In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we’re looking at New Mexico’s expansion of free childcare to all families, a chlamydia vaccine for koalas gets approval and CRISPR-edited cells give diabetics an alternative to immune-dampening drugs.
From November 1st, all families, regardless of income levels, will have access to publicly-funded child care in New Mexico, making it the first state in the US to offer it. It’s expected to invest millions in the construction and renovation of daycares.
Researchers have developed a single-dose vaccine for chlamydia, which accounts for up to 50% of koala deaths. They hope to receive enough funding to start vaccinating koalas across Australia.
A new method of editing pancreas cells may allow people with type 1 diabetes to avoid taking the immune-dampening drugs usually given to treat the condition. The technique “hides” the cells from the body’s immune system which normally see cell transplants as “invaders.”
A liquid biopsy tool dubbed HPV-DeepSeek can now detect HPV-associated head and neck cancer roughly a decade before any symptoms show up. The tool is set to undergo wider trials soon.
A 12-year study found that an amphibian underpass near Burlington, Vermont, reduced road deaths by over 80% during migration seasons. The underpass was also found to help protect mammals like black bears, bobcats and porcupines.
Constant improvements in traffic rules have helped Britain reduce per-mile traffic deaths 22 times since the 50s. Now, the UK is one of the safest places to drive in the entire world.
By using mulch, mowing and local flora, a method called regenerative agriculture, farmers can improve soil health, boost biodiversity, minimise tilling and limit the need for pesticides. Currently, 2% of European farmers use it, with 5-10% moving to adopt it soon.
In Traiskirchen, Austria, asylum seekers maintain a garden as part of an effort to interact more with their local community. Research suggests this strategy also has mental health benefits.
The Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program has college students study philosophy alongside inmates in an attempt to create a more creative, open and informative environment for both groups.
