Open Research Oklahoma (Oklahoma State Univ.)
Not a member yet
42035 research outputs found
Sort by
Audiogenic seizure susceptibility in a conditional Fragile X Syndrome mouse model
No full textSensory hypersensitivity is one of the most prevalent yet least understood behavioral phenotypes in neurodevelopmental disorders. This phenotype has significant and crucial implications in how an organism processes surrounding stimuli in its environment and can impact survival rate. Specific neurodevelopmental disorders such as Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), the most common monogenic cause of autism spectrum disorder, are frequently linked to abnormal neural processing when exposed to heightened stimuli, including sound. The gene Fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (Fmr1) encodes Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein (FMRP), the affected protein in FXS. FMRP is an RNA-binding protein that plays multiple roles in the alterations of a mammal’s central nervous system- namely neural circuitry, plasticity, and mRNA interaction. FMRP is highly expressed in the auditory brainstem and an organism with FMRP mutations can present abnormal hyperexcitable reactions to exposure to heightened sound stimuli, predicting inducible audiogenic seizures that can be used as a biomarker to quantify sensory hypersensitivity in FXS mice. Audiogenic seizures observed in the mice affected with FXS are important in regards to the similarity of behavioral phenotypes that are observed in human FXS patients. To test the prevalence of audiogenic seizures in certain genotypes of mice, we will use a conditional Fmr1 mouse model to selectively turn on and off FMRP in a subset of neurons in the auditory brainstem. Mice aged 18-22 days old underwent an audiogenic seizure protocol in which a numerical scale was used to categorize the animal’s behavior based on what was observed over a four-minute period: one minute acclimation period followed by three minutes of exposure to a 115 decibel alarm. Being able to selectively express FMRP in specific neuronal brainstem populations, we will enhance research that allows for determining cell types and mechanisms that lead to auditory hypersensitivity and audiogenic seizure susceptibility in FXS mice
Virtual design concept development of Western equestrian competition clothing for collegiate female equestrians
No full textThis thesis explored the functional and aesthetic challenges of western competition shirts worn by collegiate female equestrians, with the goal of improving fit, mobility, and comfort through virtual design. The study was carried out in two phases. In phase one, a needs assessment survey with 28 participants highlighted common issues, including restricted upper arm movement, shoulder discomfort, and inconsistent sizing. Aesthetic preferences were also shared, though often shaped by the uniform requirements of collegiate teams. Building on these insights, Phase Two involved developing three virtual design concepts using CLO 3D: (1) localized pleats, (2) a stretch panel, and (3) an underarm gusset. Each concept featured an articulated two-piece sleeve to better support natural arm movement. The designs were simulated on avatars created from 3D body scans of collegiate equestrians, posed in discipline-specific positions to reflect realistic performance needs. To evaluate the designs, interviews were conducted with panel members representing diverse perspectives. The stretch panel design emerged as the preferred option, praised for its smooth visual integration and enhanced mobility. The pleated shirt was also well received for its balance of function and tradition, while the gusset provided functional benefits but was less favored in appearance. This study demonstrated how virtual prototyping and user-centered design could be used to develop performance apparel tailored to the specific needs of niche sports. It presented a replicable approach combining user insight, digital patterning, and simulation to guide garment innovations that met both functional demands and formal aesthetic expectations in competitive western riding
Strategies for optimizing food efficiency and sustainability
No full textAbstract: Ensuring food efficiency and sustainability is essential for addressing global challenges such as food waste, resource optimization, and agricultural productivity. This dissertation explores two key strategies: enhancing fresh produce inventory management through tax incentives and improving crop yield efficiency through controlled seed orientation technology. The first study examines how enhanced tax deductions can incentivize grocery retailers to donate surplus food, reducing waste while increasing food security. The second study assesses the financial feasibility of adopting oriented corn seed placement technology to maximize crop yield and economic returns. Together, these strategies contribute to a more sustainable and efficient food system.
In Chapter I, food waste and food security are recognized as major concerns in the United States, with retail outlets contributing to 48 billion pounds of wasted food annually. This study develops an inventory management model that incentivizes food donations through the enhanced tax deduction under Internal Revenue Code Section 170. The model optimizes key inventory decisions for perishable goods, including cycle length, reorder quantity, and surplus donations. A continuous-time framework is extended to a multi-period optimization model, incorporating perishability, demand sensitivity, and donation incentives. Findings show that tax incentives encourage shorter replenishment cycles, larger donations, and improved profitability by reducing waste. Numerical examples illustrate how these incentives benefit retailers and food charities while increasing food access. The results highlight tax incentives as a viable tool for waste reduction and food security, offering policymakers a framework for sustainable grocery retail practices.
In Chapter II, past research has shown that controlled corn seed orientation at planting leads to symmetrically oriented leaves, increasing grain yields. This study evaluates the financial feasibility of implementing corn planter technology that enables seed orientation. Net present value (NPV) was estimated using stochastic analysis for input prices, yield, and revenue, with additional payback period calculations. Sensitivity analysis was conducted across different machine costs, usage levels, and discount rates (10% and 7%). Results show OSP outperformed traditional planting when technology is priced at $32,000 across all usage levels. Findings provide insights for developers, manufacturers, and researchers evaluating the economic viability of this technology, with further research needed to refine yield estimates and cost parameters
Technical & economic proposal of Blue Hydrogen to improve the atmosphere (BIA)
No full textThe report presents a preliminary design for the production of Blue Hydrogen using Autothermal Reforming (ATR), combined with carbon capture and sequestration. The objective was to achieve a production rate of at least 250 MMSCFD while ensuring economic feasibility and process safety.
Economic analysis indicates that under current conditions, the project is not financially viable, with an estimated negative Net Present Value (NPV) of 2.23 billion and an ROR of 32%.
Process safety considerations assessed hazards related to hydrogen embrittlement, CO₂ exposure, and potential explosion risks. A worst-case scenario analysis estimated that overpressure events could result in a detonation equivalent to 133 metric tons of TNT, affecting a 650-acre radius. Recommendations include further Front-End Loading (FEL) studies to optimize pricing models, CO₂ capture efficiency, and process safety improvements before pursuing feasibility at full scale
Engineering East design project
No full textA submission is required at the end of the semester comprised of a bound presentation document of the analysis and design processes utilized in the course. The final submission is to be in 11 X 17 format and is to include a 250-word written narrative reflection essay after each major phase of the project, along with developmental sketches, presentation documents, and final construction documents at a minimum
Investigating parent withdrawal as a potential mediator in the relationship between parent depressive symptoms and youth depressive symptoms in American Indian/Alaska native youth with asthma
No full textObjective: The present study examined parent withdrawal as a potential mediator in the relationship between parent depressive symptoms and child depressive symptoms in a sample of American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) youth with asthma. Method: A subsample AI/AN youth with asthma were drawn from the larger sample of youth enrolled in the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development study (N = 85). These youth and their parents have completed demographic measures, and parents have completed the Adult Self Report (ASR) and the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Youth completed the acceptance subscale of the Child Report of Parental Behavior Inventory-Short (CRPBI-S). Results: Bootstrapped mediation regression analyses revealed a significant direct effect for parent depressive symptoms → youth depressive symptoms (path c’ = .48; 95% CI = .31 to .60), controlling for parent employment. (see Figure 1). Parent depressive symptoms were not significantly associated with parent withdrawal (path a = .66, 95% CI = -.005 to .01). Parent withdrawal was not significantly associated with youth depressive symptoms (path b = .84, 95% CI = -2.48 to 6.14). Mediation analysis revealed a non-significant parent depressive symptoms → parent withdrawal → youth depressive symptoms indirect effect (path c = .00; 95% CI = -.01 to .03. Conclusion: Results from the proposed analyses are anticipated to indicate that the effect of increased parent depressive symptoms on youth depressive symptoms is indirect and operates through the mediating influence of youths’ experience of parent withdrawal
Does preexposure to AI resources in home country predict adoption of generative artificial intelligence tools amongst international students at Oklahoma State University?
No full textThis study investigates whether international students’ preexposure to artificial intelligence (AI) resources in their home countries predicts their adoption of generative AI tools at Oklahoma State University. As generative AI tools become increasingly popular in higher education, it is imperative to understand the adoption patterns among international students as they bring diverse technological backgrounds to their host universities. Using a quantitative survey design (N=72), we examined the relationship between prior AI experiences and current generative AI experiences, while controlling factors such as university AI Policy, perceived usefulness, and self-efficacy. Results indicate that students with greater preexposure to AI in their home countries were significantly likely to adopt generative AI tools for academic and personal purposes (β = 0.166. SE = 0.081, p = 0.043). However, adoption rates varied based on factors such as university’s support for generative AI use and self-efficacy level of students. This study contributes to the literature on technology adoption in cross-cultural educational contexts and offers practical insights for universities seeking to support diverse student populations in developing AI competencies. Recommendations include strong institutional support for generative AI tools to boost the confidence of students as this enhances the self-efficacy of international students to AI tools for academic purposes
Structure-function studies to elucidate the mechanism of unique CO₂ uptake proteins in cyanobacteria
No full textIn cyanobacteria, unique CO₂-uptake (Cup) proteins function as a part of the CO₂-concentrating mechanism (CCM), which produces a high concentration of CO₂ around the main photosynthetic biomass-producing enzyme ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RubisCO). Cup proteins are bound to specialized NDH-1 complexes, suggesting the coupling of CO₂-hydration and redox activity of the photosynthetic electron transport (PET) system. The active sites of unique Cup proteins (CupA and CupB) incorporate arginine as a first-sphere Zn ligand, diverging from the typical histidine or cysteine residues found in standard carbonic anhydrases (CAs), a well-studied enzyme family which also hydrates CO₂. Here, point mutation studies of Cup in Synechococcus elongatus sp. PCC 7942 (hereafter Syn7942) revealed a critical Arg–Glu dyad for CupB stability: the loss of cellular CupB accumulation observed for mutations at CupB-E95 and CupB-Arg91 demonstrates their contribution to the enzyme’s structural integrity (Artier et al. 2022; Walker, Zhang, and Burnap 2024). These studies also found His89 of CupB (the constitutively expressed, low-affinity Cup protein) to play a catalytic role in the hydration of CO₂. We proposed that CupB-His89 acts as a vital proton-handling residue within the putative active site of CupB, reducing the likelihood of the back-reaction of Zn–OH hydration and pulling the reaction towards bicarbonate and proton production. To probe this hypothesis, we measured the redox state of the PQ pool and the flux of energy through PSI in both light- and dark-adapted cells. We observed the mutant CupB-H89Q to have greater flux of energy through PSI than the controls under all tested conditions, yet all mutants demonstrated an ~8-fold decrease in flux compared to WT Syn7942. These paradoxical results allowed us to investigate a phenomenon known as reduction-induced suppression of electron flow (RISE), first proposed by Shaku et al. in 2016. RISE suggests that a highly reduced PQ pool induces the suppression of electron flux at the Q-site of Cytochrome b₆f
Novel rate of penetration (ROP) model for hard rock drilling with application to geothermal drilling
No full textHard rock drilling often results in low rates of penetration (ROP), which increases drilling time and cost. This is a common challenge in geothermal drilling, where elevated temperatures and confining pressures are encountered. To address this, a model has been developed to predict ROP by accounting for the effects of temperature and confining pressure on rock strength. This study focuses on granite and examines how its strength changes under different thermal and pressure conditions. Triaxial compression test data were collected from existing literature, covering a wide range of temperatures, confining pressures, and granite types. The results showed that strength decreases with increasing temperature and increases with confining pressure. Based on these results, a rock strength model was developed to calculate normalized confined compressive strength (CCS) using temperature dependent equations for base strength, pressure scaling, and pressure exponent. The strength model was validated using data from different granite samples with varying mineral compositions. It was then combined with a physics-based ROP model that uses weight on bit (WOB), rotary speed (RPM), and CCS as inputs. Field data from the Utah FORGE project, including WOB, RPM, and actual ROP values, were used to verify the model. The predicted ROP closely matched the actual ROP, especially in granite sections deeper than 4,350 ft. The model was also used to back-calculate CCS from known ROP values and input parameters. These values showed good agreement with gamma ray trends and were more responsive to formation changes than CCS calculated from sonic logs. This suggests that back-calculated CCS can be useful for real-time formation strength estimation and drilling optimization. In conclusion, the combined strength and ROP models offer a reliable and physics-based method for predicting drilling performance in hard rock environments with the potential to support both pre-drilling planning and real-time optimization
Impact of study strategies and time management on medical student academic performance: A systematic review and meta-analysis
No full textMedical education requires mastering large volumes of information under high stress, making effective study and time management strategies essential. While numerous interventions aim to improve learning efficiency, the consistency, magnitude, and moderators of their effects on academic performance and well-being remain unclear. This meta-analysis synthesized evidence on the impact of active learning and time management techniques among medical students. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and cross-sectional designs that examined active learning strategies (e.g., retrieval practice, spaced repetition, self-testing) and time management interventions (e.g., the Pomodoro Technique, time-blocking) among medical students. Standardized mean differences (Hedges g) and correlation coefficients were pooled using random-effects models. Heterogeneity, subgroup analyses, and publication bias were assessed using Cochran’s Q, I², and funnel plots. Across 13 studies contributing 2 effect sizes, structured learning interventions significantly improved academic performance with moderate heterogeneity. Correlational analyses supported consistent positive associations between strategy use and performance. Active learning approaches produced the largest effects, followed by time management techniques. Digital spaced-repetition tools (e.g., Anki) showed powerful benefits when used regularly. No meaningful publication bias was detected. Active learning and structured time management strategies significantly enhance medical students’ academic performance and psychological well-being. Integrating retrieval-based learning with consistent time management practices may yield synergistic benefits, improving both cognitive retention and stress regulation. Future research should employ larger, cross-cultural randomized trials to refine evidence-based academic interventions and promote equitable, resilient medical education