(NewsUSA) - Cybercriminals send 3.4 billion phishing emails daily, aiming to steal sensitive information from unassuming victims. Cyberattacks like these are on the rise, posing increased long-term risk to consumers’ data, reputation, credit, and financial standing.

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and Michael Nizich, Ph.D., a New York Institute of Technology professor and cybersecurity expert, shares tips to help protect your information and identity.

Keep passwords strong. “Never reuse passwords,” Nizich emphasized. Also, avoid information that could be easily guessed, including your name, relatives' names, pet names, or birth dates. Instead, use a combination of letters (upper and lower), numbers, and special characters. One idea he suggests: write a sentence and use the first letter of each word and punctuation. For example, the phrase “This password is very hard to guess!” becomes “Tpivh2g!”

Use password managers. Tools like the iPhone Passwords app and Samsung Pass for Android devices generate and automatically store complex, unique passwords on your device. “Some password managers also notify you if your account is potentially compromised. Of course, change your password immediately if that happens,” says Nizich.

Lock your credit. Major credit monitoring agencies, such as Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax, offer online tools for locking your credit. This allows you to access active credit lines but prevents hackers from opening credit cards or loans in your name. When you need to allow legitimate creditors access, you can temporarily unlock it—just be sure to lock it again when the transaction is complete.

Enable multifactor authentication (MFA). When you sign in, you will receive a second passcode—typically via text, call, or email—to verify your identity. This added protection is especially important for banking and financial accounts, as well as email. “If hackers access your email, they can reset passwords and break into other online accounts, but MFA helps keep unauthorized users out of your inbox,” Nizich says. “Always take advantage of MFA solutions offered by your organization or financial institutions, even if they are optional.”

Steer clear of scams. Scammers may claim to be from an organization you know and demand immediate payment in a hard-to-trace manner—like gift cards, prepaid cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or cash—to resolve an urgent “account issue.” Be wary of communication you did not initiate, Nizich urges. “With artificial intelligence, hackers can now even disguise their voice to sound like a friend or family member. Remain vigilant and extra cautious of unexpected communication,” he says.

Shift your attitude. While security measures like MFA and changing your password regularly might be time-consuming, they’re minor inconveniences compared to having your data stolen, Nizich emphasizes. These steps can help protect you from being a cybercrime victim.  

Nizich is one of many New York Tech faculty members lending their expertise to help tackle real-world challenges. Visit nyit.edu to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - Whether for work, fun, or both, most people spend long periods sitting or slouching in front of a screen. Excessive sitting can lead to poor posture, which in turn increases the risk of a range of problems including muscle pain, joint pain, headaches, fatigue, altered digestion and respiration, and even nerve tissue compression, according to Mark Gugliotti, D.P.T., an associate professor of physical therapy at New York Institute of Technology.

“Good posture is important because it establishes a musculoskeletal balance within the body. This balance enables the body to move more fluidly and functionally while conserving energy and avoiding undue stress,” said Gugliotti, a practicing physical therapist.

“Many of our general day-to-day aches and pains, especially if you're working at a desk or workstation regularly, come from those prolonged habitual positions of posturing,” Gugliotti explained. For example, tension, tightness, or the position of a laptop or other device can promote headaches, neck pain, and shoulder rounding. “There is always the possibility of nerve tissue compression through the shoulders, or at the wrist and hands if you're not careful. Slouching into the chair could also put undue stress and strain on the lower back,” he added.

Gugliotti advises changing positions frequently during the day and taking breaks to get up from your workstation and walk around. “One recommendation is to set a timer to do this every 30 minutes,” he said.

Also, choose your furniture wisely. A properly fitting chair that adjusts to you and fully supports your spine can make the difference between comfort and back pain. Gugliotti recommends looking for a chair with adjustable height and the ability to recline.

Other tips for better workstation posture include keeping arms, hips, and knees positioned at a 90-degree angle while seated, and positioning the laptop or monitor directly in front of you on a sturdy surface. Ideally, “The screen should be an arm’s length away with a preferred height that aligns your eyes with the upper third of the screen. At home, this could easily be achieved with a few books placed under the monitor,” said Gugliotti. An ergonomic mouse or a small footrest under your desk are other small aids that can improve posture and reduce pain, he added. 

Gugliotti also noted that frequent smartphone use can lead to “tech neck,” when additional stress is placed on the neck because users are frequently bending down to view the screen.

“Having your phone more towards the front of your face would be the best scenario,” he advised.

Gugliotti is one of many New York Tech faculty lending their expertise to help tackle real-world challenges. Visit nyit.edu to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - Counting steps as a measure of exercise is misleading, and not a useful indicator of daily exercise goals, according to exercise physiologist Alexander Rothstein, Ed.D.

“Hitting 10,000 steps a day helps to prevent long sedentary periods, which are associated with health risks like blood clots and heart disease, but society tends to overestimate the fitness benefits of taking 10,000 steps,” said Rothstein, an assistant professor of exercise science at New York Institute of Technology.

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio exercise five days per week, or 20 minutes of vigorous-intensity cardiorespiratory exercise three times per week for most adults, Rothstein said. A combination of the two (moderate and vigorous) at least three to four days a week would also meet these guidelines.

However, nearly half (46%) of American adults do not meet guidelines for aerobic or muscle-strengthening activities, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

On its own, a daily step count goal has a minimal impact on physical fitness. Although everyday walking qualifies as physical activity, it typically lacks the intensity needed to significantly improve cardiovascular or muscular fitness, Rothstein said. “During routine walking, we’re usually not reaching an intensity that sufficiently elevates heart rate or oxygen demand to drive meaningful physiological adaptations,” he explained.

For a more accurate measurement of exercise intensity, Rothstein advises checking your heart rate rather than your step count. “Heart rate is a better measurement tool. The time spent in certain heart rate zones can be counted towards the recommended exercise guidelines. In general, the higher your heart rate, the higher the exercise intensity,” he said.

You can raise the intensity and elevate your heart rate while walking by increasing your pace (power walk) or adding some hills, which requires you to work against gravity to propel yourself upward, Rothstein noted. “These factors challenge the body much more than walking at a slower pace or on a flat surface. Walking on an incline activates muscles in the calves, glutes, and hamstrings, especially if you’re moving faster.”

Steps are a great way to track physical activity and prevent sedentary behavior, but be sure to plan time for purposeful exercise that challenges the body and elevates the heart rate, Rothstein added.

Rothstein is one of many New York Tech faculty lending their expertise to help tackle real-world challenges. Visit nyit.edu to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - Exercising in the warmer weather is a welcome respite from winter, but summer workouts bring their own challenges, including dehydration.

For most people, 64 ounces of water each day is recommended for good health, but this varies with activity level, climate, and individual needs, according to sports medicine physician Hallie Zwibel, D.O.

However, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American adults average a daily water consumption of just 44 ounces, while children and adolescents average only 23 ounces.

“Being dehydrated is more than just feeling thirsty—it means your body doesn't have enough water to function properly,” said Zwibel, an assistant dean and director of the Center for Sports Medicine at New York Institute of Technology’s medical school. “It’s important to listen to your body's signals and adjust your water intake based on factors like activity level and weather conditions.”

Signs of serious dehydration include extreme thirst, dark urine, dizziness, confusion, and rapid heartbeat, according to Zwibel. “If you experience these symptoms, drink water immediately and seek medical attention if symptoms persist,” he said. Chronic dehydration, or when dehydration appears for longer periods, may indicate serious underlying health issues such as diabetes, kidney problems, or certain medications affecting your body's fluid balance, he added.  

Zwibel emphasized that while electrolyte packets can help replenish essential minerals lost through sweat, they should not replace daily water intake. Electrolyte-infused water should be consumed in addition to the daily recommended amount.

For those ages 21 and older, alcohol can contribute to dehydration as well, because it strips the body of fluids, Zwibel said. “To counteract these effects, I recommend having a glass of water every 30 minutes, which will help continually replenish any fluids lost,” he advised.

“This summer, whether you’re playing an outdoor sport like pickleball or beach volleyball, or headed out for a run, it's essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after the activity,” said Zwibel.

The physician noted that wearing sunscreen, a hat, and light-colored clothing can also protect against the sun’s rays and reduce the risk of overheating, while taking regular breaks in the shade can help you stay cool and safely maintain exercise performance. “On the hottest days, try to schedule your workout or activity for the early morning or evening, when temperatures are cooler,” he added.

Zwibel is one of many New York Tech faculty lending their expertise to help tackle real-world challenges. Visit nyit.edu to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - Recent news has raised concerns about the safety of items that may be in your kitchen, including plastic utensils and nonstick cookware (commonly made with Teflon).

“The concerns about Teflon primarily relate to PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), which was historically used in manufacturing Teflon coatings until 2013,” said David Nadler, Ph.D., a professor in the Occupational Health and Safety graduate program at New York Institute of Technology.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” are a group of chemicals used to make fluoropolymer coatings and products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water. These coatings can be in a variety of products, such as clothing, furniture, food packaging, and non-stick cooking surfaces, among others.

“PFAS are getting a lot of attention right now, but they are just a few of many chemicals in our environment that can cause health issues,” said Nadler, who previously worked as a director within the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, and at New York Tech is researching the breakdown of forever chemicals.

PFAS exposure has been linked to certain health effects, including cancer, developmental and reproductive problems, and immune system dysfunction. However, Nadler noted that more research is needed to determine how the potential effects of PFAS compare to other more prevalent chemicals.

Meanwhile, Nadler explained that newer Teflon cookware is safe to use.

“Modern Teflon cookware is produced without PFOA, using alternative manufacturing processes. But when using any non-stick cookware, it's important to avoid overheating and replace pans when the coating shows significant wear,” Nadler said. He suggests examining your Teflon cookware for signs of scratching, peeling, or other blemishes, and replacing it if you see damage. He also recommends keeping Teflon cookware in good shape by eliminating abrasive cleaning products and avoiding use of the cookware in extremely high temperatures (such as 500 degrees Fahrenheit or higher).

In addition, while plastic kitchen tools are generally safe, it is important to know what they are made of. For example, black utensils can contain potentially carcinogenic hydrocarbons. “Silicon and nylon are high-quality, stable, and safe for contact with food. Lower quality plastics, especially those containing Bisphenol A (BPA), have the potential to leach out chemicals, particularly when exposed to higher heat or highly acidic ingredients,” said Nadler.   

“Manufacturers have phased out much of the BPA in plastic utensils after public concern over the past decade,” he added. The best way to choose a utensil is to check for food-grade certification by the manufacturer. Metal, silicon, nylon, and wood are all better than black plastic utensils, Nadler states.

Nadler is one of many New York Tech researchers tackling real-world challenges. Visit nyit.edu to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - Most Americans spend hours each day scrolling through their phones, but an expert at New York Institute of Technology warns this habit may lead to smartphone addiction—releasing the same neurochemicals as hard drugs.

“Smartphones have the same chemical reaction in the brain as drugs and alcohol,” said Melissa DiMartino, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology at New York Tech. “Getting ‘likes,’ messages, and notifications from your phone releases dopamine, which makes us feel good, and in turn, we want to repeat these feel-good behaviors. However, when we don’t get them, we feel depressed and lonely, which creates an adverse effect,” she said.

If you feel anxious without your phone and can’t go anywhere without it, these are signs you may be using it too much, noted DiMartino. For others, the continuous stream of updates and being at someone’s beck and call can generate a sense of urgency, leading to increased anxiety and stress.

DiMartino conducted a study analyzing the impact of smartphones in the college classroom. Specifically, she analyzed how mindfulness and attention, as well as anxiety levels, are affected when students’ smartphones are present vs. removed.

In four classes, half of the students turned in smartphones, while the other half kept their phones and used them without restrictions.

After six weeks, students self-reported scores on course comprehension, mindfulness, and anxiety levels. Those who handed in their smartphones reported much higher comprehension and mindfulness scores and lower levels of anxiety compared to the students who kept their phones.

“While our research focused on a younger age group, people of all generations can benefit from routinely unplugging from their smartphones, from improved sleep to relieving the stress that comes with always being ‘on,’” DiMartino said.

DiMartino offers this guide to healthy separation from your smartphone:

Separate to sleep. Mental health and sleep are closely tied together. Leaving your phone outside of your bedroom has been found to significantly improve sleep quality. If you need an alarm, swap out the phone for a traditional alarm clock.

Schedule breaks. Try taking scheduled time apart from your phone, perhaps 30 minutes or one hour to start, gradually extending the length over time.

Do not disturb. Turn off notifications to create limits. Update your smartphone settings to “do not disturb” between certain hours, which can ease the anxiety that a constant stream of text messages, notifications, and alerts brings.

DiMartino is one of many New York Tech researchers who are tackling real-world challenges. Visit nyit.edu to learn more.

This year, Cooper Tires is encouraging drivers to mark Labor Day weekend (and the first of every month) as a tire check safety moment, to make a habit of checking tires, especially as seasons change.

"Just as we regularly take a moment to check our smoke detector batteries when we change our clocks in the fall and spring, we need to designate a moment to check tire safety as well," says Jessica Egerton, Director of Brand Development at Cooper Tire & Rubber Company.

Checking the overall condition of your tires is easy and important for your safety on the road. Your tires are the only parts of your vehicle to come into contact with, and keep you connected to, the road.

The recommended tread depth is more than 2/32 of an inch deep. Do your tires meet this minimum, or are they too worn? Would you know if they are? An easy and quick way to tell is to stick a penny into the tread with Lincoln's head facing down. If the tread covers the top of his head, you're good to go. If not, time to replace the tire.

Ensuring your tires have the recommended tread depth can help in a variety of ways, including maintaining traction on the road, keeping control of the car, and preventing hydroplaning or sliding.

Don't be under-pressured, either.

Tires not inflated to the recommended level of pressure can lead to tire failure, uneven wear and cause your car to use more gas.

Try this 10-minute safety check from Cooper Tires:

* Check the tread. Use the U.S. penny/Lincoln's head method. Insert the penny into the tire tread, with Lincoln's head down and facing you. If the top of his head is visible at any point around the tire, there is too little tread, and it's time to replace the tire!

* Check the pressure. Look on the vehicle doorjamb, glove compartment, fuel door or owner's manual to find the recommended pressure for your tires. Press a tire gauge on the valve stem. Too low? Add air. Too high? Push down on the metal stem in the center of the valve to release some air. When you reach the recommended pressure, replace that valve cap. Also, don't check pressure right after driving. Wait at least three hours until the tires are cool.

* Check your look. Inspect your tires for cuts, bulges, cracks, splits or punctures. When in doubt, ask a tire professional for an inspection.

Visit coopertires.com for more information about tire safety and more details on how to take make your tire safety check moment a regular habit.

While choosing an engagement ring can be exciting, the variety of settings, precious metals, and diamonds can be overwhelming. However, the following tips will help you in finding the ideal diamond engagement ring. 

Set your price limit.

Before you start shopping, know how much you want to spend. There is no right or wrong amount to put toward a ring, and many beautiful stones and styles are available to suit any budget. It's important to note that lab-grown diamonds can be up to 40 percent less expensive than mined stones. 

Learn the "4 C's" of diamonds.

These are: cut, color, clarity, and carat. Here's the translation: 

Cut: The cut of a diamond is the most important factor in determining its fire, brilliance, and sparkle.

Color: Not all diamonds are clear; some have varying tints of yellow.

Clarity: A measure of the number of flaws or inclusions in the stone.

Carat: A measure of the weight of the diamond. However, more weight also indicates a bigger size. 

Consider shape.

The common diamond shapes used in engagement rings are round, cushion, pear, oval, princess, radiant, and emerald.

Each of these shapes has its fans and distinctive features. For example, a round diamond is the classic engagement ring style, but the larger facets of a cushion style can enhance brilliance, and the elongated emerald cut presents a bold look that can make a diamond appear larger than its carat weight. 

Choose a setting.

Deciding the right setting or diamond shape for your stone is a personal decision. Some people have specific ideas for a setting, and take more time on the stone, or vice versa.

However, not all settings accommodate all shapes so it's important to prioritize one or the other if you are set on a particular shape or setting.

Typical engagement ring styles include the solitaire, a simple band that showcases any diamond shape; halo, in which a central stone is surrounded by smaller diamonds; classic, which features a row of accent diamonds along the ring band; and vintage, which replicates design styles from different time periods. 

Contemplate your center stone.

When it comes to your center stone, there are a few different options to choose from. Although diamonds are the most popular, birthstones, moissanite, and cubic zirconia are also great budget-friendly options.

In regards to diamonds, there are two types to choose from: mined diamonds and lab-created diamonds.

While mined diamonds are extracted from the earth, lab-grown stones are guaranteed to be ethically sourced and, as mentioned above, up to 40 percent less expensive.

Both types are identical in terms of chemistry and physical appearance. However, interest in lab-created diamonds has surged in recent years as more couples are concerned with sustainability, as well as beauty and romance.

Although there is cause for optimism, video meetings and face masks will likely be with us for some time. That means that all eyes are on our eyes and the wrinkles surrounding them, especially that stubborn spot between the brows, where vertical wrinkles known as "elevens" develop over time. These wrinkles can be some of the most challenging to address, and many eye-care products don't do the job.

"Wrinkles in the eye area are a concern for many of our patients, especially now that everyone is paying more attention to each other's eyes for communication while wearing masks and attending video meetings," says Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, board-certified New York dermatologist and founder of Entiere Dermatology.

"The eye area can be difficult to treat, but the right products and sun protection can make a difference," Dr. Levin says.

An upgraded eye-care product from StriVectin is specifically formulated not only to improve the appearance of stubborn elevens, but also crow's feet and under-eye- lines and puffiness.

The new Intensive Eye Concentrate for Wrinkles PLUS has demonstrated visible improvement in wrinkles and skin puffiness around the eye area, starting in just five days. The cream also includes ingredients to help reduce the appearance of dark circles.

Key ingredients include a patented form of niacin known as NIA-114 that has been shown to strengthen the skin barrier, plus horse chestnut flower extract to target skin collagen and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. The skin around the eye area is uniquely delicate compared to other parts of the face, so a cream designed specifically for this area can have a noticeable impact on appearance.

In addition, arctic marine ferment, sourced from the Arctic Ocean, promotes hydration and helps neutralize the visible effects of blue light exposure to skin -- a valid concern given how much time people are spending in front of their screens due to the pandemic.

The cream is fragrance-free, ophthalmologist-tested, and non-milia inducing, and is designed for use on clean skin in the morning and evening.

StriVectin® Intensive Eye Concentrate for Wrinkles PLUS is available at department stores, specialty stores, Ulta, and StriVectin.com

For more information about the cream and other StriVectin products, visit strivectin.com.

(NewsUSA) - When was the last time you thought about the health of your nails? In fact, healthy nails are not only attractive, but they are also important to overall health.     

Nails can even be a window into underlying serious disease. Proper nail care helps keep your hard-working hands and feet looking and feeling their best by decreasing infection risk and breakage. As temperatures start to rise and RSVP season kicks into high gear, it’s time to show your nails some love.     

According to Dr. Dana Stern, a board-certified dermatologist and an Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, the most common mistakes people make when it comes to caring for their nails are choosing the wrong products and using the wrong tools.     

“We need to think about nail care in the same way we think about skin care and pay more attention to products we’re using and how we focus on not just the look of our nails but the underlying health,” says Dr Dana.     

Dr. Dana, the only dermatologist who devotes her entire practice to nail diagnosis, treatment, and surgery, is a go-to dermatologist for patients seeking advice on how to treat nail conditions and gel damage, as well as the best ways to keep their nails healthy and beautiful. Some common nail complaints she hears from patients are dryness, weakness, ridges, and aging related nail issues. She also hears her patients talk about dry, brittle nails from all the hand washing and use of hand sanitizer.     

Dr. Dana shares her top three tips to improve the look and health of your nails:     

First, when you’re choosing products, be mindful of the ingredients and steer clear of harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, a known carcinogen and an ingredient that is in many nail strengthener formulas. Just as you wouldn’t want to use a product with harsh substances on your face or body, the same goes for products you put on your nails.     

Second, stop using abrasive emery board nail files. These files can be damaging, as they cause microscopic tears at the tips of the nails. Instead, look for glass or crystal files that will give your nails a smooth edge and won’t cause snags or tears.   

 Lastly, always wear gloves when doing wet work around the house or garden, such as washing dishes. Nails are like little sponges, and over-saturation will weaken the nail, making it prone to breakage.     

To promote nail health and help consumers take care of their nails at home, Dr Dana developed  the Nail Renewal System, which uses plant-based science to combat brittle, ridged, weak and over-processed nails. Hailed by celebrities as a nail miracle, the system produces healthy, lustrous nails within minutes of the first treatment.     

“Skin care products have progressed in line with scientific advancements, so why haven’t nail care products? It is time for a nail care brand that does more than merely mask the issues -- that revolutionizes the way people care for their nails,” says Dr. Dana.   

“In the same way that exfoliation improves the health of your skin, the Nail Renewal System is designed to remove damaged, superficial nail cells and promote hydration to improve the health of your nails,” she explains. “I like to call it a buff with benefits.” The Nail Renewal system is the first nail treatment with glycolic acid for essential exfoliation, and the product is free of formaldehyde, parabens, artificial fragrance, dyes and other toxic ingredients often found in nail care products.     

Another key ingredient is in the hydrating formula of the Nail Renewal System. Pistacia Lentiscus is a natural nail strengthener derived from the sap of a unique evergreen tree in the Mediterranean.     

The biggest myth Dr. Dana hears in her practice? “Nails do not need time to breathe in between color applications -- they don’t have lungs.” Actually, nails receive oxygen from increased blood flow resulting from exercise. So cardio is not only good for your heart, but also for your nails.     

Need more incentive to show your neglected nails some love? A nail trend that’s sweeping the fashion runways and featured in magazines is  “#TheNakedManicure.” In the same vein as the “no makeup” makeup look, it features shiny, clear nails you can show off with confidence without the pitfalls associated with polish and time and money spent at the salon.     

Dr. Dana’s Nail Renewal System is distributed through Rare Beauty Brands, a global brand platform of purpose-driven beauty brands.  

Visit drdananails.com for more information.