how long the laptop bans will remain in place. In June, Apple recalled some of its 15-inch MacBook Pro laptops over fears that their lithium-ion batteries “may overheat and pose a safety risk”. Owners of MacBook Pro sold between September 2015 and February 2017 were asked to stop using the devices and seek battery replacements as soon as possible. “Customer safety is always Apple’s top priority, and we have voluntarily decided to replace affected batteries, free of charge,” the company said in a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2019/jun/21/apple-recalls-15-inch-macbook-pro-laptops-battery-fire-risk">statement</a>. According to <a href="https://www.productsafety.gov.au/recall/apple-inc-macbook-pro-retina-15-inch-mid-2015-model">Product Safety Australia</a>, laptop owners “can use the serial number lookup tool on Apple’s website, to determine if their 15-inch MacBook Pro is affected by the recall”.

Travel Tips

The new device that charges your phone while you’re on the go

Researchers from Queen’s University in Canada have developed an energy-harvesting device that exploits the side to side movement of a backpack that will generate electricity while you walk. The trial version would be suitable for people who work or trek to remote areas and the device has enough power to deploy an emergency beacon or a GPS. The researchers experimented with seven different conditions for energy harvesting and found that a load of nine kilograms generated the optimum amount of power without any extra effort to the wearer. The nine kilograms would be made up of clothes, food, a stove, fuel, a sleeping bag and a tent which was packed for a long trek. The weight of the device and the backpack adds another five kilos. The setup in total produces about .22 watts of electricity which is enough to power GPS and emergency beacons. <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.182021">In the paper</a>, the researchers Jean-Paul Martin and Qingguo Li calculate that adding more weight to the backpack will help it generate more power. “Modelling predicts that an increase in electrical power production could be achieved by increasing the weight carried,” they write. “If generating over (one Watt) of electrical power was desired for powering higher demand devices, such as talking or browsing the internet with a cell phone, our model indicates that over 20 kilograms of weight would need to be carried.” In total, you would be carrying 14 kilograms on your back to generate enough power for your GPS or emergency beacon. Although this might seem like too much weight for most people, it’s next to nothing for soldiers who are used to carrying at least 27 kilograms and as much as 45 kilograms on their back for long-haul missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Technology

Travelling soon? Never do this with electronic items when boarding a flight

Many travellers when going on a plane take a variety of electronic items with them, including mobile phones, iPads, laptops, Kindles … the list never ends. However, there is one thing you should never do whilst boarding a plane with your devices. The current travel advice stipulates that you should never travel with any electronic items that have no battery left and cannot be turned on. <a href="https://www.britishairways.com/travel/home/public/en_au">British Airways </a>describes essential hand luggage packing tips on their website. BA states: “Charge any electrical or battery-powered devices such as phones, tablets, e-books and laptops. Airport security might ask you to switch them on.” This is also the case in the USA, as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that it would not allow mobile phones or other electronic devices on US-bound planes unless travellers were able to turn them on at the request of security staff. This was announced in 2014. It was ruled that anyone who had a powerless device would be barred from boarding their US flight and would have to reschedule the flight, even if the passenger offered to give up the item or send it separately. The UK Department of Transport (DfT) quickly followed suit, saying: “In line with the US advice, passengers on some routes into and out of the UK may now also be required to show that electronic devices in their hand luggage are powered up or face not being allowed to bring the device onto the aircraft. "Passengers flying into or out of the UK are therefore advised to make sure electronic devices being carried in their hand luggage are charged before they travel." Domestic flights within Australia and New Zealand have not been impacted by this change, but as it affects a wide range of airlines, including British Airways, Qantas, Virgin Australia, Emirates and Delta as well as other carriers that fly to, from and via the UK and US, it’s better to be safe instead of sorry.

Travel Trouble

5 ways to declutter your devices

With spring right around the corner, you may have already set your clean-out schedule. Whether that’s throwing away old clothes, going through cupboards that you haven’t rummaged through in a while, or making donation bags of things you don’t need. But have you ever stopped to think that with the amount of time we spend on our digital devices, that they’d need a clean-out too? Luckily, the tech experts at <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.asus.com/au/" target="_blank">ASUS</a> have shared a few tips and tricks to organise your digital life and get rid of clutter. Laptops and Desktops: 1. Declutter your desktop If your desktop is looking manic and in need of some organisation, then it’s time to decide what you need to keep and what you want to part ways with. For files that you don’t need anymore, hold CTRL (for Windows) or Command (for Apple iOS) and click on all the files that you want to delete. This allows you to select multiple files at once. Then lastly, drag and drop them into the recycle bin and you’ve successfully cleared your desktop. For files that you need, make separate folders and categorise them so you know what goes where. For example, have all your finances in one folder and your to-do lists in the other. To do this, right-click on your desktop, select New from the drop-down menu and then choose Folder. Label the folder and then drag your files into it and it’s as easy as that. 2. Erase old downloads With the introduction of streaming services such as Netflix and Spotify, there’s simply no need to keep a large number of files on your device. Not only do they take up space, but they can slow down your laptop or computer as well. So, if you have old movies, music or videos that you know you don’t need to hang onto, throw them in the recycling bin and your device will thank you. 3. Try the in-built cleaner If your laptop is constantly showing messages for low storage capacity, then it may be the number of unnecessary files on your device. If you’re on a Windows device, then search for “Disk Clean-up”, follow the prompts and then allow the cleaner to get rid of any unnecessary files. Tablets and Phones: 4. Categorise your applications Categorising applications will make sure your phone screen always remains neat and organised. The best way to do this is to leave your four most used apps on the home screen, and the remainders in their respective folders such as social media, shopping, games, photos etc. 5. Back up photos Some of us can have over 1000 photos on our phones, and while they bring back many memories, chances are you hardly go back and look at them. Which is why, instead of letting them sit on your phone, back them up on an external hard drive. Not only will it free up space, but your photos will be kept safe also.

Technology

“Torture device”: Derryn Hinch says vaginal mesh recipients were “kept in the dark”

Victorian Senator Derryn Hinch has made a passionate plea at the senate inquiry into the use of vaginal mesh to treat urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, which has left thousands of women with life-changing physical damage and pain. After the senate committee made the recommendation that vaginal mesh only be used as a last resort and only with fully informed consent, tabling a report with 13 suggested changes to its use, senators from all sides of politics agreed that such a devastating medical scandal can never happen again. “Many women who have had transvaginal mesh implants have had devastating complications resulting in ongoing emotional trauma, embarrassment, shame, depression, debilitating pain, recurring infection and a poor quality of life,” Greens senator and committee chair, Rachel Siewert, said. Senator Hinch said the committee had heard from many women who felt they had been let down by the Therapeutic Goods Administration. “Having first been told there’s only a one per cent chance of an adverse reaction, they have since been treated like mushrooms,” the Human Headline said. “Kept in the dark and fed bulls*** by doctors, hospital administrators, the drug companies and sadly even the TGA.” He described the tragedy as “the biggest medical scandal for Australian women since thalidomide in the 1950s and 1960s, when kids were born without arms and legs.” Senator Hinch said people affected by this “torture device” deserve justice. “This should never have happened. We need to fix it. We need to be providing support for these women.”

Body

This is the easiest way to share photos between devices

Lisa Du is director of <a href="https://readytechgo.com.au/" target="_blank">ReadyTechGo</a>, a service that helps people gain the confidence and skills to embrace modern technology. You may have seen the words "Air Drop" on your Apple devices and wondered what it was. Air Drop is one of my favourite functions on Apple iPhone, iPads and Macs. The Air Drop function allows you to share photos, videos, contacts and even websites opened on Safari to nearby Apple users (which can be another one of your devices). How does it do this? Air Drop uses Bluetooth and WiFi to "talk" to nearby devices, and securely transfer the files wirelessly. To use Air Drop, both devices needs to have iOS 7 or later, or a Macbook or iMac with OS X Yosemite or later. How to turn on airdrop on your devices iPhone or iPad 1. On iPads or iPhone, tap on the Settings app, and turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 2. Scroll down the Settings menu and choose General <img width="500" height="NaN" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/e785dd9ba906ed79fad48bd7e/images/5f438d0e-4065-48ba-a36c-366dbaee8f07.jpeg" class="mcnImage" style="max-width: 1242px; line-height: 100%; outline: none; vertical-align: bottom; height: auto !important;"/> 3. Tap on Air Drop 4. Tap on Everyone (Options: Contacts Only will allow only people in your contacts to see your device, Everyone option will allow all nearby iOS users to see your device) MacBook or iMac 1. Click on Finder <img width="500" height="NaN" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/e785dd9ba906ed79fad48bd7e/images/4d63b2b3-872e-47cb-9be4-fdc899385033.png" class="mcnImage" style="max-width: 1538px; line-height: 100%; outline: none; vertical-align: bottom; height: auto !important;"/> 2. Click on Airdrop 3. Allow me to be discoverable by: Click on the word Contacts only, and choose Everyone Using airdrop to share photos Now that we have turned on Airdrop, let's share a photo. Share a photo from your iPad or iPhone 1. Open the photo you want to share <img width="500" height="NaN" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/e785dd9ba906ed79fad48bd7e/_compresseds/904c4131-b762-4019-9ac9-7534d50bdca6.jpeg" class="mcnImage" style="max-width: 2048px; line-height: 100%; outline: none; vertical-align: bottom; height: auto !important;"/> 2. Tap on the Share icon 3. Under Airdrop, nearby devices will appear. Tap on the device that you want to send the photo to <img width="500" height="NaN" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/e785dd9ba906ed79fad48bd7e/images/6f25ae6b-3ddf-4186-ba15-d23578a95ef6.png" class="mcnImage" style="max-width: 2048px; line-height: 100%; outline: none; vertical-align: bottom; height: auto !important;"/> Example, I am sharing this photo with my Macbook Pro. 4. Give it a sec, and your photo will be sent across to the other device. <img width="500" height="NaN" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/e785dd9ba906ed79fad48bd7e/images/cf2c6701-db5b-4329-aad2-7b9193c216a5.jpeg" class="mcnImage" style="max-width: 2048px; line-height: 100%; outline: none; vertical-align: bottom; height: auto !important;"/> TIP: When you share a photo from your iPad or iPhone to your iMac or Macbook, the photo will be saved to your Downloads folder. You can move this photo into your Picture folder. Have you ever used Airdrop?

Technology

5 ways to get children to put down their devices

If it's hard for us to jump out of the digital world, just imagine you're three and the lines between fantasy and reality are already blurred – then throw in a super-engaging, colourful, fun, immersive experience. Or you're five and each episode of Mutt & Stuff on the Nick Jr app is better than the last. Or you're eight and you're almost finished building something amazing in Minecraft. Why would you ever want to stop? This is why getting kids off their devices is so tough. And when threatening doesn't work, and you discover the research that two-minute warnings aren't the best option either, what can you do? Thankfully, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has some new guidelines around screen use that ease some grandparental guilt, but you still need to get your kid off the iPad at some point. Aside from being a strong role model, try these tips to minimise conflict and find the balance we're all seeking. 1. Have another activity lined up For the youngest device users, transitions are hard – period. Even if the next "to do" is a "must do" (such as eating lunch), tell your kid what's coming next. You can rehearse the process: "When I say stop, it's time for the iPad to go night-night. Let's see how fast you can flip it shut! As soon as it's asleep, we can sneak into the other room and paint." 2. Use visual and sound cues to help kids keep track of time limits For grandkids who don't yet know how to tell time, try a timer that can help put them in charge of the process: "When the time is up, it'll look and sound like this." 3. Find apps with built-in timers Video streamers like Cakey and Huvi throw parents a bone and have internal timers so the app stops on its own. Then it's up to the parent to make sure kiddo doesn't just jump into another app. <img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/36387/image__498x245.jpg" alt="Image_ (264)"/> 4. Tell kids to stop at a natural break (such as the end of an episode) It's hard for grandkids (and adults!) to stop in the middle of something. Before your grandkid gets on a device, talk about what they want to do or play, what will be a good place to stop, and how long they think it'll take. Set the limit together and hold to it, though a little wiggle room (a couple of minutes so they can finish) is fine. 5. Discuss consequences When all else fails, it's important to have discussed consequences for when your kid won't give it up. For little kids, the line can be something like, "If it's too hard to turn off, the tablet has to go away for a whole day." For older grandkids it's more about keeping devices in a public space, setting expectations, and enforcing them. If they show you they can be partners in moderating and regulating themselves, there can be more flexibility. Do you have any tips for getting grandkids off devices? Written by Christine Elgersma. First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz</a>.

Technology

How to limit the volume on children’s devices

As more children spend their free time on their technological devices, there is an increase in children who are engaging in unsafe listening practices. It is important to make sure children’s hearing is protected as the impact of blasting sound in their ears can stay with them for the rest of their lives. These tips will show you how you can use different features on devices to limit the volume your grandchild will have. Generally, it is recommended to set the maximum value at 60 per cent as this is the highest volume that is typically safe. 1. Set restrictions on an iPhone or iPad If you grandchild uses an Apple device, then you can use the ‘restrictions’ feature to limit the volume. To set the volume restriction go to ‘Settings’ on the device and you will be able to secure your change with a password. To learn how to set up the volume restriction in detail, <a href="https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201304" target="_blank">click here</a>. You can also set a maximum volume restriction in Music settings which does not require a parental lock password to do so. 2. Use an app to limit Android volumes Android devices do not have a built-in volume control but there are apps that you can download in the Google Play Store that will limit maximum volume. Try searching ‘volume limiter for kids’ and various options will appear. Some apps have the parental lock option and others don’t so pick the app based on your preference. 3. Set a maximum volume in Google chrome If your grandchildren are on the internet on a Chrome browser, then you can limit the volume for the videos and music they listen to. To set this feature up, you create a ‘supervised user’. The instructions to set this feature up can be found in <a href="https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/3463947?hl=en" target="_blank">Chrome help</a>. 4. Check your television for parental volume controls If you have a fairly modern television then you might have a maximum volume feature in the parental control settings. If you can’t find the settings on your TV menu then you can search the manual for directions. A quick way to search through the manual is to see if the manual is available online and then use Control+F within the manual to search for ‘volume’ or ‘sound control’. 5. Get the right headphones Although earbud headphones are a popular headphone option, over-the-ear headphones are safer. Over-the-ear headphones sit further from the eardrum and are even more comfortable for little ears. There are also headphones that don’t play sounds that are louder than what is considered safe. 6. Limit your PC’s application volume If your grandchild is using a PC, go to the ‘Volume mixer’ settings. You can access the settings by going to ‘control panel’ and clicking on ‘adjust system volume’. Set the device volume to 100% buy adjust the applications setting to the maximum volume you want. Once you have done this, the speakers volume range will be limited. How do you monitor the safety of children’s hearing? Let us know in the comments below.

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