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...

Intelligence has often been linked with better health and a longer life. Some studies even suggest that people with sharper word use and cognitive abilities are more likely to beat typical lifespan expectations, though the exact reasons can be complex.



Recent work has zeroed in on a key ability called verbal fluency. In a recent study, Paolo Ghisletta of the <a href="https://www.unige.ch/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Geneva</a> and his colleagues revealed a direct connection between one’s command of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-did-humans-first-develop-language-scientists-think-they-know/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vocabulary</a> and chances of living longer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-word-skills-linked-to-better-health">Strong word skills linked to better health</h2>



Some <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/09567976241311923" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experts</a> see language skills as tightly tied to overall well-being. Words need memory, efficiency, and other brain processes, so they can act like a barometer of a person’s general health.



Researchers have long debated which parts of intelligence have the most say in aging outcomes. <a href="https://awspntest.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1027%2F1016-9040.11.3.224" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> that track groups over time show that different cognitive abilities may not all have equal influence.



Verbal tasks may stand out because they draw on multiple systems in the brain at once. This load on memory, word retrieval, and mental speed might offer a clearer snapshot of cognitive health than simpler tests.



Certain tasks, like naming animals under time limits, have been used to measure these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-can-naturally-learn-multiple-languages-from-birth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">verbal skills</a>. They challenge participants to recall words quickly, hinting at deeper efficiency and organization in the mind.



Language also connects to social engagement and emotional expression. That makes it an important reflection of daily life, which could reveal deeper health aspects beneath the surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-do-the-body-and-mind-decline-together">Do the body and mind decline together?</h2>



One idea is that the body and mind decline in sync, so verbal strength might simply indicate a more robust constitution overall. <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/03610730290080344" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Research</a> linking higher intelligence with better physical health supports this view.



Another angle considers how using words depends on various brain circuits tied to health that might stay active as people age. If these circuits remain in good shape, other key health functions could follow the same pattern.



Stress levels, nutrition, and lifestyle might also affect word recall and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pi-day-celebrating-the-universal-language-of-mathematics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">general cognition</a>. When stress is low or diets are balanced, people may keep their memory sharper, improving how they express words.



Economics and education could play a part too, since those with more opportunities might practice language-related skills more often. Experts caution, though, that correlation is not the same as direct cause.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborations-and-optimism">Collaborations and optimism</h2>



Ghisletta emphasized that modern tools and open data sets let more scientists work together. He noted that it’s now easier to handle larger pools of data and compare findings across labs.



Some of these collaborative efforts focus on advanced statistical methods that consider how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/screen-time-delays-language-development-in-toddlers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a> changes over time. Using this approach, experts can untangle whether language shifts appear before major physical declines.



Scientists see an opportunity to learn from each other’s strengths. They exchange ideas about complex analysis, design new projects, and share insights that might not surface in isolated work.



Open collaboration can reduce duplication and speed up discovery. It also helps younger scholars sharpen their skills with diverse data, which drives the field forward.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-does-this-research-lead">Where does this research lead?</h2>



Some analysts hope that easy-to-administer verbal tasks could act as early warning signs for health problems. A <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/nursing-and-health-professions/verbal-fluency-test" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">short word-generation test </a>might reveal cognitive slowdowns linked to risk of serious conditions.



Identifying subtle changes could prompt lifestyle shifts or interventions when they matter most. Catching small declines in language might be easier than waiting for severe physical symptoms.



At-home apps or community health centers could someday offer quick word tests that alert people to potential cognitive changes. Such tools may encourage proactive checkups and targeted therapies.



Skeptics note that language alone cannot paint the full picture. Still, many agree it’s a promising piece of the puzzle in understanding how we age.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-next-steps">Challenges and next steps</h2>



Experts still debate which factors drive the link between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-learn-songs-like-humans-learn-languages/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">word skills</a> and longevity. Some wonder if robust language is a cause or just a sign of better overall health.



Socioeconomic differences and educational backgrounds might skew test results. Researchers want to refine these measures to be fair and accurate for a wide range of people.



There’s also interest in combining language tasks with other assessments of mental speed or memory. This could highlight whether verbal fluency truly stands alone or interacts with multiple abilities.



Despite lingering questions, many view the new findings with optimism. They feel that focusing on language could open doors to simpler, more affordable health monitoring.



Teams across different countries have joined forces to test these ideas on diverse populations. By seeing how verbal tasks perform in various settings, the researchers hope to refine their understanding of healthy aging.



Nobody can guarantee a perfect formula for longer life, yet any practical clue that helps us spot risks early might be worth a closer look.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-public-health-through-words">Tracking public health through words</h2>



This research may also inspire more collaboration between psychologists, <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/gerontologist" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gerontologists</a>, and public health experts. Fresh angles, combined with robust data, could lead to clearer guidance on preserving cognitive health.



Language is more than just words; it may reflect deeper patterns in how our minds and bodies operate. Monitoring it might offer a gentle nudge for healthy habits and timely checkups.



In an ever-aging world, these studies appeal to policymakers and families alike. Simple steps to gauge language might become part of routine health practices one day.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/09567976241311923">Psychological Science</a>.



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People who are good with words have better health and live longer

Intelligence has often been linked with better health and a...

Governments, international organizations, and researchers depend on global population data for essential decision-making. These datasets help allocate resources, plan infrastructure, track disease epidemiology, and manage disaster risks. 



However, recent research reveals that rural population figures have been systematically underestimated, raising concerns about the accuracy of decades’ worth of data that inform global policy and planning.



A new study from Aalto University in Finland exposes the severe extent of this undercounting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rural-populations-are-vastly-underreported">Rural populations are vastly underreported</h2>



"For the first time, our study provides evidence that a significant proportion of the rural population may be missing from global population datasets," said postdoctoral researcher Josias Láng-Ritter from Aalto University.



The study compared five of the most widely used <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-population-will-peak-at-10-3-billion-by-2085/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global population</a> datasets - maps that break the world into high-resolution grid cells based on census data - with resettlement figures from more than 300 rural dam projects across 35 countries. 



The results were striking. Depending on the dataset, rural populations were underestimated by 53% to 84% over the study period.



"We were surprised to find that the actual population living in rural areas is much higher than the global population data indicates," said Láng-Ritter.



"The results are remarkable, as these datasets have been used in thousands of studies and extensively support decision-making, yet their accuracy has not been systematically evaluated."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dam-resettlement-data-offers-a-comparison">Dam resettlement data offers a comparison</h2>



To assess the accuracy of global datasets, the team turned to an unconventional but reliable source - resettlement data from <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/dam-collapse-in-south-africa-has-left-behind-devastation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dam</a> projects.



"When dams are built, large areas are flooded and people need to be relocated," noted Láng-Ritter. "The relocated population is usually counted precisely because dam companies pay compensation to those affected." 



"Unlike global population datasets, such local impact statements provide comprehensive, on-the-ground population counts that are not skewed by administrative boundaries. We then combined these with spatial information from satellite imagery."



The discrepancies in rural population data were particularly noticeable in China, Brazil, Australia, Poland, and Colombia, where more independent data was available for comparison.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-population-censuses-create-biases">How population censuses create biases</h2>



One major reason for these discrepancies is that population censuses - the primary data source for global datasets - often fail to capture accurate numbers in rural areas.



Some countries lack the resources for comprehensive data collection, and vast rural landscapes make travel difficult for census workers. Sparse populations spread across large areas further complicate the process.



To assess the extent of the issue, the researchers examined data from 1975 to 2010, as dam resettlement records were available for these years.



The analysis showed that, while accuracy improved slightly over time, even the 2010 datasets missed between one-third (32%) and three-quarters (77%) of rural residents.



Newer datasets from 2015 and 2020 likely still contain similar biases, but no dam resettlement records were available for these years.



"While our study shows accuracy has somewhat improved over decades, the trend is clear:  global population datasets miss a significant portion of the rural population," said Láng-Ritter.



"With the same basic practices in place, it’s unlikely that slightly improved input data could correct for this level of bias. And even if the most recent population maps reflected reality, earlier datasets have influenced decision-making for decades and are still used to monitor change, for instance providing a distorted picture of movement over time from the countryside to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-nature-affect-human-health-in-urban-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban areas</a>."



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



Currently, about 43% of the world's 8.2 billion people live in rural areas, according to official estimates. However, these figures may be misleading if rural populations have been significantly undercounted. 



Global decision-makers, including the UN and the World Bank, rely on the same flawed census data used to create population maps. This means essential services, from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/growing-health-gap-between-rural-and-urban-men-around-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthcare</a> to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-heat-impacts-our-daily-routines-and-transportation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transportation</a>, may not be adequately planned for rural areas.



"In many countries, there may not be sufficient data available on a national level, so they rely on global population maps to support their decision-making: Do we need an asphalted road or a hospital? How much medicine is required in a particular area? How many people could be affected by natural disasters such as earthquakes or floods?" Láng-Ritter explained.



The need for improved rural population data is especially pressing in crisis-hit regions, where transitioning to digital population records could take years.



"For example here in Finland, the population data is nowadays very reliable even in rural regions, as we were the second country in the world to start keeping digital population records already in 1990. But especially in crisis-hit countries, the shift towards digital population registers could take years, even decades," Láng-Ritter added.



"To provide rural communities with equal access to services and other resources, we need to have a critical discussion about the past and future applications of these population maps."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-how-we-count-rural-populations">Rethinking how we count rural populations</h2>



Accurate population data is essential for governments and international organizations to make informed decisions about resource allocation, infrastructure, and disaster preparedness. This new study highlights the urgent need to reassess how rural populations are counted to ensure that global datasets reflect reality.



If rural communities continue to be undercounted, they risk being overlooked in critical planning efforts, from healthcare access to climate adaptation strategies. The findings emphasize the importance of improving data collection methods, particularly in areas where traditional census methods fall short. 



Without change, the missing millions in rural areas will remain invisible to decision-makers worldwide.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-56906-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Millions of people in rural areas are missing from global population data

Governments, international organizations, and researchers depend on global population data...

Trees and parks not only add open, pleasant spaces to cities but also boost human health in multiple ways, from filtering air pollution to providing shade and cooling down hot urban areas. 



Many governments worldwide have announced bold plans to plant more trees over the coming years, partly due to climate change and rising temperatures. However, in heavily built-up cities, finding room for additional green spaces remains a pressing challenge.&nbsp;



The question becomes: How can municipalities best arrange trees in existing green zones to achieve maximum benefit?



That question has drawn the attention of researchers and city planners alike, who must factor in specific local conditions such as geography and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cities-are-largely-unprepared-for-the-effects-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-trees-and-human-health">Linking trees and human health</h2>



Investigators at <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a> have turned their focus to this issue not just within Switzerland, but also across Asia.&nbsp;



Through the work of a team from the <a href="https://fcl.ethz.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Future Cities Lab</a>, a program run in Singapore by ETH Zurich and the <a href="https://www.nus.edu.sg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National University of Singapore</a> (NUS), researchers uncovered surprising connections between the way cities manage their trees and the general health status of residents.



The researchers’ first step involved analyzing high-resolution data on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-cities-lack-sufficient-canopy-cover-despite-visible-trees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree canopy</a> coverage within a 500-meter radius of each person’s home.&nbsp;



Beyond calculating the total area of tree clusters, they assessed how near these clusters were to each other, how they connected, how complex their shapes were, and how fragmented they appeared.



They then linked these details to survival data - specifically, the time to natural-cause deaths (due to age or disease) - for more than six million adults.&nbsp;



The records were provided by the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, which covered a decade from 2010 to 2019. To maintain privacy, the Federal Statistical Office had rounded each individual’s home coordinates to the nearest 50 meters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tree-canopy-cover-and-mortality-rates-nbsp">Tree canopy cover and mortality rates&nbsp;</h2>



Through careful data analysis, the researchers discovered that the extent of a neighborhood’s tree canopy and its layout were associated with mortality rates.&nbsp;



The study showed a significantly lower risk of death among residents living in areas with larger, more cohesive, and better-connected tree coverage, compared to those where the coverage was more fragmented or exhibited complex shapes.&nbsp;



This link was particularly clear in densely populated peri-urban or urban zones marked by poor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-quality-in-europe-has-improved-over-the-past-two-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> and high temperatures. In such environments, efficiently structured forested spaces might deliver stronger health advantages than in more dispersed contexts.



Even though the findings offer an insightful initial glimpse, the researchers maintain that it is premature to pinpoint specific causes. They cannot yet say with certainty how tree canopy configuration positively affects people’s well-being.&nbsp;



Still, at the individual level, their outcomes broadly align with similar studies performed at the community level in Philadelphia, Tehran, and Taipei.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-isolated-green-spaces">Connecting isolated green spaces</h2>



Dengkai Chi is a postdoctoral researcher at the ETH Future Cities Lab and the study’s first author.



“Although we can’t yet define a direct causal link, when we have addressed factors such as age, gender and socio-economic status, the data shows clear correlations. Our results provide plausible indications that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-marine-protected-areas-boost-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human health</a> may be influenced not only by the quantity of trees but also by their spatial distribution,” said Chi.



These results demonstrate the value of considering carefully how trees are arranged. By deliberately planning a city’s green areas, officials can possibly extract greater health benefits for residents. 



“In order to fully exploit trees’ potential to support human health, cities should strive to not only increase the number of trees but also to connect isolated green spaces - including by creating tree-lined boulevards,” Chi said.



Interestingly, the study indicates that simpler, more compact patches of tree canopy - for instance, circular or rectangular shapes - might have a more beneficial health effect compared to complex, scattered forms.&nbsp;



One plausible reason is that simpler geometries yield bigger central zones, encourage ecological diversity, and possibly spur people to visit these green spaces more frequently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-standards-for-urban-greening-initiatives-nbsp">Standards for urban greening initiatives&nbsp;</h2>



Despite these early observations, the researchers acknowledge that significant work remains. "We’re still at the very outset of this research,” Chi said. 



Multiple important factors could not be included in the study, such as pre-existing illnesses, smoking status, or whether individuals actually use local parks. Furthermore, the results apply to neighborhood scales and might not hold uniformly for an entire city.



Initial clues suggest that across a broader city, the effect on health might correlate with how fairly green spaces are distributed, ensuring that a large share of the population can reach them easily.&nbsp;



The team hopes to explore these aspects in further research, aiming to clarify the relationships between green space organization and health.



Chi points out that in developing policy suggestions for officials and planners, the research team will need to produce more quantitative assessments and identify precise thresholds. Such work could help define actionable standards for urban greening initiatives.



Overall, the study provides further confirmation that green infrastructure does not solely beautify urban settings but may also be tied to tangible health benefits.&nbsp;



As climate change urges administrators to plant more trees and as cities become increasingly crowded, focusing on the strategic placement and design of tree canopies may become just as critical as planting them in the first place.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2542-5196(25)00022-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lancet Planetary Health</a>.



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Urban tree layout influences human health and mortality rates

Trees and parks not only add open, pleasant spaces to...

A new study indicates that an experimental drug can reduce Alzheimer’s-related dementia risk in those certain to develop symptoms in their 30s, 40s, or 50s.&nbsp;



If confirmed, the results suggest that removing amyloid plaques from the brain long before memory issues occur may delay or even avert the onset of Alzheimer’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-disruptions-could-signal-the-onset-of-alzheimers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dementia</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-individuals-with-early-alzheimer-s-risk">Individuals with early Alzheimer’s risk</h2>



The international research team was led by the <a href="https://knightadrc.wustl.edu/for-the-community/volunteer-for-research/dian/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Knight Family Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network-Trials Unit</a> (DIAN-TU) at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.



The study was focused on 73 people carrying rare, inherited mutations that substantially increase the production of amyloid in the brain - mutations that guarantee them Alzheimer’s disease in middle age.&nbsp;



Over two decades, the Knight Family DIAN-TU has worked to find therapies aimed at preventing or slowing disease progression in such families.



For a subgroup of 22 participants who exhibited no <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-mild-covid-can-cause-prolonged-cognitive-impairment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive problems</a> at the beginning of the study and who received the drug the longest (an average of eight years), the treatment decreased the risk of developing symptoms from 100% to approximately 50%.&nbsp;



This calculation, supported by multiple sensitivity analyses, suggests that early intervention may give participants additional healthy years, although the duration of protection is not yet known.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giving-people-more-years-of-healthy-life-nbsp">Giving people more years of healthy life&nbsp;</h2>



Study senior author Randall J. Bateman, a professor of neurology at <a href="https://medicine.washu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WashU Medicine</a>, noted that everyone in the study was destined to develop Alzheimer’s disease and some of them haven’t yet.



“We don’t yet know how long they will remain symptom-free - maybe a few years or maybe decades. In order to give them the best opportunity to stay cognitively normal, we have continued treatment with another anti-amyloid antibody in hopes they will never develop symptoms at all,” said Bateman.&nbsp;



“What we do know is that it’s possible at least to delay the onset of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and give people more years of healthy life.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eliminating-amyloid-plaques-in-the-brain-nbsp">Eliminating amyloid plaques in the brain&nbsp;</h2>



These results bolster the amyloid hypothesis, which proposes that Alzheimer’s disease begins with an accumulation of amyloid plaques in the brain. Researchers have speculated that eliminating those plaques, or halting their formation, could keep <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-activity-may-delay-the-onset-of-dementia-by-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dementia</a> at bay.



For this work, Bateman and colleagues investigated whether an experimental anti-amyloid therapy might prevent Alzheimer’s dementia.&nbsp;



The study sample comprised people who initially joined the Knight Family DIAN-TU-001 trial (the world’s first Alzheimer’s prevention study) and then continued into an extension phase where they received an anti-amyloid medication.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insufficient-evidence-of-alzheimer-s-prevention-nbsp">Insufficient evidence of Alzheimer’s prevention&nbsp;</h2>



Knight Family DIAN-TU-001 began in 2012 to evaluate anti-amyloid therapies as preventive measures for Alzheimer’s in participants with no or very mild symptoms and lying between 15 years before and 10 years after their expected onset age.&nbsp;



Results shared in 2020 indicated that one drug - gantenerumab, made by <a href="https://www.roche.com/innovation/structure/genentech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Roche/Genentech</a> - lowered brain amyloid levels and changed certain Alzheimer’s biomarkers.&nbsp;



However, researchers found insufficient evidence of cognitive benefit because participants without symptoms remained stable, whether on drug or placebo.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extending-the-trial">Extending the trial</h2>



To refine and continue testing, the team initiated an open-label extension of the trial. All individuals carrying a high-risk Alzheimer’s mutation could join - regardless of original trial assignment.&nbsp;



Because everyone in the extension received the study drug, the researchers compared them with participants in a separate, untreated observational study and with some participants who had received placebo but did not enter the extension.



Although the extension was designed to run three years, it ended mid-2023 after Roche/Genentech stopped gantenerumab’s development in late 2022, owing to Phase III results in early symptomatic Alzheimer’s failing to meet the main endpoint of slowing clinical decline.&nbsp;



By that time, most extension participants had received gantenerumab for an average of 2.6 years.



Analyses of that extension data revealed that removing amyloid far in advance of symptoms potentially delayed disease onset and dementia progression, especially among participants with no initial symptoms who received the drug for about eight years. 



In that subgroup, the drug halved the risk of becoming symptomatic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treating-early-alzheimer-s">Treating early Alzheimer’s</h2>



Though gantenerumab and other anti-amyloid therapies can trigger ARIA (amyloid-related imaging abnormalities) visible on brain scans, most cases yield no clinical symptoms and resolve on their own.&nbsp;



Two participants developed severe ARIA and had to discontinue the therapy but subsequently recovered. No life-threatening events or deaths occurred, and the overall safety profile matched other gantenerumab research.



Once Roche ended gantenerumab, most participants switched to lecanemab - an anti-amyloid agent recently authorized by the <a href="https://www.fda.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Food and Drug Administration</a> for slowing cognitive decline in symptomatic Alzheimer’s.&nbsp;



The newly launched Knight Family DIAN-TU Amyloid Removal Trial will also use lecanemab to see how effectively it prevents or postpones Alzheimer’s in these high-risk families.



While the trial focuses on genetically caused early-onset Alzheimer’s, the team believes that the results will inform prevention and treatment for all forms of Alzheimer’s disease.&nbsp;



Both early- and late-onset disease begin with amyloid accumulation roughly 20 years before clinical symptoms arise. Data from early-onset mutation families has proven consistent with late-onset Alzheimer’s trials.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optimism-for-therapeutic-breakthroughs-nbsp">Optimism for therapeutic breakthroughs&nbsp;</h2>



“If late-onset Alzheimer’s prevention trials have similar results to the DIAN-TU trials, there soon could be Alzheimer’s preventions available for the general population,” Bateman said.&nbsp;



“I am highly optimistic now, as this could be the first clinical evidence of what will become preventions for people at risk for Alzheimer’s disease. One day soon, we may be delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s disease for millions.”



While gantenerumab has been withdrawn from development, other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-have-found-powerful-antibodies-that-neutralize-all-covid-variants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibodies</a> targeting amyloid remain under evaluation for Alzheimer’s.&nbsp;



Observers within the research community say the findings demonstrate the significance of focusing on early removal of brain amyloid for potentially avoiding or postponing dementia, fueling optimism for near-future therapeutic breakthroughs.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laneur/article/PIIS1474-4422(25)00024-9/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Lancet Neurology</a>.



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Stopping Alzheimer’s before it starts: Early treatment shows potential

A new study indicates that an experimental drug can reduce...

Brown,And,White,Sugar

Sugar substitutes and artificial sweeteners show up in many diets and "low-calorie" products, promoted as a way to help people enjoy sweet flavors without the usual calories.



Some folks pick them to help manage weight goals or reduce daily sugar intake. Others look for sugar-free snacks to limit changes in blood glucose.



Their popularity reflects a common desire to avoid sugar-related pitfalls. Yet concerns continue to surface about how these substances may affect overall health. 



Senior and corresponding author Stanley Hazen, M.D., Ph.D., from Cleveland Clinic’s <a href="https://www.lerner.ccf.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lerner Research Institute</a>, addresses these questions through new findings on certain sugar substitutes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sugar-substitutes-the-basics">Sugar substitutes - the basics</h2>



There are many forms of "sugar substitutes," also known as artificial sweeteners. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mice-fed-artificial-sweetener-exhibit-alarming-health-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aspartame</a>, sucralose, saccharin, and sugar alcohols such as erythritol and xylitol are available in various items labeled “diet” or “low-calorie.” 



They offer sweetness in small amounts because many are far sweeter than table sugar. Saccharin, for example, is typically hundreds of times sweeter than sugar, so only a tiny dose is required.



They also appeal to those trying to manage their weight. Some people believe replacing sugar with these products helps them avoid extra calories. 



Others rely on them to reduce sudden spikes in blood sugar, which can be appealing to individuals with conditions like diabetes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-divide-in-the-scientific-community">Divide in the scientific community</h2>



Several regulatory agencies consider many of these sugar substitutes acceptable at certain daily intake levels. Some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-baby-food-isnt-nutritious-despite-what-the-label-says/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutritional guidelines</a> encourage their use when people need to cut back on simple carbohydrates. 



“Many professional societies and clinicians routinely recommend that people at high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-cannabis-users-face-higher-heart-attack-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular risk</a> - those with obesity, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome - consume foods that contain sugar substitutes rather than sugar,” Dr. Hazen explained.



“These findings highlight the importance of further long-term clinical studies to assess the cardiovascular safety of erythritol and other sugar substitutes.”



Though these products are labeled “<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging/generally-recognized-safe-gras" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Generally Recognized as Safe</a>,” the way individuals actually consume them raises questions that may not have been fully covered in past research. 



Some experts would like to see broader and longer studies on potential effects beyond weight management.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sugar-substitute-called-erythritol">Sugar substitute called Erythritol</h2>



Over time, scientists wondered if all sugar substitutes behave the same way in the body. A Cleveland Clinic team looked at <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erythritol" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">erythritol</a>, a sugar alcohol found in sugarless items such as gum and certain snack products. 



During an intervention study with healthy volunteers, they noticed a pattern that prompted follow-up.



“This research raises some concerns that a standard serving of an erythritol-sweetened food or beverage may acutely stimulate a direct clot-forming effect,” said study co-author W. H. Wilson Tang, M.D., research director for Heart Failure and Cardiac Transplantation Medicine at <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cleveland Clinic</a>. 



“Erythritol and other sugar alcohols commonly used as sugar substitutes should be evaluated for potential long-term health effects, especially when such effects are not seen with glucose itself.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-xylitol-also-has-issues">Xylitol also has issues</h2>



Those same scientists saw that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/holiday-dangers-keeping-your-pets-safe-on-easter-weekend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">xylitol</a>, another sugar alcohol, displayed similar behavior in the bloodstream. 



Individuals with higher xylitol levels appeared to have an increased likelihood of experiencing serious cardiac-related events over the following few years. 



Since these trends emerged in people already facing cardiovascular issues, the question has become whether these substances could pose added risks.



Some products are marketed as keto-friendly, which has further boosted the reputation of sugar alcohols for those on very <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/low-carb-diets-have-more-nutritional-value-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">low-carb diets</a>. 



While xylitol and erythritol fit the profile for reduced-calorie sweetening, this latest work suggests that they merit deeper research to see how they interact with blood and overall heart function in various groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-sweetness-and-safety">Balancing sweetness and safety</h2>



In light of the new data, there are suggestions for caution, particularly if a person has conditions linked to thrombosis or other cardiac complications. 



“I feel that choosing sugar-sweetened treats occasionally and in small amounts would be preferable to consuming drinks and foods sweetened with these sugar alcohols, especially for people at elevated risk of thrombosis, such as those with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sugary-drinks-linked-to-millions-of-diabetes-and-heart-disease-cases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart disease</a>, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome,” Dr. Hazen advises. 



“Cardiovascular disease builds over time, and heart disease is the leading cause of death globally. We need to make sure the foods we eat aren’t hidden contributors.”



Manufacturers often include sugar substitutes in a range of drinks and snacks. Some individuals like them simply because they believe they promote better control of caloric intake. 



Yet researchers suggest that people who already have heart-related issues or metabolic conditions pay special attention to how often they rely on these sweeteners.



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



One reason experts remain cautious is the fact that sweetener consumption can vary widely from person to person. Some drink several diet beverages a day or frequently snack on sugar-free treats. 



Guidelines about upper intake levels were developed when long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/morning-coffee-drinkers-have-a-lower-risk-of-heart-disease-and-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular outcomes</a> were less clear. 



Now, these studies may prompt new evaluations of how all sugar alcohols behave in those at high risk for blood clots.



Whether someone chooses sugar alternatives for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weight-loss-drugs-could-save-an-enormous-number-of-lives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weight management</a> or portion control, these details introduce fresh reasons to check in with a healthcare provider. 



An individual plan that considers medical history and personal risk factors can be valuable when figuring out how often to use products sweetened with substances like erythritol or xylitol.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-sugar-substitutes">What's next for sugar substitutes</h2>



Opinions differ about whether these sugar substitutes fully serve their intended purpose. Some see them as helpful for limiting sugar. 



Others consider them a source of unintended problems when used regularly, especially in people with a history of heart disease or metabolic disorders. 



As new information continues to emerge, discussions may lead to fresh guidelines or label requirements that highlight potential cardiovascular considerations.



For now, moderate consumption and a balanced diet remain popular approaches. Artificial sweeteners may fit into certain meal plans, but the recent research from Cleveland Clinic invites extra thought about possible drawbacks. 



Reading labels and talking with trusted healthcare professionals can help people figure out the best mix of sweet options in daily life. 



That awareness may allow many to avoid unwelcome surprises while still keeping their favorite flavors on the menu.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/ATVBAHA.124.321019" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology</a>.



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Artificial sweeteners and sugar substitutes directly linked to heart attacks and strokes

Sugar substitutes and artificial sweeteners show up in many diets...

Many people focus on pollution when they worry about unhealthy air. The dryness of the air is rarely considered, even though emerging findings suggest it can inflame the lining of our airways.



Scientists say rising global temperatures allow air to grab more moisture, which can strain our <a href="https://training.seer.cancer.gov/lung/anatomy/respiratory.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">respiratory tracts</a>. Experts also suggest that as humidity hovers at the same levels in many regions, this dryness risk could escalate in the coming decades.



Air dryness is as critical to air quality as air dirtiness, explained David Edwards, adjunct professor of medicine at the <a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/som/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine</a>. His team has found that dry conditions can shrink the protective <a href="https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2020/08/marvels-mucus-phlegm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mucus lining</a> inside the nose, throat, and lungs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-air-dryness-affects-the-airways">How air dryness affects the airways</h2>



Researchers have <a href="https://journals.physiology.org/doi/abs/10.1152/physrev.00039.2014" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shown</a> that low humidity can draw water from the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25868842/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bronchial epithelium</a>, the tissue lining our breathing passages. This phenomenon weakens mucus layers and can increase <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-how-air-pollution-forms-may-help-us-prevent-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">irritation</a> in people who suffer from asthma, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538186/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">allergic rhinitis</a>, or chronic cough.



Dehydrated tissues often release <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24585-cytokines" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cytokines</a>, which are proteins that can trigger inflammatory responses in the body. Studies indicate that these signals may spread more rapidly if the airway surface is already thinned out.



Some experts believe extended exposure to very dry conditions can lead to tissue changes deep in the respiratory tract. This shift might pave the way for recurring throat irritation or stubborn coughs in otherwise healthy individuals.



Researchers also see dryness as a concern for older adults who are prone to less efficient airway hydration. <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9013-dehydration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chronic dehydration</a> of these surfaces may intensify existing problems such as hoarseness or reactive airway symptoms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-increases-air-dryness">Climate change increases air dryness</h2>



Warmer conditions raise the vapor pressure deficit of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-weakens-brain-function-and-focus-in-daily-tasks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air</a>, which is the measure of how eagerly the atmosphere wants to soak up water. This process can leave mucus layers more vulnerable to drying out, especially in places that already have lower humidity levels.



Scientists have projected that large parts of the United States may see more days with elevated dryness by the late 21st century. The combination of warmer temperatures and stable relative humidity increases the thirst of the air for moisture.



People living in regions with frequent heat waves might experience extra dryness during extended hot spells. This pattern could lead to seasonal spikes in airway inflammation and persistent discomfort.



Although global concerns often revolve around wildfire smoke or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-people-die-from-air-pollution-each-year-yet-theres-still-a-lack-of-monitoring/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a>, dryness has flown under the radar for many. Researchers want to widen the conversation about clean air to include adequate hydration of our breathing passages.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mouth-breathing-and-indoor-air">Mouth breathing and indoor air</h2>



Experts caution that mouth breathing deprives the air of the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3338294/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nasal humidification</a> step. Even relaxed mouth breathing can intensify dryness inside the throat and lungs, heightening the chances of discomfort.



Indoor conditions are another piece of this puzzle. Temperature-controlled environments can lower humidity indoors, so everyday exposure to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-deaths-in-india-linked-to-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air</a> conditioning or heating systems may gradually sap moisture from airway surfaces.



One portion of this work was supported by the <a href="https://www.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institutes of Health</a>, reflecting the growing attention on dryness-related inflammation. While pollution monitoring remains a public health priority, dryness is gaining recognition as an environmental factor worth addressing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-ways-to-maintain-moisture">Practical ways to maintain moisture</h2>



Some professionals recommend placing a small humidifier in closed living or work areas to keep air from becoming too dry. This step can help keep the mucus lining properly hydrated and may lessen throat irritation.



Others encourage people to stay mindful of mouth breathing, especially during exercise or when feeling congested. Closing the mouth more often might help the nose humidify incoming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-is-fueling-more-intense-and-dangerous-thunderstorms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air</a> and shield sensitive tissues in the windpipe.



“This manuscript is a game changer for medicine," said study co-author <a href="https://profiles.hopkinsmedicine.org/provider/justin-s-hanes/2777120" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Justin Hanes</a>, the Lewis J. Ort Professor of Ophthalmology at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medicine.



“Understanding how our airways dehydrate on exposure to dry air can help us avoid or reverse the inflammatory impact of dehydration by effective behavioral changes,” said Edwards.



Staying hydrated by drinking water is another common suggestion, though it may not fully counteract constant exposure to dry environments. Still, small changes in routines could make a difference in day-to-day comfort.



Some individuals have also reported relief by adjusting airflow direction from vents or heaters at home. This method reduces the direct blast of dry air, potentially minimizing irritation during extended indoor stays.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-risks-and-solutions-for-air-dryness">Future risks and solutions for air dryness</h2>



Researchers are exploring whether dryness may affect other membranes, such as <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/eye-tissue">ocular tissue</a>. Preliminary <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4181208/">data</a> indicate that the same dehydration that troubles airways might irritate our eyes and lead to chronic dryness in more than one spot.



They also note that people living in semi-arid or desert regions should keep watch on local climate trends. Shifts in temperature and humidity patterns could amplify dryness over time, making airway problems more common in those areas.



While dryness lacks the high profile of pollution, it is a force that could grow stronger if climate models are correct. Researchers hope that more attention on this issue can spur communities to consider the moisture content of the air they breathe.



Specialists believe that further studies might open the door to preventive measures that address hydration of mucosal surfaces. That might lead to new therapies aimed at keeping the protective layers of the airways better hydrated in extreme conditions.



Long-range strategies could include better building design, improvements in public alerts during harsh weather, and medical therapies to fortify airway linings. Every bit of knowledge gained now might shape healthier breathing for future generations.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-025-02161-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



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Air dryness might be as harmful to your lungs as air pollution

Many people focus on pollution when they worry about unhealthy...

As cannabis becomes more widely used with increasing legalization, new research raises concerns about its potential impact on heart health.



Two recent studies suggest that cannabis users may have a significantly higher risk of heart attacks - even among young, otherwise healthy individuals.



The findings, based on a large-scale retrospective study and a meta-analysis of past research, highlight potential cardiovascular risks that warrant further investigation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-use-and-heart-attack-risk">Cannabis use and heart attack risk</h2>



The research team analyzed data from millions of individuals and found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-users-do-not-lack-motivation-or-enjoyment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis users</a> under 50 were more than six times as likely to experience a heart attack compared to non-users.



The second study, which reviewed data from 12 previously published studies, confirmed an elevated risk - showing that cannabis use was linked to a 50% increase in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smoking-cannabis-significantly-increases-the-risk-of-heart-attack/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart attack</a> likelihood.



“Asking about cannabis use should be part of clinicians’ workup to understand patients’ overall cardiovascular risk, similar to asking about smoking cigarettes,” said Dr. Ibrahim Kamel, a clinical instructor at the Boston University <a href="https://www.bumc.bu.edu/camed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chobanian &amp; Avedisian School of Medicine</a>.



“At a policy level, a fair warning should be made so that the people who are consuming cannabis know that there are risks.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-cardiovascular-risks">Increased cardiovascular risks</h2>



For the retrospective study, researchers examined data from TriNetX, a global health research network that compiles electronic medical records. 



During a median follow-up period of over three years, cannabis users were at much greater <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/steep-rise-in-cardiovascular-disease-expected-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular risk</a>. 



They were over six times more likely to have a heart attack, four times more likely to have an ischemic stroke, twice more likely to have heart failure, and three times more likely to have cardiovascular death, a heart attack, or stroke.



The participants in the study were all below 50 and free from significant cardiovascular disease at the beginning of the study. 



Their blood pressure, cholesterol levels and risk of diabetes were normal, and none of them were tobacco smokers or had a history of coronary artery disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-positive-correlation">Strong positive correlation </h2>



The second study combined data from 12 earlier studies, examining data from more than 75 million individuals. 



Most of these studies were carried out in the United States, with some further research in Canada and India. 



Although not all studies included participant age data, those that did indicated an average age of 41.



Of the 12 studies, seven reported a strong association between cannabis use and heart attacks, four reported no significant association, and one reported a weak negative association. 



By pooling the data, the researchers established a strong positive correlation - active cannabis users were 1.5 times more likely to have a heart attack than non-users.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limitations-of-the-research">Limitations of the research </h2>



Although the studies point to a connection between cannabis and heart health risks, they have limitations. 



The experts noted that cannabis use is often linked with other substances, such as tobacco, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-cocaine-tricks-and-hijacks-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cocaine</a>, or other illicit drugs, which could also impact cardiovascular risk.



“We should have some caution in interpreting the findings in that cannabis consumption is usually associated with other substances such as cocaine or other illicit drugs that are not accounted for,” said Dr. Kamel. 



“Patients should be forthcoming with their doctors and remember that we are their number one advocate and having the full story matters.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-cannabis-affect-the-heart">How does cannabis affect the heart?</h2>



The exact reason why <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-plans-to-reclassify-marijuana-and-ease-restrictions/">marijuana</a> smoking may increase the risk of heart attacks remains unclear, but researchers have proposed several theories.



Cannabis use may influence the regulation heart rhythm, elevate oxygen demand in the heart muscle, and be a factor in endothelial dysfunction, which would make it more difficult for arteries to relax and dilate.



One of the meta-analysis studies reported that the threat of heart attack reached its peak around one hour following marijuana consumption.



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



Since both studies were limited by their retrospective design, the researchers believe more studies are needed.



Prospective studies could provide better insight into which groups face the highest risks and how cannabis interacts with other cardiovascular factors.



Previous research presented at the <a href="https://www.acc.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American College of Cardiology</a>’s Annual Scientific Session in 2023 also linked daily marijuana use with an increased risk of coronary artery disease. 



With cannabis use becoming more common, especially in regions where it is legal, understanding its potential risks remains a priority for public health.



The retrospective study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacadv.2025.101698" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JACC Advances</a>. 



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Young cannabis users face higher heart attack risk

As cannabis becomes more widely used with increasing legalization, new...

Chronic pain affects millions of people worldwide, but studies show that women experience it more frequently than men. 



While both sexes develop chronic pain, the biological processes behind it can be different. 



New research sheds light on why this happens, highlighting a distinct immune response in women that may contribute to their increased sensitivity to pain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neuropathic-pain-across-genders">Neuropathic pain across genders</h2>



Scientists at the <a href="https://www.ucalgary.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Calgary</a> conducted a study to explore how neuropathic pain - which is caused by nerve damage - manifests differently in men and women.



The research was focused on allodynia, a condition where non-painful stimuli, such as a light touch or temperature change, become painful. This condition can be extremely difficult to manage, making effective treatment options essential.



"Chronic pain disproportionately affects women, yet preclinical studies largely focus on males, neglecting the distinct medical needs of women," wrote the researchers.



"This disparity is striking in neuropathic pain, where women are over-represented as patients and current treatments are inadequate in alleviating mechanical allodynia, a debilitating feature of neuropathic pain."



The study, carried out on rats and mice, revealed a key difference in how pain signals are processed. Both male and female rodents use pannexin 1 (Panx1) channels to communicate pain signals. However, the type of immune cells involved varies by sex.



In female rodents, Panx1 activation triggers the release of leptin, a hormone linked to heightened pain sensitivity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-leptin-in-chronic-pain">The role of leptin in chronic pain</h2>



Dr. Tuan Trang is a professor in the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Calgary and the study’s lead researcher.



"Both males and females develop <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-women-experience-more-chronic-pain-than-men/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain</a>, but each sex develops it through different means," explained Dr. Trang. "This study identifies a very unique type of biological process through a specific immune cell that is distinctive to each sex."



The connection between leptin and pain is not new. Studies dating back to the 1980s have documented higher leptin levels in female patients with chronic pain. However, this research provides new insights into how leptin contributes to pain at the cellular level.



"Injury to a nerve can be debilitating," said Dr. Trang. "We know that a lot of preclinical research has been on male subjects. Consequently, treatments were often developed from a male-based understanding and may not be very effective in females."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personalized-treatment-for-chronic-pain">Personalized treatment for chronic pain </h2>



Experts recognize the challenges in treating chronic pain, particularly in women.



Dr. Lori Montgomery is a pain clinician and clinical associate professor at the University of Calgary's Cumming School of Medicine.



"In the clinic, we've known for many years that women are more likely than men to suffer from chronic pain, and it's often hard to know why some people respond to treatment and others don't," said Dr. Montgomery.



This research suggests that recognizing biological differences in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-identify-brain-cells-that-can-shut-down-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain processing</a> may help develop more effective, personalized treatments. 



"Both sex and gender are important factors that need a lot more investigation, but this latest research might prove to be one of the ways that we can personalize treatment for patients so that it's more likely to be effective."



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



The results from this study have the potential to change <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/patients-with-chronic-pain-are-turning-to-cannabis-for-relief/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chronic pain treatment</a> forever.



Knowing how the differences between leptin and immune cells affect pain could result in more specifically targeted treatments, ultimately enhancing the lives of millions who endure chronic pain disorders.



Future studies might explore the creation of pain relief <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stinging-tree-may-reveal-new-ways-to-treat-chronic-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">medication</a> that is specifically designed for women. 



Since most current pain drugs have been primarily tested on men, it will be necessary to conduct clinical trials to control for these biological factors.



Scientists are now starting to investigate whether current drugs might be altered or repurposed to more effectively target mechanisms of pain in women.



In addition, personalized medicine could be a key element of chronic pain treatment. Progress in genetic screening and biomarkers may allow clinicians to determine which patients are likely to respond to particular treatments.



This would limit the trial-and-error process of pain treatment for more efficient and effective therapies.



With ongoing research, medical professionals can potentially provide improved treatment options for patients, taking into account biological sex differences in pain management strategies. 



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0896627325000091" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neuron</a>.



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Chronic pain is harder to treat in women, but a new target offers hope

Chronic pain affects millions of people worldwide, but studies show...

One of the most profound questions about human history is when language, as we know it, first emerged. 



A new analysis of genetic studies proposes that the cognitive capacity for language was already present at least 135,000 years ago, with language likely becoming a social tool around 100,000 years ago.



The study challenges long-standing debates about the timing of language emergence. 



The research was conducted by a team led by Shigeru Miyagawa, a linguist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (<a href="https://web.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a>), alongside Rob DeSalle and Ian Tattersall from the American Museum of Natural History (<a href="https://www.amnh.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AMNH</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetics-and-human-language-evolution">Genetics and human language evolution</h2>



Previous attempts to determine the origins of language have relied on fossil records, cultural artifacts, or linguistic reconstruction. This study took a different approach.



The team examined genetic evidence to trace the earliest known divergence of human populations, reasoning that all human languages likely share a common origin.



“The logic is very simple. Every population branching across the globe has human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-generated-birdsongs-may-shed-new-light-on-human-language/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">language</a>, and all languages are related," Miyagawa explained.



"I think we can say with a fair amount of certainty that the first split occurred about 135,000 years ago, so human language capacity must have been present by then, or before.”



The study systematically reviewed 15 genetic studies conducted over the past 18 years. 



These studies included: Y chromosome analysis (which traces paternal lineage), mitochondrial DNA studies (which track maternal ancestry), as well as whole-genome studies (which examine broader genetic variation).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-populations-branched-out">Human populations branched out</h2>



Together, these genetic studies suggest that human populations began splitting around 135,000 years ago, meaning that before this divergence, Homo sapiens was a single, undivided population.&nbsp;



Since every group that branched out maintained the ability to communicate through language, this strongly suggests that language had already developed by this time.



A 2017 study attempted a similar genetic approach but had access to fewer datasets. With more recent genetic research available, the current study provides a more precise estimate for when language capacity was present.



“Quantity-wise, we have more studies, and quality-wise, it's a narrower window [of time],” said Miyagawa, who is also affiliated with the <a href="https://www5.usp.br/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of São Paulo</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-language-as-a-unique-human-trait">Language as a unique human trait</h2>



Miyagawa has long argued that all human languages share fundamental similarities, making it likely that they evolved from a common source. 



His past research has explored unexpected linguistic connections, such as similarities between English, Japanese, and Bantu languages.



Some scholars propose that language capacity dates back millions of years, based on the vocal abilities of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-chimpanzees-and-humans-learn-to-communicate-in-the-same-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a>.&nbsp;



However, Miyagawa believes this perspective is flawed. He emphasizes that human language is unique, not just because of vocal ability, but because of its combination of words and grammar, which creates an infinitely generative system of communication.



“Human language is qualitatively different because there are two things - words and syntax - working together to create this very complex system,” he explained.&nbsp;



“No other animal has a parallel structure in their communication system. And that gives us the ability to generate very sophisticated thoughts and to communicate them to others.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-transition-from-thought-to-communication">The transition from thought to communication</h2>



The study also suggests that language did not begin as a social tool but instead may have first developed as an internal cognitive system.



“Language is both a cognitive system and a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-cells-have-a-fascinating-and-unexpected-communication-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication system</a>,” Miyagawa said. “My guess is that prior to 135,000 years ago, it did start out as a private cognitive system, but relatively quickly that turned into a communications system.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-use-of-social-language-nbsp">Human use of social language&nbsp;</h2>



If language was cognitively present before 135,000 years ago, when did it become an active part of human social life? The archaeological record offers clues.



Around 100,000 years ago, early humans began engaging in symbolic activities, such as making meaningful markings on objects and using fire to produce ocher, a decorative red pigment.



Such behaviors suggest that humans were using symbols to convey meaning - a crucial aspect of language. 



These findings reinforce the argument that language was the driving force behind the emergence of modern human behavior.



“Behaviors compatible with language and the consistent exercise of symbolic thinking are detectable only in the archaeological record of Homo sapiens,” the authors said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-catalyst-for-human-advancement">A catalyst for human advancement</h2>



One of the study's co-authors, Ian Tattersall, has previously proposed that language played a transformative role in human evolution. 



He argues that once language emerged, it triggered a cascade of innovations, from symbolic art to more complex social structures.



“Language was the trigger for modern human behavior. Somehow, it stimulated human thinking and helped create these kinds of behaviors," Miyaga notes.



"If we are right, people were learning from each other [due to language] and encouraging innovations of the types we saw 100,000 years ago.”



However, not all researchers agree. Some scholars propose a gradual development of complex behaviors, arguing that language was just one of many factors shaping human evolution.&nbsp;



Others believe that cultural changes - such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-tools-ever-made-on-earth-hominins-3-million-years-ago-cradle-of-humankind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tool use</a> and social coordination - may have influenced linguistic development rather than the other way around.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-origins-of-human-language-nbsp">The origins of human language&nbsp;</h2>



Despite the ongoing debate, Miyagawa and his colleagues believe their study marks an important step forward in understanding how and when language emerged.



“Our approach is very empirically based, grounded in the latest genetic understanding of early Homo sapiens,” Miyagawa concluded. 



“I think we are on a good research arc, and I hope this will encourage people to look more at human language and evolution.”



By integrating genetic evidence with archaeological findings, this research provides a clearer timeline for when language capacity emerged.&nbsp;



While many questions remain, the study reinforces the idea that language was central to shaping human history, allowing our ancestors to develop complex cultures, communicate across generations, and ultimately, create the societies we live in today.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1503900" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Psychology</a>.



Image Credit: CC0 Public Domain&nbsp;



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When did humans first develop language? Scientists think they know

One of the most profound questions about human history is...

A recent study indicates that many people react to the overwhelming scope of the climate emergency by distancing themselves psychologically, instead of pursuing constructive climate measures.&nbsp;



This phenomenon - known as collective dissociation - functions as a trauma response, the researchers argue, impeding collaboration and perpetuating an inability to confront a daunting reality.



The researchers explored the psychology behind climate inaction, noting that the colossal scale and intricacy of the crisis can leave individuals feeling powerless.&nbsp;



Faced with this sense of helplessness, many turn to denial or dissociation, which offers temporary emotional relief but hampers coordinated efforts to address the root causes of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-volcanic-past-reveals-the-shocking-reality-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-trauma-and-dissociation">Climate trauma and dissociation </h2>



According to the study, climate-related disasters such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-amplified-hurricane-strength/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricanes</a>, droughts, and floods not only cause immediate damage to communities but also create lasting mental health challenges.&nbsp;



People directly impacted may develop trauma responses that include avoidance and numbness. These subconscious coping strategies, although self-protective in the short term, can dilute public demand for robust climate measures.



When individuals and entire populations withdraw from acknowledging the true scale of the problem, it becomes harder to form coalitions that could press governments or industries to shift away from harmful practices like excessive fossil fuel extraction. 



Collective climate dissociation thus magnifies the consequences of the crisis by slowing the societal response.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-mental-health-and-climate-action">Linking mental health and climate action</h2>



The experts suggest that recognizing the emotional and psychological dimensions of climate change could lead to more impactful strategies. 



Instead of framing the climate emergency purely in terms of environmental data, policymakers might benefit from emphasizing the human cost and mental toll of inaction. 



This perspective could inspire a form of climate advocacy that is empathetic and more resonant with everyday experiences, promoting both community resilience and a sense of efficacy in the face of the climate threat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-severe-effects-on-vulnerable-populations">Severe effects on vulnerable populations</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-crisis-half-of-the-worlds-population-will-be-affected-by-age-75/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a> fallout from climate impacts disproportionately affects vulnerable groups. People already at risk, such as those living in food-insecure areas or facing displacement, bear the brunt of escalating weather extremes.&nbsp;



Beyond the physical dangers, such threats bring heightened risks of anxiety, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-with-a-history-of-depression-tend-to-process-more-negative-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a>, and post-traumatic stress disorder.



Study senior author Don-Eliseo Lucero-Prisno, a scientist at the <a href="https://www.lshtm.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">London School of Hygiene &amp; Tropical Medicine</a>, noted that local moral support is vital for fostering sustainable adaptation strategies and community resilience to climate change, such as by organizing vulnerability assessments and developing tailored action plans.&nbsp;



“These plans should include measures for improving infrastructure, enhancing social cohesion, and providing mental health support, reducing vulnerability to climate-related stresses,” said Lucero-Prisno.



“Emphasizing community engagement reduces despair, providing essential solidarity for coping with climate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-trauma-can-cause-muscle-decline-adult-life/">trauma</a>. Local leadership should support community-based climate action by providing resources and frameworks, facilitating engagement, and ensuring mental health support is accessible.”



According to this view, empowering communities to share knowledge and resources can ease the sense of isolation that emerges when climate pressures mount. Such efforts may also spark renewed urgency to address environmental hazards at local and regional levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confronting-structural-inertia">Confronting structural inertia</h2>



Beyond focusing on individual and local community actions, the new study emphasizes systemic causes of climate inaction.



“To make meaningful progress, we need to move beyond rhetorical calls for citizen action and directly confront the systemic forces that perpetuate the climate emergency,” said lead author Deborah Shomuyiwa, from the <a href="https://unilag.edu.ng/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Lagos</a> Faculty of Pharmacy and <a href="https://ghfocus.org/portfolio-types/africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Health Focus Africa</a>.



“Corporate resistance, government paralysis, and prioritising profits over environmental sustainability all drive community inaction. The financial sector's continued investment in coal and oil, alongside unchecked consumerism, greenwashing, and the war economy, accelerate the climate emergency.”&nbsp;



“Citizens see these decisions by those in power and are alienated by these, which can foster feelings of helplessness and dissociation from the emergency.”



In this context, the authors argue that citizen-led sustainability efforts alone cannot counter the scale of damage done by major polluters. Instead, they call for firmer oversight, accountability, and policy measures that take aim at corporate and governmental inactivity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-combating-climate-dissociation">Combating climate dissociation</h2>



The paper outlines four main avenues that would help combat collective dissociation:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Make political funding transparent and accountable so that climate solutions can be pursued with consistent public support.</li>



<li>Ensure that leaders prioritize sustainable policy approaches and set up mechanisms for tracking outcomes, responding dynamically to new findings and technologies.</li>



<li>Organize widespread educational campaigns to highlight how the climate emergency impacts mental well-being, thereby galvanizing stronger public backing and resilience.</li>



<li>Direct support to at-risk communities, fostering inclusivity and community cohesion in tackling the climate crisis.</li>
</ol>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-path-beyond-climate-dissociation">A path beyond climate dissociation </h2>



Ultimately, the study reveals that climate change is not only an environmental dilemma but also a profound mental challenge.&nbsp;



Without acknowledging and addressing the trauma-related aspects of such a sweeping threat, the authors believe that societies may stay locked in patterns of denial.&nbsp;



The concluding message is that progress calls for reframing the crisis in ways that emphasize empathy, collective responsibility, and structural reforms, so that people do not retreat from the reality of climate change - but instead come together to shape meaningful solutions.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/gmh.2024.119" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cambridge Prisms: Global Mental Health</a>.



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Climate trauma leaves us frozen in a state of dissociation

A recent study indicates that many people react to the...

More teenagers are grappling with stress, anxiety, and depression, with nearly one in three experiencing mental health challenges. A Finnish study reveals that childhood habits - such as screen time and physical activity - play a crucial role in adolescent well-being. What can we do to support their mental health?



Technology is everywhere now. Kids grow up swiping, scrolling, and tapping before they even learn to read. 



While screens provide entertainment and education, too much <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/screen-time-delays-language-development-in-toddlers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exposure</a> comes at a cost. Meanwhile, physical activity is being pushed aside, replaced by endless hours of digital engagement.



The study, conducted by the <a href="https://www.jyu.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Jyväskylä</a> and the <a href="https://www.uef.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Eastern Finland</a>, followed 187 adolescents for eight years. Their findings? Striking a balance between movement and screen use is key to protecting mental health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-toll-of-too-much-screen-time">Hidden toll of too much screen time</h2>



Screens aren’t inherently bad. But when they are used excessively, that’s another story.



The researchers found that kids who spent more time on digital devices - especially <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/too-much-screen-time-is-making-teens-anxious/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smartphones</a> - were more likely to experience stress and depressive symptoms in their teenage years. The pattern was clear: the more hours spent staring at screens, the worse their mental health.



Why? Because prolonged screen exposure encourages a sedentary lifestyle. Less movement, less fresh air, fewer real-life interactions. 



Sleep suffers, too - blue light disrupts natural sleep cycles, making it harder for kids to rest and recharge. And then there’s social media, where endless comparisons and digital drama add another layer of stress.



“Several international, evidence-based recommendations suggest that the leisure screen time of children and adolescents should be limited to two hours per day.”



“Personally, I think that even this figure is high, as it amounts to almost one month of screen time per year,” said study lead author Dr. Eero Haapala from the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences at the University of Jyväskylä.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-more-stressing-less">Moving more, stressing less</h2>



If too much screen time harms mental health, could physical activity offer a fix? The study showed that kids who engaged in sports and other physical activities reported lower stress levels and fewer depressive symptoms. 



Exercise doesn’t just strengthen muscles - it boosts mood, sharpens focus, and promotes emotional resilience.



Beyond the biological benefits, movement brings connection. Organized sports teach teamwork, discipline, and self-confidence. Running around outside, playing a game, even just going for a walk - these simple actions create space for kids to reset mentally and emotionally.



But here’s the twist. While physical activity helped, the negative effects of too much screen time were stronger than the positive impact of exercise. In other words, even the most active kids weren’t immune to the downsides of excessive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-spaces-are-key-to-reducing-kids-screen-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digital exposure</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-screen-time-isn-t-bad-but-balance-is-key">Screen time isn’t bad, but balance is key</h2>



Today’s world makes it tough to limit screen time. Online learning, digital homework, social media - kids need screens for school and socializing. But experts agree: balance is everything. Children need movement just as much as they need technology.



“The modern sedentary lifestyle, with high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-under-two-should-not-be-exposed-to-tv-or-screen-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">screen exposure</a>, challenges the mental health of children and adolescents,” said Dr. Haapala.



“Recent discussions have rightly focused on screen time and social media, but I hope our findings encourage adults in young people’s lives to promote a broad spectrum of healthy habits – especially by balancing screen time and physical activity.”



The goal isn’t to ban screens. That’s unrealistic. Instead, parents, teachers, and caregivers can create environments where screen time and movement coexist. 



Maybe that means setting screen-free hours at home, encouraging outdoor play, or making exercise a daily family <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/taking-a-smartphone-break-can-improve-your-life-in-surprising-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habit</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-collective-responsibility">A collective responsibility</h2>



Change doesn’t happen in isolation. It takes effort from individuals, families, and society as a whole. 



Schools can introduce more physical education, policymakers can push for healthier screen time guidelines, and communities can create spaces for kids to be active.



“Achieving change requires collaboration,” said Dr. Haapala. "Society as a whole - from families to policymakers - must invest in promoting healthy lifestyles for children and adolescents by ensuring balanced screen time, sufficient physical activity, adequate sleep, and a nutritious diet.”



Mental health isn’t just about one factor. It’s about everything - sleep, diet, exercise, relationships, and screen habits all play a role. Addressing one without considering the others is like fixing a leak while ignoring a sinking boat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifestyle-choices-and-teen-mental-health">Lifestyle choices and teen mental health</h2>



The PANIC Study, part of the Metabolic Diseases Research Community at the University of Eastern Finland, continues to explore the connections between lifestyle and health. Their work focuses on disease prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment - using science to build a healthier future.



Mental health struggles among adolescents aren’t going away overnight. But small, intentional changes - starting in childhood - can have lasting effects.



Encouraging kids to move more, set boundaries with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kids-with-too-much-screen-time-struggle-to-gain-language-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">technology</a>, and develop healthier habits today can lead to stronger, happier minds tomorrow.



The takeaway is clear. Screens aren’t the enemy - but unchecked digital habits can do real damage. The solution? Movement, connection, and balance. It’s not about cutting technology out but making space for everything else that keeps young minds strong.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2830233" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>.



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Children's screen time must be limited to protect their mental health

More teenagers are grappling with stress, anxiety, and depression, with...

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) detected H5N1 bird flu in raw milk samples from several states in the U.S. Many Americans remain unaware of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-flu-virus-preparing-for-tomorrow-despite-minimal-risk-today/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health risks</a> associated with consuming raw milk, especially for children. 



Raw milk can carry harmful bacteria, including Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, Cryptosporidium, Listeria, and Brucella.



More than half of U.S. adults, about 56 percent, understand that raw milk is less safe than pasteurized milk. However, a significant portion of the population remains uncertain. 



Around twenty-five percent are unsure about the safety difference, while 12 percent believe raw milk is just as safe as pasteurized milk. Six percent think raw milk is actually safer, according to a survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center (<a href="https://www.annenbergpublicpolicycenter.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">APPC</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-children-face-greater-health-risks">Children face greater health risks</h2>



A concerning survey finding reveals that two-thirds of respondents, about 66 percent, do not know that children face higher risks from consuming raw milk. This lack of awareness can lead to serious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-flu-outbreak-has-killed-20-million-chickens-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health consequences</a>.



“Consuming raw milk and raw milk products can make you sick and pasteurization reduces the risk of milk-borne illness,” said Patrick E. Jamieson, director of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.annenbergpublicpolicycenter.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">APPC’s Annenberg Health and Risk Communication Institute</a>.



“Looking for the pasteurization label before buying or consuming milk or milk products such as cheese is good practice.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-flu-cases-linked-to-raw-milk-and-poultry">Bird flu cases linked to raw milk and poultry</h2>



As of March 10, 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (<a href="https://www.cdc.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDC</a>) confirmed 70 cases of H5 bird flu in 13 states. 



Most infections were linked to exposure to infected poultry or dairy herds. One person in Louisiana has died from the virus. There is no evidence of human-to-human transmission at this time.



Since January 2022, bird <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-flu-may-be-more-harmful-to-the-brain-than-covid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flu</a> has affected nearly a thousand dairy herds in 17 states and infected over 166 million poultry and wild birds. 



Global data from the World Health Organization (<a href="https://www.who.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHO</a>) reports 954 cases of human avian flu infections between 2003 and December 2024, with 464 fatalities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-of-bird-flu-in-raw-milk">Risks of bird flu in raw milk</h2>



The majority of U.S. adults are unaware that bird flu has only been detected in raw milk. Only 17 percent correctly recognize this fact, while 68 percent remain uncertain. Some incorrectly believe bird flu has been found in pasteurized milk or both types of milk.



Scientists have found that mice can contract bird flu by drinking raw milk, raising concerns about potential human transmission. 



Although the FDA has not confirmed whether H5N1 can spread to humans through raw milk, studies suggest a possible risk. The <a href="https://www.nih.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institutes of Health</a> states that untreated milk containing the virus could infect those who consume it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-perception-of-raw-milk-safety">Public perception of raw milk safety</h2>



The APPC survey found that 22 percent of Americans believe drinking raw milk increases the risk of contracting bird <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/efforts-to-control-bird-flu-are-not-working-are-humans-next/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flu</a>. Another 22 percent think it has no effect, while 53 percent remain unsure.



The <a href="https://www.fda.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FDA</a> stresses that pasteurization eliminates harmful bacteria and viruses, including H5N1 if present. Yet, misinformation continues to influence public opinion on raw milk safety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-misunderstood-health-benefits">Misunderstood health benefits </h2>



Despite scientific evidence, raw milk advocates continue to make claims about its supposed health benefits. The APPC survey examined several of these beliefs and found that many Americans remain uncertain about their accuracy.



Twenty-six percent believe raw milk is as effective as pasteurized milk in preventing osteoporosis. Ten percent incorrectly believe raw milk is more effective, while 59 percent are unsure.



Forty percent recognize that raw milk does not cure lactose intolerance. Ten percent incorrectly believe it does, while 50 percent remain uncertain.



Thirty-nine percent correctly identify that raw milk does not reduce asthma symptoms, while 54 percent remain unsure. Seven percent believe it does.



Thirty percent believe raw milk does not enhance the immune system, but 23 percent think it does. Nearly half of respondents, about 47 percent, are unsure.



The FDA refutes these claims, stating that raw milk does not provide superior health benefits and poses serious risks, especially for children.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-government-regulations-and-public-opinion">Government regulations and public opinion</h2>



Since 1987, the FDA has banned the interstate sale of raw milk. However, 30 states permit some form of legal sale. Public opinion on regulation remains divided.



Nearly 24 percent of survey respondents support allowing raw <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/raw-milk-could-carry-deadly-flu-viruses-for-days/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">milk</a> sales across state lines, while 28 percent oppose it. A significant portion remains uncertain.



In-state raw milk sales also generate divided opinions. About 24 percent favor unrestricted sales, while 25 percent support limiting sales to farm owners selling from their own land. Fourteen percent believe raw milk sales should be completely banned in their states.



Federal regulations on raw milk spark debate. About 32 percent believe these rules represent unnecessary government intrusion. Another 34 percent disagree, while 33 percent neither agree nor disagree.



A quarter of respondents believe state laws prohibiting raw milk sales violate the constitutional rights of sellers. A slightly larger group, about 34 percent, disagrees. Over 40 percent remain uncertain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-and-warning-labels">Testing and warning labels</h2>



More than half of Americans, about 56 percent, do not believe that state laws requiring warning labels on raw milk containers violate sellers’ constitutional rights. Fourteen percent think they do, while 30 percent are unsure.



Many Americans remain unaware of the extent of bird flu testing in raw milk. When asked how many states participate in USDA testing, 74 percent of survey respondents said they were unsure.



As of January 8, 2025, the USDA reports that its National Milk Testing Strategy includes 28 states. These states account for nearly 65 percent of the nation's milk production.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pasteurized-milk-is-the-safest-choice">Pasteurized milk is the safest choice</h2>



Raw milk carries significant health risks, including exposure to harmful bacteria and potential bird flu transmission. Many Americans remain uninformed or misinformed about these dangers. 



Scientific research consistently supports pasteurization as the best method to ensure milk safety. 



Public health organizations continue to emphasize the importance of choosing pasteurized milk to protect consumers, especially vulnerable populations like children.



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Most Americans don't know the dangers of raw milk and bird flu

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) detected H5N1 bird flu...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



-----



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

[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

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[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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