This research develops a risk-based model to prioritize gallbladder surgery for women with gallstones in high-risk regions. Using ultrasound and clinical data from Chilean women, the model predicts gallbladder cancer risk, enabling life-saving triage, earlier intervention for high-risk patients, and avoidance of unnecessary surgery.

This dissertation introduces a mixed-methods framework integrating midwifery, meteorology, and geography to study Black birthing outcomes. Rejecting deficit-based comparisons, it centers community-specific strengths and environments. Through qualitative studies of Black midwifery and quantitative climate analyses, the work offers a more holistic, justice-oriented approach to environmental health research.

This research investigates HMGN proteins, which organize the genome and help cells access the correct genes. By mapping their activity and removing them with CRISPR, the study shows that HMGNs act as DNA “librarians.” Their dysfunction leads to gene misregulation linked to many diseases.

This research shows that genetic risk scores alone are insufficient for predicting chronic disease. By incorporating social and environmental factors using machine learning, disease prediction improves substantially, especially for disadvantaged populations. Integrating genetic and social risk is essential for equitable, effective personalized medicine.

This research explores how mast cells—immune cells responsible for allergy symptoms—can be repurposed to strengthen vaccines. By targeting mast cells with nasal vaccines, stronger and longer-lasting immune responses may be generated, particularly benefiting high-risk populations and improving protection against infectious diseases.

This research demonstrates that jaw surgery corrects functional impairments, not just appearance. Studying hundreds of patients shows that correcting jaw disproportions eliminates speech distortions, improves chewing and breathing, and enhances quality of life. The findings challenge the view of jaw surgery as cosmetic, reframing it as vital medical care.

This research examines whether reducing food insecurity increases physical activity among adults with high blood pressure. Using clinical trial data and interviews, it finds that coaching, physical function, and food access shape activity levels. Addressing food insecurity and physical activity together is essential for promoting equitable, heart-healthy lifestyles.

This research examines how Southern and African American Vernacular English accents are portrayed in children’s television. Analyzing 100 shows, it finds severe underrepresentation and reliance on harmful stereotypes. These depictions reinforce bias and influence how children understand intelligence, race, class, and identity.

This research investigates political prediction markets, where people trade on future events like elections. By studying traders, journalists, and political staffers, it examines who drives these markets, how information is used, and whether their forecasts deserve public trust as indicators of democratic outcomes.

IBD patients have weakened gut microbes, leaving them with chronic inflammation and limited treatment options. This research engineers probiotic yeast with anchors, drug-carrying “backpacks,” and reprogrammed DNA to deliver targeted therapeutics safely and cheaply. Early results show these modified microbes could become effective, low-side-effect treatments for IBD and other gut diseases.