Pink noise, often used as a sleep aid, may actually harm sleep quality by reducing restorative REM sleep, according to a recent study published in the journal Sleep. The research, conducted by the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, found that earplugs were significantly more effective than pink noise in protecting sleep from traffic noise.
The study, released on February 2, 2026, challenges the widespread use of ambient sound machines and apps marketed to promote sleep. REM sleep is crucial for memory consolidation, emotional regulation, and brain development. The findings suggest that playing pink noise and other types of broadband noise during sleep might interfere with these vital processes.
In other scientific news, a study of 130,000 people suggests that moderate caffeine intake might reduce the risk of dementia, according to Nature News. This research aligns with previous findings, indicating a potential link between coffee consumption and slower brain aging. The Nature Podcast also discussed this and other science news on February 13, 2026.
Simultaneously, researchers are exploring innovative methods in other areas. An article in Phys.org discussed the importance of including children's perspectives in research, highlighting a new approach to gather their views. The article, edited by Owen Ferguson and reviewed by Andrew Zinin, emphasized that adults often underestimate the amount of work children do.
In the realm of mental health, Vox reported on the popularity of Internal Family Systems therapy, despite its questionable scientific basis. The article, written by Sigal Samuel, explores why this therapy style is gaining traction, even though its claims are considered dubious.
Finally, a summary from Hacker News highlighted both the sleep study findings and the caffeine research, along with the use of AI to decode the rules of an ancient Roman board game. This multi-source summary underscores the breadth of recent scientific advancements.
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