Research & Practice
Student Projects
Master's Thesis
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Food Policy Entities in Washington State: A Qualitative Exploration of Social Capital
Food systems—and the policies and structures that govern them—are complex, and food policy entities (FPEs) are one way that communities navigate this complexity. Efforts are underway to increase
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Haley Chapman
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2025
Adviser(s):
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Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors on Animal Agriculture: Evaluating the Effects of a Modified Deliberative Poll
This study evaluates the use of a modified Deliberative Poll (DP), a methodology traditionally used in political science, to assess shifts in college students’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Clair Werch
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2025
Adviser(s):
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Executive Function, Eating Competence, and the Feeding Relationship in Parents of Preschool-Aged Children
The Satter Division of Responsibility in Feeding (sDOR) is a commonly used feeding framework to establish healthy eating and feeding relationships in preschool-aged children. Eating competence is positively
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kristen Evans
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2025
Adviser(s):
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The Intersection of Culture, Eating Habits and Eating Competence Among U.S.-Born vs. Immigrant Southeast Asian College Students
Southeast Asian (SEA) countries have a shared culture that is distinct from the vaguely defined “Asian culture,” a nuance that is lost in U.S.-based research that reports racial demographic groups as
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Miki Suarez-Thai
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2025
Adviser(s):
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Nutritional Adequacy of the Planetary Health Diet Improved by More Nutrient-Rich Foods: Analyses of the FAO Food Composition Tables for Western Africa
The EAT-Lancet planetary health diet (PHD) was designed to meet nutritional needs while staying within planetary boundaries. This study tested nutrient adequacy of the PHD using the Food and Agriculture
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Hannah Sanders
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2024
Adviser(s):
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Affordable Nutrient Density of Aquatic Foods in the FAO uFISH Database Assessed Using Nutrient Rich Food Price Index
Fish and shellfish have the potential to improve global public health by alleviating protein-energy malnutrition and closing micronutrient gaps. The aim of this study was to determine nutrient density of fish
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Emma Johnsson
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2025
Adviser(s):
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Towards Achieving Latino Food Equity: Insights from Latino Community Leaders in Central Eastern Washington
Latino Food Equity acknowledges the diverse cultural and socioeconomic factors that influence food access and consumption within the Latino community, promoting more inclusive and effective strategies to
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Evelyn Grijalva Martinez
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2025
Adviser(s):
- Barbara Baquero
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Sodium Intake Differences and its Relationship to the Gut Microbiome in Female Individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Healthy Controls
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder of gut-brain interaction characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel movements. Although IBS pathophysiology is still unclear, research has suggested that
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Stephanie Du
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2025
Adviser(s):
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Associations Between Usual Plant & Animal Protein Intake and Select Serum Biomarkers of Chronic Disease Risk
The prevalence of diet-related chronic diseases has increased significantly in the U.S. over the last two decades, and nutrition interventions may help reduce disease risk. However, studies linking diet with
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kara Plyler
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2025
Adviser(s):
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Exploring the Future of Sustainable Foods through Nova Classification of Upcycled Certified Products
This thesis project aims to identify the ways in which products that have received Upcycled Food certification contribute nutritionally to the greater American food supply, and whether these products are
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Irene Yoon
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2024
Adviser(s):
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The Association Between Eating Competence and Daily Hassles and Uplifts of Eating Location in Undergraduate University Students
The study sought to investigate the association between the daily hassles and uplifts related to eating location and eating competence (EC), and whether socio-demographics impact this association. Using the
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Aimee Allen
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2024
Adviser(s):
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Determinants of Indigenous Diet Quality and Their Association With Inflammation and Biological Age in the NHLBI Strong Heart Family Study
This thesis analyzed dietary and health marker data from Indigenous tribes in the NHLBI Strong Heart Family Study to assess for associations between diet quality, inflammation, and biological age. The thesis
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Jocelyn Naide
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2024
Adviser(s):
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Nutrient Drug Interaction Probability Scale (NDIPS): A Creation and Validation Process
This thesis project involved the creation of a screening tool to assess the probability of drug-nutrient interactions. Additionally, a set of internal and external trials were set in place to validate the
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Paola Maria Bregni Ibarra
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2024
Adviser(s):
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Accessibility to WIC-Authorized Ethnic Food Stores in Washington State: Implications for Serving the Needs of Immigrant WIC-Eligible Populations
The Special Supplemental Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is one of the federal nutrition assistance programs that safeguards food security among immigrant and refugee families. At least 20% of
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kana Ogaki
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2024
Adviser(s):
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A Qualitative Exploration of Food Tourism as a Lever for Food Systems Transformation
Using qualitative research methods, food tourism stakeholders were interviewed to understand their perspectives on (1) a growing interest amongst the public in food tourism and (2) the intersection of food
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Lauren Perkins
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2022
Adviser(s):
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Animal Welfare and Environmental Stewardship Decision-Making Among U.S. Animal Producers: A Qualitative Analysis
Using Q-methodology and qualitative methods, this study examined the drivers and tradeoffs of priorities regarding animal wellbeing and environmental stewardship among 35 U.S. beef, pork, and broiler
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Mary Fudge
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2023
Adviser(s):
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A Scoping Review of Consumer Perceptions of Meat Sustainability: A Focus on Animal Welfare and Environmental Impact
Addressing the rising consumer concerns over meat’s sustainability, this thesis aimed to conduct a detailed scoping review to map out over a decade of research on consumer perceptions of meat’s
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Cecilia Msogoya
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2024
Adviser(s):
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Exploring the Relationship between Dietary Supplement Use and Serum Biomarkers Among Postmenopausal Women in a Controlled Feeding Study
Utilized data from a controlled feeding study conducted in the Seattle area among postmenopausal women of the Women’s Health Initiative, a large cohort study, in order to assess the association between
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Hannah Baillie
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2024
Adviser(s):
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Using Non-Linear, Machine Learning Methodology to Assess the Potential Metabolomic-Based Biomarkers of Total Fat and Percentage Fat Intake Using a Controlled Feeding Study
Understanding and identifying objective dietary biomarkers is a crucial component of nutrition research today. By investigating the relationship between biomarker profiles and dietary intake using machine
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Caroline Lea Nondin
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2023
Adviser(s):
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Effect of Cocoa Extract Supplementation on Mental Health and Risk of Incident Late-Life Depression: A Secondary Analysis of the COSMOS Trial
A secondary analysis of the COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS) Trial investigating the effects of cocoa extract supplementation on subjective mental health and incident late-life
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Daniel Beery
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2023
Adviser(s):
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Nutrient-Rich Foods in Western African Food Supply: Applying Nutrient Profiling Models to the FAO Food Composition Table for Western Africa (WAFCT 2019)
This study aimed to adapt and apply nutrient profiling models to the FAO/INFOODS Food Composition Table for Western Africa (WAFCT 2019) to identify locally available nutrient-dense foods across different food
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Jonathan Lara-Arevalo
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2022
Adviser(s):
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Characterizing Burnout Among U.S. Registered Dietitian Nutritionists Using the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory
This study examines the prevalence of burnout in Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) and characterizes it across demographic and work-related
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Si Bui
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2022
Adviser(s):
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Is a Traditional Mexican Diet Better Suited for Mexican-Descent Women?
This study evaluates whether the the US Dietary Guidelines for Americans, including the USDA-provided Spanish translation, are effective for adopting and maintaining a healthy diet aimed at improving health
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Norma Garfias Avila
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2022
Adviser(s):
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Farm System Resilience during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Survey-Based Analysis of Impacts and Adaptations among Farmers in Washington State
This survey analysis attempts to identify how impacts and adaptations of the COVID-19 pandemic varied amongst farms in WA state based on specific resilience characteristics: robustness, adaptability and
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Anna Fogel
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2021
Adviser(s):
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Healthy Food, As Told by TikTok: A Thematic Analysis of the Most Liked #healthyrecipes on TikTok
Thematic analysis revealed that the most popular TikTok creators of “healthy” recipes characterize healthy food as some combination of utilizing practical skills to maintain a home cooking routine,
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kaitlin Sandberg
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2022
Adviser(s):
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Effect of Low vs High Eating Frequency on Perceived Appetite, Plasma Appetite Hormones, and Appetite Relationships: A Component of the Frequency of Eating and Satiety Hormones (FRESH) Study
This study concludes that three versus six eating frequencies per day did not have an independent effect on appetite measures through a randomized cross-over trial that controlled for various factors,
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Trey Lee (Jerry) Hill
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2022
Adviser(s):
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Insights from Washington’s COVID-19 Response: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of WIC Remote Services and Expanded Food Options Using the Re-aim Framework
This study assesses the reach and effectiveness of the COVID-19-programmatic changes instituted by Washington State WIC; the processes, facilitators, and challenges involved in their implementation; and
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Evelyn Morris
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2021
Adviser(s):
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Changes in Eating Habits Among Eating Competent and Non-Eating Competent College Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Recent research reveals that eating context, as well as underlying stress, were the primary drivers of changes in eating habits experienced by U.S. undergraduate students during the COVID-19 pandemic. This
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Jennifer Dearden
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2022
Adviser(s):
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Eating Competence and Gender Identity Are Significantly Associated with Weight-And-Body Shame-And-Guilt, Eating Concerns, and Weight Satisfaction in Undergraduate Students
This study, which surveyed a large sample of undergraduates at the University of Washington, determined that eating competence and gender identity are significantly associated with: weight-and-body
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kaitlin Benjamin
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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Disordered Eating and Eating Competence in Adults with Irritable Bowel Syndrome Based on Symptom Severity
This study seeks to assess the frequency at which disordered eating impacts patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), evaluate the level of Eating Competence (EC) among patients with IBS, and determine
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kate Evans
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2022
Adviser(s):
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The Role of Adiposity in the Association of Branched-Chain Amino Acids and Metabolic and Clinical Markers in Healthy Adults on Controlled Diets
Using a study of healthy adults on controlled diets, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) were positively associated with adiposity, markers of inflammation, insulin resistance, and satiety hormone leptin. These
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Cairo Archer
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2021
Adviser(s):
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Stress and Eating Behaviors of Dietitians Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic
Registered dietitians were surveyed using assessment tools for perceived stress, orthorexia nervosa risk, and eating competence. Stress was found to be inversely associated with eating competence, but was
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Josh Floberg
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2021
Adviser(s):
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Impacts of the Seattle Sweetened Beverage Tax on Perceived Healthfulness of Sweetened Beverages
This study analyzes pre-tax and post-tax survey data collected from Seattle and comparison area residents to compare differences in the perceived healthfulness of sweetened beverage consumption and drink types
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Lauren Sawyer
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2021
Adviser(s):
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A Qualitative Investigation of Resilience Among Small Farms in Western Washington: Experiences During the First Growing Season of COVID-19
The purpose of this study was to qualitatively assess the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on directly marketing small farms in western Washington State, with a focus on farmers’ experiences with
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Danielle (Dani) Ladyka
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2021
Adviser(s):
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Macrophage Accumulation and Lipid Loading in Diabetic Kidney Disease
This study investigates the direct effects of triglyceride-rich lipoprotein accumulation in diabetic kidney disease
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kazue Yoshida
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2021
Adviser(s):
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The Association of Food Insecurity and Disordered Eating Behaviors Among Youth and Young Adults with Diabetes: The SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study
This study examines the relationship between household food insecurity (i.e., access to nutritionally adequate and safe food) and disordered eating behaviors (i.e., restriction, bingeing, insulin manipulation,
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Emahlea Jackson
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2021
Adviser(s):
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Weight Bias in Clinical Care: Assessment of an Interprofessional Session for Health Sciences Students
This study assesses the impact of an educational session on weight stigma among health profession students. The results of a pre- and post-session survey suggest a change in the level of empathy and awareness
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Diana Aguilera
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2021
Adviser(s):
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The Effects of High and Low Glycemic Load Diets on Subjective Mood and Energy Levels in Normal Weight and Overweight/Obese Adults
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kara Breymeyer
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
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Exploring the Relationships between Dietary Intake of Early Childhood Education (ECE) Teachers and Nutrition Best Practices in ECE Centers
Food served in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) setting can account for over two-thirds of the diet of children in full-time care, and evidence-based best practices related to nutrition are recommended to
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Jessica Wolf
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2019
Adviser(s):
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Associations between Neighborhood Sociodemographics and Prevalence of Beverage Marketing among Food Retail Stores in Seattle, WA
This study aims to assess the prevalence of in-store and exterior sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) and non-SSB advertisements in Seattle, WA by neighborhood income and racial/ethnic
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Samuel Vinci
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2019
Adviser(s):
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The Effect of Diets Rich in Low-Fat or Full-Fat Dairy Foods on Insulin Sensitivity: The Influence of Other Dietary Factors
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a public health threat that jeopardizes the health of current and future generations in the United States. Reduced insulin sensitivity, also called insulin resistance, is a
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Merideth Murray
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
- Mario Kratz
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Participant Perceptions on a Fitbit and Facebook Intervention for Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors: A Qualitative Study
Among cancer survivors, physical activity (PA) is associated with reductions in cancer recurrence, morbidity, and mortality. Most adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors do not attain adequate PA. Digital
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Evelina Miropolsky
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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Diet Quality and Food Additive Exposure in Children with and without Celiac Disease
Treatment of celiac disease (CeD) requires adherence to a gluten-free (GF) diet, a restriction that affects food choices and impacts dietary patterns. Pre-clinical research suggests that certain food additives
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Erin McDonnell
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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The Effect of Eating Frequency on Sleep Quality Among Healthy Adults: A Component of The Frequency of Eating and Satiety Hormones (FRESH) Study
The relationship between sleep and health have been well documented, with scientific evidence supporting a positive association between high quality of sleep and health-related outcomes. Given the importance
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Veronica Lenoski
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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Patient Perspectives on Nutrition Providers’ Phenotypes and Attitudes About Weight During Treatment for Atypical Anorexia Nervosa
The relationship between sleep and health have been well documented, with scientific evidence supporting a positive association between high quality of sleep and health-related outcomes. Given the importance
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Meredith Blumenthal
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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Association between Food Swamps and the Diet Quality of Household Food Purchases in a Nationwide Sample
“Food swamp” is a term for local food environments where there exists a higher density of unhealthy food retailers selling more energy-dense, nutrient-poor food offerings relative to healthier
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Sara Woolcock
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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Exploring Barriers and Facilitators of Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive (FINI) Program Adoption in Washington State Farmers Markets: A Mixed-Methods Analysis
Existing research has illustrated the economic, social, and health impacts of farmers market Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) match incentive programs and identified key barriers and
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Shira Stern
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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“This Program is a Make or Break Scenario for Me:” A Qualitative Study on Participant Perceptions of a Grocery Store Fruit and Vegetable Incentive Program
Complete Eats Rx is a USDA-funded fruit and vegetable prescription program that is designed to incentivize fruit and vegetable consumption among SNAP recipients via $10 vouchers to purchase fruits and
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Sophia Riemer
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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Defining Food Systems Diplomacy
A narrative and evaluative framework that covers multi-sector negotiations that influence the functioning of the food system can be conceptualized as Food Systems Diplomacy. Historically, multi-sector
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Divya Pahwa
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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Interprofessional Perceptions of Dental Providers’ Engagement in Childhood Obesity Prevention
Pediatric dental professionals offer basic dietary guidance on the prevention of dental caries; however, there has been a public health call to action for further engagement in childhood obesity prevention.
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Anna Mowell
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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Food Insecurity is Associated with Depression among a Vulnerable Workforce: Early Care and Education Workers
This study aimed to explore the association between food insecurity and depression among early care and education (ECE) workers, a vulnerable population often working in precarious conditions. We utilized
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Ivory Loh
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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Association of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act on Dietary Quality Among Children in the U.S. National School Lunch Program
The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, implemented nationwide in 2012, was intended to improve the nutritional quality of meals served in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). The objective of this
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kelsey Kinderknecht
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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Impact of Walking School Bus Programs on Self-Efficacy and Outcome Expectations
A walking school bus (WSB) consists of students and adults walking to and from school and promotes active commuting to school (ACS). Self-efficacy (SE) and outcome expectations (OE) are behavioral constructs
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Nicole Cramer
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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An Examination of Sleep Pattern Characteristics and Healthy Eating Index Scores Among Students in Circadian Biology Class
Sleep restriction and circadian misalignment are associated with increased risk of chronic disease, as is poor dietary quality. College students are at risk for developing restricted, irregular sleep and poor
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Tucker Reiley
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
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The Impact of Low-Fat and Full-Fat Dairy on Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a widely prevalent chronic condition. There is evidence to suggest an association between dairy consumption and symptoms of GERD, even though this is inconsistent and
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Imashi Fernando
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):
- Mario Kratz
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Low-Income Workers’ Perceptions of Wages, Food Acquisition, and Wellbeing
Seattle’s Minimum Wage Ordinance went into effect in 2015 with a schedule to increase the minimum wage to $15/hour. Previous studies have demonstrated an association between increased economic resources and
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Lindsay Beck
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2019
Adviser(s):
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A Systematic Review Characterizing Farm Direct Marketing Challenges, Strategies, and Opportunities
In response to growing demand for local food, direct marketing has grown markedly over the past thirty years but continues to make up a small percentage of farm sales in the United States. We aimed to perform
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Casey McCoy
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2019
Adviser(s):
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Have Inequities in BMI Widened for a Nationally Representative Cohort of Kindergarteners?
The primary objective of this study was to determine if inequities in growth trajectories measured by BMI between white and non-white groups have widened in school-aged children. Data from the 1998 and 2010
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Alicia Yang
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2019
Adviser(s):
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Exploring the State of U.S. Soil Health Legislation: A Qualitative Policy Analysis
Proposal of soil health bills in U.S. state legislation has increased over the last few years. While some links between soil health and public health are well established, the extent to which current soil
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Madison Delmendo
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2019
Adviser(s):
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Body Mass Index and Breast Cancer Risk Among Pre- and Postmenopausal BRCA1/2 Mutation Carriers
BRCA1/2 mutation carriers are at increased risk for breast cancer. It is of interest whether this risk is further impacted by body size, a well-established mediator in breast cancer pathology among the general
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Samantha Tengs
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2019
Adviser(s):
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Physical Activity Levels, Physical Health, and Mental Health in Early Childcare Education (ECE) Providers and their relationships to Physical Activity Policy and Practices within ECE Centers
Early childhood education (ECE) educators may play an influential role in developing the physical activity (PA) habits of the children in their care. Studies exploring early childhood education (ECE)
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Rochelle Adriano
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2019
Adviser(s):
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Gene Transcription in Monocytes from Chronic Kidney Disease and Healthy Patients
The purpose of the current pilot study was to compare gene transcription in monocytes from early stage Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) subjects with matched Healthy controls, focusing on genes linked to
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Greg Wisont
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2019
Adviser(s):
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Food Insecurity and Diabetes Self-Management among Youth and Young Adults with Type 1 Diabetes
Household food insecurity (FI) is associated with measures of diabetes self-management among older adults with diabetes. To our knowledge, there is no existing literature assessing this association among youth
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kimberly Polacek Ortiz
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2018
Adviser(s):
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Is There a Role for Myeloid Cell-derived Versican in Diabetes-accelerated Atherosclerosis
Cardiovascular diseases, caused by atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries, are the number one cause of death in the world, causing over 30% of deaths. Diabetes is also becoming an increasingly common
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Katie Osterbauer
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2018
Adviser(s):
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Use of a Nutrient Rich Foods Index to Study the Effect of Seattle’s Minimum Wage Ordinance on Supermarket Food Prices by Nutrient Quality
Minimum wage policies may increase the capacity of low wage workers to achieve higher quality diets through greater food purchasing power. However, limited evidence is available on the effect of minimum wage
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Catherine House
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2018
Adviser(s):
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Compliance to a Prescribed Eating Frequency Protocol
Participant compliance is an important measure of study success in randomized control trials (RCTs.) However, there is a lack of literature studying participant compliance in dietary interventions,
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Tracey Tran
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2018
Adviser(s):
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An Evaluation of Current Lunchroom Food Waste and Potential Food Rescue Programs in a Washington State School District
Public schools waste approximately 30% to 50% of edible food and thus provide opportunities to study the problem of food waste and explore food rescue initiatives. This case study evaluates lunchroom waste
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Courtney Schupp
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2018
Adviser(s):
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Dietary Intake of Overweight and Obese Men Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer Before and After a Lifestyle Intervention
There is increasing evidence that obesity is correlated with prostate cancer (PC) progression and PC-related mortality among men on active surveillance (AS). Interventions aimed at weight loss among obese men
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Britt Myer
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2018
Adviser(s):
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Parent Perceptions on a Walking School Bus Program among Low-Income Families: A Qualitative Study
Active commuting to school (ACS) is a promising intervention to increase physical activity in school-age children. The aim was to assess parent perceptions of an ACS program in the Seattle area to inform
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Katie Teller
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2018
Adviser(s):
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Diet Quality and Circulating Sphingolipids: The Strong Heart Family Study
Sphingolipids, including ceramides (Cer) and sphingomyelins (SM), are involved in the development of chronic disease through stress response, inflammation, insulin sensitivity, and more. Plasma sphingolipids
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Emily Conner
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2018
Adviser(s):
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Validating Smartphone- and Computer-based technologies with GPS for Activity Tracking
The purpose of this study was to validate a newly developed computer-assisted instrument, Karma, against a traditionally used GPS instrument and a smartphone-based application, MapMyRun (MMR), to study
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Anna E. Bradshaw
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2018
Adviser(s):
-
Analysis of Child Undernutrition Intervention Priorities Among Nutrition Stakeholders from Multiple Low and Middle-Income Countries
World Health Assembly 2025 targets call for reducing and maintaining the global prevalence of wasting (weight-for-height z score [WHZ] < – 2 SD) among children under five to below 5%. However,
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Sophia Wang
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2018
Adviser(s):
-
Examination of the Associations Between Indices of Maternal Capabilities on Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices and Nutrition Status Among Children in East and Southern Africa
Undernutrition in children is a leading underlying cause of child death globally. Previous research has shown that inappropriate or suboptimal infant and young child feeding practices (IYCF) play an essential
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Courtney Davis
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
Physical Activity and Subclinical Measures of Atherosclerosis: Study Replication and Sensitivity Analysis
Atherosclerosis contributes greatly to morbidity and mortality in the United States. Prevention of incidence, and progression of atherosclerosis through lifestyle modification represents an opportunity to
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Julian Whitford
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
Seattle’s Minimum Wage Ordinance Did Not Affect Supermarket Food Prices by Processing Category
Effective April 1, 2015, the city of Seattle enacted its multi-step $15 Minimum Wage Ordinance (MWO) to incrementally increase worker minimum wages to $15/hour between 2017-2021, depending on the size of the
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Amanda Spoden
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
Exploration of Learning Goals and Learning Outcomes in Two Community Kitchens in Seattle
Community kitchens (CK) are associated with increases in nutrition knowledge, cooking skills, social support, self-efficacy, empowerment, and food security. While interconnected functions of CK have been
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Toi Sennhauser
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
Farmers Market Use and Perceived Barriers to Farmers Market Access Among SNAP Recipients in Washington State
Activities are underway in Washington State to increase access to farmers markets for SNAP and SNAP-eligible participants. A variety of stakeholders are involved in implementing activities to make farmers
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Gaelen Ritter
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
A Qualitative Study on the Development and Adoption of the First State-Wide Comprehensive Food Service Guidelines for Improving the Health and Productivity of State Employees
In 2013, Washington State became the first to adopt state-wide comprehensive food service guidelines to increase the availability of healthy food and beverages sold to state employees and served to state
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Lauren Rice
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
Characteristics of Bariatric Patients on Home Parenteral Nutrition
Corresponding to rising obesity rates, bariatric surgery is becoming a common intervention for obesity. Due to surgical or nutritional complications, some bariatric surgery patients may end up requiring
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Theresa Bergholz
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
School Lunch Entree Components Before and After Implementation of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010: A Secondary Data Analysis
The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act (HHFKA) 2010 updated standards to increase the quality and quantity of healthy items offered to students. Since HHFKA implementation, studies have focused primarily on fruit
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Lauren Mozer
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
Changes in Self-Efficacy and Outcome Expectations from Child Participation in Bicycle Trains for Commuting to and from School
Active commuting to school (ACS) is associated with increased physical activity and lowered risk of obesity. In observational studies, ACS was associated with child self-efficacy, parent self-efficacy and
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Cathy Huang
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
A Qualitative Study of U.S. Food Waste Programs and Activities at the State and Local Level
In the United States, 40 percent of all food intended for human consumption is lost or wasted. This has economic, environmental, and social consequences that justify the involvement of public agencies.
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Chris Benson
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
Association of Whole Grain Intake with Diabetes and Subclinical CVD in the Multiethnic Study of Atherosclerosis: A Sensitivity Analysis
A dietary pattern that includes whole grains is widely believed to provide numerous health benefits, such as a reduction in chronic disease risk factors like inflammation, insulin resistance, and subclinical
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Molly Haas
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
Player-Reported Fluid Intake and Measured Hydration Status in NCAA Division I Football Players During Fall Training Camp
Hydration is critical to the health and sports performance of athletes. Position statements from the American College of Sports Medicine, the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, and the Academy of
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kelly Finan
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
Examining Food Procurement Characteristics in Washington State Child Care Settings
Early care and education (ECE) settings serve as primary eating environments for young children. Approximately 60% of U.S. children aged 5 years old and under are enrolled in some form of ECE and receive up to
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Monica Lazarus
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
Self-Reported Perceptions and Practices of University Students Who Adhere to Special Restrictive Diets: A Pilot Study
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends consuming a variety of foods from each of the major food groups to support a healthy diet. However, usage of special restrictive diets that exclude specific
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Toni Fiordalis
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
Assessing Sodium Content of Foods in Two Seattle-King County Food Banks
The emergency food system is an increasingly important source of food for food insecure households. Meanwhile, there is growing concern among food banks, food bank clients, and public health officials in
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Sarah Craven
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
Trends in Prices of Fresh vs. Ultra-Processed Foods: Analyses of Seattle-King County Prices From 2004-16
The availability of safe, affordable, nutrient-rich food for purchase is a key component of food equity. However, foods higher in nutrients and lower in energy tend to be associated with higher per- calorie
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Terry Hawk
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2017
Adviser(s):
-
An Analysis of the Adoption and Implementation of Breastfeeding Policies in Washington State Clinics
The benefits of breastfeeding for the mother-infant dyad and broader society are well documented. While U.S. breastfeeding initiation rates have improved over the past decade, rates for exclusive breastfeeding
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Shelly Johnston
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2016
Adviser(s):
-
Increasing Farmers Market Access among Low-Income Shoppers in Washington State: Understanding the Role of Peer-to-Peer Programs
Many Americans are not consuming adequate amounts of fruit and vegetables. In 2013, only 13% ofUnited States residents consumed the recommended one and one-half to two cups of fruit each dayand only nine
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Danielle Hamilton
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2016
Adviser(s):
-
Exploring Factors that Influence Adoption and Implementation of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative in Washington State
The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is a global initiative that is impacted by local context and systems. Research shows that BFHI has a positive impact on breastfeeding initiation and duration,
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kayla Bell
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2016
Adviser(s):
-
Diet and Adipose Tissue Inflammation
Adipose tissue inflammation is a possible link between obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In obesity adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) are thought to undergo a phenotypic switch to a pro-inflammatory state
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Lisa Weigle
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2016
Adviser(s):
- Mario Kratz
-
Eating Perceptions of University Students Who Are Following a Special Restrictive Diet: The Food and Health Survey
Many consumers follow food restrictions, sometimes based on unregulated sources of information. The goal of this study was to evaluate the eating perceptions of university students who are following a
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Francesca Simonella
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2016
Adviser(s):
-
Low- vs. High-Glycemic Load Diet: Effects on Postprandial Plasma Free Fatty Acid Levels
Low-glycemic load diets are commonly prescribed for blood glucose management. Currently, however, it is not clear as to whether the diet has any implications, positive or negative, on cardiovascular health in
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Sarah Yanez
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2016
Adviser(s):
-
Gardening for Health: Patterns of Gardening and Fruit and Vegetable Consumption on the Navajo Nation
The Navajo Nation represents a significant proportion of the American Indian/Alaskan Native population that is disproportionately affected by diet-related chronic diseases. Emerging evidence suggests that
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Mei Yook (Lisa) Woo
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2016
-
The Association between Vitamin K2 Intake and Glucose Homeostasis in Individuals with and without Chronic Kidney Disease
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the most common metabolic disorder worldwide. Subclinical micronutrient deficiencies have been found to contribute to glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. Vitamin K2,
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Hsin-Hui (Katty) Tseng
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2016
Adviser(s):
- Mario Kratz
-
Sodium in School Lunches Before and After Implementation of the Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010
Good nutrition is essential for child health and development. Effective school lunch standards can contribute to the well-being and academic achievement of students. The Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Torissa Sorenson
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2016
Adviser(s):
-
Evaluation of Select Food Additive Exposures in Children with Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s Disease (CD) is a chronic, debilitating inflammatory bowel disease and recent research has revealed the possibility that environmental exposures such as diet may play a role in CD etiology and
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): C. Kaulani Swan
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2016
Adviser(s):
-
The Relationship of Diet Quality and Blood Serum Lipid Levels in a Population at High Risk for Diabetes: The Strong Heart Family Study
Blood serum lipid levels are often used as indicators of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, while diet quality has an established impact on blood serum lipid levels, including low- and high-density
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Sophie Kauffman
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2016
Adviser(s):
-
Comparison of Objectively and Subjectively Measured Sedentary Behavior in Men with Prostate Cancer and a History of Androgen-Deprivation Therapy Use
Men with prostate cancer commonly receive Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT) treatment at some point during treatment. Though efficacious, ADT has significant side effects, including increased risk of
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Jamie Clayton
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2016
-
Analysis of Media Coverage on Breastfeeding Policy in Washington State
Framing of messages about breastfeeding policy in the media can foster or hinder interpretations of policy’s potential benefits and may ultimately influence important policy decisions in institutions and
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Alessandra DeMarchis
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2016
Adviser(s):
-
Accuracy of Volumetric vs. Weight Measurement in Nutrient Analysis for Research
The USDA standard release databases use food weight to determine nutrient content; many dietary self-assessment methods and emerging image-assisted technologies utilize estimated food volumes to assess dietary
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Emma Partridge
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2016
Adviser(s):
-
Food Shopping Trip Characteristics Before and After the Light Rail
The Seattle Food Action Plan recommends improving healthy food access via non-auto transportation options, and light rail is a public transportation system recently introduced and currently being invested in
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Jessica Jew
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2016
-
Evaluation of Patient Characteristics, Indications, and Effectiveness of Home Parenteral Nutrition (HPN) Therapy in Obese Adult Patients
Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) involves the administration of parenteral nutrition (PN) therapy outside of the institutional setting. Recipients of HPN are generally patients who do not have acute medical
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Jisun Park
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
-
The sodium potassium ratio: adherence to guidelines in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Few Americans meet the guidelines for sodium and potassium consumption. Yet, sodium reduction remains a major public health aim due to its relationship with hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD),
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Emily Kurlak
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
-
Effects of excessive energy intake from fructose- vs. high fructose corn syrup (HFCS)- vs. glucose-sweetened beverages on fasting plasma IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 concentrations
Epidemiological studies indicate that added sugar consumption and plasma concentrations of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) are associated with increased cancer risk, particularly for breast and colorectal
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Katrina Hoch
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
- Mario Kratz
-
Association Between Soda Consumption and Body Mass Index in the University of Washington Twin Registry
Obesity is of major public health concern due to its association with many chronic diseases and its history of increased prevalence. Obesity development is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Anna Eney
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
-
Exploring the Use of Seattle’s Farmers’ Market Incentive Program (“Fresh Bucks”) by Household Food Security Levels
Farmers market incentive programs such as the Fresh Bucks program in Seattle, Washington aim to improve healthy food access and food security amongst low-income individuals. The objective of this study was to
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Elizabeth Hulbrock
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
-
Measuring Plate Waste: Validity and Inter-Rater Reliability of the Quarter-Waste Method
Measuring food waste in school cafeterias is an important tool to evaluate the effectiveness of school nutrition policies aiming to increase consumption of healthier meals. Visual assessment methods are
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Katherine Getts
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
-
Factors influencing water intake at school among youth in King County, Washington: a qualitative study based on the social ecological model
Sufficient water intake is essential for health, cognitive function, and school performance among youth. Approximately three in four children do not drink enough water during the school day leading to
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Nora Downs
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
-
Demographic, Physical, and Behavioral Characteristics Associated with TV Parenting Practices Among Latino Parents of Preschool-Aged Children
Latino children are disproportionately affected by obesity. Television (TV) viewing is linked with childhood obesity, decreased physical activity levels, and increased sedentary time. Valkenburg’s TV
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Catherine Karlak
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
-
Diesel Exhaust Exposure and N-acetyl-cysteine Supplementation In-utero and Atherosclerotic Lesion Progression
Ambient air pollution exposures have consistently been found to be positively associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Fine particle air pollution (PM2.5), largely derived from diesel exhaust
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Jenna Harrigan
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
-
Taxomic and Functional Characterization of Human Gut Microbes Involved in Dietary Plant Lignan Metabolism
Dietary plant lignans, such as secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), are metabolized to the enterolignans, enterodiol (END) and enterolactone (ENL), by gut microbes. Evidence suggests that enterolignans may
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Isaac Elkon
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
-
Compliance With an Intense Dietary Intervention and Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is considered to be one of the primary causes of premature illness and death in most countries, making the projected increase in prevalence a significant public health concern. A
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Lisa Eberly
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
- Mario Kratz
-
SNAP-Based Incentives for Healthy Food Access: Comparing Socio-demographic Factors of SNAP Shoppers at Farmers Markets to SNAP Participants in Washington State
The proliferation of SNAP-based incentive programs (SBIPs) at farmers markets across the country stems from public health efforts to increase low-income individuals’ access to fresh fruits and vegetables,
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Jamie Bachaus
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
-
The Association between Baseline Fructose Consumption and Baseline Biomarkers of Inflammation in a Randomized Controlled Feeding Trial
High fructose intake, especially through sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, has been associated with increased risk of chronic diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease,
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Ke (Claire) Luo
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
-
Restaurant Response to the San Francisco Toy Ordinance: Changes in Toy Marketing and Children’s Menu Options
On December 1, 2011, San Francisco, CA became the first US city to pass the Healthy Food Incentives Ordinance, which prohibits fast food restaurants from giving away free toys or other incentives in
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Sara Diedrich
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2015
Adviser(s):
-
The Cost of Healthy Foods in Seattle, WA: Price Trends from 2004-2014
The issues surrounding the cost of healthy foods have emerged as a significant barrier to improving dietary habits, especially for individuals and families of low socioeconomic status. Earlier reports have
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Katherine Freeman
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
Adherence to Micronutrient Supplementation in Bariatric Patients
Micronutrient deficiencies are key concerns after bariatric surgery. Routine supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals is a lifelong requirement following bariatric procedures to minimize the risks of
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Qianxiong (Cherry) Zheng
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
Association between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Obesity in a Pediatric Population
In adult populations, the pathology of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is mainly related to obesity. In contrast, early studies in pediatric populations suggested adenoid and tonsillar hypertrophy
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Ge (Lilly) Wang
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
An Examination of Nutritional Outcomes from an Intensive Outpatient Pediatric Feeding Program for Children with Feeding Difficulties
Children with feeding disorders consume an insufficient volume or variety of food. This can compromise growth and development and the child may require enteral nutrition. Pediatric feeding disorders have
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Carrie Ramsdell
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
Effects of State and Federal Legislation on a Sample of Local Public School District Wellness Policy Scores over Time
School district wellness policies (SDWP) may provide guidance to schools seeking to improve and maintain healthy learning environments throughout the United States. State and federal legislation and
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Alexandra Kaufman
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
Red Cell Distribution Width and Fall Events in Older Adults
Red-blood cell distribution width (RDW) has been associated with negative outcomes including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, pancreatitis, liver disease, and poor pulmonary function. These diseases have also
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Anna Heninger
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
The Influence of Caregivers and Meal Decision Makers on the Nutritional Content of Fast Foods Purchased for Children
Fast food consumption has been shown to contribute to excess caloric intake and the development of obesity. Interventions that target key contributors to meal decisions have been suggested as a means for
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Doris Chung
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
Can School Lunches Deliver Better Nutrition Without Sacrificing Palatability? An Evaluation of Nutritional Adequacy of School Lunches in Urban Washington State
USDA’s National School Lunch Program (NSLP) was established in 1946 to deliver balanced nutrition for children at risk for under-nutrition; however, in recent years these same meals have been associated
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Diana Reid
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
Assessing the Impact of Post-Purchase Barriers on Fruit and Vegetable Consumption: A Secondary Analysis of a Survey of SNAP Recipients at Seattle Farmers Markets
This secondary analysis identifies and describes the impact of self-reported barriers between purchasing produce at farmers markets and consuming that produce at home. This analysis also compares demographic
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Maia Kurnik
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
Longitudinal Associations between Home Food Environment and Diet Quality in Children
Child and adolescent diets in the United States are high in fat and sodium and low in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and dairy foods. Parental practices and foods provided in the home greatly influence
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Jonae Perez
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2014
-
Differential Effects of Fatty Acids on an In Vitro Model of Hepatocyte Steatosis
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by excess hepatic fat accumulation in the setting of metabolic syndrome. It ranges from simple hepatic fat accumulation (steatosis), to steatosis with
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Srilekha Karunanithi
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2014
-
Eating well and paying less: A study of positive deviance
Past studies have shown that healthier diets tend to cost more. This study identified groups of positive deviants (PD) who are able to achieve healthier diets at lower cost, and characterize them by
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Cara Davis
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
Comparison of Gut Microbial Community in Infants and Toddlers with and without Phenylketonuria
Prebiotics are non-digestible food components that selectively stimulate the growth and/or activity of beneficial bacteria in the colon and contribute to improved human health. Infants and young children with
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Melissa Edwards
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
Relationship between socioeconomic status and fruit and vegetable intake among Washington middle school students
School-based programs that provide fruits and vegetables (FV) to low-income children have the potential to reduce disparities in health behaviors and health outcomes. FV are high in fiber and micronutrients.
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Marina Mednik-Vaksman
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
Association between objective measurement of walking activity and neighborhood walkability
Walking is the most common form of physical activity (PA) among U.S. adults, and is the most popular choice of aerobic PA to improve overall health. Although walking has received increased attention in recent
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Liang-Dar Hwang
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
Metabolome response to glycemic load in a randomized, controlled, crossover feeding trial in humans
Observational studies show habitual dietary patterns with low glycemic load (LGL), compared to high glycemic load (HGL), are protective against chronic conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Sally Barton
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
Variation in WIC Cash-Value Voucher Redemption Rates among American Indian Reservation Communities In Washington State
In 2009, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food package was revised to include a cash-value voucher (CVV) for fresh fruits and vegetables. While this supplement
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kimberly C. McLaury
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
Socioeconomic trends in household food expenditures: Comparing objective food shopping receipts vs. Self-reports
Studies on the association between socioeconomic factors and food purchasing behavior have tended to rely on food expenditure data obtained through participant self-reports. However, self-reported expenditures
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Zhongyuan Liu
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2014
Adviser(s):
-
A comparison of the effect of consuming a fructose-, glucose-, or aspartame-sweetened beverage on ad libitum caloric intake
The per capita consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) has increased in tandem with the obesity epidemic. While many epidemiological and clinical studies have shown a positive association between
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Laura Tobias
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
- Mario Kratz
-
Predictors of Responsiveness to Vitamin D Supplementation and Outcomes Assessment in Patients Undergoing Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery
Vitamin D is one of the most common micronutrient deficiencies in the obese population awaiting Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery and often persists post-operatively despite routinely recommended
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Jessica Kim
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
-
Plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 response to vitamin D supplementation in obese and non-obese men and women
Obese adults are more susceptible to poor vitamin D status and response to supplementation than lean adults, but explanatory mechanisms remain unclear. Proposed hypotheses include increased degradation or
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kelly Ahern
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
- Mario Kratz
-
Barriers to WIC Benefits Redemption among Participants in Washington State abstract
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is a federal program administered by the states to improve nutritional status through the provision of supplemental food
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Shelly Najjar
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
-
Development of the DESK (Disinhibited Eating Score for Koreans) Questionnaire: Examining the relationship between eating cues and food intake in the corporate-working population of Seoul, Korea
What triggers us to start or stop eating, and also decide what and how much we eat? There are many established questionnaires that have been developed to assess one’s motivation to eat. Among the most
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Young Mee (Mya) Kwon
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
-
Relationship between parental use of praise and child weight outcomes in the FOCUS pediatric obesity study
Childhood obesity is a major focus of public health efforts in the United States and many other parts of the world due to its prevalence and associated short- and long-term health risks and to its prevalence,
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Carrie Dennett
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2013
-
Obtaining nutritional information for dietary assessment
Accurate dietary assessment is the foundation for determining nutritional status in individuals for clinical practice and in the population for public health. Proper dietary assessment depends on the type of
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Marc Zimmerman
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
-
Metabolism of Plant Lignans by Human Intestinal Bacteria
Dietary plant lignans have been implicated in the prevention of several chronic diseases including breast cancer, colon cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Plant lignans can be converted to the physiologically
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Seth Yoder
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
-
Chronic stress alters serum lipids: effects due to “stress eating” versus metabolic changes
Much research indicates that psychological stress can alter serum lipids, contributing to cardiovascular disease. However, this theory remains controversial. It is also unknown how this effect occurs: whether
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Allison Parker
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
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District Market: A pilot marketing study
The objective of this study was to examine consumer attitudes toward District Market (DM), a new grocery store recently opened on the University of Washington campus. The goal was to work together with the UW
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Krista Ulatowski
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
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Assessing green space as a correlate of physical activity among twins
The health benefits of regular physical activity are well established. However, the contribution of natural and “built” environmental factors, including access to green space, to physical activity
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Isabel Kanholm
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
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Do screen time policies matter? The association between the presence of screen time policies in child care facilities and child care provider knowledge, provider advocacy and facility practices
Childhood obesity affects millions of children in the United States; the estimated prevalence of obesity among two to five year olds has doubled between 1980 and 2008. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Elizabeth Aong
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
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Acquired copper deficiency post-Roux-en-Y gastric bypass Surgery: A systematic review
Copper is an essential trace element which operates as a vital cofactor in enzymatic reactions crucial to normal function of the hematologic, vascular, skeletal, and the nervous systems. It is also a key
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Amanda Wood
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
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The association between access to water and sugary-sweetened beverage consumption in 37 schools in King County
Water is the ideal source of hydration with several health benefits. Water can be substituted for sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) to decrease energy intake and other negative health consequences of SSBs.
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Sepideh Dibay Moghadam
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
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Prevalence of anemia and use of red cell distribution width as a predictive tool in a bariatric surgery population
Anemia is among the most common conditions resulting from nutrient deficiency in bariatric surgery populations. The symptoms of anemia can have a negative impact on favorable outcomes. The primary aim of this
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kelly Peterson
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
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Assessment of parenting stress as measured by the parenting stress index-short form related to treatment and management of a child with phenylketonuria
Phenylalanine is one of many amino acids the body metabolizes and recycles to generate other amino acids. Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inherited genetic metabolic disorder that results in phenylalanine
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Angela Thanh Tam Stevenson
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2013
Adviser(s):
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Relationship between aerobic fitness and academic achievement in Seattle secondary school children
Aerobic fitness is an important measure of physical fitness and has been shown to affect academic achievement in youth. This study explored how aerobic fitness was positively associated with standardized test
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Jamie Kowatch
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
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Self-efficacy of monitoring eating choices associated with autonomy, fruit and vegetable intake and BMI in the MOVE’M Study
Fruit and vegetable (FV) intake is inadequate in the US. Improving FV intake is associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases and a lower BMI. Autonomy for food-related tasks and self-efficacy of
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kailee Farnum
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
-
Restricted eating behavior in children with PKU and HPA
Phenylketonuria (PKU) and hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) are two genetic disorders that affect the metabolism of the amino acid phenylalanine (Phe), leading to increased serum Phe concentrations, and possible
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Sarah Bailey
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
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Is healthy happy? The affective impact of the Renton Menu Labeling Project in an adolescent population
The increase of obesity among children and adolescents in the U.S. is a considerable public health concern given the well-established link between obesity and metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Along with
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Katherine Potestio
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
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The use of 100% fruit juice as a fruit and vegetable equivalent in snacks served in federally-subsidized child care homes
Childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the United States, and increases in the per capita daily intake of caloric beverages, particularly sugar-sweetened beverages and 100% fruit juice,
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Juli Louttit
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
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The effect of meal preparation time on food expenditure and menu quality in family child-care homes in King County, Washington
A full time child-care program is expected to provide at least one-half to two-thirds of a child’s daily nutrient requirements. As such, child-care settings have been acknowledged as an important setting
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Emily Faerber
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
-
Associations among grade, sex and free and reduced price lunch eligibility with use of nutrition labels in middle and high school students
Nutrition labeling interventions are proposed to improve adolescent food consumption patterns. However, little is known about tailoring these interventions to specific audiences. This study investigated the
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Elisabet Eppes
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
-
A twin study of the relation between age at dieting onset and to adult BMI and dieting behaviors
The association between dieting behaviors and weight gain has been well documented in numerous studies. There is an ongoing debate, however, whether individuals who are predisposed to a greater BMI are less
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Erin Enriquez
Program(s): Master of Science
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
-
Comparing food desert and non-food desert residents by key socio-demographic variables, distance to supermarkets, supermarket type by price, diet quality and obesity in King Co, WA
The causes of obesity are multi-factorial; however, decreased access to healthy and affordable foods has emerged as an important factor. Areas where access to healthy and affordable foods is limited are known
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Lola Sachiko Stronach
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
-
What’s on the menu? An evaluation of the foods served in Federally-subsidized child care homes
The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)provides federal funds for meals and snacks served to children and adults in licensed day care facilities. At the
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Bridget Igoe
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
-
Effects of differentially sweetened beverages on hepatic and adipose tissue de novo lipogenesis in healthy young adults
Added sugars from sweetened beverages contribute a substantial number of calories to the American diet with numerous associated negative health effects. There is a need to evaluate the different effects of
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Sarah Shimer
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
- Mario Kratz
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Fast-food consumption and the fast-food environment
Nearly one-third of Americans are obese, and two thirds are overweight. While sedentary lifestyles are part of the cause, a diet of processed foods, such as fast-food, also shares much of the blame. Fast-food
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Richard Lau
Program(s): Master of Public Health
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
-
Clinical outcomes following pre-and post-operative vitamin D supplementation in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patients
Bariatric surgery is associated with risks for micronutrient deficiencies. For example, hypovitaminosis D (25(OH)D ≤30ng/mL) has been reported in obese individuals and patients who received Roux-en-Y gastric
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Charlotte Neilson
Program(s): Master of Science, RDN Training
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
-
Area-level measures of deprivation predict food patterns among 7th grade students in Washington State
Studies find that disparities exist between socioeconomic status and markers of diet quality among school-aged children. Only a few studies have examined food consumption at school and away from school for the
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Russell Owen
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):
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The effects of high- and low-glycemic load diets on subjective mood and energy levels in normal weight and overweight/obese adults
Emerging evidence suggests a positive association of diet and obesity with depression. Researchers have examined several diet-mood hypotheses, including investigating the extent to which carbohydrates may
Project Type(s): Master's Thesis
Author(s): Kara Breymeyer
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2012
Adviser(s):