Experts Matter. Find Yours.

The health challenges astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams face after 9 months in space

On June 5, 2024, astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams embarked on a brief mission to the International Space Station. But equipment failures turned what was supposed to be an eight-day trip into a grueling 9 month spaceflight. This week, Wilmore and Williams finally returned to Earth. While their safe return is cause for celebration, the journey doesn’t end when astronauts touch down on Earth. They now face the significant task of recovering from the physical and psychological toll of long-duration spaceflight. As part of the University of Florida’s ongoing research into astronaut health, Rachael Seidler, Ph.D., a leading expert in spaceflight-associated health changes, is studying the long-term effects of space travel on astronauts’ brains and bodies. Seidler’s research focuses on understanding how the central nervous system and brain structure adapt to the challenges of space travel, as well as how these changes affect performance, balance, and mobility once astronauts return to Earth. “While the physical and psychological challenges astronauts face after returning from long-duration space missions are well-documented, the research we do at UF is helping us understand the intricacies of their recovery process,” said Seidler, deputy director of the Astraeus Space Institute at UF. “By following astronauts like Butch and Suni before, during, and after their missions, we can track how the human body responds to the extreme conditions of space.” Behavioral and Brain Changes Post-Flight Seidler’s research tracks astronauts’ physical and neurological recovery by observing them both during their missions and after they return. "One of the most immediate challenges astronauts face when they return to Earth is mobility and balance. These issues often recover more quickly compared to others, but it takes time for astronauts to readjust to gravity,” Seidler said. "The balance, mobility, and walking difficulties astronauts experience during the first weeks back are typically resolved in a short period, but brain function and structure require longer recovery periods." Seidler’s research indicates that astronauts’ brains exhibit compensation when they return to Earth following spaceflight. This compensation occurs through the recruitment of additional neural pathways in order to return to their preflight performance levels. However, the recovery of brain function is a gradual process. "This brain functional compensation is typically no longer observed within one to six months post-flight," Seidler said. However, not all changes are reversible. "Brain structural changes, particularly related to fluid shifts in space, show little to no recovery even after six months to a year," Seidler said. Two significant structural changes include the brain physically sitting higher in the skull and the expansion of the brain’s ventricles — fluid-filled cavities in the brain — which can increase in volume by 25% or more. These changes are thought to result from the fluid shifts caused by microgravity, and they present long-term health considerations for astronauts. Long-Term Health Effects: Understanding the Impact As Wilmore and Williams embark on their recovery journey, the long-term impact of these changes becomes a critical focus for researchers like Seidler. "The long-term health impacts are crucial to understand because they could affect how astronauts recover and perform in their daily lives post-mission," she said. Seidler’s team at UF is conducting a new study in which they are tracking astronauts for up to five years post-flight to better understand these long-term effects. "We’ve had astronauts in space for up to a year, and we know how to manage their physical health during those missions," Seidler said. "But the effects of space on the brain and body extend beyond the mission, and our work helps inform strategies to manage recovery." Collaborating with NASA and Studying Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome Seidler's work is also part of a broader collaboration with NASA and other scientists to assess astronaut long-term health. The project is particularly focused on Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome, which affects up to 70% of astronauts. This condition involves structural changes to the eye and optic nerve, leading to vision problems that may impact astronauts’ function. "Neuropsychological assessments can help to measure astronauts’ brain health, while studies of the ocular system help identify potential vision issues that may arise during and after long-duration space missions," she said. Simulating Space Conditions on Earth In addition to studying astronauts on Earth and in space, Seidler’s team conducts experiments to simulate the effects of spaceflight on human physiology. The UF lab runs experiments in head-down tilt bed rest studies, which keep participants lying down for weeks to months at a time to simulate the lack of gravity. "This type of study helps us understand how fluid shifts in the body during space travel affect mobility, balance, and brain structure," Seidler explained. "In addition, other publications have reported that astronauts describe that vestibular galvanic stimulation feels similar to what they experience when they first arrive in space and when they return to Earth. We have equipment to induce these effects in the lab." Looking Toward the Future As space missions continue to grow longer and more complex, UF’s research is more important than ever. "We’re studying these issues now to ensure that future astronauts are prepared for the physical and cognitive challenges that await them in deep space," Seidler said.

The Annual Reset: Why We Try to Change Every January

Every January, the world collectively decides to become a better version of itself. We swear we’ll exercise more, eat better, save money, quit bad habits, and finally tackle that one thing we’ve been avoiding. And yet—by February—most New Year’s resolutions quietly disappear. This isn’t because people lack willpower. It’s because resolutions often aim too big, too fast, and ignore how change actually works. Resolutions tend to fail when they’re built on motivation alone. Motivation is emotional and short-lived, especially when routines, stress, and real life return. “I’ll go to the gym every day” collapses the first time work runs late or energy dips. Research consistently shows that successful change depends more on systems than goals—small, repeatable behaviors that fit into daily life. People who frame resolutions as habits (“I’ll walk 10 minutes a day”) rather than outcomes (“I’ll lose 30 pounds”) are far more likely to stick with them. Still, there’s a reason resolutions endure. Psychologists call it the “fresh start effect”—the mental boost people feel at symbolic moments like birthdays, Mondays, or a new year. These moments help us psychologically separate our past selves from our future ones, making change feel possible. Even when resolutions fail, the act of reflecting, resetting, and trying again serves a real purpose: it helps people take stock of their lives and imagine improvement. The trick isn’t to stop making resolutions—it’s to make them smarter. Start small. Tie goals to existing routines. Focus on consistency over perfection. And most importantly, allow room for flexibility. Change isn’t linear, and falling off track doesn’t mean failing—it means adjusting. Journalists covering wellness, psychology, productivity, or lifestyle trends: connect with experts who study habit formation, behavior change, and motivation to explain why resolutions fail, what actually works, and how people can turn fresh starts into lasting change. Expert insight can help readers move beyond guilt—and toward progress that sticks. Connect with our experts: www.expertfile.com

Designing Reflection: An Expert’s View Inside Michigan’s Japanese Garden

As public gardens increasingly become spaces for artistic expression, cultural exchange, and mindful reflection, Steven LaWarre, Senior Vice President at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, recently offered his expert insight to Homes and Gardens Magazine into how world-class garden design can shape human experience, invite contemplation, and connect visitors with nature in deeply meaningful ways. With decades of experience in professional horticulture and garden planning, LaWarre has played a central role in creating and nurturing Meijer Gardens' Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden, guiding its interpretive programming, and curating visitor interaction with seasonal changes and design elements. Steve LaWarre is the Senior Vice President at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where his visionary leadership and passion for botanical excellence have been instrumental in shaping the Gardens' stunning landscapes and ensuring operational excellence. He leads efforts to sustain the Gardens' exceptional standards in landscape design, sustainable gardening practices, and the care of diverse plant collections. View his profile here The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden, an eight-acre landscape inspired by centuries-old Japanese horticultural principle, has rapidly evolved into one of the Midwest’s most beloved cultural destinations. Beyond aesthetic beauty, the garden embodies philosophical traditions that encourage visitors to slow down, observe impermanence, and appreciate harmony between the human spirit and the natural world. As audiences seek spaces that offer quiet reflection, seasonal observation, and cultural resonance, LaWarre’s expertise bridges horticulture, design intention, and visitor experience. Read the Homes and Garden Magazine article 'Beyond Wild Expectations: Michigan’s Very Own Slice of Japan – Where Ancient Garden Design Provides a Deep Connection to Nature' below: Expert Insight Steven LaWarre on the Japanese Garden Experience On Winter’s Quiet Presence “It’s just beautiful covered in snow. You hear the waterfalls differently, you see ice sweep over the pond. Everything feels a bit more muffled in the winter, but it somehow puts you at ease,” LaWarre explains, highlighting how seasonal change reveals structure, silence, and contemplative calm. On Spring’s Renewal “The first flush of leaves on the trees is a joyful sight after winter. The small chartreuse green buds contrast to the dark stems,” LaWarre observes, describing the ephemeral nature of bloom and the reminder of restoration that seasonal transformation offers visitors. On Core Garden Elements “The conifers create a backbone of the garden, recognizable in all four seasons… they have been pruned and shaped over time to really create the caricature of a tree,” LaWarre notes, outlining the horticultural artistry behind traditional practices like niwaki pruning. On Cultural Immersion and Mindful Reflection LaWarre describes the garden’s traditional teahouse experience as more than cultural spectacle: “It’s a way to really quiet the senses and participate in mindful reflection, aided by the serenity of garden views… It’s an opportunity to connect with the people you’re with, but also to connect with yourself.” On Design Intent and Human Experience “It’s taught me to look at things differently. As humans, we can be focused on achieving neat lines and symmetry, but taking a moment to observe your surroundings will reveal this isn’t usually how things are in the natural world,” LaWarre reflects, capturing how garden design can subtly reshape perception. In a cultural moment where audiences increasingly seek restorative outdoor experiences, cultural depth, and mindful engagement with public spaces, LaWarre offers perspective and insight into: How garden design influences perception, supports wellness, and fosters cross-cultural appreciation How public gardens are not solely as spaces of beauty, but also living environments that shape emotional and philosophical engagement with the natural world Steve can bring this perspective for media interviews and speaking engagements.

Online Dating in 2026: Are Apps Bringing Us Closer or Just Keeping Us Swiping?

In 2025, “We met on an app” is the most ordinary love story in the world. Swiping has replaced setups and chance encounters as the primary way couples connect in many countries. But as online dating becomes normal, a new question is emerging: Are app-born relationships actually as happy and secure as we think? Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Gaea Woods, an expert in the Offline.now digital wellness directory, sees both sides in her practice. “Online dating is just a tool,” she says. “It can absolutely bring people together who would never have met otherwise. But the way we use it — the constant options, the ghosting, the parallel conversations — can quietly undermine trust even after you’ve deleted the app.” Woods says that she hears tension from from clients: “Singles tell me, ‘I hate the apps, but I don’t know another way to meet people.’ Couples tell me, ‘We met on an app, and I’m grateful — but there’s this low-level anxiety: Would you still be with me if you kept swiping?’ The technology amplifies questions that were always there about choice, commitment and comparison.” She emphasizes that how couples talk about their “app origin story” matters more than where they met. Unspoken assumptions — about whether exes stay in your DMs, if profiles stay active “just in case,” or how much flirting online is acceptable — often fuel insecurity more than the apps themselves. “Online dating is here to stay,” Woods says. “The question isn’t ‘Is it bad?’ It’s, ‘How do we use it in a way that supports real intimacy instead of keeping us one foot in and one foot out?’” Featured Expert Gaea Woods, MA, LMFT – Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist specializing in digital dependency, intimacy and communication in modern relationships. She can speak to app fatigue, the “online dating effect,” how apps change expectations around choice and commitment, and the kinds of conversations couples need to have once the swipe turns into something serious. Expert interviews can be arranged through the Offline.now media team.

ExpertSpotlight: Why Hangovers Hurt (and Why Almost Everyone Gets Them Wrong)

The hangover is the ultimate party plot twist: a night of celebration followed by a morning of regret. Headache, nausea, fatigue, brain fog, these aren’t random punishments for having fun. They’re your body’s way of saying it’s been busy processing alcohol, which acts as a diuretic (hello dehydration), irritates the stomach lining, disrupts sleep, and triggers inflammation. Even “just a few drinks” can tip that balance, especially when sleep is short and water is scarce. One of the biggest myths is that hangovers are all about dehydration. Water helps, but it’s only part of the story. Alcohol breaks down into acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct that contributes to headaches and nausea. It also messes with blood sugar, expands blood vessels, and fragments REM sleep, which is why you can wake up exhausted even after eight hours in bed. Darker drinks often get blamed too; while congeners (chemical byproducts in darker alcohols) can make symptoms worse for some people, quantity and timing usually matter more than color. Then there’s the cure-all folklore: greasy breakfasts, hair of the dog, miracle supplements. Some comfort foods can help stabilize blood sugar, and anti-inflammatory foods may take the edge off, but no remedy truly “cures” a hangover once it’s underway. Time, hydration, light food, and rest remain the most reliable fixes. Prevention, of course, is king: pacing drinks, alternating with water, eating beforehand, and prioritizing sleep do far more than any next-morning hack. Journalists covering health, lifestyle, or New Year’s recovery stories: connect with experts who can explain the real science behind hangovers, what actually works, what’s wishful thinking, and how our bodies respond to alcohol. Whether you’re debunking myths or offering evidence-based tips, expert insight can turn morning-after misery into a smarter story. Find your expert here: www.expertfile.com

A Snapshot of the Local Economy: Simon Medcalfe on Growth, Risk, and What Comes Next

At Augusta University’s annual Economic Forecast Breakfast hosted by the James M. Hull College of Business, Simon Medcalfe, PhD, offered a grounded, data-driven look at how the local economy is performing — and what lies ahead. Speaking to business leaders, students and community stakeholders, Medcalfe emphasized the importance of distinguishing real economic growth from inflation-driven gains, noting that while the Augusta region continues to grow, it does so at a measured pace compared to national averages. His presentation framed the local economy as stable and resilient, but not immune to broader forces shaping the U.S. outlook. A key theme of Medcalfe’s remarks was the role of research, innovation and education in sustaining long-term economic health. He pointed to strong gains in research and development across Georgia and highlighted how university-based research directly contributes to regional economic output. According to Medcalfe, investment in knowledge creation remains one of the most reliable drivers of growth, reinforcing the value of higher education institutions as economic anchors. Simon Medcalfe, PhD, is an economist with an emphasis on sports economics, social determinants of health, and the local economy. View his profile At the same time, Medcalfe cautioned against complacency. While regional fundamentals remain solid, he stressed that uncertainty at the national level continues to pose risks. “However, uncertainty abounds in national macroeconomic policy that could negatively impact growth next year,” Medcalfe said, underscoring how unresolved fiscal decisions and policy shifts can ripple down to local economies. Still, his overall outlook balanced realism with optimism. Medcalfe concluded that the Augusta region — and Georgia more broadly — is positioned to weather uncertainty thanks to diversification, investment in early education, and continued research activity. “Overall, Augusta and Georgia are positioned well for economic growth in 2026 with a strong commitment to early childhood education, a diversified labor market and strong research and development,” he said. View the full article 'Annual Economic Forecast Breakfast offers snapshot of the local economy' here: For journalists covering regional economics, workforce development, higher education, or policy-driven growth trends, Simon Medcalfe, PhD, offers clear-eyed analysis rooted in data — and an ability to translate complex economic signals into insight that matters locally. Simon is available to speak with media - simply click on his icon now to arrange an interview today.

From Ancient Rituals to Fireworks: Why New Year’s Eve Still Matters

New Year’s Eve marks humanity’s shared fascination with time, renewal, and fresh beginnings - a moment to close one chapter and open the next. The tradition dates back more than 4,000 years to ancient Mesopotamia, where the Babylonians celebrated Akitu, a multi-day festival tied to the spring harvest and the rebirth of nature. Rather than a single night of revelry, Akitu was a ritual reset: debts were settled, promises were renewed, and cosmic order was symbolically restored. The date we recognize today, January 1 - comes from ancient Rome. In 46 BCE, Julius Caesar reformed the calendar and dedicated the year’s first day to Janus, the two-faced god of doorways and transitions, who looked both backward and forward. This symbolism still defines New Year’s Eve: reflection on the past paired with hope for what’s ahead. Over centuries, as Christianity spread across Europe, the celebration evolved, blending solemn religious observances with local customs of feasting, bells, and bonfires. In modern times, New Year’s Eve has become a global cultural event, shaped by public countdowns, fireworks, music, and collective rituals. From the iconic ball drop in Times Square to family gatherings and quiet toasts at home, the night offers a shared pause, an almost universal agreement to stop, take stock, and imagine change. Traditions vary frm lucky foods, noise-making to ward off evil spirits, or first-footing to invite good fortune, but the intent is the same. At its core, celebrating New Year’s Eve is about agency and optimism. Resolutions, whether kept or not, are expressions of belief that tomorrow can be different. Across cultures and centuries, the night endures because it gives people permission to hope—to acknowledge what was, release what no longer serves, and step forward together into something new. Looking to go deeper on why New Year’s Eve resonates so powerfully around the world? Our experts can speak to the historical, cultural, and psychological reasons humans mark time this way, and why the midnight reset still matters today. Find your expert here: www.expertfile.com

My MBA Journey at 69: Because Apparently, Climbing Everest Base Camp Wasn't Enough

If you watched CBS 60-Minutes host, Cecilia Vega set out on a challenging 10-day trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC) in the Himalayas, for last week's episode, you couldn't help but marvel at the gruelling physical demands and the profound experience of being at the foot of Mount Everest.  Her journey, which involved intense training, navigating dangerous suspension bridges, and dealing with extreme altitude, also highlighted the massive industry around Everest and the vital, underappreciated role of the Sherpa community.  Her journey is an inspiring look at how we can push our own boundaries.  Bravo Cecilia! Vega described hiking Everest Base Camp as "the hardest thing I've ever done physically," battling low oxygen (like breathing through a straw) and fatigue, despite months of training.  She experienced sub-freezing temperatures, crossed dizzying suspension bridges, and even witnessed close calls with avalanches, with trusty Sherpas conducting nightly tent checks to ensure her safety. Hiking to Everest Base Camp is hard.  I know.  Because I did it.  At 60 Let me explain. I have a tradition of celebrating milestone birthdays with a bang. When I turned 60, I gave myself six physical challenges — one for each decade lived. The grand finale? Climbing to Everest Base Camp. It was epic, exhausting, and left me with both altitude sickness and lifetime bragging rights. But as I approached 69, I craved something different. Not hiking boots this time — just highlighters. Not mountain peaks — mental peaks. I wanted an intellectual challenge that would prove my brain still had some miles left on it. No oxygen tanks required this time. Just caffeine, reliable Wi-Fi, and an iron will. How I Got Here (And Why I'm Questioning My Sanity) I've always wanted an MBA — partly for the knowledge, but let's be honest, mostly for the prestige. There's something irresistible about joining that club of spreadsheet-loving scholars. For years, I've imagined myself casually tossing around terms like "synergy" and "stakeholder engagement" while sipping something expensive in a sleek business lounge. What I didn't imagine was attempting this after a 46-year hiatus from university. Spoiler alert: It's harder than I thought. Like, significantly harder. Enter the MBA: Twenty-four courses. Two years or so, and approximately one hundred "What was I thinking?" moments. I enrolled at the Sprott School of Business at Carleton University, which offers a generous seniors' discount. I briefly debated whether to ask for the student discount or the seniors' discount — then thought, why not request both? I've earned these wrinkles and this tuition bill. Bonus perks: I qualify for the student medical and dental plans. My classmates use them for wisdom tooth extractions. I'm eyeing the denture clause. Term One: The Tech Tsunami Let's talk about the software situation.  Brightspace. Turnitin. eProctor. Excel (the betrayer). Word. APA 7th Edition. And about a dozen other platforms that might as well have been written in Klingon. I expected a gentle introduction — maybe some academic foreplay before diving into heavy coursework. Instead, I was shoved into the deep end with weights tied to my ankles. Each assignment came with a forest's worth of readings, PowerPoint slides, and discussion board posts. I was up at 5 a.m., trying to squeeze in extra hours in the day. (Spoiler: you can't.) Despite decades spent managing teams, I was barely scraping 60% on quizzes — the open-book ones. How is that even possible? Accounting became my personal Everest. People kept telling me, "Excel is your friend." That's a lie. Excel is that friend who borrows your car, crashes it, returns it on empty, and then asks if you've bothered reading the manual. Casualties of War: Family, Friends, and Dottie My family was neglected. My friends assumed I'd entered witness protection. Even my little dog Dottie stopped talking to me. She'd give me this look — a devastating combination of pity and disappointment — every time I said, "Sorry, no walk today. Mommy has to study debits and credits." You haven't experienced true shame until you've been judged by a 10-pound dog wearing a sweater. The Breaking Point (And the Breakthrough) I'll admit it — I had serious moments where quitting felt like the only rational option. The workload was relentless. The jargon was endless. The pressure was overwhelming. I contacted teaching assistants, professors, and even the university librarian, desperately searching for a lifeline. They were all kind and patient. But ultimately, I had to figure it out myself. And somewhere between the caffeine highs and APA citation lows, something clicked. Even Cs get Degrees! By midterm, I began to suspect something radical: perhaps the large amount of work was the real test. Not the material itself, but the sheer volume. Maybe this was the school's way of differentiating dedicated students from curious ones, the serious from the casual observers. Was it possible that the secret to MBA success was learning what not to do? After all, the passing grade is a B- (70%). At this point in my life, I'd be happy with a 71% and a full night's sleep. Hence the title, Even Cs get Degrees! Working Smarter, Not Harder Somewhere between week three and mild hysteria, I made a radical decision: stop trying to do everything. I focused on lectures and study notes instead of drowning in supplementary readings. I prioritized assignments strategically. I stopped pretending perfection was achievable — or necessary. The results were immediate: • My grades improved • My panic attacks decreased • Dottie started making eye contact again I also began scheduling regular Zoom calls with professors and TAs — not just for assistance, but to foster genuine relationships (my lifelong superpower). Once I stopped pretending, I had everything under control; everything truly improved. School life has improved. Home life has also improved. I was finally able to brush my hair again. Slowing Down to Soak It In Next term, I'm taking just one course. Because honestly, what's the rush? I'm not chasing a promotion or striving for a corner office. I'm doing this for myself — for the simple joy of learning and the satisfaction of knowing I still can.  I want to enjoy the journey, not rush through it gasping. I want to look forward to lectures rather than fear them. I want my sleep score (and my sanity) restored.  The goal isn't speed. It's savouring. What I've Learned So Far Here's what these first two courses have taught me: ✓ I can still learn — even when my brain occasionally reboots mid-sentence  ✓ I can focus — especially with enough coffee ✓ I'm still gloriously, endlessly curious ✓ I need sleep (The 5 a.m. club can keep their membership) ✓ I need fun (Revolutionary concept, I know) ✓ I love to learn (Turns out, I always have) ✓ I make mistakes — and they're not terminal ✓ I need help — and I must ask for it ✓ APA 7th Edition is real — and I finally understand what it means (Sort of. Mostly. Sometimes.) ✓ Even Cs or, in my case, a B- get a Degree — consistent, sustainable B- work will win most every race Looking Ahead: The Big 7-0 By the time I graduate, I'll be at least 70 years old. And honestly? I can't think of a better birthday gift for myself. When most people talk about slowing down, I'm actually ramping up. While others are downsizing, I'm uploading assignments at 11:58 p.m. When my friends ask why I do this, I smile and say: "Because I still want to know what I'm capable of." To Be Continued... This is just the beginning of my MBA adventure. I've completed two courses out of twenty-four. Twenty-two more to go — one term at a time, one course at a time, one small victory at a time. I'll update this blog periodically with new stories, fresh insights, and probably more tales of Dottie's disappointment. As We Start the New Year Here's a toast to all of us who refuse to act our age. To everyone starting something new — whether it's an MBA, a marathon, or a pottery class.  To everyone who believes it's never too late to learn, to laugh, or to start again.  Because learning doesn't stop when you retire. Sometimes, it's only just beginning. Stay tuned for Term Two updates, where I'll tackle another course, hopefully retain my sanity, and continue proving that 69 is just a number (and so is 70, 71, 72...). All the best to you in 2026 and beyond!   Sue Don’t Retire… ReWire! Want to become an expert on serving the senior demographic? Just message me to be notified about the next opportunity to become a "Certified Equity Advocate" — mastering solution-based advising that transforms how you work with Canada's fastest-growing client segment. Here's the link to sign up.

AI-driven software is 96% accurate at diagnosing Parkinson's

Existing research indicates that the accuracy of a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis hovers between 55% and 78% in the first five years of assessment. That’s partly because Parkinson’s sibling movement disorders share similarities, sometimes making a definitive diagnosis initially difficult. Although Parkinson’s disease is a well-recognized illness, the term can refer to a variety of conditions, ranging from idiopathic Parkinson’s, the most common type, to other movement disorders like multiple system atrophy Parkinsonian variant and progressive supranuclear palsy. Each shares motor and nonmotor features, like changes in gait — but possess a distinct pathology and prognosis. Roughly one in four patients, or even one in two patients, is misdiagnosed. Now, researchers at the University of Florida and the UF Health Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases have developed a new kind of software that will help clinicians differentially diagnose Parkinson’s disease and related conditions, reducing diagnostic time and increasing precision beyond 96%. The study was published recently in JAMA Neurology and was funded by the National Institutes of Health. “In many cases, MRI manufacturers don’t communicate with each other due to marketplace competition,” said David Vaillancourt, Ph.D., chair and a professor in the UF Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology. “They all have their own software and their own sequences. Here, we’ve developed novel software that works across all of them.” Although there is no substitute for the human element of diagnosis, even the most experienced physicians who specialize in movement disorder diagnoses can benefit from a tool to increase diagnostic efficacy between different disorders, Vaillancourt said. The software, Automated Imaging Differentiation for Parkinsonism, or AIDP, is an automated MRI processing and machine learning software that features a noninvasive biomarker technique. Using diffusion-weighted MRI, which measures how water molecules diffuse in the brain, the team can identify where neurodegeneration is occurring. Then, the machine learning algorithm, rigorously tested against in-person clinic diagnoses, analyzes the brain scan and provides the clinician with the results, indicating one of the different types of Parkinson’s. The study was conducted across 21 sites, 19 of them in the United States and two in Canada. “This is an instance where the innovation between technology and artificial intelligence has been proven to enhance diagnostic precision, allowing us the opportunity to further improve treatment for patients with Parkinson’s disease,” said Michael Okun, M.D., medical adviser to the Parkinson’s Foundation and director of the Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at UF Health. “We look forward to seeing how this innovation can further impact the Parkinson’s community and advance our shared goal of better outcomes for all.” The team’s next step is obtaining approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “This effort truly highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration,” said Angelos Barmpoutis, Ph.D., a professor at the Digital Worlds Institute at UF. “Thanks to the combined medical expertise, scientific expertise and technological expertise, we were able to accomplish a goal that will change the lives of countless individuals.” Vaillancourt and Barmpoutis are partial owners of a company called Neuropacs whose goal is to bring this software forward, improving both patient care and clinical trials where it might be used.

From Libraries to Heart Health: Marlo Vernon Takes Cardiovascular Care Into Rural Georgia

Marlo Vernon, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Health Management, Economics, and Policy at Augusta University’s School of Public Health, is leading a creative public health initiative designed to improve cardiovascular monitoring in rural Georgia. Through the university’s Rural Obese At-Risk initiative, Vernon and her team are placing blood pressure monitors in local libraries, allowing residents to check them out just like books. The effort addresses a critical access gap in rural communities where preventive health tools are often limited or difficult to obtain. Vernon’s work focuses on the realities facing communities in the South’s so-called Stroke Belt, where overlapping health conditions significantly elevate cardiovascular risk. View her profile “There are significant chronic disease risk factors in this so-called Stroke Belt. We’ve got high obesity rates. We have family history. We have high rates of diabetes and kidney disease and they all kind of feed into each other to really create this cardiovascular health need in our communities. And women, in general, are just at a higher risk for this,” said Marlo Vernon, PhD. Beyond equipment access, Vernon’s research also examines how people understand and manage their health when traditional care options are limited. The library-based model helps normalize blood pressure monitoring while reducing barriers such as travel distance, cost, and limited clinic availability. It also creates opportunities to study how community-based solutions can improve awareness, engagement, and long-term cardiovascular outcomes. For journalists covering rural health, women’s health, chronic disease prevention, or innovative public-health strategies, Vernon offers grounded, real-world insight into how trusted community spaces can play a vital role in addressing persistent health disparities. A full article on this topic is available below.  To arrange an interview with Dr. Vernon simply click on her iconnow  to set up a time to talk today.