Open Research Oklahoma (Oklahoma State Univ.)
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Do semantic depth and learning modalities improve word learning in 3-4-year-old children?
No full textThis project investigates word learning in preschool-aged children. Prior research indicates the benefits of semantic cues, perceptual learning, and production learning when used individually to teach new words. Perceptual learning and production learning are types of “learning modalities.” Production learning provides auditory feedback and articulatory feedback to the brain. Perceptual learning only provides auditory feedback. Also, providing children with a cued definition of what a word means is also beneficial to word learning. Throughout this paper, these cued meanings will be referred to as semantic cues. In this study, these factors are examined together to determine how they affect language development.This study is part of a larger project involving thirty-two participants between the ages of three and four years old. They have met the criteria for typical development based on standardized screenings. For this study, participants engaged in a game to meet and learn about the names of 16 different aliens. Nonword forms were created and served as the alien names. All words were bisyllabic with the stress on the second syllable. They all had a CVC.CV consonant vowel variation. The nonword forms were composed of a base and a suffix. The base corresponded with the “alien family,” meaning their skin color and type of clothing. For example, all the aliens in the “tʌs” family were purple and have red clothes. The suffix corresponded with the “alien type”: their age, weight, and head size. For example, all of the names that ended in “tɛf” were aliens who were old and have grandkids. Therefore, a purple alien with red clothes who was old was “tʌstɛf.” Each alien was associated with a figure to provide a visual cue. To assess learning modalities, participants either repeated alien names during a production task or were only provided with the auditory stimulus in a perceptual task. These learning modalities were crossed with the presence or absence of semantic cues. After each familiarization task, the participant was assessed by producing the name of the alien, and by pointing to the correct alien when hearing the auditory stimuli. This paper reports on four participants and articulates how these factors interact to improve word learning in children
Understanding women's mating threat: Intent and capacity to compete for mates
No full textPrevious work on female intrasexual competition suggests that (heterosexual) women compete for male mates primarily in the domains of sexual accessibility and physical attractiveness, which are characteristics that men value in female partners (e.g., Buss, 1989). Many studies of intrasexual aggression among women have thus tended to focus on cues to either target women’s sexual accessibility (e.g., a reputation for having many sexual partners) or physical attractiveness (e.g., facial symmetry), finding that women displaying such cues are frequent targets of intrasexual aggression. However, this work often fails to acknowledge that some behavior (e.g., appearance enhancement) can simultaneously impact perceptions of both a target woman’s sexual accessibility and her physical attractiveness. Consequently, many findings are ambiguous as to why certain characteristics make women likely targets of intrasexual aggression. To address this, I leverage a basic task analysis to identify the two central components driving perceptions of target women’s mating threat: their competitive intent (i.e., behavior aimed at actively attracting mates) and competitive capacity (i.e., ability to passively attract mates). I predict that a) mate-seeking behaviors (e.g., flirting) drive perceptions of women’s competitive intent, while b) physical attractiveness drives perceptions of women’s competitive capacity, and c) appearance enhancement can drive perceptions of both intent and capacity to compete. The results of two pilot studies offer support for predictions a and b. A third study, the focal dissertation study, investigates the link between women’s appearance enhancement strategies and perceptions of their competitive intent, competitive capacity, and level of mating threat. In each study, I also explore how target women's perceived competitive intent and capacity may impact downstream social consequences (i.e., likelihood of attracting intrasexual aggression, ability to affiliate with other women)
Comparison of explicit timing and taped problems for addition fluency
No full textThe current study was designed to compare the effectiveness of TP and ET, two empirically-validated interventions designed to increase student DC/M scores. In addition, researchers investigated whether initial fluency levels (i.e., frustration vs instructional) would be associated with intervention efficacy. Results failed to show that either of the implemented interventions were effective. Limitations were explored to potentially guide future research in efforts to show that these treatments can increase DC/M scores for first-grade students. Specifically, hypotheses of set size, dose, and writing skills were put forth for future researchers to consider.
The results of this study fail to corroborate the robust evidence base of studies demonstrating the effectiveness of ET and TP for increasing math fact fluency. While the present study did not support the effectiveness of these interventions, previous research has suggested these interventions to be effective. Future researchers should continue to investigate these interventions because they are short in duration, are administered to whole classes by teachers, and require few resources to implement. In order to strengthen our confidence in the use of TP and ET, researchers should continue to explore how and when these would be successful across populations, skills, grades and settings
Impact of implementation of a breastfeeding education program: Prospective evaluation of a community medical student-led program
No full textIntroduction/Objectives: Among children born in 2019, only 77% reported having ever been breastfed in Oklahoma, while the national average of that year was 83%. These reported rates expose the gap in breastfeeding in Oklahoma. Specifically, in Cherokee County within Oklahoma, that percentage is 78%. This deficit in the percentage of breastfed infants in Oklahoma is significant because breastfeeding provides an array of health benefits to both baby and mother. In babies, breast milk provides essential nutrients and natural passive immunity. Breastfeeding has also been shown to reduce the risks of asthma, obesity, and type I diabetes. It benefits the mother breastfeeding by reducing the chances of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, ovarian and breast cancer. While breastfeeding is the gold standard for infant nutrition, there are several barriers to breastfeeding that the mother can face that should be considered. Issues like latching, concerns for the infant's weight and growth, the limited choices of medications that the mother can use, lack of support from family or in the workplace, lack of education about breastfeeding, and cultural stigmas all contribute to if or how prolonged breastfeeding occurs.Methods: To encourage the increase in breastfeeding among newborns in Cherokee County, specifically the town of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, a program has been implemented to provide educational sessions to inform expecting mothers who are in their third trimester of the benefits of breastfeeding and teach best-practice techniques. Participants are gathered by flyers advertising the details of the program and a QR code that will link to a survey where their contact information can be submitted to track interested participants for follow-up. Pre- and post-program surveys are given to each participant to document demographic information such as age and ethnicity, how they feel about breastfeeding, their reasons for breastfeeding, if they intend to breastfeed their child, and if they have initiated breastfeeding after the program. The program uses an evidence-based curriculum to teach participants how to breastfeed with models and dolls for a hands-on approach. Each cohort consists of a 4-week long curriculum that includes three educational sessions and a question-and-answer portion.Results: The implemented breastfeeding program is ongoing, and data is still being collected. Three cohorts made of six participants total have completed the program at this time.Conclusions: The goal of this study is to highlight the impact of the breastfeeding education program in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, by evaluating the initiation rates of breastfeeding among participants of the program. The purpose of this presented data is to showcase the midpoint progress that has been made
Exploring factors influencing agricultural students' engagement in professional development experiences
No full textGiven the current state of the agricultural industry, there is a need to not only fill jobs but also ensure recent graduates are prepared to succeed in a professional environment. Those who participate in such experiences will be more proficiently prepared to transition into the workforce and meet the demands of vital roles within the industry.
The purpose of this study was to describe students’ participation in professional development experiences at Oklahoma State University. Ajzen’s theory of planned behavior along with Astin’s student involvement theory guided this exploration of undergraduate student behavior. In total, 122 undergraduate students participated in this study.
The questionnaire measured the components of the theory of planned behavior, while also exploring students’ frequency and variety of participation in professional development experiences, the barriers and motivations to participation, and communication preferences regarding these events.
The findings revealed that students describe professional development events as those which lead to personal development and career preparation related to one’s specified industry. Respondents most frequently participated in professional development events at least once per semester or at least once per month. The most participated in events included student organizations, career fairs, resume reviews, and networking events. Respondents indicated that a free or affordable event would motivate them to participate, along with the opportunity to network with professionals. However, time constraints and scheduling conflicts are common barriers to participation. While this was a common barrier, there was no relationship found between respondents’ employment status and their frequency or variety of participation in professional development events. Regarding communication preferences, many respondents expressed a preference for receiving information about these events via email.
The findings from this study partially supported the theory of planned behavior as attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control were significant predictors of frequency of participation. The only significant predictor of behavior was subjective norms.
It is recommended that these findings aid in the planning and marketing of professional development events. Further research may be conducted to understand other influential factors on student behavior, behaviors across other disciplines, and the marketing of professional development events
Implementation of 2023 pediatric obesity guidelines in a pediatric residency clinic setting
No full textIntroduction/Objectives: Approximately 14.4 million U.S. children are diagnosed with obesity. The prevalence of pediatric obesity in Oklahoma is 29.5%, ranking Oklahoma 18th overall for overweight and obese pediatric patients. Pediatric obesity is associated with multiple serious co-morbidities if left untreated, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, mental health issues, musculoskeletal disorders, neurological disorders, and sleep apnea. In February 2023, the American Academy of Pediatrics published updated guidelines on the evaluations and treatment of pediatric obesity. New guidelines emphasize enhanced screening and early intervention rather than watchful waiting. Objective for this project was to determine how best to implement the new guidelines in a pediatric residency outpatient clinic training program, with an emphasis on obtaining a comprehensive medical history.Methods: This project was performed in conjunction with the American Academy of Pediatrics Institute for Healthy Childhood Weight’s “Assessment and Evaluation of Childhood Obesity QI Project.” Four rounds of data collection were performed. In each round, 30 random charts were reviewed (20 from well child checks with a diagnosis code associated with overweight or obesity and 10 from all well child checks). Charts were evaluated for obtaining a complete history, screening for comorbidities, and establishing an appropriate treatment plan. After round one of collection data, a review of electronic health record (EHR) templates for well child checks to determine if inquiry into documenting the five components of a complete history were intuitive. After review of templates, changes were made in attempts to make documenting more efficient.Results: In the initial round of data collection, it was noted that physicians at the clinic in question obtained a complete history 30% of the time. For example, instead of inquiring about social determinants of health (SDoH), nutrition, physical activity, screen time and sleep; physicians might inquire about only food insecurity and screen time, but not all 5 components. After review and editing of EHR templates, documentation of a complete history improved to 75%.Conclusions: On initial review of data, it was discovered that physicians within the clinic only obtained a complete history, per the 2023 obesity guidelines, 30% of the time. There was an initial increase then a subsequent decrease in history completion. During this time, senior residents graduated, and a new group of interns came into the practice. After editing EHR templates, complete medical histories were obtained 75% of the time. Making templates more intuitive allowed for more consistent obtaining of comprehensive medical histories. This is particularly important in residency training programs with yearly turnover. Now that comprehensive medical exams are routinely obtained, next steps include increasing initiation of a patient and family centered treatment plan [including Intensive Health Behavior and Lifestyle Treatment (IHBLT)] and improved follow up within 4 weeks of obesity diagnosis
Investigation of the coupling between (electro)-chemical and mechanical instability mechanisms in Li-ion battery electrodes via operando stress/strain measurements
No full textElectrochemical energy storage, notably batteries, gets significant attention due to escalating energy demands, especially in mobile applications. Lithium-ion batteries stand out for their remarkable energy density and cycle life. However, safety concerns persist, primarily due to chemical reactions at elevated temperatures, alongside performance degradation, notably in electrodes and electrolytes under high voltage operation. In this study, degradation mechanisms in battery electrodes were investigated using multi-beam optical stress sensor (MOSS) and digital image correlation (DIC) methods, which are offering non-destructive, optical, and operando characterization. X-ray diffraction, in-situ cryo-x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy were also performed for structural, chemical, and microstructural characterization, respectively. Initially, the chemical degradation of various electrolyte salts during electrochemical cycling on LiFePO₄ electrodes was investigated. Abnormal positive strain generation was observed in the LiFePO₄ electrodes when LiPF₆ was employed as electrolyte salt. Surface chemistry investigations unveiled LiPF₆ electrolyte salt decomposition even after redox reaction was completed. Subsequently, layered LiCoO₂ electrodes were inspected using DIC and MOSS techniques, elucidating phase transformations and excess lithium extraction related deformations up to 4.65 V. Structural and microstructural changes were confirmed via XRD and SEM analyses. Further, lithium titanate electrodes, known as 'zero-strain' materials, were examined at low states-of-discharge (<1.0 V), exhibiting significant strain due to overlithiation, underscoring the state-of-(dis)charge dependency. Lastly, different layered oxide electrodes, more specifically CoO₂ and CrO₂, were investigated using DIC to distinguish different mechanical effects of different metal alkali-ion intercalation (e.g., Li, Na, K). It was revealed that varied mechanical deformations associated with different metal alkali-ions. Overall, this research discerns electrolyte and high voltage related deformation mechanisms in battery electrodes, redefines 'zero-strain' electrodes concerning state-of-discharge, and illuminates deformation mechanisms in layered oxide cathode materials during diverse alkali metal-ion intercalation
Oklahoma homeowner's handbook for soil and nutrient management [superseded]
No full textThe Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service periodically issues revisions to its publications. The most current edition is made available. For access to an earlier edition, if available for this title, please contact the Oklahoma State University Library Archives by email at [email protected] or by phone at 405-744-6311
Understanding the dynamics of violent recruitment of child soldiers in African conflicts
No full textThis study investigates the complex dynamics behind the violent recruitment of child soldiers in African conflicts, focusing on the impact of demographic pressures. Through the lens of Resource Mobilization Theory, I conduct quantitative analysis to understand how youth population density impacts the coerciveness of recruitment tactics used by rebel groups. I employ a negative binomial regression analysis on a country-year data spanning 9 African countries from 1984 to 2021. My findings indicate that while the proportion of youth is significant, socio-economic factors, including economic development, along with socio-political elements like liberal democracy, significantly shape recruitment tactics. These findings demonstrate the intricate interaction of demographic conditions and other factors in shaping recruitment tactics, underscoring the necessity for targeted interventions that tackle these underlying elements
School community readiness for policy, system, and environment change implementation and its implications for nutrition interventions and student behaviors
No full textBackground: Childhood obesity is a significant public health issue with adverse health and economic impacts. In the United States, the prevalence of childhood obesity has more than tripled since the 1970s, likely due to multifactorial causes. The Social Ecological Model (SEM) guides obesity prevention initiatives, emphasizing the influence of individual, social, cultural, economic, and environmental factors. Oklahoma State University’s Community Nutrition Education Programs (CNEP) aim to improve health through direct nutrition education and policy, system, and environmental (PSE) interventions. Despite these efforts, Oklahoma remains among the unhealthiest states, possibly due to a lack of readiness for change in communities. This study assessed how an elementary school community’s readiness for PSE implementation affected the extent of nutrition PSE interventions and changes in students’ nutrition behaviors.
Methods: Recruitment began for this quasi-experimental study in spring 2023, targeting Oklahoma elementary schools participating in CNEP’s 3rd-4th grade direct education. Inclusion criteria for schools required an OSU CNEP paraprofessional to provide direct education and students to complete pre- and post-surveys regarding nutrition behaviors. Eleven schools were recruited, with four schools completing all program requirements. Four control schools were selected based on demographics similar to those of the completing schools. The Organizational Readiness for Implementing Change (ORIC) instrument measured readiness. Statistical analysis included independent t-tests to compare readiness scores between schools that completed the project and those that did not and regression analysis to explore the relationship between readiness scores and project completion. Paired t-tests assessed changes in readiness scores between pre- and post-intervention, and independent t-tests compared student nutrition behaviors between intervention and control schools.
Results: Findings indicated no significant relationship between school readiness, intervention implementation, and student nutrition behaviors.
Conclusions: This study highlights the complexity of implementing wellness initiatives in school settings and underscores the need to explore further factors influencing PSE intervention success and student nutrition behavior outcomes