The floating robot collecting rubbish in our waterways

Meta has long required Facebook users to post under their real names (with some exceptions), but at least for Facebook Groups, the company is now offering new options. Members of Facebook Groups will now be able to participate under a custom nickname and avatar, rather than being forced to use their real name or post…

Improved monitoring capabilities Professor Dr Taleieh Rajabi Professor Taleieh Rajabi, an expert in applying microfluidics in wearables, said worn devices are adding a new dimension to patient monitoring and diagnostics in laboratory medicine. ‘By capturing real-time vital signs and other important health metrics, these devices enable healthcare professionals – and in the future, patients –…

Is the grass greener on the other side? We’re not sure, but the sky is most certainly bluer. It’s been over two years since Elon Musk purchased Twitter, now X, leading people to set up shop on alternative platforms. Mastodon, Post, Pebble (two of which have already shuttered operations) and Spill have been presented as…

Apple has introduced a new plan for developers who offer mini-apps that could see the commission rate cut in half. Under the App Store Mini Apps Partner Program, devs would pay a reduced rate of 15 percent, compared to the current 30 percent, on qualifying in-app purchases. Apple has a bunch of more detailed explanations…

Helen Branswell covers issues broadly related to infectious diseases, including outbreaks, preparedness, research, and vaccine development. Follow her on Mastodon and Bluesky. You can reach Helen on Signal at hbranswell.01. The head of the National Institutes of Health has offered a new explanation for why the federal government canceled $500 million in contracts to help…