New and Noteworthy: Security issues are the new usability; laptops lead to infertility?; iPod gift guide

Security issues are the new obstacles to ease of use In his "Personal Technology" column, WSJ writer Walt Mossberg writes that when it comes to Windows-based PCs, advances in user interface and compatibility have been offset by the hassles caused by security problems: "Instead of being able to view their computers as tools for productivity, research, communication and entertainment, consumers have been forced to devote rising amounts of time and money just to keeping the machines safe. The PC has, in many cases, gone from being a solution to being, at least in part, a problem." More.

Laptops linked to infertility? IDG reports on a new medical research article claiming that extended, long-term laptop use can lead to infertility in men: "Sheynkin warned that years of heavy laptop use 'may cause irreversible or partially reversible changes in male reproductive function.'" More.

iPod gift guide Playlist magazine's iPod Gift Week features daily guides to holiday gift suggestions for the iPod owner: cases and bags, headphones and speakers, accessories, software, stocking stuffers.

Previously on MacFixIt:

• PowerBook/iBook stays unresponsive after attempted wake-from-sleep (#2): Potential causes; Workarounds
• Odds and Ends: Virtual PC 7 upgrade now shipping; PowerLogix MIA?; More Virex complaints; more
• Utilities Updates: RCDefaultApp 1.2; DragThing 5.5; WindowShade X 3.5.1; ShapeShifter 2.0.1; more
• New and Noteworthy: Apple launches new start page; The true picture of Newton devotion; more

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