Memphis Middle School Assistant Principal Arrested for Aggravated Rape

The number of new HIV infections could spike more than sixfold by 2029 if U.S. funding for AIDS programs is significantly reduced, according to UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima. In an interview with The Associated Press, Byanyima warned that this reduction in aid could result in 8.7 million new HIV cases and an additional 6.3 million AIDS-related deaths. The comments follow U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of a freeze on foreign assistance. Byanyima highlighted that HIV infections have declined in recent years, with 1.3 million new cases reported in 2023—a 60% drop since the virus peaked in 1995. However, she expressed concern that the halt in U.S. support, which constitutes approximately 90% of some countries’ HIV programs, is causing “panic” among nations hardest hit by the epidemic. She emphasized the critical nature of ongoing funding as new preventive tools, such as the long-acting HIV injection lenacapavir, are becoming available. Without additional support from other countries, Byanyima cautioned that lives are at stake, urging the U.S. to reconsider its cuts to funding for global health initiatives.

A recent study has revealed alarming health risks associated with microplastics found in cigarette butts, suggesting they trigger inflammatory responses in human immune cells. Conducted by a team of scientists, the research exposed immune cells from human blood to fibers extracted from cigarette filters made of plastic cellulose acetate. The findings, published on February 11, 2025, indicated that these fibers prompted a significant release of inflammatory proteins, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6. At high concentrations, the cells exhibited severe stress, leading to cell death. Researchers pointed out that although cigarette butts are commonly perceived as biodegradable, they can take over a decade to break down, during which they release toxic substances into the environment. Approximately 4.5 trillion butts are discarded globally each year, and their environmental impact has long been a concern for wildlife. However, this study suggests they may also pose direct health risks to humans, potentially linking to serious conditions like heart disease and cancer. In response, environmental groups and lawmakers are advocating for stringent regulations on plastic cigarette filters and exploring biodegradable alternatives.

Los Angeles police are investigating a felony hit-and-run that left a man in his 60s critically injured in Tarzana. The incident occurred around 9:25 AM on Monday at Reseda Boulevard and Clark Street, where security footage shows a black Ford F-150 striking the pedestrian in a marked crosswalk. According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the driver exited the vehicle momentarily to inspect the injured man, who was lying face down in the street, but did not provide any assistance or identify himself. After a brief observation, the driver returned to his truck and fled the scene. The suspect is described as a man wearing a blue jacket, dark pants, and a baseball cap. The LAPD is urging anyone with relevant information to contact the Valley Traffic Division. Authorities also noted that California law requires drivers to render aid in such situations. Witnesses report seeing trash bins and furniture in the truck's bed, which may help in identifying the vehicle. A reward of up to $25,000 is offered for information leading to the suspect’s apprehension.