Surge in HIV Cases Predicted Without U.S. Support, Warns UNAIDS

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.

Dr. Marcus Matthews, the assistant principal of Grade 7 at White Station Middle School in Memphis, Tennessee, was arrested on February 10, 2025, and charged with aggravated rape, according to officials. The 44-year-old educator is currently being held on a bond of $100,000. The Memphis-Shelby County Schools district confirmed that the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office deputies visited the school on the day of the arrest, escorting Matthews from the premises. While specific details surrounding the charges remain undisclosed, the Sheriff’s Department noted that the incident was not related to immigration enforcement. Memphis-Shelby County Schools stated, "The safety of students and staff remains our top priority," and has placed Matthews on investigative leave pending further developments. Community members have expressed concern regarding the incident, and calls for transparency from the school district are growing as additional information becomes available. The ongoing investigation aims to address safety and maintains the trust of students and parents alike.

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.