Parents pass down more than genes. Their everyday choices shape how children see the world. 



A new study from São Paulo State University (<a href="https://www.international.unesp.br" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNESP</a>) in Brazil shows how this works with physical activity. Children copy the habits of their parents, whether active or sedentary.



The researchers tracked 182 children and teenagers, aged 6 to 17, along with their parents. They used accelerometers, devices that measure movement with precision. 



The results were clear: children with inactive parents spent more time sitting. Children with active <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parent-children-relationships-are-key-to-lifelong-well-being/">parents</a> were less sedentary.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mothers-play-a-bigger-role">Mothers play a bigger role</h2>



The study also revealed something striking. Mothers influenced their children’s activity levels more strongly than fathers. Their effect was more than double. 



The exact reason is still uncertain, but daily routines could explain part of it. Mothers often spend more time shaping schedules around meals, homework, and television.



“The results indicate that parents’ level of physical activity can directly influence their children’s habits. In other words, when parents maintain a more active routine, their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/singing-to-babies-is-a-powerful-way-to-boost-their-mood/">children</a> are less likely to remain seated for long periods,” Diego Christofaro noted. 



Christofaro is a professor at the Faculty of Science and Technology (FCT-UNESP) at the Presidente Prudente campus and the lead author of the article published in the journal Sports Medicine and Health Science.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sedentary-lifestyles-rising">Sedentary lifestyles rising</h2>



The findings matter because inactivity in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-before-they-crawl-babies-can-feel-their-own-heartbeat/">childhood</a> is already a public health concern. In Brazil, 11% to 38% of children and adolescents are overweight. Sedentary routines contribute directly to this problem. 



The risks go beyond weight gain. Research links too much sitting with heart problems, back pain, poor sleep, anxiety, and depression.



Once these patterns start, they are hard to change. A child who spends long hours sitting is likely to carry those habits into adult life. That makes early action vital.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kids-copy-parents-activity">Kids copy parents’ activity</h2>



The home environment explains much of this. Children often copy their parents’ screen habits. If parents watch hours of television, children usually do too. When limits on screen time are missing, the hours grow longer.



But the opposite is also true. When parents swap sitting for exercise, children follow their lead. 



In one Canadian study, every 20 minutes of vigorous parental activity added 5 to 10 minutes of moderate activity in children. Kids don’t just listen to words; they notice actions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parents-education-shapes-activity">Parents’ education shapes activity</h2>



Education changes the picture as well. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parents-who-use-humor-have-better-relationships-with-their-children/">Parents</a> with higher education levels tend to set more structured routines. They often balance screen time with sports or outdoor play. 



Parents with higher levels of education also recognize the harm of excessive sitting and take steps to prevent it.



Awareness is powerful. A parent who knows the risks of long sedentary hours is more likely to limit television, encourage outdoor play, or join their child in activity. Those choices add up over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-value-of-support">The value of support</h2>



Support at home makes staying active easier. Equipment, safe spaces, and shared activities all matter. Families who play sports together or go for walks often see children grow up more active. 



Shared routines also create memories, tying positive feelings to exercise and movement. 



On the other hand, when support is missing, even motivated children face obstacles. A lack of safe places to play or no encouragement from parents can keep them sitting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-message-for-public-health">A message for public health</h2>



“Sedentary habits are the result of multiple factors, such as lack of access, time, and places where physical activity can be practiced,” noted Christofaro. 



“However, our study shows that parents’ habits can affect their children’s health. Therefore, we believe that these results can support public policies and campaigns aimed at promoting a more active lifestyle in the family environment.”



The study showed that parent-child links in sedentary behavior appeared only when parents were insufficiently active. In families where parents stayed active, those links weakened. That means active parents can protect children from inheriting sedentary patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parents-set-activity-goals">Parents set activity goals</h2>



Brazil’s health guidelines recommend that children and adolescents spend at least 60 minutes a day on moderate to vigorous physical activity. 



Parents should aim for 150 minutes of activity each week. These targets are not just numbers. They represent habits that can shape family health across generations.



Children copy what they see. Parents who sit less and move more give their children a model worth repeating. Small daily choices - walking instead of sitting, playing instead of watching - can ripple through a child’s life, reducing risks and building healthier futures.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666337625000691?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sports Medicine and Health Science</a>.



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Family fitness: Active parents raise active kids

Parents pass down more than genes. Their everyday choices shape how children see the world. A new study from São Paulo State University (UNESP) in Brazil shows how this works with physical activity. Children copy the habits of their parents, whether active or sedentary. The researchers tracked 182 children and teenagers, aged 6 to 17, along with their parents. They used accelerometers, devices that measure movement with precision. The results were clear: children with inactive parents spent more time sitting. Children with active parents were less sedentary....

Healthy smiles often require more than simply brushing and flossing. People can develop stubborn buildup on their teeth that leads to discoloration and unpleasant odors.



One approach involves using a citrus drink that some believe can help remove this buildup. This method is supported by <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Sealomita-Rizka-Apritama-2295981427" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Sealomita Rizka Apritama</a>, who is affiliated with the Department of Public Health at the Institute for Advanced Health Science and Technology in Indonesia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-tartar">Understanding tartar</h2>



Tartar is a hardened layer that forms when plaque stays on tooth surfaces for too long. It can appear yellowish or brownish and might lead to serious problems if ignored.



This buildup can cause <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557422/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gingivitis</a>, a form of gum inflammation, and it can also pave the way for <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554590/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">periodontitis</a>, which may damage deeper tissues. It often contributes to <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534859/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">halitosis</a> by creating a cozy environment for odor-causing bacteria.



Some people notice that tartar makes their teeth look dull. Others experience gum bleeding or sensitivity if they neglect proper cleaning.



Professional cleanings are the most reliable way to remove large amounts of buildup. Regular checkups help address early signs and reduce the need for complicated procedures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-lemon-stands-out">Why lemon stands out</h2>



Researchers have observed that lemon contains citric acid, which seems to discourage bacterial growth on teeth. They note that even moderate amounts may help reduce plaque deposits on tooth surfaces.



Lemon’s acidity can assist in removing surface stains, and making enamel brighter. It also leaves a refreshing scent that helps with bad breath.



Some people find this home remedy appealing because it is easy to prepare. Others like that it may address multiple concerns with minimal effort.



Dentists suggest being careful about using any highly acidic substance on teeth. Overuse can lead to enamel erosion and sensitivity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-easy-steps-to-get-started">Easy steps to get started</h2>



A basic citrus drink involves mixing half a squeezed lemon with about eight ounces (240 milliliters) of water. People often swish it around their mouths for around half a minute, though a few prefer gentle brushing with the solution.



Experts recommend rinsing with plain water right after to reduce <a href="https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/dental-erosion" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">acidity</a>. This practice helps protect the enamel from weakening.



Most individuals limit this step to once or twice a week. Excessive repetition might strain tooth surfaces, so moderation is key.



Combining this approach with daily brushing and flossing preserves a healthy foundation. Nobody wants to trade tartar problems for enamel issues.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extra-details-to-remember">Extra details to remember</h2>



Healthcare providers discourage replacing standard oral hygiene with lemon alone. They view this drink as a small addition rather than a full substitute.



It is wise to talk with a dentist if you have sensitive teeth before trying acidic gargles. For some, mild enamel flaws can worsen under frequent contact with strong acids.



Special caution is also advised when combining lemon with other products like baking soda. That mixture can make your teeth feel gritty or lead to further irritation.



Anyone who notices continued discoloration or sore gums should seek professional guidance. Timely dental advice can prevent bigger issues down the road.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-keeping-a-balanced-routine">Keeping a balanced routine</h2>



The researchers noted that oral health is often considered to be on par with physical wellness. This perspective motivates many to brush and floss carefully, aiming to mitigate the effects of harmful bacteria.



Sugary snacks can speed up plaque formation because they feed those bacteria. Rinsing with water after sweet treats may help decrease leftover residues in the mouth.



High water intake helps keep the mouth moist and washes away stray particles. Dryness can lead to faster bacterial buildup, making it crucial to stay hydrated.



Tobacco use also worsens oral problems by discoloring teeth and increasing gum-related risks. Many smokers end up with more frequent tartar and unwanted stains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-smart-additions-for-better-results">Smart additions for better results</h2>



People might consider drinking water throughout the day to keep debris from clinging to teeth. Fruit and vegetable snacks can also stimulate saliva flow, which contributes to cleaning.



Some find that using fluoride toothpaste guards against decay and boosts enamel strength. Others benefit from mouthwash with antibacterial agents that can target hidden spots.



Routine cleanings by an oral hygienist can spot early warning signs that home methods cannot address. Dentists can detect whether a particular lemon rinse or other technique is suitable.



Balanced diets and regular checkups remain fundamental steps toward a strong smile. Lemon water might enhance results, but it works best alongside proven strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-final-thoughts">Final thoughts</h2>



A lemon-based rinse may help remove light stains and reduce certain odor-causing bacteria. It fits into a broader plan of brushing, flossing, and paying attention to diet.



This approach should not replace professional care. Dentists remain the best resource when stubborn tartar calls for a deeper cleaning.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.ijahst.org/index.php/ijahst/article/view/402" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Journal of Advanced Health Science and Technology</a>.



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Say goodbye to stains and bad breath: the citrus drink that helps remove tartar and whitens teeth

Healthy smiles often require more than simply brushing and flossing....

Young,Amazed,Male,Kid,School,Boy,5-6,Years,Old,In

New research reveals that children as young as five already have the brain systems in place to support map-based navigation. For years, it’s been assumed that children don’t develop the brain systems for navigating large spaces - like towns or neighborhoods - until they’re around 12 years old.



But that idea may need some serious rethinking after this surprising discover from <a href="https://www.emory.edu/home/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emory University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-mental-maps-in-children">Studying mental maps in children</h2>



Using brain scans and a fun, virtual environment called “Tiny Town,” the scientists designed experiments to see whether young kids could mentally map a town and navigate its streets. 



The results showed that even five-year-olds were able to use the retrosplenial complex (RSC), a brain region involved in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-our-brains-build-mental-maps-of-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spatial navigation</a>, to get around a virtual world.



“While large-scale navigation abilities certainly continue to develop throughout childhood, our findings show that the underlying neural system is established remarkably early,” said Yaelan Jung, first author and postdoctoral fellow in Emory’s Department of Psychology.



“Rather than taking a decade or more, map-based navigation is underway in half that time,” noted Daniel Dilks, associate professor of psychology and senior author of the study.



“Five-year-olds have the brain system enabling them to find their way around a tiny, virtual town. They not only know that the ice cream store in the mountain region is different than the ice cream store in the lake region, they know how to navigate the streets to get to each of them.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-maps-in-the-brain">Building maps in the brain</h2>



Understanding how the brain helps us recognize places and navigate the world is a key focus for researchers. One major tool for exploring these questions is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-imaging-method-will-unravel-mysteries-of-neural-processes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">functional magnetic resonance imaging</a> (fMRI). This noninvasive technique tracks changes in blood flow in the brain to identify which regions are active during different tasks.



Previous research had shown that three areas in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-human-brain-processes-visual-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">visual cortex</a> specialize in handling scenes and navigation. The parahippocampal place area, or PPA, helps us recognize and categorize places. 



The retrosplenial complex, or RSC, allows us to map places within a larger space and figure out how to travel from one location to another. Meanwhile, the occipital place area, or OPA, helps us move through spaces without bumping into obstacles.



“Two fundamental questions in neuroscience are how knowledge is organized in the brain and the origins of that knowledge,” said Dilks. “In other words, what knowledge are you born with and how does knowledge develop as you grow?”



“We can’t fix most neurological problems right now. But by continuing to learn more about how the brain develops and functions normally, we keep moving closer to being able to repair it when something goes wrong.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-walking-is-harder-than-mapping">When walking is harder than mapping</h2>



Interestingly, the same research team previously found that the brain system responsible for helping kids walk around and avoid obstacles doesn’t mature until age 8.



“It seems counterintuitive,” says Dilks. “Most children can walk before the age of two. And yet the brain system helping you walk around your immediate surroundings doesn’t start appearing adultlike until relatively late.”



That puzzling timeline led the researchers to wonder if the brain might support more advanced map-like navigation skills in children earlier than previously thought. 



After all, children often experience the world through strollers, car rides, or being carried, helping them form <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-maps-help-the-brain-remember-places-and-paths/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental maps</a> even before they’re mobile themselves. To test this idea, the team designed a special experiment for five-year-olds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-welcome-to-tiny-town">Welcome to Tiny Town</h2>



The experiment began with a virtual environment called Neuralville, which featured eight buildings and a town square. However, the team soon realized it was too complex for young children. 



So, they simplified it, creating a triangular map called Tiny Town for the children to explore. Each corner of Tiny Town had a unique setting - a mountain, a tree, or a lake - to help kids orient themselves. 



The town had six buildings in total, including two each of fire stations, playgrounds, and ice cream stores. The goal was to make science approachable and fun for the kids.



“We want to get at the scientific questions that we’re trying to answer,” explained Jung, “but it’s also important that a child who participates in a study has a good time. We want them to leave with a good impression of science.”



The kids first explored Tiny Town on a computer, using arrow keys to “walk” through the streets. Then came the tests. Researchers showed them still images of buildings and asked if they had seen them before, or whether they were located in specific areas of the town.



Most of the children passed with ease. They then advanced to the next stage: learning how to stay still inside a brain scanner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turning-brain-scans-into-a-game">Turning brain scans into a game</h2>



To prepare the kids for the scanner, the research team turned the training into a playful challenge. An adult would yell “Freeze!” and the child had to stay perfectly still - just like in the real scanner.



“The kids loved it! They especially liked to freeze the adults in the room,” said Jung. “They’d point at one of us and say, ‘It’s your turn now!’”



The children were told that the scanner was like a camera, and that staying still was necessary to get a clear photo while they performed tasks inside. To make it cozy, they were given a pillow and blanket and told they’d be watching a movie in their own private theater.



Inside the scanner, kids were shown images from Tiny Town and asked to push a button if certain combinations were accurate - for example, matching a fire station with the correct landscape setting. They practiced this task beforehand in a mock scanner to feel comfortable.



The brain scans revealed something remarkable: the five-year-olds were using their RSC to navigate, just like adults do. The children were building maps in their minds and using them to figure out where things were located.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-forward-children-building-maps">Moving forward: Children building maps</h2>



Beyond the scientific insight, the experiment was a joy for everyone involved. “It was really fun to work with the children,” noted Jung. “I learned that the age of five is a magical time to scan a child. They don’t tend to be afraid of new things.”



The research team is now planning a new project involving toddlers. That’s proven to be a bit trickier.



“Between the ages of two and three, children basically don’t listen to you,” said Jung, who is also the mother of a three-year-old.



To help the toddlers feel comfortable, the researchers are experimenting with cardboard scanners, cartoons, and Cheerios. The ultimate goal is to understand how the brain’s navigation system grows from infancy to adulthood - and how it might differ in children with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/virtual-reality-will-unlock-mysteries-of-developmental-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">developmental conditions</a>.



“It’s fascinating to explore how humans use different parts of the brain for complex behaviors and how that changes with age and experiences,” said Jung. “We’re laying the groundwork for clinical applications, including getting a better understanding of typical versus atypical neural development.”



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2503569122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Children have the brainpower to navigate maps at a very young age

New research reveals that children as young as five already...

The rise of AI writing tools like ChatGPT has stirred up a mix of curiosity and concern in classrooms around the world. With a few clicks, anyone can generate an essay that sounds polished, coherent, and academically on-point. 



But as students, teachers, and institutions grapple with the implications, a key question emerges: can machines truly replicate the nuance of human thought on the page?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-ai-write-better-than-a-student">Can AI write better than a student?</h2>



A new study from the <a href="https://www.uea.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of East Anglia</a>, with a collaborator from <a href="https://www.jlu.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jilin University</a>, dives into that very question, comparing hundreds of essays written by students with ones produced by AI. 



They judged 145 student essays and the same number created by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chatgpts-carbon-footprint-is-astronomical-and-not-sustainable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ChatGPT</a>, scanning each for cues that invite a reader to engage.



The scientists hope the results will aid teachers and exam boards worldwide in flagging suspicious assignments. Software detectors still generate false positives, so human judgment remains vital.



By learning the discourse habits most students use, markers can notice when a script drops the personal edge that usually colors undergraduate prose. 



This knowledge supports fair grading and helps preserve academic integrity in classrooms already flooded with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gen-ai-and-social-media-divert-peoples-attention-from-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">generative AI tools</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-generative-ai-the-basics">Understanding generative AI - the basics</h2>



Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that creates new content - like text, images, music, or even video based on the data it’s trained on. 



Instead of just analyzing existing information, it actually produces fresh, and often unique, content by spotting patterns and mimicking how humans communicate or create. 



Tools like ChatGPT, <a href="https://www.claude.ai" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Claude</a>, and <a href="https://www.midjourney.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Midjourney</a> are popular examples. They take your input (like a prompt or question) and whip up something new in response, almost like collaborating with a super-speedy creative partner.



People use generative AI for all sorts of things - writing articles, generating code, designing logos, or brainstorming ideas. 



It’s shaking up academics and industries because it helps kids and adults alike work faster and explore more possibilities without starting from scratch every time. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-students-and-the-rise-of-ai">Students and the rise of AI</h2>



Professor Ken Hyland of UEA’s School of Education and Lifelong Learning voiced the worry driving the project. 



“Since its public release, ChatGPT has created considerable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-microbes-have-an-unexpected-link-to-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anxiety</a> among teachers worried that students will use it to write their assignments,” said Hyland, who warned of wider harm. 



“The fear is that ChatGPT and other AI writing tools potentially facilitate cheating and may weaken core <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/handwriting-practice-leads-to-better-literacy-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">literacy</a> and critical thinking skills. This is especially the case as we don't yet have tools to reliably detect AI-created texts.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-writing-is-less-engaging">AI writing is less engaging </h2>



The researchers searched for questions, personal asides, direct appeals, and other “engagement markers.” 



“We were particularly interested in looking at what we called 'engagement markers' like questions and personal commentary,” Hyland said.



“We found that the essays written by real students consistently featured a rich array of engagement strategies, making them more interactive and persuasive.” 



Human writers sprinkled their work with moments that addressed the reader, building a sense of dialogue.



“They were full of rhetorical questions, personal asides, and direct appeals to the reader - all techniques that enhance clarity, connection, and produce a strong argument.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-lacks-the-personal-touch">AI lacks the personal touch</h2>



“The ChatGPT essays, on the other hand, while linguistically fluent, were more impersonal. The AI essays mimicked academic writing conventions but they were unable to inject text with a personal touch or to demonstrate a clear stance,” Hayland explained. 



Without questions or vivid commentary, the machine output felt flat. “They tended to avoid questions and limited personal commentary. Overall, they were less engaging, less persuasive, and there was no strong perspective on a topic.”



“This reflects the nature of its training data and statistical learning methods, which prioritize coherence over conversational nuance,” noted Hyland.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-classroom-uses-not-shortcuts">Classroom uses, not shortcuts</h2>



Even so, the authors do not reject AI tools. They see them as potential tutors when used openly. 



“When students come to school, college or university, we're not just teaching them how to write, we're teaching them how to think - and that's something no <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-algorithms-can-increase-ocean-plastic-cleanup-efficiency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">algorithm</a> can replicate,” said Hyland.



The researchers urge teachers to design process‑based tasks that require drafts and reflection - steps no chatbot can provide. Training students to spot engagement markers, they add, will sharpen both writing and detection skills.



The study lands as detection software races to catch up with generative models. Commercial tools still stumble on hybrid texts that mix human and machine sentences. 



For now, stylistic clues give teachers a slim but useful edge, though the target may shift as AI absorbs more conversational cues.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-honest-student-voices">Preserving honest student voices</h2>



Coursework must remain proof of independent thought. If essays lose that role to AI, qualification systems wobble. 



By showing where AI still falters, the study offers data to shape new safeguards while keeping space for honest, imaginative student voices.



The authors place the project within a wider push for digital literacy. Students meet machine text in news feeds, search results, and chat apps long before they step into lecture halls. 



Teaching them to ask who wrote a sentence and why it was written is now central to education. Writing with a visible stance trains that habit. It also makes learners less willing to accept anonymous prose at face value.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/97952/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Written Communication</a>.



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Man vs. machine: Students competed against AI in a writing competition, the results may surprise you

The rise of AI writing tools like ChatGPT has stirred...

Close-up,Of,A,Young,Woman,Blowing,Nose,With,Tissue,Paper

A new artificial intelligence (AI) system can now separately identify fir, spruce, and pine pollen in seconds. The achievement promises cleaner city design, sharper allergy alerts, and deeper insight into ecological change.



The project was led by experts at the <a href="https://www.uta.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Texas at Arlington</a>, the University of Nevada, and Virginia Tech. Working together, the scientists trained nine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-could-revolutionize-drug-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">machine learning</a> models on microscope images held at the University of Nevada’s <a href="https://www.unr.edu/natural-history" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Museum of Natural History</a>. 



The best algorithm outpaced human specialists in both speed and precision. It did so while still relying on expert‑prepared slides and careful ecological context.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-provides-sharp-data-on-pollen">AI provides sharp data on pollen</h2>



“With more detailed data on which tree species are most allergenic and when they release <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollen-alters-cloud-formation-and-changes-weather-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollen</a>, urban planners can make smarter decisions about what to plant and where,” said study co‑author Behnaz Balmaki, an assistant professor of research in biology at UTA.



Better planting choices can lower the pollen burden near schoolyards, hospital entrances, playgrounds, and high‑density housing. The same data can feed real‑time dashboards that warn residents ahead of high‑pollen days.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-offers-timely-pollen-health-alerts">AI offers timely pollen health alerts</h2>



“This is especially important in high‑traffic areas like schools, hospitals, parks and neighborhoods. Health services could also use this information to better time <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-making-allergy-season-worse-and-longer-lasting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">allergy</a> alerts, public health messaging, and treatment recommendations during peak pollen seasons,” Balmaki said.



Many current forecasts lump all tree pollen together. The new model can flag which species spike on which day. That detail lets doctors adjust advice and lets patients fine‑tune medication schedules.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-windows-into-past-climates"><a></a>Windows into past climates</h2>



Pollen grains preserved in lake mud and peat bogs provide a time‑stamped record of earlier landscapes. By identifying each grain, researchers track how forests moved as rainfall and temperature shifted. Until now, the work was often slow and limited to broad plant families. AI can cut that bottleneck and it begins with pollen.



“Even with high‑resolution microscopes, the differences between pollens are very subtle,” Balmaki noted. That subtlety forced specialists to spend hours at the eyepiece. In large sediment cores, millions of grains wait for classification.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-learning-speeds-the-count"><a></a>Deep learning speeds the count</h2>



“Our study shows deep‑learning tools can significantly enhance the speed and accuracy of pollen classification,” Balmaki said.



“That opens the door to large‑scale environmental monitoring and more detailed reconstructions of ecological change. It also holds promise for improving allergen tracking by identifying exactly which species are releasing pollen and when.”



Automated pipelines could soon scan thousands of slides and upload results to open databases. That will give climatologists a sharper map of past <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-extreme-weather-events-are-escalating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">droughts</a>, heat waves, and recovery phases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-for-farm-and-field"><a></a>Benefits for farm and field</h2>



“Pollen is a strong indicator of ecosystem health,” Balmaki said. Plants that drop less pollen than normal may signal water stress or soil decline. Farmers who watch those shifts gain an early warning about crop risk years before yields drop.



“Shifts in pollen composition can signal changes in vegetation, moisture levels, and even past fire activity. Farmers could use this information to track long‑term environmental trends that affect crop viability, soil conditions, or regional climate patterns.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-pollinators-with-technology">Protecting pollinators with technology </h2>



Healthy meadows rely on bees, butterflies, and other insects that depend on exact bloom times. As Balmaki put it, “many animals, including insects like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bees-do-not-learn-to-be-cooperative-it-is-in-their-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> and butterflies, rely on specific plants for food and habitat.” 



If certain pollen types disappear, conservation teams know which wildflower patches need rescue due to the latest AI technology.



“By identifying which plant species are present or declining in an area, we can better understand how these changes impact the entire food web and take steps to protect critical relationships between plants and pollinators.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-pollen-with-ai-models">Testing pollen with AI models</h2>



The researchers scanned vintage fir, spruce, and pine grains dating back decades. Each algorithm learned minute ridge patterns and pore counts that mark one conifer from another. The top model flagged correct IDs at rates that rival seasoned palynologists.



“This shows that deep learning can successfully support and even exceed traditional identification methods in both speed and accuracy,” Balmaki said.



Still, glass slides must be spotless, and labels must remain clear. The team stresses that people and machines work best together.



“But it also confirms how essential human expertise still is. You need well‑prepared samples and a strong understanding of ecological context. This isn’t just about machines - it’s a collaboration between technology and science,” he added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-resilient-cities-and-landscapes">More resilient cities and landscapes</h2>



The group will now feed images from oaks, maples, grasses, and weeds into the network. With AI, a national atlas of species‑specific pollen bursts could emerge within a few years. Scientists could chart vegetation shifts after <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-hurricanes-help-oceans-fight-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricanes</a>, track drought damage, or study warming trends that push southern trees northward.



The fusion of AI and classical botany offers more than scientific speed. It equips city planners with plant lists that cut respiratory distress. It hands growers a living gauge of soil and climate change. It gives ecologists a microscope that never tires.



As pollen seasons lengthen in a warming world, such precision tools will matter. The research marks a step toward a future where every grain of pollen tells its story quickly and clearly, helping people breathe easier and guiding smarter stewardship of plants and the land.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/big-data/articles/10.3389/fdata.2025.1507036/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Big Data</a>.



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AI is transforming pollen science and health planning

A new artificial intelligence (AI) system can now separately identify...

Modern life keeps most of us moving fast but exercising less. While we hustle between screens, meetings, and chores, our bodies slow down - and our brains might be doing the same. 



In recent years, researchers have explored how small changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-in-a-pill-is-now-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">daily movement</a> could produce large shifts in overall health. And now, evidence is building that even modest physical activity might shield our most important organ: the brain.



The idea that fitness and cognitive well-being are deeply connected is not new. But how little effort it takes to unlock those benefits might surprise you.



In Norway, this concept has sparked national interest thanks to a team of researchers who made headlines with a fresh approach to exercise - and now, a powerful case for its brain-boosting potential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tiny-workouts-boost-body-and-brain">Tiny workouts boost body and brain</h2>



Earlier this year, Ulrik Wisløff and Atefe R. Tari of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (<a href="https://www.ntnu.edu">NTNU</a>) published a book titled Microtraining – 7 weeks to boost fitness and strength. 



Its release drew attention to a simple, research-backed idea: even small bursts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-reduces-the-risk-of-brain-diseases-by-up-to-54-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical activity</a> can create substantial gains in strength and endurance.



The same researchers, collaborating with the <a href="https://qbi.uq.edu.au">Queensland Brain Institute</a> in Australia, have now expanded their scope. Their new study, published in The Lancet, focuses on brain health. It asks a compelling question - how does being physically active affect the aging brain?



The answer is promising: it doesn’t take much movement to help your brain age more gracefully.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intense-exercises-improve-brain-health">Intense exercises improve brain health</h2>



The study reveals that even short bouts of high-intensity exercise can influence brain health positively. These findings support growing calls for public health policies that place more emphasis on movement, regardless of duration.



“Exercise is not only important for the heart, but also for the brain. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-significantly-lowers-heart-disease-risk-by-reducing-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical activity</a> appears to be one of the most promising measures we have to prevent cognitive decline and dementia,” Tari said.



The review highlights how fitness, especially endurance training, may delay or reduce the risk of dementia. For an aging population with rising rates of cognitive disease, this insight is not just useful - it’s urgent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-exercise-affects-the-brain">How exercise affects the brain</h2>



The team reviewed data from both animal and human studies to uncover how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-doses-of-exercise-can-greatly-reduce-dementia-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical activity</a> influences biological processes in the brain. 



As we age, inflammation increases, blood flow slows, immune functions weaken, and brain plasticity declines. These changes make the brain more vulnerable to neurodegenerative conditions like dementia.



“These are mechanisms that play an important role in the development of dementia and cognitive decline,” Tari explained.



The good news? Exercise seems to slow or even reverse many of these age-related changes. 



The body releases protective molecules during physical activity that enhance brain repair and communication. This is particularly important as aging cells lose their natural ability to maintain cognitive function.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microtraining-as-a-health-strategy">Microtraining as a health strategy</h2>



Wisløff and Tari belong to the Cardiac Exercise Research Group (<a href="https://www.ntnu.edu/cerg">CERG</a>) at NTNU. They have long advocated for microtraining, a practice that involves brief but intense periods of movement. 



Instead of long sessions at the gym, microtraining weaves exercise into daily life. For example, walking briskly up stairs or doing short sprints at home.



This approach could make fitness more accessible. Current public <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fitness-focused-medicine-physical-activity-reduces-chronic-disease-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a> guidelines suggest at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of high-intensity effort each week. But many people struggle to meet those targets.



“Fully 50 to 70 percent of the population does not manage today’s activity recommendations,” Wisløff said.



The researchers argue that it’s time to rethink these benchmarks. The real barrier may not be ability or awareness - it’s how the message is framed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-less-time-more-intensity">Less time, more intensity</h2>



The review makes it clear: the key lies not in how long you move, but how hard. Even small doses of high-intensity movement offer measurable brain benefits.



“We believe it’s time for health authorities to provide clearer advice on how important exercise is for the brain. Our review shows that even small doses of high-intensity activity - equivalent to brisk walking where you can’t sing - can reduce the risk of dementia by up to 40 percent,” Wisløff said.



This redefinition of what counts as exercise could transform the way individuals and policymakers think about fitness. It doesn’t require a gym membership or hours of free time. Just commitment - and perhaps a bit of breathlessness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-and-brain-health">Exercise and brain health</h2>



The Norwegian findings are not alone. In a January commentary in Nature Medicine, American researchers echoed the call for updated guidelines. 



They, too, emphasized the value of even brief, intense activities. Together, these voices challenge the idea that fitness must be time-consuming to be worthwhile.



“Today’s recommendations emphasize total activity, but we show that even small amounts of high intensity exercise have an effect on the brain. This should be communicated more clearly - it may be what motivates people to get started. A little is better than nothing - and it’s never too late to start,” said Tari.



Public messaging around health often focuses on long-term, high-effort goals. But this research suggests that the road to better brain health might begin with much smaller steps.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-the-brain-with-exercise">Protecting the brain with exercise </h2>



As populations live longer, dementia and cognitive decline are becoming some of the most pressing public health challenges of our time. With no effective cure yet available, prevention stands as the strongest defense. That’s where movement comes in.



“Exercise is cheap, accessible and has no side effects. It should be considered a first-line measure to preserve brain health,” Tari said.



The simplicity of this solution makes it powerful. By replacing inactivity with brief but regular bursts of movement, individuals can protect not just their bodies - but their minds.



And in doing so, they embrace a form of healthcare that begins with the smallest of steps.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(25)00184-9/abstract" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Lancet</a>.



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Small bursts of intense exercise can slow brain aging

Modern life keeps most of us moving fast but exercising...

Mental health issues like insomnia, depression, and anxiety affect millions, yet their causes remain unclear. These conditions deeply impact sleep, mood, and thinking - and they often occur together.



Someone may face insomnia in youth, anxiety later, and depression afterward. Others experience all three at once. Treatments often offer only temporary relief. Symptoms return, and responses to medication vary. This shows a deeper problem in how we approach <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/put-the-phone-down-screen-use-in-bed-linked-to-insomnia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overlapping-mental-health-disorders">Overlapping mental health disorders </h2>



Scientists now believe that brain function, not just behavior, holds the key. A new study by experts at the <a href="https://nin.nl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience</a> explores this idea. The analysis was focused on the brain’s role in these overlapping mental health disorders.



"Insomnia disorder, major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions, often co-occurring and sharing genetic risk factors, suggesting possible common brain mechanisms," noted the researchers.



Siemon de Lange, Elleke Tissink, and Eus van Someren worked with experts at Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam.



The team analyzed brain scans from over 40,000 people in the UK Biobank. Instead of studying genes, they used imaging to find both shared and unique brain patterns.



“In our lab, we explore the similarities and differences between insomnia, anxiety, and depression. Everyone looks at this from a different perspective: some mainly look at genetics and in this study, we look at brain scans,” explained Tissink.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insomnia-depression-and-anxiety">Insomnia, depression, and anxiety </h2>



The research team examined several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strength-training-may-be-the-best-exercise-for-insomnia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a> features, such as tissue structure and connectivity. 



Their findings show that people with any of these three disorders commonly exhibit reduced surface area in the cerebral cortex, smaller thalamic volumes, and weaker connections between different brain regions.



This is significant because these brain characteristics could reflect how symptoms develop and persist. 



The shared features support the idea that these disorders might stem from related underlying problems in brain function and development. Recognizing these links is crucial for future treatments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-each-disorder-shows-distinct-brain-patterns">Each disorder shows distinct brain patterns</h2>



Despite the overlap, each disorder shows distinct brain patterns. In insomnia, reduced volume in brain regions tied to reward <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-quality-could-be-the-key-to-better-metabolic-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">processing</a> is more evident. This might explain why people with insomnia often lose interest or motivation.



For depression, a thinner cerebral cortex - especially in areas linked to language and emotion - plays a stronger role. This may contribute to the emotional numbness or difficulty in expression often experienced by those with depression.



Anxiety stands out through reduced reactivity in the amygdala and weakened functional connectivity in regions rich in dopamine, glutamate, and histamine. These chemical messengers help regulate mood, attention, and stress response, making their disruption crucial in understanding anxiety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-health-disorders-share-a-circuit">Mental health disorders share a circuit</h2>



“The regions seem separate from each other, but when you map them out together, they all turn out to be part of the same circuit (amygdala–hippocampus–medial prefrontal cortex circuit). So, even though they are distinct areas, they all appear to represent different pieces of vulnerability within the same puzzle,” said Tissink.



This insight points to a shared vulnerability <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-sleep-patterns-affect-your-health-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">circuit</a>. Understanding this interconnected network could change how treatment is approached. 



Instead of addressing each disorder in isolation, therapies could target this broader brain circuit, potentially easing multiple symptoms at once.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underestimated-role-of-insomnia">Underestimated role of insomnia</h2>



Tissink noted that insomnia is often left out of discussions around mental health overlap.



“A lot of research has been done on the overlap between anxiety and depression, but insomnia is often forgotten. This is the first time that we have investigated all three disorders at the same time, on such a big scale," explained Tissink.



The study emphasizes how often people experience these disorders together - sometimes one after another, sometimes all at once. 



Understanding how they connect and interact might explain why treatment for one often helps with another. For example, treating insomnia can also lessen depressive symptoms, but the reason behind this is still unclear.



By focusing on the brain’s structure and function, this research opens new paths. It may lead to better, more holistic treatments and prompt more studies that look at mental health from a whole-brain perspective, rather than dividing it by symptoms.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44220-025-00412-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Mental Health</a>.



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Three common mental health disorders share a single brain circuit

Mental health issues like insomnia, depression, and anxiety affect millions,...

In a world filled with advice about how to stay sharp, a large-scale study has highlighted ways to protect your brain health, reducing the likelihood of suffering a stroke, dementia, and depression. 



This new research identified 17 factors, ranging from social connections to blood pressure, that can make a meaningful difference.



<a href="https://researchers.mgh.harvard.edu/profile/17341069/Sanjula-Singh" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Sanjula Singh</a>, a principal investigator at the <a href="https://www.cerebrovascularhealth.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brain Care Labs</a> at Massachusetts General Hospital, and the lead author of the study, said the conditions are often linked by changes in small blood vessels. 



Addressing the right elements helps to prevent multiple problems from arising at once, or at least slow their course.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-these-three-conditions-overlap">Why these three conditions overlap</h2>



Researchers note that at least 60 percent of strokes, 40 percent of dementia cases, and 35 percent of late-life depression could be prevented or slowed by controlling certain factors. 



These include high blood pressure, high body mass index, high blood sugar, high total cholesterol, and several lifestyle patterns. Experts suggest that being proactive may keep the mind and body on steadier ground.



“Those are striking numbers. If you can really optimize the lifestyle pieces or the modifiable pieces, then you’re at such a higher likelihood of living life without disability,” said <a href="https://www.mcleanhospital.org/profile/stephanie-collier" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Stephanie Collier</a>, director of education in the division of geriatric psychiatry at <a href="https://www.mcleanhospital.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McLean Hospital</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seventeen-protective-and-harmful-factors">Seventeen protective and harmful factors</h2>



<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-01391-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The study outlined protective elements</a>, including cognitive activity, moderate or high physical activity, a sense of purpose, low to moderate alcohol intake, a large social network, and a diet with more vegetables and fish. 



It also identified harmful factors, such as pain that disrupts daily life, kidney disease, hearing loss, loneliness, stress, long or poor sleep, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quitting-smoking-at-any-age-brings-big-and-immediate-health-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smoking history</a>. Additional concerns are dietary choices like excess sugar and red meat.



“If you’re starting to work on one of them, very often you’re actually improving multiple at the same time,” Dr. Singh said. 



Researchers emphasize that this list is more like a set of options rather than a rigid plan. Focusing on just one or two aspects is a good strategy when you need to gain momentum.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-about-sleep-and-pain">What about sleep and pain?</h2>



Two factors that often get overlooked are chronic pain and sleep disturbances. Both have strong links to brain health and can quietly chip away at resilience over time.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-prepares-the-brain-for-the-future-while-protecting-memories-of-the-past/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sleep issues</a> like insomnia or sleeping <a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/oversleeping-bad-for-your-health" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more than eight hours</a> a night were tied to a higher risk for all three brain conditions. 



Persistent pain, especially when it limits daily activity, can have a compounding effect on mental and emotional well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-steps-with-big-returns">Small steps with big returns</h2>



Among the group of risk factors, high blood pressure stands out. One <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7005583/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> found that bringing blood pressure down significantly lowered dementia risk. 



Specialists suggest trimming salt, fitting in activity like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/walk-20-minutes-daily-to-boost-your-brain-power/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brisk walks</a>, and managing weight to improve readings. Medications can also be helpful when aging arteries make lifestyle shifts less effective.



Physical activity carries strong benefits, and reduces both stroke and dementia risks. Mental challenges such as doing puzzles or learning new skills also help. 



A bustling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-activity-may-delay-the-onset-of-dementia-by-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social life</a> is beneficial for similar reasons, and combining these actions can give you more advantages in a shorter time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advice-from-experts">Advice from experts</h2>



Dr. Collier recommends building habits early. She said the right moment to begin changes is generally not during older age - it’s while a person is still middle aged. 



Clinicians also stress that it’s never too late to take action if you missed that window. Even simple efforts, like lowering intake of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-average-american-consumes-80-pounds-of-sugar-per-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sugar-sweetened</a> drinks or getting consistent bedtime routines, might head off trouble down the road.



Some people with a genetic predisposition to health issues assume there’s not much they can do. Researchers caution against that view. 



Keeping track of blood pressure, nurturing friendships, and limiting stress show promise at any point in life, even for those with a family history of brain concerns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-final-thoughts">Final thoughts</h2>



This study underlines a crucial message: many aspects of everyday life can influence the future of our minds. By tackling one or two changes at a time, you might reduce the threat of serious conditions and maintain a healthier outlook.



The study is published in the <a href="https://jnnp.bmj.com/content/early/2025/03/21/jnnp-2024-334925" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery &amp; Psychiatry</a>.



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The 17 best strategies to protect your brain from stroke, dementia, and depression, according to science

In a world filled with advice about how to stay...

Children’s first encounters with math usually happen at the breakfast table or on the playground, not in a classroom. Developmental scientists have long known that these everyday experiences - like counting blocks or footsteps to the front door - nurture an intuitive sense of quantity.



According to a comprehensive report, a strong “number sense” builds arithmetic fluency, which later supports success in algebra, geometry, and adult earnings. 



Yet the route from cereal-box counting to fluent calculation has been hotly debated: Should teachers focus on memorizing multiplication tables, or on fostering deeper conceptual reasoning? The new review concludes that the debate sets up a false choice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-framework-for-learning-math">New framework for learning math</h2>



Drawing on behavioral experiments, longitudinal research, neuroimaging data, and classroom design studies, the researchers propose a three-stage cycle in which facts and concepts reinforce one another.



They believe fluency starts with understanding, improves with timed practice, and deepens through reflection and discussion.



“We want to be clear: Educators don’t have to choose between timed practice and rich classroom discussions," said study lead author Nicole McNeil of the <a href="https://www.nd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Notre Dame</a>.



"A carefully structured approach - pairing brief, timed sessions that strengthen facts in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-our-brain-form-long-term-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a> with purposeful reasoning and discussion activities that weave those facts into an integrated knowledge network - gives students the fluency they need to succeed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-shifts-with-practice">Brain shifts with practice</h2>



The researchers frame math learning as a dynamic movement between two knowledge states. Young children start with implicit insights: they can combine two sets of crackers and anticipate a larger pile without articulating why.



Over time, guided instruction turns these hunches into explicit strategies, such as “counting on from the bigger number” or recognizing that addition is commutative. 



With continued, targeted practice - ideally in short, carefully timed bursts - these explicit strategies become automatic, freeing up mental resources for higher-level problem solving.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-imaging-method-will-unravel-mysteries-of-neural-processes/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neuroimaging</a> studies cited in the report reveal that as this process unfolds, brain activation patterns begin to shift. Brain activity shifts from effortful reasoning to rapid recall, reflecting the child’s move from counting slowly to instant retrieval.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-more-math-wars">No more math wars</h2>



Because fluency develops through intertwined conceptual and procedural growth, the authors argue, classroom instruction should regularly cycle between the two. 



Early progress monitoring is recommended to spot gaps in mental number representations. Explicit teaching of thinking strategies, such as making tens, can help address those gaps. 



The research team also suggests using retrieval exercises designed to be brief enough to encourage speed only after accuracy has been achieved.



Each timed practice session should end with group discussion where students explain methods and link facts to broader ideas. This “explain–practice–explain” rhythm avoids the pitfalls of rote memorization while ensuring that knowledge can be deployed automatically when needed, noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-math-skills-shape-futures">Math skills shape futures</h2>



The paper’s authors and an <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epub/10.1177/15291006251326581" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">accompanying commentary</a> by Melissa E. Libertus of the <a href="https://www.pitt.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pittsburgh</a> highlight the practical stakes. 



Students who leave elementary school fluent in arithmetic adapt more readily to algebraic symbolism, grasp fraction magnitudes more accurately, and solve multi-step word problems more efficiently.



Longitudinal data link early math skills to later academic attainment and even adult income. The experts argue that arithmetic fluency is essential in today’s data-driven world - just as important as reading.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-training-teachers-with-research">Training teachers with research</h2>



Despite the strong evidence base, many teacher-preparation programs devote limited time to the cognitive science of math <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-our-brains-neurons-make-and-retrieve-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a>. The researchers call for more explicit coursework that helps future educators evaluate instructional materials through the lens of learning research.



Digital tutoring systems and adaptive practice apps can help - but only when educators integrate them into conceptual discussions and reflective reasoning. 



Future research should explore how parents’ math anxiety affects children and how digital tools can personalize practice while preserving depth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-classroom-model">A new classroom model</h2>



The report arrives at a moment when timed tests and “math wars” rhetoric still spark controversy. Speed and understanding aren’t opposing goals - they build on each other in a well-designed learning process.



By letting children’s initial intuitions surface, honing them through targeted practice, and weaving them back into rich conceptual networks, educators can cultivate the kind of fluency that supports future math learning. This fluency also aids in real-world problem solving.



The science of learning, the authors argue, shows that arithmetic proficiency is built not on memorization alone and not on exploration alone, but on a deliberate interplay of the two. This is proof that, in mathematics as in many areas of education, balance and evidence go hand in hand.



Nancy Jordan of the <a href="https://www.udel.edu/">University of Delaware</a>, Alexandria Viegut of the <a href="https://www.uwec.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire</a>, and Daniel Ansari of <a href="https://www.uwo.ca/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Western University</a> are co-authors of the study.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/15291006241287726">Psychological Science in the Public Interest</a>.



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Scientists discover a better way for kids to learn math

Children’s first encounters with math usually happen at the breakfast...

The Haenyeo of South Korea’s southern coast continue a centuries-old tradition that sets them apart. These remarkable women - free divers of Jeju Island - plunge into the sea without oxygen tanks to collect abalone, seaweed, and other marine life.



Often in their 60s or 70s, they dive year-round, even in winter, sometimes to depths of 60 feet. Their way of life is disappearing, but new research suggests their legacy may stretch far beyond tradition - it might help unlock new insights into human health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-genes-in-extreme-divers">Unique genes in extreme divers</h2>



Scientists from the <a href="https://healthcare.utah.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Utah Health</a> and UCLA have studied the Haenyeo to understand how they handle the extreme physical stress of deep diving.



The findings reveal unique genetic features that could help <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-gold-the-vitamin-packed-fruit-that-regulates-blood-sugar-and-blood-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regulate blood pressure</a> and improve pain tolerance.



These traits may not only explain how the Haenyeo endure their harsh environment but also offer promising leads for treating blood pressure-related disorders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-haenyeo-advantage">The Haenyeo advantage</h2>



The study began with a simple question: Do the Haenyeo have a biological edge that helps them survive repeated dives into cold, deep waters? 



Researchers looked at their heart rate and blood pressure during simulated dives, then sequenced their DNA. What they found were two genetic variants potentially tied to diving-related stress.



“They’re absolutely extraordinary women,” said Melissa Ilardo, an assistant professor of biomedical informatics at the University of Utah Health. 



“Every day, they head out and get in the water, and that’s where they work all day. I saw women over 80 diving off a boat before it even stopped moving.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-divers-with-protective-genes">Divers with protective genes</h2>



One of the most significant findings was a genetic change linked to lower blood pressure during dives. This change was more than four times as common in the Haenyeo compared to mainland Koreans. 



Lowering blood pressure while diving may help protect them - and their unborn children - during pregnancy. While the dangers of breath-holding are well-known in other situations, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-apnea-may-lead-to-worse-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep apnea</a>, the researchers believe diving poses a unique challenge.



“This is not something that every human or every woman is able to do,” said Diana Aguilar-Gómez, a postdoctoral researcher in evolutionary biology at UCLA. “It’s kind of like they have a superpower.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tolerance-for-the-cold">Tolerance for the cold</h2>



The second genetic difference relates to pain sensitivity, particularly to cold. Jeju Island winters can bring air temperatures close to freezing, yet the Haenyeo dive regardless of the chill.



“I asked them once if they would stop diving if it got cold enough. They said that as long as the wind alarm doesn’t go off, they’ll still get in the water," noted Ilardo. “The wind alarm is to keep them from blowing out to sea.”



Although the researchers didn’t measure the women’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cold-plunges-may-keep-you-feeling-alive-and-healthy-longer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cold tolerance</a> directly, the team suspects this gene may play a role in how the Haenyeo manage to dive year-round. 



Future studies will look deeper into this genetic marker and what it might mean for pain management in colder climates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-experience-still-matters">Experience still matters</h2>



Genes alone don’t tell the whole story. Diving changes the body over time, and the Haenyeo show this through their powerful reflexes. 



When anyone submerges underwater, the body slows the heart to conserve oxygen. In untrained individuals, the heart rate drops by about 20 beats per minute during a simulated dive. For the Haenyeo, this drop is nearly double.



This physiological adaptation likely comes from decades of diving, a skill that’s as much about muscle memory and discipline as it is about biology. 



The team found that even people from Jeju Island who weren’t Haenyeo had a weaker version of this reflex, suggesting the full benefit comes only with practice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-beyond-the-island">Looking beyond the island</h2>



One of the most exciting possibilities is that these findings might help others. The genetic trait linked to lower blood pressure could aid in managing conditions like hypertension and stroke. 



Jeju Island already has one of the lowest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dramatic-temperature-changes-linked-to-half-a-million-stroke-deaths/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stroke mortality rates</a> in South Korea. The researchers wonder if the same genes found in the Haenyeo divers might be partly responsible.



“If there’s something about it that actually reduces the risk of stroke mortality, then we could help people everywhere by understanding what’s special about these women," said Ilardo.



While the Haenyeo’s way of life may be fading, their legacy might shape how we think about heart health for generations to come.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(25)00348-1?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2211124725003481%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Reports</a>.



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Legendary divers in Korea have inherited 'superhuman' genes

The Haenyeo of South Korea’s southern coast continue a centuries-old...

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential for many body functions. These nutrients help keep our eyes, brains, and hearts in good shape. However, experts warn that omega-3 deficiency is on the rise in many places.



“This has serious and widespread health <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/defying-time-three-ways-to-slow-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">implications</a>,” said Timothy Ciesielski, a research scientist in the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences at <a href="https://case.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Case Western Reserve University</a>’s School of Medicine. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-omega-3-matters">Why omega-3 matters</h2>



Many medical studies suggest that getting enough omega-3 can support cardiovascular health and reduce certain chronic issues. Research also points to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/omega-3-and-omega-6-fatty-acids-may-reduce-cancer-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential benefits</a> for mood and cognitive functions in adults.



These fatty acids help cells perform their tasks, especially in the brain. Without them, key processes can suffer, which could affect memory, vision, and other important functions.



A balanced diet once gave humans enough of these nutrients. Modern eating patterns are often packed with foods that push aside healthy fats and upset the body’s balance of <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7990530/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">omega-6</a> and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29350557/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">omega-3</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-omega-3-deficiency-affects-most-people">Omega-3 deficiency affects most people</h2>



“Our current food systems are not providing enough uncontaminated omega-3,” said Ciesielski. 



A recent <a href="https://www.ajpmfocus.org/article/S2773-0654(25)00029-X/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analysis</a> led by Ciesielski found that 85% of populations studied lack <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-power-of-fish-oil-in-combating-high-cholesterol/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adequate</a> omega-3, partly because of rising ocean temperatures, pollution, and heavy fishing. 



Higher ocean temperatures alter certain marine organisms, leading to fewer beneficial fats in fish. Growing concerns about overharvesting seal the deal for many coastal communities that once relied on healthy catches.



Pollutants in rivers and seas also pose a threat. When fish carry toxins, people miss out on a clean source of omega-3, and producers often scale back fishing to address safety worries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-climate-change-makes-it-worse">How climate change makes it worse</h2>



Rising ocean temperatures are already lowering the amount of omega-3 that marine life produces. As algae adapt to warmer waters, they reduce the fats in their cells, which means fewer omega-3s move up the food chain into fish.



This process, called <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/homeoviscous-adaptation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">homeoviscous adaptation</a>, is driven purely by temperature. Add ocean acidification and overfishing to the mix, and we’re facing a future with even less omega-3 in our diets unless major changes are made.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fighting-omega-3-deficiency">Fighting omega-3 deficiency</h2>



Some regions still manage to maintain better levels of these fatty acids by focusing on ocean-based diets. They also protect their waters and wildlife, which can help preserve fish stocks in the long run.



Experts suggest that balancing omega-6 and omega-3 in the diet is crucial for minimizing health risks. That means dialing down on foods with higher omega-6 and boosting intake of fish, plants, or supplements rich in omega-3.



Scientists also encourage strong pollution controls to help keep marine foods safer. Such measures may improve trust in fish-based diets and give people the confidence to eat these sources of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-are-suffering-from-declining-plant-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy fats</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-ways-to-move-forward">New ways to move forward</h2>



“Everyone should have the right to uncontaminated omega-3s in their diet,” said Ciesielski. Public health officials believe that ocean protection and mindful fishing can help.&nbsp;



Alternate sources like <a href="https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/common-purslane-portulaca-oleracea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">purslane</a> can offer plant-based long-chain omega-3 for communities without enough fish. This type of solution could also remove the problem of mercury or other contaminants that come from polluted waters.



Some experts see a need for global cooperation to ensure fair distribution of fish and other marine resources. Strengthening agreements on fishing quotas might help keep supply levels stable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-supplements-aren-t-enough">Why supplements aren’t enough</h2>



While omega-3 supplements are widely available in pharmacies and grocery stores, they aren't a full solution. Most people in low- and middle-income countries can’t access or afford high-quality supplements regularly.



Even when supplements are available, many contain <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10307983/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxidized fats</a> or trace contaminants that reduce their effectiveness.⁶ This makes food-based solutions not only more practical but also safer for long-term health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-omega-3-deficiency">Reducing omega-3 deficiency</h2>



Smarter farming practices and innovative aquaculture approaches might also bridge the gap. Researchers say that if we reduce omega-6 in processed foods, people will have more room for omega-3 from local and international sources.



Consumers can push for better product labeling, so they know exactly what they’re getting. Educating the public about safe fish consumption and sustainable fishing methods may also help preserve the supply.



Some nutrition experts argue that if more people realize how crucial these nutrients are, governments might adjust policies in favor of cleaner seas. The bigger goal is to make sure no one is left behind.



Omega-3 deficiency goes beyond a single nation. It touches food systems, environmental health, and social fairness all at once.



Many experts hope that practical changes and renewed focus will lead to better omega-3 access for everyone.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.ajpmfocus.org/article/S2773-0654(25)00029-X/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AJPM Focus</a>.



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Why omega-3 deficiency is rising worldwide

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential for many body functions....

Parents,Lie,On,The,Couch,And,Father,Read,A,Book

Humanity has spent the last century wrestling with population growth. For decades, global efforts focused on reducing fertility rates to curb overpopulation. Family planning, access to contraception, and changing social norms contributed to a steep decline in births. 



The global total fertility rate (TFR) dropped from 5.3 in the 1960s to 2.3 by 2023. Today, however, we face a paradox. Instead of a crowded future, scientists are now warning of potential collapse - not from too many people, but too few.



A recent study, published in the journal PLOS One, shifts the narrative again. Led by Takuya Okabe of <a href="https://www.shizuoka.ac.jp/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shizuoka University</a> and colleagues, the research argues that the widely accepted replacement rate of 2.1 children per woman is too low to guarantee long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/resveratrol-may-boost-female-fertility-naturally/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival</a>.



The analysis suggests a more realistic number is 2.7. This higher threshold takes into account the unpredictable forces that shape real-world populations - forces that statistics alone often overlook.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-2-1-isn-t-enough-anymore">Why 2.1 isn’t enough anymore</h2>



The replacement fertility rate of 2.1 assumes a stable world. It expects low child mortality, equal numbers of boys and girls, and large, steady <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-fertility-rates-are-quickly-declining-and-little-is-being-done-about-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a>. These assumptions work in clean models, but reality is messier. 



People don’t always have two children. Some have none. Some die before reproducing. And in small populations, such random variation - called demographic stochasticity - can wipe out entire family lines.



Okabe and his team developed mathematical models to test what happens over generations when these fluctuations are included. They simulated populations using a branching process, a tool commonly used in population ecology. 



Each woman could have any number of children, following a Poisson distribution, and not all offspring would survive. These models revealed that unless the average number of children reaches 2.7, the risk of extinction remains high over time.



In short, the study calls for a reevaluation of what sustainability truly means. The average isn’t enough if too many fall below it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-fertility-rate-may-erase-family-lines">Low fertility rate may erase family lines</h2>



The consequences aren’t only theoretical. Even in large countries with millions of people, most family lineages will eventually disappear if the fertility rate remains below 2.7. 



This has profound implications for identity, heritage, and cultural memory. Your surname, your traditions, your family stories - without enough descendants, all of it vanishes with time.



“Considering stochasticity in fertility and mortality rates, and sex ratios,” said Diane Carmeliza N. Cuaresma. “A fertility rate higher than the standard replacement level is necessary to ensure sustainability of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-semen-quality-signifies-more-than-just-fertility-problems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">population</a>.”



Extinction here doesn’t mean the end of humanity in one dramatic event. Rather, it means the quiet fading away of individual histories, surnames, and ancestral lines. 



It’s an erosion of human diversity, invisible until it's too late to reverse. This applies not only to families, but to the world’s languages and cultures.



At least 40% of the 6,700 spoken languages are predicted to vanish in the next century. Each lost language takes with it stories, songs, and spiritual beliefs that no data set can replace.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fertility-rate-is-dropping-across-the-world">Fertility rate is dropping across the world</h2>



While global population numbers still rise, the future looks different depending on where you live. Two-thirds of the world’s people now reside in countries with fertility rates below the 2.1 mark. 



In Japan, the rate is 1.3. In South Korea, it has dropped as low as 0.87. Even in the United States, it's only 1.66. These numbers suggest slow decline, but the reality may be steeper.



Japan’s population, for example, is projected to shrink by 31% every generation if current trends continue. This decline is compounded by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-and-traffic-noise-increase-risk-of-infertility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging</a>, as fewer young people are born to support older ones. 



Policies in countries like France and Singapore attempt to raise birth rates through incentives, but they’ve seen only modest results.



Modern life comes with trade-offs. Education and careers delay parenthood. Housing and childcare costs are high. In some cultures, single-child families have become the norm. These social realities are harder to change than the numbers suggest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-female-biased-births">Female-biased births</h2>



The study offers a compelling insight: more girls can help prevent collapse. This isn’t about social engineering but about biology’s quiet adjustments. 



A female-biased sex ratio at birth increases the pool of future mothers. This gives populations a better chance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-infertility-screening-will-be-drastically-improved-with-ai/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustaining</a> themselves.



Stressful environments often trigger such shifts. Wars, famines, and environmental disasters have led to more girls being born. 



In humans, psychological stress, poor nutrition, pollution, and even natural disasters have all been linked to a rise in female births. The same pattern appears in mammals like cattle, pigs, rats, and mice.



These adaptive shifts may be nature’s way of giving species a survival edge when facing extreme pressure. The presence of more females, even slightly, improves the odds that some lineages will persist through hard times.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-fertility-rate-leads-to-collapse">Low fertility rate leads to collapse</h2>



Okabe’s team simulated thousands of generations to see what happens when fertility remains below the 2.7 mark. Most populations collapsed within 20 generations. 



Even at a fertility rate of 2.1, extinction was all but certain. A handful of simulations survived longer - but those were exceptions, not the rule.



These findings show that survival, while not impossible, becomes highly improbable when fertility drops too far. As fertility approaches 2.7, survival chances improve. But anything lower becomes a gamble against mathematical odds.



In this model, randomness plays a central role. A few unlucky generations can eliminate an entire lineage, especially if there are no surviving males or females to continue it. That risk grows when fewer children are born on average. It's not enough to hit 2.1 once. Consistency across generations is key.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-all-of-this-mean">What does all of this mean?</h2>



Though the study focuses on human populations, its lessons apply broadly. Conservationists often aim to boost fertility among endangered species. But many plans fail to consider randomness, sex ratios, and mortality. 



As this study shows, achieving a simple average isn’t sufficient for long-term stability. Species with small populations, especially those isolated or fragmented, face similar extinction dynamics. 



A slightly skewed sex ratio or unexpected drop in births can push them toward collapse. Adjusting targets to reflect these deeper risks could strengthen conservation strategies.



For humans, the study urges policymakers to rethink population goals. It challenges the notion that economic or environmental concerns justify perpetual decline. 



Sustainability isn’t just about shrinking footprints. It’s also about keeping enough people - and diversity - to carry forward what makes humanity rich and resilient.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-population-goals-is-key">Rethinking population goals is key</h2>



The debate over population often swings between panic over too many and fear of too few. 



This research brings nuance to that conversation. It shows that the path to survival isn’t just about numbers - it’s about understanding the complex web of chance, biology, and behavior.



As fertility rates fall and the world changes, we must ask what kind of future we want. 



Not just one where humans survive, but one where traditions, languages, and lineages live on. A fertility rate of 2.1 may no longer be enough to keep that future alive.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0322174" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS One</a>.



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Our current fertility rate isn't high enough for humanity to survive

Humanity has spent the last century wrestling with population growth....

What makes people happy has puzzled philosophers, psychologists, and ordinary people for centuries. Is happiness a gift we carry inside us, immune to outside conditions? Or is it built on the foundations of good jobs, strong relationships, financial comfort, and good health? 



Every year, projects like the <a href="https://worldhappiness.report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Happiness Report</a> attempt to measure and explain well-being across societies. Yet, the more we explore, the clearer it becomes: happiness isn’t simple, and it certainly isn’t the same for everyone.



A new study published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour sheds powerful light on this puzzle. It challenges the idea that happiness follows one clear path. According to lead author Emorie Beck and her team, people find happiness in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-believe-they-deserve-good-karma-more-than-others/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">different ways</a> - and what works for one person may not work at all for another.



“We have to understand the sources of happiness to build effective interventions,” said Beck, assistant professor of psychology at the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-two-major-views-on-happiness">Two major views on happiness</h2>



For decades, researchers have debated whether happiness comes from our life circumstances or our inner world. The first model, known as the “bottom-up” approach, argues that happiness builds up from life’s specific parts. 



When people are satisfied with domains such as their job, relationships, income, health, and housing, their overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-chasing-happiness-makes-you-feel-worse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life satisfaction</a> improves. This model shapes many public policies and international surveys. These efforts aim to boost happiness by improving access to external goods and services that support well-being.



But life doesn't always support that framework. Some people remain joyful even while facing hardship or loss. They seem untouched by circumstances that might break others. This brings attention to the “top-down” view of happiness. 



This model suggests that personality traits, mindsets, and emotional habits shape how we experience life. It emphasizes mental health practices, therapy, or mindfulness as tools to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/happiness-influences-online-shopping-habits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">improve well-being</a> by adjusting internal attitudes.



“But we all know people in our lives who experience traumatic events yet seem to be happy,” noted Beck.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-perspective-on-happiness">A new perspective on happiness </h2>



The idea that both internal and external <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-increases-feelings-of-hope-happiness-and-gratitude/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forces</a> shape happiness isn’t new. What makes this study stand out is its attempt to measure this interaction across individuals and time. 



According to the third model Beck and her team explored, happiness may flow in both directions. Inner qualities and outer life domains affect each other in ways that are dynamic and complex. From this perspective, targeting either the environment or the mind can make a difference.



But this still leaves many questions unanswered. Do all people follow the same pattern? Do policies based on population averages truly help those they aim to support? To answer these questions, the researchers introduced a fourth idea - a “personalized happiness” perspective.



This new approach proposes that happiness is not universal. Instead, the causes and effects of happiness are idiographic, or specific to each person. What raises happiness for one individual may not move the needle at all for another.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decades-of-data-on-happiness">Decades of data on happiness </h2>



To explore these ideas, Beck and her collaborators analyzed an enormous data set. They studied 40,074 people in five countries: Germany, Britain, Switzerland, The Netherlands, and Australia. 



These participants had taken part in repeated surveys over as many as 33 years. The surveys asked about their overall life <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/who-is-happier-being-single-men-or-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">satisfaction</a> and satisfaction in five life areas: work, income, health, housing, and relationships.



“What comes out is that we see roughly equal groups that demonstrate each pattern,” Beck explained.



Some participants fit the bottom-up model. Their happiness closely tracked satisfaction in life’s domains. Others followed a top-down pattern. Their internal well-being remained stable despite changes in their life circumstances. 



Another group showed bidirectional influence, where changes in one area affected the other. Finally, some individuals did not fit any clear model at all.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personalized-happiness-is-more-than-a-theory">Personalized happiness is more than a theory</h2>



These findings gave weight to the personalized happiness approach. The researchers discovered that the population-level models often failed to match the actual patterns seen in individual lives. 



Between 41.4% and 50.8% of participants showed mostly one-way influences between domain satisfaction and life satisfaction. Only 19.3% to 25.9% showed bidirectional effects.



This shows that population averages often hide personal truths. Happiness, the study reveals, is shaped by unique configurations of traits and experiences. Even two people with similar incomes or job satisfaction may report entirely different levels of happiness.



The data also revealed that some people’s overall satisfaction did not link clearly to any of the measured domains. These individuals may experience satisfaction influenced by broader structural forces or singular life events that were not captured in the surveys.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-therapy">Implications for therapy</h2>



If the aim is to improve happiness for as many people as possible, this research sends a powerful message. One-size-fits-all strategies will not work. Improving healthcare, housing, or income may support some individuals, but not all. 



Likewise, mindfulness programs or therapy-based initiatives may not benefit people whose happiness depends more on external conditions. "Importantly, the most effective policies will be tailored to the individual themselves,” said Beck.



This perspective urges governments, organizations, and mental health practitioners to think differently. Instead of targeting a universal happiness recipe, they should aim to understand the diverse ingredients people draw from to feel fulfilled. 



Doing so might not just improve lives - it may also make public efforts more effective and meaningful.



“These things are treated separately, but they aren’t really. They feed into each other at a personal level,” Beck added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-individual-needs-and-differences">Individual needs and differences </h2>



The idea of personalized happiness, while promising, also presents challenges. The study showed clear individual patterns, but distinguishing those from random variations is difficult. 



Beck and her colleagues suggest that future research needs more precise and innovative methods to capture these subtle trends.



Supported by the <a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institute on Aging</a>, this study lays the groundwork for a more human-centered view of happiness. Rather than assuming happiness is something we all measure in the same way, it invites a deeper respect for individual stories, differences, and needs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-one-path-doesn-t-fit-all">One path doesn’t fit all</h2>



This research invites us to rethink everything we thought we knew about happiness. It is not an endpoint with a single route. For some, it lies in community or stability. For others, it may come from within - through purpose, peace, or personal growth.



The science is clear: happiness is personal. To understand it, we must listen more closely, not just to the numbers, but to the people behind them.



Other contributors included Joshua Jackson of&nbsp;<a href="https://wustl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington University</a>, Felix Cheung of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto</a>, and Stuti Thapa of the&nbsp;<a href="https://utulsa.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tulsa</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-025-02171-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Human Behaviour</a>.



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Where does happiness come from? It depends on who you are

What makes people happy has puzzled philosophers, psychologists, and ordinary...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE
</div></figure>



On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop and sunlight barely penetrates through the polar winter. It was here, however, that an international team of scientists found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predatory-worms-were-terror-beasts-half-a-billion-years-ago/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence of sea monsters</a> that would change our understanding of ocean life in the past.



This video captures the discovery of Timorebestia fossils that had been hidden for more than 500 million years in the Sirius Passet formation. The "terror beasts," as they are called, are a hidden chapter in the evolutionary history of <a href="https://www.earth.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>, showing that sophisticated predator-prey interactions occurred much earlier than previously envisioned.



Dr. Jakob Vinther and his research team at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, in collaboration with researchers at the <a href="https://eng.kopri.re.kr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Korean Polar Research Institute</a>, braved extreme weather conditions at 82.5 north latitude to locate these giant creatures. Using sophisticated electron microprobe analysis, they revealed the detailed anatomy of the animals, including their muscle and nerve tissues.



The find upsets the traditional timeline of sea predators. Although we've long appreciated that Cambrian oceans were at one time ruled by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWI3-UgA3_o&amp;list=PL1QLQMW9MWDwpkFOnvgAmu7wT6rZmYqdJ&amp;index=19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropods</a>, these discoveries indicate that relatives of arrow worms were first to dominate the seas. These worms were building sophisticated food webs several million years before other predator groups arose.



Each fossil is a story of ancient hunger, with fossil stomach contents revealing these meter-long beasts dined on heavily armored arthropods regularly, cementing their place as the ocean's first apex predators.



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">New York is the site of the world's oldest forest.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-385-million-year-old-trees-discovered">385-million-year-old trees discovered</h2>



Scientists have uncovered something extraordinary just two hours north of New York City. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-forest-discovered-close-to-new-york-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world's oldest forest</a>, dating back 385 million years, offers a window into how Earth's first complex forests shaped our planet's atmosphere.



Located near <a href="https://townofcairo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cairo, New York</a>, in Greene County, these weren't merely primitive plants struggling to survive. These were sophisticated trees with root systems remarkably similar to modern forests. This ancient woodland predates dinosaurs by 140 million years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cairo-forest-discovery">The Cairo forest discovery</h2>



385 million years ago, upstate New York was a tropical paradise near the equator. Thanks to continental drift, this ancient forest has traveled thousands of miles to its current location.



The fossil forest sits in an abandoned quarry, roughly half the size of a football field. This represents just a slice of what was likely a massive forest system stretching from New York into Pennsylvania.



Charles Ver Straeten, curator of sedimentary rocks at the <a href="https://www.nysm.nysed.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York State Museum</a>, made the discovery in 2009. While scouting the former highway department property, his trained eye spotted wandering patterns in the stone that looked like marine features.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionary-age-and-preservation">Revolutionary age and preservation</h2>



The site contains 385-million-year-old rocks with fossilized woody roots forming horizontal patterns up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) wide. As Christopher Berry, a paleobotanist at Cardiff University, explains: "You are walking through the roots of ancient trees."



This discovery pushes back advanced tree evolution by millions of years. The research, published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a> in December 2019, fundamentally changes our understanding of when complex forests first emerged.



Researchers believe a massive flood buried the forest floor, creating perfect fossilization conditions. Over millions of years, sediment hardened into rock, preserving these root patterns like nature's time capsule.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-archaeopteris-the-first-modern-tree">Meet Archaeopteris: the first modern tree</h2>



The star of this ancient forest is Archaeopteris – not to be confused with the feathered dinosaur Archaeopteryx. This tree was far older and more revolutionary.



William Stein from <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University</a> describes the roots as "strikingly modern, essentially what you'd see outside in my yard right now." These weren't simple root systems you'd expect from ancient plants.



Some fossilized roots are six inches (15 centimeters) in diameter, forming 36-foot-wide (11-meter) patterns. These giants grew up to 65 feet (20 meters) tall with five-foot-diameter (1.5-meter) trunks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-changing-impact">Climate-changing impact</h2>



These trees fundamentally changed Earth's environment. Kevin Boyce, a Stanford University geoscientist, explains how their deep roots triggered "weathering," chemical reactions that pulled carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.



This process dropped atmospheric CO2 levels from 10-15 times higher than today to roughly modern concentrations. These ancient trees helped create atmospheric conditions that made complex life possible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-forest-ecosystem">Ancient forest ecosystem</h2>



The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified Eospermatopteris, palm tree-like plants with short roots that reached 30 feet (9 meters) tall but lacked woody structure. The forest also housed cladoxylopsids and a mysterious third species still being studied.



All reproduced through spores rather than seeds – millions of years before seeds evolved. This tropical environment had no grass, flowers, or flying insects, just towering trees creating Earth's first complex forest canopy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance">Scientific significance</h2>



Before this finding, the Gilboa forest, located 25 miles (40 kilometers) away, held the "oldest forest" title. Cairo's trees are 2-3 million years older, showing that complex forest ecosystems developed much faster than scientists believed possible.



Patricia Gensel, a <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina</a> paleobotanist, notes: "The size of those root systems is really changing the picture. Even 20 years ago, researchers assumed trees with such complex root systems didn't evolve so early."



The Cairo site presents three unique root systems, suggesting Devonian period forests were diverse ecosystems with different trees occupying different environmental niches, much like today's forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-preservation-efforts">Modern preservation efforts</h2>



In 2022, New York State Senator Michelle Hinchey secured a $170,000 grant for the town of Cairo to construct specialized fencing around the fossil forest site. The town plans to conduct a feasibility study exploring the possibility of creating an educational center and working lab on-site.



Joe Hasenkopf, chair of the Cairo Planning Board, hopes to partner with educational institutions to create a research facility serving scientists, students, and the public.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-today-s-climate">Lessons for today's climate</h2>



Why does a 385-million-year-old forest matter today? It shows how dramatically forests can change Earth's climate. These ancient woodlands created the atmospheric conditions supporting complex life.



Understanding how prehistoric forests transformed the planet helps us appreciate modern forests' critical role in addressing climate change. Forests remain Earth's most effective carbon capture systems.



These prehistoric trees changed Earth's atmosphere by pulling massive amounts of carbon dioxide from the air. As we face modern climate challenges, this ancient forest reminds us of trees' incredible power to transform our planet's environment.



The next time you walk through a forest, remember you're experiencing an ecosystem whose blueprint was established 385 million years ago in upstate New York. These ancient pioneers didn't just survive – they thrived and changed the world forever.



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ New York is the site of the world's oldest...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-don-t-we-ever-hear-about-acid-rain-anymore-the-environmental-crisis-that-was-solved">Why don't we ever hear about "acid rain" anymore? The environmental crisis that was solved</h2>



Remember the 1980s when acid rain dominated headlines? Dire warnings about rain eating buildings, killing fish, and destroying forests filled every news cycle. Then, almost like magic, acid rain vanished from public discourse. What happened? Did we actually solve one of the late 20th century's most pressing environmental challenges?



The answer might surprise you. Unlike many environmental issues that drag on indefinitely, acid rain represents one of modern history's most successful ecological recovery stories. It's a tale of science, politics, and technology working together to tackle what seemed impossible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What was acid rain?</h2>



Acid rain isn't regular rain having a bad day – it's precipitation that became significantly more acidic due to air pollution. When power plants, factories, and vehicles burn fossil fuels, they release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The science behind it</h2>



Think of acid rain as nature's chemistry experiment gone wrong. These compounds react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. When mixed with water vapor in clouds, they create precipitation with dangerously low pH levels.



While clean rain has a pH of about 5.6, acid rain could drop as low as 4.2 to 4.4 – roughly as acidic as tomato juice or coffee. According to US Geological Survey documentation, Scottish chemist Angus Smith first coined "acid rain" in 1872, but it didn't become a household phrase until the 1960s and 1970s when Swedish scientist Svante Odén documented its devastating effects on Scandinavian lakes and European forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The crisis at its peak</h2>



During the height of public concern, environmental damage was both widespread and visible. This wasn't some abstract future threat – people could see destruction happening in real-time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Environmental devastation</h2>



The most dramatic impacts were impossible to ignore. Research documented by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation shows that in the Adirondack Mountains, more than 200 lakes became so acidic they couldn't support fish life. The Adirondack Council reports that 409 lakes once supported brook trout, but many lost their fish populations due to acid rain.



By 1976, when scientists cataloged all acidified lakes in the Adirondack Park, researchers found that half of the lakes over 2,000 feet above sea level had no fish, according to studies published in environmental journals. The acidification process worked like a slow-motion disaster. As acid rain fell into watersheds, it gradually lowered pH levels. Fish couldn't survive in acidic water, and their food sources died off too.



Trees at high elevations showed stress directly linked to acid rain. It weakened them by leaching nutrients and making them susceptible to disease. Historical records show Germany's Black Forest saw nearly half its trees damaged by the mid-1980s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Economic impact</h2>



Acid rain wasn't just environmental – it was expensive. Acidic precipitation corroded infrastructure, buildings, and monuments. Historic stone structures deteriorated at accelerated rates. Tourism suffered as lakes became fishless and forests declined. EPA economic analyses from the period documented repair costs mounting into billions annually.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The solution: government action and technology</h2>



Transformation from crisis to success required unprecedented cooperation between governments, industries, and environmental groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Clean Air Act of 1990</h2>



The turning point came with the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, signed by President George H.W. Bush. This represented a fundamentally new approach to environmental regulation, as documented in EPA historical records.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cap-and-trade success</h2>



Instead of mandating specific technologies, the 1990 amendments introduced something revolutionary: a cap-and-trade system for sulfur dioxide emissions. EPA program documentation shows this market-based approach set overall limits but allowed companies to trade emission allowances.



The genius was harnessing market forces to find cost-effective pollution reduction. Companies reducing emissions cheaply could sell excess allowances to those facing higher costs. Research published in environmental economics journals and EPA progress reports shows this resulted in dramatic SO2 reduction at a fraction of projected costs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Technology advances</h2>



Policy provided the framework, but technology made reductions possible. Studies in atmospheric science journals document the widespread adoption of flue gas desulfurization systems ("scrubbers") that removed sulfur dioxide before it reached the atmosphere. By the 2000s, new installations could remove over 95% of SO2 emissions, according to EPA technical reports.



The push coincided with cleaner energy development. Natural gas produces fewer sulfur compounds than coal. Wind and solar, emerging in the 1990s, captured growing market share, reducing reliance on high-sulfur coal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-we-don-t-hear-about-it-today">Why we don't hear about it today</h2>



Why did acid rain disappear from headlines? Simple: the problem was largely solved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Success doesn't make news</h2>



There's an old journalism saying: "If it bleeds, it leads." Environmental success stories don't generate urgency like crisis reporting. Media attention shifted to other challenges: climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss. There's only so much environmental anxiety the public can absorb, and newer concerns replaced acid rain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mission accomplished</h2>



The primary reason is beautifully simple: interventions worked. EPA monitoring data shows sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990. Academic research published in environmental science journals confirms pH levels in formerly affected areas returned closer to normal. This represents one of history's most dramatic environmental recoveries. Studies by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation show fishless lakes now support healthy populations. Forests recovered, and building damage slowed dramatically.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-it-really-gone">Is it really gone?</h2>



The crisis is largely resolved, but monitoring data shows the problem isn't completely eliminated – it's managed to acceptable levels. Some areas still experience occasional events during high pollution periods. International environmental research indicates that rapidly industrializing Asian countries face similar problems to what we experienced decades ago, though they're implementing successful strategies.



EPA research shows nitrogen oxide emissions proved more challenging than sulfur dioxide, coming from vehicles and mobile sources. Climate science studies suggest changing weather patterns add complexity to how acid rain forms and falls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What this teaches us</h2>



The acid rain experience proves that seemingly intractable environmental problems can be solved with scientific understanding, political will, and technological innovation. Environmental monitoring data shows recovery speed was remarkable – within a decade, measurable improvements appeared in air quality and ecosystem health.



Success came from bipartisan support across party lines. Policy analysis studies show the market-based approach appealed to those preferring economic incentives while achieving environmental goals. This support created lasting policy surviving political changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h2>



Acid rain's disappearance from public consciousness represents environmental science's greatest success stories. Through effective regulation, technological innovation, and international cooperation, we transformed an overwhelming crisis into a manageable challenge.



Today's silence isn't because we forgot – it's because we solved it. The 1990 Clean Air Act, combined with technology and energy market changes, reduced acid rain emissions over 90%, according to comprehensive EPA data analysis.



This success offers hope for current challenges. It proves complex problems can be solved when science, policy, and technology work together. As we face climate change and plastic pollution, acid rain reminds us that dramatic positive change is possible.



Next time someone asks whether environmental regulations work, remember acid rain. It's proof that sometimes, we get it right.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Sources: This article draws from EPA official documentation and progress reports, peer-reviewed research published in environmental and atmospheric science journals, historical data from the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation records, US Geological Survey publications, policy analysis studies, and environmental monitoring data collected over three decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



1. Is acid rain completely gone? No, but EPA monitoring shows it's reduced to manageable levels. US sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990, making acid rain much less severe than the 1980s crisis.



2. How long did solving take? Environmental monitoring data shows significant improvements began within 5-10 years of 1990s emission controls. Full ecosystem recovery took longer – some areas need 20-30 years for complete recovery.



3. What made the solution successful? Clear scientific understanding, visible damage motivating action, bipartisan support, available technology, and innovative market-based policies like cap-and-trade.



4. Do other countries have acid rain problems? Yes, particularly rapidly industrializing Asian countries. However, international environmental research shows many implement similar successful control strategies.



5. Could acid rain return? Potentially, if regulations weaken or we return to high-sulfur coal without controls, though effects would take years to become severe according to environmental projections.



6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"? The United States Environmental Protection Agency produced a wonderful teacher's guide for ages 14 and under that you can find on the EPA website here: <a href="https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf</a>



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The environmental problem we actually solved

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk Acid rain and a crisis solved. Why don't we...

Fresh,Radish,Harvest,On,Soil,In,Garden.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex
</div></figure>







Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving fall garden, and this guide lays out the best vegetables and herbs to plant now for a fruitful autumn harvest. 



Fast-growing leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, kale, and arugula perform especially well in the waning summer heat, with harvests beginning as soon as 30 days. 



These cool-season crops relish the transition into fall, offering repeated yields with cut-and-come-again methods.



Root vegetables like radishes, carrots, and beets also excel during this period. Radishes deliver satisfaction in under a month, while carrots and beets mature in about two months. Employing succession planting ensures a continuous stream of produce deep into the cooler months. 



For a boost of fresh flavor, herbs like cilantro, basil, dill, and chervil are excellent picks. These heat-loving varieties flourish in July’s warmth and are harvest-ready in about 30 days, especially when sown continuously.



Gardeners in zones 6 through 9 can benefit from planting bush beans and snap peas, which don’t require trellising and are ideal for compact plots. 



Maturing in 50–60 days, they’re a smart choice for quick, protein-rich harvests. For those in hotter regions, heat-tolerant crops such as okra and southern peas provide reliable yields and thrive in scorching conditions.



This guide emphasizes more than crop selection—it highlights the importance of timing, soil preparation, and ongoing sowing techniques. 



With thoughtful planning and attention to regional climate needs, even late-summer gardeners can enjoy fresh salads, hearty stews, and the satisfaction of a robust, homegrown harvest well into fall.



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving...

Green,Ecoduct,Over,An,Empty,Highway,During,Sunset.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that wildlife tunnels significantly reduce amphibian road mortality during seasonal migrations. 



Frogs and salamanders often cross roads to reach breeding ponds each spring, but many are killed by vehicles. 



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont</a>, in collaboration with local citizens and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, installed two underpass tunnels in 2015. 



Over a 12-year monitoring period, they observed an 80.2% reduction in amphibian deaths, and up to 94% for non-climbing species like salamanders. 



The study used a before-after-control-impact design and documented more than 5,200 amphibians, highlighting the tunnels’ effectiveness even in nearby buffer zones.



Funded at $342,397 - far cheaper than wildlife crossings for large mammals - the project showcased the power of community-led conservation.



Local groups initiated the effort after observing mass amphibian deaths. Wildlife cameras later captured over 2,200 amphibians using a tunnel in just one spring, along with other species like raccoons and bobcats, indicating wider ecosystem benefits.



This marks the first peer-reviewed, long-term data set in the northeastern U.S. confirming amphibian-specific underpasses work. 



The study urges transportation departments to incorporate these designs into road planning and highlights how community action, thoughtful infrastructure, and persistence can make a real difference for biodiversity.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1617138125000780" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal for Nature Conservation</a>.



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-----

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that...

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing it with probiotics and prebiotics, aiming to create a treat that satisfies cravings while supporting gut health. 



The challenge lies in maintaining chocolate's beloved texture and flavor while adding health benefits.



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. 



Prebiotics act as food for these microbes, helping them thrive. Together, they form "synbiotics," a powerful health combination.



Researchers Smriti Gaur and Shubhi Singh from India's Jaypee Institute of Information Technology took an innovative approach, using natural prebiotics like corn and honey instead of complex processing methods. 



They created five chocolate varieties: a control and four synbiotic versions containing different combinations of prebiotics, probiotics (Lactobacillus strains), and flavor enhancers (cinnamon or orange).



Laboratory simulations of human digestion showed the probiotics remained viable for over five hours, suggesting they could survive long enough to benefit gut health.



Taste tests were positive, with researchers particularly enjoying the orange-flavored variety, describing it as having "vibrant citrus notes" complementing the "rich cocoa" with a "luxurious" texture.



This research represents just the beginning. With further refinement of strains, textures, and flavors, chocolate could evolve beyond mere indulgence to become a functional food that nourishes while it delights.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.4c00741" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Food Science &amp; Technology</a>.

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea.



"The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA.



"The dark colors of the Nushagak River are most likely due to tannins or lignins (chemical substances found in plants). Tannins and lignins from roots, leaves, seeds, bark and soil can leach into the water and give it a brown or even black colour. The sediments then flow southwards where it is mixed with the bluer waters of the bay."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



"The main antigenic targets of influenza virus are two surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Whereas the structural and dynamical properties of both glycoproteins have been studied previously, the understanding of their plasticity in the whole-virion context is fragmented," wrote the researchers.



To investigate, the team conducted detailed simulations of the influenza A H1N1 virion, or the swine flu. The experts concluded that the visualizations show many new vulnerable states of flu viruses, which could improve future vaccines and antiviral drugs.



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Lake Trasimeno, which is located west of Perugia in central Italy. It is the fourth largest lake in the country. While Trasimeno’s water level varies, it has a maximum depth of approximately six meters.&nbsp;



"In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, captured on 6 August 2022, the lake’s emerald green colour is likely due to the presence of phytoplankton. Streaks in the water, particularly visible in the west, indicate the presence of soil and sediments which have been stirred up by winds. Dark colored waters in the southern part of the lake indicate a presence of submerged and floating macrophytes (aquatic plants) as well as algae," says ESA.



"Surrounded by hills on three sides, Trasimeno is subject to heavy storms created by winds, especially from the north and west. There are three islets in the lake: Maggiore, Minore and Polvese (the largest). The lake’s shores are sparsely inhabited with only two popular villages: Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno."



"Italy is experiencing its worst drought in 70 years which has affected drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power and agricultural production. High temperatures, hot winds and lack of rainfall are the main causes of drought in the Umbrian region which saw Lake Trasimeno’s drop 1.3 m, reaching the limit of the hydrometric zero in July 2022."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes a new self-powered nanosensor that can instantly detect mercury contamination with the tap of a finger.&nbsp;



The oxidized form of mercury can be harmful when it is ingested through contaminated water or food. This makes it necessary for experts to develop sensors that can quickly and accurately detect the presence of mercury.&nbsp;



Zong-Hong Lin and colleagues have now created a triboelectric nanosensor (TENS) that can detect mercury by simply by touching a sample. According to the researchers, their TENS could serve as the basis for similar devices to safely and remotely monitor other pollutants.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

How does salt makes things taste better?

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Santiago, Chile in South America

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Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

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Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.



The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;



"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."



"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."



"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."



The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer 



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA.



"The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source in the Cantabrian Mountains in the northwest and its delta on the Mediterranean coast, the Ebro River is fed by more than 200 tributaries as it flows 910 km across much of northern Spain."



Since rainfall is very scarce in this region, irrigation in the Ebro basin is critically important. In the valleys surrounding the Ebro River, many fields are used for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> reveals the evolution of the Columbia Glacier in southeastern Alaska. Columbia is among the fastest shrinking glaciers in the world, and the video documents its rapid retreat over the years.&nbsp;



Columbia Glacier is a large, multi-branched calving glacier that flows out of the Chugach Mountains to the Prince William Sound.&nbsp;



According to USGS, Columbia had a long history of stability prior to 1980, with a length 41 miles, and small, short-lived advances or retreats.



In the years since 1980, however, satellite images have captured Columbia’s alarming retreat. By using false-color images, scientists can distinguish between snow and ice, open water, vegetation, and rocky debris on the glacier’s surface.



The series of false-color images featured in today's video were acquired over the span of 35 years. You can see that by 2021, the glacier’s main branch had retreated about 15 miles from its initial position.



The Columbia Glacier has also lost more than 50 percent of its volume, mostly due to calving. <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/nasa-reveals-3d-visual-of-an-atmospheric-river/">NASA</a> reports that while climate change likely started the retreat, mechanical processes kept the disintegration going.



The NASA images are provided by Jesse Allen, Robert Simmon, Joshua Stevens, and Lauren Dauphin using data from Landsat satellites, from the U.S. Geological Survey, and data from MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite. The structure of Columbia’s moraine played a large role in the stability of the glacier before 1980. 



Like other tidewater glaciers, the Columbia built up a moraine over time, and the mixture of ice and rock functioned like a dam keeping out the sea. It was supported on one end by the shoreline and by the underwater terminal moraine at the other.



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural boundary between France and Spain in southwest Europe.



The mountain range is 430 kilometers in length. It stretches from the Mediterranean Sea on the east to the Atlantic Ocean on the west.



At an elevation of 3404 meters, Pico de Aneto is the highest mountain peak in the Pyrenees, and the third-highest peak in Spain. Pico de Aneto is located in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, which spans more than 82,000 acres.&nbsp;



"Geological studies have revealed that the Pyrenees Mountains have been around for longer than the Alps, with their sediments first deposited in coastal basins during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras," reports ESA.



"The entire mountain range formed due to the upwelling of large sedimentary rocks by the collision of the Iberian and the Eurasian plate around 100 to 150 million years ago, followed by intense erosion from ice and water."



The western Pyrenees receive more precipitation due to moisture blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. The mountain range contains many lakes, several small glaciers, and some of the highest waterfalls in Europe.



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes two exoplanets that are orbiting a star 218 light-years away. A team of researchers led by the University of Montreal has found evidence that these planets are "water worlds."



The experts used data from NASA’s Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. They discovered that exoplanets Kepler-138 c and Kepler-138 could be composed largely of water.



"We previously thought that planets that were a bit larger than Earth were big balls of metal and rock, like scaled-up versions of Earth, and that's why we called them super-Earths," explained study co-author Björn Benneke.&nbsp;



"However, we have now shown that these two planets, Kepler-138 c and d, are quite different in nature and that a big fraction of their entire volume is likely composed of water. It is the best evidence yet for water worlds, a type of planet that was theorized by astronomers to exist for a long time."



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes Earth’s interconnected systems, and how this network is affected by rising temperatures.&nbsp;



During 2020, average global temperatures matched the hottest year on record. The hurricane season was also record-breaking, with many of the storms intensifying at extraordinary speeds. Hot water in the ocean is fuel for hurricanes. The satellite data shows that it's all one interconnected system showing how Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected.



According to NASA, dust swept up from Northern Africa plays a major role in the formation of hurricanes, and is also a key source of fertilization in the Amazon rainforest. As a result of<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-wasting-disease-is-fueled-by-climate-change/"> climate</a> change, dust plumes are expected to decline, which will have an effect on vegetation far away.&nbsp;



Images from Earth-observing satellites show how the world’s plant life is affected by natural disasters, fires, and deforestation. Satellites also reveal how widespread changes in vegetation impact waterways,&nbsp; the climate, air quality. Satellites communicate by using radio waves to send signals to the antennas on the Earth. "Earth From Space" is a groundbreaking two-hour special that reveals a spectacular new space-based vision of our planet. 



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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