Fiscal year 2017

research abstracts College of Arts and Sciences – FY2017 Research Abstracts ART, GRAPHIC DESIGN AND ART HISTORY

Virile Roots, Generative Earth: Chinese Rhizomes in Florentine Fertility Treatments The project examines Chinese-grown herbal drugs in medical texts and fertility treatments during the late sixteenth-century, focusing on the Chinese root galangal. Sponsor: Villa I Tatti, Harvard University Center for Italian Renaissance Studies PI: Irene Backus

Folding and Unfolding the Late Medieval Physician’s Almanac Research in the UK to closely examine the material aspects of numerous fifteenth-century physician’s folding almanacs. Almanacs were not simply a collection of useful texts: they were worn on the body, touched habitually, and manipulated like other scientific instruments. Sponsor: Oklahoma Humanities Council PI: Jennifer Borland

Window Gazes: Camera Obscura Photographs from the Doel Reed Center for the Arts Sponsor: Hargis Fellowship, Doel Reed Center for the Arts, Talpa, NM PI: Andy Mattern

Oklahoma Visual Arts Fellowship These awards are intended to reward qualified artists with outstanding vision and are chosen by a guest curator from applications submitted by the artists. Sponsor: Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC) PI: Andy Mattern

Shelter: A photography project to visualize time spent underground in Oklahoma storm cellars. Gelatin Silver Prints, Various Sizes: 8x10, 11x14, 16x20. Sponsor: Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC) PI: Andy Mattern

Waiting: A six-foot rotating color wheel inspired by the cursor that appears when a computer program begins to crash. Archival Pigment Ink Prints and low-speed motor, 72″ x 72″ x 1″ Sponsor: Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC) PI: Andy Mattern

Gardiner Gallery Exhibitions Series of exhibitions in the Gardiner Gallery of Art in the Department of Art, Graphic Design and Art History. Sponsor: Oklahoma Arts Council PI: Rebecca Brienen Art, Community, and Salvation in Colonial Mexico Research on the art and visual culture of colonial Mexican confraternities (religious brotherhoods). The aim is two-fold: 1) to better understand the significance of chapels, oratories, sculptures, paintings, and engravings for confraternities and 2) to gauge the importance of colonial corporate piety for the history of art. Book is under contract. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Arts and Sciences Research Fellowship (ASR +1) PI: Cristina Cruz González

Centering Modernism: J. Jay McVicker and Postwar American Art Centering Modernism takes a close look at the innovative artwork of Oklahoman J. Jay McVicker (American, 1911-2004) in the context of international modernism and the coastalization of American art criticism after the Second World War. Sponsors: National Endowment for the Arts, OSU Research, OSU Library PI: Louise Siddons

The Art of Asian Languages The Art of Asian Languages is an exhibition of forty works that explores intersections between art and language in contemporary East Asian culture. In Asia, writing and calligraphy have also led directly to the development of many other forms of art, including book-making, seal carving, and papercuts. The exhibition offers a fresh look at an imaginative and ambitious use of languages in the service of the visual arts. Sponsor: Oklahoma Humanities Council Major Grant for Exhibitions PI: Shaoqian Zhang

Rapid Visual Prototype Through Virtual Reality for Graphic Design The visual prototype through virtual reality allowed the graphic design concept to be tested in a cost-effective environment with a 360-degree view of the project before its final production. Sponsor: School of Entrepreneurship, Oklahoma State University PI: Phil Choo

Tulsa Artist Fellowship Established by the George Kaiser Family Foundation, the Tulsa Artist Fellowship recruits visual and literary artists to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where they have creative freedom to pursue their craft and contribute to a thriving art community. Sponsor: George Kaiser Foundation PI: Chris Ramsay

Pigment and Paint Formulations for Oklahoma Landscapes Sponsors: Sam and Adele Golden Foundation for the Arts, New Berlin, NY and Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition Education Grant, Oklahoma City, OK PI: Elizabeth Roth CHEMISTRY

Derivation of Heteroarotinoid Systems Related to SHetA2 The development of methodology to obtain oxygen- and nitrogen-containing heteroarotinoids for the potential treatment of ovarian cancer was the focus of the project. One main objective was to generate compounds that would have increased water solubility and bind to certain proteins that would induce the cancer cells to die. Sponsor: Stephensen Cancer Center of OUHSC PI/PDs: K. Darrell Berlin, Richard A. Bunce, Field Watts, Krishna Gnanasekaran-Chemistry

Studies of Ovarian Cancer The investigation was centered upon the synthesis of pyridine-containing heterocycles for the treatment of ovarian cancer. Several different groups were employed to join together the heterocyclic units in an effort to improve the binding of the compounds to certain proteins in the human body. It was reasoned that binding to selected proteins could result in cancer cells being destroyed. Sponsor: OSU Foundation PI/PDs: K. Darrell Berlin, Richard A. Bunce, Kevin Meraz-Chemistry

Chemical Tools for Perturbing Iron Homeostasis in P. aeruginosa This is a collaboration with a group at the University of Kansas, which seeks to exploit a novel vulnerability in Gram-negative bacteria. Bacterioferritin is a protein that stores iron as Fe3+ in the body. A second protein normally binds to the outer surface of this protein and facilitates electron transfer from a third protein to the inner cavity, where Fe3+ is reduced to Fe2+. The resulting Fe2+ provides an energy source for the bacteria. The goal is to develop compounds that will block the binding site on bacterioferritin and prevent this process. Without Fe2+, bacterial cells have no energy source and eventually die. Sponsor: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of the NIH PI/PDs: Mario Rivera (KU) and Richard A. Bunce (OSU)

Application of Infrared Imaging and Chemometrics to Facilitate the Forensic Examination of Automotive Paints In the forensic examination of automotive paint, laboratories hand-section each layer and present each separated layer to the spectrometer for analysis which is time consuming. In addition, sampling too close to the boundary between adjacent layers is also a problem as it produces an infrared spectrum that is a mixture of two layers. These problems will be addressed by collecting concatenated infrared data from all layers in a single analysis by scanning across the cross-sectioned layers of the paint sample using an infrared imaging microscope. Decatenation of the concatenated IR data is achieved using multivariate curve resolution techniques to obtain a “pure” infrared spectrum of each paint layer. Sponsor: National Institute of Justice PI/PD: Barry K. Lavine Variable Selection for Remedying the Effects of Uncontrolled Variation in Data Driven Predictions This research is aimed at reducing the cost-of-ownership of calibration and classification models that have become increasingly common in process monitoring, quality assurance and quality- by-design applications by studying the ways in which these models fail and by searching for ways to stabilize the modeling. This project is aimed at investigating fundamental issues important to chemical modeling in modern measurement science. Methods for automated identification of the portions of the chemical responses that best model the system will be investigated. The broader impacts of this project include the improvements in efficiency and performance from improved and more reliable chemical models for production and quality assurance. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Barry K. Lavine

Development and Validation of High Performance Liquid Chromatography Method for Quantitative Determination of 4-hydroxybenzoate and Related Renal Cell Carcinoma Biomarkers in Human Urine Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) is a disease that causes malignant cells to form in tubules of the kidney. RCC, the third most common form of genitourinary cancer, is a disease which is asymptotic in its initial stages. Patients are often diagnosed with RCC at the terminal or metastatic stage. At present, RCC has the highest mortality rate of any urological tumor. To improve the prognosis for patients suffering from RCC, early detection and treatment through the development of a methodology based on analysis of biological fluids (e.g. urine and plasma) for molecular markers characteristic of RCC in its early stages is desirable. An obvious advantage of this approach to cancer prescreening is that urine and plasma samples are inexpensive and readily accessible. A reversed phase liquid chromatographic method will be developed to simultaneously detect and quantify creatinine, quinolinic acid, gentisic acid and 4- hydroxybenzoic acid in urine. These four bio-markers are present in relatively high concentrations in urine. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health (subcontract from University of Central Oklahoma) PI/PD: Barry Lavine (co-PI)

Electrochemical and Optical sensors/arrays for Diabetes Diabetes is an emerging epidemic condition worldwide. A recent survey by the American Diabetes Association revealed that nearly 29 million adults and children in the United States had diabetes (8.3 % population), and about 86 million people were estimated to have pre- diabetes (a condition before type-2 diabetes). Challengingly, the presence of ultra-low levels of insulin in blood even under healthy conditions demands the need for highly sensitive and selective assay methods. The objective in this project is to develop novel electrochemical immunosensors and microarray imagers that can selectively measure clinically relevant insulin levels in complex clinical matrices to diagnose type of diabetic disorders in patients. Sponsor: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, NIH. PI/PD: Sadagopan Krishnan The Development of Novel C–F Functionalization Reactions for Access to Multifluorinated Arenes and the Development of Novel Selective Dicot Herbicide This project follows two plans that will synergistically elevate the field of agrochemistry in the US. The first is focused on the development of novel C–F fragmentation reactions. Organofluorines make up at least 25% of all agrochemicals and yet their synthesis represents a poorly solved problem. Arguably, C–F functionalization of multifluorinated arenes is an attractive approach, since the difficult to install C–F bond, is already installed. However, C–F functionalization is still a fledgling strategy. In 2014, we introduced the photocatalytic hydrodefluorination reaction and subsequently photocatalytic C–F functionalizations. While these are powerful transformations, the C–F fragmentation selectivity is electronically controlled by the substrate. In this proposal, we outline plans to develop mechanistically novel strategies that give alternative selectivity. Achieving this objective, will significantly advance the field of C–F functionalization, which is central to agrochemistry, by extending the types of accessible motifs and decreasing the synthetic effort required to synthesize fluoroarenes. Auxin mimic herbicides are being actively studied by major agrochemical companies. The second objective surrounds the development of a novel selective dicot herbicide discovered by our group as a direct result of our efforts to access new fluorinated chemical space. Sponsor: American Chemical Society-Frasch Foundation PI/PD: Jimmie Weaver

MRI: Acquisition of the First 800 MHz NMR Spectrometer with a Cryogenically Cooled Probe in the State of Oklahoma for Interdisciplinary Research and Training The Oklahoma Statewide Shared (OSS) NMR Facility at the Oklahoma State University (Stillwater) requests funds for the acquisition of a new 800 MHz instrument and a cryoprobe with state-of-the-art capabilities. Currently, the highest-field instrument in the facility is a 21- year-old Varian 600 MHz. This is the only high field instrument available for biomolecular NMR in the State. This instrument cannot provide useful data on routine/advanced 3-or 4- dimensional NMR experiments, which are necessary for structure-function studies of large molecular complexes, such as membrane proteins (MPs) solubilized in detergent micelles/mixed lipids or large globular proteins or nucleic acids and their complexes. The problems with this instrument are many: (1) frequent problems and long down times, (2) lacks the resolution and sensitivity necessary for ongoing research projects in OSS NMR Facility, (3) outdated electronics that cannot perform advance pulse programs, (4) no longer supported by the manufacturer (Varian/Agilent), and (5) expensive to maintain. Large macromolecules exhibit slow molecular tumbling that results in fast transverse relaxation leading to increased line widths and reduced sensitivity. A higher magnetic field with a cryogenically cooled probe (with modern electronics), in conjunction with TROSY version of experiments for large biomolecules (such as membrane proteins embedded in micelles or bicelles or nanodiscs), would increase the sensitivity by a factor of at least four and would reduce the data collection time by a factor of 16. The concentration of samples analyzed would be in low micromolar range (as opposed to millimolar range for current instrument) allowing the structural characterization of macromolecules that are notoriously difficult to produce in milligram quantities. The aging Varian instrument has served its useful life for the NMR community in Oklahoma and the surrounding region. Unfortunately, at present, this instrument is the only high-field magnet (> 500 MHz) available in Oklahoma for solution-state biomolecular NMR. Sponsor: National Science Foundation Co-PI: Jimmie Weaver

Photocatalytic C-F Functionalization; Transforming Perfluoroarenes from Inert Molecules to Synthetic Lynchpins Perfluoroarenes are commercially available molecules derived from petroleum feedstocks which have relatively few synthetic applications despite the fact that multiply fluorinated arenes are an extremely important class of molecules for numerous applications. While there is significant interest in these fluorinated fine chemicals the number of corresponding synthetic methods has lagged behind. This proposal seeks to demonstrate the feasibility of direct functionalization of the C–F bond triggered by a catalytic photoinduced electron transfer which generates a fluoroaryl radical. In addition, this proposal seeks to investigate the subtle feature that result in mechanistic changes and ultimately lead to different products. This work is expected to result in highly valuable new transformations that allow facile access to compounds which were previously difficult, or impossible, to synthesize. It is also expected that, this work will generate the fundamental knowledge that will lead to a paradigm shift in the way chemists think about the C–F bond, allowing the chemistry to expand beyond our own efforts. Specifically, we will challenge the dogma of the inertness of C–F bonds by demonstrating that fluorinated arenes with C–F bonds should viewed as excellent coupling partners. Sponsor: American Chemical Society-Petroleum Research Fund PI/PD: Jimmie Weaver

Polyfluorinated Januvia Replacement The overall objective of this proposal is to make novel analogs of sitaglipton, and assess its biological activity. Sponsor: Technology Business Development Program PI/PD: Jimmie Weaver

Synthesis of polyfluorinated auxinic herbicide analogs The overall objective of this proposal is to make analogs of a novel lead compound with demonstrated auxinic herbicidal activity. Sponsor: Technology Business Development Program PI/PD: Jimmie Weaver

Photoredox Catalysis for the Rapid Synthesis of Diverse Medicinally Relevant Motifs This work is of the utmost importance for two reasons. First, it helps fill a real need in synthetic chemistry. Currently, our ability to perform Csp3-Csp2 cross-couplings is very limited. When it

comes to couplings, most pharmaceutical research has relied on Csp2-Csp2 cross-couplings (2010 Nobel Prize) and as a consequence the molecules are unnecessarily flat. The ability to facilitate Csp3-Csp2 cross-couplings would allow a new dimension in drug related research and undoubtedly give medicinal chemist coveted tools that will greatly assist their efforts. Furthermore, C-H functionalizations are particularly attractive since they are faster, produce less waste, and allow greater structural diversity when compared to standard couplings. Traditional couplings require preformed organometallics and produce stoichiometric amounts of waste and have a limited number of available inputs. The overall objective of this proposal is to test our hypothesis which is that the radical anion, formed in situ via photocatalytic electron transfer, is responsible for C-H functionalization in this system. It is known in related systems that the stability of such radical anions is related to the relative energy level of the σ*- orbital of the leaving group and the LUMO of the ground state molecule. Small energy gaps result in rapid fragmentation and lead to a different intermediate, specifically a radical. The radical, in this case preferentially undergoes H-atom abstraction leading to the reduced product. Thus we will test this hypothesis by modulating the energy of the σ*-orbital by judicious choice of leaving group. It is expected that understanding and controlling the intermediate formed will allow us to develop numerous methods that allows rapid synthesis of biologically relevant molecules which otherwise would be time intensive if even possible to synthesize. Sponsor: OCAST-Oklahoma Health Research Program PI/PD: Jimmie Weaver

CAREER: Cross-Couplings Made Easy By One Electron Addition In this research, new methods will be developed for the photochemical synthesis of alkylated, arylated, and alkenylated arenes, heteroarenes and polyfluorinated arenes by formation of strategic carbon-carbon bonds. Changes to the leaving group, the electronic structure of the arene, and the photocatalyst all factor into the nature of the observed reaction. A variety of mechanistically distinct reactions will be developed. This research will facilitate: 1) the design of safer reactions that do not involve highly reactive chemicals, 2) the use of less expensive chemical processes for which no prefunctionalization is needed, and 3) the development of reactions with high chemoselectivity and functional group tolerance. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Jimmie Weaver

Synthesis of Multiply Fluorinated Aromatics Multiply fluorinated arenes are an extremely important motif for current and future pharmaceuticals. Currently, this is a very difficult type of structure to access. Completion of this proposal will significantly improve our ability to access these molecules. We have shown that photocatalysis has the ability to fragment the strong C–F bond. This proposal will address this problem simultaneously from three directions, namely by the development of photocatalytic and non-photocatalytic C–F functionalization reactions and by photocatalyst development for more sophisticated C–F functionalization reactions. Sponsor: National Institute of Health PI/PD: Jimmie Weaver Modeling Aqueous Solvation in Biology Researchers cannot yet reliably compute protein aggregation, solubilities, solution viscosities, Hofmeister effects, nor can they yet rationally design solution formulations that prevent the precipitation of biologicals, or design optimal conditions for protein crystallization. This project will tackle these issues with both theory and experiments, improving our understanding of protein interactions and aggregation in a variety of complex environments. This will lead to new computational models for solvation of biomolecules, aiding in the development of bio- therapeutic drug formulations necessary for pharmaceutical shelf-stability, as well as safe and effective treatments. Sponsor: National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the NIH PI/PDs: Christopher J. Fennell Stony Brook University: Ken A. Dill University of Ljubljana: Vojko Vlachy

Surface Coatings Measurements This work involves the characterization and understanding the basic chemical and physical properties of superhydrophobic coatings. We are interested in how the coatings behavior depends on the kinds of particles used, the amount of silane on the superhydrophobic particles, and the particle loadings. The coatings are studied by a variety of techniques including contact angle, electron microscopy, dynamic mechanical spectroscopy, infra-red and others as needed. Sponsor: Dry Surface Coatings PI/PD: Frank D. Blum

Conductive Organic (Carbon-Based) Threads Employed as Non-Metallic Electrodes for Clinical Applications The technology described the preparation of organic conductive threads as non-metallic electrodes for biological electrochemical stimulations for neurological diseases. Sponsor: Technology Business Development Program PI/PDs: Toby Nelson

Pheromone Perception in Moth The goals of this research is to develop a model for unraveling the peri-receptor signaling mechanism in olfaction where a chemical signal is translated into electric currents in the neurons of the brain evoking behavioral responses. Interaction of a pheromone with pheromone binding protein (PBP) is the first peri-receptor step in the sequential events that leads to the activation of the signal transduction cascade in olfaction. The proposed research is geared to understand the mechanisms of binding of a pheromone by PBP at neutral pH (antenna) and its release at the olfactory neuron at lower pH involving a change in the shape/conformation of the protein. Sponsor: United States Department of Agriculture PI/PD: Smita Mohanty Elucidating the Molecular Mechanisms of odor and Pheromone Signaling in Olfactory Neurons The objective of this research is to investigate the mechanisms of the olfactory signal transduction at the receptor level. Activation of the membrane-bound receptor will be characterized, the role of pheromone-binding protein in the kinetics of pheromone signaling, and to determine the combination of receptor, PBP and pheromone that activates or inactivates the signaling process. These goals will be achieved through a combination of biochemical, biophysical and electrophysiology experiments. Sponsor: United States Department of Agriculture Co-PI/co-PD: Smita Mohanty

A Nanostructured Energy Harvesting and Storage System for Space and Terrestrial Applications The ultimate goal of the proposed research is the final fabrication and characterization of a nanostructured photovoltaic system connected to nanostructured batteries in order to form a novel, self-sustaining energy storage system. Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration PI/PDs: Allen Apblett, Nick Materer

CALCIUM CHLORIDE (CaCl2) PRILLING - USP CRYSTALS Magnesium Products and Dr. Apblett in the Department of Chemistry at Oklahoma State University, will plan, design, test and optimize a process to produce highly purified, pharmaceutical grade magnesium chloride from impure magnesium chloride brines. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Allen Apblett

Hydrocarbon Fuels, Chemicals, and Intermediates from a Novel Biomass Pyrolysis Technology Biomass fast pyrolysis holds promise for production of hydrocarbon fuels and chemicals. However, despite recent advances, converting bio-oil (product of biomass fast pyrolysis) into usable fuels and chemicals remains a major challenge. The problems with the bio-oil are due to its high oxygen content, high acidity and instability that are results of high oxygen and low hydrogen contents of its precursor biomass. As biomass and methane have complementary compositions, use of natural gas (an abundant and cheap source of methane) in limited quantity can dramatically improve selectivity and yield of hydrocarbons. The overall goal of this project is to demonstrate a novel natural Gas and Biomass To Liquids (GBTL) technology that will synergistically use biomass and methane to directly produce liquid hydrocarbons. Sponsor: United States Department of Agriculture PI/PD: Allen Apblett, Ajay Kumar

PFI AIR-TT: Transitioning Explosive Sensing Technology to the Marketplace This Accelerating Innovation Technology Translation project aims to develop a real-time explosive sensor that is highly selective and sensitive for peroxide-based improvised explosives and the hydrogen peroxide that is used to manufacture them. There is a major societal need and market opportunity for sensing technologies for peroxide-based improvised explosives. this need will be addressed by the targeted innovation, a sensor prototype based on technology from a past NSF project. Thus, the goal of this project) is to transition explosive sensing technology developed from the knowledge gained from a funded NSF project, Award 0731208, “EXP-SA: Development of Metal Oxide Bronzes for Detection of Military and Improvised Explosives,” into a high-reliability and selective sensor for peroxide-based improvised explosives agents and their precursors. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Allen Apblett, Nick Materer

Extracting the Photonic Spectrum for the Long Range Exploration of Space: A Hybrid Photovoltaic Photon Upconversion and Biological System for Energy Production and Life Support” We are developing a novel biologically-based life support system to sustain long-range space travel. This system allows for increased biomass production using normally unused wavelengths in the solar electromagnetic spectrum by coupling photosynthesis with up and down conversion of photons. Cultures of microalgae will provide a source of oxygen and nutrients for manned space exploration, while simultaneously removing waste carbon dioxide Sponsor National Aeronautics and Space Administration PI/PDs: Allen Apblett

Resin Compared to Portland Cement as a Sealant for OCS Wells Various resin-based compounds are being evaluated as sealants for petroleum wells in the OCS. All aspects of resin application as a well bore sealant are covered including sealant chemistry, performance properties, design, material transport, mixing, placement, and long-term seal durability. The impact of resin application on operations, HSE, cost and long-term well bore integrity are being compared to those of Portland cement. Sponsor Bureau of Safety and Environmental Performance PI/PDs: Allen Apblett

Distributed Sensors for Carbon Dioxide Detection Oklahoma State University, in partnership with the Southwest Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership (SWP), is developing and implementing new near-surface and airborne monitoring technologies that employ infrared gas analyzers. The proposed research program is focused on the design and deployment of a grid of shallow subsurface and surface sensors in combination with low-altitude automated airborne (an unmanned aerial vehicle, or UAV) detection of CO2 and CH4. These technologies are being tested at the Farnsworth Oil Unit in the Anadarko Basin of the northeastern Texas panhandle, where the SWP and Chaparral Energy, LLC, are conducting a CO2-enhanced oil recovery field project. The study employs a range of techniques to (1) characterize and classify potential leakage pathways, (2) determine gas flux within and atop the soil profile, (3) apply low-altitude detection technology, and (4) analyze the results. The primary focus of this research is to develop and optimize an integrated monitoring system capable of directly detecting and quantifying CO2 and CH4 seepage into the soil zone and the atmosphere. The sensor networks approach used in this study will facilitate the identification of potential leakage pathways at future storage sites. The sensor network is being designed to reduce the labor and maintenance demands of the gas monitoring systems currently in use, which could help reduce overall storage project costs. In addition, the sensor network will provide critical information on the movement of gases within the soil and into the atmosphere, which provides the data required to calibrate and validate the airborne sensing systems (Figure 2). The need for calibration and validation necessitates an analytical approach combining surface and airborne technology. The research team intends to use this approach as a bridge to fully automated airborne monitoring systems capable of directly detecting CO2 concentration, rapid deployment, and yielding reliable results without the aid of near-surface sensor networks. Sponsor: Department of Energy Co-PI/Co-PD: Nicholas Materer (Distribute Mesh Sensors) Chemical Engineering: Peter Clark Civil Engineering: Tyler Ley

High Efficiency Flexible Dilute Nitrides Solar Cells for Space Applications Description of Research: Photovoltaics play a critical role in power generation in space with several generations of solar cell technology developed since the first space missions in the 1950’s. While silicon single-junction solar cells are still used in some cases, such as on the international space station, most applications use the state-of-the-art technology, III-V multi- junction solar cells (MJSCs). Satellites and CubeSAT systems require solar cells that are resistant to high proton irradiation, function at extreme temperatures, and have a lower specific power (W/kg), to lighten the payload. Some important applications rely even more on having solar cells with a high efficiency. In deeper space missions, for example, solar cells must operate in a low-intensity low-temperature environment (LILT). Arrays for solar electric propulsion (SEP) also require very high efficiency solar cells that are reliable, resistance to the specific environment, and have potential for roll-out deployment. Deployment cost would ultimately benefit from high efficiency cells through a lower specific power and lighter payload. For these more demanding missions, concentrator-PV (CPV) systems that incorporate lenses to increase the light intensity on MJSCs are considered the most practical option. However, the efficiency of the solar cell must be further improved (current state-of-the art space cells operate at 27%) and the tolerance of such systems to the specific mission environment must be rigorously evaluated. In this program we focus on the development of next generation MJSCs based on hydrogen-passivated dilute nitride semiconductors, which have the potential to increase the power conversion efficiency (PCE) to > 39% under AM0 space conditions. Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration Co-PI/co-PD: Nicholas Materer (PI is Professor Ian R. Sellers at OU)

CAREER: Unraveling the Cluster Chemistry of Chalcogenide Semiconductor Nanoparticles Binary chalcogenides are some of the most well studied nanomaterials due to their applications as light emitting diodes, biolabels, catalysts, and as electro-optical and medical devices. Synthetic strategies with remarkable control over the composition, size, and morphology have been achieved and-with this- exquisite control over the resulting properties. The composition, size, shape, and the crystalline phase of the nanoparticles are interdependent, however, and the underlying synthetic mechanisms driving the outcomes of these parameters are not always clear. Obtaining control over these variables at the molecular level, therefore, continues to be one of the main challenges in the field. In this NSF CAREER proposal, the PI seeks to generate fundamental knowledge on the role of intermediates, such as chalcogen ionic clusters, and their effect on the composition, size, shape, and crystal structure of the resulting chalcogenide nanocrystals in solution. Low-temperature solution methods are known to form the Wurtzite and Zinc Blende polymorphs, but little is known about how the structure of the intermediates directs the formation of the polymorph. The PI proposes to determine the role of catenation and formation of ionic chalcogen clusters as structural intermediates in the formation of the Wurtzite versus Zinc Blende crystal structures. Additionally, the robustness of the chalcogen lattice makes post-synthetic modification of the composition of chalcogenide nanomaterials possible through anion and cation exchange reactions. Cation exchange reactions have been + explored in CdSe, where reacting with Ag results in Ag2Se. Anion exchange reactions, however, have not been explored to the same degree. The PI will use hard-soft acid base theory to determine the anion exchange capabilities of binary chalcogenide semiconductors. It is expected that these materials will be able to undergo a complete compositional transformation with morphological retention if cation and anion exchange reactions can be done sequentially. Finally, because of their stability, chalcogen clusters can be utilized as templates to generate more complex materials in such as chalcophosphates. The PI will explore the post-modification of chalcogenide nanoparticles as templates to synthesize complex nanoscale chalcophosphates. Sponsor: National Science Foundation Co-PI/co-PD: Yolanda Vasquez

Using Tapered Copolymers to Understand Nanoscale Interfaces within Polymeric Materials and Their Influence on Macroscale Properties The solid-state organization of large synthetic macromolecules, which were obtained through collaboration with Dr. Joe Zhou at ChevronPhillips, is investigated to determine how improved systems can be designed to meet needs for tough, durable materials. As a part of the investigation, advanced characterization techniques generally applicable to amorphous macromolecular systems across disciplines are developed, as well as fundamental insights into how molecular organization at interfaces impacts useful mechanical properties. Sponsors: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Jeffery L. White Center for Interfacial Reaction Engineering A collaborative effort to develop new catalysts, chemistries, and mechanistic understandings for the use of catalysts in mixed solvent-phase systems aims to develop processes for converting feedstocksm a w fro ide variety of sources to energy and chemical feedstocks, including molecules derived from biomass. The project involves scientists and engineers from OU, OSU, and University of Tulsa. Sponsors: Department of Energy PI/PD: Daniel Resasco (University of Oklahoma), Jeffery L. White (Oklahoma State University) Clint Aichele (Oklahoma State University) Steven Crossley (University of Oklahoma) Sanwu Wang (University of Tulsa)

Determining Kerogen Structure and Connectivity Using Advanced Magnetic Resonance Methods The project seeks to utilize and develop novel magnetic resonance methods to help understand the types of organic matter in geological formations using primarily non-destructive spectroscopic tools. The findings from this work could be used to predict whether or not certain regions are productive for oil and gas exploration. Sponsors: Aramco R&D PI/PD: Jeffery L. White

An REU Site in Interdisciplinary Chemistry at Oklahoma State University The project hosts 10-15 undergraduate chemistry research students from across the nation at OSU each summer. Students learn research methods, critical data analysis, and cutting edge ideas related to materials, biological, synthetic, environmental, medicinal, and analytical chemistries. Sponsors: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Jeffery L. White, Smita Mohanty (co-PI)

Long-Chain Linear Oligogermanes and Polygermanes with Tunable Optical and Electronic Properties: Steps Toward the Design of Tailored Molecular Electronics Oligogermanes are of interest due to their inherent σ-delocalization that results in interesting optical and electronic properties that can be tuned by varying their composition. We developed a method for the rational synthesis of these molecules using the hydrogermolysis reaction and have prepared a wide variety of oligogermanes. We endeavor to synthesize a diverse array of long-chain linear oligogermanes in order to ascertain if these new molecules will exhibit useful optical and conductive attributes akin to their polygermane analogues. We have found that long-chain oligogermanes exhibit polychroic, thermochromic, and fluorescent properties and these attributes will be investigated and correlated with the composition of the molecules. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Scott Weinert COMPUTER SCIENCE

Integrating disease-correlated ambient information into reliable and privacy-preserving pervasive health monitoring The first pervasive health monitoring system that integrates disease-correlated ambient factors will be designed and developed. In addition, it will also surpass all existing ones by providing reliable, efficient, and privacy-preserving data collection and transmission. At the completion of this project, it not only will greatly enhance the preventive, proactive, and patient-centered treatment to many chronic diseases, but also can facilitate the research on discovering new correlations between ambient factors and disease development. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) PI/PD: Eric Chan-Tin

Privacy Issues in Smart Grid Data Sharing Smart grid envisioned as the next-generation power grid with much improved reliability and energy efficiency, relies on two-way communications of large amounts of collected consumption data, power quality data and event data for real-time network monitoring, load balancing, demand and outage management, etc… In this project, the plan is to analyze the pros and cons of all the emerging techniques and propose a framework which can adapt the privacy solutions to reach optimal tradeoff among all performance measures based on users’ requirements. Sponsor: National Energy Solutions Institute – Smart Energy Source (NESI-SES) PI/PDs: Eric Chan-Tin School of Electrical and Computer Engineering: Qi Cheng Industrial Engineering and Management: Arash Pourhabib

Censorship and Circumvention on the Internet Freedom of speech is generally considered to be important and in developed countries such as the USA, freedom of speech is taken for granted. In many countries such as Egypt, Iran, and China, Internet access and content are censored by the Internet Service Providers or government. Censorship means that users' access to Internet content is blocked. Moreover, the government or the ISP controls what content is blocked without input or knowledge of the users. The goal of this project will be to investigate censorship methods used, perform a widespread measurement of censorship activities, and explore circumvention techniques to bypass censorship. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University – College of Arts & Sciences PI/PDs: Eric Chan-Tin

eXploration Habitat (X-Hab) 2017 Academic Innovation Challenge: 1.6 Deep Space Mars Transit Habitat Layout & Development Studies Following upon the previous X-Hab Academic Innovation Challenges and with direct feedback from the NASA team during the Critical Design Review (CDR) phase of the 2015-2016 challenge, we propose to add to, modify and utilize previously developed components to test scenarios for a full deep space Mars transit and landing for the 2017 X-Hab Academic Innovation Challenge. Sponsor: NASA National Space Grant PI/PDs: Eric Chan-Tin, Joe Cecil, Blayne Mayfield School of Architecture: Steven O’Hara Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: Jamey Jacob

REU Site: Big Data Analytics at Oklahoma State University This project will support a three-year REU site at OSU. The most significant component of the project is a ten-week summer institute for ten undergraduate students from colleges in Oklahoma and neighboring states. During the summer, the participants will engage in research in big data analytics under the mentorship of faculty mentors. The big data field is rapidly growing in importance, as shown by the significant increase in employment opportunities reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This project will impact the training of the 21st century workforce by broadening participation in computing research and exposing minority students to research. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Eric Chan-Tin, K. M. George

NSF RII Track-2 FEC: Unmanned Aircraft System for Atmospheric Physics This large multidisciplinary collaboration aims to develop sensors, techniques and robotic platforms which will enhance our ability to understand and better predict the development of severe weather phenomena. Dr. Crick's focus is in developing algorithms for large groups of robots with different capabilities to plan, deploy, collaborate and share information with each other and with human team members. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Christopher Crick Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: Jamey Jacob, Brian Ebling Department of Geography: Amy Frazier University of Oklahoma: Phillip Chilson, Jessica Ruyle, Elinor Martin University of Nebraska: Adam Houston, Matthew Van Den Broeke, Carrick Detweiler University of Kentucky: Suzanne Smith, Sean Bailey, Marcelo Guzman, Jesse Hoag, Michael Sama

NSF NRI: Collaborative Goal and Policy Learning from Human Operators of Construction Co- Robots The different capabilities of humans and robots can be leveraged when they work together in teams. In the context of construction heavy equipment, humans are better able to plan and react to complex context, but machines can optimize control inputs for particular tasks and operate more effectively than novice users. We are developing processes by which robots can learn from expert human demonstration, and then effectively assist novice operators. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Christopher Crick Department of Psychology: Charles Abramson University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign: Girish Chowdhary Texas A&M University: Prabhakar Pagilla Software development for tagging machine This project designs and implements a software to control a tagging machine. Multiple shapes and texts can be created using the software and printed using the tagging machine. Sponsor: KOSTED, Enid, Oklahoma PI/PD: K.M. George

A Gigabit Network & Cyber-Physical Framework for Advanced Manufacturing The emergence of cyber physical frameworks has been catalyzed by various smart technologies including Next Generation Networks and 3D based Virtual Prototyping. Such frameworks hold the potential to support complex distributed collaborative practices in various engineering fields especially advanced manufacturing. This project explores the design and implementation of such a cyber-physical framework based on Internet-of-Things (IoT) technologies for the domain of micro devices assembly, which involves the assembly of micron sized devices. The components of this framework is being developed using emerging GENI based Next Internet technologies. An advanced IoT based Test Bed has been implement to validate research findings. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: J. Cecil

A Cyber Manufacturing & Entrepreneurship Initiative to Foster Global Manufacturing The focus of this research project is to explore an innovative way to encourage engineering and business students to work together and develop new cyber and physical products for cyber manufacturing and engineering domains. A cyber test bed as well as innovative learning modules (as part of a new course at OSU) have also been created to help students learn cutting edge concepts which will enable them to gain a better grasp of new technologies (including how to create apps, VR based simulation environments, etc.). OSU students interact with students in HUST China to identify new cyber and physical products in the context of cyber manufacturing applications. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: J. Cecil

Exploring Ultrafast Networks for Training Surgeons Using Virtual Reality Based Environments This project focuses on the design of a Next Generation GENI networking based approach to support Virtual Reality simulation based training of medical residents in an orthopedic surgical process termed Less Invasive Stabilization System (LISS) plating surgery. Software Defined Networking (SDN) principles have been used in the GENI Test Bed along with adoption of cloud technologies; the simulators have been developed using haptic, semi immersive and fully immersive environments. Developing such simulators is a complex task involving multiple systems, technologies and human experts. Information models were developed to provide a structured basis to design and build the simulators; use cases of the target surgical processes were also built using a modeling language called the engineering Enterprise Modeling Language. The impact of the simulator has been validated through interactions with residents during multiple phases which underscores its potential. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: J. Cecil REU Site: Research Experiences in Information Centric Engineering (ICE) The focus of this REU Site grant is to introduce undergraduate engineering and science students to emerging research areas in Information Centric Engineering (ICE); students are being exposed to 3 thrust areas: modeling, simulation and exchange of information to support collaborative engineering and medical simulation activities. Through these 3 thrusts, students are exposed to several process domains: manufacturing, space systems design, and medical simulations. One of the thrust areas deals with exposing students to design of advanced Virtual Reality based simulation environments for manufacturing assembly and medical simulation; interactions with surgeons at medical hospitals as well as engineers at NASA is part of the REU experiences. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: J. Cecil

Building a Remote Experimentation Network for Serving Higher Education Teachers & Students in Iraq (REXNet) This unique project focused on the creation of innovative Remote Labs oriented Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) for university students in Iraq; such VLES hold the potential to provide enriched earning experiences for engineering and science students. The VLEs were used to develop ‘remote labs’ or ‘online labs’ to support learning of robotics concepts through the Internet from distant locations. As part of an international educational project target engineering university students in Kurdistan (Iraq), new curriculum modules were designed and developed using Virtual Reality (VR) technologies. In this project, the VLEs were designed to teach robotics concepts to engineering and science students at the undergraduate level. The VLEs were developed using Virtual Reality technologies; technology based assessments of these remote lab oriented VLEs have underscored their feasibility in being accessible from different locations. The learning modules include (a) an introduction to robotics (b) robotics assembly (c) robot assembly based factory designs (d) learning to build assembly simulations using VR tools. Sponsor: US Department of State, IREX PI/PDs: J. Cecil ENGLISH

Playing Decision Points: The Gamification of Public Memory This grant supported a paper presented at the Computers and Writing Conference in Rochester, New York. In this project, I consider the racial logics of gamification—the use of game-like forms and mechanics to engage and motivate people—and question how they might be exclusionary. This project addresses the technologies of gamification and gamification as a technology. I suggest that, because gamification is infused with curious racial logics, instructors are obligated to work with their students to expose and demystify those logics. This paper is part of a larger book project, titled, Gamification and the Technologies of Promise. Sponsor: Arts and Sciences – Dean’s Incentive Grant PI/PD: Joshua Daniel-Wariya

“The Freedom to Do My Own Washing”: Autobiographical Narratives of the Irish Independent Living Movement This project analyzes autobiographical narratives by disabled Irish women who have moved from residential institutions to integrated social housing. Concepts of “independence” and “freedom” were interrogated as to the ways each woman defines them in light of her gender, class, and life history. Drawing upon disabled people’s own perceptions of their experience, the analysis calls for a redefinition of those concepts that would cease to be exclusively associated with private living quarters and geographic mobility and instead emphasize the capacity to affect the material environment and make a wide variety of choices expressing one’s sense of gender and social role. Sponsor: Arts and Sciences Travel Program PI/PD: Elizabeth Grubgeld

Pan-African Precarity in A Squatter’s Tale and GraceLand I used the Fall Travel grant from the College of Arts and Sciences for financial support to attend and present at the Association for Commonwealth Literature and Language Studies (ACLALS) 2016 conference in Stellenbosch, South Africa, from 10 – 15 July 2016. I presented a paper titled “Pan-African Precarity in A Squatter’s Tale and GraceLand” as part of the panel “Truth, Reconciliation, Precarity.” I argued that the novels suggest literature’s potential for positioning shared need as a basis for ongoing transnational political relationship. Sponsor: Arts and Sciences Travel Program PI/PD: Katherine Hallemeier

Milton and the Broadway Chapel Documents in the Westminster Abbey Muniment Room and the Westminster Archive Centre make clear that John Milton’s second wife Katherine Woodcock and their daughter Katherine were not buried in the mother church of St Margaret’s, Westminster as scholars have long assumed. Newly discovered funeral expenses and churchwarden accounts clarify that the funeral service and the burials for mother and daughter took place a month apart in 1658 at the Broadway Chapel founded in 1641, a chapel of ease located about a quarter of a mile from Milton’s home in Petty France. The convenience of the location, Milton’s blindness, and the appointment of a reformed minister to the living provide additional reasons why such a decision was made. Sponsor: Arts and Sciences Travel Program PI/PD: Edward Jones

American Forces Network: A Cultural History Research at the National Archives II in College Park, MD. Travel was completed in June 2017, and included a detailed examination of the Records of the Office of Armed Forces Information and Education (Record Group 530). Research supports my book project on the American Forces Network and its long history as a supplier of information and entertainment to US troops serving overseas. Sponsor: Arts and Sciences Travel Program PI/PD: Stacy Takacs

The Dumb Supper An original historical literary novel set in nineteenth-century Concord, Massachusetts. The novel focuses on the lives of women of marriageable age and their potential mates, wounded Civil War veterans, who meet at a dinner party where no one may speak but must communicate their needs and desires to each other and their hostess through nonverbal communication. Aimee Parkison is the author and principal investigator. The project sponsors are the. Sponsor: American Antiquarian Society and the North Carolina Arts Council PI/PD: Aimee Parkison

Language Use and Attitudes among Skaters (Skateboarders) This study investigates skaters’ language use along several linguistic dimensions in speech and writing and their perceptions of the role of language in their identity. Sponsors: English Department, Center for Oklahoma Studies, OSU Graduate College PI/PD: Ho’omana Nathan Horton

Vowel Systems of Young Oklahoma Spanish-English Bilinguals This study investigates the English vowel systems of young Spanish-English bilingual men from Oklahoma and compares their systems to that of monolingual English-speaking young men from the State. Sponsors: English Department, Center for Oklahoma Studies PI/PDs: Bryce McCleary, Micol Martinelli

Vowel Systems of Young Oklahoma Gay Men This study investigates the English vowel systems of young gay men from Oklahoma and compares their systems to that of straight young men from the State. Sponsors: English Department, Center for Oklahoma Studies PI/PD: Bryce McCleary Personal Dative Use in Oklahoma This study investigates the use of the personal dative construction (“I bought me a new car”) in Oklahoma and constraints on the construction that may differ from those in Appalachian English. Sponsors: English Department, Center for Oklahoma Studies. University of Alabama Department of Speech Sciences PI/PDs: Sara Loss, Dennis Preston University of Alabama: Paul Reed

Attitudes to Oklahoma English This study collects and analyzes conversational data collected from a wide variety of Oklahoma respondents with regard to their attitudes towards language in general but towards Oklahoma English in particular. Sponsors: English Department, Center for Oklahoma Studies, OSU Graduate College PI/PDs: Elena Rodgers, Dennis Preston

Oklahoma ‘Twang’ This study collects and analyzes conversational data collected from a wide variety of Oklahoma respondents with regard to their understanding of the language descriptor ‘twang’ and collects their responses to resynthesized versions of Oklahoma speech that vary spectrographically with regard to their degree of nasalance (i.e., “nasality”). Sponsors: English Department, Center for Oklahoma Studies, OSU Graduate College PI/PDs: Elena Rodgers, Dennis Preston

Oklahoma State University Linguistic Diversity This study and action program studies faculty attitudes towards varieties of English used in the speech and writing of OSU students and, in collaboration with the Division of Institutional Diversity, is building a program of presentations and study sessions devoted the more general issues raised by this theme. Sponsors: English Department, Center for Oklahoma Studies, Division of Institutional Diversity PI/PDs: Ho’omana Nathan Horton, Dennis Preston

RODEO (Research on the Dialects of English in Oklahoma) This large-scale, long-range ongoing study continues to collect and analyze English at several linguistic levels (i.e., pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, etc…) as spoken by Oklahoma residents, as well as their attitudes towards their own speech and that of others. It provides the data for many smaller studies that are the basis of honors papers, MA Theses, and qualifying papers and dissertations at the PhD level. Sponsors: English Department, Center for Oklahoma Studies PI/PD: Dennis Preston FOREIGN LANGUAGES AND LITERATURES

The Future in 21st century Spanish Fiction Collective memory, and ethical and political responsibility towards the past have been the focus of most of the fictional and academic works on Spain since the end of Francisco Franco’s dictatorship (1939-1975). My project reads recent Spanish cinema as it anchors its ethical concerns, conversely, into the future. This cultural shift can be a symptom of Spanish youth’s reaction to the economic crisis –embodied in the “indignados” (indignant) or “15-M” (May 15th, 2011) movement. I studied the Spanish science-fiction movie Eva (Kike Maíllo, 2011) and its representation of natality and new beginnings. Sponsor: ASR+1, A&S Fall travel award PI/PD: Isabel Alvarez-Sancho

Dialectal Variation in Mexican Spanish The common expressions and syntax used in different dialects of Mexican Spanish will be studied using recorded interviews of individuals who are from the states of Puebla, Oaxaca, and Veracruz, Mexico. Sponsor: College of Arts and Sciences PI/PD: Aaron Roggia

Heritage Germans in Oklahoma: Their contributions past and present This study traces the settlement and development of communities in Oklahoma in which German immigrants constituted the largest ethnic group. Along with revealing patterns in their cultural and linguistic maintenance, it reveals factors in the evolution of the ethnic culture in the context of its environment: economic and other survival interests competed with linguistic and religious interests, leading to various degrees of accommodation and success. Sponsor: Oklahoma Humanities Council PI/PD: John R. te Velde GEOGRAPHY

Thematic Survey of Oklahoma’s World War II Training Airfields, 1941-1945. This project involved locating, identifying, and documenting historic resources (buildings, structures, and objects) associated with U.S. Army Air Corps/Air Forces training facilities located on non-federal property within Oklahoma. Extant historic resources constructed during the study period (1941-1945) were recorded at the minimal level of documentation. Resources identified as eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places or potentially eligible were described and reported. The project also included the development of an historic context and annotated bibliography to aid future research and preservation planning efforts. The study area was the State of Oklahoma. Sponsors: Oklahoma Historical Society, Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Brad A. Bays (PI), Thomas A. Wikle (co-PI)

Reconnaissance-Level Survey of Modern Houses in Payne County, 1946-1976. This project involved locating, identifying, and documenting houses constructed between 1946 and 1976 that conformed to one of many architectural styles classified as Mid-century Modern. Areas developed during the postwar study period were mapped and sampled. Representative resources were recorded at the minimal level of documentation and properties identified as either individually eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places or contributing resources to potential National Register districts were described and reported. The project also included the development of an historic context and annotated bibliography to aid future research and preservation planning efforts. The study area was Payne County, Oklahoma. Sponsors: Oklahoma Historical Society, Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Brad A. Bays (PI)

FY15-16 Oklahoma Landmarks Inventory and National Register Website This project is a continuation of support for storing, maintaining, and updating, via computerization, the Oklahoma Landmarks Inventory (OLI) database and Oklahoma’s National Register of Historic Places website. The information about the state’s historic buildings, districts, structures, sites, and objects will be accessible to its many users. Complete work on locational enhancement will be undertaken as part of the ongoing project for this academic year, to include site location gathering in northwestern and central Oklahoma. Software upgrades will be undertaken during this period as well, including implementation of a new database for the OLI. Sponsors: Oklahoma Historical Society, Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Allen Finchum FY16-17 Oklahoma Landmarks Inventory and National Register Website This project is a continuation of support for storing, maintaining, and updating, via computerization, the Oklahoma Landmarks Inventory (OLI) database and Oklahoma’s National Register of Historic Places website. The information about the state’s historic buildings, districts, structures, sites, and objects will be accessible to its many users. Begin work on removing erroneous and duplicate records in OLI for 4-6 counties. Software upgrades will be undertaken during this period as well, including new import functions for adding records to the OLI database. Sponsors: Oklahoma Historical Society, Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Allen Finchum

EPSCoR RII-2 FEC: CLOUD-MAP (Collaborative Leading Operational UAS Development for Meteorology and Atmospheric Physics) (FY 2015-2019) The aim of this project is to develop capabilities that will allow meteorologists and atmospheric scientists to use unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) as a common, useful everyday tool. UAS are well suited for the lower atmosphere, namely the lower boundary layer that has a large impact on the atmosphere and where many weather phenomena begin. Due to the boundary layer’s proximity to the ground and its transient nature, current technologies including manned aircraft, weather balloons, and radar have severe limitations in providing detailed measurements. The data collected by unmanned platforms will be used to improve our understanding and develop more accurate forecasting models. Partners include 4 PIs and 12 Co-PIs from Oklahoma State University, the Univ. of Oklahoma, the Univ. of Kentucky, and the Univ. of Nebraska along with collaborators from industry and government. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Jamey Jacob (PI); Frazier (Co-PI)

Data Complexity and Spatial Scaling: Prediction Accuracy and Implications for Emerging Landscape Paradigms (FY 2016-2018) This research investigates the impacts of heterogeneity and data loss on scaling across geographic contexts. By drawing on recent parallel advancements in remote sensing and landscape ecology, which alter the way in which heterogeneity is captured and conceptualized, this research will enhance fundamental theory in geography and spatial science surrounding biases associated with the modifiable areal unit problem (MAUP). Characterizing this bias prior to analysis will allow researchers to more reliably determine scaling relationships across landscapes and advance a theory of spatial scaling. Sponsor: National Science Foundation - Geography and Spatial Sciences (GSS) and Methodology, Measurement, and Statistics (MMS) PI/PD: Amy Frazier (PI), Peter Kedron (Co-PI) EPSCoR RII (OIA-1301789): Adapting Socio-Ecological Systems to Increased Climate Variability (FY 2013-2019) The aim of this project is establish a first-of-its-kind, statewide, socio-ecological observatory network that is designed to provide a systems-level understanding of coupled human and natural system under a variable climate. Building on that observatory the grant aims to develop a fully integrated socio-ecological modeling and prediction capabilities that integrate qualitative and quantitative approaches from across disciplinary boundaries. That integrated modeling will inform a decision-support system that provides researchers, educators, and practitioners with data and modeling tools necessary to explore alternative management scenarios and their socio-ecological impacts. Partners include Oklahoma State University, the Univ. of Oklahoma, The University of Tulsa, Langston University, The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, and the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation among many others. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Ray Huhnke, Alicia Knoedler (Co-PI)

An Analysis of Innovation and Performance in US Biofuel Firms: Implications for the Biofuel Technological Innovation System (FY2013-2018) The project focuses on an analysis of the evolution of the biofuel technological innovation system within the United States, with emphasis on both first- and second-generation biofuels. The investigators will analyze firm performance and the role of the producer within the U.S. biomass-based biofuel technological innovation system. They will focus on analysis of answers to two specific sets of questions: (1) What internal and external factors determine innovation and business performance in biofuel firms, and to what extent do biofuel firms depend on local policy and partners to improve performance? (2) How do adjustments in firm-level processes affect system-wide functions, and how do firms shape and reshape the overall environment of biofuel innovation and production? Sponsor: National Science Foundation - Geography and Spatial Sciences (GSS) PI/PD: Sharmistha Bagchi-Sen (PI), Peter Kedron (Co-PI)

AAPG-OSU Digitization Program (FY 09-19) This project is a continuation of a series of projects that involve converting analog maps and atlases to a variety digital products for the American Association of Petroleum Geologists. These newly created digital data sets are made available to the organization’s members throughout the world. Sponsors: American Association of Petroleum Geologists PI/PD: Dale Lightfoot/Michael Larson

Geological Atlas of the Rocky Mountain Region (FY 14-17) The Geological Atlas of the Rocky Mountain Region was published in 1972. This project digitizing a number of geologic data layers from 46 map figures from the atlas, as well as populating attribute tables for each. Sponsors: American Association of Petroleum Geologists PI/PD: Michael Larson/April Chipman Geological Highway Map Series – Pacific Southwest (FY 15-17) The Geological Highway Map of the Pacific Southwest region was published by the American Association of Petroleum Geologists in 1968. This project involves updating the original map and preparing a new layout for printing as well as creating a separate GIS product. This will entail scanning, georeferencing, and digitizing all individual and inset maps, as well as populating attribute tables for each. The project will also digitize associated charts and cross- sections that go with the maps. Sponsors: American Association of Petroleum Geologists PI/PD: Michael Larson

Geological Highway Map Series – Mid-Continent (FY 15-17) The Geological Highway Map of the Mid-Continent region was published by the American Association of Petroleum Geologists in 1986. This project involves updating the original map and preparing a new layout for printing as well as creating a separate GIS product. This will entail scanning, georeferencing, and digitizing all individual and inset maps, as well as populating attribute tables for each. The project will also digitize associated charts and cross- sections that go with the maps. Sponsors: American Association of Petroleum Geologists PI/PD: Michael Larson

Geological Highway Map Series – Northern Great Plains (FY 15-17) The Geological Highway Map of the Northern Great Plains region was published by the American Association of Petroleum Geologists in 1984. This project involves updating the original map and preparing a new layout for printing as well as creating a separate GIS product. This will entail scanning, georeferencing, and digitizing all individual and inset maps, as well as populating attribute tables for each. The project will also digitize associated charts and cross- sections that go with the maps. Sponsors: American Association of Petroleum Geologists PI/PD: Michael Larson

Geological Highway Map Series – Northern Rocky Mountains (FY 16-18) The Geological Highway Map of the Northern Rocky Mountain region was published by the American Association of Petroleum Geologists in 1972. This project involves updating the original map and preparing a new layout for printing as well as creating a separate GIS product. This will entail scanning, georeferencing, and digitizing all individual and inset maps, as well as populating attribute tables for each. The project will also digitize associated charts and cross- sections that go with the maps. Sponsors: American Association of Petroleum Geologists PI/PD: Michael Larson/Clay Barrett Geological Highway Map Series – Pacific Northwest (FY 17-18) The Geological Highway Map of the Pacific Northwest region was published by the American Association of Petroleum Geologists in 1973. This project involves updating the original map and preparing a new layout for printing as well as creating a separate GIS product. This will entail scanning, georeferencing, and digitizing all individual and inset maps, as well as populating attribute tables for each. The project will also digitize associated charts and cross- sections that go with the maps. Sponsors: American Association of Petroleum Geologists PI/PD: Michael Larson/Clay Barrett

Geological Highway Map Series – Southern Rocky Mountains (FY 17-18) The Geological Highway Map of the Southern Rocky Mountain region was published by the American Association of Petroleum Geologists in 1990. This project seeks to convert three maps created during the Southern Rocky Mountain Region Update into a GIS format. Sponsors: American Association of Petroleum Geologists PI/PD: Michael Larson/Clay Barrett

FY 2017 RMP-GIS Project The funding supports ongoing collaboration with Oklahoma State Parks. Project personnel support the statewide dissemination of digital map data to State Park Managers and other associated personnel by way of a web map viewer. The project involves the collection of geographic data (with GPS) at Oklahoma State Parks, integration of the collected data into the current geographic database, carrying out of map analyses within specific parks, and execution of additional small research projects as necessary. Further, the project creates and edits comprehensive written Resource Management Plans (documents) for one or more designated State Parks annually. Sponsors: Oklahoma State Parks, Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department PI/PD: Adam Mathews (PI)

FY 2017 SCORP Project for Oklahoma The funding supports the preparation of the 2017 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) for Oklahoma. The SCORP document is produced every 5-years in compliance with federal law. In the SCORP, project personnel review and report: (i) demand trends in recreation behaviors, motivations, constraints, satisfaction, and use patterns addressing a wide range of activities encompassing traditional sports, hunting, and angling, (ii) attitudes toward management of wildlife, motorized consumptive activities, including rock- crawling and dune-riding, hiking, bicycling, equestrian activity and trail use, and boating, and (iii) Oklahoma’s urban outdoor recreation and tourism opportunities and economic contributions of outdoor recreation and tourism. Sponsors: Oklahoma State Parks, Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department PI/PD: Adam Mathews (PI), Tannaz Soltani (Co-PI), and Tom Wikle (Co-PI) Land System Vulnerability and Resilience to Drought: A Multi-Scalar, Comparative Analysis of Public and Private Lands in the American West Oklahoma’s Cimarron County and New Mexico’s Union County are important cattle producers. Yet, threats from drought, changing cattle market conditions, invasive species that compete with natural grasses, and governmental policies, which alter agro-business through public land leases and environmental regulations, make land users vulnerable to environmental change. The region is in the midst of extreme drought. Land managers must make decisions based on complex economic and policy influences albeit based, in part, on past experiences (e.g. 1930’s Dust Bowl). This human-environment study explores land use in terms of land users’ vulnerability and resiliency in the region through a mixed-methods approach. Sponsor: NSF/IMEE PI/PD: Jacqueline Vadjunec (PI) University of Oklahoma: Todd Fagin University of Ohio-Chillicothe, Brenda Phillips HISTORY

Local Religion in Early Modern Italy I am currently researching early modern Italian religious sites to understand how local communities perceived sacred spaces and integrated them into their political and religious histories. After publishing articles on the history of Marian shrines in Venice and the Veneto during the sixteenth century, I have turned my attention to southern Italy with the goal of a comparative study of devotion in the Venetian republic and the Kingdom of Naples. Sponsors: Department of History, Oklahoma State University PI: David D’Andrea, Department of History

Race and the Wild West In July, 2016, I traveled to Helena and Butte, Montana, to view documents at the Montana Historical Society and Silver Bow Archives. This research related to African Americans and Chinese in Montana, and contained information that has been incorporated into my forthcoming book manuscript, Race and the Wild West: Sarah Bickford and the Legend of Virginia City, Montana, 1870 – 1930, which is under contract with the University of Oklahoma Press. I also collected copies of potential images for use in my book manuscript at both archives. Sponsor: OSU Department of History PI: Laura J. Arata

Bodie Ghost Town In June, 2017, I visited the Bodie Ghost Town in California as part of ongoing research on ghost towns and tourism in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Bodie was a mining town, roughly contemporary to Virginia City, Montana (on which my book manuscript is focused) and followed a similar trajectory from mining town to ghost town to tourist attraction. Bodie had a small African American population, a Chinese population, and a newspaper – all conditions necessary for a viable comparison to Virginia City. I had never previously visited the town itself, which is only accessible during the summer due to location and road closures. Sponsor: OSU Department of History PI: Laura J. Arata

Mickey Mouse Cowboys In July and August, 2017, I traveled to Cody, Wyoming, for preliminary research at the Cody Archives in the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. This research helped to round out a paper and article that I delivered at the Buffalo Bill Centennial Symposium. Titled “Mickey Mouse Cowboys,” the article considers the role of authenticity and memory in Buffalo Bill’s legacy of the Wild West. This research forms the basis of a new book project, tentatively titled Mickey Mouse Cowboys: Memory, Authenticity, and Disney’s Wild West. Sponsor: OSU Department of History PI: Laura J. Arata A New Home on the Range: Addiction, Treatment, and Punishment in the American West This project traces the history of drug addiction and treatment in the American West during the mid-twentieth. It is the first in-depth study of the Fort Worth Narcotics Farm, the only federally- funded drug treatment center that operated west of the Mississippi River between the 1930s and 1970s. This project examines the intertwined nature of treatment and punishment at the Narcotics Farm, as well as the ways in which drug use patterns shifted during the middle decades of the twentieth century. Ultimately, it will shed light on the development of modern addiction treatment therapies, and how these affected using communities. Sponsor: Oklahoma Humanities Research Council Grant (2017-2018) PI: Holly M. Karibo

Policing the North American Borderlands: Enforcing and Evading the US-Canada-Mexico Divides This project traces the development of state regulation and policing practices along the US- Canada and US-Mexico borders, and their impacts on border people during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Although war and diplomacy established borders on paper, policing made boundaries into borders and in some cases barriers. This edited volume examines how policies and state apparatuses create and regulate national borders and how this impacts communities which cross international divides. By taking a comparative approach to the study of North American borderlands, this project provides new insight into the building of national borders historically as well as contemporary border security debates. Sponsor: National Endowment for the Humanities, Summer 2017 Fellow at the Newberry Library, “Bridging National Borders in North America” PI: Holly M. Karibo

A New Home on the Range: Addiction, Treatment, and Punishment in the American West This project traces the history of drug addiction and treatment in the American West during the mid-twentieth. It is the first in-depth study of the Fort Worth Narcotics Farm, the only federally- funded treatment center that operated west of the Mississippi River between the 1930s and 1970s. This project examines the intertwined nature of treatment and punishment at the Narcotics Farm, as well as the ways in which drug use patterns shifted during the middle decades of the twentieth century. Ultimately, it will shed light on the development of modern addiction treatment therapies, and how these affected using communities. Sponsor: Kentucky Historical Society Research Fellowship (2017-2018) PI: Holly M. Karibo A New Home on the Range: Addiction, Treatment, and Punishment in the American West This project traces the history of drug addiction and treatment in the American West during the mid-twentieth. It is the first in-depth study of the Fort Worth Narcotics Farm, the only federally- funded treatment center that operated west of the Mississippi River between the 1930s and 1970s. This project examines the intertwined nature of treatment and punishment at the Narcotics Farm, as well as the ways in which drug use patterns shifted during the middle decades of the twentieth century. Ultimately, it will shed light on the development of modern addiction treatment therapies, and how these affected using communities. Sponsor: College of Arts and Sciences 2017 Travel Award PI: Holly M. Karibo

A New Home on the Range: Addiction, Treatment, and Punishment in the American West This project traces the history of drug addiction and treatment in the American West during the mid-twentieth. It is the first in-depth study of the Fort Worth Narcotics Farm, the only federally- funded treatment center that operated west of the Mississippi River between the 1930s and 1970s. This project examines the intertwined nature of treatment and punishment at the Narcotics Farm, as well as the ways in which drug use patterns shifted during the middle decades of the twentieth century. Ultimately, it will shed light on the development of modern addiction treatment therapies, and how these affected using communities. Sponsor: Dean’s Incentive Grant, Oklahoma State University (2017) PI: Holly M. Karibo

Public Lecture Event, “From Goodwill to Grunge: A History of Secondhand Styles and Alternative Economies This multi-day event will explore the social and cultural history of the American fashion industry, with a particular focus on gender, sexuality, and capital accumulation. Dr. Jennifer Le Zotte (UNC Wilmington) will give a public lecture based on her recently published book From Goodwill to Grunge (UNC Press). One of the main goals of this interdisciplinary event is to introduce students, faculty, and the general public to exciting new research on the history of material culture. Sponsor: Fae Rawden Norris Grant PI: Holly M. Karibo

Reform’s Frontier: Finland 1560-1611 This grant supported research travel to the Library of Helsinki University, Finland’s National Library, and Finland’s National Archives during the period 7-24 June 2017. This book project is the follow-on project to my book on Finland’s Reformation 1523-1560. This new project will examine the Lutheran Reformation in Finland during the reigns of Gustav Vasa’s sons, a period in which the church was embroiled in conflicts between Lutheran reformers, Jesuit missionaries, and dynastic interests. This project will understand Finland as a frontier of wider Reformation struggles in Europe. Sponsor: Department of History, Oklahoma State University PI: Jason Lavery, Professor, Department of History Education, Rural Women, Ethnology, and Empire in British Malaya Matthew Schauer utilized the financial support of the Academic Summer Research +1 award and Dean’s Incentive Grant to travel to England to gather sources for his book project during July of 2016. He completed his research at the archives of the Cambridge University Library, National Archives (Kew), and the British Library. The Dean’s Incentive Grant allowed him to gather enough primary sources to complete a draft of his book proposal and to complete two chapter drafts of his book manuscript. He also used the sources he gathered as the basis for two conference presentations and a journal article. Sponsor: ASR+1 and Dean’s Incentive Grant (July 2016) PI: Matthew Schauer

Cultural Exchange, Education, and Ethnology in Southeast Asia Matthew Schauer utilized his Dean’s Incentive Grant to provide him with salary as he worked on two article projects and his book manuscript during June of 2017. He also spent the summer working through the thousands of sources he brought back from England last summer. He revised and resubmitted two articles, one of which will be published in January of 2018. The other article is part of an edited volume that is presently under review. Schauer also revised one of his book manuscript chapters and was able to complete a rough draft of another chapter that examines colonial museums. Sponsor: Dean’s Incentive Grant (June 2017) PI: Matthew Schauer

Dividing the Faith: The Rise of Racially Segregated Northern Churches Book Manuscript Revisions This book project examines religious exchanges and interactions among African Americans, Native Americans, and Euro-Americans from 1730 to 1850 in the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions. By historicizing racial discrimination in northern Protestant churches, it examines how definitions of race and discriminatory practices changed over time. Scholars have noted that many predominantly white churches contained some African American and Native American members, but few scholars have systematically explored race relations within these churches. This study provides a new interpretation of the religious history of early America and new perspectives on the lives of oppressed peoples in the North. Sponsor: OSU College of Arts and Sciences, Dean’s Incentive Grant (DIG) PI: Richard Boles

Preliminary Research on Early Native American and African American Christianity This grant enabled preliminary archival research for a new book project about how early Native American and African American forms of Christianity influenced each other. At archives including the American Baptist Historical Society, the Special Collections of William and Mary College, the Congregational Library, and the Massachusetts Historical Society, I examined material about African American missionaries to Native American nations and about instances of religious interactions amongst these groups. Sponsor: OSU History Department PI: Richard Boles INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY

Effects of red imported fire ant control efforts on immature monarch survival. Texas has been identified as critical for monarch conservation efforts because of its important role during spring and fall migration and spring and fall breeding periods. Imported fire ants, and red imported fire ants (RIFA) in particular, have been identified as a potentially important predator of monarch larvae in Texas, and the imported fire ant quarantine zone corresponds closely to the distribution of first generation monarch larvae. The objective of this project is to evaluate if monarch butterfly egg/larval survival differs between areas treated for RIFA and control (untreated) sites. Sponsor: Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program, Inc. (flow-thru from US Fish and Wildlife Service) PI/PD: Kristen Baum

Evaluating the suitability of roadway corridors for use by monarch butterflies. Providing roadside pollinator habitat, either through the creation of new habitat or support of existing habitat, requires identification of optimal best management practices, which will maximize benefits to monarchs, reduce environmental damage resulting from invasive species, and minimize costs. However, scientific data are lacking for identifying sources and sinks, and the same habitat can serve as a source or sink depending on the season and management practices. The focus of this project is to develop guidelines for identifying locations and practices with the greatest potential for supporting monarchs. Sponsor: Regents of the University of Minnesota (flow-thru from The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Transportation Research Board) PI/PD: Kristen Baum University of Minnesota: Karen Oberhauser, Holly Holt, Eric Lonsdorf, Emilie Snell-Rood The Xerces Society: Jennifer Hopwood Environmental Incentives: Eoin Doherty, Erik Anderson

Monarch-pollinator monitoring, tracking and evaluation of grassland habitat and management practices in the southern plains. The southern Great Plains has been identified as critical for conservation efforts for monarchs and other pollinators, and much of the habitat identified in this region for pollinator conservation consists of grasslands. With the extensive loss and fragmentation of native grasslands, managed grasslands are becoming increasingly important for supporting conservation efforts. However, few baseline data exist for this region, making it challenging to assess the value of these efforts for monarchs and other pollinators. This project will provide baseline data for assessing the contribution of grassland management practices for supporting monarch/pollinator habitat. Sponsor: Wildlife Management Institute (flow-thru from US Fish and Wildlife Service) PI/PD: Kristen Baum Southern plains pollinator conservation implementation program: Texas & Oklahoma. Given widespread declines in wild and managed pollinators, it is essential to develop effective restoration and management practices that support pollinator populations and communities. Pollinator conservation is particularly important in the Southern Plains Region, where the southern portion of the rapidly urbanizing I-35 belt is vital for monarch conservation efforts. This project focuses on the implementation of on-the-ground conservation for pollinators, including prescribed fire and wildflower seeding. The effectiveness of these efforts for pollinator conservation is assessed at the community level, as well as at the population level for select species. Sponsor: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (flow-thru from US FWS Competitive State Wildlife Grants Program) PI/PD: Kristen Baum University of Texas: Shalene Jha

Implications of landscape, crop, and insect diversity for agroecosystem functionality. Long-term sustainability of agroecosystems depends on the maintenance of ecosystem services, including pollination and pest control. Agroecosystem diversity likely influences resource availability for beneficial insects and availability of insect-mediated ecosystem services. Ecosystem services may also interact, such as when landscape resources allow increased parasitism of crop pests, which leads to increased parasitism of pollinators. Management activities may modify the outcome of these interactions and the availability of ecosystem services. The goal of this project is to evaluate the effect of landscape (including crop) diversity on beneficial insects (pollinators and natural enemies) and associated ecosystem services. Sponsor: USDA-NIFA-AFRI PI/PD: Kristen Baum College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources: Kristopher Giles, Eric DeVuyst USDA, ARS: Norman Elliott

Investigations on monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) in Texas using a spatially explicit functional connectivity approach. The goal of this project is to provide information needed to inform a Species Status Assessment of the monarch in Texas. Monarch butterfly past population status and trends will be analyzed, including the development of ecological niche models to estimate the current quantity and quality of monarch habitat, and options for increasing habitat connectivity. Fifth generation monarch activity and habitat use will also be assessed, as well as winter-breeding activity in coastal areas. Lastly, a risk rating system that integrates geo/spatial information on suitable habitat patches, relative population estimates, and mortality agents of monarchs will be developed. Sponsor: Texas A&M University (flow-thru from Texas Comptroller’s Office) PI/PD: Kristen Baum Texas A&M University: Robert Coulson Implications of grassland management practices for monarch butterfly conservation in the southern Great Plains. The monarch butterfly decline has been attributed to several factors, including habitat fragmentation, loss, and degradation (including milkweed loss), overutilization, and disease/predation, as well as climate change, weather extremes, invasive species, and pesticides. The Oklahoma-Texas region has been identified as critical for conservation efforts in the southern Great Plains, with an emphasis on milkweed and nectar resource availability. This project evaluates the availability of resources in the southern Great Plains to support the migration and reproduction of monarchs during the spring and fall, as well as monarch use of these resources. Sponsor: ABSTC-NTO PI/PD: Kristen Baum

Assessment of grassland habitat quality and management practices for pollinators in the southern Great Plains. Pollinators play an important role in grasslands, as well as most managed and natural ecosystems. Concerns over pollinator declines have increased in recent years, especially with the identification of colony collapse disorder in managed honey bee colonies, and documented declines in native bee communities, as well as the decline in the monarch butterfly population. Pollinator declines have been attributed to several factors, including habitat fragmentation and loss, invasive species, and pesticides. This project evaluates the status of native bee communities and monarch butterflies on National Park Service lands, including an assessment of resource availability in the context of management practices. Sponsor: National Park Service PI/PD: Kristen Baum

Broadening opportunities for biologists by bridging the gap for transfer students. This program provides scholarships of up to $10,000/year to students transferring from two- year colleges and pursuing bachelor’s degrees in biological science, physiology, or zoology at OSU. Scholarships will be awarded to academically talented, financially needy students. The program will provide scholarship recipients with academic support, including an orientation seminar and workshops, peer mentoring, and regular checkpoints that will encourage student participation in academic support services. Professional development activities will focus on career awareness, job search strategies, and balancing professional and family life, as well as optional internships, research projects, professional society meetings, graduate school related activities, and outreach opportunities. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Kristen Baum, Jennifer Grindstaff, Kathleen Wilson College of Education: Lucy Bailey University Academic Services: Kelly Kavalier Office of Scholarship and Financial Aid: Robert Lofton The Interaction of Pollinators and Pest Management Strategies in Increasing Production in a 1st Generation Biofuel Crop. This project evaluates the effect of winter canola (Brassica napus) pest management strategies on bee communities and canola productivity in Oklahoma, where winter canola is grown as a rotational crop with winter wheat. Specifically, we are evaluating the effect of two new narrow- spectrum insecticides, flonicamid and sulfoxaflor, on the abundance and species richness of native bees, winter canola seed set, and field-level production. Results are being compared with fields treated with broad-spectrum insecticides (synthetic pyrethroids), as well as fields with and without managed honey bee colonies. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science PI/PDs: Kristen Baum College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources: Kristopher Giles

Collaborative Research: URM: Preparing Biologists through Stewardship, Professionalism and Practice This program is a collaborative project with Comanche Nation College (CNC) to increase the number of Native Americans who pursue graduate degrees in the biological sciences. The program includes activities for students at CNC and OSU. The OSU-URM program provides research experiences, as well as financial, academic, and professional development support, to Native Americans who transfer to OSU from a two-year school and pursue a bachelor’s degree in biological science, zoology, or physiology. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Kristen Baum, Donald French

Epigenetic effects on brain and behavior: testing the role of imprinted genes. Imprinted genes are inherited from both parents but are unusual because only the maternal or paternal copy of an imprinted gene is normally expressed. These unique genes are critical to the development and regulation of three defining features of mammals: the placenta, maternal care, and the development of a complex brain. We are using a hybrid cross between two species of mice in which imprinted gene expression is disrupted to explore reciprocal effects on maternal physiology and behavior, and offspring cognitive and social development. Sponsors: NSF, Animal Behavior Society, Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology PI: Polly Campbell

Assessment of created shallow water habitats in the Lower Missouri River. The Missouri River has experienced significant alterations over the past 100 years. Of particular concern has been the loss of shallow water habitat (SWH), which is habitat having depths less than 1.5 m and velocities less than 0.61 m/sec. In response, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers created roughly 1393 ha of SWH on the lower Missouri River (from Sioux City, Iowa downstream to the confluence with the Mississippi River) over the past 15 years. In this project, I am working with the USACE to assess this important habitat by looking at potential fish prey items including zooplankton and macroinvertebrates. Sponsor: United States Army Corps of Engineers PI/PDs: Andrew Dzialowski Development of water quality models for reservoirs in the Grand Lake, OK watershed using remotely sensed satellite imagery. The objective of this project is to develop a series of models that can be used to estimate water quality parameters in Grand Lake based on multispectral satellite imagery (Landsat 8 OLI). We will develop empirical models that relate in situ measurements of total algal biomass (chlorophyll a), cyanobacteria (phycocyanin), turbidity, and Secchi Disk to spectral reflectance values from temporally and spatially corresponding Landsat satellite imagery. The models can be used to estimate water quality conditions in Grand Lake and other reservoirs in the watershed using current and historic Landsat satellite imagery. Sponsor: Grand River Dam Authority PI/PDs: Andrew Dzialowski Environmental Science Graduate Program: Scott Stoodley Biosystems Agricultural Engineering: Daniel Storm

Long-term changes in zebra mussel veligers in Kansas reservoirs. While invasive zebra mussels have been well studied in natural lakes, much less is known about their population dynamics and ecological impacts in turbid, eutrophic reservoirs that are characteristic of the south central United States. We have been studying the dynamics of zebra mussel veliger populations in a series of Kansas reservoirs since 2004. This long-term data set should provide managers with important information that can be used to monitor and manage zebra mussel infestations. Sponsor: Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism PI/PDs: Andrew Dzialowski

The adaptive significance of juvenile coloration: precocial partner preference. Male and female juveniles of most species usually are not colored differently, but pre- reproductive juvenile male collared lizards (Crotaphytus collaris) have bright orange bars on their sides while pre-reproductive juvenile females do not. This coloration is a signal for other juveniles. We are studying this orange signal in the context of a novel aspect of sexual selection, which we call precocial sexual selection. In this, juvenile males supposedly form pair bonds with juvenile females (future mates) and drive off juvenile males (future sexual rivals) such that they gain earlier and better reproduction the next year once they become sexually mature. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Stanley Fox, Ronald Van Den Bussche, Matthew Lovern, Jennifer Grindstaff FAvian populations on Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. This study is designed to evaluate population abundance, reproductive success, and habitat use of three focal bird species (Grey Vireo, Pinyon Jay, Loggerhead Shrike), and the presence of migrant species of birds throughout the year on Kirtland Air Force Base (KAFB) in Albuquerque, New Mexico. A central goal of the project is to provide information useful for broad scale management of avian populations, and in particular the above-mentioned species of concern on KAFB. Factors being evaluated include juniper and pine habitat characteristics relative to nesting birds, nesting characteristics such as nest orientation in trees and temperature dynamics related to nest locations, re-nesting dynamics, and others. Sponsor: Department of Defense PI: Scott T. McMurry and Loren M. Smith

Understanding large-scale patterns of ecomorph evolution. In this project, a new, integrative approach will be developed to explore fundamental questions about the evolution of ecomorphs (species with similar ecology, morphology, and behavior), using frogs as a model system. The approach combines reconstructing species ancestry (i.e., their evolutionary relationships), with data on species ecology, body form, functional performance, and their geographic distribution. This study will provide the first exploration of how these different factors explain large-scale patterns of ecomorph evolution across this major group of organisms. This project will support training of diverse students, including a summer undergraduate research experience. Sponsor: NSF PI: Daniel Moen, Assistant Professor, Integrative Biology

Physiological adaptation to extreme environments: genes, function and evolutionary patterns. Springs rich in hydrogen sulfide (H2S) represent some of the most extreme freshwater environments. H2S is lethal in micromolar concentrations, because it halts energy production in mitochondria. Poeciliid fish are among the few vertebrates that have colonized and adapted to these conditions; however, the mechanistic basis of physiological adaptation to high environmental H2S concentrations remains poorly understood. Leveraging knowledge from toxicological and biomedical studies, this research addresses hypotheses about mechanisms of survival and evolutionary patterns of physiological adaptation to naturally H2S-rich environments and focuses on components of and associated with the oxidative phosphorylation pathway (OXPHOS) in mitochondria. Sponsors: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Jennifer H. Shaw Kansas State University: Michael Tobler Washington State University: Joanna Kelley The role of CT228 in Chlamydia trachomatis pathogenesis. C. trachomatis infections are responsible for ~84 million incidences of ocular trachoma worldwide, is the leading cause of infectious blindness and the most commonly reported (3 million per year) sexually transmitted bacterial infection in the US. C. trachomatis is the first bacterial pathogen shown to directly manipulate host myosin phosphatase via CT228 protein; this host-pathogen interaction mediates host cell exit within a protective “extrusion” that may play a key role in dissemination and survival of the pathogen. This research utilizes novel tools for mutating CT228 to determine its role in vitro and in a murine model of cervicovaginal infection. Sponsors: National Institutes of Health PI/PDs: Jennifer H. Shaw Microbiology & Molecular Genetics: Erika I. Lutter

Fertility variation among Oklahoma American Indians: how migration, resources, and ethnicity shaped women's reproductive lives. Between 1828 and 1887, tens of thousands of American Indians with diverse cultural histories migrated to Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma) under United States government removal policies. Migration under duress has multiple, often interacting, consequences. Some, such as economic and cultural disruption are immediately evident; others, such as long-term biological effects, unfold more slowly over time. Through the use of historical demographic data such as the 1910 US Federal Census, the overarching goal of this project is to understand the impact of migration, access to resources, and ethnicity on fertility and the reproductive life histories of American Indian women. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Mary C Towner University of Oklahoma: Kermyt G Anderson MATHEMATICS

Automorphic Forms and Representations Automorhpic Forms are complex-valued functions of objects of great interest in Number Theory. The PI studies automorphic forms and their existence and infinitude as well as the notion of transfer of automorphic forms within the celebrated Langlands Program. This grant supports PI's collaborations with other mathematicians through visits, invitations, and conferences. Sponsor: Simons Foundation PI/PD: Mahdi Asgari

Texas-Oklahoma Representations and Automorphic Forms Conference (TORA) This is a collaborative conference series among Oklahoma State University, University of Oklahoma and University of North Texas. Eight conference have been held to date with TORA VIII held at OSU in Spring 2017, supported by this grant. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Mahdi Asgari / Roger Zierau

MRI: Acquisition of Shared High Performance Compute Cluster for Multidisciplinary Computational and Data-Intensive Research Under this Major Research Instrumentation project, the Oklahoma State University High Performance Computing Center is engaged in acquiring, deploying and maintaining a cluster supercomputer, named for OSU's mascot Pistol Pete, to support computing- and data-intensive research and research training, across a broad range of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. As a campus-wide shared resource, Pistol Pete's mission includes being available at no charge not only to all OSU faculty, staff, postdocs, graduate students and undergraduates, but also to researchers and educators across Oklahoma. This project focuses on enabling substantial transformative STEM research across a broad variety of disciplines. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI: Dana Brunson Collaborations in Combinatorial Commutative Algebra This grant funds several collaborations in combinatorial commutative algebra. The PI and his coauthors, including DiPasquale, Mermin, and Schweig from OSU, investigate the interplay between problems in algebra and combinatorics. On the algebraic side, the questions involve understanding intricate relations among polynomials, and on the combinatorial side, the research investigates discrete objects like graphs and their higher-dimensional analogues. This work also features interactions with algebraic geometry and topology, using algebraic techniques to understand geometric objects and applying topological methods in combinatorics. The PI frequently uses OSU's High Performance Computing resources to explore examples and test conjectures. Sponsor: Simons Foundation PI: Christopher Francisco

Integral points on cubic surfaces We are studying the structure of the level sets of Markoff/Hurwitz type equations. The Markoff equation over the complex numbers are associated with the character varieties of the 1-holed torus and dynamics of the solution set is for the most part ergodic. However, over the integers, almost nothing is known except for the original case considered by Markoff in 1892, the null level surface. We are able to show that the known group action on the integral points leads to a precise finite fundamental set from which all lattice points can be recovered. We also show that almost all surfaces that one expects to have lattices points do indeed have lattice points. Moreover, there are infinitely many such surfaces that do not have lattice points even though we may expect them to. Current work is the extension of these ideas to a more general framework. This is joint work with Peter Sarnak (Princeton). Sponsor: Simons Foundation (Collaboration Grant for Mathematicians) PI: Amit Ghosh

Embedded and Immersed Surfaces in Three-Dimensional Topology Much of the understanding of three-dimensional manifolds has come from the study of various classes of surfaces embedded in the manifold. From a combinatorial study of surfaces in a three-manifold, we can investigate decision problems and obtain algorithms to approach their solution. Similarly, surfaces play a role in understanding the geometric and topological structure of three-manifolds. This project systematizes a thorough organization and study of these various families of embedded surfaces and opens up the investigation of nicely immersed surfaces in three-manifolds. Sponsor: National Science Foundation-Division of Mathematical Sciences (NSF-DMS) PI: William H. Jaco Strategic Direction for Mathematics Learning by Inquiry A collaborative project between practitioners of mathematics learning by inquiry and researchers in undergraduate mathematics education to develop a long-term strategic plan for the Initiative for Mathematics Learning by Inquiry (MLI). The goal is to develop a broadly supported plan to sustain the advances in IBL in Mathematics made in the past twenty years and to expand to a larger national community of researchers, teachers and practitioners of learning by inquiry and, through research, teaching, best practices, and assessment, advance the scientific foundation and effective use of learning by inquiry. Sponsor: National Science Foundation-Division of Undergraduate Education (NSF-DUE) PI: William H. Jaco

OK-LSAMP Supplemental Proposal Abstract: This program is supplemental to the Oklahoma Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (OK-LSAMP) and is targeted at doctoral studies in the Mathematical Sciences to develop an alliance of mathematical sciences faculty and students from OK-LSAMP institutions with the goals: 1) To provide early research experiences and enhanced preparation for undergraduates from these institutions having potential to do graduate studies in the mathematical sciences. 2) To foster educational and research relationships between members of the mathematical faculties of the participating institutions. 3) To increase the number of doctoral degrees in the mathematical sciences among groups from these institutions, which traditionally have been underrepresented. Sponsor: National Science Foundation-Division of Human Resource Development (NSF-DHR) Co-PI: William H. Jaco

Mathematics Tutoring Center Collaborative Workshop This project funds two 3-day workshops designed to bring together directors of university mathematics resource centers and researchers on undergraduate mathematics education who are interested in doing research in the context of math resource centers. The purpose of the workshops is twofold: to form a network of directors of tutoring centers so that we can share resources and collaborate, and to work together to define a research agenda addressing issues related to math resource centers. We expect about 25 participants at each workshop. The first of these was held in May 2018, and the second will be held in May 2019 at Oklahoma State University. Sponsor: The National Science Foundation PIs: Melissa Mills, William Jaco, and Michael Tallman INFORMS MKT Project INFORMS MKT conducts foundational research situated in teacher practice to contribute to the understanding of the enactment, nature, mediating factors, and quality of expert secondary mathematics teachers’ mathematical knowledge for teaching (MKT) for teaching exponential functions. By grounding our research in teachers’ practice, this research will produce empirical data to advance the field’s understanding of the role of MKT in practice. The results will contribute to descriptions of i) the decisions expert teachers make involving MKT while teaching exponential functions; ii) the MKT that influences teachers’ decisions for the preparation, implementation, and assessment of instruction; iii) the mediating factors that influence the link between teachers’ MKT and their instructional decisions; and iv) the links among teachers’ decisions, MKT, mediating factors and quality of the opportunities offered to students to reason mathematically. Sponsor: NSF PI: Michael Oehrtman

Combinatorics and geometry of Schubert varieties This research program explores relationships between the combinatorics and geometry of flag varieties, Schubert varieties and Coxeter groups. For over a century, Schubert varieties have been studied for their rich mathematical structure and applications to representation theory and enumerative geometry. The goal of this program is characterize various geometric properties of Schubert varieties through the combinatorial theory of Coxeter groups. Sponsor: NSA PI: Edward Richmond

Topics in Fluid Dynamics Problems addressed in the project involve interdisciplinary mathematics. The aim of the project is to develop applicable mathematics theory that yields progress in understanding of fluids and that facilitates efficient computational tools. The main objective of the project is the investigation of well-posedness of partial differential equations arising in fluid dynamics. The primary emphasis is placed on the incompressible three-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations. The research extends to related models such as a class of active scalar equations that arises in the geophysical fluid dynamics. The project concerns furthermore the problem of uniqueness of solutions to the primitive equation of the ocean. Sponsor: NSF PI/PD: Walter Rusin Investigating Student Learning and Sense-Making from Calculus Video Lessons The growing interest in instructional formats such as “flipped” classrooms has made instructional videos a prominent component of post-secondary mathematics curricula. However, relatively little is known about how students watch and learn from instructional videos. In this three-year study, we investigate how students engage with, make sense of, and learn from videos that address foundational calculus concepts. We will create, refine, and disseminate materials for creating calculus videos, collect data to analyze the aspects of the videos to which students attend, determine how students make sense of the videos, and investigate the impact of the video-watching experience on students’ learning. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI: Michael Tallman

Regularity Problem on Two Models from Fluid Dynamics This project addresses a number of fundamental problems concerning two well-known partial differential equations modeling geophysical fluids: the surface quasi-geostrophic equation and the magneto-hydrodynamic equation. One focus of this project is the problem of whether physically relevant solutions to these equations are globally regular for all time or they develop singularities. The study of these equations will lead to a better understanding of several meteorological phenomena. Sponsor: NSF PI: Jiahong Wu

Regularity and Blow-up of Navier-Stokes Type PDEs using Harmonic and Stochastic Analysis This grant will support one-week conference to be held at Banff International Research Station, Banff, Alberta, Canada in 2018. Sponsor: Banff International Research Station Conference Center PI/Co PIs: Kazuo Yamazaki, Hakima Bessaih, Peter Constantin, and Jiahong Wu MEDIA AND STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS

Diplomatic relations and tourism advertising effectiveness: U.S. travel interest to Cuba This study explores the relationship between nation brand familiarity and increased interest in tourism and tourism advertising effectiveness. Surveys fielded a few months before and a few months after the historic 17 December 2014 announcement of improved diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba showed an increase in familiarity with Cuba as well as increased interest in traveling to Cuba among US adults. Respondents also indicated a more favorable reaction to a 30-s ad agency-produced television commercial for Cuba tourism. Results are discussed in light of literature on destination brand familiarity as it relates to brand interest and advertising evaluation. Implications for destination marketing managers are presented. Sponsor: The Peggy Layman Welch Chair in Strategic Communications PI/PDs: Jami A. Fullerton, Alice Kendrick & Sheri J. Broyles

“Creative” vs. “management” advertising students: Profiles and workplace preparedness Data from a national survey of US advertising students compared those who planned to seek creative jobs in advertising with those who desired management positions and “Generalists,” who chose both. Male and female students were equally likely to aspire to be Creatives, despite current US agency estimates that men outnumber women by more than 2 to 1. Creatives self-reported higher GPAs than other students, but were less likely to have held an internship or to have had a job offer senior year. Viewed within the theory of situated learning, the lack of a creative internship and mentoring may pose a disadvantage as creative students attempt to assimilate into the advertising community of practice after graduation. Sponsor: The Peggy Layman Welch Chair in Strategic Communications PI/PDs: Jami A. Fullerton, Alice Kendrick

Soft Power and Tourism Advertising Effectiveness: U.S. travel interest to Cuba Surveys fielded a few months before and a few months after the historic December 17, 2014 announcement of improved diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba showed an increase in interest in traveling to Cuba among U.S. adults. Respondents also indicated a more favorable reaction to a 30-second ad agency-produced television commercial for Cuba tourism. Results are discussed in light of literature on soft power as it relates to tourism and tourism promotion. Sponsor: The Peggy Layman Welch Chair in Strategic Communications PI/PDs: Jami A. Fullerton, Alice Kendrick Mentors and minority advertising students: A survey of the 2017 Most Promising Multicultural Student class U.S. advertising agencies have struggled to attract and retain ethnic and racial minority talent for decades, and the absence of professional mentors has been cited as an issue in job satisfaction among minority employees in the advertising industry. University advertising programs are recognized as an important pipeline of prospective minority hires, especially for agencies. This paper examines a group of minority advertising college students in terms of whether they currently have a professional mentor, as well as their career preferences and perceptions of advertising industry employment. Sponsor: The Peggy Layman Welch Chair in Strategic Communications PI/PDs: Alice Kendrick; Jami A. Fullerton MICROBIOLOGY AND MOLECULAR GENETICS

Title: Phylogenomics and evolutionary history of the Neocallimastigomycota” This goal of this project is to investigate the exact relationship between anaerobic fungi and other fungal groups, as well as the timing and sequence of events that lead to their sequestration into the herbivorous gut remain unclear. This will be achieved by sequencing the genomes of a large, diverse collection of anaerobic fungi, and analyzing the data produced using a wide range of computational procedures. The proposed efforts will lead to significant advances in the understanding of the history of this peculiar group of fungi and factors driving their evolution. Further, the genomic and transcriptomic data obtained would be of extreme interest to a broader group of scientists working in the areas of biofuel research, animal nutrition, and molecular biology of fungi. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Noha Youssef CoPi: Mostafa Elshahed

Title: EAGER: Elucidation of the structure of glomalin protein produced by root-associated soil fungi The goal of this proposal is to identify the chemical structure of glomalin, a complex molecule produced in large quantities by members of a special group of fungi that grows on plant roots in soil. Glomalin is ubiquitous, abundant, and exhibits a profound impact on soil physical properties and carbon content. Production and degradation of glomalin could also impact the fertility and long-term carbon storage potential of soil. Surprisingly, a remarkable lack of knowledge concerning the form, structure and variability of this important molecule currently exists. The project will yield potentially transformative results in the fields of fungal biology and soil science. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Mostafa Elshahed CoPi: Noha Youssef

Title: Microbial Dark Matter project phase II - stepping deeper into unknown territories The goal of this proposal is to further deepen our understanding of the genomic architecture of uncultured microbial lineages by targeting 1000 genomes from candidate phyla. Habitats of high phylogenetic diversity (PD), as based on SSU rRNA surveys, are selected for single-cell sorting for the recovery of single amplified genomes (SAGs) from candidate phyla. We will only target taxonomic groups within candidate phyla with no or few sequenced representatives to maximize phylogenetic coverage, the selection of which will in part be driven by the outcome of the single- cell sorts. For some taxonomic groups we aim to specifically target and sequence populations. Analysis of these genomes will be conducted to understand their metabolic capabilities, physiological preferences, and ecological roles in various habitats. Sponsor: DOE-JGI Community sequencing program PI/PD: Tanja Woyke (JGI) CoPi: Mostafa Elshahed Specificity of MAP Kinase Regulation of Phosphodiesterases Many signal transduction pathways use cyclic AMP (cAMP) as an intracellular signaling intermediate and this signaling has been associated with a variety of human diseases or conditions. Phosphodiesterases are important regulators of cAMP that likely maintain the specificity of signaling in multi-protein signaling complexes. Phosphodiesterase activity can be regulated by mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in a mechanism conserved among diverse eukaryotes. The proposed research investigates the specificity of MAPK regulation of phosphodiesterase activity in Dictyostelium using genetic and biochemical analysis to determine how different MAPKs interact and regulate phosphodiesterase activity in different pathways. Sponsor: OCAST PI/PDs: Jeff Hadwiger

Mechanisms of Nutrient Competition in the Intestine (RO1 parent grant) The major goal of this project is to determine mechanisms of nutrient competition between E. coli strains in a mouse model of intestinal colonization. Sponsor: National Institute of General Medical Sciences PI/PDs: Tyrrell Conway

Diversity Supplement to parent grant: Mechanisms of Nutrient Competition in the Intestine This award supports the postdoctoral training of Dr. Jerreme Jackson in accordance with the NIGMS Diversity Supplement Program goal to promote diversity in the scientific research workforce. Sponsor: National Institute of General Medical Sciences PI/PDs: Tyrrell Conway

MRI: Acquisition of the First 800 MHz NMR Spectrometer with a Cryogenically Cooled Probe in the State of Oklahoma for Interdisciplinary Research and Training. This Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) award supports the acquisition of a high-power NMR instrument to allow a range of solution NMR research projects. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Smita Mohanti (PI). Co-PIs: Wouter D. Hoff, Andrew J. Mort, Susan J Schroeder, Jimmie D Weaver

MRI: Acquisition of an advanced FTIR system for interdisciplinary research and training at Oklahoma State University This Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) award supports the acquisition of an integrated Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) system with diverse functions at the Stillwater Campus of Oklahoma State University. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Aihua Xie (PI). Co-PIs: Wouter D. Hoff, Robert L. Burnap Junpeng Deng Collaborative research: Resolving how excited-state dynamics couple into long-range structural changes in native and synthetic light-induced photosensitive proteins This project focuses on investigating the photoinduced reaction mechanisms underlying the conversion of photons into biological activity within novel photoactive yellow protein photoreceptor systems via the application of transient spectroscopic approaches. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Wouter D. Hoff (co-lead PI) and Delmar S. Larsen (co-lead PI) at the University of California Davis.

STEM persistence through flexible authentic research opportunities The life-science departments will lead an effort to increase persistence among science majors by transforming introductory science experiences into increasingly authentic research experiences. Sponsor: Howard Hughes Medical Institute PI/PDs: Donald P. French (Lead PI). Co-PIs: Wouter D. Hoff, John E. Gustafson, Janette Steets, John I. Gelder

Enzyme Biomass Combustion by Shared Oxidation and Hydrolysis Mechanisms Biomass is a universally abundant, renewable resource that, if it could be broken down into its monomeric constituents, would be useful to produce biofuels, pharmaceuticals and starting biochemicals for conversion into plastics and other commercial composites. A process for a complete efficient breakdown of biomass remains to be discovered. Fungi such as Myceliophthora thermophila secrete an array of oxidoreductases, some of which have recently been shown to be involved in oxidation of glycosidic bonds in cellulose and other polysaccharides. The overall goal of this project is to understand the role of the many secreted redox enzymes in the degradation of polysaccharides and lignin. and to investigate potential synergism between these enzymes and hydrolytic systems. The combination of oxidative and hydrolytic functions into a single cell factory system should result in an enzymatic complex that efficiently and completely degrades biomass, regardless of origin. The final goal is the production of a single cell-factory system, packed into preassembled bioreactors delivered to user mills for on-site enzyme production and in-line feeding to biomass degrading processes (bioethanol and paper mills). Sponsor: PI/PD: Rolf Prade

Engineering Fungal Cell Factories for High Yield Protein Production In eukaryotic cells secretion and protein accumulation is dependent on posttranslational modifications and in many heterologous gene expression cases, high-yield of secretion is not observed. Here, we propose to further develop the Aspergillus engineered cell factory by understanding key posttranslational modifications that interfere with the protein export pathway as well as the extracellular proteases involved in client protein degradation. We propose to overproduce many enzymes involved in biomass degradation, develop in-depth crystallography three dimensional models as well as investigating the functional activity on natural substrates. This project funds stipends for Brazilian graduate students to be hosted at OSU for approximately nine months and the Principal Investigator visiting a Brazilian National Laboratory for 3 months. Sponsor: Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Brazil Sponsor: PI/PD: Rolf Prade

Structure, Function, and Regulation of the NDH-1 Complexes in Cyanobacteria Photosynthetic organisms have specialized mechanisms to extract CO2 from the atmosphere and concentrate it in the cellular environment of the major carbon fixing enzyme, which has a notoriously poor affinity for CO2. Understanding these mechanisms is critical for optimizing bioenergy and agricultural production and will be important for the design of biomimetic devices capable of performing artificial photosynthesis and for the development of the next generation CO2 scrubbing materials. The natural mechanism thus provides a basic scientific template for the development of engineered devices addressing critical national energy goals. Sponsor: US Department of Energy, Basic Energy Sciences PI: Robert Burnap

Assembly and Function of the Photosystem II Complex Photosystem II is the key enzyme of photosynthesis, natural solar energy production, and needs to be understood for food production and for carbon neutral production of energy and chemical feedstocks. Molecular genetic, biophysical, and bioinformatic techniques are being used to understand the catalytic properties of this crucial enzyme. The aim is to understand basic redox enzymology and provide insight for the production of biomimetic devices for future solar energy applications. Sponsor: National Science Foundation, Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry PI/PD: Robert Burnap/Steven Holland

Instrumentation for the Photobiology Group FTIR spectroscopy has provided important insight the function of macromolecules. This is an instrumentation grant for an Advanced FTIR System for Interdisciplinary Research and Training at OSU. PI: Aihua Xie, Wouter Hoff, Jianpeng Deng, Robert Burnap

Two pathways for calcium signaling and virulence regulation in P. aeruginosa. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic human pathogen that causes severe, life threatening infections in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), endocarditis, wounds, artificial implants, and in healthcare-associated infections. Calcium positively regulates biofilm formation, swarming, and production of several virulence factors in P. aeruginosa. The goal of the proposed research is to identify and characterize two calcium signaling pathways regulating virulence of the pathogen. The new knowledge will enable experimental confirmation of the signaling role of calcium in bacteria and will advance our understanding of infectious diseases associated with Ca2+ imbalance. Sponsor: OCRID COBRE PI/PDs: Marianna A. Patrauchan Pretreatment of plant biomass by synergistic interactions of fungi and bacteria for enhanced saccharification and biofuel production We are exploring a combination of fungi and bacteria to degrade plant lignin. We use Phanerochaete chrysosporium strain RP-78 (fungi) and Pseudomonas sp. strain YS-1p (bacteria) to study lignin degradation in various plant biomass. Results showed that a co-culture of strain RP-78 and strain YS-1p inoculated at 1:1 ratio resulted in better lignin degradation in sugarcane bagasse compared to other treatment conditions. Lignin degradation as measured by decrease in Guaiacyl (G) -to- Syringyl (S) ratio showed almost 50% reduction over un-inoculated control. Also, lignin degrading enzymes such as lignin peroxidase and Dyp-peroxidase were expressed maximum in co-cultures compared to other combination of treatments. Overall, our studies show promising delignification of plant biomass when treated with a co-culture of fungi and bacteria. Sponsor: NSF-REU PI/PD: Babu Fathepure College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gopal Kakani

The Role of CT228 in Chlamydia trachomatis pathogenesis The bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis is the most commonly reported bacterial infection in the United States and the leading cause of sexually transmitted infections worldwide with approximately 90 million new cases reported annually. Infection by C. trachomatis can lead to severe medical complications in women including pelvic inflammatory disease; yet despite these concerns there are fundamental gaps in our understanding of Chlamydia pathogenesis, particularly with regards to the mechanisms used to manipulate host proteins for intracellular survival and dissemination. C. trachomatis is the first pathogen shown to usurp myosin phosphatase, a host protein that regulates myosin, during infection via the Chlamydial protein CT228. Myosin is an essential protein for many cellular process including muscle contraction, cell division, and the proliferation and migration of cancer cells. The long term goal of our research is to determine the role of myosin phosphatase and CT228 in C. trachomatis infection. Our central hypothesis based on our preliminary data is that the Chlamydial protein, CT228, is essential for myosin phosphatase recruitment and the extrusion method of host-cell exit in cell culture and a murine infection model. With developed of novel genetic tools and transformation methods, C. trachomatis is no longer genetically intractable and we propose to genetically complement and assess a CT228 deletion mutant and complemented strain in cell culture and murine infection model. These studies will determine the role of Chlamydial protein CT228 and myosin phosphatase with regards to Chlamydia pathogenesis and the extrusion method of host cell exit. As such, the proposed research is critical to understanding the role of myosin phosphatase during C. trachomatis infections and will address a key fundamental gap in Chlamydia pathogenesis. Sponsor: NIH PI/PD: Erika Lutter MUSIC

Presentations at the North American Saxophone Alliance Regional Conferences South Dakota State University and Portland State University I was invited to serve as a featured guest artist at the North American Saxophone Alliance Region I Conference at Portland State University (Portland, Oregon) as well as the North American Saxophone Alliance Region III Conference at South Dakota State University (Billings, South Dakota). The North American Saxophone Alliance is the primary organization for professional, collegiate, student, and amateur performers, academics, and artist-scholars. The conferences attract a very large consortium of university professors and graduate/undergraduate students from throughout the United States. I am genuinely honored to have been selected as a featured guest artist for these events. Sponsor: Arts and Science Spring Travel Grant 2017 PI/PD: Jeffrey Loeffert

Lectures and Performances in the Republic of Singapore; Wind Bands Association of Singapore I was invited to present clinics and perform concerts for the Wind Bands Association of Singapore. The clinics bring together approximately 600 students, educators, and professional musicians from throughout Singapore and Malaysia. The WBAS is the primary music education organization for winds, brass, and percussion in Singapore. During this event, I performed a concerto with the West Winds ensemble. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to perform at this event. Sponsor: Arts and Science Fall Travel Grant 2016 PI/PD: Jeffrey Loeffert

Lectures and Performances at OSU by the Hypercube Ensemble Oklahoma State University Department of Music With the assistance of a Fae Rawdon Norris Grant, I had the opportunity to invite the renowned contemporary chamber ensemble HYPERCUBE to Oklahoma State University. Comprised of university professors, composers, music publishers, and performing artists, this ensemble features a unique skill set that is extremely beneficial to our students. This residency included a performance by the HYPERCUBE ensemble, as well as a series of masterclasses and lectures for our students. Sponsor: Fae Rawdon Norris Grant 2016-2017 PI/PD: Jeffrey Loeffert OSU High School Summer Music Camp Designed to provide a comprehensive musical experience for high school students, the OSU Summer Music Camp attracted 77 students in its first year of operation (July 2016) and 121 in 2017. Financial support received from the sponsors helped to cover the costs of camp faculty salaries and marketing expenses. Sponsors: Oklahoma Arts Council (OAC), OSU Department of Music, OSU College of Arts and Sciences PIs: Laura Talbott Clark, Heather Lanners

Live Performance: Olivier Messiaen’s Quatuor pour la fin du temps Members of the Tulsa Camerata chamber ensemble performed Olivier Messiaen’s Quartet for the End of Time at OSU on February 1, 2017. This is a masterwork that is not often performed in its entirety. Additionally, the ensemble’s executive director, Dr. Jason Heilman, introduced the performance with an in-depth discussion of the work and its broader artistic and historical significance. Members of the OSU and Stillwater community attended the event, which was free and open to the public. Financial assistance paid for the musicians’ fees. Sponsors: OSU Department of Music, Tulsa Camerata PI: Laura Talbott Clark

OSU High School String Competition Now in its fourth year, the OSU High School String Competition provides the region’s aspiring string students a chance to receive comments from professional performers and educators. The competition was designed to further inspire and support the work begin done in the public schools and private studios in our region, providing financial awards and artistic encouragement for aspiring string students. Tulsa Strings Violin Shop sponsored the student awards with their financial donation. Sponsor: Tulsa Strings Violin Shop PI: Laura Talbott Clark

Funding to engage pianist Alexander Kobrin for a guest master class at OSU on January 27th, 2017, and a piano solo recital on January 28th. Kobrin won first prizes in three of the most prestigious competitions in the world: the 2005 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition and the Busoni and Hamamatsu International Piano Competitions, and also won the bronze medal at the Chopin International Competition in Warsaw. Alexander has performed with many of the world’s great orchestras, and has appeared in recitals worldwide. He was recently appointed to the piano faculty at the Eastman School of Music in New York. Sponsor: Fae Rawdon Norris Endowment for the Humanities PI: Tom Lanners Travel Funding to Teach Master Classes, Hear Auditions of Prospective OSU Piano Students, and Teach and Perform at a new Piano Festival in China I was granted an OSU College of Arts and Sciences FY 18 Fall Travel Award in April 2017 for $1000 toward travel costs to and from Shanghai, China in late September through early October of 2017. Sponsor: OSU College of Arts and Sciences FY18 Fall Travel Award PI: Tom Lanners

Travel costs for a trip to the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York to commemorate the retirement of piano faculty member Barry Snyder (Van Cliburn International Competition triple prize-winner and world renowned pedagogue), who personally chose only a handful of his former students from the past 47 years to perform as soloists on this program on October 14th, 2017. The high-profile event will occur during the annual Meliora Weekend, which serves as the Homecoming gathering for the University of Rochester. Sponsor: OSU Friends of Music Faculty Professional Assistance Funds PI: Tom Lanners

Conn-Selmer Music Education Program Conn-Selmer loaned the OSU Music Department flutes, clarinets, oboes, bassoons, saxophones, trumpets, trombones, horns, euphoniums and tubas for OSU methods courses. This allows for a higher enrollment in classes and the opportunity for music education majors to learn on high quality instruments. Sponsor: Conn-Selmer and Saied Music Company PI/PD: Ryan Gardner

Fae Rawdon Norris Grant – Paul Merkelo and Rebecca Wilt Principal trumpet of the Montreal Symphony and renowned pianist Rebecca Wilt performed and provided master classes for OSU students and high school students from Oklahoma and Texas. Sponsor: Fae Rawdon Norris Grant PI/PD: Ryan Gardner

Friends of Music Spring Faculty Professional Assistance Grant – 2017 International Trumpet Guild Conference The International Trumpet Guild Conference is the most prestigious trumpet conference in the world and was held in Hershey, Pennsylvania. I presented a warm-up presentation and a lecture entitled “Audition and Competition Preparation” to students, professors and professionals highlighting performance and practice strategies. Sponsor: Friends of Music PI/PD: Ryan Gardner Reba Nosoff Grant – National Trumpet Competition 2017 12 students including two entries in the Ensembles Division and two entries in the Undergraduate Division advanced by audition to the live Semi-Final round of the National Trumpet Competition in Denver, Colorado where they competed against the elite trumpet programs in the country. Senior Natalie Upton and sophomore Noah Mennenga placed first and third in the Undergraduate Division. Sponsor: Reba Nosoff PI/PD: Ryan Gardner

OSU College of Arts and Sciences Travel Grant – National Trumpet Competition 2017 12 students including two entries in the Ensembles Division and two entries in the Undergraduate Division advanced by audition to the live Semi-Final round of the National Trumpet Competition in Denver, Colorado where they competed against the elite trumpet programs in the country. Senior Natalie Upton and sophomore Noah Mennenga placed first and third in the Undergraduate Division. Sponsor: College of Arts and Sciences PI/PD: Ryan Gardner

Friends of Music Fall Faculty Professional Assistance Grant – 2016 National College Music Society Conference I performed a lecture-recital entitled “William Presser, Suite for Unaccompanied Trumpet” at the 2016 College Music Society National Conference in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Sponsor: Friends of Music PI/PD: Ryan Gardner

Yamaha Artist Grant – Ryan Anthony Ryan Anthony, principal trumpet with the Dallas Symphony provided master classes and lessons for OSU students. Sponsor: Yamaha Corporation PI/PD: Ryan Gardner

Yamaha Artist Grant – Paul Merkelo Residency Principal trumpet of the Montreal Symphony performed and provided master classes for OSU students and high school students from Oklahoma and Texas. Sponsor: Yamaha Corporation PI/PD: Ryan Gardner

Friends of Music Faculty Professional Assistance Grant, Fall 2016 This grant was used to cover partial travel expenses for the National Flute Convention in San Diego, California. Scholarly work at the conference included performing two separate chamber music concerts with the Pangaea Chamber Players. Sponsor: Friends of Music Faculty Professional Assistance Grant, Fall 2016 PI/PD: Virginia Broffitt Kunzer College of Arts and Sciences Faculty Travel Grant, Fall 2016 This grant was used to cover partial travel expenses for the National Flute Convention in San Diego, California. Scholarly work at the conference included performing two separate chamber music concerts with the Pangaea Chamber Players. Sponsor: College of Arts and Sciences Faculty Travel Grant, Fall 2016 PI/PD: Virginia Broffitt Kunzer

CelloFest Guest Artist Funding I was awarded funding to bring three guests artists to campus to participate in CelloFest @ OSU. This annual event attracts over 70 cellists and is a strong recruiting tool for the cello studio. These guest artists gave lectures, performances, and master classes while on campus. Sponsor: Norris Foundation PI: Meredith Blecha-Wells

College of Arts and Science Travel Grant I was awarded funding to travel to San Diego to give multiple performances at the National Flute Association convention. My colleague, Dr. Virginia Broffitt Kunzer, and I performed works by Rorem and Damase. The concerts not only helped to expand our reputation as an ensemble, but also were helpful in recruiting efforts for the flute studio on campus. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University College of Arts and Science PI: Meredith Blecha-Wells

Friends of Music Travel Grant I was awarded funding to travel to Pittsburg to present at the American String Teachers Association conference. I gave two presentations: Pedagogy Panel: Building a Successful University Studio and Pack Away Your Spoons: Developing Independent String Learners in the Private Lesson. These presentations had over 60 people in attendance and continue to help foster my reputation on the national level. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University Department of Music, Friends of Music PI: Meredith Blecha-Wells PHILOSOPHY

Gender and Time This project examines how time is used to create gender norms and how certain lived experiences of time are forms of gender subordination. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Megan Burke

Pragmatic Encroachment in Epistemology I completed a book proposal to edit a collection of volumes that explores how practical factors may affect our epistemic lives (e.g. what we know, how much evidence we have, what we are justified in believing). My own contribution to the volume explores some of the insights of the American pragmatists for this topic. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Brian Kim

Decision Theory and Knowledge I completed a paper that develops a novel view of knowledge as arising from a particular type of deliberative skill. I use this view to address some long-standing problems in epistemology Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Brian Kim

Machine Learning and Philosophy I launched a new research project with a colleague at ZAS Berlin as we started to identify some important philosophical problems that will arise in machine learning. For the moment, we have started to focus on the question of how the results of machine learning will be comprehensible to us if the theories that learning algorithms develop and use begin to increase in complexity. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Brian Kim

The Value of Diversity I launched a new research project with colleagues at Cal Poly Pomona. We will be exploring the various ways in which people talk about the value of diversity. We will offer a taxonomy of these ideas as well explore some of the conceptual boundaries of the topic by considering cases in which diversity is of irreplaceable value because diverse groups possess information that homogenous groups cannot possibly possess. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Brian Kim Knowledge and Deliberation I presented recent research on the role that knowledge plays in our evaluations of the deliberations that we use to make choices. I argue that the notion of knowledge plays a central role in the evaluation of coarse-grained modes of reasoning. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Brian Kim

Workshop on Divine Hiddenness This funding was used to organize a Workshop on Divine Hiddenness at OSU. Invited speakers included Travis Dumsday, Ph.D. (Concordia University) and Tyler Paytas, Ph.D. (Australian Catholic University). In attendance were undergraduate and graduate students, OSU faculty as well as UCO faculty and students. In addition to the Workshop, both Dr. Dumsday and Dr. Paytas offered evening talks to a broader campus audience. Both were well attended and the closing question/answer period indicated considerable student interest in the topics. Sponsors: Norris Foundation for the Humanities PI/PDs: Lawrence Pasternack

Kant's Highest Good During the funding period, I continued to work towards a monograph on Kant's Highest Good. Towards the start of the period, I wrote a paper, now published: “The ‘Two Experiments’ of Kant’s Religion: Dismantling the Conundrum” Kantian Review, 22:1 (2017), 107-131. Later in the period, I wrote a paper, now published: “Hume's Principle and Kant's Pure Rational System of Religion: Divine Aid, Moral Hope, and the Highest Good” in Kant and the Scottish Enlightenment, Elizabeth Robinson and Chris Surprenant, ed. (London: Routledge, 2017), 159- 180. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Lawrence Pasternack PHYSICS

Exploring Physics at the Intensity Frontier through Neutrino Oscillations This project explores the origin of tiny neutrino masses that causes neutrino flavor to oscillations. Models of neutrino masses and mixings have been proposed and analyzed, within the framework of flavor physics models, which also address quark masses and mixings. New and improved Grand Unified Theories have been constructed, and the hallmark prediction of such theories, viz., proton decay, has been analyzed. Predictions for the upcoming large neutrino detector DUNE have been outlined. This research is carried out by PI Babu under the umbrella grant "Theoretical and Experimental Research in Weak, Electromagnetic and Strong Interactions", and involves his PhD students S. Saad (who graduated in Summer 2017), S. Jana and A. Thapa. Sponsor: US Department of Energy PI: K.S. Babu

Investigations into Physics Beyond the Standard Model Theoretical investigations into new physics beyond the Standard Model of elementary particles is being carried out with an emphasis on possible discovery of new particles and interactions at the Large Hadron Collider and at neutrino facilities. New models that address some of the shortcomings of the Standard Model are proposed and their experimental tests outlined. This includes new gauge bosons arising from left-right symmetric models, extra Higgs bosons, and additional vector-like fermions. This investigation was carried out by Co-PI Babu under the umbrella grant, "Theoretical Research in Weak, Electromagnetic and Strong Interactions", and involves two graduate students, S. Saad and S. Jana. Sponsor: US Department of Energy PI: K.S. Babu

Finding torsional potential energy surfaces of molecules The torsional potential energies of isomers of dinitrobenzene were calculated to understand steric hindrances and bond hybridization in simple systems. Torsional potential energy calculations provide conformational information and allow finding the barriers to the rotations of bonds. We computationally determined the energy correlation between pairs of rotors on the molecule. Our work resolves the geometry of the lowest energy state for molecules, a methodology which might be extended to larger molecules such as proteins. This research used OSU’s HPC resources. Sponsors: NSF (Grant OCI-1126330) PI/PDs: Mario F. Borunda

Development of PET/SPECT/Cherenkov visible hybrid nanoparticles for image-guided drug delivery and neuro-imaging applications We propose the development of multi-modular image capable gold nanoparticles (GNPs) and quantum dots (QDs) can be used for highly sensitive cancer diagnosis, imaging and image- guided cancer treatment. The in-vivo targeting of these GNPs/QDs can be verified using widely available medical devices such as Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) and an endoscope. The positron emission gives rise to Cherenkov luminescence, therefore the hybrid GNPs provide multi-modular imaging capabilities through PET, SPECT, and optical luminescence imaging. The hybrid QDs also emit Cherenkov luminescence from positron emission which self-excite QDs. This renders QD luminescence without external UV or light sources. Sponsor: Technology and Business Development Program (TBDP), Technology Development Center PI: Jongmin Cho, PhD., DABR., Assistant Professor and Medical Physics Program Director

Searches for new fundamental particles and studies of jet substructure with the ATLAS Detector This research uses the ATLAS detector at the CERN Large Hadron Collider to search for vector- like quarks, hypothetical particles predicted by many proposed extensions to the Standard Model. Vector-like quarks, as well as many other possible new particles, are expected to decay to heavy bosons and top quarks that will result in high energy jets in the detector. In addition to searching for signs of new physics, this research involves the optimization and calibration of techniques to distinguish high energy jets originating from boosted bosons and top quarks from the enormous background of high energy jets caused by quarks and gluons. Sponsor: Department of Energy PI/PD: Joseph Haley

Study of b-quark Identification Performance for Upgraded ATLAS Detector ATLAS is one of the two major experiments at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) located in Geneva, Switzerland, aimed at studies of basic constituents of matter and their interactions. By 2025, the LHC experiments will undergo major upgrade that will allow them to operate at a 10 times larger intensity. The new conditions pose a challenge on various aspects of detector operation, including its ability to identify signals due to specific type of particles (b-quarks). The research aims at study and optimization of b-quark identification performance for the upgraded ATLAS detector. Sponsor: DOE PI: Alexander Khanov

CAREER: Sodium Spinor Condensates and Their Applications in Quantum Information Science This proposal is targeted towards applying a sodium spinor Bose-Einstein condensate to generate massive entanglement and spin-squeezing, and investigate their immediate applications in quantum information science. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Yingmei Liu A quantum-enhanced precise magnetic scanning microscope The specific aims of this proposal are to develop the first table-top ultracold sodium system, and implement a quantum-enhanced precise magnetic scanning microscope with both high spatial resolution and high field sensitivity. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Yingmei Liu

Theoretical and Experimental Research in Weak, Electromagnetic and Strong Interactions Novel ideas going beyond the Standard Model with strong theoretical motivations are being proposed and their experimental tests at the LHC and forthcoming neutrino facilities are outlined. The projects involve new models of TeV scale physics which involve left-right symmetry, unification of the gauge and Yukawa interactions and can be tested at the LHC. The new models for the dark matter, and their collider and astrophysical implications, will be studied. Efforts will also be devoted to build the models of neutrino masses and mixings, and the leptonic CP violation as well as the nature of mass hierarchy of the neutrinos. Sponsor: United States Department of Energy PIs: S. Nandi, Co-PIs: K.S. Babu, F. Rizatdinova, A. Khanov, J. Haley

Integrable Chiral Potts Model: Parafermions and Representations of Affine Quantum Groups Research was performed on the integrable chiral Potts model, an exactly solvable model of statistical mechanics exhibiting parafermions. Mathematically the model provides the prime example of cyclic representations of quantum groups. A very special limit is the planar Ising model, for which new results were obtained for cases with larger unit cells. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Jacques H.H. Perk, Helen Au-Yang Perk

Development of serial powering for the upgrade of the ATLAS pixel detector Oklahoma State University HEP group is responsible for the design of serial power system for the upgraded ATLAS pixel detector. All major experiments have a parallel powering for their tracking detectors, but these powering schemes have poor efficiency. Our group designs a new, serial powering system, in which a relatively small power cable would serve multiple chips on one stave instead of a single chip. The system includes Serial Power Supply Modules (SPSU Modules), SPSU control system/Backplane, SPSU Chassis and low voltage cables. OSU will produce 380 SPSUs for the next pixel detector in the ATLAS experiment. Sponsor: BNL/DOE PI/PD: F. Rizatdinova

MRI: Acquisition of an Advanced FT-IR System for Multidisciplinary Research and Education at Oklahoma State University Microbiology: Robert Burnap, Wouter D Hoff (co-PIs) College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources: Junpeng Deng (co-PI) Stony Brook University: Wei Yin (co-PI) This Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) award supports the acquisition of a unique, state- of-the art FT-IR system. Integration of seven advanced and/or cutting-edge FT-IR technologies enhanced by the broad expertise of the PI creates one of kind advanced FT-IR research facility nationwide that stimulates innovative research and enhance funding opportunities. In addition, we develop a novel nanosecond step-scan FT-IR technology with pending patent application. Plus, this state-of-the-art FT-IR research facility is employed in education and training of both undergraduate students and graduate students from three colleges and multiple universities. Sponsors: National Science Foundation & Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Aihua Xie (PI)

Interaction of Cancer Drug SHetA2 Analogs and Proteins by NMR and Computer Modeling We aim to improve cancer drug design based on the structural information of several target proteins and a lead drug SHetA2, which is being clinically tested for ovarian cancer prevention. With improved efficiency a new drug is expected for curing cancer, not only for prevention purposes. Sponsor: Stephenson Cancer Center PI/PDs: Donghua Zhou OUHSC: Doris Benbrook PLANT BIOLOGY, ECOLOGY, AND EVOLUTION (PBEE)

STEM persistence through flexible authentic research opportunities Life-science departments seek to increase persistence among majors by transforming introductory science courses into authentic research experiences. In these introductory courses students will design and conduct original research and present their findings in written and oral form. OSU freshman interested in research will be invited to participate in the Life Sciences Freshman Research Scholars program during which they will complete a research course and conduct research with faculty mentors. To encourage students to join the OSU research community, we will host networking events for life-science majors, along with events uniquely designed to encourage the participation of Native American life-sciences students. Sponsor: Howard Hughes Medical Institute Science Education Program PI/PDs: Donald French (OSU Integrative Biology) John Gelder (OSU Chemistry) John Gustafson (OSU Biochemistry & Molecular Biology) Wouter Hoff (OSU Microbiology & Molecular Genetics) Janette Steets (OSU Plant Biology, Ecology, & Evolution)

Synthesis on Pollen Limitation and Terrestrial Biodiversity (sPLAT) The majority of flowering plants rely on pollinators for their reproduction and human perturbations to the environment disrupt plant-pollinator interactions and lead to widespread pollen limitation of plant reproduction. Such effects are expected to be most pronounced in regions with high terrestrial plant biodiversity, where competition for pollinators is strongest. We will quantitatively synthesize hundreds of pollen supplementation experiments and provide a global assessment of how regional factors and human perturbations correlate with the magnitude of pollen limitation. Sponsor: German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) PI/PDs: Tiffany Knight (Washington University in St. Louis) Tia-Lynn Ashman (University of Pittsburgh) Janette Steets (Oklahoma State University)

The Role of Chloroplast Gene Expression in Plant Growth and Development Chloroplasts play a central role in plant metabolism, plant growth and development. Most chloroplast proteins are encoded by the nuclear genome and imported into the chloroplast. A few proteins are encoded by the chloroplast genome itself. In Arabidopsis, interfering with chloroplast gene expression causes defects in photosynthesis and results in embryo lethality. This project examined molecular factors responsible for the embryo lethality encountered in the absence of chloroplast translation, and variations in sensitivity to a loss of chloroplast translation found among natural accessions of Arabidopsis. Emphasis was placed on acetyl-CoA carboxylase, a key metabolic enzyme required for fatty acid biosynthesis. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI: David Meinke Dissertation Research: Turning Vines into Trees: A Genome Skimming Approach to the Phylogenetics of New World Milkweed Vines (Matelea, sug. Chthamalia, Apocynaceae) This research will use the most powerful available techniques to reconstruct the evolutionary history of Chthamalia, a milkweed genus that inhabits dry or seasonally dry habitats in Mexico and the southwestern United States, and to analyze the evolution of adaptations to aridity. Next generation DNA sequencing employing a “genome skimming” approach will be used to obtain complete chloroplast genomes, partial mitochondrial genomes, and complete nuclear ribosomal gene sequences to robustly estimate phylogenetic relationships, which will serve as a framework for evolutionary analyses of morphological adaptations. The award supports the enhancement of graduate student Angela McDonnell’s dissertation research. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Mark Fishbein, Angela McDonnell

Can Hundreds of Unlinked Loci Really Resolve Recent, Rapid Radiations of Plant Species? This research will demonstrate how to solve difficult phylogenetic problems at the species level in plants by employing improvements in next-generation sequencing techniques, and combining methods for targeted sequencing of hundreds of specific regions of the nuclear genome applied to unusually large within-species sampling. The project applies nuclear gene probes to target 768 genes and substantial amounts of their non-coding flanking regions. Undergraduate and graduate student training in genomics, bioinformatics, and phylogenetics will target participants from underrepresented groups. Project outcomes will be extended through workshops held at scientific meetings, K-12 education modules, and demonstration exhibits at a public botanic garden. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Mark Fishbein William and Hobart Smith Colleges: Shannon Straub

MRI: Acquisition of a genomic sequencer within a shared resource facility for interdisciplinary sciences and training at Oklahoma State University This proposal is for a next generation sequencer that will be used for both research and teaching at OSU. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Andrew Doust, Mark Fishbein Integrative Biology: Ron Van Den Bussche College of Agriculture: Peter Hoyt, Charles Chen The Genetic Architecture of Tillering in Panicoid Cereals The proposal examines the genetic regulation of branching in panicoid grasses, focusing on maize, sorghum, and millet grasses. It incorporates various forward and reverse genetic approaches, together with a strong broader impacts section aimed at improving the quality of science education amongst teachers and students at the high school level. Sponsor: NSF PI/PDs: Andrew Doust College of Education: Julie Angle Brigham Young University, Provo, UT: Clint Whipple Plant Gene Expression Center, Albany, CA: George Chuck West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV: Jennifer Hawkins

Genetic comparisons of Abscission Zones in Grasses This proposal examines the genetic regulation of spatial and temporal variation in abscission zone formation and its underlying mechanisms across grasses. It incorporates genetic analyses and RNA-seq approaches to understand how a central core regulation system for abscission has evolved across grasses. Sponsor: NSF PI/PDs: Andrew Doust College of Education: Julie Angle Donald Danforth Plant Sciences Center, St. Louis, MO: Elizabeth Kellogg

MRI: Acquisition of a genomic sequencer within a shared resource facility for interdisciplinary sciences and training at Oklahoma State University This proposal is for a next generation sequencer that will be used for both research and teaching at OSU. Sponsor: NSF PI/PDs: Andrew Doust, Mark Fishbein, Ron Van Den Bussche College of Agriculture: Peter Hoyt, Charles Chen Donald Danforth Plant Sciences Center, St. Louis, MO: Elizabeth Kellogg

IUSE: Transitioning Students to Teacher-Researchers (TSTR) This proposal is to develop a model to improve STEM learning and learning environments for undergraduate science majors who are preservice science teachers (PSTs) by providing multiple authentic research experiences prior to entering the teaching profession. Sponsor: NSF PI/PDs: College of Education: Julie Angle A&S: Andrew Doust, Donald French Engineering: Carissa Ramming Meiotic suppressors of ask1-1 Towards unraveling a conserved pathway in meiosis involving the SKP1 protein, this project aims to identify and characterize meiotic suppressors of the arabidopsis skp1-like1 (ask1-1) mutation. Specifically, the suppressor genes will be identified by genome sequencing and fine mapping and the suppression mechanism by light microscopy. Further confirmation of the suppressor genes will be conducted by complementation of the original ask1-1 meiotic defects with the suppressor genes and by studies of the expression levels of the suppressor genes in concerned genotypes. Successful completion of this work may reveal novel components of a conserved pathway that regulates meiotic cell cycle progression. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Ming Yang

Remember the dry times: the effect of variable drought stress on tree recovery and survival Drought in combination with higher temperature has now been linked to widespread events of elevated tree mortality around the world, and rising temperatures from climate change are expected to result in much more tree die-off. Understanding the physiological process of tree mortality could improve predictions of this disturbance. This REU internship provided the opportunity for an undergraduate researcher to conduct original research on tree response to repeated drought stress, with a focus on whether carbohydrate reserves influences whether trees survived or died from severe drought. The undergraduate will be involved in the presentation and publication of results. Sponsor: Oklahoma Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) PI/PD: Henry Adams

A burning question for catastrophic wildfire risk in Oklahoma: How much drought causes eastern redcedar to switch from suppressing fire to promoting fire? Invasion and expansion of eastern redcedar is the greatest land management challenge facing states in the Great Plains and Midwest US, and threatens conversion of much of Oklahoma from grassland to woodland over the next 10-20 years. Woody encroachment from this species increases the risk of catastrophic wildfire and prior research determined a flammability threshold for eastern redcedar foliage. This research will determine the climate and environmental conditions which cause foliar moisture to fall below this threshold in order to improve fire risk prediction. The project will use soil-foliar moisture content relationships determined in the field and in greenhouse experiments. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) PI/PD: Henry Adams Frontiers in the physiological mechanism of drought-induced tree mortality. Per unit land area, forests remove more carbon from the atmosphere and store more carbon than any other terrestrial vegetation type. One pathway to improving projections of climate change requires understanding the physiological causes of tree mortality to improve prediction of vegetation change in response to climate. There is evidence from prior studies of a hydraulic point-of-no-return that results in tree death, but when exceeded is not immediately apparent. This research seeks to determine the lethal threshold in hydraulic function, quantified as the degree of xylem embolism, during severe drought using a greenhouse experiment with loblolly pine seedlings. Sponsor: College of Arts & Sciences Academic Summer Research Program PI/PD: Henry Adams

Enhanced Lipid Production by Diatoms in Continuous Culture Algae such as diatoms can accumulate storage lipids (fats) that are a potential feedstock for biodiesel. This project will determine whether diatoms can accumulate lipids at high exponential growth rate in continuous culture by carefully controlling the supply of limiting nutrients. The response of wild type (WT) and mutant diatom strains will be compared in a series of nitrogen and silicon step-down experiments in turbidostat cultures (constant biomass). This will establish the relationship between nutrient-limited growth and lipid productivity and reveal possible mechanisms to be exploited for future commercial lipid production in mass- cultured diatoms. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) PI/PD: William Henley POLITICAL SCIENCE

It’s Not Personal: Politics and Policy in Lower Court Confirmation Hearings Why does the Senate hold confirmation hearings for lower federal court nominees, and what is their value in the larger advice and consent process? Using interviews with key actors and analysis of transcripts for all district and circuit court confirmation hearings, 1993-2012, we contend that senators hold and participate in confirmation hearings because doing so provides an opportunity to further their policy and electoral goals. Importantly, we also find that hearings for a small but important subset of “controversial” nominees serve a different purpose than hearings for more traditional nominees. Sponsor: OSU College of Arts and Sciences (sabbatical funds) PIs: Eve Ringsmuth (Oklahoma State University) Logan Dancey (Wesleyan University) Kjersten R. Nelson (North Dakota State University)

Korean Educational Services Agreement Under this agreement, our Korean partners pay OSU for the on-site delivery of the Master of Science in Fire and Emergency Management Administration at the Korean National Fire Service Academy. Students are selected by the KNFSA and complete the program in two years. Courses are offered on-site by OSU faculty and adjuncts. Sponsor: Kangwon National University and the Korean national Fire Service Academy PIs: Marten Brienen

Respond to large-scale disasters: case studies and interviews to four disasters in Taiwan Abstract: Four disasters struck Taiwan in the past three years. Although these disasters are different in type and scale, the response of the Taiwanese government to these disasters reveals common fallacies in its disaster response system. This research aims to interview those Taiwanese responders of these four disasters. Qualitative data will be collected during interviews. The expected outcomes of this proposed project are as follows. (1) Understanding the obstacles of responding to disasters; (2) Collecting qualitative data that can be later published in international emergency management journals; and (3) Providing suggestions to better plan for and respond to large-scale disasters. Sponsor: OSU College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Incentive Grant PI: Ray H. Chang Copy and Paste Lawmaking in the American States Why do lawmakers copy and paste bill text from outside sources? State legislatures with smaller staff budgets, fewer days in session, and with term limits are more likely to borrow language, such as other state bills and interest group model bills. These claims are tested using the bill texts of 24 different policies that spread across the 50 states between 1982 and 2014. Cosine similarity, a common plagiarism detection technique, is used to detect similar language in bills. The findings have implications for state legislatures’ capacity to tailor policies to suit their own citizens’ needs. Sponsor: OSU College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Incentive Grant PI: Joshua Jansa

Assessing the Political Effects of Local Diversity: A Data Proposal Too often, diversity has become a motivator for violence. Recent work in political science has noted more than half of all civil wars have divided along ethnic lines. Ethnic terrorist organizations have also been behind some of the most lethal terrorist events in recent history, further suggesting that ethnicity plays a role in inspiring violence. This project seeks to create a database of ethnic, religious, and linguistic diversity measured at the regional level over time. This will allow scholars to test whether ethnically diverse areas, as well as those areas becoming more diverse will experience more violence. Sponsor: College of Arts & Sciences PI: Stephen Nemeth SOCIOLOGY

Successful Disaster Recovery using the Community Capitals Framework This research examines natural, financial, built, social, human, political and cultural capital in three rural communities that have experienced a recent natural hazard event—tornado, flood and drought. Sponsor: North Central Regional Center for Rural Development PI/PDs: Duane A. Gill (Co-PI) North Dakota State University: Gary Goreham (PI)

Adapting Socio-ecological Systems to Increased Climate Variability Representing more than a dozen academic disciplines and four institutions across Oklahoma, the Climate Variability Team studies how humans and the environment interact and how those relationships adapt to changes in climate. The research advances understanding of socio- ecological systems and how to enhance resilience and sustainability. Sponsor: National Science Foundation EPSCoR PI/PDs: Duane A. Gill, Beth Caniglia

Proposal for the Archaeological Survey of Rush Creek, Southeast of Rush Springs, Grady County, Oklahoma. This State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) project, funded through the Department of the Interior, and administered by the Oklahoma Historical Society, involves the archaeological survey of areas likely to contain historically-described sites and previously unrecorded prehistoric sites along Rush Creek, in the vicinity of Rush Springs, in Grady County, Oklahoma. Descriptions and maps from the 1850s record two Wichita villages situated along either side of Rush Creek approximately 4 to 6 miles southeast of present-day Rush Springs. Additionally, 1858 accounts of the Battle of the Wichita Village, involving four companies of the U.S. 2nd Cavalry attacking a group of Penateka Comanches, report the Comanche’s encampment near Rush Creek, adjacent to a Wichita village. At present, however, none of these settlements nor the battlefield have been definitively identified. Four principal objectives motivate this four mile investigation of Rush Creek: 1) to locate these historically-recorded, 19th-century Wichita villages; 2) to attempt to identify the 1858 battlefield; 3) to reassess 34GD14 through pedestrian and geophysical survey; and 4) to identify and document any other prehistoric or historic sites encountered within the zone of survey. The survey will encompass targeted areas within 8 selected sections of land along 4 miles of the Rush Creek drainage. Data gathered will include the creation of maps, detailed photographs, collected surface artifacts (with the permission of landowners), and other data necessary for potential nominations to the National Register of Historic Places. Sponsor: Oklahoma Historical Society (OHS)/State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) PI/PDs: Stephen M. Perkins Stress and Type 2 Diabetes Among Indigenous Adults This project is a five-year study of the relationship between stress and type 2 diabetes in a sample of Ojibwe adults. The goals of the research are to a) improve measurement of stress processes among Indigenous people and b) to use multiple indicators of stress including survey data, patient charts, and salivary cortisol (cortisol is a stress biomarker) to study the interactions between stress and type 2 diabetes disease progression, complications, and treatment compliance. Sponsor: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases PI/PDs: Kelley Sittner University of Minnesota Medical School: Melissa Walls

Indigenous Pathways of Substance Use and Mental Health through Early Adulthood Indigenous youth engage in earlier onset and more frequent substance use than non- Indigenous youth, but determinants and patterns of Indigenous substance use and mental health problems over time are not clear, particularly as youth transition to adulthood. The overall goal of this study is to identify trajectories and predictors of alcohol and substance use, psychiatric problems, and recovery and wellbeing among Indigenous young adults. Sponsor: National Institute of Drug Abuse PI/PDs: Kelley Sittner University of Minnesota Medical School: Melissa Walls THEATRE

Oklahoma’s Oldest Living Citizens: The Oklahoma 100 Year Life Project 2.0 Maria Beach served as Assistant Director and Dramaturg for a performance stemming from the interdisciplinary research study, “Oklahoma’s Oldest Living Citizens: The Oklahoma 100 Year Life Project 2.0.” The team collected interviews from Oklahomans who had lived for 100 years or more, and had used the interviews in a gerontology class. The performance, primarily by students, was based on the interviews. The study seeks to determine if watching a live performance has a pedagogical impact on student audience members’ understanding of and attitudes towards aging. Sponsors: Bryan Close Professorship in Adulthood and Aging and the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program C0-PI: Maria Beach

Head of SFX Flying; Aerial Rigging Lee Brasuell was head of special effects flying for the Disney world premiere of When You Wish at the Lyric Theatre in Oklahoma City. Sponsor: Lyric Theatre PI: Lee Brasuell

Scenic Designer Lee Brasuell was scenic designer for the production of the musical Meet Me in St. Louis at the University of Central Oklahoma. Sponsor: University of Central Oklahoma PI: Lee Brasuell

Aerial Rigging Lee Brasuell coordinated with Perpetual Motion and Allied Arts to install the truss structure and aerial rigging for the performance of Wanderlust presented in the OSU Seretean Center Concert Hall. Sponsor: Allied Arts PI: Lee Brasuell

Tao-Line performer apparatus Exhibition The Tao-line circus and performer apparatus was accepted into the bi-annual tech expo at the United States Institute of Theatre Technologies (USITT) national conference in March 2017. Sponsor: United States Institute of Theatre Technology PI: Lee Brasuell

Scenic Designer Lee Brasuell was the scenic designer for Private Lives at the Paseo Arts Gallery stage for Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park. Sponsor: Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park PI: Lee Brasuell Guest Scenic Designer Rich Larsen Guest Artist Rich Larsen was the scenic and properties designer for production of Shipwrecked! in the Spring 2017, directed by Lloyd Caldwell and lighting design by Heidi Hoffer. Mr. Larsen provided a guest lecture for the Department of Housing and Merchandising and Theatre Department. Sponsor: Fae Rawdon Norris Foundation for the Humanities PI: Lee Brasuell

Guest Lighting Designer Tony Leutkenhaus Guest Lighting Designer Tony Leutkenhaus was the guest designer for the production of The Call in fall 2016, scenic design by Heidi Hoffer. Sponsor: Department of Theatre PI: Lee Brasuell

The Business of Action; A Podcast on the Business Practices of Stunt Coordinators, Fight Directors, Special Effects Riggers, Motion Capture Directors. Lloyd Caldwell produced weekly interviews of industry leaders in the Action Entertainment Field, focusing on business practices and career trajectories. Sponsor: The Riata Center for Entrepreneurship PI/PD: Lloyd Caldwell

Arts Entrepreneurship Applications for the Fight Director and Stunt Coordinator Lloyd Caldwell participated in a two-day presentation for the International Order of Sword and Pen and Fight Directors International, held at the Banff Centre in Banff, Canada, in early January. It applied current theories to the business model of fight directors and stunt Coordinators. Sponsor: The Banff Centre (Formerly the Banff Centre for the Arts) PI/PD: Lloyd Caldwell

Business Consulting for Practicing Fight Directors, Stunt Coordinators and Motion Capture Directors. Lloyd Caldwell served as a business consultant for the Fight Director Megan Reneau, Canada; Rachel Flesher, Fight Director and Intimacy Director, of Chicago; and Carrie Thiel, Stunt Coordinator and Motion Capture Director, of New Zealand. Sponsor: Megan Reneau, Carrie Thiel, Rachel Flesher. PI/PD: Lloyd Caldwell Interviews of Current Fight Directors Concerning Best Business Practices Lloyd Caldwell conducted over 20 interviews of leading Fight Directors during the World Certification Conference held at the University of Toronto in August of 2016. These interviews were either broadcast as part of the Business of Action Podcast series, or have been held back to provide material for articles and/or a book length project. Sponsor: The Riata Center for Entrepreneurship and The World Certification Conference in Staged Combat, University of Toronto PI/PD: Lloyd Caldwell

Lighting Designer, Into the Woods Leslie Currell served as Lighting Designer for the Duncan Little Theatre's production of Into the Woods that was performed in the Simmons Center in Duncan, Oklahoma in February 2017, directed by Veronica Hodgson. Sponsor: Duncan Little Theatre, Duncan, Oklahoma PI: Leslie Currell

Resident Costume Designer Renee Garcia was hired as Resident Costume Designer at the Charleston Stage Company in Charleston, SC in February 2017. She assisted in builds, designed the spring musical and began preliminary research and designs for the current season. Sponsor: Charleston Stage Company in Charleston, SC PI: Renee Garcia

Costume Designer and Costume Shop Manager Renee Garcia was the costume designer for Charleston Stage Company's production of Sister Act, which opened in April 2017. She also took over supervision of the costume shop for the Sister Act build, supervising staff as well as volunteers. Sponsor: Charleston Stage Company in Charleston, SC PI: Renee Garcia

Scene Designer, Arsenic and Old Lace Heidi Hoffer provided scenic designs for the production of Arsenic and Old Lace. Sponsor: Creede Repertory Theatre PI: Heidi Hoffer

Charge Artist for the film Wildlife Heidi Hoffer served as charge artist for the scenic elements of the film Wildlife. Sponsor: Wildlife LLC, June Pictures, Nine Stories Productions, Sight Unseen Pictures PI: Heidi Hoffer

Charge Artist for the film I Can Only Imagine Heidi Hoffer served as charge artist for the scenic elements of the film I Can Only Imagine. Sponsor: Imagine Rights LLC, Kevin Downes Productions, Mission Pictures International PI: Heidi Hoffer Scenic Design for the film The Chickasaw Rancher Heidi Hoffer served as scenic designer for the film The Chickasaw Rancher. Sponsor: Chickasaw Nation Productions LLC PI: Heidi Hoffer

ArtsAloud-OSU Jinks began her fifth year as creator and project manager of ArtsAloud-OSU in fall 2016 The program creates original, collaborative theatrical performance with prisoners in the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, and facilitates a performance exchange with OSU Theatre students inside the prison walls. In 2016-2017, ArtsAloud was in two men’s prisons and one women’s prison and employed two graduate students from the department of theatre Sponsor: The Mary Lou Lemon Endowed Professorship for Under-Represented Voices PI: Jodi Jinks

RoundUP Theatre Andrew Kimbrough was artistic director and lead facilitator for RoundUP Theatre, an engaged research project with the Stillwater Public Library, the College of Education, and the Department of Theatre. Student volunteers created works of original theatre with adults with intellectual disabilities. Sponsor: Department of Theatre; Stillwater Public Library PI: Andrew Kimbrough

Guest Director G.D. Kimball Guest Director G.D. Kimball was the guest director for the production of The Call in fall 2016, scenic design by Heidi Hoffer. Mr. Kimball provided guest lectures in the Theatre Department. Sponsor: OSU Division for Institutional Diversity; Department of Theatre PI: Andrew Kimbrough

Guest Music Director Megan Barth Guest Artist Megan Barth was the music director, vocal coach, and keyboardist for the production of The Spitfire Grill in the Spring 2017, directed by Peter Westerhoff. Sponsor: Department of Theatre PI: B. Peter Westerhoff College of Engineering, Architecture, & Technology – FY2017 Research Abstracts ARCHITECTURE

eXploration Habitat (X-Hab) 2017 Academic Innovation Challenge: 1.6 Deep Space Mars Transit Habitat Layout and Development Studies The goal is to develop fully autonomous habitation systems that enable human exploration of space; and develop, integrate, test and evaluate Habitation Systems that will be utilized as technology testbeds and to advance NASA’s understanding of alternative mission architectures, requirements, and operations concepts’ definition and validation. Sponsor: National Space Grant Foundation for NASA PI/PDs: Steve O’Hara Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: Jamey Jacob College of Arts & Sciences: J. Cecil, Blayne Mayfield, Eric Chan-Tin

Deep Space Mars Transit Habitat Layout Studies Following upon the previous X-Hab Academic Innovation Challenge, OSU will add to, modify and utilize previously developed components to test scenarios for a full deep space Mars transit and landing for the 2016 X-Hab Academic Innovation Challenge. The goals of the project include a short-term goal of an interdisciplinary senior design project to design, build and evaluate components for horizontally and vertically oriented habitats for deep space missions and a long-term goal to develop capabilities in education, research, and outreach in the field of space habitat design. Sponsor: National Space Grant Foundation for NASA PI/PDs: Steve O’Hara Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: Jamey Jacob

CENTER FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT TECHNOLOGY (CLGT)

Implementing Safe Work Zone Operations Strategies Oklahoma State University’s Center for Local Government Technology will provide 210 courses including worker courses, management courses and instructor courses over the next 3 fiscal years to improve operational understanding and planning for flagged, mobile, short duration and short term operations for public, tribal, private and educational sector employees including utilities (public and private), emergency response, towing and insurance personnel. Sponsor: United States Department of Transportation – Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Douglas A. Wright

Oklahoma Public and Tribal Transportation Infrastructure Employee Occupational Safety and Health Training and Evaluation – Phase 1 This project will continue a program meant to reduce the frequency and severity of public sector highway worker incidents, including those in similar capacities with Tribal Nations. The goal will be to combine both research and implementation to identify areas of emphasis while delivering needed training in which data can be collected for these workers. The objective of the project will be to use a nationally accepted OSHA 10 Hour Construction Industry curriculum that has been modified to reflect issues faced by public sector highway workers to provide both training and evaluation for continued improvement and performance measurement. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PD: Douglas A. Wright

Road Safety Assessment for Iowa Tribe and Sac and Fox Nation of Oklahoma American Indian Tribes conduct road safety assessments as part of their transportation planning programs. The purpose is to assist with determining roadway deficiencies, maintenance issues and planning for future work that benefits transportation safety. Road Safety Assessments are evaluations of tribal roadways by independent, multi-disciplinary teams to identify specific safety recommendations. RSA teams identify safety risks using sources such as crash data, maintenance logs, interviews of roadway authorities, public testimony, and field observations. This project will assist the Iowa Tribe and Sac and Fox Nation in conducting a road safety assessment by supplementing existing staff with specialized technical expertise. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for the Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PD: Karla Sisco

Local Technical Assistance Program Since its inception in 1982, the mission of Oklahoma LTAP has been to provide training, technology transfer and technical assistance to local government agencies responsible for transportation systems. The Center is one of four original LTAP centers in the nation. Oklahoma LTAP addresses four broad focus areas: Safety, Infrastructure Management, Workforce Development, and Organizational Excellence. LTAP also provides a Transportation Intern Program that places student interns with local government agencies in paid summer internships. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Douglas A. Wright, Michael Hinkston

Southern Plains Tribal Technical Assistance Program (TTAP) Center Funded by the FTA and in cooperation with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, this program provides a resource center to furnish information, training, and technical assistance related to road and bridge construction, repair, and maintenance to over 49 tribal governments in a four-state area. The TTAP mission is to meet the educational needs of tribal governments related to roads, bridges, public transit, transportation systems, inter-governmental coordination, and economic development. An important part of the mission is to provide training sessions, classes, and workshops geared to specific tribal needs. OSU’s TTAP center is one of seven TTAP centers across the U.S. Sponsor: United States Department of Transportation - Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Karla Sisco

County Computer Assistance Program With oversight provided by the Oklahoma Tax Commission (OTC), the Association of County Assessors, and the Association of County Treasurers, the Center for Local Government Technology provides software programs, support of software and hardware including installation, maintenance of software and hardware, data management, conducting training programs and technical assistance for County Assessors and County Treasurers. CLGT also provides coordination with the Oklahoma Tax Commission Ad Valorem Division (OTC) in fulfilling mutual responsibilities to support State CAMA and Assessment Administration (AA) software systems. Sponsor: Oklahoma Tax Commission PI/PDs: Gary Snyder, Scott Warren

Assessor Training and Assistance Program CLGT, in cooperation with the Tax Commission, the County Assessors' Association and the County Treasurers’ Association will execute the programs by providing computer software programs, support of software and hardware including installation, maintenance, data management and training, to counties currently using the services previously provided by the State Auditor and Inspector as mandated by legislation. CLGT will provide: hardware maintenance, software, software maintenance, and software support to County Assessors utilizing the program software systems; technical support and training to County Assessors; and assistance with data extraction for OTC statutory and other agency requirements. Sponsor: Oklahoma Tax Commission PI/PDs: Gary Snyder, Scott Warren

CHEMICAL ENGINEERING

Multi-Scale Dosimetry Modeling of Influenza Virus-Laden Droplets through the Pulmonary Route A multi-scale dosimetry model will be developed by combining the Computational Fluid-Particle Dynamics (CFPD) model with an airway site-specific physiologically based pharmacokinetics (PBPK) model, which integrates state-of-the-art knowledge of human lung aerosol dynamics. The new CFPD-PBPK model will extend the capabilities and enhance the accuracies of existing biokinetic models for risk assessment, and enable simulations of extremely complex dynamic phenomena of the entire human respiratory system at detailed levels never undertaken before. The model can be used to investigate mechanisms for influenza virus to transport into the alveolar region, as well as the significance of their translocation into systemic regions. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Yu Feng

Microfluidics Based IWAG Studies The primary objectives of this research study are to: 1) conduct microfluidics experiments to quantify the effect of rock wettability on the enhanced oil recovery (EOR) potential of immiscible-water-alternating-gas (IWAG) flooding technique and 2) confirm or modify the Stone 1 equation for residual non wetting phase saturation by analyzing the experimental data. Sponsor: G.E. Global Research PI/PDs: Prem Bikkina, Clint Aichele

High-Pressure/High-Temperature (HPHT) High-field NMR Diffusivity Measurements of Sandstone and Limestone Microplugs The sponsor will procure two sandstone and two limestone microplugs of sufficient geometry to fit inside a commercially available high field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) tube. The microplugs will be cleaned, dried, and scanned by x-ray computed tomography (CT) for image porosity (ϕ) and pore size distribution (PSD). The OSU team will repeat the CT scans on the microplugs for calibration of calculated image ϕ and PSD against previous data, and acquire methane diffusion and relaxation rates under maximum and minimum field gradients at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10kpsi methane pressure and corresponding subsurface temperature by high field NMR. Sponsor: GE Global Research PI/PDs: Prem Bikkina, Clint Aichele Arts & Sciences: Jeffrey White

Ex Vivo Generation of Dendritic Cells from an Advanced Vascular Tissue Construct The researcher’s long-term goal is to develop dendritic cells (DCs)-based therapeutics to treat a variety of diseases and that can be custom made to meet the needs of an individual patient. The objective of this project, as an initial step to reach that goal, is to develop a novel method that can produce functional DCs to be used for further research of DCs and eventually for therapeutic treatment of disease. The research will include use of a novel tissue-engineered construct within a bioreactor with flow conditions. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Heather Fahlenkamp

Differentiation of Human Hematopoietic Stem Cells to Lung Resident Immune Cells in a Tissue-Engineering Lung Model The goal is to determine if the human lung environment fosters the differentiation of human HSCs into myeloid cells that display unique features of lung resident dendritic cells and macrophages. Researchers will seed CD34+ HSCs into a 3D Human Tissue-Engineered Lung Model (3D-HTLM) and track their development into functional myeloid cells. The researchers will also determine the impact of inflammatory stimuli on this HSC differentiation pathway. If successful, this model could be used to study factors regulating the differentiation of HSCs into myeloid cells as well as the innate immune responses of those myeloid cells to pathogens or allergens. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for Adult Stem Cell Research PI/PD: Heather Fahlenkamp

Design of Inorganic Membrane Systems for Advanced Oil-Water Separation The primary objective of this work is to engineer microporous inorganic membranes to have excellent water flux and high rejection efficiency for efficient oil-water separation. The proposed research will develop inorganic membrane-based systems targeting oil rejection coefficient > 99% and a pure water flux > 50 Lm-2h-1 by exploiting its micron-level membrane thickness and extraordinary selectivity through control of hydrophilicity. These membrane engineering concepts are important to the development of membrane-based systems for industrial applications in clean and sustainable energy technologies. Sponsor: OSU Foundation for National Energy Solutions Institute – Smart Energy Source Association (NESI-SES) PI/PDs: Seok-Jhin Kim, Clint Aichele

Computational Modeling of Tuberculosis Granuloma Activation Matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1) dysregulation has been recently implicated in tuberculosis (TB) activation through experimental studies, but the mechanism is not well understood. Animal and human studies currently cannot probe the dynamics of activation, so a computational approach is proposed to fill this gap. The overall objective of the study is to predict TB cavity formation (a hallmark of activation) in response to the dynamics of MMP-1 dysregulation. Mathematical and computational tools will be developed and used to test the hypothesis that the dynamics of MMP-1 regulation play a key role in the transition from latent TB to active TB. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Ashlee Ford Versypt

Leakage risk assessment for plugged and abandoned oil and gas wells The primary objective is to develop a methodology for evaluating the quality of the barrier system of a permanently plugged and abandoned well by expressing barrier system quality in terms of leakage probability and potential future leakage rates. Secondary objectives are: Establish a reliability model for the barrier system in a permanently plugged and abandoned well; Develop a leakage calculator for oil and gas escaping the barrier system; Develop a model for long- and short-term pressure forecasting in the well vicinity; Establish uncertainty quantification models for all phenomenological models developed and implement sensitivity analyses to understand critical factors. Sponsor: International Research Institute of Stavanger AS PI/PDs: Geir Hareland, Runar Nygaard

Using a Tissue-Engineered Vascular Model to Develop Mast Cells from Adult Stem Cells The researchers have shown it is possible to grow mast cells from one type of adult stem cells in a 3D tissue-engineered model and that these cells are different than those generated from 2D cell culture systems. The researchers believe the tissue-engineered model can be used to develop mast cells from a variety of adult stem cell sources and that the cells are more functional than those developed in 2D cell culture systems. The project will lead to a better source of human mast cells and a model that can be used to study allergic diseases and test treatment strategies. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for Adult Stem Cell Research PI/PD: Heather Fahlenkamp

Multi-Scale Mechanisms for Wettability Alteration: Insight in the Development of Wettability Inversion Strategies This project addresses reservoir wettability focusing on the impact of external factors such as salinity, surfactants, and CO2 on reservoir wettability. Reservoir wettability is a critical parameter for determining production potential of a field, and accurate prediction of this behavior is critical for predicting ultimate production. Objectives include: 1) Obtain high pressure/temperature contact angle and interfacial tension data to elucidate reservoir wettability at reservoir conditions for reservoirs of interest to ADNOC, 2) Elucidate wettability mechanisms as a function of salinity, CO2 concentration, surfactants, temperature, and pressure at reservoir conditions, 3) Incorporate the data into models to predict reservoir wettability. Sponsor: Rice University for Abu Dhabi National Oil Company PI/PD: Clint Aichele, Prem Bikkina

FRI Viscous Distillation The project will quantify the impact of viscosity on mass transfer efficiency. An Oldershaw column will be constructed and operated in order to obtain efficiency data of viscous systems. Sponsor: Fractionation Research, Inc. PI/PDs: Clint Aichele, Sayeed Mohammad, James Whiteley

Intelligent Sensor for Closed Loop Anesthesia Delivery (iSCAD) Propofol Testing OSU will provide advice and carry out optical spectroscopy experiments to measure propofol in whole blood and serum. Sponsor: Physical Optics Corporation PI/PD: Sundararajan Madihally

FRI De-entrainment Diagnostics Deliverables include: 1) Develop PDI technique to quantify entrainment, 2) Validate entrainment characterization technique using glass beads. Entrain glass beads in column, use PDI to measure amount of entrainment, and compare PDI results to physically captured glass beads that were entrained, 3) Characterization of sprays in OSU column in back-scatter mode, 4) Characterization of impact of de-mister thickness on performance, 5) Procedures to take PDI from OSU laboratory to FRI facility, 6) Characterization of entrainment and sprays at FRI facility, 7) Quantification of spray behavior using patternator with focus on impact of pressure drop and surface tension on spray morphology. Sponsor: Fractionation Research, Inc. PI/PDs: Clint Aichele, James Whiteley

UNS: Collaborative Research: Non-Membrane, Low Temperature and Low Emission Water Desalination Using Directional Solvent The objectives in this project are to: 1) design highly efficient directional solvents (DS) for a novel water desalination technology, and 2) based on these solvents, design and demonstrate a continuous desalination system which is clean, membrane-free and can utilize very low temperature heat sources. The research will be driven by the hypothesis that the water solubility in DSs can be tuned by varying their molecular structures. Monte Carlo and molecular dynamics simulations will be performed to calculate the phase-equilibria of DSs with salt and water as a function of temperature. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Jindal Shah

Building 3D Liver Organoid from Bottoms-Up for Drug Screening In order to improve the screening and development of pharmaceuticals, many in vitro culture techniques have been explored. Developments in 3D cultures show that 3D space regulates localization and concentration of a variety of signals with the entire cell surface, similar to the in vivo environment. Based on these principles, this work uses a novel bioprinting technique to precisely pattern hepatocytes and sinusoidal endothelial cells to create 3D hepatic organoid layer-by-layer. This work aims at using chitosan-gelatin thermosensitive hydrogel for developing 3D hepatic tissue that can be used to print stable fibers less than 75 µm in thickness. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Sundararajan Madihally

SI2-SSE: Development of Cassandra, a General, Efficient and Parallel Monte Carlo Multiscale Modeling Software Platform for Materials Research Responsibilities of the OSU research team include: 1) PI Shah will lead the effort to describe the features, capabilities and performance of Cassandra in the form of a research publication; 2) The OSU team will incorporate slow growth methods such as continuous fraction component Monte Carlo methods for phase equilibria calculations; 3) Cassandra will be modified to enable Monte Carlo simulations of thermophysical and phase equilibria calculations in mesoporous materials such as zeolites, metal organic framework, carbon nanopores and carbon nanotubes; 4) PI Shah will contribute to the summer workshops as a part of the outreach efforts. Sponsor: University of Notre Dame for NSF PI/PD: Jindal Shah

Gas Evolution Rates in Hydrocarbons as a Function of Flow, Temperature, and Pressure for Gas/Liquid Separator Applications The long range goal is to develop a methodology to measure gas evolution rates in the field for gas/liquid separator design and troubleshooting applications. This project is the first step toward achieving this goal. The work objectives are to establish an experimental protocol to measure gas evolution rates in flowing conditions, create a milestone roadmap for developing a gas evolution test program, and propose a commercially viable experimental methodology for further field testing. Completion of this work will provide the necessary information to perform the longer range work for a larger project that might include the establishment of a JIP. Sponsor: Chevron U.S.A., Inc. PI/PDs: Clint Aichele, Sayeed Mohammad, Rob Whiteley

Advanced Characterization of Hydrate and Emulsion Formation in Flowing Systems for Flow Assurance Applications This research addresses the petroleum industry’s need for strategies to mitigate hydrate formation in crude oil production systems. This project directly applies to multi-phase flow, rheology, fundamental particle behavior, and dynamic interfacial phenomena. Hydrate formation will be quantified both in emulsified systems and on pipe surfaces in flowing conditions using an inflow microscope. The thickness of hydrate layers and the rate of crystal growth on pipe surfaces will be quantified to elucidate hydrate attachment mechanisms to pipe walls for a variety of surfaces. These data will provide quantitative insight regarding the relationship between hydrate attachment and surface treatments on pipes. Sponsor: American Chemical Society Petroleum Research Fund PI/PD: Clint Aichele

CAREER: Multifunctional Polymer Coatings of Virus Particles for Safer and More Efficient Gene Delivery The study will investigate the effects of both PEG and PLL on overall gene delivery efficiency of a targeted polymer/adenovirus hybrid vector by exploring a library of grafted copolymers with varying polymer molecular weights and grafting ratios. The study also aims to better understand why some of the PEG-PLL copolymers perform better than others by elucidating the limiting step(s) in the gene delivery process. The investigator will study and compare the mechanisms by which the hybrid vectors and native adenovirus transform cells and compare the efficiency and rate at which the viral and hybrid vectors overcome barriers to gene delivery. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Josh Ramsey

Nanocarrier-mediated Targeting of Bioscavengers to the Red Blood Cell for Prolonged Circulation and Projection Parenteral administration of butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) is effective against organophosphorus anticholinesterase (OP) toxicity but its efficacy is hampered by rapid clearance from circulation. Red blood cells (RBCs) have been used as a carrier for drugs, peptides and enzymes following external manipulations and subsequent reinfusion. The hypothesis is that cationic poly(l-lysine)-graft-poly(ethylene glycol) copolymer nanoparticles (NPs) containing both an antibody to the RBC membrane protein glycophorin A and a cell- penetrating peptide can deliver electrostatically encapsulated BChE molecules to the circulating RBCs in situ. Once bound to, or internalized into RBCs, the NPs will circulate for prolonged times providing long-term protection against OP challenge. Sponsor: Defense Threat Reduction Agency PI/PDs: Josh Ramsey Center for Veterinary Health Sciences: Casey Pope Division of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources: Steve Hartson

Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases OSU is the lead institution of this multi-institutional research center. The center’s central theme is infectious diseases of the respiratory system with a focus on respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza virus, and bacterial infections. Interdisciplinary projects cover disease pathogenesis, therapeutics, molecular mechanisms, and bioengineering. One aim of the center is to mentor junior investigators in becoming independent NIH-funded investigators and thus create a critical mass of multi-disciplinary investigators in respiratory infectious diseases. A second aim is to build up research infrastructure, and a third aim is to foster inter-institutional collaborations in Oklahoma by promoting scientific interactions through the center. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PDs: Heather Fahlenkamp Center for Veterinary Health Sciences: Lin Liu

Surface and Airborne Monitoring Technology for Detecting Geologic Leakage in a CO2- Enhanced Oil Recovery Pilot, Anadarko Basin, Texas OSU, with the cooperation of the Southwest Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership (SWP), will develop and implement new near-surface and airborne monitoring technologies. The research will focus on the design and deployment of a dense grid of shallow subsurface and surface sensors in combination with low-altitude airborne detection of CO2 and CH4. These technologies will be deployed in the Farnsworth Oil Unit in the Anadarko Basin of the northeastern Texas panhandle, where the SWP and Chaparral Energy, LLC, are conducting CO2- enhanced oil recovery experiments. Sponsor: Department of Energy PI/PDs: Peter Clark Civil & Environmental Engineering: Tyler Ley Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering: Jamey Jacob, Girish Chowdhary College of Arts & Sciences: Jack Pashin, Nicholas Materer

Spray Characterization Equipment This project consists of characterizing sprays using a Phase Doppler Interferometer. Fractionation Research Incorporated (FRI) will contribute toward the purchase of the instrument. The instrument will support several fundamental and applied research projects at Oklahoma State University and FRI. Through the use of solid state lasers, the instrument has the ability to resolve a wide range in droplet diameter (0.5 µm – 2 mm). In addition, the instrument measures droplet velocity. Through the characterization of both droplet size and velocity, the measurements will provide insight to both fundamental and applied applications of spray phenomena. Sponsor: Fractionation Research, Inc. PI/PDs: Clint Aichele, Rob Whiteley

CAREER: An Advanced 3D Tissue Model for the Detection and Study of an Allergic Inflammatory Response This NSF CAREER development plan seeks to use an advanced 3D tissue model to investigate the key aspects of an allergic inflammatory response, more specifically the cellular components at the site of inflammation and mediators, such as growth factors, chemokines, cytokines, and extracellular matrix components that regulate inflammation. The proposed transdisciplinary research will be complimented by the PI’s education plan, which will integrate science and engineering research into curriculum at high school, undergraduate, and graduate levels. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Heather Fahlenkamp

Center for Interfacial Reaction Engineering Knowledge of the phase behavior and the thermophysical properties of organic mixtures encountered in biomass and petroleum conversion processes is essential to the proper design, operation and optimization of such processes. The project will build upon the research team’s previous work in order to further develop theory-framed, structure-based phase behavior models for biphasic catalytic systems and identify improved organic solvents to optimize product separation in these systems. Completion of this research will provide the required modeling capability to develop effective bi-phasic catalytic processes for upgrading and refining of complex feed stocks including bio-oils. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for Department of Energy PI/PDs: Brian Neely, Clint Aichele Department of Chemistry: Jeffery White

CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING

Long-Term Performance Monitoring of High Friction Surfacing Treatments (HFST) Sites The OSU team will identify the influential factors in HFST service life, select approximately 30 sites for data collection across 11 states based on a comprehensive experimental design considering these factors, and develop an overall data collection method for each site. The OSU team will also develop a software package for collection of field cracking, profiling, texture, geometric data, and use of grip tester for friction. Relevant data sets will also be gathered from state agencies. The OSU team will conduct a comprehensive analysis of the time series performance data collected in the field and also in the laboratory environment. Sponsor: Texas A&M Transportation Institute for Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Kelvin Wang, Joshua Li

Using Medical X-ray Machines to Determine the Service Life of Concrete Medical X-ray machines will be used to image the penetration of fluids containing a tracer into concrete. This information is used to calculate the diffusion coefficient of the concrete. This is an indication of how easy it is for outside fluids to penetrate the concrete and is useful to predict the service life of the concrete structure. A software package developed in this project will take the raw data and use standards to determine the rate of penetration of the fluid. The software then can calculate the service life of the structure by using two different well established models. Sponsor: National Academy of Sciences for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Tyler Ley

Using In Situ Chemical and Structure Mapping of Calcium Sulfoaluminate Cement to Control Hydration The goal is to understand the mechanisms that control formation of the microstructure of concrete that uses calcium sulfoaluminate cement. 3D in-situ structure and chemistry imaging techniques will be used at multiple length scales in combination with microstructural modeling to characterize, quantify, and understand the structure, chemistry, and properties of concrete over the first 12 hours. The focus will be on initial formation of the microstructure over the first hours of reaction with water, including evaluation of the role of crystal defects on dissolution rate, identification of nucleation sites, and characterization of evolving density and composition of phases that precipitate. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Tyler Ley

Updated Analysis of Michigan Traffic Inputs for Pavement ME Design The OSU team will provide technical support to assist the Michigan State University (MSU) team in conducting a weigh-in-motion (WIM) data check aiming to obtain new Level 1 WIM data with high data quality with the Prep-ME software. The OSU team will investigate how Prep-ME can be used to support the new cluster development, and to provide traffic clustering outputs for subsequent Pavement ME Design analyses by the MSU team. The OSU team will also evaluate the Michigan cluster operations in the Prep-ME software and identify necessary updates or corrections from the previous task findings. Sponsor: Michigan State University for the Michigan Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Joshua Li, Kelvin Wang

Transportation Consortium of South-Central States (Tran-SET): Sustainability-based Long- term Management of Bridges under Multi-hazards Exposure In this research, a sustainability-based framework for the optimum management of bridges under multi-hazard exposure will be developed. The simulation-based framework will consider the effect of climate change by using downscaled data from global climate modeling to establish sustainability-based long-term risk profiles. Next, multi-criteria optimization will be implemented to establish optimum retrofit and repair activities (e.g., optimum times and types) which simultaneously minimize life-cycle cost and maximize sustainability metrics. Sponsor: Louisiana State University and A&M College for the United States Department of Transportation PI/PD: Mohamed Soliman

Transportation Consortium of South-Central States (Tran-SET): Promoting Economic Development in the Baton Rouge Area, LA: Improving the Performance of the Transportation System through Supply-Oriented, Demand-Oriented and Economic Measures for Mitigating Traffic Congestion This study aims to perform macro-level network analysis to identify the extent of the congestion problem in the Baton Rouge area. Based on that, the research team will (a) identify potential supply-oriented and demand-oriented solutions in each problematic location, (b) investigate the anticipated benefits from each solution, and (c) investigate the economic feasibility of each solution. Sponsor: Louisiana State University and A&M College for the United States Department of Transportation PI/PD: M. Samir Ahmed

The Use of Resistivity Testing for Quality Control of Concrete Mixtures – Phase 2 The project will investigate the potential of resistivity testing in assessing the performance of typical concrete mixtures used in bridge and pavement infrastructure. The efforts are concentrated towards development of guidelines using resistivity as a means for mixture approval and compliance in addition to ODOT’s current specifications. Strength would no longer be the only value used to accept a concrete mixture; instead, a measurement of permeability could be included. Based on the outcomes of Phase 1 research activities, a systematic approach using resistivity testing for Classes A and AA concrete mixture design compliance control during construction will be developed. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Julie Hartell, Tyler Ley, Mohamed Soliman

Shrinkage Induced Deformation in Steel Bridges Made Composite with Concrete Deck Slabs – Phase 3 The project will further investigate the phenomena of concrete shrinkage and other volume changes, and assess their effects on deflections in steel bridges made composite with concrete decks. Tasks include: 1) ongoing review of relevant research, 2) perform forensic investigation of known bridges, 3) build prototype to test bracing systems for formwork and screeds, 4) build, monitor and test full-sized prototype bridge, 5) laboratory testing, 6) field bridge instrumentation and monitoring, 7) computational analysis of shrinkage and other effects, 8) identify likely causes for excessive or unpredicted deflections, 9) develop and refine design and construction methods for ODOT bridges. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Bruce Russell

Resource Recovery from Produced Water using Forward Osmosis and Membrane-assisted Regeneration of Draw Solutions The objective is to identify and develop novel, feasible, cost effective produced water treatment processes that are comparable in cost to the disposal of produced water by underground injection. Specifically, the research will optimize a newly developed produced water treatment technology based on a Forward Osmosis process to recover valuable materials, purified water and recyclable brine from an integrated operation that can be used as a trailer mounted modular field unit. Sponsor: Frosty Cooling Systems, LLC PI/PDs: Mark Krzmarzick, Seok-Jhin Kim

Protecting Piers of Overhead Structures from Degradation The Ohio Department of Transportation is interested in determining the best method of protecting both newly constructed and previously constructed bridge piers. The objective of the research is to conduct an in depth analysis of the Ohio Department of Transportation’s current bridge pier maintenance/protection for overhead structures process and provide recommendations on how to improve safety, production and cost effectiveness. Sponsor: University of Cincinnati for the Ohio Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Norbert Delatte

Performance Engineered Mixes This is a subcontract to evaluate new testing equipment and develop mix prequalification tests. Sponsor: Snyder & Associates, Inc. for Iowa State University for Portland Cement Association PI/PD: Tyler Ley

Participation of OSU Faculty in SPTC’s Non-Research Activities As a regional University Transportation Center, the Southern Plains Transportation Center is not only engaged in research but other activities including education, workforce development, outreach, technology transfer, and diversity. Activities of OSU faculty include: 1) advising the Transportation Leadership Council at OSU, 2) co-organizing the SPTC summer symposium, 3) organizing the poster session at the Oklahoma Transportation Research Day, 4) assisting in editing of SPTC newsletter, and 5) mentoring students in preparing a presentation for the Transportation Climate Summit. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Kelvin Wang, Tyler Ley

Load Test Monitoring of I-235 Bridge Repairs Based on inspections of grouted post tensioned bridges, ODOT discovered some durability issues with the I-235 bridge. ODOT hired a company to plan and implement repairs. The faculty at OSU have significant experience in structural health monitoring and will help ODOT in the assessment of these repairs by performing an array of nondestructive tests including live load testing, strain monitoring, and acoustic emissions monitoring. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Robert Emerson, Julie Hartell, Bruce Russell

High-Early Strength Concrete for Pavement Top Layer Application The need to allow for landing the C-17 aircraft one hour after placement of the pavement top layer is achievable with the expertise of the team. OSU will make the following contributions to the project: 1) definition of material performance requirements that ensure compatibility with conventional pavement construction practices and also the pavement load-carrying requirements expressed by the U.S. Air Force; 2) development of the experimental program for evaluation of alternative materials in light of the identified performance requirements; 3) comparative performance and cost analysis of alternative materials to identify the most promising system for use in the targeted application. Sponsor: Metna Co for United States Air Force PI/PD: Norbert Delatte

Evaluation of Maintenance Procedures for Bridge Spalling on Parapet Walls Ohio Department of Transportation removes unsound concrete (spalling) on parapet walls and deck edges from bridges by setting up traffic control zones followed by removing the spalling with pneumatic jack hammers, which leaves the area unprotected from deicing materials used during snow and ice. The research purpose is to determine if there is a better way to remove the spalling in lieu of pneumatic tools, the best method to seal/protect the newly exposed concrete surface to prevent further deterioration, and to conduct an analysis of the current process for repairing spalling on bridge parapets and deck edges and provide recommendations. Sponsor: University of Cincinnati for the Ohio Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Norbert Delatte

Design of an Airplane Transporting System The goal of this project is to complete the full research, conceptualization and design for a 90 degree curve that is bounded on each end with a 15 meter straight section of the underground airplane conveyance system presented to Oklahoma State University by Airplane Transport Systems. The design process will be completed in 18 months with all documentation necessary to fabricate and install the system for testing with an aircraft. Sponsor: ATC World Wide, LLC PI/PDs: Julie Hartell, Mohamed Soliman Electrical and Computer Engineering: Nishantha Ekneligoda Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: James Kidd New Product Development Center: Robert Taylor

ECDP Project: Prioritizing Bridge Maintenance and Repairs Considering Geospatial and Climatological Factors The objective of the research is to develop a framework for ODOT to prioritize bridge maintenance and repairs through consideration of geospatial and climatological factors. As a result of the research, ODOT will be able to be more proactive in developing climate-adaptive bridge preservation plans as well as achieve the goal of “zero deficient bridges” with the most economical solution. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PD: Yongwei Shan, Joshua Li

ECDP Project: Application of Fiber Optic Sensors for Monitoring Prestressed Concrete Bridges Fiber optic strain measurement will be used as an efficient, reliable, and accurate alternative to traditional strain measurement (mechanical strain gage, electrical resistance, and vibrating wire) in prestressed concrete members. The sensors will be used for internal strain monitoring in prestressed concrete beams, which in turn can provide an indication on the condition of the prestressed element. This would be useful to bridge owners as an initial quality control method and a long-term monitoring technique. The proposed sensor can provide a measure of the effective prestress force and its variation over time, which are important indicators of bridge girder performance. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PD: Mohamed Soliman

ECDP Project: Analysis of Transportation Infrastructure Risks to Climate Change The team will use the Environmental Protection Agency’s Stormwater Management Model, a continuous rainfall-runoff model that predicts runoff volumes and water quality from primarily urban watersheds, for the downtown Oklahoma City area to analyze the impacts of climate change on existing transportation and stormwater infrastructure from extreme flood events. This model will be used to re-create the hydrologic events of May 2015 and assess the impacts of similarly-probable flood events (but of a different magnitude) in a future climate with today’s infrastructure in place. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PD: David Lampert

2016 Summer Bridge Program Engineering and Design and Fabrication Project: Design and Build a Truss Bridge with Popsicle Sticks The purpose is to support OSU faculty and students to develop and implement a transportation-related student project in the 2016 OSU Summer Bridge program. OSU Summer Bridge is a one-month outreach program designed to guide incoming OSU engineering students through the transition from high school to collegiate learning environment. As part of the program, the students participate in three engineering design and fabrication projects in different engineering disciplines based on their choices. Among all the activities to be undertaken is a hands-on bridge design, building, and monitoring exercise and contest. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Xiaoming Yang, Greg Wilber CEAT Student Services: Lance Millis

Mitigating Dry Shrinkage Pavement Cracking by Geocell Objectives are to investigate the effectiveness of using geocell to mitigate the dry shrinkage cracking in expansive subgrade soils, and develop preliminary design and construction guidelines to use geocell to treat expansive subgrade soils for pavement construction and maintenance. The research investigates an innovative and potentially cost effective approach to mitigate dry shrinkage cracking problems in pavements. The idea is to use three-dimensional geosynthetic product (commonly known as geocell) to direct the soil shrinkage to form a network of smaller cracks instead of a large continuous crack. The smaller cracks are less likely to propagate through the asphalt concrete surface. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for US Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Xioaming Yang, Rifat Bulut, Joshua Li

Assessing the Risk of Landslide on I-35 Near Davis, Oklahoma Using LiDAR The main goal of this research is to investigate the use of Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology for slope monitoring and landslide/rockslide risk assessment on major highways in Oklahoma. This research will yield an innovative procedure for ODOT to use to monitor the slopes and assess the risk of landslide on the Oklahoma highways in the mountainous regions, thereby proactive actions can be taken to reduce the disruptions and dangers to the public traffic due to the disaster of landslide. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for US Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Yongwei Shan, Joshua Li, Xioaming Yang

Risk-Based Life-Cycle Management of Deteriorating Bridges The project will lead to a risk-based life-cycle management technique for bridges susceptible to failure due to scour and floods. Probabilistic analysis necessary for quantifying the effect of climate change on future river flow characteristics will be performed. Probabilistic simulations will be implemented to evaluate the risk of failure due to scour and flood-induced damage. These simulations coupled with finite element analysis, will be used to establish the failure risk profile of the bridge as a function of time. Time-variant risk associated with structural failure will be quantified by integrating the probability of failure and the consequences of this event. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for US Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Mohamed Soliman, Julie Hartell

16S and NarK methodology development for Anammox The first part of this project is to analyze the 16S rRNA genes for Anammox bacteria in a culture from the University of Arizona by PCR and clone library analysis. The second part of this project is to develop the methodology to analyze the NarK genes via a qPCR method though novel primer development. The final deliverable for this work is thus a 16S rRNA phylogenetic tree of the anammox culture, as well as a set of primers and optimized qPCR methology (thermocycling conditions and mastermix composition) for NarK gene analysis. Sponsor: University of Arizona PI/PD: Mark Krzmarzick

Advance Innovative Concrete Materials and Mixture Designs In this subcontract, the OSU investigator will provide the following scope of work: Dr. Ley will work with a graduate student and will hire an outside consultant to assist him with evaluating new testing equipment, and will work with AASHTO for Provisional Specifications. Dr. Ley will attend oversight ETG meetings and quarterly TAC meetings by phone. Sponsor: Snyder & Associates, Inc. for Iowa State University for Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Tyler Ley

Development of Guidelines for High-Volume Recycled Materials for Sustainable Concrete Pavement Incorporating a high volume of recycled materials in concrete production can reduce cost and decrease the carbon footprint without compromising performance and service life. The objective is to produce concrete for conventional pavement construction that incorporates at least 50% recycled materials. For this project, the OSU investigator is collaborating with OU and will be conducting investigations to evaluate the durability performance of concrete mixtures designed and fabricated at OU. This entails determining the resistivity and chloride diffusivity parameters for concrete samples. Also, a series of freeze-thaw testing on concrete beam samples and salt scaling on slab samples will be conducted. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PD: Julie Hartell

Development of statewide WIM data quality control and axle load spectra and traffic volume adjustment factors for Oklahoma Oklahoma Department of Transportation operates weigh-in-motion (WIM) stations and is actively adopting portable WIM programs. No comprehensive study has been conducted before to evaluate the quality of WIM data in Oklahoma. In this project, quality control metrics and associated software interfaces will be developed for checking the quality of statewide WIM data. Site-specific, region-specific, and statewide traffic inputs required for Mechanistic- Empirical based pavement design in Oklahoma will also be developed. Deliverables include: WIM data software, a guideline on how often and under what circumstances a WIM station should be calibrated, comprehensive database and software interface, software training and technical support. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Joshua Li, Kelvin C.P. Wang, Cheng Chen

Incorporation of Speed Data Sets in Traffic Performance Analysis (SPTC 15.2-8) The goal is to develop a Travel Time Reliability Monitoring System (TTRMS) to improve the reliability of network and highway travel times by mitigating the effects of events that cause travel times to fluctuate unpredictably. The TTRMS complements the capabilities of existing transportation management centers (TMC) as a new module that plugs into an existing TMC platform. The TTRMS relies on the TMC to gather infrastructure-based and vehicle-based sensor data, manage data processing and storage, and communicate the findings to system users. The OSU investigator will act as Co-PI and consultant based on his expertise and experience in the topic. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PD: M. Samir Ahmed

Development of a SFE Database for Screening of Mixes for Moisture Damage in Oklahoma As subcontractor on an OU project, the OSU investigator will: 1) Acquire five aggregate and five asphalt binder samples from OU. 2) Prepare the aggregate and asphalt binder specimens for contact angle measurements using the sessile drop device. 3) Prepare the binder specimens by exposing them to pre-determined aging times with consultation with the OU team. 4) Measure contact angles on the prepared specimens of aggregates and binders. 5) Assist OU team in analyzing the test results for the final project report. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PD: Rifat Bulut

Development of Standard Data Format for 2-Dimensional and 3-Dimensional Pavement Image Data that is Used to Determine Pavement Surface Condition and Profiles This proposal addresses a critical need to nationally standardize pavement surface condition data analysis, reporting, sharing, and evaluation through establishing a standard 2D/3D pavement data format. The new standard will vastly facilitate data sharing and quality control to satisfy the requirements in the pavement performance measures mandated by the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21). Sponsor: Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Kelvin Wang, Joshua Li, Cheng Chen

Development of Aggregate Characteristics-Based Preventive Maintenance Treatments Using 3D Laser Imaging and Aggregate Imaging Technology for Optimized Skid Resistance of Pavements The objective to develop an aggregate selection procedure for preventive maintenance treatments of pavements in Oklahoma based on physical aggregate properties such that the skid resistance of pavements is maintained or improved while the economics are optimized. The most recent developments in 3D laser imaging technology will be used to collect 3D pavement surface texture data at highway speed at 1 mm accuracy without interfering with the traveling public. The project also uses other laboratory and field data collection instruments, including the Aggregate Imaging System and a portable 3D surface analyzer to collect ultra-high resolution aggregate morphological characteristics data. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Joshua Li, Kelvin Wang University of Oklahoma: Dominique Pittenger

Development of Concrete Mixtures to Mitigate Bridge Deck Cracking; Validate Using 3D Bridge Deck Surface Evaluations In task one, a workshop over bridge deck cracking technologies will be held at ODOT. In task two, the researchers will investigate concrete mixtures with different technologies to minimize cracking with Oklahoma materials. In task three, the researchers will work with ODOT to construct different spans of a bridge deck that use these technologies. The forth task will use 3D crack mapping technology to follow field performance of these mixtures for three years. In task five, a specification will be authored to implement these technologies on ODOT bridges. The sixth task will be the completion of a final project report. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Tyler Ley, Kelvin Wang, Joshua Li, Bruce Russell, Julie Hartell

Performance of Moisture Barriers to Enhance Pavement Performance over Swelling Soils The state-of-the-art knowledge on the application of moisture barriers indicates that performance of the moisture barrier needs to be investigated by considering properties of the site soils and climatic boundary conditions. So, the investigation will consist of laboratory soil testing, field monitoring, and computer modeling. Laboratory testing will be conducted to characterize soil types and variability at test sites and determine soil properties necessary for determining input parameters for modeling moisture migration. In addition to the basic soil index properties, the moisture diffusion characteristics of the subgrade soils will be critical for realistic modeling of the performance of moisture barriers. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Rifat Bulut

UNS: Priming of Organohalide-Respirers to Degrade Chlorinated Ethenes with Natural Organochlorines Organochlorine pollutants such as trichloroethene (TCE) are some of the most widely distributed toxic contaminants at Superfund sites and pose significant risk to human health. This research seeks to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of using naturally-occurring organochlorines as biostimulants for in situ remediation of these organochlorine pollutants. The central hypothesis is that organohalide respiring bacteria will be stimulated and dechlorinate TCE faster and more completely in response to natural organochlorine amendments. The rationale is that with this knowledge, chlorinated pollutants may be more thoroughly and quickly remediated, thus removing major threats to human health. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Mark Krzmarzick

Assessing the Impact of Climate on Bridge Deck Deterioration Task 1 - The objective is to identify: 1) factors affecting bridge deck conditions, 2) existing performance models for bridge decks, and 3) Oklahoma DOT’s practices in monitoring and tracking bridge deck conditions and its decision process for maintenance. Task 2 - The objective is to define climatological input variables. Oklahoma Mesonet will be the main source for climate data. Task 3 - The objective is to integrate climate data with the National Bridge Inventory for enhanced data analyses. Task 4 - The objective is to present research findings and promote the research to pursue additional funding from other sources. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Yongwei Shan, Phil Lewis, Joshua Li

Long Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) Monitoring of Six LTPP SPS-10 Sections in Oklahoma with 3D Laser Imaging Results of this research will be an evaluation of the long-term field performance of warm mix asphalt (WMA) mixtures through a five-year performance monitoring effort using the OSU 1mm 3D technology and several other instruments. The outcome of this project will assist ODOT and the industry in understanding WMA performance, its suitability for field implementation, and corresponding desired engineering properties. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Kelvin C.P. Wang, Joshua Li

Prep-ME Software Implementation and Enhancement The objective of this Phase III project is to assist participating state DOTs with the full implementation of Prep-ME software for traffic data collection and Pavement ME Design and to deliver new generation of Prep-ME software with enhanced and customized features for each individual state. Phase III tasks include: 1) Provide on-site and webinar training for participating states, 2) Develop portable version of Prep-ME for field data collection and WIM calibration, 3) Enhance existing traffic module in Prep-ME, 4) Provide technical support to meet state needs. Sponsor: Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, Louisiana Transportation Research Center PI/PDs: Joshua Li, Kelvin C.P. Wang

Highway Construction Materials Technician Training and Certification Program The College of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology (CEAT) at OSU is partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the administration, management and delivery of the Training and Certification Program (HCMTP) for the Oklahoma Highway Construction Materials Technician Certification Board. This program serves ODOT, the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, and the transportation construction industry. OSU CEAT assumes responsibility for all aspects of HCMTP training and certification including program training, certification, program administration, record keeping, and equipment upkeep and maintenance. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Stephen A. Cross Professional Development: Clayton Moorman

Shrinkage Induced Deformation in Steel Bridges Made Composite with Concrete Deck Slabs – Phase 2 The Phase 2 and 3 goals are to further investigate the phenomena of concrete shrinkage and other volume changes, and to assess their effects on deflections in steel bridges made composite with concrete decks. Tasks include: 1) Construct a full-sized bridge prototype that mirrors construction in ODOT bridges and a test setup for evaluating typical forming systems, 3) Make recommendations to improve forming and bracing systems supporting fresh concrete, 4) Perform temperature loading on the bridge deck, 5) Perform repeated load testing on the prototype bridges. 6) Perform testing including measurements for compressive strength, tensile strength, elastic modulus and shrinkage. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Bruce Russell, Tyler Ley

One Voice for Sewer Infrastructure One-Voice is an initiative to develop and publically present empirical data that accurately demonstrates the condition and trends for underground sewer infrastructure across the U.S. The project will provide the National Association of Sewer Service Companies (NASSCO) with information on which to base a decision of whether to proceed with the One Voice initiative. The deliverable will be a report that establishes costs of developing and sustaining this initiative compared to industry-wide and NASSCO specific benefits. The outcome will be a determination of the efficacy of the One-Voice database and the feasibility of expanding the prototype on a national level. Sponsor: NASSCO, Inc. PI/PDs: Phil Lewis, Yongwei Shan

Evaluation of Ec3000 as Stabilizer to Reduce Risk on Design-Build Pavement Projects in Texas Constructed over Expansive Soils As a subcontractor, OSU’s scope of work for the project involves: 1) Suction measurements (including osmotic suction) using different concentrations of Ec3000 in different soil types, 2) Determination of the soil-water characteristic curve (SWCC) for the selected soil types, 3) Perform moisture diffusion tests to establish diffusion coefficients for the soils, 4) Measuring soil index properties, 5) Field testing and monitoring, 6) Assisting in developing and conducting other laboratory tests and field tests as needed for the successful completion of the project. Sponsor: Texas A&M Transportation Institute for Environmental Soil Stabilization, LLC PI/PD: Rifat Bulut

Development of an Asphalt Pavement Test Facility at the OSU Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Facility The objective is to assist in the construction of the UAV runway to develop a pavement that can be used as a test facility for evaluation of pavement materials including, but not limited to, plant-mixed warm and hot mix asphalt pavements, high RAP and RAS mixes, asphalt surface treatments, pavement preservation treatments, 100% RAP cold mixes and aggregate bases with surface treatments. At the completion of the construction, ODOT will have a facility available to them through OSU to test and evaluate surface treatments, surface mixes, including high RAP and RAS mixtures, and pavement preservation treatments for various applications. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Stephen Cross, Joshua Li, Kelvin Wang

The Use of Resistivity Testing for Quality Control of Concrete Mixtures The objective of this project is to investigate the potential of resistivity testing in assessing the performance of typical concrete mixtures used in bridge and pavement infrastructure in Oklahoma. The sensitivity and reliability of the method with Oklahoma materials will be investigated in order to formulate new guidelines and specifications that would allow ODOT to produce high quality concrete. These specifications could be used to approve and accept concrete mixtures. This means that strength would no longer be the only value that is used to accept a concrete mixture and instead a measurement of permeability could be included. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Julie Hartell, Tyler Ley

Alternative Cementitious Materials for Development of the Next Generation of Sustainable Transportation Infrastructure As part of a collaboration with Georgia Tech on a Federal Highway Administration project, OSU is responsible for completing freeze thaw durability testing of the materials, mCT and mXRF scans of laboratory and field based samples to investigate deterioration, and surveys of several different sites where ACMs have been used to evaluate their performance. Samples will be taken from these sites and evaluated with mCT and mXRF as needed. Sponsor: Georgia Institute of Technology for Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Tyler Ley, Paul Tikalsky

Monitoring Extreme Loading and Climate Impact on Infrastructure To address climate impact and traffic overload on concrete infrastructure, evaluation and monitoring guidelines will be developed using sensing technologies such as acoustic emission monitoring capable of qualifying and quantifying material damage and locating zones in distress. Climatological profiles will be created for critical infrastructure regions of Oklahoma using climatological data from Oklahoma Mesonet. The effects of exposure combinations on concrete properties will be continuously monitored and analyzed using AE and ultrasonic techniques. Signature wave parameters that may be characteristic of temperature change, moisture change or microstructural changes will be determined and implemented towards the creation of new monitoring guidelines. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Julie Hartell, Phil Lewis, Tyler Ley, Yongwei Shan

Safety Evaluation of Pavement Surface Characteristics with 1mm 3D Laser Imaging Technology Accurate and timely information on pavement surface characteristics are critical for evaluating the performance, condition, safety, and serviceability of pavements of streets, roadways, and airfields. Even though high-speed technologies to gather information on pavement macro- texture, friction, and profiles are mature, separate instrumentation is needed for each of these data collections. Further, surveys of longitudinal and transverse profiles and macro-texture can only be conducted on a limited small area on a pavement lane, or line-of-sight. This research focuses on the application of 1 mm 3D imaging with full-lane coverage at highway data collection speed for various safety evaluations. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for the US Department of Transportation PI/PD: Kelvin Wang

Development of Mixture Designs for Pumpable Concrete for Extreme Weather Recent research has aimed to improve optimized graded concrete specifications for slip formed paving concrete. Preliminary estimates found that cost savings of over $4 million and energy to power over 400 homes could be saved each year that the specification is used in Oklahoma. Oklahoma DOT was so excited about this work that they decided to provide additional funding to extend these findings to structural concrete. Funding from this grant will be used to extend the current research to a larger number of materials and to also focus on the performance of these materials in extreme environments. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Southern Plains Transportation Center for the US Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Tyler Ley

Use of a Novel Controlled Release Surface Curing Agent for Bridge Decks The project involves a novel curing technique that can be rapidly applied to the surface of fresh concrete and not cause deformations in the concrete surface. The research is expected to show that the material has equal or better curing performance than typical wet curing methods and is sustainable and safe for the environment. Project objectives include: 1) Develop a field application method for the novel curing material; 2) Develop specifications for the quality control and usage of the novel curing material; 3) Work with contractors in Oklahoma to implement this technology in the field and evaluate the effectiveness. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Tyler Ley, Kelvin Wang, Julie Hartell

Development and Implementation of a Mechanistic and Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG) for Rigid Pavements: Phase 3 The Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG) is the new pavement design guide released by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). AASHTO suggests that each state highway agency validate and, if necessary, calibrate the MEPDG design models based on local conditions. The objective of the research is to validate and calibrate the MEPDG for the design of typical Oklahoma rigid pavements. The secondary objectives of the research are: 1) to continue to monitor the field performance of the instrumented road section on I-44 and 2) to investigate the slab/base friction property of typical Oklahoma rigid pavement structures. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Xiaoming Yang, Tyler Ley

Improving Specification to Resist Frost Damage in Modern Concrete Mixtures Objectives include: 1) Determine the necessary properties of the air-void system to provide satisfactory frost durability in laboratory testing of laboratory and field concretes with different combinations of admixtures, cements, and mixing temperatures in salt environments; 2) Determine the accuracy of a field test method that measures air void system quality with field and laboratory concrete; 3) Determine critical combinations of absorption and the critical degree of saturation on the frost durability in accelerated laboratory testing in the presence of deicer salts; 4) Establish test methods and specifications for fresh and hardened concrete to determine frost durability and field performance. Sponsors: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for FHWA SPR Pooled Funds, Ready Mixed Concrete Research & Education Foundation PI/PD: Tyler Ley Oregon State University: William Weiss

Determining the Long-Term Performance of Petroleum Storage Tank Foundations through the Use of Case Studies The aim is to build a database of past tank foundation performance that can be interrogated to determine the successful characterization of varying types of foundations and double bottom repairs in different environments. The team proposes to use owner inventory, construction and inspection records of tank foundations in combination with historical weather and soil information, and geotechnical reports for the existing foundations and combine this information into a single database. This database can be investigated to determine which foundations perform best in different situations. Another focus will be to determine the expected life of a double bottom tank foundation repair. Sponsors: American Petroleum Institute, International Liquid Terminals Association PI/PDs: Tyler Ley Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources: Wade Brorsen

SusChEM: Collaborative Research: A Multi-Scale Environmental and Kinetics Study on the Pyrolysis of Sustainable Biomass Feedstock This collaborative study between Tennessee Technological University and OSU looks at the kinetics and socio-economic broader impacts of biomass pyrolysis. The investigators will introduce a Multiple Variable Control Volume Reactor to independently control the particle- related and homogenous-related transport phenomena and associated reactions, making it possible to independently observe the two processes. In a serious of experiments, model compounds and whole biomass will be studied in an effort to understand the extent to which pyrolysis occurs within condensed phase intermediates and the homogeneous gas phase. The PIs will also introduce a new multi-scale modeling platform based on kinetic cellular automaton. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Tyler Ley

Surface Characteristics with 3D Data and Improved Airport PCI Survey Solutions The project includes two technological developments that will provide the National Airport Pavement Test Facility with innovative tools to evaluate surface characteristics of Construction Cycles and airport pavements, and to improve airport condition survey efficiency via Pavement Condition Index. The research team will produce a white paper detailing use of new 3D imaging techniques to conduct surveys of relevant airfield pavement surface characteristics. Software modules for macro-texturing and grooving analysis will be developed as part of the updated ProGroove software. 3D pavement surface imaging data and innovative software algorithms will be used to expedite data processing for Pavement Condition Index. Sponsor: Federal Aviation Administration PI/PD: Kelvin Wang

Southern Plains Transportation Center OSU is a subrecipient of the Southern Plains Transportation Center, a Regional University Transportation Center headquartered at the University of Oklahoma. OSU will conduct three research projects funded with the 2013 Regional UTC grant: embedded MEMS sensor system in pavement materials; precast concrete slabs for pavements; 3D 1mm imaging for automated assessment of pavement surfaces. In addition, OSU will conduct education and workforce development activities within the theme of the 2013 Regional UTC proposal. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for Southern Plains Transportation Center for U.S. Department of Transportation PI/PD: Kelvin Wang

Surface and Airborne Monitoring Technology for Detecting Geologic Leakage in a CO2- Enhanced Oil Recovery Pilot, Anadarko Basin, Texas OSU, with the cooperation of the Southwest Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership (SWP), will develop and implement new near-surface and airborne monitoring technologies. The research will focus on the design and deployment of a dense grid of shallow subsurface and surface sensors in combination with low-altitude airborne detection of CO2 and CH4. These technologies will be deployed in the Farnsworth Oil Unit in the Anadarko Basin of the northeastern Texas panhandle, where the SWP and Chaparral Energy, LLC, are conducting CO2- enhanced oil recovery experiments. Sponsor: Department of Energy PI/PDs: Tyler Ley Chemical Engineering: Peter Clark MAE: Jamey Jacob, Girish Chowdhary College of Arts & Sciences: Jack Pashin, Nicholas Materer

Collaborative Research: Coupling System Chemistry and Time-Dependent Deformation of Cementitious Materials through Evolving Thermodynamic States The primary objective of this project is to develop a fundamental thermodynamic model framework that links evolving system chemistry and mechanics of cementitious materials, and to implement the model through a computational method that predicts the fully coupled evolution of microstructure and viscoelastic/viscoplastic properties of the materials. Any stress induced changes to the material microstructure – and resulting time-dependent deformation – will be predicted by the model. In synergy with the fundamental modeling, novel experiments utilizing time-stepping micro-computed tomography of stressed specimens will be performed to verify and quantify the interconnection between chemistry and mechanics through phase dissolution in cementitious materials. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Tyler Ley

Mechanisms of Hydration and Setting of Ordinary Portland Cement in Simple and Complex Systems For this project, OSU will be responsible for completing laboratory scale micro X-ray computed tomography (mCT), focused beam X-ray Fluorescence (mXRF), and focused beam X-ray diffraction (mXRD) on Portland cement and combinations of Portland cement with mineral and chemical admixtures. In addition, several tests will be completed with these same techniques at synchrotrons facilities. The experiments will focus on investigating the change in the hydration of different clinker phases in different soak solutions that simulate the pore solution chemistry of hydrating Portland cement. Sponsor: Trustees of Princeton University for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Tyler Ley Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: Jay Hanan

CAREER: Increasing the Effectiveness of Mineral Additives in Concrete through Novel Particle Characterization The aims of this project are 1) develop a strong research program focused on increasing the use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) as construction binders in concrete through new levels of chemical characterization, 2) involve underrepresented undergraduates in research and mentoring, and 3) increase awareness of science and engineering by underrepresented elementary students in low income schools. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Tyler Ley

Safety Culture of the US Transit Industry The objective of the work is to assist the FTA’s Office of Transit Safety and Security in assessing and enhancing the existing safety culture of transit agencies. The anticipated results include presentations in technical conferences and a survey of the safety culture of transit agencies. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Federal Transit Administration PI/PD: M. Samir Ahmed

ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING

Test and Evaluation Data for Statistical Characterization of Electromagnetic Complex Cavities Study The objective of this study is to provide higher fidelity validation of a previous study entitled, “Statistical Characterization of Electromagnetic Complex Cavities Study.” The current study requires the team to provide computational 3D models, test data and expert review of the previous study. Sponsor: ai solutions Inc. for National Aeronautics and Space Administration PI/PDs: Chuck Bunting, Jim West

Investigation of an Absorption/Reflection Based Chlorine Sensor The proposed product is a non-invasive, non-destructive, long life sensor that measures active or “free” chlorine content in water or aqueous solutions using photometric quantitative analysis techniques. The end uses for this product are water monitoring and treatment industries. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Keith Teague New Product Development Center: Robert Taylor

Intra-spinal Multi-site Dual Modal Dosimetry for Assessing the Feasibility of Transcutaneous Photo-bio-modulation of Spinal Cord The long-term goal is to develop a protocol of percutaneous photo-bio-modulation for treating conditions concerning the spinal cord in large companion animals. The specific objective of this project is to devise the sensor and equipment technologies that will culminate in quantitating the treatment dose reaching the spinal canal of large dogs under clinically relevant surface dose. Sponsor: LiteCure LLC PI/PDs: Daqing Piao Center for Veterinary Health Sciences: Lara Sypniewski, Daniel Burba

Design of an Airplane Transporting System The goal of this project is to complete the full research, conceptualization and design for a 90 degree curve that is bounded on each end with a 15 meter straight section of the underground airplane conveyance system presented to Oklahoma State University by Airplane Transport Systems. The design process will be completed in 18 months with all documentation necessary to fabricate and install the system for testing with an aircraft. Sponsor: ATC World Wide, LLC PI/PDs: Nishantha Ekneligoda Civil and Environmental Engineering: Julie Hartell, Mohamed Soliman Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: James Kidd New Product Development Center: Robert Taylor

32NM Hafnium (IV) Oxide (HfO2) Negative Metal Oxide Semiconductor (NMOS) Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROMs) for Open Systems Computer Appliances Key to the elimination of physical and eavesdropping attacks on trusted platforms is placing EEPROM memory on chip deeply embedded within the trusted system architecture and its peripheral I/O. “On chip” EEPROM blocks can be freely available to the designer as cache or SRAM. As a result, we can expect to find nonobservable, BIOS, boot loaders, and encryption key storage not only embedded in the CPU but within all I/O interfaces. This eliminates “open” data and code observability along all points of communications vulnerable to external observation. Encryption key dispersion across the platform further reduces trusted system vulnerability. Sponsor: United States Air Force PI/PD: Chris Hutchens

Smart Inverter Voltage Control for Distribution Systems with Photovoltaic Generators The purpose of this project is to demonstrate the benefits of inverter voltage control on a fast timescale to mitigate rapid and large voltage fluctuations due to the high penetration of photovoltaic generation and the resulting reverse power flow. Sponsor: OSU Foundation for the National Energy Solutions Institute PI/PD: Yuanxiong Guo

VEF U.S. Faculty Scholar Grant The Vietnam Education Foundation, an independent U.S. Federal Government agency, has awarded this U.S. Faculty Scholar Grant to conduct a teaching program in Vietnam. Dr. Teague will teach a senior level electrical engineering course, Digital Signal Processing, offered by a combination of face-to-face and video teleconference between Oklahoma State University and Thai Nguyen University of Technology. Sponsor: Vietnam Education Foundation PI/PD: Keith Teague

Privacy Issues in Smart Grid Data Sharing Security methods such as encryption cannot solve privacy issues. To protect end users’ privacy, identifiable information is removed from consumption traces. However, the data may still be quasi-identifiable. Recently, several privacy enhancing techniques have been proposed by adding hardware components such as rechargeable batteries or renewable energy sources (leading to higher cost), or adding artificial disturbance such as quantization noise (leading to reduced data utility). The investigator will comprehensively analyze the pros and cons of these techniques by quantifying data utility, privacy, cost efficiency and energy efficiency, and propose a solution that reaches the optimal tradeoff among these performance measures. Sponsor: OSU Foundation for National Energy Solutions Institute – Smart Energy Source Association (NESI-SES) PI/PD: Qi Cheng

SHF: Small: Collaborative Research: Multi-level Non-volatile FPGA Synthesis to Empower Efficient Self-adaptive System Implementations The contributions of this project are two-fold. First, this project aims at incorporating non- volatile memories (NVM) characteristics into FPGA design and synthesis. Considering the needs of self-adaptive applications, the investigator will fine-tune various steps on the FPGA synthesis flow, including high-level synthesis, logic synthesis, and placement and routing. Novel techniques will be used to optimize task scheduling, data allocation, logic mapping, placement, and routing to improve reconfiguration speed, energy efficiency, reliability, and endurance of NVM FPGAs. Second, the researcher will explore the rich NVM design space and set different optimization goals for look-up tables, flip-flops, and on-chip memories. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Jingtong Hu

CRII: CSR: Enabling Efficient Non-Volatile Processors on Energy Harvesting Powered Embedded Systems The tasks in this project will study compiler optimizations for different checkpointing strategies under different energy harvesting sources. Both compiler optimization and runtime support will be exploited. The work will develop: 1) new lifetime analysis, register allocation, and instruction scheduling algorithms, aiming at reducing the number of registers that need to be checkpointed; 2) a novel dynamic checkpoint position identification technique to find the best checkpoint position; 3) a systematic approach to identify and correct possible errors caused by program checkpointing and resumption; and 4) an adaptive checkpoint frequency adjustment technique to minimize the overall overhead while providing system reliability. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Jingtong Hu

Rational Design of Thermoelectric Materials and Material Processing Approaches Based on Microwave Processing of Silicides Dr. Krasinski will work on the construction of the pulsed high voltage power supply for the pulsed magnetron. He will design the electronic circuit and work on building the pulsed microwave source. He will also perform the experiments investigating the effect of the E and H field in the decrystallization process. The work at OSU will occur in direct coordination with NCSU where the ultimate materials systems will be devised. Sponsor: North Carolina State University for the National Science Foundation PI/PD: Jerzy Krasinski

NRI: Considerate Co-robot Intelligence through Ubiquitous Human State Awareness The objective is to develop a new theoretical/algorithmic framework and an open hardware/software platform for considerate co-robot intelligence, enabling a co-robot to assist humans in their daily lives in a proactive way while still having the freedom to do its routine work. The research consists of four parts: co-robot semantic mapping through human environment interaction; human activity and location inference using minimal motion sensor data; activity prediction and behavioral anomaly detection based on human state awareness; experimental evaluation using open hardware/software platforms and a case study evaluating the effectiveness of considerate co-robot intelligence in elderly fall prevention, detection and intervention. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Weihua Sheng, Guoliang Fan

Development of High Efficiency Nanostructured Thermoelectric Generators for Industrial Waste Heat Recovery Over the past six years, the investigators have developed advanced nanostructured thermoelectric materials at lab scale that can work efficiently for applications from room temperature to 1100 C. The purpose of this OCAST accelerated research program is to scale up the method of synthesis of such efficient material structures and package them to form thermoelectric generators that can be employed at different locations appropriate for industrial applications. OSU will lead the material research and innovation. Marlow Industries will lead the packaging of the thermoelectric modules, and Amethyst Research Inc. will lead the hydrogenation optimization and commercialization steps. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Jerzy Krasinski

Secure High Performance Multi-Core Computer Architecture Design and Exploration The goal is to research and develop high-level synthesis tools for SoC platforms in nanometer CMOS technologies that: 1) provide ability to efficiently integrate embedded memories, low- power/high-performance circuits and processors, mixed-signal designs, and communication structures, 2) combine synthesis and layout information to accurately estimate area, delay, and power from high-level SoC architecture descriptions, 3) facilitate rapid design-space exploration of secure SoC solutions, and 4) are well documented, easy to use, and publicly available for AFRL personnel. It is anticipated that project outcomes will aid in development and deployment of silicon architectures for any division that employs trusted foundry fabrication capabilities. Sponsor: United States Air Force PI/PD: James Stine

Measuring the Shielding Effectiveness of Surrogate Samples Reverberation Chambers are used to measure the Shielding Effectiveness (SE) of different materials because it exposes the material to a uniform and isotropic field from multiple angles of incidence. In this project, the SE of surrogate samples will be measured using the nested reverberation chamber measurement approach. The SE measurement is based on the comparison of the electromagnetic power without the sample on the secondary chamber wall to the electromagnetic power when the sample is present on the wall of the secondary chamber. The received power will be measured over the frequency range of 700 MHz to 8 GHz. Sponsor: Applied Research Associates, Inc. PI/PDs: Vignesh Rajamani, Chuck Bunting

SHB: Type I (EXP): Context-aware Ubiquitous Human Health Monitoring The project objective is to develop a ubiquitous human health monitoring system that collects not only vital signs, but also daily activities and environmental context of a human subject in an everyday life setting. From these collected data, higher level knowledge such as anomalies will be extracted to assist in health evaluation, medical diagnosis/prognosis or healthcare delivery. Such a system is called a Smart Health Monitoring (SmartMon) System, which will help realize ubiquitous health monitoring and healthcare delivery. The major research tasks focus on the development and evaluation of the proposed hardware platform and theoretical framework of the SmartMon system. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Weihua Sheng, Qi Cheng

Collaborative Research: Manipulating Terahertz Waves Using Three-Dimensional Metamaterials THz waves have proven challenging to control due to a paucity of electromagnetic materials with an effective response at THz frequencies. This “THz gap” results in a great impediment for the development of functional THz optical components and systems. In view of these challenges, the objective is to develop a synergetic approach that incorporates Transformation Optics (TO) theory, the tunable metamaterials design under effective media approximation, the scalable 3D fabrication technologies, and the experimental validation to explore a range of novel Terahertz optical components: 1) TO-enabled aberration free THz imaging lens, and 2) an integrated THz lab-on-chip sensing platform. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Weili Zhang, John O’Hara

Collaborative Research: CI-ADDO-NEW: An Open Memory Array Compiler Framework to Support Devices, Circuits and Systems Research The objective is to enable memory and computer system research by creating an open-source memory compiler infrastructure called Open-RAM, to be used by architects and system designers, circuits/device researchers, and CAD researchers. No current memory compilers allow researchers to experiment from the system to device level using real, synthesized memories. The PI intends to: generate single and multi-port RAM arrays and register files; provide detailed specification for portability and extensibility to future processes; perform automated timing, power, and yield characterization; be interoperable with common academic and commercial tool flows; verify correctness of memories, methodology, and characterization in two prototype chips. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: James E. Stine

RF Physical Layer Authentication via Watermarking The purpose of this project is to test the viability of several physical layer authentication schemes in both simulated and real-world scenarios in order to inform further development of those methods that may be of interest to the U.S. Navy. This project will perform testing of the impact of these schemes on both watermark aware & non-watermark aware receivers. A WACR should be able to reliably process a physical layer authentication signal. Ideally, the performance of a standard non-WACR receiver should not be degraded by that same signal and the presence of the authentication signal should remain unknown. Sponsor: Exelis, Inc. for Department of Defense Naval Research Laboratory PI/PDs: George Scheets, Keith Teague

Synthetic Aperture Radar Processing for Change Detection The work addresses the processing of synthetic aperture radar imagery to detect changes of a land environment over time. The work is associated with coherent imaging radar systems developed by Sandia National Laboratories. The researcher will investigate automated methods to apply accurate phase-error autofocus functions to all pixels in radar images. The researcher will also investigate image-registration algorithms used in determining the coherent change between images. Sponsor: Sandia National Laboratories for U.S. Department of Energy PI/PD: James West

FIRE PROTECTION PUBLICATIONS

USFA Publications Revision This project involves the revision of three United States Fire Administration (USFA) publications. These USFA publications are in need of revision to provide the most current and accurate information as the selected publications are well over a decade old. The selected publications would provide the most current information to an audience of local level emergency responders, primarily the fire service. Sponsor: Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency PI/PDs: Nancy J. Trench, Mike Wieder

Fire Safety Solutions for Oklahomans With Disabilities The goal of this program is to improve the safety of Oklahomans who are deaf, have a hearing loss, are blind, or use a mobility device. Fire Protection Publications is collaborating with ABLE Tech and Fire Service Training to provide technical support, train, implement and evaluate a smoke alarm installation program for Oklahomans statewide who have a disability. Sponsor: Oklahoma Assistive Technology Foundation for the United States Department of Homeland Security – FEMA PI/PDs: Nancy J. Trench Fire Service Training: Caroline Reed

Development of a Handbook: Making the Culture Shift Handbook IFSTA/OSU Fire Protection Publications is partnering with the National Volunteer Fire Council on the development and production of a handbook and accompanying curriculum targeted to volunteer fire department officers. The handbook and curriculum are part of a comprehensive project, Making the Cultural Shift, which promotes making a cultural shift to a more safety- minded organization. Topics include: leading by example, training, setting and enforcing policies and procedures, and providing incentives. The issue of culture and the role it plays in health and safety practices is addressed, as well as the unique attributes of the volunteer fire service related to cultural change. Sponsor: National Volunteer Fire Council, Inc. for the United States Department of Homeland Security - FEMA PI/PD: Nancy J. Trench

FIRE SERVICE TRAINING

AFG to Purchase Mobile Grain Engulfment/Confined Space Rescue Simulator OSU Fire Service Training will purchase a Mobile Grain Engulfment and Confined Space Rescue Training Simulator System to provide safe and comprehensive practical skills training in the areas of grain engulfment rescue, confined space rescue, and rescue in grain storage structures. Training components of the simulator shall be designed to meet applicable nationally recognized training standards for rescue and confined space. The simulator shall be designed to be transported as one unit towed by an existing over-the-road tractor. This simulator will allow OSU FST to provide training in rural areas where training facilities are not available to fire departments. Sponsor: Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency PI/PD: Caroline Reed

Assistance to Firefighter Grant - State Fire Training Academy Fire Service Training provides training that enables Oklahoma Emergency Responders to safely meet recognized standards of professional competence. This grant provided funding for 30 Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) with spare cylinders, 10 complete sets of turnout gear, and two fit test machines. The new SCBAs will be used for Fire Academy students during their basic training. The turnout gear will be for fire instructors at the state fire training academies that instruct live fire training. The fit test machines allow FST to provide fit testing of face- pieces and respirators for volunteer firefighters at department meetings or regional fire schools. Sponsor: Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency PI/PD: Caroline Reed

Grain Bin Safety Program – Capacity Building The project is a joint effort of Fire Service Training and Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering. OSU’s FST and BAE departments will jointly develop a comprehensive hands-on agricultural safety awareness level training program as well as an operations level agricultural rescue training program, both emphasizing grain-related hazards. The target audience will be agricultural workers. The awareness level training will be focused on prevention. The operations level training will be focused on rescue. Sponsor: United States Department of Labor – Occupational Safety and Health Administration PI/PDs: Caroline Reed, Steve George Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering: Carol Jones

Fire Safety Solutions for Oklahomans With Disabilities The goal of this program is to improve the safety of Oklahomans who are deaf, have a hearing loss, are blind, or use a mobility device. Fire Protection Publications is collaborating with ABLE Tech and Fire Service Training to provide technical support, train, implement and evaluate a smoke alarm installation program for Oklahomans statewide who have a disability. Sponsor: Oklahoma Assistive Technology Foundation for the United States Department of Homeland Security – FEMA PI/PDs: Caroline Reed Fire Protection Publications: Nancy Trench

National Fire Academy State Fire Training Grant OSU’s Fire Service Training will deliver a series of training programs in cooperation with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy (NFA) to enhance the capabilities of the fire service in Oklahoma. Courses for Emergency Responders will be provided throughout the state in both conference settings as well as single course deliveries. The trainings will be provided in rural and metropolitan settings in an effort to bring the training to the responder locally. Sponsor: Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency PI/PD: Caroline Reed

INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT

Transportation Consortium of South-Central States (Tran-SET): Study the Impacts of Freight Consolidation and Truck Sharing on Freight Mobility The goal is to show the impacts of online freight consolidation on freight mobility, congestion and emission reduction. The project includes the following tasks: 1) Literature review of truck sharing initiatives in the U.S. 2) Identification of truck-sharing data available. 3) Develop and validate freight demand models for shared freight hauling. 4) Develop and validate models for quantifying the impacts of truck sharing on network capacity, congestion, environment, etc. 5) Apply the models in Tasks 3 & 4 to forecast freight moved by truck sharing by commodity type and estimate the resulting benefits of truck sharing. Sponsor: Louisiana State University and A&M College for the United States Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Tieming Liu, Chaoyue Zhao

Phase 2: Developing a Modeling Framework for Hazardous Material Movement in Oklahoma The objective in this phase is to develop a modeling framework that can ultimately provide rough estimates of annual hazardous material (HazMat) transportation in Oklahoma. The framework will include models that will be developed based on data from surveys that will be distributed to facilities that ship and/or receive HazMat in Oklahoma. In addition, statistical models and network flow assignment models will be developed to estimate the HazMat flow on highway segments. The team will explore ways to combine historical HazMat incident data with the estimated HazMat flow data for risk analysis to be conducted in future phases. Sponsor: Oklahoma Emergency Management for the USDOT – Pipeline and Hazardous Materials and Safety Administration PI/PD: Manjunath Kamath, Farzad Yousefian Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering: R. Scott Frazier

Imposing Connectivity Constraints in Large-Scale Network Problems Previous approaches to solve vertex-centric connectivity problems use additional edge (and possibly flow) variables, which overburden IP solvers, or rely on simple, weak inequalities, leading to the exploration of a large number of branch-and-bound nodes. This research project is expected to overcome these limitations and lead to a rich body of knowledge regarding connectivity problems, and, in particular, to markedly faster approaches for solving vertex- centric connectivity problems. In addition, the work will likely generalize existing results about edge-centric connectivity and will have consequences for hop-constrained and survivable network design problems. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Austin Buchanan

Collaborative Research: Data-Driven Risk-Averse Models and Algorithms for Power Generation Scheduling with Renewable Energy Integration The objective is to derive data-driven risk-averse stochastic optimization models and discover strong formulations with efficient decomposition algorithms for the power generation scheduling problems with renewable energy integration, so as to ensure cost effectiveness and system robustness. In this project, an innovative approach will be explored that integrates statistics and optimization methods to derive a reliable and cost-effective power generation scheduling decision. Starting from the historical data, the project team will develop data-driven risk-averse stochastic optimization models and explore efficient algorithms for both system operators and market participants. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Chaoyue Zhao

Data Driven Optimization on Power Grid Investment Operation and Resilience In this project, the investigator will derive data-driven risk-averse stochastic optimization models with efficient decomposition algorithms for transmission expansion and power generation scheduling problems under high penetration of renewable energy and the disruptions of extreme events, so as to maintain a reliable and resilient power system. More specifically, the investigator will work on the following two tasks during the project period: 1) Data-Driven Stochastic Transmission Expansion Planning, 2) Data-driven Risk-Averse OPF under Uncertain Renewable Energy Output and Extreme Events. Sponsor: Uchicago Argoone, LLC as Operator of Argonne National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy PI/PD: Chaoyue Zhao

Designing Databases for a Hazardous Material Movement Model in Oklahoma (Phase 1) The objective of this effort is to develop a database containing information regarding the amount of HazMat transported in the state of Oklahoma. The project will provide a database structure which may be utilized in subsequent phases (phases conducted after Oct 2016) to identify the HazMat distribution and movement via major highways and Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) in Oklahoma. Sponsor: Oklahoma Emergency Management for the USDOT-Pipeline and Hazardous Materials and Safety Administration PI/PDs: Arash Pourhabib, Manjunath Kamath, Chaoyue Zhao Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering: R. Scott Frazier

Privacy Issues in Smart Grid Data Sharing For many energy applications, there are events that happen infrequently, but their occurrence causes a significant cost. For example, tornados or severe weather conditions can disrupt a power plant from functioning. If such events can be predicted in advance, measures can be undertaken that mitigate their negative impacts. System Informatics provides an opportunity to integrate empirical information in data with domain knowledge for an enhanced understanding of energy systems. The objective is to devise models based on information in forms of spatio- temporal data and physical laws that govern spatio-temporal systems which contain energy systems. Sponsor: OSU Foundation for National Energy Solutions Institute – Smart Energy Source Association (NESI-SES) PI/PD: Arash Pourhabib

EAGER/Cybermanufacturing: CYMAN: A CYber MANufacturing and Entrepreneurship Initiative to Foster Global Manufacturing

The project will create a community of engineers (manufacturing, software/information based) who will exchange ideas, identify new cyber/physical product needs, and develop app prototypes that lead to collaborative manufacturing of physical products. A community of interdisciplinary engineering students will be established who will interact through a Cyber- Manufacturing Test Bed. The test bed and community formation will pursue three sets of activities: 1) Develop a Cyber-Manufacturing Test Bed and related Curriculum 2) plan and implement on-line cyber communities for project-based learning and app development and 3) introduce curriculum modules and refine them in identified courses through app extensions and group projects. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Joe Cecil Arts & Sciences: Blayne Mayfield

MRI: Acquisition of Shared High Performance Compute Cluster for Multidisciplinary Computational and Data-Intensive Research Under this Major Research Instrumentation project, OSU HPC Center will acquire, deploy and maintain an HPC cluster supercomputer named Pistol Pete to support computing- and data- intensive research and research training, across a broad range of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. As a campus-wide shared resource, Pistol Pete will be available at no charge not only to all OSU faculty, staff, postdocs, graduate students and undergraduates, but also to researchers across Oklahoma. The current HPC system is considerably oversubscribed, as are major national resources; thus, this project will enable substantial transformative STEM research across a broad variety of disciplines. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Baski Balasundaram Arts & Sciences: Dana Brunson, Christopher Fennell, Mario Borunda Division of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources: Peter Hoyt

EAGER: US IGNITE: A Gigabit Network and Cyber-Physical Framework for Advanced Manufacturing In this US Ignite (EAGER) project, the goal is to demonstrate an ultrafast high gigabit application in the area of Advanced Manufacturing. The manufacturing domain is micro/meso devices assembly, which involves the manipulation and assembly of intricate micron and millimeter sized objects. Overall, the objective is to develop and demonstrate an Advanced Manufacturing application through the creation of a Collaborative Meso/Micro Assembly Test Bed (COMAT) whose engineering life cycle is accomplished in an agile manner using ultra fast high gigabit networks which support collaboration among distributed tools and resources for design analysis, assembly planning, simulation and finally assembly. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: J. Cecil

REU SITE: Research Experiences in Information Centric Engineering (ICE) The goal of this REU Site initiative is to provide meaningful research experiences to a new generation of engineers and scientists in emerging process domains with an Information Centric Engineering emphasis. Useful research experiences provided to undergraduate students will encourage them towards graduate programs and research careers in these leading edge research areas. The resources of the Center for Information Centric Engineering at OSU will be used by the REU students to conduct research in manufacturing (micro devices assembly) and biomedical (virtual surgical environments) domains. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: J. Cecil

Collaborative Research: Risk-Averse Cluster Detection in Network Models of Bigdata Under Measurement Uncertainty This project will establish theoretical and computational foundations that lead to polyhedral and probabilistic approaches for detecting low-diameter clusters in network models of social and biological big-data that are subject to measurement errors and incomplete information. The proposed polyhedral study of the "k-club" cluster model is novel as it is the first nonhereditary graph property to be investigated in the polyhedral combinatorics literature. Conditional-value-at-risk-constrained k-club detection models in a random graph will be studied to produce risk-averse solutions. Sampling-free exact decomposition algorithms will be investigated that exploit the combinatorial structure of the sample space. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Baski Balasundaram

Collaborative Research: US IGNITE: EAGER: Exploring Ultrafast Networks for Training Surgeons Using Virtual Reality Based Environments The goal is to develop and demonstrate new virtual reality based applications for training medical residents and doctors in microsurgical techniques using the Global Environment for Network Innovations infrastructure and capabilities. Surgical training is usually limited to face- to-face situations where the expert surgeon and trainees are in the same room performing intricate procedures. Since experts in microsurgical techniques are not available in most parts of the country, such training is not readily available to many medical students. The virtual reality based surgical training application will address this challenge by eliminating the need for experts and trainees to be co-located. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: J.A. Cecil

Motorcycle Crash Causation Study The following are the objectives of this study: 1) Determine the main human, vehicular, environmental and roadway factors that contribute to motorcycle crashes and impact crash avoidance; 2) Identify the types of motorcycle crashes; 3) Assess the effectiveness of existing countermeasures including protective gear and rider training/education; 4) Identify additional feasible countermeasures/interventions that can reduce motorcycle crashes and crash injuries; and 5) Estimate the risk factors for motorcycle crash involvement. Sponsors: United States Department of Transportation - Federal Highway Administration, American Motorcyclist Association PI/PD: John Nazemetz

Industrial Assessment Center Program The mission of the IAC is to assess energy, waste, and productivity practices with the purpose of enhancing the management of the same within the clients enterprise and to share best practices with other IACs, while educating and training the next generation of energy, waste, and productivity professionals. The IAC will focus on IOFs and small and medium-sized manufacturers located within Oklahoma, Kansas, western Missouri, western Arkansas, eastern New Mexico, and beyond, as coordinated by our field managers. The latest technology will be employed to perform assessments that focus on energy, waste, and productivity issues in the clients’ facilities. Sponsor: Department of Energy PI/PDs: William Kolarik, Terry Collins

MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

Reduced Cost, Repeatable, Improved Property Washout Tooling for Composite Fabrication The purpose of the project is to collaborate with ACM LLC to develop and manufacture new water-soluble tooling materials that can meet the needs for future composite systems. Sponsor: Advanced Ceramics Manufacturing, LLC for Office of Naval Research PI/PD: Ranji Vaidyanathan

Loading-rate and Constraint Dependent Hydraulic Fracturing of Shale: Optimizing Resource Extraction The long-term objective is to build real-time predictive models of shale fracture as a function of mineral constituent, prevailing confinement pressure, and rate of loading employed during fracking. These models could then be calibrated using historical data collected during hydraulic fracturing and subsequently used for maximizing resource extraction efficiencies. In this project, the researchers will quantify the fracture response of shale as a function of loading rate and constraint to formulate a predictive model for failure mechanisms. It is speculated that the interplay of loading rate and constraint can affect a ductile-to-brittle transition in the failure process of shale. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Raman Singh Geology: James Puckette

High Performance Composites Using Graphene Oxide POSS as Fillers The OSU MITO Materials Solutions team has developed a toughening additive that can be blended directly into an epoxy resin at concentrated levels to create a “Master Batch,” which can be incorporated into the current composite manufacturing process without any process changes. The purpose of this project is to demonstrate that the Master Batch system can result in increased toughness at significantly lower addition levels compared to state of the art nanofillers to enhance the performance of carbon-epoxy systems. New formulations as well as new POSS molecules will be evaluated for reduced cost and improved performance. Sponsor: MITO Material Solutions PI/PD: Ranji Vaidyanathan

EAGER: Damage Evolution at the Fiber-Matrix Interphase for Early Failure Characterization in Composites This proposal will investigate the mechanics-based failure and deterioration of a fundamental aspect of composites that has received only limited attention to date, namely the influence of the fiber-matrix interface and interphase region. Using a set of unique experiments and analysis procedures, the team will quantify constituent-level failure mechanisms that occur at the fiber- matrix interface and within the interphase region at nano/micro-length scales. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Raman Singh

Development of STEM Teaching Aids for Low-income Schools This project seeks to develop low-cost teaching aids for low income schools in the Tulsa, OK area. The teaching aids developed are concept driven and hence can be transplanted with ease to other schools and scaled nationally. Sponsor: Materials Research Society Foundation PI/PD: Nirmal Govindaraju

Cryocel-Lightweight Composites for Cryogenic Fuel Storage for Transportation In this OARS Accelerated Project, a team from OSU – CleanNG LLC doing business as Infinite Composites Technologies (ICT) is developing a lightweight, novel “Cryogenic Composite Engineered Laminated (CryoCEL™)” tank for the storage of low-temperature, pressurized fuels. The ideal application for this project is fuel containers for transportation applications, where the technology addresses the need for low-cost, lightweight technologies and the ability to keep the fuel stored at cryogenic temperatures without boil off. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Ranji Vaidyanathan

Advanced Materials Development for Aerospace Thermal Management Applications Dr. Govindaraju at OSU and Jeffrey Didion at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) will collaborate to develop thermal interface materials for high heat flux density thermal management solutions for spacecraft applications. An undergraduate and graduate student intern will be supported under the research. As part of this Research Initiation Grant, some of the preliminary experiments on developing thermal interface materials will be conducted by a student intern at the NASA GSFC. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for NASA (EPSCoR) PI/PDs: Nirmal Govindaraju, Raj N. Singh

Innovation Corps Site Program The vision for the Oklahoma State University I-Corp Site is to increase the number of STEM- related startups and licensing opportunities emerging from the OSU campus. The OSU I-Corp Site will accelerate startup activity on campus not only by providing funding and training to startup teams, but by helping create a faculty and student population that is familiar with the business startup process. It will also provide a pathway for underrepresented students to participate in STEM-related business startups. The grant will provide 90 teams (over a three year period) $3,000 in funding per team along with training in the startup process. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Ranji Vaidyanathan Spears School of Business: Bruce Barringer

Materialsient At the OSU Next Generation Materials lab, a student-led team has been investigating innovative technologies based on combining the latest advances in improving the interlaminar properties of carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites towards realizing affordable and effective point of toughening so that they may be used for multiple applications in the automotive and aerospace fields. The team’s on-going research has led to a simple and affordable additional manufacturing step based on nano-interfacial modification using safe and affordable nanofillers that can be incorporated into existing manufacturing processes. This modification has a high commercialization potential based on limited customer discovery. Sponsor: National Collegiate Inventors & Innovators Alliance (NCIIA) d/b/a/ VentureWell PI/PD: Ranji Vaidyanathan

Electromagnetic Strategies for Locatable Plastic Pipe Oklahoma State University will provide access and expertise for the operation of the labscale extrusion system located in the Helmerich Advanced Technology Research Center. The partially supported graduate student will run extrusion experiments and help the University of Tulsa researchers optimize extrusion parameters to meet the technical needs of the proposed research project. Sponsor: The University of Tulsa for the U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration PI/PD: Raman P. Singh

Testing Support for SiC-SiC Composites for Thermal Conductivity and Mechanical Properties OSU’s Next Generation Materials Laboratory in the School of Materials Science and Engineering will perform the following testing for Physical Optics Corporation (POC): 1) Thermal conductivity testing according to C1461 using a Laser Flash Netzsch LFA 457 equipment and specific heat measurements using a combined DSC-DTA-TGA equipment. Three tests will be conducted on 10 mm diameter composite specimens provided by POC. 2) Flexural testing of ceramic composites at room temperature using C1341-13 for either 3-point or 4-point bend testing. Five tests will be conducted on flexural specimens provided by POC. A report will be provided summarizing the test results. Sponsor: Physical Optics Corporation for Department of Energy PI/PD: Ranji Vaidyanathan

Mechano-chemical Recovery of Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) from Metal-Foil Supported Spent Auto Catalysts The objective is to develop a new mechano-chemical method for efficient and improved recovery of Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) from used metal-foil supported auto catalysts. It is proposed that using a mechano-chemical approach the catalyst washcoat can be “peeled” off from the metal-foil substrate. This method will offer a significant improvement in recovery of the PGMs in comparison to the mechanical separation methods. Moreover, as the wash coat with precious metals will be the only constituent requiring further processing, a far smaller quantity of material will need to be refined and thus will translate into significant savings. Sponsors: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology, Duncan Recycling & Refining, LLC PI/PDs: Pankaj Sarin, Ranji Vaidyanathan

REU Site: Interdisciplinary Research Experience for Undergraduates Interested in Materials Science and Engineering The award will enable cutting edge research projects encompassing the broad area of materials science and engineering and how this knowledge is being used in the industry. The faculty working in broad areas related to materials science and engineering at the Helmerich Research Center at Oklahoma State University in Tulsa, OK and their graduate students will mentor 10 undergraduate students recruited nationally and guide the students in areas ranging from aerospace, energy and biomaterials. They will learn techniques related to materials processing, testing and characterization and understand how technology commercialization could transition from the lab-scale to the real world. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Ranji Vaidyanathan, Pankaj Sarin

Modification of the Coefficient of Thermal Expansion Analysis Suite (CTEAS) Support from GE Global Research will be used to improve the existing Coefficient of Thermal Expansion Analysis Suite (CTEAS) software developed as a freeware by the principal investigator Dr. Sarin. Some areas for improvement of CTEAS software include: 1) Matlab based GUI interface for the CTEAS software, 2) Ability to install and run the CTEAS without the requirement for a Matlab license, 3) Corrected and updated user manual. Sponsor: GE Global Research PI/PD: Pankaj Sarin

Nanodiamond for biological imaging applications The goal is to develop nanodiamond powders as replacements for conventional fluorescent agents used in biological imaging applications. The nanodiamond powders will be optically, thermally, and chemically stable and will be tailored to emit light efficiently at four distinct optical emission wavelengths used in biological imaging applications. It is expected that the nanodiamond powders will be resistant to photobleaching, will be non-toxic and biocompatible. The nanodiamond material will significantly reduce the complexity involved in sample preparation and acquisition of images for biological applications. COARE Biotechnology Inc. has expressed interest in commercialization of the product upon demonstration of proof-of- concept. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Nirmal Govindaraju, Raj N. Singh

Radiation Smart Structures with H-rich Nanostructured Multifunctional Materials Through this NASA EPSCoR award, radiation smart structures and materials with H-rich nanostructured multifunctional materials will be developed and built for shielding astronauts from ionizing radiation during human missions beyond low-Earth orbit. The approach is interdisciplinary and involves research groups in Materials Science and Engineering at OSU Tulsa, the Dept. of Physics and Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at OSU Stillwater. The research will find applications in a number of radiation based industries including medical physics and nuclear power generation in which high-strength, lightweight radiation shielding materials and appliances are needed. Sponsors: University of Oklahoma for NASA EPSCoR, University of Oklahoma for Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education PI/PDs: Ranji Vaidyanathan Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: Raman Singh Physics: Eric Benton

Direct Ink Writing Process Improvements The goal is to investigate and enhance the direct ink writing process (also known as “3D printing” and “robocasting”) to enable fabrication of 3D objects with microscale features. This project will expand the design space for many applications and will lead to high-impact publications describing both the processes and resulting materials and structures. OSU researchers will design and fabricate a mixing nozzle device capable of mixing two or more ink materials at arbitrary compositional ratios. OSU researchers will also develop and provide custom software for running the mixing nozzle printhead. Sponsor: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC PI/PDs: James Smay

Nano-Particles for Drug Delivery and Treatment of Urinary Tract Infections A critical unmet need exists for the development of nanotherapeutics that can serve as targeted molecular agents for eradicating a variety of persistent intracellular infections of the urinary tract. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop targeted, low-dosage antibiotic treatments for eradicating a variety of persistent intracellular infections of the urinary tract. The research lays the foundation for such treatments by demonstrating that diamond nanoparticles (DNPs) are viable platforms for efficient delivery of antibiotics such as amoxicillin to kill bacteria in cells. It is envisaged that the research will lead to novel targeted low-dosage DNP-based UTI treatments. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Raj Singh Center for Health Sciences: Rashmi Kaul, Anil Kaul

RDIP: Interns for Liquefied Fuel Composite Tanks The interns will work on a project that could revolutionize the automotive industry. Traditionally vehicles have used high-pressure cylindrical tanks to store natural gas for fuel, which have the disadvantage of being heavy, bulky, and potentially dangerous. This project is focused on solving these problems by way of a low-pressure tank that can store various fuels at cryogenic temperatures. The low pressure allows for the tank to be constructed lighter and conformable to non-cylindrical shapes. Additionally, storing the fuel at cryogenic temperatures means that it can store the fuel at 30% lower space for the same volume of fuel. Sponsors: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology, CleanNG LLC dba Infinite Composite Technologies PI/PD: Ranji Vaidyanathan

All-Composite Storage Tanks for Absorbed Natural Gas The Next Generation Materials Laboratory at OSU, in collaboration with CleanNG LLC, will develop and manufacture low-pressure, liner-less, all-composite adsorbed natural gas tanks (Magmacel AD™). The natural gas will be stored at low-pressures using a high-surface area carbon material for adsorption of the gaseous fuel, thus enhancing the safety of the fuel tanks. Several different activated carbon materials including their combinations will be evaluated. OSU will assist CleanNG to produce the prototypes, test and characterize the fuel storage capacity of the adsorbent and improve the mechanical properties of the composites through nano- additives based on natural ingredients. Sponsors: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement for Science and Technology, Clean NG LLC PI/PDs: Ranji Vaidyanathan

Self Repairable Seals by Crack Healing of Glass and Glass-Ceramic Composites for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells A study of the crack-healing in glasses and glass-ceramic composites of varying composition and reinforcement/ceramic phase is proposed to show a systematic correspondence with the physical properties, such as glass transition and softening temperatures, coefficient of thermal expansion, modulus, viscosity, surface energy/tension and creep behavior, thereby elucidating the key materials parameters affecting crack-healing mechanisms. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Raj N. Singh

Viscous Heating Demonstration for Helminth Deactivation Fecal sludge contamination with helminthes causes many health issues in poor countries that lack sophisticated waste treatment facilities. The most problematic is contamination of soil when solid human waste is scattered on the topsoil where residents may become (re)infected with helminthes through ingestion of contaminated food or through direct contact by open wounds in the skin. Our technology is designed to heat a fecal sludge stream by pumping it through an intense shear zone reactor where viscous (friction) heating is used to uniformly heat the feedstock above a threshold temperature to kill the helminth eggs. Sponsor: Curators of the University of Missouri at Kansas City for Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation PI/PD: Jim Smay

MECHANICAL AND AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

Update to Measurements of Office Equipment Head Gain Data The purpose is to provide designers with updated information regarding heat gains from modern office equipment. This information, an outdated version of which is published in ASHRAE’s Fundamentals Handbook (ASHRAE 2013), is used to estimate internal heat gains for office equipment and is an important input to cooling load calculations. The team will take measurements to provide updated data for office equipment which has changed due to technology advancements since the last time this information was updated in 2009. The results will be published as an ASHRAE paper, and updated information will be provided for the next ASHRAE Fundamentals Handbook. Sponsor: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. PI/PD: Christian Bach

Transmission Loss Testing of a Sample Aircraft Panel with Proprietary Experimental Treatments OSU will perform laboratory transmission loss testing on sample aircraft structural panels treated with multiple experimental blanket treatments. The main objective of this exercise is to determine transmission loss characteristics for each of the panels and treatment configurations for frequencies up to 10,000 Hz. Sponsor: Textron Aviation PI/PD: James Manimala

Robust Moving Target Handoff in GPS-Denied Environments OSU will provide research and development to support UtopiaCompression Corporation’s STTR Phase II program. The research and development will be specifically related to pose estimation between the target and handoff UAVs and the navigation algorithm used to guide the handoff UAV toward the target UAV. OSU will also support flight tests and integration activities associated with the Phase II program. Sponsor: UtopiaCompression Company for Air Force PI/PD: He Bai

Testing Unitary Equipment in a Psychrometric Facility The project encompasses the following components: 1) Pickup of the unit to be tested at AAON’s facilities; 2) Transportation of the unit to OSU’s psychrometric chamber; 3) At the end of the test series, crane lifting of the unit onto AAON contracted trailer; 4) Instrumentation of the unit on the airside with calibrated sensors and connection to the VIRIAC power supply; 5) Control of the unit – single speed compressor to be controlled using DAQ digital outputs; 6) Execution of the test plan; 7) Test raw data will be returned to AAON. Sponsor: AAON Heating and Cooling Products PI/PDs: Christian Bach, Craig Bradshaw

SUAS Services for BoldQuest 16.2 OSU will provide modified group 1 commercial off the shelf UAS and operators consistent with real world non-state actor tactics, techniques and procedures. Platforms will be sufficient in numbers to provide continuous support against friendly forces utilizing both a combination of rotary wing and fixed wing craft. Platforms will be modified with full motion video downlinks and FCC/FAA approved ADS-B receiving system, integrated with a technology demonstration of ADS-B command and control of small UAS within a complex and dynamic airspace scenario. Sponsor: ASRC Federal Holding Company for United States Army. PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob OSURF: Gary Ambrose

SUAS Services for MFIX 2017 For the SIE 2, 3 and MFIX events, OSU will support those demonstrations with qualified pilots, UAS engineers and acoustic expert(s). OSU will investigate swarming techniques, GPS only flight profiles and operations in GPS denied environments. OSU will operate acquired platforms as well as provide their own internal platforms for technology insertions such as ADS- B command and control, swarming and other advanced flight profiles. PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob OSURF: Gary Ambrose

SNM: Roll-to-Roll Nanoimprint Manufacturing of Metasurfaces for Photonic and Optoelectronic Applications Roll-to-Roll Nanoimprint Lithography is expected to overcome many limitations of current batch imprint techniques, including large area and high throughput patterning, easy demolding and lower cost. The potential for creating engineered surfaces leading to new products is significant, such as wire-grid polarizers, anti-reflective surfaces, and nanogratings for novel color filters for use in displays. This potential will be demonstrated in this project by manufacturing metasurfaces known to be useful in optical communication, information processing, laser systems and to improve the efficiency of LCD displays. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: James K. Good, Don Lucca

Simulation and Optimization System for Hard Milling with Tool Edge Effect in Aerospace Manufacturing The objective of this proof-of-concept research is to quantitatively characterize the effects of tool edge geometry on tool wear and surface microstructure in the hard milling of AISI 4340M, with the outcome resulting in a simulation and optimization system to guide engineers in manufacturing aerospace components. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Xiaoliang Jin

Modification of Near-Wall, High-Reynolds Number Velocity Profiles with Polymer Solution This project experimentally examines how drag-reducing polymer solutions modify the near- wall region of a high-Reynolds number turbulent boundary layer. While this has been thought to be well understood for decades, recent numerical and experimental data show significant deviation from the classical view. Available data shows a non-universal behavior when the drag reduction is above 40%, which can only be partially explained by a Reynolds number effect. Consequently, the behavior must be dependent on polymer properties. Thus, this project measures the near-wall region at various values of drag reduction, Reynolds number and polymer properties (Weissenberg number, viscosity ratio, and length ratio). Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Brian Elbing

Metamaterials Inspired Nonlinear and Inertant MEMS Devices This project will investigate development of MEMS devices that incorporate metamaterial concepts. Further research on the mechanisms involved as well as interactive synergies between combinations of nonlinear and inertant microstructures along with a focus on practical strategies to scale and fabricate such designs could provide a promising first step in the direction of developing a new class of MEMS devices. Potential applications include vibration and shock isolation of sensitive electronics, broadband transduction and energy harvesting, frequency manipulation, wave steering and focusing, and amplitude-triggered mechanical encryption, all of which are significantly aligned with defense-related interests. Sponsor: Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency PI/PD: James Manimala

Low Cost OTS Cruise Missile This project will demonstrate the capability of a guided missile using hobby high-powered rockets and commercial off-the-shelf autopilots. These systems, which can be acquired for less than $1,000 in parts, can easily deliver several pounds of payload to targets miles away with high accuracy. This will significantly change the landscape of battle for US forces. Sponsor: Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency PI/PD: Jamey Jacob

Inflatable Structures Feasibility Studies OSU shall perform tasks in support of the development of inflatable structures on a scale model to evaluate and develop design, deployment, and control methods. Sponsor: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America (TEMA) PI/PD: Jamey Jacob

High Resolution Holographic Diagnostics for Liquid Atomization in Crossflow In this subcontract, the investigator will perform two tasks: 1) Conduct data analysis for the large test matrix of digital holograms acquired during the summer of 2016, and 2) Improve the resolution of optical setup to reach 1 um to reduce the uncertainty in drop size measurements. Sponsor: Taitech, Inc. for United States Air Force PI/PD: Khaled Sallam eXploration Habitat (X-Hab) 2017 Academic Innovation Challenge: 1.6 Deep Space Mars Transit Habitat Layout and Development Studies The goal is to develop fully autonomous habitation systems that enable human exploration of space; and develop, integrate, test and evaluate Habitation Systems that will be utilized as technology testbeds and to advance NASA’s understanding of alternative mission architectures, requirements, and operations concepts’ definition and validation. Sponsor: National Space Grant Foundation for NASA PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob Architecture: Steve O’Hara College of Arts & Sciences: J. Cecil, Blayne Mayfield, Eric Chan-Tin

Enhancing the Oklahoma Alliance for Manufacturing Excellence with Applications Engineers in Rural Areas The Applications Engineering Program works to increase the competitiveness of existing small and medium sized rural manufacturers by providing on-site, focused engineering assistance and technology transfer services. By placing a staff of engineers across the state, the program provides manufacturers with direct access to the latest in technology including access to the resources of Oklahoma State University’s engineering faculty. The program is a cooperative effort between the University and the Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance. Sponsor: Oklahoma Alliance for Manufacturing Excellence, Inc. for National Institute of Standards and Technology PI/PDs: Daniel E. Fisher, Division of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources: Daniel Thomas

Desert Chance III Training and Flight Support As a subcontractor, OSU will provide labor for this effort in the categories of: junior technician and mid level analyst. Sponsor: Chamber Corporation for U.S. Navy PI/PD: Jamey Jacob

Design of an Airplane Transporting System The goal of this project is to complete the full research, conceptualization and design for a 90 degree curve that is bounded on each end with a 15 meter straight section of the underground airplane conveyance system presented to Oklahoma State University by Airplane Transport Systems. The design process will be completed in 18 months with all documentation necessary to fabricate and install the system for testing with an aircraft. Sponsor: ATC World Wide, LLC PI/PDs: James Kidd Civil and Environmental Engineering: Julie Hartell, Mohamed Soliman Electrical and Computer Engineering: Nishantha Ekneligoda New Product Development Center: Robert Taylor

Edge Aerodynamix Conformal Vortex Generators The team will test and evaluate through qualitative and quantitative visualization the Edge Aerodynamix, Inc. Conformal Vortex Generators via various diagnostic techniques in aerodynamic facilities at OSU. The purpose of this effort is to conduct contract services to better understand the behavior of the flow control effects generated by the Edge technology. Sponsor: Edge Aerodynamix, Inc. PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob, Brian Elbing, James Kidd

C-RAM Flight Support OSU will provide a minimum of two trained pilots and additional support personnel as needed for a flight test event from Jan 4-25, 2017 at Yuma Proving Grounds in Yuma, AZ. In addition, OSU will assemble, integrate, and conduct training with multiple aircraft in preparation for the event. Sponsor: ASRC Federal Holding Company for United States Army PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob OSURF: Gary Ambrose

CAREER: Surface Texturing of Bulk Metallic Glasses for Fabrication of Structured Micro Optics The objective is to determine the microstructural evolution and material deformation modes of the workpiece in the diamond surface texturing of bulk metallic glasses (BMG) for fabricating structured micro optical molds. This research proposes a novel technique of fabricating the molding insert through direct surface texturing on BMG by diamond micro milling with planar vibration of the workpiece. This new process is expected to significantly reduce production costs by eliminating the need of producing the master mold, as well as increase process efficiencies by generating various geometric features through dynamically modifying the motion of the workpiece. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Xiaoliang Jin

AFRL C-UAS Team Tinker OSU Unmanned Research Systems Institute (USRI) will provide AFRL Team Tinker with a demonstration of Counter UAS (C-UAS) capabilities. The technology demonstration will occur at Nevada test on or about 1 – 5 December 2016 and will encompass OSU-USRI operating a UAS platform in support of AFRL C-UAS Commander’s Challenge Team Tinker’s uniquely designed and integrated C-UAS detection and negation system. In support of this C-UAS technology demonstration, OSU-USRI will develop unique integrated platform(s) to assist Team Tinker in the execution of a family of systems that uniquely detect and defeat commercial off-the-shelf Group One UAS. Sponsor: Modern Technology Solution, Inc. (MTSI) for Air Force Research Laboratory PI/PD: Jamey Jacob

Geothermal Vision Study A DOE Geothermal Technologies Office vision study taskforce focuses on thermal applications of low temperature geothermal energy, particularly, geothermal heat pump (GHP) and direct use. This project will review and evaluate the current status of GHP applications in the U.S., including the installed base and geographical distribution, barriers preventing wider market penetration, cost and performance of the state-of-the art technologies, and technologies under development that target the barriers. This project will also investigate the maximum technical potential of thermal applications in the U.S. based on robust data, modeling, and analysis of available geothermal resources and potential demands for thermal applications. Sponsor: UT-Battelle, LLC for Oak Ridge National Laboratory PI/PD: J.D. Spitler

Development of “Optimized” FME UAV Platform – MVP3 Previously, OSU conducted proof-of-concept testing of the UAV system, demonstrating that a UAV-based methane detection system is technically feasible. GE’s MVP3 is an optimized methane-sensing UAV. GE will provide the sensor to OSU. OSU will provide the autopilot system and integrate it with the UAV platform, the testing facility of this prototype, and the CH4 leak source at the ground level. Sponsor: GE Global Research PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob, Girish Chowdhary

Vision-Based Sense and Avoid Solution for Small UAS The scope of this project includes developing maneuvering intruder ranging algorithms, integrating the existing algorithm with the developed maneuvering intruder ranging algorithm in an IMM filtering framework, evaluating the performance of the algorithms using simulations and flight test data, and refining the algorithms. Sponsor: UtopiaCompression Company for DARPA PI/PD: He Bai

Sensor and Information Research Center for Understanding Systems The objective is to investigate properties of statistical observability and its interaction with controllability. When designing a statistical estimator, the goal is generally to minimize uncertainty of the output below some threshold amount. In linear systems, this is simplified by the fact that performance of the estimator is solely a function of the system itself and the inputs. In real-world systems, however, the control inputs can have a significant impact on performance of the estimator. This project will investigate tools to help estimate what the impact of different control inputs will be on statistical observability of a nonlinear system. Sponsor: Wright State University for Air Force Research Laboratory PI/PD: He Bai

Double-pulsed digital holographic diagnostics for aerated liquid jets in supersonic crossflow Aerated-liquid injector is of interest to the Air Force due to its capability of generating finely atomized sprays for scramjet engines applications. Measuring the spray structure in the near- field of the fuel injector in supersonic flow is essential to optimize performance of the combustor section of scramjet engine. Digital holographic microscopy is effective for probing aerated liquid jets injected in subsonic crossflow. Still missing is information regarding fuel injection in supersonic crossflow. Digital holographic microscopy will be used to investigate aerated-liquid jets injected in supersonic crossflow and provide benchmark data for droplet sizes and velocities in the near-injector region. Sponsor: Taitech, Inc. for United States Air Force PI/PD: Khaled Sallam

Versatile Experimental Autonomy Research Aircraft Technology (VEARAT) The following tasks will be performed by OSU: Task 1 – System and Subsystem Requirements Definition – OSU shall contribute to defining requirements for an advanced modular autopilot; Task 2 – BASSET UAV Modification Design – OSU shall provide recommendations for integration of advanced modular autopilot; Task 3 – Modular GNC hardware/software development – OSU shall take the lead role in developing the autopilot with the help of NextGen; Task 4 – Communication systems integration and interfacing – OSU shall assist NextGen in selection and integration of communication systems; Task 5 – Detailed Autonomy Subsystems/ Algorithms Interface Documentation for the Testbed Users – OSU shall prepare the autopilot interface documentation. Sponsor: NextGen Aeronautics, Inc. for NASA PI/PD: Girish Chowdhary

UAS for Infrastructure Inspection This project will develop capabilities for use in power and utility line inspections by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to provide a viable unmanned inspection tool for routine inspection and damage detection. Small unmanned aircraft systems (SUAS) will be developed with advanced autonomous navigation capability, power management and data management collection and storage, and intuitive operational interfaces including intelligent utility tracking using lightweight sensors. Sponsor: OSU Foundation for National Energy Solutions Institute – Smart Energy Source Association (NESI-SES) PI/PD: Jamey Jacob

UNS: Potomodulation of forster cycle in a Fluorescent Protein Currently, super-resolution optical microscopy for subcellular imaging is in need of photoswitchable fluorophores with faster and more efficient switching and higher numbers of photons emitted prior to photobleaching. The goal of the research is to verify a unique photoswitching mechanism enabled by conjugating a Fluorescent Protein (FP) and a plasmonic nanoparticle (NP). The hypothesized photoswitching is based on modulation of the light scattering from NP by resonant energy transfer to FP, which is in turn controlled by photocreation of the intermediate state in the Förster cycle of the FP. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Kaan Kalkan

UNS: Collaborative Research: Role of Bristled Wings for Flying and Swimming at Low Reynolds Numbers Although the aerodynamic principles of insect flight at the scale of fruit flies and above are reasonably well understood, the fluid dynamic mechanisms that enable very tiny insects to generate lift or thrust remain unclear. This research will elucidate the fluid dynamic principles used by tiny insects for lift and thrust production under substantial viscous resistance at low Reynolds numbers (Re) from 1-100. Two types of insects will be examined, including: 1) thrips, which are capable of migration between orchards in air, and 2) parasitoid wasps with a focus on fairyflies capable of flying in air and swimming in water. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Arvind Santhanakrishnan

Deep Space Mars Transit Habitat Layout Studies Following upon the previous X-Hab Academic Innovation Challenge, OSU will add to, modify and utilize previously developed components to test scenarios for a full deep space Mars transit and landing for the 2016 X-Hab Academic Innovation Challenge. The goals of the project include a short-term goal of an interdisciplinary senior design project to design, build and evaluate components for horizontally and vertically oriented habitats for deep space missions and a long-term goal to develop capabilities in education, research, and outreach in the field of space habitat design. Sponsor: National Space Grant Foundation for NASA PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob Architectural Engineering: Steve O’Hara

Lightweight, Compact, Structurally-Integrated Acoustic Liners for Improved Low-Frequency Performance There is a need to develop alternative lightweight, compact techniques to improve low- frequency sound absorption within and transmission loss through structures for aerospace, military and civil infrastructural applications. An approach combining innovative internal geometries with high specific- strength Amorphous Metal Honeycombs and novel manufacturing processes is proposed to create lightweight, compact structurally-integrated acoustic liners with enhanced damage tolerance as well as unprecedented low-frequency acoustic performance. The work will forge a partnership directly involving two Oklahoma companies (MetCel LLC and Fail-Safe Solutions LLC) and Oklahoma State University at the proof- of-concept stage. Sponsors: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology, MetCel PI/PDs: James Manimala, Jamey Jacob, Andy Arena

RII Track-2 FEC: Unmanned Aircraft System for Atmospheric Physics Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (SUAS) have the potential to become an invaluable diagnostic tool for atmospheric science and operational meteorology. However, many scientific, technical, societal, and regulatory challenges must be solved before this can happen. The team of four universities across three EPSCoR jurisdictions, including atmospheric scientists, meteorologists, engineers, computer scientists, geographers, and chemists, will develop integrated smart unmanned aircraft technologies including advanced sensing and imaging, robust autonomous navigation, enhanced data communication capabilities, and data management tools. The team will also address public policy challenges related to adoption of UAS technology and integration of unmanned aircraft into the NAS. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob, Brian Elbing, Girish Chowdhary College of Arts & Sciences: A. Frazier, C. Crick

Advanced Surface Plasma Nitriding for Development of Corrosion Resistant and Accident Tolerant Fuel Cladding Although various surface coating techniques have been proposed to increase oxidation and corrosion resistance of fuel cladding materials, the de-bonding of the coating layer with the original cladding matrix under exposure to coolants makes such approaches unsuitable for reactor applications. Furthermore, the feasibility of techniques for large scale processing on cladding tubes remains another technological bottleneck. This project aims to develop a hollow cathode plasma nitriding technique to solve the above issues. The project will impact both the development of advanced methods for manufacturing and the development of advanced reactor in-core structural materials. Sponsor: Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station for Department of Energy PI/PD: Don A. Lucca

Radiation Tolerance and Mechanical Properties of Nanostructured Amorphous- Ceramic/Metal Composites The goal is to use a radically non-traditional approach to design amorphous-ceramic/metal composites for service in extreme irradiation environments. Rather than try to prevent microstructure changes in polycrystalline aggregates, the team will evolve composite systems where one of the constituents is intentionally synthesized in a non-crystalline or “amorphous” state. The amorphous alloys will be used to develop advanced amorphous-ceramic/metal composites with greatly improved radiation tolerance above 300 dpa (displacements per atom), stability above 500 ºC, and improved mechanical performance combining the good properties of amorphous materials (high strength and elastic limit) with those of crystalline materials (high toughness, strain hardening). Sponsor: The Board of Regents for the University of Nebraska for the University of Nebraska- Lincoln for DOE PI/PD: Don A. Lucca

Fundamental Studies on Sintering of Amorphous Alloys, Composites and Coatings This work investigates basic phenomena associated with spark plasma sintering (SPS) of Fe- based amorphous alloys. The theme of the work is that the unique mechanisms of SPS sintering, including Joule heating at the particle contacts under the simultaneous influence of pulsed direct current and uniaxial pressure, will help retain amorphous structure in the sintered compacts without undesirable crystallization. A plan is proposed to overcome the challenges associated with conventional solidification processing through innovative approaches: 1) SPS of bulk amorphous alloys, 2) SPS of in-situ (crystallization induced) and ex-situ (particulate reinforced and laminated) composites, and 3) SPS of amorphous composite coatings. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Sandip P. Harimkar

Robust Adaptive Autonomy in Contested Environments Unmanned Aircraft (UA) have seen deployment and success in diverse battle arenas, however, the current heavily-supervised UA operation paradigm is not well matched with emerging needs of conflict. This work includes development of novel adaptive learning and decision- making algorithms that can provide robust mission performance in dynamically changing contested environments. The approach departs from the emerging theory of Bayesian Nonparametric modeling, leading to: 1) New scalable nonparametric predictive models and inference techniques for stochastic nonstationary processes with both long-term and abrupt changes; 2) Adaptive decision making algorithms that utilize these models for collaborative decision-making in uncertain, nonstationary, and contested environments. Sponsor: Air Force Office of Scientific Research PI/PDs: Girish Chowdhary

NRI: Collaborative Goal and Policy Learning from Human Operators of Construction Co- Robots The overall goal of the research is to investigate and significantly advance the science of collaborative interaction between human operators and co-robots. The scientific inquiries will lead to the development of algorithms that can be used to train co-robots from skilled human operators to efficiently perform complex tasks in the face of real-world uncertainty, and to guide novice operators in performing such tasks. The primary targeted application is the construction and farming equipment industry that includes complex co-robots such as excavators, wheel loaders, tractors, forage harvesters where there is a significant need to understand and improve human-robot collaborative learning. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Girish Chowdhary College of Arts & Sciences: Christopher Crick, Charles Abramson

NASA Oklahoma Space Grant 2015-2018 The NASA Oklahoma Space Grant Consortium includes numerous affiliates in the state including eight universities, two community colleges, two industrial affiliates, two informal science education affiliates, research center affiliate, and city government affiliate. The affiliates use NASA funding to develop programs for students to meet NASA goals. Some of the programs at OSU that receive this funding include Speedfest, Mission to Planet Earth, X-Hab, and OSU American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics High-Power Rocketry Team. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for NASA PI/PD: Andy Arena

EnergyPlus Whole-Building Modeling and Simulation Software Development EnergyPlus is a key part of DOE’s building energy-efficiency strategy. In its ongoing program implementation and technical management efforts, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) requires the assistance of OSU to provide technical support for new features development and for software defects resolutions. Sponsor: Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC for National Renewable Energy Laboratory PI/PD: Dan Fisher

Collaborative Research: Manufacturing of Complex Lenses for Thermal Imaging, Night Vision and Surveillance Systems The objective is to test the hypothesis that when diamond milling brittle materials, the material response and character of the resulting surface and subsurface depends not only on the geometry of the tool-workpiece interaction, but also on the non-steady state nature of the process. Because of the effect on material response, some materials that are not practically diamond turnable can be machined by diamond milling. Research tasks include: 1) Design and construction of a simplified milling configuration, 2) Generation of machined specimens, 3) Surface and subsurface characterization. The outcome will identify conditions for more productive diamond milling of materials. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Don A. Lucca Radiation Smart Structures with H-rich Nanostructured Multifunctional Materials Through this NASA EPSCoR award, radiation smart structures and materials with H-rich nanostructured multifunctional materials will be developed and built for shielding astronauts from ionizing radiation during human missions beyond low-Earth orbit. The approach is interdisciplinary and involves research groups in Materials Science and Engineering at OSU Tulsa, the Dept. of Physics and Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at OSU Stillwater. The research will find applications in a number of radiation based industries including medical physics and nuclear power generation in which high-strength, lightweight radiation shielding materials and appliances are needed. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for NASA EPSCoR PI/PDs: Raman Singh Materials Science and Engineering: Ranji Vaidyanathan Physics: Eric Benton

Dynamic Data-Driven Motion Planning and Control for Pervasive Situational Awareness Application Systems The goal is to leverage and contribute to Dynamic Data Driven Application System (DDDAS) framework to create algorithms that bring together on-demand sensing using UAVs and pervasive sensing using UGSs to support a data-driven application system that provides pervasive battlefield Situational Awareness (SA). Tasks to be performed by OSU include: 1) Perform research on value-of-information-based collaborative sensor allocation in adversarial environments, 2) Perform research on creating distributed algorithms to infer a dynamic model of the battlefield, and 3) Perform experiments to validate algorithms developed in this project. Sponsor: Massachusetts Institute of Technology for Air Force Office of Scientific Research PI/PD: Girish Chowdhary

NUE: Nanotechnology Education for Roll-to-Roll Manufacturing Roll-to-Roll (R2R) manufacturing of flexible materials offers advantages over batch processing, including better yields, high speed automation, and potential to mass produce finished materials at lower costs. Since R2R manufacturing and the broader paradigm of additive manufacturing are seen as essential parts of advanced manufacturing, it is essential that these topics are introduced to undergraduate students. The goal is to educate undergraduate students in core nanotechnology topics for high precision R2R manufacturing. The investigators will develop curriculum material in nanotechnology and high precision R2R manufacturing in six undergraduate courses: Introduction to Engineering, Measurements, Manufacturing Processes, Mechatronics, Automatic Control, and Vibrations. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Matthew Klopfstein, Xiaoliang Jin, Don A. Lucca, Prabhakar Pagilla

Left ventricular dyssynchrony in heart failure: investigation of altered hemodynamics and diagnostic accuracy of MRI using an in vitro phantom model The central hypothesis of this study is that the diagnosis of left ventricular dyssynchrony (LVD) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and treatment using cardiac resynchronization therapy can be improved by: 1) quantifying the accuracy of MRI-based assessment of mechanical dyssynchrony maps and internal flow fraction by comparison to high-resolution benchmark datasets obtained on an MRI compatible left ventricle (LV) phantom, and 2) quantifying the mechanistic effects of septal-lateral wall motion delay on the energetics of LV function. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science & Technology PI/PD: Arvind Santhanakrishnan

Protein-Nanoparticle Photoswitches for Subcellular Imaging Super-resolution optical microscopy for subcellular imaging is in need of photoswitchable fluorophores with faster and more efficient switching and a higher number of photons emitted prior to photobleaching. The goal of the research is to develop a novel photoswitchable bioprobe for superresolution bioimaging. The photoswitch will be constructed from green fluorescent protein and silver nanoparticle (GFP-AgNP) conjugate. A potential application of the conjugate biomarkers is the intracellular imaging of cancer cells to reveal their therapeutic response to new drugs, which preferentially block cell movement and metastasis. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Kaan Kalkan Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources: R. Miller

Acoustic Measurements of SUAS for DHS RAPS OSU will provide staff services and subject matter experts in support of the Department of Homeland Security Robotic Aircraft for Public Safety (RAPS). OSU staff will assist UML by performing acoustic measurements of small UAS that will participate in the RAPS program and providing corresponding technical reports. Sponsor: University Multispectral Laboratories for Department of Homeland Security PI/PD: Jamey Jacob

Surface and Airborne Monitoring Technology for Detecting Geologic Leakage in a CO2- Enhanced Oil Recovery Pilot, Anadarko Basin, Texas OSU, with the cooperation of the Southwest Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership (SWP), will develop and implement new near-surface and airborne monitoring technologies. The research will focus on the design and deployment of a dense grid of shallow subsurface and

surface sensors in combination with low-altitude airborne detection of CO2 and CH4. These technologies will be deployed in the Farnsworth Oil Unit in the Anadarko Basin of the northeastern Texas panhandle, where the SWP and Chaparral Energy, LLC, are conducting CO2- enhanced oil recovery experiments. Sponsor: Department of Energy PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob, Girish Chowdhary Chemical Engineering: Peter Clark Civil Engineering: Tyler Ley College of Arts & Sciences: Jack Pashin, Nicholas Materer

SNM: Roll-to-Roll Atomic/Molecular Layer Deposition The goal is to investigate and develop atomic/molecular layer deposition (ALD/MLD) processes for continuous production and to develop a roll-to-roll machine for ALD/MLD process which will enable thin-film growth on a flexible, moving substrate. The Colorado team will study the ALD/MLD processes which will be compatible for R2R manufacturing and the OSU team will design and develop a R2R machine for this process to conduct the experimentation in the project. The OSU team will build two R2R machines, one for experimentation at OSU and the other for experimentation at Colorado. Sponsor: University of Colorado at Boulder for National Science Foundation PI/PD: Prabhakar R. Pagilla

CAREER: Fundamental Studies on Ultrasonic Vibration Assisted Laser Surface Modification (UV-LSM) of Materials This project investigates basic phenomena associated with ultrasonic vibration-assisted laser surface modifications (UV-LSM) and advances this knowledge for engineering surface microstructures and properties of advanced materials. The central theme of this CAREER proposal is that the attenuation of ultrasonic vibrations in the melt pool created during laser- material interactions will induce microscopic (interdendritic) and macroscopic (within melt pool) hydrodynamic flows in the melt influencing subsequent microstructure evolution (grain refinement, homogeneity, and defect-free surfaces). The effect of ultrasonic vibrations on rapid solidification behavior will be investigated during three laser surface engineering approaches: Laser surface melting, laser composite surfacing, and laser surface densification. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Sandip P. Harimkar

Collaborative Research: Ion Irradiation-Induced Nanocrystallization of Metallic Glasses and Its Effects on Their Mechanical Properties Metallic glasses have superior hardness and high resistance to wear and corrosion, however they are generally brittle due to the absence of internal obstacles to arrest shear band propagation. The objective of the work is to develop an understanding of the mechanisms responsible for nanocrystal phase formation when metallic glasses are subjected to ion irradiation, and to quantify the resulting effects on the materials’ mechanical behavior. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Don A. Lucca

Oklahoma Space Grant Consortium Congress authorized the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program to develop and/or enhance university research infrastructure to support basic and applied NASA-related research and technology development. In 1991, NASA awarded the State of Oklahoma a grant for the Oklahoma Space Grant Consortium. Since that time, fellowships have been awarded at the participating universities to promote the goals of the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for NASA PI/PD: Andrew S. Arena, Jr.

US-Germany Cooperative Research: M4 - High Resolution Surface Zone Analysis and Ion Beam Processing In previous phases of this research, the research team utilized a range of high resolution surface techniques to quantify the mechanical and chemical nature of newly developed mold coatings for use in optical component production. The team found that ion irradiation is an effective means to convert hybrid sol-gel films to their final hardened state. The project focuses on the use of high resolution surface zone techniques to aid in the development of new advanced mold coatings based on ion irradiated sol-gel films, and to enable the near surface mechanical and chemical characterization of both mold surfaces and optical components. Sponsor: Foundation Institute for Materials Science IWT - STB/TR4 PI/PD: Don A. Lucca

Web Transport Systems The objectives of this research are: 1) to expand the range of static and dynamic models in WTS to include models for new elements identified by sponsors, 2) to refine the models for viscoelastic effects and web-roller slip effects, 3) to develop new models for the precise control of tension in each section in a multi-span web transport system, and 4) to develop guidelines for selection of the control algorithms which best meet the defined performance objectives for a given application. Sponsor: Web Handling Research Center PI/PDs: Keith Good, Karl Reid

Mechanical Behavior of a Web during Winding The objective of this project is to develop algorithms for wound-on-tension for various types of winding in which nips are involved in the winding configuration, to study varying nip winding conditions and parameters so that the mechanics of nip winding can be quantified and incorporated into winding and defect models, and to study and develop models for nip related defects. Sponsor: Web Handling Center PI/PD: Keith Good

Web Wrinkling - Prediction and Failure Analysis Web quality degradation can occur if wrinkling takes place across the rollers or inside (or upon) wound rolls. This research is concerned with determining how wrinkles form as a function of web line and web material parameters. Sponsor: Web Handling Center PI/PD: Keith Good

NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT CENTER

Investigation of an Absorption/Reflection Based Chlorine Sensor The proposed product is a non-invasive, non-destructive, long life sensor that measures active or “free” chlorine content in water or aqueous solutions using photometric quantitative analysis techniques. The end uses for this product are water monitoring and treatment industries. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Robert Taylor Electrical and Computer Engineering: Keith Teague

Design of an Airplane Transporting System The goal of this project is to complete the full research, conceptualization and design for a 90 degree curve that is bounded on each end with a 15 meter straight section of the underground airplane conveyance system presented to Oklahoma State University by Airplane Transport Systems. The design process will be completed in 18 months with all documentation necessary to fabricate and install the system for testing with an aircraft. Sponsor: ATC World Wide, LLC PI/PDs: Robert Taylor Civil and Environmental Engineering: Julie Hartell, Mohamed Soliman Electrical and Computer Engineering: Nishantha Ekneligoda Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: James Kidd

Oklahoma Small Business Development Center Network 2017 OSU’s Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) was created through a partnership with the Oklahoma Small Business Development Center and with matching funds from the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology. SBTDC provides business services such as business planning, financial analysis, marketing research, lending assistance, government contracting and manufacturing assistance to new or established businesses. SBTDC advisors work with business owners to determine the type of service needed. Free business counseling, low cost training, workshops and web-based tools are provided based on needs. The SBTDC works with the Small Business Development Center network across the state. Sponsor: Southeastern Oklahoma State University for U.S. Small Business Administration PI/PD: Dana Fisher

Manufacturing Improvement Program for the Oil and Gas Industry Supply Chain and Marketing Cluster Comprehensive improvement in manufacturing requires a review of a manufacturer’s facilities, equipment, processes, product line, people, finances, markets and customers. The goal is to increase the innovation capacity and improve profitability of small- to medium-sized manufacturers in the oil and gas industry cluster. This will result in job creation in 44 low- income Oklahoma counties. Objectives are to help manufacturers 1) access current competency, 2) develop plans to reduce energy use and improve manufacturing processes, 3) innovate product lines, 4) train a diverse workforce, 5) manage financial consequences and outcomes, and 6) identify and meet the needs of customers and markets. Sponsors: Department of Energy PI/PDs: Robert Taylor

Oklahoma Inventors Assistance Service The Inventors’ Assistance Service (IAS) provides information, education, and assistance to Oklahoma inventors navigating the process of transitioning an idea into a product. The IAS offers workshops; maintains a website, a resource database, and a roster of contacts; offers informational materials; and offers general assistance to persons navigating the invention process. The IAS operates the Selected Inventions Program to organize inventor efforts to successfully bring an invention to the point where the process transitions to licensing, manufacturing, or recruitment of capital. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Robert Taylor, Jessica Stewart

Oklahoma Inventors Assistance Service (Tulsa Office Startup) This award establishes an Inventors Assistance Service/New Product Development Center office at the Helmerich Research Center in Tulsa, including hiring or transferring necessary staff, installation and setup of instrumentation, remodeling and preparation of laboratory space as needed, and setup and connection to communications/computer systems as required for operation of the office. The office will provide assistance to inventors and small- and medium- sized manufacturers who want to develop new products and/or processes or who need help with invention and innovation processes, including patent applications, evaluation of competing technologies, market research, prototyping, and interactions leading to additional development and financing resources. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Robert Taylor

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Highway Construction Materials Technician Training & Certification Program The College of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology (CEAT) at OSU is partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the administration, management and delivery of the Training and Certification Program (HCMTP) for the Oklahoma Highway Construction Materials Technician Certification Board. This program serves ODOT, the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, and the transportation construction industry. OSU CEAT assumes responsibility for all aspects of HCMTP training and certification including program training, certification, program administration, record keeping, and equipment upkeep and maintenance. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Clayton Moorman Civil and Environmental Engineering: Stephen A. Cross

DIVISION OF ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY (TECH)

Smart City Potential, Assessment & Planning: Decision Support Framework for Smart Communities Project deliverables include: 1) community land use forecast, 2) smart community mapping database, 3) smart buildings mapping database, 4) built environment framework plan, 5) evaluate existing buildings within created framework, 6) draft municipal code and comprehensive plan. Sponsor: OSU Foundation for National Energy Solutions Institute – Smart Energy Source Association (NESI-SES) PI/PD: Lantz Holtzhower

Flammability Standards for Building Insulation Materials – Phase II The purpose of Phase II is to evaluate if non-flame retarded foam insulation can be used in foundation and under slab/subgrade applications. Small scale fire testing shall be conducted to compare the use of non-flame retarded insulation to flame retarded insulation in foundation and under slab/subgrade applications. A technical report will be prepared on the results of the fire testing. The OSU team will then use the input of the Task Force to draft code-change language (as appropriate) along with storage recommendations, and commentary to address the Phase I working group concerns. Sponsor: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) PI/PDs: Rob Agnew, Jarrett Metheny, Virginia Charter, Qingsheng Wang, Haejun Park

Fire testing for portable gas containers The objective of the project is to determine if a jet fire occurs when portable gas containers are tilted while being exposed to an external ignition source with and without a specifically designed nozzle. Three different sizes of portable gas containers will be included in the experiments. Sponsor: No-Spill, Inc. PI/PDs: Haejun Park, Qingsheng Wang

Evaluation of LPG Pool Fire Heat Flux The main goal of the project is to conduct a technical literature review to collect quantitative data on the following from publications/research papers: 1) amount of radiant heat emitted by various sized LPG pool fires at various distances; 2) determine the heat flux values that will cause LPG storage tanks to fail. Compile these knowledge gaps in a report. The final report from this research will provide quantitative information on LPG fire hazards to the NFPA 58 and 59 Technical Committee, which may be used in revisions to the standards. Sponsor: National Fire Protection Association Research Foundation PI/PD: Qingsheng Wang

Collaborative Research: Study of Flammability, Mechanism and Heat/Mass Transfer Associated with Burning of Flame Retardant Polymer Nanocomposites The objective is to understand the mechanism and to quantify the synergistic fire retardant effect of the nanofillers that form a physical barrier and the nanofillers that cause catalytic charring of the burning polymer. This will be achieved by studying the kinetics and the mass and heat transfer processes involved in the pyrolysis of the polymer with and without the nanofillers. The work is transformational because it will for the first time quantify the synergistic fire retardant effect of nanofillers in polymer nanocomposites. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Qingsheng Wang

OSU Center for Health Sciences – FY2017 Research Abstracts BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES

Pain and Pain Relief during Inflammation and Neural Injury Pain is a debilitating complication that is difficult to treat for long periods of time. We evaluate glutamate metabolism in spinal systems during inflammatory and injury conditions. Although a major neurotransmitter, production and degradation of glutamate is poorly understood in the peripheral nervous system. My research is in three areas: 1. Primary sensory neurons under inflammatory and neuropathic conditions. 2. Neural processing of inflammatory nociceptive information from viscera and somatic structures. 3. Response of neurons to spinal injury. We have determined that peripheral inhibition of glutaminase provides long-lasting pain relief in animals with chronic inflammation (US patents 7,288,246; 7,504,231). Sponsor: NIH and OCAST Funding PI/PD: Kenneth E. Miller

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii as a Model to Study flagellar/ciliary length The ultrastructure of flagellar/ciliary length is being studied utilizing Chlamydomonas reinhardtii with special attention given to the observation of intraflagellar transport (IFT) particles that move along the length of the flagella. The location and length of these IFT particles is being viewed in various mutants. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PDs: Bill Meek, Nedra Wilson

Anatomical Sex Differences in Perineuronal Nets Remodeling during Adolescence During late adolescence physiological maturation of inhibitory neural networks occurs. These events coincide with the appearance of perineuronal nets (PNNs) - extracellular matrix elements that coat a variety of cells in the mammalian brain. We assess sex differences in the PNN expression during adolescence and early adulthood using specific protein analysis to identify amino-acid sequences in the PNN. Elucidating structural changes within PNNs will provide new insights into the pathophysiology of memory disorders leading to the identification of novel therapeutic targets with the potential to restore normal synaptic integrity in the brain of patients afflicted by this illness. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PD: Dolores Vazquez Sanroman Exercise Effects in Nicotine Place Preference as Reflected by Perineuronal Nets Remodeling Nicotine, a major psychoactive component of tobacco smoke, alters perineuronal nets (PNNs). These structures are expressed in PV neurons within brain regions important for drug-taking behavior and drug-related memories. Chronic exercise may be interfering with the reinforcing effects of nicotine during the adolescent period. We assess the effects of chronic exercise during adolescence on preference for nicotine in male and female mice. Using immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy analysis, we explore structural changes in the PNNs. These studies highlight the molecular mechanism involved in gender-specific sensitivity to the nicotine reinforcing effects as well as gender-tailored exercise interventions for drug abuse prevention. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PD: Dolores Vazquez Sanroman

The Influence of Selective Brain Cooling on Mammalian Evolution Today, the vast majority of large-bodied mammals are uniquely capable of decoupling brain temperature from body temperature in a phenomenon known as “selective brain cooling.” This ability to cool the brain delays responses to heat stress, enabling the animals possessing it to save large volumes of metabolic water. My research investigates the role that brain cooling may have played in insulating modern mammals from extinction while connecting this physiology to forecasts of large responses to our warming and drying climatic future. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PD: Haley D. O’Brien

Salt Sensitivity, Sex Differences, and Kidney Function Salt sensitivity is defined as a change in blood pressure from a change in salt intake. Reducing salt intake eliminates hypertension in many people, but not everyone responds in the same way. Our research suggests that sex differences exist with respect to how the kidney handles sodium which determines salt sensitivity. We are examining the physiological and molecular effects of salt consumption on renal sodium transport in males and females. The long-term goal is to reduce the high prevalence of hypertension in our society. Sponsor: Intramural, INBRE, TABERC Funding PI/PDs: Alexander J. Rouch, Liming Fan, Chiedozie Waturuocha, Dalton Delaney

Advancing Therapeutic Options for Treating Major Depressive Disorders using a Novel Anti- Inflammatory Agent Brain disorders represent a huge burden, both in terms of human suffering and of economic costs. Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. (ages 15- 44). Neuroinflammation is present in MDD; unfortunately, there are relatively few drugs on the market that effectively reduce neuroinflammation. Successful completion of the project will open a new line of inquiry into the potential of β-funaltrexamine (or modified forms of this compound) as an inhibitor of neuroinflammation to be included in combination drug treatment of MDD. Sponsor: OCAST PI/PDs: Randall L. Davis, Craig W. Stevens, J. Thomas Curtis Impact of Environmental Toxins on Biological Systems These projects examine low-level heavy metal and/or pesticide exposure on: 1) neural development, measured by changes in dopamine transporter [expression, trafficking, and function], dopamine release/uptake and the activity/function of the D1-like and D2-like dopamine receptors and 2) toxin-related estrogenic activity (metalloestrogens such as cadmium and organochlorine pesticides) and their impact on the development of breast cancer. We are examining intracellular mechanisms (p53, caspase, etc.) which are responsible for the regulation of cell grow and differentiation and how environmental agents can alter the cell cycle leading to abnormal growth and tumor development. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PD: David R. Wallace

Molecular Interactions with HIV proteins with the Dopamine Transporter These projects have been investigating the in vitro effects of gp120 and Tat (HIV proteins associated with neurotoxicity) on the functioning and activity of the dopaminergic system in tissue and cell culture model systems. The primary goal of this program is to elucidate the interaction between gp120/Tat, estrogen, and cocaine in female rats. Ultimately, the goal of this research is to provide insight into gender-related differences in AIDS-related central nervous system disorders leading to potential gender-specific treatment strategies for HIV and cocaine addiction. Sponsor: Intramural funds PI/PD: David R. Wallace

Isolation and Characterization of Novel CNS-Acting Compounds from Natural Sources This program investigates the use of naturally occurring compounds as centrally acting agents. One series of studies has been examining the effects of Native American plants indigenous to Oklahoma and their potential analgesic effects. A second series is investigating the estrogenic effects of flavonoids found in soy and flaxseed. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PD: David R. Wallace

Development of a New Animal Model to Study Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Role of the Dopaminergic System These studies utilize the prairie vole as a novel animal model for investigating the central processes underlying ASD. By modifying the social activity/interaction of the vole one may postulate that these changes resemble the societal dysfunction normally observed in patients suffering from ASD. Current work is focusing on alterations in dopaminergic function following exposure to environmental toxins, such as heavy metals. Importantly, we have observed significant social dysfunction in male voles, but not in females, following exposure to mercury. This parallels the known male oriented sex-bias in autism among humans. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PDs: J. Thomas Curtis, David R. Wallace Hormonal influences on Intestinal Microbiota Recently, we have begun to recognize that the microbial community living on and in us is integrally involved in physiological and neurological functions, At this point, however, virtually nothing is known about interactions between female reproductive hormones and the composition of the microbiota in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. We are using hormone manipulations in prairie voles to examine the influence of reproductive hormones cycling on the GI microbiota. Sponsor: National Institute of General Medicine PI/PDs: J. Thomas Curtis, Kathleen S. Curtis Biochemistry & Microbiology: Gerwald Koehler

Does Fertility trump Monogamy? Prairie voles are among the few mammalian species that form monogamous pair bonds. We are examining the role that reproductive success plays in the formation, maintenance and expression of pair bonds Sponsor: Intramural funding PI/PDs: J. Thomas Curtis

Estrogen, Central Pathways, and Body Fluid Regulation Estrogen receptors are distributed throughout the CNS, including areas involved in body fluid volume regulation. These experiments examine neural activation stimulated by hypovolemia in ovariectomized female rats with or without estrogen replacement to determine whether 1) estrogen affects activation in specific neurotransmitter systems that are important in CNS responses to hypovolemia, 2) estrogen affects central responses to hypovolemia in functionally connected central areas, and 3) estrogen effects on central responses to hypovolemia involve regional and neurotransmitter-specific localization of estrogen receptors. Results will advance understanding of estrogen actions on specific neurotransmitter systems in defined central pathways affect CNS activation in response to hypovolemia. Sponsor: OCAST PI/PD: Kathleen S. Curtis

Estrogen, Exercise, and Anxiety Women are about twice as likely as men to develop depression and depression-related disorders. Reduced ovarian hormone levels at menopause are associated with increased depression, anxiety, and panic disorders. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is useful in controlling symptoms, but regular moderate-intensity exercise may have anxiolytic and/or anti- depressant effects comparable to or greater than those of HRT. The benefits of exercise in reducing anxiety and depression in rats typically have been investigated in males, using vigorous, high intensity exercise. This project investigates the anxiolytic effects of moderate- intensity exercise in ovariectomized (OVX) rats with or without estrogen replacement, and examines central neurotransmitters that may underlie these effects. Sponsor: Intramural funding PI/PD: Kathleen S. Curtis Estrogen, Dieting, and CNS Control of Food Intake Estrogen decreases feeding and body weight in female rats, an effect linked to specific central areas and neurotransmitters/neuroimmune signals, estrogen receptors (ERs), and signals from the gut. These studies use ovariectomized rats with or without estrogen replacement to 1) determine whether estrogen treatment of ovariectomized rats decreases food intake and body weight during limited access to food, 2) identify the peripheral mechanisms by which estrogen influences feeding by ovariectomized rats during limited access to food, and 3) examine central mechanisms by which estrogen influences feeding by ovariectomized rats during limited access to food. Sponsor: OCAST PI/PD: Kathleen S. Curtis, Randall L. Davis

Immune Modulation Our knowledge of the complexity of endogenous and exogenous control agents and mechanisms that influence the immune system continues to grow. This laboratory develops new methodologies and approaches, and applies them to study the immune system. Applications include immune modulation and immunopathology. Sample recent publications have involved the pathology of and new treatments for envenomations. Sponsor: Departmental Funding PI/PD: Joseph A. Price

Interactions of Venoms and Antivenins Snake venom and antivenin interactions are being evaluated using various methods including size-exclusion HPLC (SE-HPLC). This project is investigating correlations between formation of stable venom–antivenin complexes and antivenin protection against venom-induced toxicity and lethality. Studies are ongoing to determine which venom components are bound in venom- antivenin complexes and what effect binding has on venom reactivity as determined by standard in vitro assays. Methods developed in these studies may facilitate reduced use of animals in snake venom research and in antivenin production. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PD: Charles G. Sanny

Multivariate Analysis of Antibody and Antigen Interactions Chromatographic analyses of the interactions of antibodies and antigens using single wavelength detection (e.g. 214 nm, 280 nm) have been described in the literature. The use of a diode array detector may provide additional information such as relative concentration of reactants, component identity, and product composition. Snake venoms and antivenins are being used in this study to evaluate changes in elution profiles consistent with antibody-antigen complex formation and loss of reactive antibody and antigen. Chemometric methods described in the literature, such as multivariate curve resolution, are being used to facilitate antibody- antigen interaction analysis. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PD: Charles G. Sanny Developing a Recombinant Protein Based Assay for Serological Surveys of Encephalomyocarditis Virus In this project, we wish to develop and test an indirect ELISA that uses recombinant viral proteins as antigen to detect EMCV antibodies in rodents. This test will be safe, the target antigens can easily be mailed out to laboratories and it will be inexpensive. Sponsors: Intramural Funding PI/PD: Earl L. Blewett

Interactions of Beneficial Microbes with the Mammalian Host The mammalian gut microbiome consists of thousands of microbial species that are considered commensals or even mutualistic symbionts because they can provide nutrients and protect the host from pathogens. Probiotics are microbial strains that provide additional health benefits for the host when present in sufficient quantities. We are using genomic and microbiological techniques to learn about the composition of the gut microbiota and the beneficial effects of probiotics. Sponsor: OCAST, intramural funding PI/PD: Gerwald Koehler

Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery and Treatment of Urinary Tract Infections Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the second most common disease in the United States costing about $6 billion annually. UTIs are generally treated by antibiotics but detrimental effects of antibiotic treatments, including the development of antibiotic resistance, have created an urgent need to develop new strategies for treating UTIs. Diamond nanoparticles (DNPs) are an emerging class of materials with several medically significant properties and based on our preliminary data, we are studying DNPs to develop novel DNP-based low-antibiotic dosage therapeutic approaches for treating UTIs by killing both extracellular as well intracellular bacteria. Sponsor: OCAST PI/PD: Rashmi Kaul Obstetrics/Gynecology: Anil Kaul OSU-Tulsa: Raj Singh Hormonal Modulation of Hepatitis C Related Carcinogenesis Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects more than 100 million people and causes acute and chronic hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HCC is the third most common cause of cancer death associated with chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. There is no vaccine available for HCV. 40%-50% of patients are unresponsive to standard treatment. Predominance of HCC in males highlights the significance of estrogens in HCC development. We are studying the interactive role of estrogen and HCV proteins on HCV-related HCC using in vivo and in vitro models. Studies on estrogen involvement in HCC pathogenesis may open new avenues to therapeutic modalities. Sponsor: Cancer Sucks Inc. Bixby, OK PI/PD: Rashmi Kaul Obstetrics/Gynecology: Anil Kaul Forensic Sciences: R. Thomas Glass

Hormonal Linked Etiology of E.coli Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) Estrogen alters the susceptibility to infections at various stages of the menstrual cycle. Hypoestrogenemia may predispose post-menopausal women to urinary tract infections. Escherichia coli is the leading cause of urinary tract infections. Invasive E. coli with dry adhesions have the capacity to invade epithelial cells and cause chronic UTI in humans. Recent data from our laboratory indicates a direct protective role of estrogen, involving estrogen receptors, during E.coli bacterial invasion on hepatoma cells and also in our in vivo UTI model. Studies are ongoing to study the hormonal linkage to UTI pathogenesis and design novel therapies. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PD: Rashmi Kaul Obstetrics/Gynecology: Anil Kaul Forensic Sciences: R. Thomas Glass

Bacterial Remediation of Environmental Triclosan Triclosan is an antiseptic biocide which is incorporated into a wide variety of personal and health care products. Widespread use has resulted in its presence in the environment. We have shown that methylation acts to obviate its antibacterial properties. The purpose of this research is to investigate the relationship between triclosan and bacteria present in municipal waste water streams in an effort to better understand the mechanistic bases underlying intrinsic and acquired resistance, biologic methylation and availability, and potential approaches for bioremediation. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/RA: Franklin R. Champlin, Michelle A. DeGear Burkholderia multivorans Cell Envelope Physiology Burkholderia multivorans is a gram-negative bacterium that acts as an opportunistic pathogen in patients with underlying diseases such as cystic fibrosis. Our laboratory is investigating its cell envelope with regard to basic physiology in an effort to better understand how it is able to establish pulmonary infections. Current efforts feature work designed to elucidate how mutations that obviate extracellular polysaccharide expression affect the ability of the bacterium to form stable biofilms and how this in turn influences resistance to the deleterious effects of certain drugs. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/RA: Franklin R. Champlin, Allison A. McDonald

Triclosan Resistance in Serratia marcescens Serratia marcescens is an enteric bacterium responsible for nosocomial opportunistic infections that is highly resistant to the hydrophobic biocide triclosan. Because the primary mechanistic target for triclosan is highly conserved within the cytoplasm of all bacteria, it is likely that intrinsic resistance is a function of outer membrane impermeability properties for hydrophobic substances in general. It infers the absence of a nonspecific hydrophobic pathway consisting of regions of phospholipid bilayer. It is also likely that the acquisition of phenotypic triclosan susceptibility occurs by virtue of outer membrane modifications that confer susceptibility to other hydrophobic molecules. We hypothesize that exclusionary properties of Serratia marcescens outer membrane for hydrophobic substances are responsible for its intrinsic resistance to triclosan, possibly in concert with active multidrug efflux systems. Sponsor: NIH INBRE Faculty Research Opportunity Award Program PI/Collaborator: Franklin R. Champlin, Diane S. Katz

S299A150023: Project AAIMS’ (Advancing American Indians in Medical and STEM careers). The Project AAIMS’ project promotes college and career readiness of approximately 1,439 Indian students from nearly 30 tribes in nine districts and twenty sites in Northeastern Oklahoma. Through the partnerships and activities developed in this proposal, Indian students in the communities of the Osage and Otoe-Missouria reservations will begin preparation for college and careers in early childhood continuing through high school graduation. Teachers will increase their content knowledge in STEM subjects, have access to STEM professionals in their classrooms as mentors or examples of real-world applications; and incorporate cultural aspects to curriculum. Sponsor: US Department of Education-Demonstration Grants-Native Youth Community Project Co-PI/PD: Kent Smith Osage County Interlocal Cooperative: Jacque Canady (PI) Paleontology and Geology of the Middlegate Basin, Churchill County, Nevada The Middlegate Basin of west-central Nevada presents a unique opportunity to explore mammalian evolution and faunal succession during a time interval that records a dramatic change in global climate (the Mid Miocene Climatic Optimum, 17-15 Ma). This project is developing a high-resolution biostratigraphy and geochronology for this interval within the Monarch Mill and Middlegate formations at Eastgate, Nevada. In addition, the project includes the alpha taxonomy of the Eastgate local fauna, which is a very diverse mammalian fauna with new taxa of carnivores, rodents, and other small mammals. Sponsor: Tribal PI/PD: Kent Smith Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History: Nicholas Czaplewski (Co-PI) South Dakota School of Mines and Technology: Darrin Pagnac (Co-PI) OSU-Center for Health Sciences: Ian Browne (Co-PI)

Vertebrate Fossils from Neogene Deposits of the Western and Panhandle Counties of Oklahoma In Oklahoma, few fossil sites of Neogene-age (11.5 ma-Present) are known. Fossil remains from this time interval are an important untapped resource that provide insights into biotic and abiotic features of the southern Great Plains. This is especially true for microvertebrates (e.g., rodents) which have been previously overlooked by researchers focused on dinosaurs and widespread Permian-aged vertebrate fossils. Microvertebrates are more informative with regard to variation of paleoclimate, paleoenvironment, and vertebrate biogeography through time. To date, we have discovered microvertebrates at several late Neogene deposits in the western and panhandle counties of Oklahoma. Sponsor: Tribal PI/PD: Kent Smith Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History: Nicholas Czaplewski (Co-PI) OSU-Center for Health Sciences: Ian Browne (Co-PI)

Pleistocene local fauna from a karstic filling in southwestern Oklahoma Karstic fissure fillings in Ordovician limestones are well known in southwestern Oklahoma for producing the best fossil record of early tetrapods of Permian age in the world. Until this study, however, no fauna from paleokarstic fillings of any other age have been reported from the area. This project is studying the first evidence of a new karstic filling containing Quaternary fossils of a diversity of vertebrates, named the Apache local fauna. The Apache local fauna is dominated by microvertebrates including snakes, lizards, fish, frog/toad, salamander, perching bird, turtle, rabbits, rodents, bat, shrews, ringtail, and skunks. Sponsor: Tribal Co-PI/PD: Kent Smith Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History: Nicholas Czaplewski (PI) Morphometric and aDNA analyses of Subfossil Wolves (Canis) in Oklahoma during the latest Holocene At least two species of wolves (Canis dirus and Canis lupus) have been reported from Pleistocene deposits in Oklahoma. A third putative species, the red wolf (C. rufus) was known from the southeastern part of the state until the late 1950s, and has not been reported from the Quaternary record of Oklahoma. If red and eastern timber wolves are the results of late Quaternary hybridizations between coyotes and gray wolves as shown by genetic studies, the Oklahoma subfossils of wolves could have an important bearing on the systematic, phylogenetic, and conservation status of these canids. Sponsor: Tribal to KSS and extramural to CM Co-PI/PD: Kent Smith PI/PD: Brandon Postoak Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History: Nicholas Czaplewski (PI) Microbial and Anthropological Sciences, Laboratories of Molecular Anthropology and Microbiome Research: Cara Monroe (Co-PI/PD)

A Pleistocene Heloderma in a new local fauna from a karstic filling in southwestern Oklahoma We report on the first fossil record of Helodermatidae in Oklahoma. Age-diagnostic fossils are poorly preserved, limiting our ability to constrain the age of the fauna narrower than Pleistocene epoch. It is tentatively assigned to the Pleistocene pending radiometric dating and/or recovery of age-limited fossil taxa. The fauna appears to reflect an interstadial or relatively warm period not radically different from the late Holocene, and a relatively open habitat, dominated by prairie elements but including the unusual subtropical element of the beaded lizard. The occurrence of the Heloderma has implications for its conservation in the face of continuing climate change. Sponsor: Tribal Co-PI/PD: Kent Smith Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History: Nicholas Czaplewski (PI)

3-D Mapping of the Human Body Understanding the organization of the human body—particularly through cadaveric dissection—is the foundation of modern medical education. A hands-on appreciation for the remarkable three-dimensional (3-D) complexity and integration of nerves, blood vessels, muscle, sinew, and bone allows students to acquire the detailed knowledge of human-body structures necessary to build their own conceptual maps of how the body is organized. In this study, I will harness iodine-enhanced μCT imaging of cadaveric materials in order to develop 3- D digital atlases of complexly arranged human body systems that will enhance the breadth of learning tools available to our medical students at OSU-CHS. Sponsor: Intramural funding PI/PD: Paul M. Gignac Iodine-enhanced micro-CT Imaging to Improve Visualization of Vertebrate Soft Tissues Recent refinements to the use of iodine as a contrast agent for μCT imaging have demonstrated unprecedented and nearly complete visualization of soft-tissue anatomy, including muscles (i.e., individual fibers, and distinguishing between fast- and slow- twitch fibers), glands, fat deposits, blood vessels, epithelial structures, and both white- and gray-matter components of the brain and nervous system. Barriers to the wide-spread adoption of this potentially transformative technique persist, however, due to variation in staining techniques and X-ray parameters. This study will test numerous variables affecting contrast- enhanced μCT imaging quality to bridge the current gaps in our knowledge limiting its broader application. Sponsor: National Science Foundation Early Concept Grants for Exploratory Research PI/PD: Paul M. Gignac Stony Brook University: Nathan J. Kley

Unraveling the Deep History of Avian Neurological Complexity: Implications for the Origins of Flight and Organization of the Modern Avian Brain The relationship between neuroanatomical, cognitive and behavioral evolution remains poorly understood, especially in deep time and across major evolutionary transitions. This study addresses this fundamental relationship through a cross-disciplinary investigation of the evolutionary link between the highly inflated brains of living birds and the structural changes marking the transition from land-dwelling dinosaurs to flying birds. Using innovated technologies, like Positron Emission Tomography scanning, and shape analysis, our goal is to reveal the complexities of avian neuroanatomical evolution and establish a complementary model of amniote brain expansion comparable to that available for mammals. Sponsor: National Science Foundation Division of Environmental Biology Co-PI/PD: Paul M. Gignac Stony Brook University: Amy Balanoff (lead PI) New York Institute of Technology: Gabe Bever (co-PI) American Museum of Natural History: Mark Norell (co-PI)

MRI: Acquisition of a micro-computed tomography system for advanced imaging and inter- disciplinary multi-user access for the University of Arkansas and the US Interior Highlands Among the top technologies for capturing the microstructural organization of natural and synthetic materials accurately are modern X-ray micro-computed tomography (μCT) scanners. This project funds the establishment of a micro-CT facility, which will be housed at the University of Arkansas and managed by the Center for Advanced Spatial Technology (CAST), will be used by primary investigators across the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville (UAF) campus as well as the US Interior Highlands. A regional facility will enable local researchers to conduct high- impact and potentially transformative research as well as to undertake innovate outreach activities centered around high-resolution 3D imaging. Sponsor: National Science Foundation Co-PIs/PDs: Paul M. Gignac, Haley D. O’Brien University of Arkansas, Fayetteville: Claire Terhune (lead PI), George Sabo III (co-PI) Wenchao Zhou Using osteohistology to explore the life histories of gray wolves and dire wolves In collaboration with wolf researcher Dr. Sue Ware, the Woodward Ballard Lab will examine the bone tissue of modern gray wolves to understand how growth and maturity status is recorded in their skeletons. The trends observed in gray wolf histology will then be compared to bone microstructure of the larger and now extinct dire wolf to better understand its growth and development. Such a comparative study will reveal similarities or differences in growth rates between gray wolves and dire wolves, and could provide a better understanding of why the dire wolf became extinct and why gray wolves remain successful today. Sponsor: Intramural PIs: Holly Woodward Ballard, Sue Ware (Denver Museum of Nature and Science)

Osteohistology tests the maturity status of two Tyrannosaurus rex specimens Fossils of two medium-sized carnivorous dinosaurs were excavated from the badlands of Montana. They resemble smaller versions of the fearsome Tyrannosaurus rex, but because of their smaller sizes, for many years some researchers have argued that the fossils represent a different species. To test this hypothesis, the bone microstructure of these fossils will be examined to determine whether these individuals are fully grown, or are instead juvenile T. rex. In doing so, this study demonstrates the utility of bone tissue analyses for understanding not only extinct life, but the potential for use in interpreting the life histories of elusive species living today. Sponsor: Myhrvold Family Charitable Fund; Intramural PI/PD: Holly Woodward Ballard

Continued Maiasaura fossil excavations enhance large sample histoanalyses The Woodward Ballard lab recently established Maiasaura as the most ontogenetically well- understood dinosaur to date by revealing aspects of age, growth rate, sexual maturity, and senescence gleaned from fossil bone histology. Such insights into the life of a dinosaur genus were possible due to the large 50 tibia sample set available. Additional tibia sampling and incorporation of other skeletal elements will permit further Maiasaura life history discoveries. A deeper understanding of Maiasaura biology will enable Maiasaura to be used by the paleontological community as a histological model organism for which to compare the life histories of other dinosaur genera. Sponsor: Intramural PI/PD: Holly Woodward Ballard Osteohistology reveals the life history of Tyrannosaurus rex and its relatives Tyrannosaurus rex is among the most famous of dinosaurs, and is the research focus of numerous dinosaur growth and development studies. Paleohistology is frequently utilized to determine the age at death and body size of T. rex individuals. The Woodward Ballard lab is the first to histologically examine a growth series of Tyrannosaurus rex fossils using a longitudinal approach to obtain individual growth curves in order to assess individual variability in growth and maturity in this genus. This study will also histologically examine longitudinal growth series of smaller tyrannosaur genera to test previous hypotheses regarding general growth “strategies.” Sponsor: Myhrvold Family Charitable Fund; Intramural PD/PI: Holly Woodward Ballard

Intraskeletal histological analysis of the North Island Kiwi bird Birds are often the preferred extant model for inferring aspects of dinosaur growth and physiology. Osteohistology confirms that most dinosaurs took more than a single year to reach adult size and formed growth rings within their bones that can be counted to determine age at death and maturity status. Unfortunately, most modern birds achieve adult size in less than a year, so no growth rings form within the bone. Kiwi birds are an exception because they take many years to achieve adult size. The skeleton from the cadaver of a captive, zoo-raised North Island kiwi bird will afford the best archosaurian extant analogue for interpreting multi-year intraskeletal growth patterns in extinct dinosaurs. Sponsor: Intramural PI/PD: Holly Woodward Ballard

Assessing life history patterns in Australian polar dinosaurs For the current study, seventeen hypsilophodontid tibiae and femora were histologically examined to better understand Australian polar dinosaur ontogenetic life histories, which have remained largely unexplored. A plot of CGM versus tibia length reveals a weak asymptotic trend with considerable individual variation in body size versus age. For instance, adult size was attained in five specimens, between the ages of three and seven. This initial ontogenetic study suggests high individual variation in hypsilophodontid body size, and confirms a small asymptotic adult size for Victoria hypsilophodontids. With additional sampling, separation between ontogenetic, individual, and species variation will become more evident. Sponsor: National Science Foundation East Asia and Pacific Summer Institutes; Intramural PI/PD: Holly Woodward Ballard Early Diagnosis of Preterm Birth and High Risk Pregnancy Preterm births cost the US economy more than $26 billion each year and approximately 12.9 million babies are born preterm with a global preterm birth prevalence of 9.6 percent. Accurate diagnosis of early preterm labor is difficult. Despite the application of currently available technologies for screening high-risk pregnancies including preterm labor, reliable methods have not been found. To date, no single test or sequence of tests has an optimal sensitivity or predictive value. Our focus is to develop a urine-based for early diagnosis of preterm labor using Complement-Regulatory Proteins as diagnostic markers. Sponsor: Intramural PD/PI: Anil Kaul Biochemistry & Microbiology: Rashmi Kaul

Diagnostic Tools for Reducing Infectious Disease Burden Early diagnosis of infectious diseases including sexually transmitted diseases like Chlamydia (CT), Gonorrhea (GC) and Trichomonas (TV) can decrease in the prevalence of these diseases by starting early treatment. We are currently studying high-complexity molecular diagnostic tools like nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) for early diagnosis of these infections and also investigating the prevalence of these diseases in various demographic groups and geographic areas so that targeted public health interventions can be initiated to reduce the burden of these infectious diseases. Sponsor: Intramural PI/PD: Anil Kaul

Characterization of Short Flagella Mutants of Chlamydomonas Cilia/flagella serve as extracellular antenna in search of the signals that regulate the cellular functions. Defects in regulation of ciliary length have been observed in numerous ciliopathies such as retinitis pigmentosa, polycystic kidney disease, primary ciliary dyskinesia, obesity, cognitive impairment, and situs inversus. We are identifying genes that when mutated resemble the abnormally short cilia in ciliopathies. To do this, we are identifying and characterizing the genes affected in a collection of mutants that assemble only short cilia. The long term goal is to understand the interaction between these ciliary genes to aid in the development of therapies for ciliopathies. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PD: Nedra Wilson Characterization of the Role of Cilia in Embryonic and Adult Neurogenesis during Chronic Stress Most if not all ciliopathies (diseases due to absent or abnormal cilia) have effects throughout the body including the brain, where they are required for adult neurogenesis, neuron migration, and learning. Given their importance in normal brain function, we are examining cilia under conditions of acute and chronic stress, heavy metals, and models of neurodegenerative diseases. These studies will allow us to begin to understand the role of cilia in neural development and function. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PD: Nedra Wilson

Proteomic Characterization of Mutants Defective in Ciliary Assembly Cilia have recently rose to the forefront as important players in the embryonic development, cell signaling, and tissue maintenance. Diseases, called ciliopathies, result from the inability to assemble cilia or in assembling non-functional cilia. Ciliopathies have broad consequences in that patients have deficits in numerous organs including the brain. We are using quantitative tandem mass spectrometry analysis to identify changes at the protein level in models of these ciliopathies. These studies will allow us to begin to understand the molecular mechanisms that regulate the assembly and function of these important organelles. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PD: Nedra Wilson

Assembly and Disassembly of Cilia and the Role of Cilia in Neuropsychiatric and Neurodegenerative Disorders Neuropsychiatric disorders affect more than 15 million Americans yearly. We focus on the role of primary cilia in the development of neural deficits observed in disorders due to traumatic stress or neuroinflammation. As a complement to our studies of cilia in the CNS, we also utilize Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to identify genetic pathways involved in the assembly and function of cilia. My research is in three areas: 1.) primary cilia in CNS and adrenal gland under conditions of stress, 2.) characterization of astrocytes primary cilia during neuroinflammation, 3.) regulation of ciliary assembly and function in Chlamydomonas. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PD: Nedra F. Wilson FORENSIC SCIENCES

Time-Dependent Loss of mRNA Transcripts from Forensic Samples Analyzed Using Next- Generation DNA Sequencing The Ion Torrent next generation DNA sequencing platform is being used to study the decomposition of messenger RNA molecules from body fluid stains (blood, semen, saliva, and vaginal secretions) that have been aged for periods of up to one year. Transcripts have been identified that degrade quickly as well as transcripts that are stable for up to one year. The results of this study may allow for development of simpler molecular assays that can estimate how long biological evidence has been at a crime scene as well as help in the estimation of time of death. PI/PDs: Kate Weinbrecht and Robert W. Allen

Development of collection procedures enhanced for the collection of trace amounts of DNA Collection of biological evidence at a crime scene typically involves the use of cotton or Dacron swabs used to “scrub” evidence in hopes of recovering sufficient DNA for forensic analysis. We have developed a swab composed of glass fibers. When pre-wetted with a solution containing a chaotropic salt, biological materials are disrupted liberating genomic DNA which selectively binds to the glass fiber matrix immobilizing and preserving it for transport to the forensic DNA laboratory. The glass fiber swabs outperform swabs routinely used by law enforcement personnel in the collection of forensic evidence at crime scenes. PI/PDs: Rachel Powers, Katelyn Burgei, Kambra Tucker, and Robert W. Allen

Genotype/Chemotype investigation of cannabinoid biosynthesis in Cannabis sativa. The enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of the two principal cannabinoids in marijuana, delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), were studied at the gene level by analyzing single nucleotide polymorphisms that exist in the synthase genes that would predict enzyme activity. The biosynthetic pathways responsible for the synthesis of THCA and CBDA are only partially elucidated and understanding the genomic organization of the synthase genes and their activity levels may enable diagnostic tests to be developed that will assist in the selection of medicinally important traits for Cannabis plants. PI/PDs: Lindsey N. Allen, Jun Fu, Jane Pritchard, and Robert W. Allen

Predicting Success: A Correlational Study Examining Age, Gender and Time in Program with Therapeutic Drug Court Success Drug courts provide an alternate placement for drug addicted criminal offenders. This research uses a mixed methods approach to examine clients in two Oklahoma drug courts. The study hopes to identify correlations between age, gender and time in program with successful completion of the drug court program. The study also hopes to identify latent individual positive outcomes in clients who fail to complete the entire drug court program. PI/PDs: Emily Ann Wallis, Ronald R. Thrasher A Comparative Analysis of the Effectiveness of Training to Active Duty Law Enforcement based on Perceived Instructor Qualifications This research examines how law enforcement practitioners learn and view training. An experimental design provides the same training to different groups of active law enforcement officers. Groups differ by the information describing the instructor qualifications. Debriefing interviews and questionnaires examine correlations between retention and perceived instructor qualifications. PI/PDs: Lurena Huffman, Ronald R. Thrasher

Examining Public Perception of Forensic Sciences This research examines civilians, traditional students, profiling students, and Federal law enforcement officer’s confidence in the various fields of forensic sciences following the 2009 publication of the National Institute of Justice’s paper, Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward questioning the validity and scientific backing of forensic sciences. Using a mixed methods approach confidence in various disciplines and practices of the forensic sciences will be correlated with various segments of the population. PI/PDs: Emily Wiesen, Ronald R. Thrasher

A Comparative Study of Attempts by Criminal Offenders to Alter and Mask Decomposition This research questions Forensic Pathologists, Anthropologists, and Death Scene Investigators throughout Oklahoma to determine their experience with criminal offenders attempting to alter or mask the decomposition of crime victims. Once attempts are identified, an experimental process is planned using cadaver animals to measure the effectiveness of the various identified attempts. Anticipated methods include the use of lye, various insecticides, deodorants, etc. PI/PDs: Meagan Thumann, Ronald R. Thrasher

An Evaluation Study Examining the Impact of Therapy Animals in Clinical Situations This study examines the language used by patients in clinical situations with and without the presence of a therapy animal. Patient words and phrases are individually examined for the presence of: stress, sadness, anger, anxiety, happiness, etc. Usage of behaviorally laden language is statistically compared seeking a quantitative assessment for the effectiveness of therapy animals in clinical situations. PI/PDs: Cidney Dirickson, Ronald R. Thrasher

Examining the Correlations between Demographics and the Effectiveness of Sanctions and Incentives Imposed in Drug Court Programs Drug court prison diversion programs are widely used to assist individuals with criminal related drug addictive issues. One component of drug court programs is the use of sanctions and incentives to change behavior. This research, using a mixed methods approach, examines demographics of drug court clients in Payne County, OK to determine and explain the impact of demographic indices on client success. Ultimately, this research seeks to determine if variations in treatment based on client demographics impacts outcomes in drug court settings. PI/PDs: Devin N. Kemper, Ronald R. Thrasher A Mixed Method Evaluation Analysis of the Transition by law Enforcement Agencies from Sworn to Civilianization of Crime Scene Technicians Approximately 45% of medium to large-scale police departments are civilianize their crime scene evidence technicians. This research using a mixed method approach compares and evaluates the acceptance and success of departments using sworn technicians with departments transitioning to civilian personnel. The research hopes to examine issues including: acceptance, cost, efficiency, and impact on criminal prosecutions as a result of the civilianization trend. PI/PD: Julie Shelton / Ronald R. Thrasher

Detection of Environmental Clandestine Laboratory Residues: Implications for Health Clandestine laboratories (clan labs) are hidden laboratories that engage in the synthesis of illicit materials, such as controlled substances and explosives, and they are commonly encountered throughout the world. Currently, the FTTL is using common clan lab production techniques and determining trace residues and indicators that are left behind following the cooks. The National Institute of Justice recently awarded Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) and Oklahoma State University funds to examine the impact of methamphetamine clan labs on waste water infrastructure and also investigate signature chemicals for clan lab detection. PI/PD: Austin Csieleski, Jarrad Wagner

Distribution of Marijuana-related Cannabinoids in Postmortem Fluids and Tissues Marijuana is a commonly abused illicit drug. The most common biological samples used to detect marijuana in postmortem samples are blood, urine, and tissues. The objective of this study is to develop a method that will detect the parent drug, Δ9-tetrahydracannibinol (THC) and its major and minor metabolites, using LC/MS following solid phase extraction. Results will then be examined to determine if there is a correlation between the concentration of these compounds in blood and urine compared to the concentrations in tissue samples. This study is being completed in conjunction with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Dr. Maxwell in the OSU CVHS. PI/PD: Kacey Cliburn, Jarrad Wagner

Testing the Impact of Varying Ingredients on Improvised Explosives Production The addition or substitution of different materials in the production of improvised explosives can cause dangerous changes to the sensitivity or chemical stability of the explosive. Improvised explosives manufactured with varying ingredients will be assessed in this study. In order to confirm the explosives produced, they will be characterized using chromatographic techniques. The objective of this study is to be able to identify possible alternate starting materials to commonly found improvised explosives, enabling better recognition and safety. PI/PD: Allison Veitenheimer, Jarrad Wagner Separation of D- and L-Methamphetamine via LC-MS/MS Methamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant that is present in two forms, or enantiomers: d-methamphetamine and l-methamphetamine. Both forms have the same chemical and physical properties, but the d-form is the illicit form and is more effective pharmacologically. Current separation methods use gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) with derivatization. This study will develop a method to separate d- and l- methamphetamine in urine via liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). PI/PD: Kylene Carlson, Jarrad Wagner

Characterization of Glucuronidase Performance Glucuronidation is a common phase II enzymatic conjugation used to eliminate drugs from the body through the urine. The assay in development utilizes several classes of drugs (cannabinoids, benzodiazepines, and opiates), and characterizes the performance of enzymes from several different sources at various conditions of time, pH and temperature in urine. This study will identify the best enzyme system, in terms of multiple class interaction and laboratory efficiency, to use in broad urine pain panels. PI/PD: Jessica Revelle, Jarrad Wagner

Dried Matrix to Evaluate Prescription Compliance in Pain Patients Current best practice for monitoring prescription compliance in Pain Patients involves urine drug screening. Currently, specimens are collected in jars that are then sealed shipped to an appropriate laboratory. The shipping process often results in spilled urine and rejected specimens due to insufficient volume. The current study uses a wicking surface to absorb a specific amount of urine, then dry it, before shipping for analysis at the reference laboratory. If successful, this will allow a new methodology to transport specimens in assays requiring urine, such as prescription compliance monitoring. PI/PD: Katlyn Welch, Jarrad Wagner CLINICAL RESEARCH

AbbVie Study Single Arm, Open-label Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Glecaprevir (GLE)/Pibrentasvir (PIB) in Treatment Naïve Adults with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Genotype 1, 2, 4, 5 or 6 Infection and Compensated Cirrhosis. To demonstrate the non- inferiority of the SVR12 rates of eight weeks of treatment with the glecaprevir/pibrentasvir combination regimen to the historical SVR12 rate of 12 weeks of treatment with the glecaprevir/pibrentasvir in treatment naïve adults with chronic HCV GT 1, 2, 4, 5 or 6 infection and compensated cirrhosis. The primary efficacy objective will be assessed across genotypes, in the Per-Protocol (PP) population. Sponsor: AbbVie PI/PD: Damon Baker, DO

AMGEN Study A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled, Multicenter Study Assessing the Efficacy of Ivabradine (Corlanor®) to Reduce Heart Rate in African-American/Black Subjects with Heart Failure and Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction Ivabradine (Corlanor®). To evaluate the effect of ivabradine compared with placebo on heart rate (HR) reduction after six weeks of treatment in African-American/black subjects with heart failure (HF) and left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Sponsor: AMGEN PI/PD: Matt Wilkett, DO

APPLES Study A prospective pediatric longitudinal evaluation to assess the long-term safety of tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Tacrolimus, the active drug in this study, is also known as Protopic®. The purpose of this study is to gain knowledge about the long-term safety of the use of tacrolimus ointment/Protopic® for treating atopic dermatitis. This is an observational study. Sponsor: Astellas Pharma US, Inc. PI/PD: Colony Fugate, DO

CIRT Study - Cardiovascular Inflammation Reduction Trial (CIRT) CIRT represents a remarkable clinical and scientific opportunity to test directly the inflammatory hypothesis of atherosclerosis by evaluating whether or not low-dose methotrexate (LDM) will reduce rates of recurrent myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular death among stable post-myocardial infarction patients with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome. Sponsor: NIH Grant 5U01HL101422 with Brigham and Women's Hospital PI/PD: Matt Wilkett, DO Center for Veterinary Health Sciences – FY2017 Research Abstracts DEPARTMENT OF VETERINARY PATHOBIOLOGY

A Pilot study of Nasopharyngeal Microbiome of Bovine Respiratory Disease Complex Our laboratory and others have been studying bovine respiratory disease complex (BRDC) for years. These extensive studies have established the Polymicrobial nature of this infection, identified and characterized major contributors. While the pathogenesis of each infectious agent has been characterized, the manner in which the infectious organisms cause the disease in concert has not been studied primarily because of the lack of methods or the limiting nature of existing techniques. The advent of next generation sequencing has made doing this within reach. The long‐term goal of this study is to characterize respiratory microbiome of BRDC at various stages of the disease. This entails characterization of how individual infectious agents play roles in precipitating the disease and subsequently what genes from each organism are expressed and contribute to pathogenesis. Ultimately, the hope is this knowledge can be used to develop approaches to control the disease which at the moment costs over 1 billion US dollars per annum to the beef cattle industry in USA. The objective of this project is to establish the methodology, protocols and preliminary data to be used in writing a much more comprehensive grant to USDA or other government funding agencies. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PD: Sahlu Ayalew and Anthony W. Confer

Bovine Respiratory Disease: Risk Factors, Pathogens, Diagnosis, and Management The project determines changing patterns, geographical differences, risk factors, and management practices related to bovine respiratory disease. The influence of various bacteria and viruses is studied. In addition, the pharmacokinetics and efficacy of newer therapies and new generation vaccines are evaluated. The host pathogen relationships are characterized at the molecular level. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Anthony W. Confer, Robert W. Fulton, Sahlu Ayalew

Pulmonary lesions and clinical disease in Histophilus somni‐challenged calves treated with one of two macrolides, tildipirosin or tulathromycin The objective of these studies are to determine the efficacy of tildipirosin or tulathromycin metaphylactic treatment for experimental Histophilus somni infection of the respiratory tract in cattle. Calves are treated with either antibiotic or saline prior to or at the time of challenge with virulent H. somni. Clinical signs and lesions are evaluated and compared among groups. Sponsor: Merck Animal Health PI/PDs: Anthony W. Confer, Jared D. Taylor, Timothy A. Snider

Improved Treatment for Zoonotic Monkey B Virus Infections Monkey B virus (BV) is a serious concern for research and veterinary personnel working with or around macaque monkeys due to the extremely high fatality rate of zoonotic infections. Current treatment utilizes drugs developed to treat infections with human herpes simplex virus, but BV is known to be less sensitive to these drugs and these drugs are not effective once BV has invaded the nervous system. This project explores the comparative efficacy of different drugs against BV and the use of topical drug administration as a means of prophylactic treatment to prevent BV from invading the nervous system. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PDs: R. Eberle, L. Maxwell & M. Breshears

Baboon Research Resource Program Baboons are an important animal species used in biomedical research. This program supports a breeding colony of baboons in Oklahoma and research aimed at improving the breeding efficiency of baboons in captivity, defining viruses that naturally infect baboons, and improving the basic well‐being and behavior of captive‐bred baboons. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PDs: R. Eberle, Mason Reichard, Susan Little Physiological Sciences: Dianne McFarlane OUHSC: Gary White

Development of an SPF Baboon Colony Indigenous viruses can have a major adverse effect on the results of biomedical research studies using animals, particularly where immunosuppression is involved. This program supports derivation of a colony of baboons that are free of all known herpesviruses and most retroviruses. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PDs: R. Eberle OUHSC: Gary White

Bovine Viral Diarrhea Disease Virus (BVDV) Vaccines: Antibody Response to Heterologous BVDV Strains The study will determine the range of heterologous immunity in calves receiving modified live virus (MLV) or killed BVDV vaccines. Currently there are two recognized antigenic types and several subgenotypes of BVDV: BVDV1a,2a,1b, and 2b. The study will determine if these vaccines induce antibodies to these four BVDV subtypes. Sponsors: Novartis Animal Health; Pfizer Animal Health; Fort Dodge Animal Health PI/PDs: Robert W. Fulton, Anthony W. Confer

Bovine Coronavirus: Role in Respiratory Disease Bovine respiratory diseases (BRD) also referred to as “Shipping Fever” represents significant losses to cattlemen. There are several viruses contributing to the BRD which has a polymicrobial etiology. These include bovine herpesvirus, parainfluenza ‐3 virus, bovine respiratory syncytial virus, and bovine viral diarrhea viruses along with Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, Histophilus somni, and Mycoplasma spp. The bovine coronavirus (BCV) has emerged as another virus which contributes to BRD. Measuring the BCV role in BRD has been hampered by lack of tools for the study of this virus both in vitro and in animal studies. The purpose of this study will be to develop means of propagating the BCV in cell cultures, developing and validating a serologic test for BCV antibodies to demonstrate active infections, developing an immunohistochemistry assay to detect BCV in infected cells and tissues, and a challenge model to demonstrate the disease induced by BCV. An attempt will be made to develop live and inactivated BCV vaccines for cattle. Sponsors: Oklahoma Agriculture Experiment Station, USDA Section 1433 Animal Health Research Funds PI/PDs: Robert W. Fulton, Anthony W. Confer, Richard Eberle Veterinary Clinical Sciences: D.L. Step

Bovine Coronavirus in Respiratory Disease: Methods of Study, Pathogenesis, and Development of Challenge Model for Efficacy Studies Bovine coronavirus (BCV) represents an infectious agent contributing to bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in cattle. This study will investigate the role of BCV in clinical cases of BRD by viral isolations from clinically ill cattle, and the use of serology to detect active infections in commingled cattle under feedlot conditions. Serologic tests will include ELISA and viral neutralization tests to detect BCV antibodies. BCV isolated from affected cattle will be characterized as BCV and propagated with viral quantification. A challenge model will be developed to measure infectivity and pathology caused by BCV in susceptible cattle. This challenge model will be used to measure resistance to BCV in cattle immune and susceptible to BCV. Sponsor: Zoetis Animal Health PI/PDs: Robert W. Fulton, Anthony W. Confer, Richard Eberle Veterinary Clinical Sciences: D.L. Step

Bovine Respiratory Diseases: Molecular Epidemiology of Viral Infections Bovine respiratory diseases (BRD) etiology includes infectious agents complicated by stresses such as shipping, climatic changes and diet, and commingling of cattle at auction markets. Infections include bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV‐1), bovine parainfluenza 3 virus (PI3V), bovine viral diarrhea viruses (BVDV), bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), and bovine\ coronaviruses (BoCV) and bacteria, Mannheimia haemolytica and Pasteurella multocida. The study will isolate viruses from feedlot cattle and breeding cattle. Isolated viruses will be analyzed by molecular characterization using PCR and sequencing of the genomes. The antigenic differences will be determined by serotests. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Robert W. Fulton, Anthony W. Confer Bovine Coronavirus Respiratory Challenge in Neonate Calves Bovine coronaviruses (BoCV) are an emerging group of viruses affecting cattle and associated with bovine respiratory disease (BRD). Newly identified BoCV from Oklahoma cattle are unique with genetic and antigenic differences from enteric strains and existing USDA approved vaccines. This study will investigate the disease potential of the new strains in experimentally infected calves. A challenge model will be developed for use in determining efficacy of existing BoCV and/or vaccines from these new strains. Sponsor: Zoetis Animal Health PI/PDs: Robert W. Fulton, Anthony W. Confer

Bovine Respiratory Coronaviruses: Viral Challenge using BVDV Co‐challenge and In Vitro Characterization of Isolates Bovine respiratory coronaviruses (BoCV) are viruses associated with bovine respiratory disease (BRD). A viral challenge using BoCV is important to be used in determining pathogenicity of BoCV isolated from the respiratory tract of cattle. This study will use a dual challenge with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) prior to challenge with BoCV in young calves. The infected calves will be collected and examined for gross and microscopic lesions caused by BoCV and BVDV. Potentially the BVDV will immunosuppress calves resulting in severe BoCV lesions. Tissues will be also tested for BoCVantigen using immunohistochemistry. This challenge method will be used to measure BoCV pathology to be used for efficacy of BoCV vaccines in calves. Sponsor: Zoetis Animal Health PI/PDs: Robert W. Fulton, Anthony W. Confer

Assessment of two adjuvants for an Actinobacillus equuli haemolyticum vaccine An experimental outer membrane protein and Aqx toxin‐based vaccine against the equine pathogen Actinobacillus equuli haemolyticum has previously been shown to elicit an immune response in the horse. However, in the initial study the vaccine created undesirable cosmetic blemishes in the recipients, likely due to the adjuvant used. Two adjuvants, squalene and Escherichia coli double mutant labile toxin (dmLT) will be assayed in combination with this vaccine to determine specificity and longevity of the equine immune response to vaccination as well as vaccine site reactions. Sponsors: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI: Tamara Gull

Canine Schistosomiasis: An Emerging Disease in Oklahoma Canine schistosomiasis, caused by Heterobilharzia americana, is a debilitating and often fatal disease of dogs in southern states bordering the Gulf of Mexico. Recent reports indicate that the natural range for this fluke is expanding due to the migration or translocation of infected raccoons, a natural host and reservoir for the parasite. Reports of infections in dogs or wildlife in Oklahoma have not been published. Recently the infection has been diagnosed by local veterinarians in dogs (2) from a Tulsa neighborhood. Collaborative field investigation of the Tulsa neighborhood for infected dogs and for the snail intermediate host in a retention pond frequented by animals in the neighborhood have been ongoing. Eight dogs have been diagnosed and suitable pulmonate snails have been collected from the retention pond. Schistosome cercariae released from snails collected from the retention pond are being tested for H. americana DNA. Examination of raccoons collected from the surrounding area should help verify introduction and establishment of this trematode infection in Northeastern Oklahoma. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PDs: Todd Yeagley, Eileen Johnson, Mason Reichard, Matt Bolic, Sharon Snowden

Understanding the ability of bovine herpesvirus 1 to establish, maintain, and reactivate from latency in sensory neurons Bovine respiratory disease complex (BRDC) causes more than 50 percent of all morbidities and mortalities in cattle, costing producers over one billion dollars annually. Bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV‐1) is a significant risk factor for BRDC because productive infection causes numerous clinical symptoms in the upper respiratory tract and transient immune‐ suppression. BHV‐1 establishes life‐long latency in sensory neurons within trigeminal ganglia. During latency, the only abundant viral gene expressed is the latency‐related (LR) gene. A LR protein, ORF2, is required for the latency‐reactivation cycle because it inhibits apoptosis and viral transcription. Increased corticosteroid levels, due to stress, can induce BHV‐1 reactivation from latency and virus transmission. The synthetic corticosteroid dexamethasone consistently induces reactivation from latency and stimulates expression of cellular transcription factors in trigeminal ganglia of calves latently infected with BHV‐1. Proposed project activities are based on the hypothesis that stress induces reactivation from latency by stimulating expression of viral genes and productive infection: conversely, stress represses LR gene expression. Studies being performed are focused on: 1) Identifying viral genes expressed during early stages of reactivation from latency; 2) How stress induces productive infection: 3) How ORF2 regulates the latency‐reactivation cycle, and 4) Defining the role that the neuro‐protective Wnt/lll‐catenin signaling pathway. Sponsor: Sitlington Endowed Chair; USDA-National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI/PD: Clinton Jones

Timing of Transmission of Tick borne Disease Agents This project examines the transmission dynamics at play as tick borne disease agents move between vertebrate hosts and vector ticks. Sponsor: Bayer Animal Health PI/PD: Susan E. Little Infection and Exposure Rates for Rickettsial Agents in Dogs Rikettsial agents, including Rickettsia spp. and Ehrlichia spp., commonly infect dogs in areas of the US where lone star ticks predominate. This project seeks to document the extent to which dogs become infection with rickettsial agents following natural infestations in endemic areas with an ultimate goal of developing strategies to interrupt those infections. Sponsor: Bayer Animal Health PI/PD: Susan E. Little

Respiratory syncytial virus G proteins to improve safety/efficacy of vaccines Human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of lower respiratory tract disease in infants and children worldwide. The viral attachment (G) protein is an important antigen for the induction of neutralizing antibodies and is therefore a required vaccine component. However, G is also associated with serious lung pathology. This project aims to structurally alter the G protein, such that it can be used as an immunogen without simultaneously causing RSV disease, and test the altered G proteins in vitro and in vivo. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Larry Anderson (Emory University). College of Veterinary Medicine: Tom Oomens

Assembly of Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus (HRSV) HRSV infects virtually every person on the planet and presents a serious, worldwide, disease burden. Available therapies are not adequate, and a better understanding is needed of the virus life cycle. In this project, the molecular mechanisms of virus assembly are investigated, and the role of the viral matrix and transmembrane glycoproteins therein determined. With an improved understanding of virus assembly, the project aims to: 1) control the virion assembly process such that the quality of anti‐HRSV vaccine preparations can be improved, and 2) create new concepts for antiviral therapies. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Tom Oomens

Development of a live‐attenuated respiratory syncytial virus vaccine Human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of lung disease in infants, children, immunosuppressed individuals, and the elderly. Despite a worldwide impact, a vaccine or cost‐ effective drugs are not available. Previous vaccination attempts using inactivated virus failed to protect children from RSV disease. This project aims to develop a safe, self‐limited, live‐ attenuated RSV vaccine by genetically disabling functions of the essential viral matrix protein. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Tom Oomens Structure‐function analysis of the matrix protein hinge region in RSV assembly Human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major worldwide cause of lung disease in infants, children, immunosuppressed individuals, and the elderly. The lack of knowledge concerning the life cycle of RSV and the production and morphology of viral particles hampers design and development of anti‐RSV strategies. This protein structure‐based grant aims to understand how a small but critical region within the RSV matrix protein organizes the assembly of viral particles, to identify weaknesses that can be exploited for anti‐viral pursuits. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science & Technology PI/PD: Tom Oomens

Diversity of Bacterial Isolates from the Nares of Healthy and Sick calves The project will determine the genetic diversity of bacteria isolated from nasal passages of both healthy calves and those suffering from bovine respiratory disease (BRD). The goal is to determine whether a single clone typically dominates or if a variety of strains of a given species can be expected. If most or all isolates represent a single clone, culture of nasal swabs may be used in both diagnostic and research efforts of BRD. If a variety of strains are frequently present, nasal swabs would have limited usefulness, as it is not practical to examine all strains present in each calf. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PDs: Jared D. Taylor, Anthony W. Confer Veterinary Clinical Sciences: John Gilliam Agronomy: Chris Stansberry

Sequencing the Bovine Herpesvirus type 2 Genome Bovine herpesvirus type 2 (BoHV‐2) is more closely related to human herpes simplex virus (HSV) than to any bovine herpesviruses, and is believed to have originated from HSV through cross‐ species transmission. The complete BoHV‐2 genome will be sequenced and a detailed phylogenetic analysis will then be performed to address the question of the origin of BoHV‐2 and its close relationship to primate herpesviruses rather than to other herpesviruses of bovines and other non‐primate species. Comparative analysis of homologous genes and proteins of the human and bovine herpesviruses will help us better understand the role played by specific genes and proteins in facilitating herpesvirus cross‐species transmission and will probably allow us to gains an insight into the emergence of cross‐species (animal‐to‐ human) viral diseases in general. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PD: Jean M. d’Offay, Richard Eberle, Clinton Jones Bovine Herpesvirus‐1: Selection of Genetic Variants for Vaccine Development and Evaluation and Bovine Herpesvirus‐1: Evaluation of Genetic Diversity of Field Strains from Various Clinical Forms Bovine herpesvirus‐1 infects cattle causing multiple diseases. Current vaccines include modified live viruses (MLV) which cause infections in vaccinates and may be shed after vaccination. The purpose of these studies will be to utilize recent genetic sequence information and apply PCR and sequencing of the products to identify new BoHV‐1 strains which may be of interest as new vaccine candidates. Also this technology will be used to differentiate existing MLV vaccine strains from various clinical forms of BoHV‐1 diseases. Sponsors: Novartis Animal Health; Center for Veterinary Health Sciences. PI/PDs: Jean M. d’Offay, Richard Eberle, Clinton Jones

Bovine Herpesvirus 1: Molecular Characterization of Vaccine, Reference, and Field Strains Bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV‐1) represents significant virus infections in cattle with significant losses due to respiratory, fetal (abortions), and genital tract diseases. Vaccines are available, with the MLV type the most commonly used for control programs. Often BHV‐1 is recovered from clinically ill cattle shortly after vaccination. Tests are needed to differentiate the MLV vaccine strains from field strains. This project will use molecular procedures including viral sequencing and PCR to characterize BHV‐1. The entire genome of 15 BHV‐1 strains including: reference strains, vaccine strains, and selected field isolates will be sequenced. The viral genomes will be evaluated with selected regions used for PCR and sequencing will be performed on the respective regions derived from the PCR product. The entire viral genome results will be compared to the published viral genome for the BHV‐1 Cooper reference strain. Variable regions will be identified for the selection of the PCR primers. Sponsor: Novartis Animal Health PI/PDs: Robert W. Fulton, Jean M. d’Offay, Richard Eberle

Bovine Herpesvirus 1: Molecular Basis for the attenuation of various BHV‐1 vaccine viruses There are numerous attenuated BHV‐1 vaccines available commercially and used currently to prevent or reduce the incidence of infectious bovine rhinotracheitis in dairy and beef cattle raised on farms and in feedlots. We have sequenced the genomes of all the BHV‐1 vaccine viruses available commercially. These include 9 vaccine viruses which can be divided into 4 distinct genetic groups. This project will compare the genes and proteins encoded by these vaccine viruses to determine the basis for the attenuation of these vaccine viruses. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PDs: Jean M. d’Offay, Richard Eberle Comparative Analysis of the Respiratory (BHV‐1.1) and Genital (BHV‐1.2b) Isolates of Bovine Herpesvirus type 1 (BHV‐1) Bovine herpesvirus subtype 1.1 (BHV‐1.1) is primarily associated with bovine respiratory disease, while the subtype 1.2b (BoHV‐1.2b) is associated primarily with bovine infectious pustular vulvovaginitis. Their genomes are similar in size (~135 Kb), completely orthologous with respect to regional structure and gene location, and have a 97.5% DNA sequence homology. We have identified the most divergent genes and the protein they encode. Interestingly, the most divergent proteins are associated with virus egress from the infected cells. We are in the process of determining is these proteins are responsible for the difference in the pathogenicity of the two virus subtypes. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PDs: Jean M. d’Offay, Richard Eberle, Clinton Jones

Regulation of latency-reactivation cycle by ORF2 and Beta-catenin/Wnt signaling pathway Bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) is an important cofactor of bovine respiratory disease (BRD), the most important disease in cattle. BoHV-1 persists in non-dividing sensory neurons of cattle, thus establishes a life-long latent infection. Stress causes BoHV-1 to wake up from latency and grow, a process commonly referred to as reactivation from latency. Studies in this grant are designed to understand how BoHV-1 prevents infected neurons from dying and allows infected neurons to perform normal functions. A cellular signaling pathway, Wnt/beta-catenin, is tightly regulated during latency and may inhibit neuronal cell death, which is the focus of additional studies. Sponsors: USDA-National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI/PD: Clinton Jones

Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention and Control of Livestock Diseases This project covers agricultural and biomedical research funded by sources other than USDA that contributes to total research capacity of the OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences (CVHS). We are developing strategic alliances with partner institutions and the private sector and growing the supporting infrastructure. Consequently, publications are presented as evidence of progress and productivity. Expenditures for these non-USDA projects came from Federal, State and private funding sources, including biological and pharmaceutical corporations. (2061) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Jerry Malayer Analysis of Bovine Herpesvirus 1 Stress Induced Reactivation From Latency Bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) is an important cofactor of bovine respiratory disease (BRD), the most important disease in cattle. BoHV-1 establishes a life-long latent infection of sensory neurons after the initial infection. Stress disrupts a latent infection (known as reactivation from latency), which is critical for virus transmission and disease transmission. This study is focused on understanding how stress disrupts latency and then leads to virus production. Understanding how stress promotes BoHV-1 infections will help to design a vaccine that does not reactivate from latency. This vaccine would benefit the cattle industry by reducing the incidence of BRD. Sponsors: USDA-National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI/PD: Clinton Jones

Bovine Respiratory Disease: A multicentric approach to understanding pathogenesis and immunity This project is studying bovine respiratory disease from a two-fold approach. First, we are studying potential intranasal vaccines against Mannheimia haemolytica, which is the major cause of severe Shipping Fever in cattle. Vaccine studies on using recombinant proteins for surface proteins, secreted enzymes, and leukotoxin. Second, We are studying mutant bovine herpesvirus to determine the mechanism of viral reactivation that is seen in outbreaks of bovine respiratory disease that occur late in the feeding period. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Anthony W. Confer DEPARTMENT OF PHYSIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

Estrogen Dependent Breast Cancer Treatment Targeting Estrogen Sulfotransferase This project develops novel treatment for estrogen dependent cancers by increasing in vivo estrogen sulfotransferase to inhibit in vivo estrogenic activity. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PD: Guangping Chen

Physiology and Pathophysiology of Equine Athletic Performance Superior athletic performance in horses requires optimal physiological adaptation in the musculoskeletal and cardiopulmonary systems, and improvements in these systems often lead to improve performance. Conversely, disease in these systems will invariably cause decreased performance, and in some cases the exercise itself is the cause of the disease. The goals of this program are to investigate the mechanisms underlying the physiological adaptation to exercise in horses, identify methods that will improve the horse's adaptation to exercise, and determine strategies that can prevent exercise induced disease. Sponsors: Oxley Chair in Equine Sports Medicine PI/PD: Michael Davis

Extracellular determinants of polycystic kidney disease severity These experiments are to determine the factors that may affect lesion severity in the human disease of polycystic kidney disease. We are focusing our efforts on proteins in the liver that may increase cell proliferation and fibrosis of the liver. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PDs: Myron Hinsdale

Canine mesenchymal stem cell therapy for diabetes These experiments are to better culture canine mesenchymal stem cells for the treatment of metabolic disorders. We are trying to optimize these adult stem cells for the treatment of diabetes. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PDs: Myron Hinsdale The role of Glial Growth Factor 2 as a regulator of glucose transport in the healthy and failing myocardium Neuregulin is a cardioprotective factor secreted by coronary endothelium. The neuregulin-1β3 isoform, glial growth factor 2 (GGF2), has been shown to promote recovery of cardiac function after myocardial infarction. However, the mechanisms of action of GGF2 responsible for its beneficial effects in the context of heart failure are not well elucidated. The aim of this study is to investigate the pharmacological actions of GGF2 on the regulation of glucose transport during physiological conditions and heart failure. Sponsor: Acorda Therapeutics PI/PD: Véronique Lacombe

The sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase pump as a major regulator of glucose metabolism: a novel target for diabetic patients The major goal of this project is to characterize the cardiac secretome in healthy and diabetic subjects. Results from this study will provide novel insights into the unique role of the heart not only as a mechanical organ pumping blood, but also as an endocrine signaling tissue involved in the maintenance of whole-body glucose homeostasis. Sponsors: National Institutes of Health (NIH 7P20GM10493), University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center PI/PD: Véronique Lacombe

The regulation of glucose transport in the atria: Impact during diabetes and atrial fibrillation Diabetes, a global epidemic health problem, results in high blood sugar and multi- organ complications, including heart disease and abnormal heart rhythm. However, a causal link between diabetes and atrial fibrillation has not been established. Investigating the regulation of glucose transport in the atria (the pacemaker of the heart) offers exciting and currently unexploited, therapeutic targets for diabetic patients with atrial fibrillation. Sponsor: Harold Hamm Diabetes Center PI/PD: Véronique Lacombe

Regulation of glucose transport in the healthy and diabetic lung Hyperglycemia is a major and independent risk factor for the development and worsening severity of pulmonary infection. Therefore, the major goal of this pilot project is to investigate how glucose transport in the diabetic lung modulates airway surface liquid glucose concentration and thus pulmonary infection. Sponsors: National Institutes of Health, COBRE pilot grant (NIH 1 P20 GM103648) PI/PD: Véronique Lacombe Novel mechanisms underlying hyperinsulinemia-induced laminitis in horses The major goal is to characterize inflammatory and metabolic pathways, and additional novel cellular pathways using proteomic techniques in a large animal model. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University President’s Fellows PI/PD: Véronique Lacombe

Proteoglycans and insulin resistance: novel mechanisms The major goal is to understand the impact of reduced proteoglycan glycosaminoglycans on glucose metabolism in insulin-sensitive tissue. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Myron Hinsdale, Véronique Lacombe Veterinary Pathobiology: Jerry Ritchey

The Regulation of Glucose Transport in the Healthy and Diabetic Lung Although diabetes predisposes to respiratory infections, little is known about the regulation of glucose transport in the respiratory system, particularly during a hyperglycemic state. Therefore, we investigate whether glucose transporters in the diabetic lung modulate glucose concentration in the airway surface liquid and bacterial proliferation. Sponsor: Harold Hamm Diabetes Center PI/PD: Allison Campolo, (Sponsor/Mentor: Véronique Lacombe)

Novel mechanisms underlying atrial fibrillation Hyperglycemia, the hallmark of diabetes, leads to the formation of glucose cross- linking of proteins, namely advanced glycation end products (AGEs). The aim of this study is to investigate whether AGE accumulation, secondary to chronic hyperglycemia during diabetes, will provide a metabolic substrate that underlies the development and maintenance of atrial fibrillation, the most common sustained arrhythmias. Findings from this study will establish a novel mechanistic link between diabetes and atrial fibrillation. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PDs: Véronique Lacombe Veterinary Clinical Sciences: Ryan Baumwart Veterinary Pathobiology: Jerry Ritchey The sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase pump as a major regulator of glucose metabolism Diabetes is a major and independent risk factor for heart diseases. We have recently shown that cardiac- specific upregulation of the sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase pump, which tightly regulates cytosolic calcium, confers partial resistance to diabetes in transgenic mice. Therefore, we hypothesize that the transgenic heart is secreting proteins involved in the regulation of whole-body glucose homeostasis. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PDs: Véronique Lacombe Veterinary Clinical Sciences: Ryan Baumwart

Obesity and diabetes: the metabolic road to colon cancer The long-term goal is to investigate whether changes in glucose metabolism during obesity and insulin resistance could be an underlying mechanism for the development of colon cancer. For this project, we hypothesize that insulin resistance will alter the regulation of the insulin-sensitive glucose transporters in the colon through an Akt/AS160 dependent pathway. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PD: Alia Houser, (Sponsor/Mentor: Véronique Lacombe)

The regulation of glucose transport in the healthy and diabetic lung: novel targets The goal of this project is to determine whether glucose transporters in the diabetic lung modulates glucose concentration in airway surface liquid and thus bacterial proliferation. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PD: Allison Campolo, (Sponsor/Mentor: Véronique Lacombe)

Plakophilin 2 Controls Polymerase Assembly of Influenza A Virus Influenza virus A is a human respiratory pathogen that causes seasonal epidemics and occasional global pandemics with devastating levels of morbidity and mortality. Currently approved treatments against influenza are losing effectiveness as new viral strains are often refractory to conventional treatments. Thus, there is an urgent need to find new therapeutic targets and develop antiviral drug based on these new targets. This proposal aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying how the host factor Plakophilin 2 restricts influenza A virus infection. Knowledge gained from this study will be promising for the design of the future generation of antiviral therapies. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health, COBRE pilot grant PI/PDs: Shitao Li (PI), Lin Liu (PD) Interferon-induced IFITM recruitment of ZMPSTE24 blocks viral endocytic entry Virus entry is the first step of infection; thereby impeding virus at the entry point is important for host defense. This proposal presents the new discovery of a broad- spectrum antiviral protein which blocks virus entry. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PDs: Martin Dorf (Harvard University) Co-I: Shitao Li

Taxilin Alpha Regulates DNA-Mediated and Interferon-Dependent Innate Immunity While exogenous DNA-mediated immune response contributes to host defense, excessive host cytoplasmic DNA can result in autoimmune diseases due to interferon overproduction. Taxilin alpha (TXLNA) has been implied in autoimmune disease caused by cytosolic DNA. However, the role of TXLNA in DNA-mediated innate immunity is unknown. Thus, it is pressing to elucidate the mechanisms of how TXLNA regulates DNA-induced innate immune signaling. This application proposes a hypothesis that TXLNA is a new signaling molecule in DNA-mediated, interferon- dependent innate immunity. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PDs: Shitao Li

Evasion of Host RNA Decay Machinery by the NS1 Protein of 2009 Pandemic Flu Influenza A virus (IAV) is a highly transmissible respiratory pathogen and presents a continued threat to global health, with considerable economic and social impact. IAV comprises a plethora of strains with different virulence determinants that contribute to influenza pathogenesis. Several determinants in non- structural protein 1 (NS1) of high pathogenic IAV strains have been found to subvert host defense and increase virulences. However, the NS1 of 2009 pandemic IAV lacks all these virulence determinants. This proposal will uncover a new NS1 virulence determinant of 2009 pandemic flu and investigate how the determinant perturbs host RNA decay machinery by engagement with ZFC3H1. The outcomes of our study will not only help develop effective therapeutics, but is also crucial for prediction of future potential epidemics and pandemics. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health, COBRE pilot grant PI/PDs: Shitao Li (PI), Lin Liu (PD)

Role of Plakophilin 2 in Limiting Influenza A Virus Infection The objective of this proposal is to elucidate the mechanisms by which plakophilin 2 (PKP2), a novel interactor of polymerase basic protein 1 (PB1) recently found in our lab, inhibits influenza polymerase activity. This study will elucidate a new host defense mechanism against IAV and provide insights for potential antiviral therapeutics. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Shitao Li Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases The goal of this CoBRE grant are: (1) build up research infrastructure and a critical mass of multi-disciplinary investigators in the area of respiratory and infectious diseases by establishing a State-wide Center, Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases with the participation of 10 colleges in Oklahoma State University and University of Oklahoma, and Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation; and (2) develop a mentoring program to guide promising junior investigators in becoming independent National Institutes of Health-funded investigators. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health/NIGMS, P20GM103648. PIs: Lin Liu Pathobiology: Richard Eberle OUHSC: Jordan Metcalf miR-101 Control of Pulmonary Fibrosis The goal of this grant is to understand microRNA regulation of the signaling pathways involved in fibroblast proliferation and activation in IPF Sponsor: National Institutes of Health, NHLBI, R01HL116876 PI: Lin Liu

MicroRNA‐193b regulation of influenza virus replication The major goal of this project is to investigate the functional role of the host miR‐193b in influenza virus replication Sponsor: National Institutes of Health, NIAID, R21AI121591 PI: Lin Liu

The Role of LncRNAs in Pulmonary fibrosis The goal of this project is to study roles and mechanisms of lncRNA FENDRR in pulmonary fibrosis. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health, NHLBI, R01HL135152 PI: Lin Liu

A role of IL-21 in pulmonary fibroblast activation The goal of this student seed grant is to study the role of IL-21 in IPF. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI: Roshini Sathiaseelan (Mentor: Lin Liu)

Stem Cell-based therapy of Influenza virus Infection The goal of this project is to treat influenza virus infection using MSCs Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for Adult Stem Cell Research PI: Lin Liu Puingeric P2X7 Receptor as a Pro-inflammatory Molecule The goal of this project is to investigate the functions of a novel alveolar epithelial type I cell pre- inflammatory mediator, purinergic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) in acute inflammatory response. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI: Lin Liu

RNA_seq analysis of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor activated lung epithelial cells The goal of this project is to perform RNA-seq analysis to identify mRNA and microRNAs associated with α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor activation. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI: Lin Liu

Regulation of Placenta Growth Factor by Hemodynamics and Reactive Oxygen Species This research project is investigating fundamental mechanisms regulating a key arteriogenic growth factor called Placenta growth factor (PLGF) as a basis for developing new, noninvasive treatments for ischemic cardiovascular disease. The goals of the research are to 1) identify key signal transduction mechanisms controlling expression of placenta growth factor in vascular cells and 2) determine how these mechanisms are altered by hyperglycemia and/or hyperlipidemia. Results of these studies may suggest new treatments for ischemic cardiovascular disease. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PD: Pamela Lloyd

The role of cytomegalovirus in immunosenescence and influenza susceptibility This goal of this study is to determine the impact of chronic cytomegalovirus infection on immunosenescence and influenza susceptibility in the elderly using a captive baboon model. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health, COBRE pilot grant PI/PD: Dianne McFarlane (PI), Lin Liu (PD)

Use of a specific IGF‐1 receptor antagonist in treatment of hyperinsulinemic laminitis in horses This study investigates a novel therapeutic for treatment and prevention of laminitis, a painful and deadly disease of hoof inflammation that affects horses. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI: Dianne McFarlane Immunosenescence and CMV in Captive Baboons Cytomegalovirus is a herpes virus that causes lifelong infection in more than 90% of the population. The virus evokes a strong immune response. It has been suggested CMV load may lead to decline of immune function in the elderly as immune capacity is depleted over time keeping the CMV viral load in a nonâ €pathogenic, latent mode. This project will evaluate the immune aging in captive baboons with and without CMV infection. This project is part of the Baboon Research Resource Program. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health, P40RR12317 PI/PDs: Dianne McFarlane OUHSC: Gary White

The role of cytomegalovirus infection in immunosenescence in baboons as a model for human aging The goal of this project is to develop a method for monitoring herpes virus in baboon saliva and blood to facilitate further characterization of the role of life-long infection by cytomegalovirus on aging of immune function. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health, 3P40OD010988-18S1 PI/PDs: Dianne McFarlane/Erin Willis

Whole genome sequencing to identify genetic risk factors for pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) and PPID-associated laminitis The goal of this project is identify genetic contributors to risk of PPID and dopaminergic neurodegeneration Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI: Dianne McFarlane

Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program The goal of this program is to facilitate research and education in interdisciplinary toxicology. Sponsor: OSU Graduate College PIs: Carey Pope (CVHS), Loren Smith (Arts & Sciences), David Wallace (CHS)

Nanocarrier‐mediated Targeting of Bioscavengers to the Red Blood Cell for Prolonged Circulation and Protection This project systematically evaluates co‐polymer nanoparticles containing the bioscavenger enzyme butyrylcholinesterase that can be selectively targeted to RBCs. Once attached to/inside the RBCs, the nanoparticles will circulate in the blood for weeks to months, providing prolonged and enhanced protection against organophosphate intoxication. Sponsor: United States Department of Defense, Defense Threat Reduction Agency PI/PDs: Carey Pope, Jing Liu Pope (CVHS), Ashish Ranjan (CVHS), Steve Hartson (DASNR), Josh Ramsey (CEAT) The Effect of Pesticide Exposure on Cognitive and Brain Developement in Latino Children The goal of the project is to compare biomarkers of pesticide exposure to changes in brain development and cognitive function in children of Latino agricultural workers. Sponsor: National Institute of Enveronmental Health Sciences PI/PD's: Thomas Arcury, Paul Laurienti Oklahoma State University PI/PD's: Carey Pope, Kirstin Hester

Increasing the Catalytic Efficiency of Butyrylcholinesterase by Surface Loop Modification: Insights into Structure-Dynamics-Function Relationships This team‐building project investigates the potential for enhancing catalysis of an organophosphate‐ degrading enzyme by systematic modeling and modification of a surface loop of peptide residues. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PDs: Carey Pope, Jing Liu Pope (CVHS), Haobo Jiang (DASNR), Pratul Agarwal (Oak Ridge National Laboratory)

Image‐guided tumor drug delivery by ultrasound‐detected heat‐released liposome In this project, we are evaluating interaction of high Intensity focused ultrasound and heat sensitive nanoparticles for enhancing solid tumor penetration of anticancer agents. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PDs: Ashish Ranjan (PI)

Administrative supplement to promote institutional diversity The goal of this proposal is to promote institutional diversity by supporting a minority student on a nanoparticle drug delivery project. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PDs: Ashish Ranjan (PI)

EPR independent drug delivery with Halbach array under MRI guidance The goal of this proposal is to increase targeting of nanoparticles at a site of interest under image guidance. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PDs: Ashish Ranjan/Myron Hinsdale

Establishment of Bruker in vivo imaging system The In-Vivo Xtreme II™ provides comprehensive multimodal optical imaging that supports the broadest range of research objectives of any preclinical optical imaging system. Five imaging modalities are provided, with co-registration of Bioluminescence Imaging (BLI), Multispectral VIS-NIR Fluorescence Imaging (MS-FLI), unique Direct Radioisotopic Imaging (DRI), Cherenkov Imaging (CLI), and X-ray Imaging. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for Adult Stem Cell Research PI/PDs: Ashish Ranjan/Myron Hinsdale Nanocarrier-mediated Targeting of Bioscavengers to the Red Blood Cell for Prolonged Circulation and Protection This project will systematically design and characterize co-polymer nanoparticles encapsulating the bioscavenger enzyme BChE that can be selectively targeted to RBCs. Once attached to/inside the RBCs, the NPs will circulate in the blood for weeks to months, providing prolonged and enhanced protection against OP intoxication. Sponsor: United States Department of Defense-Defense Threat Reduction Agency PI/PDs: Carey Pope, Ashish Ranjan (Co-I), Jing Pope (CVHS), Josh Ramsey (Chemical Engineering), Steve Hartson (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)

Effects of diet, activity, and disease on mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and electron transfer control in equine skeletal muscle The capacity of horse muscle to convert fat and carbohydrates to usable energy will be examined at the cellular level in order to identify key adaptations that lead to athleticism. We will use the same techniques to identify acquired causes of poor performance due to various diseases. (2951) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Michael Davis VETERINARY CLINCAL SCIENCES

Comparison of propofol and methohexital as induction agents for evaluation of laryngeal motion in healthy dogs The purpose of this study is to evaluate arytenoid motion in healthy dogs while under methohexital or propofol anesthesia. Propofol is commonly used as an induction agent for anesthesia. It is also the accepted agent used to evaluate the airway for adequate laryngeal function, when attempting to identify a condition called laryngeal paralysis. Although propofol is the accepted induction agent used in clinical veterinary medicine, this protocol can result in apnea and paralysis of the arytenoid cartilages, thus negatively affecting the examination. The goal of this study is to compare the quality of laryngeal examination between the two induction agents, specifically the degree of respiratory depression associated with each anesthetic protocol. The potential exists for identification of a more effective protocol for laryngeal examination, namely the use of methohexital. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PDs: Danielle Dugat Veterinary Clinical Sciences: Mikala Brown, Rebecca Sayre, Laura Nafe, Shane Lyon, Sarah Peakheart, Katrina Meinkoth Arts & Sciences: Mark Payton

In vitro evaluation of canine hemostasis after dilution with hydroxyethyl starch, Vetstarch and saline as assessed by Sonoclot analysis This study is evaluates the dynamic changes in hemostasis that occur when in vitro samples of canine blood are diluted with hetastarch, Vetstarch and saline at 1:4 and 1:10 dilutions, which are equivalent to 30 ml/kg and 10 ml/kg boluses, respectively. Studies have been previously performed with thromboelastometry and thromboelastography to evaluate these objectives, but there are no studies have been performed using the Sonoclot analyzer. In addition, there are no studies that specifically evaluate changes that occur with coagulation secondary to dilution of blood with Vetstarch. These results may alter our clinical use of colloid products and might support the need for further in vivo studies to be performed in clinical patients. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PDs: Danielle Dugat Veterinary Clinical Sciences: Greg Levine, Drew Hanzlicek Arts & Sciences: Mark Payton Evaluation of Spinal Canal, Vertebral Body, and Disc‐Related Changes That Occur With the Percutaneous Laser Disc Ablation Procedure Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging A prospective clinical study that evaluates spinal column, vertebral body, and disc‐ related changes that may occur with the percutaneous laser disc ablation procedure using MRI. The findings from this study will document any changes observed with performing the procedure in clinical cases. In addition, the study will be able to identify any progression or resolution of changes that may occur with time after any immediate effects of the procedure have resolved. These findings will help determine any correlation between changes noted on MRI and clinical complications or recurrence associated with the PLDA procedure. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences; Kerr Foundation Chair PI/PDs: Danielle Dugat Veterinary Clinical Sciences: Kenneth Bartels, Corey Wall, Kate Sippel

Identification of a Correlation Between Success of Medical Management for Cervical Intervertebral Disc Disease with Percentage of Compressive Myelopathy and Resorption of Herniated Disc Material Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging A prospective clinical study that determines whether or not medical management of cervical intervertebral disc disease is likely to be successful based on percentage of spinal cord compression identified by magnetic resonance imaging. The study will also determine if there is a correlation between resolution of disc material and those patients that recover versus the lack of resolution of disc material in those patients who do not respond to medical management. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences; Cohn Family Chair PI/PDs: Daniele Dugat Veterinary Clinical Sciences: Corey Wall Arts & Sciences: Mark Payton

Effect of Pre‐anesthetic Fasting Time on Gastroesophageal Reflux: A Pilot Study A randomized, cross‐over, prospective experimental study that aims to assess whether or not patients with shortened fasting time periods are at a higher risk for development of gastroesophageal reflux. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences; Cohn Family Chair PI/PDs: Brandy Cichocki Veterinary Clinical Sciences: Danielle Dugat, Shane Lyon, Corey Wall Arts & Sciences: Mark Payton Behavioral and environmental risk factors for histoplasmosis in cats This is a prospective, multi‐institutional, survey study. The primary aim is to identify cat behaviors and environmental risk factors for histoplasmosis. At least 30% of cats diagnosed with histoplasmosis are kept strictly indoors, which implies that Histoplasma organisms are found within the home. If risk factors can be identified this may allow for early diagnosis or even prevention of this disease. This is especially important as pet‐owners share the same household environment and histoplasmosis is a disease of increasing incidence and importance in humans. Sponsors: Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PD: Andrew Hanzlicek Statistics: Mark Payton Kansas State University: Katherine KuKanich

Identification of candidate prognostic indicators for histoplasmosis in cats This is retrospective, multi‐institutional, cohort study. The primary aim is to identify easily obtained clinical variables that are related to short and long term survival in cats with histoplasmosis. The identification of these variables will provide the foundation for a clinical severity scoring system. This system will be validated prospectively with a long term goal of being able to identify cats with histoplasmosis that require more aggressive and costly therapy. Sponsors: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PD: Andrew Hanzlicek, Hilary Ludwig Statistics: Mark Payton Kansas State University: Katherine KuKanich

Phylogenetic classification of Histoplasma capsulatum causing histoplasmosis in pet dogs and cats This is a prospective, multi‐institutional study. The primary aim is to identify H. capsulatum genotype via whole genome sequencing. Fungal isolates collected from dogs and cats with histoplasmosis will be used. There is preliminary data indicating that the H. capsulatum genotype infecting dogs and cats are different from those infecting humans in the same geographic area. There is also preliminary data showing genotype is important for pathogenicity and form and severity of disease. Sponsors: Kirkpatrick Chair in Small Animal Medicine PI/PD: Andrew Hanzlicek Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory: Akhilesh Ramachandran Kansas State University: Kate KuKanich Texas A&M University: Audrey Cook MiraVista Diagnostics: Janelle Renschler, Joe Wheat Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Anastasia Litvintseva Diagnostic performance of a novel point‐of‐care test for histoplasmosis in dogs and cats This is a prospective, multi‐institutional study. The primary aim is to describe the diagnostic performance of a novel point‐of‐care (bed‐side) test for the diagnosis of histoplasmosis. If found to be accurate, this test will provide a rapid, cost‐effective means by which to diagnose histoplasmosis in dogs and cats. Rapid diagnosis is expected to improve cost efficiency and treatment outcome. Sponsors: Kirkpatrick Chair in Small Animal Medicine PI/PDs: Andrew Hanzlicek, Shane Lyon, Laura Nafe Kansas State University: Kate KuKanich Texas A&M University: Audrey Cook MiraVista Diagnostics: Janelle Renschler, Joe Wheat

Repeat cytopathology for treatment monitoring in dogs and cats with histoplasmosis This is a prospective, longitudinal study. The primary aims are to describe: 1) the morphologic changes to H. capsulatum organisms during antifungal treatment, 2) change in host inflammatory response during antifungal treatment, 3) timing of aforementioned changes in relation to when the dog or cat is cured. Sponsors: Kirkpatrick Chair in Small Animal Medicine PI/PD: Andrew Hanzlicek Pathobiology: Jim Meinkoth

Small Animal Physical Medicine Investigation OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences is developing a robust program to complement current rehabilitation services and investigate innovative modalities in small animal physiotherapy. These modalities include low level laser therapy, acupuncture, electro‐ acupuncture, ultrasound and transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation, as well as, therapeutic exercise. In addition to clinical services, this program will provide didactic training for professional students and research opportunities to determine the effectiveness of these applications in veterinary medicine, further advancing the knowledge of complementary physical medicine. Sponsors: Henthorne Foundation PI/PD: Lara Sypniewski

Pharmacokinetic Evaluation of Sustained‐Release Buprenorphine in the Domestic Rabbit As the domestic rabbit is particularly susceptible to the negative effects of pain, analgesic therapies are routinely utilized for the management of post‐operative, acute, and chronic pain in this species. Additionally, due to the rabbit’s natural prey response, prolonged and/or repetitive restraint results in undue stress, increased morbidity, and cardiac arrhythmias. The use of an effective analgesic with a long duration of action is desirable to reduce handling stress while providing adequate and sustained analgesia. The objective of this investigation is to determine if commercially available, sustained release injectable buprenorphine (Simbadol®) exhibits depot pharmacokinetics in the rabbit. Sponsors: Henthorne Foundation; Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PDs: Lara Sypniewski, Lara Maxwell, Joao Brandao

Transcutaneous Irradiance Application and its Bio‐Stimulatory Effect on the Canine Spinal Canal Photobiomodulation (PBM), photon light therapy, has shown to promote nerve cell regeneration and functional recovery in the spinal cord in rodent models. In contrast, the transcutaneous use of PBM to treat spinal cord diseases of companion animals of varying sizes and body conditions is challenging due to the significant attenuation of light energy which occurs it travels through the layers of tissue and bone to reach the level of the spinal cord. Our research will investigate light penetration to the spinal canal via surface application of clinically acceptable irradiance for both the skull cap and the spinal canal. Sponsors: Litecure LLC, Newark, Delaware; Henthorne Foundation PI/PDs: Lara Sypniewski Electrical and Computer Engineering: Daqing Piao

Intra‐Spinal Multi‐Site Dosimetry for Assessing the Feasibility of Transcutaneous Photobiomodulation of the Canine Spinal Cord and Brain Spinal cord diseases are common in veterinary medicine, and are often treated with rehabilitative modalities, such as photobiomodulation (PBM). Our collaborative team is developing a protocol of transcutaneous PBM for treating conditions which result in damage to the spinal cord and brain in companion animals. In order to accomplish this objective, our team will devise a sensor, as well as, equipment technologies that will culminate in our ability to measure the treatment dose reaching the spinal canal and brain of canines following the application of a clinically relevant surface dose. Sponsors: Litecure LLC, Newark, Delaware; Henthorne Foundation PI/PDs: Lara Sypniewski Electrical and Computer Engineering: Daqing Piao

Age Influence on Serum Thyroid Hormone in the Domestic Rabbit Serum thyroid hormones reference intervals studies in rabbits are overall outdated and of limited clinical application. This collaborative undertaking will allow for comparison of circulating thyroid hormones of sub‐adult (9 weeks of age) and adult (13 weeks of age) rabbits. This information would provide initial data regarding the influence of age on the serum thyroid hormones concentrations. Furthermore, thyroid assessment would be useful for the health assessment of the rabbits used in this study. Sponsors: Henthorne Foundation PI/PDs: Joao Brandao, Lara Sypniewski Effects of Citrate and Rest Time Temperature on Dynamic Viscoelastic Coagulometry Rabbits are commonly used in translational research, including studies of coagulation; they are an ideal species for the study of platelet function and are used to investigate various coagulopathies including those associated with hypothermia. This study will investigate the effects of ambient temperature during sample rest time, as well as, the effects of citrate on dynamic viscoelastic coagulometry. Sponsors: Henthorne Foundation; Joan Kirkpatrick Chair in Small Animal Medicine PI/PDs: Joao Brandao, Andrew Hanzlicek, Lara Sypniewski

Evaluation of Portable Blood Glucometers for Measurement of Blood Glucose Concentration and Site Collection Comparison Handheld portable blood glucometers (PBGMs) are commonly used for the assessment of blood glucose from blood collected from a paw/ear prick or from venipuncture, however, there is limited information regarding the reliability of this method in rabbits. Our team will assess performance of commonly used over‐the‐ counter PBGMs (four‐five total units) by comparing its glucose concentration with values obtained by use of a laboratory analyzer which utilizes the gold standard method. Sponsors: Henthorne Foundation PI/PDs: Joao Brandao, Lara Sypniewski

Cranial Spread of New Methylene Blue in the Epidural Space of Adult Rabbits Epidural anesthesia and analgesia is a popular anesthetic technique that can be used in many animal species allowing for pain relief with full motor function. The use of opioid epidurals can provide analgesia without affecting motor function; however, opioids can negatively affect respiratory drive if the injected medication travels too far cranially in the epidural space. The aim of this study is to evaluate the spreading pattern of new methylene blue at increasing doses in similar statured rabbits. This study will also evaluate the use of inhalant anesthesia for epidural needle placement. Sponsors: Henthorne Foundation PI/PDs: Lara Sypniewski, Joao Brandao, Rebecca Sayre OKLAHOMA ANIMAL DISEASE DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY

Maintaining Laboratory Designation The Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (OADDL) is a member of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN). The goals of this cooperative agreement are to provide funding for laboratory infrastructure and thereby increase NAHLN capacity, support the laboratory quality system and electronic messaging, maintain and upgrade laboratory equipment, and expand testing for foreign animal diseases and emerging pathogens. Sponsor: USDA PI/PD: Keith L. Bailey

OADDL Testing Support for CVM Vet‐LIRN The aim of this project is for the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (OADDL) to screen select bacteria isolated from clinical specimens for antibiotic (multidrug) resistance and investigate adverse events impacting the nation’s food or animal feed supply, in cooperation with the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDAs) Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network (Vet‐LIRN). Sponsor: FDA Vet‐LIRN PI/PD: Akhilesh Ramachandran

Whole Genome Sequencing for Multi-Drug Resistant Veterinary and Zoonotic Bacteria This is a collaborative study between the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (OADDL), Oklahoma State High Performance Computing Center Bioinformatics, and the South Dakota Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory aimed at determining and analyzing the genomic sequences of several bacterial species exhibiting resistance to multiple antibiotics. Sponsor: Center for Veterinary Health Sciences PI/PD: Akhilesh Ramachandran

Cold Plasma Devices for Skin/Wound Care and Hospital Premise Decontamination The goal of this study is to develop a Cold plasma based handheld surface decontamination (ColDecon) device. This device will have significant applications in multiple fields including healthcare, defense, and the food safety industry. Sponsor: Technology Business Development Program PI/PD: Akhilesh Ramachandran Seroprevalence of Leptospira interrogans in Oklahoma Mares This project is designed to determine the seroprevalence to six serovars of Leptospira interrogans in mares; managed under pasture/range conditions from a variety of locations in the state of Oklahoma. Sponsor: Zoetis PI/PD: Grant Rezabek Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources – FY2017 Research Abstracts AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS

Economics of Oklahoma Crop and Livestock Production Systems and Land Use The objective is to determine the economic consequences of agricultural crop and livestock production alternatives for Oklahoma. Impacts of alternative practices and systems on expected net returns, variability of returns, and input requirements will be determined. Compatibility of the alternative production practices with conventional practices, resources, and institutional constraints, and potential external costs will be considered. Determine the economic and institutional feasibility, producer impacts, with respect to expected net return, production and financial risk, and rate of return on resources, of alternative crop and livestock production systems compared to existing ones, and determine environmental tradeoffs between alternative and contemporary crop and livestock production systems. (2824) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Francis Epplin

Community Health and Resilience The objectives of this research project are to better understand the emerging opportunities and threats to the economic structure of non‐metropolitan communities arising from the potential shifts in local and regional food systems and to identify and analyze policies and strategies contributing to the viability and resiliency of communities in responding to economic and policy changes and to natural and human‐made stocks. (2840) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Brian E. Whitacre

An Improved Understanding of Consumer Preferences for Food and Food Policy, Especially in Regards to Controversial Issues The purpose of this research is not to be controversial but to study controversy. The research objectives are to develop methods of measuring consumer preferences for food and food policy, especially those containing controversial attributes, by capturing preferences in the same context which human values and beliefs form: in a social dialogue, much like a debate. One specific food topic that will definitely be considered is food paternalism, though other issues may be addressed as the research evolves. The specific paternalistic policy concerns whether the individual wants to assert control over the food choices of kids and their guardians. (2851) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: F. Bailey Norwood Resiliency of Socio‐Economic Behavior and Policies to Protect Natural Resources and the Environment under Climate Variability in Oklahoma and the U.S. The general objectives of the proposed research project are to study the resilience of economic institutions to address natural resource and environmental issues of policy interest to Oklahoma and the nation, and to contribute to developing the theoretical and empirical literature on managing change and risk for managing natural resources such as land, water, and ecosystems in the face of changing temperature and water regimes and to analyze the determinants of adoption of conservation and environmental mitigation practices for shaping sustainable and resilient water and land management policies, pricing, and institutions. (2852) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Tracy Boyer

Marketing and Delivery of Quality Grains and BioProcess Coproducts Consumers are increasingly demanding high‐quality, safe wholesome foods. At the same time, environmental and safety restrictions have reduced the availability of certain chemicals to control insects. As biological and chemical scientists and entomologists are developing alternative methods of insect control, there is a need for economic analysis and optimization to identify the most cost‐effective of these alternatives so that increases in food costs can be minimized. (2879) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Brian Adam

Evaluating the Role of Small and Mid‐Size Farms and their Impacts in Local and Regional Food Systems Small and medium‐size farms have identified a niche in the U.S. food system; their competitiveness may come from developing marketing savvy, innovative distribution models, novel partnerships with other food system partners and new forms of governance instead of focusing on technical or scale efficiencies. Simultaneously, the diversity, focus and number of 'local food' development initiatives across the country are common in several aspects, and one is the primary motivation for this project: the belief that economic development benefits can be derived from more localized food system linkages and activity. This project addresses the priorities of the Small and Medium‐Sized Farms program area. (2913) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: David Shideler Agricultural Economics: Merritt Taylor Colorado State University: Dawn Thilmany, Becca Jablonski Improving the Efficiency of Agricultural Decisions Agricultural producers are faced with many decisions regarding new and existing technology. These producers can make more efficient decisions when they are provided with more accurate information. The proposed research would help provide this information. A variety of applied topics will be addressed such as forecasting fertilizer prices, DNA testing of livestock, precision sensing fertilizer recommendations, design of forage crop insurance for wheat pasture, likely effects of mandatory price reporting for livestock, and calculating settlement prices for calendar spread options. (2939) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Wade Brorsen

Economic Impacts of Market Power and Checkoff Program The project is expected to provide economic analyses of market power and checkoff programs in food and agricultural industries. Specifically, the project will develop generalized and flexible models for market conduct in food and agricultural industries. The newly developed models will be used for the analyses of bilateral market power between retailers and processors for various agricultural and food markets. The project also will focus on determining the relationship between auction and traditional new empirical industrial organization (NEIO) models of market power. (2941) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Chanjin Chung

Providing Information and Decision Support Tools to Increase the Effectiveness of Traditional and Non‐Traditional Cooperatives The goal of this project is to increase the efficiency and profitability of agricultural cooperatives. This goal will be accomplished through a wide range of activities including survey research, case study research and the development of decision aids and best management practices. Many of these activities will focus on financial choices which are an integral part of the profit distribution and equity structure which is unique to the cooperative firm. Because these firms are owned and controlled by agricultural producers, this research will benefit Oklahoma farmers and ranchers. (2942) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Phil Kenkel The Economics of Market Relationships and Value Enhancement in Livestock and Agriculture The market landscape in agriculture is constantly changing, whether induced by market forces, policy changes, technological innovation, or weather. Participants in the food system must navigate that changing landscape along with the management and marketing challenges that it presents. Changes in market structure and evolution in the nature of market relationships can lead to more cost‐efficient production and stronger marketing channels. This research provides economic analysis of these change catalysts, of potential responses to the associated challenges and opportunities, and of associated supply chain behavior. Particular emphasis is placed on value enhancement in the livestock industry and implications for Oklahoma livestock producers and processors. (2943) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Kellie Raper

Selection and Location of Cost Effective Management Practices in Oklahoma Watersheds This proposed research will focus on selecting and locating the most cost effective best management practices (BMPs) to reduce sediment and nutrient loading in selected Oklahoma watersheds. Mathematical optimization techniques such as nonlinear and genetic programming will be used to control watershed and instream simulation models to determine the most effective combination on land surface and instream BMPs to reduce sediment and nutrient loading from individual watersheds. Studies in other watersheds have shown that cost effective selection of BMPs can reduce the cost of given sediment and nutrient reductions by as much as 60 percent when compared to conventional targeting. (2944) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Art Stoecker

Rural Community Economic Resilience in the Face of Changing Food Systems, Mining and Climate Variability The proposed research will explore the concept of economic resiliency in the context of three trends facing Oklahoma communities: changing food systems, oil and gas development, and climate variability. The research will identify how rural Oklahoma communities will be impacted by these three trends. In particular, the research will focus on how various forms of capital, using the Community Capitals framework, contribute or detract from local economic resilience. This will enable the researcher to identify policies and tools for local and state decision makers to build economic resiliency in rural Oklahoma. (2947) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Dave Shideler Economic and Environmental Impacts of Oklahoma Agricultural Production and Agricultural Technology Although it is difficult to conduct a fully comprehensive evaluation of any emerging agricultural production system, the state‐of‐the‐practice analysis tools have demonstrated their utility in providing producers, researchers, and decision makers with beneficial information on the impacts of new agricultural technology. Future research will provide even more the basis for initiating comprehensive analysis, particularly as more seamless integration between economic and environmental analysis is achieved (Plucknett et al.; Hildebrand; McConnell and Dillon). (2948) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Jeff Vitale

Economics of Oklahoma Agricultural Production Systems The goal of this project is provide economic analyses of alternative production systems in the U.S. Southern Plains. Agricultural producers are confronted with new production, marketing, and financing methods/technologies. Often these new tools are promoted by parties with a vested financial interested. This project will assess the economic feasibility (i.e., cash flow considerations) and advisability (i.e., economic profitability) of alternative agricultural production practices and where applicable marketing and financial considerations. (2974) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Eric DeVuyst

Costs, Benefits, and Risks of Alternative Insect Management Strategies in Food Processing and Grain Storage Facilities Consumers desire wholesome, insect‐free foods. Meanwhile, because of consumer preferences and regulations insecticide options are increasingly limited. In order to improve the ability of food providers to respond to these conflicting challenges, costs benefits, and risks of alternative insect control methods, including integrated pest management approaches, will be estimated. The focus is on grain storage and food processing facilities. Especially in the food processing industry, limited economic analysis of insect control has been published, especially analysis that considers the risks of alternative strategies. Partial budgeting and economic engineering will be used to analyze costs. (2977) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Brian Adam

Using Consumer Tracking Survey to Understand and Forecast Changes in Consumer Demand for Disaggregated Meat Products There is an increasing need to better understand changing consumer preferences or behavior. To date, however, research on these topics often consists of surveys or experiments conducted at a single point in time; the results convey a "snap shot" of consumer preferences and policy impacts. As such, little is known about the stability of product and policy preference over time, the dynamic response of consumers to information shocks, or factors associated with change in public opinion, behavior, and preference. To overcome these weaknesses of existing data sources, and to foster an improved, and more timely, understanding of consumer preferences, behavior, and policy impacts, this research will further develop and build upon existing consumer tracking surveys. We will conduct nationwide monthly surveys to track consumer demand for selected disaggregate meat products, beliefs, expectations, awareness of new stories, food values, and policy preferences. Summary data and analysis will be publically released each month within one week of collection. By providing more accurate and timelier information, the project will lead to better decisions among producers, agribusinesses, and policy makers. (2981) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Jayson Lusk

The Economics of Water Use, Recreation and Wildlife Management in Oklahoma This project measures the economic value and economic impacts of water and wildlife in Oklahoma. There is a critical need for economic information about natural resources, which provide essential inputs into local and regional markets, and directly affect individuals’ wellbeing. To date, however, little socioeconomic data has been collected on water uses and wildlife management in Oklahoma, and hence the value of these resources and the effect that conservation and management can have on that value. This project is conducting several surveys to measure demand for water and wildlife resources. Summary data and analysis will be presented to resource managers through reports, and important findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals. (2997) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Richard Melstrom

Consumer Preferences for Meat Quality Attributes and Livestock Production Practices Criticism of animal agriculture is growing. The negative publicity is multifaceted and ranges from concerns about animal welfare, health impacts, food safety, climate change, environmental impacts, water usage, and food security. The concerns are also beginning to be reflected in public policy. This research will focus on several questions. How much impact has this publicity and had on demand for meat, dairy, and eggs? Which aspects of meat consumption are most troubling to consumers? How will industry responses affect consumer demand for meat, dairy, and eggs in the future? These questions are important given the economic size of the poultry and livestock sector, and the impact of meat, dairy, and eggs in the American diet. (2998) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Jayson Lusk AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION, COMMUNICATIONS AND LEADERSHIP

Examining rural resilience to disasters: Implications for agricultural organizations’ roles in the National Disaster Recovery Framework Increase efficiency and effectiveness in disaster response, recovery, and resiliency efforts in rural areas by: 1) assessing the development and effectiveness of response, recovery, and resiliency efforts; 2) describing the perceptions of past and ongoing response, recovery, and resiliency efforts; 3) identifying shortcomings in the implementation of response, recovery, and resiliency plans; and 4) identifying initiatives to address gaps between recommendations and practice in response, recovery, and resiliency. (2933) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Traci L. Naile

Exploring Entrepreneurship Education and the Facilitation of Entrepreneurs in Agriculture and Its Allied Sectors: Implications for Agricultural and Extension Education in an Era of Globalization The potential for agricultural enterprise development and its impact on the economic livelihoods of rural citizens and their communities is significant. However, little is understood about agricultural entrepreneurs in developing countries or how mentoring and networking relationships between them and entrepreneurs in developed countries may be activated, maintained, and enhanced. This research project seeks to describe the experiences of entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs from developing countries, including the mentor- protégé and peer-to-peer networks that may support their entrepreneurial ventures and success. The study will examine selected entrepreneurs’ relationships with Oklahoma agribusiness collaborators, including their use of new media to communicate. (03012) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: M. Craig Edwards ANIMAL SCIENCE

Efficacy and Acceptability of Various Retail Packaging Methods for Meat at Retail The overall objectives of the project are to determine consumer acceptability and preferences of strip loin steaks and pork chops packaged using traditional overwrap, modified atmosphere or vacuum packages. Increasing case-life continues to be an issue at retail to avoid pulls and discounts, use of vacuum packaging at retail would greatly decrease both of these. Studies over the past 2 years have shown consumers are becoming more willing to purchase vacuum packaged steaks and chops. This trend will save the beef and pork industry billions of dollars if retailers make adjustment and consumers will actually purchase vacuum packaged products. (2834) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Gretchen Mafi

Increasing Profitability of the Wheat/Stocker Enterprise The long-term goal of this project is to increase the economic prosperity of farmers and ranchers producing the 22.5 million acres of wheat grown annually in the southern Great Plains (OK, TX, KS, CO, and NM) and strengthen the rural communities in which they reside. Research is being conducted to improve the agronomic, economic, and environmental sustainability of the wheat/stocker cattle enterprise through development of novel science and technologies, novel and broadly adapted wheat varieties, improved cattle management strategies, and decision-support economic models. (2905) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Gerald Horn

Beef Cattle Selection and Management for Adaptation to Drought This study encompasses water intake collection and a drought adaptation test period on a large number of growing crossbred beef cattle. Cattle will be identified that have high growth performance and water efficiency. Multiple genomic approaches including genotyping and metagenomics sequencing will be utilized to investigate cattle that have the ability to adapt to drought. Outreach and extension efforts will aid in the dissemination of research findings through development of traditional and online educational materials. These include decision support tools and information being developed on BeefClimate.org and a national environmental stress and water needs tools being developed in collaboration with the Oklahoma Mesonet. (2910) Sponsor: USDA NIFA PI/PDs: Chris Richards, Deb VanOverbeke, Udaya DeSilva Kansas State University: Megan Rolf University of Florida: Raluca Mateescu University of Nebraska: Clint Krehbiel Non-University: Michelle Calvo‐ Lorenzo, Sara Place The Effect of Optimase and Rumensin on Beef Cattle Growth Performance and In-Situ Digestibility In this research we evaluated an inexpensive feed additive and a less expensive, alternative protein source to determine if the efficiency of forage utilization in a beef cow/calf enterprise could be enhanced. We discovered that the alternative protein source was a good replacement for part of the traditional oilseed meal used in winter supplements for beef cows. This should allow for less expensive feed costs during years when oilseed meals are scarce and/or expensive. (2911) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: David Lalman, Gerald Horn, Chris Richards

Role of fibroblast growth factor-9-mediated intraovarian factors in regulating ovarian follicular development in cattle Poor reproductive efficiency in cattle ultimately results in lost income to farmers. Understanding the mechanisms of ovarian follicular growth may help devise ways to increase reproductive efficiency and hence farm profits. During ovarian follicular development, granulosa and theca cell proliferation and differentiation are influenced by the gonadotropins, insulin-like growth factors, and numerous intraovarian factors, such as fibroblast growth factor9 (FGF9), secreted by the oocyte and/or surrounding somatic cells. The goal of this project is to determine to role of FGF9 in ovarian function. It is hoped that new insights regarding techniques to improve fertility in dairy and beef cattle will be made from these studies. (2970) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Leon Spicer

A multi‐year evaluation of meat quality parameters of beef from grain and grass finished cattle The objectives of this project are: 1) determine the difference in objective and subjective palatability measures between forage and grain fed cattle and 2) determine the difference in fatty acid profiles between forage and grain fed cattle. This was the second year of this project. The project focus was on the second harvest of a group of cattle and evaluation of steaks for Warner‐Bratzler Shear Force. Sensory evaluation was completed on the first two years’ samples. Fatty acid profiles will come as the next set of cattle are harvested to have ample samples to run analysis. (2985) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Deborah VanOverbeke

Supplementation and management strategies to improve productivity and sustainability of Oklahoma grazing systems The long-term goal of this project is to increase the economic prosperity and sustainability of the 44,000 ranchers grazing the 4.6 million cattle on 22 million acres of pasture and 5.3 million acres of wheat in Oklahoma. Research is being conducted to improve sustainability of wheat and warm-season perennial grass grazing systems through development of novel science and technologies, improved cattle management and supplementation strategies, and decision- support systems incorporating next generation sensors and real-time data analytics. Improved sustainability will improve profit margins for ranchers, while simultaneously increasing availability of food for society and improving ecosystem services from Oklahoma grazing lands. (2987) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Ryan Reuter

Remote Monitoring for Determination of Environmental Stress in Cattle Advancements in cattle identification and remote monitoring technologies offer opportunities to improve animal management and well-being. These electronic technologies are providing multiple noninvasive body temperatures each day. This provides information related to the presence, health, well-being, and behavior patterns of cattle in confinement and grazing environments. The overall goal is to improve the efficiency of beef production and well-being of cattle through improved evaluation of environmental stressors. The specific project goal is to determine environmental extremes which cause cattle under diverse management systems to exceed normal body temperature parameters and evaluate management strategies to mitigate environmental stressors. (2988) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA PI/PD: Christopher Richards

Microbial Ecology of Soils Treated with Animal Manure The long-term objective of this project is to better understand the population dynamics of soil microbial ecosystems in response to manure amendment. We also study the contribution of manure to establish and propagate antibiotic resistance in soil. Microbial population fluctuations are evaluated by high throughput sequence analysis of eubacterial DNA from soil samples that are continuously treated with animal manure for a 15-year time period and samples collected annually. The effect of manure amendment to both soil bacteria and manure- derived bacteria would be studies. We also aim to determine the presence and prevalence of antibiotic resistant organisms in these soils by quantitative analysis of antibiotic resistance genes and antibiotic residues in the soil. (2989) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Udaya DeSilva Impact of micronutrient supplementation on subsequent performance, health, and mineral balance of beef calves Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) accounts for the majority of morbidity, mortality, and decreased production in feedlot cattle. The goal of this research is to improve the efficiency of beef production by improving calf health and performance. Specific experiment goals are to: 1) determine the effects of supplementation with cobalt, copper, manganese, selenium, and zinc on the efficiency, daily gains, and clinical health of beef cattle in the receiving/growing phase of production; 2) evaluate effects of the same trace minerals on clinical signs, immune response variables, and mineral balance in calves following exposure to BRD pathogens in an intensive challenge. (3010) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Blake K. Wilson

Blooming properties of beef and pork myoglobins Meat color is an important property that influences purchasing decisions. The objective was to compare blooming properties of bovine and porcine myoglobins in-vitro. Cyclic voltammetry was used to determine oxygenation properties at pH 5.6, 6.4, and 7.4. At all pHs, porcine myoglobin had greater oxygen affinity than bovine myoglobin. For both species, oxygen affinity was greater at pH 6.4 > pH 7.4 > 5.6. There was a significant effect of pH on myoglobin reduction potential for both species. The variation in amino acid composition between bovine and porcine myoglobin could be partially responsible for differences in oxygen affinity. (3024) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Ranjith Ramanathan, Gretchen Mafi, Deborah VanOverbeke

Immune Boosting Dietary Compounds for Growth Promotion and Disease Control and Prevention Subtherapeutic use of antibiotics in livestock production is being phased out. Alternatives to antibiotics are urgently needed to ensure animal health and productivity. We sought to explore the potential for dietary modulation of innate immunity in the control and prevention of important foodborne pathogens using the chicken as an animal model. Such an immune boosting approach is expected to be broadly applicable in the control and prevention of other pathogens in all other food animal species, offering great potential of enhancing animal biosecurity and production efficiency, while minimizing the use of antibiotics and emergence of drug-resistant pathogens. (3025) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Glenn Zhang

Technologies to Reduce Nutrient Excretion and Gaseous Emissions from Swine The swine industry represents a major source of agricultural income in Oklahoma and the United States. Concerns over water and air quality associated with swine production facilities are topics of considerable debate. Therefore, methods to reduce the amount of nutrients and odors produced from swine facilities are needed. The first line of defense against nutrient excretion and gas generation is source control or the nutrients entering via the diet. The goal of this research is to determine the effects of dietary strategies on nutrient excretion and gaseous emissions from swine facilities. (3031) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Scott Carter

Characterizing The Biochemical Mechanisms Governing Color of Dark Cutting Beef Our long-term goal is to better understand the role of postmortem meat biochemistry in beef color to minimize the losses resulting from dark-cutting defects. The objective was to evaluate the effects of wet-aging, antioxidant-enhancement, and modified atmospheric packaging on the color of dark-cutting beef during simulated retail display. Dark-cutting strip loins were selected from a commercial packing plant within 3 d post-harvest. Instrumental and visual color measurements were recorded during 5 d simulated retail display. Enhancement and modified atmospheric packaging improved dark-cutting beef color. (3043) Sponsor: USDA NIFA/AFRI PI/PDs: Ranjith Ramanathan, Gretchen Mafi, Deborah VanOverbeke BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

The Structure of Pectins from Cotton Cell Walls This project will complete structural analysis of the rhamnogalacturonan region of cotton cell wall pectin, determine how the various subsections of pectins associate with each other, characterize crosslinks between pectin and xyloglucan, and characterize the mode of action of fungal cell wall degrading enzymes. We are also investigating combinations of cloned fungal enzymes for conversion of biomass to monosaccharides. (2099) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Stevens Endowed Chair in Agricultural Biotechnology, US Department of Energy PI/PD: Andrew Mort

Small RNAs in legumes Recent discovery of small RNAs [microRNAs (miRNAs) and short interfering RNAs (siRNAs)] with regulatory roles has uncovered an active role for RNA in regulating gene expression besides its passive intermediary role between genes and proteins. Thus, the identification of small RNAs in diverse plant species is an important scientific task. Leguminous plants are an important source of human and animal dietary needs second only to cereal plants. Peanut (Arachis hypogea L.), chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and alfalfa (Medicago sativa) are some of the very important legume crops. Some of these legumes such as peanuts and alfalfa (forage crop) are a major component of Oklahoma agriculture. Thus far, very little is known about the small RNA component in these agriculturally important legume crop plants. The proposed project will identify complete set of miRNAs or other small RNAs in peanut, chickpea, alfalfa and common bean. This information will provide better understanding of the molecular processes that are under control of small RNA in these legume crops. (2844) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Ramanjulu Sunkar

Structure‐Function Studies on cytokine signaling key to animal immunity The goal of this research is to provide detailed molecular basis by which cytokine Interleukin 18 (IL‐18) functions and to provide important clues on how to modulate IL‐18 bioactivity. The outcome will be helpful for development of treatments and preventions against a number of livestock animal diseases that are economically devastating. (2848) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Junpeng Deng Epigenetic control of seed development and stress tolerance A long-term goal of our research program is to understand the molecular mechanisms used by plant cells to control gene expression through chromatin-based epigenetic marks. To accomplish this goal, we are studying genes that regulate the developmental transition between seed maturation and subsequent germination and vegetative growth. Seed maturation is an important developmental phase during which seed storage products such as proteins and seed oils accumulate and desiccation tolerance develops. Genetic networks that control the activation of the seed maturation program are well-characterized; however, our understanding of the repression of seed maturation traits in subsequent developmental stages is incomplete. In previous research, we identified a unique mutant allele of the transcriptional repressor gene HIGH SUGAR INDUCIBLE 2 (HSI2). This allele encodes an HSI2 variant with a single amino acid substitution in a putative plant homeodomain (PHD) zinc finger structural motif. This point mutation results in misexpression of certain seed maturation genes, including those involved in desiccation tolerance, in seedlings, along with a unique luciferase reporter gene locus. These data indicate that the PHD domain of HIS2 is functional and required for the repression of certain target genes in vegetative tissues. PHD finger domains are associated with the recognition of chromatin modifications and our preliminary findings indicate that the HIS2 PHD finger is necessary for both the reading and writing of the histone code and is likely to be directly involved in the developmentally-specific chromatin-based regulation of gene expression. To better understand the role of HSI2 in the regulation of gene expression and to use this information to develop strategies to improve plant stress tolerance, we are currently working to 1) identify genes that are direct regulatory targets of HIS2, 2) characterize the regulatory complex associated with HSI2, and 3) evaluate the effects of altered HSI2 expression on stress tolerance in crop plants. (2896) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, OCAST PI/PD: Randy Allen

Translation Apparatus in Antibiotic‐Tolerant E. coli This research will address how bacteria can survive exposure to antibiotics. In the last decade, antibiotic‐resistant bacteria have become a major health problem. Antibiotic‐resistant bacteria frequently emerge in livestock animals, and then transmit their antibiotic‐resistant genes to pathogenic bacteria, causing a variety of chronic diseases in humans. Our long‐term goal is to understand how antibiotics impact bacterial growth and survival by disrupting the activities of ribosomes, higher‐order translation complexes, and ultimately cell physiology. The goal of this HATCH project is to characterize the structures and functions of translation complexes within persister bacteria, a common cause of infectious diseases. In parallel, we are engaged in collaborations to study pathogenic biofilms associated with chronic antibiotic-resistant bacteria (2914) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station; Oklahoma Center for Advancement of Science and Technology; Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases PI/PD: Kevin Wilson Identification of Hsp90 Inhibitors in Functional Herbs and Foods and Characterization of Their Mechanism of Action We are testing the hypothesis that bioactive compounds that we have identified by literature mining and screens for inhibitors of Hsp90-dependent refolding of luciferase, function by inhibition of the Hsp90 chaperone machine. To achieve this, we are: 1) carrying out a battery of assays to confirm whether or not the Hsp90 chaperone machine is the target of the bioactive compounds, 2) characterizing the mechanism by which the compounds inhibit the Hsp90 machinery, and c) determining the direct impact that the Hsp90 inhibitors have on biological processes of cancer cells. (2959) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science. PI/PD: Robert Matts

Regulation of Spindle Positioning by Post‐translational modifications in the Yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae Microtubules are dynamic polymers that are critical elements of the mitotic spindle that segregates the genetic material into each daughter cell at cell division. Microtubules are also key for positioning the mitotic spindle within the dividing cell. The dynamic nature of microtubules is controlled by microtubule-associated proteins that can be modified by phosphorylation and ubiquitin‐like molecules. The long‐term goal of this project is to identify and understand how different types of post‐translational modifications alter the activity of microtubule-associated proteins, and hence the microtubule behavior that positions the mitotic spindle. (2961) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Rita Miller

Structure and Functional Analysis of Mammalian Chromatin Remodeling Complexes This project aims to further understand the role of chromatin remodeling proteins, such as INI- 1, in the epigenetic regulation of DNA structure. INI-1 is a tumor suppressor protein, ubiquitously expressed in mammalian tissues, that is associated with the Swi/Snf chromatin remodeling complex. The absence of INI-1 from cells has been genetically linked to an abnormally high rate of proliferation. We hypothesize that the loss of INI-1 from cells results in a defect in the proper regulation of DNA structure by Swi/Snf. To test this hypothesis the structure and functional roles of INI-1 within the Swi/Snf complex will be determined using a complementary set of biochemical and cell-based assays. Results will give insights into the regulation of cellular proliferation, an important process in all mammalian organisms. (2962) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agriculture Experiment Station PI/PD: Donald Ruhl Metabolism of Glycerides in Insects Lipids, stored as triacylglycerol (TG), play an essential role as reserve of metabolic energy in all animals. The overall goal of our studies is to understand the mechanisms of the processes of mobilization and degradation of fat in insects. Fat in the form of triglycerides represents the main energy store in insects in general and these stores are essential to support flight and reproduction. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved in fat metabolism could be useful to identify potential targets for the control of the populations of insects that directly impact the yield of crops or that are vectors of human or animal diseases. Failure of the mechanism of degradation of fat is also associated with several human diseases including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. (3001) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, National Institutes of Health PI/PDs: Jose L Soulages, Estela L Arrese

Novel disinfectant/antiseptic-selected antimicrobial-reduced susceptibility mechanism in Staphylococcus aureus Antibiotic-resistant “golden staph” cause disease in livestock and humans, and cause mastitis in dairy cattle which negatively impacts this industry. This research will characterize antimicrobial mechanisms that can reveal targets for antimicrobial development to combat disease caused by this organism. Our long term goal is to determine how this pathogen evolves to thwart the action of antiseptics/disinfectants. We are also determining if selection with antiseptic/disinfectants produces strains with altered susceptibility to antibiotics. Because of the unique genetic and physiological alterations that occur in our selected strains, we will better understand staphylococcal biology. (3002) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station. PI/PDs: John Gustafson

B-lactamases in the multidrug resistance opportunistic bacterial pathogen Elizabethkingia meningosepticasp. Elizabethkingia anophelis, E. meningoseptica and E. miricola are opportunistic human pathogens found everywhere in the environment and are resistant to most available antimicrobial drugs. Elizabethkingia sp. produce multiple β-lactamase enzymes which are bacterial enzymes that cleave β-lactam antibiotics such as penicillin, and related antibiotics and thus are a key player in conferring bacterial antibiotic resistance The goal is to elucidate the mechanism of β-lactam antibiotic resistance in Elizabethkingia as a potential reservoir of novel β-lactamase genes. We aim to identify all β-lactamase genes in E. anophelis, E. meningoseptica and E. miricola and quantitatively characterize the β-lactam antibiotic substrates and inhibitors for these enzymes. (3003) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station. PI/PD: Patricia Canaan Establishing Translational Genomics for Oklahoma Wheat Improvement This proposal seeks applicability of genomics-backed, innovative agriculture for Oklahoma's dual-purpose breeding programs. Using a versatile 'Duster x Billings' population, this study will investigate the best cost-effective next-gen sequencing (NGS) approach for accessing quality genomic information. Results of genome-wide association (GWAS) as well as other biological knowledge like gene models and functional homology with Brachypodium will be used to annotate these genomic elements. Genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs) of grain yield will be estimated using both parametric and non-parametric algorithms; applicability of these results will be evaluated by comparing to additive linear models. To accurately measure the increase of genetic gain, this proposal designs a two-generation validation scheme, where performance of genomic prediction can be directly compared with phenotypic selection at the same generation. (3011) Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology. PI/PD: Charles Chen BIOSYSTEMS AND AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING

Investigation of the Long‐term Viability of Rainwater Harvesting for Supplementing Water Supplies and Stormwater Management in Oklahoma This project will: 1) investigate the occurrence and potential for soil accumulation of organic compounds in rooftop runoff, 2) characterization of the first flush from rooftop runoff, 3) redesign and automate the rainwater harvesting first flush diverter, 4) investigate the impacts of widespread rainwater harvesting on in‐stream flows in rivers and streams in Oklahoma, 5) design a web‐based tool that utilizes Oklahoma Mesonet data for optimal, site‐specific designing of rainwater harvesting systems, and 6) investigation of the effects of climate change on rainwater harvesting system design in Oklahoma. The results will be presented in refereed journal articles, in extension fact sheets, at state and national conferences, and communicated to the public at extension workshops. (2832) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Jason Vogel

Precision Seeding Systems This project focuses on improving traditional corn planter performance has been on plant spacing and emergence uniformity. More precise seed placement should improve uniformity of spacing, thus reducing competition. Current OSU research has shown that controlled leaf orientation in corn can lead to increased grain yields. We propose to develop and test a precision planter prototype capable of planting various grades of hybrid corn seed and that will result in consistent across‐the‐row leaf orientation. When leaves are symmetrically oriented across the row, light interception is increased, plant populations can be increased, and maize grain yields increase. (2842) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA/NIFA PI/PD: Randy Taylor

Utilization of the Eastern Redcedar for Biofuel Production This project seeks to develop technologies to convert Eastern redcedar into biofuels, particularly ethanol and butanol. Pretreatment processes to breakdown lignin and hemicellulose and remove volatile oil in the wood are being developed and compared with one another based on sugar yields. Enzymatic hydrolyses of pretreated wood and fermentations of the sugars produced to produce butanol and ethanol are also being tested. The effects of the oil on hydrolysis and fermentation are being studied as well. Results from the supported research are being disseminated through research journals, undergraduate and graduate courses, meetings with Oklahoma government officials, and presentations at international meetings. (2845) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Mark Wilkins Improved Technologies for Enhancing Pecan Production and Processing In pecan orchards, air blast sprayers are used to spray fungicides control pecan scab. However, mature trees may be upwards of 50 feet in height, and the upper canopy may not receive adequate fungicide coverage. This study focused on the collection of preliminary data to identify best practices, and develop a baseline standard for evaluation of pecan orchard sprayers. Field testing showed the spray distribution of an orchard sprayer was greatly affected by wind. This resulted in highly variable data towards the end of experiment trials. One of the more useful results of this project was the development of a ladder frame to hang the water sensitive cards and string, which could be operated by one person. (2846) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Paul Weckler

Research and Development for Decision‐Support Systems in Wildland Fire Management Wildland fire is an important issue in the United States and around the world, encompassing both wildfires and prescribed fire. Basic and applied research is needed to help develop better weather‐based operational systems to serve as decision‐support tools for those who fight wildfires or do prescribed burning. This project focuses on three areas: 1) better understanding of the changing dynamics of wildland fuels, 2) development of operational systems for wildland fire management, of which OK‐FIRE is a prime example in Oklahoma, and 3) development of unmanned aerial vehicle systems for use in wildfire detection and monitoring. (2864) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: J.D. Carlson

Integrated Systems Research and Development in Automation and Sensors for Sustainability of Specialty Crops Research has focused on reducing N inputs while maintaining production levels. The major factors affecting the growth of pecan include pests (insects and diseases), climate, temperature, soil moisture, nut volume, and crop load. Pecan weevil damage can be so bad at times that Oklahoma pecans are severely discounted even to the point where no price is offered. Therefore, efficient and cost‐effective pest management strategy has always been a focus for pecan researchers and growers. The ultimate goal of the research is to provide a cost effective tool to improve pecan production management, to keep the high quality of pecan produces, and to keep sustainability of pecan production. (2884) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA/NIFA PI/PD: Ning Wang Stream/Riparian Zone Interactions: Sediment and Nutrient Transport to Streams Conjunctive management of surface and ground water has become increasingly important as water supply and water quality issues intensify. The goal of this research is to improve our understanding of surface and ground water interactions and the impact of this interaction on contaminant fate and transport. This research will improve the understanding of the role of subsurface water in the erosion of soil on steep streambanks, gullies, and embankments, and (2) improve our understanding of the role of vegetation on erosion and stability of hillslopes. Controlling sediment loading to surface water is important for the protection of human health and freshwater ecosystems; this sediment loading must be addressed through improved scientific understanding of riparian management strategies. (2895) Sponsors: USDA/NIFA, NSF, US EPA PI/PD: Garey Fox

The Science and Engineering for a Biobased Industry and Economy This project will develop methods to use plant biomass to produce alcohols that can be used as both fuels and as chemical feedstocks. Pretreatment technologies using plant‐degrading fungi are being developed to make biomass more amenable to enzymatic hydrolysis while reducing the environmental impact of biofuel and biochemical production. Also, various fermentation organisms are being employed to consume sugars produced from enzymatic hydrolysis of plant biomass and produce various products that are of value to the energy and chemical sectors, such as ethanol, n‐butanol and hexanol. Results from the supported research are being disseminated through research journals, undergraduate and graduate courses, and presentation at international meetings. (2898) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Mark Wilkins

Development of Sensing Systems to Detect and Investigate Physical Properties and Particle Forces in Bulk Grain Storage Systems as Related to Safe Product Storage and Handling Grain quality not only has an economic impact on the grain industry, but it may also pose extreme hazards for storage structures and personnel dealing with handling complications when grain goes out of condition. This project will develop a sensing method to estimate forces within the stored grain bulk. Models will be developed to correlate sensor output to grain quality in storage. By estimating forces, new rescue and prevention protocols for grain managers and emergency responders can be developed. This project will also work with experts in force trauma and grain bin entrapment rescue to develop these new protocols. (2920) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agriculture Experiment Station PI/PD: C. Jones

Development of advanced thermochemical conversion technology through devolatization and co‐pyrolysis of biomass feedstocks with natural gas This year, we focused on pyrolysis of eastern redcedar, a native invasive species of Oklahoma. Pyrolysis, thermal conversion of solid biomass into liquid fuel intermediate, solid char and gaseous products, is one promising approach to use redcedar. The objective of this study was to investigate effects of eastern redcedar wood zones (heartwood and sapwood), pyrolysis temperature (450 and 500 °C) and pyrolysis types on distribution and composition of pyrolysis products. In fast pyrolysis conditions, the products were dominated by anhydrous sugars, phenols and guaiacols. The total yield of lignin‐derived compounds from heartwood was higher than sapwood at 500 °C but not significantly different at 450 °C. In slow pyrolysis conditions, acetic acid and furfural were the two most abundant species in bio‐oil. (2921) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Ajay Kumar

Development and Application of a Quantitative P Index State and federal agencies are spending over $3 billion/yr on conservation and are under increasing pressure to justify and maximize the environmental impact. NRCS is evaluating the benefits of conservation expenditures though CEAP, using very complex models. Local conservation planners need to evaluate conservation plans with landowners and do not have the required specialized training. Thus, a quantitative tool, TBET, was developed to meet this need, and provide a quantitative connection between conservation practice implementation and the water quality objectives. This project is using TBET to develop and test a quantitative P Index for the State of Oklahoma. (2922) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: D. Storm

Improving Gasification Conversion Systems in the Production of Bioenergy, Biofuels, and Bioproducts The overall goal of this project is to address key issues that limit commercial application of OSU developed biomass gasification technologies. The primary issues are gasifier scale‐up, materials handling and producer gas cleaning. Based on an interest expressed by a company to license and use the OSU patented downdraft gasifier in a self‐contained renewable electricity generation unit, the research focus will be on gasifier scale‐up. As gasifier reactor size increases, input and outputs also increase. For most feedstock inputs, this increase provides an opportunity to increase feedstock particle size, which should decrease the degree of preprocessing and corresponding power, saving time and reducing costs. (2937) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Raymond L. Huhnke

Development and Testing of Filter Media to Improve Water Quality in Urban and Agricultural Stormwater Runoff Pollutants in stormwater runoff continue to be a significant cause of the degradation of rivers and streams in the US. Bioretention cells, which filter stormwater before it reaches streams, are an increasing popular technology to address the problem. This project seeks to quantify longterm pollutant sorption and transformations in bioretention cell filter media. In addition, it will identify and quantify the performance of new filter media additives that will increase filter media sorption and/or transformations of pollutants. (2957) Sponsor: USDA, USEPA PI/PD: G. Brown Development of Intelligent Sensing and Control Systems for Field and Laboratory Phenotyping Applications to Enhance Sustainable Crop Production Systems In most plant phenotyping work, individual plant‐level data acquisition is required with high throughput, high resolution, and high accuracy to characterize morphological and physiological features. This research is to develop a real‐time, accurate, high capacity tool for characterizing plant phenotypic features. The developed system should mechanize and automate the data collection, analysis, and processing and provide user‐friendly tools for data management and visualization. (2963) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA/NIFA PI/PD: Ning Wang

Developing Management Strategies for Subsurface Drip Irrigation in the Oklahoma Panhandle This project investigates the challenges that agricultural producers face as the adoption of subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) systems increases in the Panhandle due to growing water scarcity. The objectives are to study the yield and water productivity of main agricultural crops (corn, sorghum, wheat) under: 1) Different levels of irrigation, namely 50%, 75%, and 100% of full water requirement, 2) Variable distances between drip tape and crop row, ranging from zero to 15 inches in 3 inch increments. Irrigation scheduling is performed using a commercial software and numerous sensors are installed to monitor water movement and crop canopy water stress. (2965) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USGS 104b PI/PDs: Saleh Taghvaeian Plant and Soil Sciences: Jason Warren

The Science and Engineering for a Biobased Industry and Economy I have started a Life Cycle Assessment program at OSU BAE in which we are now able to produce environmental impact assessment studies for almost any product or process. This LCA effort has focused mainly on biofuel and bioproducts. A large LCA was created to examine catalysts used in biomass pyrolysis for oils. LCA’s have also been completed on lignocellulosic fuels creation. Current LCA studies have been performed on center pivot irrigation systems in the Oklahoma panhandle. These studies examine electrical and petro-fuel reductions as well as water savings possible by efficiency improvement recommendations. LCA’s on the fuel/energy/water (Nexus) savings reveal significant potentials for irrigation and stressed aquifer sustainability. A student has been hired to specifically study the irrigation LCA issues in upcoming tests. (2966) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agriculture Experiment Station PI/PD: R. Frazier

The Science and Engineering for a Biobased Industry and Economy Alcohols, organic acids and other products can be biologically produced from streams that contains synthesis gas (syngas) made of carbon monoxide, hydrogen and carbon dioxide. Syngas can be produced from gasification of biomass, agricultural residues, coal and municipal solid waste or present in industrial waste gas streams. The syngas is fed to microbial catalysts in a process called syngas fermentation. This research will investigate capabilities of novel microorganisms to produce ethanol, butanol, hexanol, fatty acids and other products. Mass transfer capabilities of various reactor designs for syngas fermentation with a focus to identify reactor designs that increase the alcohol productivity and syngas utilization will be examined. In addition, modeling and process control tools for syngas fermentation will be developed to allow the determination of operating parameters that result in highest productivity and yield. (2967) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA/NIFA PI/PD: Hasan Atiyeh

Heterogeneous Biocidal Coatings for Self‐Sterilizing Surfaces Hospital‐acquired infection caused by medical devices is a major healthcare issue in the United States. There is a critical public health need to develop self‐sterilizing surfaces with effective and long‐lasting antimicrobial activity. The research objectives are to investigate creation of self‐sterilizing coatings by vapor‐based deposition. The bacteria adhesion, biofilm formation, antibacterial efficiency, and cell cytotoxicity will be studied to understand the interaction of the engineered surfaces with bacteria and mammalian cells. The research will also identify effective factors that determine the surface antimicrobial activity. The research will result in an environmentally benign and cost‐effective method of creating self‐sterilizing surfaces. (2982) Sponsors: NSF, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Stations PI/PD: Y. Mao

Integration of Intelligent Agricultural Technology for Pasture and Livestock Management This research involves the application of intelligent technologies to increase profitability in pasture-based livestock operations. Research will be conducted on agricultural sprayer and control systems used mainly for weed control in pastures. Proper chemical application decreases drift and increases the effectiveness of the product. Research will also be conducted to apply new technologies to livestock systems to manage pasture resources more effectively and provide the ability for producers to manage their livestock with more precision. Technologies will be evaluated and developed to provide tools to automate the management of livestock on pasture. (2996) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: John Long Development of Biological Gas Conversion Technology for Renewable Fuels and Chemicals A crucial step in developing a sustainable biobased economy is establishing viable integrated biorefineries capable of converting biomass feedstocks and waste materials into biofuels, biopower and biobased chemicals. Gasification-syngas fermentation is a hybrid conversion process that involves the conversion of biomass, coal and municipal solid wastes to syngas, primarily containing carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and hydrogen, followed by the fermentation of syngas to chemicals. To develop a feasible syngas fermentation process, technical challenges associated with high cost of fermentation medium, mass transfer limitations and low productivity should be addressed. This research will investigate production of alcohols (ethanol, butanol and hexanol) and value added products (acetic, butyric and hexanoic acids) from biomass with focus on strategies to enhance alcohol productivity and gas utilization such as reducing gas liquid mass transfer limitations. Syngas fermentation process development and reactor design and control will also be examined. (3005) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA/NIFA PI/PD: Hasan Atiyeh CENTER FOR VETERINARY HEALTH SCIENCES

Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention and Control of Livestock Diseases This project covers agricultural and biomedical research funded by sources other than USDA that contributes to total research capacity of the OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences (CVHS). We are developing strategic alliances with partner institutions and the private sector and growing the supporting infrastructure. Consequently, publications are presented as evidence of progress and productivity. Expenditures for these non-USDA projects came from Federal, State and private funding sources, including biological and pharmaceutical corporations. (2061) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Jerry Malayer

Bovine Respiratory Disease: Risk Factors, Pathogens, Diagnosis, and Management The project determines changing patterns, geographical differences, risk factors, and management practices related to bovine respiratory disease. The influence of various bacteria and viruses is studied. In addition, the pharmacokinetics and efficacy of newer therapies and new-generation vaccines are evaluated. The host-pathogen relationships are characterized at the molecular level. (2819) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Anthony W. Confer, Robert W. Fulton, Sahlu Ayalew

Effects of diet, activity, and disease on mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and electron transfer control in equine skeletal muscle The capacity of horse muscle to convert fat and carbohydrates to usable energy will be examined at the cellular level in order to identify key adaptations that lead to athleticism. We will use the same techniques to identify acquired causes of poor performance due to various diseases. (2951) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Michael Davis ENTOMOLOGY AND PLANT PATHOLOGY

Disease Resistance in Peanut to Sclerotinia Blight Production of peanut in Oklahoma is affected by several fungal pathogens. Chemical management of diseases reduces profit. This research addresses: 1) improving methods for quantifying disease resistance, 2) evaluating new peanut entries both in the greenhouse and field plots to disease, 3) studying genetic variability of Sclerotinia minor, and 4) investigating the effect of peanut seed maturity on the Oleic/Linoleic acid ratio. Data from this project will accelerate the development of disease resistant cultivars, and improve management strategies for use by Oklahoma growers. (1661) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Hassan Melouk Adjunct Professor, EPP Statistics: Mark Payton

Development of Disease Resistant Wheat and Studies of Selected Wheat Diseases Nearly 1,500 wheat breeder lines from OSU, Agripro, Pioneer, Hungary, Romania, and USDA cooperative breeding nurseries were tested for reaction to wheat soilborne mosaic/wheat spindle streak mosaic. Oklahoma lines (604) also were tested for reaction to tan spot, Septoria tritici blotch, and barley yellow dwarf. Results are used to facilitate variety development. ‘Stardust’ white winter wheat was released by Oklahoma State University. Other research found that fungicide applied at jointing followed by an application at head emergence increased yield compared to a single application at head emergence, and that tan spot causes early season leaf spotting in no-till fields where wheat residue is high but is replaced by septoria tritici blotch as the season progresses. (1871) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Wheat Research Foundation, Chemical Companies PI/PDs: Robert M. Hunger, Kris Giles Plant & Soil Sciences: Brett Carver, David Marburger, Liuling Yan

Molecular Aspects of Insect Immunity We explored the hemolymph proteomes of Manduca sexta larvae injected with bacteria or buffer. Of the 654 proteins identified, 70 and 51 showed >5/3 and <3/5 of the control levels, respectively. The fat body mRNA and plasma protein level changes had a correlation coefficient of 0.57, which was 0.75 for the immunity-related. Finding small proteins in the range of 80−500 kDa on reducing SDS-polyacrylamide gel indicated the formation of high Mr covalent immune complexes. We identified 30 serine protease-related proteins, 11 known as members of the extracellular signaling network. Their identification, inducibility and association will facilitate the system exploration. (2450) Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Haobo Jiang Managing Muscoid Fly Pests Associated with Livestock Production Facilities Muscoid flies are among the most important pests in livestock production systems. Two species in particular, house fly (Musca domestica) and horn fly (Haematobia irritans), are responsible for damage and control costs in excess of a billion dollars per year in the United States. Specifically, this project will address four areas concerning pest management of muscoid flies by: 1) characterizing horn fly populations in different landscapes, 2) improve understanding of house fly dispersal and behavior, and develop methods for monitoring them in indoor and outdoor environments, 3) develop horn fly control tactics, and 4) develop house fly resistance management tactics. (2622) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Justin Talley, Bruce Noden, Tom Royer, Animal Science: David Lalman, Chris Richards, Megan Rolf Natural Resource Ecology and Management: David Engle

Biology, Ecology, and Integrated Management of Turfgrass Diseases All turfgrasses grown in Oklahoma can be damaged by a variety of diseases and pests. The objectives are to characterize the biology and ecology of important turfgrass pathogens and pests and to develop appropriate integrated management strategies for these turfgrass pests. The genetic diversity of several fungi, nematode, and insect turfgrass pests continue to be investigated. Additional efforts include characterization of elicitors responsible for disease and screening turfgrasses for better genetic disease resistance. Current integrated pest management approaches used for turfgrass in Oklahoma are being evaluated and modified as needed. (2833) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Nathan Walker, Stephen Marek, Eric Rebek, Carla Garzon Microbial Forensics and Food and Agricultural Biosecurity Forensic tools adapted and validated for plant pathogens include enhanced performance PCR primers, tools for detection of water-borne and food-borne pathogens, synthetic positive controls, and simple sequence DNA repeat assays for fungal discrimination. Whole genome sequencing of high priority plant pathogens is underway for applications in microbial forensics. The novel Eprobe Diagnostic Nucleic acid Analysis (EDNA) and a multi-locus VNTR detection/discrimination assay were optimized for foodborne human pathogens on produce. Plant pathogen forensic tools were validated in an in-depth investigation of a natural plant disease outbreak. Risk assessments of cattle grazing, wildlife presence, and fumigation impacts in tree nut orchards were completed. (2850) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA, USDA National Needs, Department of Homeland Security, European Union PI/PDs: Jacqueline Fletcher Entomology and Plant Pathology: Astri Wayadande, Li Maria Ma, Francisco Ochoa Corona, Trenna Blagden, Carla Garzon, Steve Marek Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: Ulrich Melcher USDA ARS: William Schneider Kansas State University: James Stack ARO Volcani Center, Israel: Abraham Gamliel

Ecological and genetic diversity of soilborne pathogens and indigenous microflora Soilborne fungi and oomycetes population present in natural ecosystems can become aggressive plant pathogens when soils are used for agriculture. The population structure of isolates of Globisporangium irregulare (Pythium irregulare) sensu lato from chrysanthemums collected from 2014 to 2015 from diverse floricultural greenhouses was examined. Among isolates collected in 2014, the two known clades of G. irregulare were observed. Significant differentiation was observed among populations defined by greenhouse, indicating mostly local inoculum distribution. Nonetheless, a few haplotypes were shared among locations, suggesting the possibility of occasional movement of inoculum. The potential sources of common inoculum will be explored. (2859) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station; Oklahoma State University Provost Planning Grant; USDA PI/PDs: Carla Garzon, Hassan Melouk, Stephen Marek, Nathan Walker

Biological Control of Arthropod Pests and Weeds In association with the multistate working group, I am working on research projects related to: characterizing and evaluating the effect of established natural enemies, and implementation, evaluation, and enhancement (e.g., conservation) of biological control. Field and laboratory studies continue to examine intraguild dynamics among aphid parasitoids and aphidophagous predators. In addition, studies are continuing on describing landscape level movement and services of insect predators in canola, wheat, and pasture systems. (2865) S1058 Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA CSREES PI/PD: Kristopher Giles Ecology, Biology, and Pest Control of Wood‐Destroying Subterranean Termites. Studies of effects of subterranean termites on soil fertility and aeration, rainwater percolation rates, CO2 and CH4 emissions, plant diversity, and feeding preferences on The Oklahoma Tallgrass Prairie are currently being published. Two MS and two Ph.D. degrees were awarded during this FY. Experimental Use Permit studies examining new technology termiticide application equipment and techniques are underway. Investigations of morphology and foraging characteristics of a unique grass-feeding, pasture-damaging termite pest found in cattle pastures of arid southwest Oklahoma are being published. (2899) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Brad Kard

Non‐linear dose responses to fungicides in fungal and oomycete pathogystems Current research focuses on effects of sublethal‐dose fungicides on soilborne fungi and oomycete phytopathogens of diverse crops, including ornamentals and vegetables. Multiple isolates of Globisporangium irregulare (formerly Pythium irregulare), G. cryptoirregulare (P. cryptoirregulare) and Pythium aphanidermatum with and without resistance to mefenoxam were genotyped. A draft genome of P. aphanidermatum was generated. Oklahoma isolates with and without resistance to mefenoxam will be assessed for hormetic responses and compared for differential gene expression in absence and in presence of mefenoxam. An article on fungicide hormesis of G. irregulare and G.ultimum was published. A Sclerotinia article has been revised for re-submission. (2901) Sponsors: USDA‐ARS; Oklahoma Research Experiment Station PI/PDs: Carla Garzon, Hassan Melouk, Stephen Marek, Nathan Walker

Targeting the unfolded protein response for reducing virus infection in potato Potato viruses X (PVX) and Y (PVY) are economically damaging viruses of potato affecting yield and marketability. Two ER stress pathways, namely IRE1/bZIP60 and the BI-1 pathway limit systemic accumulation of potyvirus and potexvirus infection. Silencing BI-1 expression also resulted in systemic necrosis. The ER stress activated pathways led by IRE1 and BI-1 respond to invading potyvirus and potexviruses to restricts virus infection and enable physiological changes enabling plants to tolerate virus assault. We will identify genetic components of the UPR machinery that directly interact with viral factors for germplasm improvement in order to reduce the impact of diseases. (2908) Sponsors: USDA NIFA Foundational Grant PI/PD: Jeanmarie Verchot

Biology, ecology, and management of tick and mosquito-borne diseases of public and veterinary health in West Central United States This project seeks to better understand the transmission and ecology of tick/mosquito-borne diseases in Oklahoma. Specific projects include ecological studies of medically-important tick species, monitoring pathogens in tick and mosquito populations, and investigating the potential for other vector-borne pathogens. To date, this project has completed active surveillance of 5 tick species throughout Oklahoma, focused on specific extension-related questions as well as the knowledge and perceptions of beef producers regarding ticks in pasture systems. Continuing studies are developing low-cost diagnostic tools for tick-borne pathogens and focusing on identifying factors involved in the increased incidence of tick-borne disease across the state. (2909) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Bruce Noden

Fly Management in Animal Agriculture Systems and Impacts on Animal Health and Food Safety Biting and nuisance flies are among the most important pests in livestock and poultry production systems. These flies are responsible for damage and control costs in excess of a billion dollars per year in the United States. In addition to the direct damage these flies inflict upon livestock, their presence as a byproduct of confined livestock and poultry operations has been repeatedly cited as a nuisance, especially when flies enter the vicinity of human habitations. Successful completion of this project will provide a better understanding of the interactions between livestock production systems and the life cycles of pestiferous flies. (2917) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Justin Talley, Astri Wayadande

Biology, epidemiology, and integrated management of row and vegetable crop diseases Production of peanuts, winter canola, and vegetable crops are important agricultural enterprises in Oklahoma. These crops are attacked by diseases, and fungicides are routinely used. While fungicides increase yields, some are expensive and repeated use may lead to resistance and emergence of secondary diseases. Black leg disease is widespread in canola and could limit production. Identification and development of resistant cultivars can reduce reliance on fungicides, increase yield, and lessen selection pressure. This research project, in cooperation with breeding programs, will quantify resistance and measure impacts on production. Molecular tools will be used to identify genes for pathogenicity and resistance. (2932) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Soybean Board, Oklahoma Oilseed and Peanut Commission, USDA/ NIFA, and private industry PI/PD: John Damicone

Pest Management in Winter Wheat and Canola in the Central and Southern Plains The effects of natural enemies on pests of wheat and canola have not been fully incorporated into IPM programs in the Southern Plains. Project members continue to monitor the distribution and abundance of insect pests of wheat and Canola, refine and validate insect pest sampling plans in wheat and canola, examine dynamic interactions among insect pests, narrow‐ spectrum insecticides, and natural enemies, describe the relationship between bird‐cherry oat aphid infestations on wheat, and describe the ecology of aphidophagous natural enemies in simple and diverse wheat/canola agroecosystems. Results will be used to optimize pest management approaches. (2935) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA PI/PD: Kristopher Giles Insect Transmission of Plant and Human Pathogens to Plants This project focuses on the relationships between insect vectors and plant or human pathogens. One goal of this project is to understand the probing behavior of biting flies using electropenetrography (EPG). EPG waveforms of the Zika virus vector revealed that blood ingestion occurs rapidly during the initial probing process. Vector leafhopper counts in grassland ecosystems in Oklahoma revealed high numbers of several plant pathogen vector species. The invasive leafhopper, Balclutha rubrostriata, was identified in only a few Oklahoma counties, and only very late in the year. Electronic probes were developed for detection of leafhopper vector species in mass insect samples. (2936) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NNF, USDA AFRI PI/PDs: Astri Wayadande, Jacque Fletcher, Justin Talley, Li Ma, Francisco Ochoa Corona Kansas State University: Anna Whitfield USDA: Bill Schneider

Phosphine Resistance, Fumigation Alternatives, and Improved IPM for Stored Grain Insects Conduct research to determine presence or absence of phosphine resistance, resistance frequencies, and levels of resistance in adult and immature life stages of stored-product insects. Investigate factors that mitigate or exacerbate resistance. Research fumigation alternatives, and develop resistance management strategies to ensure continued effective use of phosphine. Investigate the biology and ecology of stored-product insects that are a threat to stored commodities. (2949) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Almond Board of California PI/PDs: George P. Opit Kansas State University: Thomas Phillips

Detection and diagnostic methods for agricultural biosecurity and forensic plant pathology application. This project focuses on forensic plant pathology and biosecurity: 1) studies waterborne plant viruses and microbes threatening Oklahoma’s Agriculture, 2) contributes to regulatory plant health emergencies and forensic plant pathology, 3) develops and adapt technologies for sampling, molecular identification of genomic landmarks for detection and discrimination. 4) Studies Rose rosette virus and other mite transmitted Emaravirus in OK. Two scientific articles in refereed journals were published. Progress continues developing decision support tools for prioritization, emergency management, and prediction of biosecurity threats. (2950) Sponsors: OSU Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (DASNR), OSU Office of the Vice President for Research and Technology Transfer, USDA-CSREES, USDA-SCRI, American Floral Endowment. PI/PD: Francisco, Ochoa-Corona Biology of Fungi affecting Crop Plants The research investigates the biology and virulence of plant pathogenic fungi affecting Oklahoma’s agricultural and horticultural crops and natural ecosystems. Genomics, molecular and cell biology, and population biology are used to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of pathogenic fungi infecting economically important crop plants and model plants. Fungal plant diseases under investigation include: switchgrass rust, alfalfa leaf spots, Phymatotrichopsis root rot, onion salmon blotch, bermudagrass spring dead spot, wheat tan spot, and Botrytis blight. Application of fungi in biofuel feedstock saccharification and biological control of insects also are under study. (2971) Sponsors: OAES, NSF-EPSCoR, Noble Foundation, ODAFF, OSRHE, USGA, USDA-NIFA-AFRI, EU PI/PDs: Stephen Marek, Carla Garzon, Nathan Walker, Eric Rebek, Robert Hunger Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering: Mark Wilkins Ohio State University: Tom Mitchell Noble Foundation: Carolyn Young, Kiran Mysore Virginia Tech University: Bingyu Zhao Oregon State University: Brett Tyler Iowa State University: Bing Yang ARO, The Volcani Center, Israel: Abraham Gamliel

Integrated Arthropod Management in Oklahoma’s Grain and Row Crops. We will develop sustainable, integrated approaches to arthropod management in wheat, canola, cotton and other row crops grown Oklahoma by: 1) determining the distribution and incidence of established and emerging arthropod pests and their impact on yields using registered and novel insecticides and or new transgenic events, 2) determining effective oversprays for managing Heliothine escapes in transgenic cotton and their impact on yield, 3) developing sampling plans in concordance with current damage thresholds and adjusting them as necessary, and 4) identifying, evaluating, and disseminating IPM tactics in row crops and small grains for producer adoption. (2979) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Cotton Incorporated, USDA NIFA PI/PDs: Tom Royer, Plant & Soil Sciences: Randy Boman

Vector status of the invasive leafhopper, Balclutha rubrostriata, as it invades the central plains states The invasive leafhopper, Balclutha rubrostriata, is closely related to leafhoppers that transmit grass viruses, but it has never been identified as a pathogen vector. To determine its potential as a pathogen vector, populations of B. rubrostriata and other grassland leafhopers will be tested for mollicute and virus transmission. Distribution of B. rubrostriata was determined by collections throughout the Midwestern states, but only populations in Texas and southern Oklahoma were detected. A multiplex virus assay for both grass and leafhopper hosts will be developed. To date, we have determined that B. rubrostriata does not overwinter in Oklahoma. (2984) Sponsors: USDA NIFA, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PIs/Pds: Astri Wayadande, Anna Whitfield Francisco Ochoa Corona Decontamination of Foodborne Pathogens on Produce by Atmospheric Cold Plasma Decontamination of foodborne pathogens on produce is critical to human health and food industry. Research studies have been conducted during this period that include 1) improving cold plasma actuator design and 2) elucidating the molecular mechanisms of human pathogen inactivation by cold plasma through RNA-seq analysis. The results showed that the gaps between plasma actuator electrodes have significant impact on the inactivation efficiency of human pathogens whereas the transcriptomic response of Salmonella to cold plasma treatment revealed a general decrease in stress responses as a result of rapid lipid peroxidation, cytosolic leakage, and cell lysis. (2999) Sponsors: USDA National Needs Fellowship Program, OSU Research Foundation, and Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Li Maria Ma

Diagnostics and control methods for viruses in cannas This project is designed to produce virus-free canna plants for field and greenhouse production of rhizomes by Oklahoma growers and nurseries. The Verchot laboratory developed and implemented diagnostics to assess canna health and a workflow for indexing healthy mother stocks. We are completing a study examining the role of soil and rhizomes in transmission of virus to healthy plants. We have also completed sequencing nine isolates of Canna yellow streak virus and reported the first genome sequence for canna yellow mottle virus. This funding will provide methods for improved propagation and will generate mother stocks to feed the industry producers. (3000) Sponsors: USDA Hatch PI/PD: Jeanmarie Verchot

Development of a User-friendly, Rapid Scouting Procedure for the Invasive Sugarcane Aphid, Melanaphis sacchari, in Sorghum. Since 2013, the sugarcane aphid, Melanaphis sacchari, has become a devastating pest of sorghum. We propose to develop a sampling protocol and dynamic scouting tool for sugarcane aphid based its seasonal distribution patterns using data collected from sorghum fields in five states. We will validate the scouting tool and integrate it with results of ongoing economic threshold research. Once developed, we will demonstrate the sampling tool through grower meetings and winter crops meetings and assess stakeholder acceptance and impact of its use. (3014) Sponsors: USDA NIFA, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service PI/PDs: Tom Royer USDA ARS: Norman C. Elliott University of Arkansas: Nick Seiter Kansas State University: Brian McCornack Louisiana State University: Sebe Brown Texas A&M Agrilife Research and Extension: Robert Bowling, Allen Knutson ROBERT M. KERR FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER

Coordinating the Research Efforts within the Robert M. Kerr Food and Agricultural Products Center. The mission of the Robert M. Kerr Food & Agricultural Products Center (FAPC) is to discover, develop and deliver food and fiber value‐added products and processes that help stimulate the growth of the Oklahoma food and agribusiness industries. The FAPC has assisted 1,500 Oklahoma businesses with 3,500 projects resulting in impacts of $2 billion in annual sales revenue, and 8,500 jobs created and retained. Additionally, the FAPC has incubated and contributed 65 sustainable start‐up businesses affecting $11 million in annual sales revenue and creating 330 full‐time employment jobs in 35 communities across Oklahoma. The FAPC trains and educates 1,200 food industry employees each year in contemporary food safety and security, best manufacturing practices, and food product development. The FAPC works with state and federal agencies and economic development offices across Oklahoma to deliver effective and impactful results. (2501) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: J. Roy Escoubas

Assessment and Validation of Pre‐Harvest Management Practices to Reduce Shiga‐Toxin Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in the Food Supply Cattle carry shiga-toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), and on-farm practices can affect pathogen loads. Samples were collected and production practices of cattle operations in Oklahoma assessed to determine STEC contamination factors and develop guidelines for best management practices and pre-harvest food safety. Results indicated 4.4% and 15% incidence of O157:H7 and non-O157 E. coli in Oklahoma, respectively. Most prevalent serogroups were O26, O45, and O103. Use of creeks, dirt-stock tanks, and cement/metal-stock tanks showed significantly higher (P<0.05) prevalence. Other factors such as type of feed and animal density also had an impact on the load of pathogens in the farm environment. (2871) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Divya Jaroni, Deborah Vanoverbeke

Development of New Value‐Added Peanut Products The goal of this project is to develop economically viable products and processes to convert peanuts into new value‐added products. Peanut butter has been a consumer favorite for decades, but if it could be marketed in more convenient forms, its consumption would likely increase. A shelf‐stable peanut butter snack is being developed. The snack will be marketed based on the nutritional value of peanuts, including their high protein content and as a source of B vitamins. Shelf stability and additional product line extensions are currently being investigated. (2882) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, OSU Technology Business Development Program PI/PDs: Danielle Bellmer, William McGlynn Detection, Characterization, and Inhibition of Foodborne Pathogens, Toxins, and Spoilage Microorganisms. The detection, isolation, and characterization of pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms in food and processing environments to reduce the incidence, survival, and/or proliferation of pathogenic (E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes) or spoilage microorganisms in food using physical, chemical, or biological interventions and control mechanisms as well as approaches for genetic analysis, differentiation, and rapid detection. Although pathogens are of strong concern to food manufacturers, nothing presents as much a day‐to‐day problem as do losses from spoilage organisms. We are evaluating antimicrobials against E. coli and Salmonella on raw meat, and natural biopreservatives (bacteriocins) against L. monocytogenes on processed meats (hotdogs). Isolation and characterization of slime‐ and gas‐producing lactic acid bacteria may help identify processes to alleviate problems with these organisms on raw and processed meats. (2885) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Unitherm Foodsystems, Nutrition Physiology Co. PI/PD: Peter Muriana

Evaluating Changes in the Food and Fiber Processing Industry of the Southern Plains Work was conducted on a project estimating the relative values of state marketing programs for Oklahoma and surrounding states. Comparative values for state labels from neighboring states have been completed for an eight-state region. Research continues to determine if state label values vary by a consumer’s proximity to a neighboring state. A project examining the factors impacting Oklahoma’s new food businesses and their efforts to obtain industry “legitimacy” was completed, and the findings will be presented in an upcoming conference. Work continues on the state and national demand for food animal health services and the income opportunities for food safety inspectors with doctorates in veterinary medicine. (2886) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA PI/PD: Rodney Holcomb

Evaluating the processing Potential of Specialty Crops and Enhancing the Food Safety of Oklahoma Produced and/or Processed Horticultural Products The goal of this research project is to assist Oklahoma's fruit and vegetable processors to produce innovative, healthy, and safe products. Current efforts are focused on evaluating the processing and quality characteristics of two varieties of wine grapes not currently grown commercially in Oklahoma: Rubaiyat and Frontenac Gris. Our long‐term goal is to create new food products and expand markets for food producers and processors. (2887) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: William McGlynn Adding Value to Cereal Grains Utilization Our projects aimed to improve contributions from cereal grains to the human diet such as the development of stable probiotic products that can survive heat process and support healthy guts via increasing beneficial microbes in the gut of humans and farm animals and improved nutrient utilization. We also explore strategies that directly impact human health such as 1) reduction of sodium in wheat based baked products via natural products such as metabolites from fermentation without affecting key quality attributes and 2) understanding of proteins and other active components for the next generation of healthier wheat products. (2888) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Wheat Foundation, Oklahoma Wheat Commission PI/PD: Patricia Rayas-Duarte Biochemistry & Molecular Biology: Alejandro Penaloza-Vazquez, Charles Chen Entomology & Plant Pathology: Li Ma, Bob Hunger, Kris Giles, Tom Roger Plant & Soil Sciences: Brett Carver, Jeff Edwards, Liuling Yang, Gopal Kakani, Chad Pen

Advanced Processing Techniques for Biobased Product Development Biomass can be thermally converted to bio‐oil, combustible gases and bio‐char by pyrolysis in the absence of oxygen. The objective of this research project is to optimize a microwave‐ assisted pyrolysis (MAP) process that will produce bio‐oil from algal biomass. The direct conversion of the electromagnetic energy into heat at the molecular level makes microwave an efficient technology for biomass pyrolysis. Biomass from Oklahoma native algae strains grown on waste water is used as feedstock for MAP. The target bio‐oil can be refined into fuels with energy content and functional properties similar to petroleum based fuels or converted other bio‐products. Adaptation of the pyrolysis oil as feedstock for bio‐product manufacturing will not require substantial changes to the existing fuel production, use and distribution infrastructure. (2894) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Nurhan Turgut Dunford

Low Cost and Safe Dehydration Equipment for Food Processors This project is focused on the development of low‐cost and safe dehydration equipment for food processors. Dehydrated foodstuffs are an excellent value‐added option for small and very small food growers, producers and processors. Unfortunately, the available dehydration equipment has one or more of the following critical flaws: small scale; not cleanable; does not include food safety measures; high cost; and, difficult to use. The goal of this project is to design, build, test, and make available dehydration equipment that overcomes these flaws. (2968) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Timothy Bowser HORTICULTURE AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

Development and refinement of production systems for current and future vegetable crops in Oklahoma Project evaluated summer and winter cover crops for soil improvement for cool season leafy vegetable crops and for summer cucurbit crops. Part of the project evaluated new herbicides on pepper. Data will be shared with IR-4, agriculture chemical companies, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture Food and Forestry, and EPA. Cultivar trials included replicated trials with tomato searching for more heat tolerant cultivars, over-winter spinach, sweet potato, snap bean, sweet corn and completion of Native American legume and cucurbit crop seed increases for future research. Trial results are available in the 2015 Vegetable Trial Report MP- 164 available in print on request and on-line at: http://www.hortla.okstate.edu/research-and- outreach/research/vegetable-trial-reports. (1441) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Lynn Brandenberger, Niels Maness, Brian Kahn Entomology & Plant Pathology: John Damicone

Improved Vegetable Crop Development Through Sustainable Cultural Practices The research will develop sustainable cultural systems for Oklahoma vegetable crops. Specifically, strategies will be identified to effectively manage pest populations in urban vegetable gardens with minimal insecticide use by encouraging natural enemies, and to enhance pollination services by increasing pollinator diversity and abundance. The research also will determine continuous production periods that could meet market demand for selected Oklahoma vegetable crops, including sweet corn and eggplant. (2026) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food & Forestry, Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education Program PI/PD: Brian Kahn

Development of Integrated Resource Management Systems for Turfgrass Culture in Oklahoma During 2011 – 2015, 2,200 experimental lines of St. Augustinegrass, bermudagrass, zoysiagrass and seashore paspalum from a multi-state consortium of five universities were screened for general field performance as well as drought resistance. Lines with elite drought resistance were found within each species in 2012, 2013 and 2014. The 10 most drought resistant lines found within each species each year (only 5 each year in paspalum) were tested more extensively in 2013 - 2016. Drought resistance testing under field conditions beneath water- resistant tarps commenced in summer of 2016. Curly mesquitegrass, which is often mixed with buffalograss and bluegrama for use in low maintenance lawns in TX, was found to be non- winter hardy during a first year test of the three-way mix at the Stillwater, OK test site in 2014. Consequently, we planted over 1,000 clonal lines of curly mesquitegrass at Stillwater, OK in summer of 2015 to determine if suitable variation for winter tolerance exists in this broad- based genetic seed source originating from the south western US. The commercial production of this seed is now based in Mexico with product sold in the US. From the lines that survived the winter of 2015-2016, twenty-five elite clonal lines were advanced to replicated field trials in July of 2016. The 2016 NTEP Seashore Paspalum trial was planted in July as an ancillary trial to determine if any of the lines had suitable winter-hardiness for a specialty, low-mowed turfgrass under Oklahoma’s transition zone climate. Entries in the 2013-2018 NTEP bermudagrass trial at Stillwater, OK remained under test. The trial entries were inoculated with virulent isolates of spring dead spot disease caused by Ophiosphaerella herpotricha in September of 2016. First resistance disease resistance ratings will be collected in spring of 2017 with resistance ratings collected in May of each subsequent year. (2990) Sponsors: United States Golf Association, Oklahoma Golf Course Superintendents Association, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education PI/PDs: Dennis Martin, Justin Moss, Charles Fontanier Plant & Soil Sciences at OSU: Yanqi Wu Entomology & Plant Pathology: Nathan Walker Texas A&M University: Ambika Chandra, Ben Wherley University of Georgia: Brian Schwartz, Paul Raymer. North Carolina State University: Susana Milla-Lewis, Grady Miller University of Florida: Kevin Kenworthy

Investigations of Turfgrass Drought Resistance Turfgrasses and other landscape plants serve an important role in society, yet improvements could be made to develop drought resistant turfgrass varieties and increase turf grass water use efficiency in Oklahoma. The goal of this project is to promote urban environmental sustainability and efficient use of water through the development, commercialization, marketing, and use of drought resistant bermudagrass varieties for Oklahoma and the U.S. transition zone and to increase knowledge pertaining to bermudagrass drought resistance. The objectives of this project are to: 1.) Test and select several experimental bermudagrass genotypes for improved drought resistance; and 2.) Further the understanding of bermudagrass abiotic stress tolerance or resistance through transcriptomics. (2923) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Justin Moss

New Plant Development and Evaluating Precision and New Production Techniques in Greenhouses to Improve Cultivation of Ornamental Taxa in Oklahoma Herbaceous and woody species were evaluated for regional adaptability and ornamental merit as part of a trial program. Hybridization and genetic manipulation techniques were utilized as tools for new plant development. Nondestructive optical chlorophyll sensors are being utilized to evaluate nitrogen status in potted greenhouse crops. Tensiometers are being used for precision irrigation to control water use and fertilizer use in greenhouse production. Determining how virus transmission occurs in Canna has been started. Lastly, effects of fertilizer on yield on vegetables in NFT and Dutch bucket hydroponic systems has been initiated. (2924) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food & Forestry PI/PD: Bruce Dunn Pecan Nut Suture Splits are Positively Related to Kernel Moisture Concentration and Solar Radiant Exposure Pecans with cracked shells reduce the wholesale value about 75%. Certain cultivars tend to split at the shell suture. High kernel moisture early in the harvest season and exposure to bright sunlight was closely associated with splitting. Later in the harvest season when kernels had less moisture splitting was not affected by sunlight exposure. During the first harvest, cultivars with a tendency to split should be shaken on cloudy days and harvested before exposure to bright sunshine. An alternative to shaking on cloudy days is to shake trees in the evening and harvest the next morning before exposure to high light conditions. (2925) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station and Friendship Pecan Farm, Baconton, GA PI/PD: Michael W. Smith

Postharvest Preservation and Processing Systems for New and Conventional Horticultural Commodities The research develops postharvest handling and quality analysis procedures necessary for new crop/new use production/harvesting/processing systems to provide alternatives for Oklahoma producers and food processors. Conventional batch-style protocols are being developed for oligomeric proanthocyanidin extraction from grape seed by optimizing extraction time (1 to 6 hours), extraction solvent (ethanol, acetone or water) and solvent pH (pH 2 or 3). Complementary continuous extraction protocols for oligomeric proanthocyanidins from grapes are also being investigated to improve commercial applicability for processing of these crop. Ambient temperature extraction of lipids from various crops is being investigated to maintain value in the extracted oils and the extracted meals; for oilseeds propane extraction is being investigated as a replacement technology for hexane. (2926) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Niels Maness HUMAN SCIENCES

Food Systems, Health, and Well-being: Understanding Complex Relationships and Dynamics of Change This collaboration aims to improve food systems as well as changing mindsets and behaviors of individuals within the food system. The multi-state team investigates complex relationships, involving key stakeholders in analyzing and addressing problems and solutions. Our goal is to increase understanding of food and nutrition practices and systems and to facilitate food- related institutional, community, family, and individual behavioral changes that can improve health and well-being. (2829) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Stephany Parker

Personal Protective Technologies for Current and Emerging Occupational Hazards This project highlights the importance of improving personal protective equipment for “first responders” and “first receivers”. The project addresses the needs of these groups by evaluating the following: (1) Alleviating back pain problems of patrol officers due to wearing a duty belt. Suggestions for improving of the car space for easy access to instrumentation and an improved gear configuration were developed; (2) A prototype garment integrated with wireless sensors that records vital signs to provide biometric signals that meet the standards required by medical professionals to diagnose cardiovascular irregularities was constructed and wear tested; and (3) To inform new design parameters, multiple focus group studies were conducted among elderly women regarding their behaviors and attitudes related to falling and wearing hip protectors. (2835) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Semra Peksoz, Adriana Petrova, Mary Ruppert-Stroescu

Parenting, Energy Dynamics and Lifestyle Determinants of Childhood Obesity: New Directions in Prevention The purpose of this multi-state research project is to identify successful childhood obesity prevention strategies that include parenting and to translate those strategies for implementation by community and public health professionals. The goals included: 1) reviewing the pertinent literature regarding parent, family, or community obesity-prevention research from the perspective of nutrition, physical activity, and developmental sciences, 2) arriving at a consensus about the primary correlates of childhood obesity that can be addressed by parent, family, or community obesity prevention programs, and 3) translating and disseminating agreed-upon best practices into messages or webinars for Extension. (2849) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Laura Hubbs-Tait Improving Safety and Health of Wildland Firefighters Fit and comfort concerns related to protective clothing of female wildland firefighters will be communicated to apparel manufacturers and federal government agencies. This initial dialog will be the first step to making necessary changes in styles to personal protective clothing for female wildland firefighters with enhanced functionality via improvements in protective, physiological, and aesthetic attributes. (2855) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Adriana Petrova, Semra Peksoz

Meta-Analysis of Child Obesity Prevention Programs The purpose of this project is to apply traditional methods of meta-analysis to analyze child obesity prevention and intervention trials in order to identify effective components of those interventions, determine subpopulations of children for whom intervention components are most successful, and identify parenting variables that increase obesity trial success. Objectives include: 1) conducting a systematic review of the child obesity prevention research focusing on parenting to identify obesity prevention outcomes and potential statistical moderators, and 2) conducting a meta-analysis of the identified childhood prevention/intervention studies to identify significant prevention programs and significant moderators of program effectiveness. (2868) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Laura Hubbs-Tait

Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) focuses on helping low-income families and youth improve healthy eating behaviors and stretch food dollars. The past year, EFNEP reached 1,233 adults and 22,050 youth directly and nearly 4,672 family members indirectly. Based on pre/post evaluations, adult participants reported improvements in healthy nutrition practices (89%), food resource management (83%), food safety (59%), and physical activity (35%). Additionally, EFNEP paraprofessionals use evidence-based curriculum with 1st-4th graders in schools and after-school settings. Overall, youth reported increasing their ability to choose healthy foods (78%), physical activity (27%), and practice safe food handling and preparation (41%). (2880) Sponsors: United States Department of Agriculture, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service PI/PDs: Nancy Betts Animal Production Systems: Synthesis of Methods to Determine Sustainability Food demand, specifically the demand for animal protein is expected to increase. However, the quantity and quality of available land, fresh water, and energy resources are declining. More and more consumers increasingly want to know how their food is produced. Consumer preferences create demand for different production practices with respect to food safety, nutrition, animal welfare, environmental protection and retail practices. The goals of this project are to engage collaborators from a broad range of disciplines, including facility management and design; facilitate organization, synthesis, and integration of systems research; and interpret the impacts to animal-production systems. (2900) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Paulette Hebert, Mihyun Kang

Nutrient Bioavailability - Phytonutrients and Beyond Body fat distribution, dietary and serum antioxidants, and insulin resistance were assessed in older Oklahoma women with and without metabolic syndrome (MetS). Participants with MetS were insulin resistant and had higher serum leptin and lower adiponectin than controls. The higher android to gynoid fat ratio in MetS was positively associated with insulin resistance and serum leptin but negatively associated with adiponectin. Dietary total antioxidant capacity of all participants was low which supported national survey data showing that Oklahomans have the lowest consumption of fruit and vegetable in the US. (2912) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Barbara Stoecker, Edralin Lucas

Fostering Resilience in Parents and Children that Experience Divorce This project contributes to the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service’s Family Resiliency Initiative by assisting divorcing parents throughout the state in effective parenting and family interaction. This project centers on the evaluation and further development of a parent education program which focuses on building resilience in families by decreasing parental conflict, increasing the level of positive parenting, and increasing parental involvement. (2916) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Matt Brosi, Ron Cox

Parental Practices Supporting Positive Eating Behaviors during Independent Eating Occasions among Early Adolescent Children Parental practices influence early adolescent's eating behaviors and therefore play an essential role in preventing obesity. However, little is known about how various parental practices influence intake when parents are not with the child and are not supervising the eating occasion. A better understanding of the extent to which parental practices influence food choice and eating behaviors of early adolescents at independent eating occasions is necessary to inform the development of interventions to promote positive parental practices that may assist in weight management. (2964) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Glade Topham Role of Garlic in Decreasing Cardiovascular Disease Risk by Promoting Reverse-Cholesterol Transport This project examines the extent to which bioactive components present in garlic exhibit their cardioprotective properties through an increase in cholesterol efflux and reduction in cholesterol synthesis in macrophages. The project focuses on examining the action of dietary HDACi in primary macrophages. Our primary objective is to examine the extent to which garlic, and its bioactive components, leads to the stimulation of RCT through the enhanced release of cholesterol from macrophages. Dietary approaches or mechanisms that enhance RCT are an attractive option in reducing blood cholesterol levels and improving CVD risk at a relatively low cost with minimal side effect. (2991) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Stephen Clarke

β,β‐carotene 9’,10’‐oxygenase 2 in hepatic mitochondrial function and obesity The purpose of this study is to dissect the role of BCO2 in mitochondrial integrity and the consequence in the development of obesity in mice. The project utilized functional biochemistry and omics approaches to assess the underlying mechanism by which BCO2 regulates mitochondrial structure and function (mitochondrial respiration) in the wild type and BCO2 knockout mice. (2992) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Dingbo Lin

Anti‐Inflammatory Properties of Wheat Germ Oil (WGO) Formulations Developed at Oklahoma State University Chronic inflammation is associated with many chronic conditions including cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory properties of wheat germ oil (WGO) prepared using different extraction methods. Our findings not only demonstrate that WGOs affect both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines involved in the development of many chronic diseases, but also the method of extraction influences its anti- inflammatory properties. (2993) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Edralin Lucas

Gut Immunomodulating Properties of Phenolic Compounds in Oklahoma Grown Pecans: Potential Health and Long-term Economic Impacts The Purpose of this project is to investigate the effects of pecan phenolics on the interactions between intestinal epithelial cells and T cells using an in in vitro model of gut mucosal immunity. (2994) Sponsors: National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI/PD: Brenda Smith NATURAL RESOURCE ECOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT

Coordination and Report of Research Efforts Related to Fisheries, Rangeland, and Wildlife Resources in Natural Resource Ecology and Management This project will coordinate the conduct and reporting of grants awarded to Natural Resource Ecology and Management investigators that are supported by OAES for the purpose of exploring novel approaches to current issues related to natural resources, ecology, and conservation issues. It is intended that the results of these grants will lead to more extensive research in areas that require preliminary data to stimulate creative approaches to address the sustainable management and conservation of fisheries, forestry, rangeland, and wildlife resources. (2610) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: R. James Ansley

Understanding Plant-soil Microbial Processes to Enhance Soil Carbon Sequestration in Bioenergy Feedstock Production The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 mandates increased reliance on biofuels to reduce our dependency on foreign oil. It has been suggested that prairie grasses can provide a sustainable, low-input biofuel feedstock, while at the same time sequestering large amounts of soil carbon (C). We have studied the importance of mycorrhizas to prairie ecosystems, as well as their contribution to belowground C storage for over 25 years. We wish to apply this ecological knowledge towards the development of sustainable practices for biofuel feedstock production. (2808) Sponsors: USDA AFRI, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Gail W.T. Wilson Plant and Soil Sciences: Yanqi Wu Argonne National Laboratory: R. Michael Miller Northern Arizona University: Nancy C. Johnson

Impacts of Landscape Heterogeneity and Fragmentation on Grassland Birds Historically, Great Plains grasslands were shaped by fire and grazing interactions, which created a heterogeneous habitat for grassland birds. Fire suppression in Oklahoma has played a role in the loss and degradation of habitat. Additional fragmentations in habitat are being caused by increases in human structures on the landscape. Little information exists on how these fragmentations directly impact grassland birds. Our objectives are to evaluate how fragmentation in the forms of fire suppression, woody plant encroachment, and human structures are related to survival, movement, and reproduction of select grassland birds. (2838) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Sutton Avian Research Center, University of Oklahoma, donations from private individuals, NGOs, and industry through the OSU Foundation PI/PDs: R. Dwayne Elmore, Samuel D. Fuhlendorf, Craig A. Davis, Mark Gregory Carbon Sequestration in Oklahoma Forests & Probable Response to Climate Change A significant amount of atmospheric carbon has been stored in forests in the US, much of which would have otherwise been released to the atmosphere with potentially deleterious effects with regard to global warming. Carbon storage is not necessarily incompatible with production of forest products since the end use of timber affects carbon storage. Management of southern forests in general and Oklahoma forests in particular is significant for economies and for the potential for climate change. Climate change may affect many aspects of forest growth and hence forest management. This project will collect data which will provide a more complete picture of carbon storage for certain Oklahoma forest types & analyze potential responses to future climate change. (2843) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA Forest Service, Southern Research Station PI/PD: Thomas B. Lynch

Nano-based Wood Plastic Composites Manufactured from Eastern Redcedar The eastern redcedar population in Oklahoma is growing. Eastern redcedar adversely affects grassland productivity, water resources, and wildlife habitat. This research proposes to develop wood plastic composite technology that would impact Oklahoma’s economy by exploiting the largely underutilized eastern redcedar. (2862) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, OSU Food and Agricultural Products Research and Technology Center, Oklahoma Redcedar Association PI/PD: Salim Hiziroglu

Sun Grant Program The objective of the Sun Grant Program (SGP) is to address national energy needs through coordinated regional research, education, and Extension activities that are focused on agriculture and forest-based renewable energy. The SGP – South Central Region will develop a regional competitive grants program designed to address the bioenergy research priorities of the Department of Agriculture (USDA) in the context of regional biogeographical conditions and resources. (2891) Sponsor: USDA NIFA, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: M. Keith Owens, Raymond Huhnke

Impacts of Regional Bioenergy Systems on Water Availability and Quality An opportunity exists in the Great Plains to supply feedstock for a vibrant cellulosic biofuel industry while also enhancing ecosystems services, in particular, water supply. This research will determine the impact of harvesting eastern redcedar on water yield at the watershed scale, as compared to recovering and intact native grasslands. It will also determine how planting switchgrass after eastern redcedar harvest affects water quantity and quality and compare to recovering and intact native grasslands. (2892) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA AFRI PI/PD: Rodney E. Will, Jr. Ecologically-based Invasive Plant Management of Forages in Oklahoma Biological invasion by non-native plants is a major cause of native ecosystem loss. This research will focus on further assessment of basic ecological characteristics invasive plant species exhibit. This knowledge will be applied to the development of appropriate management practices for controlling invasive plants. (2893) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA AFRI, Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit PI/PD: Karen R. Hickman

Combining Field Studies & Quantitative Reviews of Existing Data to Improve Understanding of Direct Human-caused Wildlife Mortality This research seeks to: 1) estimate abundance, density, and the factors influencing density, of populations of free-ranging domestic cats, 2) identify correlates of mortality rates for bird- building collisions and for bird and bat collisions with wind turbines and estimate the amount of total mortality, along with taxonomic patterns of vulnerability, caused by bat collisions with wind turbines at national, regional, and state (including Oklahoma) scales, and 3) assess how biases inherent in conducting dead bird and bat surveys and applying statistical estimators to fatality counts influence estimates of local mortality rates, mortality rate correlates, and regional and national mortality. (2915) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA, Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit PI/PD: Scott R. Loss

Development of Dynamic Vegetation Models for Grassland Fuels and Fire Models Within the context of grassland fuels, this research will address three questions: 1) how can the spatial and temporal variation in shrub and grass growth and production be best represented in fuel models, 2) how do invasive species, grazing, and fires affect fuel loading and heterogeneity of shrub and grass fuels, and 3) how do shrub and grass fuel loading and production vary along post-fire successional trajectories. (2927) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: David Engle

Restoration and Maintenance of Forest Health of South Central United States Bottomland Hardwoods This research will determine the original composition and structure of bottomland hardwood forests in south-central North American, the changes in land use that lead to their current condition and the cultural treatments to restore the integrity and health of floodplain ecosystems. The expected benefit of the proposed research is new knowledge and management tools for restoration and maintenance of bottomland hardwood forests. (2928) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Stephen Hallgren Silviculture of Forest and Woodland Communities in Oklahoma in Relation to Productivity and Water Use Loblolly pine is the most important commercial tree species in the United States and the world. While extensive pine plantation research has focused on maximizing productivity through the addition of nutrients and control of competing vegetation, less is known regarding the potential impact of changes in climate on southern pine productivity and how reduced precipitation may interact with nutrient availability. To address this issue, we will determine the effects of reduced water availability and increased nutrient availability on loblolly pine plantation growth, carbon sequestration, water use and physiology by measuring plantation response to a 30% decrease in throughfall and fertilization. (2929) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Rodney E. Will, Jr.

Improving Oklahoma Rangelands through Understanding Above- and Below-ground Linkages The research project will examine above and below ground linkages of rangeland ecosystems with a goal of improving rangeland quality throughout Oklahoma, the central U.S., and worldwide. Specifically, this project includes 3 major objectives to further assess: 1) ecosystem level implications of woody plant encroachment, 2) sustainable management for biofuel production, and 3) successful restoration following invasion by non-native grasses. (2930) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Gail Wilson

Vegetation and Land Use Impact on Vadose Soil Moisture Dynamics and Groundwater Recharge in Oklahoma Rapid change in land cover in the southern Great Plains has revitalized interest in managing land cover for water supply. The goal of this project is to assess the effects of vegetation types on soil moisture dynamic and groundwater recharge potential in upland ecosystems. Specific objectives include: 1) quantify soil moisture for the rooting zone under three contrasting vegetation types - grassland, post oak dominated deciduous forest and juniper woodland with the same precipitation input, 2) monitor the level of water table and evaluate interflow under different vegetation types and their seasonal variations, and 3) assess long-term water efflux out of the rooting zone using chloride mass balance - proximity for recharge potential. (2931) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Chris Zou Conservation of Rangelands and Wildlife on a Changing Landscape If native rangelands are to fully meet the expectations of society, it will require fundamental and substantial change in the principles of the discipline of rangeland management, and ultimately to its application at the landscape level. Objectives have been developed that will evaluate the relative importance of several of the principles over the next several years. Specific objectives include: 1) evaluate the response of economically and ecologically important wildlife populations to heterogeneous landscapes as influenced by agricultural management, fire, energy development and global change, and 2) evaluate vegetation responses as fuel for fires, forage for livestock and habitat for important wildlife populations to agricultural management, fire, energy development and global change. (2954) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Samuel Fuhlendorf

Enhancing Fish Production in Reservoirs Through Improved Sampling Methods and Fisheries Management Techniques The overall goal of this research is to provide knowledge necessary for the wise management of sportfish populations in lake and reservoir systems in Oklahoma and throughout the United States. (3004) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department PI/PD: Daniel E. Shoup

Assessments of Landscape Function for Native Oklahoma Birds The overriding objective of this project is to provide information that can be used by stakeholders to assess the ability of landscapes to support select native bird species. In some applications, the focus will be on specific species of conservation priority, for others the information will be folded into a broader community analysis to model overall ecosystem integrity for entire landscapes and ecoregions. (3007) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, OSU Department of Integrative Biology, Oaks and Prairies Joint Venture PI/PD: Timothy J. O’Connell Conservation of Wildlife in Fire-dependent Rangelands The general objective of this project is to examine the response of wildlife populations, predominantly avian species, to landscape changes at multiple spatial and temporal scales in shrub-dominated rangelands in western Oklahoma. Specifically, this project will be focused on examining the impact of both long-term and short-term land-use changes at multiple scales to guide conservation strategies for imperiled species such as northern bobwhite and lesser prairie chickens, as well as other wildlife. (3008) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service PI/PD: Craig A. Davis

Status, Distribution, and Ecology of Black Bears in Eastern Oklahoma The overall objective of this research is to provide information on the recently re-established black bear populations in Oklahoma that will provide a scientific basis for their management and contribute to a broader understanding of the ecological and anthropogenic effects on black bear populations. (3009) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, USDA Forest Service, Ouachita National Forest, Tulsa Zoo PI/PD: W. Sue Fairbanks PLANT AND SOIL SCIENCES

Weeds in Agronomic Crops and Pastures: Their Biology, Interference, and Management The objectives are: 1) to develop effective and profitable row-crop weed management systems for conventional and reduced-tillage production systems as well as pasture sites using all available methods and with special attention to avoid the development of herbicide-resistant weeds, 2) to determine the relationship of specific weed species with cultivated agronomic row- crops, pastures, assess the biology and ecology of weeds, and define the weed-crop threshold protection level a crop needs to produce optimum, high quality yields, and 3) to develop knowledge-based, computer-assisted decision-aids from the information obtained, which will provide economic assessment and environmental alerts for various weed control options. (0933) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, DuPont Ag. Products, Bayer Crop Protection PI/PDs: Don Murray, N. Craig Talley

Wheat Breeding Winter wheat cultivars are developed in this project through field-based selection procedures, supplemented by accelerated and precision breeding tools such as molecular markers. The goal is to release marketable cultivars in multiple classes for commercial production in Oklahoma and surrounding states. Additionally, fundamental research is conducted on breeding methodology and on economically important traits in the breeding program. Cultivars developed by this project have occupied the leading position in Oklahoma planted wheat acreage since 2010, according to USDA data. Most cultivars developed by this project are products of the GrazenGrain breeding system, which optimizes grain yield and quality in both dual-purpose and grain-only production systems. (1426) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Wheat Research Foundation, Oklahoma Genetics, Inc., USDA-ARS, BASF PI/PDs: Brett Carver, Liuling Yan, David Marburger, Gopal Kakani, Brian Arnall, Carol Powers Entomology and Plant Pathology: Bob Hunger, Kris Giles, Ali Zarrabi Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: Charles Chen, Karyn Willyerd

Correlating Soil-Landscape Changes to Major Droughts during the Late Quaternary The objectives are: 1) to evaluate the effects of erosion and deposition on soils formed at sites occupied by prehistoric people, 2) to measure long-term stream and river incision rates for soil landscapes in western Oklahoma using buried soils, 3) to characterize soil lithologic discontinuities by using particle-size analysis and mineralogy for key soil profiles sites and series, and 4) to characterize soil phytoliths, 13C:12C ratios and soil radiocarbon age of buried soils. (1892) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma Archaeological Survey, Oklahoma Department of Environmental Protection PI/PD: Brian Carter Improvement of the Dual-Purpose Wheat/Stocker Cattle Enterprise through Management and Cultivar Selection The wheat/stocker cattle production enterprise dominates Oklahoma and southern Great Plain’s agriculture and accounts for more than 60% of the 2.6 million hectares of wheat planted in Oklahoma annually. This unique system requires different management practices and cultivar characteristics than a standard grain-only system and necessitates a research initiative that gives proper attention to both systems. The primary emphasis of this project is to develop improved management practices and recommendations for grain-only and dual-purpose wheat producers in the region. Research efforts in this project include evaluation of the suitability of currently released wheat cultivars and experimental lines for production in Oklahoma under both grain- only and dual-purpose systems. Information and findings will be distributed to stakeholders via extension meetings, website, mass media, and direct mailing through a weekly periodical insert in mid-July. Progress towards goals and objectives will be determined according to the number and quality of improved cultivars released to the public and acreage reports detailing adoption of improved cultivars. (2581) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Wheat Commission, USDANIFA PI/PD: Jeff Edwards

Incorporation of Genes Conferring resistance to leaf, yellow, and stem rust in Oklahoma Wheat The wheat resistance gene Lr34 representing the Lr34/Yr18/Sr57/Pm38 genes confer non- specific resistance against pathogens including leaf rust, stripe rust, stem rust, and powdery mildew, as well as barley yellow dwarf virus. Only one Lr34 copy is reported to reside on each of the three homoeologous genomes in bread wheat. In the previous study we found that our newly released cultivar ‘Duster’ had heterogeneous Lr34-D1 and Lr34-D2 and the two Lr34 copies were closely linked and located on the short arm of chromosome 7D. Duster Lr34-D1- Lr34-D2 allele was associated with tip necrosis and had significant effects on leaf rust, as well as stripe rust in the Duster x Billings DH population tested in the field. In this study, we have generated a population using Duster to cross with another winter wheat cultivar ‘2174’ that carries a resistant Lr34-D allele. We are currently searching progeny of Duster x 2174 for a plant that may carry both resistant Lr34-D1 from Duster and resistant Lr34-D from 2174. Our objective is to breed a novel wheat cultivar that carries the two copy native Lr34-D resistance genes. (2616) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Liuling Yan

Identification, Isolation, and, Characterization of Productivity Associated Microorganisms in Wheat The rhizosphere is the portion of the soil-plant interface under the plants influence, composed of thousands of distinguishable microorganisms, sustained by plant-produced photosynthate and critical for maintenance of plant productivity. Using next generation sequencing of rhizobacterial DNA, a refined experimental wheat growth design, a novel and powerful nonparametric statistical approach, our initial study for the first time identified 42 positively and 39 negatively associated rhizobacteria along with their relative contribution to wheat productivity (Applied and Environmental Microbiology 78: 4434- 4446). Our current study focuses on the impact of organic and inorganic nitrogen sources on the productive fraction of the rhizobacteria community. Preliminary results indicated little impact on the ratio of positive and negative associated rhizobacteria, a major increase in microbial diversity, and a major increase in root vs shoot investment when applying organic vs inorganic nitrogen. Longer term studies to gauge the impact of repeated applications and further enhancements in the statistical methodology are currently ongoing. In addition, we initiated a project examine the effect of different organic amendments on the growth and production of wheat as well as the changes associated with the microbial communities. Amendments include: chicken manure, alfalfa green manure, and biochar in comparison to inorganic fertilization. The work will pave the way for a better understanding of the long term contribution of the microbial community to plant productivity and in the development of tools and technology for improving plant productivity and agricultural sustainability. (2626) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Michael Anderson, Hailin Zhang, and Joshua Habiger

Land Application and Beneficial Re-use of Industrial and Agricultural by-products Since October of 2014, a P removal structure that was previously constructed has continued to be monitored. This structure was built on a poultry farm in Eastern OK, and has removed around 60% of the dissolved P that has entered into it. Multiple efforts are being made throughout the U.S. and this has resulted in collaborations in OH, IN, VT, WV, PA, NY, WI, and MD. We have developed the first version of the design software for the P removal structures, known as PhROG: Phosphorus Removal Online Guidance. Oklahoma State University has licensed this software to the Maryland Department of Agriculture for construction of 30 structures, and is currently licensing a company in Ohio. The software and tutorials can found at www.phrog.okstate.edu. This also led to many presentations and popular press articles. (2658) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Chad Penn

Assessment of the Carbon Sequestration Potential of Common Agricultural Systems on Benchmark Soils across the Southern Region Climate Gradient This project will generate essential, scientifically based field data to support accurate projections of and provide guidance for soil C sequestration potentials across the climate gradient of the southern US. Collected data and findings will be made available via the internet and accessible through the group’s website, which will facilitate dissemination of information generated. The group project stimulates common understanding, shared research, and provides an educational platform among southern US academic institutions and government partners. Data collected, between 2009-2012 from an on-farm soil carbon sequestration assessment, was compiled and utilized by the Oklahoma carbon program to validate carbon sequestration estimates for no-till. Furthermore, data collected between 2011-2013 to evaluate the stability of carbon analysis as a function of sample collection technique was used to develop a sampling protocol for the Oklahoma carbon program. This data has been presented at regional meetings to provide data for the far western portion of the southern region and is currently being developed into manuscripts. (2815) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Jason Warren, Tyson Ochsner

Managing Plant Microbe Interactions in Soil to Promote Sustainable Agriculture Near the root surface termed the rhizosphere is one of the most microbially active regions on earth. Billions of bacteria from tens of thousands of species inhabit the rhizosphere. These are fed by plant produced photosynthetic carbon to support or detract from plant biomass accumulation. These organisms are essential for protecting plants from disease, extracting nutrients from soil substrates, and producing plant growth promoting compounds. Potential pathogens also inhabit the rhizosphere causing disease in susceptible varieties. Here we develop the experimental, statistical and bioinformatics procedures to identify the organisms that support and detract from plant productivity. Using next generation sequencing of rhizobacterial DNA, a refined experimental wheat growth design, a novel and powerful nonparametric statistical approach, we have been successful in distinguishing positive vs negative organisms from the tens of thousands microbes (Applied and Environmental Microbiology 78: 4434- 4446). We have identified quantitative criteria to judge the productivity of the microbial system under a given soil system. We are currently developing approaches to enhance soil-plant productivity through application of specific microbial inoculums and substrates in a long term study. We will use plant productivity, our quantitative criteria referred to above and an analysis of the overall microbial community structure to gauge our progress. We have initiated projects to examine the changes in productivity associated microbial communities in response to organic nitrogen fertilization and biochar in comparison to the more typical inorganic nitrogen fertilization practices. The work will pave the way for a better understanding of the long term contribution of the microbial community to plant productivity and in the development of tools and technology for characterizing and improving plant productivity and agricultural sustainability. (2874) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Michael Anderson, Hailin Zhang Statistics: Joshua Habiger Plant Genetic Resources Conservation and Utilization The purpose of this regional project is to conserve genetic resources and associated information for a broad spectrum of crop species and to transfer related information to plant breeders and researchers in the Southern Region. In the last reporting period, 2172 plant accessions maintained at the USDA ARS Plant Genetic Resources Conservation Unit at Griffin, GA were distributed to organizations or individuals in Oklahoma, according to the plant germplasm distribution record. This represents more than 15 times increase of requested accessions sent to OK than the previous year. This large increase was primarily due to two substantial requests by a seed company, one for Eleusine coracana and another for Pennisetum glaucum. Other accessions were distributed in 23 requests. The requested plant germplasm in 2015 included Vigna unguiculata, Arachis hypogaea, Sorghum bicolor, Capsicum annuum, Panicum bergii, Vigna subterranean, Hibiscus cannabinus, Abelmoschus manihot, Panicum virgatum, Schizachyrium scoparium, Ipomoea batatas, Bouteloua curtipendula. Receivers of the plant accessions include researchers at Oklahoma State University and USDA-ARS laboratories, seed companies, and residents in the state. (2883) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Yanqi Wu

Developing New Soil Moisture Mapping and Upscaling Approaches for Large-scale in SITU Networks We have created a prototype high resolution soil moisture mapping system for the state of Oklahoma (http://soilmoisture.okstate.edu/). This system automatically creates daily half-mile resolution maps of soil moisture at three depths based on data from the Oklahoma Mesonet, the National Weather Service, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service. We completed >15 soil moisture surveys along an 80-mile long transect using a cosmic-ray neutron rover. This transect stretches from Perkins, OK to Lahoma, OK, and the data will be used to develop improved soil moisture upscaling approaches. The mapping routine and upscaling approaches developed here will meet urgent needs because researchers from around the globe are increasingly relying on soil moisture data from in situ networks to improve a wide array of hydrologic and weather models as well as satellite-based soil moisture retrievals. This research will yield the following expected outcomes. Important new knowledge will be produced regarding the controls of precipitation on the spatial heterogeneity of soil moisture which will facilitate the development of robust soil moisture mapping procedures for the Oklahoma Mesonet and emerging similar networks around the world. This research will ultimately contribute to increased prediction accuracy for hydrologic models through better rainfall-runoff partitioning and for land surface schemes through improved partitioning of surface energy fluxes. The methods developed here will also improve calibration and validation of satellite remote sensing techniques for soil moisture and will be useful for improving the design of future in situ soil moisture networks at the regional scale and beyond. (2918) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Tyson Ochsner Soil Health in Soil Conservation Management Systems Much of Oklahoma's soil resources are degraded due to a century of tillage and the resulting loss of topsoil. With this loss of topsoil; soil organic matter and nutrients have been lost as well as the healthy biological and physical characteristics of the native soil system. This project is aimed at identifying production systems that provide economically viable alternatives to conventional production that result in improved soil health through utilization of no-till management and improvements in crop diversity. This effort will focus but not be limited to the extensive integrated crop/livestock production complex currently dominated by dual purpose wheat grazed by cattle. This project will utilize long-term no-till rotations currently in place to assess soil health. It will use newly established research plots to evaluate crop/livestock production systems that promote diversity and crop health while providing economically viable alternatives to the monoculture/conventional wheat based system. This project will improve the diversity of cropping systems in the region, thereby making them more resilient to drought and economic volatility while improving soil health. (2938) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Jason Warren, Hailin Zhang, Brian Arnall

Increasing Nitrogen Use Efficiency of Oklahoma Winter Wheat via the 4R's In the fall of 2014, a project was initiated to build the equipment necessary to perform this project. In cooperation with WAKO industries in Enid, OK the process of building an applicator capable of in-season application of anhydrous ammonia and a liquid fertilizer, was completed in late May. The result was a very mobile five-foot applicator that was multi-functional. The applicator was test late in the wheat season with very positive results. Also tested was the use of grain drills to apply nitrogen fertilizer. With the applicator properly working and the grain drill application method being ground truths this fall the 4-R nitrogen management suite trials will be fully implemented. This trial will be place on two experiment stations and the resulting data will be used to create online workbooks and mobile apps along with peer review publications. (2946) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Brian Arnall Effect of Management Practices on Soil Microbial Community and Enzyme Activity in Relation to Ecosystem Health and Function Soil microflora and enzyme activities play crucial roles in maintaining sustainable agricultural production and soil health. Research progress is hindered by the lack of effective detection methods, and limited understanding of the complex soil systems and the vastly unknown microbes that reside within. We have made progress in standardizing methods in soil enzyme detection for valid data comparison and meaningful interpretation. Through evaluation of over 130,000 bacterial gene sequences originated from soils under various land uses and management practices, we demonstrated the importance and potential in sustaining agricultural production through preserving activities of the soil microbial community. (2953) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Shiping Deng Natural Resources and Ecology Management: Sam Fuhlendorf Horticulture and Landscape Architecture: Jeff Anderson

Hand Planter for the Developed and Developing World At present the benchmark NDVI sensor in the world is the GreenseekerTM , invented at Oklahoma State University and sold by Trimble Navigation. It provides the most accurate estimates of plant biomass (both wet and dry) in the world. OSU Hand-Planter for the developing world is continually refined, with over 400 in use all over the world. Affordability of these sensors has become a reality with the release of the “hand-held crop sensor” that sells for $490. This sensor has changed the landscape of precision agriculture simply because it makes this technology available and affordable for the entire world. A joint paper with colleagues from the NUE group has been published on the value of sensor based algorithms developed by land-grant universities and are available to farmers at no cost. Oklahoma State University has now developed 33 separate algorithms that are used mostly to refine mid-season fertilizer N rates in corn and wheat. Documented wide scale variability in optimum N rates in maize for the Central Great Plains, called for widespread reduction in fertilizer N rates. When cereal grain producers use our sensor-based approach, they can increase their profit by over $15 per acre. Wheat and corn farmers in the Central Great Plains have realized increased revenue between $10 and $20 per acre using the Greenseeker nitrogen fertilization approach. We continue to develop viable APP’s for smart phones. Recent advancements have delivered a hand-planter for the developing world that allows producers to singulate seed, and apply sidedress N fertilizer on highly marginal landscapes. OSU hand planter can decrease soil erosion via better plant spacing and increase nitrogen use efficiency via improved fertilizer placement. Added benefit comes for removing chemically treated seed from the hands of producers where 30,000,000 ha’s in the developing world are planted and harvested by hand. (2955) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Bill Raun Understanding the STF transcriptional network in lamina outgrowth in Medicago truncatula. The Medicago truncatula regulatory gene, STENOFOLIA (STF), critically regulates blade outgrowth residing in the middle region between the upper and lower leaf surfaces. The distinguishing feature of WOX family transcription factors is their specific Homeodomain (WOX- HD) but the function of WOX-HD, other than DNA binding, is poorly understood. Here we identified a conserved KRRR motif at the 3′ HD extension of the Medicago truncatula WOX1 protein STENOFOLIA (STF) that prevents the distribution of STF protein into the cytoplasm, a feature important for STF function in leaf blade development. We identified that RPD3-type of Histone Deacetylases (HDA6 and HDA19) physically interact with STF and the STF-HD is required for this interaction. Mutation of the KRRR motif greatly reduced the interaction with HDACs and led to reduced STF repressive activity that compromised leaf blade outgrowth. Our results suggest that HD-mediated protein-protein interaction and chromatin modification may be a common mechanism in the function of repressive WOX transcription factors, especially those involved in leaf development. (2956) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Million Tadege

Developing and Improving Bioenergy Crop Models Bioenergy crops will be grown in both traditional and non-traditional areas and require intensive experimental studies to evaluate production potential, environmental, and economic consequences. Crop models can reduce the costs involved in conducting field experiments by identifying key treatments and by extrapolating results to other regions and environmental conditions. Morphological and physiological, growth, and yield traits measured for bioenergy species (switchgrass, sorghum, energy beets) will be used to develop algorithms and modules to develop and improved bioenergy crop models. Experiments are being conducted in growth chamber, green house, and field facilities to derive the data sets needed for developing and improving models. Algorithm development and model validation is ongoing as part of this program. Undergraduate students are being trained in bioenergy research through an NSF funded Research Experience for undergraduates’ project. Current collaborations with national and international organizations are being strengthened to improve the profile of bioenergy crops in Oklahoma. An Agricultural Model Intercomparison and Improvement Project (AGMIP) - Bioenergy Crops team has been initiated to address the issues associated bioenergy crop model development by collaborating with researchers in US and around the world. Several in-state and multi-state teams are being developed to address regional feedstock production issues through Competitive Grants and Industry collaboration. (2969) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Gopal Kakani

Pasture, Turfgrass and Biofuel Grass Breeding and Genetics Research Grasses used in pasture, range, and turf plantings are economically, environmentally, and societally important. The main objective of this project is to develop new grass cultivars bred for improvements in yield, quality, adaptation, and other selected performance traits. Cultivars will be bred for pasture, turf, and bioenergy feedstock uses. This will involve collecting, evaluating, and enhancing germplasm of selected grass species, elucidating reproductive behavior, genetic variation, and breeding improvement potential in selected grass species, as well as development and testing of new plant breeding models that incorporate molecular techniques. Development and use of DNA molecular markers, encompassing simple sequence repeat (SSRs) and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) in bermudagrass and switchgrass is one of the currently focused research investigations. The developed DNA markers will be used in molecular analysis of important traits and construction of genetic maps for the selected important species. A new bermudagrass cultivar for forage and pasture use, ‘Goodwell’ bermudagrass was released by Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station in March 2007. A new switchgrass cultivar ‘Cimarron’ (SL 93 2001-1) was released by the OAES for biofuel feedstock and forage production in February 2008. Two new turf bermudagrass clonal selections had outstanding performance in multiple locations of the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program Bermudagrass Test. The two turf bermudagrass clones, OKC 1119 and OKC 1134 were released by the Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station in July 2010. OKC 1119 is officially named Latitude 36 while OKC 1134 has a name of NorthBridge. The two new turf cultivars have been licensed for commercial production since 2011. As of writing the report, there are 36 sod producers who have obtained licenses to produce sod for the two turf bermudagrasses in the US. (2972) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, U.S. Golf Association, USDA, Oklahoma Turf Research Foundation, Oklahoma Bioenergy Center, and Sun Grant Initiative PI/PD: Yanqi Wu

Soil, Water, and Environmental Physics across Scales This was a productive year for the project. Objective 2 of this multi-state project is to develop and evaluate new instruments and analytical methods to connect our understanding of mass and energy transport in the vadose zone at different scales and environmental transformations. To accomplish that objective, we evaluated a method for estimating drainage rates from the root zone using long-term in situ soil moisture data, and we evaluated the relationship between those drainage estimates and long-term groundwater recharge rates. We prepared a manuscript describing the results of this research and the manuscript is currently in review at Vadose Zone Journal. Key outcomes of this project were advances in scientific knowledge on estimating drainage rates from the root zone using long-term in situ soil moisture data. This new knowledge was generated by the project team and shared with audiences of researchers and stakeholders at state and national conferences. (2973) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Tyson Ochsner Improving the Profitability of Oklahoma Cotton Production Systems through Timely Evaluation and Adoption of New Technologies Producer-cooperator fields were utilized for replicated cotton variety trials in six Oklahoma counties, which included six Replicated Cotton Agronomic Evaluation (RACE), as well as two Cotton Incorporated Core funded Enhanced Cotton Variety sites. Irrigated projects indicate that variety selection was important in fields where statistical differences were noted. In addition, three small-plot variety trials were planted on Experiment Stations near Altus, Tipton, and Fort Cobb. Unfortunately, the Fort Cobb project failed due to phenoxy herbicide drift damage, but the Altus and Tipton sites were harvested. Results indicated that some entries produced over 3 bales/acre, while fiber quality was excellent. (2976) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Randy Boman

Functional genomics of leaf architecture and seed development in chickpea Chickpea (Cicerarietinum L.) is an important source of dietary protein and other essential nutrients of a healthy diet, and maintains soil fertility through fixing atmospheric nitrogen in association with Rhizobium bacteria. However, world chickpea production has stagnated far below its potential. We use genetic and genomic approaches to understand leaf and seed development in chickpea to ultimately enable manipulation of yield to improve productivity. To date, we have generated approximately 450 M2 desi and 1000 M2 kabuli fast neutron deletion mutants. In a screen of about 200 M2 desi lines, we have already identified interesting mutants in plant height, leaf size and flowering time, which will be characterized in the coming years. (2980) Sponsor: USDA-AFRI PI/PD: Million Tadege College of Education, Health and Aviation – FY2017 Research Abstracts SCHOOL OF COMMUNITY HEALTH SCIENCES, COUNSELING, AND COUNSELING PSYCHOLOGY (HCCP)

Children’s Health Equity Solutions Center (CHESC) – Food and Alcohol Behavior (FAB) Study Today’s teenagers are tomorrow’s mothers. The foods teenagers eat do more than nourish their bodies today; these foods also create the storehouses of nutrients that will provide for a growing baby tomorrow. The FAB study seeks to improve health outcomes for tomorrow’s babies by identifying factors that impact their mothers’ body’s ability to absorb and store vital nutrients for future pregnancies. We know frequent heavy alcohol use impedes the body’s ability to absorb nutrients and increases the excretion or loss of essential nutrients needed for healthy fetal development – but – we don’t yet know how typical alcohol use affects the absorption and excretion of folate in adolescent and young adult women. The FAB study explores how folate varies by alcohol use in adolescent and young adult girls over a month. We do this by having our participants wear sensors that continuously monitor their alcohol use through their skin. We meet with the participants weekly and ask them to tell us about their behaviors. We are specifically interested in how much folate they are consuming and whether they are using alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs. We also take small samples of their blood each week, to measure how much folate remains present in their blood. If successful, this study will identify how typical alcohol use impacts essential levels of folate in adolescent girls and which factors allow some girls to accumulate higher levels of folate than others. Ultimately, this information will be used in public health programs to help ensure that when today’s teenagers become tomorrow’s mothers they will have healthy babies. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI: Julie M. Croff

Aktopv Cuko oh vyetv: Bridges to Home Native American offenders often face dynamic obstacles while reentering into community from incarceration that encompasses both traditional and non-traditional elements. Muscogee (Creek) Nation and OSU will partner to evaluate the needs of women who are Creek citizens and are serving jail time for misdemeanors and at moderate to high risk of committing additional crimes. OSU researchers will collect data from jails to monitor the strength and effectiveness of the Muscogee (Creek) reintegration program. Participants and comparison Native Americans will be followed for a period of not less than 12 months following release. The research team will give ongoing updates to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation to improve upon reintegration and reentry programming. Finally, the OSU research team will train the Muscogee (Creek) Nation to ensure that program evaluation is sustainable before the end of the project. Sponsor: Muscogee (Creek) Nation PI: Julie M. Croff

Economical No-Maintenance, Wearable Alcohol Sensor for Treatment, Research and Consumer Users This project consisted of a clinical study of 10 subjects in which each subject underwent both laboratory and field testing. The goal was to demonstrate the effectiveness of detecting alcohol through skin and breath during the laboratory testing and to ensure that alcohol detection could also be conducted during natural drinking events. Sponsor: Giner Corporation – SBIR from NIAAA PI: Julie M. Croff Muscle Spindle and Motor Unit Function with Aging It has long been known that muscular weakness and a progressive loss of motor control is a “natural” part of the aging process. The number of motor neurons controlling each muscle has been shown to continually decrease with advancing age. Unfortunately, the exact underlying mechanisms for this age-related loss in motor units are unknown. We hypothesize that age-related losses of muscle spindles and their afferents not only precede, but are one of the primary causes of natural lower motor neuron degradation. Our first aim is to develop a clinically applicable, standardized index to quantify muscle spindle function objectively. The second aim is to assess the magnitude of influence muscle spindles have on motor control. The relationships between the newly developed spindle function index, ultrasound-derived muscle quality, and multiple motor control variables will be closely examined. More importantly, we will evaluate how these motor function variables are affected by a systematic manipulation of spindle sensitivity. This research will help define the extent of influence muscle spindles have on motor units and muscle function, and how that influence changes with aging. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI: Jason DeFreitas

Does Low-Intensity Exercise Performed to Fatigue Recruit High-Threshold Motor Units? The purpose of this study is to directly examine the motor unit behavior and responses to fatigue from 2 separate conditions: a high-intensity bout of heavy squats to failure, and a low-intensity bout of light squats to failure. Specialized EMG (dEMG) sensors will be placed over and record from the vastus lateralis during maximal isometric contractions before and immediately after the squat protocols. These signals will then be decomposed into individual motor unit action potential trains and validated for accuracy. This research should help define the extent of additional motor unit recruitment that occurs when performing a low-intensity exercise to failure. As such, this study could have direct exercise prescription implications; especially regarding whether or not it is appropriate to prescribe low-intensity exercise to individuals (e.g., the aging population) with the goal of eliciting adaptations in high-threshold motor units. Sponsor: National Strength & Conditioning Association PI: Jason DeFreitas

Mpower Project: Sexual Health of Peri-Urban and Rural MSM This project will be a multi-method and multi-phase study of Oklahoma peri-urban and rural MSM, their sexual behaviors with various partners, patterns of health care seeking (including HIV and STI testing), and use of physical and mental health services. Such nuanced data would identify key potential intervention targets to promote physical, mental, and sexual health among an underserved population. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI: Randolph D. Hubach Analysis of Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation Initiatives to Increase the Participation and Effectiveness of Internal and Outreach Programming OSU’s College of Education has entered into an agreement with OKC Boathouse Foundation to provide services to conduct an evaluation of OKC Boathouse Foundation programming. This evaluation is to occur over a three-year period. Key objectives are: 1) Evaluation of a pilot afterschool rowing program; 2) Evaluation of long-term impact of rowing program; and 3) Assessment of OKC Boathouse Foundation programming. Sponsor: Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation PI: Tim Baghurst

Assessment of Public Perception of Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation’s Wildlife Expo (2017) On September 23 – 25, 2016, the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation hosted the Wildlife Expo at Lazy E Arena near Guthrie. On behalf of Oklahoma State University, the principal investigators administered an exit interview similar to that utilized in prior years. The sample was a purposive, voluntary group of respondents exiting the Wildlife Expo. This interview and sampling protocol are subject to approval by the Oklahoma State University Institutional Review Board (IRB) in compliance with federal law related to protection of human subjects in research. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation PI: Tim Passmore

Collaborative Research: Broadening Participation in Engineering among Women and Latina/os: A Longitudial, Multi-Site Study Oklahoma State University) will oversee the development and management of the online quantitative survey and the development of the negative outcome expectations scale. Dr. Lee will attend weekly meetings (by Google Hangout) and will assist in the development of manuscripts and dissemination of findings at professional conferences. Sponsor: University of Missouri for the National Science Foundation PI: Hang-Shim Lee

Assessment of Dust Mite and Dust Mite Antigens on Used Mattresses Mattresses are known to contain several types of health compromising compounds with several studies suggesting that microbial agents found in infant’s and children’s’ mattresses are associated with allergic reactions, asthma, and sudden infant death syndrome. The researchers will excise rectangular swatch of quilted cloth from the exterior of the mattress. Once swatches have been collected they will be shipped to a forensic analytical laboratory for assessment. Statistical comparisons will be made between the older used beds and the new beds for both fungi and bacteria count. Sponsor: MattressFIRM PI: Bert H. Jacobson A National Wrestling Hall of Fame Project The purpose of this project is to: (1) work in conjunction with education experts and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame (NWHOF) to develop a one-day wrestling curriculum that can be taught by elementary teachers/schools, (2) pilot the program with at least two teachers or a school, (3) use feedback to evaluate and revise the curriculum as needed, (4) disseminate the curriculum to online sources (e.g., NWHOF website) as well as targeted school professionals/schools who may be interested in adopting the curriculum. Sponsor: National Wrestling Hall of Fame PI: Tim Baghurst

Practicum Programs Programs provide students with pre-professional clinical experience. Sponsors: Stillwater Domestic Violence, Wings of Hope: Counseling Psychology PI: Tom Berry

Sponsor: White Eagle Health Center: Counseling Psychology PI: Sue Jacobs

Sponsor: Oklahoma Office of Juvenile Affairs: Counseling Psychology PI: Julie Koch

Sponsor: Stillwater Public Schools; Indian Health Care Resource Center; Tulsa City-County Health Department; Oklahoma City/County Health Department, St John Health Club: Health Promotion PI: Bridget Miller

Sponsor: Saint Francis Rehabilitation: Health Promotion PI: Kerry Morgan

Sponsor: Payne County Youth Services, Stillwater Domestic Violence Services; Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center; Counseling Psychology PI: Carrie Winterowd SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATIONS, LEADERSHIP, AND AVIATION (SEFLA)

Rethinking Public Anthropology through Epistemic Politics and Practice This workshop focuses on and advocates for an epistemic notion of politically engaged scholarship. Focusing on potential intersections between research and activism, with a subset of recent anthropological work on complex and emergent objects, this workshop hopes to provide a site for dialogue that moves beyond recent debates on engagement that separate “activist” work from more critical academic endeavors. It calls for an understanding of politics and action informed by epistemological habits that favor uncertainty, critique, and complexity, and that reject liberal, naively realist approaches to the social and political. This workshop aims to help us rethink how anthropology can contribute to the political present in different countries and contexts, as well as to recognize how scholarship and knowledge production more generally are in fact already critical sites of contemporary struggle and world-making. Sponsor: Wenner-Gren Foundation for Anthropological Research, Inc. PI: Denise F. Blum

FAA Center of Excellence for Technical Training and Human Performance (TTHP) - Travel Funds The Program Management project will seek to align faculty interests, FAA objectives and project goals so that this Center of Excellence will achieve the aims and goals set by the FAA. Quarterly and annual meetings will be attended to collaborate with other COE team members in an effort to develop interdisciplinary approaches to solutions being sought as new technical training models are being developed. The OSU Team will seek opportunities to plug in and offer expertise in areas of knowledge by faculty at Oklahoma State University. Sponsor: Federal Aviation Administration PIs: Steve Marks, Jon Loffi, Matt Vance

FAA Center of Excellence for Technical Training and Human Performance (TTHP) – Amendment 002 This project will be conducted with the University of Oklahoma as lead on the project titled: Course Development. OSU will collaborate with OU to develop courses to be used in the new training models for this Center of Excellence at the FAA. Sponsor: Federal Aviation Administration PI: Matt Vance

OSU Operation High Flight - Level I, II, III The OSU College of Education and the College of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology will advertise the program to 5-12 grade students in Oklahoma in the Spring of 2017. All sessions will be conducted at the Stillwater Airport. 20 students will be recruited for each level for a total of 60 students. Objectives for the OSU High Flight Levels: Objective 1: For students to learn about the principals of flight, aerodynamics, and flight operations. Objective 2: To have students experience flying operations at an airport and explore aviation careers. Sponsor: Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission PIs: Steve Marks SCHOOL OF KINESIOLOGY, APPLIES HEALTH, AND RECREATION (KAHR)

Practicum Programs Programs provide students with pre-professional clinical experience. Sponsors: Children’s Health System of Texas, Children’s Medical Center of Dallas, CareAlliance Health Services - Roper Saint Francis Healthcare, Colorado Mental Health Institute of Pueblo, Cook Children's Medical Center, Cypress Creek Hospital - Houston, TX, Hope Bridge Hospital, Maricopa Integrated Health System, Mayhill Behavioral Hospital, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Cook Children’s Medical Center, Wyoming State Hospital, Integris Health, Gracy Wood II Nursing Center, Oklahoma Veterans Center-Claremore, Oklahoma City VA Health Care System, OU Medical Center, Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital, Saint Francis Health System, Shawnee Gardens Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Stillwater Public Schools & YMCA, Jack C. Montgomery VAHSC, Rehabilitation Institute of Kansas City, TIRR Memorial Hermann Hospital, Truman Medical Center, Peak View Behavioral Health Hospital: Therapeutic Recreation PI: Tim Passmore

Sponsor: Stillwater Public Schools: Health & Human Performance PI: Doug Smith SCHOOL OF TEACHING, LEARNING AND EDUCATIONAL SCIENCES (STLES)

Junior Science and Humanities Symposium, 2017 Forty-seven regional JSHS competitions across the United States provide high school students with an avenue to present results of their original STEM research before a panel of STEM faculty judges. The Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska Regional JSHS competition is held on the OSU campus. Winners of this prestigious event advance to the National JSHS to compete for additional scholarships and recognition. JSHS student engaged in research are developing skills to prepare them for undergraduate and graduate academic pursuits. Regional JSHS competitions are funded by a collaborative effort between the Academy of Applied Science (AAS) and the Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP). Sponsor: Academy of Applied Science PI: Julie Angle

Exploring the Benefits of Human-Animal Interaction and Bonding Processes This academy uses animals as tools to teach scientific concepts, mathematics, and enhanced health care for humans. The students will apply their learning through hands-on experiences, workshops, and real human-animal interactions by visiting assisted living centers, child care centers, animal shelters, police and law enforcement working dog demonstrations, and participating in a “reading to dogs” program. Students will develop innovative and creative ways of solving environmental and wildlife issues by observing science in action and applying mathematical concepts during trips to the Oklahoma City Zoo and the Oklahoma Aquarium in Tulsa. Students will learn other therapeutic values of animals and responsibilities of service animals to assist individuals who require mobility support and assistance accessing public facilities. Sponsor: Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education PI: Penny Cantley, Sherril Stone

SEES Fellows: Pathways and Partnerships in Adaptive Drought Communication in the Great Plains The core research questions addressed by this project are, (1) What formal and informal pathways, players, and partnerships exist for participatory communication between scientists and citizens about drought vulnerability and adaptation, (2) How does communication about drought risk and recovery inform the effective diffusion and translation of drought literacy efforts in the Great Plains, and (3) How can we design forums and spaces for sustained interaction between stakeholders involved in adaptive drought communication? A mixed methods approach will model community-partnership capacity for drought adaptation in Cimarron (OK) and Union (NM) Counties, and assess the impact of community-academic partnerships on drought literacy and adaptive capacity across the Great Plains. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI: Nicole Colston

Oklahoma Tiered Intervention Support System (OTISS) Program To accomplish the goal of supporting the implementation of the tiered model of academic and behavioral support in the state OSU will complete the following primary goals. First, identify 6 school psychology graduate students who have completed three years of doctoral training and 600 hours of school based practicum with a grade of 90% or above to serve as external coaches. Second, OSU will provide direct training to the external coaches regarding the Oklahoma’s tiered intervention process for academics and behavioral support. Third, OSU will provide supervisory support and guidance to the external coaches once per week. Fourth, the identified and trained external coaches will conduct a minimum of one site visit per month at each of the Level II and Level III OTISS sites. Finally, OSU along with the external coaches will provide monthly activity reports to the OTISS personal at the Oklahoma State Department of Education regarding activities conducted and the impact of these activities on sites regarding implementation fidelity, student functioning, and other support activities occurring during that time period. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Education PIs: Gary Duhon, Brian Poncy

Osage County Interlocal Cooperative Agreement The purpose of this collaborative program is for OSU school psychology practicum students to assist school sites within the OCIC in implementing and evaluating the Oklahoma Tiered Intervention System of Support (OTISS). During this practicum students will have exposure to and knowledge of instructional design, and organization and operation of the schools. OSU school psychology practicum students will 1) Work under the supervision of their university supervisor and field based principal to provide guidance and support in the development of the OTISS model; 2) Manage, with site based personnel, the data resulting from the implementation of the OTISS model regarding effect, effectiveness and integrity; 3) Provide support to sites in the form of training, materials development and resources identification with regard to the need of the site in reference to the OTISS model developed there. Sponsor: Osage County Interlocal Cooperative PI: Gary Duhon

Oklahoma Teacher Induction Program (OTIP) The External Evaluation of the OTIP was conducted by the Oklahoma State University Center for Research on STEM Teaching and Learning (CRSTL), led by Associate Professor Dr. Toni Ivey, Science Education. The evaluation plan generated formative data concerning project outcomes, program context, and implementation indicators that allow potential replication. Evaluation data from quarterly reviews provided details for immediate feedback and guidance to determine if the strategies being used are effective. Sponsor: Osage County Interlocal Cooperative for the Oklahoma State Department of Education PI: Toni Ivey

Career and Technology New Teacher Induction Process This service and research grant uses collaborators among the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (ODCTE), 22 technology centers, and Workforce and Adult Education program and OSU. Working as a team with local administrators, a local instructional mentor, and an instructional coach, first-year teachers identify strengths, challenges, goals, and strategies in order to move from surviving to thriving in development of the skills for effective teaching. Sponsors: Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education and Local Technology Centers PI: Mary Jo Crawford Self Every Day STEM for All The responsibilities of this project include helping plan and prepare for the summer professional development; assisting EPS’s math and science coordinators decide on appropriate supplies and materials, creating and assisting in the creation of summer learning activities for the participants; being available to assist and possibly present at the week-long professional development in June 2016; and being available via email to assist teachers with implementation of strategies and lessons presented at the workshop. Sponsor: Edmond Public Schools and Oklahoma State Department of Education PI: Nicole Styers

OSU Mathematics and Science Robert Noyce Scholarships The number of STEM jobs in the US has continued to grow over the past several decades, but the availability of qualified STEM workers in the US has failed to meet this growing demand. Therefore, increasing the number, quality, and diversity of mathematics and science secondary teachers has been identified as critical to future US economic growth and success. The Oklahoma State University (OSU) Mathematics and Science Robert Noyce Scholarship program proposes to produce more highly qualified secondary teachers by encouraging students to earn teacher certification with their 4-year B.S. degree in mathematics or science. We will accomplish this goal by 1) encouraging undergraduates majoring in mathematics or science to become teachers through summer recruitment internships and recruitment scholarships, 2) providing need-based scholarships aimed at retention and persistence during the semester of student teaching, and 3) supporting students as they progress through their first several years of teaching. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PIs: Juliana Utley, Julie Angle Zoology: Kristen Baum Mathematics: Alan Noell

Every Day STEM for All, Project Evaluation The evaluation plan is a mixed-methods design, which will include site visits and will utilize multiple data sources and types. The plan will examine the degree of effective implementation and positive impact at the teacher level during the summer institute and the academic-year follow up sessions. Sponsor: Edmond Public Schools and Oklahoma State Department of Education PI: Juliana Utley

Choctaw Nation Summer Academy and Showcase The College of Education, Health and Aviation sent 14 interns to Durant for a 3 week internship as part of the Summer school hosted by the Choctaw Nation. During September, a fall Showcase was held to display posters to demonstrate the value of the internships and the interactions in the classroom by the interns. In attendance were invited guests from the Choctaw Nation and OSU Administration, faculty and staff. Sponsor: Choctaw Nation PI: Juliana Utley Project Lead the Way Transcript Study The purpose of the project was to conduct a transcript study that compares the persistence and completion of entering Engineering majors at OSU based on whether they participated in Project Lead the Way (PLTW) in high school. Sponsor: Schusterman Foundation PI: Juliana Utley

National Writing Project As part of the Supporting Effective Educator Development (SEED) funding awarded to NWP by the U.S. Department of Education, funds are available to NWP sites for the purpose of investing in developing new teacher-leaders to become part of the site through invitational institutes. Oklahoma State University will engage K–16 teachers in building foundational leadership skills and creating knowledge across the disciplines, as well as focusing on specific areas of need, such as teaching English Language Learners. These leadership opportunities equip teachers to lead work at their sites, in their schools and districts, and as active participants in an educational landscape of new standards and technological innovation. Sponsor: National Writing Project for the US Department of Education PI: Shelbie Witte

OSU Teachers that Dream, Build, Learn about, and Teach Aviation The OSU Teachers that Dream, Design, Build, Learn about, and Teach Aviation will be a 5 phase program to give hands-on aerospace experience to teachers and undergraduate students, which will motivate and prepare future STEM majors for the industry. This program will have a two-fold mission by (1) providing aerospace/aviation education and career information to current and future K-12 teachers, high school students and undergraduate students participating in Speedfest and (2) through exposing grade 3-8 students to aerospace/aviation education and career information through in-class curriculum units. Additionally, this program will provide leadership for current OSU aerospace engineering students and advancing their soft skills for use in their professional careers. Sponsor: Boeing Foundation PIs: Juliana G. Utley SES: Steven K. Marks

Algebra in Action (AiA) As part of the MSP proposal, Algebra in Action, Oklahoma State University College of Education staff conducted a professional development workshop. Participants were Kindergarten through fifth grade teachers from and surrounding Durant, Oklahoma. Sponsor: Durant Public Schools for the Oklahoma State Department of Education MSP program PIs: Adrienne Sanogo, Stephanie Hathcock

Practicum Programs Programs provide students with pre-professional clinical experience. Sponsors: Stillwater Public Schools: School Psychology PI: Gary Duhon EHA RESEARCH OFFICE

NASA SEA The goal of the JSC SEA is to encourage students to consider careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics or STEM by implementing various educational projects that strategically focus resources to our customers including Institutions, Educators, and Learners that reflect the diversity of the nation. Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) through Texas A&M University PI: Steven K. Marks

NASA IPA Agreement – Baturoni Cortez Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) PI: Steven K. Marks

NASA IPA Agreement – Dixon Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) PI: Steven K. Marks

NASA IPA Agreement – Kamas Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) PI: Steven K. Marks

NASA IPA Agreement – McKinley Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) PI: Steven K. Marks

NASA IPA Agreement – Snyder Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) PI: Steven K. Marks

Coyle Schools Whole Kids Foundation Project Coyle schools fundraised for years to purchase a greenhouse. Their dream is becoming a reality in December 2014. Our goal is to provide hands-on learning experience for not only the 50 students in the Agricultural Education Courses (AECs) and Future Farmers of America Chapter, but begin a culture of garden involvement throughout the school of 297 children, many of which are low income. These funds would help to: 1) Expand the reach of our garden to students outside of AECs; 2) Increase sustainability through the creation of a rainwater collection system; 3) Increase potential crop yields (to supplement our salad bar and to be used in fundraisers). Coyle is focusing on sustainability to create a solid base as they plan to expand their garden in coming years to be a source of food for the school and community, which has little access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Conserving water is only part of sustainability. The children and community must be involved and excited by the garden to keep it alive. Sponsor: Whole Foods Foundation PI: John Romans EHA DEAN’S OFFICE

OSUTeach The UTeach Institute was established in response to national concerns about the quality of K-12 education in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and growing interest in the innovative teacher preparation program started in 1997 at The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin). OSUTeach is a replication of the UT Austin program and will strive to increase the number and quality of math and science majors graduating with degrees in their majors and secondary certification to teach these subjects. OSU enjoys authentic cooperation across the College of Education and College of Arts and Sciences, and this cooperation is supported and encouraged by university initiatives and incentives. OSUTeach also can take advantage of a long and rich history of interaction with the local and area school systems in teaching, research, and service projects; the presence of many OSU-prepared teachers in public school classrooms in the partner school systems both in Stillwater and, when the program begins to grow, in Tulsa, where OSU has a campus and COE has an urban education emphasis; the state-wide need for more science and mathematics teachers, which is particularly acute in rural towns and large urban districts; for improved mathematics and science learning among the state’s adolescents, both of which have been deemed as essential to the continuing economic health of Oklahoma by state leaders. Sponsors: Howard Hughes Medical Institute, UTeach Institute, National Math & Science Initiative PIs: Juliana Utley SES: Steve Marks STCL: Julie Angle, Toni Ivey College Arts & Sciences Dean: Bret Danilowicz, Tom Wikle Zoology: Kristen Baum Physics: John Mintmire Geology: Joe Donoghue Chemistry: John Gelder Mathematics: Lisa Mantini Philosophy: Doren Recker College of Human Sciences – FY2017 Research Abstracts COLLEGE OF HUMAN SCIENCES

Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (GPIDEA) Oklahoma State University is a member institution in the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance, a partnership of public universities providing access to education by collaboratively delivering high quality, online academic programs. Member universities recruit, admit and graduate students, deliver instruction, and contribute to alliance leadership and maintenance. Alliance membership is a selective process that engages institutional leadership at all levels. The College of Human Sciences participates in these academic programs: 1) Family Financial Planning master’s program, 2) Gerontology master’s program, 3) Dietetics master’s program, 4) Family and Community Services master’s program, and 5) Retail Merchandising Leadership master’s program. Sponsors: Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance, partner universities PI/PD: Shiretta Ownbey

DESIGN, HOUSING AND MERCHANDISING

A Multi-Dimensional Approach to Meet 21st Century Retailing Education and Industry Challenges for India and the US The purpose of this project is to foster collaboration between the U.S. and India within retailing education. This year, seven modules and an assessment plan were developed and prepared to launch during a compressed 10-day synchronously offered graduate course to students from several states. Sponsors: Iowa State University, United States-India Educational Foundation PI/PDs: Cosette Armstrong, Jane Swinney

Improving Safety and Health of Wildland Firefighters Through Personal Protective Clothing Fit and comfort concerns related to protective clothing of female wildland firefighters will be communicated to apparel manufacturers and federal government agencies. This initial dialog will be the first step in making necessary changes in styles to improve personal protective clothing for female wildland firefighters with enhanced functionality via enhancements in protective, physiological, and aesthetic attributes. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Adriana Petrova, Semra Peksoz

Interactions of Individual, Family, Community, and Policy Contexts on the Mental and Physical Health of Diverse Rural Low-Income Families Conduct extensive higher order analyses in all waves of quantitative and qualitative data to further explore factors that create barriers or enhance the physical and mental health of diverse rural low-income families. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Gina Peek Oklahoma Healthy Homes: Youth Component for Healthy Homes The long-term goal of the project is to provide education and resource information that will reduce housing deficiencies and risks associated with childhood diseases and injuries. As the electronic delivery system for the Healthy Homes Solutions Toolkit, the focus of this project is to provide information that can help educators and consumers address housing deficiencies and risks. The objective is to add value to the Healthy Homes Solutions Toolkit curriculum. Sponsors: University of Missouri, United States Department of Agriculture – National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI/PD: Gina Peek

Pattern Drafting for Cap Cover The objectives of this project were to design a cap frame cover, produce a technical package and production patterns, produce alpha prototypes, and construct a sample in final fabric. Sponsor: Individual PI/PD: Mary Ruppert-Stroescu

Personal Protective Technologies for Current and Emerging Occupational Hazards Current events from hurricanes to sabotage of transportation systems highlight the importance of improving personal protective equipment for “first responders” and “first receivers” as well as members of the agricultural community. The project addresses the needs of all three groups and facilitates transfer of best practices among them. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Semra Peksoz, Adriana Petrova, Mary Ruppert-Stroescu

Place Attachment in Coworking Environments This study examines design features that assist coworkers with enhancement of place attachment. Attributes common to coworking environments include shared spaces, nonrestrictive occupations, and an environment that caters to a multitude of jobs and industries and encourages comingling. Data have been collected in coworking offices in Midwestern metropolitan areas using visual research methods, specifically photo-elicitation, which incorporates photos into individual research interviews to better understand a participant’s viewpoint. Design features related to the four dimensions of place attachment will be analyzed: place dependence, place identity, social bonding, and nature bonding. Sponsor: Interior Design Educators Council PI/PD: Mihyun Kang HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT

Building Tourism and Marketing Strategies for Oklahoma Wines This project is to increase agritourism as it relates to the viticulture and enology industries and advance the marketing of Oklahoma produced grapes and wine. Specifically, this project is conducting market research to identify visitor profiles and examine visitor perceptions as well as conduct a needs assessment of producers as it relates to continued development and marketing. This information will be used to develop critical and executable marketing strategies to increase awareness and visitation to Oklahoma wineries. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry PI/PDs: Stacy Tomas, Jing Yang

Farm-to-Table Movement in Oklahoma: Barriers and Facilitators of Local Food Sourcing from Oklahoma Producers to Restaurants The purpose of the project is to investigate what deters and what facilitates farm-to- foodservice sourcing in Oklahoma from the perspective of both the producer and restaurateur. The project also aims to understand the foodservice demand for local foods and identify key success factors in establishing local food sourcing. A qualitative component will include a series of interviews with Oklahoma farmers/producers and restauranteurs to identify perceived local food sourcing barriers and facilitators. Findings from the interviews will be used to design an on-line survey that will then be distributed among a greater sample of farmers and restaurateurs as phase two of the project. Results of the project will be utilized to develop timely and fact-based educational and training materials to assist Oklahoma local foods movement. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Lisa Slevitch

Hospitality Consulting and Research Services This project provides a tailored project design and methodology. A project will include project timing, measurements, milestones, reporting, analysis, resources, and involvement of other subject matter experts. Sponsor: Oriole Holdings, LLC PI/PDs: David Davis, Dar Yasseri Oklahoma State Parks Hospitality Training Specially developed training curriculum for OTRD for Oklahoma State Parks in the area of customer service and hospitality was needed to improve and enhance visitor services. The training was developed in consultation with the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department and was delivered to all Oklahoma State Park employees that have direct contact with visitors. Fourteen four-hour training sessions were held across the state at specified state parks within each region. Employees who participated in the trainings also received a copy of the curriculum, as well as a workbook of additional resources. Sponsor: Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department PI/PD: Stacy Tomas

Traveler's Profile and Destination Image Study The aim of this project was to assess the profile of individuals who visit Guthrie, Oklahoma. The researchers will seek to understand the perceptions of the city of Guthrie as a travel destination. Sponsor: City of Guthrie PI/PD: Li Miao

HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND FAMILY SCIENCE

A Community Approach to Care Education: Empowering Rural Hospitals and Caregivers to Engage in Exceptional Care of Rural Elders This health education project targets rural, family caregiving as a critical health issue. This team is mobilizing the Family and Consumer Science Educator network to be the go-to resource on Care Education by developing an original curriculum and robust evaluation processes. Through a train-the-trainer model, our Care Education team is working directly with rural Family and Consumer Science Educators who will ultimately serve rural hospital health professionals and family caregivers. Given that rural health and caregiving are complex issues, the Care Education team is thrilled to be working with state and federal partners to ensure the success and scalability of this important project. Sponsor: United States Department of Agriculture – National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI/PDs: Whitney Bailey Design, Housing and Merchandising: Emily Roberts College of Education: Sara Gordon

ABCD - USA Consortium Research Project The purpose of the project is to prospectively determine the neurodevelopmental and behavioral predictors and consequences of substance use on children and adolescents. The study involves 21 data collection sites across the country and will enroll a total of 10,000 children. In Tulsa, we are collecting data on 700 nine and ten-year-old children. The study will follow the children and families over 10 years, and will examine factors that influence brain development and mental health. Sponsors: Laureate Institute for Brain Research, National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Amanda Morris Age Simulation Suit GERT Project The purpose of the project was to create a hands-on immersive experience that will generate increased awareness and knowledge of normative age-associated changes in sensory, mobility, and biomechanical functioning. The target audience included N = 32 able-bodied participants. Average age of participants was 51 years. Older participants were paired with younger participants through a series of simulated AOL activities (e.g. cooking, medication preparation, sit/standing, and walking) while wearing age simulation suit equipment. Results indicate that participation in the ADL exercises using the age simulation suit produced more realistic expectations regarding aging for all participants. Furthermore, the combined use of ADL activities with a wearable aging simulation suit resulted in increased feelings of empathy. The findings have implications for using age simulation clothing for caregiver training and education Sponsors: Donna Cadwalader Research & Development Grant, Oklahoma Home and Community Education, Inc., Oklahoma State University Foundation PI/PDs: Alex Bishop Design, Housing and Merchandising: Gina Peek

CareerAdvance: Outcomes Study, Health Profession Opportunity Grants University Partnership- Child Assessment This research project is designed to study the expansion of CareerAdvance, an adult workforce development program run by the Community Action Project of Tulsa County (CAP). CareerAdvance supports the career development of low-income parents with children enrolled in CAP's early learning centers. Sponsors: Northwestern University, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families PI/PD: Amanda Morris

Center for Integrative Research on Childhood Adversity The Center for Integrative Research on Childhood Adversity (CIRCA) is the nation’s first interdisciplinary center focused on understanding and mitigating the effects of childhood adversity on health. The long-term goal of CIRCA is the development of more effective and sustainable prevention and intervention strategies to interrupt the cycle of generational trauma and toxic stress. CIRCA will develop and study interventions for children and adolescents at risk for negative outcomes associated with adverse experiences. Achieving these goals promotes and enhances the mission of Oklahoma State University as a land-grant institution dedicated to using research knowledge to improve the lives of the citizens of the state and the nation. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Jennifer Hays-Grudo Center on Child Abuse and Neglect The Center on Child Abuse and Neglect offers assessment and treatment for children who have been abused or neglected, adolescent sex offenders, and women and the children of women who used inappropriate substances during pregnancy. This project supports two OSU students who provide oversight of qualitative data, core check qualitative data, and enter data for analyses. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma PI/PD: Lana Beasley

Children, Youth, and Families At-Risk: The North Carolina State University and Oklahoma State University Together for a Better Education Program The purpose of this five-year project is to implement and evaluate the JUNTOS project designed to increase academic performance and reduce dropout among Latino youth. Objectives are to 1) empower Latino parents to become more involved in and supportive of the educational goals of their children, 2) promote Social Emotional Learning in youth and link them with existing community resources designed to enhance their academic performance, and 3) provide youth with opportunities to develop positive peer affiliations and life skills through diverse activities and exposure to career opportunities. Sponsors: North Carolina State University, United States Department of Agriculture – National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI/PD: Ron Cox

Community Action Project of Tulsa Family Life Study Extension: Evaluation of a Model Dual- Generation Program This research project is designed to study the expansion of CareerAdvance, an adult workforce development program run by the Community Action Project of Tulsa County (CAP). This project includes longitudinal data collection on the impact of a workforce development program for parents of children attending Head Start. It will examine the effects of the program on children’s social and emotional development. Initial results indicate gains in education among parents as well as gains in self-esteem and motivation. Initial results of the program are promising, with CareerAdvance parents earning more education and employment in targeted sectors, as well as increased levels of children's attendance in quality preschools. Sponsors: Northwestern University, Foundation for Child Development PI/PD: Amanda Morris Daily Peer Interactions and Enduring Relationship Attributes as Predictors of Adolescent Sleep Given critical role that peer relationships play in the prediction of physical and mental health (e.g., obesity, depression) during adolescence, the current pilot study will explore links between peer relationships and adolescent chronic sleep deficiency. The first aim of this study will be to delineate variation in amount of adolescent sleep by daily peer electronic communication (e.g., texting). Second, we will identify enduring negative peer relationship attributes (e.g., victimization, conflict) that predict variation in amount of adolescent sleep. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Michael Criss

Dayspring Reflective Consultation Dayspring therapy providers will be seen individually for reflective consultation either weekly or bi-weekly, as specified by Dayspring to ensure that providers receive opportunities to reflect on issues raised by their clinical cases which utilize the model Child Parent Psychotherapy and/or infant mental health specific cases. Periodic group reflective consultation has been held and is on-going as appropriate with above mentioned provider. Sponsor: DaySpring Services of Oklahoma PI/PD: Amanda Morris

Early Childhood Partnership Project The project is designed to facilitate the enrollment of four and five-year old children residing within the Stillwater Public School (SPS) District into an inclusive Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten educational program. This project implements Oklahoma State Department of Education and SPS’s educational criteria including, but not limited to, family activities and involvement, literacy concepts/skills, mathematical concepts/skills, science concepts/skills, and social development and growth. Sponsor: Stillwater Public Schools PI/PD: Diana Ross

Evaluation of Home Visitation Programs Provided by the State This project will evaluate and measure the quality of home visitation programs provided by the state to identify problem areas and enhance the growth of home visitation programs in the state of Oklahoma. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center PI/PD: Lana Beasley Evaluation of "Talking is Teaching" Tulsa Campaign This evaluation is designed to examine the effectiveness of the "Talking Is Teaching" campaign activities and examined usage of literacy toolkits and engagement in activities being promoted through the campaign. Initial results indicate that components of the program are successfully impacting parents' attitudes and behaviors toward talking, reading, and singing to babies. Programming that is more relationship-based (e.g., involving a nurse educator or reading group) seems to be most effective. Sponsor: The Opportunity Institute PI/PD: Amanda Morris

Expanding the Cycle of Opportunity: Simultaneously Educating Parents and Children in Head Start The purpose of this project is to conduct a randomized trial on the impact of a dual-generation education program, Education Pathways Program, for parents and their children in the Community Action Project's Head Start programs. An implementation study on the key strengths and challenges of intervention, and how it can better serve Head Start families will be conducted. Findings will have implications for how dual-generation approaches affect family processes and well-being and how best to integrate this approach into Head Start programming. Sponsors: Northwestern University, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families PI/PD: Amanda Morris

Giving Our Quietest Children a Voice: Using Assistive Technology to Promote Independence in Young Children The purpose of the project is to examine how the systematic collaboration among team members who support young children with limited communication abilities influences the use of Assistive Technology (AT) by four young children within inclusive classrooms at the OSU Child Development Lab and to examine how following the recommended steps identified by the Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology impacted the children’s successful use of AT to communicate. Findings demonstrated that collaborative team interactions positively impacted the successful use of AT by the young children. Adhering to the QIAT steps impacted each child’s communication abilities in different, yet positive ways. Sponsors: Bartlett Family Grant for Promoting Independent Living among Individuals with Physical Disabilities, Oklahoma State University Foundation PI/PDs: Gretchen Cole-Lade, Dianna Ross College of Education: Claudia Otto HATCH: Holistic Assessment of Tulsa Children's Health The long-term goal of this research program is to understand women's reproductive health and fertility over the life course and adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes. The objective of the research project is to determine biopsychosocial mechanisms linking maternal early adversity, unplanned pregnancy, and poor birth outcomes. Information from this study will be used to develop an intervention for mothers with the aim of reducing unplanned pregnancies and improving birth outcomes. Study recruitment is ongoing. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Karina Shreffler

Juntos Against Alcohol Tobacco and Drug Use Intervention Trial Juntos Se Puede (Together We Can) is a community-based, culturally-appropriate, psychoeducational intervention that shows significant promise to reduce stress and ATOD (alcohol, tobacco and other drugs) use among Latino youth in new settlement areas. Before an efficacy trial is conducted, a feasibility trial is designed to answer two sets of questions. First, what are the most efficient recruitment and retention strategies for Latino immigrant families? What engages parents and youth in the program? Second, how will Latino youth and their families respond to requests to provide biomarkers used to determine cumulative stress burden, as assessed by allostatic load? What relationships exist between common psychosocial factors and allostatic load among Latino youth? Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Ron Cox

Juntos: Together for a Better Education and Success for At-Risk Youth in Iowa Communities The project will provide program evaluation expertise to Iowa State University. OSU will coordinate data collection protocols, instrumentation, data management, and data analyses for the project. Sponsors: Iowa State University, United States Department of Agriculture – National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI/PD: Ron Cox

Legacy for Children Spanish Evaluation This study is evaluating the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Legacy for Children group parenting program. Funds are used to strengthen data collection for parenting groups, including Spanish groups, being implemented in Tulsa, OK. Specifically, funds are used for staff to help collect comparison data and to code observational data of parent-infant interactions. Sponsors: University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families PI/PD: Amanda Morris Legacy Parenting Initiative - Tulsa Children's Project The purpose of this project is to provide a highly unique and integrated set of proven interventions to maximize the health and development of the families enrolled in Tulsa Educare, Inc., and in the community. The interventions focus on improving parenting in low- income families and include the evaluation of the George Kaiser Family Foundation's Faith- based literacy program as well as parenting programs at Educare and in the community. Results indicate that the programs are reaching families, and are improving parenting attitudes and behaviors. Sponsors: George Kaiser Family Foundation, Oklahoma State University Foundation PI/PDs: Amanda Morris, Jennifer Hays-Grudo

Minding the Gap in Early Childhood Education: A Lay Advisor Approach The purpose of the project was to: a) identify and train community lay advisors to deliver one of two home-based parent involvement curricula as a means of fostering healthy early childhood development among families living in poverty; and b) evaluate program outcomes among children, families, and lay advisors. Findings indicate that developmental progress was made by children in both treatment groups; families reported significant increases in parenting efficacy and empowerment; lay advisors connected families with community resources that families likely would have gone without; and lay advisors demonstrated substantial professional development. Sponsors: George Kaiser Family Foundation, Oklahoma State University Foundation PI/PDs: Amy Tate, Michael Merten

Modeling Parent-Child Inter-Brain Emotion Regulation in the Prediction of Adolescent Depressive Symptoms Depression and emotion management problems contribute to significant public health problems in adolescence and adulthood. Despite evidence that parenting plays an important role in risk and resilience processes related to emotion regulation and depression, extant research has focused primarily on intra-individual emotion regulation and has not examined inter-individual emotion regulation, or how parents' emotion regulation impacts adolescents' emotion regulation and related mental health. Little is known about the impact of parenting on the neurocircuitry underlying adolescents' emotionality and depressive symptomology. To address these gaps, the current study integrates (a) a developmental approach, (b) functional neuroimaging, and (c) longitudinal clinical research to examine how risk and resilience for depression relate to brain activity in parents and adolescents. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Amanda Morris

MOU - Partnership with Tulsa Children's Project The purpose of this project is to help motivate low-income Tulsa Educare parents to achieve family self-sufficiency through increased workplace income, benefits and career growth opportunities. Sponsor: Tulsa Educare, Inc. PI/PD: Jennifer Hays-Grudo National Core Indicators Adult Consumer Survey – Oklahoma The purpose of this research is to inform policy and practice within state developmental disabilities service systems using the Nation Core Indicators Adult Consumer Survey. In FY17, face-to-face surveys were conducted with adults with intellectual disabilities regarding where individuals live and work, participation in community activities, relationships with friends and family, health and well-being. Research findings improve State practice and policy and add knowledge to the field regarding quality of life of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Data also informs the State transition plan to meet new Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services rules for Home and Community Based Services. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Human Services PI/PDs: Jennifer Jones, Kami Gallus

Oklahoma Good Behavior Game Implementation and Evaluation The Center for Family Resilience (CFR) has been supporting the implementation of PAX Good Behavior Game (PAX GBG) for approximately one year. The CFR’s support has been primarily in the areas of technical assistance, quality improvement activities, and evaluation of PAX GBG implementation at John Glenn Elementary in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Broadly, the support system provided by the CFR, with program oversight provided by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, serves as a meaningful tool for building and promoting mental health in Oklahoma. CFR staff attended a national PAX partner training session that will enable the CFR team to provide quality support to elementary school teachers. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services PI/PD: Michael Merten

Parent Child Center of Tulsa Study The Parent Child Center of Tulsa study is a prospective, mixed-methods study designed to evaluate the efficacy of delivering literacy toolkits and literacy education to women giving birth at local hospitals. Results indicate improvement in literacy building skills; also, the program may be particularly beneficial for families with low levels of education. Sponsor: George Kaiser Family Foundation PI/PDs: Amanda Morris, Lana Beasley

Parenting, Energy Dynamics and Lifestyle Determinants of Childhood Obesity: New Directions in Prevention The purposes of this multi-state research project are to identify successful childhood obesity prevention strategies that include parenting and to translate those strategies for implementation by community and public health professionals. The goals included: 1) reviewing the pertinent literature regarding parent, family, or community obesity-prevention research from the perspectives of nutrition, physical activity, and developmental sciences, 2) arriving at a consensus about the primary correlates of childhood obesity that can be addressed by parent, family, or community obesity prevention programs, and 3) translating and disseminating agreed-upon best practices into messages or webinars for Extension. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Laura Hubbs-Tait Practicum for Process and Implementation Evaluation of Community Based Services for Problematic Sexual Behavior of Youths This project provides oversight for the qualitative aspects of a study examining community- based services for youth who have exhibited problematic sexual behaviors, including conducting individual interviews by telephone, conducting focus groups, organizing transcription data, analyzing data, and blending qualitative data with quantitative data. Sponsors: University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, United States Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Programs PI/PD: Lana Beasley

Preventing Suspension and Expulsion in Early Care and Education through Targeted Professional Development on Social and Emotional Self-Regulation This project includes two-parts: 1) Examining classroom and developmental correlates of suspension and expulsion practices in Oklahoma. This part was completed in spring 2017 with a survey to all licensed childcare facilities in Oklahoma; and 2) Developing an evidence-based professional development program for early care and education teachers aimed at improving their self-regulation skills, facilitating self-regulation in very young children, understanding the impact of risk and resilience on adult and child self-regulation development, mindfulness, and reflective practice. This program is currently being piloted in Stillwater Early Head Start programs. Sponsors: Caplan Foundation for Early Childhood, Oklahoma State University Foundation PI/PD: Amy Williamson

Project LAUNCH - Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Work Force Development This project is a contract to offer workforce development to Oklahoma based mental health clinicians. The professional development program includes a graduate course in Infant Mental Health assessment that was offered through the HDFS department at OSU and 50 hours of reflective consultation towards their endorsement in infant mental health that is still ongoing for participants. Sponsors: Oklahoma State Department of Health, United States Department of Health and Human Services PI/PD: Amy Williamson

Reducing Pesticide Exposure among Latino Adolescents through Promotora-Based Interventions This project implements and evaluates a promotora-based intervention targeted at adolescent farm workers. The intervention will be delivered to two different treatment groups: 1) adolescent only, adolescents receive the adapted adolescent version of La Familia Sana program and 2) family enhanced, adolescent and mother both receive the La Familia Sana program. In addition, there will be a control group where adolescent farmworkers will not be exposed to any pesticide safety program. Sponsors: University of Texas Health Science Center, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health PI/PD: Michael Merten System of Care: Strengthening our CareNet (SOC2) - Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Workforce Development This project is an ongoing contract to offer workforce development to Oklahoma based mental health clinicians in infant mental health. The professional development program includes a graduate course in Infant Mental Health assessment offered each semester and 50 hours of reflective consultation towards their endorsement in infant mental health for each cohort. Additionally, Dr. Williamson provides an ongoing evaluation of the effectiveness of the workforce development initiative. Sponsors: Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, United States Department of Health and Human Services PI/PD: Amy Williamson

The Northwestern University Two-Generation Study (NUGen) of Parent and Child Human Capital Advancement This study examines the impact of a workforce development program on children and families. The program targets low-income parents. OSU provides expertise specifically on the Two- Generation Exploratory Mechanism Study to focus on child and family outcomes as they relate to children’s academic progress and socioemotional development. Sponsors: Northwestern University, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families PI/PD: Amanda Morris

Tulsa Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy This project is an evaluation of the Tulsa Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) scale-up efforts under an Office of Adolescent Health grant that was secured by Youth Services of Tulsa. Evaluation support included external observations of program delivery for fidelity monitoring, the development of surveys to understand the process of community mobilization and youth engagement in support of TPP, and an assessment of teen friendly clinic linkages. Sponsors: Tulsa Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Youth Services of Tulsa PI/PD: Michael Merten

Tulsa Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy - Data Collection and Evaluation The project supports the Tulsa Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy (TCPTP) through analyzing and reporting participant level data on TPS district wide implementation of comprehensive sex education, developing a Sex Educator Experience Survey to assess perceived barriers to program implementation, and analyzing and reporting on teen clinic linkages through the Teen Clinic Experience Survey. Sponsor: Tulsa Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy PI/PD: Michael Merten Understanding the Psycho-Physiological Dynamics of Well-Being and Health in Old- Old Age The purpose of this study was to determine how very old people remain healthy given age- associated decline and impairment. A total of 154 participants, 70 years of age and older, were evaluated. One goal of this study is to comparatively examine experiential and evaluative components of well-being on health outcomes among long-lived adults. Result indicate that family care providers tend to underestimate the functional abilities of the older care recipient, while overrating negative health outcomes. Results have implications relative to how care providers address the mental and physical well-being and quality-of-life in the older care recipient. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Alex Bishop

Wings of Hope Family Crisis Services Graduate Research Assistantship To enhance student learning in marriage and family therapy and to support the delivery of mental health services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, this grant established the Wings of Hope graduate research assistantship. The graduate student worked in family crisis services at Wings of Hope as part of a clinical assistantship/externship. Sponsor: Wings of Hope Family Crisis Services PI/PD: Matt Brosi

Youth Services of Tulsa Graduate Assistantship To enhance student learning in marriage and family therapy and to support the delivery of mental health services to adolescent youth in an urban setting, this grant establishes the Youth Services of Tulsa graduate research assistantship. The graduate student worked in adolescent mental health at Youth Services of Tulsa as part of a clinical assistantship/externship. Sponsor: Youth Services of Tulsa PI/PD: Matt Brosi NUTRITIONAL SCIENCES

β,β‐carotene 9’,10’‐oxygenase 2 in Hepatic Mitochondrial Function and Obesity The purpose of this study was to dissect the role of BCO2 in mitochondrial integrity and the consequence in the development of obesity in mice. The project utilized functional biochemistry and omics approaches to assess the underlying mechanism by which BCO2 regulates mitochondrial structure and function (mitochondrial respiration activity) in the wild type and BCO2 knockout mice. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Daniel Lin

Chickasaw Nation Systems and Environmental Change, Social Marketing, Evaluation and Tribal Partnership The development and implementation of the Get Fresh! social marketing campaign is a long term commitment for which the return is prevention of obesity and type 2 diabetes among Native Americans living in the Chickasaw Nation boundaries through the establishment of healthy eating habits and a physically active lifestyle. "Stories of Health" from Native Americans living in the Chickasaw Nation boundaries have been developed and tailored for Native American families focusing on promoting physical activity, increasing fruit and vegetable intake, and being healthy together. Indigenous formative assessment on acceptance, comprehension and relevance of the "Stories of Health" is being conducted. Sponsors: Chickasaw Nation, Oklahoma Department of Human Services, United States Department of Agriculture PI/PDs: Stephany Parker, Janice Hermann

Chickasaw Nation WIC/OSU Hot Buttons Evaluation The Chickasaw Nation Nutrition Services (CNNS) has an established history of research collaborations with faculty in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at Oklahoma State University. Through these contracts, CNNS has been able to improve the visibility of the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program at the national level by reporting science-based outcomes and dissemination of these outcomes in peer-reviewed publications. The research, survey, and focus group evaluation expertise provided by the contracts with OSU will benefit the CNNS WIC program by ensuring the development of evidence- and practice-based outcomes evaluation techniques. Sponsors: Chickasaw Nation, United States Department of Agriculture PI/PDs: Stephany Parker, Janice Hermann Cooking for Kids: Culinary Training for School Nutrition Professionals The project provides comprehensive training to assist Oklahoma's school food authorities in effectively implementing USDA meal pattern requirements authorized by Healthy and Hunger Free Kids Act. In its 4th year, 817 school nutrition professionals (SNP), representing 157 school districts, have attended 3-day skill development training; and 33 SNP, representing 21 school districts, attended culinary management training. Year-long chef consults have been conducted in 27 school districts. Outcomes include increase in SNPs’ knowledge and improved work practices. Student outcomes include increased consumption of whole grains and fruit meal components. Sponsors: Oklahoma State Department of Education, United States Department of Agriculture PI/PD: Deana Hildebrand

Eagle Adventure Program The Eagle Adventure Program is a collaboration between the Chickasaw Nation Nutrition Services’ Get Fresh! program and the Nutritional Sciences Department. The program received funding to support Eagle Adventure programming, evaluation, and additional work with tribal partners throughout Oklahoma. The Eagle Adventure is a type 2 diabetes prevention program for children in 1st through 3rd grades. Built on a foundation of the CDC Eagle books and native culture, storytelling and language, children learn how staying healthy and strong can help prevent type 2 diabetes. Children are becoming excited about eating more fruits and vegetables and being physically active. Sponsor: Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Stephany Parker, Janice Hermann

Effect of Wheat Germ Oil (WGO) from Oklahoma Red Winter Wheat on Inflammation, Gut Integrity, and Microbial Population in Obese Mice Changes in gut microbial population can compromise gut integrity and lead to chronic inflammation which is linked to many chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. One natural product that can be tapped for its health benefits is wheat and its by-products. Oklahoma is one of the largest wheat growing states in the country. Wheat germ (WG) is an understudied portion of the wheat grain and contains several bioactive compounds, including large amounts of vitamins and anti-oxidants. The goal of the project is to study the effects of WG from Oklahoma red winter wheat on gut integrity and bacterial population and examine its relationship with inflammation and body weight and composition in obese mice. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Edralin Lucas Effects of Maternal Vitamin D Supplementation on Markers of Vitamin D Status and Related Infant and Maternal Health Outcomes in Southern Ethiopia A placebo-controlled double-blind trial was conducted in Sidama Zone, Southern Ethiopia. Lactating women (n=126) enrolled within two weeks postpartum were randomized to vitamin D3 (15,000 IU/week) or placebo for 12 months. Median 25(OH)D was higher in the vitamin D supplemented group at end-line. All supplemented women were vitamin D sufficient (> 50 nmol/L) by the end of the study. Furthermore, 95% had attained 25(OH)D concentrations > 75 nmol/L compared to 39% in the control group. Weekly vitamin D supplementation safely eliminated vitamin D insufficiency in the study population. Sponsor: Nutricia Research Foundation PI/PDs: Barbara Stoecker, Meron Wondimagegnhu

Effects of Strawberries on LDL Cholesterol and Insulin Resistance in Overweight/Obese Adults with the Metabolic Syndrome In this study we investigated the effects of two dietary achievable doses of strawberries on serum LDL-C, LDL-C particles, glucose (fasting and postprandial) and HbA1c in participants with the metabolic syndrome in a randomized crossover study. Sponsor: California Strawberry Commission PI/PD: Arpita Basu

Egg Xanthophylls Prevent Chronic Inflammation in Type 2 Diabetes Inflammation is one of the causative factors mediating the pathogenesis of diabetes. Xanthophylls, the oxygenated carotenoids, alleviate inflammation in both humans and rodents. Egg is a common but unique food containing highly bioavailable xanthophylls. The project employed structural, chemical, and functional approaches to investigate the molecular targets of egg and its xanthophylls on alleviation of chronic inflammation in type 2 diabetes. Sponsor: United States Department of Agriculture – National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI/PDs: Daniel Lin Center for Veterinary Health Sciences: Ranjith Ramanathan

Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program Research, Program Evaluation and Outreach The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) assists low-income families gain the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors necessary for nutritionally sound diets. Currently, we are testing new evaluation methods to determine changes in food behaviors brought about by the program. This will provide us with a way to evaluate whether the program promotes positive changes in dietary intake and related behaviors. We conducted a reliability and validity study on items. Items found to generate reliable responses over time were submitted to the national EFNEP Director for the new Food Behavior Checklist. Validity testing of the new instrument is underway. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Nancy Betts Fetal Alcohol Syndrome - Evaluating Potential for Nutrition Intervention with Iron The project will use the Cerner Health Facts and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to determine if iron status is lower in newborns diagnosed with fetal alcohol syndrome and pregnant woman who consume alcohol. Completion of this study is expected to identify populations at risk for infants born with fetal alcohol syndrome and high rates of iron deficiency and may benefit from iron supplementation. The knowledge gained from these studies may lead to nutrition strategies to prevent or mitigate the teratogenic effects of alcohol during pregnancy and decrease the incidence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Winyoo Chowanadisai

Food-Derived Bioactive Components and the Gut as a Therapeutic Target for Osteoporosis Research has shown that by altering the gut mucosal immune system and microbial populations, postmenopausal bone loss can be prevented. This project is investigating the extent to which the bioactive components in a polyphenolic-rich food, dried plum, can alter gut mucosal immunity using in vitro and in vivo experiments. Additionally, we are studying how the gut mucosal immunological changes induced by dried plum and its bioactive components correlate with changes in bone. The results of this project are allowing our research team to understand how the gut may serve as a target for the treatment of osteoporosis. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Brenda Smith

Gut Immunomodulating Properties of Phenolic Compounds in Oklahoma Grown Pecans: Potential Health and Long‐term Economic Impacts Oklahomans continue to experience chronic diseases at alarming rates. While genetics and health behaviors contribute to this public health dilemma, the underlying etiology of these diseases involves chronic activation of the immune system. Advances in our understanding of gut mucosal immunity and the ability to use bioactive components in foods to target this system have led us to investigate how other foods rich in phenolics, such as the pecan which is an important Oklahoma crop, effect the gut immune response. Preliminary results show that phenolic compounds from pecans down‐regulate inflammatory processes and may target the gut for intervention. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Brenda Smith

Health Policy Research Scholar Over the course of the five-year program, the participant will engage in program activities concurrent with and to enhance and enrich the participant's doctoral program. Participant is developing high-level leadership skills through professional coaching, mentoring, networking and an advanced health policy curriculum. The overall intention of the program is to diversify the next generation of leaders and ensure equity in policies to advance a Culture of Health – one that places well-being at the center of every aspect of life. Sponsor: Robert Woods Johnson Foundation PI/PD: Teresa Jackson 'HoneySweet' Plum Safety Study The plum pox virus is a devastating disease that can wipe out complete orchards. Currently, there are no effective ways of eradicating the virus once an orchard is infected. This study is designed to investigate the safety of a genetically modified cultivar of plum, 'HoneySweet', that has been developed to be resistant to the plum pox virus. This multi-disciplinary research effort includes investigators at the USDA-ARS Appalachian Fruit Research Station, Clemson University, and Oklahoma State University. Researchers at OSU are investigating the safety of routine consumption of the 'HoneySweet' plum on clinical indicators. Sponsor: Clemson University PI/PD: Brenda Smith

Implication of Caring Practice and Household Food Insecurity on the Nutritional Status, Growth, and Development of Infants in Nutritional Sensitive Intervention Areas in South West Ethiopia In Ethiopia, childhood malnutrition is both prevalent and serious, and improper feeding and caring practices remain a common problem. This project involved data analysis from 4680 households in southwest Ethiopia. Pregnant women, ages 15-49 were monitored at three- month intervals from the first trimester of pregnancy until delivery, and monitoring of mother- infant dyads continued to 1 year after delivery for a total of 7 data collection points. Key measures included growth, motor milestones and developmental outcomes as well as information on diets of mothers and infants. Data on decision-making, information access and income and expenditures of the household also were collected. Sponsors: University of California, International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, United States Agency for International Development PI/PDs: Barbara Stoecker Jimma University: Debebe Moges Moshago

Low-Income Older Adults' Use of Food Pantry to Cope with Food Insecurity Older adult food insecurity is a serious threat facing not only our nation but also Oklahoma. Thus, food banks and food pantries have become a crucial resource for those who are food insecure in Oklahoma. However, older adults who utilize food pantries still have barriers and setbacks that need to be overcome. In order to help older Oklahoma adults with food insecurities, there must be progressive changes made to food pantries. This study is meant to determine the needs and issues facing older adults who obtain food from food pantries to facilitate positive growth among older adults facing food insecurities. Sponsors: Donna Cadwalader Research and Development Grant, Oklahoma Home and Community Education, Inc., Oklahoma State University Foundation PI/PDs: Janice Hermann, Gail Gates, Stephany Parker Nutrient Bioavailability - Phytonutrients and Beyond This multi-state project addresses the roles of nutrients and phytochemicals and their interactions in reducing the risk of chronic disease. Work related to project objectives included investigation of biomarkers of iron status and their relation to anemia in Ethiopia as well as biomarkers of maternal iron status that predicted infant cognitive outcomes. Another project investigated iodine deficiency in pregnancy and the transfer of iodine to breast milk and ultimately to infants. Understanding factors that determine nutrient bioavailability and targets of action assists in making recommendations to specific stakeholders and ultimately affecting the health of Oklahomans and our nation. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Barbara Stoecker, Edralin Lucas

Oklahoma Nutrition Education This science-based program teaches low-income adults and youth about nutrition, health and well-being. It focuses on eating healthy on a budget, increasing physical activity and increasing food safety practices. Sponsors: Oklahoma Department of Health, United States Department of Agriculture PI/PDs: Debra Garrard Foster, Diana Romano

Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust's Healthy Living Program The University Partnership for Applied Evaluation Research conducts in-depth evaluation of 50 county level coalitions funded to prevent and reduce tobacco use and obesity through strategic actions across businesses, cities and governments, community institutions and organizations and schools using policy, systems and environmental approaches. Sponsors: University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust PI/PD: Deana Hildebrand

PEP Grant-FitnessGram Student Outcomes Evaluation The purpose of this program is to evaluate Putnam City Public School District’s ability to meet the United States Department of Education’s Physical Education Program Grant. At the end of year 3 of the 3-year project, 49 percent of the 4th and 5th grade students (n=432) met physical fitness criteria; 55 percent were within a healthy weight range; 35 percent reported meeting fruit consumption recommendations; and 24 percent reported meeting vegetable consumption recommendations. Sponsors: Putnam City Public Schools, United States Department of Education PI/PD: Deana Hildebrand Raspberries, Postprandial Metabolism and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus This project assessed the effects of raspberries in postprandial glycaemia and lipemia following a high fat fast-food style meal challenge versus control group. The project assessed the effects of raspberries on the postprandial rise of glucose, lipids, and inflammatory biomarkers in adults with type 2 diabetes along with a high fat breakfast meal. Sponsors: National Processed Raspberry Council, United States Department of Agriculture PI/PD: Arpita Basu

Regulation of Placenta Growth Factor by Hemodynamics and Reactive Oxygen Species The overall objectives of this application are 1) to pursue our knowledge of mechanisms regulating PLGF into the new avenue of iron metabolism, and 2) to reveal the mechanism by which a Western diet impairs PLGF regulation. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Stephen Clarke

Resilience and Vulnerability of Beef Cattle Production in the Southern Great Plains under Changing Climate, Land Use, and Markets: Consumer Curriculum Evaluation Objectives were to understand vulnerability and enhance resilience of beef-grazing systems and safeguard and strengthen production and ecosystem services while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions in the Southern Great Plains. A curriculum, “Does Climate Change Your Plate?” found statistically significant increases in 14 of 16 topics reflecting increases in knowledge of climate and weather, greenhouse gases, ranching adaptations, connections between climate and production and nutritional benefits of beef. There were significant increases anticipated to eat recommended serving sizes, serve beef with vegetables and/or whole grains, buy on price per serving, use recommended cooking methods, healthful convenience items and reduce food waste. Sponsors: Kansas State University, United States Department of Agriculture – National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI/PDs: Barbara Brown Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources: Daryl Arnall, Jeff Edwards, David Lalman, Tyson Oschsner, Albert Sutherland, Jason Warren Role of Garlic in Decreasing Cardiovascular Disease Risk by Promoting Reverse‐Cholesterol Transport It is important to examine foods and their bioactive components that show promise for mitigating the negative effects of high-calorie/high-fat (especially saturated fat) diets on cardiovascular disease risk. Among such foods, garlic (Allium sativum) has received particular attention due to its anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-cancer properties. The purpose of this project is to examine the extent to which bioactive components present in garlic exhibit their cardioprotective properties through an increase in cholesterol efflux and reduction in cholesterol synthesis in macrophages. Understanding the potential mechanisms through which bioactive components of garlic reduce risk of disease will provide insight into the reduction of developing chronic diseases. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Stephen Clarke

Science, Technology, Research and Innovation for Development (STRIDE) The aim of this research grant is to mentor and facilitate the visit of an international researcher who will participate in short-term research activities. Sponsor: U.S. Agency for International Development PI/PDs: Edralin Lucas, Brenda Smith Research Scholar: Judith Antonino

Selenium and Thyroid Metabolism among Iodine Sufficient Children The thyroid response of selenium-deficient children was investigated a year after iodine repletion. Iodized salt coverage increased to 91.6% and median urinary iodine concentration (UIC) increased from 9.3 µg/L at baseline to 167 µg/L at endline. However, nearly half of the children had low serum selenium. Iodine replete (UIC > 100 µg/L) children with serum selenium lower than the optimal cutoff for iodinase activity had significantly lower serum T3 and elevated TSH suggesting that selenium deficiency is a risk factor for normal iodine metabolism. Adequate selenium status may increase the effectiveness of the salt iodization program and needs further investigation. Sponsor: The Micronutrient Initiative PI/PDs: Barbara Stoecker, Dawd Gashu SNAP and EFNEP Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention Center of Excellence: Creating Healthy Local Places OSU investigators are participating as part of the SNAP and EFNEP Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention Center of Excellence (NEOPCE) to focus on the use of public health principles and Policy/Systems/Environmental (PSE) interventions to promote healthy eating and prevent obesity in low income populations. Our long-term goal is to reduce the incidence of obesity among low-income families and children through the use of SNAP-Ed and EFNEP PSE approaches that complement and are integrated with direct nutrition education strategies. Sponsors: University of Tennessee, United States Department of Agriculture – National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI/PDs: Stephany Parker Center for Sovereign Nations: Elizabeth Payne

Student Outcome Evaluation This student outcome evaluation for Schools for Healthy Lifestyles 3rd through 6th grades was conducted to examine 1) progress in student fitness levels measured by FitnessGram and 2) changes in students' health knowledge and behavior as measured by Schools for Healthy Lifestyles' Health Survey. At the end of the year, 55% of randomly selected 4th and 5th grade students (n=472) met physical fitness criteria; 64% were within a healthy weight range; 17% reported meeting fruit and vegetable consumption recommendations. Sponsors: Schools for Healthy Lifestyles, United States Department of Education PI/PD: Deana Hildebrand

Tart Cherry Supplementation and Exercise: A Novel Strategy for Osteoporosis Prevention Despite the development of several osteoporosis pharmacological treatment options over the past two decades, the prevalence of osteoporosis continues to rise. Issues related to patient compliance, side effects and cost of drugs, have limited their effectiveness. Efforts to discover alternative regimens to prevent and treat osteoporosis have recently revealed that the incorporation of tart cherries into the diet can attenuate age-related bone loss by enhancing mineralization. This project is investigating if the combination of tart cherry with an exercise regimen can increase the bone-protective effects of tart cherry and to understand influence of age on this response. Sponsor: Cherry Marketing Institute PI/PD: Brenda Smith The Influence of Tart Cherry Juice on Bone Biomarkers in Older Women Osteoporosis continues to be a major public health problem in the U.S. and more than 70% of the fractures occur in women. The pursuit of alternative approaches for preventing bone loss or restoring bone has included the investigation of plant-based foods rich in certain types of polyphenolic compounds. These compounds have the capacity to prevent postmenopausal and age-related bone loss in pre-clinical studies. The purpose of this project is to investigate the short-term effect of tart cherry juice consumption on biomarkers of bone metabolism in women, aged 65-80 years. Sponsor: Cherry Marketing Institute PI/PDs: Brenda Smith, Edralin Lucas

Work Performance in Men with Trans-Femoral Amputation Rehabilitation for patients undergoing trans-femoral amputation (TFA) presents great challenges. Despite advances in rehabilitation and prosthetic technology, Oklahomans with TFA struggle with return to regular activities, including work. This project is designed to evaluate the underlying physiological response during recovery from TFA so that more effective rehabilitation programs can be developed. Our laboratory is collaborating with the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center to evaluate the changes in serum biomarkers during the recovery and rehabilitation processes. Sponsors: University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Brenda Smith

ZIP 12 - A Candidate Gene for Neural Tube Defects and Neurodevelopmental Disorders The purpose of this study is to identify nutritional strategies for addressing developmental disorders by uncovering novel nutrient-gene interactions which lead to neurodevelopmental pathology. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Winyoo Chowanadisai Spears School of Business – FY2017 Research Abstracts SCHOOL OF ACCOUNTING

Disaggregated Financial Statement Comparability This study develops a measure of financial statement comparability based on the disaggregated financial accounting components of earnings. The disaggregated financial statement comparability measure in this paper is contrasted with the aggregated (i.e., based solely on aggregate earnings) financial statement comparability measure used in prior research. The disaggregated framework allows for the measurement of comparability between two firms across multiple components of earnings, and enhances the ability to contrast a company’s accounting system to that of other companies impacted by similar economic effects. This comparability measure is robust to a rigorous set of analyses, including tests of incremental informativeness, alternative specifications of comparability, and considerations regarding the information environment. The metric developed in this study extends the financial statement comparability research based on its ability to capture the distinct components of earnings. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Matt Bjornsen

Disclosure Discrepancies and the Market Value of Tax Avoidance This study examines the incentives and consequences of inconsistent corporate disclosures about foreign operations. We provide evidence that firms with a foreign subsidiary in a tax haven country are more likely to either disclose foreign cash and withhold the disclosure of permanently reinvested earnings, or vice versa. In other words, there is a positive association between tax haven investments and the likelihood of inconsistent financial reporting disclosures. Equity market participants consider these inconsistent foreign disclosure choices when determining the value of corporate tax avoidance. We find that the inconsistent financial disclosures about foreign operations attenuate the positive association between tax avoidance and firm value. These results should be of interest to the Securities and Exchange Commission as it continues to monitor the transparency of firms’ foreign operations disclosures. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Matt Bjornsen Management Judgment and Discretion in Principles-Based Standards: Can Corporate Governance Mechanisms Ensure Effective Implementation?” This study examines whether corporate governance can constrain managements’ exercise of judgment and ensure the effective implementation of principles-based standards. We identify firm characteristics, incentives for opportunistic decisions, and corporate governance attributes associated with asset retirement obligations upon adoption of SFAS No. 143 in 2003. The results reveal firm-specific factors associated with ARO recognition, evidence of managements’ motivations in adoption decisions, and elements of strong corporate governance. Due to noncompliance identified by the FASB, the adoption of FIN 47 in 2005 is then examined to distinguish between firms that complied with SFAS No. 143 and groups of noncompliant firms. The results indicate consistent elements of corporate governance among the sample firms but reveal evidence of opportunistic decision-making among particular noncompliant firms. Overall, we find that corporate governance was not sufficiently effective in constraining managements’ use of judgment and discretion, necessitating two attempts to implement a single principles- based standard. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Matt Bjornsen

Managerial Ability and Financial Statement Comparability The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between an entity’s top internal management efficacy (TIME) and the comparability of that entity’s financial statements with those of its peers (FSC). While top management teams have been found to consider qualitative characteristics of financial information, such as comparability, when making accounting decisions, the link between TIME and financial statement comparability (FSC) remains unclear in the literature. My investigation suggests that (1) there is an observable association between TIME and FSC, (2) this relationship is dependent upon both firms of each peer-firm-pairing, and (3) entities with lower TIME are more likely to sacrifice financial reporting quality and/or engage in earnings management in order to achieve a given level of FSC. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Matt Bjornsen Tax Avoidance and Tax Comparability The FASB maintains that information about a company increases in usefulness if it can be compared with other companies and throughout time (FASB 2010). While research has provided some initial documentation regarding financial comparability, the purpose of this paper is to investigate tax comparability. Opposing one another, the goal of tax accounting is to reduce the tax liability via taxable income reduction, while the goal of financial accounting is to maximize bottom-line income. My results indicate that increased levels of tax avoidance are associated with decreased tax comparability (and thus a decrease in the usefulness of the financial statements). Further, this association is found to be stronger for firms with low financial comparability. Overall, the results suggest that firms engaging in high levels of tax avoidance are effectively reducing the comparability and usefulness of the related information of the firm. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Matt Bjornsen

Why Do Firms Forego Value-Maximizing Investments to Fund Their Defined Benefit Pension Plans? In recent years some firms with defined benefit pension plans have been offering lump-sum payout to employees in order to remove their pension obligations from the financial statements. Firms are also purchasing annuities for employees that opt out of the lump-sum offer. Additionally, there is some evidence that firms are allocating more of their pension assets to fixed income investments. These phenomenon are intriguing in an environment where the Federal Reserve has explicitly stated its intentions to raise interest rates. Specifically, this seems to be the worst time to invest in fixed income pension assets and to offer buyouts/annuities because as rates rise the value of these assets will decline. We examine firm behaviors to better understand their investment decisions, particularly in the face of rising interest rates. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: William C. Schwartz, Jr., Abbie Sadler

The Effects of Recent Changes in Accounting for Share Based Compensation Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2014-12 changes the accounting for share based compensation and especially focuses on situations where employees may vest even if the performance target is after the original service period of the award. In some cases, employees that have left the firm due to retirement of another job may also subsequently vest if the performance target is achieved. This project examines the stock market reaction to the new standard. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: William C. Schwartz, Jr. Customer Concentration Risk for Profit versus Loss Firms Prior research indicates a positive association between customer concentration and cost of equity capital and cost of debt. The cost of financing increases for firms that are more likely to lose key customers. We extend this literature by re-examining the cost of financing (debt and equity) when firms are partitioned by profit versus loss. Prior literature shows that loss firms have lower cumulative abnormal returns than profit firms. We replicate key papers in this study and extend the customer concentration literature. We expect that profit firms will have lower financing costs than loss firms and that the positive association between customer concentration and cost of financing will be lower for profit firms and higher for loss firms. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Penn State University PI/PD: William C. Schwartz, Jr., Harry Feng

A Survey on Firms’ Implementation of COSO’s 2013 Internal Control – Integrated Framework Many firms began implementing COSO’s 2013 Internal Control – Integrated Framework in 2014. This study surveys U.S. accounting professionals, primarily from large publicly-traded firms, to examine views concerning the framework and its impact on key areas related to internal controls. The analyses provide insight into five specific topics important to the framework. First, results indicate that respondents view the 2013 Framework and its 17 principles as an overall improvement to the 1992 Framework. However, benefits and costs from implementing the framework appear mitigated because firms already had effective internal control structures in place. Second, respondents view the 17 principles as a set of rules for achieving effective internal controls, but believe the principles still provide adequate flexibility and allow for sufficient management judgment. Third, most respondents indicate changes in at least one of the five components of internal controls, as well as across information technology-related controls. Fourth, in addition to external financial reporting objectives, firms are applying the framework to non-financial, operational, and compliance objectives. Last, results indicate greater expected external audit effort related to SOX Section 404 testing but not audit fees, perhaps due to external auditors’ reliance on internal audit departments’ work. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Central Oklahoma PI/PD: Bradley P. Lawson, Leah Muriel, Paula Sanders Auditors’ Pricing of FCPA Violations Although the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) was passed almost 40 years ago, firms continue to engage in bribery and corruption. This controversial and illegal activity presents a risk to the business and to their auditor. Consequences for violating the FCPA can include fines, penalties, legal expenses, and reputational damage. Using a dataset of FCPA violations provided by Shearman & Sterling LLP, we examine whether auditors price this specific client risk. We find that auditors price FCPA risk, both during the period of the violation and when a case is filed against the firm, and that the fee premium persists for up to two subsequent years. These results are robust to several analyses including propensity-score and entropy balanced tests. We also find that the higher fees are most often charged for violations of the accounting provisions of the FCPA. Additionally, we examine whether FCPA violation risk has contagion effects for auditors’ other similar clients. After matching on several client characteristics, including the geographic region of the violation, we find that auditors also charge higher fees to peer firms, but the fee premium is less than that charged to the violating firm. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Trinity University PI/PD: Bradley P. Lawson, Leah Muriel, Mike Wilkins

An examination of neutralization and information availability on the likelihood to commit fraud Much of the focus of anti-fraud measures has been on internal control procedures, but internal controls alone have not been effective at preventing all fraud. We examine whether the timing of the presentation of neutralization techniques and the availability of information via the accounting information system (AIS) influences individuals’ likelihood of committing fraud. We find that individuals who receive neutralization statements before making a decision on a fraudulent act, report a lower likelihood of committing fraud. Results also suggest that information availability is not associated with the likelihood of committing fraud. However, when segregating between accounting and non-accounting participants, we find that non- accounting participants report a higher likelihood of committing fraud when information availability is present. Although these individuals may be more likely to misuse their knowledge of information gained from the AIS and indicate higher agreement with statements neutralizing the deviant act, we provide evidence that promoting more cognizance around the issue has the potential to counteract the intention to commit fraud. Overall, our findings suggest that organizations’ can reduce fraud by exposing employees to statements that cause them to think about the whether the action is acceptable. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Universidad Adolfo Ibanez PI/PD: Bradley P. Lawson, Leah Muriel, Nelson Carrasco Real earnings management: Measurement of current net income impact and effect of cross- sectional variation on future profitability While a firm can increase current net income by overproducing inventory or decreasing discretionary spending, the effect on future profitability is not necessarily the same; the effect can vary based on the real earnings management (REM) method and/or firm characteristics. To assess the impact on future profitability, this study transforms traditional REM measures to their current net income effect. We include these comparable REM measures in the same model and find future profitability is more detrimentally affected by overproduction. Consistent with Zang’s (2012) assumption about REM’s effects on future profitability, we find more detrimental effects when firms without market leader status engage in overproduction or discretionary spending REM. Additionally, we find overproduction’s effect on future profitability depends on the length of time that inventory is held and the inventory’s risk of obsolescence. Finally, we find evidence that firm’s trade-off between REM methods based on costs of overproduction. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Virginia Tech University, University of North Texas PI/PD: Sandeep Nabar, Brooke Beyer, Eric Rapley

Corporate social responsibility, tax aggressiveness, and financial performance This paper examines how tax aggressiveness affects the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and firm value. We argue that when other corporate behaviors are not congruent with social responsibility, investors may be skeptical of a firm’s CSR efforts, attributing these efforts to corporate hypocrisy or managerial opportunism. We identify tax aggressiveness as a behavior that is socially irresponsible and inconsistent with CSR, and examine whether the stock market values the CSR activities of tax aggressive firms less favorably than those of non-tax aggressive firms. Our sample consists of 13,048 firm-year observations for 2,448 firms during 1991-2011. We find that while investors value CSR positively, CSR valuation is discounted when firms have aggressive tax reporting practices. Further analysis shows that strong corporate governance mitigates the value discount on CSR efforts of tax-aggressive firms, suggesting that the discount is at least partly attributable to agency costs. Our study highlights the importance of aligning corporate activities with societal norms, and also demonstrates the economic and social outcomes of aggressive tax strategies. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Wisconsin (Whitewater) PI/PD: Sandeep Nabar, Joohyung Ha, Mingming Feng The Impact of Benefit Plan Audits on Financial Statement Auditor Choice and Financial Statement Audit Quality Abstract: This study examines a material but less understood component of the public audit marketplace, namely the performance of benefit plan audits, a non-audit service that is “audit- related”. We explore whether performing a benefit plan audit places a “foot-in-the-door” and improves the likelihood of an auditor obtaining a company’s financial statement audit. We further investigate whether performing a benefit plan audit in addition to the financial statement audit affects the quality of the financial statement audit. Using a sample of financial statement audit switches, we find that performing a benefit plan audit significantly increases an audit firm’s likelihood of being hired for the financial statement audit, including for small audit firms. Further, our results suggest that companies that engage the same audit firm for both their benefit plan audit and financial statement audit have significantly greater financial statement audit quality as measured by future restatements. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Arkansas PI/PD: Jaclyn Prentice, Kenneth L. Bills, Gary F. Peters

Does Net Insider Selling Affect Auditors’ Risk Assessments? Evidence from Audit Pricing Abstract: Audit regulations require auditors to consider insider trading as part of their assessment of and response to the risk of material misstatement. Moreover, empirical research finds that net insider selling provides information about audit-relevant outcomes such as weak internal controls and fraud. Thus, we investigate whether audit fees reflect the increased risk revealed by net insider selling. Consistent with our expectations, we find that audit fees are higher among companies with net insider selling, relative to companies with net insider buying. We also posit that the association between audit fees and net insider selling varies depending on the types of insiders engaged in net selling activity (i.e., officers versus non-officer directors) and the extent of net selling activity. We find that the positive association between audit fees and net insider selling is driven by officer net selling and that the magnitude of the association between audit fees and officer net selling increases with the extent of officers’ net selling activity. Collectively, these results suggest that auditors’ risk assessments are sensitive to information reflected in net insider selling, consistent with regulatory requirements for auditors to consider non-traditional risk characteristics. In addition, our evidence suggests that auditors’ ability to process information reflected in net insider selling activity is sophisticated. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas Tech PI/PD: Jaclyn Prentice, Sabrina Chi IT Environment Quality and Effectiveness of Controls over the Tax Function and Income Tax Avoidance Abstract: The complexity and frequent changes of multi-jurisdictional tax requirements generate a demand for a robust supporting information environment. If a firm’s information technology (IT) environment is not able to handle these tax complexities, that inability increases the risk of errors in the firm’s financial accounting for income taxes and the risk of ineffective tax avoidance strategies. We initially investigate the relation between IT-related material weaknesses (MWs) and tax-related MWs and find that having an IT-related MW is associated with a higher probability of having a tax-related MW. We then examine whether the quality of a firm’s IT environment influences its tax avoidance effectiveness. In addition, we find firms that restate their financial statements are more likely to disclose IT-related and tax-related MWs in advance of the year they announce that they must restate. We also show that having an IT- related MW hinders tax avoidance and that firms having a CFO with IT expertise or receiving the Most Admired Knowledge Enterprise award are also positively associated with tax avoidance. Our results are consistent with the idea that when firms have higher quality IT environments, they are more likely to have more effective controls over the tax function and similarly their tax avoidance efforts are more effective. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas Tech, University of California – Irvine, University of Arkansas PI/PD: Jaclyn Prentice, Sabrina Chi, Morton Pincus, Vernon J. Richardson

Goodbye and hello: audit quality, the Big 4, and acquiring consulting practices Abstract: In this paper, I investigate whether the acquisition of large consulting practices affects the audit quality of the largest accounting firms (the Big 4). I find that the audit quality of the companies being audited by the accounting firm acquiring a large consulting practice decreases in the year of the acquisition by increasing performance adjusted discretionary accruals and by increasing the likelihood of misstatement and first time misstatement, but in the subsequent period audit quality improves by decreasing performance adjusted discretionary accruals. This finding is consistent with the idea that audit quality suffers in the year of a large consulting practice acquisition possibly as a result of management distraction within the accounting firm and then in the subsequent year audit quality improves as accounting firms are better able to utilize consulting practices’ specialized knowledge. In supplemental analyses, I use a difference- in-difference research design to test whether this finding persists when I constrain the sample to audit clients in industries where the acquired consulting practice had specialized knowledge. I find that audit quality improves for these audit clients. This finding is consistent with the idea that accounting firms may be better able to utilize consulting practices’ specialized knowledge when the acquired consulting practice has expertise in a specific industry. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jaclyn Prentice Derivatives Use: Real Activities Manipulation and Manager Ability Derivative use after the implementation of SFAS 133 (now ASC 815) resulted in significant earnings volatility. Given the negative impact of this volatility, firm managers have an incentive to smooth earnings through real activities manipulation. Using a sample of non-financial firms for the period 2001-2013, this study examines the impact of hedge ineffectiveness and trading gains/losses on real activities manipulation post ASC 815 and whether manager ability impacts such manipulation. We find that hedge ineffectiveness and trading gains/losses increase the level of total real activities manipulation, and that manager ability influences their decision to engage in real activities manipulation. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Louisville, Georgia Southern University, University of Texas Pan-American PI/PD: Angela Wheeler Spencer, Carolyn Callahan, Stephanie Hairston, Ji Woo Ryou

Special Purpose Vehicles and Audit Fees We document a positive and increasing relationship between use of special purpose vehicles (SPVs) and audit fees. Specifically, we find that use of SPVs, on average, increases audit fees by more than 9 percent while firms with the highest number of SPVs experience audit fees which are over 41 percent higher than firms without SPVs. Overall, our results suggest that auditors price the additional work and risk associated with client utilization of these structures. Evidence provided here is important in better understanding costs associated with use of SPVs and the effects of unique forms of complexity on audit fees. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Mississippi, University of Wisconsin- Whitewater PI/PD: Angela Wheeler Spencer, Zach Webb, Robert T. Yu

Operating Leases: A Descriptive Analysis Given proposed changes in accounting for leases, we analyze those industries and firms expected to be most heavily impacted by operating lease capitalization. We estimate that both those industries and firms most heavily impacted by recognition will also experience the greatest increase in reliability. We also find that those firms and industries may experience detrimental effects due to relatively high levels of existing debt and tendency to use operating leases to increase existing debt capacity. Overall, however, we find that the bulk of the effects from lease recognition will likely be confined to a relatively small subset of firms. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Mississippi PI/PD: Angela Wheeler Spencer, Zach Webb Measuring the Cost of Trapped Foreign Cash: Evidence from Bonds We examine the extent to which the tax cost of accessing foreign cash affects bond yields. Repatriation tax costs are a unique (usually) unrecorded liability because most firms provide little disclosure about their magnitude and they may not be paid to the extent that firms do not trigger them by repatriating cash or selling the foreign subsidiary. We examine how tax costs of accessing foreign cash affect bond yields in two setting. We first examine bond returns following the 2016 U.S. presidential election. President Trump promised to lower repatriation tax rates from a maximum of 35 percent to a maximum of 10 percent, and his election was unexpected. We find that U.S. firms with high repatriation costs and large cash balances experienced more positive abnormal bond returns around the Trump election than other firms. Second, we examine new bond issuances. We find that bond spreads are 8 to 21 basis points higher for firms with higher levels of trapped foreign cash, ceteris paribus. Overall, our results are consistent with bond market participants viewing tax costs on unrepatriated foreign earnings as liabilities of the parent firm and requiring modestly higher yields for firms with significant amounts of unrepatriated foreign earnings. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Scott White University of Oklahoma: Brad Blaylock Auburn University: Mollie Mathis ECONOMICS AND LEGAL STUDIES IN BUSINESS

The Effect of Land Size and Market Distortions on Bolivian Farmers Access to more land may not lead to income gains for smaller farms in Bolivia. Restrictions on the use of land as collateral cause imperfections in credit and labor markets that lead to lower income as farms reach the institutional threshold for the land’s collateralization. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: Naneida Lazarte-Alcala, Lee C. Adkins, Bidisha Lahiri

Unauthorized Immigration: the theoretical effects of a dual labor market The effects on wages, employment, and output in an economy where unskilled labor is employed solely in labor intensive occupations are explored using a two-sector general equilibrium model. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: Lee C. Adkins

Weak Identification Diagnostics in Nonlinear Models: I generalize statistics for measuring collinearity in nonlinear models and study its use in an ordered profit model, sample selection, and other nonlinear econometric models. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: Lee C. Adkins

An Analysis of Regional Income Variation in the United States: 1969-2013 This paper investigates the variation of per capita personal income among counties within each state from 1969-2013. Department of Commerce BEA data and Department of Labor BLS data for 1969 to 2013 are analyzed. This study follows up on previous analysis of U.S. regional income variation by adjusting time series estimates for serial correction and using random effects models for panel data analysis. In addition, potential short-run disruption of a longer run trend is investigated by including an unemployment rate variable into the model. Results suggest that a general pattern of per capita income divergence has transpired in recent decades, contrary to conventional expectations of convergence. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Orley Amos Jr., Tim Ireland An Analysis of Regional Income Variation Among the Five Regions of Oklahoma The objective of this paper is to investigate recent trends of per capita personal income in the state of Oklahoma to ascertain what if any long-run trends are exhibited. Standard theoretical analysis suggests that per capita incomes are expected to converge, especially across regions. However, recent research indicates that the national trend is one of regional income divergence. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Orley Amos Jr., Tim Ireland

Regional Income Variation Within the U.S. The objective of this paper is to reexamine the inter-county variation of per capita personal income occurring within the U.S. over the period of 1969 to 2013. The paper tests the growth pole cycles theory of spatial-temporal economic development using BEA data. Standard econometric techniques are used to analyze the data, including panel data regression estimators. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Orley Amos Jr., Tim Ireland

Spatial Contribution to Income Inequality in India, 1993-2011: A District Level Decomposition Using a nationally representative household survey data we examine the role of spatial factors and household characteristics in determining the level and the change in income inequality in rural India. We find that in 2011 between-state income differences account for a majority of between-district income inequality in rural India. In terms of the evolution of rural income inequality, we find that between-district income differences account for a third of the total increase in income inequality between 1993 and 2011. These findings underscore the importance of spatial factors in the dynamics of rural income inequality in India. In contrast to our findings for the rural India, we find that the within-state income differences explain most of the between-district inequality in urban India. These results suggest that there are important differences in the income inequality process between rural and urban India. We find significantly smaller level of inequality but similar trends using the consumption expenditure data. Finally, our regression-based decomposition reveals that the contribution of the spatial factors to rural income inequality has increased between 1993 and 2011, although a large proportion of this change cannot be explained using household characteristics. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Mehtabul Azam, Vipul Bhatt Does social health insurance reduce financial burden? Panel Data Evidence from India Indian government launched a National Health Insurance Scheme, Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY), in 2008 that provides cashless health services to poor households. We evaluate the impact of RSBY on beneficiary households’ (Average Treatment Impact on the Treated) utilization of health services, per capita out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditure, and per patient OOP expenditure. We use a large nationally representative longitudinal household survey to implement difference-in-differences (DID) with matching. We find some evidence of positive impact of RSBY on utilization of health services for beneficiary households in rural India but not in urban India. However, there is no evidence that the RSBY reduced per person OOP expenditure for RSBY households in both rural and urban areas. Conditional on having received medical treatment for major morbidity, we find lower expenditure on medicine for a RSBY patient in rural areas. We also conduct a placebo experiment to support the parallel trend assumption of DID. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Mehtabul Azam

Household Income Mobility in India, 1993-2011 Using nationally representative longitudinal survey, we examine the income mobility among rural (urban) Indian households over 1993-2004 and 2004-2011 (2004-2011). We find mobility estimates that mirror the social hierarchy: Forward Hindu Caste (FHC) households experienced the highest (lowest) upward (downward) mobility. Considerable gaps between FHC households and households from the disadvantaged social groups remain in upward/downward mobility even after controlling for households characteristics. We find lower conditional gaps in both upward/downward mobility in rural India for the disadvantaged groups (except for Muslims) over 2004-2011 compared to 1993-2004. For Muslims, the gaps in downward mobility increased over 2004-11 compared to 1993-2004. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Mehtabul Azam

Some Implications of Cost Reductions by “Green” Producers in Electricity Markets Employing Tradable Green Certificates” In this paper, we study both intended and unintended consequences of cost reductions by green producers in a competitive electricity market operated under a green quota enforced via a green certificate system. We demonstrate, inter alia, that while cost efficiencies by green producers can drive the equilibrium certificate price to zero (effectively eliminating the support subsidy), emissions by fossil-fuel based producers will increase. In addition, we show that green producers will not have an incentive to exploit the full cost reduction potential of their technology and can in general be expected to engage in strategic cost padding. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Kevin M. Currier, Susanne Rassouli – Currier. Cost Efficiency Incentives for “Green” Electricity Producers under Overlapping Regulations This paper studies green producer cost efficiency incentives within the context of an electricity oligopoly operated under both a green quota and an emissions cap. We show inter alia, that prior to the phasing out of the feed-in tariff, green producers can be expected to engage in strategic cost padding and the most emissions intensive fossil fuel producer will attempt to raise the green producer’s costs. Conversely, after the feed-in tariff phase-out, the least emissions intensive fossil fuel producer will attempt to raise the green producer’s costs. Green producers have full cost reduction incentives only if both the green quota and the emissions regulations are discontinued. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Kevin M. Currier, Susanne Rassouli – Currier.

The Impact of Energy Market Mergers on Green Producers’ Cost Efficiency Incentives: Some Preliminary Results We examine the cost efficiency incentives facing renewable energy (RE) (i.e., green) producers under a RE quota implemented via a Feed-in Tariff. In addition, we examine some implications of these incentives. We show that under Cournot competition, green producers have limited incentives to exploit learning-by-doing cost savings, but that a merger between the green producer and a fossil-fuel based (“black”) producer can fully restore these incentives. As expected, the merger leads to higher consumer prices ceteris paribus. However, the enhanced post-merger incentives to exploit cost reduction potential in the green technology leads to lower consumer prices. Policy makers should consider these potential impacts when assessing the potential costs and benefits of mergers between green and black energy producers. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Kevin M. Currier, Susanne Rassouli – Currier.

Can Minorities Escape Wage Discrimination by Forming Firms? The persistence of wage discrimination raises a number of questions, including the following: if majority-owned firms continue to discriminate against minority workers, is it possible for the minority workers to escape that discrimination by forming a firm? Non-discriminating minority firms could then provide a refuge for other minority workers. In Becker’s classic treatment of discrimination by firms he posits a variation of this idea. He suggests that if the number of jobs at non-discriminating firms is greater than the number of minority workers, then these minority workers will all find their way to and be employed by the non-discriminating firms. In this paper I employ simulations to examine the extent to which minority workers can successfully find employment at non-discriminating minority firms in the presence of labor market frictions. These simulations also demonstrate the importance of access to capital for minority entrepreneurs. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: James Fain The Impact of Roads on City Formation In a simulation study I alter the New Economic Geography model of city formation by allowing the existence of roads and naturally occurring “trails” that change the cost transportation between some locations. When trails are present a disproportionate number of cities form along the trail, and the largest city is almost always found on the trail. The existence of both roads and trails decreases the number of cities that form. Cities that are connected by roads at an early stage of economic development have a greater chance of survival, and conditional on surviving, gain population relative to cities with fewer road connections. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: James Fain

The Impact of Rivers on City Formation In a simulation study I alter the New Economic Geography model of city formation by allowing the existence of rivers that change the cost transportation between some locations. Rivers serve a barrier to transportation, for they can only be crossed on certain places. However, navigable rivers are may also serve as a low-cost method of transporting goods. I find that non- navigable rivers increase the number of cities. Navigable rivers decrease the number of cities formed, and the largest city is very likely to be located on the river. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: James Fain

Firm formation with agent location and mobility I alter a previously-published agent-based model of endogenous firm formation in a number of ways. I force firms to offer money wages as compensation instead of output shares. I also add geographic locations to the model and allow agents to move. Agents move somewhat randomly, but always to areas that have a higher median income than their current area’s median income. I find that randomly dispersed agents eventually coalesce into identifiable cites and that these cities exhibit some well-documented elements of urban agglomeration. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: James Fain Oklahoma Oil and Gas Severance Taxes: A Comparative Analysis Oklahoma assesses a production tax of seven percent on the extraction of oil, natural gas, and other minerals. However, since July 2002, it has taxed production from horizontal wells at only one percent for the first 48 months of production. This is a significant tax incentive relative to its neighboring states, Texas and Kansas, particularly considering the limited evidence as to the effectiveness of severance tax incentives for increasing in-state development of immobile resources. This paper empirically examines whether the severance tax incentive has encouraged horizontal development in Oklahoma relative to Texas and Kansas. Our findings indicate that the Oklahoma tax exemption has not had a significant influence on horizontal drilling. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Mary Gade, Karen Maguire, Francis Makamu

Tax Increment Financing and Spatial Spillovers in Oklahoma City: Estimating the Localized Marginal Effects of Proximity to TIF Districts Tax increment finance (TIF) has become a critical component of local economic development policy over the last six decades. Existing literature has focused on isolating the growth effects of TIF adoption within a linear spatial model. Similar to previous research, we are interested in the spillover effects of a TIF regime. In contrast to previous research, we recognize the limitation of a linear spatial specification. Instead, we adopt a Gaussian-process regression specification that estimates the functional form that defines the relationship between a dependent variable and its functional arguments. Our findings suggest that much care should be taken when drawing TIF boundaries, recognizing that a small but potentially important subset of parcels could be relegated to the outside of the development zone and left without access to the public support that similar parcels inside the TIF are afforded. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University; Steven C. Agee Economic Research and Policy Institute, Meinders School of Business, Oklahoma City University PI/PD: Jacob Dearmon, Russell Evans, Mary Gade A Localized Analysis of Property Tax Incidence Across Space and Time Property taxes persist as an important source of local government revenue in spite of public distaste for the tax and academic disagreement over the economic incidence of the levy. This paper extends and explores the hypothesis that the incidence of the property tax may vary across jurisdictions. We pool observations from 17 independent school districts in Oklahoma County, Oklahoma across 27 years (1982-2008) and investigate the responsiveness of the tax base to changes in the jurisdiction’s tax rate relative to the county average. Using a Finite Mixture Model approach that allows for estimation of distinct and heterogeneous components, we find evidence that the economic incidence varies across jurisdictions, across time within a jurisdiction, and across specific property tax levies (public schools vs. career tech) within a jurisdiction. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Mary Gade, Russell Evans

Crop Choice, School Participation and Child Labor in Developing Countries: Cotton Expansion in Burkina Faso We estimate the effects of changes in cotton adoption on children's schooling and child labor in rural Burkina Faso. Using time and spatial variations, we find evidence that expansion of cotton farming has led to an increase in enrollment and to a reduction of participation in child labor for girls. There are, however, no detectable effects on boys. In theory, cotton adoption could increase household's income, leading to increased demand for schooling and reduced child labor. On the other hand, because children are productive on cotton farms, adoption of cotton could increase the opportunity cost of child time and the demand for child labor. We provide suggestive evidence showing that boys are more productive than girls on cotton farms. Taken together the results suggest that the income effect from cotton adoption might have been larger than the wage effect for girls, hence the overall positive impacts on school enrollment for girls. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Harounan Kazianga, Francis Makamu

Intra-household Resource Allocation and Familial Ties In this paper, we investigate the link between intra-household resource allocation and familial ties between household members. We show that, within the same geographic, economic and social environments, households where members have `stronger' familial ties (e.g. a nuclear family household) achieve near Pareto efficient allocation of productive resources and Pareto efficient allocation of consumption while households with `weaker' familial ties (e.g. an extended family household) do not. We propose a theoretical model of the household based on the idea that altruism between household members vary with familial ties which generates predictions consistent with the observed empirical patterns. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Harounan Kazianga, Zaki Wahhaj Returns to Controlling a Neglected Tropical Disease Schistosomiasis Control Program and Education Outcomes in Nigeria This paper investigates the impact of the schistosomiasis control program on school-aged children education outcomes. The contribution of the paper is to carefully document the one dimension—education outcomes—of controlling endemic diseases in low income settings. Using the rollout of the schistosomiasis control program in Nigeria as a quasi-experiment, we estimate that children who benefited from the disease control program were 16 percentage points more likely to be enrolled in school and have completed 0.642 more years of education compared to children who have not benefited of the program. This paper investigates the impact of the schistosomiasis control program on school-aged children education outcomes. The contribution of the paper is to carefully document the one dimension—education outcomes—of controlling endemic diseases in low income settings. Using the rollout of the schistosomiasis control program in Nigeria as a quasi-experiment, we estimate that children who benefited from the disease control program were 16 percentage points more likely to be enrolled in school and have completed 0.642 more years of education compared to children who have not benefited of the program. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Harounan Kazianga, Azam Methabul, Francis Makamu

The Intra-household Economics of Polygyny: Fertility and Child Mortality in Rural Mali Building on anthropological evidence, we develop a model of intra-household decision making on fertility and child survival within the framework of the collective household model. We carry out a test of the implications of this framework with data from Demographic and Health Surveys in rural Mali, where polygyny rates among married women are close to 50 per cent. The econometric tests reject the implications of efficient intra-household allocations for junior wives in bigynous households and fail to reject for senior wives in bigynous households as well as for wives in monogamous households. These findings are consistent with existing narrative evidence according to which co-wife rivalry is responsible for resource-consuming struggle and junior wives are the adults with the weakest bargaining position in the household. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Harounan Kazianga, Stefan Klonner

The Medium-Term Impacts of Girl-Friendly Schools: 7-Year Evidence from School Construction in Burkina Faso We evaluate the long term effect of a “girl-friendly” primary school program in Burkina Faso, using a regression discontinuity design. The intervention consisted in upgrading existing three- classroom schools to six-classroom schools in order to accommodate more grades. After 6 years, the program increased enrollment by 15.4 percentage points and increased test scores by 0.29 standard deviations. Students in treatment schools progress farther through the grades, compared to students in non-selected schools. These upgraded schools are effective at getting children into school, at getting children start school on time and at keeping children in school longer. Overall, we find that the schools are able to sustain large impacts observed about 3 years earlier, with enrollment declining slightly from 18.5 to 14.9 for the cohorts of children who were exposed to both the first and second phases of the intervention. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Harounan Kazianga, Leigh Linden, Matt Sloan, Ali Protik

Evidence from a Randomized Evaluation of the Household Welfare Impacts of Conditional and Unconditional Cash Transfers Given to Mothers or Fathers We conducted a randomized control trial in rural Burkina Faso to estimate the impact of alternative cash transfer delivery mechanisms on education, health, and household welfare outcomes. The two-year pilot program randomly distributed cash transfers that were either conditional or unconditional and were given to either mothers or fathers. Conditionality was linked to older children enrolling in school and attending regularly and younger children receiving preventive health check-ups. Compared to the control group, cash transfers improve children’s education, health, and household socioeconomic conditions. For school enrollment and most health outcomes, conditional cash transfers outperform unconditional cash transfers. Giving cash to mothers does not lead to significantly better health or education outcomes, and there is some evidence that money given to fathers improves young children’s anthropometrics, in particular during years of poor rainfall. Cash transfers given to fathers also yields more household investment in livestock, cash crops, and housing. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Harounan Kazianga, Richard Akresh, Damien de Walque Cash Transfers and Child Schooling: Evidence from a Randomized Evaluation of the Role of Conditionality We conduct a randomized experiment in rural Burkina Faso to estimate the impact of alternative cash transfer delivery mechanisms on education. The program randomly distributed cash transfers either conditionally (CCT) or unconditionally (UCT). CCTs required that children ages 7-15 enroll in school and attend regularly. There were no such requirements under the UCTs. Results indicate that UCTs and CCTs have a similar impact on enrollment of children who are usually favored by parents for school participation. However, CCTs are more effective than UCTs in improving the enrollment of "marginal children" who are initially less likely to go to school. Thus, conditionality is critical for children who are less likely to receive investments from their parents. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Harounan Kazianga, Richard Akresh, Damien de Walque

Financial Development, Economic Growth, and Convergence Clubs The issue of fundamental importance in this study is the extent to which the role of financial intermediaries and markets in economic growth across countries can be tested in terms of a degree of homogeneity. For this purpose, we apply convergence tests designed to capture nonlinear transitional dynamics to real output per capita data for 40 countries and our analysis is centered on three issues. First, the test results suggest that output convergence has not been a feature of the 40 countries panel for the period of 1989-2012. Instead, output convergence has advanced among four subgroups within which constituent countries have important characteristics in common. Second, the possibility of a convergence club is investigated where the cross-sectional dispersion of output of the club members decreases over time. We then utilize a clustering algorithm and the results support that there is strong evidence of multiple convergence clubs. Finally, we examine if financial development is one of driving forces of various convergence clubs. This paper finds that the clubs appear to be formed in the order of average level of real output per capita, implying that different stages of economic growth play a crucial role in accounting for the formation and composition of convergence clubs. It appears that financial development turns out to be an important determinant, but the growth effects of banks and stock markets differ for various convergence clubs. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: J.B. Kim, Tolina Fufa Stock Markets, Banks, and Economic Growth: Evidence from More Homogeneous Panels The present paper investigates whether the link between stock markets, banks, and economic growth becomes more evident as more homogeneous groups of countries are considered. The issue of fundamental importance in this study is the extent to which the role of financial intermediaries and markets in economic growth across countries can be measured in terms of a degree of homogeneity controlling for the endogeneity problem. The dynamic panel generalized method of moment (GMM) estimator is employed using data of European and non- European high-income countries as well as upper and lower middle-income countries averaged over five and three years. Our results indicate that the growth effects of banks and stock markets differ for various groups of economies, implying that the link between financial development and economic growth depends on the stages of economic growth of the countries. As more homogeneous economies are involved in a panel, a more economically stylized link is uncovered. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: J.B. Kim, Tolina Fufa

A Link between Financial Development and Economic Growth of OECD Countries: A System Approach This paper investigates the dynamic and causal relationships between financial development and economic growth in a system method. The system method with cross sectional correlation utilizes information from highly integrated financial markets and economies for OECD countries. Two types of financial development variables are employed for sensitivity analysis. Though the empirical evidence from SURECM and Granger causality test in the system is somewhat sensitive to the financial proxies, it shows that, in sharp contrast to the ordinary method, the financial developments are weakly exogenous and do not respond to eliminate the deviation from long-run equilibrium. Moreover, our results show that financial sectors develop as a consequence of economic growth which in turn feedback as a stimulant to real growth for most cases. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: J.B. Kim, Ariuna Taivan Stock Returns and Mutual Fund Flows in the Korean Financial Market: A System Approach This paper investigates dynamic and causal relations between stock returns and mutual fund flows in Korea using a system method which utilizes information from the stock, bond, and money markets. For this purpose, we employ DSUR proposed by Mark, Ogaki, and Sul (2005), SURECM, and two causality tests by Granger (1969) and Sims (1972) in a system method to account for cross equation correlations among markets which have a close relationship with one another. The empirical evidence from the system method indicates that fund flows do not respond to eliminate the deviation from long-run equilibrium, and stock prices cause net fund flows in the Korean market, implying that investors move their money to the securities that yield higher returns to rebalance their investment portfolios in the short-run. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma and The Bank of Korea, Seoul, Korea PI/PD: J.B. Kim, Jung-Min Kim

Dynamics of US Unemployment Rates: A Bias Correction Approach This paper investigates dynamics of US unemployment rates of 50 states panel by a bias correction approach under cross-sectional dependence. The recursive mean adjustment (RMA) method proposed by So and Shin (1999, 2001) is employed to correct the downward bias in the panel unit root tests and in the half-life estimates of the US unemployment rates. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: J.B. Kim, Ying Tan

Reconsidering Hysteresis vs. Natural Rate of Unemployment for OECD Countries: A Bias Correction Approach This paper studies a well-known issue regarding hysteresis vs. natural rate of unemployment for OECD countries by a bias correction approach under cross-sectional dependence. The recursive mean adjustment (RMA) method proposed by So and Shin (1999, 2001) is employed to correct the downward bias in the panel unit root tests and in the half-life estimates of unemployment rates for OECD countries. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: J.B. Kim, Ying Tan

Integration of Health care services in Kenya In most low- and middle-income countries, health care services are fragmented and organized by a specific health problem. There is a push toward moving to integrated health care service that aims to provide services packaged together, for example services for mothers and their children in one center. It is believed that integrating services ensures services are managed and delivered together for an efficient and high quality service although quantitative analysis evaluating this is scarce. Our research aims to fill this gap. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Bidisha Lahiri, Kallol Mukherjee Heterogeneous Effect of Remittances across Households of Different Wealth Levels Existing research suggests that remittances increase the probability of households to engage in non-farm activities, with the assumption that non-farm income involves starting a non-farm activity that diversifies the household’s activities and reduces income variability. However, the assumption has been that for households receiving remittances, the choice between consumption and non-farm diversification is similar across households of different wealth. The current paper examines if for households receiving remittances the effect of remittances on the probability of non-farm activities is smaller for poorer households indicating that remittances mostly fund consumption. I test this hypothesis using alternate estimation techniques, taking into account the endogeneity of remittances. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Bidisha Lahiri, Naneida Lazarte Alcala, Lee Adkins

Access to Imported Inputs and Effect on Regional Growth in India Existing literature on international trade shows that access to imported inputs increases the variety and quality of domestic production. Our paper examines how the variation in the economic growth across states can be attributed to the differential effect of trade on the pattern of firm entry and exit across states. We use the Indian Annual Survey of Industries spanning years 2000-2008. In order to control for reverse causality, access to imported inputs is instrumented by reduction in import tariffs. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Bidisha Lahiri, Mehtabul Azam

International Trade in a Surplus Economy The Classical definition of long-period equilibrium is characterized by the steady state profit rates being equalized across sectors and the long run prices being determined by the cost of production. In this setting, we examine the implications of generalized returns to scale on the long-period equilibrium in a closed economy with 2 goods and 2 inputs where one of the inputs is a produced means of production. The model is then extended to a flexible-wage-North and surplus-labor-South model of trade where the North produces only capital and the South produces the consumption good using Northern capital. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Bidisha Lahiri, William Darity Student Lending Enrollment in U.S. post-secondary institutions has dramatically increased. So has student loan debt. As of 2016, the total outstanding student loan debt is estimated at $1.2 trillion, with nearly 70% of students who graduate with a bachelor’s degree carrying some level of student loan debt. Federal and state regulators have responded to the increase in student lending. This study explores the parameters of the student lending industry, analyzes the structure of the regulatory environment that has emerged in response, and reviews enforcement actions taken by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and other administrative agencies. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma, University of Utah, College of Law PI/PD: Laurie A. Lucas University of Utah: S.J. Quinney College of Law: Christopher L. Peterson

International Trade and Local Labor Markets: Foreign versus Domestic Labor Demand Shocks Despite the attention given to international trade in discussion of the economic struggles of many U.S. regions, it is unclear whether international trade shocks impact local economies more, or differently, than shocks originating within the domestic economy. Therefore, using U.S. county-level data for 1990-2010, this study carefully constructs shocks to local economies, isolating those arising from international imports and exports to assess whether trade shocks have different effects from domestic shocks. We examine a variety of indicators including employment growth, population growth, employment rates, wage rates and poverty rates. The results suggest that international trade shocks have some different effects than overall domestic shocks, though likely less than commonly perceived. We also find that domestic shocks dominate international trade shocks in explaining variation in regional labor market outcomes. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: Dan S. Rickman, Mark D. Partridge, M. Rose Olfert and Ying Tan

Relative Teacher Salaries and the Decision to Teach Using the 3-year microdata sample of the American Community Survey for 2009–2011, we examine the effect of state-level public school teacher salaries relative to those of other college graduates in the state not employed in education on the decision to teach. We find that relative teacher salaries in the state positively affect the share of education majors that are employed as public school teachers at the time of the survey. The effect for males majoring in math, science, and computer education is largest among all estimated effects. A statistically significant effect is also found among females majoring in elementary education. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: Dan S. Rickman, Hongbo Wang and John Winters The Production and Stock of College Graduates for U.S. States Human capital is incredibly important for economic growth and development. However, educated workers are especially mobile and there is concern that public investments in higher education may not benefit a state if the state’s college graduates leave the state after finishing their education. This paper examines the relationship between the production and stock of college graduates for U.S. states using data from the decennial census and American Community Survey. The preferred results suggest that increasing the production of college graduates in a state by one percentage point increases the stock of college graduates in the state by 0.52 percentage points. Sponsor: W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, Oklahoma State University PI/PD: John V. Winters

In-State College Enrollment and Later Life Location Decisions Policymakers are very interested in how attending college in one’s home state affects an individual’s likelihood of living in that state after college. This paper uses data from the American Community Survey, decennial censuses, and other sources to examine the effect of birth-state college enrollment on the likelihood of living in one’s birth state several years later. My preferred estimates suggest that attending college in one’s birth state increases later life residence in that state by roughly 46 percentage points. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: John V. Winters

Do STEM and Non-STEM College Graduates Increase Innovation? Evidence from U.S. Metropolitan Areas This paper examines the effects of foreign- and native-born STEM graduates and non-STEM graduates on patenting per capita in U.S. metropolitan areas. I find that both native and foreign-born STEM graduates significantly increase metropolitan area patent intensity, but college graduates in non-STEM fields have a smaller and statistically insignificant effect on patenting. These findings hold for both cross-sectional OLS and 2SLS regressions. Policies that increase the stocks of both foreign and native STEM graduates increase innovation and provide considerable economic benefits to regions and nations. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: John V. Winters Urbanization, Natural Amenities, and Subjective Well-Being: Evidence from U.S. Counties This paper examines the relationships between county-level urbanization, natural amenities, and subjective well-being (SWB) in the U.S. SWB is measured using individual-level data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), which asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction. Using individual-level SWB data allows us to control for several important individual characteristics. The results suggest that urbanization lowers SWB, with relatively large negative coefficients for residents in dense counties and large metropolitan areas. Natural amenities also affect SWB, with warmer winters having a significant positive relationship with self-reported life-satisfaction. Implications for researchers and policymakers are discussed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: John V. Winters, Yu Li

Is Economics a Good Major for Future Lawyers? Evidence from Earnings Data This study reports descriptive data on earnings differences for practicing lawyers by undergraduate major with a focus on economics majors. Some majors do much better than others. Economics majors tend to do very well in both median and mean earnings. Electrical engineering, accounting, finance, and some other majors also do relatively well. This information is useful for undergraduates planning to attend law school and considering what undergraduate major field to study. Economics appears to be a very good option. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: John V. Winters

Do Earnings by College Major Affect Graduate Migration? College graduates are considerably more mobile than non-graduates, and previous literature suggests that the difference is at least partially attributable to college graduates being more responsive to employment opportunities in other areas. However, there exist considerable differences in migration rates by college major that have gone largely unexplained. This paper uses microdata from the American Community Survey to examine how the migration decisions of young college graduates are affected by earnings in their college major. Results indicate that higher major-specific earnings in an individual’s state of birth reduce out-migration suggesting that college graduates are attracted toward areas that especially reward the specific type of human capital that they possess. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: John V. Winters Does Private Schooling Increase Adult Earnings? Cohort-Level Evidence for U.S. States Public schooling in the U.S. has numerous critics, many of whom suggest that alternatives such as providing vouchers for private schools may be more effective. This paper combines decennial census and American Community Survey data for various years to examine the relationship between cohort-level private schooling rates and later earnings during adulthood. We also explore differences by sex and examine the role played by the quantity of education completed and occupational attainment. We find a significant positive relationship between private schooling rates and adult earnings for women but a weak relationship for men. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: John V. Winters, Reilee Berger

The Effects of State Merit Aid Programs on Attendance at Elite Colleges State merit aid programs have been found to reduce the likelihood that students attend college out-of-state. Using the U.S. News & World Report rankings of colleges and universities to measure college quality and Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System data to measure enrollment, we explore how this reduction in out-of-state enrollment differs by the academic quality of the institution. Our difference-in-differences results suggest that state merit aid programs do not reduce the likelihood that a student attends a top ranked school, but that these programs do reduce the likelihood of enrolling at less prestigious out-of-state schools, with generally larger effects the lower the ranking of the schools. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: John V. Winters, David L. Sjoquist

Multiple Job Holding, Local Labor Markets, and the Business Cycle About 5 percent of U.S. workers hold multiple jobs, which can exacerbate or mitigate employment changes over the business cycle. Theory is ambiguous and prior literature is not fully conclusive. We examine the relationship between multiple job holding and local unemployment rates using a large Current Population Survey data set of workers in urban labor markets during 1998-2013. High unemployment labor markets have moderately lower rates of multiple job holding. Yet no relationship between multiple job holding and unemployment is found within markets over time, with near zero estimates being precisely estimated. The response of multiple job holding to unemployment is acyclic. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: John V. Winters, Barry T. Hirsch, Muhammad M. Husain The Puzzling Fixity of Multiple Job Holding across Regions and Labor Markets Multiple job holding rates differ substantially across U.S. regions, states, and metropolitan areas. Rates decrease markedly with respect to labor market size. These patterns have been largely overlooked, despite being relatively fixed over (at least) the 1998-2014 period. This paper explores explanations for these persistent differences. We account for over half of the mean absolute deviation in multiple job holding across local labor markets (MSAs). Most important in explaining variation in multiple job holding are worker characteristics, commute times, MSA ancestry shares, and, to a lesser extent, labor market churn. City size accounts for little of the variation once we condition on commute times. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: John V. Winters, Barry T. Hirsch, Muhammad M. Husain

Mandatory individual arbitration agreements Courts routinely enforce arbitration agreements in the employment context. Recently, many employers have insisted on arbitration agreements may provide only for individual arbitrations, asking employees to waive any rights to collective or class action claims. The National Labor Relations Board contends that the law prohibits waiver of such rights. The National Labor Relations Act, which protects employees’ rights to act collectively, bars waiver of collective action. The waiver of class action arbitration, and the insistence on individual arbitrations, could put organized activity at risk. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Griffin Pivateau

The continued failure of the blue pencil rule Recently, two state supreme courts have rejected the use of the blue pencil rule to alter a non- compete agreement. In this paper, I examine the viability of the blue pencil doctrine and advocate for a replacement. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Griffin Pivateau

Public Choice Theory, the Constitution, and Public Understanding of the Copyright System This study discusses why the electorate must be informed about copyright policy to effect relevant statutory change. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI: Mike Schuster Entrepreneurship and Legal Uncertainty: The Curious Case of Valid Federal Trademarks for Illegal Marijuana Derivatives This article evaluates the disparate manner in which trademark applications for marijuana- related goods and goods for equally illegal marijuana derivatives are treated. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Mike Schuster, Jack Wroldsen

An Empirical Study of Digital Sampling and Its Influence on Sales of the Sampled Song This study analyzes how the digital sampling of a song influences the songs subsequent sales and what impact these findings have on the fair use doctrine. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Mike Schuster

Household Debt and Meeting Fertility Intentions This study examines how housing and non-housing debt impacts the probability that women meet their fertility intentions. Using panel profit and instrumental variable profit estimates with data from the 1979 National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, we find that housing debt is associated with meeting fertility intentions. Housing debt increases fertility for those planning to have children soon and decreases fertility for those not planning to. Housing debt also decreases the probability women have fewer children than they intended. Greater non-housing debt, on the other hand, reduces the probability of having children in the short-term, but only noticeably for non-married women. However, this reduction is not generally related to a higher probability that women have fewer total children over their lifetime than originally intended - unless those debts persist into their mid-thirties. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Michael Morris Human Development and Family Science: Karina Shreffler Neighborhood Violence, Family Stress and College Intentions Student intentions regarding college attendance not only strongly predicts earning a higher degree, but also has been found to differ by income and race. However, little has been done to jointly examine broader environmental factors that shape or hinder college intentions such as exposure to neighborhood violence and family stress. Furthermore, any such impacts would certainly also be related to the student’s performance in school prior to college. We suggest that exposure to neighborhood violence and family stress have negative impacts on college intentions, but primarily as an indirect effect though students school experience – both in performance and in how much they like school. Using data collected from an in-depth interview of 206 largely minority (70%) 4th through 12th grade students, and their parents, we examine both the student’s college intentions as well as personal and demographic factors that influence these intentions. These intentions are strongly tied to both current school achievement and a broadly positive experience in school, as well as their parent’s education level. In estimating indirect effects of neighborhood violence and family stress on college intentions, we find that neighborhood violence has a negative effect through school GPA. Family stress has a negative indirect effect through how much an adolescent enjoys school while parental involvement has a positive impact. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Michael Morris Human Development and Family Science: Michael Criss

Improved IV Estimation of Vertical Property Tax Inequity In this paper, we propose a new IV estimator to be used in detecting vertical property tax inequity. We conduct Monte Carlo experiments to evaluate the bias of this estimator in comparison to traditional linear and log-linear regression based estimators. We find that the new estimator is more robust to bias across alternative average assessment ratios, even in the presences of errors-in-variables, than the IV estimator suggested by Clapp (1990) and frequently used for such purposes. Furthermore, the new instrument allows for an investigation into how strong the measurement error in sales prices relative to that in assessed values must be for the results to change from those of the traditional methods. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Michael Morris, Bill Dare Factors affecting the absorption of essential economic concepts over time This paper evaluates how different factors affect the absorption and retention of basic micro and macro concepts among undergraduate students at Oklahoma State University. We are going to track each student over different semesters and incorporate student fixed effects to remove impact of prior student characteristics on student learning. The paper will investigate how variables like majoring in business, class size, instructor characteristics affect the absorption of economic concepts. Since learning is cumulative over time, the paper will explore gains (absorption) or loss (erosion) of knowledge. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Bidisha Lahiri, Bill McLean

Are Covenants Not to Compete in Employment Contracts Void and Unenforceable in Oklahoma? Or Can Employers Rest Assured that Reasonable Restrictive Covenants could be Valid? The Answer to Both is a Definitive Maybe. Oklahoma Statutory law prohibits contracts in restraint of trade under O.S. 15 Section 217, but Oklahoma Court decisions have stated that Section 217 only invalidates unreasonable restraints of trade. Two further statutory amendments to the law permit contracts in restraint of trade regarding "established customers" in Section 219A and "employee raiding" in Section 219B. In the end, Oklahoma law permits many covenants not to compete in employment contracts. This article will look at the evolution of the Oklahoma law and its judicial interpretations. The current state of affairs is that contracts in restraint of trade may be held valid and beneficial for employers and such agreements may be found unenforceable and thus advantageous toward employees. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Tara Fitzgerald Urich Innovative Antitrust The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division (DOJ) have recently initiated lawsuits meant to promote innovation using the antitrust laws. This development acknowledges the patent system’s shortcomings. Although each patent is intended to incentivize innovation by granting the right to exclude others from making, using, or copying one’s original technology, the monopoly rights conferred by a patent can also impede invention and discovery. For instance, some patentees refuse to license their art in hopes of frustrating competitors from developing a superior product. It is likewise asserted that patentees with monopoly power have fewer incentives to research and develop new products than those motivated by fierce competition; in fact, such a patentee may have an invested interest in maintaining the status quo. Because these results are considered classically anticompetitive, the FTC and DOJ insist that antitrust may offer a remedy. But this raises several important questions. Are the antitrust laws equipped to foster innovation and, if so, who are the appropriate actors to initiate such an action? Does the law even allow for innovative concerns to form the basis of an antitrust lawsuit? The following research fills this void by providing a detailed account of the DOJ and FTC’s venture into innovation policy as well as an empirical analysis of their efforts. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Greg Day

The International Competition of Patent Laws and Strategic Firm Behavior U.S patent laws are intended to incentivize parties to conduct research and development (R&D) in the United States. There is a growing concern, however, that suboptimal aspects of the U.S. patent system have caused firms to relocate their R&D to countries with more desirable patent laws. For example, a former Director of the Patent and Trademark Office has recently stated that companies are increasingly likely to innovate in China due to weaknesses in the U.S. patent system. Such a leakage of R&D from the United States is problematic considering the positive influence that innovation and R&D have on economic growth. This discourse, though, relies upon a critical and under-explored assumption that firms even consider patent laws when deciding how and where to conduct R&D. It is possible—or likely—that companies are more concerned with non-patent factors, including a nation’s tax rate, regulatory system, human capital surplus, and political stability when deciding the countries in which to operate. U.S. patent laws might, in fact, have little effect upon the United States’ relative rate of innovation. The following research empirically tests these questions, exploring whether, and how, companies strategically take patent laws into account when planning their creative activities. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Greg Day Competition and Piracy Intellectual property (IP) infringement has been characterized by over two hundred years of judicial opinions and scholarly writings as an antisocial behavior akin to theft and trespassing. Modern IP laws are faithful to this approach, punishing those who willfully infringe upon patent rights with treble damages and remedying acts of copyright infringement with statutory damages and, in some instances, prison time. This Article argues, however, that deterring infringement with such hyper-compensatory remedies squanders the benefits of piracy. Using an economic framework, certain acts of infringement are shown to increase society’s level of innovation and efficiency in ways that the law should—but does not currently—encourage. From a conceptual standpoint, infringement should be reframed as a rational response to IP’s anticompetitive structure, as opposed to a normatively bad behavior. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Greg Day

Irrational Investors and the Puzzling Structure of Corporate Inversions An inversion occurs when a U.S. corporation escapes aspects of the U.S. tax code by reincorporating under the laws of a foreign country. The inversion process is particularly attractive from a corporate director’s point of view since it can reduce a company’s tax burden while also diminishing management’s duty to comply with burdensome regulatory frameworks. But, critically, these transactions are puzzling from an investor or shareholder’s point of view. Since corporate regulations are generally thought to protect investors, why would an individual invest in a company that intentionally sought out, and reincorporated in, a country that provides minimal shareholder protections? Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Greg Day

Poverty and the Hidden Effects of Discrimination: An Empirical Study of Inequality Sexist laws are more prevalent in regions where poverty is endemic. It is generally assumed that women’s rights are bolstered or diminished depending upon the economic landscape in which they reside. But despite the strength of this relationship, few legal studies have sought to understand why precisely sexist laws seem inextricably linked to poverty. Our research finds the opposite of what is typically believed: the act of depriving women of fundamental rights is a primary cause of poverty. The article is currently in the publication process with the University of Pennsylvania Journal of International Law, forthcoming in 2016. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Greg Day Private Solutions for Global Crises Corporations are generally immune from lawsuits in the United States arising from catastrophic accidents occurring in foreign lands. Those seeking to sue corporations have also found little relief in international law, requiring victims to rely upon, with little success, the tort laws of developing nations. Recently though, private parties have begun signing accords and contracts limiting the ability of corporations to commit certain acts internationally. This paper explores the effectiveness of such agreements and the reasons why corporations freely enter them. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Greg Day

Efficient Piracy Intellectual property rights incentive innovation by providing creators with exclusive rights to produce and market protected goods. This has produced a legal conundrum in which policymakers have struggled to incentivize innovation with monopoly rights while, at the same time, discouraging intellectual property rights holders from behaving like monopolists. But despite this landscape, intellectual property holders frequently modify their business strategies to adopt more market-friendly business strategies despite the anticompetitive incentives generated by patents and copyrights. This article finds that one of the driving forces promoting market efficiency and competition is rooted in a distinctly illegal source: the black market. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Greg Day

Taxing Energy Development: The Effects of Severance Tax Incentives on Oil and Gas Drilling in Oklahoma Oklahoma assesses a production tax of seven percent on the extraction of oil, natural gas, and other minerals. However, since July 2002, it has taxed production from horizontal wells at only one percent for the first 48 months of production. This is a significant tax incentive, particularly considering the limited evidence as to the effectiveness of severance tax incentives for increasing in-state development of immobile resources. This paper empirically examines whether the severance tax incentive has encouraged horizontal development in Oklahoma. Our findings indicate that the Oklahoma tax exemption has not increased horizontal drilling and instead has reduced conventional drilling. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Karen Maguire, Mary Gade, Francis Makamu

Energy Boom and Gloom? Local Effects of Oil and Natural Gas Drilling on Subjective Well- Being The United States experienced a considerable increase in oil and natural gas extraction in recent years due to technological advancements including horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing. Increased energy development likely creates both benefits and costs, but the net effects for local residents are not well understood. This paper examines effects of conventional and horizontal oil and natural gas drilling in Texas on subjective assessments of life-satisfaction and bad mental health days for nearby residents. Horizontal drilling has statistically significant deleterious effects on well-being, but the effects are driven by the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) metropolitan area, an area with both very high levels of horizontal drilling and a large urban population. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Karen Maguire, John Winters

Pecking Order? Energy Development and Bird Species Richness on the High Plains of Colorado Development of domestic onshore oil and gas resources in United States has been a historically important component of economic growth. The pace of development has been expanding in large part due to the adoption of hydraulic fracturing technology beginning in the mid-2000s. This paper examines the effect of this development on ecological outcomes, in particular bird species richness between 1995 and 2013 in the High Plains region of Colorado. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Karen Maguire University of Tennessee, Knoxville: Monica Papes

Oklahoma Land Run: The Demographics of Payne County To better understand the social and economic factors that led settlers to Oklahoma, this project examines the demographic characteristics of the first settlers in Payne County. I currently have a preliminary matched data set that includes the Oklahoma land tract books, a record of the first setters, and the 1890 census. Analysis of this data allows for a descriptive analysis of the settlers’ family, literacy, and geographic characteristics prior to their settlement in Oklahoma. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Karen Maguir Oklahoma State University: Branton Wiederholt (OSU – undergraduate)

CA’s Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 This project will use SCM analysis to investigate the effects of the 2006 policy in CA on CO2 emissions. We are investigating whether or not the unique policy environment created by this policy led to significant reductions in CO2 in CA as compared to other states. Preliminary analysis indicates that it has not had a significant influence. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Karen Maguir Bureau of Economic Analysis: Abdul Munasib SCHOOL OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP

When entrepreneurs wear two hats: Role conflict, stress, and self-regulation in innovation ecosystems Innovation ecosystems provide a new environment for entrepreneurship. Membership in these ecosystems offers several benefits to new ventures (e.g., access to established markets, enhanced reputation). However, it also requires entrepreneurs to simultaneously fulfill two roles: effective ecosystem member and founding entrepreneur. These roles often conflict and the intensity of this conflict is related to the openness of the ecosystem—the extent to which the ecosystem permits entrepreneurs a degree of freedom with respect to their tasks and decisions. We reason that the greater this openness, the lower the role conflict. Drawing on role conflict theory, we suggest that role conflict is negatively related to new venture performance and that these effects are mediated by stress. Further, on the basis of the Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, we hypothesize that the negative relationship between stress and performance is moderated by self-control and subjective well-being. Our empirical results offered support for all these predictions, thus helping to clarify the effects of role conflict on important aspects of the entrepreneurial process. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Robert Baron, S. Nambisan

Why Entrepreneurs Sometimes Feel Compelled to Bribe: Overcoming the Costs of Being in the “Outgroup” Entrepreneurs often need external resources to found and grow their new ventures. To the extent persons who control such resources view the entrepreneurs as members of an outgroup rather than their ingroup, they may restrict entrepreneurs’ access to these resources. To overcome this disadvantage, entrepreneurs sometimes offer bribes to these persons. We predicted that entrepreneurs would be more likely to offer bribes when faced with declining economic conditions (i.e., a ‘shrinking pie’), and that this relationship would be stronger when entrepreneurs are low r high in social status. Results supported these hypotheses. We also predicted that the more entrepreneurs engage in bribery, the less likely they will be to withdraw from efforts to create new ventures. However, this negative relationship would be moderated by their beliefs in the efficacy of bribes, being stronger when perceived efficacy is high (i.e., bribes are perceived as likely to succeed) than when it is low. Results offered support for these additional predictions. Findings contribute to social categorization theory and to understanding the conditions under which entrepreneurs feel compelled to engage in bribery. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Robert Baron, J. Tang Entrepreneurial Success—In the Eye of the Beholder? A Goal-Setting Perspective Entrepreneurial success is often defined in terms of financial measures. These measures offer important advantages—they are objective and can be repeated to investigate changes over time. They do not, however, reflect the fact that entrepreneurs often have motives other than financial ones. Goal-setting theory suggests that individuals establish personal (i.e., self-set) goals relevant to their motives, and then define their own success in terms of attaining these goals. These evaluations of personal success, in turn, have been found to influence affect, motivation, task performance, and subsequent adjustments in self-set goals. Together, these findings and proposals suggest that current definitions of entrepreneurial success should be broadened so as to include not only concrete financial outcomes, but also entrepreneurs’ evaluations of their own success. Benefits of such an expanded definition as well as avenues for future research, are described. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Robert Baron, R. Franklin

The Costs, and Benefits, of Early Success: Contrasting --and Sometimes Paradoxical--Effects of Authentic and Hubristic Pride on Entrepreneurs’ Success When entrepreneurs achieve success soon after founding their new ventures, they experience pride in these positive results. Such pride, however, can take either of two different forms: authentic pride, which is based on actual achievements, and hubristic pride, which is based on an exaggerated, positive self-image. These two forms of pride have contrasting implications for entrepreneurs’ continued success. In general, hubristic pride is related to processes that would reduce such success, while authentic pride is associated with processes that would enhance subsequent success. Under certain unusual circumstances, however, hubristic pride can actually contribute to very high levels of new venture performance. Contributions to entrepreneurship theory and research are suggested, and avenues for future research proposed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Robert Baron, M. Hayward, R. Cropanzano An intentions-based model of entrepreneurs’ prosocial behavior: Why Entrepreneurs May Be Exceptionally Generous Entrepreneurs are widely known for their generosity—voluntarily helping others through financial donations, mentoring, and various forms of community involvement. Such contributions are of great social and economic importance, yet little is known about the reasons why entrepreneurs engage in these actions and what factors may influence the occurrence and magnitude of such behavior. To help fill this gap, we draw upon the theory of planned behavior to develop a model that considers both “why” and “when” entrepreneurs are likely to engage in prosocial behavior. Overall, this work extends the study of entrepreneurs’ efforts to generate value in ways that go beyond that which is directly connected to their activities as founders and leaders of their firms. Several avenues for future research on entrepreneurs’ prosocial behavior are suggested. (With K. Hmieleski). PI/PD: Robert Baron, K. Hmieleski

Coase and Williamson De-homogenized Investigates the differences between Ronald Coase’s and Oliver Williamson’s transaction cost theories of the firm. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: P.L. Bylund

Entrepreneurship as Production Attempts to define entrepreneurship in terms of economic production pre analysis in economics. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: P.L. Bylund

Praxeological Analysis of Effectuation Analyzes the principles of effectuation theory of entrepreneurship using praxeology. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Mississippi PI/PD: P.L. Bylund, V. Gupta

Regulations and Entrepreneurs’ Valuation of Opportunities Choice analysis of how regulations affect entrepreneurs’ valuation of opportunities. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University; OSU Institute for the Study of Free Enterprise PI/PD: P.L. Bylund, T. Malone

Theory of Institutional Entrepreneurship Develops model for interplay between entrepreneurial actions and institutional context Sponsors: Oklahoma State University; Manchester Business School PI/PD: P.L. Bylund, M. McCaffrey Ignorance as Basis for Strategy Theory Develops a new theory of strategic management based on ignorance. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University; Indiana University PI/PD: P.L. Bylund, J. McMullen

Use of History in Entrepreneurship Discussion on how adopting historical approaches to entrepreneurship would benefit contemporary research. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University; University of Nevada - Reno PI/PD: P.L. Bylund, M. Packard

The Sharing Economy and Management and Economic Theory We trace the real meaning of the “sharing economy” and discuss to what extent existing management and economic theories apply Sponsors: Oklahoma State University; University of Nevada - Reno PI/PD: P.L. Bylund, M. Packard

Where Do Factor Markets Come From We theorize on the existence of the factor markets assumed in the resource-based view. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University; University of Utah PI/PD: P.L. Bylund, R. Wuebker

New Theory in Strategic Management We formulate a theory for how to distinguish strategic management from entrepreneurship Sponsors: Oklahoma State University; University of Utah PI/PD: P.L. Bylund, R. Wuebker

The Use of Management Control Systems in the Pre-Firm Formation Phase of Entrepreneurship We address the issue of how entrepreneurs can improve their chances of success by adopting formal tools for avoiding errors in opportunity evaluation. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: J. Nketia, P.L. Bylund

Entrepreneurship and Inequality We formulate a theory explaining the relationship between entrepreneurship and inequality. Sponsors: University of Nevada – Reno; Oklahoma State University PI/PD: M. Packard, P.L. Bylund Illuminating the dark: the dark triad’s threat to new venture performance and employee creativity This study focuses on the relationship between founder levels of the dark triad (Machiavellianism, subclinical narcissism, and subclinical psychopathy), employee tenure, and employee outcomes (levels of creativity and performance). Hypotheses propose that the relationships between founder dark triad levels and both employee creativity and employee performance are moderated by employee tenure, weakening positive outcomes. The results of the first study provide significant support for tenure moderation of the dark-triad – employee performance relationship. Study two provides significant support for tenure moderation of the dark-triad – employee creativity relationship. This research provides support for the idea that increased exposure to founders with high levels of psychopathy is associated with negative employee outcomes. The results demonstrate that while high levels of founder Machiavellianism may correspond to higher employee performance – even in for high-tenure employees – the increased performance appears to come at the cost of significant decreases in creativity. Sponsor: Qualtrics PI/PD: Jonathan Butler

Imagination & entrepreneurial alertness in the midst of adversity: the influence of social capital It is inevitable that individuals and regions will experience some kind of adversity at some point. In those areas currently suffering from adversity from natural disasters or economic downturn, this study provides hope and a means of supporting recovery. The hypothesized relationships propose that adverse events may be triggers for increased entrepreneurial alertness which should be correlated with eventual increases in new venture startups. For both universities, governments, and communities, this study proposes that higher levels of social support via stronger social networks will enable a more robust entrepreneurial response to adversity. Practically, in regions where universities, governments, and communities facilitate the building of personal networks, it is likely to be tied to higher levels of entrepreneurial alertness. This study expands our understanding of the fuzzy front end of opportunity recognition by introducing imagination as an antecedent of entrepreneurial alertness. It also hopes to demonstrate the role that social capital plays in the opportunity recognition / entrepreneurial alertness process. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jonathan Butler Passion and founder well-being: The influence of spousal venture involvement Founders commonly recruit spouses to work in their new ventures due to convenience, shared values, and potential cost savings. However, little is known about how employing a spouse might influence founder well-being. Testing a sample of US founders who have started a venture within the past 10 years, the research examines the relationship between founder passion and physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. Results show that for founders with a passion for founding new ventures, the presence of an employed spouse significantly decreases all three types of well-being. For founders with a passion for developing new ventures, the presence of an employed spouse serves to significantly buffer against stress leading to significant increases in all three types of well-being. Sponsor: Qualtrics PI/PD: Jonathan Butler

Imagination & Creativity Textbook Textbook for use in Entrepreneurship and Business courses covering topics including imagination, componential and stage theories of creativity, design thinking, and managing a creative workforce. This innovative approach uses a host of multimedia content delivery methods via both online and print publication. 16 chapters. Sponsor: Great River Publishing Company PI/PD: Jonathan Butler, Tom Westbrook

The Intersection of Family Firms and Institutional Contexts: A Review and Agenda for Future Research Examination of family firms’ interactions with institutional contexts has been a major research stream within family business scholarship. This study reviews three decades of research at the intersection of family firms and institutional contexts. Our review sample includes 124 articles published in 24 top-level journals across several disciplines. We adopt an institutional theory lens to synthesize this literature and explicate main understandings about how family firm behaviors/outcomes are influenced by or may influence formal and informal institutions in their institutional contexts. Moreover, we discuss major research gaps and unproductive biases in this research area and provide directions for future research. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Sohrab Soleimanof, MW Rutherford, Justin Webb. Development of the Legitimacy Threshold Scale Entrepreneurship literature supports the contention that legitimacy attainment facilitates favorable judgments from key stakeholders regarding the acceptability, appropriateness and worthiness of entrepreneurs and their efforts. Theorists and empirical researchers regard these favorable judgments tied to legitimacy as important determinants of the decisions of key stakeholders as they weigh whether or not to buy from, partner with, and invest in the efforts of new venture leaders. Although legitimacy attainment is a milestone that emerging venture leaders strive to reach, researchers have not developed a measure that examines whether a firm is operating pre-legitimacy attainment or post-legitimacy attainment, based on the perceptions of new venture leaders. Accordingly, we develop the legitimacy threshold scale (LTS) that will facilitate the understanding and assessment of activities performed pre- and post-legitimacy in new ventures. The scale is a measurement tool that entrepreneurs and researchers alike are able to use to assess which side of the legitimacy threshold entrepreneurial ventures are operating on and thereby aids in new venture categorization and management. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Brian G. Nagy, MW Rutherford, Yann Truong, and Jeffrey M. Pollack.

Bootstrapping: Reviewing the Literature, Clarifying the Construct, and Charting a New Path Forward We contend that exploring the construct of bootstrapping could be much more nuanced and interesting than the extant literature has revealed. Unfortunately, the extant literature is stymied by conflicting theoretical as well as empirical landscapes. We address the critical lacunas in the literature by (a) situating the construct of bootstrapping in its historical, chronological context; (b) providing clarity to a construct that is currently lacking; (c) summarizing the theoretical bases which currently apply to bootstrapping; and (d) proposing signaling theory as an appropriate and complementary perspective to use when examining bootstrapping. In addition, our work identifies multiple lines of compelling and novel research that emerge from our approach to the construct of bootstrapping via signaling theory. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: MW Rutherford, MJ Mazzei, Jeffery Pollack, Paul Sanchez-Ruiz. Response Rates and Nonresponse Bias in Entrepreneurship Research: An Exploratory Meta- Analysis. For many scientific disciplines that rely on surveys and voluntary participation (e.g., organizational behavior, psychology), nonresponse bias (NRB) has been shown to bias estimates, create range restriction, and lead to both Type I and Type II errors. The present research endeavors to fill a methodological gap in the entrepreneurship literature by presenting the following findings: (a) response rates in entrepreneurship research (39%) are higher than firm-level research in management, but lower than individual-level management research, (b) there is virtually no evidence that response rate has any meaningful or consistent influence on relationships in entrepreneurship, and (c) there is little evidence of selective reporting when response rates are low. These promising findings should give entrepreneurship researchers cautious optimism that at least in the aggregate, NRB has limited impact. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: MW Rutherford, Ernest O’Boyle, Chao Miao, Joseph Coombs, Daniel Gering FINANCE

A Review of the Literature on Commodity Risk Management This paper analyzes research on commodity risk management by nonfinancial firms and provides a review of the findings to date. We discuss the theories and methodologies used including the models best suited for examining commodity risk management and exposure. In this study, we investigate how the research to date provides evidence to the following questions. Is commodity risk reflected in share price behavior? Is the use of commodity risk management tools (derivatives) associated with reduced risk? Is there a relationship between the use of commodity risk management and the value of the firm? What other factors are important to commodity risk management? Suggestions are provided for future research in this area. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: David Carter, Betty Simkins Portland State University: Daniel Rogers California State University-Chico: Stephen Treanor

Regulatory Changes, Bank Merger/Acquisition Activity, and Shareholder Returns -- Evidence from Serial and Nonserial Acquirers We investigate the abnormal returns around merger and acquisition announcements in the banking industry for the 1990-2007 period. This period was marked industry regime shifts via regulatory changes. We are interested in comparing banks that made a large number of acquisitions (serial acquirers) versus those that made few and infrequent acquisitions (non- serial acquirers). We find that serial acquirers outperform non-serial acquirers, implying that financial firms that frequently acquire achieve some level of organizational learning as compared to firms that seldom make acquisitions. Further, a serial acquirer increases the likelihood of an acquisition being successful by nearly 45 percent. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: David Carter Georgia Southern University: Allissa Lee Can a Non-event be an Event? The Case of Bank Stock Returns Surrounding Unexpected Interest Rate Inaction by the Federal Reserve Generally, prior research documents that changes in interest rates affect securities prices. Typically, increases in the rate negatively impact security prices and vice versa. However, some research suggests that the impacts are not necessarily the same for all stocks or all industries. For example, very low interest rates squeeze the net interest margins of banks, suggesting that they will benefit from a rate increase. Recently, in their September 2015 meeting, the FOMC opted not to act when an increase in rates was largely anticipated. Further, comments by the Fed President were atypical. In this paper, we investigate the effect of the decision to not raise interest rates by the Fed on the stock returns of U.S. banks. We find that a majority of banks experienced negative abnormal returns. Cross-sectional analysis reveals that individual firm characteristics of leverage and market-to-book equity ratios are the source of the differential market reactions. The outcomes of this study will be of interest to academicians and policy makers, as well as investors and portfolio managers as Federal Reserve stances on interest rates largely reflect expectations about the future. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: David Carter Georgia Southern University: Allissa Lee

Pecking Order Behavior in Transitional Market Economies This study investigates the corporate financing behavior of public traded firms in transitional market economies. The motivation is to establish the extent to which information asymmetry and agency costs induce corporate financing choices. It is hypothesized that pecking order theory adequately describes financing decisions of firms in these economies. Towards this end, secondary firm-level data is gathered from Global Compustat for 3500 firms across 23 transitional economies whose GDP per Capita is between 500 and 15,000 USD for 2000-2009 period. Using the pecking order model testing methodology developed by Shyam-Sunder and Myers (1999), this research provides new empirical evidence that explains the corporate financing decisions. From empirical results, the financing deficit coefficient is 0.620 and the constant is -0.0057 which indicate that pecking order appears not to strictly hold. On testing the effect of information asymmetry and agency costs, the results are decidedly mixed. Overall, the results suggest that firms don’t strictly follow the pecking order. It does look like for most cases information asymmetry and agency costs drive the relationship closer to pecking order. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: David Carter Cooperative University, Kenya & Kenyan Ambassador to Pakistan: Julius Bitok Moi University, Kenya: Bob Wishitemi Payout Yields and Stock Return Predictability: How Important is the Measure of Cash Flow? We compare the stock return forecasting performance of alternative payout yields. The net payout yield produces more accurate forecasts relative to alternatives, including the traditional dividend yield. This remains true even after excluding several years during the Great Depression when issuance was unusually high. The measure of cash flow used to form the yield matters economically. Long-term investors' hedging demand for stock is considerably reduced when net payout, rather than dividends, serves as the cash flow measure. An agent relying on an incorrect payout measure is willing to pay an economically significant management fee to switch to the optimal policy. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Greg Eaton, Bradley Paye

Micro (structure) before Macro? The Predictive Power of Aggregate Illiquidity for Stock Returns and Economic Activity This paper constructs and analyzes various measures of trading costs in US equity markets covering the period 1926--2013. These measures contain important predictive signals for real economic activity and stock market returns. We decompose illiquidity proxies into a component capturing aggregate volatility and a residual. The predictive content of these components differs in important ways. Specifically, aggregate volatility accounts for most of the forecasting power of illiquidity for real economic activity. On the other hand, we find strong evidence that the component of illiquidity uncorrelated with volatility forecasts stock market returns. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Greg Eaton, Yong Chen, Bradley Paye

The Effects of Market Liquidity on the Firm: Does Liquidity Impact Firm Value? This paper constructs and analyzes various measures of trading costs in US equity markets covering the period 1926--2013. These measures contain statistically and economically significant predictive signals for stock market returns and real economic activity. We decompose illiquidity proxies into a component capturing aggregate volatility and a residual. The predictive content of these components differs in important ways. Specifically, we find strong evidence that the component of illiquidity uncorrelated with volatility forecasts stock market returns. In contrast, aggregate volatility accounts for most of the forecasting power of illiquidity for real economic activity. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Greg Eaton Index Option Returns and Systemic Equity Risk This study examines the puzzling relationship between the returns of index options written on the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the returns of options written on the 30 stocks that comprise the index. We demonstrate theoretically and empirically that the difference between the index option implied volatility and the weighted average of the stock option implied volatilities indicates the value of the hedge provided by index options against erosion of diversification benefits. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Tim Krehbiel Mathematics: Weiping Li

An improved approach to evaluate default probabilities and default correlations with consistency We provide a simplified analytic closed formula for evaluating default correlations. Our formula provides a natural extension of previous structural first passage time models. We present numerical analyses of our model which illustrate the sensitivities of default correlation with respect to the underlying asset correlation, obligor credit quality and time horizon. Utilizing our analytical result we resolve the inconsistency between the univariate process underlying firm specific default probability and the correlated bivariate process of the structural first passage time default correlation model. We emphasize the disparate credit risk management implications of our result in contrast to commonly used risk measurement methods. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Tim Krehbiel Mathematics: Weiping Li

Edgeworth Binomial Trees and commodity futures options This study seeks to evaluate and improve existing methods for calibrating discrete option pricing models to commodity futures option prices. The study specifically evaluates the information content of implied skewness and kurtosis. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Tim Krehbiel

Credit Spreads and Correlated Default Risk This study seeks to evaluate the empirical associations between default correlation and credit spreads. While default probability and recovery rate determine the magnitude of bond credit spreads, changes to cross sectional default correlations may also affect corporate bond prices and ultimately their credit spreads relative to Treasury securities. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Ali Nejadmalayeri , Siamak Javadi , Tim Krehbiel Costs of Capital and Public Issuance Choice The choices of firms raising external capital conform to standard static choice theory in that the higher the (relative) cost of an alternative—both at the overall market level and at the firm level—the less attractive is that alternative. Price elasticities of demand are smaller for more profitable and tangible firms, and larger for larger and more liquid firms. Firm fixed effects account for one-third of the explained choice variation of multiple issuers. Short-term debt is more attractive when the yield curve is steeply sloped, but the demand for equity is inelastic with respect to the market price-earnings multiple. PD/PIs: Ali Nejadmalayeri University of Arizona: Christopher G Lamoureux

Optimality of Diversified Conglomerates: Evidence from Credit Spreads and Equity Valuation Discounts Motivated by recent productivity-based theories of diversification, we argue that only conglomerates with an optimal degree of diversification can utilize their comparative advantages across various industries and achieve economies of scope by eliminating redundancies. Evidence from both corporate bond and equity markets suggests that optimally diversified conglomerates consist of either (1) approximately five equally weighted divisions, or (2) one large core business segment that roughly accounts for 75 % sales. Moreover, the relative size of divisions has a critical impact on how diversification affects credit spreads and excess values. Non-parity among divisions correlates with greater costs that increase with the number of divisions. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PD/PIs: Ali Nejadmalayeri University of New Mexico: Subramanian Rama Iyer Penn State University: Manohar Singh

GASB Mandatory Disclosure Rules and Taxable Municipal Bond Yield Spreads The implementation of the Government Accounting Standards Board’s Statement 45 mandates disclosure of ‘‘other post-employment benefits’’ (OPEB) in a standardized format. The mandate provides an opportunity to analyze non-information impacts of mandatory disclosures, as key components of the information were already publicly available. We find that this mandate is associated with a significant 15 and 73 basis-point increase in yield spreads among tax-exempt and taxable bonds, respectively. This effect is particularly pronounced for riskier bonds— nonrated and longer maturity taxable bonds. However, states that do not follow the GASB 45 recommendation of prefunding the OPEB obligations face a greater increase in their yield spreads. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PD/PIs: Ali Nejadmalayeri University of Nevada-Reno: Sheri Faircloth, Jeanne Wendel Quinnipiac University: Surya Chelikhani Do FOMC Actions Speak Loudly? Evidence from Corporate Bond Credit Spreads We examine how corporate bond credit spreads react to the FOMC announcements. FOMC change announcements (rate hike or rate cut) narrow credit spreads while a no-change announcement leads to wider credit spreads. Reactions to FOMC announcements (especially cuts and no-actions) are particularly larger for non-investment grade and short-maturity bonds. Our results hint at monetary policy as a possible candidate for macro determinants of credit spreads. Overall, results partially support investors’ ambiguity aversion to FOMC inactions and bond market’s greater attention to the Fed’s actions targeted at promoting growth and/or providing systemic liquidity. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PD/PIs: Ali Nejadmalayeri, Tim Krehbiel Ohio University: Siamak Javadi

CEO Overconfidence and Agency Cost of Debt: Evidence from Voluntary Turnovers If more pessimistic investor sentiment proxies for greater tendencies to fly to quality/safety, we expect that contemporaneous (lagged) investor sentiment to have an extenuating (attenuating) effect on corporate bond yield spreads. Moreover, bonds with ex ante sensitivity to the benchmark interest rate movement should be affected more pronouncedly by the sentiment. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PD/PIs: Ali Nejadmalayeri, Tim Krehbiel University of New Mexico: Subramanian Rama Iyer New Mexico State University: Harikumar Sankaran

Measuring Joint Default Risk This paper presents a novel method to measure the time-varying correlation in default risk. Specifically, we extract information from daily CDS spreads to construct a measure of joint default risk, which we use to explore the determinants of joint default risk and its incremental explanatory power in fixed-income pricing. Joint default risk is more pronounced and commands a higher premium during periods of financial distress and for speculative issues. Overall, our paper provides compelling evidence as to the efficacy of our measure in capturing correlated default risk over time, and has important implications for future work in fixed- income pricing. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PD/PIs: Ali Nejadmalayeri, Tim Krehbiel Ohio University: Siamak Javadi Santa Clara University: Seoyoung Kim Investor Sentiment, Diversification Discount, and Cross-Section of Returns Diversified firms can offer cost-effective and perhaps unique means of reducing overall portfolio risk for “sentimental” equity investors who cannot easily fly to the safety of Treasuries on occasions of rising pessimism. Diversification discount hence could be inversely associated with investors’ pessimism if sentimentality is common among investors. We find that as sentiment becomes more pessimistic, the diversification discount decreases. Our results offer an answer to how with widespread, common sentimentality, a broad index of stocks may show no systemic impact of changes in sentiment. Sentiment fluctuations mainly result in reallocation capital from risky to safer (diversified) firms. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PD/PIs: Ali Nejadmalayeri University of New Mexico: Subramanian Rama Iyer University of Tulsa: Joel Harper

Industry Competition and the Corporate Cost of Debt Recent theory posits that in competitive industries, cash flows are more volatile and economic profits are smaller, hence credit risk is high. I use both inter- and intra-industry concentration measures and find that indeed as industry concentration rises (i.e., industries become less competitive), credit spreads decline. Moreover, I find that the ameliorating effect of greater industry concentration on credit spreads is more pronounced for industries that the aggregate sales are growing and the number of firms is still increasing. These results suggest that while greater competition among industry firms extenuates credit risk, weaker barrier to entry and more entrants may benefit firms perhaps because it creates larger market for potential distressed assets. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PD/PIs: Ali Nejadmalayeri

Housing Prices and Municipal Bond Yields: Property Taxes, Wealth Effect, or Else? We search for the existence of a housing wealth effect in the municipal bond market. More specifically, we examine the impact of state-level housing price appreciation on municipal bond yield spreads. We find a strong, significant, ameliorating impact from housing price appreciation on municipal yield spreads. This effect is virtually identical for general obligation and non-general obligation bonds. While a direct property tax channel exists, we also find strong evidence in support of a housing wealth effect that manifests through sales, personal income, and corporate tax channels. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PD/PIs: Ali Nejadmalayeri Demography, Asset Allocation, and Investment Horizon: Enduring Lessons from Long History One century and a half of evidence suggests that only individuals who start saving for retirement in the later (early) stages of population busts (booms) spend most of their retirement planning phase in bull stock markets with tame inflation, thus benefiting greatly from investing in stocks. Demography, particularly the proportional size of aggregate savers as measured by the ratio of middle-age to young population, is the most pertinent determinant of intergenerational variations in retirement planning results. Savers, particularly those who do not have a long planning horizon, should consider demography in determining the weight of stocks in their retirement portfolios. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PD/PIs: Ali Nejadmalayeri

Has the Proliferation of Credit Derivatives Changed How Fundamentals Affect Corporate Bond Spreads? Theoretically, risk-free rates influence both default and refinancing decisions, thus affecting credit spreads. During declining rates’ regimes, risk-free rates should affect spreads more pronouncedly, and even more so callable spreads. Using a large panel of U.S. corporate bonds, I find supportive evidence consistent with these theoretical predictions. The impacts of the yield curve factors as well as the explanatory power of the models are markedly larger during bear markets particularly for callable bonds. More intriguingly, only among highly rated firms, financials, and short-term bonds, the refinancing risk is the dominant reason for these differential impacts of the risk-free rates. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PD/PIs: Ali Nejadmalayeri

Short-Term Real Earnings Management Prior to Stock Repurchases This study examines whether firms engage in income-decreasing real earnings management prior to stock repurchases in order to reduce the cost of buybacks. In the short run, managers have the ability to under-produce inventory and increase discretionary expenditures, thus decreasing current period earnings. We find that managers engage in both of these activities prior to repurchasing their firms’ shares and that these activities are concentrated among firms that are financially healthy and have greater stock option intensity. Finally, we document that firms with the most income-decreasing real earnings management experience the largest positive abnormal returns during the subsequent period. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Ramesh P. Rao West Virginia University: Lauren Cooper University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Jimmy Downes Share Repurchases and the Flexibility Hypothesis Current research finds that firms are increasingly substituting dividends with share repurchases. This substitution effect is largely attributable to the flexibility offered by share repurchases but not by dividends. Using the financial crisis as a natural experiment, we test whether repurchases are more flexible than dividends. We document that the proportion of repurchasing firms that reduced repurchase payouts is greater than the proportion of dividend payers that reduced their dividends during the financial crisis period. We also find that the market performance of repurchase-reducing firms is better than that of dividend-reducing firms over the financial crisis period, indicating that the markets do not penalize repurchasing firms more than dividend reducing firms. Overall, we conclude that share repurchases are more flexible than dividends. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Ramesh P. Rao University of New Mexico: Subbu lyer

Cash holdings and CEO Risk Incentive Compensation: Effect of CEO Risk Aversion We examine the risk incentive effect (vega) on firm cash holdings and how this relationship is moderated by managerial risk aversion. We focus on zero or negative debt ratio firms in order to minimize the possibility that the risk incentive effect on cash is driven by bondholder shareholder conflicts as suggested by Liu and Mauer (2011). We find that vega is positively related to cash holdings and that this relationship is enhanced for firms with greater managerial risk aversion. We conclude that managers appropriately respond to risk incentives by taking on riskier projects but increase cash holdings to reduce their undiversified risk to the firm as a consequence of greater risk incentive compensation. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Ramesh P. Rao, Harry Feng

National Culture and the Valuation of Cash Holdings Prior studies document that national culture traits are systematically related to cash holdings and attribute this to managerial cultural predispositions. However, it is possible that these preferences reflect investors’ cultural preferences and that managers are simply catering to investors’ preferences. It is also not clear whether the cash holding effects previously documented are value maximizing. By examining the impact of national culture traits on cash valuation we are able to provide insight into these questions. Specifically, we examine the effect of three national culture traits—individualism, uncertainty avoidance and long-term orientation—on firm cash valuation. Our results suggest that the previously observed effects of cultural traits on cash holdings and attributed to managerial cultural biases do not reflect investors’ preferences and are not value maximizing. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Ramesh P. Rao University of Tulsa: Svetlana V. Orlova Mutual Fund Performance, Management Teams, and Boards The recent surge in the use of team-managed funds in the mutual fund industry suggests that the benefits of team management might outweigh its costs. However, extant empirical evidence is not consistent with the view that team managed funds generate superior returns relative to individual managed funds. We argue that the benefits of team management are likely to be manifested in the presence of strong external monitoring because the potential free-rider problems within team-managed funds are alleviated. Our findings, that smaller boards and boards with a higher proportion of independent directors are positively associated with performance in team but not individual-managed funds, are consistent with this view. Our results suggest that in team-managed fund structures, where the potential free-riding problems exist, the presence of strong external monitoring improves fund performance. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Ramesh P. Rao University of Texas at Arlington: John Adams University of Colorado-Denver: Takeshi Nishikawa

Payout Flexibility and Capital Expenditures Over the past two decades or so repurchases have become an appealing method for disbursing cash to shareholders compared to the traditional dividends. Managerial perception as well as empirical evidence suggests that repurchases are inherently more flexible than dividends, which may account for their increasing popularity. The rigidity of dividends and the apparent flexibility of share repurchases could impact firm investments. Firms may forego profitable investment opportunities to maintain their dividend levels, while repurchases could be easily scaled back to fund profitable investment projects without fear of an adverse market reaction. We test the flexibility hypothesis of repurchases by regressing capital expenditures on repurchases and dividends in addition to other control variables. Consistent with our hypotheses, we find an inverse relationship between capital expenditures and repurchases but an insignificant relationship with dividends. Further, we find that the flexibility associated with repurchases is especially evident for firms that are financially constrained, and during the recent financial crisis period when external capital constraints were severe. Finally, we find that flexibility of repurchases with respect to capital expenditures is stronger in the more recent time period during which regulatory changes made repurchases more attractive as a mechanism to disburse cash back to shareholders. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Ramesh P. Rao, Harry Feng University of New Mexico: Subbu Iyer The Impact of Outliers on Computing Conditional Risk Measures for Crude Oil and Natural Gas Commodity Futures Prices Abstract: In this study, we employ statistical procedures to identify outliers in the prices for all crude oil and natural gas futures contracts traded on the CME over the period of December 2003 through March 2017. Empirical results for crude oil and natural gas futures contracts show that handling outliers when performing parametric estimation of the data generating process can have a large impact on the estimation of various risk metrics including value at risk, expected shortfall, and probability of outperforming a benchmark. Our research demonstrates that it is crucial to manage outliers to decrease bias of the data generating process upon which the estimates of risk metrics are based. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Betty Simkins Texas State University: Ivilina Popova Montclair State University: Joe Byers

Susser Petroleum Partners, LP: IPO of a Master Limited Partnership Abstract: This case study investigates the 2012 IPO by Susser Holdings to create the first master limited partnership (MLP) in the fuel distribution business. The case study explores the rationale for the MLP and investigates the valuation of this unique transaction. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Betty Simkins University of Virginia: Susan Chaplinsky University of Texas Austin: Sheridan Titman

Master Limited Partnerships: A Technical Note Abstract: This technical note describes Master Limited Partnerships including their structure, history, terminology, incentive distribution rights, and areas of focus. The note also describes valuation methodologies and how to calculate the cost of capital. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Betty Simkins University of Virginia: Susan Chaplinsky University of Texas Austin: Sheridan Titman Higher-Order Moments of Fundamentals: Existence, Information Contents and Their Implications on Macroeconomics and Financial Markets This paper outlines the major progress in the research of the fundamental higher-order moments. We survey the existence, the formation, and the financial market and macroeconomics implications for the higher-order moments. The time-varying volatility and the non-Gaussian shocks widely exist in all measures of fundamentals at both micro and macro levels. According to the literature, the granular network among firms is the origin of the fundamental higher-order moments. The fundamental higher-order moments have strong predictive power on asset prices and macroeconomic quantity variables. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Betty Simkins Central University of Finance and Economics: Yuecheng Jia Texas State University-San Marcos: Ivilina Popova

Determinants of NCAA Football Head Coaches’ Salaries This study examines National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) head football coach’s contracts to investigate the determinants of both maximum compensation and guaranteed compensation. The results show that maximum compensation is positively related to both the performance of a university’s football program and the head football coach. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Betty Simkins Valparaiso University: Phillip Humphrey Mississippi State University: Jacqueline Garner

Is it LUV or a Good Business Decision? A Comprehensive Study of Southwest Airlines’ Acquisition of AirTran The purpose of this case is to allow students an opportunity to apply financial concepts to evaluate a real event, the acquisition of AirTran by Southwest Airlines, utilizing Excel spreadsheets. It is designed as a semester-long case that covers the following topics: understanding merger/acquisition motives, challenges, and opportunities; calculating financial metrics; forecasting; and valuation. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Betty Simkins Georgia Southern University: Allissa Lee California State University at Chico: Stephen Treanor Investor Attention and the Neutrality of Corporate Social Responsibility Abstract: In this study, we investigate the effect of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) factors and investor attention on the higher moments of a firm’s stock returns. Our preliminary results show that minimizing exposure to "concern" factors lowers a firm’s exposure to crash risk. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Betty Simkins Texas State University-San Marcos: Ivilina Popova

Public Information and Stale Limit Orders: The Evidence In a specialist market public information shocks may generate a sequence of transactions at stale prices, as nimble floor traders pick off obsolete limit orders. We design a test for the importance of public information in price formation around this fact. We find that removing all potentially stale limit order trades from the transactions record has no significant effect on a statistic that links price change to transactions. We use the bootstrap to calibrate this result and demonstrate that public information shocks account for a small portion of stock return variances. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Qin Wang University of Arizona: Chris Lamoureux

Has Local Informational Advantage Disappeared? This study examines how changes in the information environment affect the informational advantage of geographically proximate agents. We find that the long-term advantage of local agents disappeared at the turn of the millennium. This is accompanied by the reduction in local bias of institutional investors and equity analysts. However, institutional investors continue to trade local stocks disproportionately more often than nonlocal stocks; moreover, their local trades outperform nonlocal trades in the short term -- even for large and liquid stocks. Our results are consistent with improvements in the information environment shortening the horizon of geographic proximity-based informational advantage. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Qin Wang University of Miami: Gennaro Bernile University of Miami: Alok Kumar National University of Singapore: Johan Sulaeman Local Institutional Investors and the Maturity Structure of Corporate Debt We examine the relation between the geographic proximity of a firm’s institutional investors and the maturity structure of its debt. Local institutional investors are more likely to pressure firms to borrow short term debt as a disciplining device to reduce equity agency costs. Monitoring by local institutional investors likely increases the intensity of debtholder- stockholder conflicts, and shorter maturity debt should reduce these conflicts and the associated debt agency costs. We hypothesize and find that firms with local institutional investors have shorter maturity debt. The results also hold for maturity of new debt issues. The effect of institutional proximity on debt maturity is stronger for firms with CEO-Chair duality and before the passage of Sarbanes-Oxley Act in 2002, consistent with that firms monitored by local institutional investors choose shorter maturity debt to reduce agency costs, especially, equity agency costs. The results demonstrate the importance of local institutional investors in affecting firms’ debt maturity policy choices. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jun Zhang Texas A&M University: Shane Johnson

The Effect of Algorithmic Trading on Firm Value Motivated by recent evidence that algorithmic trading impacts market quality, we examine the effect of algorithmic trading on firm value. Using an algorithmic trading proxy based on electronic message traffic, we find a positive relation between algorithmic trading and firm value. The relation is stronger for firms with lower stock liquidity, higher idiosyncratic stock return volatility, higher analyst coverage, and greater information asymmetry, which suggest that the value increases occur through increasing liquidity, reducing volatility, contributing to price discovery and reducing information asymmetry. The overall results suggest that algorithmic trading generates net benefits for firm value. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jun Zhang Texas A&M University: Shane Johnson University of Cincinnati: Brian Hatch CEO Inside Debt and the Maturity of Corporate Debt Issues Compensating CEOs with some inside debt partly aligns them with debtholders, so it can potentially reduce debt agency problems. Given that debt agency problems increase in debt maturity, we hypothesize that firms can have longer debt maturity if they compensate their CEOs with more inside debt. Consistent with this hypothesis, we find that the maturity of firms' new debt issues is positively related to CEO inside debt levels. The positive effect holds only among firms with relatively long maturity CEO inside debt, consistent with the implied effective seniority across short and long maturity debt. The results demonstrate the importance of inside debt in affecting a key dimension of corporate debt financing. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jun Zhang Texas A&M University: Shane Johnson Hong Kong Polytechnic University: Nan Yang

Social Networks and Corporate Payout Policies We examine the relation between firm social network and corporate payout policies. Firms with greater network centrality have lower information asymmetry and thus are less likely to signal using dividend payout, and their managers may be optimistic and thus cut dividends to build financial slack for future investment; they may be more likely to repurchase shares that they deem undervalued. Consistent with the conjectures, we find that firms with greater network centrality are less likely to pay dividends and pay lower dividends, but are more likely to repurchase shares and repurchase more shares. The negative (positive) relation between network centrality and dividend payout (share repurchase) is stronger (weaker) for firms with greater growth opportunities. Moreover, CEOs of firms with greater network centrality tend to be overconfident, and centrally connected firms substitute share repurchase for dividends. Overall results suggest that social network centrality can significantly affect corporate payout policies. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jun Zhang Informed Options Trading Prior to Dividend Change Announcements This paper investigates the information content of options trading prior to dividend change announcements. I find a positive (negative) relation between pre-announcement abnormal implied volatility (IV) spread (abnormal IV skew) and cumulative abnormal returns around dividend change announcements. The predictive power of the informed options trading is stronger for announcements of dividend reduction and when the options market is more liquid relative to the stock market, and weaker when information has already been incorporated in the stock market. The predictability of informed option trading is robust to a placebo test and an alternative measure of informed options trading. Overall results suggest that informed option trading predicts dividend change announcement returns. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jun Zhang

Institutional Trading Around Corporate Fraud We investigate whether institutional investors have information advantage by studying trading behaviors of institutional investors before revealing of corporate fraud. Compared to benchmark trading volumes, institutional investors have higher net selling volume of stocks of fraud firms several months before public revealing of corporate fraud, and the result holds only for more severe frauds leading to greater firm losses. The results suggest that institutional investors have information advantage and react early to corporate fraud before it is publicly revealed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jun Zhang, Qin Wang University of Nevada-Las Vegas: D. Scott Lee

An Empirical Test of the Graham Stock Selection Criteria Benjamin Graham, author of Security Analysis and The Intelligent Investor, proposed ten stock selection criteria that investors can use when making investment decisions. Of the ten criteria, five are referred to as risk criteria and the other five are reward criteria. For an investment to be considered a “buy”, the stock must meet at least one risk and one reward criteria. The number of possible combinations which would comprise a portfolio are 961. No research to date has tested all the possible combinations over an extended period of time for portfolio performance. This research will test all possible combinations of criteria over the time period from 1974 to 2013. During this test period various market and economic scenarios have occurred providing an excellent environment to test the portfolio performance of 961 combinations. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Purdue University PI/PDs: Tom Johansen, Mohsen Mollagholamali Purdue University: Alexander Boquist The Long-Run Economic Impact of an Institution of Higher Education: Estimating the Human Capital Contribution One of the main contributions of institutions of higher education is human capital. In the context of regional universities, their primary impact can be measured through the future income stream of alumni who stay to work in the local area (Bluestone, 1993). This constitutes a long-run impact and a substantial part of the overall economic impact of an institution to the local, regional, and national economy. This paper provides an important contribution to the existing literature by developing a methodology that takes into account the counterfactual, allowing for the more precise definition of economic impact. The methodology is applied to a public regional university. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Indiana University Southeast PI/PD: Tom Johansen Indiana University Southeast: Kathleen Guzman Arano

The Impact of Sarbanes-Oxley on Special Item Reporting Practitioners often see improved timeliness and accuracy of financial reporting as the major effects of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX). This perspective may explain the observed pattern of smaller and more frequent reporting for special items on the income statement following SOX enactment. Fineness of information reflects its quality. We construct tests to show finer grained special item reporting is a consequence of SOX. We rule out the alternative explanation that the pattern of smaller and more frequent special item reporting following SOX enactment could be due to a spillover effect from a contemporaneously implemented FASB rule covering restructuring charge special items. Our findings are not derived from SOX affecting those special item types which may be involved in the classification shifting form of earnings management. The change to smaller and more frequent post-SOX special item reporting is especially evident among smaller firms which suggests their special item reporting is more sensitive to SOX. There is a tradeoff between improved special item reporting quality and the increased costs borne by smaller firms. Our findings exemplify the perspective that improvements in everyday accounting practice and procedure demonstrate the worth of SOX. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Fort Hays State University, University of Chicago PI/PD: Tom Johansen Fort Hays State University: Glenn Growe University of Chicago: Xiao Qiao Agency Theory, Renumeration, Animal Spirits, and the Implications for Corporate Governance Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) continue to be value destroying for many acquiring firm shareholders, but value enhancing for the acquired firms’ shareholders. Lack of continuity of tenure, agency problems and animal spirits in the acquiring and acquired firms may contribute to this loss of value. Best corporate governance practice proposes that the roles of chairman and chief executive should be performed by different people and yet there is a limited amount of analysis linking these separate roles with firm performance. This study examines acquisitions based upon findings from a study in Australia between 1990 and 2006, which finds that the period of joint tenure, when the chairman and CEO in the acquiring firm have been in their respective roles together, is a statistically significant contributor to acquiring firm shareholder value in M&A activity. A significantly negative correlation exists between CEO remuneration change and M&A outcomes indicating agency problems, whilst animal spirits are also in evidence around the time of an acquisition. A contribution to the debate about hubris in M&A suggests that narcissism may be more prevalent than hubris. Improvements in transparency for the remuneration and nominations committees are recommended to address some of the issues of corporate governance raised in this study. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Fort Hays State University, Western Sydney University PI/PD: Tom Johansen Fort Hays State University: Glenn Growe Western Sydney University: Nigel Garrow

Effective and Efficient Finance Instruction in Large, Multiple Sections Finance instruction has changed dramatically with the advent of technology. Integrating technology effectively in large, multiple sections of a course is an issue which has become important in the instruction of university students. What is the best method for delivering a high quality education with class size, multiple sections, and multiple instructors as constraints and utilizing the newest instructional technology? This article will provide a proven and developed structure to deliver a high quality education to finance and business students considering these constraints. New and innovative technology will be used to facilitate the process including online instructional platforms, online homework systems, online adaptive learning systems, and online market simulations. Master Field Test results indicate a very high success rate of learning finance as a result of this structure. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Tom Johansen and John Polonchek Portfolio Selection with Mental Accounts: An Equilibrium Model with Endogenous Risk Aversion We document a positive and persistent relation between retail investor attention, as measured by Google search volume, and future realized stock return volatility. The relation implies profitable option trading strategy of purchasing high attention delta-neutral straddles and selling low attention delta-neutral straddles; this strategy earns a significant weekly return of 2.36% and is uncorrelated with common risk factors as well as the firm level variance risk premium. Examination of option trading activities of different investor groups following increased Google search shows that retail option investors benefit most from increasing stock volatility. Our evidence strongly supports theories of noise trader risk. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Minnesota, George Washington University PI/PDs: Shu Yan University of Minnesota: Gordon Alexander George Washington University: Alexandre Buptista

Information Diffusion and Seasonality in Return Predictability There is gradual information diffusion within industry in the stock market and there is also significant seasonal patterns in lead-lag relationships in stock returns. As a result, we find considerable variation in the auto-correlation coefficients of stock returns across 12 months of the year. Based on the profit decomposition of relative strength strategy, we propose to improve the conventional reversal/momentum strategy to focus only on the industries with negative/positive auto-correlations. These strategies compare considerably better with the conventional ones, providing further insights into the gradual information diffusion as a potential explanation to the reversal/momentum puzzles. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Ohio State University, University of Hong Kong PI/PDs: Shu Yan Ohio State University: Kewei Hou University of Hong Kong: Yan Xu Attention on Volatility and Options We document a positive and persistent relation between retail investor attention, as measured by Google search volume, and future realized stock return volatility. The relation implies profitable option trading strategy of purchasing high attention delta-neutral straddles and selling low attention delta-neutral straddles; this strategy earns a significant weekly return of 2.36% and is uncorrelated with common risk factors as well as the firm level variance risk premium. Examination of option trading activities of different investor groups following increased Google search shows that retail option investors benefit most from increasing stock volatility. Our evidence strongly supports theories of noise trader risk. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Hong Kong, Rutgers University PI/PDs: Shu Yan University of Hong Kong: Yan Xu Rutgers University: Yuzhao Zhang

Information Diffusion, Return Predictability, and Earnings Announcement Season I document significant seasonal patterns in some well-known stock return predictability anomalies such as the positive short-term market return autocorrelation, lead/lag effect across stock portfolios, and short-term reversal and momentum effects for individual stocks. The evidence not only strongly supports the information diffusion hypothesis but also reveals the key role of earnings announcement seasons on how information diffuses in the market. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Shu Yan

Dispersion in Analysts' Target Prices and Stock Returns We propose the dispersion in analysts' target prices as a new measure of disagreement among analysts and a proxy of ex ante stock risk. Consistent with the risk hypothesis, we document a significant positive relation between the target price dispersion and future stock returns up to 24 months. The next-month return spread between the highest and lowest deciles sorted on the target price dispersion measures can be over 2%. Our findings cannot be explained by the standard risk factors and stock characteristics including the target price revision and dispersion in analysts’ earnings forecasts. Further supporting the risk hypothesis, the target price dispersion is positively related to future stock risk. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Penn State University Behrend PI/PDs: Shu Yan Penn State University Behrend: Hongrui Feng CEO Compensation Incentives and Stock Liquidity Based on agency theory, we argue that the CEO of a company whose compensation depends on its stock price and stock volatility is incentivized to influence the stock liquidity. Measuring CEO incentives relative to stock price and volatility of stock return by Delta and Vega, we find strong evidence that Delta and Vega are positively and negatively, respectively, related to stock liquidity as well as future firm characteristics that are positively and negatively associated with stock liquidity. We also document significant variations in the relations between CEO incentives and stock liquidity across firms of different sizes and book-to-market ratios. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Penn State University Behrend PI/PDs: Shu Yan Penn State University Behrend: Hongrui Feng

CEO Incentive Compensation and Stock Price Momentum We document robust evidence that CEO incentive compensation predicts stock price momentum. The profit of momentum strategy increases with pay-for-performance incentive but decreases with risk-taking incentive. The evidence is more significant for companies with older and longer tenured CEOs, during high investor sentiment periods, and cannot be explained by information uncertainty proxies such as analyst coverage. Our results are consistent with the information diffusion explanation of momentum and the findings of agency theory that incentivized CEOs tend to manipulate information by smoothing good news, concealing mildly bad news, and accelerating the disclosure of extremely bad news. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Penn State University Behrend PI/PDs: Shu Yan Penn State University Behrend: Hongrui Feng

Profitability Skewness and Stock Return This paper investigates whether profitability skewness is related to expected stock return. We document significant evidence that profitability skewness positively predicts cross-sectional stock returns, opposite to the negative relation between return skewness and stock returns. The positive return predictability is robust to alternative profitability proxies and holds up to a year. The results cannot be explained by existing risk factors and return predictors including the level of profitability and return skewness. The evidence is consistent with explanations in which profitability skewness is positively related to firm growth opportunity and future profitability. The results are also consistent with behavioral explanations. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Central University of Finance and Economics, China PI/PDs: Shu Yan Central University of Finance and Economics: Yuecheng Jia Skewness and Momentum We document two opposite effects of return skewness on momentum profits. For individual stocks, momentum profits decrease with skewness while for industry portfolios, momentum profits increase with skewness. The findings cannot be explained by existing risk factors and stock characteristics. For individual stocks, the evidence is consistent with the behavioral theory of return skewness as well as the skewness preference theory. For industry portfolios, the evidence is consistent with the interpretation of portfolio skewness as a measure of asymmetric inefficiency. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Central University of Finance and Economics, China PI/PDs: Shu Yan Central University of Finance and Economics: Yuecheng Jia MANAGEMENT

Boundary Conditions of Trust Transference between Leaders, Followers and Coworkers. This study examines the spread of trust between supervisor-subordinate dyads to the broader employee network. Two separate three-way interactions are hypothesized and tested. The interactive effects of supervisor trust of subordinate, supervisor trust centrality and supervisor communication centrality were significant in predicting subordinate trust. This finding demonstrates the amount of communication between a supervisor and other employees enhances the combined effects of supervisor trust in the subordinate and network trust in the supervisor on network wide trust of the subordinate. Implications and future research directions related to these results and the overarching trust literature are discussed. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Wm. Matthew Bowler University of Tulsa: Jeff Paul West Virginia University: Mark Gavin

Attributions of organizational citizenship behavior motives: When is citizenship perceived as brownnosing? The purpose of this study was to test the connection between LMX relationship quality and OCB motives attributions made by followers, leaders, and coworkers. Data were obtained through surveys from 529 matched sets of participant, supervisor, and coworker triads from a variety of positions (i.e., managerial, professional/non-managerial, clerical, and manufacturing) within a myriad of industries (i.e., education, health care, banking/financial services, manufacturing, government, retail, and telecommunications). In high-quality exchange relationships, followers and leaders alike attributed OCB motives to positively-viewed motivations of pro-social values and organizational concern. Coworkers, on the other hand, attributed OCB motives of followers to negatively-viewed impression management motivations. These findings recognize the differential influence of multi-source evaluations of OCB motives. This enhances OCB research by identifying an important contextual variable (LMX) that drives leader, follower, and coworker behavior. This extends LMX research by focusing on the potential reciprocal effects of OCB motive attributions and LMX. The findings also point to a potential double-bind faced by followers outside of high-quality LMX relationships in that their OCB motives might be attributed to negative impression management tactics by supervisors. This is the first direct test of the impact of high-quality LMX relationships on subsequent OCB motive attributions. The use of matched data from follower-leader-coworker triads brings focus to the importance of future research to obtain LMX ratings from multiple sources. This research provides evidence of potential dark side of high-quality LMX relationships. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Wm. Matthew Bowler University of Tulsa: Jeff Paul University of Alabama: Jonathon Halbesleben The Interplay of Social Influence and RLMX: A Social Exchange Perspective We explore the role of relative leader-member exchange (RLMX) and social influence on workplace incivility. We challenge a popular assumption that positive social capital (social influence) is always beneficial in the workplace. By placing RLMX and social influence in a 2 X 2 matrix, we theorize four types of employees based on their RLMX and social influence. Based on social exchange theory, we propose an interaction effect, such that employees with low RLMX but high influence centrality are likely to experience the highest levels of workplace incivility. Furthermore, the downstream consequences of our proposed interaction is hypothesized to increase employee turnover intentions and workplace deviance behavior. We tested our theoretical model in a full-network sample of 172 restaurant employees across six store locations. We found a moderated mediation effect for the interaction between RLMX and influence through incivility on turnover intentions and deviance. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD’s: Wm. Matthew Bowler University of Illinois Chicago: Bingqing Wu, Don Kluemper University of Central Florida: Shannon Taylor

Experienced Workplace Rudeness: Its Antecedents and Consequences Mistreatment research has focused on general tendencies to experience and instigate negative subordinate behaviors, yet little is known about the ways in which supervisors form perceptions about them. The present study develops a model in which four forms of rudeness among coworker dyads are assessed as predictors of supervisor ratings of interpersonal mistreatment: (1) rudeness instigated by a focal employee, (2) rudeness experienced by coworkers, (3) rudeness instigated by coworkers toward the focal employee, and (4) rudeness experienced by the focal employee. While the first two are first-hand sources of information regarding interpersonal mistreatment, the latter two involve victims of rudeness being perceived as instigators. Further, leader-member exchange (LMX) and job performance are argued to moderate the relationships between these four forms of rudeness and supervisor perceptions of mistreatment such that the relationships will strengthen (i.e., become more positive) at low levels of LMX and performance. Results from 149 employees across five stores show that all four forms of rudeness influence supervisor perceptions, and that LMX and job performance moderate two of the four relationships. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD’s: Wm. Matthew Bowler University of Illinois Chicago: Don Kluemper University of Central Florida: Shannon Taylor University of Alabama: Jonathon Halbesleben Toward an Understanding of Advice-Seeking Behavior: A Social Network Perspective on Seeking Advice and Gaining Influence in Organizations Drawing upon theories of proactivity and impression management, we investigate the relationship between advice seeking and perceptions of influence in organizations. In a social network study of 91 employees (4095 observations), we found that employees who sought advice were rated as more influential. Furthermore, the results indicate that those who seek advice gain the most influence when they solicit it from influential advisors, experts, and those who bridge structural holes, and when they seek at least as much advice from their advisor as their advisor seeks from them. Implications and directions for future research are also discussed. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD’s: Wm. Matthew Bowler University of Oklahoma: Mark Bolino University of North Texas: Vicki Goodwin University of Dallas: J. Lee Whittington

Employee wellness through implementation of therapy dogs in daily work-life This study explores the wellness, attitudinal and performance outcomes associated with employee owned and trained therapy dogs in the workplace. Eventually this research will extend to those interacting with the therapy pets including students, faculty and staff. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD’s: Wm. Matthew Bowler, Alex Scrimpshire, Lara Sypniewski Professional Identification and Career Goals Employees are more actively involved in and responsible for the management of their careers now than they have been in the past. According to the boundaryless and protean careers perspectives, the responsibility for charting and navigating one’s career is placed firmly in the hands of the individual as opposed to his or her employing organization (e.g., Arthur & Rosseau, 1996; Eby, Butts, Lockwood, 2003). Various models outline career planning and management processes related to individual career progress and the majority of these models contain references to career goals (defined as any desired career outcomes, such as promotion, salary increase, or skill acquisition, which individuals wish to attain; Greenhaus, 1987; Seibert, Kraimer, Holtom, & Pierotti, 2013). However, within the various career management models and related research, most work begins with the assumption individuals already have career goals—the literature then focuses on career strategies to achieve said goals. Overall, research and theory have not addressed the factors influencing the creation of career goals and when and how career goal setting occurs (Seo et al., 2004). The present study uses a goal-setting lens to examine the creation of personal, career related goals. Using a mixed-methods approach, we will examine how mentoring experiences and professional identification relate to the type of career goals early career professionals set for themselves. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Lindsey Greco University of Iowa: Maria Kraimer The effect of performance pressure on employee stress appraisals, self-regulation and behavior Although the aim of performance pressure is to enhance employee performance, it is unclear whether it is a productive strategy. Our research provides clarity on the dynamic nature of performance pressure. We theorize that reactions to performance pressure are based on fluctuations in on how it is appraised. At one point in time, performance pressure may be appraised as a threat, which promotes self-regulation depletion that produces dysfunctional behavior (i.e., incivility). At another point in time, performance pressure may be appraised as a challenge, which promotes engagement that produces task proficiency and citizenship. We also theorize that trait resilience orients employees to appraise performance pressure as a challenge rather than a threat, thereby mitigating the depleting effects that motivate dysfunctional behavior and enhancing the engaging effects that motivate functional behavior. Results from an experience sampling study support our predictions and demonstrate that performance pressure appraisals occur in flux; fluctuations of performance pressure as a challenge at one time and threat at another time explain why performance pressure differentially influences self-regulatory states and behavior. Moreover, trait resilience moderated these effects, mitigating the dysfunctional effects and strengthening the functional effects of performance pressure. Implications for theory and research are provided. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Rebecca L. Greenbaum University of Georgia: Marie S. Mitchell Temple University: Ryan Vogel Drexel University: Mary B. Mawritz University of Georgia: David Keating

Customer mistreatment as an activator of moral disengagement Employees retaliate in response to customer mistreatment by engaging in customer-directed sabotage. Because customer-directed sabotage can be detrimental to the customer- organization relationship, understanding when and why customer mistreatment drives such behavior is important to deter its occurrence. Drawing on the social cognitive theories of moral disengagement and social learning (Bandura, 1986), this research contributes to the literature by examining moral disengagement as a mechanism and by offering ethical leadership as a moderator to mitigate the effect of customer mistreatment onto moral disengagement and subsequently customer-directed sabotage. This paper delivers managerial implications for service organizations to help employees deal with customer mistreatment and refrain from engaging in customer-directed sabotage. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Rebecca L. Greenbaum, Sandy Huang, Cynthia Wang Utah State University: Julena Bonner CEOs, Search, and Breadth of Strategic Change Although extant research has focused on how firms respond to attainment discrepancy and slack, the role of personal characteristics of those tasked with making such decisions for the firm have been largely absent. We plan to address this void by investigating how the firm decision maker most proximally responsible for directing firm initiatives, a CEO, may play a role in affecting how the search process associated with attainment discrepancy and slack resources unfolds. We focus specifically on CEO narcissism and hubris, both of which are at the center of growing lines of CEO decision-making research. Specifically, we aim to make three contributions to knowledge. First, answer calls for disentangling the effects of these related, but differentiated, constructs. Second, answer calls to bring the traits of executives into behavioral theory theorizing. Third, the potential for CEOs to respond to BTOF stimuli in their strategic choices in ways which fulfill their own narcissistic needs for praise and avoidance of criticism may shed light on why some choices tend to be unrelated to performance. Third, we add to the growing body of research within upper echelons theory on CEO narcissism and hubris but extend this line of research by addressing how narcissism and hubris may moderate strategic changes in response to both poor (i.e., attainment discrepancy) and favorable (i.e., slack resources) circumstances. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Aaron Hill, Federico Aime, Rachel Mui

Political Ideological Misfit in the Upper Echelons and Executive Exit Executives’ political ideology is a growing line of inquiry with implications for upper echelons theorizing about how the underlying values of executives affect their firms. At a time when the polarization of political ideologies is by some accounts at record levels, we argue that while research focusing on the average political leanings of executives offers important implications for theory, extant inquires also overlook important aspects associated with an executive ranks simultaneously consisting of multiple political ideologies. As such, to better understanding the implications of having multiple political ideologies in the executive ranks, we develop the concept of political ideological misfit, or the dissimilarity of political ideological preferences along the liberal-conservative political continuum. We then build theory articulating mechanisms by which political ideological misfit of a focal executive relative to both the CEO and other members of the TMT affects the likelihood a focal executive exits the firm. Moreover, we argue such misfit weakens the relationship between the executive’s pay relative to market and his or her likelihood of exit. Empirical results in a sample of S&P 500 firms over a five year period support our theoretical arguments and offer implications for theory and practice. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Aaron Hill University of Arkansas: Jason W. Ridge Missouri State University: Feibo Shao Ripping off the Band-Aid: scrutiny-bundling in the wake of social disapproval Activities that hazard the possibility of increased scrutiny are an unavoidable reality for many firms. While managers may face the need to engage in these activities, there is little research on when managers decide to engage in activities that hazard heightened scrutiny toward the firm. Existing theoretical perspectives on status quo deviations do not sufficiently address how managers order the firm’s essential activities that differ primarily in terms of the scrutiny those activities engender. Drawing from concepts in the accounting and political science literatures, we advance a “scrutiny-bundling” perspective, which suggests that firms engage in scrutiny- hazarding action in the wake of social disapproval, which we assess via negative media coverage. We further theorize that a strong linkage between the content of the social disapproval and the specific scrutiny-hazarding action exacerbates this relationship. We then contend that managers at firms that are either large in size or that perform well relative to their aspirations are less sensitive to social disapproval, and are therefore less likely to engage in scrutiny-bundling. We test our hypotheses on a sample of 100 firms in the upstream petroleum industry and find general support for our hypotheses. Sponsor: University of Nebraska-Lincoln PI/PDs: Owen Parker University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Varkey Titus University of Nebraska-Omaha: Erin Bass

Forging their own chains: how firm reputation influences managerial discretion The firm reputation literature has made substantial advancements in recent years, but most reputation research blurs the differences between reputations arising from demonstrations of a firm’s competence, such as product quality or financial performance, and those arising from demonstrations of a firm’s character, such as the pursuit of progressive values or the refusal to outsource manufacturing. At the same time, extant research tells us little about the antecedents of managerial discretion, confining our understanding of what constrains discretion to those attributes with substantial face validity, such as industry, firm, and individual differences. This paper offers a theoretical framework that examines how character and competence reputations influence managerial discretion along two dimensions: latitude of objectives and latitude of actions. Drawing on recent reputation research, as well as theory on expectation inertia and stakeholder attention, we offer propositions about when reputation expands or constrains discretion, building on the realization that high reputation may not always be a “good thing”. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Owen Parker Texas Christian University: Ryan Krause Texas A&M University: Cynthia Devers To beat ‘em or join ‘em? How imitation is shaped by exploitation and past innovativeness In developing a new product, managers must decide whether to leverage the firm's prior experience even while they consider how closely the product should align with rivals' offerings. These decisions--whether to exploit and whether to imitate--are inexorably linked, but most management research has treated them as distinct, investigating them separately. We contend that, from a behavioral theory perspective, the concurrent nature of this two-dimensional decision process alters our core assumptions about how managers respond to performance feedback. We further argue that a firm's prior innovativeness alters how performance feedback influences imitation behavior. We plan to empirically examine these hypotheses in the context of the US video game industry, and aim to contribute to research on the behavioral theory of the firm. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Owen Parker, Rachel Mui Arizona State University: Matthew Semadeni

Love and respect: The interplay between social Approval and reputation for quality Much of the research examining multiple social evaluations has focused on the performance implications of these intangible resources, as well as the consequences of alignment or inconsistencies between them. The present study examines another critical angle—the potential for spillover between social evaluations at the level of the individual observer. We use a controlled, randomized experiment to investigate the extent to which one’s general affinity toward the firm (social approval) influences their perceptions of product-level quality and the firm’s capability to deliver quality (reputation for quality), and vice versa. We predict— and find—that the spillover from deliberate, reputation-linked judgments onto social approval is stronger than the spillover from social approval onto reputation judgments. We close by detailing future opportunities in this stream. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Owen Parker Texas Christian University: Ryan Krause Profit as a second Priority: Product quality perceptions and performance feedback responses Recent strides in the performance feedback literature have illuminated how managers juggle multiple strategic objectives in their decision making. However, much of the work in this stream focuses on financial performance to the exclusion of non-financial performance objectives. With growing recognition of the importance of non-financial objectives such as external evaluator ratings, we point to the important role of product quality perceptions on managerial decisions, because quality is often prerequisite to profitability. We show that under certain conditions, the baseline behavioral theory assumption that ‘more profitability motivates complacency’ might not apply when quality perceptions are not as favorable as they could be. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Owen Parker, Rachel Mui University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Varkey Titus

The liability of familiarity: It’s ‘where from’, not ‘how much’ Experience has been lauded as a boon to performance, but when a team has members with substantial experience, this can also create a number of hazards for performance prospects. Using a team-based learning perspective, we start with a critical view of team member experience on the outputs of project teams, and use collaboration history as a contingency factor that explains when “sheer team experience” is more—or less—problematic for the performance of products developed by that team. We distinguish between two kinds of collaboration history, contending that shared experience within the same organization can mitigate the hazards of experience, while shared experience outside the firm exacerbates the downsides of experience for team performance, because of the mutual reinforcement of inappropriate or problematic assumptions. We examine these predictions in the context of the video game industry, using a sample of 332 video games released by 21 game publishers from 2000 to 2009, and find results largely consistent with our hypotheses. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Owen Parker, Rachel Mui North Carolina State University: Nachiket Bhawe Arizona State University: Matthew Semadeni Organizational aspirations and external venturing: The contingency of entrepreneurial orientation We contribute to the organizational aspirations literature by explicitly theorizing and testing the role of strategic posture—a firm’s entrepreneurial orientation (EO)—on the relationship between performance attainment discrepancy and firm behavior. Specifically, we examine the influence of performance relative to historical aspiration levels and performance relative to social aspiration levels on a key organizational response: commitment to equity-based external corporate venturing (ECV). We then propose that a firm’s strategic posture is an important consideration when theorizing about how firms respond to attainment discrepancies. We test our hypotheses on a sample of 1,640 firm-year observations. We find that firm-specific differences in the effects of attainment discrepancies are most pronounced in the above- aspiration performance context. Moreover, EO exerts a moderating effect on the observed relationships, although not always in the hypothesized manner. Sponsor: University of Nebraska-Lincoln PI/PDs: Owen Parker University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Varkey Titus Indiana University: Jeffrey Covin

Does Career Satisfaction and Support Mediate Effects of Justice on Organization Citizenship Behavior and Counterproductive Work Behavior? We propose perceptions of support and career satisfaction mediate the influence of justice perceptions on citizenship and counterproductive performance. Using organizational support theory (Eisenberger, Huntington, Hutchison & Sowa, 1986) we argue justice perceptions influence perceptions of support. Structural equation modeling results from 356 employees support partial mediation. Perceptions of support, 19% organizational and 44% supervisor, directly influence citizenship performance, accounting for 35% of variance for supervisor and 42% toward the organization, 20% for counterproductive performance, and indirectly through their effects on career satisfaction, 33%. Sponsor: State of Illinois PI/PDs: Thomas H. Stone Illinois State University: Jim Jawahar Performance Ratings: Large Sample Evidence We examined gender differences in supervisor ratings of overall job performance and performance relating to thirty-seven competencies representing a range of behaviors and responsibilities. Based on data from a large diverse sample of managers (N= 3,364) and non- managers (N= 9,074), we found that gender had only minimal effects on ratings for a small number of specific performance dimensions. Overall, our results show little evidence of Schein’s (1973) “think manager, think male” and agentic and communal gender stereotypes in performance ratings. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDS: Thomas H. Stone Hogan Assessments: Jeff Foster York University: Brian Webster, Jennifer Harrison Illinois State University: Jim Jawahar

Are Leaders Defined by Followers? Role of Follower’s ILT and the Mediating Influence of LMX on Follower Outcomes An assumption underlying most leadership theory and research is that leaders play an active role and followers a passive one. Drawing on self-verification theory and implicit leadership theories (ILT), we assert that follower’s ILT influence perceptions of transformational leadership. In turn, both ILT and transformational leadership influence the development of high quality leader-member exchange (LMX) relationship. LMX is expected to mediate the influence of ILT and transformational leadership on follower’s perceptions of organizational support, identification and turnover intentions. This model was tested in a longitudinal field study with data from 210 newly hired hospital employees Results of structural equations modeling provided strong support for the mediating influence of LMX. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University, State of Illinois PI/PDs: Thomas H. Stone, Alex Scrimpshire Illinois State University: Douglas Rahn, Jim Jawahar Do Birds of a Feather Cheat Together? How Personality and Relationships Affect Student Cheating Academic misconduct is widespread in schools, colleges, and universities and it appears to be an international phenomenon that also spills over into the workplace (Nonis and Swift 2001; Sims 1993; Stone et al. 2011). To this end, while a great deal of research has investigated various individual components such as, demographic, personality and situational factors that contribute to cheating, research has yet to examine why students help others cheat and which students are being asked to help others cheat. In this study, we investigated if the closeness of the relationship to the individual requesting help in cheating to the individual being asked to help cheat, influenced the decision to help cheat. We also investigated if past cheating behavior predicted how an individual would respond to requests to cheat. Additionally, we sought to answer the following questions; whether minor cheating is more prevalent than serious cheating, what personality factors predict helping others cheat, who is helped, and how people rationalize helping others cheat. Results indicate minor cheating to be more prevalent, prudent personalities are less likely to have cheated or to help others cheat, individuals are more likely to help friends cheat than to help strangers, and past cheating behaviors is indicative of helping others to cheat. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Scrimpshire, A., Stone, T. H., Kisamore, J.L., Jawahar, I. M.

Isn’t our relationship better? LMX as a mediator of the trustworthiness-trust relationship. We examined the role of leader–member exchange (LMX) quality as a mediator of the trustworthiness-trust relationship between 347 subordinate- supervisor dyads using three time- lagged surveys across multiple organizations. Subordinates’ perceptions of supervisor trustworthiness were related to subordinate perceptions of LMX, and the indirect effect of supervisor trustworthiness on the leader’s trust in the subordinate through subordinates’ perceptions of LMX was supported. Additionally, empowerment moderated the relationship between subordinate perceptions of supervisor trustworthiness and subordinate perceptions of LMX. We also found that the supervisor’s perceptions of LMX with the subordinate moderated the relationship between subordinate perceptions of LMX and supervisor trust in the subordinate, though the pattern of the interaction was opposite from our prediction. This study demonstrates the mediating role of LMX in trust between subordinates and supervisors. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed. Submitted to the Journal of Organizational Behavior, February, Sponsor: State of Illinois PI/PDs: Jawahar, I. M., Stone, T. H. and Kluemper, D. International LGBT Workplace Experiences: A Multi-faceted View on Perceived Discrimination. Drawing on social identity theory and self-verification theory, we conducted an online, exploratory survey of 150 LGBT workers in 28 countries to examine three questions: 1) Do employees feel discriminated against and which factors contribute to perceptions of discrimination? 2) Do LGBT employees believe they have a unique work perspective and do they feel their employers appreciate it? 3) What factors are associated with disclosure vs. non- disclosure? Collectively these questions have implications for health and well-being as well as for work engagement and career prospects of LGBT workers. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: J. C. G. Gacilo, T.H. Stone, B. Steinheider, I.M. Jawahar

The effects of one’s own transgressions on punitiveness. We examine how one’s prior transgressions influence punitiveness towards others who have engaged in wrongdoing. Results from three studies demonstrate that individuals are less punitive when evaluating another person who has committed the identical transgression as they have in the past (blame avoidance hypothesis). However, the same individuals are more punitive towards others who have committed a different but comparable unethical act (scapegoating hypothesis). In line with moral disengagement theory, this effect was mediated by moral justification. We discuss implications for the field of behavioral ethics including theory and research on motivated moral reasoning, moral disengagement, and punishment. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma, University of Michigan PI/PDs: Cynthia S. Wang University of Michigan: David M. Mayer, Maddy Ong

“But this Quarter is Supposed to be Lucky!” The Ironic Effects of Status and Luck on Self- Efficacy and Negotiation Outcomes. Research has shown that superstition has tangible benefits, with lucky charms improving performance (Damisch, Stoberock, & Mussweiler, 2010). However, the status differential between the giver and the receiver of the lucky charm may influence the strength of these effects. This research offers the first empirical test of two competing hypotheses: a personification hypothesis predicts that a lucky charm from a high-status individual (i.e., manager) versus a low-status individual (i.e., subordinate) will increase performance. In contrast, the status-expectations hypothesis predicts that a lucky charm from a high-status individual will decrease performance. Initial studies support the status-expectations hypothesis. These findings provide the first exploration of how status differentials can have consequences on the performance benefits of superstition. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Cynthia S. Wang , Alex Scrimpshire University of Texas: Jennifer Whitson Networks as Self-Defense: Identity and Compensatory Network Activation. We argue that social networks function as more than "pipes" and "prisms" that transmit tangible and intangible resources interpersonally: they also serve people’s intrapersonal goals of identity maintenance. Three experiments considered how identity primes affected people’s representations of their networks. People who received feedback that disconfirmed their gender (Study 1) and political/ideological (Study 2) identities, subsequently recalled, or "cognitively activated," networks that were smaller, denser, more emotionally supportive, more likely to be composed of people they have known for longer, and more likely to be composed of people associated with their disconfirmed identity. While identity-disconfirming information unsurprisingly triggered negative affect, people who then cognitively activated the types of networks mentioned above reported elevated moods. These results are indicative of an affirmational, compensatory function of (cognitive) social networks that allows people a psychological respite from situations that disaffirm self-perception. A final study (Study 3) investigated how this psychological process could affect more instrumental networking goals such as information search. By utilizing networks to serve identity-related goals, people may distort and block the network pipes that service effective network mobilization. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Cynthia S. Wang Northwestern University: Edward Smith Ohio State University: Tanya Menon

The Cultural Boundaries of Perspective-taking: When and Why Perspective-taking Reduces Stereotyping. Research indicates that perspective-taking is an effective social strategy that reduces stereotyping and so helps create and maintain social bonds in Western cultures. However, few scholars have considered how this dynamic varies across cultures. Drawing on work in socioecological psychology, we conducted four studies to examine whether and why perspective-taking’s effects on stereotyping differ across cultures where relational goals may vary. Studies 1 and 2 document that perspective-taking reduces stereotyping among Americans but not among Singaporeans. Studies 2 and 3 reveal that this cultural difference can be explained by relational mobility: perspective-taking reduces stereotyping in contexts characterized by high relational mobility but not otherwise. Study 4 establishes that, for relationally stable individuals, perspective-taking reduces stereotyping of in-group members but not of out-group members. Our paper thus explicates a boundary condition for perspective- taking’s effects on stereotyping, and it also contributes to the literature that addresses when perspective-taking does not strengthen social bonds. Sponsor: London Business School PI/PDs: Cynthia S. Wang, Margaret Lee London Business School: Gillian Ku Singapore Management University: Angela K.-y. Leung Always an Eye for an Eye? Culture, Regulatory Focus, and the Escalation of Reciprocity. Reciprocity is a basic governing mechanism for sustaining social relationships. The extant literature in reciprocity suggests that individuals, with an innate and powerful aversion to losses, asymmetrically escalate others’ negatively-framed actions. The present research utilizes cultural insights in self-regulation to challenge this notion and demonstrates when individuals also escalate others’ positively-framed behaviors. Study 1 demonstrated that Americans (i.e., promotion oriented) escalate their reciprocation of positively-framed actions (i.e., giving), while Singaporeans (i.e., prevention oriented) escalate their reciprocation of negatively-framed actions (i.e., taking). Study 2 manipulated regulatory focus within a single culture to establish causality and established a similar pattern of results. The organizational implications and future directions for research are discussed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Cynthia S. Wang, Yun Kim, and Federico Aime

Flirtation Penalties: The Roles of Gender and Perceived Intent on Evaluations of Workplace Flirtation While people may perceive that sexuality is an asset used by and reserved for women to obtain valued resources (e.g., Baumeister & Vohs, 2004; 2012), there exists simultaneous norms proscribing women’s intentional use of sexuality for personal gain (e.g., influence or advancement; Infanger, Rudman & Sczesny, 2014). This is especially true in the professional workplace, where merit, skill and performance are (at least, outwardly) denoted as the only keys to advancement. What is unknown is why women receive negative outcomes for engaging in social sexual behaviors at work. We take the position that at work, sex does not sell, particularly for women. We assert that, observers infer ulterior motives to the behaviors of flirtatious working women, and therefore penalize these office flirts. We further assert that such nefarious motives are not attributed to flirtatious working men. Across multiple studies, we examine the interpersonal and workplace consequences for working women and men who flirt in corporate settings. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Alexis Washington Ball State University: Brian Webster Northeastern University: Marla Baskerville Watkins The Everest Project: Agency in Change & Innovation amongst Executive Women Organizations must continually change to remain viable and globally competitive. A recent survey of global CEOs based in the US found the capacity for change to be a top priority for leadership (Price Waterhouse Coopers, 2013). One of the key determinants of success in senior- level change agency is leader ability to effectively manage uncertainty. We posit that leaders’ psychological needs will determine how well they manage turbulent external and internal environments. The proposed mixed-method project will investigate the contextual and behavioral factors that promote and detract from women’s abilities to manage change, and identify factors that enhance women’s change management effectiveness. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Alexis Washington, Ashley Robinson UCLA: Jennifer Whitson

Calculative mindset and unethical Behavior: The mitigating role of a long-term orientation. Recent research has demonstrated that possessing a bottom-line mentality increases unethical behavior. I argue that employees’ calculative mindset increases unethical behavior by inducing an overly-simplified and immediate focus on their bottom-line goals, and that the harmful effect of a calculative mindset is mitigated by employees’ long-term orientation. In a series of three studies, both survey and experimental, I find support for this model. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Joongseo Kim, Cynthia S. Wang, Rebecca L. Greenbaum, Federico Aime

Behaving unethically to benefit the organization: The role of team relational stability and conformity pressure Research has produced a wealth of insights about how pro-individual and pro-organizational unethical behaviors emerge and affect organizational life. However, scant attention has been paid to examining the distinction between these two types of unethical behavior. We explore when and why employee’s decisions to act unethically on behalf of the individual versus the organization may diverge. Specifically, we propose that team relational stability shapes conformity pressures that leads employees to engage in unethical pro-organizational behavior, but not self-interested unethical behavior. We collected data from 236 employees on 46 teams in a large manufacturing company. A multi-level path analysis revealed team conformity pressure mediated the relationship between team relational stability and UPB, whereas the same mediation did not occur for UB. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Joongseo Kim Cynthia S. Wang, Yun Kim, Federico Aime, Rebecca L. Greenbaum, James Utley Development and validation of the workplace hazing scale We contribute to research on workgroup socialization by examining one particular form of socialization, namely workplace hazing. We integrate management research on socialization with anthropology research on hazing to define and conceptualize the construct of workplace hazing. Through a multi-study scale development process, we also created and validated a five- dimensional Workplace Hazing Scale that captures a range of hazing behaviors across organizational settings. Overall, our research suggests workplace hazing has important implications for employees and work groups and the Workplace Hazing Scale can be used to assess this complex phenomenon. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Joongseo Kim Mary Mawritz, Rebecca L. Greenbaum, Julena Bonner

Regulatory focus and resistance to conspiracy theories: The immunizing effects of a sense of control When managers subscribe to conspiracy beliefs, they lose touch with true causal mechanisms, which may lead to unwarranted hostility against certain targets – including their own organizations. We trace a conspiracy immunity effect to people’s variations in regulatory focus and their associated levels of control. Two studies indicate that because promotion-focused individuals experience a heightened sense of control over their environment, they are relatively more resistant to conspiracy theories. Study 1 established a causal relationship between regulatory focus and conspiracy theories, with promotion-focused individuals less likely to perceive conspiracies than baseline and prevention-focused individuals. Study 2 demonstrated that promotion-focused soldiers serving in the U.S. Army were less likely to endorse conspiracy theories at work because of their heightened sense of control, which reduced retaliatory actions against the organization in the form of unethical behavior; this relationship did not appear for prevention-focused soldiers. By understanding why people vary in their susceptibility to conspiracy beliefs, we can better address downstream implications such as when organizations might be more vulnerable to conspiracies spreading among their employees, or when employees show increases in negative behaviors as a result of those conspiratorial beliefs. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Joongseo Kim, Cynthia S. Wang Ball State University: Brian D. Webster University of California at Los Angeles: Jennifer Whitson Ohio State University: Tanya Menon MANAGEMENT SCIENCE AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Optimal bandwidth allocation with bandwidth reservation and adaptation in wireless communication networks Efficient management of bandwidth in wireless networks is a critical factor for a successful communication system. Special features of wireless networks such user mobility and growth of wireless applications and their high bandwidth intensity create a major challenge to utilize bandwidth resources optimally. In this research, we propose a model for an adaptable network bandwidth management method that combines bandwidth reservation and bandwidth adaptation to reduce call blocking and dropping probabilities. The model is an integer program that determines whether or not to accept new calls and decides how to allocate bandwidth optimally in a way to maximize user satisfaction. The results of a simulation study show that the proposed method outperforms an existing method with respect to key performance measures such as call blocking and dropping probabilities and call time survivability. This survivability indicator is a new measure that is introduced for the first time in this paper. We also present a second tradeoff model to allow the network manager to control call dropping probability. The results of a second simulation study show that network users are better off if a zero call dropping policy is adopted as proposed in the first model. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Ali Amiri

Application placement and backup service in computer clustering in Software as a Service (SaaS) networks Abstract: Rapid advances in sensing and wireless communication technologies have made attractive the deployment of inexpensive wireless sensor networks for various applications such as ecosystem monitoring and traffic and military surveillance. Efficient use of sensor node energy is a critical management consideration of a wireless sensor network. In this paper, we study the data collection problem in such network in order to improve network longevity. The problem involves selecting a set of representative sensor nodes (R-nodes) that covers all sensor nodes in the network for data collection purposes. We present a formal definition of the problem and develop for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, an integer programming formulation of the problem. Because of the computational complexity of the problem and the need to solve it repeatedly, we propose a heuristic algorithm aiming to maximize the bottleneck residual energy of the selected Rnodes while minimizing the number of the R-nodes with the ultimate goal of maximizing network lifetime. Extensive experimental tests on large wireless sensor networks show that the proposed algorithm significantly outperforms one of the best prior algorithms in key performances metrics, namely the network lifetime, the number of R-nodes and the energy savings. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Ali Amiri Applying a Layered Framework to Disaster Recovery Building highly available information technology (IT) infrastructures has become critical to many corporations’ survival. However, the disaster recovery (DR) industry lacks a common enterprise framework to capitalize on the value that DR provides corporations due in part to inadequate conceptual frameworks for DR that can facilitate the alignment of corporate efforts toward corporate resiliency. To address this problem, we propose a new conceptualization for the DR of enterprise architecture. This conceptual framework comprises DR layers that describe the nature of DR and its related components from a functional and technical point of view. We discuss the benefits of these DR layers to DR teams and compare our approach to traditional thinking. Further, we present a case study, its findings, and their implications for DR. As a result, we demonstrate how our layered framework of enterprise architecture provides a unified understanding of the DR practice, which one can then use to support decision making and corporate alignment of the DR practice and its associated technology. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Corey Baham Practitioners: Andres Calderon Louisiana State University: Rudy Hirschheim

An Agile Methodology for the Disaster Recovery of Information Systems under Catastrophic Scenarios In this paper, we explore the use of an agile methodology for improving the performance of activities surrounding the recovery of complex systems under catastrophic scenarios. The proposed adaptation of Kanban presents a novel, agile approach to solving the challenges of the traditional disaster recovery methodologies when confronted with catastrophic scenarios and the inevitable cascading consequences in a complex organizational environment. An action research approach is employed to test the implementation of the proposed methodology during a complex scenario at a large enterprise. The findings suggest that an adaptive and flexible methodology is required for a systematic approach to the recovery of complex environments under catastrophic scenarios. This research offers three contributions: First, to our knowledge, this is the first study to detail an approach for disaster recovery using an agile methodology. Second, this study uses a new combination of classic, canonical and dialogical action research approaches to conduct the first empirical test of the effectiveness of an agile approach during an actual disaster recovery event. Third, in response to this special issue, the aforementioned research approach discusses the relationships between information systems researchers and research clients, demonstrating how action research can lead to improved organizational situations. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Corey Baham Louisiana State University: Rudy Hirschheim Practitioners: Andres Calderon State University of New York at Albany: Victoria Kisekka Applying Cyber Range Concepts of Operation to Disaster Recovery Testing. A Case Study A critical component of disaster recovery planning is testing, which involves verification of the effectiveness of the disaster recovery solutions. Currently, there are several limitations that plague disaster testing efforts such as the inability to create realistic disaster scenarios and test them in a production environment. Cyber Range Concept of Operations (CONOPS) present an opportunity for overcoming these challenges. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the application of Cyber Range CONOPS to disaster recovery testing. We use a case study approach to observe the development of a disaster recovery program in a large enterprise. We seek to gain an insight into the design and implementation of a disaster recovery program, using the concept of Cyber Ranges. Sponsor: Louisiana State University PI/PDs: Corey Baham State University of New York at Buffalo: Victoria Kisekka

Bridging the Acceptance-Routinization Gap in Agile Software Development Assimilation: An Exploratory Cross Case Analysis Agile software development methods represent a departure from the strong document blueprint-driven procedures of traditional plan-driven approaches. As organizations continue to adopt agile methods, understanding how to routinize agile methods across various contexts is a growing concern. In recent years, researchers have focused their attention on the issues of post-adoptive agile use in order to extend our knowledge on agile assimilation. However, little research has been conducted to expose the assimilation gaps that occur as organizations seek to increase the extent and intensity of their agile use. Following prior literature, we investigate the role of organizational culture and supporting factors in the routinization of agile methods. Our comparative case study examines four adopters with different organizational culture orientations and different levels of assimilation in order to examine the critical contextual factors in the agile assimilation process. Our findings yield helpful insights for both research and practice. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Corey Baham Louisiana State University: Rudy Hirschheim The Impact of Organizational Culture and Structure on the Routinization of Agile Software Development Methodologies Agile software development methodologies represent a departure from the heavy document- driven procedures of plan-driven approaches. As organizations continue to adopt agile methodologies, understanding the factors that influence the routinization of agile is a growing concern. In recent years, researchers have focused their attention to the issues of post- adoptive agile use in order to extend our knowledge on agile assimilation. However, little research has been conducted to expose the assimilation gaps that occur as organizations seek to increase the extent and intensity of their agile use. Following prior literature, our objective is to articulate a model that explains the impact of organizational culture and structure on the routinization of agile methods. Our theoretical model provides helpful insights that extend our knowledge of agile assimilation in organizations. Sponsor: Louisiana State University PI/PDs: Corey Baham

The Wisdom Nexus: Guiding Information Systems research, practice and education ‘Wisdom’ has been at the heart of practical, philosophical, and spiritual disciplines since antiquity and is now increasingly receiving organizational as well as academic attention in scholarly areas that include psychology and organizational studies among many others. However, practical wisdom has not received adequate focus in the Information Systems (IS) discipline. In this commentary, we make the case for a systemic focus on the role of wisdom in IS research, teaching and practice. We introduce underlying theoretical concepts of wisdom; review relevant past research linking wisdom and IS; propose a framework to link wisdom with IS research, practice, and education; and discuss the implications of the framework for IS. We conclude that wisdom, whose goal is the common good, can provide a solid foundation to discover, view, understand, and resolve myriad issues that lie at the nexus of wisdom and information technologies. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Massey University PI/PD: Nikunj Dalal, David Pauleen

Choice of IT infrastructure governance mode: the effects of IT infrastructure agglomeration Choosing an appropriate governance mode for managing information technology (IT) infrastructure across business units (BUs) is crucial for multi-business firms. Often, firms either govern a BU’s IT infrastructure centrally or decentralize the decision-making to the business unit. We highlight how decision-making costs influence the firm’s choice, considering the BU’s IT asset embeddedness, which represents the similarities in IT assets across BUs of the firm. Thus, unlike previous research that overlooks the network aspect within firms, this study examines the effects of hardware and software embeddedness and relative size of the BU on firm’s choice of IT governance mode and economic performance for the BU. We establish that a higher hardware or software embeddedness leads to a centralized governance mode. However, the impact of hardware embeddedness, but not the software embeddedness, is attenuated with the size of the BU. We also demonstrate that the economic rent generated by a BU is directly influenced by the alignment of governance mode with the IT asset embeddedness. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Arkansas, Purdue University PI/PD: Taha Havakhor University of Arkansas: Pankaj Setia Purdue University: Mohammad Rahman

How does strategic alignment affect firm performance? The roles of information technology investment and environmental uncertainty? The alignment between a firm’s business and information technology (IT) strategies continues to be important for research and practice. Prior research investigating the performance consequences of strategic IT alignment (SITA) has produced inconsistent results. This paper distinguishes between two roles of SITA: as a state of congruence between business and IT (which is the primary focus of empirical studies), and as reflecting a capability (that may enable or inhibit the leveraging of IT investments, as has been discussed theoretically but not empirically examined). Based on the resource-based view (RBV), IT investment (ITI) is explicitly included as the resource that SITA as a capability can inherently help leverage. Also based on RBV, we argue that environmental dynamism, complexity, and munificence moderate the effect of SITA on the relationship between ITI and firm performance. The research model is tested through panel-data analyses of data from 1999-2008, including 758 firm-year observations from 242 firms. This study is the first to find that SITA as a state directly improves firm performance even when considering ITI and its interaction with SITA. Moreover, the effect of the interaction between SITA and ITI on firm performance increases with an increase in environmental dynamism or complexity and with a decrease in environmental munificence. We also find that the effect of the interaction between SITA and ITI can be negative under some environments. Specifically, the results suggest that: (a) in dynamic, complex, and hostile environments, SITA does reflect a capability that enhances the positive effect of ITI on firm performance; but (b) in stable, simple, and munificent environments, SITA reflects a rigidity that reduces the positive effect of ITI on firm performance. The results are robust under a variety of statistical specifications and estimations. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Arkansas, University of Texas at Arlington PI/PD: Taha Havakhor University of Arkansas: Zach Steelman, Rajiv Sabherwal University of Texas at Arlington: Sanjiv Sabherwal

Performance consequences of it investments: implications of emphasizing current or new information technologies Senior executives seek investments in information technology (IT) initiatives that will enhance the financial performance and success of their firms. They frequently need to decide on whether to emphasize the adoption of new ITs (ENIT) or the maintenance and refinement of current ITs (ECIT). Linking ENIT and ECIT to business strategies and the associated capabilities for exploration (i.e., a Prospector strategy) and exploitation (i.e., a Defender strategy), this study examines how the combination of a firm’s business strategy and its IT emphasis can affect firm performance with changing levels of organizational commitment to IT (OCIT). Based on the resource-based view, we argue that a firm can benefit from new or current ITs to a greater extent when it possesses the capabilities needed for exploration (as is more likely the case in Prospectors) or exploitation (as is more likely the case in Defenders) respectively, with these effects increasing as the firm’s OCIT increases. The expectations are formally specified in the following research hypotheses: the greater the OCIT for a Prospector firm, the greater the increase in its performance as its ENIT increases; the greater the OCIT for a Prospector firm, the greater the decrease in its performance as its ECIT increases; the greater the OCIT for a Defender firm to IT firm, the greater the increase in its performance as its ECIT increases; and the greater the OCIT for a Defender firm to IT firm, the greater the decrease in its performance as its ENIT increases. Using an 8-year panel dataset developed from multiple secondary sources, we find consistent and strong support for the four specific hypotheses. Theoretical and practical implications of these results are discussed. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Arkansas, University of Texas at Arlington PI/PD: Taha Havakhor University of Arkansas: Zach Steelman, Rajiv Sabherwal University of Texas at Arlington: Sanjiv Sabherwal

Which insider to follow? A comparison of CIO and CEO trading behavior Considerable research indicates that insiders benefit the information asymmetry that exists between them and outsiders to engage in insider trading. Although organizational executives are mostly assumed to be homogeneous with regards to the key information they possess about the firm, the extent of information asymmetry that exists between firm executives and outsiders may differ across types of firm executives. In this study, we examine such differences by focusing on changes in IT expenditure as an area of organizational change where insiders’ information may not be equal. This study follows the stock trading of CIOs as operationally- proximate, and CEOs as operationally-distant insiders, in 471 firms from 1998 to 2008 to theorizes about the difference in the extent of their information asymmetry relative to outsiders. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Arkansas, University of Texas at Arlington PI/PD: Taha Havakhor University of Arkansas: Zach Steelman, Rajiv Sabherwal University of Texas at Arlington: Sanjiv Sabherwal Relationships between information technology and other investments: A contingent interdependency model Prior studies on the business value of information technology (IT) investments examine IT’s impact in the context of either contingency factors or interdependencies with other organizational resources. Integrating these perspectives, this paper develops a contingent interdependency model that distinguishes among value-creating, value-appropriating, and infrastructural IT investments and includes both an important contingency factor (environmental turbulence) and investments in R&D and advertising. Extensive tests of the model using a longitudinal sample of 294 firms indicate that: redundant investments help in stable environments but hurt in turbulent environments; IT infrastructural investment is super- additive with the investment that is recommended for that environment but sub-additive with other investments; and all combinations involving a value-creating investment and a value- appropriating investment are super-additive in both turbulent and stable environments. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Arkansas, University of Texas at Arlington PI/PD: Taha Havakhor University of Arkansas: Zach Steelman, Rajiv Sabherwal University of Texas at Arlington: Sanjiv Sabherwal

Internal and external benefits of business intelligence systems: An organizational capability view This study investigates the organizational benefits of business intelligence (BI) systems. BI systems are decision support systems that leverage operational and market data. In spite of their prevalence, components of BI systems and their effect on organizational benefits are still understudied. We draw upon capability theory, and distinguish among three aspects of BI systems (intelligence, benchmarking, and integration) and two types of organizational benefits: internal (inward-facing) and competitive (outward-facing). We propose that intelligence use of BI (an inside-out capability) provides internal benefits, whereas benchmarking use of BI, (an outside-in capability) provides competitive benefits. We suggest that BI integration with other technologies, a spanning capability, contributes to both internal and competitive benefits. Also, we explore to find potential sequential complementarities that may exist between the three mentioned BI capabilities. We test our model using structural equation modeling with survey data collected from 111 global organizations, and find our hypotheses to be largely supported. Research and practice implications are discussed. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Arkansas PI/PD: Taha Havakhor University of Arkansas: Rajiv Sabherwal It is a matter of who narrates the lines and when New ventures increasingly use Word of Mouth (WoM) communication in both micro- and macro-funding social media platforms to promote products/services and raise the necessary capital. Prior studies highlight the importance of the content of verbal communication with potential investors. This paper focuses on a relative ignored aspect of the communication, the narrator, which is also important, especially in social media. Based on 1,213 Big Data ventures (BDVs), longitudinally tracked from 2011 to 2014, it examines the sequence of narrators in a venture’s communication in one micro-investor platform (Twitter), and one macro-investor platform (AngelList), and how the narrator sequence in one platform affects the success of a new venture in another. The results indicate that compared to organizational and formal aliases, personal aliases are more emphasized when a BDV raises capital for radical innovations. Moreover, following sequences of narrators that resemble those followed by top- performing BDVs increases the raised capital. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Arkansas PI/PD: Taha Havakhor University of Arkansas: Rajiv Sabherwal

Organizational investment in new it ventures: Evidence from big data ventures Due to their versatility, Big Data ventures (BDVs) have become an important investment choice for conventional firms that consider investing in Big Data technologies as risky. However, the way in which BDVs produce rent for their investing partners is not clear. Building on the literature on business models, this paper proposes that a BDV’s value emphasis – representative of its business model, interacts with the BDV’s environment (i.e., technological scope) and the investing firm’s environment (environmental dynamism, complexity, and munificence) to influence the investing firm’s market performance. We test the theoretical model using an event-study approach, specifically a sample of 651 public announcements about firms that invested in BDVs from 2010 to 2013. The results indicate that a BDV’s emphasis on addressing Big Data challenges (i.e., volume, velocity, variety, and veracity) increases the abnormal returns for the investing firm, although such benefits are contingent on the technological scope of the BDV’s innovation (i.e., security, analytics, and infrastructure) and the investing firm’s environmental dynamism, complexity, and munificence. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Arkansas PI/PD: Taha Havakhor University of Arkansas: Rajiv Sabherwal Socially-constructed innovations in new IT ventures The network view is a prevalent theoretical lens to describe the success of new ventures. Nonetheless, the current literature faces a number of shortcomings. First, while embeddedness in networks providing access to financial capital resources has been studied, the structure of networks facilitating access to intellectual capital is less understood. Therefore, this paper’s first goal is to understand the role that intellectual capital networks play, along with the financial capital networks, to make new ventures successful. Second, most studies investigating the role of network embeddedness in new ventures have mainly focused on either one type of network tie or have aggregated different types of network ties to understand the role of network position. However, different type of network ties may shape network structures that are distinct, thereby, their aggregation may mask important information about their value to new venture. Thus, the paper’s second goal is to study different types of network ties, in both financial capital and intellectual capital networks, and understand how these different networks interact to make new ventures successful. Focusing on Big Data Ventures (BDVs), as ventures active in an industry where innovation is socially-constructed, we investigate the structure of: personal and investment networks, as networks facilitating access to financial capital; and educational and professional networks, as networks facilitating access to intellectual capital. We also differentiate between ventures that pursue radical versus incremental innovations, and hypothesize about the difference in network positions ideal for each type of innovation.

Results of our study on 2,009 BDVs observed between 2011 and 2014 show that: a) educational and professional networks have distinct structures, and thereby, treating them as separate networks is more informative; b) the structure of personal and investment networks call for super-imposing them; c) achieving a desirable mix of structural holes and density for radical innovations is possible when those structural traits occur in different networks (i.e., high network density in education network, and high level of structural holes in the professional network or vice versa); and d) eigenvector centrality in the superimposed financial capital network is positively associated with higher levels of raised capital for new ventures. Moreover, our post-hoc matched sample analysis reveals that unlike the Big Data industry, ventures in the Medical Devices industry do not show evidence of the same benefits from embeddedness in the inter-venture intellectual capital networks. We discuss how this empirical evidence hints at the distinct socially-constructed nature of IT innovations. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Arkansas PI/PD: Taha Havakhor University of Arkansas: Rajiv Sabherwal Success by talking the walk: The role of social media in attracting new venture capital funding Despite the potential impact of social media on business performance, skepticism exists about whether and how business-to-business (B2B) firms can leverage social media. This paper builds on the theories of collaborative relationships, signaling, and marketing ambidexterity to propose that certain aspects of a B2B firm’s social media strategy can increase the likelihood of its business success (e.g. attracting investors). The empirical study is based on a unique dataset compiled through longitudinal tracking of the tweets of 382 B2B new ventures (B2BNVs) over multiple stages of their fundraising along with data on the amount of financial capital raised by them. The results indicate that verbal similarity (vs. dissimilarity) of a B2BNV’s tweets to those of its customers (vs. competitors), signals its value creation (vs. appropriation) capabilities, thus enhancing the likelihood of funding. Moreover, B2BNVs which manage a concurrent similarity to their customers and dissimilarity to their competitors, are more successful in raising funds than the ones that only pursue one or the other. These findings are robust with respect to tests addressing potential endogeneity and self-selection concerns, alternative measures of independent and dependent variables, and alternative estimators. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Arkansas PI/PD: Taha Havakhor University of Arkansas: Rajiv Sabherwal, Alireza Golmohammadi, Dinesh Gauri When is it time to shift gears: How performance failures, successes, and network structure influence a change in venture capital investment strategies Venture capital (VC) firms face two broad strategies in their investments. They either specialize, by investing within a few industries, thus benefiting from knowledge accumulation efficiencies, or diversify, by investing across many industries, and hence, distributing investment risk. While these strategies are assumed to remain stable in most VCs, certain conditions may make shifting strategic gears lucrative. The study’ first goal is to empirically investigate the following: if a VC’s attainment discrepancy is associated with its extent of change in the incumbent investment strategy, how much diversification (specialization) will happen in the portfolio of a specialized (diversified) VC as a result of attainment discrepancy? Also, we suggest that ties with investment partners (i.e., other VCs that co-invest (syndicate) with a focal VC) can be a source of acquiring such information. Thus, we further explore whether the closure or openness of a VC’s investment network can impact its extent of change in its incumbent investment strategy. Utilizing a database from CrunchBase (www.crunchbase.com), we test our questions on a sample of 718 VCs from 2010-2015, yielding 1,684 VC-year observations. Using a panel-GLS estimation with treatments to remove firm-specific idiosyncrasies, we found that: a) diversified VCs respond to attainment discrepancies by switching strategies and making more specialized deals; b) specialized VCs respond by switching to more diversified deals; c) investment network closure (measured as ego-network density) facilitates (inhibits) the switch to specialization (diversification) for diversified (specialized) VCs; and d) investment network openness (measured as the extent of structural holes present in the ego-network of a VC) mitigates (facilitates) the switch to specialization (diversification) for diversified (specialized) VCs. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Taha Havakhor, Jake Duke, Rachel Mui To dance with strangers one needs a good wingman: How existing ties enable search for new partners Most investment deals in venture capital (VC) financing are syndicated, meaning two or more VC firms co-invest in the same venture. While some VCs may prefer to hold on to their existing investment ties, others may engage in creating new ones. Although searching for new syndicated ties is a regular practice, factors triggering the search, as well as those enabling it, are less understood. The study’s questions are set to be: a) “is a VC’s deviation from its aspirational goals associated with the extent to which it engages in new tie creation?;” and b) “does a VC’s current network structure, i.e., the density and structural holes present in its syndicated investment network, affect the extent to which the VC creates new ties, triggered by its deviation from its aspirational goals?” We examined 8,124 US venture capital (VC) firms from 2010-2015 from the database CrunchBase (www.crunchbase.com) to test our hypotheses that the existing network structures of a firm impacts their engagement in the search for new ties. The findings of our study suggest that: a) VCs engage in higher extents of tie creation when under- or over-achieving their aspirational goals; b) structural holes act as a search enabler helping in new tie creation; c) dense networks reduce a VC firm’s engagement in new tie creation; and d) a VC’s internal risk-coping mechanisms enhance the value of structural holes in facilitating the creation of new ties and reduce the negative effect of network density. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Taha Havakhor, Jake Duke The economic impact of organizational counter-measures in face of security breaches While the severity and frequency of security breaches has been exponentially growing, some anecdotal reports suggest that markets are becoming numb to such incidents, questioning the need for, as well as the value of, a firm’s engaging in security counter-measures. Moreover, it is not clear if immediate reactions or more strategic moves are needed to alleviate the concerns raised by the market in reaction to a firm’s exposed vulnerabilities. Building on the behavioral theory of the firm, we argue that the extent of economic effectiveness of security counter- measures depends largely on the prevalence of security breaches in a firm’s industry, as well as the preemptive or reactive nature of the counter-measures. Focusing on publicly-announced organizational cyber security counter-measures, as well as mentions of strategic counter- measures in annual reports, of 1,606 firm-year observations (2000-2015), the study finds that firms engaging in reactive counter-measures in industries with a low frequency of cyber security breaches happening gain the most economic benefits. The second group of firms benefiting from engaging in cyber security measures are those that preemptively engage in a measure and do that in an industry with high susceptibility to cyber security attacks. The results indicate that the value of immediate operational measures is increased by presence of deeper strategic measures. Moreover, the payoffs of security counter-measures are both present in short term (i.e., immediate Tobin’s Q) and longer periods (i.e., return on sales up to two years after implementation of counter-measures). Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Taha Havakhor, Tianjian Zhang

Moderators for the Antecedents of Information Security Enhancing Behaviors Previous studies on corporate information security often pointed out that incompliance of employees is one of the major causes of information security incidents. While extant literature suggests that organizations can adopt various positive or negative incentive mechanisms and employee training programs to encourage employees’ compliance with information security policies, most of the studies consider employees as an invariant group of people regardless their paygrade, job type, industry, etc. In this study, we explore personal and situational factors that can moderate employees’ conformity level in presence of some compliance incentive mechanisms and training programs. The findings will explain why a certain incentive mechanism or training works in one case but not in another and help managers identify more effective incentive mechanisms and training programs for their organizations or target employee groups. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: JinKyu Lee Information Security Policies, Human Factors, and Technical Factors in Information Security Architecture Employee training has been widely recognized as one of the most important means to strengthen the information security posture of an organization. Accordingly, a number of studies have explored the employee training contents and methods that can improve information security posture. One area that needs more studies is the intersection of information security policy enforcement and employee education research. Information security policy is a basis of all information security rules, architecture and operations, yet how a policy transforms to employee behaviors through employee training is still unclear. Furthermore, the impact of employee behaviors vs. technical security measures on information security posture enforcement can widely vary from implementation to implementation. This study attempts to examine the effectiveness of employee trainings and other human factors in relation to technical security countermeasures for various types of information security policies. The findings of this study will help managers develop better employee training programs for their information security policies, while identifying the types of policies that should be enforced by a means other than employee training. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: JinKyu Lee

Complex Adaptive Supply Networks Following up on a seminal article that framed the supply base as a complex adaptive system, this article modifies the underlying NK complexity model to support the broader research agenda of the supply network. In doing so, the model broadens to include contemporary research domains including supplier integration, absorptive capacity, and disruption. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jason Nichols, Michael Goul

Market Volatility and Firm Flexibility: Are We Winning the Race? It would be expected that, assuming we have enabled businesses with the proper tools and strategies, in general flexibility would increase as markets become more volatile. Empirical evidence suggests that this is not the case; opening the door for an examination of tools and strategies that drive decisions related to the design of flexible organizations and processes. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jason Nichols

A Coordination Model for the Service Oriented Enterprise Malone developed foundational models for the analysis of coordination within classic organizational structures. The service-oriented enterprise represents a new organizational structure, capable of responding fluidly to market disruptions and changes. This work develops a coordination model for the service-oriented enterprise based on Malone’s approach with earlier organizational structures. The model is examined analytically to explore the relationships between aspects of coordination in this relatively new organizational structure. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jason Nichols

A Global Study of Social and Economic Empowerment through ICTs (2015-2016) Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have brought about rapid changes in the workplace by providing opportunities never before possible. In the last decade, social technology platforms have allowed organizations to communicate globally, provide customer service, gain exposure and new customers, market products, network, recruit employees, and increase revenues. Is it possible that social technologies could provide empowerment and support for economic stability and ultimately gender equality? This global study investigated the use of technology, specifically social technologies in the workplace including the purposes used, benefits realized, and whether these platforms could serve as a source for empowerment, thereby equalizing the gender gap. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jeretta Horn Nord

Self-control, organizational context, and rational choice in internet abuses at work. Cyber criminals use the Internet as a major platform to launch malware and social engineering attacks. Employees’ violation of Internet use policy (IUP) elevates a firm’s security risks from cyber-attacks. In the literature, such deviant behavior is generally considered to be the result of a cost-benefit calculus. However, this study shows that dispositional factors such as self-control and procedural justice moderate the cost-benefit calculus. We conclude that self-control and procedural justice need to be integrated with the Rational Choice Theory to better explain Internet abuses at work. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Rathindra Sarathy, H. Li, R. Luo, L. Zhang An Experimental Investigation of the Influence of Website Emotional Design Features on Trust in Unfamiliar Online Vendors Online trust is considered a critical factor in online shopping, especially when dealing with unfamiliar vendors. This research provides empirical findings from an experimental investigation of the influence of website emotional design features, visual appeal, and ease of use on users’ perceptions of usefulness, trust, as well as intention to use websites. The proposed research model was developed based on theories in the human-computer interaction domain. An experiment was conducted using a hypothetical website with four conditions of treatment manipulation. The study revealed that visual appeal can produce a greater influence on customers’ evaluation of trust, than ease of use. It was also found that both visual appeal and ease of use are contributing factors in developing online trust among male customers, with visual appeal dominating trust formation among female customers. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Rathindra Sarathy, S. Pengnate

Statistical Information Recovery from Multivariate Noise-Multiplied Data, a Computational Approach This paper proposes a computational statistical method for multivariate confidential numerical microdata. The method can be used for recovering some commonly interesting statistical information of the microdata based on noise-multiplied data. Estimating the parameters in linear regression without using the original data directly becomes feasible. This paper presents an alternative approach for sharing the statistical information of confidential data, an area of growing interest. An R package MaskJointDensity is built for implementing the method. The software can be downloaded from http://www.uow.edu.au/˜yanxia/Confidential_data_analysis/. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Rathindra Sarathy, Y. Lin, L. Mazur, K. Muralidhar

Utilizing Linguistic Semantic Analysis to Detect Deception in Online Contexts Text document analysis contributes to an array of applications such as machine translation, search engine processing, automated text summarization, patent analysis, and spam email filtering. One area text analysis has not matured in is deception detection, or the ability to identify intentional falsehoods within communication. Current prevailing text analysis techniques utilize a bag-of-words approach that treat each word or word-groups as separate objects. To overcome this limitation we propose a natural language process that converts text documents into a complex linguistic network based on Graph Theory. This research provides three main contributions. First, by laying a network representation on text to maintain contextual and grammatical cues, we are expecting to achieve higher levels of deception detection accuracy. Second, we plan to build an automated system tool for text analysis to facilitate future text-analysis research; thus, government and businesses can utilize this tool without the need to train employees. Third, by introducing social network analysis to the field of deception detection, it enables future researchers a new path for exploring text-based algorithms. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: Peter Liang, Jacob Pearson, Bryan I. Hammer

Understanding the Impact of Social Media Awareness of Security Breaches on the Performance of Stock Options: An Event-Based Study Previous research has shown that differing types of announcements can influence the increase or decrease in stock option valuations (Dehning et al, 2003). The announcement of IT implementations has been shown to influence stock valuations based on the perception of a firm’s competency to implement said IT. This research aims to understand how the announcement of a security breach influences stock valuations. We separate security breaches into four types: 1) unintended disclosure of information, 2) hacking, payment card fraud, and 3) loss of company physical assets. Additionally, we investigate how the extent of social media coverage influences the extent of change in stock options. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: Bryan I. Hammer, Andy Luse University of Arkansas: Taha Havakhor

Assessing Online Privacy-Related Behavior in Utilitarian and Hedonic Contexts: A Study of the Behavioral Activation and Inhibition Systems Using EEG Research on privacy aims to understand why individuals yield privacy for some personal benefit. One of the greatest struggles of privacy-related research is conceptualizing privacy (Margulis 1977; Smith et al. 2011). Many conceptualizations of privacy exist such as value-based privacy (i.e. privacy as a right or a commodity) or cognate-based privacy (i.e. privacy as a state or control). In the Information Systems and Marketing literature the concept of “privacy concern” is often used as a surrogate for measuring privacy. Unfortunately, concern over privacy does not adequately capture the cognitive and affective processes that are related to privacy. Thus far, using self-reflective scales and instruments has not provided an answer as to what privacy is. This research investigates the influence the activation and inhibition systems have on privacy-based transactions in both hedonic and utilitarian settings. Relying on an experimental design, participants’ brain waves, heart rate, and skin conductance are measured to assess approach-avoidance behavior when presented with an opportunity to share personal information. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: Bryan I. Hammer, Andy Luse Texas Tech University: Fred Davis Assessment of Rural Healthcare Costs and Outcomes The aim of this research is to investigate important cost differences and outcomes found between rural and urban health systems in the United States. This research will assess how the following mediate the cost and influence outcomes: 1) accuracy of primary diagnoses, 2) insurance category (Medicaid, Medicare, Private, Blue, and no insurance), 3) hospital size. We specifically focus on three illnesses commonly found in rural areas within the US: hypertension, atrial fibrillation, and Rocky Mountain Spotted fever. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma, Center for Health Systems Innovation PI/PD: Bryan I. Hammer, William Paiva

An Investigation of Readmission Rate in Hospital-Stay Cost and Patient Satisfaction This research seeks to assess how the outcome of patient care (i.e. readmission rate) is influenced by charge rates dependent on insurance type (Medicaid, Medicare, Private, Blue, and no insurance). Additionally, the extent to which readmission rates are linked to patient satisfaction of treatments is investigated based on the rate of readmission of similar illnesses in each illness/disease Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG). Sponsors: State of Oklahoma, Center for Health Systems Innovation PI/PD: Bryan I. Hammer, William Paiva, Srineel Borampet

Psychological Biases in Mobile Phone Usage Previous research has found negative outcomes are associated with mobile phone usage when self-regulatory mechanisms are not able to compensate for attitudes related to habit. This paper investigates how individual psychological biases predispose individuals toward certain negative behavior of mobile phone usage. This behavior is studied in three contexts: hedonic, utilitarian, and a mixed hedonic-utilitarian. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma, State of California PI/PD: Bryan I. Hammer, Zach Steelman California State Fullerton: Amr Soror MARKETING AND INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

The Rebound of the Forgone Alternative Fifty years of cognitive dissonance research suggests that when consumers make a difficult choice, the alternative they forgo is devalued for an extended period of time, making it less likely to be chosen in the future. In a series of four studies, we show that completely consuming the chosen alternative moderates this effect. After the chosen alternative has been consumed, creating a sense of consumption closure, the attractiveness of forgone alternative rebounds to its original value. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Zachary Arens

Why Focusing on the Similarity of Substitutes Leaves a Lot to Be Desired Consumers frequently choose substitutes for products that are out-of-stock or unavailable. In a series of studies, we show that focusing on differences between the substitute and the unattained alternative reduces the consumer’s desire for the unattained alternative more than focusing on similarities between them. We demonstrate that focusing on similarities highlights attributes that the substitute and the unattained alternative share, thereby maintaining desire for the unattained alternative, whereas focusing on differences highlights attributes distinct to the substitute. As a result, focusing on differences decreases consumption of the unattained alternative after consuming the substitute, potentially reducing overconsumption and overspending. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Zachary Arens

Consumer Substitution Decisions: An Integrative Framework Substitution decisions have been examined from a variety of perspectives. The economics literature measures cross-price elasticity, operations research models optimal assortments, the psychology literature studies goals in conflict, and marketing research has examined substitution-in-use, brand switching, stockouts and self-control. We integrate these perspectives into a common framework for understanding consumer substitution decisions, their specific drivers (availability of new alternatives, internal vs. external restrictions on choice), the moderating role of a consumer’s commitment to an initially desired alternative, and the affective, motivational, cognitive, and behavioral outcomes of substitution. We use this framework to recommend new avenues for research. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Rebecca Hamilton, Zachary Arens The Duality of Decisions and the Case for Impulsiveness Metrics Customer metrics help firms manage their performance and predict financial outcomes. While many firms focus on customer satisfaction metrics for this purpose, dual-process theories in psychology and neuroscience show that customer decisions are based on two processes. This suggests that metrics which measure the impulsiveness of purchase decisions might effectively complement customer satisfaction metrics. In a series of experiments we demonstrate that satisfaction and impulsiveness metrics make distinct but strong predictions of consumer choices. Satisfaction and impulsiveness influence choice in different ways. While impulsiveness relates to choice directly, the satisfaction-choice path is mediated by loyalty intention. Moreover this relationship is moderated by product involvement such that impulsiveness metrics provide a better prediction for low-involvement than for high-involvement situations. Finally, a field study of 750 customers of 101 firms demonstrates these relationships at a firm level, indicating that satisfaction and impulsiveness metrics have equally strong but distinct relationships with shareholder value. Therefore firms may be able to benefit from complementing customer satisfaction metrics with customer impulsiveness metrics. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Zachary Arens

The Dynamics of Consumer Behavior: A Goal Systemic Perspective Like most behavior, consumer behavior too is goal driven. In turn, goals constitute cognitive constructs that can be chronically active as well as primed by features of the environment. Goal systems theory outlines the principles that characterize the dynamics of goal pursuit and explores their implications for consumer behavior. In this vein, we discuss from a common, goal systemic, perspective a variety of well known phenomena in the realm of consumer behavior including brand loyalty, variety seeking, impulsive buying, preferences, choices and regret. The goal systemic perspective affords guidelines for subsequent research on the dynamic aspects of consummatory behavior as well as offering insights into practical matters in the area of marketing. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Catalina E. Kopetz, Zachary Arens

Everyday Concepts and Classification Errors: Judgments of Disability and Residence This article examines two neglected sources of misinterpretations of survey questions. Respondents may misunderstand the questions because the survey uses an everyday term in a technical way that differs from the everyday sense (and respondents fail to recognize the difference); in addition, respondents may have trouble applying the concept to borderline cases, situations that do not map neatly onto whichever sense of the concept they are trying to use. We call these two problems misalignment of the concepts and imperfect fit between concept and instance. We examined two everyday concepts – residence and disability – that figure prominently in surveys. Our initial experiment gave respondents definitions for residence and disability and asked them to classify vignettes describing concrete instances. We constructed one definition that reflected the everyday concept (the everyday definition) and a second one that departed from it (the technical definition). The vignettes varied in how well the instance depicted matched the requirements of the two definitions (for example, some vignettes clearly met the requirements of one definition but clearly did not meet the requirements of the other). Participants who got the technical definition for residence seemed able to keep it distinct from the everyday definition but those who got the technical definition for disability seemed to fall back on their everyday concept. In addition, participants were better at classifying vignettes that closely matched the definition (central instances) than ones that did not match it so well (peripheral instances). In our second experiment, we tried to encourage participants to pay more attention to the definition of the concepts by giving the concepts unfamiliar labels (e.g., calling a residence an enumeration unit). Although the use of unfamiliar terminology did increase the proportion of respondents who consulted the definition of the concept as they judged the vignettes, there was strong evidence (especially for disability) that participants still relied on their everyday sense of the concepts. Respondents were again more accurate in classifying central than peripheral instances. People have difficulty using concepts in unfamiliar ways and, when they have to, they often make errors. Even with concepts used in their everyday senses, people have trouble classifying borderline instances, those that only partially match the definition of the concept. Category membership is graded, rather than all or none, and people have trouble dealing with cases that are near the concept’s boundary. We suspect that both misalignment and imperfect fit often produce substantial measurement error in surveys. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Roger Tourangeau, Zachary Arens

Customer-to-customer interactions and engagement behaviors: the role of a customer’s perception of organizational service climate This research examines the influence of customer-to-customer (C2C) interactions upon the development of customer engagement behaviors. In addition, the study introduces the notion of a customer’s individual perception of an organization’s service climate, and examines the influence of such a climate perception upon the effects of C2C interactions in relation to customer helping behaviors. Although the logic of customers reacting positively to pleasant interactions with other customers (and negatively to unpleasant interactions) is straightforward, the current study demonstrates the importance of an organizationally- controlled variable (i.e., organizational service climate) to potentially either enhance the positive interaction, or dampen the detrimental effects of a negative encounter. Longitudinal results demonstrate that a customer’s perception of a service climate creates an initial “halo” effect, which positively influences the subsequent outcomes of both positive and negative C2C interactions. As a consequence, in contexts where customers perceive a strong organizational service climate, they are more likely to view other customers as being helpful, which positively influences judgments of service quality, as well as customer engagement behaviors with both the firm and other customers. In demonstrating these effects, the time-lagged development of customer engagement behaviors is shown. Service organizations should be aware of the importance of such customer perceptions of an organization’s service climate and should work to highlight to customers the existence of a strong climate among frontline personnel. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Todd Arnold, Jin Ho Jung Soongsil University ROK: Jay Yoo

Purchase Boost or Excessive Demands? The Effects of Supplier Status on Desired and Undesired Buyer Behaviors Within a supply chain context, gaining key supplier status represents a central paradigm for suppliers because it should result in desirable consequences, such as stable and prosperous relationships. Yet anecdotal evidence suggests that being granted this status also might create some serious pitfalls, such as excessive, unreasonable buyer demands that far exceed contractual obligations. Indeed, within a retailing context, situations of powerful retail buyers demanding such things as large price concessions from key suppliers is not uncommon. Drawing on status characteristics theory, the authors propose an overarching framework in which gaining supplier status from a buyer prompts enhanced purchase volume and excessive demands from the buyer. A sample of matched survey and financial data reveals that distinct moderators characterizing the supplier’s actions, reactions, and interactions with the buyer determine the degree to which supplier status boosts buyer purchase volume or triggers excessive buyer demands. Valuable managerial recommendations emerge regarding whether enhanced supplier status is a viable goal and how the present supplier status should be managed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Todd Arnold University of Goettingen, Germany: Hauke Wetzel, Maik Hammerschmidt,

Town or Country: The Social Effects of Population Density on Retail Location Performance Many marketing decisions such as sales strategies and retail site selection are based on the size of an area’s population. Although the relationship between population and expected sales is the basis for many marketing practices, in this research we show that this relationship varies depending on brand commonness. Consumers living in densely populated areas are motivated to express their individuality by avoiding brands that signal conformity, making them less likely to purchase common brands or patronize large chain retailers. As a result, we show through two empirical analyses that population density has a stronger positive effect on financial performance for uncommon brands than common brands. An experiment confirms these findings in a controlled setting and supports the social identity process. Our final experiment offers a way for common brands to avoid this drawback by offering sub-brands in densely populated areas to maintain an image of uniqueness. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Todd Arnold, Zac Arens, Ted Matherly The Influence of Centrality of Visual Website Aesthetics on User Responses in the Online Context: Measure Development and Empirical Investigation The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of individual differences in the centrality of visual website aesthetics (CVWA) on users’ responses in the online context. Drawing on the concept of individual differences in the centrality of product aesthetics (CVPA), a set of hypotheses were proposed to examine the effects of CVWA on trust, perceived visual appeal, and intention to use websites. In addition, two sets of CVWA measures were developed based on direct and indirect measurement approaches. A series of three experiments were conducted to investigate CVWA and to test the associated hypotheses. Our findings demonstrate that the effects of CVWA on trust, perceived visual appeal and intention are stronger among users with high CVWA than those with low CVWA, especially when CVWA is assessed using the indirect measure. The results also suggest that the effect of CVWA is more prominent when users are exposed to websites with relatively low visual appeal. This study provides support that CVWA is fundamental to users’ responses which are key components of online vendors’ success. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Todd Arnold, Rathin Sarathy North Dakota State University: Fone Pengate

I Wish the Bears Were Bigger: The Role of Potent Upward Counterfactuals in a Participatory Set Up The U.S. retail industry makes billions of dollars a year by engaging customers to participate in their business (design, production, delivery of goods and services). In relation to this, the psychological implications of such participation by customers have recently begun to gain scholarly prominence. This paper explores the role of potent upward counterfactual thinking, or the process of looking back at events and thinking about how things could have turned out better, in relation to a participatory set up. More specifically, the role of upward counterfactual potency on perceived ownership towards a co-produced good is examined. The role of consumer’s self-assessment of participation as an antecedent to upward counterfactual potency, as well as the moderating role of opportunity to return the product on the aforementioned are explored. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Todd Arnold Delaware State University: Devdeep Maity

Internal Effects of Company Reputation on the Sales Force This project demonstrates the influence of company identity and construed image on sales consultant self-efficacy, motivation, and the resulting selling effort. Most projects have examined the role of reputation on external audiences; this is one of the first to examine the effects on marketing personnel inside the organization. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Tom Brown Queen’s University: Peter Dacin Erasmus University Rotterdam: Guido Berens Rollins College: Greg Marshall

Package Similarity: A Double-edged Sword for Private Label Brands In this project we examine a common tactic used by retailers with their private label brands: using packaging that is a near copy of the associated manufacturer’s brand. Our results indicate that although the practice leads to positive spillover of manufacturer brand attributes onto the store brand, there is an associated negative effect on consumer evaluations of the store brand. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Tom Brown Waterford Institute of Technology (Ireland): Susan Whelan Manchester Business School (Great Britain): Gary Davies

The Interplay of Industry and Company Reputation Despite its obvious importance to managers and interest among scholars, there is little empirical work on the influence of industry reputation on a specific company’s reputation (and vice versa). In addition, no one to date has considered the potential role of industry reputation as a context for the evaluation of company reputation or as a moderator on the influence of company reputation on company performance outcomes. This project seeks to address these issues using a combination of secondary and primary data. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Tom Brown Queen’s University: Peter Dacin University of Arizona: Sabrina Helm University of Tennessee-Knoxville: Alex Zablah

The Influence of Customer Expectations on Frontline Workers Do customer expectations form an important contextual variable that influences FLEs and their behaviors? What is the role of FLE expectation-setting behaviors on important FLE outcomes? Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Tom Brown University of Tennessee-Knoxville: Alex Zablah University of Texas-Austin: Harlan Beverly What Members Really Feel About Your Credit Card Immediately after a new credit card product is launched and in the wallets of cardholders, sentiment begins to build. Positive and negative experiences of current customers posted online generate impressions among prospective cardholders in the form of technological word of mouth. Credit card issuing companies can use sentiment analysis to understand how its product is being received by the consumers and by taking suitable measure can propel the card’s market success. With the help of text mining and sentiment analysis using SAS Enterprise Miner and SAS Sentiment Analysis Studio we are trying to answer: which aspects of a credit card garnered the most favor, and conversely, which generated negative impressions among the consumers. Credit Karma is a free credit and financial management platform for US consumers available on the web and major mobile platforms, it provides free weekly updated credit scores and credit reports from national credit bureaus TransUnion and Equifax. The implications of this project are as follows: • All credit card issuing companies can use this technique to know how their product is fairing in the market and based on public opinion can make business decisions to improve the flaws. • Sentiment analysis can simulate word of mouth of millions of existing users about a credit card and know about the salient features Sponsor: State of Oklahoma. PI/PDs: Dr. Goutam Chakraborty, Anirban Chakraborty, Surya Bhaskar

Price Recommendation Engine for Airbnb Airbnb is the world’s largest home sharing company and has over 800,000 listings in more than 34,000 cities and 190 countries. Therefore, the pricing of their property, done by the Airbnb hosts, is crucial to the business. Setting low prices may hinder profits, while setting high prices may result in no bookings at all. In this paper, we have suggested a pricing methodology for Airbnb hosts that helps in overcoming the problems of overpricing and underpricing by observing the factor that determine occupancy rate and price. Through this methodology, we are trying to identify key factors related to Airbnb pricing such as: 1. Those influential in determining a price for a property 2. The relation between the price of a property and frequency of its booking 3. Similarities among successful and profitable properties As a part of this methodology, we built a scrapping tool to get details of New York City host user data along with their metrics. Using this data, we will build a pricing model to predict the optimal price of an Airbnb home. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma. PI/PDs: Dr. Goutam Chakraborty, Praneth Guggilla, Snighha Gutha

Visualizing Market Structure Using Brand Sentiments Increasingly, customers are using Social media and other Internet-based applications such as review sites and discussion boards to voice their opinions and express their sentiments about brands. Such spontaneous and unsolicited customer feedback can provide brand managers with valuable insights about competing brands. There is a general consensus that listening and reacting to the "voice of the customer" is a vital component of brand management. However, the unstructured, qualitative, and textual nature of customer data that is obtained from customer’s poses significant challenges for data scientists and business analysts. In this paper we propose a methodology that can help brand managers visualize the competitive structure of a market based on an analysis of customer perceptions and sentiments that are obtained from blogs, discussion boards, review sites, and other similar sources. The brand map is designed to graphically represent the association of product features with brands, thus helping brand managers assess a brand's "true" strengths and weaknesses based on the voice of customers. Our multi-stage methodology uses the principles of Topic Modelling and Sentiment Analysis in text mining. The results of text mining is analyzed to represent the differentiating attributes of each brand. We empirically demonstrate the utility of our methodology by using data collected from Edmunds.com – a popular review site for car buyers. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma. PI/PDs: Dr. Goutam Chakraborty, Amit Ghosh and Praveen Kotekal

To Share Desirability or Feasibility? Examining the Effect and Mechanism of Direct and Indirect Use Experiences on Sharing Previous studies have shown that a superior customer experience produces positive outcomes, such as a good product evaluation, customer satisfaction, brand loyalty and willingness to share. However, these findings mostly apply to direct rather than to indirect experience. This paper shows the asymmetrical effects of the direct (e.g., direct use of a product) and indirect (e.g., observing others using a product) use experiences on the sharing content of desirability and feasibility through four studies. Study 1 demonstrates that individuals having a direct use experience with a product are more likely to share the product’s feasibility, and those having an indirect use experience are more likely to share its desirability. Studies 2 and 3 reveal the mechanism underlying the asymmetrical effects of the direct and indirect use experiences on sharing content. Direct experience with a product triggers more process simulation and thus increases the willingness to share the feasibility of a product. In contrast, indirect experience triggers more outcome simulation and increases the willingness to share a product’s desirability. Study 4 shows that the asymmetrical effects of direct and indirect use experiences on sharing content can be attenuated by encouraging customers to think concretely or abstractly (mental construal) prior to product usage. Finally, theoretical contributions and practical implications are also discussed. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Sun Yat Sen University PI/PD: Xiang Fang Sun Yat Sen University: Jifei Wu, Hongyan Yu

Examining the Spillover Effect of Cross-Border Brand Acquisition With the growing popularity of cross-border mergers and acquisitions, many Chinese companies have embraced this trend and actively engaged in it. This study focuses on brand integration in cross-border acquisitions and investigates various factors influencing brand image (three dimensions: functional, symbolic, and global) of the acquiring brand after the acquisition from a consumer perspective. The results show that the cross-border acquisition enhances the acquiring brand image across all three dimensions. Both prior image of the acquiring brand and the acquired brand have significant effects on the post image of the acquiring brand. In addition, product fit, brand fit, and Country of Origin fit are positively related to attitude toward the acquisition, which in turn influences post image of the acquiring brand. Finally, the product line-brand association moderates the effect of attitude toward the acquiring brand on the functional image of the acquiring brand. The theoretical contributions and practical implications are also discussed. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics PI/PD: Xiang Fang Shanghai University of Finance and Economics: Xiaoyu Wang

Examining the Effect of a Firm’s Product Recall on Financial Values of Its Competitors Generally, scholars examine the effect of product recall on the recall firms from two different perspectives. One is from a consumer’s perspective, which looks at how product recall affects consumers’ quality perception, brand image, and loyalty. The other stream of research focuses on the impact of product recall on sales, market share, or even stock prices. In this research, we follow the second stream of research and focus on the effect of product recall on financial values. Specifically, based on the work by Chen, Ganesan, and Liu (2009), we test how different product recall strategies (proactive vs. passive) influence competitors’ financial values. We collected 14 years (from January 1996 to December 2009) of CPSC product recalls (see http://www.cpsc.gov/ cpscpub/prerel/prerel.html) to test the hypothesis. The results show that severity of product hazard, the firm’s recall strategy, and recall volume (the direct cost to the recall firm) have significant effects on competitors’ abnormal returns. Most importantly, we found that competitors experience significant positive abnormal returns when the recall firm employs proactive recall strategy. This finding confirms the previous explanation that investors interpret proactive recall differently from consumers. Proactive recall not only hurts the recall firm’s stock prices but benefits competitors’ financial values. Therefore, a firm should carefully employ proactive recall strategy and communicate appropriately to stakeholders and investors in crisis management to avoid misinterpretation of the signal. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Towson University, Shanghai Univ. of Finance and Economics PI/PD: Xiang Fang Towson University: Yingying Shao Shanghai University of Finance and Economics: Xiaoyu Wang

When Necessary Evil is good: Examining the effect of necessary evil on witnessing customers' responses in dysfunctional customer encounters Although service employees are often expected to display positive emotions when encountering dysfunctional customers, we propose that necessary evil represents a better strategy to help employees deal with dysfunctional customer encounters. The findings of three studies suggest that the customers who witness dysfunctional encounters respond more positively if service employees perform necessary evils. The target of a dysfunctional encounter (employee or customer) moderates the effect of necessary evil on service quality and positive word of mouth. Finally, the positive effect is mediated by both interactional justice and deontic justice. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Sandy Huang, Ruping Liu, Xiang Fang

Power Distance Belief and Brand Personality Evaluations This article explores the influence of power distance belief (PDB) on the evaluations of brand personality traits. It proposes that high PDB polarizes the brand personality evaluations of in- group and outgroup brands. Specifically, the results show that individuals with high PDB tend to evaluate an in-group brand more positively and an outgroup brand more negatively than those with low PDB. More importantly, brand social categorization tendency mediates the effect of PDB on brand personality evaluations of in-group and outgroup brands. Furthermore, we find that temporal distance (near vs. distant buying condition) moderates the effect of PDB on brand personality evaluations. Theoretical contributions and managerial implications are also discussed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Xiang Fang Shanghai University of Finance and Economics: Xuehua Wang, Xiaoyu Wang Fudan University: Qinyun Jiang

Relative National Identification Framework: The Power of a Nation Customer ethnocentrism - the phenomenon according to which consumers believe products made in their country of origin are better than those made elsewhere - has been studied in the marketplace. According to this phenomenon, consumers are believed to have much power to influence the marketplace. However, we have developed a framework that maps a pathway how a nation, the United States, can more powerfully affect the marketplace by significantly reducing consumer ethnocentrism. In this research, we plan to test the proposed framework. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma, University of New Hampshire, Penn State-Harrisburg PI/PD: Aditi Grover University of New Hampshire: Phil Ramsey Penn State- Harrisburg: Jeff Foreman

The Impact of Discount Framing on Preference Reversal between Payment Frequency Discount and Payment Amount Discount Despite the pervasiveness of multiple payments plans, empirical studies on the effects of different framings of payment plans are scarce. Across three studies, we examined the effect of different framings on consumers’ preferences between the frequency discount and the amount discount. The results from the three studies revealed that: 1) consumers’ relative preference for the frequency vs. amount discount is systematically changed by different framings (Studies 1 and 2); and 2) this preference reversal disappeared when people were asked to provide reasons for their preferences (Study 3). The importance of understanding the role of the framing effect on the price discount is discussed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: JiHoon Jhang, JungKeun Kim

Utilitarian Mask: A Remedy for Devaluation of Hedonic Products A characteristic particular to online shopping is the time interval between purchase and acquisition of a product. This time lag may lead consumers to reevaluate their purchase decision. In this paper, we seek to understand how consumer’s post-purchase (yet pre- acquisition) evaluation would change as acquisition gets nearer in time and to propose options for managers to maintain or enhance consumer’s post-purchase evaluation. The results of two studies support our hypothesis that post purchase evaluation for hedonic (utilitarian) products would increase (decrease) if the purchase is described a second time with utilitarian (hedonic) features because these are easy-to-justify (i.e., utilitarian features). Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: JiHoon Jhang

The Effect of Psychological Control on Temporal Discounting: Conceptual and Methodological Implications Intertemporal decisions, those with costs and benefits distributed over time, are integral to many daily decisions. When facing such intertemporal tradeoffs, people often exhibit temporal discounting – they overvalue the present and undervalue the future. The literature studying intertemporal decisions makes a tacit assumption: different methods measuring and eliciting temporal discounting are driven by similar underlying psychological phenomena. The current work challenges this notion by exploring the relationship between psychological control and temporal discounting. We predict and find that a loss of control increases temporal discounting only in matching paradigm, but not in choice paradigm – where participants are already imbued with control. In doing so, the present work reveals both a new driver of temporal discounting – psychological control - and an important distinction between different elicitation methods by demonstrating systematic differences. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Kelly Kiyeon Lee

Try Before You Buy: Metacognitive Difficulty Enhances Product Evaluation in Consumption Contexts Across three studies, I demonstrate that when consumers are provided with an opportunity to use a product, metacognitive difficulty enhances product evaluations. In Study 1, I find that after trying a hand lotion product, participants who experienced metacognitive difficulty were more likely to evaluate the product favorably than were those who experienced metacognitive ease. In Study 2, I replicate the effect with a beverage tasting experience, and demonstrate that product interest mediates the relationship between metacognitive difficulty and product evaluations. In Study 3, I show that metacognitive difficulty improves product evaluations after reading a description of a hand lotion product and trying out the product, but metacognitive difficulty harms product evaluations after only reading a description of the product. Taken together, my work reveals that metacognitive difficulty facilitates favorable product evaluations in consumption contexts, because consumers interpret their metacognitive difficulty as a sense of product interest from trying out the product. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Kelly Kiyeon Lee

Thanks for Nothing: Expressing Gratitude Invites Exploitation by Competitors Previous research has revealed that expressing gratitude motivates prosocial behavior in cooperative relationships. However, expressing gratitude in competitive interactions may operate differently. Across five studies, we demonstrate that individuals interacting with grateful counterparts become more likely to engage in selfish behavior during competitive interactions. In Studies 1a and 1b, participants who interacted with counterparts expressing gratitude were more likely to make aggressive offers in distributive negotiations than those who interacted with counterparts expressing neutral emotion. In Study 2, we find that inferences of the tendency to forgive mediates the relationship between gratitude expression and selfish behavior. In Study 3, we contrast expressions of gratitude with another positive- valence emotion: excitement. We show that expressing gratitude promotes self-interested behavior compared to expressing excitement or neutral emotion. In Study 4, we find that gratitude expression triggers self-serving deception. Taken together, our findings suggest that expressing gratitude can be costly in competitive interactions: people infer that grateful counterparts are forgiving and, therefore, they are more likely to exploit their counterparts for selfish gain. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Kelly Kiyeon Lee

The Role of Consumption Motives in the Trajectory of Product Enjoyment The enjoyment that consumers experience from their purchases changes over time. The current research proposes that people’s consumption motives systematically influence the enjoyment that they receive from their purchases over time. Five studies demonstrate that durable consumption motives (such as buying a product to please oneself or buying a product for a practical purpose) lead to slower declines in consumption enjoyment than fleeting motives (such as buying a product to impress others or buying a product for a fun purpose). Importantly, changing a consumption motive, even while holding the product itself constant, is sufficient to change enjoyment trajectories. Furthermore, this consumption motive durability effect is robust across various consumption motives and different product types. Taken together, this research demonstrates the importance of consumers’ internal consumption motives in understanding the enjoyment of their purchases over time. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Kelly Kiyeon Lee

The Effect of Money on Consumption and Consumption Enjoyment Drawing on research about money and consumer heuristics, we hypothesize that when money is salient, people consume more because money prompts them to seek economic value and increase their focus on consumption quantity. However, deviating from their forecasted happiness, consuming a higher quantity does not enhance consumers’ happiness. Rather, greater consumption decreases consumers’ well-being and consumption enjoyment. Four studies demonstrate the effect of money on overconsumption across various consumption contexts including food items, theme park rides, and song clips. We find that the effect is robust whether consumers simply see the price without paying or are primed with the concept of money. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Kelly Kiyeon Lee

Money, Time, and Self-Control Do thoughts about money impair self-control? The current article explores how thinking about money versus time affects self-control decisions. Drawing on research on the hot/cool system, we propose that focusing on money is more likely to activate the hot system, whereas focusing on time is more likely to evoke the cool system. As such, thinking about money lowers individuals’ ability to exert self-control than thinking about time. Across five studies, we find evidence supporting this central proposition: Thinking about money rather than time leads people to prefer indulgent options over virtuous options, to evaluate temptations more positively, and to choose smaller sooner options over larger later options. Further, we show evidence for the direct link between thought type and the hot/cool system: Thinking about money rather than time leads people to rely more heavily on affect, and develop a stronger preference for tempting options more rapidly. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Kelly Kiyeon Lee

An Indirect Debiasing Method: Priming a Target Attribute Reduces Judgmental Biases Understanding the underlying psychological process that leads to a bias is crucial for developing remedies to correct or reduce the bias. Attribute substitution has been used to explain why people rely on heuristics and commit judgmental biases. It occurs when people make a judgment that requires the use of a target attribute, but make the judgment using a heuristic attribute that comes more readily to mind. This substitution inevitably introduces systematic errors because these two attributes are different. The current work explores an indirect debiasing method—the priming of a target attribute. Across three experiments, we demonstrate that priming a target attribute in prior tasks reduces judgmental biases (i.e., ratio- bias and base-rate neglect) in subsequent tasks, but this outcome only occurs when participants have enough cognitive resources. When they experience cognitive load, the priming of the target attribute does not reduce their judgmental biases. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Kelly Kiyeon Lee

Religiosity and Moral Priorities as Predictors of Special Food Consumption Special food consumption is on the rise – whether it be diet-­‐minded foods (e.g., gluten-­‐ free, fat- ­‐free, sugar-­‐free foods) or sustainably-­‐minded foods (e.g., natural or organic foods). However, research has yet to examine how general religiosity and specific moral foundations might influence special food consumption. Through three studies, we examine this gap in the literature. In Study 1, we show that highly (less) religious consumers prefer diet-­‐minded (sustainably-­‐minded) foods. In Studies 2 and 3, we examine mediation through moral foundations to show that the moral foundation of purity mediates the relationship between religiosity and diet-­‐minded food consumption; in contrast, the foundation of harm/care is unrelated to religiosity but significantly related to sustainably-­‐minded food consumption. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Wyoming, Arizona State University PI/PD: Richie L. Liu University of Wyoming: Elizabeth Minton Arizona State University: Kathryn Johnson

Consumer Preference for National vs. Private Brands: The Influence of Brand Engagement and Self-­‐Concept Threat Scant research has explored how consumers define their self-­‐concept with respect to national and private label brands. The current research examines a person’s preference for national or private brands and their tendency to include brands as part of their self-­‐ concept (measured by the brand engagement in the self-­‐concept (BESC) scale). Study 1 revealed people high on BESC to prefer national over private brands. Study 2 identified a boundary condition for this relationship showing consumers high (vs. low) on BESC to prefer national (vs. private) brands less when faced by a threat to their self-­‐esteem. Results also showed low (vs. high) BESC consumers deferring to national (vs. private) brands when they experienced a diminished view of the self. Lastly, Study 3 results were consistent with Study 2 findings when brand engagement was manipulated (vs. measured). Sponsor: Oklahoma State University, Washington State University, University of California, Irvine, University of Lausanne PI/PD: Richie L. Liu, Kevin Voss Washington State University: David Sprott University of California, Irvine: Eric Spangenberg University of Lausanne: Sandor Czellar

Dark Side of Seeking R&D Resource Diversity: Implications for Post-­‐Alliance Innovation Outcomes Drawing upon the theories of tensions-­‐based view and organizational boundaries, we examine the effects of three different levels of research and development (R&D) resource diversities on post-­‐alliance innovation outcomes, including 1) a firm’s internal R&D resource diversity (within- ­‐diversity); 2) the diversity between alliance partners (between-­‐diversity); and 3) the diversity from the allied partners in different industry segments (business relatedness). Due to an ongoing inconclusive outcome of seeking resource diversity, we tested a sample of 229 firms participating in strategic alliances and found that seeking R&D resource diversity in a strategic alliance often leads to a dark side relationship which in turn impedes innovation outcomes. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University, Penn State University‐Lake Erie, Washington State University‐Vancouver, University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce PI/PD: Richie L. Liu Penn State University--Lake Erie: Sean Yim Washington State University-­Vancouver: Shinhye Kim University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce: Sakdipon Juasrikul

The Influence of Brand and Organizational Identification on Sales Employees’ Responses to Rebranding: Implications for Sales Employees’ Motivation and Performance The present research examines sales employees’ responses to rebranding using a survey methodology with technical sales personnel from a Fortune 100 company in the telecommunications industry. We extend recent work on sales employees and brands into rebranding research to develop and test a model that theoretically links perceived rebranding intensity (i.e., degree) to sales employees’ challenge oriented motivation and performance (i.e., sales generated and outcome performance). We posit that the perceived rebranding intensity effect depends on different types of a sales employee’s identification. Brand and organizational identification within sales personnel research has drawn recent attention due to the theoretical differences between the two constructs. Results indicate that sales employees with high (vs. low) brand identification have lower (vs. higher) challenge oriented motivation as perceived rebranding intensity increases, whereas organizational identification reveals an opposite moderating effect. Our findings are attributed to the differing nature between the extent sales employees define their identity with a brand and the perceived overlap sales employees have with their firm. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University, Washington State University, and University of California, Irvine PI/PD: Richie L. Liu Washington State University: David Sprott, Jeff Joireman, Babu John‐Mariadoss University of California, Irvine: Eric Spangenberg

I Don’t Know You Anymore: The Dark Side of Brand Logo Change and Mitigating Its Negative Effects Firms invest heavily in their brands to build and maintain consumers’ brand knowledge (e.g. awareness and image). Unfortunately, our insight into consumers’ responses to a brand logo change does not compare to what we know of other brand strategies (e.g., brand extensions and brand alliances). This research addresses this void by drawing on the customer-­‐based brand equity model. Initial studies demonstrate consumers’ unfavorable responses to a brand logo change. However, exposing consumers to a reminder of the past mitigates consumers’ unfavorable responses to a brand logo change. An examination of the psychological mechanism reveals that a reminder of the past increases conceptual fluency for a brand logo change. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University, Washington State University, University of California, Irvine PI/PD: Richie L. Liu Washington State University: David Sprott, Jeff Joireman University of California, Irvine: Eric Spangenberg

It's Only Once, So Let's Indulge: Influence of Ordinary vs. Extraordinary Experiences on Consumer Indulgence Prior research has inadequately examined how the nature of an experience (ordinary vs. extraordinary) influences consumption, with a few exceptions exploring outcomes of spending and happiness. Through four studies, this research examines if the nature of an experience (1) can be manipulated by marketers, (2) is moderated by goal pursuit, and (3) influences actual consumption measures. Results show that the nature of an experience influences consumption through direct manipulation (Study 1) and through use of an unrelated greeting card slogan prime (Study 2), with extraordinary experiences increasing indulgence. Study 3 replicates prior results with actual consumption measures and mock ads to show that extraordinary (ordinary) experiences lead participants to eat more (fewer) chocolate candies. Study 4 then builds on construal theory by examining temporal distance (moderator) and goal orientation (mediator) to show that extraordinary (ordinary) experiences that occur one month in the future lead to a lower (higher) focus on goals that results in higher (lower) guilt-related affect. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Wyoming PI/PD: Richie L. Liu University of Wyoming: Elizabeth Minton Illness and Gender: The Disrupted Identities of Young Women with Breast Cancer Following the diagnosis of a life-threatening or disabling illness, consumer identities are abruptly and profoundly disrupted. This work explores the identity work and coping among young women with breast cancer. In-depth interviews reveal that informants experience liminality involving significant shifts in embodied identity, gender roles, and relationships while simultaneously navigating complex consumer coping and health decisions, Sponsors: State of Texas, State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Marlys Mason University of Texas, Austin: Kathryn Pounders

In Search of Well-Being: Factors Influencing Maladaptive Consumption This research explores how everyday consumption, such as using mobile devices or eating, which begin harmlessly and often out of necessity, has the potential to evolve to an excessive, harmful point. The study defines maladaptive behavior and explores a variety of constructs (i.e. harm, desire, control, goals, and habits) that, brought together, can help marketers and policy makers understand how desires can overpower self-control to move consumption toward maladaptive behavior. Potential avenues for future research and the role of the consumer, marketer, and society in facilitating these behaviors to return to adaptive behavior are explored. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Marlys Mason University of California, Long Beach: Ingrid Martin Florida State University: Maura Scott American University: Wendy Boland

Service Captivity and Consumer Response for Co-Creation This research explores the concept of service captivity with consumers in two institutional context – health care and food assistance. Specifically, we investigate the impact of service interactions when consumers perceive dependence and no choice in providers. Taking a critical stance and drawing on interview data, our findings suggest that when resource control is concentrated in the organization, the ensuing power imbalance challenges notions of good service and consumer well-being, Suggestions are made for improving service delivery and value creation in captive contexts. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma, State of Texas PI/PDs: Marlys Mason University of Texas, San Marcos: Steven Rayburn

Big Brands, Big Cities: How the Population Penalty Affects Common Brands in Densely Populated Areas The effect of an area’s population on sales is the basis for many marketing decisions such as sales strategies and retail site selection. However, the present research shows that the strength of the relationship between population and sales varies with brand commonness. Consumers residing in densely populated areas are motivated to express their distinctiveness, reducing their preference for common brands, such as large chains and brands owned by many people. Thus, common brands suffer a “population penalty” where the positive effect of population density on sales is weaker than for uncommon brands. We present two empirical analyses that show the moderating effect of brand commonness in the context of restaurant and automobile sales. Two experiments provide evidence for a social identity process, and also explore sub- branding as a way for common brands to avoid this population penalty. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Ted Matherly, Zachary Arens, Todd Arnold

Carrying the Torch for the Brand: Attachment expression for experiential brands When considering attending a concert or sporting event, a key component for consumers is the crowd of people who will experience the event with them. Imagining an event full of enthusiastic fans engaged in every moment of the experience would likely impact a prospective consumer quite differently than a silent arena full of people in their seats. In this research, we explore one potential way in which consumers may make these inferences about expectations for social experiential consumption based on their observations of fans. We consider how other brand users’ expressions of attachment to a brand may shape observers’ perceptions of the brand users, and how this affects their own excitement about the brand and likelihood of engaging with it in the future. Through four studies, we find that seeing others who are highly attached to social experiential brands makes individuals more excited about the brand, which leads them to feel more like fans of the brand and increasing their likelihood of engaging with the brand in the future. We find that these effects do not occur for non-social experiential brands, and for experiential brands that can no longer be experienced with others. Taken together, our results suggest that social experiential brand marketers may be able to positively influence potential consumers by providing their current customers with means to express their relationship to the brand to others. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Ted Matherly University of Maryland: Amna Kirmani

Prominent vs. subtle identity signaling in inter-group interactions We explore how the prominence of identity signals affect behavior in inter-group interactions. While individuals believe that out-group members using subtle (vs. prominent) identity signals will behave more cooperatively towards them, we show that the opposite is the case. We propose that use of more subtle signals leads individuals to experience identity threat, and to engage in behaviors to reaffirm their identity. Across school affiliation, brand loyalty and political affiliation, we show that individuals displaying less prominent identity signals derogate the out-group in communication and behave less cooperatively in interactions, even when such behavior is potentially costly. Notably, these effects are only observed for individuals with high degree of in-group affiliation and are attenuated by making behavior public. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Ted Matherly University of Maryland: Anastasiya Pocheptsova

“One Nation Under God”: Political Rhetoric and the System Justifying Benefits of Fusing Religious and Governmental Systems Do references to God in political discourse increase confidence in the United States sociopolitical system? Using a system justification framework (Jost & Banaji, 1994), five studies provide evidence that, (i) governments increasingly symbolically associate the nation with God when public confidence in the social system may be threatened, and (ii) associating the nation with God serves a system justifying function by increasing public confidence in the system. In an analysis of U.S. presidential speeches, presidents were more likely to symbolically associate the nation with God during threatening times (Study 1). Among religious individuals, referencing God in political rhetoric increased the perceived trustworthiness of politicians, compared to patriotic secular rhetoric (Study 2) or simply priming the concept of God (Study 3). These effects were also unique to politicians from one’s own sociopolitical system (Study 4). Finally, believing God has a plan for the U.S. attenuates the deleterious effect that perceptions of national decline have on system confidence (Study 5). Implications for the system justifying function of religion are discussed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd

Much Ado About Taste Preferences: Egocentric Judgments of Other’s Purchases and the Stereotyping Social Assistance Recipients The Latin maxim “in matters of taste, there can be no disputes” (“de gustibus non est disputandum” speaks to the intuitive idea that we should not or cannot judge other for their subjective, idiosyncratic tastes. However, the current research draws from egocentrism and naïve realism to predict and find that consumers will readily use their own preferences and tastes as an anchor for negatively judging the purchases and even character of others. This effect is illustrated across six studies, largely in the context of judging social assistance (e.g., “welfare”) recipients. Results show that these egocentric judgments emerge i) when the target’s purchases are inconsistent (vs. consistent) with the participants’ chronic preferences, and ii) when participant’s current shopping goal and mental state (i.e., their situational preferences) are incongruent (vs. congruent) with the target’s. Mediational evidence supports an egocentrism account for this effect, such that perceiving the target as buying items that are personally undesired mediates the effect of purchase type on negative judgments. Finally, the effect is robust to de-biasing efforts, such that the effect is not moderated by available cognitive resources or the presence of relevant information regarding the target’s preferences. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd

The Negative Impact of Seasonal/Limited Edition Packaging on Product Recognition and Shopping Experience Brands often vary their traditional packaging for different times of year (i.e., Coca-Cola’s winter cans), when introducing limited edition products, and when co-branding and crossing promoting products. Although there are potential benefits to such packaging variations, we find that limited edition/seasonal packaging has a negative impact on consumers’ ability to find the target product. Specifically, given a limited amount of time to view an array of products, a higher percentage of consumers reported not seeing a particular brand when the packaging was seasonal vs. standard. Given an unlimited amount of time, consumers take longer to find the target product when seasonal packaging is utilized. This in turn has a negative impact on their experience, reporting more annoyance with the simulated shopping process. Finally, we show that this is due to the fact that seasonal packaging often eschews familiar brand elements (e.g., color) which are heavily relied on in the search process. Implications for package design and promotion are discussed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd

Cultural Diversity in Advertising and Representing Different Visions of America Cultural diversity in advertising has the potential to reflect American society and embody a view of America that is either consistent or inconsistent with a consumer’s beliefs and values. Our research explores how consumers with differing visions of America and its values evaluate cultural diversity in advertising. Consumers who support America’s dominant ideology more negatively evaluate ads with cultural diversity, particularly for brands that are iconic of America. This effect reverses when ads depict other cultures as loving America, which offers an affirming message for those who are already satisfied with how American society looks and operates. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd

“Selling Happiness”: Consequences for Attitude toward the Ad and the Advertised Brand There is a long history of marketing campaigns that link brands and products to the experience of happiness. Given that nearly everyone wants to be happy and hedonic motives often drive behavior (Isen 1987, Wegener, Petty and Smith 1995), it is natural to assume that appealing to happiness will be universally well received by consumers (or, at the very least, pose little risk for damaging a brand’s appeal). But despite the intuitive allure of this marketing strategy, we suggest that, for some consumers, marketing campaigns that appeal to happiness may actually yield negative reactions towards both the ad and the relevant brand. Nearly all religious worldviews explicitly shun linking happiness to the attainment of material goods. Here, we test whether or not a key marker of the psychological adoption of these worldviews – (i.e., intrinsic religiosity), and the saliency of that worldview, will moderate how people respond to advertisements and marketing materials that frame a product as offering people happiness. Results of 2 studies support this hypothesis. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd

Identifying and Explaining the Sex-Gap in Consumer Responses to Product Failures: Gender Stereotypes Create Victims out of Women Every year, thousands of consumer complaints are made to regulatory agencies, including the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Federal Trade Commission, among others. These incidents often cause severe injury or death, and cost the U.S. more than $1 trillion annually (CPSC.gov). They are the basis for numerous lawsuits and recalls, and can cost companies millions of dollars. Therefore, consumers’ perceptions of harm, blame, and desire for punishment, are of great consequence for many institutions. The current research asks if the sex of the victim matters is how such incidents are interpreted and reported. We draw from ambivalent sexism theory (Glick and Fiske 1996) to understand how gender stereotypes shape consumers’ perceptions of product failure incidents. Specifically, because gender stereotypes present men as independent agents and women as dependent and requiring protecting, we proposed that when a woman (vs. a man) is a victim of a product failure, consumers will i) see increased harm done, ii) blame the company more, and iii) show an increased tendency to complain about the product failure. Archival and experimental evidence supports these predictions. Evidence suggests this is due to gender stereotypes leading to increased perceptions of harm and company blame for female victims. Implications for firms and consumer protection are discussed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd

Towards an Understanding of the Psychological Barriers to Post-Military Employment: The Ironic Effects of Perceiving Military Veterans as Heroes What kind of “mind” do people assume those in the military have? This question has important implications for military veterans and how they are perceived by employers and society as a whole, with numerous policy implications. Leveraging previous theorizing on mind perception (Gray, Gray, & Wegner, 2007), dehumanization (Haslam, 2006), and career typology (Holland, 1973), the current research attempts to understand the content and consequences of specific patterns of stereotyping and dehumanization of military veterans. Results show that veterans are seen as having an exceptional capacity for agency (i.e., planning and acting), but at the expense of their capacity for experience (i.e., emotional depth and range), which corresponds with mechanistic dehumanization (i.e., seeing veterans as more akin to unfeeling robots vs. impulsive animals). These perceptions in turn have implications for employment. Results show that veterans are seen as relatively ill-suited for careers that are seen as demanding a high capacity for experience. Consistent results are found across numerous samples, including laypeople as well as those trained and employed in management and human resources. Implications for veteran wellbeing and policy are discussed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd

When Diversity in Advertising Leads to Activism vs. Aversion As the marketplace becomes more diverse, it has become increasingly important to understand how modern consumers respond to portrayals of social groups that have been traditionally excluded from advertising campaigns. We suggest that although consumers may purchase from brands that support diversity because doing so is consistent with their own beliefs on human rights and equality, many consumers may be uncomfortable with certain portrayals of diversity because such portrayals go against their schemas or expectations. That is, ads portraying diversity will be more effective than traditional, less diverse ads as long as such portrayals are congruent with any schemas activated by the ad. However, if the portrayal of diversity (e.g., featuring a two-dad family) is incongruent with a schema activated by the ad (e.g., wholesome families), this will elicit a more negative response from consumers relative to a less diverse ad. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd

Passion Exploitation: Legitimization of Taking Advantage of Other People’s Passion for Work The pursuit of passion for work is touted in contemporary discourse. Reflecting this norm, research on passion has largely focused on documenting its benefits, paying relatively little attention to its undesirable outcomes. Drawing on qualitative studies on work meaning and the models of compensatory justice, we demonstrate an important negative consequence of passion for work: passion exploitation. We define passion exploitation as taking advantage of passionate workers and/or the legitimization of such managerial practices. Specifically, we hypothesize and show that people legitimize the management's exploitation of passionate workers based on the beliefs that (1) passionate workers will sacrifice a life outside of work (e.g., family life) for their work and (2) passionate workers find work to be its own reward (especially because it is enjoyable to them). Five experimental studies and a meta- analysis find consistent support for our hypotheses. The implications for theory and practice are discussed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd

Is Being Better Always Better? Perceptions of Claim Believability and Brand Warmth in Response to Trade-Offs Between Attributes Consumers are faced every day with many brands or products offering different trade-offs (e.g., tasty but not healthy). While the literature agrees on the notion that trade-offs determine consumers’ preferences towards objects, research leaves unexamined whether or not products or brands offering a trade-off between attributes can actually be evaluated more positively by consumers than products that do not offer such a trade-off and are seemingly objectively superior. Past research is suggestive that trade-offs in life resonate with people and contribute to perceptions of fairness in the world (Jost et al. 2005; Kay and Jost 2003). Given similarities in processing people/social categories and products (Aaker 1997; Kervyn, Fiske and Malone, 2012), and given the ubiquity of trade-offs in various product categories, consumers might see desirable traits, such as warmth (sincerity, fairness, honesty) in products and brands that offer trade-offs between various attributes. To the extent that such trade-offs between attributes are often expected, the presence of a trade-off may be more believable to consumers, whereas the presence of no trade-off with all attributes being rated positively may seem “too good to be true. The presence of trade-offs may appear more believable to consumers, which may in turn predict evaluations (e.g., warmth) and behavioral intentions (Kervyn et al. 2012). However, based on previous research showing that consumers are willing to pay more when they expect a high quality service (Ostrom and Iacobucci 1995) and that one expects more from it and to expect fewer or no trade-offs, we suggest that price may be a boundary condition of the aforementioned effect of trade-offs on warmth. The results of 3 studies support these hypotheses. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd

Brand Dependence, Domain Complexity, and Motivated Brand Trust Past work shows that when people feel dependent on an entity (e.g., government), they bolster trust in that entity to manage issues associated with a particular domain, particularly when that domain is complex. In this research, we explore the extent to which these processes playout in a marketing context. We also explore the role of victim sensitivity in this process. Highly victim sensitive individuals want to trust others, but are also very concerned with being taken advantage of. Counterintuitively, we find that these people report increased trust in a brand or service provide when the particular domain at hand is seen as complex (vs. simple), which in turn increases perceived dependence on a particular brand or service. For example, when the effects of the sun on skin is described in complex (vs. simple) terminology, participants feel more dependent on sunscreen products, and report increased trust in the target brand. This is particularly the case for those high in victim sensitivity. In other words, the concern of being taken advantage of appears to lead one to bolster trust in a brand that one is dependent on. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd

Finding Chaos vs. Order In Firearms: Liberals and Conservative’s Differential Response To Guns Liberals and conservatives on average have very different attitudes toward guns and gun control. The main difference seems to stem around whether or not guns are a source, order, or chaos in the world. We suggest that for conservatives, guns are just one tool in one’s ideological tool box (Kay and Eibach 2013) which can be used to help people feel like the world is a more orderly and controlled place. For liberals, guns are a source of disorder and unpredictability in society (which is remedied through gun control). Our studies find that when imagining holding a gun, liberals respond with increased anxiety, whereas conservatives respond with increased perceptions of personal control. Moreover, conservatives see guns as a stabilizer and source of order in chaotic situations (e.g., public shootings) whereas liberals see guns as contributing to chaos and randomness in these situations. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd

The Shame of It All: Distancing From Conspicuous Brand Users In this research, we investigate the process by which individuals who are highly connected to brands cope with negative information about the brand, in the form of conspicuous behavior by other brand users. Building on the findings of earlier work, we observe that highly connected brand users experience shame when they see others flaunting with their brand, but the desire to distance themselves from the brand is balanced by their strong connection to it. Engaging in self-affirmation allows these highly connected individuals another source of identity, and this enables them to comfortably distance themselves from the brand. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Ted Matherly Virginia Polytechnic Institute: Daniel Villanova

Corporate Brand Effects in Brand Alliances Published literature demonstrates that when a single well-known reputable brand is allied with a previously unknown focal brand perceived quality evaluations of the latter will be more positive. Whether or not the corporate brand improves consumer evaluations of a co-branded product is a topic of interest to marketers. This is true because marketing managers must make decisions regarding investments in building both their corporate- and product-brands. The authors propose and empirically verify that the corporate-brand's role as a parent of its product brands helps determine the extent of the corporate-brand's influence on the consumer's evaluation of the focal brand in a brand alliance. Specifically, the corporate-brand will be more diagnostic for customer evaluations of a cobranded product when its brand portfolio is more consistent in terms of the customer's attitude toward the brands that comprise the portfolio. Sponsor: Spears School of Business PI/PD: Kevin E Voss, Mayoor Mohan

Good Times, Bad Times: The Stock Market Performance of Firms that own High Value Brands We correct a deficiency in the published literature by examining the share price performance of firms that own high value brands in uptrending, downtrending, and sideways markets. We examined stock price performance for an index of firms that owned brands in the Interbrand list of the Best Global Brands from 2001 through 2009 using the Fama-French method. Our index outperformed the Standard & Poor’s 500 when the market was up- or down-trending, but not when it moved sideways. We find that an index of firms that own the Best Global Brands produced better returns than the S&P 500 market index. Owning highly valued brands may be a marketplace signal to the investing community regarding the firm’s management acumen. Owning high value brands seems to influence share price performance, a metric used to judge Chief Executive Officers. Thus, brand investments align with the shareholders’ interest. We help alleviate the perception (Challagalla et al., 2014) that marketing managers make investments on an ad hoc basis. For the first time we evaluate the effect of owning one or more of the world’s most valuable brands on the market value of common stock using data from downtrending, uptrending, and no-trend periods. This research is also among the first to introduce volatility into the Fama-French method and it is an important explanatory variable. Our approach has interesting comparisons to other papers taking a similar analytical approach. Sponsor: Spears School of Business PI/PD: Kevin E Voss, Mayoor Mohan

Corporate-brand Effects in Brand Alliances: The Moderating Role of Product Category Knowledge The purpose of this study is to examine the role of corporate-brands within a brand alliance setting that includes one of the corporation’s product-brands and another focal brand. The study finds that adding a corporate-brand within a standard brand alliance enhances consumers’ evaluations of a focal brand. This effect is mediated via attitudes towards the product-brand owned by the corporation. The indirect effect of the corporate-brand is stronger in situations when consumers have low knowledge of the product category. This study finds that adding a second brand signal (i.e., a corporate-brand) to a brand alliance does enhance perceived quality of and attitudes towards a focal brand. The results suggest that adding a corporate-brand name into a brand alliance between a product-brand and a focal brand enhances perceived quality and attitudes towards a focal brand. This effect is stronger when consumers exhibit low product category knowledge. Sponsor: Spears School of Business PI/PD: Mayoor Mohan, Bashar Gammoh, Fernando R. Jiménez, Kevin E Voss

Measuring Emotion Exchange: Finding a Missing Piece to the Relationship Puzzle This paper describes the development and validation of a parsimonious, generalizable scale that measures emotion exchange in social exchange interactions. The emotion exchange (EEx) scale includes eight likert-type response items that capture the give and take nature of emotion exchange. The authors conducted four studies to establish the unidimensionality, reliability, and validity of the EEx scale. Nomological validity is established by testing a typical social exchange framework with EEx as the antecedent to trust and information exchange. Results suggest that EEx positively influences the credibility and benevolent trust between relational partners. Sponsor: Spears School of Business PI/PD: Emily C. Tanner, Kevin E Voss

Emotion Exchange: How Violations of Social Norms and Feeling Rules Disrupt Relationship Formation. In three experiments it shown that individuals send, receive, and interpret signals of their felt emotions. This exchange is a key part of relationship formation. However, when social norms and or feeling rules are violated the process of relationship formation is harmed. Sponsor: Spears School of Business PI/PD: Emily C. Tanner, Kevin E Voss

The Critical Role of Emotion Exchange in Supervisor – Employee Relationships. This study will demonstrate that emotion exchange is a key component of the relationship developed between supervisors and employees. The new construct of emotion exchange is tested as an antecedent of trust and information exchange in a model of social exchange theory. This is the first study to show that exchange of emotion is critical to relationship formation in work settings. Sponsor: Spears School of Business PI/PD: Emily C. Tanner, Kevin E Voss

Manager Activation Theory: Innovation Culture Activates a Managerial Disposition that Improves Decision-Making Comprehensiveness and Front-End Innovation Success. The link between innovation culture and firm performance is well established. However, the specific mechanism via which innovation culture facilitates better managerial decision-making in front-end innovation remains unknown. Based on Manager Activation Theory, the authors propose that innovation culture enables decision-making comprehensiveness – the full exploration of new ideas – by inhibiting the deleterious effects of fear of negative evaluation and allowing managers to apply themselves to those areas in which they feel most competent. In turn, decision-making comprehensiveness is positively related to front-end innovation success. The model was tested with survey data collected from a sample of 172 innovation decision makers. Implications are that top management should incentivize the quantity of new ideas, not penalize product fails, and encourage decision-making comprehensiveness. With an innovation culture, the risk of making sub-optimal decisions in the front-end of innovation is limited. Sponsor: Spears School of Business PI/PD: Mayoor Mohan, Fernando R. Jiménez, Kevin E Voss