Sun-powered water filter excels at killing pathogens

There are many parts of the world in which fresh water may be plentiful, but it's also full of harmful microbes. An experimental new filter is able to purify such water for drinking, and it's powered solely by sunlight.

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Study suggests blueberry extract could help heal chronic wounds

For some time now, blueberries have been claimed to slow the progression of memory loss. A new study now suggests that compounds found in the berries may also help heal chronic wounds such as diabetes-related skin pressure ulcers.

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Octo carabiner multi-tool sports a fold-out bit driver/glass breaker

In recent years, we've seen an increasing number of multi-tools that incorporate a carabiner main body. One of the latest is the Octo, which features a fold-out magnetic bit driver that doubles as an automotive window glass breaker.

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Pressure-modulating insoles designed to prevent diabetic foot ulcers

Because diabetics often lack sensation in their feet, they may not shift foot pressure as needed, potentially leading to serious skin ulcers. A set of experimental insoles were created that problem in mind, as they shift the pressure for the wearer.

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Wing-cramping chemical boosts effectiveness of mosquito bed nets

In many regions, insecticide-impregnated bed nets are utilized not just to keep malaria-carrying mosquitoes from biting, but also to kill them. A new study shows that such nets could be much more effective if a different type of chemical were used.

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Squid skin inspires versatile new “tunable” insulating material

The color-changing skin of the squid has inspired a new type of infrared-reflecting, metalized polymer film with tunable heat-management properties that could make it useful in everything from coffee cups to shipping containers.

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Poor sleep linked to sustained increases in dangerous visceral fat

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have shed new light on the relationship between sleep and body fat, demonstrating how a lack of sleep can increase levels of insidious visceral fat deep in the abdomen, which carries acute risks to our health.

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Fourth COVID-19 mRNA vaccine dose approved for all older Americans

The FDA has authorized a fourth mRNA vaccine dose for all individuals aged 50 and over. The authorization includes both Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and is recommended to be administered at least four months after a third dose.

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PYKRS jacket sports lighting, fall detection and heating systems

We've seen a number of bicycle helmets that include high-tech features like lights and fall-detection systems. Well, Spanish startup PYKRS (pronounced "pikers") has taken those same technologies plus others, and packed them into a winter jacket.

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$350 million Frank Gehry school extension puts dance on display

Plans have been revealed for a $350 million Frank Gehry designed extension for Los Angeles' Colburn School. It will expand the campus with a partially transparent building that allows passersby a glimpse of the dance lessons within.

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