Nasa employees have been directed to remove all pronouns from emails and other applications following an executive order from the Trump administration. In response, Nasa disabled the ability to add pronouns in user displays and mandated uniform signature blocks. Public materials referencing gender identity were also affected.
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The Canadian government is revising its Family open work permits. From January 21, spouses of foreign workers must meet new eligibility criteria related to specific high-demand jobs. Also, spouses of international students must be enrolled in select programs. These measures aim to align with Canada's economic priorities.
A new Rasmussen Reports survey shows that 60% of Americans believe the US has sufficient talent for white-collar jobs and doesn't need more foreign workers. The poll findings gained attention amid the ongoing H-1B row though the survey was done in November. Donald Trump said he favors the H-1B program which enables companies to hire foreign staff.
Pope Francis is conscious but in critical condition after suffering a respiratory crisis and blood transfusions due to low platelet counts. The 88-year-old, who has a pre-existing lung condition, remains at risk of sepsis. He was hospitalized on February 14 with a complex respiratory infection. Clinical tests continue, and the main concern for doctors is preventing the onset of sepsis.
Actor Dave Franco revealed that people have been asking him to play Luigi Mangione, the accused killer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, due to their striking resemblance though he does not have an official offer but had been overwhelmed with texts suggesting the role. “I have never received more texts in my life about anything," Franco said.
Robert F Kennedy Jr, a vaccine skeptic and former presidential candidate, has been confirmed by the Senate as the next health secretary. Confirmed in a 52-48 vote by a Republican Senate, Kennedy's appointment marks a significant rise for him and a notable shift in American politics.
Thousands of Palestinians protested in Gaza against Hamas and the ongoing conflict with Israel. Israel's defense minister urged further protests. Recent Israeli attacks followed failed ceasefire talks, worsening conditions in Gaza. The war, which began in October 2023, has killed over 50,000 Palestinians and displaced nearly 90% of Gaza's population.
Elon Musk supports Vivek Ramaswamy's Ohio governor bid, reinforcing their past collaboration in the Trump administration. Ramaswamy, backed by Trump, launched his campaign with a vision to lead Ohio in technology and innovation. He emphasizes bold conservative reforms and the MAGA movement. Ramaswamy's entry follows Jon Husted's withdrawal.
Bird flu's H5N1 strain is causing growing concern among health experts due to its expanding host range, now including US dairy cows. The virus has spread globally, impacting millions of birds and even some mammals. Worryingly, human cases are emerging, including some without direct animal contact, and antibody tests suggest underreporting.
Michelob Ultra has dethroned Bud Light as America's top draft beer, capturing 18.7% of the market share. This shift is attributed to Ultra's celebrity endorsements and its appeal to health-conscious consumers. While Bud Light maintains a substantial market presence, Ultra's steady growth signifies evolving consumer preferences and the influence of lifestyle branding.
Polish anti-discrimination coach Lukasz Jakubowski reports a rise in racist attacks against Ukrainian refugees, including schoolchildren. Tensions have increased as the Polish government considers limiting child benefits for Ukrainian parents. This issue has also become a topic in the upcoming presidential election.