College of Human Ecology

Behavior Change for Obesity Prevention in Young Adults

Tanya Horacek, associate professor of nutrition and hospitality management in the College of Human Services and Health Professions, has received part of a $1.13 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for “Behavior Change for Obesity Prevention in Young Adults.” A team of nutrition faculty from eight institutions, led by the University of Rhode Island, will conduct the study, which will measure the effectiveness of the non-diet approach to weight management among college students.

Family-based Child Obesity Intervention Program

Kay Stearns Bruening, associate professor of nutrition and hospitality management, recently received a two-year, $225,286 grant from the New York State Attorney General’s Office (Vitagrant program) for the implementation of a family-based child obesity intervention program in Syracuse.

Sara Kurlandsky, assistant professor, conducts research on the potential health benefits of phytochemicals and vitamins found in fruits and vegetables. She utilizes human clinical intervention studies, as well as, basic research methodologies to investigate the effects of these compounds on selected biomarkers of cardiovascular disease, cell proliferation, and/or antioxidant capacity.

Norm Faiola, associate professor and chair, has invented several important devices now widely used in the foodservice industry, and has earned more royalties through patents than any other faculty member at Syracuse University. In 1991, Faiola patented the Rapi-Kool, a device that rapidly cools food in order to help prevent the growth of the bacteria that causes foodborne illness. In 1997, he patented the Stir Station, an automated mechanical device that moves the Rapi-Kool, eliminating the need to operate it manually. In 1999, he developed a wireless temperature monitoring system for refrigeration, hot holding, and cooking equipment. Currently, Faiola is working on a new design for a nailbrush that will facilitate hand washing. A patent is pending.

Tanya Horacek, assistant professor, investigates the relationships between dietary patterns and motivation or quality of life to improve disease prevention and promote health. She also designs and tests the effectiveness of theory-based interventions to improve dietary behaviors.