6 Things You Need To Know Today (October 20, 2017)

In a recent study, researchers studying canine facial expressions were able to show that dogs make different facial movements when they are looking directly at humans. This suggests those puppy eyes you're drooling over might actually be conscious communication. (The Guardian)

A new report shows that opioid deaths have dropped by 6.5 percent in the two years that Colorado has legalized marijuana. While there are certainly other components at play (better education, among other things), it still shows promise for progress. (big think)

There's a new campaign called #runandtalk that combines being outside in nature, running, and increasing our focus on mental health. Supported by the charity Mind, these groups have helped a lot of men and women get through tough times. (The Guardian)

There was a brief window when Google maps would give the calories burned in a walk—and the food equivalent of those calories. The feature was an attempt to get people to move more and has been removed following users' strong negative feedback. While the verdict is split on the importance of calorie counting, we always recommend taking the walking route when possible! (The Atlantic)

FreeStyle Libre is a quarter-size glucometer that takes readings from a sensor under the skin, forgoing the finger-pricking most diabetes patients have to do multiple times a day. The Food and Drug Administration recently approved the sale of the Libre in the United States. (NYT)

On Thursday, Jacinda Ardern, 37, was elected as New Zealand’s third female prime minister, the youngest in the nation’s history. The politician brought in a million dollars in donations within her first few weeks as Labour Party leader, in a phenomenon dubbed "Jacindamania." (CNN)