Open Research Oklahoma (Oklahoma State Univ.)
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Spatio-temporal characterization and amplitude versus offset analysis of a thermogenic fault-controlled gas hydrate bearing system: Woolsey Mound, Gulf of Mexico
No full textGas hydrate research has attracted attention due to its hydrocarbon resource potential, impact on climate, and shallow marine drilling hazards. Therefore, studying the evolution of a gas hydrate-bearing system is of paramount importance. The Gulf of Mexico Hydrates Research Consortium chose the Mississippi Canyon Lease Block 118 (MC118) as a multi-sensor, multi-discipline seafloor observatory for gas hydrate research with geochemical, geophysical, and biological methods. Woolsey Mound is a one-kilometer diameter hydrate/carbonate complex where gas hydrates outcrop at the sea floor. The hydrate mound is connected to the underlying salt diapir through a network of shallow crestal faults. These faults act as a conduit of vertical hydrocarbon fluid migration from deeper hydrocarbon reservoirs to the sea floor and eventually to the atmosphere. This research aims to understand how the gas hydrate-bearing system operates both in the short-term and long-term and to identify the base of the hydrate stability zone without regionally extensive bottom simulating reflectors (BSRs).
This study analyzes four collocated 3-D seismic volumes, and two depth migrated pre-stacked seismic volumes to achieve this goal. Results from the short-term dynamic study show that a hydrate-bearing system can release a significant volume of hydrate on a short timescale. In the long-term dynamic study, hydrate dissociation and formation were observed in considerable volume. The dissociation and formation of the gas hydrates are found to be laterally segmented along the faults. To identify the base of the hydrate stability zone in the absence of BSRs, shallow discontinuous bright spots were targeted. These bright spots may mark the base of the hydrate stability field in the study area. These bright spots are hypothesized to produce an amplitude variation with offset (AVO) response due to the trapping of free gas beneath the gas hydrate. AVO was conducted on pre-stacked 3-D volume and decreasing amplitude value with an increasing offset, i.e., Class 4 AVO anomalies were observed. A comparison of a time-lapse analysis and the AVO analysis was conducted to investigate the changes in AVO strength with time. The changes in the magnitude of the AVO curves are correlated to the decrease in hydrate concentrations with time. The results of this study will add to our present understanding of hydrate evolution and its impact on ocean chemistry, climate change, and ongoing carbon sequestration projects in the Gulf of Mexico
Tailoring
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
Evaluation of emerging drugs in Department of Defense personnel
No full textThe comprehensive aim of this project was to gather data and analyze trends to inform toxicological testing for the Department of Defense (DoD) and ensure an effective drug testing program remains in place. This was accomplished by the development and validation of three confirmatory analytical methods for the extraction of: 1) lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and its primary metabolite, 2) nine LSD analogs, as well as 3) eleven cannabinoid compounds from urine. These methods were applied to specimens from the military random drug testing program to evaluate the prevalence of new and emerging compounds. Using the validated confirmation method, LSD and its primary metabolite were observed in < 30% of the samples submitted for confirmation analysis following a dual screening method process. It was postulated that the false positive results could be due to the presence of LSD analogs in the specimens. However, the analysis of 325 specimens using the updated analytical method revealed no LSD analogs. Due to the prevalence of urine 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8-THCCOOH) results in the random drug testing program and the simultaneous increase in THC analog products being sold, it was important to evaluate the impact of Δ10-THC and hexahydrocannabinol (HHC). Urine specimens (n=1300) analyzed on a new cannabinoid confirmation method revealed the first detection of Δ10-THCCOOH in authentic urine specimens. Data generated from this study also indicated that although cannabinoids other than Δ8-THCCOOH and Δ9-THCCOOH are present in specimens, they are typically in combination with the metabolic products of Δ8-THC and/or Δ9-THC. Thus, these two compounds appear to be sufficient targets for a laboratory’s analytical method at this time. Additionally, 24 cannabinoids were evaluated in a common blood immunoassay to determine their cross-reactivity in relation to Δ9-THCCOOH. Results indicated that increases in compound alkyl side chain length and the location of pi-bonds may impact cross-reactivity. Overall, this project demonstrated the need for an agile testing program to withstand the constant challenges of emerging drugs
Analyzing the long-term trend of evaporative water loss at multi-purpose reservoirs in Oklahoma for sustainable water management
No full textThis study examines the long-term trends of evaporative water losses at Lake Hefner and Canton Lake in Oklahoma from 1985 to 2018. Using a mixed-method approach, the research assesses annual and seasonal evaporation losses for both lakes and analyzes their correlation with various climatic factors. The findings reveal a statistically significant rise in evaporation rates, with Lake Hefner and Canton Lake experiencing annual increases of 0.31 mm and 0.42 mm, respectively. Notably, these increasing trends are more pronounced during the autumn and winter months, contrary to the expected summertime peaks. This unusual pattern is attributed to the thermal inertia of the lakes and the rising winter temperatures reported across the Western United States. The study further explores the profound impact of climate change, specifically the intensification of drought episodes in this region, such as those recorded in 2003, 2006, and 2011, which exacerbated evaporation rates. These findings underscore the increased vulnerability of water resources to climatic variability and the need for proactive solutions. In response, this thesis proposes adaptive management strategies within the framework of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). It recommends the integration of evaporation suppression strategies into water management practices and the adoption of innovative technologies such as the application of wind-resistant monolayer films based on reservoir storage triggers. Policy recommendations are also discussed, emphasizing the need for robust measures that include regular evaporation monitoring and the use of financial incentives to adopt water-saving technologies. By addressing the localized impacts of climatic factors on evaporation and integrating these insights into reservoir management, this research contributes to the development of targeted strategies aimed at enhancing the sustainability of water resources in Oklahoma and similar environments globally
Empowering fathers and father figures in their caregiving role: The caregiver and provider perspective
No full textDespite increased research on the importance of fathers and father figures (FFs), they often remain underrepresented in home-based parenting programs. Additionally, previous research called for studying maternal co-parents and father figures (FFs) simultaneously using qualitative and mixed-method inquiry to gain holistic insights into FF involvement. Therefore, the current qualitative study aimed to understand the ways that FF importance and role is communicated within home-based parenting programs from the perspective of FFs, maternal co-parents, and providers. Utilizing in Social Cognitive Theory as a categorizing lens, the study also examined the interplay of personal, behavioral, and environmental factors on FF involvement in home-based parenting programs. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with 31 caregivers and 23 service providers from home-based parenting programs. The three programs utilized in the current study were Nurse-Family Partnership, Parents As Teachers, and SafeCare. The findings reveal inconsistencies in the communication strategies used to share the importance of FFs by providers and maternal co-parents, with some participants reporting adequate practices and others noting considerable gaps. Findings suggest that developing FF-specific curriculum and encouraging consistent, inclusive communication strategies for FFs is essential to increase FF involvement in home-based parenting programs. The findings underscore the importance of the co-parenting relationship and the need for additional training on encouraging healthy co-parenting for providers implementing home-based parenting programs
Diagnosing an atypical, melan-a-positive granular cell tumor with extensive intraneural and perineural spread: Case report
No full textIntroduction/Objectives: This case report demonstrated an uncommon manifestation of Melan-A positive granular cell tumors (GCTs), typically benign and originating from Schwann cells. Challenges related to histologic variants, infiltrative growth patterns, perineural invasion, and Melan-A expression are discussed. The study covers GCTs histogenesis, clinical associations, differential diagnosis with melanoma, and criteria for identifying malignant GCTs. A suggested immunohistochemical panel, including Inhibin-A and PRAME, is proposed for Melan-A positive GCTs.Case Presentation: A 27-year-old male presented with two tender subcutaneous nodules (approximately 0.5 cm each) on the left second digit's dorsal aspect and the right hand's proximal palm. Clinical differentials included cyst, neuroma, and fibromatosis. The patient had a previous benign GCT on the back. Personal and family medical histories were unremarkable.Histologic Examination: Biopsy of the left dorsal second digit revealed a GCT with classic appearance, similar to the patient's previous back nodule. The palm nodule biopsy showed a circumscribed elongated lesion with intraneural and perineural spread. Immunohistochemical evaluation demonstrated positivity for S-100, Inhibin-a, and Melan-A, and negativity for HMB-45 and PRAME.Conclusions: This report highlights a unique case of multiple GCTs, one with extensive intraneural and perineural involvement and rare Melan-A positivity in a patient with a prior GCT. The rarity of Melan-A positivity in GCTs poses diagnostic challenges, due to it resembling melanoma. Use of a comprehensive immunohistochemical panel, including S-100, Inhibin, Melan-A, HMB-45, and PRAME, demonstrated efficacy in resolving diagnostic dilemmas
Food emulsifiers
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
Estimation and analysis of allelic drop-out of sequenced autosomal STRs
No full textIntroduction: Sequencing of autosomal STRs through massively parallel sequencing (MPS) is being adopted by laboratories world-wide. With new technologies, proper interpretation and statistical analysis methods must be updated. As the majority of samples processed in forensic labs consist of low-level DNA, data loss must be appropriately considered during these processes. The purpose of this study was to explore allelic and locus drop-out in data produced through MPS methods and evaluate possible probabilistic models for allelic drop-out prediction. Methods: Three data sets produced using the ForenSeqᵀᴹ DNA Signature Prep Kit on the MiSeq FGxᵀᴹ were procured from two laboratories. Samples consisted of mostly cell line single source genetic profiles. Both Primer Mix A and B were included using manufacturer protocols and a modified protocol using Primer Mix B. Library or flow cell, sample, and locus specific parameters were investigated for correlation with drop-out of allelic data. Correlation statistics were performed, and top predictor variables were used to generate potential models using both logistic regression analysis and a logistic or exponential relationship with drop-out rates. Top models were further evaluated for accuracy and robustness. Results: Library and flow cell specific parameters influenced drop-out, however, they were not considered in modeling due to run-to-run inconsistencies. Total read depth of a sample was found to be highly correlated with drop-out rates of an entire sample. Locus specific variables including amplification efficiency, template, and total locus coverage were found to be promising predictors. Further model evaluation suggested total locus coverage combined with total sample reads was useful in predicting allelic drop-out. Total read count was found to have a positive Brier score when using a logistic or exponential relationship with drop-out rates. Evaluation of the predictive capabilities of the locus dependent model showed favorable prediction when true allelic drop-out did not occur and intermediate support for when drop-out occurred. Conclusion: While these models both have their limitations, this information can be used by software developers or laboratories that are working to adopt massively parallel sequencing. Proper protocols or analyses software can be built for interpretation of low-level DNA samples that exhibit allelic drop-out
Hardy ferns for Oklahoma
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
Exploring protein-protein interactions of the TCS (Thrombospondin-I, Cysteine-rich, and Spacer domains) region of ADAMTS7 through yeast two-hybrid system
No full textBackground: Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains a leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally, imposing a significant burden on healthcare and individuals alike. The ADAMTS7 (A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase with ThromboSpondin motifs 7) gene locus has been implicated in the progression and pathogenesis of atherosclerosis or CAD. A distinctive feature of ADAMTS7 is the presence of the Thrombospondin, Cysteine-rich, Spacer domain (TCS) within its structure. The TCS domain is believed to play a crucial role in substrate binding and specificity of ADAMTS7, yet the specific molecular interactions involving this region remain largely unexplored. This study aims to screen and identify potential biological interacting partners of the TCS-encoding region of ADAMTS7 using the Yeast Two-Hybrid (Y2H) system to understand the role of ADAMTS 7 in the progression of atherosclerosis.Methods: The TCS region of ADAMTS7 was cloned into the plasmid pGBKT7 (bait) which encodes the GAL4 DNA-Binding Domain region. It was then transformed into the Yeast 2 Gold strain and mated with the Y187 library strain that contains the plasmid pGADT7(prey) which encodes for the GAL4 DNA-Activation Domain fused with heart cDNA isolated from CAD patients. After the mating procedure, the yeast cells were subjected to various screening processes using the dropout media containing X-alpha gal and aureobasidin to find the biological interacting partners. Subsequently, prey plasmid transformants were selected using the dropout media (DDO/X, QDO/X, SD/-Leu) and plasmids were extracted using a yeast plasmid extraction kit (Takara) and then sent for sequencing at Oklahoma State University DNA Protein Core Facility in Stillwater. The positive interactions were validated as genuine by using the recommended co-transformation procedure.Results: Through Yeast two-hybrid screening, we identified six hundred possible interacting clones that encode for different substrates that need to be sequenced. Two potential substrates already have been identified to belong to the tetraspanin and heat shock protein families. Additional validation work is needed to ascertain the nature of interactions.Conclusion: The Yeast Two-Hybrid System is a useful tool to screen protein interaction partners for a known protein. Our preliminary data are promising for possible biological interaction partners of the proatherogenic metalloprotease ADAMTS7