2024 Summer Projects

Development of a Pressure Sensor Compatible with an Ultrasound Transducer

• Julian Lin, MD, OSF HealthCare
• Kalyani Nair, PhD, Bradley University

The goal of this project is to improve the care of infants with intracranial pathologies by developing a reliable, non-invasive method to measure intracranial pressure. Current techniques, such as palpation via the open anterior fontanelle, are unreliable. The project aims to integrate flexible, translucent pressure sensors with existing ultrasound probes, enabling simultaneous or concurrent visualization of cerebral anatomy and pressure measurement. This innovation will provide clinicians with more accurate, real-time data, expediting diagnosis and treatment. By minimizing delays, the project seeks to enhance medical care for infants with intracranial conditions, aligning with Innovation for Health’s objectives of improving health care through innovative technology at the point of care.

Phase II Student Wellness Algorithm Pilot and School Intervention

• Sister M. Pieta Keller, OSF HealthCare
• Anthony J. Grichnik, PhD, Bradley University

This project aims to improve adolescent mental health by testing and refining a predictive model to identify students at risk for mental health issues. Using data from school systems, the model incorporates factors like grades, attendance, behavior and social drivers of health such as race and financial strain. In Phase II, the algorithm will be tested in a local high school, where mental health counselors will evaluate flagged students to assess accuracy. The goal is to enhance early intervention, increase health literacy and reduce disparities in mental health care access. Ultimately, the project seeks to connect students with appropriate care before issues escalate, reducing wait times and improving outcomes.

Understanding the Reactions of Adolescents to Obesity-Related Health Messaging Residing in the Tri-County Area (Peoria, Tazewell and Woodford Counties) through Social Media Data

• Dylan Henricks, RN, OSF HealthCare
• G G Md Nawaz Ali, PhD, Bradley University

This project aims to explore how adolescents in Peoria, Tazewell and Woodford counties respond to obesity-related health messaging using sentiment analysis of social media platforms, primarily TikTok and Instagram. With 35% of children aged 3-17 in the area classified as overweight or obese, and 40% of those aged 12-17, the study focuses on understanding how adolescents engage with health messaging about obesity and healthy behaviors. Through social media analysis and teen focus groups, the project seeks to refine messaging strategies to effectively engage adolescents. The findings will inform OSF Healthcare and partner organizations on leveraging social media to promote healthy eating and physical activity.