Open Research Oklahoma (Oklahoma State Univ.)
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Development of a new family of drugs for cystic fibrosis patients with non-tuberculous mycobacterial infection
No full textCystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease affecting over 105,000 people worldwide. The disease is caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which codes for a cell-surface chloride ion channel. These mutations lead to a lack of CFTR protein in the cell membrane or a reduction in the activity of the CFTR protein, lowering chloride ion secretion, thickening the mucus in the airways of CF individuals, and thereby promoting bacterial infection. Chronic lung infections caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are becoming more common in CF patients. This trend is concerning because most morbidity and mortality in CF patients is due to microbial lung infections. There are no reliable and effective therapies for NTM, therefore it is necessary to develop antibiotics or adjuvant therapies against these bacteria. To solve this problem, we are studying a new family of chemical compounds from the National Institute of Health (NIH) for their potential against NTM. Our lab selected this family of chemical compounds via a high-throughput screening of an NIH compound library, and we further evaluated their strength against Mycobacterium abscessus and M. avium, the two most common NTM species found in CF patients. We determined the toxicity of these compounds and their anti-NTM efficacy in vitro. To better understand the mechanism of action of this family of chemical compounds, we used cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI)-based drug-docking technology and predicted the interaction of drug candidates with their mycobacterial targets. We found that one of the compounds (named Cpd #3), with the best Attracting Cavity score, binds to the ATP-binding domain of mycobacterial DNA Gyrase subunit b, an essential protein for bacterial growth. This finding correlates with our data that Cpd #3 has the best antimycobacterial activity against M. abscessus and M. avium. Our results suggest that Cpd #3 could be potentially used as a new antibiotic for CF patients with NTM lung infections. We plan to further test this possibility by testing Cpd #3 in combination with clarithromycin in a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) study in preclinical CF mice with NTM lung infections
Characteristics and biodiversity of Oklahoma's Ozark glades
No full textGlades are defined as grassland-like openings in woodlands characterized by exposed bedrock, shallow soils, and drought-tolerant vegetation. Glades provide habitat for numerous species and are found throughout the central United States with many in the Ozarks. Extensive studies in Missouri and Arkansas found that glades support xeric species on the eastern edge of their range, including Eastern collared lizard (Crotaphytus collaris collaris) and greater roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus). While eastern Oklahoma likely has many glades, they have not been studied and may be degraded from their natural state through woody encroachment, land development, and invasive species. The primary goals of this project were to 1) characterize glades in the Ozark Highlands and Boston Mountains ecoregions of Oklahoma, 2) identify new glades using publicly available remotely sensed data, 3) create an inventory of wildlife, and 4) assess biodiversity as a function of glade characteristics. To do this, we used various remotely sensed data layers to characterize eleven glades and fourteen forest sites and used a weighted overlay analysis to predict new glades. For wildlife, we used passive surveys, biodiversity indices, and occupancy models to assess wildlife communities. We found that Oklahoma glades are similar to other Ozark glades in their characteristics but are hard to identify geospatially with publicly available data. From February 2023 to September 2024, we observed 16 mammal, 83 bird, and 30 herptile species using glades. We also identified several protected species or those of conservation concern. Across taxa, we found that richness, diversity, and space use generally responded positively to either short fire intervals, lower levels of woody encroachment, larger glades, or less distance to a glade. In our occupancy models, the highest richness of mammals was on glades and in the spring. This study represents the first inventory and characterization of glades in Oklahoma and provides important insight for managers. Glades provide a variety of important resources, from thermal refuge to foraging and hunting opportunities, for wildlife in Oklahoma. While many glades may have been lost to degradation, prioritizing management to reduce woody encroachment will allow glades to be restored and continue supporting diverse wildlife in Oklahoma
Exploring potential constraints to women’s participation in intramural flag football
No full textWomen’s participation in intramural sports, particularly flag football, remains significantly lower than that of men, despite the well-documented physical, psychological, educational, and social benefits of sports engagement. While women comprise a substantial percentage of college students, their representation in intramural flag football leagues is disproportionately low, indicating potential barriers to participation. Prior research suggests that women face unique challenges in sports participation, including gender norms, social expectations, and logistical constraints. This study aims to identify and analyze the specific factors that may discourage women from joining intramural flag football leagues, applying Newell’s Theory of Constraints (NTC) as a guiding framework. NTC classifies constraints into three broad categories—individual, task, and environmental—which, in the context of this study, align with intrapersonal, interpersonal, and structural barriers. By understanding these constraints, campus recreation professionals and sports administrators can develop targeted strategies to foster greater inclusivity and engagement among women in recreational sports.Utilizing a survey research design, data was collected from 258 women-identifying college students through an online questionnaire. The study categorized constraints into intrapersonal, interpersonal, and structural barriers and analyzed them using Mann-Whitney tests and descriptive statistics.
Findings indicate that interpersonal constraints, particularly the lack of teammates or friends willing to participate, were the most significant barriers. Structural constraints, such as time limitations due to academic and work obligations, also contributed to lower participation. While intrapersonal constraints ranked the lowest, concerns regarding gender dominance in sports and fear of injury were notable. The study’s hypotheses, which anticipated that women would report high intrapersonal, interpersonal, and structural constraints, were not supported, as none of the constraint categories averaged significantly above the midline of the Likert scale. However, interpersonal constraints remained the most influential factor in non-participation. While the study provides valuable insights, its limitations include reliance on self-reported data and a sample drawn primarily from campus recreation-affiliated individuals. Future research should explore additional factors influencing participation, expand the sample to a more diverse population, and examine the effectiveness of intervention strategies. By addressing these constraints, institutions can foster a more inclusive and supportive sports environment for women
Evaluating the impact of recreational therapy on gait parameters, fall risk, and falls efficacy in older adults with chronic illness at adult daycare center: An 8- and 16-week intervention study
No full textThis study examined the effects of recreational therapy-based balance training of different durations (8-week vs. 16-week) on gait parameters, postural stability, and falls confidence among older adults with chronic illness in an adult day care setting. Using a pre-post-follow-up design, participants were assigned to either an 8-week or 16-week intervention group and underwent structured balance training sessions. Primary outcomes included walking velocity, cadence, step length, single and double support percentages, postural stability (BioSway), and falls confidence (Short FES-I). Assessments were conducted at baseline, immediately after intervention, and at a 3-month follow-up.
Non-parametric Friedman tests were used to evaluate within-group changes across three time points, while descriptive statistics characterized between-group differences. The 16-week intervention group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in walking velocity (χ² = 6.00, p = .050), single support percentage (χ² = 6.53, p = .038), double support percentage (χ² = 6.00, p = .050), postural stability (χ² = 6.50, p = .039), and falls confidence (χ² = 6.53, p = .038). The 8-week group showed positive trends in several outcomes but did not reach statistical significance. Descriptive analysis at post-intervention revealed greater mean improvements in the 16-week group for walking velocity (+33.7% vs. +21.9%) and single support percentage (+11.1% vs. +3.9%) compared to the 8-week group. Both groups experienced partial attenuation of gains at 3-month follow-up, with no clear or sustained advantage for either group.
Clinical implications highlight the benefit of extended-duration balance training for optimizing functional gains, but also underscore the need for ongoing or repeated interventions to sustain improvements over time. Methodological limitations—including small sample size, lack of randomization, and limited follow-up—necessitate caution in interpretation and restrict generalizability.
This research contributes to the evidence base supporting long-term, recreation-based balance interventions for older adults in community settings. Recommendations for future research include larger, randomized trials and exploration of adjunctive therapies to enhance and sustain intervention effects. Findings inform clinical decision-making regarding program duration, implementation, and the ongoing management of fall risk and mobility in aging populations
Evaluating the rutting and moisture resistance of asphalt mixes using the IDT-HT and HWTT
No full textThe Hamburg wheel tracking test (HWTT) has been used by many state transportation agencies to evaluate both rutting resistance and moisture susceptibility. The current rutting parameter based on total rut depth (TRD) does not separate between rutting caused by plastic deformation and that caused by stripping. An alternative parameter, i.e. corrected rut depth (CRD), has been suggested to evaluate rutting that occurs solely due to plastic deformation without considering the effect of stripping. In this study, thirty-three plant-produced mixes were sampled from different producers in Oklahoma, representing a wide range of materials and mix types. The plant-produced mixes were tested using HWTT at 50°C and analyzed to determine their TRD and CRD. Furthermore, the potential of using the indirect tensile test at high temperature (IDT-HT) for acceptance during production was evaluated using a test temperature of 50°C. From the results, it was shown that the CRD provides a better measure of rutting compared to the TRD. A rutting criterion was proposed using a maximum CRD of 6 mm at 10,000, 15,000, and 20,000 wheel passes for mixes with PG64-22, PG70-28, and PG76-28, respectively. A moisture susceptibility criterion using a minimum stripping number (SN) of 2000 passes was suggested, which approximately coincides with a minimum stripping inflection point (SIP) of 10,000 passes. Using the IDT-HT, a minimum strength of 240 kPa (35 psi) was proposed as an acceptance threshold during production
Exploring the potential for MLB expansion: A case for new cities
No full textThis thesis dives into the expansion of Major League Baseball, with the aim of recommending where MLB should expand next. Drawing on regression analysis and other information, this study will attempt to make a recommendation to MLB on where they should expand to next.
This research was conducted through a regression analysis and an analysis of other relevant information. With this information, I was able to examine city macrodata along with publicly known potential ownership groups. The findings in this paper indicate that Raleigh, Nashville, Portland, or Salt Lake City are the best possible options for a Major League expansion team.
This study offers an insight into Major League Baseball expansion and the importance of choosing the right locations for new teams. Overall, this thesis will help begin the process of researching the best locations for new MLB teams
Analysis of site effects on induced seismic monitoring: An Oklahoma case study
No full textInduced seismicity from activities such as wastewater injection has raised growing concerns about the structural integrity of surface and subsurface structures, public safety, and environmental risks. Several induced events in Oklahoma have caused structural damage, highlighting the need for proactive seismic hazard assessment and mitigation strategies.
A critical component of understanding seismic risk is analyzing site effects—variations in ground motion caused by local geologic and geomorphic conditions such as soil properties, rock type, impedance contrasts, and depth to bedrock. These factors can amplify seismic waves, increasing shaking intensity and prolonging wave duration. Although induced seismicity has become more frequent in Oklahoma due to fluid injection from oil and gas operations, relatively few studies have explored site effects in the region.
This study investigates site effects by (1) analyzing waveform distortions from real seismic events recorded by a temporary station and (2) simulating seismic waveforms using 2D finite difference methods. The velocity models used in the simulations were constructed using well logs and geologic data provided by Oklahoma State University and industry partner Bob Springman.
Results show consistent P-to-S wave conversions within the P-wave coda and S-wave reverberations originating around 1,200 meters depth, which coincides with the Oologah Limestone—a thick, regionally extensive carbonate unit. Previously, such conversions were attributed to the granite basement, but this study demonstrates they instead originate at the high-impedance contrast boundary between the Oologah Limestone and the overlying Cleveland Sandstone. These conversion phases strongly influence surface recordings and represent a critical site effect that should be incorporated into hazard models.
The findings offer a revised interpretation of seismic wave behavior in Oklahoma and suggest that similar wave conversions may occur across other regions where the Oologah Limestone is present. This study emphasizes the importance of integrating detailed geologic data—particularly well log constraints—into velocity models to better simulate wave propagation and improve ground-motion predictions in regions affected by induced seismicity
Cluelessness of a modernized Persuasion
No full textWhile Hollywood has found success in modernizing Jane Austen’s novels through adaptations like Clueless and Bridget Jones’s Diary, which preserve the core themes of the original text, the 2022 Netflix adaptation of Persuasion fails both as a faithful adaptation and as a standalone film. By altering key elements of dialogue, character development, and plot, Persuasion undermines the tone of Austen’s original work. Unlike earlier successful adaptations, which use modern settings to enhance Austen’s insights, Persuasion confuses modernization with a dramatized cheap humor. Changing its main heroine Anne Elliot into an immature version of the Anne Elliot of the novel. This thesis examines how and why Persuasion failed as a modernized adaptation compared to that of Clueless and Bridget Jones’s Diary
De-identified yet insightful: Assessing usage with limited demographic data
No full textPatron privacy impels us to de-identify our library circulation data. Even so, the available data can reveal insights into equitable delivery and usage of resources, particularly e-resources. This presentation will demonstrate how Oklahoma State Libraries has begun examining usage alongside institutional analytics for a fuller understanding of how we can better serve all library patrons.falseLibrar
Belize's Third and Fourth Form mathematics teachers' self-efficacy, attitudes, and confidence: Mathematics teaching and disciplinary literacy in mathematics
No full textThis study examined Belizean Third and Fourth Form public high school mathematics teachers' self-efficacy beliefs about teaching mathematics, their attitudes toward Disciplinary Literacy in Mathematics (DLM), and their confidence in imbuing mathematics teaching-learning-curriculum with DLM. A quantitative methodology was used, and data was collected from 50 mathematics teachers across Belizean public high schools using a combined survey instrument derived from the Mathematics Teaching Efficacy Beliefs Instrument (MTEBI) and the Literacy in the Disciplines 6-12 (LID 6-12) survey. The findings revealed several patterns: (1) contrary to expectations, participants who attended more than five professional development sessions reported significantly lower self-efficacy than those with fewer or no sessions; (2) the PD variable was recoded from three categories (0, 1-5, More than 5) into two categories “No PD” and “Any PD” due to methodological concerns; (3) PD participation showed no significant relationship to self-efficacy; (4) years of teaching experience is a significant predictor of self-efficacy; (5) no statistically significant differences were found in confidence levels based on years of teaching experience, though teachers with 16-20 years showed the highest confidence; (6) female teachers reported significantly higher confidence in implementing DLM compared to male teachers; and (7) there was weak positive correlation between confidence and attitude scores, but the correlation was not statistically significant. The findings of this research provide timely insights for designing effective support systems that address the multidimensional nature of teacher development