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Electric lights have made life easier, but experts have found that they can also cause problems. One issue is that artificial lights can stop people from sleeping well. This is ironic because lights were made to improve life, but they can harm sleep instead. Many body rhythms, like sleep, are controlled by light. If the light is too bright at the wrong time, the body thinks it is time to wake up instead of sleep.

These problems are more distinct in older people, who have more trouble sleeping. A group of colleagues in Europe created the ALADIN Project to help. They discovered that the brightness and color of light can affect the body. By adjusting the light, the system helps seniors sleep better over a steady period of time. It promotes relaxation by changing the light to match the body’s natural rhythm.

The system can also be personalized. For example, sensors in clothing check the person’s body and adjust the light to fit their needs. This can help people savor their sleep and avoid stress. Experts believe this system could also work in other ways, like helping passengers on long flights. With moderation, the ALADIN Project could improve life for people of all ages.

Vocabulary Questions

1. What does "distinct" most nearly mean?
A. Common
B. Clear and separate
C. Confusing
D. Similar

2. What does "savor" mean in the context of this passage?
A. To enjoy slowly and fully
B. To ignore completely
C. To create something new
D. To analyze critically

3. What is "ironic" about artificial lights?
A. They make life harder instead of easier.
B. They only work during the day.
C. They have no impact on sleep.
D. They are more expensive than expected.

4. Which of the following best describes "moderation"?
A. Extreme amounts of something
B. Avoiding too much or too little
C. A short period of time
D. A complete lack of control

5. What is a "colleague"?
A. A friend from school
B. A person you work with
C. A family member
D. A type of disease

6. What does "period" refer to in this context?
A. A specific length of time
B. The end of a sentence
C. A type of light
D. A relaxing activity

7. What does it mean to "criticize" something?
A. To approve of it completely
B. To point out its flaws
C. To avoid discussing it
D. To praise it highly

8. What is a "disease"?
A. A health problem affecting the body
B. A time of relaxation
C. A new invention
D. A bright light

9. What does it mean to "approve of" something?
A. To agree with or accept it
B. To feel unsure about it
C. To strongly criticize it
D. To completely ignore it

10. What is a "beverage"?
A. A type of food
B. A drink, such as tea or coffee
C. A form of disease
D. A distinct rhythm of the body