2025 - Page 31 of 136

American consumers are getting nervous about inflation again. For now, they’re still spending

Aug

Americans nervous about inflation again but spending persists

American consumers are once again expressing growing unease about the state of the economy, specifically due to renewed concerns over inflation. This sentiment marks a significant shift after several months of improving confidence. A recent University of Michigan survey shows that consumer sentiment has fallen, driven by heightened anxieties about rising prices. This change in attitude is not just a fleeting emotion; it's a reflection of deeper worries about purchasing power and the future of the job market.A key factor in this renewed pessimism is the increase in inflation expectations. Both short-term and long-term forecasts for inflation have risen, indicating…

Man who asked ChatGPT about cutting out salt from his diet was hospitalized with hallucinations

Aug

By Kyle C. Garrison

Health

Man lands in hospital with hallucinations after asking ChatGPT about cutting out salt

The story of a man who was hospitalized with hallucinations after following dietary advice from an artificial intelligence chatbot has brought the risks of relying on unverified digital sources for medical guidance into sharp focus. The individual, who had asked ChatGPT for a low-sodium diet plan, experienced severe health complications that experts have linked to the bot's uncritical recommendations. This incident serves as a stark and sobering reminder that while AI can be a powerful tool, it lacks the foundational knowledge, context, and ethical safeguards necessary for providing health and wellness information. Its output is a reflection of the data…

Aug

By Kyle C. Garrison

Economy

VW launches monthly subscription to boost car performance

Volkswagen has reportedly introduced a new monthly subscription service that allows owners to unlock additional horsepower for their vehicles. This move places the automaker at the forefront of a growing industry trend toward on-demand features and software-based upgrades. Rather than offering a one-time purchase for a permanent performance boost, Volkswagen is reportedly testing a model that provides flexibility but also creates a new, recurring revenue stream. The core of this strategy is to monetize features that are already physically present in the vehicle but are locked behind a software paywall.This approach is part of a broader shift in the automotive…

I tried to find out if the fossil I bought online was real. Then I realized I was asking the wrong question

Aug

By Kyle C. Garrison

Science and Technology

How I Discovered More Than I Expected When I Tried to Verify My Fossil

The adventure started with a straightforward query: Was the fossil I bought on the internet genuine? This question pulled me into a maze of scientific articles, geological resources, and specialist discussions. I soon discovered that the field of paleontology involves intricate authentication methods, and the online market is flooded with counterfeits. My initial investigation was rooted in practicality, aimed at verifying my purchase's worth. Yet, as I explored further, my focus evolved. I understood that the object's true significance lay not in its genuineness but in the narrative it conveyed, whether it was authentic or a brilliant imitation.The digital world…

Intel shares jump after report of possible US stake in chipmaker

Aug

By Kyle C. Garrison

Economy

Intel stock rises following reports of possible US stake in chipmaker

News that the U.S. administration might contemplate acquiring an equity position in Intel has caused a notable increase in the company's stock worth. Should this proceed, it would mark a significant and unorthodox method of government involvement in the semiconductor sector. This anticipation arises from a recent, more straightforward strategy to back local tech champions, especially as the United States aims to enhance its supply chain durability and safeguard national security within a highly competitive international arena. This indicates a possible transition from basic grants and loans to a closer public-private collaboration, where the government takes on the role of…

Miranda Brooks and Her Family Show Off the Season’s Chic Wardrobe Staples

Aug

By Kyle C. Garrison

Fashion and Trends

Miranda Brooks and Her Family Showcase This Season’s Fashion-Forward Wardrobe Staples

In an intriguing exhibition of living and style, celebrated landscape architect Miranda Brooks along with her family have invited the public in to explore a thoughtfully chosen collection of clothing that smoothly adjusts with the changing seasons. This unique peek into their world highlights a fashion ethos that emphasizes comfort, functionality, and enduring elegance, all while showcasing the distinct tastes of each family member. The piece delivers more than a peek into their wardrobes; it tells a story of how individual fashion choices can be closely linked to one's surroundings and everyday existence.The article highlights how Brooks, a long-time contributing…

FDA warns about unapproved thyroid pills — then says it'll 'ensure access' to them

Aug

By Kyle C. Garrison

Health

FDA announces warning on unapproved thyroid pills — then guarantees to ‘ensure access’ to them

The recent declaration from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concerning non-approved thyroid treatments has led to a complicated and sometimes inconsistent scenario for both patients and medical professionals. The agency has issued a significant alert about the potential safety hazards linked to these medications, particularly a type of "animal-derived thyroid" (ADT) products. At the same time, the FDA has expressed its plan to "maintain accessibility" to these exact medications, at least for a temporary phase. This dual communication highlights the fragile equilibrium the FDA must maintain between its duty to safeguard public health and its obligation to avoid disrupting…