Latest news with #ALA
UPI
17-07-2025
- Health
- UPI
FDA approves Juul e-cigarette and cartridge sales
The Food and Drug Administration has approved the continued sale and marketing of Juul Labs' vaping products that contain nicotine, the company announced on Thursday. File Photo by Erik S. Lesser/EPA July 17 (UPI) -- Officials with the Food and Drug Administration have approved the continued sales of tobacco-flavored e-cigarettes and refill cartridges by Juul Labs. The FDA approved the sale and marketing of the Juul System, Juul Labs announced on Thursday. The FDA in 2022 banned Juul from selling its products due to a lack of scientific evidence regarding their potential health effects. "As part of our 2020 applications, we submitted over 110 scientific studies to the FDA covering non-clinical, clinical and behavioral science," Juul Labs said in a news release. "Following rigorous evaluation of the data, [the] FDA decided that a [marketing granted order] for the Juul System was 'appropriate for the protection of public health' -- the standard required by statute for authorization," the online announcement says. Juul's e-cigarettes and pods contain nicotine but meet the standard required to legally market tobacco products in the United States, NBC News reported. The marketing authorization does not indicate the products are safe for use, but it does enable Juul to market its vaping products to adult smokers, many of whom switch to Juul's products. Juul markets its products as an alternative to cigarettes and other smoking products that contain tobacco, but Juul products contain potentially harmful nicotine. After reviewing scientific studies submitted by Juul, the FDA reversed its ban to allow Juul to resume selling and marketing its products to adults age 21 and older. Officials with the American Lung Association criticized the FDA's reversal on the matter. "The American Lung Association is deeply troubled that the FDA will permit Juul to remain on the market in the U.S. and is especially concerned to learn that Juul's menthol flavor will continue being sold," the ALA said in a prepared statement. "These products have never met the Tobacco Control Act's public health standard," the ALA said. "Today's decision risks further harm to youth." The ALA says Juul uses flavored products containing high levels of nicotine and marketing that targets young people, which "hooked a generation of kids on tobacco." ALA officials want the FDA to reconsider its decision and for state and local governments to ban the sale of all flavored tobacco products.
Gulf Today
14-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
SBA participates in San Diego conference
The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has achieved a series of strategic milestones during its participation in the American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference, the world's largest gathering of library professionals, held in San Diego, USA. SBA reinforced Sharjah's global standing in the library sector by promoting its flagship international library events, launching new initiatives for children's content, expanding database collaborations and professional training, and exploring smart technologies for libraries in the UAE and wider region. Led by Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, the delegation held high-level talks with ALA President Sam Helmick. Discussions focused on enhancing the Sharjah International Library Conference and Sharjah School Libraries Conference, with a view to attracting more international experts and reinforcing their presence on the global calendar. SBA also highlighted its efforts to enrich Arabic-language children's literature and promote early literacy by partnering with US publishers and library networks, aiming to deliver diverse and culturally relevant content to Arab readers. Al Ameri said the participation reflects the vision of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who placed libraries at the heart of the emirate's cultural mission. He added, 'Under the leadership of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, SBA is committed to building global partnerships across the knowledge sector, particularly in libraries, to foster international cooperation and knowledge exchange.' Eman Bushlaibi, Director of Sharjah Public Libraries, noted that the conference provided an opportunity to share Sharjah's century-long library journey and explore collaborations with US institutions keen to connect with knowledge centres across the Arab world. During the event, SBA met with leading companies including Baker & Taylor and Playaway to explore new interactive formats for children's books. It also discussed expanded digital database access and interactive training programmes with EBSCO, aimed at enhancing librarians' capabilities. The delegation further explored the latest smart systems and digital solutions with technology providers to upgrade library infrastructure and improve accessibility for researchers and the wider community. WAM
Sharjah 24
10-07-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SBA deepens global knowledge ties at the largest library event
Through its engagements, SBA underscored Sharjah's global leadership in the library sector by promoting its forthcoming international library conferences, launching new initiatives for children's content, advancing collaborations in databases and professional training, and exploring innovative technological solutions tailored to the needs of libraries in the UAE and the wider region. Among the key outcomes, the delegation, led by Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, held a high-level meeting with Sam Helmick, President of the ALA. The discussions focused on the authority's role in organising the Sharjah International Library Conference and the Sharjah School Libraries Conference. They explored avenues to attract more global experts and specialists, reinforcing the position of both events on the international library calendar. The delegation also presented SBA's efforts to enrich Arabic-language children's content and support early literacy development through collaborations with US publishers and library networks. The discussions aimed to introduce more diverse and culturally relevant titles to young readers across the Arab world. Knowledge is the foundation of human development Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, said: 'Our participation in the ALA Conference reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who placed books and libraries at the core of the emirate's cultural mission. This vision guides us as we engage with major global platforms, share the emirate's experience, and help shape the future of libraries through cultural exchange and international collaboration.' He added: 'Under the leadership of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, we remain committed to strengthening global partnerships across the knowledge sector, particularly in libraries. The world today urgently needs such cooperation, as true progress depends on integrated systems and institutional collaboration across borders. Through our international conferences and initiatives, we seek to foster this spirit of cooperation and build a global knowledge network rooted in Sharjah and open to the world.' Vital hubs for knowledge and community learning Commenting on the participation, Eman Bushlaibi, Director of Sharjah Public Libraries, said: 'We presented a comprehensive overview of the Sharjah Public Libraries' journey, which began with the establishment of the emirate's first library in 1925. Today, our institutions continue to serve as vital centres for knowledge and community learning, supported by advanced digital infrastructure and interactive programmes. This participation offered a valuable opportunity to showcase Sharjah's integrated library model and explore new partnerships with American institutions interested in engaging with libraries and knowledge hubs across the Arab region.' Global partnerships to enhance children's content As part of its agenda at the international event, SBA held meetings with representatives from global companies, including Baker & Taylor and Playaway, where discussions focused on developing new formats of interactive children's books to enhance young readers' engagement with content tailored to their evolving interests. SBA also met with EBSCO, where they explored plans to expand digital database access for libraries across the UAE. The two parties also discussed the design of interactive, applied training programmes to keep pace with sector developments and strengthen the professional capabilities of librarians and information specialists. The delegation also engaged with specialised technology providers to review the latest smart systems and digital solutions for libraries. The discussions focused on upgrading digital infrastructure, aiming to enhance the quality and accessibility of library services for both researchers and the broader public.
Time of India
09-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Are you eating chia seeds wrong? Doctor explains side effects and safe way to consume them
Chia seeds are considered a superfood because they are rich in nutrients. These tiny seeds grow in Mexico, Guatemala, Peru, Argentina, Australia, and the United States. They contain key minerals like calcium, manganese, magnesium, selenium, copper, iron, and phosphorus, according to reports. Chia seeds are also a great source of ALA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid. ALA helps maintain a balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fats in the body. This balance can lower the risk of heart disease, inflammation, and cancer, according to a report by TOI. Chia seeds have antioxidants that combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress and cell damage. Because of these benefits, chia seeds may help lower the risk of cancer and heart disease. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 4BHK Villas with Private Garden ATS Infrastructure Ltd Learn More Undo ALSO READ: 9 morning habits that slash blood sugar spikes and crush cravings before they start Are you eating chia seeds the wrong way? Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist from California trained at Harvard and Stanford, warned about the wrong way to eat chia seeds. He shared this advice in a video on Instagram, according to the report by TOI. Live Events He said, "You have to soak your chia seeds or you risk this happening inside your body." What can happen if you eat dry Chia Seeds? Eating dry chia seeds and then drinking water is dangerous. The seeds can expand inside your esophagus and cause a blockage. 'People have ended up in the hospital after eating dry seeds and then drinking water,' Dr. Sethi said. He said the seeds expanded and got stuck in the esophagus, and doctors had to remove them endoscopically. Even though this doesn't happen to everyone, it can happen in people with swallowing problems or digestive issues, as stated by the TOI report. ALSO READ: 19 breakfasts that help you control blood sugar without giving up flavour Chia Seeds absorb a lot of water Chia seeds can absorb up to 27 times their weight in water. When soaked, they turn into a gel-like texture that helps with digestion. But if they are not soaked, this same property can become dangerous inside the body, as per the reports. What is the right way to eat Chia Seeds? The best and safest way is to soak them in water. Dr. Sethi recommends soaking chia seeds for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better. Soaking makes them form a gel that is easier for your body to digest, as stated by the TOI report. He also suggests starting with just 1 teaspoon, especially if it's your first time eating chia seeds. Tasty ways to eat soaked Chia Seeds You can add soaked chia seeds to chia pudding. Mix them into smoothies or sprinkle on oats or yogurt. Use them in baking, like in muffins or pancakes. Add them to drinks or other healthy beverages, according to the report by TOI. FAQs Q1. Can eating dry chia seeds be harmful? Yes, eating dry chia seeds and then drinking water can cause them to expand in your throat and block your esophagus, which may need hospital treatment. Q2. What is the safest way to eat chia seeds? The safest way is to soak chia seeds in water for at least 30 minutes or overnight before eating them.
Reuters
26-06-2025
- Business
- Reuters
Spanish court suspends fines for two airlines over cabin bag fees
MADRID, June 26 (Reuters) - A Spanish court on Thursday ordered a temporary halt to a fine slapped by the government on two budget airlines, including Ryanair (RYA.I), opens new tab, for practices such as charging for larger cabin bags, which according to the consumer ministry violated customer rights. The airlines have appealed the decision, and the court said it was impossible to get to the bottom of the issue at the moment, and paying the fine while it is being challenged in court would financially strain the companies. The injunction order effectively maintains the airlines' policies until a final decision is reached, and represents a first victory for the airlines. Ryanair and Norwegian Air ( opens new tab logged the appeal after they were fined 109.6 million euros ($128.40 million) last year, saying they believe the fine has no basis. Madrid's administrative court ordered both airlines to issue bank guarantees worth 111.8 million euros, equivalent to the sanctions plus interest, while the suspension is in place, it said in a statement. Industry group ALA praised the court's decision and claimed that the fines have no basis. It argued the fines "limit customers' ability to choose, and distort (the European Union's) common market". It said airlines would continue their charging policy until a final ruling is issued. Other airlines were also fined by Spain's consumer rights ministry last year. ALA said it hoped the court ruling will be later applied to all airlines. The ministry imposed a combined sanction of 179 million euros to all the airlines, which also included IAG's (ICAG.L), opens new tab low-cost unit Vueling, easyJet (EZJ.L), opens new tab, and Volotea. It argued they violated customers' rights when charging for larger carry-on bags, picking seats or boarding pass print-outs and not allowing cash payments at check-in desks or to buy items on board. ($1 = 0.8536 euros)
