If you and your partner argue over how cool the bedroom should be at night, science may settle the debate. Researchers at Griffith University in Australia say keeping your room no warmer than 75 degrees Fahrenheit can help reduce stress during sleep—especially for adults aged 65 and older. A slightly cooler environment helps the body regulate temperature more efficiently, easing the workload on the heart as it circulates blood to the skin.
Meanwhile, scientists at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland are finding surprising value in household plastic waste. Their research shows that plastic bottles and textiles made from PET can be recycled not only mechanically, but chemically. By breaking PET down at the molecular level, researchers believe it could be used to help synthesize anticancer medications, giving discarded plastics a powerful second life.
Finally, experts say what you wear on your feet matters when you decide to get moving. Podiatrists warn that exercising in the wrong shoes can lead to injury. Runners should look for shoes with strong heel shock absorption, while walkers benefit most from footwear that is cushioned and stable. Choosing the right shoe for your activity can make workouts safer—and more comfortable.