Designed to grow: New pediatric heart valve could spare children lifetime of surgeries

2026-01-23T15:01:00

(BPT) – A newborn’s heart will grow roughly 15 times larger in volume by the time adulthood is reached — a remarkable transformation that presents an extraordinary challenge for pediatric heart surgeons treating congenital defects such as aortic and pulmonary valve disease.

Heart defects affect approximately 1% of babies born in the United States each year, or roughly 40,000 infants. For many families, these diagnoses mark the beginning of long and arduous journeys. Children born with complex valve defects often require repeated surgeries and other treatments as their hearts grow, exposing them to risks and potential complications and their families to overwhelming emotional and financial strain.

Finding a better way to treat these young patients has been a longtime goal for Minoo N. Kavarana, M.D., chief of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery at the Medical University of South Carolina and co-director of the Pediatric and Congenital Heart Center at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital.

“I kept thinking about babies born with the most common congenital heart defect — bicuspid aortic valve,” Kavarana said. “When infants need valve surgery in the first week of life, they often face multiple open-heart procedures and catheter-based balloon dilations over their lifetimes.”

While advances in postoperative care have significantly improved outcomes for pediatric heart surgery, risks still remain. And each additional operation compounds that risk.

“Every time we reopen a child’s chest, we expose them to more trauma,” Kavarana said. “That’s when I started asking: ‘Could we implant a valve early in life that could be expanded over time with a balloon and continue functioning into adulthood after a single operation?'”

That idea — a pediatric valve stent capable of growing with a child — had the potential to change pediatric heart care, and it aligned with the culture of innovation that has earned national recognition for MUSC’s program.

The Pediatric Cardiology & Heart Surgery program at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital is ranked No. 4 in the nation for 2025–2026 by U.S. News & World Report, marking its fourth consecutive year in the top four and its ninth straight year in the top 12. The program is recognized for outcomes, cutting-edge technology and advanced clinical expertise, placing it among the nation’s elite programs.

A constructive reunion

As Kavarana searched for a solution, he got a call from a bioengineering team at Clemson University with whom he had previously collaborated. The team, led by Clemson bioengineering alumnus Lee Sierad, Ph.D., and his mentor Dan Simionescu, Ph.D., the Harriet and Jerry Dempsey Professor of Bioengineering, was developing a novel valve concept to treat congenital heart defects in infants. They had confidence in their design but needed clinical insight into how hearts grow, how valve disease evolves over time and how surgeons confront these challenges in the operating room. That led them to reconnect with MUSC and Kavarana.

Kavarana helped the team to tie innovation to clinical reality, clarifying which defects mattered most and how growth patterns should inform device design.

“We were asking fundamental questions,” Sierad recalled. “Would this look like a metal stent that expands? Should we design it for a one-month-old, a one-year-old or a 10-year-old?”

Simionescu said that Kavarana’s input led them to shift the design team’s direction. “Historically, we take adult devices and make them smaller,” he said. “That approach doesn’t work for children. Pediatric patients need something that grows with them.”

From concept to prototype

With vital funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Emerson Rose Heart Foundation, which was created in honor of the infant daughter of Susan and Jason Smith who passed away due to a congenital heart defect, the MUSC-Clemson collaboration led to the creation of ExpandValve, designed to evolve in tandem with a growing heart. The device is a thin metal scaffold capable of expanding from an infant-sized diameter of 10 to 12 millimeters to an adult-sized diameter of 24 millimeters (just less than an inch) through gradual, controlled balloon dilations.

But allowing the valve to grow was only part of the puzzle. The team also had to account for changing blood pressures, flow dynamics and tissue response across every stage of childhood.

“All of the clinical data we shared helped the engineers to recreate conditions that closely mirror the human heart,” Kavarana said. “They’re able to test these valves in a bioreactor that simulates real physiologic environments.”

What comes next

If all goes well in the simulations, the next step on the road would be proof-of-concept testing in living hearts, which must yield positive results before potential clinical trials could begin.

“This step is essential,” Kavarana said. “If successful, this technology could dramatically reduce the cumulative trauma children experience from repeated heart surgeries and change what lifelong care looks like for families.”

For Kavarana and the Clemson team, the goal is clear: to replace a lifetime of repeated interventions with a future defined by fewer surgeries, fewer risks and far more hope.

Learn more about the Pediatric and Congenital Heart Center at the Medical University of South Carolina at Children.MUSCHealth.org/medical-services/heart.

Start the new year right: Top 5 items for every senior’s health care to-do list

2026-01-22T08:01:00

(BPT) – By Dr. Ali Khan, chief medical officer for Aetna® Medicare and practicing board-certified internist

After you enrolled in your Medicare Advantage plan for 2026, you may have put it out of your mind. However, the new year is the ideal time to prioritize your health. I talk to my patients every day about how important preventive care is for maintaining wellness and preventing minor health issues from becoming more serious concerns. Unfortunately, it’s often overlooked among older adults. By 2050, the population of adults ages 50 and older living with at least one chronic condition is projected to nearly double, making preventive care even more important.

With preventive care and regular screenings, your physician can more easily spot areas of concern early, so health problems can be more effectively treated or even, in some cases, prevented.

To get started, here are five ways to make the most of your benefits, putting your well-being at the top of your New Year’s resolutions.

1. Understand your plan

Take time to familiarize yourself with this year’s plan. Are there benefits you could have used last year, but for some reason didn’t take advantage of? Make sure to explore these in 2026. For example, your plan may include things like access to fitness programs and nutrition counseling designed for older adults.

If you have an Aetna Medicare Advantage plan, you can scan the QR code on your ID card with your smartphone, which will take you directly to information about your specific plan. You can also contact the Member Services team. They are ready to answer questions, walk you through your benefits or even join a call with your provider to help schedule appointments and walk through billing questions.

2. Make appointments now

Most plans cover annual wellness visits, vaccinations and basic health screenings, so set appointments for these crucial visits right away. For some people, setting appointments at the same time each year makes them easier to remember.

Medicare Advantage plans commonly offer $0 copays for annual physicals, colonoscopies, mammograms and routine eye and hearing exams. Some plans also include $0 copays for primary care visits and labs, and $0 copays for certain vaccines. This makes it easier to ensure you’ll take care of these vital health appointments every year.

3. Put your annual wellness visit and routine physical exam at the top of the list

Your wellness visit sets your care road map for the year. It gives you the chance to talk to your primary care provider and build a prevention plan. During this visit, your doctor will use your answers to a questionnaire to create a personalized health care plan for you to follow.

Additionally, you’ll want to schedule your routine physical exam for an overall picture of your health. During this visit, your doctor will do a full exam that includes blood work, lab tests and vaccines. They’ll also order any preventive screenings that are due. By identifying health conditions early, preventive care improves treatment options and reduces costly treatments and hospitalizations, allowing people and their loved ones to manage expenses and focus on what truly matters: your well-being.

4. Don’t forget vision and hearing

Using your hearing and vision benefits is important for your well-being. Even if you don’t wear corrective lenses, vision exams are key to identifying conditions like glaucoma and cataracts. And whether or not you have difficulty hearing, it’s also vital for your overall health.

As a board-certified internist and practicing physician serving older adults, I encourage everyone to prioritize common age-related health screenings like vision and hearing. These are critical for catching signs of more serious health conditions like dementia, and they allow for early intervention.

5. Download the Aetna HealthSM app

In addition to making sure you have a new ID card for 2026, you may also want to download the Aetna HealthSM app to get the most for your health. Aetna is making it simpler to stay on top of your health by providing educational resources like a video library of Medicare basics and benefits so you can stay informed and get the most out of your plan. On the Aetna website and in the app, you can also access additional around-the-clock tools and resources to find in-network doctors, track claims and even print a list of your medications to bring to appointments.

Maximizing your plan for a healthier 2026

Health care can seem complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. Aetna Medicare Advantage provides access to a Member Services team to answer your questions, and a Care Management program that offers a dedicated case manager to members to help coordinate doctors, support hospital recovery and guide you in advanced care decisions for certain medical conditions. Qualifying members can also get access to a Medication Therapy Management program for a personalized prescription review. There’s even a 24-Hour Nurse Line* connecting members with a registered nurse for quick answers to health questions, day or night.

Interacting with your plan early in the year helps you maximize your benefits. Aetna makes accessing your plan easier through their secure member website, where you can view benefits, track claims, find in-network care and see prescriptions all in one place. You can also access a video library of Medicare basics to stay informed and get the most from your plan.

Make 2026 a year to prioritize your health. Find more information and get the year off to a good start at AetnaMedicare.com.

*While only your doctor can diagnose, prescribe or give medical advice, the 24-Hour Nurse Line can provide information on a variety of health topics.

See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability may vary by service area. Participating health care providers are independent contractors and are neither agents nor employees of Aetna. The availability of any particular provider cannot be guaranteed, and provider network composition is subject to change.

This material is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Health information programs provide general health information and are not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician or other health care professional. Contact a health care professional with any questions or concerns about specific health care needs. Providers are independent contractors and are not agents of Aetna. Provider participation may change without notice. Aetna is not a provider of health care services and, therefore, cannot guarantee any results or outcomes. The availability of any particular provider cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change. Information is believed to be accurate as of the production date; however, it is subject to change. For more information about Aetna plans, refer to our website.

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How to instantly elevate your game day spread

2026-01-23T08:03:00

(BPT) – Excited to gather with fellow football fans for the big game? You can score big with your guests — without too much fuss — by choosing premium products that turn a ho-hum cheese plate into a delectable charcuterie board, transforming so-so game day appetizers into a chef’s kiss-worthy experience.

What’s the secret? Président® Cheese. From flavorful Pub Cheese to creamy Brie and more, Président Cheese will be the MVP of game day, bringing a taste of dairy mastery to your snacks and creating surprisingly simple but elevated culinary masterpieces.


Get ready for kickoff with an elevated snack board

An easy way to get the party started is offering a fun, shareable game day board that brings the energy of the stadium to your table. Classic bites get an irresistible upgrade with Président® Pub Cheese® Sharp Cheddar, generously spread on top or served in inviting bowls for dipping. This mix of savory favorites, fresh veggies and crispy sides creates an effortless spread that will keep everyone reaching for one more taste.

Président® Pub Cheese® Stadium Snack Board

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Prep time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12

Ingredients

  • 2 packs Président® Pub Cheese® Sharp Cheddar
  • Chicken wings
  • Hasselback sausages
  • Large soft pretzels
  • Soft pretzel bites
  • Crispy waffle fries
  • Chili-spiced nuts
  • Celery sticks
  • Carrot sticks
  • Pita chips
  • Crostinis

Instructions

1. Warm the Pub Cheese: Place Président® Pub Cheese® in small cast-iron or regular pan, reserving a second pack to serve raw. Heat over medium on stovetop about 2 minutes, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth, even melt.
2. Prepare board: Arrange Président® Pub Cheese®, chicken wings, Hasselback sausages, pretzel bites, large soft pretzels, waffle fries, chili-spiced nuts, pita chips and crostinis on large serving board or platter.
3. Add fresh elements: Tuck celery and carrot sticks around the board to add color and a crisp, refreshing bite.
4. Set up the cheese: Serve melted Président® Pub Cheese® Sharp Cheddar in small bowls — or keep in its pan — and place around the board for easy dipping and spreading.
5. Serve and enjoy: Dip, spread and snack freely, mixing and matching favorite bites with Président® Pub Cheese® Sharp Cheddar.

Boost your game plan with Brie

Rich and creamy Brie was made for entertaining. Whether served as is or warmed up, it’s perfect for spreading on crusty bread or crispy crackers. Président Brie Cheese is incredibly versatile for any occasion, from grilled to charcuterie boards. You’re sure to score a touchdown with this delicious combo of nuts and honey with Brie. Simply grill Brie, then top with seasonal fruit, pistachios and honey for something so delicious in just 10 minutes.

Grilled Président Brie with Pistachios & Honey

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Prep time: 5 minutes; Cook time: 10 minutes; Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 package (8 ounces) Président® Brie
  • 1 apple, sliced
  • 1/4 cup pistachios, unshelled
  • 2 tablespoons honey, for drizzling
  • Salt, to taste
  • Crostinis, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat grill: Set grill to 350°F.
2. Prepare the Brie: Score the top of the Brie in a crosshatch pattern.
3. Place in skillet: Add Brie to lightly greased 8–10 inch cast iron skillet and place directly onto a preheated grill. Close lid and let warm about 5–7 minutes, until soft and melty.
4. Add seasonal fruits and nuts: Place apple slices and pistachios around Brie in the skillet. Close the lid again and warm another 2–3 minutes to warm the fruit and meld the flavors.
5. Finish with extra honey: Drizzle the entire skillet generously with honey.
6. Serve and enjoy: Serve warm with crostini for dipping. Enjoy!


Dip it, spread it and dive in on game day

Your game watch party all-star? Chips and dip. But there’s no need to stick to the same-old, same-old. Instead, let Feta cheese add more zip to your dip. This easy dip combines sweet, juicy NatureSweet Cherubs® tomatoes with creamy, oven-baked Président feta for a warm, savory appetizer. Perfect for game day, this simple dip pairs beautifully with pita chips for a crowd-pleasing recipe everyone will love.

Baked Feta and Tomato Dip

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Prep time: 10 minutes; Cook time: 15 minutes; Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Olive oil, drizzle
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 1/2 cup NatureSweet Cherubs® tomatoes
  • 1 package (8 ounces) Président® Feta Chunk
  • 1 teaspoon fine herbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Pita chips

Instructions

1. Mix olive oil, garlic, red onion, Cherubs®, Président® Feta Chunk, pepper, fine herbs and salt in a baking dish.
2. Bake at 360°F for 15 minutes.
3. Mix and garnish with parsley. Serve with pita chips.


Score extra points with a trendy butter board

If you haven’t tried a butter board yet, now’s your chance! Just one look, and friends and family will tackle this dessert board with gusto. This recipe takes a decadent twist on the savory approach with three sweet variations of high-quality Président® Salted Butter. Creamy dessert butter is perfect for spreading, and is even more tasty enhanced with flavors like sweet honey, sultry caramel and spiced cinnamon.

Président® Butter Board

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Prep time: 25 minutes; Servings: 10

Ingredients

Honey Butter

  • 1 cup Président® Salted Butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons raw and unfiltered honey

Caramel Butter

  • 1 cup Président® Salted Butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1/3 cup caramel sauce
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Cinnamon Butter

  • 1 cup Président® Salted Butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. In three separate small bowls, mix ingredients for each butter until smooth and lump free, about 20 seconds each.
2. Spread butter onto a wooden board (lined with parchment first).
3. Fill board with a variety of cookies, fruits and side dipping sauces.

Win big with exciting new recipes

You’ll be the champion of this year’s big game with a little help from Président Cheese. Visit PrésidentCheese.com for more recipe inspiration, and check out their social media on Instagram, Facebook and X. President Cheese is a product of Lactalis USA.

Student success in the AI age: Higher education must rewire its model

2026-01-22T09:01:00

(BPT) – The workplace of the future will look vastly different from today’s workplace. The impact of AI is just beginning to be felt, and experts agree jobs will continue evolving, with many new jobs being created that can’t be anticipated today.

You don’t have to go too far back to see how much digital technology has already changed the employment landscape.

“If you traveled back to 2000 and introduced yourself as ‘social media manager,’ ‘prompt engineer’ or ‘brand influencer’ you would be met with blank stares,” said Elise Awwad, president and CEO, DeVry University. “Looking forward 25 years, the difference will not just be in what jobs we do, but who — or what — is doing them. You will likely encounter jobs, departments or entire sectors that are unrecognizable today.”

Because the impact of AI is ongoing, unpredictable and unstoppable, it’s critical for higher education to respond to rapid technological changes by fully equipping students with tools, knowledge and practical skills they will need not just in today’s workplace, but also the future.

“This is why DeVry is committed to embedding AI into every aspect of our curriculum, programs and student experience,” added Shantanu Bose, Ph.D., provost and chief academic officer, DeVry University. “Institutions must respond to this urgent call to action. In that vein, DeVry is executing a focused plan to incorporate AI skill-building across 100% of courses, expanding access to AI specializations and certificates, ensuring graduates can understand and apply AI responsibly in their professions.”

How to embrace AI for good

Students today already use AI to a large extent, for a variety of purposes. A recent study found that 90% of students today use AI, with many using it in helpful ways including brainstorming assignments (37%), summarizing information (33%) and receiving feedback (32%) — usually without any guidance or understanding of how to critically approach and best use AI tools.

According to recent articles in Forbes, some higher education institutions are starting to understand AI skills are key to student success in the workplace and that AI fluency is crucial for today’s students, driving many schools to introduce AI-specific content to their curriculums.

DeVry University, a digital-first, career-focused institution specializing in technology- and business-centered education for adult learners, is going even further, embedding AI in 100% of their courses by the end of 2026.

“We’re building an AI-forward education that is grounded in our belief that higher education must fundamentally evolve to remain relevant in today’s AI-powered economy,” added Bose.

DeVry’s AI-focused, dual-competency approach

Today, AI concepts and applications are already embedded across the university’s programs through coursework, discussions, projects and learning experiences that require students to analyze data, support decision-making, evaluate AI-generated insights and apply AI responsibly within their field. These durable, human skills are taught throughout DeVry’s curriculum to foster the critical thinking and creativity needed in the workplace of the future alongside AI.

Here are the many ways DeVry is further integrating AI into its curriculum and infrastructure to ensure student success in today’s digital economy — and into the future.

AI Catalyst: DeVry developed the DeVryAI Catalyst core curriculum, available to undergraduate students across disciplines. This allows students to complete a set of foundational AI courses, on which they can continue to build more advanced AI courses throughout their studies. Furthermore, every DeVry course builds toward AI fluency, so students learn to apply AI responsibly in their field.

AI program and credential expansion: DeVry launched its initial coursework in automation and machine learning in 2020 and has since taken meaningful steps to integrate AI throughout its academic portfolio, expanding applied AI coursework, specializations and certificates in Business and Technology programs. Building on this foundation, DeVry will expand its AI degree portfolio at the undergraduate and graduate level.

Lifelong AI upskilling through DeVryPro: DeVryPro extends DeVry’s AI strategy beyond traditional degrees, through its dedicated upskilling and reskilling platform designed to quickly teach workplace-critical skills to working professionals and employer partners.

AI-enabled culture of care: DeVry Care uses predictive analytics alongside dedicated advisors to support learner success. Among learners who received targeted outreach and used tutoring, 80% saw an improved assignment grade and 96% were successful (they graduated or persisted).

AI Learning Assistant in every course: All DeVry courses include an embedded AI Learning Assistant that provides real-time, conversational support, 24/7. The assistant currently handles over 90% of routine student questions, reducing friction and enabling the faculty to focus on higher-value instruction, coaching and mentorship.

AI Assisted Support for every student: All DeVry students, alumni, and applicants have access to an integrated AI-powered agent in their account portal providing on-demand assistance, 24/7, designed to reduce friction and help learners get back to focusing on what matters most — their studies. Users supported by the AI-powered agent report both high rates of issue resolution and satisfaction, especially when the AI agent and Advisor work alongside each other.

Faculty professional development: DeVry faculty are participating in a proprietary AI training program, created by faculty for faculty, ensuring they are supporting AI fluency development through coursework, discussions, projects, and learning experiences.

Preparing for an AI economy

By fundamentally reimagining both pedagogical frameworks and curricular objectives for an AI-driven labor market, the university is helping ensure that students cultivate the specialized technical competencies and ‘durable’ skills essential for professional resilience.

“Recognizing that AI raises the bar for human performance, DeVry has centered its approach on a dual-competency model; one that balances technical AI fluency with the ethical reasoning and leadership necessary now and in the future,” noted Awwad.

Learn how DeVry is leading the way in AI education at DeVry.edu.

One top 2026 hardwood floor finishing trend: Waterborne systems

2026-01-21T09:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

  • Waterborne floor finishing systems are water-based and environmentally friendly.
  • With low VOCs, waterborne options are better for indoor air quality.
  • Waterborne finishes are durable and can last a decade or more.
  • Always use cleaning and maintenance products made for your type of flooring.

Does your home have hardwood floors or would you like them in the future? If your answer is yes, you’re not alone. More than half (61%) of American homeowners say wood flooring was a priority when deciding to design or purchase their home, according to the 2026 Bona Floorcast report.

Hardwood floors are a smart choice, but the finishing system you choose is just as important as the flooring itself. Finishes and sealers can impact the durability and integrity of the flooring, plus some options are more harmful to the home environment than others. Doing your research can help you determine the best system for your home.

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“Whether a new build, renovation or refresh, it’s important to research the types of products used to treat your wood floors,” said Matt Casey, Director of Professional Marketing & Bona Certified Craftsman Program, Bona. “When it comes to hardwood floor finish, the best choice is a waterborne finish.”

To help homeowners decide the right option for hardwood floors through 2026 and beyond, Matt answers common questions about waterborne floor finishing systems for hardwood.

“When it comes to hardwood floor finish, the best choice is a waterborne finish.”

Matt Casey, Bona

Do hardwood floor finishes impact indoor air quality?

Yes, hardwood floor finishes can impact the air quality in your home. Waterborne, sometimes referred to as water-based, is a wood finish system where water is the carrier for resin particles rather than oil or chemicals. Waterborne finishes are durable, sustainable and have low VOC emissions, making them better for the indoor environment. They are safe enough for homeowners, pets, plants and food to remain in the home during the entire finishing process.

Other hardwood floor finishing systems like acid cured (also called Swedish finish) and moisture-cured finishes, which use toxic ingredients like formaldehyde, and oil-modified are high in volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

What does off-gassing mean for hardwood floor finishing systems?

VOCs are human-made chemicals present in many household products. Off-gassing occurs when VOCs and other chemicals are emitted from manufactured products during use. While all hardwood finishing systems have some level of VOCs, waterborne are most often the lowest and therefore better for indoor air quality.

Acid-cured and oil-modified finishes have high VOC levels ranging from 275 to more than 700. Waterborne finishes are considered low VOC typically at 150 or less.

What is GREENGUARD Certification?

It’s smart to look for hardwood floor finishing systems with UL GREENGUARD Certification. GREENGUARD is a third-party organization that ensures products used for indoor spaces meet strict chemical emission limits.

For example, Bona Traffic HD is a high-durability waterborne finish that is GREENGUARD Gold certified. The GREENGUARD Gold certification has stricter criteria and considers safety factors for sensitive individuals like children and the elderly.

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How long will waterborne hardwood floor finish last?

Advancements in waterborne finishing systems mean they are more durable than ever. High-quality waterborne floor finishes can often last well over 10 years depending on use and maintenance. Plus, unlike oil-based polyurethane that will amber over time, the color of waterborne finishes tends to maintain a more natural look.

Do waterborne finishes dry quickly?

Getting back to normal life as soon as possible is a priority when researching hardwood finishing systems. A waterborne finish is ready to walk on hours before an oil-based polyurethane finish dries. For example, Bona Traffic HD dries within two to three hours before it can be walked on in socks, with a full cure happening in three days.

“Investing in waterborne finishing systems for hardwood flooring is a smart choice for homeowners,” said Matt. “They create durable floors, allow for a range of color options and support a healthier home and environment.”

How do you best care for hardwood flooring?

Proper maintenance keeps floors looking their best and extends their lifespan. When choosing cleaning products, opt for a microfiber mop, which controls moisture better than a traditional string mop. Use a pH-neutral, residue-free cleaner formulated specifically for your type of wood flooring. The right cleaning products protect the finish and keep newly refinished floors looking beautiful longer.

To learn more about the benefits of waterborne flooring systems visit Bona.com.

A Registered Dietitian’s Top 3 Nutrition Tips for the New Year and Beyond

2026-01-21T12:01:00

(BPT) – If you are among the 50% of American adults who want to lose weight, a new year presents an opportunity to reset and focus on your health. The key — and the challenge — is making new health-promoting habits, like eating a healthier diet or committing to an exercise routine stick.

“With so much information out there around what to eat, when and why, it can be difficult to know where to start,” said registered dietitian Whitney Evans, PhD, RD and Director of Nutrition & Scientific Affairs at Danone North America. “I like to remind people, especially around this time of year when many are setting new intentions, not to underestimate the power of setting small, achievable dietary goals as opposed to a drastic dietary overhaul.”

Here are three tricks Evans engages in herself each new year, to reset and recommit to healthy habits:

1. Add one additional serving of fruit or vegetables to your daily diet: While it is recommended that American adults consume 1.5–2 cup-equivalents of fruits and 2–3 cup-equivalents of vegetables daily, setting a goal to add one serving per day is a good place to start, particularly since most of us — around 90%[i] of American adults — do not meet this daily recommendation. Regular consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with lower risk of death from all causes, likely due to their low energy density and inclusion of dietary fiber, essential vitamins and minerals, and bioactive compounds. Some fruits and vegetables, like artichokes, asparagus, leeks, onions, bananas and berries, even contain a specific type of fiber called prebiotic fiber that acts as food for the good bacteria in your gut. You can also find prebiotic fiber in foods like legumes, oats, barley, wheat and in certain yogurts and protein shakes that are fortified with prebiotic fiber, often as inulin from chicory root. The gut microbiome can have far-reaching impacts on overall wellness, so it’s important to consume foods that support it. Once you meet the goal of adding one additional daily serving of fruit or vegetables for at least two weeks, try adding another until you meet the recommendations.[ii]

2. Prioritize nutrient-dense protein-rich foods: Protein is essential for overall wellness. Along with supporting muscle health (especially alongside strength training), it also plays a role in everything from hormone production to immune health, the transportation of oxygen around the body, the creation of digestive enzymes that help us digest our food and so much more. This is especially important to know if you’re on a weight loss journey or taking a GLP-1 medication — as even if you’re eating fewer calories, your protein needs remain the same. If you don’t meet them through diet, your body will start taking protein building blocks, or amino acids, from your muscle tissue, which can impact strength, mobility and metabolic health. Nutrient-dense sources of protein include yogurt, eggs, beans, tofu, cottage cheese and lean meats. If it works with your dietary preferences, try to eat both animal and plant proteins to get the best of both worlds — complete, high-quality animal protein and the many additional benefits, like fiber and phytonutrients, that you get from plant-based sources. While the daily protein recommendation is a minimum of 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, there are many circumstances where you may need more — for example, during pregnancy, if you’re taking a weight loss medication,[iii] with age, and with increased physical activity. It’s always a good idea to speak with your doctor or a registered dietitian to learn more about your individual needs.

3. Start each day by drinking a tall glass of water: Our bodies literally can’t live without water! Drinking enough water helps support gut health, regulate body temperature, keep joints lubricated, deliver nutrients to cells and so much more. Research conducted by the University of Connecticut’s Human Performance Laboratory even suggests that mild dehydration can lead to changes in energy level, mental clarity and mood.[iv],[v] Experts estimate generally healthy women need about 11.5 cups of fluid per day and generally healthy men need about 15.5 cups. That includes fluids that you get from foods, as some foods, like certain fruits, vegetables and dairy foods, are composed mostly of water themselves. On average, people get about 20% of the water they need from food, which leaves about 9 cups to drink for women and about 13 cups to drink for men. Eating hydrating foods, like yogurt, fruits and vegetables daily and keeping a refillable water bottle on hand can help make hydration a natural, easy part of your day.

“While it can be tempting to go all out on an all-or-nothing reset, long-term health is built on consistency rather than extremes,” said Evans. “Starting with small dietary changes you can maintain, like eating additional servings of fruits and vegetables, prioritizing nutrient-dense protein and staying hydrated, can go a long way towards supporting health.”

So, as you navigate the rest of the year, try anchoring your goals in simple, evidence-based nutrition habits to help turn good intentions into lasting routines.



[i] Lee SH, Moore LV, Park S, Harris DM, Blanck HM. Adults Meeting Fruit and Vegetable Intake Recommendations — United States, 2019. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2022;71:1–9.

[ii] U.S. Department of Agriculture & U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2020). Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020–2025 (9th ed.). https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/sites/default/files/2020-12/Dietary_Guidelines_for_Americans_2020-2025.pdf

[iii] Almandoz, J. P., Wadden, T. A., Tewksbury, C., Apovian, C. M., Fitch, A., Ard, J. D., Li, Z., Richards, J., Butsch, W. S., Jouravskaya, I., Vanderman, K. S., & Neff, L. M. (2024). Nutritional considerations with antiobesity medications. Obesity (Silver Spring), 32(9), 1613–1631. https://doi.org/10.1002/oby.24067

[iv] Armstrong LE, Ganio MS, Casa DJ, Lee EC, McDermott BP, Klau JF, Jimenez L, Le Bellego L, Chevillotte E, Lieberman HR. Mild Dehydration Affects Mood in Healthy Young Women. The Journal of Nutrition. 2012; 142(2): 382–388.

[v] Ganio MS, Armstrong LE, Casa DJ, McDermott BP, Lee EC, Yamamoto LM, Marzano S, Lopez RM, Jimenez L, Le Bellego L, Chevillotte E, Lieberman HR. Mild dehydration impairs cognitive performance and mood of men. British Journal of Nutrition. 2011;106(10): 1535 – 1543.

How anesthesiologists have shaped modern medicine

2026-01-21T16:01:01

(BPT) – For more than a century, anesthesiologists have driven transformative advances in surgery, patient safety, critical care and pain management, shaping how medical care is delivered at life’s most critical moments.

“Anesthesiologist-led innovations have changed the course of modern medicine,” said Patrick Giam, M.D., FASA, president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). “While many of these breakthroughs took years of dedication and discovery, each turned once-impossible or dangerous care into routine, life-saving surgeries, pain management and critical care for millions of patients.”

As the specialty celebrates Physician Anesthesiologists Week, Jan. 25-31, consider the following anesthesiologist-led innovations that shaped modern medicine.

1. Making surgery painless

Before anesthesia, surgery was rare and typically reserved for emergencies, such as amputations or setting broken bones. That changed in 1846 when the first public demonstration of surgical ether at Massachusetts General Hospital revolutionized medicine, enabling patients to undergo surgery without extreme pain. Incidentally, anesthesiologist Dr. Crawford Long had used ether privately for surgery years earlier starting in 1842. Anesthesiologists pioneered anesthesia and continue to refine it, from early anesthetics such as chloroform to modern drugs like sevoflurane that allow precise control and faster recovery.

2. Protecting every breath during surgery

Even after anesthesia was introduced, surgery remained dangerous because patients could stop breathing or choke. In 1878, a Scottish surgeon addressed this risk by inserting tubes into patients’ windpipes to support their breathing. Since then, anesthesiologists have continued to advance airway management, developing specialized breathing tubes and tools — such as today’s video-assisted technology — to help maintain critical airway and breathing functions. These advances enable more complex surgeries and reduce the risk of complications and death.

3. Ensuring newborn health

Invented in 1952 by anesthesiologist Dr. Virginia Apgar, the Apgar score transformed newborn care by giving doctors a fast, reliable and standardized method to assess an infant’s health in the first minutes of life based on five signs (from skin tone to breathing). Before the Apgar score, newborn assessment was inconsistent and delays in vital care were common. Today, it is used worldwide to identify infants who need immediate care, such as oxygen or warming, and has played a major role in reducing infant mortality.

4. Creating the modern intensive care unit

During a 1952 polio epidemic, Danish anesthesiologist Dr. Bjørn Ibsen pioneered positive-pressure ventilation — forcing air into the lungs of patients who could not breathe on their own. This laid the foundation for modern ventilators and the creation of intensive care units (ICUs), enabling the support of critically ill patients for extended periods. This innovation has saved millions of lives worldwide, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.

5. Advancing patient safety

The familiar and steady beeping of monitors in the operating room and ICU represents some of the greatest safety advances in medicine. One of those monitors is the pulse oximeter. Introduced in the 1970s, it is a small device that clips onto a finger and measures oxygen levels based on blood flow, alerting doctors to dangerous changes before harm occurs. Anesthesiologists also introduced carbon dioxide monitoring for breathing, automated systems that continuously track vital signs during surgery and simulation-based training that prepares care teams for emergencies. Together, these advances are credited with transforming surgical safety and dramatically reducing preventable deaths.

6. Transforming pain management

From epidurals during childbirth to nerve blocks for knee replacement, anesthesiologists have transformed pain care and reduced reliance on opioids. Regional anesthesia allows many procedures to be performed on an outpatient basis and offers more effective options for managing chronic and postoperative pain.

7. Making complex life-saving surgeries possible

Open-heart surgery and organ transplantation are among the complex, high-risk procedures that are now possible due to anesthesiologists. They developed methods to precisely control breathing and circulation during surgery, as well as methods to safely cool the body, slowing metabolism and reducing the need for oxygen in vital organs to protect them during life-saving operations.

Looking ahead

The anesthesiologist-led innovations continue today. The next generation of anesthesia breakthroughs is focused on even safer, more personalized care, employing the latest technology, including AI, to tailor medications in real time, better monitor consciousness during surgery and track recovery beyond the operating room.

To learn more about how anesthesiologists are at the forefront of modern medicine, protecting patients before, during and after surgery and other medical procedures, visit: https://www.asahq.org/madeforthismoment/.

New year, new you … and maybe new Wi-Fi, too

2026-01-21T09:01:00

(BPT) – If your 2026 goals include catching up with family on video calls, sharpening your skills or just streaming more of what you love, there’s one resolution that makes all the others easier: upgrade your connections.

With the right internet, mobile and entertainment setup, you’re not just checking a box — you’re supercharging your whole year. Here’s how Xfinity can help you kick things off with a fresh connection.

Power up your home base with fiber-powered internet

Say goodbye to slow speeds and unreliable connections. If your home Wi-Fi can’t keep up with all the laptops, TVs, smart home gadgets and gaming consoles in your house, it’s time for an upgrade.

Xfinity Internet delivers a fiber-powered Wi-Fi experience designed for how we actually live online today — think multi-gig speeds, low-lag connections for gaming and streaming, the power to connect hundreds of devices in your home and wall-to-wall coverage so you can scroll, stream and work from just about any room.

Every plan comes with a powerful Wi-Fi Gateway that helps protect your home network with built-in cybersecurity and gives you advanced Wi-Fi and parental controls right from the Xfinity app. Unlimited data is now included for one simple monthly price, with no contracts and the option to lock in a five-year price guarantee for extra peace of mind.

New year, new phone (and major mobile savings)

If your phone is hanging on by a cracked screen and sheer willpower, make 2026 the year you finally upgrade not only your device, but your network too. When you switch your mobile service to Xfinity, you can save $1,000 or more in your first year by moving two lines from the big three mobile providers — all while getting a new device you’re excited to show off.

Not sure how your current plan stacks up? Use Xfinity Mobile’s savings calculator to compare and see just how much money you could be putting back in your pocket instead of into your phone bill.

All Xfinity Mobile customers get WiFi PowerBoost included at no extra charge, which can deliver speeds up to 1 gigabit per second on Wi-Fi — at home or on millions of secure Xfinity WiFi hotspots across the country. And if you choose a Premium Unlimited plan, you’ll unlock even more perks, like 4K UHD streaming, extra mobile hotspot data, advanced spam call protection and the flexibility to upgrade your device anytime.

Level up your entertainment experience

Between live TV, streaming, sports, apps and endless “what should we watch?” debates, finding your next show or game can feel like a full-time job. Xfinity TV makes it simple.

Every Xfinity TV package includes a 4K TV Box, so you can easily search across live TV, on demand and your favorite streaming apps all in one place — just use your voice remote to find what you want and start watching.

Sports fan? Xfinity has you covered with innovative features that make game day feel like an event:

  • Multiview lets you watch multiple live events at once on a single screen, so you never have to choose between the big game and the big rivalry.
  • Enhanced 4K makes it feel like you’re watching from the stands … crystal clear picture quality and only seconds behind all the live action on the field.
  • Fan View brings real-time stats, scores and more right alongside the action, so you’re always in the know.

And when the game’s over, you can shift seamlessly into play mode with Amazon Luna cloud gaming on compatible Xfinity devices — no console required. Just fire up Luna, grab a compatible controller or your smartphone and stream popular games right from the cloud on your TV.

Best of all, Xfinity has simplified TV pricing with straightforward, all-in options — no surprise line items, just clear, value-packed choices.

Bundle it up and save all year long

Why stop at just one upgrade? When you combine select Xfinity Internet, Mobile and Xfinity TV packages, you can save over $70 a month compared to similar triple-play bundles from other carriers — all while enjoying a better-together experience for internet, mobile and entertainment.

These are just a few of the ways Xfinity can help you start the year off strong and stay connected, entertained and on track for all your 2026 goals (and beyond).

Ready to give your resolutions a boost? Visit Xfinity.com to explore plans, check availability and build the perfect setup for the new year.

Give your finances a fresh start in the new year with a subscription cleanout

2026-01-21T08:01:00

(BPT) – Do you know how much you’re spending on subscriptions each month? If you’re like most Americans, the figure is probably higher than you think. A survey by C+R Research found that on average, consumers’ real spending on monthly subscriptions was two and a half times higher than they initially estimated ($219 vs. $86). And 42% of respondents admitted to having forgotten about a recurring monthly subscription that they were still paying for but no longer using.

Clearly, there’s a lot of subscription waste — and the start of a new year is the perfect time to tackle it.

Many New Year’s resolutions fade by February, but smart financial habits pay off month after month. Taking a fresh look at your subscriptions can help you cut unnecessary costs, choose better options and keep your goals on track long after January ends. Now is a great time to review your subscriptions, cancel unused services and switch to smarter options, freeing up money every month for what matters most. Following are a few tips to help you get started.

  • Cancel what you don’t use. Most people have subscriptions on auto-pay, and it’s easy to lose track of all the services you’ve subscribed to. Make sure you only keep the ones you actively need or want.
  • Prevent surprises. Turn on alerts for all subscription charges, so you know exactly what you’re being charged for each subscription and when.
  • Pay annually. If you know you’re going to use a service for at least a year, pay annually if you can, as annual rates are usually cheaper than monthly ones.
  • Be open to changing providers. Sometimes loyalty is rewarded, but special offers for new customers might make it worthwhile to jump ship. Check out competing providers to make sure you’re getting the best rates.
  • Consider family plans. You might be able to reduce your total cost for streaming, music or news subscriptions, for example, if you switch to a family plan, giving multiple people access under one payment.
  • Pay attention to special offers when you make a purchase. Cellphone plans, internet/cable plans, electronics purchases and retail memberships often come with free or discounted subscriptions as a bonus. Make sure you cash in on these if they’re services you need and would otherwise be paying more for.
  • Take advantage of credit card or banking perks. Credit cards and bank accounts sometimes come with bundles of benefits that can save you money too. For example, ICCU’s Central Plus Checking benefits include phone insurance and roadside assistance, allowing you to reduce the cost of your monthly phone plan and skip annual roadside assistance membership. Plus, the ability to manage your money and subscriptions in one place makes saving even easier.

As the subscription economy continues to expand, maintaining oversight and control will only become more important, so make this New Year financial cleanout an annual practice. Give your budget a boost every year by getting rid of unused subscriptions, reviewing opportunities to save, and combining memberships with overlapping benefits.

Building a new home? Don’t forget home fire sprinklers

2026-01-19T23:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re looking into new construction for your next home, you’ll want to be sure it’s fire safe. The nature and intensity of house fires have changed over the years. They can become deadly in as little as two minutes, leaving little time to escape.

Why? House fires are hotter, faster and more dangerous because today’s homes are filled with products that burn quickly and produce toxic smoke. These include synthetics, plastics, lithium-ion batteries and more. Smoke alarms warn when there is smoke, but occupants must still escape. Fire sprinklers are the only technology that can automatically stop a fire from becoming deadly.

How home fire sprinklers work

Fire sprinkler technology is simple. When a fire starts, high heat activates the fire sprinkler closest to the fire. Because the water is applied directly on the fire during its initial stages, both flames and smoke are reduced, giving residents more time to escape and allowing the fire department time to respond. Home fire sprinklers do not all go off at once. Ninety percent of fires are contained by the operation of just one sprinkler. A home fire can be effectively controlled or even extinguished by home fire sprinklers, protecting families and firefighters alike.

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Living room after a fire with a home fire sprinkler.

Fire sprinklers protect property because they keep the fire small, and little water is used to control or extinguish the fire. A home fire sprinkler uses about 15 gallons per minute compared to firefighter hoses that use 250 gallons per minute.

A fire sprinkler success story

One example of how effective this technology can be is the city of Scottsdale, Arizona, which passed an ordinance in 1986 requiring all new-construction homes to include fire sprinklers. Now, more than half of the housing stock in Scottsdale is protected with fire sprinklers.

The result? The city of Scottsdale’s fire loss data falls below the national average. Scottsdale has also saved millions of dollars in infrastructure for the water distribution system, because the sprinkler requirement has allowed them to use smaller pipes and pumps, and to safely space fire hydrants further apart. Homes with sprinklers experienced less fire damage as well as reduced water damage, saving homeowners thousands of dollars.

Even more importantly, data from the first 15 years after the ordinance was passed showed that there were no deaths from home fires in sprinklered homes, and the lives of 13 people who would have likely died without sprinklers were saved.

The importance of building codes to ensure fire safety

While historically, fire sprinklers have been most commonly used in commercial buildings, many of today’s building codes now require new homes to have fire sprinklers installed to combat the modern reality of home fires.

However, there are some communities where home fire sprinklers have been omitted from building codes, putting those residents at risk. The resistance to fire sprinkler codes has often been due to misinformation about the cost of installation, or a misunderstanding of just how dangerous today’s house fires can be.

“Fire sprinklers buy residents time to get out of homes while our responders work to get there, but when our office first took a run at trying to initiate a local fire sprinkler ordinance, it was met with a lot of opposition from builders and developers,” said Kevin Bergstrom, deputy fire marshal at the Camas/Washougal Fire Department in Camas, Washington. Bergstrom and his crew helped developers see the value of home fire sprinklers. “Our biggest success has been six home fire sprinkler saves. The most recent was a lithium-ion battery in a charger, where one fire sprinkler extinguished the fire. I think every community can be successful in protecting their citizens.”

What you can do

Before searching for a new build to buy in your area, check your local fire marshal or building department to ask if home fire sprinklers are required where you plan to build. It’s also a good idea to ask about home fire sprinklers during the home buying process. Home fire sprinklers are a simple life-saving technology that new homes should have, whether or not your area requires them.

To learn more about why your new home should have sprinklers, visit HomeFireSprinkler.org.