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Glaciers are melting, sea levels are rising, cloud forests are dying, and wildlife is scrambling to keep pace. It has become clear that humans have caused most of the past century's warming by releasing heat-trapping gases as we power our modern lives. Called greenhouse gases, their levels are higher now than at any time in the last 800,000 years.

We often call the result global warming, but it is causing a set of changes to the Earth's climate, or long-term weather patterns, that varies from place to place. While many people think of global warming and climate change as synonyms, scientists use "climate change" when describing the complex shifts now affecting our planet's weather and climate systems-in part because some areas actually get cooler in the short term.

Climate change encompasses not only rising average temperatures but also extreme weather events, shifting wildlife populations and habitats, rising seas, and a range of other impacts. All of those changes are emerging as humans continue to add heat-trapping greenhouse gases to the atmosphere, changing the rhythms of climate that all living things have come to rely on.

What will we do-what can we do-to slow this human-caused warming? How will we cope with the changes we've already set into motion? While we struggle to figure it all out, the fate of the Earth as we know it-coasts, forests, farms, and snow-capped mountains-hangs in the balance.

Understanding the greenhouse effect

The "greenhouse effect" is the warming that happens when certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat. These gases let in light but keep heat from escaping, like the glass walls of a greenhouse, hence the name.

Sunlight shines onto the Earth's surface, where the energy is absorbed and then radiate back into the atmosphere as heat. In the atmosphere, greenhouse gas molecules trap some of the heat, and the rest escapes into space. The more greenhouse gases concentrate in the atmosphere, the more heat gets locked up in the molecules.

Scientists have known about the greenhouse effect since 1824, when Joseph Fourier calculated that the Earth would be much colder if it had no atmosphere. This natural greenhouse effect is what keeps the Earth's climate livable. Without it, the Earth's surface would be an average of about 60 degrees Fahrenheit (33 degrees Celsius) cooler.

In 1895, the Swedish chemist Svante Arrhenius discovered that humans could enhance the greenhouse effect by making carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. He kicked off 100 years of climate research that has given us a sophisticated understanding of global warming.

Levels of greenhouse gases have gone up and down over the Earth's history, but they had been fairly constant for the past few thousand years. Global average temperatures had also stayed fairly constant over that time- until the past 150 years. Through the burning of fossil fuels and other activities that have emitted large amounts of greenhouse gases, particularly over the past few decades, humans are now enhancing the greenhouse effect and warming Earth significantly, and in ways that promise many effects, scientists warn.

Aren't temperature changes natural?

Human activity isn't the only factor that affects Earth's climate. Volcanic eruptions and variations in solar radiation from sunspots, solar wind, and the Earth's position relative to the sun also play a role. So do large-scale weather patterns such as El Niño.

But climate models that scientists use to monitor Earth's temperatures take those factors into account. Changes in solar radiation levels as well as minute particles suspended in the atmosphere from volcanic eruptions, for example, have contributed only about two percent to the recent warming effect. The balance comes from greenhouse gases and other human-caused factors, such as land use change.

The short timescale of this recent warming is singular as well. Volcanic eruptions, for example, emit particles that temporarily cool the Earth's surface. But their effect lasts just a few years. Events like El Niño also work on fairly short and predictable cycles. On the other hand, the types of global temperature fluctuations that have contributed to ice ages occur on a cycle of hundreds of thousands of years.

For thousands of years now, emissions of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere have been balanced out by greenhouse gases that are naturally absorbed. As a result, greenhouse gas concentrations and temperatures have been fairly stable, which has allowed human civilization to flourish within a consistent climate.

Now, humans have increased the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere by more than a third since the Industrial Revolution. Changes that have historically taken thousands of years are now happening over the course of decades.

Why does this matter?

The rapid rise in greenhouse gases is a problem because it's changing the climate faster than some living things can adapt to. Also, a new and more unpredictable climate poses unique challenges to all life.

Historically, Earth's climate has regularly shifted between temperatures like those we see today and temperatures cold enough to cover much of North America and Europe with ice. The difference between average global temperatures today and during those ice ages is only about 9 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius), and the swings have tended to happen slowly, over hundreds of thousands of years.

But with concentrations of greenhouse gases rising, Earth's remaining ice sheets such as Greenland and Antarctica are starting to melt too. That extra water could raise sea levels significantly, and quickly. By 2050, sea levels are predicted to rise between one and 2.3 feet as glaciers melt.

As the mercury rises, the climate can change in unexpected ways. In addition to sea levels rising, weather can become more extreme. This means more intense major storms, more rain followed by longer and drier droughts-a challenge for growing crops-changes in the ranges in which plants and animals can live, and loss of water supplies that have historically come from glaciers.

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Glaciers are melting, sea levels are rising, cloud forests are drying, and wildlife is scrambling to keep pace.

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About Krill

The lowly krill averages only about two inches in length, but it represents a giant-sized link in the global food chain. These small, shrimp-like crustaceans are essentially the fuel that runs the engine of the Earth's marine ecosystems.

Krill feed on phytoplankton, microscopic, single-celled plants that drift near the ocean's surface and live off carbon dioxide and the sun's rays. They in turn are the main staple in the diets of literally hundreds of different animals, from fish, to birds, to baleen whales.

Simply put, many oceanic life forms depend on krill.

Importance to the Antarctic Ecosystem

Pink and opaque, Antarctic krill ( Euphausia superba) are among the largest of the 85 known krill species. Their estimated numbers range from 125 million tons to 6 billion tons in the waters around Antarctica. During certain times of year, krill congregate in swarms so dense and widespread that they can be seen from space.

Antarctic krill can live up to 10 years, an amazing longevity for such a heavily hunted creature. They spend their days avoiding predators in the cold depths of the Antarctic Ocean, some 320 feet below the surface. During the night, they drift up the water column toward the surface in search of phytoplankton.

Alarmingly, there are recent studies that show Antarctic krill stocks may have dropped by 80 percent since the 1970s. Scientists attribute these declines in part to ice cover loss caused by global warming. This ice loss removes a primary source of food for krill: ice-algae.

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About Krill The lowly krill averages only about two inches in length, but it represents a giant-sized link in the global food chain. These small, shrimp-like crustaceans are essentially the fuel that runs the engine of the Earth's marine ecosystems. Krill feed on phytoplankton, microscopic, single-celled plants that drift near the ocean's surface and live off carbon dioxide and the sun's rays.

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How is climate change and industrial-scale fishing impacting the krill population?

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How is climate change and industrial-scale fishing impacting the krill population?

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The Antarctic, one of the world's last great wildernesses and home to animals such as whales, penguins and leopard seals, is being threatened by the plight of an animal just a few centimetres long, according to scientists.

Researchers and environmental campaigners warn that a combination of climate change and industrial-scale fishing is threatening the krill population in Antarctic waters, with a potentially disastrous impact on larger predators.
Share your questions for scientists aboard an Antarctic expedition
A study co-authored by George Watters, lead scientist for the US government delegation to the Antarctic decision-making body Convention for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR), warns that the penguin population could drop by almost a third by the end of the century due to changes in krill biomass.

"You could potentially have some significant decline in the number of predators - particularly for penguins - caused by climate change," said Watters.

The report, published in the journal Plos One, warned that climate change could reduce krill size by up to 40% in some areas of Antarctica's Scotia Sea causing a drastic reduction in predator numbers.

Researchers also said that current permitted rates of krill fishing "increased the risk for depletion of some predator populations" although it had "less impact than ocean warming".

"I am not advocating removing fishing entirely from Antarctic waters," said Watters. "People that make management decisions just need to be aware that you can still have an impact on predator populations by managing the krill fisheries more effectively."

Krill are a key part of the delicate Antarctic food chain. They feed on marine algae and are a key source of food for whales, penguins and seals. They are also important in removing the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide from the atmosphere by eating carbon-rich food near the surface and excreting it when they sink to lower, colder water.

Prof Alex Rogers, who is a specialist in sustainable oceans at the Oxford Martin School, Oxford University, said: "Climate change is having an impact [on the krill population] at the same time as a resurgence in krill fishing, with increasing numbers of fishing vessels and changes in technology that are causing increasing krill catches."

Krill populations have declined by 80% since the 1970s. Global warming has been blamed for part of that decrease because the ice that is home to the algae and plankton they feed on is retreating.

Campaigners say recent developments in fishing technology are exacerbating the problem, allowing 'suction' harvesting by large trawlers which are now able to gather up vast quantities of krill.

Penguins starving to death is a sign that something's very wrong in the Antarctic | John Sauven

These fishing fleets are feeding a growing global demand for krill-based health products which are claimed to help with a range of ailments from heart disease to high blood pressure; strokes to depression.

A recent analysis of the global krill industry predicted it was on course to grow 12% a year over the next three years.

In response, a global campaign has been launched to turn a huge tract of the seas around the Antarctic into the world's biggest sanctuary, protecting wildlife and banning all fishing.

The 1.8m sq km reserve would cover a vast area of the Weddell Sea and a small part of the Antarctic Peninsula, and is one of three proposed new sanctuaries under consideration by CCAMLR.

The idea was originally put forward by Germany and is now supported by the EU. A decision is likely to be made at a CCAMLR conference in October.

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Adelie penguins rely on krill as a major source of nutrition. Photograph: Reuters

Last month, Greenpeace launched a campaign in support of the sanctuary.

Will McCallum of the group's Protect the Antarctic Campaign said the report underlined that the area already faced "multiple threats", adding it did not need "additional strain" from krill fishing.

"Whether it's fishing near penguin foraging grounds around the Antarctic Peninsula and the East Antarctic, or their expansion plans for the vast and pristine Weddell Sea, the krill industry needs to know that the Antarctic is not theirs to exploit, but all of ours to protect."

Antarctica's tourism industry is designed to prevent damage, but can it last?

Andrea Kavanagh, director of the Pew Charitable Trust's Protecting Antarctica's Southern Ocean campaign which funded the latest study, said the findings showed the importance of creating a network of sanctuaries.

"This study shows that, with more urgency than we previously thought, we need to get these marine protected areas in place and they need to be "no take" - they have to be fully protected areas."

But Cilia Holmes, sustainability director at Aker BioMarines, one of the leading krill fishing companies based in Norway, said there was "no sound scientific evidence that the krill fishery poses a threat to the Antarctic ecosystem".

Krill fishing, she said, was already strictly regulated by the Antarctic nations with the total krill catch making up just 0.4% the estimated krill biomass in the area around the peninsula.

Holmes added that "protecting the Antarctic ecosystem" was critical to Aker BioMarines long-term operation.

"We believe in a future where there still is room for well-managed fisheries that take care of the surrounding ecosystem."

Dr Susie Grant, from British Antarctic Survey, and part of the UK delegation to CCAMLR, said BAS scientists and the UK government were fully in favour of the new protected area in the Weddell Sea but said there remained a case for carefully managed, sustainable fishing in some Antarctic waters.

"While some parts of the Southern Ocean require a higher level of protection, it makes sense to allow sustainable and responsible fishing in areas where we know the risks are low and it can be managed effectively."

She added: "If a system of scientifically sound reserves can be established to protect Antarctic marine ecosystems, this will send a strong signal as to how we might manage and protect the oceans globally."

Matthew Taylor's trip to Antarctica has been partly funded by Greenpeace
Topics

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Decline in krill threatens Antarctic wildlife, from whales to penguins

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The Antarctic, one of the world's last great wildernesses and home to animals such as whales, penguins and leopard seals, is being threatened by the plight of an animal just a few centimetres long, according to scientists.

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What is chocolate
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Encephalitis

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Georgia Lee still can't remember going to university.

For a while, the 23-year-old also couldn't remember anything about her boyfriend.

Georgia lost five years from her memory when she got encephalitis at 22. It's a potentially life-threatening swelling of the brain that can be caused when certain viruses spread through the body.

"I had a constant headache for about two weeks in one spot of my forehead," Gemma tells Radio 1 Newsbeat.

"No tablets were working. Then one day, I messaged my boyfriend making absolutely no sense whatsoever."

When Georgia's dad checked in on her later, he realised something was wrong and she was rushed to hospital.

At first, medics thought she had meningitis but after suffering a seizure, she was diagnosed with encephalitis.

The Encephalitis Society estimates, that every year it affects around 500,000 people worldwide - with about 6,000 of those cases coming from the UK.

When she was in hospital and asked how old she was, Georgia said she was 17 - because she couldn't remember anything past that age.

Georgia says she still feels younger than 23 and her memory has never fully returned - with sixth form and her uni degree a total blank.

Her recovery has including re-learning everyday tasks most people would take for granted, like getting public transport or visiting friends.

"Normal things like getting on a bus on my own, going into the shops or going over to somebody's house are big steps for me now," she says.

She also had to do her driving test again as she has no memory of doing it when she was 18.

And it's affected her relationships too. To start with, Georgia had to get reacquainted with her boyfriend.

"I had to get to know him all over again, same as all my university friends," she says.

"He was a bit nervous to begin with. Then he took it bit by bit. He'd tell me about our past and show me pictures of everything.

'The food I eat now is everything I used to hate'

Georgia's encephalitis was caused by the herpes virus, but instead of forming a cold sore on her lip, it went into her throat before moving to her brain.

Side affects can vary but along with the memory loss, Georgia lost her sense of taste and smell - neither of which have recovered.

"I have no sense of smell at all. I can taste really spicy and sweet food but that's about it. I recently ordered a pizza with anchovies, pineapple and gherkin in a restaurant.

"Basically, everything I can taste is food that I used to hate."

When she can't taste something, Georgia covers everything in either hot sauce or tomato ketchup to strengthen the flavour.

'My friends have already got their dream jobs'

Encephalitis has taken some of Georgia's past, but she's now worried about the effect it might have on her future.

"I try and have a positive outlook but I tend to find it a lot easier to look at the negatives," she says, adding that job hunting with no memory of her university studies is a real challenge.

"If I don't really have anything to say to them about my sixth form or my degree, then what can I offer them for the job?"

It's also been a struggle reconnecting with her friends, who are now in different places in their lives to where she is.

"A lot of my friends have already got their dream jobs, already got houses with their partners, all of that," she says.

"I just feel like it's going to be a very long time until I can do that and move on and gain the confidence in myself."

But Georgia is optimistic about her future and remains positive as her recovery continues.

"I do wish I remembered my university. But I always think I am lucky that it's only five years and not my whole life that's gone."

Listen to Newsbeat live at 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays - or listen back here.

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Georgia Lee still can't remember going to university. For a while, the 23-year-old also couldn't remember anything about her boyfriend. Georgia lost five years from her memory when she got encephalitis at 22. It's a potentially life-threatening swelling of the brain that can be caused when certain viruses spread through the body.

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What is the situation in Sudan regarding children's rights?

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What is the situation in Sudan regarding children's rights?

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Realizing Children's Rights in Sudan

In Sudan, two long civil wars have left millions dead, internally displaced persons and refugees. For the children of Sudan, the primary victims of the conflict, there have been drastic consequences for their education, health and wellbeing.

Main problems faced by children in Sudan:

Sudan is one of the world's poorest countries. 40% of its population live below the poverty line and the majority of Sudanese are destitute and living in terrible conditions. A harsh climate and a lack of natural resources are primarily responsible for the prevailing poverty, but political instability and internal conflict have aggravated the situation. Denying them even their basic needs, extreme poverty is robbing Sudanese children of their childhoods.

Access to healthcare and safe drinking water is limited in Sudan. According to UNICEF statistics, 40% of the population has no access to safe drinking water.

Medical resources are very limited and are drained still further by the country's internal conflicts. In Darfur, for example, a large majority of hospitals are currently under reconstruction. There is a desperate lack of medical supplies and facilities, and existing facilities are ill-equipped to deal with the vast numbers of children, principally newborns who are suffering serious illnesses often caused by malnutrition and dehydration.

The conflicts which have ravaged Sudan over decades, combined with harsh climatic conditions such as floods and droughts, have led to severe food shortages. Unable to rely wholly on their own crops, the Sudanese people are still largely dependent on food aid.

Children are particularly at risk from food shortages, and the rate of infant mortality is especially high as 30% of babies are underweight at birth.

Almost half of Sudan's children are not in school. Although education in Sudan is in theory compulsory, the reality is quite different. Children fail to attend or finish school usually due to poverty, instability and lack of security. Girls, in particular, face many obstacles preventing them access to education, including child marriage in some areas and a lack of community awareness about the importance of educating girls.

In order to reduce school dropout rates, the Ministry of Education and the World Food Programme have joined forces to provide lunches to all pupils. Parents are now more willing to send their children to school, knowing that they will be fed.

Sudan, like South Sudan, has recruited many children to its armed forces. According to UNICEF, there are about 6,000 child soldiers in Darfur alone. Official reports show that the youngest soldiers are only 11 years of age and that girl soldiers are often the victims of sexual abuse against which they receive no protection.

In addition, the conflict between Chad and Sudan, which is closely linked to the Darfur conflict and has been ongoing for years, has led to the recruitment of many child soldiers within Sudan. Sudanese youths who have fled to Chad to escape civil war in their own country, have also at times been forcibly recruited from within refugee camps by the Chadian militia, to fight against Sudan.
Displaced and refugee children
Sudan has the largest number of internally displaced people in the world. In the face of violence because of the conflict, many families are forced to flee their homes to escape a gloomy fate. The journey to camps can be long and perilous and many fail to make the journey alive.

Once having reached the camps, food, health and physical security are still not assured. Armed groups are known to target civilian areas to amplify the effects of their attacks and living conditions within the camps are poor. Humanitarian organisations concerned to help the refugees are not always able assist as they are at times unable to reach the camps.

In Sudan, 12.4% of girls are forced to marry before the age of 15. Marriage is governed by a Sharia-based law introduced in 1991 by the Islamist regime of President Omar Ali Bashir. According to this law, marriage is legal from the age of tamyeez, the age at which a child is able to distinguish between right and wrong, which is determined to be the age of 10.

The practice of child marriages is very harmful to young girls and their health. At such a young age, girls' bodies are not fully developed and are therefore not equipped for pregnancy or labour.
Female Genital Mutilations (FGM)
Sudan ranks second for the number of female genital mutilations in Africa. 90% of female Sudanese have their genitals mutilated before they reach the age of ten. Sudan practises the most severe form of FGM: infibulation, which involves the complete removal of the clitoris and the cutting away and stitching of the labia.

This practice is justified on numerous grounds. The justification most often cited is that mutilation is a symbol of decency, dignity and fertility for young girls of marrying age. The socio-economic security that marriage affords women means that there is significant social pressure placed on girls by their families, both to marry and to undergo FGM.

The practice of FGM is extremely painful as it is performed without anaesthetic, is a risk to health and to life, and represents a terrible violation of the girls' rights. It runs risks for the girls' health and their lives as they can easily develop infections.

Children in minority groups in Sudan have been particularly affected by unrest. Following the independence of the largely Christian South Sudan, non-Muslims in the rest of Sudan now constitute a minority and are vulnerable to victimisation. The Nuba peoples, made up of several different African tribes who live mostly in the mountains in the south of Sudan, are a good example.

In 2011, the NGO Sudan Democracy First Group produced a report accusing government forces of numerous crimes and violations against human rights, principally committed against the Nuba populations in South Kordofan. Nuba children are currently directly threatened and they receive no protection from authorities.

According to a report of Amnesty International, children have recently been sentenced to death and are currently being held on death row in Sudan.

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In Sudan, two long civil wars have left millions dead, internally displaced persons and refugees. For the children of Sudan, the primary victims of the conflict, there have been drastic consequences for their education, health and wellbeing. Sudan is one of the world's poorest countries.

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What is the situation regarding children's rights in Sudan?

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What is the situation regarding children's rights in Sudan?

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Memory refers to the psychological processes of acquiring, storing, retaining, and later retrieving information. There are three major processes involved in memory: encoding, storage, and retrieval.

Human memory involves the ability to both preserve and recover information. However, this is not a flawless process. Sometimes people forget or misremember things. Other times, information is not properly encoded in memory in the first place.

Memory problems are often relatively minor annoyances, like forgetting birthdays. However, they can also be a sign of serious conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and other kinds of dementia. These conditions affect quality of life and ability to function.

This article discusses how memories are formed and why they are sometimes forgotten. It also covers the different types of memory and steps you can take to both improve and protect your memory.

How Memories Are Formed

In order to create a new memory, information must be changed into a usable form, which occurs through a process known as encoding. Once the information has been successfully encoded, it must be stored in memory for later use.

Researchers have long believed that memories form due to changes in brain neurons (nerve cells). Our understanding today is that memories are created through the connections that exist between these neurons-either by strengthening these connections or through the growth of new connections.

This is why reviewing and rehearsing information improves the ability to remember it. Practice strengthens the connections between the synapses that store that memory.

Much of our stored memory lies outside of our awareness most of the time, except when we actually need to use it. The memory retrieval process allows us to bring stored memories into conscious awareness.

How Long Do Memories Last?

You can't discuss what memory is without also talking about how long memories last. Some memories are very brief, just seconds long, and allow people to take in sensory information about the world.

Short-term memories are a bit longer and last about 20 to 30 seconds. These memories mostly consist of the information people are currently focusing on and thinking about.

Some memories are capable of enduring much longer-lasting days, weeks, months, or even decades. Most of these long-term memories lie outside of immediate awareness but can be drawn into consciousness when needed.

Why Do We Remember Painful Memories?

Using Memory

To use the information that has been encoded into memory, it first has to be retrieved. There are many factors that can influence this process, including the type of information being used and the retrieval cues that are present.

Of course, this process is not always perfect. Have you ever felt like you had the answer to a question just out of your reach, for instance? This is an example of a perplexing memory retrieval issue known as lethologica or the tip-of-the-tongue phenomenon.

Organizing Memory

The ability to access and retrieve information from long-term memory allows us to actually use these memories to make decisions, interact with others, and solve problems. But in order to be retrievable, memories have to be organized in some way.

One way of thinking about memory organization is the semantic network model. This model suggests that certain triggers activate associated memories. Seeing or remembering a specific place might activate memories that have occurred in that location.

Certain stimuli can also sometimes act as powerful triggers that draw memories into conscious awareness. Scent is one example. Smelling a particular smell, such as a perfume or fresh-baked cookies, can bring forth a rush of vivid memories connected to people and events from a person's past.

In order to identify a scent, a person must remember when they have smelled it before, then connect it to visual information that occurred at the same time. So, when areas of the brain connected to memory are damaged, the ability to identify smells is actually impaired.

At the same time, researchers have found that scent can help trigger autobiographical memories in people who have Alzheimer's disease. This underscores just how powerful memories can be.

Types of Memory

While several different models of memory have been proposed, the stage model of memory is often used to explain the basic structure and function of memory. Initially proposed in 1968 by Richard Atkinson and Richard Shiffrin, this theory outlines three separate stages or types of memory: sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory.

Sensory Memory

Sensory memoryis the earliest stage of memory. During this stage, sensory information from the environment is stored for a very brief period of time, generally for no longer than a half-second for visual information and three or four seconds for auditory information.

People only pay attention to certain aspects of this sensory memory. Attending to sensory memory allows some of this information to pass into the next stage: short-term memory.

Short-Term Memory

Short-term memory, also known as active memory, is the information we are currently aware of or thinking about. In Freudian psychology, this memory would be referred to as the conscious mind. Paying attention to sensory memories generates information in short-term memory.

While many of our short-term memories are quickly forgotten, attending to this information allows it to continue to the next stage: long-term memory. Most of the information stored in active memory will be kept for approximately 20 to 30 seconds.

This capacity can be stretched somewhat by using memory strategies such as chunking, which involves grouping related information into smaller chunks.

In a famous paper published in 1956, psychologist George Miller suggested that the capacity of short-term memory for storing a list of items was somewhere between five and nine. Some memory researchers now believe that the true capacity of short-term memory is probably closer to four.

Long-Term Memory

Long-term memory refers to the continuing storage of information. In Freudian psychology, long-term memory would be called the preconscious and unconscious.

This information is largely outside of our awareness but can be called into working memory to be used when needed. Some memories are fairly easy to recall, while others are much more difficult to access.

Recap

Why We Forget

Forgetting is a surprisingly common event. Just consider how easy it is to forget someone's name or overlook an important appointment. Why do people so often forget information they have learned in the past?

There are four basic explanations for why forgetting occurs:

Failure to store a memory

Interference

Motivated forgetting

Retrieval failure

Sometimes information is simply lost from memory and, in other cases, it was never stored correctly in the first place. Some memories compete with one another, making it difficult to remember certain information. In other instances, people actively try to forget things that they simply don't want to remember.

How to Improve Memory

No matter how great your memory is, there are probably a few things you can do to make it even better. Useful strategies to deal with mild memory loss include:

Write it down:The act of writing with a pen and paper helps implant the memory into your brain-and can also serve as a reminder or reference later on.

Attach meaning to it: You can remember something more easily if you attach meaning to it. For instance, if you associate a person you just meet with someone you already know, you may be able to remember their name better.

Repeat it:Repetition helps the memory become encoded beyond your short-term memory.

Group it:Information that is categorized becomes easier to remember and recall.

Test yourself: While it may seem like studying and rehearsing information is the best way to ensure that you will remember it, researchers have found that being tested on information is actually one of the best ways to improve recall.

Take a mental picture: Systematically trying to make a mental note of things you often forget (such as where you left your car keys) can help you remember things better.

Get enough rest: Research has also found that sleep plays a critical role in learning and the formation of new memories.

Use memorization techniques: Rehearsing information, employing mnemonics, and other memorization strategies can help combat minor memory problems.

Recap

How to Protect Your Memory

While Alzheimer's disease and other age-related memory problems affect many older adults, the loss of memory during later adulthood might not inevitable. Certain abilities do tend to decline with age, but researchers have found that individuals in their 70s often perform just as well on many cognitive tests as those in their 20s.

To help protect your brain as you age, try some of these lifestyle strategies:

Avoid stress: Research has found that stress can have detrimental effects on areas of the brain associated with memory, including the hippocampus.

Avoid drugs, alcohol, and other neurotoxins: Drug use and excessive alcohol consumption have been linked to the deterioration of synapses (the connections between neurons). Exposure to dangerous chemicals such as heavy metals and pesticides can also have detrimental effects on the brain.

Get enough exercise: Regular physical activity helps improve oxygenation of the brain, which is vital for synaptic formation and growth.

Stimulate your brain: When it comes to memory, there is a lot of truth to the old adage of "use it or lose it." Researchers have found that people who have more mentally stimulating jobs are less likely to develop dementia.

Maintain a sense of self-efficacy: Having a strong sense of self-efficacy has been associated with maintaining good memory abilities during old age. Self-efficacy refers to the sense of control that people have over their own lives and destiny. A strong sense of self-efficacy has also been linked to lowered stress levels.

Recap

A Word From Verywell

Human memory is a complex process that researchers are still trying to better understand. Our memories make us who we are, yet the process is not perfect. While we are capable of remembering an astonishing amount of information, we are also susceptible to memory-related mistakes and errors.

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Memory refers to the psychological processes of acquiring, storing, retaining, and later retrieving information. There are three major processes involved in memory: encoding, storage, and retrieval. Human memory involves the ability to both preserve and recover information. However, this is not a flawless process. Sometimes people forget or misremember things.

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UN’s World Health Organisation defines video game addiction as a disease

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Video game addiction has been officially recognised as a disease by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The disease is described as "a pattern of persistent* or recurrent* gaming behaviour" that "takes precedence* over other life interests" in WHO's International Classification of Diseases (ICD) database. WHO is a part of the United Nations* that advises on international public health.

The good news is that only a small fraction of video game players will develop a "gaming disorder", according to Shekhar Saxena, WHO's expert on mental health and substance* abuse.

But he has seen some extreme cases, such as gamers who played for 20 hours straight, missing sleep, meals, work, school and other typical activities. He said early warning signs could help prevent a disorder developing. If such behaviour continued for about a year, he said, the person would be diagnosed as having an addiction.

In Australia, Fortnite gaming addiction has seen a growing number of psychologists* now specialising in treatment for gaming addiction. Gaming rehabilitation* and treatment centres have been established in Sydney and Melbourne.

The Video Games Coalition, a group that speaks on behalf of game companies, said in a statement to US news network NBC that games are "enjoyed safely and sensibly by more than 2 billion people worldwide."

The Video Games Coalition is calling for WHO to reconsider its decision to classify gaming addiction as a disease, adding that studies show video games could have "educational, therapeutic*, and recreational* value."

WHO'S DEFINITION OF A GAMING DISORDER
(This definition is for medical experts and contains lots of complex words and long sentences. Remember to use the glossary below to help you make sense of it.)

"A pattern of gaming behaviour characterised by impaired* control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming over other activities to the extent that gaming takes precedence over other interests and daily activities, and continuation or escalation* of gaming despite the occurrence of negative consequences.

"For gaming disorder to be diagnosed, the behaviour pattern must be of sufficient* severity to result in significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational* or other important areas of functioning and would normally have been evident* for at least 12 months."

This is an edited version of a New York Post story and is republished here with permission.
WHAT IS FORTNITE? GLOSSARY

persistent: continuing despite efforts to stop it

recurrent: comes back again and again

precedence: being considered more important than something else

United Nations: countries working together

substance: used to mean drugs and alcohol

psychologists: medical professionals who look after mental health

rehabilitation: getting help to get better

therapeutic: a medical treatment

recreational: as a leisure activity for spare time

impaired: hindered or not working as well as it should be

escalation: getting worse

sufficient: enough

occupational: to do with work

evident: obvious or noticeable

EXTRA READING Hackers good and evil tale of technology France's school mobile ban begins The World Wide Web turns 30 Exploring Minecraft's new Australian city Being bored is good for you QUICK QUIZ

1. What does WHO stand for and what is it?

2. Does everyone who plays games have a serious health problem?

3. What are people with extreme problems missing out on when they're gaming?

4. Which game is mentioned as a problem for some people in Australia?

5. Who does the Video Games Coalition speak for?

LISTEN TO THIS STORY
CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES
1. What is a gaming disorder?
Design a set of flash cards or posters that will help other kids understand what a gaming disorder is. Use WHO's definition and the glossary of terms at the end of the story to help you understand it yourself.

Time: allow 25 minutes to complete this activity.
Curriculum Links: English, Health and Physical Education, Visual Communication Design

2. Extension
Are video games helpful or harmful? Imagine that you have been asked to write a discussion paper or report for the government. The purpose of your paper is to show all sides of an argument or problem and then give recommendations for action or solutions to the problem. Under the headings 'Helpful' and 'Harmful' list the information in the story that fits. Then, add your own ideas to each list. Use your lists to write your discussion paper or report. Don't forget to finish your report with your opinion on what the problems are and some solutions.

Time: allow 40 minutes to complete this activity
Curriculum Links: English, Health and Physical Education, Personal and Social Capability

VCOP ACTIVITY
Have you ever played a video game for hours on end, or watched someone else do it? Maybe you have a game you love that you are always dying to get home and play.

Tell about your experience, or an experience you have seen being addicted to something. Imagine how it feels to be constantly thinking about it.

Use good describing words and phrases to express your thoughts.

HAVE YOUR SAY: Do you find it hard to stop playing video games? How do you make yourself stop? Do you think games can be harmful?
No one-word answers. Use full sentences to explain your thinking. No comments will be published until approved by editors.

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Extreme gamers could be developing a serious health problem

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Video game addiction has been officially recognised as a disease by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The disease is described as "a pattern of persistent* or recurrent* gaming behaviour" that "takes precedence* over other life interests" in WHO's International Classification of Diseases (ICD) database.

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UNICEF aims to make the world a safe and inclusive place for children to grow where no child is left behind

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10 Keys to Happier Living. Everyone's path to happiness is different. Based on the latest research, we have identified ten Keys to Happier Living that consistently tend to make life happier and more fulfilling

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Sometimes known as a duck-billed platypus, this curious mammal combines the characteristics of many different species in one.

The platypus is a duck-billed, beaver-tailed, otter-footed, egg-laying aquatic creature native to Australia. If its appearance alone somehow fails to impress, the male of the species is also one of the world's few venomous mammals! Equipped with sharp stingers on the heels of its hind feet, the male platypus can deliver a strong toxic blow to any approaching foe.

While the platypus generally inhabits freshwater rivers, wetlands, and billabongs Down Under, it is also known to venture into brackish estuaries (the combined fresh-and saltwater areas where rivers meet the sea).

The platypus is a bottom-feeder that uses its beaver-like tail to steer and its webbed feet to propel itself through the water while hunting for insects, shellfish, and worms. The watertight nostrils on its bill remain sealed so that the animal can stay submerged for up to two minutes as it forages for food. The bill also comes equipped with specialized nerve endings, called electroreceptors, which detect tiny electrical currents generated by the muscular contractions of prey. It has no teeth, so the platypus stores its "catch" in its cheek pouches, returns to the surface, mashes up its meal with the help of gravel bits hoovered up enroute, then swallows it all down.

The female platypus lays her eggs in an underground burrow that she digs near the water's edge. Baby platypuses hatch after 10 days and nurse for up to four months before they swim off and forage on their own.

The Commonwealth of Australia reveres this remarkable mammal so much that it honors the platypus with a place on its 20-cent coin.

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There is only one other egg-laying mammal in the world. The echidna, a distant cousin of the anteater, also lays eggs and is found in Australia and New Guinea. Both the platypus and the echnida are monotremes, meaning that they lay eggs and have a single opening (cloaca) for reproduction and elimination of wastes.

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national oceanic and atmospheric administration

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The platypus is a duck-billed, beaver-tailed, otter-footed, egg-laying aquatic creature native to Australia. If its appearance alone somehow fails to impress, the male of the species is also one of the world's few venomous mammals! Equipped with sharp stingers on the heels of its hind feet, the male platypus can deliver a strong toxic blow to any approaching foe.

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The National Child Traumatic Stress Network

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Children who suffer from child traumatic stress are those who have been exposed to one or more traumas over the course of their lives and develop reactions that persist and affect their daily lives after the events have ended.

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Role models show young people how to live with integrity, optimism, hope, determination, and compassion. They play an essential part in a child's positive development.

Natalie, age 18, described her role model as a person with "a clear sense of what is important to her, putting forth the effort to improve and create things that will make a difference." When Samira, also 18, feels "lazy, tired, or just plain annoyed," she thinks of her role model and "is motivated to start working again."

Natalie and Samira were part of my research study on how young people develop the skills, abilities, and motivation to become engaged citizens. They and 42 other college students recalled stories of their childhoods and adolescence and the kind of people who inspired them. You can read their stories and learn more about my research in Tomorrow's Change Makers: Reclaiming the Power of Citizenship for a New Generation.

Role models come into young people's lives in a variety of ways. They are educators, civic leaders, mothers, fathers, clergy, peers, and ordinary people encountered in everyday life. My study showed that being a role model is not constrained to those with fancy titles or personal wealth. In fact, students were quick to state that "a true role model is not the person with the best job title, the most responsibility, or the greatest fame to his or her name." Anyone can inspire a child to achieve their potential in life.

A Role Model Can Have Positive or Negative Impact

While my research focused on the positive impact of a role model in young people's lives, role models can also have negative impacts. The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry suggests parents speak to their children about role models and the qualities they possess. Discover who your child's role models are and why they are admired. Who do your children look up to for inspiration and guidance? Why?

Sometimes a positive role model will make poor choices. Don't let your children assume that negative and inappropriate behaviors that involve racism, sexual harassment, and dishonesty by admired public figures or friends are acceptable. When a role model displays behavior that is negative, talk with your child about your family values and why the behavior is unacceptable.

By the time children become adolescents, they should be able to differentiate the positive and negative behaviors of the people they admire. Most often, when role models embrace inappropriate behaviors, they lose their ability to inspire others. However, if a child becomes significantly attached to a role model's ideology, power, or popularity, the young person may believe the negative behavior is acceptable.

When families learn to teach integrity and live their values, children and teens are much more likely to recognize and be inspired by positive role models.

5 Qualities of Positive Role Models

The top five qualities of role models described by students in my study are listed below. These qualities were woven through hundreds of stories and life experiences that helped children form a vision for their own futures. By far, the greatest attribute of a positive role model is the ability to inspire others.

1. Passion and Ability to Inspire

Role models show passion for their work and have the capacity to infect others with their passion. Speaking of several of his teachers, one student said, "They're so dedicated to teaching students and helping students and empowering students. That is such a meaningful gesture. They are always trying to give back to the next generation. That really inspires me."

2. Clear Set of Values

Role models live their values in the world. Children admire people who act in ways that support their beliefs. It helps them understand how their own values are part of who they are and how they might seek fulfilling roles as adults. For example, students spoke of many people who supported causes from education to poverty to the environment. Role models helped these students understand the underlying values that motivated people to become advocates for social change and innovation.

3. Commitment to Community

A role model is other-focused as opposed to self-focused. Role models are usually active in their communities, freely giving of their time and talents to benefit people. Students admired people who served on local boards, reached out to neighbors in need, voted, and were active members of community organizations.

4. Selflessness and Acceptance of Others

Related to the idea that role models show a commitment to their communities, students also admired people for their selflessness and acceptance of others who were different from them. One student spoke of her father, saying "He never saw social barriers. He saw people's needs and acted on them, no matter what their background or circumstances. He was never afraid to get his hands dirty. His lifestyle was a type of service. My father taught me to serve."

5. Ability to Overcome Obstacles

As Booker T. Washington once said, "Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which one has overcome." Young people echoed this sentiment, showing how they developed the skills and abilities of initiative when they learned to overcome obstacles. Not surprisingly, they admire people who show them that success is possible.

One student shared a story of a young man she met in Cambodian while on a service-learning project with her school. "He is an incredibly hardworking individual who has faced unimaginable obstacles in his life, yet continues to persevere to support his family and encourage his community. He survived the Cambodian genocide. He earned his education in a system where those who succeed are the ones who bribe officials. He has dedicated his life to give back to his community. Wow! What an individual; and the best civic role model!"

Research studies have long shown a correlation between positive role models and higher levels of civic engagement in young people. Positive role models are also linked to self-efficacy, the ability to believe in ourselves. In fact, the young people in my study admitted that had they not learned to believe in themselves, they would not have been capable of believing they could make a difference in the world!

Children develop as the result of many experiences and relationships. Role models play an important role in inspiring kids to learn, overcome obstacles, and understand that positive values can be lived each day. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, teacher, civic leader, clergy member, sports coach, after-school program leader, or a person who just happens into a child's life, you have the ability to inspire!

New Research on Youth Role Models

You may also be interested in reading how role models influence youth strategies for success. New research shows that young people choose role models based on the mindsets they develop toward accomplishing their goals! Based on their mindsets, they will choose either positive or negative role models.

Top 5 Qualities of Role Models Infographic

Feel free to use and share this infographic, excerpted from the information in this article.

Sources

Bandura, A. (2001). Social cognitive theory: An agentic perspective. Annual Review of Psychology, 52, 1-26.

Jennings, M. K., & Niemi, R. M. (1981). Generations and politics. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press.

Kahne, J. E., & Sporte, S. E. (2008). Developing citizens: The impact of civic learning opportunities on students' commitment to civic participation. American Educational Research Journal. doi: 10.3102/0002831208316951

Price-Mitchell, M. (2010). Civic learning at the edge: Transformative stories of highly engaged youth. Doctoral Dissertation, Fielding Graduate University, Santa Barbara, CA.

Zukin, C., Keeter, S., Andolina, M. W., Jenkins, K., & Carpini, M. X. D. (2006). A new engagement? Political participation, civic life, and the changing American citizen. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.

Photo Credit: Lil Larkie
(This article was originally published July 13, 2011. It was updated and republished Dec. 4, 2017.)
Published: December 4, 2017

Tags: mentoring, moral development, positive values, positive youth development, role models, teachers, youth civic engagement

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What is a Role Model? Five Qualities that Matter to Youth.

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Role models show young people how to live with integrity, optimism, hope, determination, and compassion. They play an essential part in a child's positive development. Natalie, age 18, described her role model as a person with "a clear sense of what is important to her, putting forth the effort to improve and create things that will make a difference."

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Responsibility

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Editor's note: Los Angeles Lakers icon Kobe Bryant was on a mission to aid the homeless way before it became chic or the trendy thing to do. In the wake of Bryant's passing in a helicopter crash on Sunday, Jan. 26, 2020, an accident that also claimed the lives of eight other people, including his daughter Gianna, News4usonline will be running a series of stories on the NBA great. This article focuses on Bryant's humanitairian efforts as he reaches out to homeless youths.
HOLLYWOOD, CA - Jermell Foster has been living on the streets for years. Being homeless for that amount of time means having to watch your back at all times.

Survival for the 26-year-old Foster comes by scrapping for food and living one moment at a time. No minute is taken for granted on the streets, said Foster.

"When you're homeless, you are surviving," Foster said. "When you have the career job that is when you're living. Homeless is about surviving for the moment. Some of the disadvantages of being homeless is that you have a lot of people out here who are just roaming the streets looking for bad stuff to get into.

"You have to protect yourself. It's pretty viscous. I've seen some horrible stuff just walking. It ain't cool. But you just have to breakthrough."

Foster received his breakthrough when he came to My Friend's Place four years ago to seek temporary shelter and put some food in his belly. My Friend's Place, which is a Hollywood haven for homeless youths, have been a somewhat of a Godsend for Foster and so many young adults.

But there are thousands of other young people on the streets of Los Angeles who are not so lucky to stumble up on a shelter like My Friend's Place.

"I've been chronically homeless for the past five years. I came here in 2006. I was real down. My family had given up on me. When I came here, my grandmother had just passed away, so I was in a funk. Through the help of My Friend's Place, and the caring they showed and displayed helped me to get back on the right track."

Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant has gone toe-to-toe with the best players in the NBA. More often than not, Bryant has come out on top, leading the Lakers to five NBA championships and seven Finals appearances. He's annually recognized as the premier player in the game today.

On the court, Bryant is known to be fearless, unrepentant and cold-blooded, much like the Black Mamba moniker he is associated with.

Off the court, Bryant is just as relentless and savvy, especially when it comes to helping others. The father of two young daughters, Bryant is particularly fierce when it comes to helping less fortunate children. His annual Kobe Basketball Academy has always been a pillar of Bryant's philanthropy efforts.

Bryant has become a global icon, not just because of all-world basketball skills, but also in part because of his tireless dedication to reach out and touch those in need, much like the way he reached out to children left without due to the devastation left behind by Hurricane Katrina.

The same can be said about Bryant's efforts to go beyond the borders of the U.S and make a difference.

Actively involved in charitable foundations such as The Center for Abused Children, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and St. Jude's Children's Hospital, Bryant went out of his way to establish the Kobe China Fund to raise money for health awareness and education. So far, the initiative has raised more than $800,000.

An astute traveler, who has visited many countries and seen the best and worst of the world, Bryant, with the assistance of his wife, Vanessa, has been called to take action against a deplorable issue in his own backyard: homelessness.

Los Angeles has the largest homeless population in the country. As Bryant drives through the downtown section and other parts of the city, like everyone else, he couldn't help but see the seedy and unsafe conditions folks were living in.

People camp out in cardboard boxes, living in quarters that consist of nothing more than a couple of old, worn blankets and shredded newspapers as he would make his drive to work at nearby Staples Center. Most of those on the streets living homeless are African Americans and Latinos.

According to statistics reported this year by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, African Americans make up 43.7% of the homeless population in Los Angeles County. Latinos comprise 27.7 % of the homeless group. In the city itself, African Americans make up nearly half (49.3%) of those on the streets.

Perhaps even more disheartening for Bryant was seeing children and young people living on the streets. The LAHSA states in its executive report that the demographic age group of 25-54 represent the largest number of those who are homeless in the county, accounting for 62.5% of streetwalkers.

Growing weary of this problem, he and Vanessa decided to bring more attention to the homeless issue, launching the Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to improving the lives of youth and families in need.

The KVBFF has been set up to focus on youth homelessness in Los Angeles as its first initiative. Funds raised by the foundation will support organizations and programs that transform the lives of homeless youth and families by helping to create permanent housing and providing resources for education and career development.

"On my way to games, I noticed children and families living on the streets blocks away from where I play and it didn't sit well with me," said Kobe Bryant. "I wanted to help make a difference in homelessness and what better place to start than in my own back yard."

Bryant and Vanessa made the announcement about their foundation at My Friend's Place, a Hollywood-based non-profit that assists homeless youth in building sufficient lives for themselves. Founded in 1988, My Friend's Place, which service young people living on the streets from age 12 to 25, hosts up to 1,600 youth annually.

Heather Carmichael, executive director of My Friend's Place, said the young people they bring in should get a second chance to succeed.

"There are approximately 9,500 homeless youth under the age of 24 living on the streets of Los Angeles each year. Regardless of what has brought these youth to the streets, they deserve the opportunity to realize their potential," said Carmichael.

Foster, who considers himself to be chronically homeless, said Bryant lifted his spirits when he by stopped by My Friend's Place to talk about the homeless problem. It meant a lot to him that Bryant would even take the time to speak to him well and the other young people.

"It's monumental," Foster said. "Just by his presence was enough. It's definitely putting a light on homelessness. This is the mecca of homeless youth. This is something that needs to be taken care of."
This article was published in its original content by the Beverly Hills Times

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Kobe Bryant's missive to tackle homelessness in LA

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Editor's note: Los Angeles Lakers icon Kobe Bryant was on a mission to aid the homeless way before it became chic or the trendy thing to do. In the wake of Bryant's passing in a helicopter crash on Sunday, Jan.

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Facts and figures

- One project
- 2.6 million children affected by conflict
- 1,439 total participants

National Situation

Sudan has been the scene of prolonged armed conflicts - both internal and external - since 1950. Political and border disputes have fuelled tensions inside the country. Violent clashes for control of natural resources - from grazing rights to oil - contribute to the atmosphere of violence.

A ceasefire - and with it the end of Africa's longest civil war - came to Sudan in 2005 with the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA). The agreement between northern and southern factions included the referendum which led to the secession of South Sudan in 2011. Yet armed conflict between Sudan and South Sudan continues along the border to this day.

Sudan remains in the grip of continued instability. Widespread demonstrations against the 30-year rule of President Omar al-Bashir triggered a military coup in April 2019. The ensuing power vacuum has seen continued public protests met with violent force - including the killing of four high school students during a protest in El-Obeid.

Situation of Children

Children have suffered markedly as a result of the decades of conflict in Sudan. Young people across the country - particularly those living along the country's border - face displacement, separation from their families and the threat of violence.

An estimated three million children are currently out of school - around one third of the school age population. Children and youth living in refugee and IDP settlements go without many basic services and are at risk of disease and malnourishment. They are also regularly exposed to the threat of violence.

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One project- 2.6 million children affected by conflict- 1,439 total participants Sudan has been the scene of prolonged armed conflicts - both internal and external - since 1950. Political and border disputes have fuelled tensions inside the country. Violent clashes for control of natural resources - from grazing rights to oil - contribute to the atmosphere of violence.

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Kobe Bryant's legacy through charities he supported 

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Kobe Bryant's legacy through charities he supported 

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how to honor kobe bryant's legacy through the charities he supported - cnn

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Honor Kobe Bryant's legacy through the charities he supported

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Kobe Bryant is one of the greatest basketball players of all time, but his impact extended far beyond the court.

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Kobe Bryant times we was a hero off-court

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Kobe Bryant times we was a hero off-court

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On Sunday, Jan. 26, the world lost one of the great sports icons of the 21st century. Kobe Bryant was a husband, father, and NBA star, who will likely be remembered as one of the most well-respected players to ever grace the court. But outside of the game he changed with his tenacity and talent, the Philadelphia native known affectionately as "The Black Mamba," had a heart for the youth and philanthropy. Here are 10 times he showed his giving spirit to the world.
Bryant With Wife Vanessa Found The Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation
One of Kobe Bryant's lasting accomplishments is the philanthropic foundation he founded with his wife Vanessa. An extension of his previously founded VIVO foundation, the Bryants' announced in 2011 that they would start a charitable organization that would help homeless youth in Los Angeles "kick butt." The foundation also plays host to Mamba FC, a youth soccer club in Orange County that, according to the KVBFF website, trains young athletes to become leaders and promotes health and fitness.
Kobe Bryant Lends Star Power and Skills to After-School All-Stars
Harry How/Getty Images

In 2007, Bryant signed on as a national ambassador for After-School All-Stars, an organization that promotes academic success for the country's youth. Throughout his partnership, the late NBA star frequently lent his voice and talents to help encourage young people to achieve their goals and become leaders. He also raised money for the organization and was a frequent contributor to the Los Angeles chapter which serves 14,000 students in 38 schools, 99 percent of whom are young people of color, according to the organization's website.

The Five-Time NBA Champion Becomes Founding Donor for the NMAAHC
Kobe Bryant Raises Money and Awareness For War in Darfur
Through the Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation, Bryant became a milestone donor, contributing $1 million or more, for the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture. On the day of its opening, the NBA legend tweeted, "Go. See. This. Museum. There is no greater testament to this country than the stories in this building. Honored to be a part of it @NMAAHC."
Article continues after video. The NBA All-Star Becomes Celebrity Supporter of Cathy's Kids
In 2008, Bryant became a spokesperson for Aid Still Required and created a PSA to help bring awareness to the ongoing war in a region where men, women, and children continue to be murdered and mutilated. That year the NBA MVP made an emotional appeal, saying, "If we can unite people who are willing to take a stand, miracles can happen... Together we have the power to save the world."
The Lakers Legend Donates Books to LeBron James' I Promise School
When fellow Lakers teammate Lamar Odom started a foundation for underprivileged inner-city youth in New York and Los Angeles, Bryant signed on with his support. The organization's goals were to provide educational tools, offer mentoring and tutoring services, create recreational opportunities, and generate funds for research.
The NBA Star Turned Youth Coach Donates Money to High School Basketball Team
Last June, the former LA Laker generously donated his Wizenard book series to LeBron James's I Promise School. The fantasy books for young adults, which focuses on an inner-city basketball team, was created by Bryant shortly after he retired from the league. In December the literacy advocate called on fans to join him in "helping children dream big" by donating books to Reading Is Fundamental. The high school draftee was a frequent contributor to the cause.

Days before the 2019 Christmas holiday, Bryant and his wife Vanessa sent a $5,000 check to help support a Sacramento-area sports team. According to the team's coach, the girls basketball program in Roseville, California, was in desperate need of financial assistance. That's when a student, who previously met the retired NBA star earlier that year, asked him for a donation to help the young women out. The contribution, in the words of the 14-year-old student-athlete, "gave the Roseville girls basketball more opportunities to get better and to get prepared for our season."
Kobe Bryant Acts As Beacon of Hope Through Make-A-Wish Foundation

my 58 superstars kobe bryant lane madrid
Five-time NBA Champion Kobe Bryant gives an assist to the Roseville Girls Basketball Program after making a connection with star Freshman guard, Lane Madrid Roseville High School Mamba Sports Academy Eye of the Tiger KCRA 3 Los Angeles Lakers
Posted by KCRA Michelle Dapper on Thursday, December 12, 2019

Article continues after video. The Former LA Laker Stands Up to Cancer
For more than 20 years, Bryant was an advocate for children battling life-threatening illnesses. According to the Make-A-Wish foundation, over the span of his career, the father of four personally met with over 100 children through the 501 nonprofit organization that creates life-changing wishes for youth with a critical sickness. Prior to retiring, Bryant would often invite children to games to reconnect, inspire, and provide an escape.
Bryant Established the Kobe Bryant China Fund
Through a number of organizations and avenues, Bryant raised money for cancer research and medical expenses. In 2012, he joined with A-list celebrities for the annual Stand Up To Cancer telecast event which raised more than $81 Million for collaborative cancer research. That year he posted to Facebook, "We have to Stand Up To Cancer! Kids shouldn't have to suffer."

During the 2008 Beijing Olympics, China took a liking to Kobe Bryant. As the Wall Street Journal reported at the time, he was named a cultural ambassador to the country by the Asia Society and was looked at as a charitable diplomat. In 2009, Bryant donated $5 million yuan to launch the Kobe Bryant China Fund, which was established as a way to raise money for sports and cultural programs in the Republic. Together with the Kobe Bryant Family Foundation, he also provided opportunities to American youth to learn the Mandarin language, as well as culturally enrich themselves by learning about the traditions of the Chinese people.

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10 Times Kobe Bryant Was A Star Off Of The Court

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On Sunday, Jan. 26, the world lost one of the great sports icons of the 21st century. Kobe Bryant was a husband, father, and NBA star, who will likely be remembered as one of the most well-respected players to ever grace the court.

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What are the happiest countries in the world?

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What are the happiest countries in the world?

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Finland is top of the world for happiness, according to the World Happiness Report 2018, closely followed by Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Switzerland and the Netherlands.

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Finland is the happiest country in the world closely followed by Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands. Image: REUTERS/Ints Kalnins

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These are the happiest countries in the world

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Finland is the happiest country in the world closely followed by Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands. Image: REUTERS/Ints Kalnins Senior Writer, Formative Content Stay up to date: Global Governance Follow Image: REUTERS/Ints Kalnins Image: The World Happiness Report 2018 Wealth doesn't always equate to happiness.

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civil war started the poverty in Sudan

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The First Sudanese Civil War was a twelve-year conflict between the northern and southern regions of Sudan between 1955 and 1972. The war began a year before Sudan was declared independent from Great Britain. The main belligerents in the war were the central government of Sudan and the Southern Sudan Liberation Movement (SSLM). Great Britain, Egypt, and the Soviet Union supported the central government while the SSLM was backed by Ethiopia, Uganda, and Israel. An estimated 500,000 people died during the twelve-year conflict.

The roots of the conflict can be traced to 1953 when the United Kingdom and Egypt agreed that Sudan would become an independent nation in 1956. On August 18, 1955, the Equatoria Corps, which was composed mostly of British Colonial soldiers from southern Sudan, attempted to disperse a crowd of protesters in the town of Torit, Sudan (now Torit, South Sudan). The southern soldiers, however, appeared to be sympathetic to the protesters, prompting the central government in Khartoum (the capital of Sudan) to replace them with troops from the northern region. Outraged, the southern soldiers mutinied, killing 336 northerners, both soldiers and civilians. News of the Torit mutiny spread, and southern soldiers across Sudan revolted.

Other factors influenced the conflict as well. The Northern two-thirds of Sudan were overwhelmingly Muslim while Christianity or indigenous religions were most popular in the south. Culturally, Northern Sudanese people spoke Arabic and identified with Saudi Arabia and North Africa while the Southerners looked to Ethiopia and the newly-independent states of Sub-Saharan Africa.
Since Southern Sudanese forces lacked the infrastructure to launch a major offensive against the north, they launched a guerrilla war. They were also the first insurgency to recruit child soldiers. As the fighting progressed, Southern Sudanese rebels divided into two factions. One group, the Sudan African National Union (SANU), was formed and led by William Deng from the Dinka ethnic group. Another faction, the Anya Nya, was founded and led by Joseph Lagu and was composed mostly of the Madi group.

The war created problems for the government in Khartoum as well. Because Northern forces were unable to put down the rebellion, several coups brought about new governments. In 1965, ten years after the civil war began, interim prime minister Muhammad Ahmad Mahgoub offered amnesty to the Southern Sudanese rebels if they would lay down their arms. The offer was rejected by the rebels, and the fighting continued.

By 1970 the civil war had taken about 500,000 lives, mostly in the South. In 1969, General Gaafar Nimeri took control of the Sudanese government and instituted a socialist program which included nationalizing banks and other businesses. He received crucial military support from the Soviet Union. Two years later, after attempted assassination by Sudanese communists, Nimeri, on July 19, 1971, renounced socialism and invited foreign investors into Sudan. Eight months later on March 27, 1972, the government in Khartoum and the Southern rebels signed the Addis Ababa Agreement which ended the First Sudanese Civil War. The country of Sudan remained in a tense peace for eleven years until a much larger and bloodier conflict called the Second Sudanese Civil War began in 1983.

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The First Sudanese Civil War was a twelve-year conflict between the northern and southern regions of Sudan between 1955 and 1972. The war began a year before Sudan was declared independent from Great Britain. The main belligerents in the war were the central government of Sudan and the Southern Sudan Liberation Movement (SSLM).

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What is affecting the population of the platypus?

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What is affecting the population of the platypus?

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platypusSPOT is a citizen science platform where the Australian community can assist the conservation and protection of platypuses and their natural habitat by recording their platypus sightings. This information helps researchers, such as the ecologists at cesar, understand more about the current status of platypus populations across their range.

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Why does it affect the brain and the body? (causation)

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What are the causes and effects? What are the solutions?

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As human beings, we live in the present. We also spend a lot of time looking forward to the future. But our thoughts and actions are often influenced more by the . In many ways, who we are stems from where we've been and what we've done. The snapshots of the important events from our make up our memory, and that memory guides our future in many ways.

But what exactly is memory? Although we speak of memory as if it were a physical organ, like our brain or spleen, it's not a physical object that exists within our body. Instead, it's an ongoing process that involves many parts of our bodies, especially our brains.

Memories are records of events. As such, they consist of recollections of our personal experiences. Memory begins with the senses, since that's how we experience the world. If you think about it, your memories consist of remembrances of things you've sensed in the form of touches, tastes, sounds, sights, and smells.

As you experience the world around you, your brain decides which information needs to be saved. If you remembered everything you sensed every of the day, your brain would soon be so overloaded that you wouldn't be able to .

Instead of remembering every little thing, your brain picks and chooses what's important. This is the information that forms your memories. The main part of your brain that does the work of processing memories is called the hippocampus. Scientists believe the memories formed by the hippocampus get stored in various areas of the cerebral cortex, which is the large outer area of the brain more commonly known as " matter."

When your brain stores a memory, it makes another decision about how important that memory is. The brain constantly filters and prioritizes information to avoid becoming overloaded with unnecessary or unimportant information .

Memories that only need to be retained for a brief time are put into short-term memory. For example, you might need to remember a phone number only long enough to the number or to save it in your phone.

Short-term memory has a very limited capacity. Scientists believe most people can retain information about roughly seven things for no more than 20-30 seconds in short-term memory. Of course, you can keep something in short-term memory by repeating it to yourself in order to keep resetting the clock for the short-term memory of that item.

The most important information eventually makes its way from short-term memory to long-term memory. This transition can take place because of the importance of the information or as a result of repeated or intentional repetition .

Fortunately , long-term memory does not have the same limits that short-term memory does. The human brain appears to be able to hold an unlimited number of long-term memories for an indefinite amount of time. If you think about it, you'll realize that some of your most precious memories are from years and years ago!

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As human beings, we live in the present. We also spend a lot of time looking forward to the future. But our thoughts and actions are often influenced more by the . In many ways, who we are stems from where we've been and what we've done.

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Remember that great summer vacation you took last year? When you think back on it, you might see flashes of a day you spent swimming or a night spent watching fireworks explode high in the sky.

But how do you store those images, so you can enjoy them later? It's your memory - and it's part of your complex and multitalented brain.

What Is Memory?

When an event happens, when you learn something, or when you meet someone, your brain determines whether that information needs to be saved. If your brain judges the information important, it places it in your memory "files."

You probably know your brain has different parts. Some of them are important for memory. The hippocampus (say: hih-puh-KAM-pus) is one of the more important parts of the brain that processes memories.

Old information and new information, or memories, are thought to be processed and stored away in different areas of the cerebral cortex, or the "gray matter" of the brain - the largest, outermost part of the brain.

What Can Go Wrong With Memory?

As wonderful as memory is, it isn't always perfect. It's normal to occasionally forget the name of somebody you just met or where you put your shoes. And of course, everyone has forgotten an answer on a test. Darn! You knew that one, too!

It's also typical for people to forget more things as they grow older. Your parents or grandparents might joke about having a "senior moment." That's when they forget something.

But some memory problems are serious, such as when a person has Alzheimer's disease. In this disease, deposits build up and nerve cells stop working leading to memory loss.

Strokes, which also affect older people, are another medical problem that can affect someone's memory. A stroke is when blood doesn't get to all the parts of the brain, either because there is a blockage in the pathway or because a blood vessel (which carries the blood) bursts.

Brain Injuries Affect Memory

At any age, an injury to the head and brain can cause trouble with somebody's memory. Some people who recover from brain injuries need to learn old things all over again, like how to talk or tie their shoes. That's why it's so important to protect your head by wearing your seatbelt in the car and wearing a helmet when you skate, play football, ride your bike, skateboard, or wear roller sneakers.

You may have heard about a memory problem called amnesia (say: am-NEE-zhuh). This is when someone can't remember things that happened recently and sometimes even things that happened long ago. It's not usually like you see on TV or in the movies. People rarely forget their own names and they usually get better slowly, instead of all at once because something dramatic happens - like getting kissed by a dreamy prince or princess!

The most common cause of amnesia is a traumatic brain injury (TBI). A TBI is caused by a severe hit to the head. Traumatic brain injuries can happen in a lot of ways and can be severe enough to cause a coma (prolonged unconsciousness), or a person may just be stunned without even being knocked out (like in some concussions).

Car accidents, bike accidents, and falls can cause TBIs. If you've ever seen someone take a hit to the head in a National Football League game, you may have seen the player being questioned on the sidelines. The doctor may ask the person some basic questions - like what happened, where they are, and what team they're playing. Not knowing the correct answers could be the first sign of a brain injury.

Abusing alcohol or using illegal drugs is another way to injure the brain and cause memory problems. Hallucinogens (like LSD or PCP) can alter certain chemicals in the brain that actually make memories harder to recall.

Signs of a Memory Problem

A person might - or might not - be able to notice signs of his or her own memory problem. If someone has suffered a brain injury, doctors, nurses, and family members will be on the alert for signs of trouble.

Someone who has a memory problem will be unable to remember important things for varying lengths of time. The more severe the illness or injury, the longer the memory loss is likely to last. Some people forget just the moments right before and after an injury, which is not unusual with a concussion. Sometimes, these memories come back.

More significant problems with memory, such as in Alzheimer's disease, might make it hard to remember what happened days, weeks, months, or even years ago, and it can be difficult to learn and remember new things.

What Will the Doctor Do?

Any time a person has been hit in the head, it's important to see a doctor. A doctor will test the person's ability to recall events, names, or places by asking lots of questions. In the case of a suspected brain injury, a doctor may also want to take a picture of the patient's brain and skull using something called a CT scan.

If the person has memory loss from a head injury, the doctor will design a treatment plan to help the brain heal and, if necessary, to help the person relearn things that have been forgotten. If the memory problem is due to drug or alcohol use, the person needs to stop abusing these substances before his or her memory will improve.

With strokes, memory can return but it depends on severity and location of the stroke in the brain. With Alzheimer's, lost memory cannot be restored, but scientists are working on medicines they hope someday will prevent this kind of memory loss.

Most memory problems affect older people, so what can you do for your memory if you're 8, not 88? In addition to remembering to wear your helmet, use your brain! By doing challenging activities, like reading and doing puzzles, you can exercise your mind so you'll be remembering great memories for many years to come!

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Remember that great summer vacation you took last year? When you think back on it, you might see flashes of a day you spent swimming or a night spent watching fireworks explode high in the sky. But how do you store those images, so you can enjoy them later?

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It's the stuff movies are made of: After a blow to the head, a person wanders aimlessly, unable to remember who he is or where he came from. While such sudden, profound loss of memory is rare, memory loss is a problem that affects most people, to a degree.

Whether it's occasional forgetfulness or loss of short-term memory that interferes with daily life, there are many causes of memory loss.

Causes of Memory Loss

Here are some of the more common things that can cause memory loss:

Medications. A number of prescription and over-the-counter medications can interfere with or cause loss of memory. Possible culprits include: antidepressants, antihistamines, anti- anxiety medications, muscle relaxants, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, and pain medications given after surgery.

Alcohol, tobacco, or drug use. Excessive alcohol use has long been recognized as a cause of memory loss.

Smoking harms memory by reducing the amount of oxygen that gets to the brain. Studies have shown that people who smoke find it more difficult to put faces with names than do nonsmokers. Illicit drugs can change chemicals in the brain that can make it hard to recall memories.

Sleep deprivation. Both quantity and quality of sleep are important to memory. Getting too little sleep or waking frequently in the night can lead to fatigue, which interferes with the ability to consolidate and retrieve information.

Depression and stress. Being depressed can make it difficult to pay attention and focus, which can affect memory. Stress and anxiety can also get in the way of concentration. When you are tense and your mind is overstimulated or distracted, your ability to remember can suffer. Stress caused by an emotional trauma can also lead to memory loss.

Nutritional deficiency. Good nutrition -- including high-quality proteins and fats -- is important to proper brain function. Deficiencies in vitamin B1 and B12 specifically can affect memory.

Head injury. A severe hit to the head -- from a fall or automobile accident, for example -- can injure the brain and cause both short- and long-term memory loss. Memory may gradually improve over time.

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is stopped due to the blockage of a blood vessel to the brain or leakage of a vessel into the brain. Strokes often cause short-term memory loss. A person who has had a stroke may have vivid memories of childhood events but be unable to recall what he or she had for lunch.

Continued

Dementia is the name for progressive loss of memory and other aspects of thinking that are severe enough to interfere with the ability to function in daily activities. Although there are many causes of dementia -- including blood vessel disease, drug or alcohol abuse, or other causes of damage to the brain -- the most common and familiar is Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease is characterized by a progressive loss of brain cells and other irregularities of the brain.

Other causes. Other possible causes of memory loss include an underactive or overactive thyroid gland and infections such as HIV, tuberculosis, and syphilis that affect the brain.

Finding the Cause of Memory Loss

If you find that you are increasingly forgetful or if memory problems interfere with your daily life, schedule an appointment with your doctor to determine the cause and best treatment.

To evaluate memory loss, your doctor will take a medical history, perform a physical exam -- including a neurologic exam -- and ask questions to test mental ability. Depending on the results, further evaluation may include blood and urine tests, nerve tests, and imaging tests of the brain such as computerized axial tomography (CAT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Memory Loss Treatment

Treatment for memory loss depends on the cause. In many cases, it may be reversible with treatment. For example, memory loss from medications may resolve with a change in medication. Nutritional supplements can be useful against memory loss caused by a nutritional deficiency. And treating depression may be helpful for memory when depression is a factor. In some cases -- such as following a stroke -- therapy may help people remember how to do certain tasks such as walking or tying shoes. In others, memory may improve over time.

Treatments may also be specific to conditions related to memory loss. For example, drugs are available to treat memory problems related to Alzheimer's disease, and drugs to help lower blood pressure can help reduce risk of more brain damage from dementia related to high blood pressure.

WebMD Medical Reference Reviewed by Neil Lava, MD on August 09, 2017

Sources

SOURCES:

Baxendale, S. British Medical Journal, December 2004.

FDA: "Coping with Memory Loss."

University of Buffalo The State University of New York: "How to keep and improve memory."

KidsHealth: "Memory Matters."

WomensHealth.gov: "Stroke Fact Sheet."

University of Washington Neuroscience for Kids: "The Blood Supply of the Brain."

University of Maryland Medical Center: "Dementia."

Alzheimer's Association: "Medications for Memory Loss."

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Memory Loss (Short- and Long- Term): Causes and Treatments

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It's the stuff movies are made of: After a blow to the head, a person wanders aimlessly, unable to remember who he is or where he came from. While such sudden, profound loss of memory is rare, memory loss is a problem that affects most people, to a degree.

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Our brain uses different parts of the brain to manage different types of memory. The two main types of memory are short-term memory and long term memory. It is possible to have alterations or memory loss in both the previously mentioned types of memory, but we'll focus on Declarative Long-Term Memory.

Short-term Memory retains a limited amount of information over a short period of time, giving our bodies the time it needs to perceive and analyze external information.

Long-term Memory stores a large amount of complex information over a long period of time. Long-term memory is what most people think of as "memory". However, even within the distinction of long-term memory, there is a further sub-classification: Non-Declarative or Implicit Memory (riding a bike, driving), and Declarative or Explicit Memory, which uses personal experiences to understand the world (a family member's name, where you left your keys, who is the Queen of England, what happened 5 months or 5 years ago).

When you forget the name of something or what happened on a given day, you're not actually seeing the effects of a "lost" memory, but rather that the brain can't find the right "path" to get to the memory. "Pathological" forgetfulness is called amnesia. Some symptoms of memory loss may be:

Frequently losing personal objects.

Trouble finding the right words.

Asking the same questions in a conversation, or telling the same story multiple times.

Not remembering if you've done something, like taking medicine, for example.

Disorientation or getting lost in familiar places.

Forgetting which year or day of the week it is.

Difficulty remembering appointments or events.

Problems following instructions or making decisions.

Memory loss can be either temporary or permanent.

Temporary memory loss is a loss of information that, after a period time without remembering, it returns to normal. For example, if you are unable to remember an actor's name in the afternoon, and then remember it later that night, or if you take medication that causes "blackouts", you would be suffering from temporary memory loss.

Permanent memory loss, is when you lose memories that you are unable to recover. If you're not able to remember where you left your house keys, even after being reminded, you would be experiencing permanent memory loss.

There are a number of different factors that can cause involuntary memory loss in both adults and children.

Memory loss due to health problems is, in many cases, treatable: The secondary effects of some medications and a poor diet with a lack of B6, B9, and B12 vitamins may cause temporary memory loss. Alcohol abuse, thyroid, kidney, and liver problems, lack of oxygen to the brain (like stroke), brain injury, cancer treatments (chemotherapy or radiotherapy), tumors or brain infections, emotional problems (like depression), and anxiety (like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) can also cause temporary memory loss.

Memory loss due to stress, anxiety, or other emotional problems: Aside from stress, anxiety, some intense emotions, like anger or rage, can cause memory loss. If you have a car accident in the afternoon, the stress of the accident may cause you to forget what you did that morning. However, it seems that these memory lapses are caused by focusing all of your attention to potentially dangerous threats. You would be able to remember what caused these intense feelings, but wouldn't be able to identify anything besides the accident.

Memory loss due to age and normal aging: While memory loss and memory problems don't only affect older adults, it is the population group that is most affected. Over time, a person's ability to learn and the quality of memories can deteriorate, without the presence of any pathology. However, when these problems become more pronounced than before, it may be a case of mild cognitive impairment or dementia in severe cases.

Memory loss due to emotional problems in older adults: It is common for older adults to feel alone after losing a loved one or leaving their job. With these kinds of significant life changes, it is normal that a portion of seniors suffer from emotional disorders like depression. Seniors with depression may have more memory lapses, which may be confused with symptoms of Alzheimer's or other types of dementia. Depression can cause serious memory problems in both adults and children, but it is especially important for seniors to have a differential diagnosis to differentiate the symptoms of Alzheimer's. While memory problems in people with depression may not be as apparent as with other pathologies, it's important to treat the emotional problems as soon a possible.

Memory loss due to Mild Cognitive Impairment: Mild cognitive impairment is a disorder that causes memory loss but doesn't keep the patient from carrying out their daily activities. Some studies show that Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) may be an early indicator of types dementia like Alzheimer's. However, it's important to note that not all MCI cases will lead to Alzheimer's disease.

Memory loss due to dementia is one of the biggest problems that affects older adults, even though it is not a direct consequence of aging. Dementia is characterized by the (generally chronic) appearance of cognitive problems like memory, speech, and behavioral problems. There are different types of dementia, but Alzheimer's Disease is the most common.

Memory loss caused by Alzheimer's Disease: A type of protein called "beta-amyloid" accumulated in the neurons, forming senile plaques, which could end up in making said neurons useless. This causes a progressive and significant deterioration of memory, problems with orientation (easy to forget what day it is or where you are) and, in general, when doing daily tasks. The severity of this disease varies depending on the state that the patient is in. In a mild phase the patient will show significant memory lapses, like getting lost in familiar places, being disconnected from their activities and conversations, may have problems knowing the date, and show symptoms of depression and hostility. In a moderate phase, these memory lapses are more noticeable, and they may forget names or events that happened just a few minutes earlier. They will likely have trouble shopping or cooking, their personal hygiene will suffer, they'll have problems talking, and they will often get lost. External help is necessary and recommended in this phase. In advanced Alzheimer's, the patient may have problems eating or understand basic concepts, recognizing family and friends, and may act inappropriately in public. In this phase, the patient will be completely dependent.

The factors that have been shown to be most efficient in preventing or slowing the advancement of Alzheimer's or other memory problems are: sleep, a healthy, balanced diet, physical exercise, a healthy social life, and some cognitive activities. The brain acts like a muscle, in that the more we use it, the stronger it will be. However, if you don't give your brain the nutrients, exercise that it needs, and you don't allow it to use social and cognitive skills, it is likely to atrophy and suffer damage. This is why an active, healthy life can be so beneficial for our memory. CogniFit has a wide range of brain games and scientifically validated activities to help keep the brain active and activate cognitive domains. Brain training and using cognitive skills isn't only capable of helping strengthen and improve memory in adults, but it can also help develop intellectual capacities in children and teens.

Cognitive stimulation allows you to stimulate, train, and strengthen the different cognitive abilities, like attention, perception, memory, language, and executive functions. It is these skills that are affected by dementia and other memory loss disorders. When performing activities that require the use of different cognitive abilities, we help the brain strengthen its connections, which makes it more resistant to deterioration. However, effective cognitive stimulation is more than just training randomly. In order for the brain to get the workout it needs, it needs the right workouts designed for the particular cognitive profile of each patient. CognIFit personalizes each activity so that each patient can get the most out of his or her brain training and help reduce or delay cognitive deficiencies.

Other factors, like a good sleep routine and reading, frequently help improve memory. Also, stopping any bad habit related to drinking, smoking, and other drugs may also help memory and general well-being.

It is quite normal for people with memory problems to not be conscious of their own problem, which is why they are usually first detected by family members.

People who have a history of anxiety or depression tend to focus on errors and mistakes, which will likely cause them to think too much of their memory lapses and make them think they have a memory condition. As long as these memory lapses aren't habitual and are fairly normal (forgetting the name of a specific person or place that you don't know well, or forgetting where you've left something, etc.), there's no cause for alarm.

However, if the person has problems doing daily tasks or seems confused or disoriented, it's time to see a specialist. You may want to think about writing down certain information, like when you first started seeing these problems, when it got worse, what kinds of things they forget, and how their life is generally affected. The doctor should be able to determine if the person has a significant memory problem, and if they do, what it is. When in doubt, it is always recommended to see a doctor.

It's important to remember that memory loss doesn't necessarily mean that you have a serious memory problem like Alzheimer's Disease. Everyone is forgetful every once in a while, and it does not cause for alarm if it happens occasionally. Our brain needs to forget information in order to efficiently learn and store new information.

Dementia treatment must encompass a multidisciplinary approach. Depending on the type of dementia, on the phase that it's in, and on the patient's particular characteristics, a neurological, psychiatric, medical, geriatric, psychological, occupational therapy, or other specific therapy may be necessary.

The medical professional treating an Alzheimer's patient will work to find the proper diagnosis and treatment in order to give the best care possible. Aside from traditional treatment, the clinical cognitive stimulation exercises for Alzheimer's patients in the early or mild stages has been shown to help delay the effects of the disease, while other types of treatments are usually necessary for more advanced stages of Alzheimer's. While there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, scientists and researchers are working to find a way to maintain cognitive abilities as the disease advances and lessen some of the behavioral effects that it causes.

There are also prevention activities that can help slow the speed at which the disease advances. If you can combine a pharmacological treatment with a balanced diet, physical exercise, socialization, and the proper cognitive stimulation, you will have the opportunity to reduce the problems caused by dementia and Alzheimer's.

If you detect possible memory problems in a loved one, try to encourage them to see a specialist who will be able to help them make a diagnosis. Remember that many people that suffer from memory problems aren't conscious of the fact that they have them, so they may be reluctant to see a specialist and get help. In these cases, it's important to have patience and bring the subject up carefully.

Once a medical professional has found a diagnosis, it's important to follow the guidelines that they set for the patient. If the problem is in an early stage, help the person keep their daily routines both at home and with friends. As one of the main problems with Alzheimer's Disease is temporal disorientation, it may be helpful to have clocks and calendars well placed throughout the house. It will likely become more difficult for the person to learn new things, but try to get them used to use an agenda or planner to keep track of their activities and appointments. Those close to the person with Alzheimer's should carefully follow the doctor's guidelines and make sure that they take their medicine and do the suggested activities. A dementia diagnosis can be difficult for both the patient and their loved ones, which is why it's important to provide emotional support and help how you can. If you notice any symptoms that might suggest that the patient is suffering from depression, get in touch with a medical professional as soon as possible.

Any simple memory lapse doesn't automatically imply that there is a serious memory problem behind it.

It's important to know the symptoms of Mild Cognitive Deterioration (MCI) and dementias like Alzheimer's in order to detect the symptoms early on. MCI and Alzheimer's are not the only kinds of memory problems, and as such, they may not fit all of the symptoms, but it is still important to seek medical attention if you think that there may be a problem.

The effects of MCI and dementia may decrease with a healthy diet, physical exercise, good sleep habits, socialization, and cognitive stimulation.

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what to do when a family memory has memory loss

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Our brain uses different parts of the brain to manage different types of memory. The two main types of memory are short-term memory and long term memory. It is possible to have alterations or memory loss in both the previously mentioned types of memory, but we'll focus on Declarative Long-Term Memory.

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How do you develop a memory losing disease?

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How do you develop a memory losing disease?

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What is junk food? and How it affects health?

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What is junk food? and How it affects health?

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After a long day of school, you ride the bus home and anticipate having a as soon as you through the front door. But what kind of will you choose? Will it be a healthy apple or with peanut butter? Or will you head for the potato chips and soda?

The answer probably depends upon what's available in the kitchen cupboards and the refrigerator...and whether or not your parents are home. After all, if Mom or Dad is around, you probably won't get away with chugging soda and noshing on chips. In fact, they probably have a special name for those foods. What are we talking about? Junk food, of course!

Every kid at one time or another has had some of his or her favorite foods referred to as junk food. But what exactly does that mean? It's obviously not made from , so why do we call it junk food?

The "junk food" has been around since the early 1970s, when the Center for Science in the Public Interest began using it to raise of foods it considered to be unhealthy. Although not everyone agrees on exactly which foods should be considered junk foods, the is generally used to describe foods that are high in calories and low in nutrients. Junk foods tend to contain large amounts of , sugar, and . Junk foods also tend to be processed, which means they usually contain artificial flavorings and additives, and are packaged in boxes, cans or bags.

Some common examples of junk foods include sodas and foods, such as potato chips, crackers and candy. Popular fast-food items, like hamburgers and French fries, are also often lumped into the category of junk foods because they often contain lots of calories but not many nutrients.

Other foods are considered junk food by some but not by others, depending upon how they're made. For example, some people consider pizza a junk food because it can be high in and calories. Others, however, believe pizza can be a good source of grains, dairy, vegetables, and meat, which contain many nutrients the body needs.

As most kids learn in school, it's important to eat well-balanced meals full of the nutrients the body needs. Such meals would include lean meats, whole grains, and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. So why are junk foods so popular?

If you like potato chips, candy, and soda, the reason is usually obvious: they're delicious. Foods with high amounts of , sugar, and simply taste good. Plus, they're usually cheap and readily available. Manufacturers make junk foods because they're inexpensive to make, have long shelf lives, and tend to be popular sellers.

If you're a fan of junk food, there's no need to . These foods are usually fine to eat if you eat them in moderation . If you're eating a well-balanced diet overall and maintaining a healthy weight, you shouldn't have any problem eating junk food occasionally . Just remember: your body needs fuel in the form of nutrients to perform at its best. When you replace -rich foods with high-/low- snacks, your body doesn't get the fuel it needs.

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After a long day of school, you ride the bus home and anticipate having a as soon as you through the front door. But what kind of will you choose? Will it be a healthy apple or with peanut butter? Or will you head for the potato chips and soda?

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This is for the focus question how does chcolate affect the brain

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Chocolate has all of the ingredients needed to make it a wonder drug. After all, it contains compounds similar to those found in ecstasy, morphine and marijuana. By all rights, eating a bar of chocolate should send you into orbit. So, why isn't this stuff regulated by the FDA? Why aren't chocolate bars sold from locked cabinets behind the pharmacy counter? The truth is, while there are indeed pleasure-inducing and stimulating chemical compounds found in chocolate, the amounts of most of these compounds are relatively small.

As a result of the energy drinks, coffee, cigarettes and, yes, chocolate humans consume these days, our brains have become quite accustomed to the effects of drugs that release pleasure-inducing chemicals. Compounds that act on receptors in the brain that release pleasure-generating neurotransmitters (like dopamine) work in two ways: They either bind to the receptor, causing it to release the neurotransmitters, or they bind to the site to prevent the re-absorption of those neurotransmitters. Either way, there's a lot more of the chemical floating around in your bloodstream.

This process is how chocolate (or any other substance, for that matter) gets its eater high. It's also why chocolate doesn't have much of an effect on us. As the brain is exposed over and over to a barrage of compounds, the number of receptors available for the compounds to bind to actually decreases and the ones that remain are less easily triggered. The reason for this reaction to drugs is the body's natural state of seeking equilibrium (a balance between all of the processes and chemicals found in the body at any one time). In other words, there's only supposed to be so much dopamine or other pleasure-producing chemicals in the body. When hormones are released artificially by the compounds found in chocolate or any other drug, the body seeks balance by shutting down the receptors that release the hormones. As a result, we become desensitized to the effects of these compounds over time [source: University of Texas].

Still, there are pharmacological compounds that produce feelings of pleasure and stimulation in human beings. Considering the worldwide fervor for chocolate and the cravings for it that many people experience, it clearly has an effect on some people. Perhaps, one should live a relatively clean life to get all the benefits that chocolate can bestow.

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Chocolate has all of the ingredients needed to make it a wonder drug. After all, it contains compounds similar to those found in ecstasy, morphine and marijuana. By all rights, eating a bar of chocolate should send you into orbit. So, why isn't this stuff regulated by the FDA?

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This article also includes: Is it really an addiction? And What can I do?

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'Screen addiction' is a term that we are seeing more and more often in the media, and has been used to denote various types of screen-related bad behaviours. With an estimated 94% of Australian teens, 67% of primary school-aged kids, and 36% of preschoolers owning a smartphone ( RCHM, 2017), we are in a time of unprecedented technology use. While undoubtedly there are many benefits to smartphone technology (e.g. keeping in touch with family) we must also understand that as yet, we don't have enough information to know whether this much access to tech is good or bad for our health and wellbeing. The technology is simply too new to know whether there may be long-term implications for child development in the era of the smartphone.

So what is screen addiction, I hear you ask? It's when screen use becomes so compulsive that it leads to impaired daily functioning in terms of productivity, social relationships, physical health, or emotional well-being ( Horwood & Anglim, 2018). That may mean that your or your kids screen use is interfering with work or school, having a negative impact on relationships, encouraging inactivity or less sleep, or generally making you feel sad or unhappy.

Is it really an addiction?

The first thing we should clear up is the term screen addiction. While many of the behaviours that are described as screen addition look a lot like other behavioural addictions, there are currently no clinical diagnostic criteria for a disorder called 'screen addiction'. What that means is that we need to be aware that the term 'addiction' has a particular meaning, as well as implications for treatment approaches. That said, we may reach a point where problematic screen use does become a recognised behavioural addiction. In order to bypass the limitations of using the term addiction, we will call the types of behaviours we are describing as 'problematic smartphone use', or PSU. Although smartphones seem to be the main mobile device that kids are using, we extend the definition to tables and other portable internet-enabled devices.

The term screen addiction has likely come about due to the addiction-like behaviours we see in both adults and kids with respect to their screens. There are three main behaviors that help identify addiction, 1) cravings, 2) tolerance, and 3) withdrawal. Cravings are things we all have from time to time. You may have a craving for chocolate or ice-cream, and you know how hard it is to resist those things if you are experiencing a craving for them! You may recognise some of these signs already. You may notice your child starts to become preoccupied with wanting to spend time on their screen, often at the expense of other activities, even ones they used to enjoy. Tolerance is when the amount something you need to achieve a 'high' starts to get bigger. Tolerance is typically thought of in terms of imbibement of substances (e.g. heroin), and is a common cause of drug overdose. It's not hard to extend the notion of tolerance to screen use though. For example, where once you or your child may have been happy to spend 20 minutes on social media, gradually over time you have found that you, or your child, needs to spend more and more time on it to achieve the same sense of satisfaction or fulfillment. Finally, withdrawal is often associated with feelings such as agitation, anger, depression and other negative symptoms. In kids, you may notice a stark change in mood and behaviour when devices are taken away or switched off. Feelings associated with withdrawal are usually mitigated quickly if the desired object or substance is received. Hence, shortly after the experience of withdrawal, craving may start to emerge. A cycle forms that can be very hard to break. If you have ever tried to give up smoking, eat less unhealthy food, or drink less alcohol you will know how hard it is to change your behaviour towards something you really enjoy.

What can I do?

If you feel like you don't know where to start with managing your own or your kids screen time, don't despair! First, you're not alone. Many, many parents report not knowing how to manage their kids screen use, and often feel like they don't have the time to keep on top of what their kids are doing on screens, or they feel they aren't tech-savvy enough to manage it. A survey by the Royal Childrens Hospital Melbourne found that only 22% of parents rely on technology to manage technology (e.g. parental control software, smart routers). That means that about 80% of parents may be having daily arguments with their kids about turning off their screens, or not setting any restrictions on screen use at all. There are many ways to manage screen time, and importantly there are ways to do it without needing to have a daily argument or tug-of-war over screens with your kids. Click on the Digital Lockdown 101 tab for some quick wins and some more sophisticated methods of getting your kids screen use under control.

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What is screen addiction? - Turning off screens and turning on life

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'Screen addiction' is a term that we are seeing more and more often in the media, and has been used to denote various types of screen-related bad behaviours. With an estimated 94% of Australian teens, 67% of primary school-aged kids, and 36% of preschoolers owning a smartphone ( RCHM, 2017), we are in a time of unprecedented technology use.

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When people think about gaming addiction, the first thing that comes to mind is children being obsessed with their gaming consoles or computers. But did you know that it affects adults as well?

Gaming is a good way to relieve the pressures and stress of the real world. However, when an individual becomes obsessed with it and it affects the way they live, then a problem may be present.

If you feel that you or a loved one could be addicted to gaming, continue reading below as you will find out what it is, what the signs and symptoms are and what help is available.

What is Gaming Addiction?

Playing a lot of games does not mean you have a gaming addiction. It occurs when playing games begin to affect your life and the activities in it.

Because of the stress and pressures of a tough job or busy day, many people turn to gaming to release all that tension.

However, when people begin to forget about their personal responsibilities and duties just to play and complete the game, then it becomes a problem.

Signs and Symptoms of Gaming Addiction

If you suspect that you or a loved one could be addicted to a gaming, here are a few pointers to look out for.

Being dishonest about the amount of time spent playing a game, becoming emotionally attached and spending more time playing then interacting with loved ones are all signs of an addiction being present.

Financial problems could also be present as the individual may spend excessive amounts of money on gaming consoles, online gaming etc.

When the game is not available or the individual cannot play, addicts will usually portray feelings of aggression, moodiness, depression and restlessness and will constantly think about playing.

There are physical symptoms attached to gaming addiction, as addicts may experience back and neck pain, headaches and insomnia. Negligence of hygiene and nutrition may also be experienced.

Gaming Addiction Treatment

The best way to treat an addiction to gaming is to abstain from playing or being involved in anything related to gaming.

However, this may be tough to do alone therefore it is highly recommended that professional help is sought after.

With the help and guidance of an addiction professional, counselling and therapy will be used assist in the recovery of a gaming addiction.

For more information on how you can help yourself or a loved, please feel free to call us now and our qualified addiction counsellors will gladly assist you.

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When people think about gaming addiction, the first thing that comes to mind is children being obsessed with their gaming consoles or computers. But did you know that it affects adults as well? Gaming is a good way to relieve the pressures and stress of the real world.

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What are the effects of gaming addiction?

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What are the effects of gaming addiction?

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Although it is not yet recognized by the American Medical Association as a diagnosable disorder, video game addiction is a very real problem for many people. According to the University of New Mexico, recent studies suggest that 6 to 15 percent of all gamers exhibit signs that could be characterized as addiction. Though this disorder can have significant consequences to those suffering from it, its signs and symptoms can sometimes be very difficult to recognize.

Are There Different Types of Video Game Addictions?

There are two major types of video games and therefore two major types of video game addictions. Standard video games are generally designed to be played by a single player and involve a clear goal or mission, such as rescuing a princess. The addiction in these games is often related to completing that mission or beating a high score or preset standard.

The other type of video game addiction is associated with online multiplayer games. These games are played online with other people and are especially addictive because they generally have no ending. Gamers with this type of addiction enjoy creating and temporarily becoming an online character. They often build relationships with other online players as an escape from reality. For some, this community may be the place where they feel they're the most accepted.

What Causes an Addiction to Video Games?

Many different causes factor into video game addiction. One of the main reasons that video games can become so addictive, however, is they are designed to be that way. Video game designers, like anyone else trying to make a profit, are always looking for ways to get more people playing their games. They accomplish this by making a game just challenging enough to keep you coming back for more but not so hard that the player eventually gives up. In other words, success for a gamer often feels just out of reach. In this respect, video game addiction is very similar to another more widely recognized disorder: gambling addiction.

What Are the Signs of Video Game Addiction Problem?

As with any other addiction, video game addiction has warning signs. It is important to know how to recognize these signs if you or someone you care about is an avid gamer. According to the Illinois Institute for Addiction Recovery, these symptoms can be both emotional and physical.

Emotional Symptoms of Video Game Addiction

Some of the emotional signs or symptoms of video game addiction include:

Feelings of restlessness and/or irritability when unable to play

Preoccupation with thoughts of previous online activity or anticipation of the next online session

Lying to friends or family members regarding the amount of time spent playing

Isolation from others in order to spend more time gaming

Physical Symptoms of Video Game Addiction

Some of the physical signs or symptoms of video game addiction include:

Migraines due to intense concentration or eye strain

Carpal tunnel syndrome caused by the overuse of a controller or computer mouse

Poor personal hygiene

Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of Video Game Addiction

Like any other compulsive disorder, video game addiction can have severe negative consequences. Though most of the symptoms listed above have short-term effects, they can lead to more severe long-term repercussions if not addressed properly. For example, someone addicted to video games will often avoid sleeping or eating proper meals in order to continue gaming. While the short-term effects of this may include hunger and fatigue, it could eventually lead to a sleep disorder or diet-related health issues. Similarly, those who isolate themselves from others in order to play video games may miss out on family events, outings with friends, or other events in the short-term. If this continues to be a pattern for a long period of time, however, addicts might find themselves without any friends at all.

Other long-term effects of video game addiction to consider are the financial, academic and occupational consequences involved. Video games and video game equipment can be very expensive, especially when factoring in recurring costs such as the high-speed Internet connection required for online multiplayer games. These games can also be very time-consuming, leaving addicted gamers with less time to focus on their education or career.

Is There a Test or Self-Assessment I Can Do?

The most effective self-assessment that can be done is to examine the above list of symptoms associated with video game addiction. If you find that you or someone you care about exhibits any of these warnings signs, it may be a good time to cut back on the amount of time spent gaming. If you are unsure whether these symptoms apply to you, we can help. Call our toll-free number at to discuss your possible symptoms or to learn about treatment options.

Medication: Are There Drug Options for Video Game Addictions?

Treatment for video game addiction can come in many forms, including different types of therapy or 12-step programs. Certain medications may even be able to inhibit addictive behaviors.

Drugs: Possible Options

According to addictionblog.org, bupropion is one medication that has been used recently to treat this type of disorder. The drug works in a way that changes the brain's chemistry and helps to decrease cravings for video game play. Though it has proven to be fairly effective, this option may not be for everyone. Others may choose to medicate only when absolutely necessary, treating the symptoms as they occur. For example, a gamer suffering from migraines may take medication for headaches. Likewise, an addict suffering from sleeplessness may turn to sleeping pills.

Medication Side Effects

When you take any form of medication, especially when self-medicating, it is very important to read all directions and follow dosage instructions carefully. Even over-the-counter medications can result in dependency and therefore should not be taken for long periods of time unless it is recommended by a medical professional.

Bupropion, though often helpful, is not for everyone. Some possible side effects include:

Antidepressant Drug Addiction, Dependence and Withdrawal in Online Addicts

Due to the evident link between video game or Internet addiction and depression, it is not surprising that many addicted gamers take antidepressant medication to help with the symptoms. Though most healthcare professionals consider this type of medication to be safe and effective, it also comes with its own set of risks and side effects. One factor to consider before beginning antidepressant medication is that it may be difficult to stop taking it. It is common to experience withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, irritability, nausea and dizziness. In more serious cases, it is possible to experience depression as a symptom of withdrawal from the medication. This depression can be even more severe than the original depression, leading the patient to believe that the illness has returned.

Medication Overdose

According to the National Safely Council, unintentional overdose is responsible for more deaths among Americans between the ages of 35 and 54 years old than motor vehicle crashes. When taking any medication for addiction or any other problem, it is important to take only the amount prescribed. If you suspect possible overdose, it is important to act quickly. Options for immediate response include dialing 911 or contacting the National Poison Control Center.

Depression and Video Game Addiction

Two recent studies concerning the ties between video game addiction and depression showed an alarming correlation between the two. If you suffer from both conditions, it's important to seek help at a treatment facility that can address both issues. If you attempt to treat the video game addiction without treating the underlying depression, the addiction is more likely to recur.

Dual Diagnosis: Video Game Addiction and Substance Abuse

Because video game addiction has been linked to depression, sleeplessness and an overall lack of concern for one's own health, it is not surprising that substance abuse is also a problem for many gamers suffering from this compulsive disorder. For those suffering from video game addiction as well as substance abuse, proper treatment is imperative to recovery. If you or someone you know is currently suffering from one or both of these disorders, seek professional guidance immediately by calling us at .

Getting Help for Video Game Addiction

Recovery is not always easy, but it is achievable. Video game addiction can be just as dangerous as any other addiction and should be treated as such. The first step in overcoming dependency is being able to recognize that it exists. If you or someone you know exhibits any of the signs or symptoms described above, please don't hesitate to find help treating a video gaming addiction. Call our hotline today at to begin the road to recovery.

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Video Game Addiction Symptoms, Causes and Effects - PsychGuides.com

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Although it is not yet recognized by the American Medical Association as a diagnosable disorder, video game addiction is a very real problem for many people. According to the University of New Mexico, recent studies suggest that 6 to 15 percent of all gamers exhibit signs that could be characterized as addiction.

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Gaming addiction (gaming disorder) can have severe effects on family, work/education and social life just like any addiction. Written by a GP.

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How does memory loss impact people with memory loss and people that are close to them?

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How does memory loss impact people with memory loss and people that are close to them?

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How can people with memory loss be supported?

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How can people with memory loss be supported?

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How does chcolate affect the function of the brain?

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How does chcolate affect the function of the brain?

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Your brain on chocolate - Harvard Health

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Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift. The Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness, is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to fight inflammation and improve cognitive health, plus the latest advances in preventative medicine, diet and exercise, pain relief, blood pressure and cholesterol management, and more.

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Causation: What is the impact of screen addiction/time on childhood development and health?

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Causation: What is the impact of screen addiction/time on childhood development and health?

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Too much screen time can negatively affect a young child's development, according to a new study by researchers at the University of Calgary.

The study, published Monday in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, followed a group of 2,441 children between 2011 and 2016, measuring their screen time as well as their progress in meeting various developmental milestones.

The researchers found that higher levels of screen time at two and three years old was associated with poorer performance on a developmental screening test by age five.

This means that children weren't meeting benchmarks in communication, social skills, problem-solving and motor skills, said Sheri Madigan, a lead researcher on the study and assistant professor in psychology at the University of Calgary.

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In this study, two-year-olds were spending an average of 2.4 hours using screens daily. Three-year-olds were spending 3.6 hours, and five-year-olds, 1.6 hours. The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends that children between the ages of two and five use screens for less than one hour per day.
Watch below: One in four Canadian kids start school not ready to learn and a new Alberta study suggests one of the causes is too much screen time. Su-Ling Goh reports.
Too much screen time can delay important developmental milestones for children: study

Most Canadian children get far more screen time than that, said Dr. Michelle Ponti, head of the pediatric society's digital task force, and a lead author on the CPS's guidelines. Research is starting to show that this is associated with some negative things, she said.

Because screen time is generally a sedentary activity, she said that research is also starting to show an association with physical consequences like a higher likelihood of being overweight or obese.
WATCH: How much screen time should young children have?
How much screen time should young children have?

According to Dr. Mark Tremblay, director of healthy active living and obesity research at the CHEO Research Institute, this study is important because it measured direction - that screen time caused the poorer test scores, not that kids who already had behaviour issues, for example, were more likely to spend a lot of time on screens.

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He's concerned that the children were missing developmental milestones. "That's a trajectory that they're on. So what's the consequence at the next measurement point? And the next measurement point?"

Children don't learn from screens the same way that they learn from live people, or by doing things, Ponti said. "They don't know what they see on a 2-D screen, how to transfer that into 3-D life."

She also believes that how children use screens is important, as well as how much they use them, something that wasn't addressed in this study. An 18-month-old baby using Skype to interact with their grandparents won't come to harm, she said, because the child's parents are explaining what's happening, showing their toddler how to wave to grandma and so on.

It's easy for parents to fall into the trap of handing their child a phone to quiet them when they're having a temper tantrum, she said, but that reinforces bad behaviour. While everyone will do this on occasion, she suggests that parents develop a plan for where and how to use screens in their lives, and try to stick to it.

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"If you plan that you're going to have some screen-free times and screen-free zones in your life, I think you're going to be less likely to fall into the trap of whipping it out every time your child acts up."

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how much screen time should my child get

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Too much screen time can delay important developmental milestones for children, study finds

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Too much screen time can negatively affect a young child's development, according to a new study by researchers at the University of Calgary. The study, published Monday in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, followed a group of 2,441 children between 2011 and 2016, measuring their screen time as well as their progress in meeting various developmental milestones.

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Causation: What is the impact of too much screen time on health? 

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Causation: What is the impact of too much screen time on health? 

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Impact on eyesight

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A Winnipeg eye doctor says too much screen time and not enough sunlight is to blame for an alarming number of children being diagnosed with nearsightedness, or myopia, which she is calling an epidemic.

Shalin Bhattarai, 7, was on an iPad for up to seven hours a day since he was 3.

"Whenever he wanted to watch something, we used to give him iPad," said Shalin's dad, Sajal Bhattarai.

After a recommendation from a school teacher last year, Sajal brought his son to get his eyes checked, when he was diagnosed with nearsightedness.

"I was shocked," he said. "I couldn't believe it and I told her, 'You should double check him.'"

Winnipeg optometrist Kaeleigh Carrick said at least half the patients she sees under the age of 18 need a prescription.

"We are definitely seeing an epidemic," she said.

"Especially in kids and at a younger rate than we would normally see."

People with myopia are at higher risk of developing eye conditions like retinal detachments, glaucoma and myopic degeneration.

Excessive screen time has not been directly linked to nearsightedness. However, Carrick is still urging kids to put down the tablet and spend more time outdoors.

"The only thing that's been shown, actually, scientifically, to slow down progression or a trend toward nearsightedness is being outdoors in an environment of natural light."

Sajal has taken note and now allows his son only half an hour of screen time daily.

"We focus on that outside part much more now because we are aware of it," he said. "At the time we were not aware of it."

Nearly 30 per cent of the Canadian population is nearsighted, according to the Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO).

According to CAO guidelines, no screen time is recommended for children under 2. Preschoolers should get no more than one hour of screen time. Children over 5 should have less than five hours in front of a screen. It also recommends kids avoid using a screen an hour before bed.

CAO recommends children have an eye exam by at least the age of 3 and consult with their optometrist on the latest options to help reduce the progression of nearsightedness.

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Too much screen time, not enough sunlight creating vision 'epidemic' says Winnipeg optometrist

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A Winnipeg eye doctor says too much screen time and not enough sunlight is to blame for an alarming number of children being diagnosed with nearsightedness, or myopia, which she is calling an epidemic. Shalin Bhattarai, 7, was on an iPad for up to seven hours a day since he was 3.

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Causation: What does screen addiction do to a child's brain?

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Causation: What does screen addiction do to a child's brain?

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Children who spend more time in front of screens appear to have structural differences in their brains and scored lower on tests than those with a stricter media relationship, researchers at the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Centre have found.

The team looked at the brains of 47 healthy children aged 3 to 5 to find out if the use of screens, such as TVs and smartphones, had visible effects on the brain.
Read more about children and screen time:
Children who used screens for long periods on a daily basis were found to have lower structural integrity between the connections found in white matter - the parts of the brain that support language and literacy skills. They also scored lower in vocabulary and literacy tests.

To assess the children's screen time, the researchers gave their parents a screening tool, ScreenQ, which was based on the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations for children's media use to create a 15-item questionnaire. Questions were designed to establish the type of content viewed by children, their access to screens and how often they consumed screen-based media.

However, the test has been deemed to potentially lack objectivity by some experts.

"Screen-based media use is prevalent and increasing in home, childcare and school settings at ever younger ages," said Dr John Hutton, lead author of the recent study. "These findings highlight the need to understand effects of screen time on the brain, particularly during stages of dynamic brain development in early childhood, so that providers, policymakers and parents can set healthy limits."

The AAP recommends limiting screen use to one hour per day and setting 'media-free' times, such as during meals, and in certain locations like bedrooms.

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Excessive screen-time linked to changes in preschoolers' brains

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Children who spend more time in front of screens appear to have structural differences in their brains and scored lower on tests than those with a stricter media relationship, researchers at the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Centre have found.

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Responsibility: What can be done to help the problem of screen addiction?

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Responsibility: What can be done to help the problem of screen addiction?

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As adults we're pretty savvy when it comes to advertising and commercials. Those juicy cheeseburgers or shiny new cars look pretty appealing, sure, but we know the tricks advertisers use to tempt us, from upbeat music to attractive young models. Now, how many of us have tapped an icon on our phones to check a quick email only to look up an hour later and wonder where the time went? When it comes to our phones and other digital technology, we might not be as savvy as we think.

I know I'm a screen addict and that it hurts my kids We might not know, for instance, that engineers and designers use the color red in notifications to trigger an emotional response that makes us want to click or swipe. Or that auto-play functions are designed to hijack our good judgment. And more and more of us are feeling addicted to technology. As a few key members in the tech industry start coming forward-including Tristan Harris, founder of the Center for Humane Technology and a senior fellow at Common Sense-we're starting to understand why it's so hard to put our phones down.

According to Harris, this is all by design. And if we feel tethered to our little devices, imagine how our kids feel. So if we want to be good digital role models and make sure our families are using tech in healthy ways, we need to fight back against these tricks. We need to show our kids how to get all the benefits of these mini-computers in our pockets without forgetting to put people first.

Here are some simple tip-recommended by Harris-to work around the tricks phone designers use to keep us hooked:

1. Turn off all notifications, except those from people. Notifications can be helpful when they let you know something important needs your attention, like a text from your kid or an email from your boss. But most notifications are sent by machines, not people. And they're designed to draw you into interacting with an app you might not otherwise prioritize. Go to your phone's settings (on iPhones, it's Settings > Notifications) to turn off everything except messaging apps or other crucial tools.

2. Go grayscale. All those colorful apps? They're designed to trigger your brain's reward system and make you feel good. If you want to check your phone less, cutting off this trigger may help. It won't be easy, though. We're pretty hooked on all those flashy colors. But most phones let you choose muted colors. On iPhones, you can go full grayscale. Go to Settings > General > Accessibility > Display Accommodations. Turn on Color Filters, and set to "Grayscale."

3. Limit what's on your home screen. Keep only your email, maps, calendar, and whatever else you use daily front and center. Put all those other apps-from games to recipes-into folders or move to the second or third screens. If you don't see them right away, you'll be less likely to use them.

4. Type to find apps. Tapping is so easy! It's easy enough that we do it without even thinking sometimes. But if you need to take the time to type the name of the app, it gives your brain a second to consider whether you really need to play another game of Candy Crush.

5. Take social media off your phone. You'll likely be more intentional about when and where you dip into Facebook and Instagram if you only do it on a computer. If you're a regular social media user, you might be amazed to find how much time you actually spend on these apps. And when you feel the urge to add them back to your phone, consider where that compulsion is coming from.

6. Charge your phone outside of your bedroom. It's so easy to roll over, tap snooze on your buzzing phone, and delve right into the latest news or last night's work emails. But is that really the habit you want to create? And for kids, having a phone by the bed is known to cause sleep problems. Invest in an old-fashioned alarm clock and keep phones away from sleeping bodies overnight.

7. Fight fire with fire. It's ironic, but downloadable apps and extensions remove some of the triggers built in by designers and engineers and help you to be more conscious of what you're doing. Harris recommends Apple's Night Shift setting to reduce the phone's stimulating blue light, as well as apps such as Moment, Freedom, and InboxWhenReady. Plus, there are other apps to help kids stay focused while on devices, plus some great tools that can help kids and adults reduce digital distraction.
Common Sense Media is an independent nonprofit organization offering unbiased ratings and trusted advice to help families make smart media and technology choices. Check out our ratings and recommendations at Read more:
I let my kid have unlimited screen time. There, I said it.
5 ways to save yourself from device addiction www.commonsense.org and sign up for our newsletter to read more articles like this.

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7 surprisingly easy ways to fight your screen addiction

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As adults we're pretty savvy when it comes to advertising and commercials. Those juicy cheeseburgers or shiny new cars look pretty appealing, sure, but we know the tricks advertisers use to tempt us, from upbeat music to attractive young models.

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What are the different types of childhood trauma?

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What are the different types of childhood trauma?

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The National Child Traumatic Stress Network

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When a child feels intensely threatened by an event he or she is involved in or witnesses, we call that event a trauma. There is a range of traumatic events or trauma types to which children and adolescents can be exposed.

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health benefits of choclate?
Can chocolate be good for you?
What are the diffrent kinds of chocolate?

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We know there are a lot of readers out there who are desperately hoping that the answer to today's question is a resounding "Yes!" Well, it's a definite "maybe" and you'll just have to read on to find out the details you need to know!

What are we talking about? , of course! It's a tasty, tempting treat that many people simply can't resist. It's sweet and can be high in calories, so eating a lot of isn't going to help you lose weight. But could it be healthy ...somehow...some way?

Although healthy sounds too good to be true, recent scientific studies suggest that one particular type of - dark - may have some definite health benefits. Dark has a higher concentration of one of the main ingredients in : .

Scientists believe that the in dark might help to reduce certain risk factors for heart disease. Why? beans contain substances called flavonoids. Flavonoids have been shown to have antioxidant effects that can reduce cell damage that can lead to heart disease.

Flavonoids also have been linked to improved blood flow and lower blood pressure . These findings have led some scientists to believe eating dark could reduce the risk of , , and heart attack .

Before you go out and stock up on "healthy" dark , though, you should be aware of a few things. Many of the studies that suggest health benefits of dark are recent and need to be confirmed by more .

More importantly, as with any "healthy" food, scientists are quick to point out that moderation is key. A little bit of dark is likely all you need to get the health benefits from the flavonoids in dark .

Eating too much too often can lead to weight gain and many related health problems that could easily and quickly erase any benefits gained. The fat, sugar, and calories in , if not eaten in moderation , can lead to higher risk of high blood pressure , heart disease, and - the very things the flavonoids are supposed to counteract !

If you want the health benefits of dark , doctors suggest eating no more than three ounces of dark per day. Also, be sure you're eating dark with a content of at least 65%.

Three grams of dark daily can still add 450 calories or more to your diet. To make up for these calories, you may want to decrease calories in other areas or exercise more often.

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We know there are a lot of readers out there who are desperately hoping that the answer to today's question is a resounding "Yes!" Well, it's a definite "maybe" and you'll just have to read on to find out the details you need to know! What are we talking about?

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Article also includes:
What are the different types of chocolate?
What are the health benefits/risks of chocolate?

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(Image: © Dionisvera/Shutterstock )

Chocolate is the most popular sweet treat in the world. People around the world (but mostly in Europe and the United States) consume more than 3 million tons of cocoa beans a year, according to the World Cocoa Foundation. And, not only does eating chocolate make you feel good, it may also be good for your heart and your brain.

What is chocolate?

Chocolate is prepared from the fruit of the Theobroma cacao, a tropical tree whose name means "food of the gods" in Greek, according to " Chocolate: Food of the Gods," an online exhibit by the Cornell University Library.

Theobroma cacao trees are native to the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in South America. The trees are widely distributed from southeastern Mexico to the Amazon River. They thrive in hot, humid areas within about 20 degrees of the equator, according to Cornell. As the popularity of chocolate spread, growers established plantations in other regions, such as West Africa and South and Southeast Asia. Today, Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, Nigeria, Indonesia and Brazil account for 79 percent of the world's cacao production.

Cacao trees bear fruit that are about the same size and shape of a papaya, according to Patric Chocolate. These bumpy, lumpy berries, or pods, are full of up to 50 sour seeds, or beans, covered in white pulp.

Cacao seeds are harvested by hand because machines could injure the trees, according to Cornell. Workers remove the pods, which are orange when they are ripe, and open them with a machete. The seeds are placed in large fermentation trays that are stacked and covered in banana leaves, where they are left for two to seven days. Fermentation produces the chocolate flavor and aroma. It also destroys the seed's embryo, preventing unwanted germination, and causes the white pulp to fall away from the seeds.

After fermenting, the beans dry out on sunny platforms. Workers turn them several times a day for three to five days to complete drying. The beans can dry faster in rotary driers but sun-dried beans taste the best, according to Cornell.

Next, the beans are taken to the chocolate factory, where they are cleaned and debris is removed. The beans are roasted in large, rotating ovens. The roasting draws out flavor and removes the beans from their hulls. Roasted beans go into a winnowing machine, which cracks the beans and removes hulls. The remaining part of the bean is called the nib. Nibs become chocolate.

The nibs are ground down under a series of rollers. This process results in a thick paste called chocolate liquor. Chocolate liquor does not contain alcohol (however, chocolate liqueur does). It is the main source of unsweetened baking chocolate, according to Pam Williams, co-founder and past president of the Fine Chocolate Industry Association (FCIA) and founder and lead instructor of Ecole Cocolat Professional School of Chocolate Arts.

At this stage, the type of chocolate being produced is determined. According to the FCIA, ingredients separate fine chocolate from that of average quality. "Fine chocolate," as designated by the FCIA, contains only cacao liquor, cacao butter (optional), sugar, lecithin, vanilla (optional) and possibly milk fats and solids. Additional flavors or ingredients like nuts can be added later.

(Image credit: Dreamstime)

Types of chocolate

Fine chocolate falls into three categories: dark chocolate, milk chocolate and white chocolate, Williams said.

Dark chocolate has chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, lecithin, sugar and vanilla.

Milk chocolate has all of the above plus milk fats and milk solids.

White chocolate contains everything milk chocolate does except chocolate liquor.

Chocolatiers debate whether white chocolate is really chocolate. Until 2002, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration considered it a confectionary rather than chocolate because it does not contain chocolate liquor. The Hershey Food Corp. and the Chocolate Manufacturers Association petitioned the FDA, which added a standard of identity for white chocolate. Because the FDA refers to it as white chocolate, rather than confectionary, some experts, like Williams, accept white chocolate as chocolate.

Within the three categories, the FDA also acknowledges several grades, Williams said. They include unsweetened or brute, which can be up to 99 percent chocolate liquor; bittersweet; semisweet; and dark milk chocolate. The type of chocolate depends on what ingredients are present and the percentage of cocoa, in addition to where the beans are from and the way they are prepared.

Health benefits of chocolate
Good heart food
Several recent studies have examined the role that chocolate may have on heart health. Cacao beans are full of phytonutrients, which act as antioxidants and provide additional benefits. Furthermore, cacao beans are rich sources of iron, copper, magnesium, zinc and phosphorus, according to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Dark chocolate contains two to three times more beneficial flavanols than milk chocolate because milk chocolate's cacao concentration is diluted with milk and possibly more sugar.

While most studies have found some correlation between chocolate consumption and reduced risk of heart problems, the amount and type of chocolate needed requires further study. A 2017 meta-analysis of the effects of chocolate on coronary heart disease, stroke and diabetes published in the journal Nutrients concluded that the most benefit was associated with moderate chocolate intake. The authors found little benefit in heart disease or stroke reduction among people who consumed chocolate more than three times a week. Protective effects against diabetes emerged at two servings a week, but that benefit disappeared if people had more than six servings a week.

On the other hand, the findings of a large-scale study of more than 150,000 primarily male U.S. veterans who did not have coronary artery disease at the beginning of the study, suggest that eating an ounce of chocolate at least five times a week may help prevent the risk of coronary artery disease-related events like heart attack and heart failure.

Chocolate may also help prevent the development of atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heartbeat that increases the risk of heart failure, stroke and more. A study, published in the journal Heart in 2017, found that adults who ate chocolate at least once a month had 10 to 20 percent lower rates of developing atrial fibrillation than those who never or rarely ate chocolate.
Good brain food
Chocolate may be good for the brain. Some studies have focused on chocolate's ability to improve cognitive function. A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease in 2016 found that chocolate consumption might lower the risk of cognitive decline in older people. The study looked at nearly 400 Portuguese citizens over age 65 and saw that those who ate a moderate amount of chocolate - on average, one chocolate snack a week; the study did not differentiate between milk and dark chocolate - decreased their risk of cognitive decline by 40 percent over two years. Those who ate more chocolate, or those who had more caffeine, saw fewer cognitive benefits.
Good mood food
Chocolate is often associated with positive effects on mood, but the reasons why it makes some people feel good are debatable. Chocolate contains substances that stimulate the brain in the same way cannabis does, such as anandamines, and substances that have similar effects as amphetamine, such as tyramine and phenylethylamine, according to the Dartmouth Undergraduate Journal of Science. However, these substances are in very low concentrations - too low to induce an antidepressant effect.

Chocolate may interact with neurotransmitter systems that contribute to appetite, reward and mood regulation, such as dopamine, serotonin and endorphins, according to the 2013 article in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. However, the authors noted, the effects may have more to do with chocolate's taste and smell than its chemical effects.

A 2010 study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found a link between depression and chocolate consumption. The results showed that people who scored high on a screening test for depression consumed more chocolate than those who weren't considered depressed. However, the study pointed out that there is only a link, and cannot explain why. Since the participants were not followed over time, the researchers don't know whether eating chocolate ameliorates or amplifies a sad mood. The possibilities are many - from using chocolate as a sort of natural Prozac to the idea that chocolate might have some role in driving depression.

Health risks of eating chocolate

Like many foods, chocolate is healthiest when eaten in moderation. The sugars and fats that are added to chocolate make it high in calories, which may lead to weight gain. Furthermore, many of the protective effects that chocolate may offer might be mitigated by overconsumption.

History of chocolate

Scientists debate how long humans have been using and consuming cacao beans. Chocolate's history goes back at least 2,000 years, while historians Sophie and Michael Coe, authors of " The True History of Chocolate" (Thames and Hudson, 2013), suggest that it might go back four millennia. The word chocolate can be traced back to the Aztec word "xocoatl," the name for a bitter drink made from cacao beans. This was the way chocolate was consumed until the Spanish conquistadors came to Central America.

In several pre-Columbian Latin American societies, cacao beans were used as currency, according to Smithsonian magazine. Mayans and Aztecs believed the beans had mystical properties and used them during important rituals. When the Spanish arrived, sweetened chocolate came into existence. Legend has it that the Aztec king Montezuma gave conquistador Hernán Cortés a bitter chocolate drink, which he said was disgusting. But Cortés' men added cane sugar and honey to it and took it back to Spain, where it quickly became popular.

Chocolate was a fashionable drink for rich Europeans throughout the 18th century. The Industrial Revolution allowed chocolate to be mass-produced and brought the treat to the masses. The popularity led to the development of cacao tree plantations.

Enslaved people farmed most of the plantations. Initially, Spanish colonizers forced Mesoamericans to farm the cacao plantations, according to " The Biography of Chocolate" (Crabtree Publishing Co., 2005), by Adrianna Morganelli. When the indigenous peoples began to die in large numbers from diseases brought by Europeans, enslaved Africans were brought over to make up the labor shortage. In addition to sugarcane, indigo and other crops, enslaved Africans planted, maintained and harvested cacao trees throughout the Caribbean, Central and South America to feed the new European taste for chocolate.

In 1815, Dutch physicist Coenraad Van Houten experimented with removing varied amounts of the cocoa butter from chocolate liquor, according to Cornell University. This led to the creation of cocoa powder and soon solid chocolate.

In 1847, a Bristol, England, chocolate company, Fry's, created the first mass-produced chocolate bar when Joseph Fry added additional cocoa butter to Van Houten's chocolate, which turned it into a moldable paste, according to Bristol Museums. Milk chocolate was invented soon after with the help of Henri Nestlé, who went on to found the major food company that bears his name. Major European chocolate brands Lindt and Cadbury also got their start in the 1800s; Rodolphe Lindt invented the conching machine, which gives chocolate a velvety texture.

Mass chocolate consumption hit the United States in the late 1800s when Milton S. Hershey began selling chocolate-coated caramels. He then developed his own formula for milk chocolate, purchased chocolate factory equipment and introduced mass-produced chocolate bars and other shapes, like Hershey's Kisses, in 1900.

In 1923, the Mars Co. developed the Milky Way bar by putting nougat inside a chocolate bar. That same year, former Hershey employee H.B. Reese introduced Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, which later became part of the Hershey brand.

As the years progressed, chocolate concoctions from both small and large producers became increasingly innovative. In September 2017, Swiss chocolate company Barry Callebaut introduced ruby chocolate. Ruby chocolate comes from isolating specific compounds in cocoa beans, according to Confectionary News. That, along with a modified processing technique, results in a rosy pink chocolate that has a sweet but sour berry taste and no traditional chocolate flavor, according to The Sydney Morning Herald. Other colored chocolates are made from dyed white chocolate.

Threats to chocolate

Chocolate production is threatened by climate change. According to a 2016 report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the primary cacao-producing countries of Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, and Indonesia will experience a 2.1 degree Celsius (3.7 degrees Fahrenheit) increase in temperature by 2050. Rainfall will not rise along with the temperature, causing lowered humidity levels. As a result, viable land for cacao production will significantly shrink. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Climate Change 2014: Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability report, 89.5 percent of the 294 chocolate-producing locations studied would become less suitable by 2050.

Farmers and scientists are working to develop strategies to maintain chocolate production. Some farmers are planting taller trees next to cacao trees to increase shade and decrease moisture loss, according to the NOAA. Cacao plantations may also move to higher elevations with cooler temperatures and greater rainfall.

Genetic scientists are taking a different approach. A January 2018 press release from the Innovative Genomics Institute announced a project to develop disease-resistant cacao. Condensing cacao plantations because of climate change could increase the spread of disease. The project will use CRISPR DNA-editing technology to make a heartier cacao seed.

Ethics of chocolate production

According to Slave Free Chocolate, 2.3 million children work in chocolate production in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire, where they are vulnerable to trafficking, slavery and other violent labor practices. The International Labor Rights Forum reports that these children are often exposed to chemicals, work long hours and are denied education. According to Epicure and Culture, many children are sold into slavery and never see their families again. Others are kidnapped.

Though the Harkin-Engel Protocol of 2001 was designed to stop child labor in the chocolate industry, according to the CNN Freedom Project, little has changed. The deadlines for action have been repeatedly pushed back.

Consumers who want ethical chocolate should look for certifications designating Fair Trade, Rain Forest Alliance, UTZ, and Fair for Life, according to Slave Free Chocolate's guide to chocolate companies.

Chocolate production can also harm the environment. Farmers often clear forests to make room for cacao plantations. According to the World Wildlife Fund, about 70 percent of Côte d'Ivoire's illegal deforestation is related to cacao farming. One danger of deforestation is soil erosion, which can make land less fertile for cacao plants, creating a vicious cycle, according to Confectionary News.
Additional resources

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Jessie Szalay - Live Science Contributor

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(Image: © Dionisvera/Shutterstock ) Chocolate is the most popular sweet treat in the world. People around the world (but mostly in Europe and the United States) consume more than 3 million tons of cocoa beans a year, according to the World Cocoa Foundation.

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Protect endangered species, including the orangutan, at World Wildlife Fund. Learn about the ways WWF works to conserve a future where people live in harmony with nature.

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Protect endangered species, including the orangutan, at World Wildlife Fund. Learn about the ways WWF works to conserve a future where people live in harmony with nature.

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How Fast Food Affects Children's Health?

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How Fast Food Affects Children's Health?

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Negative impact of junk food

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Fast food or junk food is a generic term for all kinds of foods which are rich in energy, because they contain a lot of fat and sugar, as well as salt, but are relatively low in other important nutrients such as protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

However, fast food is extremely attractive to most children because of the taste, comparatively lower price, and convenience (doesn't require any cooking or preparation). Since children typically do not understand how this kind of food negatively impacts their health, it can be quite addictive.

This article describes some important ways in which junk food harms children's health.

Negative Aspects of Junk Food

Regular junk food intake leads to long-term health problems such as obesity, accompanying emotional and self-esteem problems, and chronic illnesses in later life. A single fast food meal could add 160 and 310 extra kilocalories to the daily caloric intake for teenagers and younger children, respectively.

Lack of vitamins such as A and C, and minerals such as magnesium and calcium, encourage the development of deficiency diseases and osteoporosis, as well as dental caries due to higher sugar intake.

The presence of hazardous food coloring agents and/or unhealthy trans fats in many fast food items, and issues with food preparation safety, often complicate the issue further.

Food | Children's Health Crisis | NPT Reports

Atopy

Fast food intake more than three times a week is associated with greater odds of atopic disorders such as asthma, eczema or rhinitis, while asthma severity is almost 40% higher in teenagers and more than 25% in younger children.

Eating junk food 4-6 times a week leads to lower math and reading skills compared with the children who did not eat so much junk food.

Constipation

An overdose of calories, fats, sugars, and other carbohydrates in repeated meals changes the food desires of the child, and makes it less likely that the child will eat fibers, fruits, milk, and vegetables. This can result in greater chances of constipation.

Addiction

Eating a lot of fast food in childhood makes it hard to eat healthy in later life, even if related medical problems are already evident, because childhood food habits solidify by adulthood. The addictive taste of fast food makes it quite unlikely that the palate will later savor the less complicated and less spicy flavors of ordinary food.

Poor Academics

Fast food can lead to impaired academic performance because high sugar levels followed by sugar crashes and poor concentration levels make it difficult to accomplish tasks which need extended periods of focused attention. Blood sugar fluctuations can also result in mood swings and lack of alertness, lowering classroom participation.

Less Energy

Fast food can inhibit participation in extracurricular activities because it doesn't provide adequate nutrients for physical activity. Lack of physical activity not only keeps children out of peer groups but also impairs physical and mental health.

Depression

Obesity can result in lowered self-esteem, and perhaps depression. Some children who eat junk food are at risk of developing depression even without obesity. Depression in turn affects growth and development parameters, academic performance, and social relationships. It also results in a higher risk of suicide.

Sleep Disturbances

Pop and cola drinks often contain caffeine which can make bedtime an ordeal by postponing normal sleep-wake cycles.

Hyperactivity

Essential fatty acids are typically missing or lacking in fast foods. These include omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids which cannot be produced within the body, but are essential for the manufacture of cell membranes, and are also required in high concentrations within the brain and retina. The lack of such nutrients is thought to be associated with increased antisocial behavior, and perhaps with hyperactivity, though more research is needed to prove this.

Jamie Oliver TED Talk on Obesity and Food

Conclusion

Fast food intake definitely needs to be strictly controlled in children as it does no good and may do much harm. The antidote? Surprisingly, a simple increase in fruit intake can improve the mood and reduce the severity of atopic diseases. Stopping the marketing of junk foods directed at children with attractive characters and gifts may be one way to help children eat better. Another method is to make healthy food more easily available at affordable prices and in a more appealing format.

Further Reading

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Fast food or junk food is a generic term for all kinds of foods which are rich in energy, because they contain a lot of fat and sugar, as well as salt, but are relatively low in other important nutrients such as protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

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How does climate change alter the ocean food chain? 

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How does climate change alter the ocean food chain? 

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Climate change could alter ocean food chains, leading to far fewer fish in the sea

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Climate change is rapidly warming the Earth and altering ecosystems on land and at sea that produce our food. In the oceans, most added heat from climate warming is still near the surface and will take centuries to work down into deeper waters. But as this happens, it will change ocean circulation p…

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What is junk food? Why is it bad for you?

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What is junk food? Why is it bad for you?

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Picture this: a plate of hot French fries and a huge burger with hot cheese oozing out of it, and a large serving of any aerated drink; looks like a treat! This calorie dense junk food does look mouthwatering, but is known to be nutritionally poor. Junk food or fast food has become an increasingly popular food choice to grab when on the go. Ideally, junk foods are defined as processed foods with negligible nutrient value and are often high in salt, sugar and fat. But we often confuse fast foods with junk foods. How are they different? Or what is junk food really ? We have got the answers for you! What is junk food?Junk foods are processed foods consisting of high calories, but that is considered only as a broad umbrella. These foods are prepared in a way that they look appealing and are enjoyable so you are chemically programmed to ask for more. According to Dr. Sunali Sharma, Dietician & Nutritionist, Amandeep Hospital, "Commercial products including but not limited to salted snack foods, gum, candy, sugary desserts, fried fast food, and sweetened carbonated beverages that have little or no nutritional value but are high in calories, salt, and fats may be considered junk foods. Though not all fast foods are junk foods, but a great number of them are. For instance, a salad may be fast food, but is definitely not junk food. Some foods like burgers, pizzas, and tacos may alternate between junk and healthy categories depending on the ingredients, calories and process of manufacturing."

Junk foods are processed foods consisting of high calories​Why are junk foods bad for you?Frequent consumption of junk food increases the intake of excess fat, simple carbohydrates, and processed sugar which may lead to a higher risk of obesity and cardiovascular diseases among other chronic health problems. The resulting obesity may begin clogging up the arteries and lay the basis of an impending heart attack. It has also been suggested that eating junk food affects the brain in the same way as consuming addictive drugs. An addiction to junk food may even result in rejection of healthier food options like fruits, vegetables, salads etc. leading to further lack of nourishment. How should you really avoid junk food?According to Dr. Sharma, the red flags that you should look out for and avoid bringing home include trans-fats, refined grains, salt and high fructose corn syrup. Avoid foods that say corn sweetener, corn syrup, corn syrup solids, partially hydrogenated, fractionated, or hydrogenated on their label.

Avoid foods that say corn sweetener, corn syrup, corn syrup solids, etc.So next time you want to know if what's on your plate is junk or not, ask yourself these 3 crucial questions: 1. How many calories am I consuming in this one serving?
2. What are the healthy nutrients I am taking in with this meal?
3. What's the quality of ingredients used; how fresh is this food item? Do note that quitting junk food is a gradual process. If you are someone who is accustomed to daily doses of junk, then quitting may not be way. The first few days could be tough as you may experience some of these symptoms: irritability, headaches, dip in energy levels and so on. An occasional treat never hurts, what you have to look out against is consistent consumption of junk foods, especially at the cost of healthy nutrition.

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What Is Junk Food? Why Is It Bad For You?

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Ideally, junk foods are defined as processed foods with negligible nutrient value and are often high in salt, sugar and fat. But we often confuse fast foods with junk foods. How are they different? Or what is junk food really ? We have got the answers for you!

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Action: How can we encourage healthy eating choices at VIS?

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Action: How can we encourage healthy eating choices at VIS?

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Can our brains be retrained to beat junk food addiction?

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Can our brains be retrained to beat junk food addiction?

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Sugary and fatty foods have the power to change how your brain works and stop your brain knowing when you're full.

Australia's leading brain scientists are meeting in Adelaide, South Australia this week to discuss how to take back control of our appetites and health, retraining our brains and our eating patterns to help us be healthier and manage eating disorders.

University of Adelaide professor Amanda Page will present research to the Australasian* Neuroscience* Society that shows that appetite control communication between the brain and gut is weakened and delayed in obese mice.

Even when the mice are put back on a healthy diet, that response does not return to normal.

"People say, 'Oh, they should just stop eating.' But they aren't getting those signals telling them when to stop," Prof Page said.

Her team will now test whether time-restricted eating, where eating is kept to certain hours - to better match the body's natural ups and downs in energy needs - can help reset healthy metabolism* and appetite regulation*.

Research from the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health has found that junk food acts on the brain's reward systems in the same way addictive drugs do.

Further, Dr Robyn Brown has found that the female brain is most vulnerable* to disordered* eating in the face of stress or strong emotions.

Her study found that stressed female mice binge*-ate the equivalent of their daily food intake in just 15 minutes. Male mice were not affected when in the same conditions.

"Compulsory eating is very hard to overcome when the brain is hardwired* that way," Dr Brown said.

The laboratory of Queensland University of Technology professor Selena Bartlett has uncovered that junk food and alcohol impair* the brain's impulse* control.

The great news is that Prof Bartlett said, before her presentation this week, the adult brain was "plastic" - which means able to be remodelled - and could be changed with "practice and effort".

She has developed a soon-to-be-released app called Trace It, which calms the brain's impulse control to relieve stress.

GLOSSARY

Australasian: region including Australia and Asia

neuroscience: the science of brains and the nervous system

metabolism: the chemical processes in your body as it works

regulation: control something with rules

vulnerable: at risk of damage

disordered: not normal

binge: a period of excessive eating or drinking

hardwired: make a pattern of behaviour standard or instinctive

impair: stop something working properly

impulse: a sudden and strong urge to do something without thinking

EXTRA READING Call for salad and water to replace cola and fries Teens guzzling too much soft drink Video game addiction officially a disease Call to ban lollies at checkouts QUICK QUIZ

1. What will Amanda Page tell the scientists?

2. Why can't some people "just stop eating"?

3. Explain the difference eating observed between males and females under stress.

4. What did the Florey Institute research find?

5. What does it mean to say the brain is "plastic"?

LISTEN TO THIS STORY
CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES
1. Plastic brain
It states in the Kids News article that the adult brain is "plastic" and can be remodelled with practice and effort.

Draw a picture of the adult brain and around the brain write some ways you could remodel the brain to train it into healthier habits rather than reaching for sugary junk foods. Include in your descriptions other ways to deal with emotional and stressful situations rather than eating junk food.

Time: allow 15 minutes to complete this activity
Curriculum Links: English, Health and Physical Education, Critical and creative thinking

2. Extension
What are the signals you should look for to know when your body is full? What happens if you continue to eat? Why do you think the female brain is different to a male's brain when it comes to eating?

Time: allow 10 minutes to complete this activity
Curriculum Links: English, Health and Physical Education, Critical and creative thinking

VCOP ACTIVITY
After reading the article, with a partner, highlight as many connectives as you can find in pink. Discuss if these are being used as conjunctions, or to join ideas and create flow.

HAVE YOUR SAY: Do you think it is harder to know when you're full eating junk food than when eating healthier food?
No one-word answers. Use full sentences to explain your thinking. No comments will be published until approved by editors.

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Scientists discuss how to retrain our brains to beat junk food addiction and eating disorders

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Sugary and fatty foods have the power to change how your brain works and stop your brain knowing when you're full. Australia's leading brain scientists are meeting in Adelaide, South Australia this week to discuss how to take back control of our appetites and health, retraining our brains and our eating patterns to help us be healthier and manage eating disorders.

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Why are platypus important for the environment.

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Why are platypus important for the environment.

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Seasonality

Platypuses are active all year round, but mostly during twilight and in the night. During day, individuals shelter in a short burrow in bank. The activity patterns of these animals are determined by a number of factors including: locality, human activity, ambient temperatures, day length and food availability.

Feeding and diet

The Platypus feeds mainly during the night on a wide variety of aquatic invertebrates. The average foraging periods last for 10-12 hours per day, and the distances the animals move during this time vary between individuals and their distribution. The animal closes its eyes, ears and nostrils when foraging underwater and its primary sense organ is the bill, equipped with receptors sensitive to pressure, and with electro-receptors. The precise way in which the Platypus uses the bill to detect prey is still unknown, but the bill serves to find and sift small prey from the substrate, while larger prey is taken individually. The Platypus stays underwater for between 30-140 seconds, collecting the invertebrates from the river bottom and storing them in its cheek-pouches. It then chews the food using its horny, grinding plates, while it floats and rests on the water surface.

Diet of the Platypus consists mainly of the benthic invertebrates, particularly the insect larvae. The species also feeds on free-swimming organisms: shrimps, swimming beetles, water bugs and tadpoles, and at times worms, freshwater pea mussels and snails. Occasionally the animals catch cicadas and moths from the water surface. In captivity, the Platypuses are often fed freshwater crayfish (Yabbies).

Other behaviours and adaptations

When swimming, the Platypus presents a low profile, with three small humps (the head, back and tail) visible above the water surface. The swimming action is smooth, and when the Platypus dives the back is arched as the animal plunges underwater, creating a spreading ring. These characteristics coupled with the absence of visible ears distinguish the Platypus from the dog-paddle style of the Water-rat.

Platypuses can swim through fast waters at the speed of around 1 metre per second, but when foraging the speed is closer to 0.4 metres per second. However, the Platpus is not well adapted for walking on land. The limbs are short, heavy and splayed away from the body, and a Platypus uses almost 30% more energy when moving on land, compared to a terrestrial mammal of similar size.

Communication

The Platypus is largely a solitary animal, but several individuals can share the same body of water. The vocalisation has not been recorded in the wild, but captive animals produce a low-pitched growling sounds when disturbed or handled.

Life history cycle

Young Platypuses do not seem to reproduce in their first year of life, instead, both sexes become reproductive in their second year. Still, many females do not breed until they are at least 4 years old. After mating, a female will lay 1-3 eggs (usually 2) following a 21-days gestation period. She then incubates the eggs for possibly 10 days, after which the lactation period lasts for 3-4 months before the young emerge from the burrow. Platypuses are long-lived animals both in captivity and in the wild, living up to approximately 20 years.

Breeding behaviours

The breeding season of the Platypus varies with distribution and within populations. Studies suggest that breeding occurs earliest in Queensland, followed by New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania. Mating normally takes place between August to October in New South Wales and Victoria, and lactating females were observed between September and March.

The knowledge of the breeding behaviour generally comes from observations of animals in captivity. In winter (when the water is still cold) males initiate mating interactions. Courtship includes aquatic activities such as: rolling sideways together, diving, touching and passing, and the male is also observed grasping a female's tail with its bill. The behaviour last from less than a minute to over half an hour and is usually repeated over several days.

After mating, a pregnant female builds a nest in a long complex burrow (possibly re-worked by several females in different seasons) in less than a week. She spends further 4-5 days collecting wet nesting material to prevent her eggs and hatchlings from drying out. During the egg incubation period, a female holds the eggs pressed by her tail to her belly, while curled up. She intermittently leaves the burrow, however, much of this aspect of the animal's life is still unknown. When the young hatch, the female starts secreting milk and the young Platypuses suckle from the two milk patches covered by fur on the female's abdomen. The female spends most of this time with her young in the burrow, and as the young grow, she increasingly leaves them to forage. Towards the end of the summer the young emerge from the burrow and their fate as young independent animals is still largely unknown.

Conservation status

The Platypus is protected by legislation in all of the states that it occurs in. Individuals cannot be captured or killed, except for scientific research. The Platypus is a common species with very little apparent change in its historical distribution (except in South Australia). However, there is a general lack of knowledge in the species abundance at local catchment levels to predict population trends. The dependence of Platypuses on the established freshwater systems may lead to their decline in future.

Under IUCN the Platypus has been listed as Least Concern species (year assessed 2008).

Predators

Platypuses spend most of their time in water or their burrow, so it is difficult to determine their predators. There have been anecdotal reports of the species being predated on by crocodiles, goannas, carpet pythons, eagles and large native fish. In addition, it is likely that foxes, and possibly dogs or dingoes kill Platypuses that move on land or in shallow waters.

Platypuses have a number of ectoparasites in the wild, including their own tick species, Ixodes ornithothynchi. The tick is often found around the hind limbs, and in smaller numbers on the front legs and in the body fur. Severe skin ulcers caused by the amphibian fungal infection have been reported in Tasmanian Platypuses in particular. The fungus can be fatal to the animal if it invades other tissues, particularly the lungs.

Danger to humans

Male Platypuses have a calcaneous, sharp spur about 12 millimetres long on each ankle. The spur is connected via a long duct to a gland that produces venom, particularly in the breeding season. The venom can cause severe pain to humans, and although not lethal, the pain caused has been described as excruciating. Swelling rapidly develops around the wound and gradually spreads throughout the affected limb. Information obtained from case histories and anecdotal evidence indicates that the pain develops into a long-lasting hyperalgesia (temporary increased sensitivity to pain) that persists for days or even months. Therefore, if there is a need to handle a Platypus (helping an injured animal for instance), it should always be picked up by the end half of the tail to avoid the spur in case it is a male.

Fossils description

The fossil record for monotremes is poor in comparison to that of other groups of mammals, and until recently little was known about their evolutionary history. Several fossil discoveries since the early 1970s have shed some light on the origins of monotremes. We now know that monotremes were present in Australia during the Mesozoic Era, when Australia was still part of the supercontinent, Gondwana. The fossil evidence suggests that monotremes originated and diversified in the Australian/Antarctic section of Gondwana, and that there was only a single dispersal to South America before the break up of Gondwana.

Four species related to Platypus have been found in fossil deposits from Australia, including a complete skull of Obdurodon dicksoni and an opalised jaw fragment of Steropodon galmani. The latter is 110 million years old and represents one of Australia's oldest mammals. The only evidence that Platypus ancestors were once present outside Australia came in 1991, when a 61-63 million year old fossil tooth was found in Patagonia, in southern Argentina.

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Seasonality Platypuses are active all year round, but mostly during twilight and in the night. During day, individuals shelter in a short burrow in bank. The activity patterns of these animals are determined by a number of factors including: locality, human activity, ambient temperatures, day length and food availability.

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Video game addiction has been officially recognised as a disease by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The disease is described as "a pattern of persistent* or recurrent* gaming behaviour" that "takes precedence* over other life interests" in WHO's International Classification of Diseases (ICD) database. WHO is a part of the United Nations* that advises on international public health.

The good news is that only a small fraction of video game players will develop a "gaming disorder", according to Shekhar Saxena, WHO's expert on mental health and substance* abuse.

But he has seen some extreme cases, such as gamers who played for 20 hours straight, missing sleep, meals, work, school and other typical activities. He said early warning signs could help prevent a disorder developing. If such behaviour continued for about a year, he said, the person would be diagnosed as having an addiction.

In Australia, Fortnite gaming addiction has seen a growing number of psychologists* now specialising in treatment for gaming addiction. Gaming rehabilitation* and treatment centres have been established in Sydney and Melbourne.

The Video Games Coalition, a group that speaks on behalf of game companies, said in a statement to US news network NBC that games are "enjoyed safely and sensibly by more than 2 billion people worldwide."

The Video Games Coalition is calling for WHO to reconsider its decision to classify gaming addiction as a disease, adding that studies show video games could have "educational, therapeutic*, and recreational* value."

WHO'S DEFINITION OF A GAMING DISORDER
(This definition is for medical experts and contains lots of complex words and long sentences. Remember to use the glossary below to help you make sense of it.)

"A pattern of gaming behaviour characterised by impaired* control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming over other activities to the extent that gaming takes precedence over other interests and daily activities, and continuation or escalation* of gaming despite the occurrence of negative consequences.

"For gaming disorder to be diagnosed, the behaviour pattern must be of sufficient* severity to result in significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational* or other important areas of functioning and would normally have been evident* for at least 12 months."

This is an edited version of a New York Post story and is republished here with permission.
WHAT IS FORTNITE? GLOSSARY

persistent: continuing despite efforts to stop it

recurrent: comes back again and again

precedence: being considered more important than something else

United Nations: countries working together

substance: used to mean drugs and alcohol

psychologists: medical professionals who look after mental health

rehabilitation: getting help to get better

therapeutic: a medical treatment

recreational: as a leisure activity for spare time

impaired: hindered or not working as well as it should be

escalation: getting worse

sufficient: enough

occupational: to do with work

evident: obvious or noticeable

EXTRA READING Hackers good and evil tale of technology France's school mobile ban begins The World Wide Web turns 30 Exploring Minecraft's new Australian city Being bored is good for you QUICK QUIZ

1. What does WHO stand for and what is it?

2. Does everyone who plays games have a serious health problem?

3. What are people with extreme problems missing out on when they're gaming?

4. Which game is mentioned as a problem for some people in Australia?

5. Who does the Video Games Coalition speak for?

LISTEN TO THIS STORY
CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES
1. What is a gaming disorder?
Design a set of flash cards or posters that will help other kids understand what a gaming disorder is. Use WHO's definition and the glossary of terms at the end of the story to help you understand it yourself.

Time: allow 25 minutes to complete this activity.
Curriculum Links: English, Health and Physical Education, Visual Communication Design

2. Extension
Are video games helpful or harmful? Imagine that you have been asked to write a discussion paper or report for the government. The purpose of your paper is to show all sides of an argument or problem and then give recommendations for action or solutions to the problem. Under the headings 'Helpful' and 'Harmful' list the information in the story that fits. Then, add your own ideas to each list. Use your lists to write your discussion paper or report. Don't forget to finish your report with your opinion on what the problems are and some solutions.

Time: allow 40 minutes to complete this activity
Curriculum Links: English, Health and Physical Education, Personal and Social Capability

VCOP ACTIVITY
Have you ever played a video game for hours on end, or watched someone else do it? Maybe you have a game you love that you are always dying to get home and play.

Tell about your experience, or an experience you have seen being addicted to something. Imagine how it feels to be constantly thinking about it.

Use good describing words and phrases to express your thoughts.

HAVE YOUR SAY: Do you find it hard to stop playing video games? How do you make yourself stop? Do you think games can be harmful?
No one-word answers. Use full sentences to explain your thinking. No comments will be published until approved by editors.

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Extreme gamers could be developing a serious health problem

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Video game addiction has been officially recognised as a disease by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The disease is described as "a pattern of persistent* or recurrent* gaming behaviour" that "takes precedence* over other life interests" in WHO's International Classification of Diseases (ICD) database.

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What animal species are affected by palm oil plantations?

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What animal species are affected by palm oil plantations?

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Responsibility

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Kobe Bryant passed away this Sunday at age 41 in a helicopter crash - along with eight more people, including his daughter Gianna - and left a great legacy in the world of basketball. However, the former Los Angeles Lakers player addressed other professional areas: film, music and even literature.

The writer Paulo Coelho has revealed, after knowing the death of the athlete, who was preparing a children's book with Bryant. As the Brazilian author told The Associated Press agency on Monday, they both started conversations about this project in 2016, when the basketball player withdrew from the fields. His goal was to motivate the little ones through sport: "Kobe was worried about making a book that would be a positive example for children, especially for those who come from humble families."

But, as the Brazilian author has communicated through your twitter account, will not finally come to light. "You were more than a great player, dear Kobe Bryant. I learned a lot talking to you. The draft will be deleted right now. This book has lost its meaning," Coelho wrote along with an image of a conversation he had with the athlete last month of August.

The novelist has erased what has worked so far because "it makes no sense to publish it without him", but he doesn't rule out writing about the things he learned from Bryant, a great fan of Coelho and whose favorite book was The Alchemist. "I saw it enough to see that he thought of more things than sports. He did not focus only on competing. (...) His tragic death has shown how important it was for the world, not just for the United States. We will talk about his legacy for many years, well beyond sports, "said the writer.

Bryant knew how to take his passion for basketball to another level. In 2016, he founded Granity Studios, a multimedia content platform that tells stories about sports, with the collaboration of writers, producers and illustrators. Since then, the company has published documentaries, movies, podcasts and books, including his autobiography Mamba mentality: The secrets of my success, of 2018.

Thanks to this same company, Bryant became the first NBA player to win an Oscar. The project Dear Basketball (Dear Basketball, in Spanish) he took the statuette for Best Animated Short Film in the edition two years ago. In the film he tells his personal story on the court through the letter he wrote a few months before retiring. "I grew up dreaming of winning championships, but never, nor in my wildest dreams, I thought I would be part of the film industry. And much less that I would be at the Oscars," said the athlete after receiving the award, to which he added: "As basketball players, we're supposed to just throw and dribble. But I'm glad we do a little more than that."

He also tried to jump into the music industry, although in this area he did not do so well. Bryant liked to rap and had the opportunity to do it with topics like Say my name, from Destiny's Child or Hold meby Brian McKnight. I also planned to release the album K.O.B.E., with collaborations of 50 Cent and Tyra Banks, but finally it was not distributed.

Where it has been successful has been in business. In 2013, he founded the venture capital fund Bryant Stibel with businessman and scientist Jeff Stibel, in order to invest in media, technology and data analysis companies. Between the two they invested 100 million dollars (more than 90 million euros) and currently this company has about 1.8 billion euros in assets.

In 2014, he also founded Kobe Inc and acquired 10% of the shares of the Body Armor energy drink, when the company was valued at about four and a half million euros. The brand was revalued four years later and exceeded 180 million euros after being bought almost entirely by Coca-Cola.

According to the magazine Forbes Kobey Bryant amassed a fortune of more than 300 million euros until 2016, ranking among the 50 richest American athletes at that time. After 20 seasons as a professional basketball player, advertising contracts with brands like Nike and very lucrative businesses outside their profession, the athlete managed to gather a fortune. With his wife, Vanessa, he created Kobe & Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation in 2006, a foundation that seeks to improve the lives of young people and their families with financing and development programs. In addition, the athlete also had other solidarity projects based on sport that not only work in the United States, but also in China, where he was much admired.

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The projects in which Kobe Bryant was involved beyond basketball | People and Famous

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Kobe Bryant passed away this Sunday at age 41 in a helicopter crash - along with eight more people, including his daughter Gianna - and left a great legacy in the world of basketball. However, the former Los Angeles Lakers player addressed other professional areas: film, music and even literature.

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responsibility

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It was Jan. 24, 2004, and 8-year-old Jeffrey Mckenzie hid behind his mother Linda and grabbed her legs. His wish to meet Kobe Bryant was about to be granted.

"I couldn't believe he was actually walking toward me," said Mckenzie, recounting the story in April 2016.

"I was in the fifth grade," he said, and he had sickle cell anemia. His mother had taken a job at the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the organization offered her son the opportunity to become a recipient.

When Bryant appeared, the young Jeffrey ran to the 6-foot-6-inch Los Angeles Lakers star and gave him a big hug. Then he wouldn't let go.

"I just remember as a mom how much it touched me to see Kobe reach back down and embrace Jeffrey, because he had gone through so much," Linda Mckenzie recalled.

Bryant had experience granting the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses. He had appeared for Make-A-Wish more than 100 times over 20 years. And that was just one example of Bryant's philanthropic work, some of it through the Lakers and the NBA, and other times on his own.

Bryant died on Jan. 26 in a helicopter crash that claimed the lives of nine people, including Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna. He was 41.

The basketball phenom's career spanned two decades with the Lakers, with whom he won five NBA championships and became an 18-time All-Star.

Basketball was also part of his charity work. He volunteered for the Boys & Girls Club of America, often hosting basketball camps. He participated in the league's NBA Cares initiatives, where he helped build homes and basketball courts, stocked food pantries and supported reading initiatives.

Bryant was the official spokesman for After-School All-Stars, a national children's charity that provides after-school programs to 72,000 kids. In 2008, he was named a spokesperson for Aid Still Required, which helps people left behind after natural disasters and other crises.

Besides his work with sick kids through Make-A-Wish, Bryant also supported cancer initiatives. For instance, he participated in a fundraising effort for Stand Up To Cancer in 2012 that raised more than $80 million for cancer research.

Bryant and his wife Vanessa launched the Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation, originally named VIVO, in 2007. From 2012 to 2017, the organization reported revenue of more than $2.5 million, with $1,035,472 reported in 2012, according to IRS tax filings. They sponsored international enrichment experiences for minority college students and provided domestic and international youth scholarships for the Kobe Bryant Basketball Academy.

Combating youth homelessness was another cause that Bryant felt strongly about and the family foundation partnered with Los Angeles organizations Step Up on Second and My Friend's Place to combat homelessness in the area. For three years, Bryant also served as the honorary chair of United Way of Greater Los Angeles' Annual HomeWalk, a 5K run/walk that raises awareness about homelessness.

The foundation also supported Mamba FC, a fee-based youth soccer club in Orange County that teaches young athletes "how to become leaders and independent thinkers, while working together as a group to achieve a common goal through health and fitness."

Bryant had global appeal and in June 2009, he established the Kobe Bryant China Fund to raise money for education, sports and culture programs for children from both China and the U.S. More than $6.15 million has been raised for those efforts. The Bryants are also founding donors to the National Museum of African American History and Culture with a $1 million pledge in 2017.

Besides making donations, Bryant used his presence to highlight causes. On April 4, 2016, the Lakers' community relations department did a 10-day campaign on its Instagram account titled #KobeintheCommunity that highlighted such moments over his 20-year career.

The events included celebrating schools with 100% completion rate in a Lakers Reading Challenge, hosting holiday parties for kids from Boys & Girls Clubs around Los Angeles and joining President Barack Obama in assembling care packages for wounded warriors in Washington.

There were also less formal, less heralded moments. On a foggy day in December, Bryant stopped his car at a Newport Beach, California, intersection. He stepped over the wreckage from a motor vehicle accident to help direct traffic and talk with the victims until police arrived. A bystander captured the moment on video:

A month ago in Newport Beach Kobe witnessed a major accident and stayed to comfort victims and redirect traffic until help arrived

Mamba Mentality, forever 🕊 #8 #24 pic.twitter.com/wewykSn5J0

- Boosky (@sheabooskyy) January 26, 2020

Kelley Evans is a general editor at The Undefeated. She is a food passionista, helicopter mom and an unapologetic southerner who spends every night with the cast of The Young and the Restless by way of her couch.

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Kobe Bryant's charitable work included 20 years with the Make-A-Wish Foundation

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It was Jan. 24, 2004, and 8-year-old Jeffrey Mckenzie hid behind his mother Linda and grabbed her legs. His wish to meet Kobe Bryant was about to be granted. "I couldn't believe he was actually walking toward me," said Mckenzie, recounting the story in April 2016.

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how can we take action (responsibility) 

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how can we take action (responsibility) 

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What are palm oil plantations? (Form)

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How do they affect sumatran tigers? (change)

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Why do they grow palm oil, and not another oil? (causation)

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What can we do about this? (responsibility)

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What is palm oil? How does it affect the environment?

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What is palm oil? How does it affect the environment?

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What is Palm Oil? Facts About the Palm Oil Industry

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As palm oil plantations spread rapidly, deforestation impacts wildlife habitats and human communities. The sustainable production and harvesting of palm oil is imperative.

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What are sumatran tigers? How are they affected by palm oil plantations?

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What are sumatran tigers? How are they affected by palm oil plantations?

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Palm oil can be found in about half of packaged food products on supermarket's shelves as well as in cosmetics, laundry detergents and more, but for the popularity of this particular ingredient, many people do not even know it exists. While this oil may seem unassuming, the sad reality is that its production takes an enormous toll on the environment.

The palm plant thrives in a warm, tropical rainforest climate and is primarily cultivated on the Indonesian islands of Borneo and Sumatra. As a result of the expansion of this crop, around 300 football fields of rainforest are chopped down every hour to make way for palm plantations. This loss of forest not only translates into enormous greenhouse gas emissions, but also the devastating loss of local biodiversity.

Many of the animals that call Borneo and Sumatra home are endemic to that region, meaning when their homes disappear, they've got nowhere else to go. The orangutan is often discussed when it comes to the impact of p alm oil, but there are many others who are threatened with extinction thanks to this oil. The Sumatran tiger is tragically one of these animals and it has become clear that if nothing is done to protect this species, we stand to lose them in our lifetimes.

The Impact of Palm Oil on Sumatran Tigers

Sumatra was once filled with 25 million hectares of beautiful forests - that is until about 1985. Deforestation started to occur at an alarming rate during this time, with half of the Sumatran forests disappearing between 1985 and 2011. Of this, 80 percent of the loss was important habitat for Sumatran tigers. Although palm oil was not responsible for all of this deforestation, it was responsible for a large portion. In fact, palm oil alone was accountable for the loss of 15 percent of tiger habitat just from 2009 to 2011.

What This Means for the Greater Ecosystem

Sumatran tigers are seen as an indicator species for the forest, meaning if their population is dwindling, so is the overall health of the forest.

Being at the top of the ecosystem, tigers can only thrive when there is adequate availability of prey species, many of which are herbivores, and the population of these animals greatly depends on their habitat. If there is no habitat to provide food for the herbivores then the tiger has no hope for survival.

Currently, there are only an estimated 400 tigers in Sumatra, classifying them as critically endangered. This loss of tigers illustrates a complete collapse of the native ecosystem, at the hands of palm oil and other industries.

The Future of Sumatran Tigers

It is imperative to note that of the remaining 400 Sumatran tigers, there are only an estimated 100 surviving tigers in the wild, the rest of the Sumatra tigers are living on reserves and in National Parks.

There is hope, however, for the wild tiger as the Indonesian government committed to doubling the tiger population by 2022 in 2010 with the Tiger Recovery Program, however, there has been little, if any, improvement since this program was started. This is mainly due to the fact that many of the forests that were protected are unsuitable habitat for Sumatran tigers or they were already under protection.

There conflicts between Ministries of the government which add the suffering of the Sumatran tiger. The Ministry of Forestry is aiming to protect forests and wildlife, where the Ministry of Agriculture is approving plantation permits for forested areas. For any improvements to occur, the Indonesian government must have clear communication between Ministries, officials and corporations. Otherwise, the only hope for Sumatran tigers are being kept in protected National Parks and reserves.

What Can You Do?

The first thing you can do is to lessen the amount, or ideally stop, purchasing products that contain palm oil. Check out this resource to learn how to identify palm oil in your products, and this to help you learn to avoid them.

Another way you can help is to educate others who may not be aware of the negative impacts palm oil production has. This could be through organizations such as Greenpeace, or individually in your community. If you would like to learn more, Greenpeace has written a thorough report on palm oil and Sumatran tigers entitled Licence to Kill.

Whether you chose to minimize the threat that palm oil poses to the tiger through personal consumption choices or by supporting an organization, we can all play a role to help protect the future of this - and many other species.

Image Source: Nigel Swales/Flickr

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Palm oil can be found in about half of packaged food products on supermarket's shelves as well as in cosmetics, laundry detergents and more, but for the popularity of this particular ingredient, many people do not even know it exists. While this oil may seem unassuming, the sad reality is that its production takes an enormous toll on the environment.

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How is palm oil a problem? How can you avoid palm oil?

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How is palm oil a problem? How can you avoid palm oil?

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Author: Sarah McCluskey
Palm oil: sounds innocuous enough, right? Maybe the name even conjures the pleasant image of a tropical palm tree waving on a sun-drenched beach. Unfortunately, this oil, found in hundreds of processed foods and other household products, could be threatening your health and that of one of the world's most endangered species: the orangutan.

The problem with palm oil

For starters, palm oil is very high in saturated fat. According to the Centers for Disease Control, "Diets high in saturated fat have been linked to chronic disease, specifically coronary heart disease." And the American Heart Association links saturated fats to increased cholesterol levels, which can up your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Alarmingly, chips made with palm oil contain 75 percent more saturated fat than chips made with sunflower or canola oil. Palm kernel oil, which is palm oil harvested from the pit rather than the fruit, contains even more fat, plus it cannot be obtained organically, as the oil must be extracted from the pit with a gasoline-like hydrocarbon solvent. (Sounds delicious, right?) Manufacturers like palm oil for its stability (read: longer shelf life) and melting characteristics, but the bottom line is that palm oil is a cheap, unhealthy fat that is primarily used by companies to increase profits.

The health hazards alone might be enough to convince some people to purge palm oil from their diets, but let's move on to an even hairier concern-the incredibly gentle, highly intelligent, and insanely adorable orangutan.

Orangutans are found only in the tropical lowland rain forests of the Asian islands of Sumatra and Borneo. Due primarily to habitat destruction, the International Union for Conservation of Nature has classified the Bornean orangutan as "endangered" and the Sumatran orangutan as " critically endangered." And the single greatest threat to orangutans? The rapidly expanding palm oil industry.

As the palm oil industry slashes and burns the rain forests to make way for palm oil plantations, some orangutans are killed in the deforestation process, and the rest are left displaced, homeless, and orphaned.

Here are some facts that you need to know:

Orangutans are found only in tropical environments, and are limited to the islands of Sumatra and Borneo.

Orangutans live in lowland rain forests and spend up to 90 percent of their lives in trees, even nesting and sleeping up there at night.

These rainforests are being cleared at the rate of 300 football fields per hour to make way for palm oil plantations.

Displaced orangutans who wander into farmland are considered agricultural pests and are often killed.

At this rate, endangered orangutans will likely be extinct within 10-20 years.

How to avoid palm oil

Unfortunately, palm oil is found in a variety of products, ranging from candy bars to toothpaste to makeup, and rarely is it clearly labeled. In fact, there are more than 170 different names that manufacturers use on their packaging to avoid saying the words "palm oil." That may make purging palm oil products from your cabinets and shopping list sound overwhelming, but I've rounded up some easy tips for doing so - ones that don't include memorizing all 170 names.

Here are six reliable ways to avoid palm oil:

1. The most common name palm oil is disguised under is "vegetable oil."

2. Most prepackaged snack foods made by corporate giants (Nestle, Unilever, etc.) contain palm oil.

3. If a product's saturated fat content makes up more than 40 percent of its total fat content, it will almost always contain palm oil.

4. Ingredients with the word "palm" in them are palm oil or are derived from the oil palm fruit.

5. If you're not sure whether a product contains palm oil, either type the product name into your search engine along with "palm oil" and scan the search results, or contact the company and ask if they use palm oil.

6. To avoid palm oil, choose products that contain clearly labeled oils, such as 100 percent sunflower oil, corn oil, olive oil, coconut oil, or canola oil.

Sustainable palm oil?

You may well wonder, "Is there such a thing as sustainable palm oil?" Unfortunately, less than seven percent of the total production of palm oil is certified as sustainable, as most companies refuse to pay the premium associated with less-destructive farming practices.

Furthermore, many sources involved in the palm oil controversy regard sustainable palm oil as an unreliable and unenforced classification, a disheartening claim that we have heard all too often when it comes to other certifications such as "natural," "free range," "humane," and even "organic."

That said, as of 2012, Whole Foods has pledged to no longer use palm oil sourced from the conversion of rainforest ecosystems or from large companies engaged in the conversion of natural forests and/or peat lands in their 365 Everyday Value™ and Whole Foods Market™ brands. This, at the very least, is a great first step, since palm oil is a common ingredient in many power bars sold in health food stores.

Also in Discover

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6 Ways to Avoid Palm Oil (and Why You Should)

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Author: Sarah McCluskey Palm oil: sounds innocuous enough, right? Maybe the name even conjures the pleasant image of a tropical palm tree waving on a sun-drenched beach. Unfortunately, this oil, found in hundreds of processed foods and other household products, could be threatening your health and that of one of the world's most endangered species: the orangutan.

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What are sumatran tigers? (Form)

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Protect endangered species, including the orangutan, at World Wildlife Fund. Learn about the ways WWF works to conserve a future where people live in harmony with nature.

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Health and science correspondent

There are three main symptoms of coronavirus.

If you have any of them, you should get a test.

What are the symptoms?

New and continuous cough - coughing a lot for more than an hour, or having three or more coughing episodes in 24 hours

Fever - a temperature above 37.8C

Change in smell or taste - either you cannot taste or smell anything, or these senses are different to normal.

People infected with new variants such as Delta may be more likely to have other symptoms, such as headache, sore throat or a runny nose, according to research from the Zoe Covid Study and an ONS survey.

Is Covid the same in everyone?

No - it can affect multiple organs and has several less common symptoms.

Flu-like with no fever: Headache, loss of smell, muscle pains, cough, sore throat, chest pain, no fever

Flu-like with fever: Headache, loss of smell, cough, sore throat, hoarseness, fever, loss of appetite

Gastrointestinal: Headache, loss of smell, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, sore throat, chest pain, no cough

Fatigue (severe level one): Headache, loss of smell, cough, fever, hoarseness, chest pain, fatigue

Confusion (severe level two): Headache, loss of smell, loss of appetite, cough, fever, hoarseness, sore throat, chest pain, fatigue, confusion, muscle pain

Abdominal and respiratory (severe level three): Headache, loss of smell, loss of appetite, cough, fever, hoarseness, sore throat, chest pain, fatigue, confusion, muscle pain, shortness of breath, diarrhoea, abdominal pain

What about Covid toe?

Some people who catch Covid develop chilblain-like lesions on their toes or fingers.

It can happen to anyone, but is more common in children and teenagers.

For some it's painless, but the rash can be very sore and itchy.

It appears to be a side effect of the body switching into attack mode to fight off the virus.

If I have a cough, is it definitely Covid?

Public Health England says just under half of people who have one of the three main Covid symptoms will not have it.

How can I get a flu jab?

What should I do if I have Covid?

Most people will only have mild symptoms, which can be managed with pain relief (like paracetamol), bed rest and fluids.

You should not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital.

When should people go to hospital?

If you are seriously unwell and you have a medical emergency you should call 999 - this includes feeling so breathless that you can't speak more than a few words.

If you're worried your symptoms are getting worse, use the NHS 111 website England, NHS Inform in Scotland or the equivalents in Wales and Northern Ireland.

The main reason people need hospital care is for difficulty breathing where they may be given oxygen.

The most seriously ill patients may require ventilation - where patients are sedated and air is pushed into their lungs.

Older people, and those with pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure), are more likely to become severely ill. Men are at slightly higher risk of dying from the virus than women.

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Covid symptoms: What are they and how do I protect myself?

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A new cough, fever and change in smell or taste are the key symptoms of coronavirus.

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A disability is a condition that a person has which limits them in some way.

People with a disability or disabilities may need to use special equipment that can help them. This can include using a wheelchair, a cane or walking stick, hearing aids, a Teletypewriter (TTY) and using specially designed software and hardware for the personal computer.

People who use a wheelchair or cane/walking stick cannot walk up or down stairs in a building. They need to use ramps and elevators when going into and moving around in a building. Wide doorways and accessible toilets also make it easier for people with physical disabilities to use.

Prejudice towards people with disabilities is common. This is sometimes called ' ableism'.

Some categories of disability

Physical disabilities limit the way the body works.

Visual impairment is when the eyesight of a person is affected. (blind)

Hearing impairment is when a person cannot hear normally. (deaf)

Mental disabilities is when a person suffers from mental condition.

Intellectual disability is when a person's brain is limited and cannot function at the same level as another person of their age.

Developmental disabilities can limit how a person processes information and thinks.

Other pages

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A disability is a condition that a person has which limits them in some way. People with a disability or disabilities may need to use special equipment that can help them. This can include using a wheelchair, a cane or walking stick, hearing aids, a Teletypewriter (TTY) and using specially designed software and hardware for the personal computer.

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2.What are the rights of people with disability? FORM

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2.What are the rights of people with disability? FORM

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What are the behavioural adaptation capabilities of octopi?

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What are the behavioural adaptation capabilities of octopi?

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Crawling, swimming, embracing, squeezing, camouflaging... running? Why would an agile octopus, like the algae octopus or the Amphioctopus marginatus, also known as the coconut octopus and veined octopus, choose to use two of their eight arms to stand up and "run" backwards?

Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute Senior Researcher Chrissy Huffard explains her surprising octopus video footage (armage?) in this episode of Science Friday's The Macroscope.

Update from Nature on PBS: Here's another excellent video of a 'running' octopus. This time, the creature is moving quickly with a coconut shell in its arms-instant shelter on the sand flats where there are few places to hide.

Watch this video next: ScienceTake - How the Octopus Moves.

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Run, Octopus, Run! | The Kid Should See This

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Crawling, swimming, embracing, squeezing, camouflaging... running? Why would an agile octopus, like the algae octopus or the Amphioctopus marginatus , also known as the coconut octopus and veined octopus, choose to use two of their eight arms to stand up and "run" backwards?

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Dyscalculia Signs and Symptoms, Possible Causes of Dyscalculia, How Dyscalculia Is Diagnosed

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About the Author

About the Author

The Understood Team is made up of passionate writers, editors, and community moderators. Many of them learn and think differently, or have kids who do.

Reviewed by

Reviewed by

Daniel Ansari, PhD is a professor in developmental cognitive neuroscience at Western University, Canada.

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The Understood Team is made up of passionate writers, editors, and community moderators. Many of them learn and think differently, or have kids who do. Daniel Ansari, PhD is a professor in developmental cognitive neuroscience at Western University, Canada.

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What are some effective teaching strategies that support students learn math?

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What are some effective teaching strategies that support students learn math?

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You've probably heard one or more students say "I'm not a math person." Some may have had experiences that made them dislike math. Others have the idea that they can't be good at math because of their gender.

Yet, we know that a strong foundation in math is important for all students. It opens doors to higher-level math courses and to careers in the STEM field.

The good news is that there are effective, evidence-based ways to teach math that can be used with your current curriculum. You can use these teaching practices to help each and every student learn math at all grade levels-from addition to algorithms.

What Is Evidence-Based Math Instruction?

There are four elements that make up effective math teaching.

1. Explicit instruction with cumulative practice

What it is: Explicit instruction is a way of teaching that makes the learning process completely clear for students. With explicit instruction, you model a skill and verbalize your thinking process, using clear and concise language. You give students opportunities for guided and independent practice-including practicing the new skill and also reviewing skills that they've learned in the past. You also give students quick feedback so they stay on track.

Research has shown that using explicit math instruction can improve students' ability to perform operations and solve word problems.

Why it works: When you use this practice, you model the skill so clearly, there is no room for students to have to guess what they have to do. The cumulative practice of explicit instruction is especially helpful because it keeps old skills fresh in students' minds. That's a big plus for students who struggle with working memory. Repeated practice of related skills done over time helps them to quickly retrieve information and keeps up their math fact fluency.

Making sense of instructions (such as multi-step math problems) is a challenge for students who have trouble with language processing. Math requires students to process a lot of language, both oral and written. Explicit instruction can reduce how much of that processing a student needs to do.

Share a clear learning goal with students.

Use " do nows " that activate prior knowledge, such as a beginning-of-the-class word problem to revisit a skill you taught the day before.

Give a crystal clear explanation of the skill or strategy.

Use multiple examples to show all the steps. (In some cases, use different examples, like some addition problems with the greater addend first and other addition problems with the lesser addend first.)

Do a think-aloud to verbalize your thinking.

Allow lots of opportunities for guided and independent practice.

Vary how you ask for student responses, such as verbal (like choral response), written (like stop-and-jot), and nonverbal cues (thumbs up/thumbs down).

Include previously learned skills in practice opportunities.

Give students immediate feedback.

What it is: Visual representation is a way for students to see math. You can visually represent math using number lines, tape diagrams (also known as bar models), pictures, graphs, and graphic organizers.

Visual representation is often used in a three-step instructional approach called concrete-representational-abstract, or CRA. (Some teachers call this approach concrete-pictorial-abstract.) When you teach math concepts this way, you start by using concrete manipulatives, like showing an addition problem with Unifix cubes. These manipulatives provide students with visual representations of numbers. (Even though concrete manipulatives are more commonly used in elementary classrooms, they can help older students, too.)

After students understand the concept using concrete examples, you can move on to the representational (or pictorial) stage. At this point, you can teach students to use drawings or pictures (again, more visuals) to show the math concept. For example, students might use tally marks to represent an addition sentence.

With that understanding in place, students can then work at the abstract level using numbers and symbols, like solving a subtraction sentence.

Watch what CRA looks like in practice:

Why it works: Visual representations help all students understand abstract math concepts and solve problems. These representations can remove language barriers related to word problems for students who learn and think differently, as well as for English language learners.

When students create their own visual representations, they have a way to show their understanding (or misunderstanding that you can then correct). In fact, research shows that students who use accurate visual representations are six times more likely to correctly solve problems compared to students who do not use them.

Note: This strategy may not be as useful for students who struggle with math because of difficulties with spatial reasoning or visualization. It can also pose challenges for students who are blind or who have low vision. For these students, you can make accommodations such as using large-print texts or tactile graphics.

Tactile graphics are simple 3D representations of spatial ideas, such as pictures, maps, graphs, diagrams, and other images. They use raised lines and other tactile features to provide the information your student needs to learn. Talk with your district's consultant for the visually impaired about how to teach students to use these tools.

Teach students to use number lines, tape diagrams, pictures, graphs, and math graphic organizers.

Encourage students to use visual representations to show their mathematical thinking, like using a hundreds chart while they practice skip counting.

Introduce concepts and skills using concrete manipulatives, like using base 10 blocks to teach place value.

Show concepts and skills using representations and pictures, like tallies, dots, and circles.

Model concepts and skills at the abstract level, like using numbers and symbols.

Provide students with practice opportunities at each stage.

What it is: One of the most effective ways to help students solve word problems is to teach them to identify word problem types. According to research, this practice is especially helpful for students who struggle with math.

You can explicitly teach students to recognize the patterns in word problems. This is called schema-based instruction, meaning that students use what they know about patterns in word problems to solve the problem. There are two main types of schemas: additive and multiplicative. Additive includes addition and subtraction problems. Multiplicative includes multiplication and division problems.

Consider this word problem: "Erin has 4 crayons. Aleysha has 3 crayons. How many crayons do they have together? " Students might recognize it follows a pattern of having two sets of items and the word "together." That can lead students to recognize an additive schema.

After students identify the schema, they can represent the information using a diagram or an equation before solving.

Students who learn and think differently, especially those who have challenges with executive functioning skills, may also have difficulty with working memory and multi-step directions. Research shows that students who were taught using schema-based instruction were better able to solve both familiar and new multi-step problems.

Teach students to analyze a word problem and identify the pattern.

Identify for students the unique features of each type of problem.

Explicitly teach the math vocabulary needed for that problem.

Show how to represent the information using a concrete representation first and then a visual representation.

Show multiple ways to solve the same problem.

What it is: With peer interaction, you pair up students to work together and have discussions about math. For example, students might do independent practice and then meet up with a partner to share what they learned. You can use flexible grouping to match up students, like pairing students with similar math abilities or by different strengths.

Pre-teach how to have peer-to-peer discussions. Work as a class to establish rules (like not talking over one another) and discussion prompts (like "What can you add to my explanation?").

Encourage students to compare the ways they solved a problem and discuss the differences in their approaches.

Build in time at the end of your lessons for students to reflect with each other about their independent practice opportunities. You can even just put up a piece of student work and ask students, "What do you notice?"

Allow time for students to do math work with partners or in small groups.

Who Does Evidence-Based Math Instruction Help?

Effective math teaching can help all students-but it's particularly useful for students who struggle with math.

Students with dyscalculia, a learning disability that affects math, may have difficulty understanding number-related concepts. For instance, they may struggle to understand that the numeral 5 is the same as a group of five items and as the word five. They might also have trouble using math symbols or understanding math-related concepts like greater than or less than.

Evidence-based math instruction helps students with dyscalculia because it provides them with the explicit guidance and scaffolding they need to help them gain the skills and understanding.

Students may also struggle with math because of trouble with executive functioning. Math requires students to pay attention to details, plan, and self-monitor. Students also have to keep track of steps-and maybe even change direction while they work. Evidence-based math instruction helps these students because it breaks problems into multiple steps and reduces distractions.

Getting Started In Your Classroom

Your school's math curriculum may not include all of these elements. Or maybe your training didn't cover this type of math teaching. If you want to have a better understanding of these strategies, you can also advocate for professional development in your school on this topic.

But even without formal training, you can try out any one of the elements of evidence-based math instruction in your classroom. For example, if a student is having trouble with the concept of place value, begin by providing base 10 blocks to show how two 100 blocks, three tens blocks and four ones blocks makes the number 234 (concrete). Then move on to having the student draw it (representational), and finally move to 200 + 30 + 4 = 234 (abstract).

Common Core math standards. "New math." These are just some of the terms families may have heard about math. Before your parent-teacher conferences, share this checklist (Spanish version here) with families.

It was created by Understood Teacher Fellow Pauli Evanson. The checklist will help families prepare their questions about math ahead of your meeting.

About the Author

About the Author

Kim Greene, MA&nbsp

is the managing editor of Understood for Educators. A former elementary teacher and a certified reading specialist, she has a passion for developing resources for teachers and school leaders.

Reviewed by

Reviewed by

Daniel Ansari, PhD&nbsp

is a professor in developmental cognitive neuroscience at Western University, Canada.

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Evidence-Based Math Instruction: What You Need to Know

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You've probably heard one or more students say "I'm not a math person." Some may have had experiences that made them dislike math. Others have the idea that they can't be good at math because of their gender. Yet, we know that a strong foundation in math is important for all students.

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What are some symptoms of childhood trauma?

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What are some symptoms of childhood trauma?

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Trauma signs and symptoms in young children can take many forms. Understanding these signs and symptoms as trauma related depends upon sensitive information gathering from the child, family, and Early Head Start and Head Start staff. That said, the signs and symptoms listed below must always be considered in the context of a young child’s history, caregiving system, supports, etc. and with recognition that these symptoms could also be symptoms unrelated to trauma.

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How does childhood trauma affect the rest of a persons life?

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How does childhood trauma affect the rest of a persons life?

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By Mason Komay

Updated November 07, 2019

Reviewer Avia James

For better or worse, every adult lived through their childhood. More often than not, the quality of one's childhood impacts one's adult life in terms of relationships, mental health, and how one sees the world. Each parent is responsible for doing right by their children by providing them with opportunities and otherwise setting them up for success. While good parenting, stable environments, and positive exposure can help a child to be happy and successful later in life, bad parenting, dangerous environments, and negative exposure can cause serious problems in adulthood.

Childhood Trauma Can Have Damaging Affects On Adulthood - Don't Let It
Click Here To Get Matched With A Licensed Counselor Today
There are many ways to inflict childhood trauma, but it's generally caused by physical/sexual abuse, neglect, or other forms of mistreatment. Trauma can be inflicted by parents, siblings, or individuals in positions of power and authority, and it can leave physiological, psychological, and emotional scars long after the abuse has subsided.

Depending on the longevity and the extent of the trauma, some people can overcome it, living successful and fulfilling lives. This article will cover common effects of childhood trauma, as well as coping tool to move forward to a healthy, adult life.

How Childhood Trauma Affects Self-Image

Victimhood thinking is not the only way childhood trauma changes adult behavior. People who were mistreated as children may also become passive and subservient. This usually manifests as the inability to self-express or self-defend and the tendency to bottle up emotions. While some people view passivity as being agreeable or being a team player, burying feelings beneath the surface and not speaking up can have devastating impacts. Moreover, subservience often attracts parasitic individuals who exploit and take advantage of others.

While passivity and subservience are dangerous for everyone, these traits are particularly hazardous for women. If they adopt the behaviors above, women who struggle with unresolved childhood trauma are likely to attract abusive partners or spouses. Abusive relationships, domestic violence, and toxic significant others are nothing to joke about. People have died because they couldn't avoid or escape these dangers.

How Childhood Trauma Affects Personal Relationships

This is why people with high self-esteem, confidence, and positive self-image tend to attract beneficial relationships and opportunities. Likewise, someone who lacks these traits generally attracts negative and parasitic people as well as the circumstances that follow.

Left unchecked and unresolved, childhood trauma impacts both personal beliefs and personal relationships. Someone who was abused, neglected, or mistreated as a child may genuinely view themselves as undeserving of loving, supportive, and healthy relationships. Moreover, they may view themselves as unworthy of accomplishments, thus leading to a lack of drive and ambition. In other words, childhood trauma survivors can feel alone, unlovable, and directionless in adulthood.

Childhood Trauma Increases Likelihood of Experiencing Depression

Here are some of the most common symptoms and indicators of depression:

In most cases, individuals with the abovementioned symptoms tend to isolate themselves while neglecting self-care, slacking off work, and alienating others. Attempts to connect with a depressed person may fail, which can be frustrating and hurtful to friends and relatives who genuinely want the best for the individual in question.

Childhood Trauma Can Have Damaging Affects On Adulthood - Don't Let It
Click Here To Get Matched With A Licensed Counselor Today
How to Overcome Childhood Trauma

Reading about the effects of childhood trauma can be quite unnerving. However, people who have experienced difficulties as children should not become discouraged or lose hope. No matter what happened in the past, the sun always rises again. There is always room for self-improvement, growth, and recovery. Individuals who went through tough times as children can have positive self-images and healthy relationships while living happy, successful lives.

Engage in Self-Care

Thankfully, the cycle can be broken with healthy habits, such as exercise, a good night's sleep, and healthy eating. Another important form of self-care involves considering the quality of one's friends, romantic partners, and other relationships. The people around us impact our perceptions, choices, and worldviews. This is why ending unhealthy relationships and cutting off toxic individuals is paramount, especially for people who are working to heal wounds from childhood trauma.

Pursue Hobbies and Extracurricular Interests

One of the most effective ways to overcome negative memories is by creating positive ones. Pursuing hobbies and extracurricular interests not only allows adults to evolve as individuals, but they also help adults to find a sense of purpose and something to look forward to. It's important for survivors of childhood trauma to know that their past experiences do not have to define the rest of their lives. Everyone has the power to control their fate and quality of life.

Seek Professional Help and Guidance

In many cases, counselors and therapists can serve as the greatest allies for adults who have undergone childhood trauma. This is largely because trained mental health professionals are equipped to help people work through and heal these difficult issues. However, even with professional help and guidance, you won't overcome childhood trauma overnight. It's going to take time, dedication, and commitment. Moreover, overcoming childhood trauma may require revisiting unpleasant memories. The road to recovery will vary depending on the person, and it can be hard, but it will ultimately be worth it.

Here at BetterHelp, our specialists understand that life presents unique challenges to everyone. No matter who you are or what you've been through, your past does not define you, nor does it have to determine the rest of your life. We can support you in moving past it. Only you can decide to seek professional help. BetterHelp is a convenient option for online therapy should you want support on your healing journey. Below are some counselor reviews, from people experiencing similar issues.

Counselor Reviews

" Natasha is a very insightful, kind and compassionate counselor. Her gentle, professional approach to guiding you through a problem shows her empathy and understanding. She helped me see some childhood issues that I hadn't addressed in years."

" She's kind, responsive, caring, validating - everything I could ever hope for in a therapist. I came from a very abusive, traumatic childhood that still influences who I am, and Billie is helping me undo that damage. She answers me every day, responds to everything I write to her, and always answers my questions. When I get stuck, she nudges me forward with gentle suggestions that I can use or not... I feel like I'm making so much progress with her."

Alternative Solutions

Stay Focused on Your Future

Your past does not necessarily dictate your future. As children, we're often restricted by the rules and limitations set by our parents and other authority figures. As an adult, you have the freedom to set your own path toward a future built by your own personal goals, morals, and ambition. Stay focused on what's ahead, as the past is and always will be a memory.

Don't Try to Rationalize Your Trauma

It's not uncommon to try and make sense of the trauma inflicted throughout your childhood. However, you shouldn't waste too much time or effort on this. There is absolutely nothing that can justify child abuse, so don't strain yourself trying to rationalize it. Instead, try and see it for what it is--a dark chapter in your life that is and was completely out of your control.

Learn from Your Past

Now that you're an adult, you're capable of recognizing toxic and abusive behavior, so you can use your past as a learning experience; you know what not to do with your children. You don't have to follow in the footsteps of those who raised you, nor should you. As weird as it may sound, you can put your dark experience to good use by vowing never to inflict the trauma you endured on others.

Final Thoughts

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How Does Childhood Trauma Affect Adulthood? | Betterhelp

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By Mason Komay Updated November 07, 2019 Reviewer Avia James For better or worse, every adult lived through their childhood. More often than not, the quality of one's childhood impacts one's adult life in terms of relationships, mental health, and how one sees the world.

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Why are platypus important for the ecosystem?

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Why are platypus important for the ecosystem?

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The Platypus eats all kinds of insect larvae, molluscs, crustaceans eg freshwater shrimp, fish eggs and sometimes frogs. Since the platypus is a carnivore, it plays the typical role of the carnivore in an ecosystem. It keeps the populations of species in lower levels of the food chain in check. Humans affect platypuses through habitat loss and pollution of waterways.

Using nets to catch fish has caused innumerable platypus deaths in the past, but this practice is now illegal.
Human activities sometimes lead to flooding of the waterways, and this affects the platypus as it is an air-breathing mammal. The young have been known to be flushed out of their burrows and drowned in floods.

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Describe the role of the platypus in its environment.

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The Platypus eats all kinds of insect larvae, molluscs, crustaceans eg freshwater shrimp, fish eggs and sometimes frogs. Since the platypus is a carnivore, it plays the typical role of the carnivore in an ecosystem. It keeps the populations of species in lower levels of the food chain in check.

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What are the physical adaptation capabilities of octopi?

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What are the physical adaptation capabilities of octopi?

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Octopuses are characterized by their eight arms (not tentacles), usually bearing suction cups. These arms are a type of muscular hydrostat. Unlike most other cephalopods, the majority of octopuses have almost entirely soft bodies with no internal skeleton. They have neither a protective outer shell like the nautilus, nor any vestige of an internal shell or bones, like cuttlefish or squid. A beak, similar in shape to a parrot's beak, is their only hard part. This enables them to squeeze through very narrow slits between underwater rocks, which is very helpful when they are fleeing from morays or other predatory fish.

Long arms, short lives: Octopuses have a relatively short life span, and some species live for as little as six months. Larger species, such as the North Pacific Giant Octopus, may live for up to five years under suitable circumstances. However, reproduction is a cause of death: males can only live for a few months after mating, and females die shortly after their eggs hatch, for they neglect to eat during the (roughly) one month period spent taking care of their unhatched eggs.

Three hearts! Octopuses have three hearts. Two pump blood through each of the two gills, while the third pumps blood through the body. Octopus blood contains the copper-rich protein hemocyanin for transporting oxygen. Less efficient than the iron-rich hemoglobin of vertebrates, the hemocyanin is dissolved in the plasma instead of being bound in red blood cells and gives the blood a blue color. Octopuses draw water into their mantle cavity where it passes through its gills. As a mollusc, octopus gills are finely divided and vascularilzed outgrowths of either the outer or the inner body surface.

Three defense strategy: Three defensive mechanisms are typical of octopuses: ink sacs, camouflage, and autotomising limbs. Most octopuses can eject a thick blackish ink in a large cloud to aid in escaping from predators. They also have specialized skin cells both for color changing and light reflection and refraction. They use this ability to blend into the environment to hide, communicate with other octopuses, or warn. The very poisonous Blue-ringed Octopus becomes bright yellow with blue rings when it is provoked. When under attack, some octopuses can autotomise their limbs, in a similar manner to skinks and other lizards. The crawling arm serves as a distraction to would-be predators; this ability is also used in mating. A few species, such as the Mimic Octopus have a fourth defense mechanism. They can combine their highly flexible bodies with their color changing ability to accurately mimic other, more dangerous animals such as lionfish and eels.

As smart as a cat: Octopuses are highly intelligent, probably the most intelligent of any of the invertebrates, with their intelligence supposedly comparable to that of the average housecat. Maze and problem-solving experiments show that they have both short- and long-term memory, although their short lifespans limit the amount they can ultimately learn.

Arm nerves: An octopus has a highly complex nervous system, only part of which is localized in its brain. Two-thirds of an octopus's neurons are found in the nerve cords of its arms, which have a remarkable amount of autonomy. Octopus arms show a wide variety of complex reflex actions arising on at least three different levels of the nervous system. Some octopuses, such as the mimic octopus, will move their arms in ways that emulate the movements of other sea creatures.

Slow travel - crawl, Fast travel - Swim: Octopuses move about by crawling or swimming. Their main means of slow travel is crawling, with some swimming. Their only means of fast travel is swimming. Their fastest movements can be up to eighty five miles per hour. They can go extremely fast due to the fact that their three hearts have to pump through each vascular pump at a paralell sequence. They go this fast if hungry or if in danger.

Pretend to be a coconut: They crawl by walking on their arms, usually on many at once, on solid surfaces, while supported in water. In 2005 it was reported that some octopuses can walk on two arms on a solid surface, while at the same time imitating a coconut or a clump of seaweed.

They swim by expelling a jet of water from a contractile mantle, and aiming it via a muscular siphon.

When octopuses reproduce, males use a specialized arm called a hectocotylus to insert spermatophores (packets of sperm) into the female's mantle cavity. The hectocotylus is usually the third right arm. In some species, the female octopus can keep the sperm alive inside her for weeks until her eggs are mature. After they have been fertilized, the female lays roughly 200,000 eggs (this figure dramatically varies between families, genera, species and also individuals).

The female hangs these eggs in strings from the ceiling of her lair, or individually attatched to the substratum depending on the species. After the eggs hatch, the young larval octopuses must spend a period of time drifting in clouds of plankton, where they feed on copepods, larval crabs and larval seastars until they are ready to sink down to the bottom of the ocean, where the cycle repeats itself. In some deeper dwelling species, the young do not go through this period. This is a dangerous time for the larval octopuses; as they become part of the plankton cloud they are vulnerable to many plankton eaters

All text is available under the terms of the GNU Free Documentation License

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Octopuses are characterized by their eight arms (not tentacles), usually bearing suction cups. These arms are a type of muscular hydrostat. Unlike most other cephalopods, the majority of octopuses have almost entirely soft bodies with no internal skeleton. They have neither a protective outer shell like the nautilus, nor any vestige of an internal shell or bones, like cuttlefish or squid.

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The overall rankings of country happiness are based on the pooled results from Gallup World Poll surveys from 2015-2017, and show both change and stability. There is a new top ranking country, Finland, but the top ten positions are held by the same countries as in the last two years, although with some swapping of places. Four different countries have held top spot in the four most recent reports- Denmark, Switzerland, Norway and now Finland.

All the top countries tend to have high values for all six of the key variables that have been found to support well-being: income, healthy life expectancy, social support, freedom, trust and generosity. Among the top countries, differences are small enough that that year-to-year changes in the rankings are to be expected.

The analysis of happiness changes from 2008-2010 to 2015-2015 shows Togo as the biggest gainer, moving up 17 places in the overall rankings from the last place position it held as recently as in the 2015 rankings. The biggest loser is Venezuela, down 2.2 points on the 0 to 10 scale.

Five of the report's seven chapters deal primarily with migration, as summarized in Chapter 1. For both domestic and international migrants, the report studies not just the happiness of the migrants and their host communities, but also of those left behind, whether in the countryside or in the source country. The results are generally positive.

Perhaps the most striking finding of the whole report is that a ranking of countries according to the happiness of their immigrant populations is almost exactly the same as for the rest of the population. The immigrant happiness rankings are based on the full span of Gallup data from 2005 to 2017, sufficient to have 117 countries with more than 100 immigrant respondents.

The ten happiest countries in the overall rankings also ll ten of the top eleven spots in the ranking of immigrant happiness. Finland is at the top of both rankings in this report, with the happiest immigrants, and the happiest population in general.

The closeness of the two rankings shows that the happiness of immigrants depends predominantly on the quality of life where they now live, illustrating a general pattern of convergence. Happiness can change, and does change, according to the quality of the society in which people live. Immigrant happiness, like that of the locally born, depends on a range of features of the social fabric, extending far beyond the higher incomes traditionally thought to inspire and reward migration. The countries with the happiest immigrants are not the richest countries, but instead the countries with a more balanced set of social and institutional supports for better lives.

While convergence to local happiness levels is quite rapid, it is not complete, as there is a 'footprint' effect based on the happiness in each source country. This effect ranges from 10% to 25%. This footprint effect, explains why immigrant happiness is less than that of the locals in the happiest countries, while being greater in the least happy countries.

A very high proportion of the international differences in immigrant happiness (as shown in Chapter 2), and of the happiness gains for individual migrants (as studied in Chapters 3 and 5) are thus explained by local happiness and source country happiness.

The explanation becomes even more complete when account is taken of international differences in a new Gallup index of migrant acceptance, based on local attitudes towards immigrants, as detailed in an Annex to the Report. A higher value for migrant acceptance is linked to greater happiness for both immigrants and the native-born, by almost equal amounts.

The report studies rural-urban migration as well, principally through the recent Chinese experience, which has been called the greatest mass migration in history. That migration shows some of the same convergence characteristics of the international experience, with the happiness of city-bound migrants moving towards, but still falling below urban averages.

The importance of social factors in the happiness of all populations, whether migrant or not, is emphasized in Chapter 6, where the happiness bulge in Latin America is found to depend on the greater warmth of family and other social relationships there, and to the greater importance that people there attach to these relationships.

The Report ends on a different tack, with a focus on three emerging health problems that threaten happiness: obesity, the opioid crisis, and depression. Although set in a global context, most of the evidence and discussion are focused on the United States, where the prevalence of all three problems has been growing faster and further than in most other countries.

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The World Happiness Report is a landmark survey of the state of global happiness that ranks 156 countries by how happy their citizens perceive themselves to be. The report is produced by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network in partnership with the Ernesto Illy Foundation.

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Q2.What are the benefits of exercise? How do sports/ exercise impact our life? CAUSATION

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Exercise involves engaging in physical activity and increasing the heart rate beyond resting levels. It is an important part of preserving physical and mental health.

Whether people engage in light exercise, such as going for a walk, or high intensity activities, for example, uphill cycling or weight training, regular exercise provides a huge range of benefits for the body and mind.

Taking part in exercise of any intensity every day is essential for preventing a range of diseases and other health issues.

In this article, we explain the different types of exercise and their benefits, as well as the considerations for designing a fitness regime.

People divide exercise into three broad categories:

We describe each of these categories below.

Aerobic exercise

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There are several types of exercise, and they provide a range of benefits for health and well-being.

Aerobic exercise aims to improve how the body uses oxygen. Most aerobic exercise takes place at average levels of intensity over longer periods.

An aerobic exercise session involves warming up, exercising for at least 20 minutes, and then cooling down. Aerobic exercise mostly uses large muscle groups.

Aerobic exercise provides the following benefits:

Anaerobic exercise

Anaerobic exercise does not use oxygen for energy. People use this type of exercise to build power, strength, and muscle mass.

These exercises are high-intensity activities that should last no longer than around 2 minutes. Anaerobic exercises include:

weightlifting

sprinting

intensive and fast skipping with a rope

interval training

isometrics

any rapid burst of intense activity

While all exercise benefits the heart and lungs, anaerobic exercise provides fewer benefits for cardiovascular health than aerobic exercise and uses fewer calories. However, it is more effective than aerobic exercise for building muscle and improving strength.

Increasing muscle mass causes the body to burn more fat, even when resting. Muscle is the most efficient tissue for burning fat in the body.

Agility training

Agility training aims to improve a person's ability to maintain control while speeding up, slowing down, and changing direction.

In tennis, for example, agility training helps a player maintain control over their court positioning through good recovery after each shot.

People who take part in sports that heavily rely on positioning, coordination, speed, and balance need to engage in agility training regularly.

The following sports are examples of ones that require agility:

Stretching and flexibility

Some exercises combine stretching, muscle conditioning, and balance training. A popular and effective example is yoga.

Yoga movements improve balance, flexibility, posture, and circulation.

The practice originated in India thousands of years ago and aims to unify the mind, body, and spirit. Modern yoga uses a combination of meditation, posture, and breathing exercises to achieve the same goals.

A yoga practitioner can tailor a course for individual needs.

A person looking to manage arthritis might need gentle stretches to improve mobility and function. Someone with depression, on the other hand, may need more emphasis on the relaxation and deep breathing elements of yoga.

Pilates is another stretching option that promotes flexibility and core strength. Tai chi is also an effective option for exercise that promotes calm stretching rather than intensity.
Here, learn more about yoga.
A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of the following health problems:

It can also contribute to an increased risk of premature death from all causes, including the complications of being overweight and obesity.

In many parts of the world, including the United States, the number of overweight and obese people continues to increase rapidly.

According to the most recent National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, that researchers did in 2013-2014 across the U.S., more than 2 in 3 adults are overweight or obesity.

The same survey found that around 1 in 13 adults have extreme obesity and face an increased risk of severe health complications.
Discover how to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Taking the stairs instead of an elevator can be a great way for busy people to meet exercise guidelines.

Fitting exercise into a busy schedule can be a roadblock to a successful regime. However, people do not need to dedicate large amounts of extra time to exercise to see the benefits.

Here are some tips for fitting physical activity in a busy schedule:

See which car journeys you can replace with walking or cycling. Is driving to work necessary? If so, try parking half a mile away from the office and walking the final bit.

People who commute to work by public transport could try getting off their bus or train a few stops early and walking the rest of the way.

Consider walking up and down the stairs at your office instead of taking elevators or escalators.

Try to think about the amount of time spent watching television and avoid binge-watching TV shows. While watching television for extended periods, light exercises, such as stomach crunches or jumping jacks, can help a person include more physical activity in their day.

If a person enjoys video games, they could consider playing games that encourage physical activity, such as exercise routines on a Nintendo Wii.

Vigorous housework, gardening, and going up and down the stairs while doing chores also qualify as physical activity and can help people meet the guidelines productively.

People will likely gain the most benefit from exercises they enjoy that fit their lifestyle.

Some of the examples below are the easiest to fit into a daily routine:

Go for a brisk 30-minute walk five times every week.

Walk your dog more often or go for walks and jogs with friends.

Try to add swimming to your weekly routine, even if it is not every day.

Join some exercise classes that are fun, collaborative, and educational.

Become a member of a martial arts club. Beginner's sessions can be gentle and fun.

Exercise is sometimes a gradual learning curve. A person should spread sessions across the week and scale up the intensity slowly.

It is important for people to ensure they drink plenty of water during and after exercise. Checking with a doctor is a good precaution to take if someone has a health condition or injury that could impact exercise levels, or that exercise could make worse.

While a combination of aerobic and anaerobic exercise provides the most benefit, any exercise is better than none for people who currently have an inactive lifestyle.

Guidelines

Current U.S. guidelines recommend that people do one of the following:

at least 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a week

a minimum of 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity, aerobic physical activity

a combination of the two types of exercise

Toward these goals, it is worth remembering that even 10-minute bursts of physical activity during the day provide health benefits.

Exercise may be difficult to maintain for some people. Consider the following tips to achieve long-term success:

Have a clear goal: Whether for health reasons or otherwise, try to always keep in mind the reason you started increasing your exercise levels.

Work at your own pace: Doing too much too quickly can increase the risk of injury and the chance to develop a stable routine. Set targets based on the goals you established at the start of the regimen and celebrate small wins to boost confidence.

Enjoy yourself: A regimen is more sustainable if a person enjoys the physical activities that it involves.

Join a club with a friend: If you join a fitness club with a friend, or exercise with a friend, you may enjoy the sessions more. Some people prefer not to have the stress of someone else around. This depends on you.

Trainers and teachers can be helpful: People just starting a regimen or looking to step up their routine may benefit from a personal trainer or teacher. They can provide motivation and guidance, helping people track their goals and stay dedicated.

Vary your exercises: Change your exercise program every few weeks. Mixing it up can help a person work on different muscle groups and increase the range of benefits. If you enjoy one particular exercise, such as running, try changing the speed and distance of a run, or follow a different route with more hills.

Make it a habit: After a few weeks of regularity, an exercise routine starts to become a habit, even if you find it difficult or boring at first.

The benefits of regular physical activity are wide-reaching and should form a part of every person's day to help them remain healthy.

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Exercise: Health benefits, types, and how it works

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Exercise involves physical activity, exerting the body with movement, and increasing the heart rate. Exercise is vital for looking after and improving our health, and supports physical and mental well-being. This article looks at different types of exercise, how to get involved, and the ways exercise helps.

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#2 perspective

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Three young basketballers from different corners of the world tell us how important Kobe Bryant was to them.

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Overpopulation – The Human Explosion Explained

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Why the octopus brain is so extraordinary - Cláudio L. Guerra

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Octopuses have the ability to solve puzzles, learn through observation, and even use tools – just like humans. But what makes octopus intelligence so amazing is that it comes from a biological structure completely different from ours. Cláudio L. Guerra takes a look inside the amazing octopus brai…

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(found by Ms Philips) just right fourm

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Wormholes Explained – Breaking Spacetime

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What are the effects of overpopulation?
What are some solutions to overpopulation?

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The naturalist David Attenborough once said the creature he finds " most extraordinary" is a nine-month-old human baby. But now he believes the planet can't sustain many more.

In an interview for BBC Newsnight, the 92-year-old British broadcaster said: "In the long run, population growth has to come to an end. There are some reasons for thinking that will happen almost inevitably.

"But it is very alarming at the rate we're going, and although people will say, 'In the long run, we are going to stabilize', they're going to stabilize - as far as I can see - at a rather higher level than the Earth can really accommodate."

Roughly 83 million people are added to the world's population each year, according to the UN, with modern advances in medicine and nutrition to thank for their survival into adulthood and old age.

But while fertility levels (and birth rates) are dropping globally, the overall trend is continued population growth, with increasing pressure on the planet's limited resources - and impact on the environment.
Why should we take note?
Attenborough, whose 2015 interview by Barack Obama about climate change was screened in more than 50 countries, has contributed a huge amount to shaping our views on environmental issues. As UN Head of Environment Erik Solheim says, "few people have inspired action for the planet" like him.

When Blue Planet II aired in November 2017, featuring an episode on the ocean's plastic problem, some 80 million people in China alone tuned in.

Now, it seems Sir David is turning his attention to the issue of overpopulation and the world should take note.

Attenborough at the premiere of Blue Planet II in London. Image: REUTERS/Hannah McKay

Spend just a minute watching the world population counter tick up on Worldometers and you'll see just how quickly we're swelling in numbers. The current figure stands at around 7.7 billion, and this is projected to become 9.8 billion by 2050, according to the UN.

China and India are the most populous nations on the planet, with 1.4 billion and 1.3 billion people respectively, according to the UN's World Population Prospects.

By around 2024 though, India will have overtaken China, while Nigeria, currently the world's seventh largest country, is growing the fastest - and is predicted to overtake the United States to become the third largest country before 2050. Japan, by contrast, is seeing its population decline, which is impacting on its economy.

While it's true that global fertility levels are in decline, leading to a slowing in overall population growth, fertility in the world's 47 least developed countries is still relatively high - at 4.3 births per woman between 2010 and 2015 - meaning rapid growth of these countries at 2.4% per year.

According to the UN, the populations of 26 African countries are due to at least double in size between 2017 and 2050. As the review notes, such growth represents a "considerable challenge" to governments trying to implement the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, including ending poverty and hunger.

While the birth rate is still growing in some areas, life expectancy is also a major factor when it comes to population growth.

Attenborough notes: "One of the reasons population has increased as fast as it has, is that people like me are living longer than we did, so there are more and more people just because the expectancy of life has increased."

The number of people aged 60 and over is predicted to double between 2017 and 2050 - from 962 million to 2.1 billion globally.
Earth's carrying capacity
More people means more carbon footprints - more cars, waste and emissions, more houses and infrastructure to be constructed using the world's limited resources, more mouths to be fed using more water and energy in food production. So, how many people is too many?

Scientists are still undecided on the Earth's " carrying capacity" - the maximum number of people it can support indefinitely - with estimates ranging widely between 500 million and more than one trillion.

Part of the reason is that our consumption of resources varies massively across the globe.

"An average middle-class American consumes 3.3 times the subsistence level of food and almost 250 times the subsistence level of clean water," according to Professors Stephen Dovers and Colin Butler in their paper, Population and Environment: A Global Challenge.

"So if everyone on Earth lived like a middle-class American, then the planet might have a carrying capacity of around 2 billion. However, if people only consumed what they actually needed, then the Earth could potentially support a much higher figure."

As developing countries catch up with the rest of the world, you might think their carbon footprint grows at the same rate, but, according to research, between 1980 and 2005, many of the nations with the fastest population growth rates had the slowest increases in carbon emissions.

Ecological overshoot is a key concept in footprint science and happens when we turn resources into waste faster than the planet can resupply them. For example, we're burning through fossil fuels that took millions of years to form at rates far greater than Earth can replace them.

Since 2006, the think tank Global Footprint Network has marked Earth Overshoot Day - the day when humanity has used up nature's resource budget for the year. In 2018, it was held on August 1, the earliest date it has been since the world went into overshoot in the 1970s - meaning we're using up 1.7 Earths every year.

"Our current economies are running a Ponzi scheme with our planet," Mathis Wackernagel, CEO and co-founder of Global Footprint Network, said.

"We are borrowing the Earth's future resources to operate our economies in the present. Like any Ponzi scheme, this works for some time. But as nations, companies, or households dig themselves deeper and deeper into debt, they eventually fall apart."
What can be done?
Governments recognise the severity of the situation and have mostly come together over global policies like the UN's Paris Agreement, to limit carbon emissions and their impact on climate change. In addition, new technologies are being developed to make our use of resources more efficient.

As for controlling population growth, the education of women is one key factor. Research shows the higher level to which a woman is educated, the fewer children she is likely to have. In Ghana, for example, women who have been to high school, have a fertility rate of between two and three children, compared with six for those who have no education.

This could be for several reasons including learning about desired family size and understanding child health better. This means that the mother is more confident her children will survive. She is also likely to hold more sway within the family, arguing for fewer children if that is what she wants.

There is also plenty that individuals can do to reduce their personal footprint.

The Global Footprint Network calculates that moving Earth Overshoot day back by five days every year would mean that, by 2050, we'd be using the resources of less than one planet. Just eating 50% less meat and replacing it with vegetarian alternatives could save the planet five days.

As David Attenborough says, if we want to save Earth, we can no longer afford to keep eating meat: "We are omnivores, so biologically, if you could have a biological morality, you can say, yes we evolved to eat pretty well everything.

"But now we've got to a stage in our own social evolution in which that is no longer practical."

Sir David says he himself now eats less meat and is bolstered by the knowledge that it's helping the planet.

Population growth and the depletion of Earth's resources is a truly global problem. But it's also something where small individual actions will together help to ensure a better future for the planet.

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David Attenborough: The planet can't cope with overpopulation

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More people need more food, more energy and more infrastructure. The British broadcaster and naturalist is turning his attention to a growing global problem.

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What is overpopulation?
What are the causes?
What are the solutions?

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Explaining overpopulation | Sustainability - ACCIONA

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What are the different viewpoints on this issue? (Perspective) 

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How is this issue starting to change? (Change)

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This is an article from Curious Kids, a series for children. The Conversation is asking kids to send in questions they'd like an expert to answer. All questions are welcome - serious, weird or wacky! You might also like the podcast Imagine This, a co-production between ABC KIDS listen and The Conversation, based on Curious Kids.

Hi, my name is Vaibhav Kannan. I'm 11 years old and I live in Melbourne. I am in Year 7 and my question is: what are wormholes, and if they do exist, how do they form and work? Thanks. - Vaibhav Kannan, age 11, Melbourne.

Hello Vaibhav. That's a great question!

A wormhole is like a tunnel connecting two places in space. By going through the wormhole, you could - in theory - travel immense distances across space remarkably quickly, even if the two ends of the wormhole were very far apart.

If you had one end of the wormhole at school, and the other end at home, then you could just step through the wormhole in class and arrive at home. The other end could even be on a far away planet in a distant galaxy and you could easily go out on a day trip to another planet.

So wormholes would be incredibly useful things to have around and are great for science fiction stories.

The problem is, as far as we know, there are no wormholes like this in our universe.

Read more: Explainer: what is radiocarbon dating and how does it work?

We haven't found any evidence of them existing and we don't have any idea how they could form.

However, the existence of wormholes is not forbidden by our current theories of the universe. So we can say that they do exist in theory.

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In science, a theory is an idea or way of describing what happens or could happen in reality. You might have heard of the theory of general relativity, created by physicist Albert Einstein over a hundred years ago. It describes gravity, which is what keeps us on the Earth and keeps the Earth orbiting the Sun. This theory also describes wormholes in a mathematical way.

So how do wormholes work in theory?

First, we need to think about something called space-time. We often imagine space-time as a stretchy fabric sheet. Everything in our universe lives on this imaginary space-time fabric sheet.

By thinking about the fabric sheet, we are visualising something called a two-dimensional surface. Someone walking around on the sheet can choose two kinds of movement: going forwards/backwards or going left/right. In reality, space is three-dimensional: you can also jump up and down!

In fact, there's a fourth dimension: time. You might not think of time as a "dimension" but physicists do. Put all the dimensions together, and you get what we call space-time.

Read more: Curious Kids: Do bees ever accidentally sting other bees?

Getting back to wormholes, imagine we want to get from one place to another on the space-time fabric, say from home to the distant planet. Even with a spaceship this journey could take thousands of years or even longer.

What if we could fold over the fabric so that our home and the far away planet line up, and then make a hole connecting the two layers of space-time? Then we would have a shortcut tunnel to get to the planet without having to go the long way around!

Shutterstock

No one knows where to start on how or if a wormhole could be made in reality, but it's pretty fun to think about them and they'd be great for exploring our enormous universe.
Hello, curious kids! Have you got a question you'd like an expert to answer? Ask an adult to send your question to us. You can: * Email your question to curiouskids@theconversation.edu.au
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Please tell us your name, age and which city you live in. You can send an audio recording of your question too, if you want. Send as many questions as you like! We won't be able to answer every question but we will do our best.

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This is an article from Curious Kids, a series for children. The Conversation is asking kids to send in questions they'd like an expert to answer. All questions are welcome - serious, weird or wacky! You might also like the podcast Imagine This, a co-production between ABC KIDS listen and The Conversation, based on Curious Kids.

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What are the diffenent responibilities (personal, local and global)?  (Responsibility)                                     

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What are the diffenent responibilities (personal, local and global)?  (Responsibility)                                     

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Ever since a trip through a wormhole was first portrayed in 2001: A Space Odyssey 50 years ago, the idea of them has captured the public imagination. And small wonder: they're the ultimate form of cosmic travel: a way of zipping across galaxies in an instant.

But while wormholes have become a staple of science fiction, among scientists they've been a source of endless frustration. Not because the idea is ridiculous, but because it isn't. The astonishing fact is that wormholes are a natural consequence of current theories of gravity, and were investigated by Einstein himself over 80 years ago. Ever since, researchers have been trying to find out if such a bizarre theoretical possibility could be a reality.

And now they have made a major breakthrough - one which exploits deep connections between the nature of space and time and the laws of the subatomic world. The result is a new understanding of exactly what's required to make a real-life wormhole.
Read more:
Einstein first investigated the properties of wormholes with his colleague Nathan Rosen in 1935, using his theory of gravity known as General Relativity. They found that what we now call a black hole could be connected to another via a tube-like 'throat'. Now called the Einstein-Rosen bridge, this seemed to open the way to taking shortcuts through space and time, entering a black hole in one part of the Universe and emerging from another perhaps millions of light-years away, but without taking millions of years to do so - thus effectively travelling faster than the speed of light.

It was a stunning idea, but in the early 1960s it was dealt a severe blow by John Wheeler, the brilliant US physicist who first coined the terms 'black hole' and 'wormhole'. Together with fellow theorist Robert Fuller, he showed that the Einstein-Rosen bridge would collapse almost as soon as it formed. As Dr Daniel Jafferis, associate professor of physics at Harvard University explains: "We could jump in from opposite sides and meet in the connected interior, but then we would both be doomed."

Jafferis is one of an elite group of theorists around the world searching for ways to dodge this problem. For years, the most promising idea has been to support the bridge using a type of 'exotic matter' with negative energy. As its name suggests, this is pretty weird stuff - so weird it's capable of bending the normal rules of gravity. While ordinary matter always generates a gravitational pull, the negative energy produced by this exotic matter generates an antigravitational repulsion. Amazingly, such energy is known to exist. In the 1990s, astronomers discovered that the whole Universe is expanding under the antigravitational effect of so-called 'dark energy'. There's just one problem - the exact origins of dark energy are as yet unknown. The same goes for the exotic matter - no one has any idea how to create the stuff, let alone use it keep a wormhole open long enough to fly through.

The worm has turned

But now the debate over such so-called traversable wormholes has taken a radical new turn. It follows the discovery of a new way of keeping the bridge intact based on a surprising link between wormholes and quantum theory (the laws of the subatomic world). It emerged during attempts to solve a problem that has obsessed some of the greatest theorists of our time, including the late Stephen Hawking: what happens to objects that fall into a black hole?

Everyone knows there's no escaping a black hole once inside it: the pull of gravity is too strong even for light to evade its clutches. Yet Hawking famously showed that a black hole doesn't last forever, but eventually explodes in a burst of intense radiation, leaving no trace of whatever fell into it.

The trouble is, this contradicts one of the key principles of quantum theory, which states that information can never be destroyed. Black holes, however, seem quite capable of utterly destroying information about what they've consumed. This is the notorious 'black hole information paradox', and it hints at a big gap in our understanding of how the Universe works.

For decades, Hawking and many others tried to resolve the paradox without success. But now there's growing excitement that the answer has been found. And it lies in the ability of wormholes to provide a way out of black holes. Put simply, theorists think the supposedly inescapable boundary of a black hole - the so-called event horizon - is riddled with tiny wormholes that allow information to seep out, along with the radiation which Hawking showed destroys black holes. This, in turn, has led to new insights into the nature of wormholes, and whether they can be traversed.

Until now, the only known way to traverse a wormhole was to stop the Einstein-Rosen bridge collapsing using the negative energy of exotic matter. "Quantum effects allow some negative energy," explains Jafferis. "But it was long suspected that what is required for a traversable wormhole is physically impossible."

Now, Jafferis and his colleagues Dr Ping Gao and Dr Aron Wall think they've discovered another source. "What we found is that a direct interaction between the [black holes at the] two ends of a non-traversable wormhole can lead to negative energy," says Jafferis. The resulting antigravitational effect then stops the Einstein-Rosen bridge from collapsing, therefore making the wormhole traversable.

When Jafferis and his colleagues say "direct interaction", they mean that the two black holes forming the mouths of the wormhole are affecting each other across real, ordinary space. "Binary black hole systems consuming each other's Hawking radiation is a good example," says Jafferis. "The consuming of the radiation is the direct connection."

In a tangle

So, the good news is that traversable wormholes really can exist. Better still, according to Jafferis there's no problem sending a human through one of them, at least in principle. But, perhaps unsurprisingly, there are some major problems to overcome.

First, the black holes can't just be the standard type formed from the collapsed remnants of huge stars; they have to be 'maximally entangled'. This refers to a strange quantum connection that can exist between two objects, so that anything done to one affects the other instantly - no matter how far apart they are.
Read more:
Like negative energy, the bizarre phenomenon of quantum entanglement really exists. It was first detected in lab experiments nearly 40 years ago, and it's now being investigated by companies like Google for creating ultra-fast quantum computers. Yet while subatomic particles can be entangled relatively easily in the lab, no one has any idea how to do the same with black holes. "We can't even make unentangled black holes, let alone precisely quantum entangled ones," explains Jafferis.

Yet direct interaction between two black holes comes with a catch: it forbids any amazing time travel trickery. But could it still allow faster-than-light travel? That's a tricky question, says Jafferis. Gravity, space and time are all intimately linked, and that messes with the very notion of speed. According to Jafferis, calculations based on the wormhole types studied so far suggest that using them would actually be slower than simply travelling directly through space. He admits, though, that the details have yet to be fully worked out. So, it seems that science fact is still running a little behind science fiction. The laws of nature seem to insist that wormholes can either perform amazing feats but collapse in an instant, or be traversable but useless.

Yet time and again, nature has sprung big surprises on theorists. The mere possibility of black holes was disputed for decades, and Einstein himself refused to believe in quantum entanglement. Could it be that somewhere in the Universe lie natural wormholes performing their miracles?

Science or sci-fi?

The possibility of observing a real-life wormhole is now the focus of research by theorists using a mix of mathematics and computer models. The challenge is spotting the difference between normal black holes and those that are the portals of wormholes. According to Rajibul Shaikh, a gravity theorist at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in Mumbai, India, the answer may lie in subtle differences in the way they affect their surroundings - and in particular the behaviour of light. "As predicted by Einstein's General Relativity, photons undergo bending in a gravitational field," he explains.

The intense gravity of black holes creates incredibly hot, bright accretion discs around them, formed of matter spiralling down to its doom. The otherwise invisible hosts of these discs then reveal their presence as a pitch-black shadow cast on them. It's the shape of this shadow that could reveal when a black hole is actually something even more bizarre. According to Shaikh, the telltale signs of a wormhole come from the gravitational effect of its throat on the resulting shadow.

"What I found is that the shape of the shadow of a slowly rotating wormhole would be very similar to the almost perfectly disc-like shadow cast by a slowly rotating black hole," he explains. "But a faster spinning wormhole would cast a shadow which is more distorted than that of a black hole with the same spin."

He stresses that research is still in progress, and the results so far are based on specific types of black holes and wormholes. "There's no guarantee the type of rotating wormholes I considered are the most common."

But Shaikh points out that astronomers already have the means to detect the effects predicted to exist around wormholes. Known as the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT), it consists of a global network of radio antennas able to make studies of black holes and wormholes. "And it has already started taking data," says Shaikh. It could just be that, half a century after it made its debut on movie screens, the space-time wormhole is about to become more than just science fiction.

This article first appeared in issue 322 of BBC Focus Magazine

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Wormholes: Could we travel through a black hole into another galaxy?

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Ever since a trip through a wormhole was first portrayed in 2001: A Space Odyssey 50 years ago, the idea of them has captured the public imagination. And small wonder: they're the ultimate form of cosmic travel: a way of zipping across galaxies in an instant.

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Mathematics is a very important subject to learn in school and in everyday life (you know this from dealing with your pocket money or calculating how many days of school are left until the vacations). For some kids, it comes very easily - they just get math and enjoy it. But for some kids, learning math is very difficult, and even if they are given extra help, they find it hard to "get it." For example, an arithmetic problem such as 2 + 2 can be remembered from memory very easily for some children; but, for others, this problem requires a lot of hard work. At the same time, these children can be very good in other classes for which they do not need math.

Children who have great difficulties learning simple arithmetic problems may have a little-known learning problem known as developmental dyscalculia. Children with dyscalculia have math abilities that are much lower than those of their friends who are of the same age. Also, their difficulties are long lasting, and you cannot explain their problems by poor teaching or by other brain disorders. Even though you might have some problems learning math at different times during class, children with dyscalculia experience a lot of difficulties all the time: they just continue to find it hard to learn math. This is important to know because some children struggle with math for some time but then get it. These children do not have dyscalculia []. It is only those who continue to have problems have a real difficulty called developmental dyscalculia.

It is very common for young children with dyscalculia to use different ways of solving a math problem (such as finger counting), which are very slow, while their friends without dyscalculia remember the answer without counting. For their classmates, the answer just pops into their heads - they have a good memory for the number facts.

Why Do Children Develop Dyscalculia?

Very little research has addressed this question. It is a very difficult question to answer, because it is a heterogeneous disorder (meaning that there are many reasons for having it and it looks different in different children). At the moment, researchers have evidence supporting different ideas about the reasons why some children find math so hard. Some people believe that the primary reason behind dyscalculia is that these children have poor memory skills; therefore, when first learning 2 + 2, they use counting strategies all the time and do not switch to finding the answer without thinking or using their fingers [ 1]. As a consequence, they are unable to store the arithmetic fact (e.g., that 2 + 2 = 4) in their memory storage system and cannot quickly remember the same fact at another time. Other researchers have different ideas about what causes dyscalculia. They look at reasons that have to do with our basic understanding of what numbers are and mean. In particular, they think the brain system that helps children understand the meaning of numbers (understanding that the number "3" refers to three things; see Figure 1A) does not develop properly for children with dyscalculia []. These researchers think that having problems with numbers leads to difficulties in using them to solve math problems. It is like a jigsaw puzzle: if you do not know how to put the pieces together, you cannot solve the puzzle. Similarly, if you do not know what numbers mean, you cannot calculate with them. Because of this, researchers have been trying to understand why some children find 2 + 2 so hard by looking at how they understand the meaning of numbers.

Figure 1

A. What do numbers mean? In (A), the number 3 means that there are three items, such as the three different shapes. Different number activities can be used to measure children's understanding of numbers. B. During dot counting tasks, a set of dots are shown on a computer screen and you are asked to count the total number of dots as fast as you can. C. In the number naming tasks, you are shown a number on the screen and are asked to name the number as fast as you can. D. The number comparison tasks are administered on a computer screen shown above, where children place their fingers on two buttons: they press the left button if the larger number is on the left side, and the right button if the larger number is on the right side of the screen.

Do Numbers Count for Children with Dyscalculia?

There is research showing that understanding numbers (e.g., knowing that the number 2 stands for two things in the world) is problematic for children with dyscalculia and, as a result, they cannot solve simple addition problems like 2 + 2 easily. Researchers have used many number activities to look at how well children understand their numbers. Some examples include the following: counting dots, where children count the number of dots on a computer screen (see Figure 1B); naming numbers, where children name numbers as they are shown on the computer screen (see Figure 1C); and number comparison. Researchers have used the number comparison task a lot to find out how children understand numbers. During the number comparison task, children are shown two numbers on a computer screen (see Figure 1D) and have to choose the bigger number as fast as they can without making any mistakes. Once they choose the bigger number, they press the correct button on the keyboard. All the different activities together tell us how well children understand the meaning of numbers. Researchers have used all these activities to look at how children with dyscalculia figure out the answers differently than children without dyscalculia and who are of the same age. It has been found that children with dyscalculia have difficulties naming numbers and counting dots compared to children without dyscalculia (see Figures 2A,B) []. Also, children with dyscalculia are slower and make more mistakes when choosing the bigger number (the number on the screen that means more things) during comparison (see Figure 2C) [ 3, ]. These studies show that even in simple numerical tasks, children with dyscalculia have many difficulties, which can lead to poor arithmetic skills.

Figure 2

Children with dyscalculia have greater difficulties with different number tasks. The blue bars are the speed of responses (how fast you can answer a question) for the children with dyscalculia and the purple bars are the speed of responses for children without dyscalculia. A. During the dot counting task, children with dyscalculia are slower at counting dots when there are more than 10. B. During number naming, children with dyscalculia are slower at naming two-digit numbers (numbers larger than 10). C. In the number comparison task, children with dyscalculia are slower at choosing the bigger number. This picture comes from findings that were published by Landerl et al. [3].

When the Dyscalculic Brain Does Not Add up

While trying to understand how children with dyscalculia understand numbers, researchers are also beginning to look at how the brains of children with dyscalculia may be organized differently from typically developing children. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a tool we use to take pictures of your brain while you are working on different number activities. This allows us to see what parts of your brain are working while you are calculating math problems or processing different numbers. The intraparietal sulcus (IPS), which is located in the parietal lobe of your brain (see Figure 3), helps you complete different numerical activities [], such as number comparison. But this may not be the case for children who have dyscalculia. For example, two studies found that children with dyscalculia did not use their IPS as much as their friends without dyscalculia when choosing the bigger number [ 4, ]. These results tell us that dyscalculic brains do not work well with numbers, and that they seem to use their brains differently even when deciding which of two numbers is bigger, which might lead to difficulties in understanding numbers and learning simple arithmetic. You need to understand, though, that children with developmental dyscalculia do not have damage to their brains. Instead, their brains work differently.

Figure 3 - The intraparietal sulcus (IPS) helps children understand the meaning of numbers.

It is located at the back of the brain, in an area called the parietal lobe, which is the area colored in light yellow. The IPS is highlighted in orange in the picture. The brain picture on the left is a picture of a brain taken using a magnetic resonance imaging scanner. The brain picture on the right is a cartoon brain.

We do not know a lot about how the dyscalculic brain develops. But we do know that children with dyscalculia have difficulties understanding numbers. If children at a young age have difficulties understanding their numbers, then it leads to even more problems learning harder arithmetic problems, as they are asked to learn these in school. When calculating 2 + 2, the brain of a child with dyscalculia is slower at processing the meaning of 2 and, as a result, finds it harder to add both numbers to find the answer 4. It is important to understand more about how the dyscalculic brain functions, so that we can find children who may have the disability. We hope that with more research and knowledge about dyscalculia, we can develop programs for teachers to use in school to help children who have difficulties learning math. It is important that all children can learn math to the best of their ability to be successful. The research we reviewed here shows that finding out problems early on might help to prevent problems later on.

Finally, it is important for you to understand that finding math hard does not mean you have dyscalculia. Some children find math frightening, but they could do it if given the right help. Children with dyscalculia need more help than others in order to do math, and they need to receive this help. Also, it is really important to know that, although children with dyscalculia seem to use their brains differently, this does not mean that they cannot change the way in which their brain works, as you can read in this paper: http://kids.frontiersin.org/articles/going_to_school_to_sculpt_the_brain/1. We can change our brains if we work hard at it. But we also need to realize that some children have difficulties which mean that they will find it more difficult, and these children need extra help. Currently, we know far less about what causes developmental dyscalculia compared to why some children have trouble learning how to read (developmental dyslexia). It is also unclear how different teaching approaches can help children who have dyscalculia. There have been various attempts to use computer games to help children with developmental dyscalculia but, currently, very little is known about how well such games work []. In our laboratory, we are running new studies to find out more about developmental dyscalculia, and we hope to use this research one day to help make the lives of children with developmental dyscalculia easier, inside and outside the classroom [].

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When Your Brain Cannot Do 2 + 2: A Case of Developmental Dyscalculia

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Mathematics is a very important subject to learn in school and in everyday life (you know this from dealing with your pocket money or calculating how many days of school are left until the vacations). For some kids, it comes very easily - they just get math and enjoy it.

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The New Coronavirus Explained has 333 reviews and 0 ratings. Reviewer horselover2011 wrote: "I don't have to wear a mask anymore in New Mexico!!!!!!!!"

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Today's Wonder of the Day was inspired by taylor from AL. taylor Wonders, " How many people are on the earth? " Thanks for WONDERing with us, taylor!

Do you like to ? Try counting the of in your family. That's easy, right? How about the of students in your classroom? That's still not much of a challenge. But what about the of in your hometown? Or your ? Or your country? Or on Earth?

Today, the world population continues to increase. That is because more babies are born each year than there are who die. Experts expect this trend to continue for the next couple of decades. Things were not always this way, though.

Experts believe the world population first reached the one mark around 1804. It did not reach the two mark until about 1927 - a period of over 120 years. With advancements in science, technology , and medicine, today live a lot longer than they used to.

Is Earth running out of room? Is there enough space for all those extra ? Actually, there is. Earth is a huge place. Even though it's 70% covered by oceans, there's still more than enough room for everyone. How much room is there? A lot!

Scientists that if all seven on Earth stood shoulder-to-shoulder, they would fill an area about the size of Los Angeles. If you wanted those same seven to stretch out so that everyone had room to dance freely, they'd still only fill an area about the size of Rhode Island.

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Today's Wonder of the Day was inspired by taylor from AL. taylor Wonders, " How many people are on the earth? " Thanks for WONDERing with us, taylor! Do you like to ? Try counting the of in your family. That's easy, right? How about the of students in your classroom?

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How are their physical and behavioural capabilities used?

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How are their physical and behavioural capabilities used?

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With thousands of chemically-sensitive suckers, color-changing skin, and a brain that literally stretches when they eat, octopuses seem like aliens living in our oceans. Understanding their physical adaptations and how octopuses might process their own sensations requires a flexible imagination. Thankfully, Frank Grasso of Brooklyn College is up to the task. He reveals some of the small biological and behavioral clues that researchers have uncovered as they try to understand these curious creatures.

From Science Friday, this is I, Octopus, an exploration into what it might be like to think and feel like an octopus.

Watch more on the octopus brain and arms work in How the Octopus Moves, plus two more SciFri vids on cephalopods: Studying the deep sea octopus Opisthoteuthis "Adorabilis", Caring for Cuttlefish, and Run, Octopus, Run!

Bonus: The unusual locomotion of a boneless, 600lb octopus.

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I, Octopus - Science Friday | The Kid Should See This

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With thousands of chemically-sensitive suckers, color-changing skin, and a brain that literally stretches when they eat, octopuses seem like aliens living in our oceans. Understanding their physical adaptations and how octopuses might process their own sensations requires a flexible imagination. Thankfully, Frank Grasso of Brooklyn College is up to the task.

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adaptation, in biology, has several meanings. It can mean the adjustment of living matter to environmental conditions and to other living things either in an organism's lifetime (physiological adaptation) or in a population over many many generations (evolutionary adaptation). The word can also refer to a trait that is considered an adaptation. The ability to adapt is a fundamental property of life and constitutes a basic difference between living and nonliving matter.

Most living things require free oxygen from the air or from water, but yeasts, many bacteria, and some other simple forms obtain the oxygen required for oxidation from molecules of substances that contain the element. Various animals and plants are adapted for securing their food and for surviving the extremes of temperature and of water supply in desert, tropical, and polar regions. For most organisms the optimum temperature is between about 20°C (68°C) and 40°C (104°C). Some algae and protozoans live in hot springs, and some bacteria can survive freezing or survive on chemicals, without light, in the ocean depths. Cacti can survive heat and drought. Certain fish and other aquatic animals live in deep water and are so specialized to withstand the great pressure that they burst if lifted to sea level.

Animals show anatomical adaptations-e.g., the body of the fish is suited to life in the water; the body of the bird is adapted for flight; and the land mammals show a wide variation in the structure of limbs and body that enables some to run swiftly, some to climb, some to swing from tree to tree, some to glide through the air, and others to jump. The whale, an aquatic mammal, can adjust to great pressure changes at different levels in the water. The beaks of birds vary in shape and size according to what they feed on-e.g., on seeds, on insects, on aquatic animals, or on small mammals. The feet and legs of birds also show modifications that fit them for perching, for wading, or for paddling through the water. Adaptive coloration is observed in many animals (see protective coloration ). Among communal insects, such as ants and honeybees, the individuals are highly adapted to perform their functions in the community.

It is believed by many scientists that life originated in the sea and that through gradual evolutionary changes some forms became adapted to life on land. Variations may arise as a result of mutation , or of recombinations of the genes in the germ cells. Such variations are inherited (see genetics ). Those that aid the organism to meet the conditions of a changing environment or help it in its competition with other living things enable it to survive and reproduce, the changes thus being passed on from one generation to another and in this way perhaps producing a new species.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2012, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

See more Encyclopedia articles on: Genetics and Genetic Engineering

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adaptation, in biology, has several meanings. It can mean the adjustment of living matter to environmental conditions and to other living things either in an organism's lifetime (physiological adaptation) or in a population over many many generations (evolutionary adaptation). The word can also refer to a trait that is considered an adaptation.

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how is the CoronaVirus affecting the human population?

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how is the CoronaVirus affecting the human population?