Involvement:
Mentor:
John R. Sirard
Bio:
Natasha believes that untangling the fundamental properties of memory can be used to alleviate strain on the healthcare system and treat patients with memory disorders. Intelligent design of computer-human patient aids has the potential to improve the quality of life for patients, patient independence, and care-giver burden for millions suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Thus, her research seeks to understand the way the human brain operates in order to give rise to memory for past experiences. Her study will address whether there are memory processes happening in brain areas previously thought to be dedicated exclusively to visual perception. She will measure brain activity and localize memory processes using functional MRI, using BOLD contrast.
Research Proposal Title:
Novel accelerometer methodologies and data processing for estimating free-living physical activity and sedentary behaviors
Research:
Robert proposes to examine the relationship between physical activity with reduced risk for chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. He plans to expand the way data is collected on the intensity, frequency and duration of physical activities. He will use wearable devices and machine learning to consider the participants profile of habitual activity and create individual-specific models. Findings from this study will provide more precise insights into the underlying relationships between physical behaviors and health outcomes, which could lead to more concrete recommendations for families regarding what behaviors are most beneficial for enhanced health and well-being.