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Zika Virus Epidemiology Study Highlights Global Outbreak Patterns and Risks

Zika Virus Epidemiology Study Highlights Global Outbreak Patterns and Risks

A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemiology has been conducted, analyzing data from 574 studies. The research highlights the global spread and impact of ZIKV, with significant outbreaks reported in regions such as Puerto Rico and Colombia between 2015 and 2017. The study provides detailed insights into the virus's transmission dynamics, seroprevalence, and associated health risks, including congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) and pregnancy loss. The analysis reveals that ZIKV remains a pathogen with pandemic potential, despite a decline in cases since 2017. The study underscores the variability in ZIKV's impact, with seroprevalence estimates ranging widely across different regions and populations.

Counterstream Media's 'Reframing Resistance' Highlights Frontline Narrative Authority in Climate Justice

Counterstream Media's 'Reframing Resistance' Highlights Frontline Narrative Authority in Climate Justice

During New York City Climate Week in September 2025, Counterstream Media, in partnership with the Frontline Resources Institute (FRI), hosted a Story Salon titled 'Reframing Resistance.' This event focused on elevating the voices of frontline media makers, emphasizing their authority in climate justice narratives. The salon featured films by Chantel Comardelle, Alexandra Norris, and B. Preston Lyles, which explored themes such as Indigenous climate migration and petrochemical harm. The event aimed to shift the traditional dynamic where frontline stories are often used as mere communication tools, instead recognizing them as sources of analysis and strategy. The salon was designed to encourage deep listening and accountability from funders, advocates, and policymakers, challenging them to recognize the authority of frontline communities in shaping climate justice narratives.

New Zealand Convention Centre Opens, Boosting Auckland's Global Event Appeal

New Zealand Convention Centre Opens, Boosting Auckland's Global Event Appeal

The New Zealand Convention Centre (NZICC) has officially opened in Auckland, marking a significant milestone for the region's business events, culture, and tourism sectors. The ceremonial opening, held on February 11, 2026, was led by Ngati Whatua Orakei and included a ribbon-cutting by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The NZICC is New Zealand's largest convention center, designed to host a wide range of events with its 33 meeting spaces and a 2,850-seat theatre. The opening event was attended by 650 leaders, dignitaries, and partners, featuring performances and art installations. The NZICC is expected to attract 33,000 international visitors annually, contributing to Auckland's economy and enhancing its status as a world-class conference destination.

Congress Faces Internal Challenges as 2026 Primaries Approach

Congress Faces Internal Challenges as 2026 Primaries Approach

As the 2026 midterm elections approach, members of Congress from both parties are preparing for significant primary challenges. The first major primary day on March 3 will highlight the pressures incumbents face, with challenges coming from both the right and left. In Texas, Republican Senator John Cornyn is facing a tough primary against state Attorney General Ken Paxton and Rep. Wesley Hunt, who criticize Cornyn's conservative credentials and past criticisms of President Trump. Meanwhile, in North Carolina, Democratic Rep. Valerie Foushee is being challenged by Nida Allam, backed by progressive groups seeking new leadership. These primaries reflect broader tensions within both parties, as Republicans grapple with MAGA purity tests and Democrats debate generational leadership changes.

European Venture Capital Groups Form Coalition to Boost Life Sciences Investment

European Venture Capital Groups Form Coalition to Boost Life Sciences Investment

Major venture capital groups in Europe have formed the European Life Sciences Coalition (ELSC) to enhance investment access for life sciences companies and restore Europe's global presence in the sector. The coalition, launched in collaboration with Invest Europe, includes members like Novo Holdings and Sofinnova Partners. The ELSC aims to address financing gaps that hinder Europe's competitiveness, as Europe currently accounts for only 7% of global life sciences VC compared to 63% in the US. The coalition seeks to mobilize public and private investment across the European Economic Area, the UK, and Switzerland.

President Zelensky Announces Ukrainian-German Drone Manufacturing Initiative in Munich

President Zelensky Announces Ukrainian-German Drone Manufacturing Initiative in Munich

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has announced the launch of a joint Ukrainian-German drone manufacturing enterprise in Munich. This initiative marks a significant step in technological cooperation between Ukraine and Germany, focusing on enhancing regional security. The announcement was made during Zelensky's visit to Munich, where he emphasized the importance of joint production efforts to bolster security in Ukraine and Europe. The project aims to contribute to ending the ongoing conflict with a dignified peace. Further details about the manufacturing facility and its operations are expected to be released in the future.

Judge Dismisses Defense Secretary's Retaliation Against Senator Kelly Over Military Orders

Judge Dismisses Defense Secretary's Retaliation Against Senator Kelly Over Military Orders

A U.S. District Court judge has dismissed an attempt by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to retaliate against Senator Mark Kelly, a former Navy captain and astronaut. The conflict arose after Kelly reminded military personnel that they are not obligated to follow unlawful orders. Judge Richard Leon criticized Hegseth's efforts to demote Kelly and strip him of veterans benefits, stating that it violated Kelly's First Amendment rights and threatened the constitutional liberties of military retirees. The judge emphasized that retired servicemembers, especially those in Congress, should not be subjected to reduced First Amendment protections. Leon's ruling included a reference to Bob Dylan's lyrics, underscoring the need for respect towards veterans.

Sandy Steers, Advocate for Bald Eagles and Environmental Education, Passes Away

Sandy Steers, Advocate for Bald Eagles and Environmental Education, Passes Away

Sandy Steers, the executive director of Friends of Big Bear Valley, has passed away from cancer. Steers was instrumental in the creation and management of a popular live camera feed that monitored a pair of bald eagles, Jackie and Shadow, in California's Big Bear Valley. Her work with the nonprofit organization focused on environmental education and advocacy, aiming to protect the natural surroundings of the San Bernardino National Forest. Steers had been a part of the organization for approximately 25 years, during which she also contributed to eco-tourism and educational programs about wildlife. Her efforts were recognized by the Outdoor Writers Association of California, which nominated her for Outdoor Californian of the Year in 2023.

Israel's Innovators and Creators Discuss Global Communication Strategies at Ynet Conference

Israel's Innovators and Creators Discuss Global Communication Strategies at Ynet Conference

A conference titled 'From Israel to the World – How to Communicate the Israeli Story on the International Stage' was held at the ynet offices in Rishon Lezion. The event, organized in collaboration with Taboola, monday.com, and Ifat Media, brought together media executives, tech leaders, public relations professionals, and content creators. The focus was on the challenges of communicating Israel's story globally, with discussions on public diplomacy, foreign media relations, and the use of artificial intelligence in marketing. Keynote speakers included Sharon Shalmon Esman, CEO of ynet Global, and editor-in-chief Karen Shemesh. Panels explored the integration of AI in company-building and the importance of authenticity in marketing, especially in the age of platforms like TikTok.

PG CEO Recants Claim of Mayor's Request for Opera House Power During Blackout

PG CEO Recants Claim of Mayor's Request for Opera House Power During Blackout

During a Board of Supervisors hearing, PG&E CEO Sumeet Singh initially testified that San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie requested the utility to prioritize restoring power to the War Memorial Opera House during a citywide blackout. This claim was sensitive due to the mayor's daughter performing in 'The Nutcracker' at the venue. However, Singh later retracted his statement, citing a misunderstanding. The blackout, caused by a fire at a PG&E substation, left a significant portion of San Francisco without power. Despite the opera house receiving temporary power, many residential areas remained in the dark. The mayor's office denied directing PG&E to prioritize the opera house, emphasizing efforts to restore power citywide.

ILiAD Biotechnologies Secures $115 Million for New Whooping Cough Vaccine Development

ILiAD Biotechnologies Secures $115 Million for New Whooping Cough Vaccine Development

ILiAD Biotechnologies has successfully raised $115 million in a Series B funding round to advance the development of a new whooping cough vaccine, BPZE1. This vaccine is a live, attenuated pertussis vaccine delivered intranasally, licensed from the Institut Pasteur de Lille and Inserm in France. The vaccine aims to provide long-lasting protection both mucosally and systemically, potentially offering a more natural and durable immune response. The funding round was led by RA Capital Management, with participation from Janus Henderson Investors, BNP Paribas, and other existing investors. The company plans to initiate a pivotal human challenge trial later this year, with results expected in 2027. This development comes amid rising cases of whooping cough in Europe and the U.S., attributed to lower vaccination rates and reduced population immunity.

President Trump to Announce Multi-Billion Dollar Gaza Reconstruction Plan at Board of Peace Meeting

President Trump to Announce Multi-Billion Dollar Gaza Reconstruction Plan at Board of Peace Meeting

President Trump is set to unveil a multi-billion-dollar reconstruction plan for Gaza at the inaugural meeting of his Board of Peace next week. The meeting, scheduled for February 19 in Washington, DC, will be attended by delegations from at least 20 countries, including several heads of state. The plan includes a UN-authorized stabilization force for the Palestinian enclave, with several countries expected to contribute troops. The Board of Peace, established by Trump and endorsed by a UN Security Council resolution, aims to oversee the reconstruction efforts in Gaza. The meeting will also feature reports from the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, which is tasked with taking over civil administration from Hamas. The initiative has garnered interest from regional powers like Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, though traditional Western allies remain cautious.

Pennsylvania Game Commission Expands Deer Management Programs to Aid Farmers and Hunters

Pennsylvania Game Commission Expands Deer Management Programs to Aid Farmers and Hunters

The Pennsylvania Game Commission, in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, and Hunters Sharing the Harvest, held a town hall meeting at the Great American Outdoor Show to discuss ongoing efforts to balance wildlife management and agricultural needs. The meeting highlighted the expansion of programs such as the Certified Hunter Program and the Agricultural Deer Control Program, which aim to mitigate crop damage by connecting hunters with landowners. These initiatives have been bolstered by legislative changes, including the repeal of the Sunday hunting ban, allowing more opportunities for hunters to manage deer populations. The Game Commission has also increased funding to support venison donations to food banks, addressing food insecurity in the state.

Federal Investigation Initiated into Death of Indianapolis Colts Owner Jim Irsay

Federal Investigation Initiated into Death of Indianapolis Colts Owner Jim Irsay

A federal investigation has been launched into the death of Jim Irsay, the owner of the Indianapolis Colts, who passed away in May at the age of 65. The FBI and DEA are examining the circumstances surrounding his death, which occurred at the Beverly Hills Hotel. The investigation focuses on Dr. Harry Haroutunian, an addiction specialist who treated Irsay with opioids and ketamine. Irsay's death certificate, signed by Dr. Haroutunian, cites cardiac arrest due to pneumonia as the cause of death, with no autopsy performed. The investigation is in its preliminary stages, and Dr. Haroutunian has not commented on the matter. The Colts organization has acknowledged the investigation but has not been contacted by federal authorities.

Kohler Generators and Brook Field Service Donate $10K to Vermont Foodbank

Kohler Generators and Brook Field Service Donate $10K to Vermont Foodbank

Kohler Generators and Brook Field Service have made a significant contribution to the Vermont Foodbank by donating $10,000. This donation aims to support Vermonters who are facing food insecurity, exacerbated by recent federal funding cuts and disruptions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The initiative was spearheaded by Jim Brochhausen, owner of Brook Field Service, who recognized the impact of these changes on local communities. The Vermont Foodbank, which serves over 70,000 residents through its network of partner programs, distributed more than 14.5 million pounds of food last year.

South Korea's Intelligence Suggests Kim Jong Un's Daughter as Successor

South Korea's Intelligence Suggests Kim Jong Un's Daughter as Successor

South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) has indicated that Kim Ju Ae, the daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, is being positioned as his successor. This assessment was shared by South Korean lawmaker Lee Seong-kweun following a closed-door briefing. Kim Ju Ae, believed to be around 13 years old, has been increasingly visible at public events alongside her father, suggesting her growing influence in North Korean politics. The NIS's report highlights her involvement in policy decisions, marking a potential shift in the leadership dynamics of the isolated nation.

Orange County Family Rescues Sick Sea Lion During Sailing Trip

Orange County Family Rescues Sick Sea Lion During Sailing Trip

An Orange County family encountered an unexpected guest while sailing near San Clemente. A sick sea lion, named Chump, hopped aboard their boat. The family, recognizing the animal's distress, took action to ferry the sea lion to the coast for help. This incident highlights the family's quick thinking and compassion for wildlife in distress.

Romantic proposals become a booming business in 'City of Love'

Romantic proposals become a booming business in 'City of Love'

By Manuel Ausloos PARIS, Feb 13 (Reuters) - When Texan Josue Perales brought his girlfriend Kayla Balboa to Paris, she thought it was just a romantic getaway.

Carney, other leaders to mourn victims at site of Canada mass shooting

Carney, other leaders to mourn victims at site of Canada mass shooting

By David Ljunggren OTTAWA, Feb 13 (Reuters) - Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and opposition leaders will attend a vigil in the remote town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, on Friday to pay respects to the victims of one of the country's worst mass shootings.

Iraq says about 3,000 Islamic State prisoners transferred from Syria

Iraq says about 3,000 Islamic State prisoners transferred from Syria

By John Irish MUNICH, Feb 13 (Reuters) - About 3,000 Islamic State detainees have so far been transferred from Syrian prisons to Iraq and the process is continuing, Iraq's foreign minister said on Friday, adding that Baghdad was in discussions with some countries to repatriate them soon.