Soft, squishy stress toys known as NeeDohs have become a fixture on office desks, in backpacks and across social media feeds, transforming from children’s playthings into mainstream tools for stress management and focus. According to two Florida State University experts, their rise reflects an understanding of simpler mental health techniques and a savvy blend of sensory appeal and digital‑era marketing.

Brad Schmidt, director of the Florida State University Anxiety and Behavioral Health Clinic, says that squeezing objects like NeeDohs can help calm the brain and body by offering a simple, repetitive sensory‑motor task. That physical engagement can shift attention away from racing thoughts and help ground people in the present moment. Predictable tactile input, Schmidt said, can feel regulating because touch is one of the brain’s most basic signals of safety and bodily awareness.

NeeDohs are increasingly visible in workplaces, a sign that adults are seeking accessible, discreet ways to manage daily stress. Schmidt said portable tools like these fit naturally into office settings, though they are not a substitute for addressing more serious anxiety issues.

From a consumer behavior perspective, Cammy Crolic, assistant professor in FSU’s Herbert Wertheim College of Business, said NeeDohs combine fun, sensory gratification and emotional regulation — a mix that fuels demand. Unlike traditional toy fads, their appeal is “process‑oriented,” meaning enjoyment comes from ongoing use rather than completion, which can extend their lifespan.

Crolic also points to NeeDohs as a standout example of haptic marketing. Though consumers can’t touch them through screens, viral videos succeed because the sensory experience is easy to imagine. In times of economic and political uncertainty, she added, consumers often gravitate toward small, affordable indulgences that provide comfort and a sense of control — making NeeDohs well‑timed for the moment.

Media interested in interviewing Director Brad Schmidt about the stress management components that make NeeDohs effective may reach out to him at schmidt@psy.fsu.edu.

Media looking for marketing expertise at how NeeDohs are resonating with consumers can email Professor Cammy Crolic at ccrolic@wertheim.fsu.edu.

Brad Schmidt, director, FSU Anxiety and Behavioral Health Clinic, FSU College of Arts and Sciences

NeeDohs are being seen more on office desks, not just in playrooms at home. Is this an example of adults seeking alternative ways to reduce daily stress? 

I think that’s exactly what it reflects. Adults are willing to use a wide array of tools for self-regulation. Discreet and portable tools like a NeeDoh would make sense for a work environment. The literature suggests that use of a toy like a NeeDoh could be beneficial to some, and it’s more adaptive than the “three martini lunch” but it’s not likely to be a solution to a more significant problem with stress and anxiety.

Cammy Crolic, assistant professor and Dean’s Emerging Scholar, FSU Herbert Wertheim College of Business

NeeDohs aren’t just for kids — many adults use them in their workplaces. How much does this cross-generational marketing benefit them?

The cross-generational adoption of NeeDoh can be understood from a consumer behavior context situated within the current macro-environment. First, adults using NeeDohs reframe the product from a toy into a functional consumption object that helps with stress management and attentional regulation. This repositioning from a “toy” for play to a “tool” that facilitates goal attainment helps create social legitimacy and widespread cross-generational acceptance and adoption. Further, it is unsurprising that people are turning to childlike, nostalgic NeeDohs that help with stress management right now. We are going through a time of war and geopolitical instability, political polarization and economic downturn. During these times, consumers gravitate to products that create fun, a controllable sensory experience (in an uncontrollable world), that help with stress and emotional coping. Historically, in highly uncertain environments, consumers often shift toward small, affordable indulgences, referred to as the “lipstick effect.” NeeDoh fits with that pattern of behavior because it is inexpensive, fun to use and collect and emotionally comforting.

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Long characterized as a disorder known for its physical symptoms, Parkinson’s disease (PD) is becoming more understood by the psychosocial traits that can also affect it.

April is Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month, spotlighting the progressive brain disorder that affects 10 million people worldwide according to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Recognition of loneliness as a potential root cause for PD was highlighted in an October 2023 groundbreaking study conducted by the Florida State University College of Medicine, which found that individuals experiencing subjective feelings of loneliness have a 37 percent increased risk of developing the disease.

Antonio Terracciano is a geriatrics professor in the FSU College of Medicine who led the study that first identified loneliness as an early warning predictor of PD. His overall research examines the interplay of psychological, cultural and genetic factors in shaping physical and mental health across the lifespan. Terracciano’s work as a researcher focuses on how personality evolves with age, varies across cultures, and contributes to longevity and resilience against neurodegenerative diseases.

While his study has gained substantial media attention since being released, Terracciano feels continuous publicity connecting loneliness and PD is necessary.

“Promoting this connection is vital, as it shifts the focus toward proactive mental and social health interventions that could potentially reduce the long-term risk of neurodegeneration,” Terracciano said of the effect of loneliness on PD.

Media interested in interviewing geriatrics professor Antonio Terracciano on the link between loneliness and PD as part of its annual awareness month may reach out to him via email at antonio.terracciano@med.fsu.edu.

Antonio Terracciano, professor, Florida State University College of Medicine Department of Geriatrics

In terms of raising awareness for Parkinson’s disease, do you believe it’s becoming common knowledge that loneliness is associated with PD?

 While awareness is growing, the link between loneliness and Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a relatively recent scientific discovery. Our 2023 study was the first to provide longitudinal evidence showing that individuals who feel lonely have a significantly higher risk of developing PD. Since its publication, the research has gained substantial media attention and is frequently cited, suggesting that the public and medical communities are increasingly recognizing loneliness as a critical psychosocial determinant of health. However, there is still work to be done to ensure this becomes common knowledge.

Since your research was published in 2023, have there been any other key findings you’ve made linking loneliness to PD?

Our 2023 study established a foundational link, showing that loneliness is associated with a 37% increased risk of incident PD, independent of genetic and clinical factors. Beyond loneliness, our broader research program explores how other psychological constructs influence neurodegenerative risk. For instance, we have investigated the roles of purpose and meaning in life, which can serve as protective factors, as well as the personality trait of neuroticism, which is associated with higher vulnerability to PD and other health conditions. These findings collectively suggest that our emotional well-being is critical for our long-term neurological health and resilience against diseases like Parkinson’s.

How can enhancing your social connection aid in preventing neurodegenerative diseases like PD?

It is important to distinguish between social isolation (the objective lack of interpersonal contact) and loneliness (the subjective distressing feeling of being disconnected from others); our research found that the subjective experience of loneliness was a predictor of PD risk. This is in part because loneliness is linked to systemic inflammation, metabolic stress, and neuroendocrine changes that can harm brain health. Furthermore, loneliness creates a state of heightened vulnerability, or a cognitive debt, where the brain is less equipped to withstand biological insults or the natural aging process, potentially accelerating the progression of neurodegeneration. These findings suggest that reducing loneliness by fostering meaningful connections (not just increasing the number of social contacts) can increase resilience against neurodegenerative diseases and promote overall brain health.

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As autism diagnoses continue to rise across the United States, schools are under growing pressure to better support students on the spectrum. About 1 in 31 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a shift that is reshaping classrooms nationwide.

At Florida State University, researchers Jenny Root and Veronica Fleury from the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences are studying how schools can meet that need. Their work focuses on evidence-based teaching strategies and inclusive classroom practices that improve both academic and social outcomes for students with autism.

The Autism Society recognizes April as Autism Acceptance Month, which brings attention to the need for greater understanding, support and inclusion.

Root and Fleury are available to speak with media about what strategies work in the classroom and how educators can better support autistic students.

Veronica Fleury, Associate Professor, Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences; affiliate faculty, Florida Center for Reading Research
vpfleury@fsu.edu

Fleury’s research focuses on optimizing learning opportunities for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. She examines how autism influences students’ ability to participate in learning and explores instructional strategies that support academic and social development in young children. Fleury has more than 20 years of experience working with children with autism and she received the 2023 Research Award from the Council for Exceptional Children’s Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities.

What are some of the most important ways schools and educators can better support students with autism in classroom settings?
Our best chance at promoting positive outcomes for individuals with autism is through early intervention and high-quality education that incorporates evidence-based instruction. Providing teachers with exemplary training in the characteristics of autism and the use of research-supported practices is critical.

Evidence-based practices center on predictable environments, explicit teaching methods and behavioral supports that prioritize frequent practice and immediate feedback. To keep pace with the growing body of research, educators must also have ongoing opportunities to monitor students, continue learning and adjust instruction as needed.

Based on your research, what strategies or approaches show the most promise for improving learning, communication or social outcomes for students with autism?
My current intervention work focuses on using shared book reading (i.e., adults reading aloud to children) as a context to develop early literacy and language skills in young children with autism. Reading aloud is a developmentally appropriate way to build foundational skills for reading success. Because it is inherently social, many children with autism require additional support to actively engage in book-reading activities. While the fundamental skills remain the same, how we teach them may differ. Autistic children may require more frequent reading opportunities, carefully selected books aligned with their interests, explicit vocabulary instruction and behavioral support to sustain engagement. 

Jenny Root, Anne and John Daves Endowed Associate Professor, Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences; affiliate faculty, Florida Center for Reading Research
jrroot@fsu.edu

Root’s research focuses on developing and evaluating evidence-based instructional methods that promote meaningful academic learning for students with autism and intellectual disability, as well as supporting teachers in implementing effective practices. She has authored more than 50 peer-reviewed publications and received the 2025 Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers.

What are some of the most important ways schools and educators can better support students with autism in classroom settings?
Many classroom expectations are based on implicit norms about how students should behave, communicate and demonstrate learning. For students with autism, these norms can create unnecessary barriers.

While it is important to support students in navigating different expectations, it is equally important for educators to provide flexibility. By allowing flexibility in how students engage, respond and demonstrate understanding, educators can focus on meaningful learning rather than surface-level compliance.

Supporting students with autism is often framed as providing additional help, but a more productive lens is to reconsider how classrooms are designed in the first place. When educators embed support for communication, predictability and engagement into instruction, they reduce the need for individualized workarounds and create more equitable learning environments.

Based on your research, what strategies or approaches show the most promise for improving learning, communication or social outcomes for students with autism?
Students are more successful when they are taught not just what to do, but how to use supports independently. This includes learning when to use a strategy, how to adapt it and how to ask for help when needed.

Instruction should include opportunities for decision making, self-monitoring and gradually reducing adult support over time. When designed this way, it helps students build skills they can apply across settings beyond the classroom.

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Big tech companies Meta Platforms and Google’s YouTube were each found negligent by a California jury on Wednesday for operating addictive products that have harmed adolescents – a decision that could impact how these companies function.

Florida State University’s Justin Sevier, the Charles W. Ehrhardt Professor of Litigation, is available for interviews and able to provide insight into how jurors might process emotional testimony from parents and children vs. technical arguments from tech giants. Sevier can also provide analysis on public perception of the trial outcome.

Sevier focuses on legal institutional design, where he identifies and examines the conditions under which the public willingly legitimizes legal rules, actors and tribunals. He explores his research primarily through psychology experiments in the law of evidence, studying both jury behavior and non-lawyers’ perceptions of trial outcomes, while also examining the role that popular legitimacy plays in shaping the law governing business torts and consumer behavior.

Interview requests for Charles W. Ehrhardt Professor of Litigation Justin Sevier can be made by emailing him at jsevier@law.fsu.edu.

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National AI Literacy Day is observed annually to educate individuals on navigating a world immersed in artificial intelligence. Held on March 27 this year, the day promotes ways in which humans, including educators, can embrace the technology and better prepare for its impact.

According to the adaptive learning company HMH, research is showing many educators are growing comfortable using AI, but few feel confident teaching students how to use it responsibly. The company’s Educator Confidence Report from 2025 shows 68% of educator respondents said AI saves them one to five hours per week, allowing more time for student connection and engagement.

Florida State University’s Paul Marty is Professor in the School of Information in the College of Communication and Information and Associate Vice Provost for Academic Innovation. He works to coordinate, communicate and facilitate efforts among campus stakeholders to foster an environment that encourages and supports academic innovation at FSU. Marty serves as one of the university’s top experts in AI.

While AI’s impact on various industries remains to be seen, Marty emphasizes that human skills remain as important as ever.

“There are naturally a lot of worries right now about how artificial intelligence is going to reshape the workforce, universities and modern society,” Marty said. “You’ll hear people ask, ‘Why go to school, why study something new, why bother learning anything at all if AI already knows everything?’ In that environment, I think it’s important for us to remember that, for all its impressive capabilities, all AI can do is remix what humans already know how to do. When push comes to shove, what sets humans apart from AI is our creativity, our passion and our capacity to imagine new things. And that’s why our humanity, our curiosity and our ability to learn is so important.”

Media interested in gaining insight into AI literacy and understanding how universities like FSU are working with the technology may reach out to Paul Marty at marty@fsu.edu.

Paul Marty, associate vice provost for academic innovation, Florida State University

What is the value of human skills like critical thinking in an AI-driven world?

The most important skill our students need in an AI-driven world is their humanity. I tell our students all the time that what matters most – and what employers actually want – is their communication skills, their people skills, their management skills, their leadership skills, their empathy, their humanity, their ability to learn how to learn, and their ability to share what they’ve learned with other human beings in a way that inspires everyone to move forward and make the world a better place. If we don’t keep learning, we don’t move forward. If all we do is teach what we already know, then the world doesn’t move forward. Only by being open to learning new things are we able to innovate, to embrace risk, to grow, to improve; and in a world where artificial intelligence is ubiquitous, it’s our humanity that is going to make the difference.  

What’s the future of undergraduate education in the age of AI?

 If you talk with faculty at any university about undergraduate students and artificial intelligence for any length of time, the topic of cheating will inevitably come up. And when that happens, I usually try to turn that conversation around. Instead of worrying about cheating, I’ll say, try asking your students to tell you about the classes that they are not cheating in, and why they aren’t cheating in those classes. If you do that, what you’ll hear is a description of the university of the future – one where students are engaged in the material they are learning, and where they are not just learning things, but learning how to apply the things they’ve learned in new ways to define problems and develop solutions that will move humanity forward. In my opinion, the purpose of higher education should be to give our students those exact opportunities, both in and out of the classroom. Here at FSU, for example, we offer classes in Design Thinking and sponsor extracurricular events like Design Sprints where we provide our students with unique and incredibly valuable opportunities to work closely with industry, university and community partners, and apply what they are learning in the classroom to design innovative solutions to real-world, challenging problems. The more we can offer our students those kinds of experiences, the more we can let everyone know that our institutions are committed to the future of student success in a changing world, and that we are empowering our faculty, our staff and our students to thrive in that future.

 How are universities adapting to teaching and learning in the age of AI?

When it comes to artificial intelligence and higher education, many institutions are reacting from a place of fear, and that makes perfect sense. Change is hard. Innovation is disruptive, and universities worldwide are facing a future that threatens to overwhelm them with transformational change. The way people react when new technologies are introduced into their social systems is quite naturally from a place of fear. So here at FSU, we’re working with our faculty, staff and students to take us from a culture of fear to a culture of innovation. This is not easy, but it is an opportunity for us to think carefully about the purpose of higher education, and to determine whether our assessments are actually measuring what we think they are measuring, whether the things we are asking our students to do are actually worth doing and whether the things our students are learning are actually the things they should be learning. Those are not easy questions to answer, but by answering those questions, we can present a clear vision, with compelling stories and a positive message about why higher education still matters in our changing world. And by doing that, we can empower our institutions to proactively adopt disruptive innovations, respond effectively to radical change and shape the future of teaching and learning. 

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March Madness, one of America’s most popular annual sporting events, returns and brings peak excitement — though it’s also known for reducing worker productivity.

The first round of “The Big Dance” are popular days for employees to take off work. But for those actually working, it’s known as a two-day period that could cost the U.S. economy several billion dollars in lost productivity as workers stay glued to a large afternoon slate of college basketball games.

Florida State University’s Wayne Hochwarter, the Melvin T. Stith Sr. Professor of Business Administration, is an expert in employee motivation, job stress and coping, and influence behavior and proactivity. He has published more than 100 scientific and applied articles covering a wide range of topics, including employee entitlement, worker engagement, job stress, layoffs, workplace politics, abusive work behaviors, personal accountability, optimism and leadership-focused motivation strategies.

While workplace managers can expect a dip in employee productivity, Hochwarter believes there are ways to adjust.

“Managers should recognize that March Madness’ productivity drop is predictable and brief,” Hochwarter said. “Rather than trying to prevent it entirely, managers should adapt. Many workers check scores, stream games or manage brackets during work hours.”

Media interested in exploring the workplace dynamics between managers and employees during March Madness can reach out to Professor Wayne Hochwarter at whochwar@wertheim.fsu.edu.

Wayne Hochwarter, Melvin T. Stith Sr. Professor of Business Administration, Herbert Wertheim College of Business

Estimates suggest March Madness could cost the U.S. economy over $13.1 billion in lost worker productivity. How can managers best adapt to this expected drop in productivity?

I question whether that is actually true. People have grown very adept at multitasking at work, and it is common to see employees simultaneously completing work tasks while attending to whatever is on their cell phones. This is particularly true for younger workers who have a long history of navigating most life activities with multiple stimuli vying for their attention at the same time. In my experience, most people do not completely disregard work to keep track of March Madness — it’s just another thing to keep track of while working at their cubicle or in their office.

Many employees are expected to average 2-3 hours per day watching tournament games. Are there any strategies that can be used by workers to ensure necessary work gets finished? How can managers handle this without micromanaging?

Managers should prioritize results over monitoring every action. Today, employees are evaluated based on what they achieve, not how busy they appear. Clear deadlines and deliverables help set expectations while allowing employees to organize their time independently. Some companies even designate common areas or lunch breaks for watching games, so distractions occur at scheduled times rather than throughout the day.

Ultimately, the best approach is a balance rooted in trust: establish clear goals, offer some flexibility and trust employees to manage their responsibilities responsibly. If they cannot do so, I recommend reevaluating the company’s hiring and training programs, since it is obvious they have failed in both areas.

A little micromanaging during March Madness can cause significant harm later on, especially if it’s delivered callously or perceived as punishment-motivated. 

For office morale, can it be a healthy work environment if more employers embrace the tournament by doing an office pool and sparing time to watch games together?

First, leaders need to see this as an opportunity to build morale rather than a disruption. This is a good thing for employees to look forward to — it is predictable, you don’t have to be an expert to take part and it can help people distance themselves from increasingly demanding and unpredictable work. 

Second, it’s not like there aren’t other distractions at work. Most of them cause more stress or harm to social relations than they bring workers together. For example, politics has become extremely divisive with little room for agreement. When introduced to the work environment, the results are almost always negative — feelings get hurt, people’s motives and morale are attacked and people stop interacting with others.

The most important step is to stop labeling this as a distraction. Instead, see it as an opportunity for growth. I also suggest promoting it in advance to give workers something to look forward to. This can start discussions with colleagues about a topic that isn’t naturally anxiety-provoking. In terms of occupying workers’ cognitive space, replacing “toxic diversions” with ones that encourage positive interactions is an opportunity companies should embrace.

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The spring allergy season affects approximately 100 million Americans annually, triggered by immune system responses to a variety of airborne pollens. While the symptoms can range from sneezing, fatigue or even worsening asthma, staying ahead is key to avoiding harsher effects.

Dr. Stephen Quintero, an associate professor and medical director of the School of Physician Assistant Practice at the Florida State University College of Medicine, says patients must be weary of the spring allergy season and take necessary steps in advance.

“We tell a lot of our patients if they know they have allergies, start treatment early,” Quintero said. “Don’t wait until you’re miserable. Start using steroids before the peak season. The good news is we have some treatments where if you start early and stay consistent, they seem to help most people.”

Media inquiring about general information for the spring allergy season may reach out to Quintero via email at stephen.quintero@med.fsu.edu.

Dr. Stephen Quintero, associate professor and medical director, School of Physician Assistant Practice 

What are some of your recommendations to best avoid triggering allergies in the spring?

Some examples include using a daily internasal steroid like the spray or any antihistamines. The nasal saline spray and some irrigation help rinse the pollen away before it has time to activate the immune system. Daily sprays or multiple sprays a day usually work well. Know your surroundings and control your environment as best as you can, especially for people who work outdoors in the grass. It’s important to shower afterwards and change clothes if you’re doing yard work, and keeping your windows closed during the peak pollen season. Using HEPA filters indoors can help in small spaces.

If symptoms continue to worsen or if you have asthma, immunotherapy is an option and can be effective. Allergy shots can be effective in our North Florida region. We also have mold in North Florida because of the high humidity; that can be almost as important as pollen. While it might not be cost effective, dehumidification and HVAC maintenance are important. 

What are some of the most common symptoms you see in individuals with allergy issues?

You get a mix of things, but most people have persistent nasal congestion, they have postnasal drip and they have chronic cough. You have people that just feel sinus pressure or pressure in their face. People will have the issue of watery eyes. And fatigue — this has become chronic in patients. A lot of patients think they have repeated sinus infections, but most of the time it’s just uncontrolled allergic inflammation.

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Stuttering is a speech disorder that affects approximately 3 million Americans and 70 million people worldwide. While repetition of sounds and syllables are most often heard, the bigger burden for some with the speech impediment is its psychological impact.

At the recent 2026 NFL Combine, accomplished wide receiver prospect KC Concepcion spoke through his speech impediment during media interviews. Criticized by some social media users, he was also overwhelmingly praised and used his platform to address his stutter and serve as an advocate for those living with the disorder.

Christopher Constantino is an associate professor at the Florida State University School of Communication Science and Disorders in the College of Communication and Information. He studies how the lived experience of stuttering interacts with culture and society, and researches ways to improve the social experiences of stuttering. Constantino has appeared in several interviews and podcasts on the topic.

He notes that the common individual who stutters often deals with judgement from others, but these situations can be managed over time.

“There is a great deal of stigma around stuttering,” Constantino said. “In addition to the physical experience of getting stuck, people who stutter are contending with the judgement of others. Discrimination is very common. It is no wonder people who stutter try to avoid stuttering. To stutter openly and easily, speakers must learn to manage this societal prejudice. Advocacy is, therefore, just as important to the therapy process as learning how to speak differently.”

Media interested in speaking with Constantino on how stuttering interacts with culture and society can contact him via email at cconstantino@fsu.edu.

Christopher Constantino, associate professor, School of Communication Science and Disorders

Stuttering affects approximately 3 million Americans, according to the Stuttering Foundation. What are some of the social and emotional challenges individuals might face with this disorder?

Stuttering is a neurological condition that affects speech fluency, which is the ability to effortlessly move from one speech sound to the next. People who stutter experience a sense of being stuck on a sound, what is often described as a “loss of control.” When this happens, the speaker often intuitively reacts to this feeling of being stuck by fighting with it or by trying to avoid it. Unfortunately, fighting with the moment leads to a great deal of struggle and effort while speaking. Avoidance leads to restricting what is said and self-censorship. Both make speaking physically hard and attention demanding.

There are many prominent individuals who have been in the limelight and do plenty of public speaking with a stutter. What advice or suggestions do you have for individuals with a stutter who might fear public speaking?

Counterintuitively, the path out of struggle and avoidance is acceptance. The more a speaker lets their stutters happen, the easier they will be. This is, of course, much easier said than done and is why the guidance of a good speech-language therapist can be so helpful. Generally, the more your audience expects you to stutter, the easier it is to let yourself stutter. Therefore, I always recommend disclosing your stutter in high pressure situations. Something like, “I am a person who stutters, you might hear me repeat or stretch some sounds while I speak.”

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As National Nutrition Month shines a light on healthy eating, new research points to wild blueberries as a simple way to support cardiometabolic health.

Also referred to as lowbush, wild blueberries are primarily grown in Maine and Canada. Their short shelf life and seasonal availability mean they are often found in frozen packages sold in supermarkets across the country. Both wild blueberries and the traditional highbush blueberries – the ones sold fresh in supermarkets – offer excellent nutritional quality, delicious flavor and unique growing characteristics, and can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Florida State University’s Sarah A. Johnson, an associate professor in the Department of Health, Nutrition, and Food Sciences, was one of 12 researchers who conducted an extensive study on wild and highbush blueberries and their cardiometabolic effects. The findings detailed how wild blueberries can improve key nutritional areas including vascular function, the gut microbiome, blood pressure and blood sugar.

Johnson’s research reveals the nutritional benefits of wild blueberries.

“It’s remarkable to see measurable health impacts from a single food rather than a complete dietary overhaul,” Johnson said. “Fruit and vegetable consumption is generally low among consumers, and the research with blueberries demonstrates that even small daily changes consumers can make can have clinically relevant beneficial health impacts. Some of their demonstrated health benefits include those to cardiovascular and heart health and cognitive function.”

Media interested in interviewing Johnson on her latest research about wild blueberries and their cardiometabolic health benefits may reach out to her via email at sba07@fsu.edu.

Sarah A. Johnson, associate professor, Department of Health, Nutrition, and Food Sciences

One of the major health priorities that has sprouted in recent years is gut health. What did this study tell you about how blueberries can aid in this area?

Blueberries are rich in dietary fiber as well as polyphenols, which are naturally occurring phytochemicals (i.e., plant chemicals) that interact with and are metabolized by the gut microbiota. Through this interaction, health promoting metabolites are produced that can be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, enter blood circulation and interact with cells, tissues and organs. These compounds also serve as a food source for beneficial gut microbes, functioning as prebiotics and supporting overall intestinal health. Research to date suggests that blueberry consumption may alleviate some gastrointestinal symptoms and improve markers of gut health, though more research is needed.

What would be your recommendation as to how individuals can incorporate blueberries into their daily diet?

Fresh blueberries are delicious on their own, but they’re also incredibly versatile. They can be added to yogurt, oatmeal, cereals and salads, blended into smoothies; incorporated into baked goods; or used in jams, preserves, juices, sauces; and incorporated into savory dishes such as a topping for pizza. There are numerous ways to enjoy them, and I encourage individuals to experiment and find the options that fit best into their daily routine.

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Dr. Seuss Week is observed from Monday, March 2, through Friday, March 6, highlighting the significance of early reading through the quirky and rhythmic style found in Theodor Seuss Geisel’s cherished books.

The nonsensical language that has characterized so many Dr. Seuss books has proven to be an enormous benefit for younger readers, aiding several areas including phonics development, articulation, vocabulary growth and more. The “Seuss Science” is praised by literacy experts worldwide for fueling better cognitive and language development.

Florida State University’s Beth Phillips is a dual faculty member, serving as professor of education psychology within the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences. She is also an associate director at the Florida Center for Reading Research (FCRR). Her research interests include the overlap between early literacy and language development, preschool curriculum and instruction, professional development of early childhood educators, and parental influences on learning.

Phillips says Dr. Seuss’s “pseudowords,” illogical words that actually help early readers, are a foundational part of children building their reading and literacy skills.

“Pseudowords are one of my favorite aspects of Dr. Seuss books,” Phillips said. “Hearing about a ‘wumbus’ and being ‘duddled’ makes children excited about words and what they might mean. Scientists who study vocabulary call this word consciousness – the metacognitive focus on words and their meaning.”

Phillips adds that reading these invented words brings out a curiosity in young readers that can have a long-term benefit.

“Dr. Seuss’ books can spark word consciousness in young children and even older readers,” Phillips said. “This can be of great importance because having this drive to learn about what words mean is associated with actually learning more words.”

The FCRR is an interdisciplinary research center at FSU that investigates all aspects of reading and reading-related skills across the lifespan. Through rigorous and robust research, innovation and engagement, FCRR advances the science of reading to improve learning and achievement from birth through adulthood.

Media interested in learning the science behind Dr. Seuss books and how they aid in language and cognitive development can reach out to Beth Phillips at bphillips@fcrr.org.

Beth Phillips, associate director, Florida Center for Reading Research

Another staple of Dr. Seuss was his rhyme and repetition patterns that make his books entertaining. How do these rhythmic patterns enhance early readers?

The rhyming aspect of Dr. Seuss books helps children to learn one of the key foundational early literacy skills that underpin successful independent reading —phonological awareness. This is the capacity to notice and manipulate the sound structure of words independent from their meaning. So, being able to recognize that ham, am and Sam all sound the same at the end because they share the same ending sound (rime) -am is one element of phonological awareness and one that children often can gain some skill at by the time they are four-years-old, before the beginning of formal reading instruction. This means that these books can help children go into their formal reading instruction in kindergarten with more confidence about learning to read and more ease in acquiring the sound-spelling correspondences necessary for fluent reading.

If you could pinpoint the biggest area of impact that Dr. Seuss’ books have on young readers, what would it be?

I think the biggest impact of these books is motivation. Dr. Seuss books are fun! They have amazing, fanciful pictures that spark children’s imaginations and that make them laugh. Children are engaged by these books, and their attention is captured by the rhythmic pattern of the text, which also then helps them to learn that it is the words (the text) that are telling the stories, not the pictures. This is a big step for a very young child to learn the secrets of books and how they work.

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With Rare Disease Day approaching on Feb. 28, the Florida Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases at the Florida State University College of Medicine is investing in key areas to fight these adverse conditions.

The groundbreaking Sunshine Genetics Act, signed into law in July 2025, establishes a five-year voluntary genetic sequencing pilot program for newborns and creates the Sunshine Genetics Consortium that unites Florida’s top researchers, clinicians and biotech innovators. The $3 million investment allows families to opt in to having their baby’s full genetic code sequenced at no cost — positioning FSU and the State of Florida as leaders of pediatric genomic medicine.

The Florida Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases will host a Rare Disease Day Symposium at the FSU College of Medicine on Friday, Feb. 27, to share its mission and upcoming projects as a leader in a critical area of research.

The numbers are eye-opening: There are more than 7,000 pediatric rare diseases affecting approximately 30 million people in the United States, including 15 million children. The Sunshine Genetics Act was championed by Rep. Adam Anderson (R-Palm Harbor), whose son Andrew passed away from Tay-Sachs disease at just 4 years old and inspired his push to create meaningful legislation.

Pradeep Bhide, director of the Florida Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases, views Rare Disease Day as a reminder of research’s potential to improve the quality of life for children and families.

“As we observe Rare Disease Day, the message is one of real momentum and hope,” Bhide said. “Genomics, combined with emerging gene-based therapies and coordinated statewide efforts, offers the strongest promise for transforming outcomes for children living with rare diseases. Our mission remains clear: to combine scientific rigor with compassionate care and to transform what is possible for children living with rare diseases.”

Media interested in learning how FSU is working to combat pediatric rare diseases may reach out to Pradeep Bhide at pradeep.bhide@med.fsu.edu.

Pradeep Bhide, Florida Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases Director, College of Medicine

The Sunshine Genetics Act helps position FSU and the State of Florida at the forefront of pediatric genomic medicine. Can you outline the importance of genome testing and research as it relates to diagnosing pediatric rare diseases?

Families affected by rare diseases often face years of uncertainty, but whole genome sequencing dramatically shortens this diagnostic odyssey by evaluating nearly all of a child’s genetic information at once. This approach increases diagnostic accuracy, identifies actionable findings earlier and enables more timely and targeted care. A precise genomic diagnosis is often the critical first step. It guides medical management, connects families with appropriate specialists and opens access to national foundations and clinical trials. Each diagnosis also strengthens the scientific foundation needed to develop new therapies and, ultimately, preventive strategies.

At Florida State University, the Florida Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases and the Sunshine Genetics Pilot Program are working together to deliver these benefits statewide. Our partnerships with Florida’s universities and health systems, our CLIA-CAP certified sequencing laboratory and our translational research programs ensure that Florida’s children receive advanced diagnostics supported by cutting-edge science. Florida’s investment through the Sunshine Genetics Act reflects a strong commitment to providing families with answers, hope and access to the most advanced tools in modern medicine.

There are more than 7,000 pediatric rare diseases affecting approximately 30 million people in the U.S. What approaches offer the most promise in giving families answers and combating these diseases?

Although more than 7,000 pediatric rare diseases exist, many are caused by changes in a single gene. This is why genomics remains the most promising avenue for reducing the diagnostic odyssey and for developing targeted treatments. Advances in whole genome sequencing and computational analysis now allow us to identify the genetic cause of many conditions within days, offering families clarity that previously took years to obtain.

The next step is to pair diagnosis with intervention. Gene-based therapies, including gene replacement, gene editing and RNA-targeted approaches, offer the potential to correct the underlying cause of disease rather than only managing symptoms. At the Florida Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases, we are building the scientific and clinical infrastructure required to bring these innovations into practice, supported by our genome sequencing laboratory and our Viral Vector and Genome Editing Core.

Equally important is statewide coordination. Through the Sunshine Genetics Act, Florida is integrating genomic testing into routine pediatric care, enabling responsible data sharing and accelerating discovery across institutions. This system ensures that families have access to expert guidance, rapid answers and individualized care.

What role is the Florida Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases playing to improve outcomes for children with rare diseases?

The Florida Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases was created to improve outcomes for the more than 15 million children in the United States affected by rare diseases. Although each condition is uncommon, families need timely diagnosis, coordinated care and access to emerging therapies. Our institute brings these elements together by integrating clinical services, advanced genomics and translational research.

Through our statewide infrastructure, our genetic counselors, clinicians and sequencing specialists provide rapid, comprehensive diagnostic evaluations in the Precision Pediatrics Clinic and our CLIA-CAP certified whole genome sequencing laboratory. This significantly shortens the time to diagnosis and offers families clear, actionable guidance.

Our research programs further strengthen this work by developing disease models, identifying therapeutic targets and advancing gene-based treatment strategies. Support from the Sunshine Genetics Act has enabled us to build one of the nation’s most forward-looking pediatric genomics programs. We also collaborate closely with universities, hospitals, foundations, legislators, and advocacy organizations to connect families with clinical trials and support networks. This coordination ensures that families are not navigating rare disease care alone.

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Love takes center stage every Valentine’s Day. But for many, connections are becoming embraced over commitment.

The modern dating scene is seeing a rise in ‘situationships,’ defined as relationships that are characterized by passion and intimacy but lacking formal commitment. These types of relationships are more common today than in the past, particularly among younger generations.

Florida State University’s Andrea Meltzer is the social psychology area director and a professor within the Department of Psychology. Her research uniquely integrates relationship science and evolutionary psychology to examine how evolved processes shape our closest relationships.

While it’s hard to select the single biggest driver of the rise in situationships among younger people, Meltzer points to individuals’ perception of availability as a big reason for the trend.

“We know from relationship science that, regardless of how happy people are in their relationships, the relative comparison of what people are getting out of their relationships versus what people think they could get outside of that partnership predict the extent to which they are committed,” Meltzer said.

Meltzer is head of The Attractions and Close Relationships (ACR) Lab at FSU. She utilizes both experimental and longitudinal methods and often draws from an evolutionary perspective to better understand established romantic relationships.

She asserts that social media is at the heart of modern dating habits.

“In our fast-paced, technology-drenched modern world, the available options seem endless,” Meltzer added. “When young people spend hours on their phones scrolling social media and dating apps, they are exposed to an endless stream of attractive others. Even if those attractive others are not realistically obtainable (because they live far away or because they are strangers), we likely unconsciously process those others as ‘potential options,’ driving lower commitment in our face-to-face relationships.”

For media interested in discussing the rise of situationships heading into Valentine’s Day, Andrea Meltzer is available for interviews. Requests can be made by contacting her via email at meltzer@psy.fsu.edu.

Andrea Meltzer, social psychology area director, Department of Psychology

What do you see as the main pros and cons of situationships?

Situationships can offer people many of the benefits of more committed relationships. They provide companionship, intimacy and emotional and physical support. Nevertheless, there is a growing literature demonstrating that such situationships are less satisfying than relationships characterized by more commitment. Furthermore, their ambiguity is associated with hypervigilance, lower self-esteem and poorer well-being (especially if the situationship ends and their partner “ghosts” them).

Talk about the role that dating apps have in this trend

I do think dating apps play a notable role. People who scroll these apps think their available options are endless. Even if they have considered all potential partners in a given area, they can expand their search to a wider area, offering more options. To me, social media plays an even bigger role. Compared to 10 minutes on a dating app, people are exposed to significantly more attractive people when endlessly scrolling on TikTok for 10 minutes.

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