Bionic coral to save reefs around the world, urine tests to prevent malnutrition, the COVID tracing app

Photo: Pexels / Pixabey (CCO)

In today’s edition of Squirrel news, we take a look at how researchers have created 3D-printed coral to replenish dying reefs, urine tests that can indicate where intervention is needed to prevent malnutrition, and the innovative collaboration to create an app that could help end the lockdown.

Researchers have created 3D-printed coral to help replenish dying natural resources

Due to higher sea temperatures and more acidic waters, coral reefs around the world are dying, which makes the creation of bionic coral vital to ensure its future survival.

Source: Clean Technica

Urine tests can foresee a baby’s growth, helping intervention in cases of malnutrition

The predictive model works by using biomarkers to foresee growth, and could be used in developing countries to reduce the rates of chronically malnourished children.

Source: New Scientist

Apple and Google have reportedly teamed up with the NHS on a COVID-19 tracing app

The app could help to bring an end to the lockdown by alerting you via Bluetooth about possible contact with the virus, urging those at risk to get tested.

Source: Engadget

Toy companies including Hasbro and Lego announce commitments to sustainability

Traditionally, many toys have been made from non-recyclable plastics, but recent changes mark a shift to using recycled materials for packaging and plant-based plastics to create certain toys.

Source: Euronews

Frontline workers given emotional support via ‘For The Frontlines’ crisis text line

Medical staff have recently come under immense pressure, so the text line is offering 24/7 support for those suffering with stress and anxiety during the pandemic.

Source: Global Citizen

Compostable ‘Eco Gloves’ will help to protect against COVID-19 and reduce the waste problem

Protective gloves are vital to help slow down the spread of the virus, but conventional disposable gloves have detrimental environmental impacts.

Source: Clean Technica

Astronomers use new technology to probe rings around Uranus, which could lead to discovering their origins

For the first time, astronomers have been able to take the temperature of the mysterious rings around Uranus, which will offer more information as to how they got there.

Source: Futurism

Pandemic proofing: the architects envisioning post-corona office spaces

With 80% of infectious diseases spread by touching contaminated surfaces, it is vital that architects design spaces that no longer facilitate the spread.

Source: The Guardian

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