Latest news with #D.
The Star
4 days ago
- The Star
Hanoi police rescue student tricked into filming nude video for blackmail
HANOI: Authorities in Hanoi have successfully rescued a female student who had been psychologically manipulated into filming a nude video under false pretences and blackmailed for money. The victim, a 17-year-old student identified only as X., had been lured into a sophisticated online scam in which perpetrators posed as law enforcement officers. The case came to light around 4pm on Wednesday when the victim's father, D., 46, residing in Viet Hung Ward, received a disturbing message via Zalo from his daughter's account. The message demanded VND300 million (US$11,500) and included a video showing his daughter in a state of complete undress. When D. attempted to call the number, a man's voice answered. He eventually heard his daughter's voice – faint and seemingly coerced – prompting him to report the incident to local police. Upon receiving the report, Viet Hung's police quickly deployed criminal investigators and alerted Hanoii's Police Department. Within two hours, they located the victim alone in a guesthouse on Tạ Quang Buu Street, Bach Khoa Ward, Hanoi. At the scene, police found no other individuals, and the guesthouse owner confirmed that X. had arrived alone and rented the room herself. However, her phone was still connected to a Zoom call with a man dressed in a police uniform, who had used official-sounding terminology and displayed a police badge via camera in an attempt to reinforce the deception. "At first, she didn't believe we were real police officers because she had been manipulated from the beginning," said a police officer. "Only after family members were brought in did the victim begin to realise she had been tricked." At the police station, X. recounted the events that led to her ordeal. Two days earlier, she received a call from a man claiming to be a police officer, who falsely accused her of being linked to a money laundering operation involving her national ID. She was told to cooperate in an investigation and, under pressure, provided access to her Facebook and Zalo accounts, which she was then instructed to delete. Communication continued exclusively via Zoom. During a video call, a man in uniform posed as a police officer and requested personal and financial information. He ultimately instructed X. to undress on camera to 'verify' she was not hiding drugs or other incriminating evidence. "I was told to take off all my clothes so they could check for tattoos or identifying marks related to a suspect," X. said, tearfully recounting the incident. Authorities stressed that the victim had not been physically abducted or restrained but was completely controlled through psychological manipulation. Police called the incident a form of 'online kidnapping'. When asked why she did not seek help from family or friends, the victim explained that she believed she was old enough to handle the situation on her own. The case remains under investigation by Viet Hung's police and the Criminal Police Division as efforts continue to identify the individual or group behind the impersonation and blackmail. Authorities noted that the case serves as a warning about increasingly sophisticated forms of cybercrime that rely on psychological manipulation, impersonation of officials and virtual threats. - Vietnam News
USA Today
20-07-2025
- Health
- USA Today
Eyelash mites (yikes!) are a lot more common than most people realize
The idea of tiny bugs living in your eyelashes might sound like something out of a horror movie, but their reality is far less alarming. Microscopic mites are incredibly common and, for the most part, as harmless as they are helpful. 'Most everyone has some eyelash mites,' says Dr. Damaris Raymondi, an optometrist at Sur Eye Care in Queens, New York. More than that, she adds, 'they're a normal part of our body's microbiome.' At the same time, these little critters can trigger irritation, inflammation and even contribute to more serious eye conditions if their population gets out of control. Here's what eyelash mites really are, why they sometimes become a problem and how to prevent that from happening. What are eyelash mites? Eyelash mites, formally called Demodex, are microscopic arachnids that inhabit the hair follicles and tiny glands of the face, especially around our eyes. 'They are tiny, eight-legged critters that live in our hair follicles, including our eyelashes,' says Raymondi. More specifically, they spend most of their lives burrowed deep at the base of our lashes. While that might sound eerie, they're not invaders in the way we typically think of pests or parasites. Rather, they are part of our skin's natural ecosystem – and even serve some useful purposes. 'These mites are responsible for eating the dead skin cells and oils that our body sheds daily,' explains Raymondi. Most of us never even know they're there. Humans host two species of these mites: Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis, explains Dr. Roberto Ricardo-Gonzalez, a dermatologist and microbiologist at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Medical Center. 'Like most arthropods, both species have a rigid outer covering (exoskeleton) protecting their bodies,' he notes. Of the two species, he adds, D. folliculorum is primarily found in eyelash follicles, while D. brevis tends to occupy skin glands that produce sebum, an oily substance our bodies need to hydrate skin. No matter where they are, both species of mites are only about 0.3 millimeters long – roughly the size of a single grain of very fine sand – making them invisible to the naked eye. What causes eyelash mites to become an issue? The mere presence of eyelash mites isn't usually a problem. But issues arise when their numbers surge, which can lead to a condition called demodicosis. 'Our bodies can typically control the number of mites to a low level,' says Ricardo-Gonzalez. 'But when their population increases substantially, it can lead to irritation, redness, inflammation and occasional itching.' You may also experience 'crusting and flaking at the base of your eyelashes,' adds Raymondi. 'An overgrowth may even cause your eyelashes to appear shorter or to fall out.' In some cases, demodicosis can also contribute to more serious eye conditions such as blepharitis – an inflammatory condition of the eyelids. Several factors can trigger an overpopulation of mites. Since they feed on dead skin cells and sebum, an abundance of either can increase their numbers, explains Ricardo-Gonzalez. Poor eyelid hygiene is another culprit, especially if makeup or other facial products aren't properly or thoroughly removed after use. Eyelash extensions have also been shown to potentially cause buildup to occur. Ditto for poorly cleaned contact lenses. "Mite overgrowth is also associated with skin conditions like rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis," adds Dr. Cory Lappin, an optometrist and founder of the Dry Eye Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. "And patients with a weakened immune system may be at a greater risk of mite overpopulation due to such a system being less effective at keeping them in check." Age is another factor to be aware of. 'Many elderly folks have an overpopulation of these mites,' notes Raymondi. This is mainly due to mites naturally accumulating more over time. How to get rid of eyelash mites Fortunately, there are several effective ways of treating and managing issues like itching, crusting or redness that are caused by mite overgrowth. For example, gently cleaning your eyelids with diluted tea tree oil or specially formulated lid scrubs can help. 'Tea tree oil contains compounds toxic to Demodex mites, but it should never be applied directly to the eye,' cautions Raymondi. Warm compresses can also loosen debris and calm inflammation. Raymondi also cites an FDA-approved lotilaner ophthalmic solution called Xdemvy. 'This is a prescription eye drop that you can get from your eye doctor,' she explains. 'This and other anti-parasitic medications such as ivermectin can effectively kill eyelash mites,' echoes Ricardo-Gonzalez. 'But these medications should only be used as directed by your doctor.' In more severe or persistent cases, an ophthalmologist may also recommend in-office treatments like professional eyelid exfoliation. Preventing overpopulation from returning is also important. 'Good hygiene is essential to keep skin debris and oil at a normal level,' Ricardo-Gonzalez advises. Removing all eye makeup each day is also key. But as you do so, remember that complete eradication isn't the goal. 'These mites are part of our ecosystem,' Raymondi stresses. 'The goal is to manage their numbers and restore balance.'
The Hill
19-06-2025
- Health
- The Hill
Lawmakers, USDA seek to combat New World screwworm along the southern border
Just a few hundred miles from our southern border, a flesh-eating parasite has been detected in Mexico, putting America's farmers and ranchers on watch. The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly that lays its eggs in the open wounds of livestock, primarily cattle and sheep, deer and other wildlife, and on rare occasions, humans and pets. Once hatched, the fly's larvae feed on tissue, leading to severe infection and often death. If this parasite were ever to reach the United States, our agricultural economy and supply chain would be in serious trouble. That is not a hypothetical scenario. Flare-ups have occurred within our borders in the past, costing American producers hundreds of millions of dollars. Mrs. D., a Central Texas rancher, remembers all too well the devastation of the last major screwworm outbreak in the United States that took place during the 1960s. 'Every day from dawn to dusk, my husband would ride horseback to find animals affected by the screwworm. We worked tirelessly to ensure our livestock survived. We had to make sure our calves were born in the winter to stand a chance against the fly that caused the screwworm because the flies are not as prevalent in the cold weather.' Although screwworms were eradicated from the U.S. in the 1960s using a sterilized fly technique, all the signs are there for a repeat scenario. As of March of this year, 369 confirmed cases had been reported in Mexico, creeping north from its confinement zone in Central America and towards the United States. As the representative of the largest congressional district in Texas, I have heard repeatedly from my constituents that a reemergence of New World screwworm is their biggest concern. Texas tops the charts for beef production in the nation, and some of my district's counties have more sheep and goats than live human beings. There is no doubt that a screwworm outbreak would be absolutely devastating to communities like mine. I am not alone in these concerns. In March, 43 of my colleagues joined me in bipartisan outreach to the Agriculture Department to offer congressional support on screwworm eradication efforts. I also introduced the STOP Screwworms Act along with 31 of my House colleagues and Sens. John Cornyn (R-Texas), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M). This important legislation would establish a sterile fly production facility in the U.S. — a critical step in our fight to shore up our domestic infrastructure against this deadly parasite. Fortunately, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has been incredibly proactive on this issue. This week, I joined Rollins to announce the launch of an $8.5 million sterile New World screwworm fly dispersal facility in South Texas and a five-pronged plan to enhance the Agriculture Department's ability to detect, control and eliminate this pest. Per the Agriculture Department, the facility in South Texas is expected to be ready within six months. President Trump and Rollins have made protecting America's agriculture industry a priority. Together, we will fight to codify executive branch wins into long-term legislative solutions. Tony Gonzales represents Texas's 23rd District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves as the chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Conference and represents the largest congressional district in Texas, spanning over 800 miles of the southern border.
USA Today
17-06-2025
- Health
- USA Today
How much vitamin C should you have every day? Here's what experts recommend.
How much vitamin C should you have every day? Here's what experts recommend. Show Caption Hide Caption How to add more Vitamin C to your diet and everyday routine Vitamin C is an essential antioxidant that can do everything from strengthening cells to improving your hair health. Are you getting enough vitamin C in your daily diet? Vitamin C, also sometimes referred to as L-ascorbic acid, is a vitamin found in foods such as red peppers, oranges, grapefruits, kiwis, broccoli, strawberries and Brussels sprouts, and is also available to consume via a dietary supplement, according to the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS). "Our body doesn't make vitamin C, so it's important to eat vitamin C-rich foods in our diets," says dietitian Jamie Nadeau, RD. Here's how to make sure you're getting enough without overdoing it. How much vitamin C per day? The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for vitamin C depends on a handful of factors, including age and sex (for adults): 0 to 6 months: 40 mg 40 mg 7 to 12 months: 50 mg 50 mg 1 to 3 years: 15 mg 15 mg 4 to 8 years: 25 mg 25 mg 9 to 13: 45 mg 45 mg 14 to 18 years: 75 mg for men, 65 mg for women 75 mg for men, 65 mg for women 19 years and older: 90 mg for men, 75 mg for women (85 mg when pregnant and 120 mg when lactating) 90 mg for men, 75 mg for women (85 mg when pregnant and 120 mg when lactating) Smokers also need 35 mg more per day compared to nonsmokers For reference, a medium orange contains about 70 mg of vitamin C, so getting in your recommended daily amount is less work than you'd think. Noted: Nearly 1 in 4 Americans is deficient in Vitamin D. How do you know if you're one of them? What does vitamin C do? What is vitamin C good for? But what's the big deal about vitamin C, anyway? Research has shown it to be beneficial to our health in a variety of ways, helping take care of your skin and prevent serious health conditions. In terms of benefits, "vitamin C is essential for normal growth, development and function of our bodies," Nadeau says. "It's needed for forming collagen which is incredibly important for supporting our skin integrity and ligaments. Vitamin C also helps heal wounds, repair cartilage and even aids in the absorption of iron. Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant that can help neutralize free radicals, which may increase risk of cancer and heart disease." While vitamin C is commonly thought of as a cure to the common cold, research is mixed and doesn't show a strong correlation between consumption and alleviating symptoms faster. But not getting enough vitamin C can cause scurvy (yes, the disease that plagued historical sailors and pirates), a condition that causes fatigue, connective tissue weakness and weakened blood vessels, per the ODS. What vitamins should you take? Why experts say some answers to this are a 'big red flag.' How much vitamin C is too much? While vitamin C does offer health benefits, consuming too much in one day can actually cause health issues, rather than help prevent them. The ODS recommends adults avoid taking more than 2,000 mg of vitamin C in a single day to avoid side effects. "Too much vitamin C can cause diarrhea, stomach ache, heartburn, esophagitis and even kidney stones," Nadeau adds. The good news, Nadeau notes, is that taking too much usually only happens when you take too many vitamin C supplements, rather than just "eating vitamin C through whole foods," which is the preferred method of consumption for most nutrition experts. And toxicity is low, meaning the issues overconsumption could cause are unpleasant but usually not serious, according to the ODS.
Boston Globe
10-06-2025
- Business
- Boston Globe
Social Studies: Two things that are bad for business; rethinking a computer science major
Advertisement Major malfunction Students have always been more interested in going into fields that are hot (i.e., they're featured in the news and/or high-paying). In the 1960s, it was aerospace engineering; in more recent decades, it has often been computer science. But a new study suggests students should be more cautious about following the herd. The study finds that the existence of superstar industries — defined as those that have a small subset of prominent companies with exceptional stock price performance — does indeed spur students to major in related subjects. However, this surge is associated with a decrease in pay for entry-level employees in the superstar industry, because net hiring is not necessarily greater in those industries than in others. Moreover, students who are seduced into a major associated with a superstar industry are more likely than people with other majors to end up in a job unrelated to their major and to earn less, with lower job satisfaction, even many years later. Get The Gavel A weekly SCOTUS explainer newsletter by columnist Kimberly Atkins Stohr. Enter Email Sign Up Choi, D. et al., 'Superstar Firms and College Major Choice,' Journal of Political Economy Microeconomics (forthcoming). Advertisement Safe business districts Gerrymandering might be good for business. A study found that a company's stock market value tends to suffer if congressional redistricting puts its headquarters into a House district that is closely balanced between Democrats and Republicans instead of assigning it to one that is safe for one party or the other. The hypothesis is that being in a safe district allows a corporation to build a long-term relationship with its representative in Congress, whereas a representative in a competitive district faces a greater threat of losing reelection and has to be more responsive to voter concerns. Artés, J. et al., 'The Value of Political Geography: Evidence From the Redistricting of Firms,' Journal of Law and Economics (May 2025). The psychology of psychology In theory, evidence should resolve scientific uncertainty. But this is often not the case, especially in the social sciences. In fact, these fields can be riven by sharp differences in worldview akin to those in politics and culture. A study of thousands of researchers in psychology explores this phenomenon by examining how the researchers' own psychology shapes their views of their field. For example, psychologists with a high personal tolerance of ambiguity are less likely to believe that human behaviors can be explained by rational self-interest, evolution, or neurobiology and more likely to believe in social, contextual, and holistic explanations. The authors of the study conclude that many debates in this field can thus be explained largely by the personality traits of the psychologists involved. 'In the worst-case scenario,' they write, 'cognitive differences could be exploited to prop up or even canonize an evidentially weak position that is intuitively attractive to researchers in positions of power.' Advertisement Sulik, J. et al., 'Differences in Psychologists' Cognitive Traits Are Associated with Scientific Divides,' Nature Human Behaviour (forthcoming).
