A recent study comparing how mothers in the U.K. and Uganda soothe their crying babies found something surprising: Ugandan babies calm down faster, even though their moms take longer to respond.



On the surface, this flips the script on common Western parenting advice. We often hear that faster is better when it comes to calming a crying infant. But this research suggests that the manner in which a mother comforts her baby matters more than how quickly she does it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-touch-versus-talk-to-calm-babies">Touch versus talk to calm babies</h2>



Researchers observed 147 real-life moments of distress in 82 infants across both countries. They focused on what mothers did in those moments, not just how quickly they reacted.



In both places, faster responses did help babies settle down. But here’s the twist: even though U.K. mothers typically responded more quickly, Ugandan babies calmed faster overall. That wasn’t random. The difference came down to the way mothers soothed their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conscious-awareness-when-does-our-sense-of-purpose-emerge/">infants</a>.



In Uganda, moms often used touch - holding, carrying, or <a href="https://www.afro.who.int/countries/uganda/news/safe-space-nourish-who-uganda-champions-breastfeeding-workplace" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breastfeeding</a> - as their main method of comfort, even with older babies. In the U.K., mothers started with physical comfort when babies were young, but switched to using more words and less touch as their infants grew.



That shift in strategy seems to make a difference.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-culture-shapes-our-parenting">Culture shapes our parenting</h2>



The study was led by researchers from the <a href="https://www.dipf.de/en/frontpage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DIPF Leibniz Institute</a> in Germany, and Durham University in the U.K.. They wanted to understand how caregiving works in real life - outside of labs or parenting books - and across very different environments.



“Our findings show that maternal responsiveness is universally important. But how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mothers-can-use-singing-to-engage-with-infants/">mothers</a> respond, and the effectiveness of their strategies, varies in meaningful ways between cultures,” said Dr. Carlo Vreden of the DIPF Leibniz Institute for Research and Information in Education.



“Importantly, we are not making value judgments about which approach is better. Rather, we are highlighting that caregiving strategies are shaped by culture. It is not just about how quickly the mothers respond to their babies, but also the type of maternal soothing response which plays a crucial role in infant emotion regulation.”



In the U.K., many parenting norms are based on studies done in Western countries, often under very controlled conditions. But this doesn’t reflect the full picture of how most babies are raised around the world.



Professor Zanna Clay explained, “Most of what we know about babies’ early emotional development is based on studies conducted in Europe and North America. But of course, these Western settings don’t reflect the caregiving environments experienced by the majority of infants around the world, nor how they may have been historically.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-babies-stay-calm-despite-slower-responses">Babies stay calm despite slower responses</h2>



One principal reason why Ugandan mothers would take longer to reply is plain: they’re frequently engaged in manual labor, such as working in the fields or taking care of household chores outside. In contrast to high-income environments, mothers in rural Uganda typically cannot abandon everything the instant their baby begins crying.



“Uganda is an interesting place to study <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/child-care-quality-has-direct-impact-on-later-success-in-science-and-math/">caregiving</a>,” Clay said, “as infants are typically cared for by multiple different caregivers and their styles of caregiving culturally differ, such as prioritising more physical contact with their babies.”



Even with slower response times, Ugandan mothers’ reliance on touch - especially breastfeeding - seemed to have a calming effect. The babies got comforted in a way that worked well for them, even if it wasn’t immediate.



Professor Clay added, “Our study also highlights the balance between responding to your baby while also having to manage daily tasks, which can be more challenging in rural low-resource settings.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-parenting-advice">Rethinking parenting advice</h2>



This research challenges the idea that there’s only one right way to raise emotionally healthy kids. It shows that parenting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parenting-may-help-keep-the-brain-younger/">strategies</a> can look different in different places - and still be effective.



“We’ve shown that Western ideas about optimal parenting don’t always apply in other settings,” said Dr. Vreden. “Even though the U.K. mums do seem to follow this sort of gold standard of responding as soon as possible, it's the Ugandan children, who don't get that quicker response, who actually recovered faster.”



“This emphasises the complexity of different strategies working in different ways and in different settings.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-calm-babies-in-real-life">Calm babies in real life</h2>



By watching what happens in real-life settings - not just in labs - researchers can get a clearer picture of what helps babies <a href="https://www.eccpct.com/Resources/Child/Tips-for-Tots/Help-Young-Children-Regulate-Their-Emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regulate</a> their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/facial-expressions-arent-enough-to-understand-human-emotions/">emotions</a>. This matters for building parenting support programs that fit the realities of people’s lives, no matter where they live.



Future research may explore how these early caregiving approaches affect children as they grow and how parenting differs across even more cultures.



In the end, it’s not just about being fast - it’s about being effective. And effectiveness can look very different, depending on where you are.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2026-56898-001.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Developmental Psychology</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

How, or how fast? Study examines fascinating cultural differences in how babies are calmed

A recent study comparing how mothers in the U.K. and Uganda soothe their crying babies found something surprising: Ugandan babies calm down faster, even though their moms take longer to respond. On the surface, this flips the script on common Western parenting advice. We often hear that faster is better when it comes to calming a crying infant. But this research suggests that the manner in which a mother comforts her baby matters more than how quickly she does it. Touch versus talk to calm babies Researchers...

In an age of digital fatigue, authenticity feels rare. Social media users scroll past hundreds of posts each day, barely registering most of them. Sponsored content from human influencers often blurs into the background, sounding staged or transactional. But one group is rising above the noise - the petfluencers.



These furry stars command loyal audiences and evoke powerful emotional connections. More than just adorable distractions, petfluencers are turning into persuasive digital personalities. 



From lounging with wine bottles to chasing socks, they create marketing moments that feel spontaneous and sincere. Recent research confirms what many marketers are starting to suspect: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-puppy-day-2025-where-happiness-meets-responsibility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> may be more effective than people when it comes to selling products online.



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



The word “petfluencer” describes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pet-dogs-severely-harm-wildlife-even-when-leashed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> with their own social media accounts. They don’t just appear occasionally on their owner’s feed. They are the feed. These profiles, run by humans, portray pets as having their own voice, style, and preferences.



Some, like Nala the Cat, have become multimillion-dollar brands. With over 4.5 million followers on Instagram, Nala endorses products from cat food to mobile apps and is reportedly worth more than £80 million.



These numbers are not just cute trivia - they reflect a shift in consumer attention and trust.



At a time when many social media users feel bombarded by ads and polished influencers, pets offer something that feels more real. They don’t chase likes for ego or profit, and that’s exactly what makes them powerful.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sincerity-as-a-secret-weapon">Sincerity as a secret weapon</h2>



A study published in The Journal of Advertising Research investigated this phenomenon. The researchers compared consumer responses to ads featuring petfluencers versus human influencers. They found that petfluencers were perceived as being significantly more sincere.



"Petfluencers offer distinct advantages compared to human SMIs," noted lead researcher Dr. Laura Lavertu of the <a href="https://www.strath.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Strathclyde</a>.



"While the persuasiveness of human influencers often stems from their relatability or aspirational appeal, petfluencers are seen as more genuine and sincere. Because they are pets, they have no hidden agenda. They don't come with the baggage or scandals that sometimes follow human influencers, which makes them seem more trustworthy."



The sincerity of petfluencers pays off. In one experiment, the team tested an Instagram ad for peanut butter. One version featured a man’s hands; the other, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reimagining-pet-diets-for-a-more-sustainable-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dog</a>’s paws. The text was identical. Yet, the petfluencer ad had more than triple the engagement and cost much less per click.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-petfluencers-so-effective">What makes petfluencers so effective</h2>



This effectiveness doesn’t come from relatability in the usual sense. Human influencers often succeed by offering aspirational lifestyles or relatable struggles. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-dogs-replacing-children-how-modern-society-is-changing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pets</a> can’t do that. Instead, they evoke empathy through innocence. They don’t judge. They don’t manipulate. They simply exist - and audiences project their emotions onto them.



The research team found that sincerity plays a central role in this dynamic. Study participants consistently rated petfluencer posts as more honest, warm, and trustworthy. This sincerity drove increased willingness to pay for promoted products, from wine to socks.



And it’s not just about the animal. The way the ad is framed also matters. Consumers with a high tendency to anthropomorphize - those who see pets as having human-like emotions - were more likely to respond favorably. 



When the message matched a present-focused mindset, such as enjoying a treat “right now,” the effect was even stronger.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-matching-message-with-mindset">Matching message with mindset</h2>



One of the more interesting findings from the study relates to temporal focus. This refers to whether someone thinks more about the present or the future when making decisions. Petfluencers were especially persuasive when their message matched the audience’s mindset.



For example, someone who thinks in the “now” tends to respond to messages about instant gratification. A petfluencer talking about cozy evenings with wine might strike the right emotional chord. In contrast, future-focused individuals may not respond as positively to that same message.



The researchers confirmed this in controlled experiments. When participants saw petfluencer ads aligned with their time orientation, they were more likely to engage and to pay more. This match in mindset created a feeling of closeness and sincerity that made the message more believable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-petfluencers-are-incredibly-persuasive">Petfluencers are incredibly persuasive </h2>



These insights have significant implications for marketing. Petfluencers may not replace human influencers, but they offer a valuable alternative. Especially now, as many audiences feel tired of perfectly curated human lives on social media.



The sincerity crisis surrounding human influencers is real. People know that influencers get paid to promote things they might not believe in. Even when followers like a human influencer, they may still question the influencer's motives. With pets, those doubts don’t surface as easily.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lost-in-translation-how-we-misread-our-dogs-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Animals</a> are not perceived as materialistic, manipulative, or fame-hungry. This perceived innocence gives them an edge. In fact, animals are often seen as incapable of deception. That cognitive bias makes them incredibly persuasive in a way humans can’t easily replicate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-takeaways-for-brands">Practical takeaways for brands</h2>



Marketing teams should consider petfluencers not just for pet-related products but also for broader categories. As shown in the studies, petfluencers can successfully promote items like wine and socks - products that are not directly related to pets.



To make the most of a petfluencer campaign, brands should aim for message alignment. That includes considering the audience’s tendency to anthropomorphize and their temporal focus. Present-oriented messaging, paired with human-like pet content, creates a tighter bond and encourages trust.



More than anything, brands should value the petfluencer’s perceived independence. While owners and agencies manage these accounts, the pet persona remains central. This makes the endorsements feel less calculated and more sincere.



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



As the influencer industry grows - expected to reach over $56 billion globally in the next five years - competition for attention will intensify. Amid the sea of human influencers, petfluencers may continue to offer something rare and refreshing: sincerity.



Future research may examine how product fit and owner visibility affect outcomes. But the direction is clear. Pets aren’t just viral content. They are effective communicators in their own right. 



Their power lies not in how much they say, but in how genuinely they appear to care - something that consumers are desperate to believe again.



And when trust is the currency, pets just might be the richest influencers of all.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00218499.2025.2463707" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Advertising Research</a>. 



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Petfluencers are viewed as more genuine and sincere than human influencers

In an age of digital fatigue, authenticity feels rare. Social...

Close-up of a seared steak

Meat is a staple in many diets around the world, yet hidden antibiotic residues could pose a risk to unsuspecting consumers. 



Researchers have introduced a smartphone-assisted ratio fluorescence method that promises a quick solution to detecting these residues before they reach dinner tables.



This new approach relies on a special probe that shifts its glow from one color to another in the presence of a specific antibiotic. Tests in common meats suggest a swift, precise response that might reduce the need for complex labs or lengthy procedures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detecting-antibiotic-residue-in-meat">Detecting antibiotic residue in meat</h2>



The platform was created by Zheng Cheng from <a href="https://sites.lynu.edu.cn/gjhz/lxszs/Info_about_Luoyang__Normal_University.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luoyang Normal University</a> and Henan University of Science and Technology, in collaboration with several co-authors from academic institutions.



The researchers set out to tackle antibiotic residue detection in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-in-livestock-are-major-drivers-of-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">livestock</a> after noticing the rising concern of <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535454/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ciprofloxacin</a> medication overuse.



Ciprofloxacin is a synthetic compound widely used to treat infections. Authorities have cautioned that too much antibiotic usage can lead to resistant bacteria, which is why new detection methods are in high demand.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-health-risks-of-antibiotic-residue">Potential health risks of antibiotic residue</h2>



When bacteria get used to certain drugs, they become stronger enemies that can be difficult to eliminate. This situation puts a strain on <a href="http://Researchers have discovered antibiotic residues may be present in meat such as steak which can cause potential health problems." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">public health</a> and sparks worry about the future of infectious disease control.



“Overuse and misuse of antimicrobials in humans and animals is accelerating the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance,” noted the <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/antimicrobial-resistance" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Organization (WHO)</a>. This warning rings louder than ever, given how often antibiotics appear in daily meals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concerns-from-national-agencies"><a></a>Concerns from national agencies</h2>



The <a href="https://www.fda.gov/emergency-preparedness-and-response/mcm-issues/antimicrobial-resistance" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Food &amp; Drug Administration (FDA)</a> also keeps a close eye on livestock medications and supports strict regulations. Officials note that antibiotic residues in meat can threaten public confidence in food quality.



Watchdogs recommend regular checks to confirm that producers stay within permitted limits. The new testing approach could help address these requirements by offering consistent results in less time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-new-method-works"><a></a>How the new method works</h2>



The researchers built a <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8159423/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bimetallic organic framework</a> that shifts its fluorescence from red to green upon contact with the target. In about 1 minute, this probe reveals an antibiotic’s presence with a detection limit around 90 nanomoles, which is sensitive enough for varied food tests.



Scientists tested <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/beef-industry-can-cut-emissions-by-30-with-sustainable-practices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beef</a>, chicken, and pork, observing a wide detection range that maintained strong accuracy. The method’s smartphone compatibility gives users a practical way to monitor multiple samples without heavy lab setups.



An unsupervised <a href="https://www.kdnuggets.com/2019/09/hierarchical-clustering.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hierarchical clustering</a> tool was added to assist with classifying results in a straightforward manner. This algorithm helps interpret data faster, which is particularly useful for non-experts.



Combining the phone app and clustering approach means a user can receive a final readout without specialized training. This setup may encourage more widespread testing across various points in the food supply.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-possible-benefits-for-consumers"><a></a>Possible benefits for consumers</h2>



Shoppers may gain more confidence knowing new detection tools exist to keep tabs on antibiotic residues. 



Such straightforward methods could help retailers guarantee that customers receive products that meet <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fda-faces-scrutiny-over-synthetic-food-dyes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">safety guidelines</a>.



Individuals who worry about hidden chemicals might see these developments as a proactive step toward clarity. Swift response times also mean producers can catch and address issues before shipping goods to market.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-awareness-and-responsibility"><a></a>Increased awareness and responsibility</h2>



Critics have voiced concerns that some manufacturers rely too heavily on antibiotics to speed animal growth and fight disease. This trend leads to rising calls for everyone in the production chain to take a more careful approach.



Public education campaigns highlight the importance of understanding where food comes from. Handy detection methods can support these efforts by revealing when safety thresholds have been exceeded.



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



Experts see potential for expanding this technology to detect other antibiotic compounds and contaminants. That versatility might influence future policies and guidelines around how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electronic-tongue-could-revolutionize-food-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food safety</a> is managed.



Streamlined strategies like this one may pave the way for simpler practices in labs and fields alike. The drive to curb antibiotic resistance keeps pushing innovation, and this latest breakthrough offers a promising addition to the toolkit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-public-health"><a></a>Protecting public health</h2>



Health advocates emphasize that changes in animal husbandry practices go hand in hand with advanced detection methods. If fewer antibiotics are used altogether, any existing residue becomes easier to monitor.



Government agencies might share this technology with smaller farms that lack modern equipment. Such cooperation could prevent antibiotic overuse and boost confidence in the supply chain.



Regulatory bodies continue setting maximum residue limits for drugs in food. Enforcing these rules often hinges on reliable tests that can confirm compliance under real-world conditions.



Without accurate tools, producers could face allegations of improper medication use. Clear guidelines help manage disputes while reinforcing a stable market environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-steps-for-producers"><a></a>Practical steps for producers</h2>



Farm operators can adopt prudent antibiotic practices by consulting veterinarians and monitoring animal health closely. Periodic sample checks with simpler devices may detect issues early and sidestep bigger penalties.



Consistent record-keeping also lets producers track medication schedules. That data can support claims of responsible antibiotic use if questions arise about residue <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/innovative-sensor-uncovers-hidden-antibiotics-residues-in-milk-and-honey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">levels</a>.



Awareness campaigns often encourage consumers to ask more questions about how their meat is raised. These efforts drive the industry to explore innovative ways to meet growing expectations.



Steady improvements in detection technology hold the key to safeguarding people and animals. Once proven effective on a large scale, approaches like this smartphone-based probe might gain widespread adoption.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S095671352500091X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food Control</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Antibiotic residue in meat: What experts have discovered

Meat is a staple in many diets around the world,...

In a world where happiness often feels like a moving target, we constantly seek what brings true contentment. People turn to careers, families, friendships, pets, and even meditation or travel in the hope of feeling joy and fulfillment in life.



A study led by Dr. Adelina Gschwandtner from the <a href="https://www.kent.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Kent</a> and Dr. Michael Gmeiner from the London School of Economics (<a href="https://www.lse.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LSE</a>) reveals that owning a pet can increase life satisfaction as much as being married or seeing close friends regularly. 



Published in the journal Social Indicators Research, the findings show that pet <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-puppy-day-2025-where-happiness-meets-responsibility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">companionship</a> could be worth up to £70,000 per year when measured in life satisfaction. This places cats and dogs in the same emotional league as partners and loved ones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-value-of-owning-a-pet">Emotional value of owning a pet </h2>



To reach these conclusions, the researchers used an economic tool called the “life satisfaction approach.” This method estimates the monetary value of different life events or conditions by examining how much they contribute to a person’s reported happiness.



Traditionally used to assess job loss, income changes, or marital status, the life satisfaction approach now finds a new application in valuing animal companionship.



The technique measures life satisfaction on a 1 to 7 scale. Using data from the UK Household Longitudinal Study, the researchers assessed responses from over 2,600 observations across various households. 



They used regression models to compare <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pet-dogs-severely-harm-wildlife-even-when-leashed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pet</a> owners and non-pet owners while controlling for variables such as income, employment, health, and personality traits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pets-boost-joy-and-life-satisfaction">Pets boost joy and life satisfaction</h2>



Importantly, the researchers aimed to understand causation - not just correlation. To do this, they developed an innovative instrument called “TOTORO,” based on how often individuals were asked to watch over a neighbor's property. 



This variable indirectly signals the likelihood of owning a pet and helped the researchers control for potential reverse causality, where happier or lonelier people might be more inclined to get pets in the first place.



The results were eye-opening. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reimagining-pet-diets-for-a-more-sustainable-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dog</a> ownership increased life satisfaction by 2.93 points, and cat ownership by 3.74 points. 



These gains are comparable to major life events such as marriage. The research team converted these effects into monetary terms, finding that pets may contribute up to £73,000 (almost $83,000) per year to life satisfaction. That number closely mirrors the value placed on marriage or regular interaction with close friends in previous studies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pet-companionship-and-public-health">Pet companionship and public health</h2>



“This research answers the question of whether overall pet companions are good for us with a resounding 'Yes.' Pets care for us and there is a significant monetary value associated with their companionship,” said Dr. Gschwandtner.



”This information can be used for health care practice and policies aiming to increase well-being and life satisfaction of humans involving pets.”



These findings add new depth to our understanding of what it means to live well. They also offer a quantifiable basis for encouraging pet companionship as part of public health strategy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-pets-heal-and-help">How pets heal and help</h2>



Science has long recognized the soothing effect of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-dogs-replacing-children-how-modern-society-is-changing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a>. Simply petting a dog or watching a cat can improve life by reducing blood pressure and heart rate. 



In stressful settings, pets often perform better than friends or family at calming us down. Their presence helps lower cortisol levels and elevate mood. The researchers drew on a broad base of literature showing that pets reduce loneliness, especially for people living alone.



“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened," said French writer Anatole France.



Pets also support recovery during illness, improve self-esteem, and create opportunities for social engagement - particularly for dog owners who are out and about more often. The attachment humans feel toward animals has even been compared to bonds with family.



Emotional well-being, strengthened through consistent, loving companionship, may be one of the most important factors in long-term happiness. For many, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lost-in-translation-how-we-misread-our-dogs-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pets</a> act as anchors in times of emotional drift. This study helps explain why.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personality-shapes-the-bond">Personality shapes the bond</h2>



Not everyone experiences pets the same way. The researchers also explored how personality influences both the decision to own pets and the emotional payoff from them.



Cat owners tend to be more open and conscientious but less extroverted. Dog owners, in contrast, are generally more agreeable and outgoing. 



These findings mirror earlier research and suggest that certain personality types may connect more deeply with pets.



Pet owners overall were more open, extroverted, and conscientious than non-pet owners. These traits themselves are associated with higher life satisfaction. Controlling for personality allowed researchers to isolate the direct impact of pets on happiness, ensuring the results weren’t just a reflection of the personalities of pet lovers.



This connection between traits and companionship also hints at why some people prefer cats over dogs, or vice versa. Cats may appeal more to introspective, independent individuals. Dogs often attract those seeking interaction, structure, and social connection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pets-may-replace-life-partners-emotionally">Pets may replace life partners emotionally</h2>



One surprising part of the study was its exploration of whether pets might serve as substitutes for human relationships.



The data showed that unmarried pet owners reported levels of life satisfaction comparable to those in relationships. Interaction terms in the analysis suggested that for some, pets may indeed fill the emotional gap left by the absence of a partner.



These findings challenge assumptions that human contact is the only meaningful form of social support. 



For many, a dog’s loyalty or a cat’s calm presence may be just as emotionally nourishing as a conversation with a friend or partner. In a world increasingly marked by isolation, pets may serve as vital companions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-household-to-health-policy">From household to health policy</h2>



Given the magnitude of the pet effect, the implications extend well beyond personal decision-making. If pets contribute this much to joy and life satisfaction, they should feature more prominently in public health strategies.



This might include policies that encourage pet ownership among the elderly or those living alone, promote pet-friendly housing, or even subsidize pet care for those in need.



The method used here is especially valuable because it doesn’t ask people directly how much their pets are worth to them. 



Instead, it captures the emotional value in an unbiased way through its effect on reported well-being. This allows policymakers to weigh the benefits of pet companionship alongside other health interventions.



The emotional return on pet ownership is not just theoretical - it shows up in economic models as well as personal stories.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pet-care-adds-joy-to-life">Pet care adds joy to life</h2>



The researchers noted that pet ownership isn't a magic fix. Pets come with responsibilities, potential health risks, and financial costs. Yet, their value is clear.



Through calm presence, daily interaction, and loyal companionship, pets appear to improve our lives in ways that are as real as they are heartwarming.



In a time when loneliness and mental distress continue to rise, perhaps part of the solution lies in better recognizing the role of animals. A wagging tail or a soft purr might not just be comforting - they may be among life’s most powerful, and measurable, gifts.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11205-025-03574-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Social Indicators Research</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Pets increase life satisfaction as much as marriage or close friendships

In a world where happiness often feels like a moving...

It’s no longer unusual for people to form emotional or even romantic bonds with artificial intelligence (AI). Some have gone so far as to “marry” their AI companions, while others have turned to these machines in moments of distress - sometimes with tragic outcomes.



These long-term interactions raise serious questions: Are we prepared for the psychological and ethical consequences of emotionally investing in machines? 



Psychologists from the <a href="https://www.mst.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Missouri University of Science &amp; Technology</a> are now raising the alarm. In a new opinion piece, they explore how these relationships can blur boundaries, affect human behavior, and create new opportunities for harm.



Their concern isn't limited to novelty cases. The experts are calling attention to the deeper effects these emotional connections might have on everyday people.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-comfort-and-consequences-of-ai">The comfort and consequences of AI</h2>



Short conversations with AI are common, but what happens when the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conversations-with-ai-chatbots-can-reverse-reduce-conspiracy-theory-beliefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conversation</a> continues for weeks or months? These machines, designed to imitate empathy and attentiveness, can become steady companions.



For some, these AI partners feel safer and easier than human connections. But that ease comes with a hidden cost. 



“The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-ai-systems-learn-like-the-human-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ability for AI to now act like a human</a> and enter into long-term communications really opens up a new can of worms,” said Daniel B. Shank, the study's lead author. 



Shank specializes in social psychology and technology at the Missouri University of Science &amp; Technology. “If people are engaging in romance with machines, we really need psychologists and social scientists involved.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-falling-in-love-with-ai">Falling in love with AI</h2>



When AI becomes a source of comfort or romantic engagement, it starts to influence how people see real relationships. 



Unrealistic expectations, reduced social motivation, and communication breakdowns with actual humans are just some of the risks.



“A real worry is that people might bring expectations from their AI relationships to their human relationships,” Shank added. “Certainly, in individual cases it’s disrupting human relationships, but it’s unclear whether that’s going to be widespread.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-love-for-ai-turns-dangerous">When love for AI turns dangerous</h2>



AI chatbots can feel like friends - or even therapists - but they are far from infallible. These systems are known to “hallucinate,” producing false information while appearing confident. In emotionally charged situations, that could be dangerous.



“With relational AIs, the issue is that this is an entity that people feel they can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-put-too-much-trust-in-ai-even-for-life-or-death-decisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trust</a>: it’s ‘someone’ that has shown they care and that seems to know the person in a deep way, and we assume that ‘someone’ who knows us better is going to give better advice,” Shank explained.



“If we start thinking of an AI that way, we’re going to start believing that they have our best interests in mind, when in fact, they could be fabricating things or advising us in really bad ways.”



The impact can be devastating. In rare but extreme cases, people have taken their lives after receiving troubling advice from AI companions. 



But the problem isn’t just about suicide. These relationships could open the door to manipulation, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-deception-is-a-growing-issue-that-we-cannot-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deception</a>, and even fraud.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trusting-the-wrong-source">Trusting the wrong source</h2>



The researchers warn that the trust people build with AIs could be exploited by bad actors. AI systems can collect personal information, which might be sold or used in harmful ways. 



More alarmingly, because these interactions happen in private, detecting abuse becomes nearly impossible. “If AIs can get people to trust them, then other people could use that to exploit AI users,” Shank noted.



“It’s a little bit more like having a secret agent on the inside. The AI is getting in and developing a relationship so that they’ll be trusted, but their loyalty is really towards some other group of humans that is trying to manipulate the user.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-companions-don-t-focus-on-safety">AI companions don't focus on safety</h2>



The researchers believe AI companions could be more effective at shaping beliefs and opinions than current social media platforms or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/readers-trust-news-less-when-ai-is-involved/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">news</a> sources. And unlike Twitter or Facebook, AI conversations happen behind closed screens.



“These AIs are designed to be very pleasant and agreeable, which could lead to situations being exacerbated because they’re more focused on having a good conversation than they are on any sort of fundamental truth or safety,” Shank said. 



“So, if a person brings up suicide or a conspiracy theory, the AI is going to talk about that as a willing and agreeable conversation partner.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-are-we-ready-for-what-s-coming">Are we ready for what’s coming?</h2>



The team is urging the research community to catch up. As AI becomes more human-like, psychologists have a key role to play in understanding and guiding how people interact with machines.



“Understanding this psychological process could help us intervene to stop malicious AIs’ advice from being followed,” said Shank.



“Psychologists are becoming more and more suited to study AI, because AI is becoming more and more human-like, but to be useful we have to do more research, and we have to keep up with the technology.”



For now, these concerns remain largely theoretical - but the technology is moving fast. Without more awareness and research, people may continue turning to machines that offer comfort, only to find that comfort comes with hidden risks.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1364661325000580" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trends in Cognitive Sciences</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

People are falling in love with AI companions, and it could be dangerous

It’s no longer unusual for people to form emotional or...

Shot,Of,Group,Of,Friends,Laughing,While,Eating,Healthy,Food

Avocados are having a moment, especially in the U.S. These luscious, green fruits appear in sandwiches, salads, and various social media feeds. 



Part of their appeal comes from their smooth flavor, which blends well with other ingredients. Another part comes from their nutrient-packed profile, which seems to support a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eight-healthy-lifestyle-habits-could-extend-your-life-by-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy lifestyle</a>.



Their popularity has led researchers to look deeper into what happens when these fruits are made a daily habit. 



After investigating different dietary approaches, a notable study gained attention for its focus on the potential of one avocado per day to enhance overall diet quality and encourage healthier eating patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eating-avocados-the-study">Eating avocados - the study</h2>



Associate Professor Kristina Petersen and retired Professor Penny Kris-Etherton from Penn State University’s <a href="https://hhd.psu.edu/nutrition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Nutritional Sciences</a> led an effort that put a spotlight on how a single daily avocado could affect everyday food choices. 



Their work provides a window into how simple additions to meals might improve nutritional habits without major overhauls to what people eat.



Their publication in the journal Current Developments in Nutrition examined how a straightforward intervention could lead to better adherence to dietary guidelines. 



It comes at a time when many are looking for ways to improve their health through small but meaningful changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-following-the-guidelines">Following the guidelines</h2>



A total of 1,008 adults participated in the investigation. Researchers gathered details about what everyone ate through telephone interviews that involved 24-hour dietary intake data. 



The team tracked how closely each individual stuck to the <a href="https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dietary Guidelines for Americans</a> by using the Healthy Eating Index as a yardstick.



Participants were split into two groups over 26 weeks. One group continued with their existing patterns but limited avocados, while the other added one avocado daily. 



Since only about 2% of American adults <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-fruit-can-protect-you-from-late-life-depression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eat this fruit regularly</a>, the project offered new information on how avocados might fit into many different diets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-they-learned-about-eating-avocados">What they learned about eating avocados</h2>



Those who enjoyed a daily avocado experienced a meaningful shift in their diet. 



“Avocados are a powerhouse of nutrition, and our objective was to ascertain if their regular consumption could boost diet quality,” explained Petersen. 



Investigators noticed that this single change had an influence on how individuals approached meals, with greater emphasis on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-foods-with-these-key-nutrients-will-dramatically-slow-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrient-rich items</a> overall.



“This improvement suggests that simple strategies like daily avocado consumption can significantly enhance diet quality,” said Petersen. 



Researchers also uncovered one more result that caught their attention. 



“The substitution effect we observed is particularly noteworthy, as it demonstrates avocados’ potential in replacing higher-calorie, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breaking-free-from-ultra-processed-foods-the-surprising-health-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">less nutritious foods</a>,” Petersen added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



“By fostering better compliance with dietary guidelines, we can substantially lower the risk of chronic conditions and improve overall health outcomes,” said Petersen. 



The findings point to avocados as a practical avenue for people interested in following established nutrition recommendations. 



By emphasizing basic, tasty items, this fruit may spark positive steps toward heart health, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/type-2-diabetes-heightens-alzheimers-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">type 2 diabetes</a> management, and more.



Avocados contain fiber and beneficial fats, which contribute to a satisfying feeling after a meal. That quality might support strategies that keep a person on track when planning or cooking dinner. 



Each time they are used in place of sodium-heavy or refined-grain foods, the odds of maintaining a balanced diet appear to increase.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eating-avocados-a-short-history">Eating avocados - a short history</h2>



Avocados, known by the scientific name <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avocado" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Persea americana</a>, have a long history traced to Mexico and Central America. Indigenous peoples domesticated this fruit well over 10,000 years ago. 



When Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century, they introduced avocados to Europe, setting the stage for their eventual spread around the world.



The name “avocado” comes from the Nahuatl word “ahuacatl.” The shape of the fruit may have inspired that original term. 



Regardless of the origin, the popularity of this versatile item continues to climb, with new dishes popping up in cafes and restaurants everywhere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutritional-details">Nutritional details</h2>



Avocados are recognized for their monounsaturated fats, which may help reduce bad cholesterol levels. 



This can be good news for heart health, especially when combined with a balanced approach to other foods. They also contain an impressive amount of potassium, which supports <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/relaxation-techniques-can-lower-high-blood-pressure-at-least-temporarily/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blood pressure regulation</a>.



Many people notice how avocados fit into a weight-management plan. They are known to help individuals feel satisfied, so there is less temptation to grab a snack soon after a meal. 



The presence of fiber helps maintain a steady flow through the digestive system, possibly providing an extra advantage for everyday wellness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainability-considerations">Sustainability considerations</h2>



Some regions face pressure to keep up with the rising demand for this fruit. Farms require a fair amount of water, and shipping them long distances can raise concerns about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biotic-homogenization-human-impacts-diminish-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological footprints</a>. 



Making choices that align with sustainable sources is one way to reduce any negative impact.



Producers have started exploring new farming methods to preserve soil and use resources more efficiently. 



Awareness of these efforts can be beneficial for those who want to enjoy avocados while showing respect for the environment at the same time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-we-ve-learned-about-eating-avocados">What we've learned about eating avocados</h2>



The Penn State findings shine a spotlight on how a modest change might be enough to elevate meal quality. 



Even though these results are encouraging, continued exploration may uncover additional food-based strategies that fit different lifestyles or dietary needs.



Small steps hold promise for those seeking to improve their daily habits. A simple addition in the kitchen can open the door to better eating patterns.



Avocados have stood out as a delicious candidate that suits many palates, which makes it easier to stick with a plan over the long haul.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2475299124000052" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Developments in Nutrition</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

Eating this fruit every day can add years to your life

Avocados are having a moment, especially in the U.S. These...

Injecting,Injection,Vaccine,Vaccination,Medicine,Against,Covid-19,Into,A,Syringe.

Five years ago, as the world reeled from the emerging COVID-19 pandemic, the first volunteers lined up to test what would become a groundbreaking vaccine. Within a year, tens of millions of Americans had received at least one dose - free of charge. Now, new research shows that decision paid off in many ways.



A new study led by researchers at the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a> (U-M), has confirmed that the U.S. national COVID-19 vaccination strategy not only saved lives but also saved money - making it a rare example of a public health effort that fully paid for itself, and then some.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-worthwhile-national-investment">A worthwhile national investment</h2>



“All in all, we can safely say that this was a prudent investment for the American people, using a really conservative analysis,” said Lisa Prosser, lead author of the study and a professor at the U-M Medical School and School of Public Health.



“From a broader societal economic perspective, and from the perspective of medical care costs, the federal government’s decision to accelerate vaccine testing, buy large quantities of vaccine, and support the cost of vaccination in many settings was wise.”



The study assessed not only how much was spent on testing, distributing, and administering the vaccine, but also what the country saved in return - from reduced hospitalizations and emergency care, to fewer cases of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-covid-persistent-spike-proteins-accumulate-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long COVID</a>, and even fewer work days lost.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breaking-down-the-savings">Breaking down the savings</h2>



The research team, including senior author David Hutton from U-M, created a comprehensive economic model to evaluate the costs and benefits of the vaccine rollout during its first year.



The analysis included factors such as: the price of the vaccine and associated delivery costs, medical care for various degrees of illness, costs related to testing, rare vaccine side effects, the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-people-who-suffer-from-long-covid-never-even-tested-positive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long COVID</a>, and productivity losses from illness and death.



Even when productivity losses weren’t factored in, the strategy was cost-saving for most adults over 40. And for younger adults aged 18 to 39 - who tend to have milder COVID cases - the vaccine program still proved cost-effective by national standards.



Thus, since the vaccines reduced how many people developed serious illnesses or died, the U.S. saved more money than it spent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-conservative-estimate">A conservative estimate</h2>



The researchers emphasize that their findings likely underestimate the true financial benefits. The model doesn’t include a number of indirect costs, such as unpaid family caregiving, patients’ out-of-pocket expenses, or transportation to and from medical facilities.



The model also didn’t include the government’s decades-long investment in basic mRNA research that paved the way for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, nor the broader economic damage a deadlier pandemic might have caused.



According to Prosser,&nbsp;since the model uses conservative estimates, the amount of the savings may in fact be even larger than the study reports.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-covid-vaccines-still-matter-in-2025">COVID vaccines still matter in 2025</h2>



While the early years of the pandemic saw record numbers of hospitalizations and deaths, the situation in 2025 is markedly improved. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universal-vaccine-may-be-effective-against-any-variant-of-any-virus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vaccination</a> and improved treatments have brought down the death toll - but the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/viruses-can-hide-in-lung-cells-and-cause-chronic-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">virus</a> hasn’t disappeared.



Still, 800 to 1,000 people have died of COVID-19 every week of 2025 for which full data is available. Additionally, approximately 1% of all emergency department visits in recent months have been for COVID-19.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guidance-for-covid-vaccines">Guidance for COVID vaccines </h2>



The <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDC</a> currently recommends that everyone over the age of six months receive at least one dose of one of the three updated COVID-19 vaccines, which have been revised annually since 2023. As of now, about 30 million people have followed that recommendation.



Among those at highest risk - people aged 65 and older - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-vaccines-linked-to-neurological-blood-and-heart-related-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vaccination</a> rates hover around 30%, a figure that public health officials hope to increase. 



For those in that group, or for people who are immunocompromised, the CDC recommends a second dose six months after the first. That means individuals who received their updated vaccine in September 2023 are due for another.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-directions">Future research directions </h2>



The U-M team has continued its work by modeling the cost-effectiveness of additional waves of vaccination after 2021 in collaboration with the CDC. They hope to develop models for future vaccine updates, depending on funding and data availability.



The research confirms that the benefits of vaccination extend beyond health and safety - they’re also a smart economic choice. As Prosser put it, this was a prudent investment for U.S. citizens.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0264410X25000222?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vaccine</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

COVID vaccine strategy paid off - and it’s still saving lives

Five years ago, as the world reeled from the emerging...

A recent study suggests that sleep may not only preserve our memories but actually enhance them, especially when it comes to recalling the order in which events occur. 



This discovery points to the significant role that restful sleep plays in consolidating daily experiences. It shows that this effect can remain robust for more than a year after the events in question.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-boosting-memory-through-sleep">Boosting memory through sleep</h2>



The research was carried out by a team affiliated with a leading center for aging and brain health. The scientists developed an innovative approach to test how sleep influences the sequence of memories over extended periods.



Study senior author Brian Levine is a scientist at the <a href="https://www.baycrest.org/about-us-rri">Rotman Research Institute</a>, part of the Baycrest Academy for Research and Education.



“While our memory for features such as object size and color declines over time, sleep can improve our memory for event sequence,” said Levine. "This study deepens our understanding of how critical sleep is for integrating experiences into memory,” he added.



According to these findings, sleep organizes daily events in order, strengthens their links, and helps us remember them months later.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-museum-tour-and-memory-recall">Museum tour and memory recall</h2>



To achieve these insights, the researchers moved beyond typical laboratory procedures that ask participants to memorize word lists or pictures. Instead, they created a 20-minute, audio-guided tour of selected artworks to provide a more authentic experience.



People who took part in this study walked through the exhibit while listening to narrated explanations. They then completed memory tests at intervals ranging from one hour after the tour to 15 months later.



The tests included both questions about the physical features of each artwork and about which piece came first, second, third, and so on. Although shape and color memory faded, sleep notably improved recall of the order in which tour items appeared.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-sleep-boosts-memory">Deep sleep boosts memory</h2>



A second experiment reinforced these results through a design that separated participants into two groups. One set - the sleep group - experienced the art tour in the evening and was tested shortly afterward. They then slept in a monitored environment where their brain activity was recorded using electroencephalography (EEG).



The other set - the wake group - took the tour and the initial test in the morning, stayed awake during the day, and was re-tested that evening. Both groups took additional memory tests a week, a month, and 15 months later.



The data showed that even a single night of slumber made a meaningful difference in how participants remembered the order of the tour items. Their advantage, established early, remained evident more than a year afterward.



Meanwhile, memory for the physical features of each artwork continued to deteriorate for both groups. Detailed EEG readings revealed that deep sleep, particularly the combination of slow waves and sleep spindles, correlated strongly with this sustained memory improvement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-s-lasting-impact">Sleep’s lasting impact </h2>



Sleep’s effect on memory has long intrigued scientists. These findings show that the sequence of experiences can remain intact over extended periods.



Furthermore, the study suggests that certain types of memory, such as object details, may not benefit in the same way. 



By showing this difference, researchers explore why our brains preserve event order even as other details fade over time. Understanding this pattern also holds relevance for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/defying-time-three-ways-to-slow-biological-aging/">aging</a> populations and those with cognitive conditions, since it sheds light on why memory for events can change so dramatically in later life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-health-and-new-interventions">Cognitive health and new interventions</h2>



The benefits of a good night’s rest extend beyond short-term improvements. “The benefits of sleep on memory are powerful; just one night makes a difference that persists over a year,” Levine said.



This underscores the importance of consistent, high-quality sleep as part of an overall strategy to maintain and strengthen cognitive health. Activities such as regular exercise, a balanced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-health-and-diet-nutrition-helps-lower-dementia-risk/">diet</a>, and attention to sleep routines can work together to keep the mind functioning at its peak.



Researchers hope studying sleep rhythms, slow waves, and spindles will lead to new memory-boosting interventions. These interventions might prove especially significant in helping older adults or those living with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-sleep-may-predict-memory-loss-years-in-advance/">dementia</a> retain key aspects of their experiences for longer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-frontier-of-discovery">Ongoing frontier of discovery </h2>



For anyone interested in preserving the narrative thread of life’s events, these results offer an encouraging perspective: better rest today might translate into clearer, more accurate recollections tomorrow and beyond.



The ways in which sleep shapes our memories remain an ongoing frontier of scientific inquiry, but one message comes through loud and clear. 



Whether you are studying for an exam, trying to remember cherished family moments, or simply hoping to keep your recollections intact over time, sleeping well stands out as a critical part of the formula.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-025-02117-5">Nature Human Behavior</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Sleep can boost memory in a surprising way

A recent study suggests that sleep may not only preserve...

A,Young,African-american,Man,Is,Meditating,In,A,Bright,,Minimalist

Recent insights suggest that reflective habits - like meditation and critical thinking - can help people embrace artificial intelligence without succumbing to its drawbacks. As AI weaves itself into daily life, balanced use becomes crucial.



Digital strategy expert Giulio Toscani has interviewed 150 AI specialists across 50 countries. He argues in his new book, <a href="https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.1201/9781003533160/augmented-giulio-toscani" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Augmented: prAIority to Enhance Human Judgment through Data and AI</a>, that humans often operate on autopilot, craving instant gratification.



“The growing allure of AI lies in its powerful ability to cater to our desires, providing us with instant gratification whenever and however we want it,” he said.



“This is particularly appealing in an increasingly digital and fast-paced world where people often face isolation and boredom. However, this very convenience and responsiveness of AI also pose a risk - its addictive potential.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-managing-ai-s-addictive-potential">Managing AI’s addictive potential</h2>



Toscani warns that limited awareness of AI’s risks leads many to adopt new tools prematurely, exposing themselves to data privacy breaches, online harassment, and misinformation.



According to Toscani, it is essential to pause and reflect on how these interactions shape and are shaped by our actions to encourage a cultural shift towards valuing long-term thinking over immediate gratification.



Deliberate examination of AI’s role can guide more thoughtful choices. This reflective approach helps us understand the broader implications of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/current-ai-systems-can-not-be-trusted-to-make-unbiased-decisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">technology</a>, beyond immediate functionality and efficiency, noted Toscani.



"It allows us to consider how technology impacts our lives, relationships, and ethical considerations, guiding us toward more deliberate and informed decisions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meditation-and-responsible-ai-use">Meditation and responsible AI use</h2>



Toscani, who has practiced Vipassana <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meditation-slows-biological-aging-at-the-molecular-level/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meditation</a> at six 10-day silent retreats, sees it as a way to reflect on the responsible use of AI and become aware of one’s digital habits.



“This growing practice encourages individuals to critically assess their technological choices, considering the broader implications for themselves, their communities, and society at large."



“By fostering a culture of mindful reflection on how we interact with technology, meditation plays a crucial role in promoting responsible and ethical use. Emphasizing reflection helps us make more informed, deliberate decisions that enhance the positive impact of technology while mitigating its risks.”



Toscani noted that the cultural shift toward mindfulness encourages us to consider the broader implications of our technological choices, promoting a more responsible and humane relationship with the tools that shape our lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-thinking-in-action">Critical thinking in action</h2>



Toscani cautions against over-reliance on AI for vital cognitive tasks. He urges practices such as journaling, debate, and handwriting to maintain deep thinking.



“By consciously balancing the use of AI with the development and maintenance of our cognitive skills, we can harness the power of AI without sacrificing our intellectual autonomy."



He also mentioned that as we continue to integrate AI into our lives, we must remain vigilant about its impact on our cognitive processes, ensuring that we remain active participants in our own intellectual development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-ai-to-enhance-human-capabilities">Using AI to enhance human capabilities </h2>



Though challenges exist, Toscani calls AI a revolutionary tool in human history. Drawing from ancient philosophy, he proposes the concept of “prAIority,” a focus on data, AI systems, and human judgment underpinned by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-robot-interaction-are-we-prepared-for-the-ethical-challenges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ethics</a>.



This approach aims to preserve autonomy and trust, all while driving innovation. Moreover, he also advocates applying AI where it matters most, such as healthcare, education, creative fields, and complex decision-making.



“Through strategic prioritization, we can unlock the full potential of AI as a force for good, transforming our world and enriching the human experience in ways that were once unimaginable,” he explained.



“By thoughtfully selecting areas where AI can be most beneficial, we ensure that this powerful technology enhances human capabilities rather than disrupts them." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-keeping-technology-under-control">Keeping technology under control</h2>



Toscani also stated the primary goal is to use AI to augment human intelligence and creativity, enabling us to solve complex problems, innovate in ways previously unimaginable, and improve our overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/active-aging-physical-activity-has-a-direct-impact-on-life-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quality of life</a>.



In a world where AI is rapidly evolving, reflection, meditation, and critical thinking help maintain autonomy. 



By examining our reliance on AI, we keep technology under our control rather than the other way around. This mindful balance lets us maximize AI’s benefits while safeguarding our judgment, creativity, and humanity.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Why meditation and critical thinking matter in the age of AI

Recent insights suggest that reflective habits - like meditation and...

Vitamin K may have a more significant role in brain function than expected, particularly as we age. Widely known for its role in blood clotting, this vitamin - contained in green veggies such as spinach, kale, and broccoli - could also guard memory and learning.



In a study from the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at <a href="https://www.tufts.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tufts University</a>, scientists explored how low vitamin K intake could affect the brain's ability to process information. 



The research was particularly focused on the hippocampus - an area that controls <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a> and memory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-brain-vitamin-k-connection">The brain-vitamin K connection</h2>



Using middle-aged rodents, the researchers observed how a vitamin K-deficient diet impacted brain function over six months. 



The team analyzed menaquinone-4, a form of vitamin K commonly found in brain tissue. Mice lacking this nutrient showed significant changes in behavior and brain structure.



“There is also research that indicates vitamin K contributes to brain function and that brain function declines during the aging process,” noted Tong Zheng, lead author of the study.



“Vitamin K seems to have a protective effect. Our research is trying to understand the underlying mechanism for that effect, so we might one day be able to target those mechanisms specifically.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vitamin-k-deficiency-impacts-learning">Vitamin K deficiency impacts learning</h2>



To test <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/memory-isnt-only-stored-in-our-brains-other-cells-can-remember-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a> and learning abilities, the researchers conducted behavioral assessments with the mice. One such task, the novel object recognition test, revealed that vitamin K-deficient mice struggled to distinguish familiar and new objects. This signaled a clear drop in memory.



In another test, the mice had to locate a hidden platform in a water pool. Again, those lacking vitamin K took noticeably longer to figure out the task. 



The results pointed toward a broader issue in how their brains processed and retained new information. Brain tissue analysis backed this up. The scientists found fewer new neurons in the hippocampus, particularly the dentate gyrus region.



“Neurogenesis is thought to play a critical role in learning and memory, and its impairment could directly contribute to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colorful-foods-can-prevent-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive decline</a> observed in the study,” explained Zheng.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inflammation-and-brain-aging">Inflammation and brain aging</h2>



Beyond fewer new brain cells, the team also discovered increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-mild-inflammation-can-majorly-damage-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inflammation</a> in the vitamin K-deficient mice. They found more activated microglia - the immune cells of the brain. 



While these cells typically help maintain brain health, an overactive state can cause long-term inflammation. This kind of chronic inflammation is a known contributor to age-related cognitive issues and neurodegenerative diseases.



While the findings are compelling, the researchers are not advising people to rush to the supplement aisle. There are plenty of vitamin K-rich foods, such as green leafy vegetables like kale, collard greens, and Swiss chard – but also kiwi, asparagus, avocado, and blueberries.



“People need to eat a healthy diet. They need to eat their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fruits-vegetables-memory-loss-men/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetables</a>," said Sarah Booth, director of the research center and senior author of the study. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-long-term-brain-health">Improving long-term brain health</h2>



Booth's team collaborates closely with scientists at Rush University Medical Center, who conduct observational studies in humans. Meanwhile, the Tufts researchers work with animal models to better understand the biology at play.



“We know that a healthy diet works and that people who don’t eat a healthy diet don’t live as long or do as well cognitively,” said Booth.



“By choreographing animal and human studies together, we can do a better job of improving brain health long-term by identifying and targeting specific mechanisms.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eating-for-a-sharper-tomorrow">Eating for a sharper tomorrow</h2>



The study reinforces the idea that what we eat doesn’t just affect our bodies - but also our minds.



While vitamin K may not be the sole solution to preserving brain health, making leafy greens a regular part of your diet could be a smart, simple step toward better aging.



Nutrition is just one piece of the puzzle, but it’s a piece we can control. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods and plan meals to ensure you're getting various nutrients. 



Supporting your brain through diet now may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline later. And sometimes, small habits - like eating more vegetables - can lead to meaningful changes in how we age.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0022316625000306" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Nutrition</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Vitamin K protects the aging brain in many important ways

Vitamin K may have a more significant role in brain...

Young,Beautiful,Hispanic,Woman,Having,Video,Call,Communicate,With,Sign

For millions of deaf and hard-of-hearing people, using sign language to communicate in a world built around spoken words can be exhausting. 



Whether it’s ordering food, asking for directions, or taking part in a classroom discussion, barriers show up everywhere.



While interpreters and captioning services can help, they’re often limited, costly, or unavailable when most needed. 



As daily life becomes more digital, the need for smart tools that can translate sign language in real time is more urgent than ever.



That’s why researchers from Florida Atlantic University’s <a href="https://www.fau.edu/engineering/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College of Engineering and Computer Science</a> have created a new system that could change the way we think about accessibility.



They’ve developed a real-time American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter powered by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-communicate-with-animals-using-artificial-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a>. 



This system uses deep learning and hand-tracking to convert ASL gestures into written text, all using a regular webcam and off-the-shelf hardware.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recognizing-sign-language-is-tricky-for-machines">Recognizing sign language is tricky for machines</h2>



ASL relies on precise hand shapes and movements to represent letters, words, and phrases. But current recognition tools often miss the mark - especially when signs look alike.



For example, “A” and “T” or “M” and “N” can be hard to tell apart for machines. These tools also struggle in poor lighting, with motion blur, and with differences in hand shape or skin tone, all of which affect how accurate the machine interpretations are.



To solve these issues, the FAU team combined two powerful tools: YOLOv11 for object detection and MediaPipe for detailed hand tracking. 



Together, they allow the system to detect and classify ASL alphabet letters with an accuracy of 98.2% (mean Average Precision at 0.5). The entire process works in real time and with very little delay.



“What makes this system especially notable is that the entire recognition pipeline - from capturing the gesture to classifying it operates seamlessly in real time, regardless of varying lighting conditions or backgrounds,” said Bader Alsharif, lead author on the study.



“And all of this is achieved using standard, off-the-shelf hardware. This underscores the system’s practical potential as a highly accessible and scalable assistive technology, making it a viable solution for real-world applications.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seeing-and-understanding-sign-language">Seeing and understanding sign language</h2>



At the center of the system is a basic webcam, which captures live video and turns it into digital frames. 



MediaPipe then pinpoints 21 key spots on each hand - fingertips, knuckles, and the wrist - to build a kind of skeleton map. These points help the system understand hand structure and motion.



YOLOv11 uses this skeletal data to match hand gestures accurately to ASL letters.



The researchers also built a massive dataset - 130,000 images strong - to train the model. These images include hands in a variety of lighting conditions, backgrounds, and angles.



This diversity helps the system learn how to generalize across different people and environments, thus reducing the chance of bias.



“This project is a great example of how cutting-edge AI can be applied to serve humanity,” said Imad Mahgoub, a co-author on the publication.



“By fusing deep learning with hand landmark detection, our team created a system that not only achieves high accuracy but also remains accessible and practical for everyday use. It’s a strong step toward inclusive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-holograms-future-of-secure-messaging-encryption-internet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication technologies</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-growing-need">A growing need</h2>



The deaf and hard-of-hearing community is large and diverse. 



In the U.S. alone, about 11 million people - roughly 3.6% of the population - are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/implant-measures-hearing-quality-through-brain-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deaf</a> or have significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hearing-loss-linked-to-a-greater-risk-of-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hearing loss</a>. Around 37.5 million adults experience some level of hearing difficulty.



That’s a lot of people who could benefit from better communication tools.



“The significance of this research lies in its potential to transform communication for the deaf community by providing an AI-driven tool that translates American Sign Language gestures into text, enabling smoother interactions across education, workplaces, health care and social settings,” commented Mohammad Ilyas, co-author of the research study.



“By developing a robust and accessible ASL interpretation system, our study contributes to the advancement of assistive technologies to break down barriers for the deaf and hard-of-hearing population.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-helping-the-deaf-community-say-more">Helping the deaf community say more</h2>



While this new tool already shows strong results for recognizing the ASL alphabet, the team isn’t stopping there. They’re now working to expand the system to understand full ASL sentences. 



This would make communication even more natural and fluent, moving from spelling out words to sharing entire ideas.



“This research highlights the transformative power of AI-driven assistive technologies in empowering the deaf community,” said Stella Batalama, Dean of the Department of Electrical Engineering at FAU. 



“By bridging the communication gap through real-time ASL recognition, this system plays a key role in fostering a more inclusive society."



"It allows individuals with hearing impairments to interact more seamlessly with the world around them, whether they are introducing themselves, navigating their environment, or simply engaging in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-daily-conversation-with-a-friend-can-boost-wellbeing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">everyday conversations</a>." 



This technology enhances accessibility and supports greater social integration, helping create a more connected and empathetic community for everyone.



With continued development, this AI-powered tool may soon become part of daily life, helping millions to communicate more freely - one gesture at a time.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/25/7/2138" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sensors</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Remarkable new AI tech translates American Sign Language in real-time

For millions of deaf and hard-of-hearing people, using sign language...

No system in the human body functions in isolation. The health of any body part has impacts on the well-being of other parts, sometimes in surprising and unexpected ways. 



A recent scientific review has turned attention to the mouth - and how gum disease might be playing a surprising role in liver health.



This review, led by a group of scientists from <a href="https://cie.jlu.edu.cn/info/1137/1681.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">First Hospital of Jilin University</a>, looks at how gum disease, especially advanced periodontitis, may worsen chronic liver conditions like cirrhosis, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and alcohol-related liver disease. 



Though the mouth and liver are far apart in both distance and function, researchers believe they may be more connected than we thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mouth-s-connection-to-liver-disease">Mouth's connection to liver disease</h2>



Gum disease, particularly periodontitis, is a chronic inflammation caused by bacterial infection in the tissues supporting the teeth. 



It’s extremely common worldwide and tends to worsen with age, smoking, alcohol use, and poor dental care, which are the same risk factors seen in people with liver disease. Because of this overlap, oral health often gets overlooked <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-mediterranean-diet-reduces-fatty-liver-disease-by-half/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in these patients</a>.



But this could be a serious mistake. 



The review explains how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-in-your-mouth-multiply-in-a-very-unique-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria from the mouth</a> might reach and affect the liver. One key route is through what scientists call the "oral-gut-liver axis."



Harmful oral bacteria can be swallowed or enter the bloodstream during everyday actions like brushing or chewing. Once in the gut, they may disrupt the gut microbiome, causing an imbalance and weakening the gut lining. 



This so-called “leaky gut” allows bacterial toxins to escape into the bloodstream and reach the liver, where they can trigger inflammation and scarring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-models-add-weight">Animal models add weight</h2>



Animal studies support this idea.



Researchers have shown that introducing periodontal bacteria like Porphyromonas gingivalis into the mouths of mice with metabolic disease can make their liver conditions worse. 



In some cases, the bacteria or their toxins have even been detected in liver tissue, suggesting that the trip from mouth to liver is not just possible, but biologically real.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inflammation-as-a-common-thread">Inflammation as a common thread</h2>



The immune system plays a big role too. 



Periodontal inflammation releases molecules like TNF-alpha and IL-6, which are well-known culprits in liver disease.



The review also points to Th17 cells, a type of immune cell triggered by oral bacteria, that may travel to the liver and worsen any <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-related-air-pollution-causes-liver-damage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">damage</a>.



It creates a vicious cycle: poor oral health contributes to liver disease, and this makes oral health harder to manage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-world-evidence-is-emerging">Real-world evidence is emerging</h2>



Though the research is still developing, clinical findings are beginning to show a pattern. 



People with cirrhosis often have much worse oral health than others, with issues like gum overgrowth, bone loss, and tissue breakdown. In fact, up to 72 percent of people waiting for liver transplants may have periodontitis. 



Studies also show that severe gum disease can raise the risk of death in cirrhosis patients.



For MASLD - the most common chronic liver disease - the pattern continues.



Large-scale studies show that people with advanced gum disease are more likely to have MASLD, even when adjusting for obesity, diabetes, and other shared factors. 



In a small clinical trial, treating gum disease actually improved liver enzyme levels in the short term. It’s not proof, but it’s a hopeful sign.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-questions-to-answer">More questions to answer</h2>



The scientists behind the review are careful to note that the research is still in its early stages. 



Most of the data comes from observational studies, which can't prove cause and effect. It’s also difficult to untangle lifestyle and economic issues that may impact both oral and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-say-this-is-the-best-fruit-to-eat-for-a-healthier-liver/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">liver health</a>.



Still, the combination of biological plausibility, consistent results, and early trial data makes a strong case. Gum health might deserve a bigger consideration when managing liver disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preventing-liver-disease-with-a-toothbrush">Preventing liver disease with a toothbrush</h2>



The review ends with a clear recommendation: doctors and dentists need to work together. 



Liver specialists may not ask about oral health, and dentists may not know that their patients’ livers are at risk. Better collaboration between the two could mean earlier detection and better outcomes for patients.



In the meantime, one message is clear. Good <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-dental-hygiene-is-directly-linked-to-decrease-in-brain-volume-and-mental-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dental hygiene</a> - brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits - is more than just a routine. It may be a small but important step in protecting liver health.



Researchers are now pushing for large-scale trials to see if treating gum disease can actually slow the deterioration of the liver, or at least reduce complications.



If proven, the toothbrush could become a powerful tool in an unexpected battle - the fight against liver failure.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://egastroenterology.bmj.com/content/3/1/e100140" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eGastroenterology</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Brushing your teeth regularly can prevent deadly liver disease

No system in the human body functions in isolation. The...

Alzheimer,Blood,Test,Diagnostics,And,Dementia,Screening,For,Early,Detection

Over 55 million people across the globe are living with Alzheimer’s, according to recent statistics from the <a href="https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241550543" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Organization</a>, and many struggle to access the right diagnostic test early on.



Symptoms can be subtle at first, and many folks only receive clarity on their condition well after harmful changes have already taken root.



<a href="https://www.barcelonabeta.org/en/news/news/marc-suarez-calvet-head-bbrc-group-biomarkers-fluids-and-translational-neurology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Marc Suárez-Calvet</a>, a neurologist at Hospital del Mar and researcher at the Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (<a href="https://www.barcelonabeta.org/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BBRC</a>), has spent years focused on ways to measure Alzheimer’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stopping-alzheimers-before-it-starts-early-treatment-shows-potential/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">markers</a> in routine clinical settings. 



Recent <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-025-03622-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">work</a> by his team and others suggests that a streamlined blood test may be able to show whether someone is at risk, even in the presence of mild forgetfulness or general cognitive changes.



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



Alzheimer’s is notorious for hiding behind familiar signs of aging, and that overlap can be confusing for families. 



Many older adults dismiss <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-blood-test-can-track-the-progression-of-alzheimers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory slips</a> as nothing unusual, but doctors now caution that missing an early diagnosis can limit treatment options.



Studies highlight that advanced <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ana.20009" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tools</a>, including positron emission tomography (<a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/positron-emission-tomography-pet" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PET</a>) scans, can confirm Alzheimer’s pathology with fair accuracy. 



Yet these scans can be expensive, inconvenient for those living in remote areas and limited by availability in many regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-test-identifies-alzheimer-s">How the test identifies Alzheimer’s</h2>



The promising test zeroes in on a biomarker in the blood, called <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41398-024-03084-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phospho-tau217</a> (p-tau217). Scientists have discovered that unusual shifts in this <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/2784411" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marker</a> might be tied to the Alzheimer’s process well before pronounced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-air-pollution-fuels-alzheimers-and-brain-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory issues</a> emerge.



“This development may allow us to determine who needs to undergo further tests, such as a lumbar puncture or a PET scan, and who doesn’t,” stated Dr. Suárez-Calvet. 



Experts believe that routine labs could run the p-tau217 test on fully automated platforms, making advanced evaluation more accessible to smaller clinics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-test-is-easier-and-faster">Blood test is easier and faster</h2>



Blood tests are generally easier on patients than procedures like a spinal tap, which draws cerebrospinal fluid (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519007/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSF</a>). Some people hesitate to get a lumbar puncture because of discomfort, cost or personal fears.



“Our results, combined with the ease of use and implementation of this type of test, could facilitate its integration into clinical practice,” said BBRC researcher <a href="https://www.barcelonabeta.org/en/news/news/federica-anastasi-receives-juan-de-la-cierva-fellowship" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Federica Anastasi</a>. Researchers also note that blood-based tests can be done at many local labs.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alzheimer-s-test-limits-over-age-80">Alzheimer’s test limits over age 80</h2>



Doctors caution that accuracy decreases slightly in individuals past the age of 80 if only a single cutoff measure is used. 



That doesn’t mean the test fails; it just suggests the need for an additional step to ensure that results line up with each patient’s full health profile.



Older patients might have other changes that affect test readings, such as chronic kidney disease (<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11837363/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CKD</a>) or coexisting conditions that overlap with cognitive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/targeting-the-gut-might-be-key-in-preventing-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">symptoms</a>. 



By factoring these elements into the analysis, clinicians can keep the test from overestimating or underestimating risk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-two-cutoffs-for-extra-clarity">Two cutoffs for extra clarity</h2>



Scientists recommend using two separate thresholds for p-tau217. In many cases, a higher value points toward clear Alzheimer’s risk, and a lower value suggests an all-clear.



People who land in the middle range are flagged for more detailed evaluation. This avoids confusion and ensures those on the borderline get an extra look using other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-disruptions-could-signal-the-onset-of-alzheimers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diagnostic tools</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-advantages">Economic advantages</h2>



Costs linked to diagnosing Alzheimer’s can add up quickly, due to extra imaging tests and possible prolonged hospital stays. 



By offering a blood-based evaluation, doctors and patients may reduce the need for more expensive scans in many situations.



Estimates show that a simple lab draw for Alzheimer’s markers can cut typical diagnostic costs by more than half. 



Although further confirmation might be needed for some, the savings could be a big deal in large-scale healthcare planning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alzheimer-s-test-improves-small-town-access">Alzheimer’s test improves small-town access</h2>



Primary care offices rarely have the specialized equipment or staff needed for advanced imaging. With a user-friendly blood analysis, people in smaller towns might not have to travel several hours to major medical centers.



This shift can also ease overcrowding at specialized hospitals, allowing neurologists and geriatricians to focus on complex cases. 



The blood test, in combination with standard exams, can give family doctors a reliable starting point without the wait times that often plague bigger clinics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-directions">Future directions</h2>



Experts caution that this test isn’t meant to replace clinical judgment. They emphasize that doctors who see potential warning signs still have to look at a patient’s history, neurological exams and overall health.



Researchers plan more studies to understand how factors like diabetes and advanced age can skew results. Some teams aim to fine-tune the test so that even borderline cases get a more precise reading within standard blood panels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-staying-one-step-ahead">Staying one step ahead</h2>



Many caregivers say that when Alzheimer’s is confirmed sooner, they can plan better for therapy, lifestyle adjustments and family support. 



Catching things <a href="https://www.nice.org.uk/Media/Default/About/what-we-do/HTA%20Lab/HTA-lab-dmdt.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early</a> also opens the door for experimental treatments aimed at slowing disease progression.



A widely accessible test for Alzheimer’s risk holds promise for bridging the gaps in rural and underserved communities. 



Even so, professionals emphasize the need for continued innovation to improve reliability for every age bracket and health background.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-025-03622-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Medicine</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Breakthrough: New blood test for early detection of Alzheimer's disease

Over 55 million people across the globe are living with...

<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.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

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.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

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>



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

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.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



-----

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>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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.

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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.

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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"

[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"] Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"]</div>



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)



---



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"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"] Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected...

News coming your way