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Today: December 22, 2024
Today: December 22, 2024
Pooja Mamnoor

Pooja Mamnoor

Staff Writer

Pooja is a content specialist with a knack for writing. With a deep rooted interest in news and content writing, she has worked as a journalist with brands like CNBC-TV18 and Mirror Now. She has a PG Diploma in TV journalism and has worked across all sectors of content creation - TV production, content creation for digital platforms, anchor videos for YouTube and writing for various digital websites. Currently covering news on the LA Post, her goal is to write content that piques reader interest. Pooja spends her free time dancing, traveling and playing.

Latest From Pooja Mamnoor

Local|Health

Gen Z yearns for safety and kindness, new UCLA study finds

A recent study by the University of California, Los Angeles revealed Gen Z’s top concern is feeling secure in an uncertain world. Young people overwhelmingly reported that safety was their number one priority. This also indicated how young people are still more inclined to prioritize empathy and compassion over gaining attention. When asked about their goals, most of the 1,644 young Americans surveyed put safety at the top of their list. Other high-ranking goals included “to be kind,” “to have a lot of fun,” “self-acceptance,” and “to be in good shape.” In this study, “being rich” and “being famous” were

Gen Z yearns for safety and kindness, new UCLA study finds
Health

Medi-Cal members set to benefit from new mental health initiative

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Gov. Gavin Newsom announced today that California has obtained federal approval for an ambitious $5 billion behavioral health initiative aimed at transforming mental health care access and delivery across the state. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services approved California’s Behavioral Health Community-Based Organized Networks of Equitable Care and Treatment demonstration waiver, known as BH-CONNECT. The program represents a major overhaul of the state’s mental health system, targeting support for more than 14 million Medi-Cal members with significant behavioral health needs. “Californians will soon have more support and more people providing support thanks to the approval by

Medi-Cal members set to benefit from new mental health initiative
Fashion and Beauty

Why beef fat is trending as the latest facial moisturizer

A new beauty trend is gaining traction on social media platforms: using beef tallow, a rendered fat traditionally discarded by butchers, as a facial moisturizer. The movement has sparked debate between enthusiastic consumers and medical professionals who question its safety and efficacy. The trend has transformed from social media buzz into a profitable business venture, with companies and farmers capitalizing on the increasing demand for tallow-based skincare products. Five Marys Ranch in Siskiyou County, California, reported selling $42,000 worth of tallow products in a single night after launching their line, demonstrating the market’s enthusiasm for these unconventional cosmetics. Social media

Why beef fat is trending as the latest facial moisturizer
Health

X Becomes a Breeding Ground for Dangerous Eating Disorder Content, Experts Warn

Major social media platform X has become a haven for content promoting dangerous eating disorders, with minimal content moderation allowing such material to spread freely and even be algorithmically recommended to users, according to researchers and platform experts. X’s approach stands in stark contrast to other social media sites like Instagram and TikTok, which have implemented barriers to accessing eating disorder content. When users search for related terms on these platforms, they encounter warning screens directing them to mental health resources. On X, however, searching for eating disorder-related terms leads directly to accounts, posts, and community recommendations promoting dangerous behaviors.

X Becomes a Breeding Ground for Dangerous Eating Disorder Content, Experts Warn
Lifestyle

How the 'airport mentality' trend is shaping daily life

A growing number of Americans are embracing “airplane rules” in their daily lives, adopting the anything-goes mindset typically reserved for air travel to justify breaking from conventional routines and social norms. The trend, which gained significant traction on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, encourages people to apply airport terminal behavior to everyday situations. This includes eating meals at unconventional hours, making irregular purchasing decisions, and dismissing traditional daily schedules. “Money means nothing and time of day means nothing,” one TikTok user explained in a widely shared video. “If you want to have mimosas while eating an entire sheet cake by

How the 'airport mentality' trend is shaping daily life
Fashion and Beauty

Skincare spending surge among Gen Alpha raises concerns

A growing number of tweens and young teens are seeking expensive skincare products, driven by social media influence, even as medical experts warn about potential risks to young skin. Last year, Gen Alpha spent $4.7 billion on skincare and makeup, surpassing all other age groups, according to market research firm AYTM. The trend has caught the attention of both parents and healthcare professionals. In New Jersey, Will Rosebro discovered his 10-year-old daughter requesting a $17 Bubble Skincare Water Slide hydration-boosting serum for the holidays, not because she needed it, but because it “felt nice” when she tried it at a

Skincare spending surge among Gen Alpha raises concerns
Health

TikTok user reveals long-term skin damage from common household item

A viral social media post has brought attention to a lesser-known condition called “toasted skin syndrome,” which can cause permanent skin discoloration from prolonged exposure to heating devices like heating pads and hot water bottles. TikTok user Faith Harrell (@faith_harrell) first raised awareness of the condition. In her video, which garnered 3.9 million views, Harrell showed dark, irregular patterns on her stomach. “Your friendly reminder to not excessively use your heating pad on your stomach at the highest setting,” she wrote. Many users responded to the video by sharing their own stories. “I had toasted skin syndrome on my legs

TikTok user reveals long-term skin damage from common household item
Science

Why We Yawn: A Look at the Surprising Science Behind This Common Behavior

Experts say scientific research has definitively debunked the long-held belief that yawning occurs when our brains need more oxygen. This revelation comes amid a growing understanding of yawning as a complex physiological mechanism that may serve multiple important functions in human biology. Research dating back to the 1980s demonstrated that exposure to pure oxygen or high carbon dioxide concentrations had no meaningful impact on yawning frequency. “The brain is still a black box,” said Mark Andrews, chair of physiology at Duquesne University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine, highlighting the continuing mystery surrounding this universal human behavior. Recent scientific investigations have unveiled

Why We Yawn: A Look at the Surprising Science Behind This Common Behavior
Crime

California raids uncover $19M in illegal cannabis operations

State authorities have seized more than $19 million worth of illegal cannabis and cannabis products during coordinated operations in Oakland and Hayward, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced today. “I’m proud of the recent work by our cannabis task force, seizing a staggering $19.2 million in illicit cannabis from across the Bay Area,” Newsom said. “These operations are imperative in both bolstering California’s legal cannabis market and protecting consumers from unregulated and dangerous products.” The California Department of Fish and Wildlife led an enforcement action in East Oakland that yielded $12.6 million in illegal cannabis products. The raid uncovered more than 7,000

California raids uncover $19M in illegal cannabis operations
Health

Here's the best way to alleviate stress and anxiety

Neuroscientists at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in La Jolla have discovered a brain pathway that controls voluntary breathing and reduces anxiety, potentially paving the way for new targeted medications. The research, published in Nature Neuroscience, identifies how conscious breathing patterns can influence mental state and offers scientific validation for practices like meditation and yoga. The study reveals a specific circuit between the brain’s cortex and stem that regulates voluntary breathing patterns, distinct from automatic breathing. This discovery provides the first scientific explanation for how intentionally slowing one’s breath can reduce anxiety and fear. “This top-down breathing circuit has

Here's the best way to alleviate stress and anxiety
Health

Extra Body Fat Could Be Your Secret Weapon Against Disease, Doctors Say

Recent studies indicate that medications like semaglutide, marketed as Wegovy, and tirzepatide, sold as Zepbound, are demonstrating substantial effectiveness in weight management for adults with obesity or overweight conditions. At the same time, medical experts emphasize the importance of proper usage and monitoring. These injectable weight loss medications, which received approval specifically for adults who are overweight or have obesity along with conditions such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol, operate by mimicking specific bodily hormones. According to physician Louis Aronne, director of the Comprehensive Weight Control Center at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City,

Extra Body Fat Could Be Your Secret Weapon Against Disease, Doctors Say
Health

Research reveals new hope for military personnel's mental health

A new UCLA Health analysis suggests MDMA-assisted therapy could benefit military personnel dealing with trauma-related conditions beyond post-traumatic stress disorder by strengthening the therapeutic relationship and improving treatment outcomes. The review paper, published in the journal Neurorehabilitation, examines how MDMA-assisted therapy might help service members who have sustained neurological injuries during training or combat, even without a PTSD diagnosis. Walter Dunn, UCLA Health assistant clinical professor of psychiatry and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, authored the analysis. As a staff psychiatrist at the Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Dunn noted that young, healthy service members often struggle with the

Research reveals new hope for military personnel's mental health
Health

Is a workout the secret cure for your hangover?

While many turn to greasy foods and pain relievers to combat hangovers, medical experts suggest that certain forms of exercise could help alleviate post-drinking discomfort when approached with proper precautions. However, they emphasize that the type and intensity of physical activity matter significantly. “There are very few settings where exercise is not beneficial,” said Dr. Andy Peterson, a team physician at the University of Iowa, describing exercise as “the closest thing we have to a miracle drug in medicine.” This benefit extends to hangovers, though Peterson notes important limitations. Medical professionals explain that alcohol consumption triggers multiple physiological responses that

Is a workout the secret cure for your hangover?
Health

California mental health initiative launches across every county

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California has completed the statewide rollout of its Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) Court program. This marks a significant expansion of the state’s efforts to provide treatment and housing support for individuals with untreated schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders. The program, which began its phased implementation in October 2023, has now reached all 58 counties across California, with Kern County being the final jurisdiction to launch operations in October 2024. Early data indicates that more than 1,400 individuals have already been connected to CARE Courts or county services. CARE Court represents the first program of its

California mental health initiative launches across every county
Lifestyle

Why 1.4 Million People Are Watching Someone Count to 30 Before Bed

A sleep technique gaining popularity on social media claims to help individuals fall asleep quickly, even in challenging environments like airplanes. The method, known as the Alpha bridge method, is thought to have been originally developed by the U.S. Navy for pilots who needed to sleep on command. The technique has captured widespread attention through social media, particularly after psychologist Erica Terblanche‘s demonstration video accumulated 1.4 million views. Users have reported significant success with the method, with one commenting, “I was ready to toss and turn and spin around in my brain, and instead, I did this and was asleep

Why 1.4 Million People Are Watching Someone Count to 30 Before Bed
Travel

Discover the latest luggage to become the elite traveler's choice

In a shift away from designer logos, aluminum suitcases have emerged as the latest symbol of quiet luxury, with prices ranging from $400 to $1,430. As travelers opt for understated elegance, this marks a significant transformation in how affluent travelers showcase their status at airports worldwide.  Market research firm Technavio projects the aluminum suitcase market will expand by $310.1 million between 2023 and 2028. According to the Technavio report, “the increasing preference for lightweight and durable luggage, coupled with the growing trend of frequent flyer programs, is driving market demand. “ The trend marks a departure from the early 2000s,

Discover the latest luggage to become the elite traveler's choice
Lifestyle

Study finds hidden meaning behind those emojis you send

A new study from Indiana University reveals that individuals who frequently use emojis in their texts typically demonstrate higher levels of emotional intelligence. The research, published in the journal Plos One, examined the relationship between emoji usage, emotional intelligence, and attachment styles among 320 adults in their mid-30s. “This is the first study to examine emoji use in tandem with key individual characteristics related to people’s communication abilities and interpersonal relationships,” the research team stated in their findings. The study found that participants who regularly incorporated emojis into their messages showed enhanced abilities in understanding, perceiving, and managing both their

Study finds hidden meaning behind those emojis you send
Health

New fashion trend is redefining wellness for a healthier lifestyle

As Americans seek alternative methods to supplement their diets, vitamin patches – adhesive products designed to deliver nutrients through the skin – are experiencing substantial market growth. The trend is continuing even as medical experts question their efficacy compared to traditional pills. The global vitamin patch industry is projected to expand from $6.6 billion to $10.4 billion over the next decade, capitalizing on consumers who struggle with pill consumption or have digestive issues. These transdermal patches, similar to nicotine cessation aids or hormone therapy applications, are marketed as a solution for individuals who cannot swallow pills, frequently forget to take

New fashion trend is redefining wellness for a healthier lifestyle
Health

A Simple Hour That Could Change Your Future

A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveals that Americans aged 40 and older could extend their lives by 5.3 years. They can do this by adopting activity levels comparable to those of the most active quarter of the population. The research team analyzed data from the National Center for Health Statistics’ 2017 mortality records and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2003-2006) to establish the relationship between physical activity and life expectancy. Their analysis focused on a representative sample of non-institutionalized U.S. civilians. To standardize their measurements, researchers converted various physical activity types into equivalent

A Simple Hour That Could Change Your Future
Health

The Invisible Factor Weakening America's Bones

Researchers have identified environmental pollution as an emerging risk factor for osteoporosis, particularly affecting women over 50, adding to traditional risk factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking. Scientists have linked various pollutants, including air particulates, heavy metals, and synthetic chemicals, to accelerated bone deterioration and increased fracture risks. “Air pollution is a neglected risk factor for osteoporosis because for years we’ve focused on things like lifestyle factors, hormones, and genetics,” says Tuan Van Nguyen, professor of epidemiology at the University of New South Wales, Australia. The condition affects approximately 10 million Americans over age 50, with

The Invisible Factor Weakening America's Bones
Health

Your Morning Beauty Routine Has a Secret: What Your Favorite Fragrances Aren't Revealing

Scientists are raising concerns about the long-term health effects of phthalates, chemicals commonly found in perfumes and personal care products. Mounting evidence suggests these compounds could affect current users and potentially future generations. Recent studies indicate that phthalates, present in many fragrances, nail polishes, and hair care items, may be linked to various adverse health outcomes, including insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, and impaired neurodevelopment. These findings have prompted health experts to advocate for reduced exposure to these chemicals, particularly among individuals planning families or those with young children. A study published in JAMA Network Open revealed that higher concentrations of

Your Morning Beauty Routine Has a Secret: What Your Favorite Fragrances Aren't Revealing
Lifestyle|Local

The impact of toxic work culture on employee turnover, well-being

In the fast-paced, ever-competitive corporate world, the conversation surrounding the importance of having a positive, non-toxic, and healthy workplace continues to rise. However, healthy workplaces have been overlooked over the past few years, and workplace toxicity has emerged as a critical factor in driving employee departures. According to MIT Sloan research, more than 24 million American employees quit their jobs between April and September 2021. The study used employee data to determine the top five predictors of attrition. Data revealed that workers are 10.4 times more likely to leave their jobs due to a toxic corporate culture. This is followed

The impact of toxic work culture on employee turnover, well-being
Travel

New Federal Rules Force Airlines to Pay Up for Delayed Bags

The U.S. Department of Transportation implemented new regulations in late October requiring airlines to provide refunds for delayed baggage and unused services, establishing uniform passenger protection policies ahead of the holiday travel season. The regulations create uniform standards across all airlines for refund eligibility, replacing individual carrier policies that previously caused confusion among travelers. Airlines must now promptly notify passengers of their right to refunds and process them within seven days, depending on the payment method used. Under the new rules, passengers receive automatic refunds for checked baggage fees if their luggage arrives more than 12 hours late on domestic

New Federal Rules Force Airlines to Pay Up for Delayed Bags
Environment

California's ZEV sales reach 2M amid proposed clean vehicle rebates

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California has reached a milestone of two million zero-emission vehicles sold, maintaining its position as the nation’s leader in clean vehicle adoption. The achievement comes as Gov. Gavin Newsom announced plans to revive the state’s clean vehicle rebate program if the incoming Trump administration eliminates federal tax credits for zero-emission vehicles. The state crossed the two million vehicle threshold just over two years after surpassing one million zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) sales. During the third quarter of 2024, Californians purchased 115,897 ZEVs, accounting for 26.4% of all new vehicle sales in the state. “Consumers continue to prove the

California's ZEV sales reach 2M amid proposed clean vehicle rebates

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