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>.



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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...

Seasonal allergies used to follow a fairly stable schedule. People would brace for symptoms in the spring and sometimes in the fall, but those <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-accelerating-beyond-control-as-co2-levels-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patterns</a> have been more difficult to predict lately.



Many now notice that their noses start running before the usual first bloom of the season. Others find that their watery eyes and sneezing continue for weeks past the time they expected relief. A recent study links these intensifying seasonal allergies to climate change. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollen-seasons-are-getting-longer">Pollen seasons are getting longer</h2>



The <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/lary.32124" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> suggests that warmer climate conditions can lengthen pollen seasons in various parts of the world. The study was led by Alisha R. Pershad, a third-year medical student at the George Washington University <a href="https://smhs.gwu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Medicine and Health Sciences</a>.



The researchers looked at data published between the years 2000 and 2023. They found 30 studies that examined how global warming seems to affect the timing and amount of pollen released. 



Sixteen of those studies observed a link between rising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-constantly-reshuffling-earths-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a> and longer pollen seasons, adding to the concerns of allergy sufferers.



Some researchers <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1014107108" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">project</a> that total pollen production in the United States might climb by as much as 40% by the close of the century. They also anticipate an earlier start to the sneezing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-therapy-may-help-reduce-peanut-allergies-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">season</a>, with shifts in temperature patterns possibly adding up to 19 extra days of pollen in certain regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-longer-allergy-seasons-affect-daily-life">Longer allergy seasons affect daily life</h2>



<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538186/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Allergic rhinitis</a> is a reaction that involves itchy eyes, nasal congestion, and repetitive sneezing. It affects about 19.2 million adults across the nation.



Many who struggle with this condition describe fatigue, disrupted sleep, and trouble focusing at work or school. Beyond the personal inconvenience, extended pollen exposure may lead to frequent doctor visits and a need for stronger medications which both require financial assistance.



A few studies note that climate conditions can influence the spread of new types of pollen into places not used to seeing them. This shift sometimes catches residents off guard, leaving them vulnerable to unexpected <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oak-trees-show-that-allergy-season-is-becoming-longer-and-more-intense/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">allergic</a> flare-ups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-access-to-allergy-treatment">Improving access to allergy treatment </h2>



The researchers observed a pattern of increased healthcare usage for <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/mm6705e1.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">allergy-related problems</a> in areas with limited resources. Clinics in these neighborhoods reported more symptoms such as congestion from patients seeking help with various symptoms attributed to allergies.



Four of the studies in the recent review highlighted how low-income residents are especially affected by the higher frequency of allergic rhinitis complaints. This situation highlights a need for improved access to allergy treatment and more awareness campaigns at the community level.



Two of the studies indicated that medical workers themselves would like better training on the ways that climate patterns can influence allergic conditions. They stressed the importance of bridging knowledge gaps so professionals can advise patients about upcoming shifts in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-peanut-consumption-could-prevent-100000-allergy-cases-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollen levels</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparing-for-the-future">Preparing for the future</h2>



“Physicians are uniquely positioned to witness the impact of allergic rhinitis on patient outcomes and can adapt their practice as climate change intensifies. As trusted voices in the community, they should leverage their frontline experience to advocate for meaningful change in addressing the climate crisis,” said Pershad.



Experts suggest that those who struggle with runny noses, sneezing fits, and nasal itching could benefit from practical solutions. Some rely on checking local pollen forecasts, while others start preventive medications a few weeks before their typical allergy window.



Public health officials note that these problems may grow if temperatures keep fluctuating and plant cycles become more erratic. 



Long-term planning could involve bolstering healthcare infrastructure and expanding research into allergy triggers that might spread into previously unaffected areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-managing-allergies-in-a-changing-climate">Managing allergies in a changing climate</h2>



People suffering from nasal stuffiness or red and itchy eyes might want to discuss personalized strategies with a healthcare provider. 



Over-the-counter products offer quick fixes, but medical advice can clarify dosage and confirm the best treatment plan for individual needs.



Ongoing research on allergies and climate change will continue to provide valuable clues for the future. Many hope that strong communication between healthcare teams, scientists, and the public will reduce the frustration that can come with these ever-shifting allergy seasons.



The study is published in <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/lary.32124" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Laryngoscope</a>.



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Climate change is making allergy season worse and longer-lasting

Seasonal allergies used to follow a fairly stable schedule. People...

Between 2 and 2.9 billion people worldwide cannot afford what they need to live a healthy life. These individuals do not fit traditional definitions of extreme poverty, yet they still face hardship in accessing food with enough nutrients for long-term well-being.



<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306919225000533?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Research</a> from the <a href="https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Göttingen</a> shows that most conventional yardsticks miss a key point: many people live above the typical “extreme poverty” threshold but cannot buy what experts call a basic healthy diet. 



The study was led by Jonas Stehl, a PhD researcher at Göttingen University’s Development Economics Research Group, who collaborated with the aid agency Misereor.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-people-need-more-than-calories">People need more than calories</h2>



Basic living needs go beyond mere survival calories. People also require vitamins, minerals, and proteins to avoid illnesses linked to poor diets. Many policy discussions still focus on strict income cutoffs that do not include the cost of diverse foods.



This broader perspective introduces a different headcount of global poverty. By one calculation, at least 2.3 billion people fall below a new line that factors in both food variety and other essentials. 



A large chunk of humanity faces health risks simply because they cannot purchase <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-health-and-diet-nutrition-helps-lower-dementia-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutritious foods</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-high-cost-of-healthy-food">The high cost of healthy food</h2>



Researchers argue that current methods fail to reflect the price of fruits, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-fruits-and-vegetables-improve-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetables</a>, legumes, and other necessary foods. Studies by the <a href="https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/67b1e9c7-1a7f-4dc6-a19e-f6472a4ea83a/content" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food and Agriculture Organization</a> show that nutrient-rich diets often cost more than low-quality staples alone. This gap means many working families end up short on daily vitamins.



Some in wealthier nations may spend less overall on daily necessities, but they can still purchase balanced meals. Others in low-income regions might manage cheap starches yet cannot add proteins or produce. 



This imbalance can spell the difference between meeting basic nutrient targets or lacking them for years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-old-poverty-lines-miss-real-needs">Old poverty lines miss real needs</h2>



<a href="https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/measuringpoverty" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The World Bank</a> sets a widely used cut-and-dried income line to count extreme poverty. It is useful for simpler global comparisons but leaves out dietary requirements beyond raw calorie intake. The new findings say health must be a central factor in assessing need.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-healthy-diet-your-secret-weapon-against-aging-and-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Healthy diets</a> cost more than a single universal figure can capture. Prices change based on location, food availability, and purchasing power. Diet-related disease burdens also vary, making a single yardstick less effective in reflecting true welfare.



“There are billions of people who are not classified as extremely poor by current standards, yet they cannot afford food for adequate nutrition and other basic needs, overlooking the long-term health consequences of malnutrition,” said Stehl. He added that traditional measures should be reconsidered to direct resources more precisely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-poor-food-harms-people-and-society">Poor food harms people and society</h2>



Health impacts stretch far beyond the individual. Research published in <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/article/S0140-6736(19)30041-8/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Lancet</a> found that undernutrition and diet-linked illnesses contribute to high medical expenses, reduced labor output, and stunted childhood development. Societies bear additional burdens when large groups cannot afford the cost of healthy food.



Food assistance projects, micronutrient fortification programs, and cash transfers often aim to tackle these problems. However, efforts can fall short if <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-diets-linked-to-education-and-food-access/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poverty lines</a> fail to identify who needs help with healthy diets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-non-food-essentials">Role of non-food essentials</h2>



The same study highlights that the expense of meeting non-food basics is also crucial. People need more than food - they also require housing, electricity, school fees, and healthcare.



A new poverty benchmark should account for both food and these other core needs to give a more accurate picture of deprivation.



If a household’s income only covers calories from cheap staples, they may still face undernutrition and struggle to pay for medicine or transportation. That shortfall harms productivity and can lock future generations into hardship.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-policies-must-reflect-real-costs">Policies must reflect real costs</h2>



Policymakers often rely on conventional international poverty lines to plan social support. 



The researchers’ findings suggest that billions of people remain overlooked because their incomes sit above outdated baselines. Officials could fine-tune global and local programs by adding a healthy-diet cost to official thresholds.



Certain governments have already started adjusting their calculations. Specialists hope more will follow, especially where malnutrition persists despite moderate overall growth. Shifting the conversation could help spark new investment in farm output, market efficiency, and safety nets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-healthier-diets-help-economies">Why healthier diets help economies</h2>



Balanced nutrition is <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33343003/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">linked</a> with stronger immune systems, better brain function, and improved school performance for children. Workers become more productive and health expenses often drop. 



Recognizing the real cost of these diets can steer governments, charities, and donors toward more impactful solutions.



A person might be working multiple jobs yet still remain food-insecure if healthy items are priced out of reach. That reality calls for creative policy, such as subsidizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ditch-the-diet-trends-for-a-healthier-relationship-with-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrient-rich foods</a> or offering direct financial support to low-income families.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-the-cost-of-healthy-food">Reducing the cost of healthy food </h2>



Experts say updating poverty metrics to include the cost of a balanced diet aligns with the human right to adequate food. Focusing only on a single daily dollar amount does not capture the real gap that blocks better health and fuller lives.



Governments and aid groups can use this knowledge to push for market policies that reduce prices on nutritious staples, boost local production, or provide direct income programs. Measures of economic well-being can shift to something that covers more than a limited food basket.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306919225000533?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food Policy</a>.



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Billions of people can't afford healthy food despite not being 'poor'

Between 2 and 2.9 billion people worldwide cannot afford what...

A,Fake,News,Warning,Notification,Appearing,On,The,Phone,While

Fake news is everywhere, and in a world flooded with information, sorting fact from fiction has never been more difficult - or more important. 



A new study based on over 66,000 participants across 96 countries sheds light on who struggles most to spot fake news and who might not be as good at identifying misinformation as they think they are.



The research, conducted by scientists from the <a href="https://www.ubc.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of British Columbia</a> and the University of Cambridge, used a tool called the Misinformation Susceptibility Test (MIST). 



The tool allows scientists to uncover both how well different groups can identify fake news and how accurately they judge their own abilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gen-z-and-fake-news-challenges">Gen Z and fake news challenges</h2>



It’s a common assumption that younger generations - especially <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/generation-z-stressed-vote/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Generation Z</a>, those born between 1997 and 2012 - are better equipped to navigate digital content. But the study suggests otherwise.



Participants in this age group performed worse than average in detecting fake headlines. However, they were honest with themselves about it.



“There’s still this widespread misconception that digital natives are better at navigating these environments,” said Dr. Friedrich Götz, senior author of the study. “That has been debunked in the academic world for quite a few years, but I don’t think it has translated into public consciousness.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-education-helps-to-an-extent">Education helps to an extent</h2>



People with university degrees or higher education were more likely to correctly identify fake news. Still, this group often overestimated their own skill. In contrast, those with only a high school diploma were more modest - but also less accurate.



“No matter who you are, no matter what you think you know, none of us is immune to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/digital-misinformation-rumors-spread-like-nuclear-reactions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">misinformation</a>,” said Dr. Götz. “People should realize that all of us are exposed to misinformation on a regular basis, and all of us are likely to fall for it at some point.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-politics-and-gender-differences">Politics and gender differences </h2>



One of the clearest trends in the findings was the link between political leaning and susceptibility to misinformation. People with more conservative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-trust-news-that-matches-their-political-views-even-when-its-fake/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">political views</a> were more likely to believe fake headlines.



The lowest scores came from individuals at the far-right end of the political spectrum. Most conservatives, however, were fairly accurate in judging their own ability to detect misinformation - though this self-awareness dropped off among those with the most extreme views.



The data also showed that women were slightly more likely than men to fall for misinformation. At the same time, women were better than men at assessing their own ability to spot fake news. Men, by comparison, were more likely to show overconfidence in their skills.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-misunderstanding">Measuring misunderstanding</h2>



Participants in the study were presented with a mix of real and fake news headlines and asked to determine which were accurate. 



Some of the false headlines included <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brains-may-be-hardwired-to-believe-lies-and-conspiracy-theories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conspiracy theories</a> such as “A Small Group of People Control the World Economy by Manipulating the Price of Gold and Oil” and “The Government Is Conducting a Massive Cover-Up of Their Involvement in 9/11.” Another fake headline claimed “Left-Wingers Are More Likely to Lie to Get a Good Grade.”



In contrast, real headlines such as “About a Quarter of Large US Newspapers Laid off Staff in 2018” were also included in the test. 



By comparing how participants scored with how confident they felt about their answers, the researchers were able to identify gaps between perceived and actual skill.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fighting-fake-news-requires-political-will">Fighting fake news requires political will</h2>



The research suggests a need for better education and public awareness campaigns focused on identifying fake news. But implementing these solutions requires a political will that may not always be present.



“My sense is that not all democracies right now are really trying to address this problem,” said Dr. Götz. “Worse yet, in the polarized world we live in, some actors, including politicians, may deliberately weaponize it." 



"But if a government acts in good faith and wants to solve this problem in society, then I think they could use this study to raise awareness and move to more intervention-based research.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fake-news-affects-everyone">Fake news affects everyone</h2>



Fake news is not just a digital nuisance - it’s a risk to democracy and informed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quick-decisions-are-often-biased-and-misleading/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decision-making</a>. This global study reminds us that misinformation affects everyone, regardless of age, gender, education, or beliefs.



And perhaps the most important takeaway? The first step to avoiding misinformation is accepting that you, too, might be fooled.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0191886925001394?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Personality and Individual Differences</a>.



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Who’s most likely to fall for fake news? A new study has the answer

Fake news is everywhere, and in a world flooded with...

Alleppey,,Kerala,india,-,August,24,2018:,Rescue,Team,Help,People

Recent findings have sparked intense discussion among health experts around the globe. A new multi-country project reveals that flooding may pose serious problems to human well-being, with the potential to send more people to the hospital for unexpected health issues.



Led by Professors <a href="https://www.monash.edu/msdi/about/affiliates-program/affiliates/yuming-guo#:~:text=Dr%20Yuming%20Guo%20is%20Professor,Quality%20Research%20(CARE)%20Unit." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yuming Guo</a> and <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=8yGPu9gAAAAJ&amp;hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shanshan Li</a> from <a href="https://www.monash.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monash University</a>, the team examined more than 300 million hospitalization records across eight flood-prone regions. This makes the study one of the largest ever undertaken in the world.



Researchers reported an overall increase of 26% in diseases requiring hospital care after a major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shorter-storms-bigger-impact-rising-flood-risks-in-a-warmer-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flood</a> event, and this effect lasted for up to seven months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-floods-cause-lasting-health-problems">Floods cause lasting health problems</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Floods</a> can damage buildings, roads, and power grids. They can also contaminate local water supplies in ways that can bring about unexpected illnesses.



Poorly treated water boosts the risk of <a href="https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digestive diseases</a>, and spreads pathogens that wreak havoc on communities without ready access to clean water.



<a href="https://floodobservatory.colorado.edu/Archives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stagnant water</a> can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other vectors, which can worsen <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17724-infectious-diseases" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infectious diseases</a>, such as dengue and malaria, and other ailments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-floods-increase-disease-rates-nbsp">Floods increase disease rates&nbsp;</h2>



The study results highlighted elevated rates of cancer, diabetes, and mental health disorders after <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/once-in-a-thousand-years-extreme-storms-are-becoming-much-more-frequent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flood</a> events. For example, the incidence of diabetes showed one of the bigger increases at 61%, while mental health diagnoses increased by 11%.



These problems are not limited to initial injuries like drowning or electrocution. When roads are damaged, people miss important appointments for dialysis, chemo, and follow-up checkups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-poor-sanitation-restricts-recovery">Poor sanitation restricts recovery</h2>



Shortages of shelter space often lead to cramped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flood-fatalities-experts-reveal-the-hidden-health-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conditions</a>. This situation can worsen breathing difficulties and heighten the chance for infections, especially when sanitation is compromised.



Temporary housing set up in haste can complicate access to medications. That includes prescriptions for <a href="https://www.who.int/health-topics/cardiovascular-diseases" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular diseases</a> or therapies that cancer patients rely on to stay stable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-from-floods-weakens-health">Stress from floods weakens health</h2>



Authorities have observed a increased strain on people's mental health in flood-ravaged <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-directly-linked-to-flood-disasters-in-mountain-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">areas</a>. Emotional distress from property loss or relocation can hinder sleep and erode immune responses, which sets the stage for various health complications.



Unexpected costs can also drive people to put health on the back burner. Delays in routine checkups can escalate a minor ailment into a hospital-worthy issue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-is-most-at-risk">Who is most at risk</h2>



Older adults struggle with reduced mobility, and they often need ongoing treatment that floods can disrupt. Children face extra risks too because their developing bodies are more sensitive to environmental changes.



Even so, the study noted that high population density amplifies health impacts across all age groups. When many individuals live close together, conditions that speed up disease transmission can take hold more easily.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-climate-factors-in">How climate factors in</h2>



“An escalation in the severity, duration and frequency of floods [is expected] due to the more frequent extreme precipitation events and rising sea levels due to global warming,” said Professor Guo.



<a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/downloads/report/IPCC_AR6_WGI_Full_Report.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> say rising seas and more frequent storms point to bigger flood threats in the coming years.



Communities in certain climate zones will be hit harder when infrastructure is weak or health systems are ill-prepared. These areas may see longer recovery times because of slower medical responses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-flood-related-health-emergencies">Reducing flood-related health emergencies</h2>



Providers can identify high-risk patients early. They can prepare mobile clinics and bolster medication supplies to head off complications when evacuations happen.



Local governments can maintain reliable transportation routes so that ambulances and rescue teams can operate smoothly. Without a plan for these disruptions, hospital visits may spike unnecessarily.



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



Places with limited resources often lack the capacity for large-scale evacuations or robust shelter. People in those areas may delay or skip care entirely, resulting in underreported hospitalization numbers.



Better disaster response systems, stronger buildings, and well-maintained roads can help all communities ride out a flood with fewer complications. 



These measures may seem basic, but they serve as key steps toward reducing the number of health emergencies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-systems-and-flood-complications">Health systems and flood complications</h2>



Authorities should update flood risk maps and invest in early warning protocols. This keeps both residents and frontline workers ready for incoming storms.



Clinics in flood-prone areas might partner with volunteer groups to bring care directly to those in need. 



Furthermore, minor interventions, like ensuring backup power, can help dialysis or oxygen-dependent patients avoid critical setbacks.



Hospitals alone cannot handle the challenges that follow widespread floods. Public health agencies, local governments, and community volunteers must all act in unison.



Everyone has a role in preventing health crises after floods. Coordinated approaches keep the worst outcomes at bay and help support those who are most vulnerable.



The study was published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44221-025-00425-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Water</a>.



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Floods cause long-lasting health issues on top of all the structural damage

Recent findings have sparked intense discussion among health experts around...

A glass of wine with dinner or a beer at a party may seem harmless. But when drinking alcohol becomes regular and heavy, its effects on the brain can go far beyond a momentary buzz. 



A new study published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, reveals that heavy alcohol consumption is linked to serious signs of brain damage. These changes could impair memory and thinking, especially as people grow older.



The researchers examined the brains of older individuals after death. The analysis linked consistent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-americans-now-link-alcohol-consumption-to-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heavy drinking</a> - defined as eight or more drinks per week - to a condition called hyaline arteriolosclerosis.



This condition damages small blood vessels in the brain, leading to lesions. Though the study does not prove that drinking directly causes these injuries, it shows a clear association.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alcohol-damages-brain-blood-vessels">Alcohol damages brain blood vessels</h2>



Hyaline arteriolosclerosis is a form of vascular damage in which small blood vessels become stiff and narrow. These damaged vessels struggle to carry enough blood to brain tissue.



Over time, this lack of proper blood flow leads to tissue damage, which appears as lesions in the brain. These lesions are associated with cognitive issues such as memory loss and difficulty concentrating.



Dr. Alberto Fernando Oliveira Justo of the <a href="https://fm.usp.br/en/institucional/the-fmusp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of São Paulo Medical School</a> in Brazil is the study’s lead author.



“Heavy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alcohol-makes-fruit-flies-look-sexy-and-boosts-mating-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alcohol consumption</a> is a major global health concern linked to increased health problems and death,” said Dr. Justo.



“We looked at how alcohol affects the brain as people get older. Our research shows that heavy alcohol consumption is damaging to the brain, which can lead to memory and thinking problems."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-autopsies-reveal-alcohol-s-effects">Brain autopsies reveal alcohol’s effects</h2>



The experts studied the brains of 1,781 individuals who died at an average age of 75. All participants had donated their brains for autopsy.



The team collected lifestyle information through interviews with family members, focusing on alcohol use. Each brain was assessed for vascular lesions, tau tangles, brain weight, and other physical indicators of cognitive health.



The participants were placed into four categories based on their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alcohol-has-a-hidden-impact-on-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alcohol</a> habits: those who never drank, those who drank in moderation, current heavy drinkers, and former heavy drinkers who had quit.



A “standard drink” in the study contained 14 grams of alcohol. This amount equals about 350 milliliters of beer, 150 milliliters of wine, or 45 milliliters of distilled spirits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-brain-damage-behind-the-habit">Hidden brain damage behind the habit</h2>



Among those who never drank, 40% had vascular lesions in their brain tissue. That number rose to 45% for moderate drinkers and 44% for current heavy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-small-amounts-of-alcohol-increase-cancer-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drinkers</a>. 



Former heavy drinkers had the highest percentage, with 50% showing signs of vascular damage.



After adjusting for other health factors such as age, smoking, and physical activity, the researchers found a strong association between heavy alcohol use and brain damage.



Heavy drinkers had 133% higher odds of developing vascular brain lesions compared to those who never drank. Former heavy drinkers had 89% higher odds, while moderate drinkers had 60% higher odds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alcohol-linked-to-brain-shrinkage">Alcohol linked to brain shrinkage</h2>



The experts also examined tau tangles -abnormal protein accumulations in the brain that are a key marker for Alzheimer’s disease.



The researchers found that current heavy drinkers had a 41% higher chance of having tau tangles. Former heavy drinkers had 31% higher odds. These tangles interfere with the brain’s ability to send and receive signals, contributing to cognitive decline.



Former heavy drinkers also showed a reduced brain mass ratio - the proportion of brain weight compared to body weight. This measure suggests physical shrinkage of the brain.



Lower brain mass has been associated with poorer cognitive abilities. Interestingly, this link was seen only in people who had stopped heavy drinking, not those who still drank heavily at the time of their death.



Justo noted that, in addition to brain injuries, impaired cognitive abilities were observed only in former drinkers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heavy-drinking-and-early-death">Heavy drinking and early death</h2>



Beyond brain health, the study revealed a striking trend in life expectancy. Heavy drinkers died an average of 13 years earlier than people who never drank. 



This difference reflects alcohol’s wide impact on the body, including liver damage, increased risk of cancer, heart problems, and now, possible brain deterioration.



“We found heavy drinking is directly linked to signs of injury in the brain, and this can cause long-term effects on brain health, which may impact memory and thinking abilities,” said Dr. Justo.



"Understanding these effects is crucial for public health awareness and continuing to implement preventive measures to reduce heavy drinking."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-limitations-leave-some-questions">Study limitations leave some questions</h2>



Despite its scale, the study had some limitations. It did not follow participants while they were alive, so the researchers had to rely on reports from family members to estimate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-alcohol-in-moderation-does-not-prolong-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alcohol</a> use.



Also, they had no data on how long people had consumed alcohol or how their cognition changed over time. These gaps make it harder to draw firm conclusions about cause and effect.



However, the findings carry an important message: the damage linked to alcohol - especially heavy use - can remain hidden for years. It can slowly alter the brain's structure and function, even if people quit drinking later in life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reliable-information-about-brain-health">Reliable information about brain health</h2>



This research was supported by <a href="https://fapesp.br/en/about?TSPD_101_R0=08fe110688ab2000baed373c08cc10b8cbb2d14ac157355685375b8621d6cfb977d251d840c8216808d0770047143000078e9f4cd6617498531a22feb2e530404bdf82fd28db1d38e99e0d72554ee716d4d47e894de789e9c727ffd09cc995b0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The São Paulo Research Foundation</a>. For those seeking reliable information about brain health, <a href="https://www.brainandlife.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BrainandLife.org</a> offers helpful resources. The site's magazine, podcast, and books connect the public with experts in neurology.



The American Academy of Neurology is the world’s largest association of neurologists and neuroscience professionals. With more than 40,000 members, the AAN works to improve brain health and patient care.



Neurologists diagnose and treat conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease, playing a key role in managing the aging brain.



This study reminds us that the choices we make today echo through the brain’s future. For those who drink alcohol regularly, it may be time to ask: is the cost to the brain worth the buzz?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WNL.0000000000213555" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neurology</a>.



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Alcohol's hidden toll on the brain revealed

A glass of wine with dinner or a beer at...

Relaxation techniques may help lower high blood pressure - at least in the short term - but the longer term effects are unclear, according to a recent analysis of existing research.&nbsp;



However, the study also concludes that the current body of evidence is at risk of bias, highlighting the need for more rigorously designed and extended follow-up studies to verify whether these methods can play a meaningful role in treating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-from-plastic-bottles-linked-to-high-blood-pressure-and-heart-problems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high blood pressure</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-blood-pressure-a-global-concern">High blood pressure: A global concern</h2>



High blood pressure affects roughly one-third of people aged 30 to 79 and stands among the top causes of death globally. Although medications exist to manage high blood pressure, many people struggle with consistent use.&nbsp;



This reality has spurred interest in alternative strategies, such as relaxation-based techniques that aim to reduce stress - a major factor contributing to high blood pressure. Yet which approach, from breath control and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-protects-against-work-stress-burnout/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mindfulness</a> to yoga, Tai Chi, or biofeedback, may be most effective is still up for debate.



In an effort to expand the evidence base, the researchers searched for English-language studies published up to February 2024, looking at relaxation’s potential in individuals with high blood pressure (140/90 mm Hg or above) or elevated blood pressure (120/80 mm Hg or above).&nbsp;



The review ultimately included 182 studies, of which 166 involved participants with high blood pressure and 16 involved those with elevated readings. Where applicable, the team used network meta-analysis, a statistical method that allows comparison of multiple treatments at once.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-short-term-effects-and-relaxation-techniques">Short-term effects and relaxation techniques</h2>



From 54 pooled studies, the analysis found that most relaxation techniques appeared to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in people with high blood pressure, at least over a span of three months or less.&nbsp;



These short-term interventions ranged from breath control to yoga and meditative movement, as well as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-therapy-reduces-distress-in-people-with-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music therapy</a>, progressive muscle relaxation, and psychotherapy.&nbsp;



Yet after three to twelve months, the data provided no clear evidence that any single relaxation practice continued to exert a significant impact. And in the small number of studies extending beyond a year, autogenic training offered a hint of benefit, but with low certainty.



“The results of our systematic review and network meta-analysis indicate that relaxation or stress management techniques might result in meaningful reductions in blood pressure at up to three months of follow-up,” the researchers wrote.&nbsp;



“Uncertainty exists about this effect, however, because of the risk of bias in the primary studies, the potential for publication bias in this area, and imprecision in the effect estimates, meaning that the observed changes in blood pressure might be too small to affect cardiovascular or cerebrovascular outcomes.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vague-data-on-relaxation-techniques">Vague data on relaxation techniques</h2>



Additionally, the data analyzed by the team often lacked detail on costs, cost-effectiveness, and whether or not these interventions decreased the incidence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-worsens-cardiovascular-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular events</a>. Another point of concern is that many studies’ descriptions of relaxation methods were vague or inconsistent, making it difficult to interpret or replicate their techniques and results.



“Hypertension is a chronic condition, likely to require long term drug treatments or behavioral changes. As such, interventions that are used for a brief period, or provide only short term benefits, are unlikely to be clinically useful,” the authors wrote.&nbsp;



Because the available research seldom tracks participants beyond a few months - and does not always confirm if they maintained their relaxation practice - it remains unclear if any early reductions in blood pressure might last over time.



“Too few studies exist, however, to assess whether the beneficial effects of relaxation are maintained when the techniques are practiced for longer than three months,” noted the experts.&nbsp;



“Future studies must clearly report whether participants were still using relaxation methods at the time of the outcome assessment, with details on adherence to the relaxation schedule. These factors might strongly influence the effectiveness of the different relaxation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-eats-away-our-brains-cognitive-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> management techniques.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed</h2>



In short, while the analysis offers cautious optimism that approaches such as mindful breathing, meditation, and yoga may help manage blood pressure in the short run, the current evidence does not confirm significant or lasting benefits beyond that window.&nbsp;



Until more definitive, long-term research is carried out - preferably with rigorous designs and standardized reporting - clinicians and patients may want to view these relaxation methods as potentially supportive, but not standalone, tools for addressing chronic high blood pressure.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://bmjmedicine.bmj.com/content/4/1/e001098" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMJ Medicine</a>.



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Relaxation techniques can lower high blood pressure - at least temporarily

Relaxation techniques may help lower high blood pressure - at...

Six years after cannabis legalization in Canada, scientists are still mapping its long-term health effects. While social and medical benefits remain under review, emerging neuroscience now highlights a key concern - psychosis linked to dopamine changes in the brain.



A new study led by Canadian researchers has found biological evidence linking frequent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/medicinal-cannabis-helped-patients-feel-better-for-a-full-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis use</a> to changes in brain chemistry that resemble those seen in early psychosis.



Using a cutting-edge brain scan called neuromelanin-sensitive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the experts observed elevated dopamine activity in people with cannabis use disorder (CUD).



This increase occurred in the same brain areas previously tied to hallucinations, delusions, and other symptoms of psychotic disorders. The findings appeared in JAMA Psychiatry, in a study titled “Convergence of Cannabis and Psychosis on the Dopamine System.”



The study, spanning five years and several institutions, marks a turning point in how clinicians and researchers understand cannabis’ psychiatric risks. The analysis bridges the gap between clinical symptoms and underlying brain activity - something long sought but rarely demonstrated so clearly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-builds-dopamine-in-key-brain-areas">Cannabis builds dopamine in key brain areas</h2>



Dopamine helps the brain regulate mood, motivation, learning, and motor control. It also plays a central role in psychosis. High dopamine activity, especially in the striatum and midbrain, has been linked to schizophrenia and related disorders. What remained uncertain was how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cbd-reduces-the-unwanted-side-effects-of-thc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a> fit into that picture.



The researchers used neuromelanin-MRI - a non-invasive method that visualizes dopamine activity indirectly by tracking neuromelanin, a vital compound in the brain.



Neuromelanin is a dark pigment that accumulates as dopamine breaks down over time. The more dopamine activity, the more neuromelanin remains behind. In brain scans, this pigment shows up as darkened regions, especially in two key midbrain areas: the substantia nigra and the ventral tegmental area.



“In people partaking in excess cannabis use, those spots are blacker than what they should be for their age compared to healthy individuals,” said Lena Palaniyappan, professor at McGill University and senior author of the study. 



“This indicates they have high levels of dopamine, and in some cases are showing pigments someone 10 years older would have.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-use-elevates-dopamine-signals">Cannabis use elevates dopamine signals</h2>



The study was focused on 61 individuals aged 18 to 35 from London, Ontario. Participants included people with CUD, those with early psychosis, some with both conditions, and healthy controls. The researchers tracked changes in neuromelanin-MRI signals across the groups.



They found that those with CUD - regardless of schizophrenia diagnosis - had elevated neuromelanin signals in a subregion of the midbrain tied to psychosis. This was not a temporary spike. Even after one year, the signal remained high, suggesting that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-related-anxiety-may-be-reduced-with-citrus-based-oil-d-limonene/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a>-related dopamine changes may have a lasting effect.



This finding was dose-dependent. Individuals with more severe CUD symptoms showed stronger signal intensity, confirming that frequency and severity of cannabis use matter. 



“We now have evidence that shows a straight line linking cannabis with dopamine and psychosis that has never been shown before, and it's crucial that clinicians, patients, and families work together to break this line," said Palaniyappan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-increases-the-risk-of-psychosis">Cannabis increases the risk of psychosis </h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-impacts-working-memory-and-brain-function/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cannabis</a>’ effects on dopamine have long been disputed. Previous PET scans often showed mixed results - some indicating lowered dopamine synthesis, others showing a spike only after THC administration.



Neuromelanin-MRI offers a longer-term view, revealing cumulative dopamine activity, not just momentary shifts.



Participants with CUD had consistently higher neuromelanin signal across multiple scans, even when researchers accounted for nicotine use and other variables. 



Interestingly, participants with first-episode schizophrenia (FES) did not show significant changes unless they also had CUD, which suggests cannabis itself may play a more central role than previously thought.



“This could help explain why cannabis use increases the risk of hallucinations and delusions, key symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders,” said Jessica Ahrens, a PhD student at McGill University and lead author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-induced-psychosis-is-rising">Cannabis-induced psychosis is rising </h2>



Canadian emergency departments have reported more cases of cannabis-induced psychosis since legalization. Psychiatrists working with young adults are observing troubling patterns. Brief episodes are turning into more severe psychotic breaks over time.



“In the last several years since legalization, we're seeing adolescents who have two or three brief cannabis-induced episodes of psychosis and then have a much more major episode,” said Dr. Julie Richard, psychiatrist and physician lead at PEPP, a specialized early psychosis program. 



“So, we're trying to counsel adolescents within that first episode that they're pushing their brain towards a major episode and show them the areas in the brain that are impacted.”



The new imaging data now offers a visual tool that can support those conversations. Showing young people their own brain scans could help clinicians explain the risks more clearly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dopamine-changes-persist-after-one-year">Dopamine changes persist after one year</h2>



Importantly, the experts found no evidence that continued cannabis use beyond a certain point further increased dopamine activity. This suggests that dopamine-related changes may plateau after repeated exposure.



Yet, this stability does not mean the brain returns to normal. Elevated neuromelanin signals remained even a year later, indicating lasting effects.



“Increased dopamine functioning in the SN/VTA may be associated with the risk of psychosis in people with cannabis use disorder,” the authors wrote. This midbrain region - the source of dopamine projections to other brain areas - appears central to how cannabis affects mental health.



The absence of a “recovery effect” raises new questions: Can these changes be reversed with abstinence? Do they set the stage for future psychiatric illness? Larger, long-term studies will be needed to explore these questions further.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guiding-public-health-and-prevention">Guiding public health and prevention</h2>



The authors emphasized that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-potency-cannabis-use-linked-to-epigenetic-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a> alone does not cause psychosis in every user. But it raises the risk, especially in those with family histories or early symptoms. By linking cannabis use to measurable brain changes, this study helps move the discussion from speculation to science.



“The lack of clear biological evidence linking cannabis to psychosis has made it harder to persuade young people with psychotic symptoms to reduce their use,” said Palaniyappan. 



“Our findings could help doctors and mental health professionals better educate patients about the potential risks of frequent cannabis use.”



“I hope these findings lead patients and health-care providers to better understand the implications and for the health-care providers to give patients resources for options other than cannabis to help them cope,” Jessica Ahrens added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-and-dopamine-help-explain-psychosis">Cannabis and dopamine help explain psychosis</h2>



This study does not aim to demonize cannabis but to understand its effects better. With its use becoming more socially accepted and legally accessible, especially among youth, understanding its neurological footprint is urgent.



Cannabis use disorder is now more than a behavioral diagnosis. It is increasingly linked to real, visible changes in the brain’s dopamine system that may shape vulnerability to psychosis. 



For clinicians, families, and users themselves, this information could lead to more informed decisions and safer outcomes.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2832297" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Psychiatry</a>.



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Dopamine changes from cannabis are linked to psychosis

Six years after cannabis legalization in Canada, scientists are still...

Babies are curious little learners with a knack for noticing things in their world. In a new study, researchers have discovered that even the rhythms inside babies' bodies are on their radar from an early age.



The research suggests that infants as young as 3 months old can tune in to their own heartbeat.



"The babies must have recognized that the figures moved simultaneously with their heartbeat or breathing, and then they paid more attention," study lead author Markus Tünte from the <a href="https://www.univie.ac.at/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vienna</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-babies-notice-heartbeats-and-body-signals-nbsp">Babies notice heartbeats and body signals&nbsp;</h2>



Parents often focus on changes in crying or facial expressions when they want to figure out what a baby needs. Under the surface, there are inner clues that may help shape a baby’s sense of who they are and how they feel.



<a href="https://thewomens.r.worldssl.net/images/uploads/fact-sheets/Reading_your_babys_body_language.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Body signals</a> can include a steady heartbeat and the rise and fall of the chest during breathing. These signals give the infant brain helpful information. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23439117/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Experts</a> believe they can support self-awareness and emotional development.



"Several recent theoretical accounts have posited that interoception, the perception of internal bodily signals, plays a vital role in early human development," wrote the researchers. "Yet, empirical evidence of cardiac interoceptive sensitivity in infants to date has been mixed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-babies-respond-to-heartbeat-rhythm">Babies respond to heartbeat rhythm</h2>



The researchers tested whether babies noticed when a fun animated figure moves in sync with their heartbeat. If the figure was out of sync, many babies seemed to lose some interest.



Scientists say this heartbeat sensitivity appears surprisingly stable during the first two years of life. Observing that kind of steadiness suggests that internal rhythms guide babies’ earliest social and emotional experiences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breathing-awareness-in-infancy">Breathing awareness in infancy</h2>



The team also looked at how infants track their own breathing. Results indicated that babies pick up on the rise and fall of their chest, although this appears to become clearer in the second year.



Interestingly, the ability to sense the heartbeat and breathing did not overlap much. That separation might be similar to what researchers find in adults, who sometimes excel in sensing one body rhythm but not the other.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animations-and-eye-tracking">Animations and eye tracking</h2>



Studying babies isn’t easy - especially when they can’t talk.



To understand how infants respond to body rhythms, the team used <a href="https://www.insightplatforms.com/the-top-15-eye-tracking-platforms-for-market-user-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eye-tracking tools</a> while showing animated shapes that moved either in sync or out of sync with the babies’ heartbeat or breathing.



If the figure moved in time with the infant’s internal signals, the babies tended to watch longer. This response helped scientists conclude that the infants were noticing a connection between the animation and their own body rhythm.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heartbeat-awareness-and-baby-development">Heartbeat awareness and baby development</h2>



The results open the door to exploring how early body awareness might support emotional understanding. Since <a href="https://www.kelly-mahler.com/what-is-interoception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interoception</a> is tied to mental health in older kids and adults, recognizing these patterns early might one day help prevent problems before they start.



<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8416769/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> are especially interested in whether differences in body awareness during infancy could explain why some children are more emotionally sensitive or socially attuned than others. That line of research could lead to new strategies for early support.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-early-body-perception">Supporting early body perception </h2>



Babies likely show these abilities during everyday routines, even though parents may not notice. As caregivers respond to fussiness that might be linked to hunger or discomfort, infants gain more experience connecting signals from inside and outside.



Some <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3594730/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experts</a> think that early awareness of internal rhythms might be linked to how babies develop emotional and social abilities later on. Supporting such early body perception could play a part in promoting healthy self-awareness.



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



New studies on babies might ask whether parents can encourage awareness of breathing or heartbeat. Experts also wonder how these early body signal patterns might relate to mental wellness in older children.



The researchers suggest that by exploring early sensitivity to internal rhythms, it may be possible one day to help kids who struggle with anxiety. For now, the team plans to expand on these findings through long-term observations.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://elifesciences.org/articles/91579" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eLife</a>.



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Even before they crawl, babies can feel their own heartbeat

Babies are curious little learners with a knack for noticing...

In a remarkable medical breakthrough, engineers have developed a light-activated pacemaker so tiny that doctors can inject it into the body through a syringe. Remarkably, the device simply dissolves after it’s no longer needed.&nbsp;



Designed for newborns, the pacemaker could transform temporary heart care after congenital defect surgeries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controlling-the-heart-with-light">Controlling the heart with light</h2>



The new pacemaker is smaller than a grain of rice. It's wirelessly activated through pulses of light which are delivered by a soft, wearable device mounted on the patient’s chest.



The external controller detects abnormal rhythms and sends light through the body to activate the pacemaker and restore heartbeat. The study demonstrates the device’s effectiveness across animal and human donor hearts.&nbsp;



The development of the pacemaker was led by John A. Rogers, a professor of material science, biomedical engineering, and neurological surgery at <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a>.&nbsp;



“We have developed what is, to our knowledge, the world’s smallest pacemaker,” said Professor Rogers.



“There’s a crucial need for temporary pacemakers in the context of pediatric heart surgeries, and that’s a use case where size miniaturization is incredibly important. In terms of the device load on the body - the smaller, the better.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solution-designed-for-newborns">Solution designed for newborns</h2>



Though the light-activated pacemaker can function in patients of all sizes, its miniaturized design was motivated by the needs of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infant-speech-is-driven-by-heart-rate-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infants</a>. 



Igor Efimov is a co-leader of the study and experimental cardiologist at Northwestern.&nbsp;



“About 1% of children are born with congenital heart defects. The good news is that these children only need temporary pacing after a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-smallest-robot-could-transform-minimally-invasive-surgery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surgery</a>. In about seven days or so, most patients’ hearts will self-repair. But those seven days are absolutely critical," said Efimov.



Traditional pacemakers require surgery and have wires sticking out of the chest to connect to an external device. When they are no longer needed, the wires are removed - risking bleeding, tissue damage, or even death.



“Wires literally protrude from the body, attached to a pacemaker outside the body,” Efimov explained. “When the pacemaker is no longer needed, a physician pulls it out. The wires can become enveloped in scar tissue. That’s actually how Neil Armstrong died.”



The new injectable pacemaker addresses these risks. All of its components are biocompatible and bioresorbable, meaning they safely dissolve in the body’s fluids without needing surgical removal. Once the device has served its purpose, it simply disappears.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-refining-the-light-activated-pacemaker">Refining the light-activated pacemaker</h2>



This innovation builds on <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41587-021-00948-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earlier work</a> by Rogers and Efimov, who developed a quarter-sized dissolvable pacemaker in 2021. Surgeons asked for a smaller version to allow easier placement and suit the smallest patients.&nbsp;



The original device used near-field communication (NFC), but its antenna limited how small the device could be made. To overcome this, the team replaced the NFC system with a novel light-based mechanism.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pacemaker_light-activated_worlds-smallest_heart-health_Northwestern_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pacemaker_light-activated_worlds-smallest_heart-health_Northwestern_1s.webp" alt="The tiny pacemaker sits next to a single grain of rice on a fingertip. The device is so small that it can be non-invasively injected into the body via a syringe. Credit: John A. Rogers/Northwestern University" class="wp-image-1964846"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The tiny pacemaker sits next to a single grain of rice on a fingertip. The device is so small that it can be non-invasively injected into the body via a syringe. Click image to enlarge. Credit: John A. Rogers/Northwestern University</figcaption></figure>



“Instead of using the radio frequency scheme for wireless control, we developed a light-based scheme for turning the pacemaker on and delivering stimulation pulses to the surface of the heart. This is one feature that allowed us to dramatically reduce the size,” said Professor Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powered-by-the-body-s-own-fluids">Powered by the body’s own fluids</h2>



The engineers also reimagined how to power the tiny pacemaker. Rather than requiring a battery or external power source, the device uses a simple galvanic cell - a chemical battery formed by two different metals as electrodes.&nbsp;



When the device is inside the body, surrounding biofluids act as the electrolyte, allowing electrical current to flow and stimulate the heart.



“A very tiny light-activated switch on the opposite side from the battery allows us to turn the device from its ‘off’ state to an ‘on’ state upon delivery of light that passes through the patient’s body from the skin-mounted patch,” explained Professor Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-trauma-and-risk">Reducing trauma and risk</h2>



Using infrared light, which can safely penetrate deep into the body, the wearable controller detects when a patient’s heart rate falls too low. It then triggers a light-emitting diode (LED) to flash on and off at the desired pacing rhythm.&nbsp;



“Infrared light penetrates very well through the body,” Efimov said. “If you put a flashlight against your palm, you will see the light glow through the other side of your hand. It turns out that our bodies are great conductors of light.”



Despite its microscopic size - just 1.8 mm wide, 3.5 mm long, and 1 mm thick - the pacemaker delivers stimulation on par with traditional devices. “The heart requires a tiny amount of electrical stimulation,” Rogers said.&nbsp;



“By minimizing the size, we dramatically simplify the implantation procedures, we reduce trauma and risk to the patient, and, with the dissolvable nature of the device, we eliminate any need for secondary surgical extraction procedures.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-era-of-heart-care">A new era of heart care</h2>



Because these light-activated pacemakers are so small and wireless, doctors could one day deploy multiple units on different parts of the heart to create more advanced pacing systems. 



Each device could be controlled independently using different light wavelengths, enabling personalized and precisely timed stimulation across the heart’s surface.



“We can deploy a number of such small pacemakers onto the outside of the heart and control each one,” Efimov said. “Then we can achieve improved synchronized functional care.”



Professor Rogers noted that because it’s so small, the pacemaker can be integrated with almost any kind of implantable device.



“We also demonstrated integration of collections of these devices across the frameworks that serve as transcatheter aortic valve replacements to address complications that can occur during a patient’s recovery process," said Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-bioelectronic-medicine">Future of bioelectronic medicine</h2>



While this breakthrough has clear implications for pediatric heart care, the technology could pave the way for a new generation of bioelectronic medicine.&nbsp;



These tiny, dissolvable devices could one day be adapted to promote nerve and bone regeneration, manage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-meditation-is-a-powerful-weapon-against-chronic-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain</a>, support wound healing, and more.



Northwestern engineers shrank the device and removed risks by making it dissolve after use. In doing so, they’ve created a tool that could reshape how doctors care for the heart - from the tiniest patients to adults.



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Click here to <a href="https://youtu.be/j_0hZ8cUwgo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">watch a video interview...</a>



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08726-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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World's smallest pacemaker is set to revolutionize heart health

In a remarkable medical breakthrough, engineers have developed a light-activated...

When was the last time your mind wandered while you stared at a clock or folded laundry? People often slip into these mental journeys without even realizing it.



Recent findings shed light on the surprising ways these daydreams can help us pick up certain types of information. They focus on how the wandering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fueling-the-mind-new-map-reveals-where-the-brain-gets-its-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mind</a> might boost outcomes when a task barely demands attention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-wandering-mind">Exploring the wandering mind </h2>



In a study led by Péter Simor from <a href="https://www.elte.hu/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eötvös Loránd University</a>, researchers used a simple task to test how unintentional mind wandering influences learning.



Nearly 40 volunteers participated while having their brain waves recorded to see if lapses in focus actually helped them pick up <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-health-may-literally-be-a-state-of-mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patterns</a>.



Experts often blame <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23336-maladaptive-daydreaming" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">daydreaming</a> for hurting academic performance and everyday productivity. However, the team wanted to see if certain kinds of wandering thoughts have a hidden benefit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-passive-learning-works-without-focus">Passive learning works without focus</h2>



This task asked participants to detect patterns without overt awareness, which is sometimes called <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/implicit-learning" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">implicit learning</a>. Some scientists define this as the ability to pick up probabilities and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-reveals-the-secret-to-keeping-your-brain-young/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patterns</a> in the environment without actively trying to do so.



Classic research into <a href="https://www.amu.apus.edu/area-of-study/arts-and-humanities/resources/what-is-cognitive-psychology-and-why-is-it-so-important/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive psychology</a> has shown that not all learning requires our undivided attention. Some forms happen behind the scenes, relying on <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21071660/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">repeated exposure</a> rather than deliberate focus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-like-brain-waves">Sleep-like brain waves</h2>



During periods when participants said their minds were wandering, the experts detected <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10385593/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oscillatory neural activity</a> that looked a lot like slow-wave patterns seen in deep rest. These <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10385593/">electroencephalography signals</a> suggested the brain may shift into a partial offline mode.



Earlier <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4467852/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">work</a> from other labs has shown that short, quiet breaks can support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-brain-is-constantly-making-predictions-about-the-world-and-your-place-in-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a> consolidation by letting the mind rest. 



This new research aligns with those results, indicating that brief moments of reduced engagement could improve how we store and recall certain types of information.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spontaneous-versus-deliberate-drifting">Spontaneous versus deliberate drifting</h2>



Spontaneous wandering emerges on its own, whereas deliberate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-in-the-brain-alarming-new-details-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wandering</a> is more like choosing to zone out. The researchers observed stronger performance gains linked to these spontaneous episodes.



One part of the investigation examined how intentional versus unplanned mind wandering affected pattern recognition. 



People who spontaneously floated away into daydreams tended to show greater improvements, which suggests that letting the mind meander might be productive under certain conditions.



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



Some jobs rely on repetitive tasks that can get tedious. If subtle learning is part of the role, occasional mental drifting might actually help employees catch hidden cues.



Parents sometimes worry that children who daydream miss valuable lessons. Yet these findings hint that relaxed moments could still encode crucial bits of information.



Multi-taskers who juggle demanding activities might be less likely to benefit. Tasks requiring high focus could suffer from any mental drifting.



Those who engage in regular mindfulness might find it helpful to understand how the mind works in idle mode. This study supports the idea that idle thoughts and daydreams can serve a purpose, though they are not beneficial in every circumstance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wandering-mind-supports-memory">Wandering mind supports memory</h2>



Researchers have long studied <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.932592/full">wakeful rest</a> as a period when the brain continues to process and store new memories. These findings show that a wandering mind may activate a similar process, almost like a mini-break from conscious effort.



"As our brain needs sleep, maybe we also need passive ways of learning, or ‘wakeful rest,’ to recover from tasks that require the brain to be online and engaged," said Simor. He and his collaborators believe that such quiet spells might serve as small pockets of recovery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-mind-wandering-boost-performance">Can mind wandering boost performance?</h2>



One question is how these sleep-like states differ from actual drowsiness. Another puzzle is whether mind wandering can be harnessed to speed up slow, repetitive processes.



Some psychologists suggest that harnessing the right type of mind wandering requires self-awareness. Determining when drifting thoughts happen may help individuals manage them to optimize learning or creativity.



Technology might open new doors by measuring <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/electroencephalogram/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EEG signals</a> in real time. This could show us exactly when the brain transitions into an offline state and how to use that transition for training or rehabilitation.



Neuroscience breakthroughs continue to build a clearer picture of how we learn in different mental states. Studies like this help us see the mind as flexible and adaptable, even in moments we consider unproductive.



The investigation reveals that there is more to daydreaming than meets the eye. Researchers note that not all daydreams are equally helpful, but those that arise on their own may support certain learning tasks.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.jneurosci.org/content/early/2025/03/31/JNEUROSCI.1421-24.2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JNeurosci</a>.



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Mind wandering might be more productive than you think

When was the last time your mind wandered while you...

One of the biggest contributors to the microplastics pollution scourge is the wear and tear from motor vehicle tires on roadways. But what about bikes?



And more specifically, what about mountain bikes that are often ridden directly through forests and along trails?



A team of scientists at the <a href="https://www.uni-bayreuth.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bayreuth</a> decided to look into this question. They carried out the first real-world study that measures how much tire material mountain bikes leave behind as they roll through nature.



Their goal? To understand how even environmentally friendly forms of transportation might be adding to the microplastic problem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-tire-microplastics-the-basics">Understanding tire microplastics - the basics</h2>



Every time a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brake-pad-copper-emissions-are-worse-than-diesel-exhaust-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">car hits the road</a>, its tires wear down bit by bit - and that wear releases microplastics into the environment. 



Tires are made from a mix of synthetic rubber, plastic polymers, and chemical additives, and as they roll, tiny particles get scraped off and tossed into the air, soil, and water. 



These microplastics from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tire-particles-must-be-recognized-as-a-distinct-environmental-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tire particles</a> can settle along roadsides, wash into storm drains, or get carried by the wind, eventually finding their way into rivers, oceans, and even the air we breathe.



The problem is bigger than most people realize. In fact, microplastic pollution from tires is one of the largest sources of microplastics in the environment - even more than what comes from plastic bags or bottles. 



These particles don’t break down easily, and once they’re out there, they can harm aquatic life, contaminate food chains, and possibly impact human health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mountain-bike-tires-also-shed-microplastics">Mountain bike tires also shed microplastics</h2>



The research team designed a straightforward but revealing experiment. Nine mountain bikers received brand-new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tire-particles-must-be-recognized-as-a-distinct-environmental-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tires</a> and were asked to ride as they normally would. 



Their routes were recorded using GPS, and the tires were weighed in the lab at regular intervals to measure how much rubber had been worn away.



The results showed that mountain bike tires shed about 3.5 grams of material per 100 kilometers. That adds up to as much as 88 grams per bike per year.



While that may sound like a lot, it’s only a small piece of the bigger picture. Tire wear from cars and trucks releases around 11 grams of microplastic per 100 kilometers. 



In Germany, this accounts for more than half of all road-related microplastic emissions and over a third of total <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-pollution-is-everywhere-even-in-newborns-and-getting-worse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastic pollution</a> in the country. Compared to that, mountain biking contributes less than 1%.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-first-500-kilometers-matter-more">The first 500 kilometers matter more</h2>



The researchers also discovered that the first few hundred kilometers on new tires caused more abrasion than subsequent journeys.



This is likely because the outer edges of the tires wear down quickly at first, and small manufacturing residues - like the tiny rubber “hairs” found on new tires - get rubbed off quickly.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/mountain-bikes_tires_microplastics-pollution-source_graphic_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/mountain-bikes_tires_microplastics-pollution-source_graphic_1s.webp" alt="Graphic illustration showing how mountain bikes contribute to microplastics pollution. Credit: Science of The Total Environment (2025)." class="wp-image-1964766"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Graphic illustration showing how mountain bikes contribute to microplastics pollution. Click image to enlarge. Credit: Science of The Total Environment (2025).</figcaption></figure>



“Our study provides the first reliable data on the amount of tire abrasion from mountain bikes under real-world conditions," said doctoral researcher Fabian Sommer. 



"The results show that while mountain bike tires release microplastics directly into nature, the amount is significantly lower compared to motorized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-costs-electric-vehicle-tires-emit-20-more-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vehicles</a>. This highlights another advantage of cycling as a sustainable mode of transport.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-bikes-may-also-add-microplastics">Other bikes may also add microplastics</h2>



The research team isn’t stopping with mountain bikes. They’ve already launched a follow-up study to compare tire abrasion rates across different types of bicycles, including road bikes, gravel bikes, and electric mountain bikes.



They’re also working with the laboratory of Professor Dr. Christian Laforsch, from the <a href="https://www.sfb-mikroplastik.uni-bayreuth.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Collaborative Research Center 1357 Microplastics</a>, to analyze environmental samples. 



This collaboration will help paint a fuller picture of how microplastics from bike tires interact with the natural world.



While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/benefits-of-mountain-biking-far-outweigh-the-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biking</a> remains a greener alternative to driving, this research shows that even our cleanest habits leave marks. 



Understanding those marks is a step toward making better choices - and maybe building better tires in the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-microplastics-still-matter">Why microplastics still matter</h2>



Even though mountain bikes contribute far less to microplastic pollution than motor vehicles, they still play a role in the broader environmental picture. 



The real issue is that microplastics are showing up in places they shouldn’t be - soils, rivers, oceans, and even inside our bodies. And they don’t break down. Once released, they linger in the environment, often for decades.



That’s why every bit of data matters. Understanding how much microplastic comes from different sources - whether it’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/car-tires-shed-pollutants-that-are-especially-toxic-for-humans-and-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cars</a>, clothes, shoes, or bike tires - helps build a clearer picture of where these particles come from and how we might reduce them.



It also helps inform smarter design choices, like new tire materials, better manufacturing practices, or improved trail planning, to protect the places we love to ride.



This study may be about bikes, but it’s also about something bigger: learning how our everyday habits connect to the growing web of microplastic pollution all around us.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969725006060?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a>.



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Car tires are a big source of microplastics pollution, but what about mountain bikes?

One of the biggest contributors to the microplastics pollution scourge...

Multi-colored,Pastel,Manicure,Combined,Tone,On,Tone,With,A,Striped

Picture this: you’re at home, relaxing, and giving yourself a fresh manicure with bright pink nails that shimmer with sparkles or are maybe even embedded with a computer chip.



When you're done showing them off for the week, you melt them down and start over - no waste, no guilt. That’s the idea behind Bio-e-Nails.



A team of researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder’s <a href="https://www.colorado.edu/atlas/academics/grad/ctd-ci?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwhr6_BhD4ARIsAH1YdjCyr6N7P0vH1CNwX8lu2leCWD20cxeurZXvJczxf58DWB9fdDuon1MaAn2lEALw_wcB" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ATLAS Institute</a> has created a biodegradable, customizable press-on nail that could redefine how we think about beauty and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-urgent-plea-sustainable-climate-solutions-save-earth-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainability</a>.



The nails are made from simple, natural materials, like algae and shellfish shells, and are easy to create at home using basic craft tools and ingredients from your local store.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-kind-of-nail">A new kind of nail</h2>



Bio-e-Nails are colorful, fun, and designed to be reused. 



Whether you love long, glittery nails or short, vibrant ones, these can be made to match your exact style - and then remade again when you're ready for a change.



“With Bio-e-Nails, there can be a second life, a third life, a fourth life,” said Lázaro Vásquez, a doctoral student at ATLAS. 



“The material can be remelted and reshaped into new objects. You can make a new nail, for sure, but also a coaster for your coffee cup.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-biodegradable-nails-are-a-big-deal">Why biodegradable nails are a big deal</h2>



<a href="https://www.eldylazaro.com/?portfolio=bio-e-nails" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bio-e-Nails</a> were first presented at the 2025 Tangible, Embedded and Embodied Interaction (TEI) conference in France.



The concept grew from a class project into a research collaboration that brought together students and faculty interested in sustainable design.



“Sustainability goes beyond merely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-production-must-be-phased-out-to-stop-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">replacing plastic</a> with a substitute material,” said Mirela Alistar, assistant professor at ATLAS and the Department of Computer Science. 



“Both the designer and the user also need to change their mindset. That type of change, which considers the entire lifecycle of the wearable, is what we are tackling through our research in the Living Matter Lab.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nails-with-a-purpose">Nails with a purpose</h2>



For many, visiting a nail salon is more than just pampering - it’s self-expression.



“[Nails] can be a reflection of your personality,” Vásquez said. “They represent something that comes from you.”



But traditional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-household-products-expose-people-to-dangerous-chemicals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nail products</a> often contain chemicals like methyl methacrylate, which can be harmful to both workers and clients. 



The booming $700 million press-on nail industry also generates a surprising amount of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-waste-grows-relentlessly-as-recycling-falls-short/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic waste</a>.



Alistar pointed out the hidden cost of all this beauty: “We’re not used to thinking of nails as a waste material because they're so small, but they add up.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-make-biodegradable-nails-at-home">How to make biodegradable nails at home</h2>



To make Bio-e-Nails, you start with one of two key ingredients: agar or chitosan. 



Agar, derived from algae, is often used as a vegan substitute for gelatin. Chitosan, on the other hand, comes from seashells and is widely used in supplements.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/bio-e-nails_biodegradable-fingernails_reusable_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/bio-e-nails_biodegradable-fingernails_reusable_1s.webp" alt="Bio-e-Nails come in all shapes and colors. Credit: Living Matter Lab" class="wp-image-1964780"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bio-e-Nails come in all shapes and colors. Credit: Living Matter Lab</figcaption></figure>



If you're using chitosan, the process is simple. Mix it with vinegar and water, heat and cool it in a water bath, and pour it into a mold shaped like your favorite nail. 



After a couple of days, peel the film off, trim the edges, and you’re ready. The agar version is equally easy.



Then, it’s time to get creative.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fully-custom-and-even-smart">Fully custom and even smart</h2>



You can mix in food coloring for vibrant shades, or add glitter and tiny crystals to match your mood or outfit. 



The nails can even go high-tech. The team experimented with embedding small computer chips into the nails. 



These can be programmed to interact with your smartphone, like showing your emergency contact or pulling up directions when tapped.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-don-t-toss-them-reshape-and-reuse-them">Don't toss them, reshape and reuse them</h2>



Bio-e-Nails are meant for short-term wear - perfect for a party or weekend event. And when you're done? Don’t toss them. 



Reuse the material, reshape it into your next look, or even turn it into something completely different.



“Composting should be the last alternative. We want to keep the materials in use as long as we can,” explained Vásquez.



“In biodesign, it’s not just about replacing traditional materials with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-future-of-plastic-biodegradable-durable-and-even-edible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodegradable</a> ones - it’s about rethinking the entire design process, considering the life cycle of the material and eventual products, and how they can stay in circulation and be transformed before they ever return to nature.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next">What happens next?</h2>



With Bio-e-Nails, beauty isn’t just skin deep - it’s a way to rethink how we care for ourselves and the planet. From your fingertips to your compost bin - or your next set of nails - it’s all connected.



Details of the study were <a href="https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/3689050.3704426">presented</a> at the 2025 Tangible, Embedded and Embodied Interaction Conference.



<a href="https://youtu.be/SJGLC6OofmY" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Watch a video demonstration by clicking here...</a>



The full study <a href="https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/3689050.3704426" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">is published here...</a>



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Biodegradable fingernails? Yes, and you can make them at home and reuse

Picture this: you’re at home, relaxing, and giving yourself a...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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...

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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...

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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