In Squirrel News this week: Alaskan public lands are forever protected from development, a simple way is found to predict women’s heart risks decades in advance, and US medical respite programmes support the homeless in healing.
28 million acres of public land newly protected in Alaska
In a move supported by tribal and environmental groups statewide, the US Department of Interior has decided to protect 28 million acres from mineral exploration and development.
Source: Alaska Public Media
Simple blood tests found to predict cardio risk for women 30 years into the future
A Boston study has identified three simple blood markers that can predict women’s risk for heart disease over a period of three decades.
Source: Reuters
Risk of Parkinson’s possible to estimate 15 years in advance with new machine learning model
Machine learning analysis of blood proteins could allow earlier diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson’s Disease.
Windfloat Atlantic is the world’s first partially submerged floating wind farm. Connected to the grid in 2020, it is doing even better than expected.
Source: New Atlas
Local election officials combat fake news
Especially in the US leading up to November’s presidential election, but also worldwide, local and city election workers can play an important role in helping voters know what is true and what is not.
Source: Context
Medical respite programmes offer healing space for unhoused people
Recovering from illness or injury is particularly challenging if you don’t have a fixed address. These programmes have tripled in the US since 2012, offering more opportunities for healing to people experiencing homelessness.
Source: Shelterforce
Team of blind women in India identify possible breast cancers
30% more effective at finding tissue changes, this method is particularly important in areas where mammograms are less available. The team in India is also helping women to overcome hesitation at getting checked.
Source: npr
The campaigners helping larger walkers to enjoy the great outdoors
Every Body Outdoors is helping larger-bodied people to be better kitted out and represented in outdoor sport.
Source: The Guardian
New tunnel design helping turtles migrate while keeping foxes out
Nine new turtle migration tunnels in Booderee National Park, Australia have a cleverly designed mesh cover that lets the turtle through while keeping out predators like foxes.
Source: The Guardian
How music is helping people heal even chronic illnesses
The world of health and science is discovering many ways that music can help in the healing of a variety of mental and physical ailments as well as promote preventative wellness.