The purpose of this project was to determine predictors for the recurrence of paraesophageal hernias following laparoscopic hernia repair. This study’s patient population was taken from NorthShore University HealthSystem’s database, and statistical tests were performed to determine any significant correlative factors connected to the recurrence of paraesophageal hernias. Factors ranging from the sex of the patient, hernia type, biosynthetic mesh use, proton pump inhibitor use, and common symptoms of paraesophageal hernias were tested to determine the possible predictors of recurrence and the symptoms present following recurrence. Poster 21 Probiotic Viability During Prolonged and Extreme pH Exposure Presented by Mary Batrich; Provost Fellowship Supported by Dr. Catherine Putonti, Bioinformatics and Microbiology Digestive probiotics, specifically Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium, and L. bulgaricus, are known for maintaining the healthy nature of the gut microflora. However, their pH tolerance varies. Can ingested probiotic species survive the journey of the gut? We first isolated different Lactobacilli from probiotic yogurts and supplements purchased from local grocery stores. We identified the species via 16S rRNA gene sequencing and have maintained cultures at a neutral pH within the lab. Cultures were then exposed to a more gradual pH change through serial propagation. pH tolerance is essential when considering the viability and thus potential benefit of probiotics. Poster 22 Good and Evil Teamwork Presented by Mihaela Cristescu Supported by Dr. Lauren O'connell, Theology My specific research will include primary and secondary worlds involving witches, the power struggle between good and evil, and the outcomes of either one, or of the collaboration between both for one solid result. Poster 23 The Evolution of the American Military Prior to and During the First World War Presented by Evan Cavalier; Provost Fellowship Supported by Dr. Patricia Mooney-Melvin, History This project explores how the American Military evolved and changed prior to and during the first World War. This includes as early as the Spanish American War through 1918 and the conclusion of the First World War. The project emphasizes and explores the transformation of the American Military from a relatively small fighting force, to one of the largest armies of the time. Poster 24 Bacteriophage Infection of Clinical E. coli Isolates from the Female Bladder Presented by Rita Mormando; Mulcahy Scholars Program, Provost Fellowship Supported by Dr. Catherine Putonti, Bioinformatics This study, focused on the female urinary system and the prevalence of UTIs in the bladder. We tested the lytic activity of six bacteriophages against 68 strains of E. coli isolated from the bladders of women with and without UTI symptoms. The phages tested include Bassie and Grindy, two environmental phages isolated by our group, and N4, K30, T3 and T7. We found a number of varying degrees of infection from these phages, which we then analyzed. This work is a critical first step in identifying candidates for phage therapy of E. coli-caused UTIs. Poster 25 Nasogastric Tube Insertion Anatomical Model Presented by Jackson Bradshaw, Joey Wong-Vermillion, Mustafa Aliji Supported by Dr. Chen, Engineering Science; Dr. Baura, Engineering Science; Dr. Kostovich, Nursing We designed an anatomical model that displays the average dimensions of a human esophagus and nasal cavity to be used for nasogastric tube insertion practice. The model was designed to assist the Loyola nursing students in learning how to execute the procedure.
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