Poster Symposium Presentations

1. BARBIE LAND VS. REAL WORLD: IMPOSTOR SYNDROME AS A CONSEQUENCE OF MISOGYNY

Author(s):

Kendall Rossignol, Millikin University

Kelsey Jacobs, Millikin University

Beau Gabbert, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Linda Collinsworth

Abstract/Description:

This research seeks to predict impostor syndrome (feeling less than in professional settings, feeling out of place in certain male dominated spaces, having the haunting feeling that one’s success is not deserved) and sex role incongruity from perceptions of misogyny. There is a gap in the literature regarding the relationship among these variables.

2. PRIVATE VS. PUBLIC CONFIDENCE LEVELS

Author(s):

Hannah Lilly, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Melissa Scircle

Abstract/Description:

Purpose: I will be measuring undergraduate students’ confidence levels when presenting in front of an audience and to themselves in a private setting. I hypothesize that students’ confidence levels will be lower when presenting in front of an audience than when presenting in a private setting. The importance of this research is to gain an understanding of students’ confidence levels when presenting in a public vs. private environment. 

Procedure: Participants will receive a link to a Google form. They will read one of two vignettes that ask them to imagine themselves in the described situation. In one situation, they give a speech in front of classmates. In the other situation, they record the speech privately and upload it for their classmates to view. After reading the vignette, they will be asked to answer the Rosenberg Self-Esteem scale, imagining how they would feel if in the situation they just read about.

Expected Results: The results will show that undergraduate students will experience a higher confidence level when presenting in a private environment.

3. THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GRIEF AND SELF-ESTEEM

Author(s):

Victoria Villagomez, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Linda Collinsworth

Abstract/Description:

The purpose of the study is to find the relationship between grief and self-esteem. Grief is a feeling that most people experience at least once in their lives. There's a lack of literature that correlates both grief and self-esteem.

4. REPEATABILITY OF CORTICOSTERONE STRESS RESPONSE IN SONGBIRDS WITHIN AND AMONG SEASONS

Author(s):

Sophie Dorgan, Millikin University

Dr. Travis Wilcoxen, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Travis Wilcoxen

Abstract/Description:

Birds secrete the hormone corticosterone in response to stressful stimuli. Stress activates the HPA axis, which causes the adrenal cortex to release corticosterone. Acute stress responses increase the rigidity and consolidation of memories; however, traumatic stress may alter future stress responses and memory pathways. This study examined songbirds in Decatur, Illinois, and whether this memory formed from a stress response during the initial capture altered the stress level during the recapture. A sample was taken at 5 minutes after capture, when the corticosterone had yet to enter the bloodstream, and again at 30 minutes when the corticosterone had reached its peak. Both samples were collected twice, with at least a two week window of time in between captures. The blood was spun down into plasma, and analyzed using the DetectX Corticosterone Enzyme Immunoassay Kit. We found no significant difference in corticosterone levels (p=0.415) between initial and recapture. This indicates that the stress response is consistent regardless of previous interaction with the stressor. There was, however, a significant difference in CORT levels (p<0.001) based on the season of capture. The stress response was highest during the summer months and lower in the Spring and Fall. This may be because during the summer the stress response is most beneficial as it aids in breeding and care of offspring. This shows that variation in CORT levels is much more strongly influenced by seasonal environmental changes (eta sq = 0.414), than it is influenced by being captured for research purposes (eta sq = 0.005).

5. EFFECTS OF CORTICOSTERONE ON CUBAN TREE FROG TADPOLE GONAD DEVELOPMENT

Author(s):

Gillian Monroe, Millikin University

Dr. Travis Wilcoxen, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Travis Wilcoxen

Abstract/Description:

There are a variety of stressors that amphibians experience during development. It is known that these stressors can affect development in many species. The mechanism for sex determination in amphibians is largely unknown. Genes play a role in differentiation, but in some species environmental factors and stressors may play a role in sex differentiation. For our study species, Cuban tree frogs (Osteopilus septentrionalis), it is known that the stress hormone, corticosterone, increases the rate of metamorphosis. We manipulated corticosterone levels in Cuban tree frog tadpoles in order to determine if corticosterone levels affected gonad development and differentiation. This was done by adding corticosterone to their rearing water during development, starting with Gosner stage 19 (when they still had yolk sacs). It was found that individuals given corticosterone were significantly more developed after 6 weeks than individuals given the ethanol control. There was no significant difference found between the two treatments and gonad development. Male determined individuals had significant smaller gonads than female determined individuals. Male determined individuals had significantly higher levels of testosterone than female determined individuals and not developed individuals. Undifferentiated individuals had significantly more testosterone than female determined individuals and not developed individuals. From this it can be determined that corticosterone does not have an effect on gonad development or differentiation in Cuban tree frogs.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL DNA BARCODING OF FUNGAL SAMPLES FROM THE WOODS AT MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY

Author(s):

Jensen Mast, Millikin University

Dr. Samuel Galewsky, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Samuel Galewsky

Abstract/Description:

The identification of fungal species present in households or the environment is not currently streamlined. Therefore, this project focuses on developing a novel, rapid, DNA isolation process for environmental fungal samples. The power of PCR based species identification was then leveraged to enable a more complete and rapid analysis of environmental fungal samples in living spaces.

7. TRADEOFFS IN INVESTMENT IN REPRODUCTION AND INNATE IMMUNITY IN SONGBIRDS

Author(s):

Aleyda McPherson, Millikin University

Dr. Travis Wilcoxen, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Travis Wilcoxen

Abstract/Description:

Reproduction requires a great deal of investment from songbirds. Many times, they tradeoff their health for the health of their offspring. When songbirds are going through reproduction, they display signs of this. The females develop a brood patch, and males develop a cloacal protuberance. In this experiment, we tested to determine if birds investing more in reproductive traits show tradeoffs in the form of reduced immunity by capturing birds and taking their measurements and blood in the field. This was then tested in the lab to run statistical analysis. We did this by comparing bacteria killing ability in Northern Cardinals and Indigo Buntings to that of American Goldfinches to see a comparison of breeding birds to non breeding birds. Along with that, the brood patch and cloacal protuberance for Northern Cardinals was compared to their bacteria killing ability. We found that this tradeoff does have an effect on Northern Cardinals’ immunity, more prominent in the males than the females.

8. CHARACTERIZING THE INFLUENCE OF T3 AND T4 ON THE EFFICACY OF TWO PRO-APOPTOTIC CYTOTOXINS

Author(s):

Melina Hall, Millikin University

Dr. Jennifer Schroeder, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Jennifer Schroeder

Abstract/Description:

Accumulating evidence has indicated that thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) affect the apoptotic efficacy of various cytotoxins. In the present study, rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) cells were used to evaluate how T3 and T4 influence the efficacy of two apoptosis-inducing cytotoxins, cantharidin and resveratrol. SJCRH30 cells were treated with cantharidin (IC50 2.25 uM; 10x IC50 22.5 uM) or resveratrol (IC50 140 uM) and T3 or T4 (10^-10 to 10^-7 M) and changes in cell viability were measured using MTT and resazurin assays. Our study shows that thyroid hormones do not affect SJCRH30 cell viability nor resveratrol efficacy. However, they do reduce the efficacy of lower doses of cantharidin independent of thyroid hormone dosage. Thus, thyroid hormones may pose a potential risk to RMS therapeutics that have similar apoptosis-inducing mechanisms as cantharidin.

9. ANTIBIOTIC PRODUCTION BY BACTERIA FROM SOIL SAMPLES IN CENTRAL ILLINOIS

Author(s):

Sophia Gibbs, Millikin University

Dr. Jenna Smith, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Jenna Smith

Abstract/Description:

The research initiative Tiny Earth was created to try and combat antibiotic resistance. Bacteria were isolated from a soil sample gathered in Decatur, Ill. The bacteria was grown on tryptic soy agar, Mueller-Hinton agar, DNAse test agar and mannitol salt agar plates, to increase the diversity of isolates. Twelve isolates from each plate were chosen to test for antibiotic production. New plates were created with a lawn of bacterial species that were relatives of pathogenic species, and the soil bacteria swabbed on top. The bacterial strains used were: Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas putida, Enterococcus raffinosus, Klebsiella aerogenes, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Bacillus subtilis. The plates were left to grow in an incubator for two days to observe any zones of inhibition. Nine isolates were chosen to continue testing that all showed antibiotic production. Polymerase Chain Reaction was performed on each of the nine isolates to amplify the 16S rRNA gene, then gel electrophoresis to confirm DNA presence in the samples. The DNA was sent off to an outside lab to be sequenced. The isolates were spread on another set of plates, MacConkey agar, and catalase and oxidase tests were performed to see if they grew with different nutrients and to narrow down the possible strains of bacteria that were being tested. The DNA sequencing was returned and compared to the results of each plate test. The strains found were Pseudomonas, Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens, Bacillus and Streptomyces. Two isolates produced inconclusive results, and one was classified as "uncultured."

10. THE EFFECT OF CORTICOSTERONE ON LEARNING IN CUBAN TREEFROG (OSTEOPILUS SEPTENTRIONALIS) TADPOLES

Author(s):

Amelia Ayotte, Millikin University 

Dr. Travis Wilcoxen, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Travis Wilcoxen

Abstract/Description:

Tadpoles can serve as model organisms for the developmental process of vertebrates that are in utero or in ovo at comparative developmental stages in their free-living larval state. The purpose of these experiments was to determine the effects of corticosteroid levels on learning in Cuban Treefrog (Osteopilus septentrionalis) tadpoles as a proxy for how elevated glucocorticoids during vertebrate development may influence learning. We completed three experiments. Experiment 1 explored differences in learning among individuals with acute and chronic elevations of corticosterone. Experiment 2 explored differences in learning among individuals exposed to high and low doses of exogenous corticosterone. Experiment 3 explored differences in learning among individuals with acute and chronic exposure to metyrapone, a glucocorticoid release blocker. For each experiment, groups of tadpoles were also distinguished between pseudoconditioned or true conditioned in the learning component of the experiment. After the conditioning period, learning behaviors were tested with a behavioral assay and data were analyzed through a two-way ANOVA. Overall, our findings indicate that having corticosterone reduced is detrimental for learning just like having increased levels of corticosterone or sustained low level elevations of corticosterone for too long negatively impacts learning.

11. CELL VIABILITY AND OXIDATIVE STRESS RESPONSE OF RHABDOMYOSARCOMA CANCER CELLS EXPOSED TO E-CIGARETTE FLAVORING COMPONENTS

Author(s):

Aidan Schlichting, Millikin University

Dr. Jennifer Schroeder, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Jennifer Schroeder

Abstract/Description:

Acrolein, Acetaldehyde and Diacetyl are three popular chemicals used to flavor e-cigarette liquids that have become increasingly popular among the teenage demographic in the last decade. While these chemicals are known to have a negative impact on human health, and are possible carcinogens, not much is known about the effect of these chemicals in the concentrations found in e-cigarette products. This research explores the impact on increasing concentrations of Acrolein, Acetaldehyde and Diacetyl on the viability of Rhabdomyosarcoma cells over both 24- and 48-hour periods. While some slight trends were found demonstrating that increasing concentrations of Diacetyl had a negative impact on the viability of the cells, overall, the results did not depict any major changes in viability when examining exposure to Acrolein or Acetaldehyde in a 24-hour exposure. 48-hour exposure resulted in clear decreases in viability with increasing concentration in all three chemicals. Further testing explored the possibility of oxidative stress that occurs with reduced viability. No differences in oxidative stress were found with examination of differences between levels of oxidized and reduced glutathione.

12. EFFECTS OF SILVER NITRATE, CYCLOHEXIMIDE AND QUININE ON sORF-34 AND SYNTHESIS OF sORF-47 KNOCKOUT STRAIN IN SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE

Author(s):

Jordan Reeter, Millikin University

Dr. Jenna Smith, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Jenna Smith

Abstract/Description:

Short open reading frames, or sORFs, are small protein-coding regions within the Saccharomyces cerevisiae genome with largely unknown functions. Researchers have investigated ways to determine the function of these sORFs through various methods of chemical and stress exposure. To evaluate the responses and functions of a given sORF, a wild type strain and a strain with the sORF deleted are exposed to identical chemicals and conditions and their growth is evaluated and compared. This project sought to synthesize a deletion strain for sORF-47 through homologous recombination so that the function of this sORF could be studied in future tests. Confirmation of the completed deletion strain was delayed due to issues with PCR amplification, but DNA sequencing results confirmed the successful removal of sORF-47 from the S. cerevisiae genome. This experiment also included research into the function of sORF-34 using an existing knockout. The growth of wild type yeast and the knockout strain were evaluated following exposure to silver nitrate (AgNO3), cycloheximide and quinine. Growth of the knockout strain in AgNO3 and cycloheximide was reduced compared to the wild type. However, when exposed to quinine, the knockout strain grew more than the wild type. These results indicated that sORF-34 may function in chemical resistance or stress responses.

13. EXPLORING THE DUAL IMPACT OF LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL ON ANTIMICROBIAL PRODUCTION AND BACTERIAL SPREAD IN SOIL BACTERIA

Author(s):

Alyssa Ruiz, Millikin University

Dr. Jenna Smith, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Jenna Smith

Abstract/Description:

Antibiotic resistance poses a significant global health threat, impacting the effectiveness of treatments for diseases. With traditional antibiotics losing efficacy, exploring alternative strategies is imperative. This study initially aimed to investigate lavender essential oil’s (LEO) potential in enhancing antibiotic production in soil bacteria, focusing on ESKAPE strains known for their antibiotic resistance. Unexpectedly, significant reduction in bacterial spread was observed compared to the control, prompting a revised objective to explore lavender’s dual influence on antimicrobial activity and bacterial spread. The observed reduction, along with recent research linking lavender to bacterial flagella inhibition, aligns with strategies targeting key bacterial mechanisms. Bacterial motility, facilitated by flagella, is vital for infection spread. By inhibiting this motility, lavender offers a potential means to impede bacterial infections, particularly those involving antibiotic-resistant strains. This research supports lavender’s potential applications in mitigating bacterial infections and addresses the pressing concern of antibiotic resistance in the context of severe diseases.

14. METHOD IMPROVEMENTS WITHIN THE CONVERSION OF CH152 LAB TO INCLUDE INDUCTIVELY COUPLED PLASMA-OPTICAL EMISSION SPECTROSCOPY

Author(s):

Kathryn Risner, Millikin University

Dr. Timothy Guasco, Millikin University

Dr. Kyle Knust, Millikin University

Garrett Jones, Millikin University Alumni

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Timothy Guasco

Abstract/Description:

The procedure of Laboratory Exercise 8 given to entry-level undergraduate students was analyzed. This laboratory exercise calls for students to analyze mole-to-mole ratios of previously synthesized KTOF samples. The desired mole-to-mole ratios include 1 mole of Fe3+ to 1 mole of KTOF and 3 moles of K+ to 1 mole of KTOF. Potential changes that would improve this laboratory exercise were visited. The goal was to decrease the time of the wet laboratory, increase the comprehensibility of the procedure and ensure the mole ratios are similar to their desired values. The parameters of uptake delay and number of replicates were manipulated to decrease the run time of the instrumentation to then, in turn, decrease the time of the wet lab. The nomenclature of the procedure was also analyzed and changed to increase the comprehensibility. The data showed that at a wavelength of 259 nm for the reading of Fe3+ and a wavelength of 766 nm for the reading of K+ had the most desirable results. The wavelength of 259’s average mole ratio was 1.002, and the wavelength of 766’s average mole ratio was 3.0189. These will most likely be the wavelengths at which the students will obtain their data from to ensure the mole ratios are closest to the desired values.

15. DEVELOPMENT OF A METHOD FOR EXTRACTING PFOA FROM WATER AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A NOVEL COMPOUND

Author(s):

Jensen Mast, Millikin University

Dr. George Bennett, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. George Bennett

Abstract/Description:

PFOA (per fluorinated octanoic acid) resides in a class of human and environmental toxins and “forever” chemicals knowns as PFAS (per- and poly-fluorinated alkyls). The extraction of PFOA from water currently depends on carbon and mesh filters which must be replaced and require maintenance. This research develops a new method for PFOA removal from water through precipitation as an amine salt, as well as the creation and characterization of a novel compound. The possibility of creating a cyclic removal process of PFOA in which the amine can be re-used is also introduced.

16. SEARCHING FOR PHAGE THAT INFECT ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANT BACTERIA IDENTIFIED IN SEWAGE EFFLUENT

Author(s):

Madeline E. Klinger, Millikin University

Dr. Samuel Galewsky, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Samuel Galewsky

Abstract/Description:

With today's issues of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, alternative methods of treatment must be found. Bacteriophage, viruses that infect bacteria, present a possible solution. This is a discussion of the importance of bacteriophage research as well as techniques for identifying bacteriophage from sources. Various phage hunting techniques with environmental samples, varying plating techniques and others were perfomed. DNA sequence identification of six multidrug resistant bacteria was performed, as well as antibiotic resistant analysis. No phage were found for these bacteria with the sources. A strain of E. coli was successfully infected with phage. Phage isolation, PCR and DNA sequence identification were perfomed to identify the phage. 

17. QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF ACTIVE PHARMACEUTICAL INGREDIENT CONCENTRATION IN POTENTIALLY SUBSTANDARD AMOXICILLIN CAPSULES FROM KENYA, LIBERIA AND MALAWI USING HIGH PERFORMANCE LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY

Author(s):

Christopher Montgomery, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Kyle Knust

Abstract/Description:

High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to analyze potentially substandard amoxicillin capsules from Kenya, Liberia and Malawi. These potentially substandard amoxicillin capsules were collected by the Distributed Pharmaceutical Analysis Laboratory (DPAL), which is an organization that partners with universities around the world to test potentially substandard medications from resource limited areas of the world. However, before analyses can be run on real-world capsules, DPAL requires member laboratories to complete system suitability testing to confirm HPLC instrumentation and researchers performing the quantitative analysis of samples meet the rigorous specifications set by United States Pharmacopeia to ensure quality results. System suitability tests include precision, linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantification, accuracy via spike recovery, accuracy via specificity, and accuracy and range. We have completed each of the required system suitability tests and met the necessary specifications set by DPAL to analyze real-world pharmaceutical samples. Sixteen amoxicillin capsule samples of potentially substandard amoxicillin from Kenya, Liberia and Malawi were then analyzed to quantify the amoxicillin content. All data was reported to DPAL and subsequently to the relevant regulating agency from a sample’s country of origin.

18. MINDFULNESS MEDITATION AS A STRESS MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUE FOR REGISTERED NURSE ANESTHESIA INTERNS: A QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

Author(s):

Sarah Wortman, Millikin University 

Dr. Teresa Gulley, Millikin University

Dr. Dana Flatley, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Teresa Gulley

Abstract/Description:

Students enrolled in nurse anesthesia programs report high stress levels. Chronic stress can negatively impact students’ physical and mental health as well as their academics. Unmanaged stress can also carry over into the clinical setting and impact patient safety. Use of meditation-based interventions has been shown throughout the literature to have numerous benefits, including: decreased depression and anxiety, reduced stress, decreased burnout and increased empathy. The aim of this quality improvement project is to assist Registered Nurse Anesthesia Interns (RNAIs) in developing healthy stress management techniques using mindful meditation in order to mitigate the numerous negative consequences of poorly managed stress. RNAIs enrolled in a Central Illinois Nurse Anesthesia Program were recruited and participated in the quality improvement project. Interventions utilized include a Wellness Fair in January 2024 and a meditation series carried out for three consecutive months in January, February and March 2024 during the monthly anesthesia program Clinical Case Conference (CCC) meetings. Results of this quality improvement project will be presented, including a comparison of stress levels and RNAIs’ perceived level of wellness before and after intervention.

19. PERIOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT OF PATIENTS WHO VAPE: A QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

Author(s):

Abigail Crocker, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Gail Fyke

Abstract/Description:

A review of the current literature reveals a gap in anesthesia provider knowledge regarding the perioperative implications of electronic cigarette use, also known as vaping. Because of this gap, providers are inadequately prepared to identify, prevent or address perioperative complications associated with vaping. Educating anesthesia providers on the identification and assessment of e-cigarette users, the physiological changes that occur in this population, and associated complications can remedy this lack of knowledge to improve perioperative outcomes. Therefore, a quality improvement initiative to improve anesthesia providers’ knowledge of the implications of vaping and anesthesia will be implemented at a local hospital.

Subjects for this quality improvement initiative will be certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) working at the target hospital and registered nurse anesthesia interns (RNAIs) enrolled in Millikin’s Nurse Anesthesia Program (NAP). The project will begin with a gap analysis survey of project participants to evaluate the extent of previous knowledge on vaping and its implications for anesthesia care. Next, a web-based learning module will be developed from a thorough literature review and gap-analysis results and distributed via email to project participants. After sufficient time has passed to ensure subjects have had time to develop their knowledge on vaping, a post-test, having the same material as the gap analysis, will be administered via email. The post-test scores will be compared to those from the gap analysis to determine knowledge development and project success.

20. QUANTITATIVE NEUROMUSCULAR MONITORING USING THE TWITCHVIEW MONITOR

Author(s):

Anthony Kinyua, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Catherine Hymel

Abstract/Description:

Qualitative neuromuscular monitoring and clinical assessment are subjective and associated with increased residual paralysis. In comparison, quantitative neuromuscular monitoring is objective and thus considered the gold standard for informing the dosing of neuromuscular blocking drugs and their reversal agents intra-operatively and the correct timing for safe patient extubation. Multiple studies have shown that it is not possible to subjectively identify subtle but clinically significant fade when the train of four ratio is 40% or greater. A lack of practice-wide neuromuscular monitoring standardization has led to variation in the neuromuscular monitoring methods used by anesthesia providers partly due to the absence of clear guidelines. Since the incidence of residual paralysis remains unacceptably high, there have been concerted efforts to transition to quantitative neuromuscular monitoring to mitigate related challenges like post-operative residual paralysis. The American Society of Anesthesiologists 2023 practice guidelines recommends quantitative over qualitative monitoring to avoid residual neuromuscular blockade. The TwitchView monitor is an electromyography-based quantitative neuromuscular monitor that can be used either on the hand or foot. Compared to other quantitative neuromuscular monitors, the TwitchView can be used on tucked arms or even set up after patient induction and paralytic administration. These two capabilities make it a game changer that helps overcome the major challenges cited by many anesthesia providers as a hindrance to using quantitative monitors. This DNP project aims to increase anesthesia interns’ knowledge on the use of quantitative neuromuscular monitoring during clinical placements as more hospitals continue to transition to using the TwitchView monitors.

21. MEDICAL MANAGEMENT VS. LIFESTYLE MANAGEMENT OF PCOS: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Author(s):

Hannah Watts, Millikin University 

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Audra Trump

Abstract/Description:

This literature review discusses medical management versus lifestyle management of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Polycystic ovarian syndrome is an endocrine and metabolic disorder in premenopausal women. The combination of multiple signs and symptoms occurring with PCOS requires current evidence-based guidelines for proper diagnosis and long-term management. Discovering more about its unknown etiology can help guide treatment and management, increasing patient satisfaction, education and improving quality of life. In addition, implementing lifestyle modifications and medical management may increase positive results and decrease the number of patients needing medical management.

22. UTILIZATION OF POINT OF CARE ULTRASOUND FOR AIRWAY ASSESSMENT

Author(s):

Crystal Lamont, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Catherine Hymel

Abstract/Description:

Background: Effective airway management is vital for safe perioperative care, yet traditional assessment methods may not accurately predict difficult airways, leading to adverse outcomes. 

Purpose: The purpose of this project is to employ evidence-based education to enhance anesthesia providers’ knowledge of utilizing Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) for airway assessment; ultimately, aiming to address the shortcomings of traditional methods of airway assessment by incorporating POCUS into preoperative airway assessment. By integrating POCUS into routine practice, anesthesia providers can potentially mitigate risks associated with unanticipated difficult airways, such as hypoxia, trauma, surgical delays and emergent airway management. 

Methods: A literature review was conducted to identify ultrasound techniques that may be used to predict a difficult airway and guide airway management. Patricia Benner’s Novice to Expert theory was applied to understand the progression of anesthesia providers’ skill acquisition and development. Roger’s Diffusion of Innovations Theory was used to guide the change process of integrating POCUS into the anesthesia provider’s perioperative airway assessment.

Results: Pretest questionnaire results averaged 65%, posttest questionnaire results averaged 95%. 

Conclusions: A 20-minute educational session was shown effective to enhance anesthesia providers’ knowledge of utilizing POCUS for airway assessment. The project underscores the importance of embracing innovative technologies like POCUS to optimize perioperative patient care and improve clinical outcomes.

23. EFFECTS OF CHEMOTHERAPY ON RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN WOMEN WITH BREAST CANCER AND THEIR SIGNIFICANT OTHERS

Author(s):

Erika Castanon, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Jamie Nickell

Abstract/Description:

The most common cancer worldwide is breast cancer. Due to advanced technology and treatment, there is an increasing number of breast cancer survivors. Unfortunately, a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have negative effects on women’s sexual health and their intimate relationships. This project aims to explore if partner support improves sexual outcomes in women diagnosed with breast cancer who are receiving chemotherapy. A narrative literature review was conducted using scholarly databases available from Millikin University. It was found that sexual functioning and quality of life was improved with partner support. Communicating sexual health concerns can strengthen psychosocial wellbeing and intimate relationships. Additionally, healthcare providers need to address sexual concerns before and after treatment with both their patients and significant others to improve quality of life as well as to provide proper interventions and supportive care. Discovering more about partner support during a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can help guide management of sexual health concerns in intimate relationships. This could lead to improved sexual outcomes and increased quality of life for both breast cancer patients and their partners.

24. STAFF EDUCATION ON THE EFFECTS OF IMPLEMENTING ENHANCED RECOVERY AFTER CESAREAN DELIVERY PROTOCOLS

Author(s):

Chinwe Emenike, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Teresa Gulley

Abstract/Description:

Introduction: Cesarean delivery is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures, making up approximately 32.1% of live births in the United States. However, complications related to this procedure could arise, most of which significantly delay postpartum recovery. To address this issue, Enhanced Recovery After Cesarean Delivery (ERAS-CD) protocols have been developed. By virtue of their scope of practice and proximity to patients, obstetric nurses are in a unique position to improve postpartum recovery through the implementation of ERAS-CD protocols. This project aims to educate obstetric nurses on the effects of implementing ERAS-CD protocols on patient outcomes and to evaluate the effectiveness of ERAS-CD education on the nurses’ knowledge levels. 

Methods: Participants included obstetric nurses at a Midwestern hospital. A pretest was administered to assess the baseline knowledge level of participants. This was followed by a presentation on ERAS-CD protocols, and subsequently, a posttest.

Results and Discussion: Pretest and posttest results were compared. More participants selected the correct answer to each question in the posttest compared to the pretest. Participants’ knowledge significantly improved after the educational intervention.

Conclusion: This educational intervention effectively increased the knowledge level of obstetric nurses on ERAS-CD protocols. Increasing knowledge through nursing education is therefore an important step in improving postpartum outcomes.

25. PREEMPTIVE ANALGESIA FOR ENHANCED RECOVERY AFTER SURGERY IN ABDOMINAL GENERAL SURGERY PATIENTS: A QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

Author(s):

Mathew Hettinger, Millikin University

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Gail Fyke

Abstract/Description:

This quality improvement project aims to decrease opioid administration in general abdominal surgical patients by utilizing preoperative preemptive medications recommended by enhanced recovery after surgery protocols. The project focuses on the preoperative medication recommendations the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) set forth in their enhanced recovery after surgery protocol. A contributing cause to increased opioid administration in the postoperative phase is the low usage of preemptive medications in the preoperative phase. Not only does preemptive analgesia lower opioid consumption, but it also contributes to improved patient satisfaction, decreases hospital stay times, and improves patient outcomes by avoiding the side effects associated with opioids. The project focuses on improving knowledge about enhanced recovery after surgery and the development of a preoperative enhanced recovery after surgery recommendation tool.

26. HUMAN TRAFFICKING FROM ARREST TO PLEA DEAL IN CENTRAL ILLINOIS

Author(s):

Gabby Watson, Millikin University 

Jadon Cox, Millikin University 

Rhys Deiter, Millikin University 

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Laura Dean

Abstract/Description:

Our research analyzes how potential human trafficking crimes are charged and adjudicated in Central Illinois. Previous research suggests that on the federal level prosecutors do not always charge the trafficking statute, but they rather plead to a lower statute and our research seeks to determine if this happens on the county level. We examined both arrest and court records in 16 counties of Illinois from arrest to sentencing. We coded the cases for type of trafficking, location information and demographic background of defendants, as well as their charge and sentencing details if available. We formulated these data into descriptive statistics on perpetrators, linkages to human trafficking and sentencing information. The results reveal that we identified 3.6 times more cases with elements of trafficking than the Uniform Crime Report. We determined that all trafficking related crimes were charged with a lower statute like pimping, solicitation, or child pornography and did not find one charge or arrest for human trafficking.

27. THE IMPACT OF CLOUD COMPUTING ON BUSINESS OPERATIONS IN THE US

Author(s):

Nhi Nguyen

Maris Nguyen

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Sam Greenwell

Abstract/Description:

This project investigates the transformative influence of cloud computing on business operations in the United States. As organizations increasingly adopt cloud-based technologies, this study aims to comprehensively analyze the multifaceted impact on aspects of business operations, including efficiency, scalability, security and cost-effectiveness. By conducting interviews, surveys and case studies using research methods, the project seeks to uncover the specific ways in which cloud-computing solutions reshape traditional business models and enhance overall operational effectiveness. Additionally, the study explores the challenges and opportunities that arise from this technological shift, providing valuable insights for businesses, policymakers and researchers navigating the evolving landscape of cloud-based business operations in the United States.