Fiscal year 2020 - OSU Research | OSU Research“Good pictures are a strong weapon”: Laura Gilpin,...
Transcript of Fiscal year 2020 - OSU Research | OSU Research“Good pictures are a strong weapon”: Laura Gilpin,...
Fiscal year2020
researchabstracts
College of Arts and Sciences
–FY2020 Research Abstracts
ART, GRAPHIC DESIGN AND ART HISTORY Ultraviolet Reflectivity in Ink Jet Papers Many ink jet papers include optical brightening agents — or OBAs — which are chemicals that react with ultraviolet light to make the paper appear brighter and cooler. However, there is concern that OBAs may breakdown over time and shift the appearance of the printed image. In this experiment, 153 different ink jet papers were exposed to an ultraviolet LED and the reflected light was measured with a spectrometer. Higher absorption of ultraviolet light correlates with higher saturation of OBAs. The data collected are presented in a visual database as a guide for artists, designers, and anyone concerned with the archival properties of ink jet paper: https://andymattern.com/paper‐research/ Sponsor: Humanities Art and Design Grant, Office of the Vice President for Research, OSU PI/PD: Andy Mattern “Good pictures are a strong weapon”: Laura Gilpin, Queerness, and Navajo Sovereignty A book‐length study of the place of American photographer Laura Gilpin (1891‐1979) within the history of Navajo sovereignty and the broader cultural milieu of the American Southwest, illuminating the intersectional politics of photography, indigeneity, and queerness as they developed over the course of the twentieth century. Sponsors: National Endowment for the Humanities, Newberry Library (Chicago) PI/PD: Louise Siddons Cimarron National Works on Paper Reintroduction of the biennial juried exhibition of works on paper that was founded in 1987. This exhibition draws the best work from artists across the country and a juror who is prominent in the field of contemporary art to Oklahoma State University. This exhibition (held September 9‐October 10, 2019) is accompanied by a fully‐illustrated catalogue that includes a history of the Cimarron National. Sponsors: Private donors, the Department of Art, Graphic Design, and Art History, OSU Group II Student Fees PI/PD: Louise Siddons The Female Imitation of Christ in the Spanish World: Paintings, Sculptures, Prints, 1500‐1850 The art historical project focuses on the aesthetic foundations of an imitative, Christocentric faith in early modern Iberia and Latin America. It interrogates a visual and material culture that expressed and encouraged tenets of Thomas à Kempis’s De Imitatione Christi (ca. 1420), and it shows how the production, reproduction, and viewing of images were paradigms for the process of imitation central to spiritual life itself. Sponsor: Humanities, Arts and Design Grant PI/PD: Cristina Cruz González
Domesticating Knowledge: Household Health and the Late Medieval Illustrated Manuscripts of the Régime du corps This is a book project that focuses on several illustrated manuscripts of the late medieval health guide, which depict a wide range of practices used within elite homes for the management of health and wellbeing. Their scenes of household care demonstrate the prevalence of female‐dominated expertise within the domestic sphere. Sponsors: Oklahoma Humanities Council, National Endowment for the Humanities, University of Pennsylvania, Rice University, Oklahoma State University, International Center for Medieval Art PI/PD: Jennifer Borland Different Visions: New Perspectives on Medieval Art The project involves the relaunch of this open access journal devoted to progressive scholarship on medieval art, which has involved redesigning the website, establishing a new platform for long‐term support, soliciting, editing, and publishing a new issue, and updating many of the journal’s policies and practices. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, St. Olaf College PI/PDs: Jennifer Borland St. Olaf College: Nancy Thompson Gendering Treatment: Cupping by Female Practitioners in Late Medieval Visual Culture Late medieval representations of women practitioners support a more nuanced understanding of who received and administered healthcare at this time. Rather than solely the purview of male academic physicians, medieval medicine involved gender and class diversity. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jennifer Borland 40 Degrees North Latitude Creation of an art project of drawings, paintings and screen prints visually depicts the artist’s circumnavigation of the globe at the 40th parallel. Sponsor: Fulbright Scholar Award, Humanities Art and Design Grant, Xiaoxiang International Printmaking Center, Jentel Artist Residency PI/PD: Liz Roth Post Nature / Past Nature This solo art exhibition used printmaking, sculpture, and video animation to investigate themes of nostalgia for bucolic depictions of wilderness in the context of the Anthropocene era. Special attention was paid to the relationship between physical and virtual experiences of place. Sponsor: Utah State University Art Department, Logan, UT PI/PD: Mary Claire Becker
The Artifice of Wilderness This solo art exhibition reflected upon fetishization of landscape as “other” in industrialized cultures as epitomized by ornamental representations of the natural world. The artworks included in the exhibition rearrange and re‐contextualize human‐made depictions of Nature. This body of work was created using printmaking, sculpture, and video animation techniques. Sponsor: Central Michigan University Art Department, Mt. Pleasant, MI PI/PD: Mary Claire Becker The Originality of the Avant Garden This solo art exhibition used printmaking, sculpture, and video animation to explore the concept of ‘authentic experience’ as relates to digital, printed, and painted representations of ecological phenomena. The artworks and the accompanying lecture reflected upon Walter Benjamin’s concept of ‘aura’ and engaged with Rosalind Krauss’ essay The Originality and the Avant Garde. The artworks featured referenced both landscape painting’s Hudson Valley School and still life painting’s Dutch Golden Age. Sponsor: University of Wyoming Art Department, Laramie, WY PI/PD: Mary Claire Becker Wish You Were Here: Postcard Simulations This body of work featured nine postcard‐sized monotypes and one large‐scale drawing, all completed through the support of the Jentel Arts artist residency program. These artworks are meticulous reinterpretations of found vintage photographs that transform the postcards’ original cheerful hyper‐saturated color schemes into inky, foggy, ghostly greyscale. They represent after‐images far removed from first‐hand experience: memories of memories. This body of work elaborated on former projects’ explorations of aura and authentic experience as relates to landscape. Sponsor: Jentel Arts, Banner, WY PI/PD: Mary Claire Becker ‘Virtual Earth Garden: Year 2500’ Collaborative Art Installation This collaborative project was a sculptural wall‐collage of linoleum prints that encouraged participants to think critically about the impact a future ecological disaster might have on the cultural significance of botanical imagery. Participants were asked to pretend that they were researchers in a future where all flora is extinct. They were asked to design new “post‐Anthropocene flowers” based only on art historical references from a ‘pre‐Anthropocene age’. They were told, “Your task is not to make the most realistic flower, but rather to make something that portrays the cultural significance of flowers or that fills the aesthetic void of their absence.” Sponsor: Theodore Waddell Fund, Sheridan Community College, Sheridan, WY PI/PD: Mary Claire Becker
Resolution / Dissolution This eight‐layer reductive linoleum print was completed through the support of the Kimmel Harding Nelson Center. The artist created an edition of 30 prints using an SP‐15 Vandercook Letterpress. The image reinterprets Dutch Golden Age painter Ambrosius Bosschaert’s Bouquet of Flowers on a Ledge (1619) by filtering the image through a variety of digital and hand‐rendered permutations. The image becomes fractured, distorted, warped, and unstable, yet still alludes to the original painting’s charm and beauty. This project is a continuation of the artist’s investigations into the relationship between digital/reproduced image, original image, and original object in the Anthropocene era. Sponsor: Kimmel Harding Nelson Center, Nebraska City, NE PI/PD: Mary Claire Becker Letters Underground ‐ Mapping Typefaces in the Paris Metro This project contains several sets of prints that visualize the various typefaces used in the Paris Metro system as a component of wayfinding design. Unlike the NYC Subway, which uses a standardized signage design throughout its whole system, there are a large amount of old and new typefaces dispersed amidst station platforms and tunnels. My preliminary research indicates that there is limited English language resources describing the Paris Metro and its alphabet. My research would add to the English language offerings for this important design topic. This project give insight to the diverse use of typography and how it applies to wayfinding with a large transportation system as well as documenting the rich history of type in a Parisian institution. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Ting Wang‐Hedges Shining a light on Chinese Graphic Design and its Bauhaus influences This project studies the development of Bauhaus in China and its impact on Chinese modern and contemporary graphic design. Despite the limitation of documentation and preservation of modern Chinese graphic design, China has had a substantial influence on world graphic design history. However, exposure to modern and contemporary Chinese graphic design has been limited. This limited exposure comes from an unbalanced focus on the strides made in Western design versus other regional designs. It is my intention to research the opposite side of the design world I live in and encourage others to discover extraordinary Chinese designers and their works. Sponsor: College of Arts and Sciences PI/PD: Ting Wang‐Hedges Exploration of CNC Operations in Visual Art Production The incorporation of CNC milling and laser cutting processes combined with traditional wood and metal working methods to create works of art exploring collecting, preservation and environmental concerns. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Chris Ramsay
Exploration of CNC Operations in Visual Art Production The incorporation of CNC milling and laser cutting processes combined with traditional wood and metal working methods to create works of art exploring collecting, preservation and environmental concerns. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Chris Ramsay The Crisis of Mass Shooting through Socially Engaged Art Creating new work to expand the “Impact I – III” series of socially engaged sculptures to reach the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) threshold of four causalities to be classified as a “mass shooting.” This installation represents surrogate mass shooting victims through the creation of deer sculptures, which have been shot, creating explosive, viscerally shocking openings in the soft clay. The artworks are created in collaboration with an award‐winning rifleman. An additional research outcome is to secure solo exhibitions to display the series that will include public lecture opportunities. Sponsor: Humanities‐, Arts‐, and Design‐Based Discipline Research Grants PI/PD: Jessica Teckemeyer
COMMUNICATION SCIENCES AND DISORDERS Stillwater CANe Project (Communication, Arts, Nutrition, Exercise) for People with Parkinson Disease We received new funding for the Stillwater CANe project in July 2020. The project includes free multidisciplinary programs for participants with Parkinson disease (PD) and their families. The community programs include weekly LOUD Crowd group, bimonthly nutrition education programs, and a monthly arts group. In addition, in‐person weekly exercise programs were offered until March 2020. We have recently resumed the in‐person meetings in September 2020 while following all of the social distancing and health guidelines for COVID‐19. So far, at least 15 participants with PD and 5 family members have participated in one or more of these programs. Sponsor: FY 2020 Community Grant Parkinson’s Foundation (Grant no.: PF‐CGP_2044) PI/PDs: Sabiha Parveen, Tim Passmore, Gena Wollenberg Stillwater CANe project and Efficacy of Application Based Projects The grant included funding for the Stillwater CANe project and a research project aimed at examining the effects of application‐based projects in improving the self‐efficacy of students in Communication Sciences and Disorders. The research project includes creation of treatment activities for different disorders that are covered in undergraduate and graduate courses. Undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in different courses of Communication Sciences and Disorders prepare treatment activities during the course of a semester. Two presentations related to this application‐based project were delivered at the 2019 Annual Convention of American Speech‐Language Hearing Association. A related manuscript is currently under preparation. Sponsor: ASHA Advancing Academic‐Research Career (AARC) Award PI/PD: Sabiha Parveen Stillwater CANe Project (Communication, Arts, Nutrition, Exercise) for People with Parkinson Disease Abstract: The above‐mentioned grant was associated with a community‐based multidisciplinary project (Stillwater CANe project‐ Communication, Arts, Nutrition, and Exercise) for people with Parkinson disease (PD) and their family members. The program includes physical exercise programs, speech and cognitive therapy (SPEAK OUT! and Loud Crowd®group), diet and nutrition education, and arts group. A total of 10 participants with PD and three spouses actively participated in one or more programs. Some findings of the program were presented at two international conferences including the World PD Congress during 2019. A related manuscript related to the project is currently under review. Sponsor: FY 2019 Community Grant Parkinson’s Foundation. (Grant no.: PF‐CGP_19131) PI/PDs: Sabiha Parveen, Tim Passmore, Gena Wollenberg
SPEAK OUT!® and LOUD Crowd® Grant for Clinics and Organizations Providing SPEAK OUT!® and LOUD Crowd® Services for Individuals with PD. The above‐mentioned grant provided free LOUD Crowd® workbooks for participants with PD that attend the weekly LOUD Crowd® program offered by the OSU Speech and Hearing Clinic. SPEAK OUT! ® and LOUD Crowd® are treatment programs aimed to improve the voice and cognitive functioning of participants with PD. In‐person groups were offered until second week of March 2020 which have now been replaced with online groups due to COVID‐19. A portion of the grant funds were used towards transportation costs for participants attending the in‐person weekly LOUD Crowd® groups. Currently, 7‐10 participants attend the weekly LOUD Crowd® program. Sponsor: Parkinson Voice Project PI/PD: Sabiha Parveen (on behalf of OSU Speech and Hearing Clinic) Perception and production differentially affect child speech This project investigates the relationship between the frequency of what children hear or say and their speech production accuracy. Existing research typically finds that either listening to or producing a novel word can lead to subsequent production accuracy. Nevertheless, research in this line of inquiry indicates that combined opportunities to learn by both listening and producing a novel word do not lead to additive effects in speech production accuracy. The goal of the project is to better understand how listening and speaking affect long‐term changes to speech accuracy. Sponsors: College of Arts and Sciences (2019 ASR+1) PI/PDs: Peter Richtsmeier West Virginia University: Michelle Moore Memory and rational processing in statistical learning Statistical language learning assumes that learners track the frequencies of repeating or co‐occurring linguistic elements such as the repeating /fp/ consonant sequence in the nonwords ‘maffpem’, ‘baifpem’, and ‘giffpek’. Recent theories of learning suggest the order that participants hear a set of words/nonwords is important. This study implemented greater control of when familiarization and test stimuli were presented. The results included a compelling indication that both the orders of familiarization and test influenced participant responses. The findings indicate how statistical learning might be combined with the study of memory and attention. Sponsor: College of Arts and Sciences (2019 ASR+1) PI/PD: Peter Richtsmeier
Working memory and lexical decision in young adults with dyslexia Young adults with a history of dyslexia are known to struggle even after they achieve typical scores on tests of single‐word decoding. This project investigates the underlying deficit related to dyslexia in two tasks: nonword repetition and lexical decision. Sponsor: College of Arts and Sciences (2019 ASR+1) PI/PDs: Peter Richtsmeier, Yu Zhang West Virginia University: Michelle Moore University of Georgia: Hannah Krimm Acoustic Variability in Spoken Language Comprehension This project explores the effect of acoustic variability from speaker’s sex, dialect, and native language background on spoken word recognition is investigated in real‐time processing of speech by normal and hearing‐impaired listeners with English and Mandarin Chinese as their native tongue, respectively. Sponsor: College of Arts and Sciences PI/PD: Yu Zhang Salience of cochlear implant users’ speech rate Speech intelligibility, or how well one’s words can be understood, and hearing status (typical hearing or deaf) affect listeners’ judgments of prelingually deaf cochlear implant (CI) users’ personalities and desirability as friends. Such impressions could influence friendship‐formation between CI users and their peers. This project investigates factors that contribute to listeners’ impressions of CI users’ personalities, including features of CI user speech and listener experience. Sponsor: CAS Fall Travel Award PI/PD: Valerie Freeman
CHEMISTRY 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 toward 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 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 Marine Composites with Improved Toughness and Thermal Stability This work involves the characterization and understanding the basic chemical and physical properties of composites made to enhance the properties of additives used in marine applications. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) and MITO Material Solutions PI/PD: Frank D. Blum (OSU lead), Ranji Vaidyanathan, Bhishma Sedai (MITO) SBIR Phase II: Tough polymer composite materials through "'iLAMB," or interlaminar modifications through master batching This work involves the characterization and understanding the basic chemical and physical properties of composites and scaling the processes up so nanoadditives can be used as additives for interfacial applications. Sponsor: NSF PI/PDs: Ranji Vaidyanathan(OSU Lead), Frank D. Blum MITO: Bhishma Sedai
Reinforced Recycled Polymer Composites Recycled carpets and water bottles will be converted to useful composites for structural and acoustic applications. Sponsor: REMADE Institute funded by Department of Energy PI/PDs: Frank Blum, R. Vaidyanathan, R. Singh, J. White, T. Nelson Selective C‐C Bond Formation Mediated by Modularly Assembled Catalysts Catalysis is a key element to innovation in synthetic organic chemistry. The proposed research’s focus is on bifunctional catalysts. Analogous to natural systems, these catalysts contain two functional groups for organising and orienting two reacting molecules, thus controlling both the direction as well as the manner in which they react. Instead of preparing these complex catalysts by conventional synthesis, we utilize known reversible reactions (e.g. disulfide coupling and exchange) which allow these catalysts to form by self‐assembly when the two components are mixed. Overall, this fragment‐based approach allows the efficient adaption ("evolution") of the desired catalysts for targeted transformations and C‐C bond formations. Additionally, this method offers exciting opportunities to explore new types of bifunctional catalysts and compounds which could perform novel reactions and thereby enable the synthesis of materials currently inaccessible by conventional methods. Sponsor: American Chemical Society‐Petroleum Research Fund PI/PD: Jeanne L. Bolliger Development of Novel Stationary Phases for Liquid Phase Separation Techniques The need for solving many separation problems in the life sciences is an urgent and current research topic for further progress. This entails the development of separation media of high resolving power that will apply to a variety of compounds including biological substances and natural products. The constituents vary in molecular size ranging from small ions and molecules to large macromolecules. These are usually complex mixtures of various origin such as body fluid, food matrices and environmental samples. The separation platforms are liquid chromatography, electrochromatography and electrophoresis. Sponsor: Food and Agricultural Products Center‐Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Ziad El Rassi Modeling Matter and Improving Aqueous Transfer Processes with Molecular Distributions Molecular modeling is a rapidly growing area of science that provides an atomic‐level view and unprecedented insight into the driving forces in chemical systems. A key objective of this project is to advance classical molecular modeling by developing an approach for modeling matter using molecular distributions. Molecular Distribution Modeling uses sets of simple functions to describe and formulate ideal liquid mixtures that encode how molecules change in response to their local environments. This project also includes a research synergistic education effort to bring new experiences with molecular systems to children, students, and the general public through interactive physical model development. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Christopher Fennell
Solvation Modeling for Next‐Gen Biomolecule Simulations This collaborative project, with Stony Brook University and the University of Ljubljana, is focused on reformulated modeling of protein solvation and of protein‐protein interactions. Achieving fast, accurate, and scalable modeling of solvated proteins requires a team that can innovate from four largely non‐overlapping research communities: atomistic protein dynamics, protein‐protein docking, protein‐colloid liquid‐state theory, and water statistical mechanics. Combining these approaches is needed for big advances toward fast and accurate computer modeling on biologically relevant time and space scales, with proper statistical mechanics. The OSU component of this effort is focused on developing ‘super‐fast’ water models for solution equilibria and dynamics. Sponsor: National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the NIH PI/PDs: Christopher Fennell Stony Brook University: Kenneth Dill, Evangelos Coutsias, Dmytro Kozakov, Carlos Simmerling University of Ljubljana: Barbara Hribar‐Lee Application of Raman and Infrared Microscopy for the Forensic Examination of Automotive Clear Coats and Paint Smears All too often, a clear coat is the only layer of automotive paint recovered from a crime scene. Current approaches to identify clear coats have been unsuccessful because the FTIR spectra of clear coats are too similar to generate accurate hit lists by searching clear coat IR spectra alone. Recently published studies of pattern recognition methods applied to IR spectra of clear coats have shown that information about the line and model of the vehicle can be obtained from these spectra. To further enhance the general discrimination power of clear coats, Raman spectroscopy and pattern recognition techniques are being investigated as a potentially better solution to the problem of extracting investigative lead information from clear coats. In addition, a procedure to simulate the type of paint smear generated in vehicle‐vehicle or vehicle‐pedestrian hit‐and‐run collisions is also being developed. Sponsor: National Institute of Justice PI/PD: Barry K. Lavine
Modeling and Analysis of Spectroscopic Data from a Gasoline Database Using Chemometrics Chemometric methods will be applied to spectroscopic data from a gasoline database to extract information related to specific physical or chemical properties of gasoline and hydrocarbon‐related samples. These studies will be performed using a rich toolbox developed in our laboratory for analysis of the multidimensional inner relationships found between variables within measured or theoretical data. The challenge will be to find real cause‐and‐effect relationships between variables and to derive predictive models that hold either under more general situations or under the harsh realities of the prescribed experimental conditions used to generate the data. Four projects are highlighted as part of this research: (1) extraction of individual components in finished gasoline products, (2) classification of gasoline samples or samples of the feed product of gasoline using mid‐infrared and NMR spectra, (3) transforming near infrared spectra obtained from a dispersion spectrometer and archived in a historic database to near infrared spectra obtained from a Fourier transform instrument, and (4) prediction of Mid‐Infrared spectra from near infrared spectra for determination of Reid vapor pressure. Sponsor: Phillips 66 PI/PD: Barry K. Lavine Molecular Driving Forces of Peptide‐based Biomaterials Peptide‐based biomaterials offer many appealing properties for high technology materials including high strength‐to‐weight ratio and self‐healing capabilities. The goal of this project is to better understand the molecular‐level driving forces behind the assembly of small dipeptides to aid in the design of these materials. This goal is broken down into three sub‐aims: 1. Developing multiscale simulation methods and protocols to allow for better connection between experiment and simulation, 2. Perform multiscale simulations of these systems to understand their self‐assembly mechanism and 3. Perform infrared spectroscopic measurements on the assembly of these materials to understand their behavior and tie to simulation. We have made progress on all three aims including a publication in aim 2, a book‐chapter in press that covers aspects of aims 1 and 2, and a manuscript in preparation for aims 1 and 3. Follow‐up projects from this work will be to look at self‐assembly in non‐aqueous solvents and of covalently modified peptides. Sponsor: Army Research Office PI/PDs: Martin McCullagh, Amber Krummel 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 PI/PDs: Nicholas Materer University of Oklahoma: Ian R. Sellers Chemical Sensing: Linking sequence, mechanisms and inhibition Lepidopteran moths use insoluble fatty acid derivatives as sex odor for communication between sexes within the same species leading to mating. The project goal is to understand the structural mechanism underlying the perception of the female secreted sex odors/pheromones by the Lepidopteran male moths, Ostrinia furnacalis and Ostrinia nubilalis. Molecular Biology, biochemistry, computational chemistry, as well as various biophysical techniques, such as circular dichroism (CD), fluorescence spectroscopy, small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS), and high‐resolution solution NMR spectroscopy, will be used to build a model of PBP‐pheromone complex of the two Ostrinia species. Since designing an inhibitor to irreversibly block the pheromone transport requires the three‐dimensional (3D) atomic resolution structure of the binding protein, we propose a detailed analysis of PBP and its complex with pheromone. Our long‐term goal is to understand the detailed structural and functional significance of these proteins both in vitro and in vivo in pheromone signal activation with a goal for the development of innovative and environmentally‐sound inhibitors/pheromone mimetics to manage these agriculturally‐important plant pests. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Smita Mohanty 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 award provided funds to purchase an 800 MHz NMR spectrometer equipped with a cryo‐probe with state‐of‐the‐art capabilities. NMR, or nuclear magnetic resonance, is a technique which exploits the magnetic properties of nuclei to determine the structure of molecules and to probe their internal motions (dynamics). 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. 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 PI/PDs: Smita Mohanty, Jimmie Weaver and others It’s Polymer Life: Polymers of Everyday Life Summer Academy This summer academy builds on the partnership with Retention Initiative for Student Excellence (RISE) program within the Division of Institutional Diversity at OSU. High school students will be introduced to chemistry, history of polymers and laboratory safety. These students will make polymers, measured and observed properties of polymers, explored the interactions of dyes with different types of polymers, and investigated the polymers’ properties effect on the dyeing process and baking. Sponsor: Oklahoma State Regents of Higher Education PI/PDs: Toby Nelson, Jovette Dew Melanin‐Inspired Antimicrobials for Diesel Fuel Fuel stations have a problem with microbes in their diesel/biodiesel fuel tanks that contaminates the fuel, corrodes the fuel tank and leads to damage of their customers’ vehicles. The current treatments available on the market are inadequate and over time, the level of microbes in the fuel grows to a level that causes the fuel to contaminate customer’s vehicle engine. When this happens, there is a $20,000 cost to clean the diesel storage tank, a cost to repair and clean the customer’s vehicle engine and tank, a reduction in the brand image of the fueling station and lost revenue due to repeat sales. The proposed project is to complete an assessment of diesel and biodiesel blend microbial problem, and then further develop the OSU novel melanin‐inspired antimicrobial as a viable solution for fuel stations’ contaminated fuel storage problem. Sponsor: Cowboy Technologies PI/PD: Toby Nelson Detection and Recognition of Airborne Chemicals Onboard (DRACO) a Small Unmanned Aircraft System (SUAS) This project focuses on the development a small unmanned air system capable of operating in confined spaces while detecting and recognizing airborne chemical compounds. All the obstacle avoidance, flight control, chemical detection, and chemical recognition are done onboard the small unmanned vehicle, in real‐time, providing rapid feedback to the operator. The Detection
and Recognition of Airborne Chemicals Onboard (DRACO) a Small Unmanned Aircraft System (SUAS) will provide first responders the ability quickly determine potential hazards, facility information, and items of interest using its onboard suite of sensors from a safe standoff distance. Sponsor: Air Force (STTR with RPX Technologies) PI/PD: Toby Nelson Green Methods for the Synthesis of Organic Materials The goal of this project is to develop a fundamental understanding of the polymerization of conjugated polymers in catalytic ball‐milled reactions. The long‐term goal of my research program is to devise green and creative strategies to synthesize organic materials in a manner that reduce cost, reduce waste and improve safety. The synthesis of well‐studied conjugated polymers in the ball mill will be conducted in order to investigate the polymerization kinetics in ball‐milled reactions. Reaction parameters such as grinding ball size, reaction time, collision frequency and temperature will be assessed for their influence on conversion, degree of polymerization, molecular weights, polydispersity and yield. Sponsor: Alfred P. Sloan Foundation PI/PD: Toby Nelson Catalytic acceptorless dehydrogenation facilitated by molecular nickel‐ and copper‐phosphorous complexes The average composition of hydrocarbons in petroleum is made of over 80% saturated hydrocarbons and around 10% aromatics as suitable raw materials for chemical syntheses. The increasing societal demand for value‐added products requires useful strategies for the conversion of cycloalkanes and heterocycles to their aromatic forms. In our research, we aim to rationally design catalysts for the selective and efficient conversion of petrochemicals to valuable chemicals. We synthesize and characterize Ni‐ and Cu‐phosphine complexes, establish their dehydrogenative reactivity, explore the mechanism, and elucidate the structure and reactivity relationship. We then demonstrate a direct method to convert petrochemicals to more value‐added products using our catalysts. Sponsor: American Chemical Society‐Petroleum Research Fund PI/PD: Laleh Tahsini Fluor Mop‐for Selective Cleanup of PFOA and PFAS from Groundwater: Phase II. This project aims to develop material that can selectively bind fluorinated contaminants via surface modification of a proprietary material. Specifically, the project will focus on the removal of perfluoocatnoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) which have been widely used for numerous purposes given their unique physical properties. The molecules tend to be both water, oil, and dirt‐repellant, and fire‐retardant among many things. As such, these molecules were applied in many commercial applications, including both non‐stick cookware and fire suppressing aqueous film forming foams. Unfortunately, little foresight was given to the fact that these same properties make these chemicals persistent in the environment. Recently, they have been linked to numerous health issues. Weaver Labs has developed a Fluor‐Mop material that is selective for PFOS and PFOA even in the presence of
naturally occurring obscurant compounds which are in higher concentrations in the environment relative to PFOS/PFOA typically and competitively bind to materials like activated carbon the current material of choice for adsorption. Sponsor: Air Force (Phase II STTR with Weaver Labs) PI/PD: Jimmie Weaver 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 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 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 thermochromic and luminescent properties and these attributes will be investigated and correlated with the composition of the molecules. DFT computational studies will also be carried out for these molecules in order to determine the origin of their luminescent behavior. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Scott Weinert 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 PI/PD: Yolanda Vasquez MRI: Acquisition of a High‐Resolution Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope (CLSM) for the Advancement of Materials and Biological Research at Oklahoma State University An award is made to the Oklahoma State University (OSU) to acquire a confocal laser scanning microscope. The instrument will provide advanced imaging capabilities to support research from faculty, postdoctoral researchers, graduate students and undergraduate students in over 10 departments from OSU Stillwater campus, Tulsa campus, and other institutes in Oklahoma. The proposed microscope will become part of the array of equipment that the OSU Microscopy
Lab uses for public outreach and engagement, including STEM education at the K‐12 level. This project is also embedded in the OSU research mission and provides support and training opportunities to students from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in the sciences. This project will have an immediate impact on 62 individuals from underrepresented groups. Acquisition of this instrument will not only impact research and research training but will also play an important role in development of a diverse, globally competitive STEM workforce by advancing research at OSU and assisting in the recruitment of underrepresented minority students. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Yolanda Vasquez, Josh Ramsey, Heather Fahlenkamp, Shitao Li
GEOGRAPHY FY18‐19 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. Work will continue on removing erroneous and duplicate records in OLI 8‐12 additional counties beyond the 15+ that have already been completed. Software upgrades and new development include improvements to processing for historic bridges and updates portable database for SHPO contractors to use during survey work. The new portable database will also allow for direct import of survey records to the online database. In addition, continuing user interface changes to improve the experience and usability of the online system. Also, development of a new automated process to detect record duplication was initiated. Sponsors: Oklahoma Historical Society, Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Allen Finchum, Michael Larson FY19‐20 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 is accessible to its many users. Work will continue on removing erroneous and duplicate records in OLI 10‐15 additional counties beyond those completed in the past three years. Implementation of automated detection of duplicates will also be completed. Additional software upgrades will be undertaken during this period as well, including additional import functions for adding records to the OLI database and interface upgrades to allow for an improved user experience. A new stand‐alone database for state Code 106 projects will also be prepared, and an importable version of the OLI Database for use by field surveyors will be completed. Sponsors: Oklahoma Historical Society, Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Allen Finchum, Michael Larson FY 2018‐2023 Participatory Approaches to Agroecosystem Resilience in Times of Drought (ARID): An Example from the Southern Great Plains Persistent drought, dwindling groundwater resources, and climate variability in western agroecosystems require anticipatory management. Developing short and long‐term management strategies that are proactive rather than reactive are essential for maintaining ecological, social, and economic resilience. Using quantitative land‐use and land‐cover analyses in the Southern Great Plains in conjunction with qualitative key‐informant interviews and household surveys of residents across three counties (Union County, NM, Cimarron County, OK, and Las Animas, CO), we will identify how individuals make land and groundwater management decisions. Based on the premise that sustainable management solutions are more effectively developed and more likely adopted using participatory approaches including citizen science,
our research and extension teams will foster the co‐production of knowledge and disseminate this information in formal and informal programs and educational materials. Sponsor: USDA‐NIFA‐AFRI PI/PDs: Jacqueline Vadjunec Arizona State University: Amy Frazier, Peter Kedron New Mexico State University: David DuBois, Amy Ganguli, Rossana Sallenave Oklahoma Biological Survey: Todd Fagin Development of an Interactive Spatial Agrometrics Tool for the Calculation of Livestock (Cattle, Swine and Poultry) Populations in the United States at the County and Parish Level The goal of this project is to develop a dynamic, interactive, web‐based agrometrics tool for the calculation of cattle, swine, and/or poultry populations relative to their proximity to a point of interest (e.g., NAHLN member laboratory or index case in a disease outbreak) and independent from state borders. The developed tool is expected to provide regional data that assists NAHLN in test capacity and capability management, regional surge capacity estimation, resource allocation, and potentially help identify a geographic region with unmet diagnostic needs. Sponsor: USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service PI/PDs: Hongbo Yu Agricultural Economics: Amy Hagerman, Derrell Peel OK Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory: Emily Cooper, Akhilesh Ramachandran FY 2019 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 personnel by way of a web map viewer. The project involves the collection of geographic data (with GPS, digital cameras, unmanned aerial vehicles, etc.) 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/PDs: Alyson Greiner, Michael Larson FY 2020 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 personnel by way of a web map viewer. The project involves the collection of geographic data (with GPS, digital cameras, unmanned aerial vehicles, etc.) 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/PDs: Alyson Greiner, Michael Larson
StateView Program Development and Operations for the State of Oklahoma State University A primary goal of this project is to organize and host a workshop that focuses on the applications of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to agriculture and natural resources. In the process this will build a platform in the state for those using UAS, both researchers and users, to discuss current advances and challenges. The workshop will be hosted by several OSU departments and institutes from across campus, and will bring together faculty, staff, graduate students and personnel from federal and state agencies. Sponsors: AmericaView, U.S. Geological Survey PI/PD: Yuting Zhou
GEOLOGY Field Evaluation of the Caney Shale as an Emerging Unconventional Hydrocarbon Play, Southern Oklahoma The Caney Shale is a potential oil‐and gas‐producing interval that is being studied to determine if it has the rock properties to become an economically significant oil and gas reservoir in southern Oklahoma. Attributes being evaluated include rock types and distribution, mineral composition, pore system architecture, rock mechanical properties, natural fracture systems, response to drilling and hydraulic fracturing fluids and proppants, and an evaluation of project economics. This project is a cooperative effort between geoscientists and engineers at multiple academic institutions, Federal and State research labs and the petroleum industry. Continental Resources provided unique core data essential to the project’s success. Sponsor: U.S. Department of Energy PI/PDs: Jim Puckette, Mike Grammer, Jack Pashin College of Engineering: Mileva Radonjic, Geir Hareland, Prem Bikkina Lawrence Berkley National Lab: Jonny Rutqvist, Christine Doughty Oklahoma Geological Survey, University of Oklahoma: Abbas Seyedolali, Brian Cardott University of Pittsburg: Andrew Bunger Continental Resources: Andy Rihn, Adam Haecker, Barry Dean Collaborative Research: Interpreting the Record of Antarctic Sediment Influenced by Metal‐Rich Deep‐Sea Hydrothermal Deposits from Their Accumulation through Early Diagenesis and Burial The release of specific heavy metals from hydrothermal vents into the water column can impact the surrounding faunal composition, microbial processes, and potentially overprint geochemical signals recorded in the nearby deposited sediments. The main goal of this research project was to collect and secure samples during a sea‐going expedition to the Scotia Sea on the research vessel R/V Polarstern to identify the impact of hydrothermal fluids on the surrounding marine environment with focus on the sedimentary system. The collected samples are the foundation for further research projects to advance our knowledge on how hydrothermal vents impact the surrounding biological and geochemical environment. Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF) – Ocean Sciences (OCE) PI/PD: Natascha Riedinger
Chemical characterization of produced water using NMR analysis to identify compound classes. The objective is to improve the chemical characterization of produced waters by increasing knowledge about the presence, sources, and concentration of inorganic components and organic functional groups and compounds. A novel combination of spectroscopic and chemical analyses is proposed to characterize organic compounds in produced waters, including nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and elemental analysis. This project also aims to constrain the analytical techniques to quantify detection limits and standardize methods, to develop a rigorous analytical methodology that can be used to characterize the organic compound composition of produced waters at the compound‐class level for a range of salinities. Sponsors: Oklahoma Water Resources Board, National Research Consortium PI/PD: Tracy Quan A new dolomite filtration technology to remove heavy metals and NORM from produced water To enable the integration of petroleum produced water (PW) into agricultural and industrial uses, the goal of this research project is to quantify the potentiality of removing heavy metals and naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) from PW by using filters made of compressed powdered dolomite. The potentiality of the proposed PW treatment method is on the following scientific and practical considerations: 1) dolomites represent a superior sorption capacity for heavy metals in high salinity waters than other natural and synthetic sorption materials, and 2) high purity dolomites are abundant in the Arbuckle Group of Oklahoma and Kansas. Sponsor: USGS 103(b) Program PI/PD: Javier Vilcaez Establishing an Early CO2 Storage Complex in Kemper County, Mississippi: Project ECO2S (Phase III) This project is designed to develop a zero‐emission power facility and CO2 storage hub in east‐central Mississippi. This research project includes the drilling and coring of three wells for geologic characterization, and the wells will ultimately be used for injection and monitoring of CO2 in the subsurface. Advanced core analysis, geophysical logging, CT imaging, and geological interpretation will be performed to develop geologic models of candidate geologic CO2 storage sinks and seals. Sponsor: U.S. Department of Energy through Southern States Energy Board PI/PD: Jack Pashin, Devon Energy Chair of Basin Research
Southeast Regional CO2 Utilization and Storage Acceleration Partnership (SECARB‐USA) SECARB‐USA is a regional partnership program to advance carbon storage in the southeastern US. The effort at OSU partnership includes Oklahoma and South Carolina and will assess CO2 storage and enhanced oil and gas recovery potential in saline formations, conventional oil and gas reservoirs, and unconventional oil and gas reservoirs. Machine learning technology will be developed and applied to evaluation and risk assessment of storage and enhanced recovery opportunities. Sponsor: U.S. Department of Energy through Southern States Energy Board PI/PDs: Jack Pashin, Camelia Knapp, James Knapp, Priyank Jaiswal SECARB Offshore Partnership The SECARB Offshore Partnership is evaluating the CO2 storage potential of offshore strata in the Central and Eastern Gulf of Mexico. This research is using 3D seismic surveys, well data, and production data to quantify the CO2 storage resource and the potential for enhanced oil recovery in the continental shelf and upper continental slope, where many of the nation’s most prolific oil and gas reservoirs are located. A machine learning system is being designed and developed to assist in the evaluation and screening of storage objectives and assessment of the geologic risks associated with offshore geologic CO2 storage. Sponsor: U.S. Department of Energy through Southern States Energy Board PI/PD: Jack Pashin, Devon Energy Chair of Basin Research SECARB Offshore: Evolution of a Gas Hydrate‐Bearing System and its Temporal and Spatial response to Natural Perturbations: Woolsey Mound, Gulf of Mexico This study on the evolution of a gas hydrate‐bearing system and its temporal and spatial response to natural perturbations is focused around the Woolsey Mound in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM). Woolsey Mound is a cold seep hydrate system (CSHS) where hydrocarbon fluids (mainly methane gas) are transferred from the lithosphere into the hydrosphere, accounting for the major source of hydrocarbons in seawaters. Results will provide fundamental numerical parameters of the development and evolution of a gas hydrate‐bearing system and its response to natural perturbations over a time window comparable to human scale processes. This analysis is relevant to risk assessment in connection with offshore infrastructure related to petroleum extraction activities and carbon sequestration. Sponsor: Department of Energy PI/PDs: Camelia Knapp and James Knapp
Southeastern Offshore Storage Assessment Partnership (SOSRA) The Southeast Offshore Storage Resource Assessment (SOSRA): project assesses prospective geologic storage resources for carbon dioxide (CO2) in the State and Federal waters of the Mid‐Atlantic, South Atlantic, and the eastern Gulf of Mexico. The goal of the project is to develop a high‐level approximation of the amount of CO2 that might be stored utilizing key geologic and environmental factors that influence the carbon storage potential. A diverse suite of data analysis techniques will be used, designed to ensure that a high quality assessment is performed that can meet the goal of predicting storage capacity to within ±30 percent. Utilizing existing geologic and geophysical data such as seismic reflection surveys, geophysical well logs, and supporting reservoir data (pressure, temperature, etc.), the size and geology of the prospective storage resources, including areal extent, thickness, and physical properties such as porosity and permeability, will be defined. Sponsor: Department of Energy PI/PDs: Camelia Knapp, James Knapp
HISTORY HIMME: Historical Index of the Medieval Middle East The medieval Middle East (600‐1500 AD) is still relevant today in current events, political debates, religious dialogues, architecture, and the history of science. At the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and Europe, the Middle East has long been home to very diverse human societies, with a multitude of ethnicities, languages, and religions. The project will develop a reference work to guide researchers to primary sources spanning multiple written traditions and religions (Jewish, Christian, Muslim) relevant to particular people, places, and cultural practices. Sponsors: NEH, College of Arts & Sciences PI/PD: Thomas A. Carlson Enslaving Dhimmis: Rulers, Fiqh, and Religious Diversity in Late Medieval Türkmen States Non‐Muslims under Islamic rule were supposed to be exempt from enslavement due to their payment of the jizya (a discriminatory tax), yet historical sources reveal that enslavement of non‐Muslim captives was a possible outcome of wars between Muslim rulers. This project considers both narrative sources and jurists’ discussions from Türkmen states to demonstrate that the sharia’s distinction between captivity and enslavement was not upheld in practice, and that the idea of an “Islamic world” unified under sharia is a historical fiction. Sponsor: History Department PI/PD: Thomas A. Carlson The Rise of Confession: Finland in the Swedish Kingdom 1560‐1611 This book will examine the Lutheran Reformation of the Swedish kingdom’s church by focusing on a central stage for conflict and reform, the kingdom’s eastern half or Finland. A Lutheran confessional culture developed that would serve as a basis for a Lutheran confessional state in the seventeenth century. The most important trait of Lutheran confessional culture was the vernacularization of the church’s rituals and practices. A second trait of Lutheran confessional culture consisted of the role of the temporal ruler in the leadership of the church. A third aspect pertains to the clergy. It became increasingly university educated. Many clergymen received their education directly or indirectly from Lutheran German universities. The end of priestly celibacy allowed many clergymen to create families that would hold pastoral positions for decades. Sponsor: Department of History, Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jason Lavery
Gained in Translation: Vernacularization in the Lutheran North and East This project will consists of an anthology of articles that examine the process of putting sacred works such as the Bible, the Mass, and prayer books into the languages of the people in Scandinavia and eastern Europe where Lutheran reform spread in the sixteenth century. Unlike previous research on the topic, this project will focus on the practical challenges of vernacularization ranging from financing to developing a written language. I will be co‐editor of this work as well as a contributor. Sponsor: Department of History, Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jason Lavery Washita Love Child: The Life and Times of Jesse Ed Davis Dr. Douglas Miller is busy working on a new book titled “Washita Love Child: The Life and Times of Jesse Ed Davis,” in which he explores the life of the legendary Native American rock guitarist from Oklahoma. In this project, Miller positions Davis as an important Native American historical figure, but a relatively unheralded one, even as he made his mark playing with Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, and three of the Beatles. This project follows publication of Miller’s first book, Indians on the Move: Native American Mobility and Urbanization in the Twentieth Century (2019), and benefits from OSU History Department research support. Sponsor: OSU History Department Research Support PI/PD: Douglas Miller Meade at War In March 2020, I received a Research Scholar Grant from the Oklahoma Humanities Council and a matching award from the College of Arts and Sciences. This money will supplement the final research trips for my second monograph, a biographical study of Civil War (Union) general George Meade tentatively titled Meade at War, to be published by Osprey Press. When COVID‐19 conditions allow and archives reopen, I will be visiting the Historical Society of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, the United States Military Academy Library & Archives, and Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park Library & Archives. Research yielded from these trips will be included into upcoming conference presentations at the Society for Military History and the Society of Civil War Historians as well as information to share with various community groups in my active public speaking agenda. Sponsors: Oklahoma Humanities Council, College of Arts and Sciences PI/PD: Jennifer M. Murray
Sumerian‐language Cuneiform Tablets from Ancient Iraq My research concentrates on Sumerian‐language cuneiform tablets from ancient Iraq in the late 3rd millennium B.C., but I have considered a wide variety of topics in various publications, from calendars and diplomacy to the royal family and relations with the area we now call Iran. "Upcoming research on unpublished cuneiform archives from the Yale Babylonian Collection has been generously funded by the Oklahoma Humanities Council, with a matching grant from OSU, for which I am most grateful. This project builds upon published articles: "Innovation in Religion in the Third Dynasty of Ur: Contemporary Evidence and Later Reflections,” and “Over the Mountains: The Movement of Goods and People between Mesopotamia and Elam in the 21st c. B.C." Sponsors: Oklahoma Humanities Council, Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Tonia Nash Sharlach
INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY Assessing Honey Bee Health and Crop Productivity Across a Gradient of Land Uses. Many agricultural producers rely on managed honey bees to provide pollination services for crops. The overall goal of this project is to assess how managed honey bee respond across a gradient of land cover types, and to compare data obtained from remote monitoring systems to visual assessments. Honey bee colonies will be evaluated across a gradient of land cover types that differ in the amount of crops used by honey bees, crops not used by honey bees, pasture/grassland, and developed land. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Kristen Baum Status of the Regal Fritillary in Oklahoma. The regal fritillary historically occurred from Oklahoma to North Dakota and east to the Atlantic Coast, but is now being considered for listing under the Endangered Species Act. Little is known about the population trend of regal fritillaries in Oklahoma. This project will assess the current status, geographic range, and habitat needs for regal fritillaries in the tallgrass prairie region of Oklahoma, with a focus in counties where regal fritillaries have been previously documented. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation PI/PD: Kristen Baum Document project outcomes and, if necessary, help refine the implementation of conservation practices for the monarch butterfly and other pollinators. The monarch butterfly has experienced population declines in recent years and is being considered for listing under the Endangered Species Act. Current conservation efforts are focused on increasing habitat for monarch butterflies and other pollinators, but additional information is needed to evaluate different methods for assessing the quality of monarch habitat. This project will compare several methods of habitat evaluation at sites where conservation practices have been implemented in the Midwest and Southern Great Plains. Sponsor: Natural Resources Conservation Service PI/PDs: Kristen Baum Monarch Joint Venture: Alison Cariveau, Wendy Caldwell How Do Extreme Flooding Events Impact Migratory Species? Extreme weather events, including hurricanes, can impact species in a variety of ways. For migratory species, extreme rain events may disrupt resource availability and/or modify the timing and/or location of the migration. The recent flooding associated with Hurricane Harvey provides a unique opportunity to evaluate changes in resource availability in response to disruptive weather events, including associated responses of the eastern North American monarch butterfly. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Kristen Baum Georgetown University: Leslie Ries Michigan State University: Elise Zipkin
Effects of Multiple Stressors on Pollinator Health in the Southern Plains. Bees provide important pollination services in both agricultural fields and more natural habitats. Both honey bees and native bees are in decline, and more information is needed to identify how stressors interact to influence bee populations and communities. The overall goal of this project is to evaluate how multiple stressors influence the abundance, diversity, selection, and quality of floral resources for honey bees and native bees. This project will evaluate how nutrition, agrochemicals, and parasites/disease influence managed honey bee colonies and native bee populations and communities in the wheat/canola/managed grassland agroecosystem. Sponsors: Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research, Syngenta PI/PDs: Kristen Baum, Shawn Wilder, Jason Belden College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources: Kristopher Giles, Samuel Fuhlendorf 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 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/PDs: 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/PDs: Kristen Baum College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources: Kristopher Giles, Eric DeVuyst USDA, ARS: Norman Elliott 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 College of Education: Lucy Bailey University Academic Services: Kelly Kavalier Office of Scholarship and Financial Aid: Robert Lofton Environmental and Endocrine Factors Underlying Behavioral Plasticity in Response to Adversity Early life adversity can reprogram the developing brain and endocrine system with consequences for behavior. However, only some individuals are vulnerable to early adversity, whereas others are resilient. The differential sensitivity hypothesis proposes that resilient and
vulnerable individuals differ in their degree of developmental plasticity. The goal of the proposed research is to test how three factors contribute to differences among individuals in developmental plasticity: (1) prior environmental conditions, (2) physiological reactivity to stress, and (3) glucocorticoid receptor concentrations. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health, Eunice Kennedy Shriver Institute for Child Health and Human Development PI/PD: Jennifer L. Grindstaff The rules of life were made to be broken – connecting physiology, evolutionary ecology, and mathematics to identify a Growth Rate Rule. Are there mathematically consistent and empirically verifiable rules that link the biochemical properties of cells to dynamical processes in ecosystems? This project will use the foundation of ecological stoichiometry to assess if the tripartite connections among growth rate, RNA allocation, and carbon:nitrogen:phosphorus stoichiometry constitute a Rule of Life (the Growth Rate Rule, GRR) and to evaluate conditions under which the GRR might be broken. The collaborative project will evaluate the GRR with intensive physiological, evolutionary, and ecological work on various model organisms, including the crustacean Daphnia pulex ‐ the central focus of the OSU portion. Sponsor: National Science Foundation, Division of Environmental Biology ). PI/PD: Puni Jeyasingh Linking metal nanoparticle chemical modifications at the luminal/intestinal epithelia interface to intracellular alterations of essential metal homeostasis Nanoparticles are microscopic particles with at least one dimension less than 100 nanometers. Due to the improved material properties occurring at the nanoscale, nanoparticles are used in several consumer products and can be found almost everywhere in our day to day life, from paint to toothpaste. However, besides the technological advancements they bring about, the boom in nanoparticle production also raises questions about their potential impact on human health and the environment. Using a model of the fish intestine we propose to study the absorption, toxicity and bioreactivity of two highly used nanoparticles, the titanium dioxide and the silver nanoparticles. Sponsor: National Science foundation (NSF) PI/PD: Matteo Minghetti Determination of uptake, toxicity and bio‐reactivity of organic zinc chelates (Bioplex®) and zinc inorganic salts using an in vitro model of the fish intestine, the RTgutGC Essential trace elements such as zinc, iron and copper are required by all living organisms to thrive. Therefore, these elements are added to the feed of farmed animals including fish. Inorganic metal salts are routinely used to achieve a sufficient level or metal in the fish diet however there is research showing that elements complexed with organic compounds are more absorbable and less toxic. In this study we will test if the organic zinc complex (Bioplex®) is more absorbable (i.e. bioavailable) and less toxic than an inorganic zinc complex (ZnSO4). Sponsor: Alltech® PI/PD: Matteo Minghetti
Understanding Large‐Scale Patterns of Ecomorph Evolution In this project, we develop an integrative approach 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 data on evolutionary relationships, ecology, body form, functional performance, and geographic distribution. This study will provide the first exploration of how these different factors explain large‐scale patterns of ecomorph evolution across a major group of organisms. The project supports training of diverse students, including a summer undergraduate research experience. Sponsor: NSF PI/PD: Daniel Moen Quail Ecology and Management II Bobwhite quail populations have experienced a long‐term decline. Arthropods are a key food for growing quail chicks and adult females that are producing eggs. The goal for the invertebrate component of this project is to examine how habitat types and land management affect the quantity and nutrient content of arthropod prey available to quail. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation PI/PDs: Shawn Wilder College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources: Craig Davis, Samuel Fuhlendorf, Dwayne Elmore, Laura Goodman EAGER: Combining Elemental and Biochemical Measures of Prey to Improve Predictions of Trophic Transfers of Nutrients This project is testing if macronutrients, such as lipid and protein, provide a better measure of prey quality for predators than measures of the nitrogen and carbon content of prey. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Shawn Wilder Predation on Nutrient Vectors Regulates Patch Nutrient Dynamics: Testing How Predation by Spiders Regulates Nutrient Dynamics in the Negev Desert. This project is testing how spiders affect the flow of nutrients through ecosystems using the Negev Desert in Israel as a case study. Sponsor: Binational Science Foundation PI/PDs: Shawn Wilder Hebrew University of Jerusalem: Dror Hawlena
Development and testing of a mesocosm design for conducting developmental toxicity test on amphibians native to North America Ideally, developmental toxicity tests with amphibians would be performed on species native to the area of concern. However, due to the dependence on both terrestrial and aquatic environments during development and a relatively long developmental stage, these tests are challenging. Thus, there is a current need to develop better approaches for developmental toxicity testing of native amphibians. The objective of this project is to design and build a natural outdoor mesocosm suitable for testing of contaminant effects on amphibian development. Sponsor: Syngenta Crop Protection PI/PDs: Jason Belden, Scott McMurry The Toxicity of Pesticide Mixtures to Bees – A Review and Synthesis of Current Literature with Respect to Accepted Mixture Modelling Approaches and Risk Assessment Pesticide exposure typically occurs as a mixture of pesticides rather than a single active ingredient. As pesticide risk assessment is frequently conducted based on single active ingredients or single formulations, there has been concern that pesticide mixtures may cause environmental harm that would not be expected from the initial risk assessment. The objective of this project is to review current literature describing the toxicity of pesticide mixtures to bees and determine the frequency that toxicity can be modelled using available approaches as compared to the frequency where synergy occurs. Sponsor: Syngenta Crop Protection PI/PD: Jason Belden
MATHEMATICS 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. Ten conferences have been held to date. TORA XI is supported by this grant. It was scheduled to be held at OSU in Spring 2020 and has been postponed to a later time due to COVID‐19. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Mahdi Asgari, Roger Zierau AMS‐Simons Travel Grant The primary aim of the proposed research is to apply ideas from differential geometry to a number of major longstanding problems concerning the boundary behavior of functions of several complex variables. The problems considered include the Ramadanov conjecture concerning the global vanishing of the logarithmic singularity in the Bergman kernel, the question of global boundary regularity for Fefferman's complex Monge‐Ampère equation, and understanding the failure of smooth boundary regularity (below a certain threshold) for proper holomorphic mappings in positive codimension. Sponsor: The American Mathematics Society (AMS) and the Simons Foundation PI/PD: Sean Curry Collaborations in Combinatorial Commutative Algebra This grant funds several collaborations in combinatorial commutative algebra. The PI and his coauthors, including 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/PD: Christopher Francisco Ternary cubic forms and one‐commutators / Percolating components of random waves In previous work with Peter Sarnak (IAS, Princeton), we studied lattice points on the cubic Markoff level surfaces: giving a deterministic algorithm for the existence of lattice points, showing the failure of the Hasse Principle beyond a Brauer‐Manin obstruction, showing the existence of lattice points for almost all such surfaces and computations on the "class number." Our new project considers similar questions over real quadratic number fields and S‐integers. We have shown a failure of the Hasse Principle over S‐integers and that the lattice points are topologically dense when a single lattice point exists, for both number fields and S‐integers. Sponsor: Simons Foundation PI: Amit Ghosh
Algorithmic recognition of 3‐manifolds and tangles A central problem in any field is to try and identify the basic objects in the field up to equivalence. In 3‐manifold topology, these problems have been largely solved. However, fast and effective algorithms to identify and distinguish 3‐manifolds remains an elusive goal. This project will improve upon existing 3‐manifold identification schemes and implement new algorithms in the field. Finally, these improvements in 3‐manifold recognition will be applied to construct an atlas of tangles, which will serve as a breeding ground for new questions in the 3‐manifold topology and related fields. Sponsor: Simons Foundation PI/PD: Neil R Hoffman CR Functions and Singularities Perhaps the most basic application of complex analysis is extending a real function to a holomorphic (analytic) function, and then applying complex analytic techniques to solve a problem. The aim of this grant is to understand certain aspects of the interaction of real and complex objects, in particular extending functions from spaces with a partial and possibly singular complex structure. More specifically, we wish to find normal forms for such spaces. In certain specific cases, we wish to find normal forms for the maps that arise, and also to study a certain operator producing the desired functions. Sponsor: Simons Foundation PI/PD: Jiri Lebl Flag varieties, Schubert varieties, and related combinatorial and geometric structures The purpose of this grant is to support mathematical research focused on the relationship between the combinatorics and geometry of flag varieties, Schubert varieties, and similar geometric objects. There were three aims to this project. The first is to study the cohomological structure of Springer fibers in the flag variety. The second is to looks at the Nash blow‐ups of Schubert varieties. The third was to develop a two‐step analogue of Schubert polynomials. Sponsor: CAS ASR +1 PI/PD: Edward Richmond 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/PD: Michael Tallman
The Mathematical Inquiry Project: Faculty Instructional Change for Enhanced Student Learning and Success in Entry‐Level Mathematics The Mathematical Inquiry Project is a statewide collaboration among mathematics departments at the 27 public institutions of higher education is Oklahoma to foster sustainable, large‐scale reforms to improve learning, applicability, and equity in entry‐level mathematics courses. It focuses specifically on fostering students’ development of academic success skills, incorporating meaningful applications into mathematics instruction, and promoting active learning. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: William Jaco, Michael Oehrtman, Allison Dorko, John Paul Cook, Michael Tallman Topics of Immersed Finite Element Methods Interface problems are ubiquitous. Many real‐world applications in fluid mechanics, mechanical engineering, and biomedical engineering are modeled by three‐dimensional interface problems. The immersed finite element method (IFEM) is a class of unfitted‐mesh numerical methods for solving interface problems. In this project, we aim to (1) design a self‐adaptive IFEM based on rigorous a posteriori error estimation, and (2) develop, implement, and analyze a new class of IFEM for three‐dimensional interface problems. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Xu Zhang
MICROBIOLOGY AND MOLECULAR GENETICS 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/PD: Tyrrell Conway Regulation of MAPKs in development Atypical MAP kinases (MAPKs) are important for cell growth, differentiation, and movement in humans and other eukaryotes but relatively little is known about the regulation and function of atypical MAPKs compared to typical MAPKs. This project will characterize the regulation of the atypical MAPK homolog in Dictyostelium using the powerful genetic and biochemical tools available in this model organism. This study will provide important insights into the developmental roles of MAPKs and their relationship to genetic diseases. Sponsor: NIH ‐ NIGMS PI/PD: Jeff Hadwiger Functional characterization of a lysophospholipase that influences P. aeruginosa biofilm formation A newly discovered protein in the notorious human opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa appears to shut off biofilm formation in certain genetic backgrounds. Biofilms are collections of bacterial cells that team up to protect themselves from their environment, and they are a treatment challenge in human infections. Hence, being able to suppress biofilm formation would represent a potential antibacterial strategy. This project aims to clarify the role of the newly discovered protein in signaling pathways leading to biofilm suppression. Sponsor: NIH PI/PD: Matthew Cabeen Characterization of novel biofilm regulators in P. aeruginosa Biofilms are collections of bacterial cells that team up to protect themselves from their environment, and infections with biofilm‐forming species, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are often difficult to treat with conventional therapy. This project aims to characterize the roles of two proteins that function in regulating biofilm formation by P. aerugninosa. The research strategy includes gene expression profiling and other molecular techniques to achieve a detailed understanding of how the two proteins affect signaling pathways and cell physiology. Sponsor: NIH PI/PD: Matthew Cabeen Heme Iron Acquisition in Mycobacterium tuberculosis Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), a lung pathogen, is completely dependent on iron acquisition to successfully colonize the human host. To limit Mtb infection, iron is sequestered in host binding proteins such as transferrin (Tf), ferritin, and lactoferrin (Lf); or in the form of heme within hemoglobin. Mtb secretes siderophores to acquire iron from Tf, ferritin and Lf, but
the siderophores cannot access iron in heme or hemoglobin, which store more than 75% of host iron. Our overarching goals are to understand how Mtb captures heme from host hemoproteins and determine the importance of heme in Mtb virulence and disease progression. Sponsor: College of Arts and Sciences PI/PD: Avishek Mitra Discovery and characterization of novel microbial lineages in an early Earth analog sulfur‐based ecosystem. The overall goal of this proposal is to characterize and identify microorganisms that reside in an anaerobic sulfur‐spring in southwestern Oklahoma. The spring represents a readily accessible environment where various locations in the spring correspond to conditions that were prevalent in earlier geological times. Therefore, the spring provides a rare window to examine the type of organisms that flourished in the early earth. Microbial community characterization will be achieved using state of the art metagenomic analysis and metabolic reconstruction, functional genomics approaches, as well as in‐silico data mining and comparative genomics strategies. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Noha Youssef, Mostafa Elshahed Title: PurSUit: Discovery, characterization, and elucidation of the global patterns and determinants of anaerobic fungal (Neocallimastigomycota) diversity in the herbivorous gut The purpose of this project is to conduct an extensive global‐level diversity survey to characterize the identity and community structure of anaerobic gut fungi on earth. The effort will target herbivores that harbor, or putatively harbor these fungi to fill significant gaps of knowledge regarding their scope of diversity in nature. In addition, the project will provide updated taxonomic framework and characterize multiple novel fungal isolates, establish minimal and recommended standards for novel taxa description and naming, expand anaerobic gut culture collection, and promote initiatives for storage, sharing, and maintenance between laboratories. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Mostafa Elshahed, Noha Youssef Phylogenomics and evolutionary history of the Neocallimastigomycota” This goal of this project is to investigate the evolutionary history of the anaerobic fungi (Neocallimastigomycota), and to determine the exact time and sequence of events that lead to their sequestration evolution. This will be achieved by sequencing the genomes of a large collection of anaerobic fungi, and analyzing the data produced using a wide range of computational procedures. The efforts will lead to significant advances in our understanding of their evolutionary history. Further, the data obtained would be of interest to a broader group of scientists working in the areas of biofuel research, animal nutrition, and molecular biology. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Noha Youssef, Mostafa Elshahed
The center for Micorbiome and Genome Research: A sustainable research, training, and services‐oriented microbial diversity and genomics center at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University. The project will establish a world‐class center for microbial diversity and genomics at the Microbiology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University (MFOPCU). The center will enlist the help of two Egyptian‐American Professors (Drs. Mostafa Elshahed and Noha Youssef) at Oklahoma State University, USA. The center will act as the premier national research entity for microbial diversity and genomics in Egypt, and will have three main missions: To conduct world‐class microbial diversity research; to provide training to a wide range of Egyptian and regional scientists; and to act as a service provider for academic and industrial entities. Sponsor: Egyptian Academy of Scientific Research and Technology. PI/PDs: Mostafa Elshahed, Noha Youssef Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt: Ramy K. Aziz Phylogenomics and evolutionary history of the Neocallimastigomycota The goal of this project is to investigate the evolutionary history of the anaerobic fungi (Neocallimastigomycota), and to determine the exact time and sequence of events that lead to their sequestration evolution. This will be achieved by sequencing the genomes of a large collection of anaerobic fungi, and analyzing the data produced using a wide range of computational procedures. The efforts will lead to significant advances in our understanding of their evolutionary history. Further, the data obtained would be of interest to a broader group of scientists working in the areas of biofuel research, animal nutrition, and molecular biology. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Noha Youssef, Mostafa Elshahed The center for Micorbiome and Genome Research: A sustainable research, training, and services‐oriented microbial diversity and genomics center at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University. The project will establish a world‐class center for microbial diversity and genomics at the Microbiology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University (MFOPCU). The center will enlist the help of two Egyptian‐American Professors (Drs. Mostafa Elshahed and Noha Youssef) at Oklahoma State University, USA. The center will act as the premier national research entity for microbial diversity and genomics in Egypt, and will have three main missions: To conduct world‐class microbial diversity research; to provide training to a wide range of Egyptian and regional scientists; and to act as a service provider for academic and industrial entities. Sponsor: Egyptian Academy of Scientific Research and Technology. PI/PDs: Mostafa Elshahed, Noha Youssef Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt: Ramy K. Aziz Discovery and characterization of novel microbial lineages in an early Earth analog sulfur‐based ecosystem. The overall goal of this proposal is to characterize and identify microorganisms that reside in an anaerobic sulfur‐spring in southwestern Oklahoma. The spring represents a readily accessible environment where various locations in the spring correspond to conditions that were
prevalent in earlier geological times. Therefore, the spring provides a rare window to examine the type of organisms that flourished in the early earth. Microbial community characterization will be achieved using state of the art metagenomic analysis and metabolic reconstruction, functional genomics approaches, as well as in‐silico data mining and comparative genomics strategies. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Noha Youssef, Mostafa Elshahed PurSUit: Discovery, characterization, and elucidation of the global patterns and determinants of anaerobic fungal (Neocallimastigomycota) diversity in the herbivorous gut The purpose of this project is to conduct an extensive global‐level diversity survey to characterize the identity and community structure of anaerobic gut fungi on earth. The effort will target herbivores that harbor, or putatively harbor these fungi to fill significant gaps of knowledge regarding their scope of diversity in nature. In addition, the project will provide updated taxonomic framework and characterize multiple novel fungal isolates, establish minimal and recommended standards for novel taxa description and naming, expand anaerobic gut culture collection, and promote initiatives for storage, sharing, and maintenance between laboratories. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Mostafa Elshahed, Noha Youssef Grand River Dam Authority and Oklahoma State University Collaborative Water Quality Research Program The project funds various research activities related to water quality in general and water quality in Grand Lake in particular. Various research thrusts within this broader initiative include efforts to characterize, predict, and mitigate algal blooming events in Grand Lake, how climatological factors impact trophic relationships within the complex food web structure of the lake, and how anthropogenic activities around the lake are impacting the water quality. Sponsor: Grand Lake River Authority PI/PDs: Jason Belden, Noha Youssef The mechanisms of rod shape determination For some pathogens, changes in cell shape can elicit changes in virulence. Unfortunately, there is limited information on how cell shape is achieved in many bacteria. Many antibiotics lead to changes in cell shape providing evidence that more information about bacterial cell shape is important for human health. In an era of growing antibiotic resistance, there is a critical need to better understand bacterial cell shape and virulence in order to target novel bacterial proteins for new therapeutics. The overall objectives of this proposal are to determine the molecular mechanisms of bacterial cell shape determinants in achieving cell shape. Sponsor: NIH NIGMS‐ COBRE Pilot PI/PD: Randy Morgenstein
Beyond cell shape: A novel role for the bacterial actin MreB in chemotaxis The human cytoskeleton is a common drug targets for combating cancer and infection. While the bacterial cytoskeleton is biochemically similar to the eukaryotic cytoskeleton, it has not been highly targeted as an antibiotic target. Preliminary results suggest that the bacterial cytoskeleton controls multiple different aspects of cell physiology and this proposal aims to characterize the interplay between the cytoskeleton and bacterial chemotaxis in order to find new targets for therapeutics. Sponsor: NIH NIGMS‐ R15 PI/PD: Randy Morgenstein 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/PD: 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/PDs: Robert Burnap, Steven Holland Interactions of Human Pulmonary Macrophage and Dendritic Cell Subsets with Cryptococcus neoformans Cryptococcus neoformans is an inhaled opportunistic fungal pathogen that disseminates to the brain causing life‐threatening meningitis. Host factors that determine fungal killing or survival by pulmonary immune cells remain poorly defined, presenting a major gap in understanding how this pathogen ultimately causes meningitis and death. We hypothesize that subsets of pulmonary immune cells restrict fungal growth through direct intracellular fungicidal activity absent in permissive subsets. We will first characterize the fungicidal response of human pulmonary immune cells and examine roles of fungicidal mediators. We will then identify differentially regulated genes/signaling pathways responsible for fungicidal activity. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health, General Medical Sciences PI/PD: Karen Wozniak
Ca2+‐binding protein EfhP mediates Ca2+ regulation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence and host‐pathogen interactions The major goal of this project is to characterize the role of calcium‐binding protein EfhP in host‐pathogen interactions of P. aeruginosa Sponsor: NIH R15 PI/PDs: Marianna Patrauchan, Erika Lutter Two pathways for calcium signaling and virulence regulation in P. aeruginosa The major goal of this project is to identify and characterize the two pathways involving CarP and EfhP in calcium regulation of P. aeruginosa virulence Sponsor: NIH COBRE Phase II PI/PD: Marianna Patrauchan Pretreatment of switchgrass by fungi‐bacteria co‐culture for effective saccharification and butanol production. The major goal of this project was to evaluate the feasibility of using a co‐culture of fungi and bacteria to degrade lignin in switchgrass and determine butanol production in biologically pretreated switchgrass. Flasks containing 7.5 % switchgrass were inoculated with only bacteria (Pseudomonas sp., Arthrobacter sp., and Alcaligenes sp), only fungi (Phanerochaete sp. and Myceliophthora sp), and a co‐culture of the above bacteria and fungi. Samples taken from each treatment were assayed for major lignin degrading enzymes, degradation of lignin, and microbial population dynamics. Results showed maximal amount of lignocellulose degradation when switchgrass was treated with a co‐culture of bacterial and fungi. Also, bacterial growth was much better in flasks containing both bacteria and fungi suggesting synergistic interactions of bacteria and fungi. Sponsor: OCAST PI/PDs: Babu Fathepure College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources: Atiyeh Hasan Isolation and characterization of a halophilic Modicisalibacter sp. strain Wilcox from produced water A large amount of produced water (PW) is generated during oil and gas production activities and > 90% of PW is deep well injected. This practice has the potential to contaminate groundwater and cause earth quakes. Therefore, there is great interest in developing bioremediation technologies for the cleanup and reuse of this vast resource. Recently, we have isolated a novel bacteria, Modicisalibacter sp. strain Wilcox from PW. This strain is capable of degrading a variety of hydrocarbons at salinity ranging from 3 to 24 % NaCl. The genome analysis of strain Wilcox predicted many genes needed for the degradation of hydrocarbons and genes for heavy metal resistance. Overall, strain Wilcox has the potential to bioremediate toxic PW. Sponsor: OK‐EPSCoR PI/PDs: Babu Fathepure College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources: Raymond Huhnke
MUSIC Keyboard Lab Replacement Headphones I received a grant of $850 to replace headphones for the 13 keyboards in our current keyboard lab. There are 30 different classes, labs and rehearsals in this room each week and, in addition to the class schedule, students also use these keyboards to practice on. Sponsor: College of Arts and Sciences student technology fee grant PI/PD: Heather Lanners Guest Artist Recital and Class in Niš, Serbia I was awarded $1200 to present a guest artist recital and class at the Faculty of the Arts, University of Niš, in Niš, Serbia in April, 2020. The concert and class have been postponed until spring 2021 due to COVID‐19. Sponsor: CAS FY20 Spring Travel Program PI/PD: Heather Lanners OSU Online Summer Music Camp We received a grant to help subsidize the OSU Online Summer Music Camp for high school students. The OAC granted $2903 in matching funds for the virtual music camp that took place June 29‐30, 2020. Because of this generous grant, we were able to make the camp free to all participants. Sponsor: “Arts in Communities” grant from the Oklahoma Arts Council PI/PDs: Heather Lanners, Andrew W. Parker What the Judges Hear: A Competitions Panel The criteria judges utilize when adjudicating beginning through advanced students in competitions was discussed in detail, including brief comments on video clips of performances of four students of various levels of advancement. This was a Pedagogy Saturday session at the Music Teachers National Association’s annual conference. Sponsor: OSU Friends of Music Faculty Professional Assistance funds ($250) PI/PD: Thomas Lanners Hearing Voices?: Addressing the Subject of Balancing Voices in Beethoven’s ‘Pathétique’ Sonata, opus 13 This lecture‐recital, along with several piano master classes, was presented as part of the Shanghai Conservatory International Piano Pedagogy Conference, an event that attracted several hundred attendees from across the nation of China. Sponsor: OSU College of Arts and Sciences FY 20 Fall Travel Award ($1000) PI/PD: Thomas Lanners Flute Concertino Performance with the Lake Forest Civic Orchestra My featured performance with the Lake Forest Civic Orchestra in the John and Nancy Hughes Theater at the Gorton Community Center on October 6, 2019 was titled ‘Romance and Renascence’. The concert opened with Bernstein’s Overture to Candide, I joined the orchestra
for Lita Grier’s Renascence Concertino for Flute and Orchestra, and the concert concluded with Sibelius’ Symphony No. 1 in e Minor, op. 39. Composer Lita Grier was in attendance with Dr. Christopher Ramaekers conducting. Sponsor: Friends of Music PI/PD: Erin Murphy CD Release Concert Tour for Day and Night: Modern Flute and Piano Duos by Women Composers My performances with pianist Dr. Kirstin Ihde will feature six 20th and 21st century flute and piano duos by women composers. Our recording has a projected release date of August 2020 on the Albany Records label. Coinciding with the release, we will perform three concerts and a live radio appearance in the Midwest. The concerts will take place in Chicago at PianoForte Studios and The People’s Music School, and at the University of Wisconsin‐Oshkosh and Wisconsin Public Radio. Sponsor: CAS FY 2020 Spring Travel Program PI/PD: Erin Murphy Professional Recording Release and Concert Tour for Day and Night: Modern Flute and Piano Duos by Women Composers My full‐length professional recording of six 20th and 21st century flute and piano duos by women composers is scheduled for release on Albany Records in August 2020. The repertoire includes Lili Boulanger’s Nocturne; Germaine Tailleferre’s Pastorale and Forlane; Mel Bonis’ Sonata for flute and piano; Nancy Galbraith’s Atacama; and Lita Grier’s Sonata for flute and piano. The recording’s collaborative pianist is Dr. Kirstin Ihde, Associate Professor of Piano at the University of Wisconsin‐Oshkosh, and recording engineer Marv Nonn. Sponsor: CAS Humanities‐, Arts‐, and Design‐Based Disciplines Research Project Grant PI/PD: Erin Murphy
PLANT BIOLOGY, ECOLOGY, AND EVOLUTION 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) Andrew Doust (OSU Plant Biology, Ecology, & Evolution) 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 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
Genetic comparisons of Abscission Zones in Grasses II 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 Dissecting the effect of photoperiod on branching, height, and flowering time in locally adapted populations of the C4 model grass, Setaria viridis We are using Setaria viridis to understand photoperiod responses, by dissecting the relationships between branching, elongation, and flowering in plants from populations that are locally adapted to different latitudes. We will assess phenotypic diversity in multiple accessions along a north‐south latitudinal gradient, investigate transcriptomic control of flowering in selected accessions in 12 and 16 hour photoperiod regimes, and assess phenotypic and bud and internode transcriptomic differences in common garden experiments at 12 and 16 hour photoperiods. These integrated datasets will allow us to correlate bud, stem, and lifecycle behavior, to understand plant response to differing environments. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) PI/PD: Andrew Doust 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 American Crossroads: Digitizing the Vascular Flora of the South‐Central United States This project brings together 46 collaborating herbaria to mobilize the data from nearly two million plant specimens collected in the states of Oklahoma and Texas. Because these two states constitute a major crossroads of North American ecological and plant diversity, digitizing their plant specimen data can serve as a key element for understanding ecosystem evolution across the North American continent. The project will include data for species of conservation concern, invasives, and environmental health indicators, thus enhancing species and habitat
conservation and management. It will involve as participants members of plant enthusiast organizations (such as native plant societies) in specimen data entry. The project will contribute to a globally competitive STEM workforce through workshops and lectures for its technicians and practical training for undergraduate interns. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Mark Fishbein Botanical Research Institute of Texas: Peter Fritsch University of Texas at Austin: George Yatskievych University of Oklahoma: Abigail Moore, Bruce Hoagland Texas A&M University: Daniel Spalink Regional assessment of defenses against bark beetle outbreak in loblolly pine plantations: the influence of climate variability and forest management across the southeastern US. Warmer and drier winters have the potential to increase the severity of bark beetle outbreaks in loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), a tree planted on over 16 million ha across the southeastern US, making it an important timber species in the US. Worsening outbreaks of bark beetles in loblolly pine plantations could cause billions of dollars in damage. The primary tree defense against bark beetles in loblolly and other pines is production of viscous resin which is delivered through resin ducts. This research aims to assess the variability in resin ducts across the range of loblolly pine, and determine responses to drought and management. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University Vice President for Research Office Mentor/Mentee Award Program PI/PDs: Henry Adams Natural Resource Ecology and Managment: Rodney Will 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 Collaborative Research: How to live on a (carbon and water) budget: Tree investment in chemical defenses across a gradient of physiological drought stress. Drought‐induced forest die‐off is a global phenomenon with far‐reaching impacts. In the western US, tree death from drought and bark beetle outbreak now exceeds growth in our forests. Despite increases in the frequency and severity of drought‐related insect outbreaks, how drought affects a tree defense against bark beetles has been little studied. This study will
focus on how piñon pine trees allocate their carbon resources toward defense and other physiological processes under increasing drought stress to avoid death by drought or bark beetle attack. This study aims to develop a more complete framework for assessing mechanisms of tree mortality. Sponsor: National Science Foundation Integrative Organismal Studies Program PI/PDs: Henry Adams Montana State University: Amy Trowbridge University of New Mexico: William Pockman Graduate Research Proposal: Point of no return: experimental determination of lethal hydraulic thresholds during water stress for global forests. How forests will respond to climate change is poorly understood, and experimental study to better inform predictions of effects on global carbon budgets is needed. An important question is how drought will affect the persistence or die‐off of forests. Recent reviews of tree mortality have converged on hydraulic failure as a driving mechanism behind tree mortality globally. This research will experimentally determine the lethal degree of hydraulic failure, quantified as loss of a tree’s ability to move water through its stem, in several species. This research will provide model‐ready inputs for better prediction of tree die‐off in global forests under future droughts. Sponsor: National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program PI/PDs: William Hammond, Henry Adams 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
A new leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like kinase in stomatal lineage regulation Leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like kinases (LRR‐RKs) play critical roles in plant development, including cell proliferation and cell fate determination processes. This investigation aims to characterize the function of a newly identified Arabidopsis LRR‐RK in stomatal lineage formation in the epidermis, its expression pattern, and its effect on organ size. Experimental approaches include genetic and protein‐protein interaction studies. Completion of this investigation may significantly advance the understanding of the molecular mechanism regulating stomatal lineage formation. Results from this investigation may also add valuable pieces to the genetic engineering toolbox for creating crops with stomatal densities optimized for water‐limiting growth conditions. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Ming Yang
PHILOSOPHY Research on the Development of Empathy in Children My colleagues at Duke University and I received funding in 2019 to do an fMRI study on the development of empathy in children. Due to Covid‐19, we were unable to complete the study. We rerouted the rest of the funds to investigate the link between empathy and compliance with mitigation strategies. Specifically, we are completing surveys of American adults about their attitudes and behavior with respect to mask wearing, social distancing, eating indoors at restaurants and their empathic concern for others. We predict that higher levels of trait empathy will correlate with higher levels of compliance with mitigation strategies, and interventions that increase state empathy will correlate with increased support for mitigation strategies. Sponsors: Walter Sinnott‐Armstrong, Felipe De Brigaard, Templeton Foundation PI/PD: Shannon Spaulding School of Media & Strategic Communications The Future of Global Competition and Conflict, and the Nature of Deterrence, Extended Deterrence, Compellence, Escalation Management, and Persuasion in a Dynamically Changing World This project comparative analyzed Chinese, Russian, Iranian, and Venezuelan media narratives regarding visions of the future of global competition and their instruments of exerting power. Sponsor: Department of Homeland Security (DHS) PI/PDs: Skye Cooley, Asya Cooley Monmouth College: Robert Hinck, Sara Kitsch
Mexican and Northern Triangle Perspectives on Migration: Identifying and Assessing Strategic Narrative Alignment This project will provide a comprehensive perspective on migration coming from the Northern Triangle by extending a developing theory of strategic narrative. Sponsor: Boarders, Trade and Immigration Institute, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) PI/PDs: Skye Cooley, Asya Cooley Monmouth College: Robert Hinck, Sara Kitsch Emotive Contents and Heuristic Cues Regarding Skeptical Consumers This study clarifies consumers’ defense mechanisms and message elaboration to highlight the connection between consumer engagement with messages and brand success. Two eye‐tracking experiments tested whether skepticism toward companies’ cause‐related marketing (CRM) initiatives would lead to wide variations in how CRM ads influence consumers’ message elaboration. Informational appeals discouraged highly skeptical consumers’ message elaboration; thus, they process information through heuristic cues, such as “likes” and followers. However, negative emotional appeals led consumers to process information in a more accommodative and systematic manner. Sponsor: College of Arts and Sciences FY 2020 ASR+1 Program Award PI/PD: Clara Mikyeung Bae
SOCIOLOGY Family‐Based, Culturally Centered Diabetes Intervention with Ojibwe Communities This project is a five‐year randomized controlled trial (RCT) of a Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) intervention with a sample of Ojibwe families. The intervention has been adapted from a family‐based, culturally grounded intervention designed with Southwestern American Indian communities to prevent T2D among youth. The goals of the research are to a) determine the effectiveness of the intervention for Ojibwe adult diagnosed with T2D and their children; b) identify how coping mechanisms influence intervention effects on targeted physical, mental and behavioral health outcomes among participating adults and children; and c) qualitatively determine multidirectional and multilevel processes of change resulting from the ToD intervention. Sponsor: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders PI/PDs: Kelley Sittner Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health: 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 5‐year 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 Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health: Melissa Walls Multi‐Level Mental Health Dynamics of Resilience and Risk among Sexual and Gender Minority Young Adults of Color Living in Rural Underserved Regions Using mixed methods, the study will document the diverse mental health needs, multiple marginalization experiences, and minority coping strategies of sexual and gender minority young adults of color in rural Oklahoma and South Texas. Findings from the study can be used to guide future research, the design of effective interventions to improve public health outcomes, and the provision of culturally competent health services for these populations. Sponsor (pending): National Institutes of Health/National Institute of Minority Health Disparities PI/PDs: Rachel M. Schmitz University of Texas Rio Grande Valley: Ruby Charak
College of Engineering, Architecture, & Technology
–FY2020 Research Abstracts
ARCHITECTURE
Transitioning Students to Teacher‐Researchers (TSTR) The project’s premise is that by learning the nature of science through authentic research experiences, preservice science teachers (PSTs) will strengthen their science literacy skills and be better equipped to engage their future students in science and engineering practices. This project will provide PSTs with multiple opportunities to conduct scientific research during their science methods courses. These new or modified science methods courses will be designed to enhance PSTs’ skills in conducting research and teaching others to conduct scientific research. The PSTs will receive extensive mentoring from faculty and graduate students from multiple science and engineering disciplines across the university. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Carissa Ramming Education: Julie Angle College of Arts & Sciences: Andrew Doust, Donald French
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 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: Shannon Sheffert Local Technical Assistance Program Since its inception in 1982, Oklahoma LTAP’s mission 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 focus areas: Safety, Infrastructure, Innovation, and Accountability. LTAP offers Road Scholar and Core Courses to meet its clients’ needs, covering a wide array of topics such as aggregate road maintenance, testing for soil properties, CDL training, and many others. 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/PD: Shannon Sheffert The Assessor Training and Assistance Program and the County Computer Assistance Program These programs, authorized by state statute, provide for the Assessor Accreditation Program, training for county Board of Equalization members, and County Computer support and training. CLGT will excute 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 also maintain official records for the accreditation program and provide the Oklahoma Tax Commission with pass/fail results so they can issue accreditations to all persons who qualify. Sponsor: Oklahoma Tax Commission PI/PDs: Gary Snyder, Scott Warren
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING CAREER: Computation‐Enabled Rational Design of Cytochrome P450 for Ionic Liquid Biodegradation The objective is to close the gap in our scientific understanding of P450‐mediated hydroxylation of ionic liquids, which can then be leveraged to engineer cytochrome P450 for ionic liquid biodegradation. The central hypothesis is that the recalcitrant nature of ionic liquids arises due to thermodynamic limitations and/or kinetic barriers to hydroxylation, while kinetic barriers are responsible for limited ionic liquid hydroxylation. Identifying amino acid residues in the P450 binding pocket and substrate access channel that present such barriers to the reaction and substituting residues with those able to lift such limitations will trigger and speed up the ionic liquid hydroxylation. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Jindal Shah Evaluation of COVAS Effectiveness on the Clearance of the COVID‐19 Aerosols in a Patient Room The goal of the project is to evaluate the efficiency of the novel COVID air sanitizer (COVAS) in clearing the suspending cough droplets in a COVID‐19 patient room. Recommendations on the optimized COVAS position and operational flow rate will be provided based on the computational fluid‐particle dynamics simulation results at the end of the project. Sponsor: Darren Leung PI/PDs: Yu Feng Development of Open Access Version of Applied Numerical Computing Course The objective is to develop an open access version of the Applied Numerical Computing course with screencasts and course materials available online for asynchronous learning of course modules by learners beyond the OSU classroom‐based course offerings. The open access course will be disseminated as a series of modules on topics including but not limited to solving systems of differential equations, estimating parameters for models using regression, writing manuscripts and dissertations, and developing graphical user interfaces. Sponsor: Computer Aids for Chemical Engineering (CACHE) Corporation PI/PDs: Ashlee Ford‐Versypt Solar Thermal Desalination Technology Development This project will develop a cogeneration cycle that will utilize harvested heat to power a mechanical vapor compression cycle to desalinate produced water (PW). The heat flux and the energy efficiencies will be compared with the current industry standards. This thermal distillation system is intended to reduce net energy consumption, lower the cost of desalination, and reduce the volume of PW disposal. Sponsor: Nitro‐Lift Technologies, LLC PI/PDs: Prem Bikkina, Khaled Sallam
NASA Oklahoma EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Development: In Situ Characterization of Chemo‐Mechanical Instabilities in Solid‐State Batteries The primary objective of the study is to develop a rational basis to design novel solid electrolyte structures that exhibit robust mechanical stability and desirable fast‐charging performance required for aviation and NASA space missions. Solid electrolytes offer significant opportunities to advance electrochemical energy storage technologies, however utilization of the benefits of solid electrolytes is limited by the lack of understanding of their operation mechanisms. This project seeks to create a fundamental understanding of electrochemically‐driven mechanical instabilities in electrified solid‐solid interfaces. Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education PI/PD: Ozgur Capraz Advanced Methods for Characterization of Heterogeneous Catalysts The overall purpose of this project is to design new and assess existing high‐field magnetic resonance methods for non‐destructive evaluations of heterogeneous solid‐acid or solid‐base catalysts. In addition, post‐synthetic modifications of catalysts, e.g., temperature, moisture, and cation exchange, will be used to elucidate catalyst structure‐function relationships. Catalytically‐relevant probe molecules will also be identified for in‐situ studies of reactivity, selectivity, and deactivation. The overall experimental protocol will include those previously published by the PI. Actual materials for research will be identified in collaboration with Phillips 66 researchers. Sponsor: Phillips 66 PI/PD: Jeffery White Continuous Large‐scale Functionalized Silver Nanowire (AgNW)‐Based Transparent Conductive Films (TCFs) Manufacturing The objective is the discovery of reaction conditions in a millifluidic reactor to produce high‐quality, low‐cost AgNW inks that can be continuously printed onto flexible substrates to create low‐cost transparent conductive films (TCFs) for Internet of Nano Things (IoNT) application. To accomplish this, the research aims are: 1) AgNW millifluidic reaction mechanism investigation and synthesis optimization to find the optimum reaction conditions; 2) Large‐scale millifluidic synthesis of functionalized AgNW; and 3) Continuous preparation and writing of AgNW inks onto flexible substrates to create TCFs for IoNT. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Shohreh Hemmati Materials Science and Engineering: James Smay Solar Thermal Distillation Technology Development for Desalination and Produced Water Treatment Applications The objective is to develop cost‐effective high‐efficiency solar thermal distillation technology for desalination and produced water treatment: 1) A solar collector coating will be identified for its efficiency of converting incident radiation into heat, cost, ease of application and longevity; 2) A heating surface compatible with the solar collector coating will be engineered to prevent
‘boiling crisis’; 3) A boiling surface that can boil the feed water at very low wall superheat and help prevent boiling crisis will be engineered; 4) A condensing surface that can condense water vapor at the similar rate of water vapor generation will be engineered. Sponsor: United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation PI/PD: Prem Bikkina RII Track‐4: Deciphering the Role of Polarization on Ion Transport in Ionic Liquid Batteries The fellowship will enable the PI to transition to the next level in modeling ionic liquids (ILs) by developing capability in the PI’s research group for conducting first principles molecular dynamics (FPMD) simulations based on density functional theory. As the first step, FPMD simulations of room temperature ILs and IL‐IL mixture, and solvation of Li+ ion will be carried out to understand the impact of polarization on the structure and dynamics of ILs. Polarization‐induced effects will also be probed by conducting FPMD simulation of ILs under an applied electric field. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory will be the host site. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Jindal K. Shah Understanding the Effects of Sphero‐cylinder Drug Particle Shape to Enhance Small‐airway Drug Delivery for Better Emphysema Treatment Outcomes Dry powder inhalers (DPI) are used to deliver micro‐sized medication via pulmonary routes to treat emphysema. However, DPI methods are not as effective as they could be because a large amount of medication deposits in the mouth‐throat region. The goal is to develop a computational model to predict particle interactions and transport dynamics, and determine how particle shape features can enhance drug deposition in emphysematous small airways. The hypothesis is that sphero‐cylinder drug particles with high surface roughness and hollow structure can reduce the inter‐particulate cohesion, avoid deposition in the upper airway, and reach small airways in a higher dose. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Yu Feng Field Evaluation of the Caney Shale as an Emerging Unconventional Play, Southern Oklahoma The Caney Shale is in the oil window, but its resource potential has not been adequately assessed. The Caney reservoir is about 60‐300 m thick, is rich in total organic carbon, contains a large oil resource base, and has a strong natural gas drive; however, development has been hampered by high clay content and reactivity of the formation with water. A Caney Shale Field Laboratory will be established to: 1) conduct a comprehensive field characterization, 2) perform field experiments, and 3) validate cost‐effective technologies that will lead to a comprehensive and efficient development strategy for the Caney Shale. Sponsor: Department of Energy PI/PDs: Mileva Radonjic, Geir Hareland, Prem Bikkina Geology: Jim Puckette, Michael Grammer, Jack Pashin Lawrence Berkeley National Lab: Jonny Rutqvist, Christine Doughty Oklahoma Geological Survey: Brian Cardott, Abbas Seyedolali, Ming Suriamin
MRI: Acquisition of a High Resolution Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope for the Advancement of Materials and Biological Research at Oklahoma State University This award will enable acquisition of a Carl Zeiss LSM 880 confocal laser scanning microscope with high resolution and modules for live‐cell imaging. The new instrument is needed to meet the requirements of OSU researchers for high resolution scanning, live‐cell imaging and 3D reconstruction since the current confocal microscope lacks these capabilities. The LSM 880 will be placed in the OSU Microscopy Laboratory, where the LSM 880 will have a high level of exposure and will be available at low cost not only to all OSU faculty, staff, postdocs, and graduate and undergraduate students, but also to researchers across Oklahoma. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Heather Fahlenkamp, Josh Ramsey Chemistry: Yolanda Vasquez College of Veterinary Medicine: Shitao Li Targeted Delivery of a Reactive Oxygen Species Generator for Treatment of Hormone Refractory Prostate Cancer Glucose oxidase (GOX) and other reactive oxygen species (ROS) forming enzymes are of significant interest as anticancer agents due to the potent cytotoxicity of ROS. A nanoparticle delivery system will be used to target delivery of GOX to prostate cancer cells. A library of copolymers will be screened to identify promising nanoparticle candidates that will be tested in a mouse prostate cancer tumor model. The nanoparticles will be evaluated based on their ability to reduce the tumor volume and remain within the tumor. The immune response will also be characterized to determine which nanoparticles could be used for repeated dosing. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Josh Ramsey Unraveling the Link Between Mechanical and Chemical Properties of Deposited Species in Li‐O2 Batteries, Using In‐operando Techniques Further mechanistic insights on the interface of the electrode/electrolyte during electrochemical reactions will be provided, which are necessary to develop sufficient design rules for optimized cell components and their interfaces. The design of the cathode and catalyst with desired properties for oxygen reduction/evolution reactions (ORR/OER) depends on understanding of cathode stability in the Li/O2 cell. The project will combine in situ surface stress measurement techniques and in operando online electrochemical mass spectroscopy in order to characterize the governing surface reaction steps for the surface instabilities by analyzing both solid and gaseous phases of OER products during typical operation conditions. Sponsor: US‐Israel Binational Science Foundation PI/PD: Ozgur Capraz DPI In‐Silico Modeling – Predict Dry Powder Performance and Subsequent Depositions in a Whole‐Lung Model There is a large gap in fundamental understanding of how design and human factors influence de‐agglomeration and agglomeration in dry powder inhalers (DPIs). Thus, an in‐silico model utilizing airflow dynamics (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and modeling of drug interactions
properties in the flow channels of DPIs will be developed to accurately model, predict and hence improve the performance of DPIs. Sponsor: CIPLA Ltd PI/PD: Yu Feng Quantitative Systems Biomedicine and Pharmacology for Multiscale Tissue Damage Building multiscale computational models for the chemical and biological processes that result in structural addition or depletion of extracellular matrix, which damages various tissues, will increase fundamental mechanistic understanding of human tissues and lay the foundation for advances in disease treatment and prevention. The research addresses the critical need to compile the multiple processes that contribute to the onset and progression of chronic tissue damage into user‐friendly systematic computational frameworks capable of taking the interconnected chemical, physical, and biological factors into account in a coupled fashion and in the appropriate magnitudes and sequences to make testable predictions. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Ashlee Ford‐Versypt Rational Design of Solar‐Energy‐Combined Desalination Systems for Treatment of Produced Water Produced waters (PW) from oil and gas operations pose risks to the environment and must either be treated or disposed of via underground injection. PW often exhibit high levels of dissolved solids (salts) and organic pollutants that must be separated from the water prior to reuse. The goal of the research is to develop novel, energy‐efficient solar‐energy‐combined membrane processes for treating PW to levels suitable for reuse. Research objectives include: 1) Design chemical pretreatment process (Dr. Lampert), 2) Develop solar evaporation and condensation system (Dr. Mcllroy), 3) Synthesize ceramic membranes for desalination and organics rejection (Dr. Kim and Dr. Aichele). Sponsor: United States Geological Survey PI/PDs: Seok‐Jhin Kim, Clint Aichele Civil & Environmental Engineering: David Lampert Physics: Dave McIlroy Ionic Liquid‐Assisted Extractive Distillation for the Removal of Dimethylsilanediol This project adopts an entirely novel approach using ionic liquids in an extractive distillation process to remove dimethylsilanediol (DMSD) from wastewater consisting of humidity condensate and urine distillate to produce contaminant‐free water for recycle and reuse aboard the space shuttle for deep space exploration and the ISS. Our research will be guided by the hypothesis that the presence of ionic liquids will increase the volatility of DMSD over water, enabling the separation of DMSD using distillation. To achieve the objective and test the hypothesis, a complementary approach involving molecular simulation (PI Shah) and experiments (co‐PI Brennecke) will be carried out. Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration PI/PDs: Jindal Shah University of Texas at Austin: Joan Brennecke
Sucker Rod Guide Flow Simulations Using a CFD Model Sucker rod guides are an injection molded product commonly used in the oilfield. The goal of this project is to evaluate and optimize the sucker rod design using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques, to minimize the flow drag rates and turbulence intensities. The optimized design also needs to stay above the minimum erodible wear volume values (EWV=4.3 in3) and below the maximum guide length (9.0 in). Sponsor: US Rod Company PI/PD: Yu Feng CAREER: Multiscale Modeling of a Virtual Kidney During the Onset and Progression of Diabetic Kidney Disease The objective is to predict progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) using a realistic computational model of kidney injury. The PI will construct a virtual kidney model for the structural and biochemical components affected during DKD in the glomeruli where most of the DKD damage is focused. The virtual kidney platform will use multiscale computational modeling to connect effects at different length scales from smaller to larger: inside cells, between adjacent cells, across a single glomerulus, and among collections of glomeruli. The virtual kidney will be used like a powerful microscope to detect and monitor damage to the glomeruli. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Ashlee Ford Versypt Development of Nitrogen‐Assisted Fluid Systems for Improved/Enhanced Oil Recovery in Candidate Reservoirs The primary objective of this research study is to develop efficient and cost‐effective Nitrogen‐Assisted fluid systems for improved/enhanced oil recovery in candidate reservoirs. Towards the primary objective: 1. Interfacial tension (IFT), and advancing and receding contact angle measurements will be conducted for model/crude oil‐water/brine‐gas‐sandstone/carbonate systems; 2. Continuous gas flooding (CGI) and huff‐and‐puff (Hn’F) microfluidic and coreflood experiments will be performed; and 3. The experimental data will be analyzed. Sponsor: Nitro‐Lift Technologies LLC PI/PDs: Prem Bikkina, Clint Aichele Real‐Time Drilling Optimization System for Improved Overall Rate of Penetration and Reduced Cost/Ft in Geothermal Drilling In this project the objective is to develop a real‐time drilling optimization system for geothermal drilling. To reach this objective, the system will couple three individual components while drilling. The first component is a drill stem vibration analysis while drilling, the second component is to analyze mechanical specific energy (MSE) for optimum rotational speed (RPM) and weight on bit (WOB) combinations, and the third component is a detailed polycrystalline diamond compact PDC drill bit model. Sponsor: Department of Energy PI/PDs: Geir Hareland, Mohammed Al Dushaishi Sandia National Lab: Doug Blankenship
Self‐Diffusion and Interactions of Multicomponent Fluids in Model Reservoir Solids Model nanoporous glasses with one‐dimensional channels, and aluminosilicates with 2D and 3D channels, will be used to create controlled nanoporous hosts with either organic‐rich or organic‐poor channel walls, and oil‐rich versus water‐rich fluids will be used to elucidate how diffusion, adsorption, and chemical interactions depend upon the chemical nature of the solid host. Unique to the work is the combination of new experimental capabilities allowing measurements at pressures as high as ca. 1000 atm, and with gradient strengths as high as 2.9 kG/cm. Sponsor: American Chemical Society Petroleum Research Fund PI/PDs: Jeff White, Clint Aichele A 3D Human Tissue‐Engineered Lung Model to Study Immune Responses to Respiratory Syncytial Virus Dr. Fahlenkamp and Dr. Kovats will divide up the work according to their relative expertise. Dr. Fahlenkamp is a tissue engineer and has developed the 3D Human Tissue‐Engineered Lung Model (3D‐HTLM) to be used. Dr. Fahlenkamp will be responsible for setting up the 3D‐HTLM, RSV infection and monitoring responses of epithelial cells. Dr. Kovats will be responsible for procurement of myeloid cells from laboratory or clinical sources, and for characterizing and monitoring innate immune responses of myeloid cells. Drs. Kovats and Fahlenkamp will jointly oversee and evaluate all cellular and molecular analyses of antiviral responses in the project. Sponsor: Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation for the National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Heather Fahlenkamp Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation: Susan Kovats Mitigating Risks to Hydrocarbon Release through Integrative Advanced Materials for Wellbore Plugging and Remediation The project aims to advance capabilities for the prevention and remediation of wellbore leakage in offshore wells after the permanent Plugging and Abandonment stage. The fundamental goal is expressed as understanding the trigger of wellbore leakage at deep‐water condition, developing the new barrier materials considering material science fundamentals to identify properties critical for long‐term integrity, and ensuring adequate placing is achieved. Finally, through rigorous experiments and modeling and simulation, the team will characterize performance of the entire wellbore system and its surrounding subsurface environment, in order to provide prediction of long‐term behavior and prevent wellbore leakage. Sponsor: National Academy of Sciences PI/PD: Mileva Radonjic Commercialization of a novel single‐use bioreactor Specific aims include: 1) Design and fabricate a 2 to 200 L, two‐chamber bioreactor from flexible, pharmaceutical grade plastic film, 2) Perform a ‘design for manufacturing’ analysis of the bioreactor and incorporate design changes necessary to accommodate large scale manufacturing, 3) Develop an operating procedure and evaluate the performance of the 2 to 200 L bioreactor by growing a Chinese hamster ovary cell line that produces the recombinant protein IgG, 4) Build a manufacturing process to produce multi‐chamber bioreactors.
Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Josh Ramsey New Product Development Center: Robert Taylor Copper Nanocatalyst as Efficient Heterogeneous Photocatalyst for Continuous Syntheses of Pharmaceuticals through Cross‐Coupling Reactions In this project, the investigator proposes to develop inexpensive, earth abundant and less toxic copper (Cu) based heterogeneous photocatalyst with activity superior to that of traditionally used expensive, rare‐earth and toxic homogeneous Pd catalysts for cross‐coupling reactions. The project involves two specific aims: 1) Develop an in‐operando spectroscopic technique to identify stable Cu nanocatalysts and green solvents for cross couplings, 2) Evaluate the performance of Cu nanocatalysts of different sizes under visible‐light irradiation to identify Cu nanocatalysts with activity superior to Pd based catalysts for cross couplings. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Marimuthu Andiappan Collaborative Research: Understanding an Active and Beneficial Role for Water in Solid‐Acid Catalyzed Hydrocarbon Chemistry The collaborative team will address the question of whether water can enhance activity for hydrocarbon reactions in solid‐acid catalysts, determine if the phenomenon is general or limited to only a few reagents, and attempt to elucidate the mechanistic origins of water’s active role. A combination of synthesis, in‐situ spectroscopy, reactor, and computational experiments will be used to verify how water acts mechanistically as a function of water concentration in the reaction mixture, and if previously proposed proton‐hopping or Grotthuss theories, transition‐state solvation, or synergistic effects afforded by water‐reagent clusters at the active site are operative when activity increases are measured. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: J.L. White GOALI: Using Tapered Copolymers to Understand Nanoscale Interfaces within Polymeric Materials and Their Influence on Macroscale Properties The PI will collaborate with scientists at Chevron Phillips Chemical Co. to investigate the design of and morphological properties in tapered copolymers. The project will include design of a matrix of tapered copolymer chain architectures, and design of non‐invasive and non destructive magnetic resonance experiments to identify differential interface chain composition and dynamics with chemical specificity. Styrene and butadiene monomers are used in this study to demonstrate that a novel range of chain‐level and macroscopic properties are accessible using common monomer feeds, especially when starting with monomers whose homopolymers have a 200 degree difference in their respective glass transition temperatures. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: J.L. White
Evaluation of Surface Wettability as a Parameter in Preferential Separation of Multi‐Component Dissolved Gas Systems and Bubble Points of Pure Liquids This work proposes a systematic experimental investigation on the influence of wettability on pressure‐driven bubble nucleation. Experiments will be conducted to determine whether a specific gas can be preferentially liberated from a liquid solution containing multiple dissolved gases. Combinations of gases, aqueous and organic liquid phases will be used to test this hypothesis at a molecular scale using test facilities integrated with gas analysis. Well‐controlled experiments will also be conducted to understand the effect of reservoir wettability on required supersaturation levels for bubble nucleation. The basic knowledge derived will be useful to control gas evolution rates from supersaturated liquids. Sponsor: American Chemical Society Petroleum Research Fund PI/PD: Prem Bikkina Advanced Cement Characterization and Modeling to Evaluate Novel Additives to Improve Wellbore Integrity The main deliverable from this project is to design new cement mixtures with nano‐particle sized additives that have superior properties to prevent wellbore leakage. This will be reached by evaluating cement mixtures in the laboratory and incorporating the results in the FEM well integrity design software which can be used to determine the optimum additives for a given well design. The laboratory study will investigate cement slurry properties including dynamic fluid losses and thickening time, as well as advanced characterization of the cement compressive strength and bonding strength to rock and casing, and deformation properties including shrinkage. Sponsor: National Academy of Sciences PI/PD: Geir Hareland Joint Industry Project for the Quantification of Fluid Phase Kinetics in Hydrocarbons Phase 2 Phase 2 will consist of two research aims: 1) Quantify the impact of inlet conditioning on gas evolution rates, 2) Quantify the effect of production chemicals on gas evolution rates. For both research aims, the impact of temperature on gas evolution rates will also be evaluated. These research aims build on the Phase 1 work that showed the importance of both shear and crude oil heterogeneity on gas evolution rates. Sponsors: Exxon‐Mobil Upstream Research Company, Anadarko Petroleum Company, Chevron U.S.A. Inc., Equinor AS PI/PDs: Clint Aichele, Sayeed Mohammad Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: J.P. Conner
Computational Modeling of the Onset of Diabetic Kidney Disease The primary outcome of the project will be a computational model that incorporates biological uncertainty into the biochemical reaction networks involved in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Simulation results using the computational model will be useful for understanding the synchrony of key events that lead to glomerular injury in DKD. This improved understanding has the potential to advance treatment options for diabetes and prevent the serious complication of end‐stage kidney failure. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Ashlee Ford Versypt Generating Nonnative Structures in Binary Ionic Liquid Mixtures for Tunable Phase Equilibria Properties At present, there is a lack of fundamental knowledge regarding the rules that can be applied to determine a priori if binary ionic liquid mixtures will exhibit molecular structure different from their pure ionic liquid counterparts and how the nonideal behavior manifests itself in the phase equilibria properties of ionic liquid with gases and solvents. This research project seeks to fulfill this gap in the ionic liquid field so that practically limitless opportunities offered by a large number of binary ionic liquid mixtures to design environmentally friendly chemical processes could be taken advantage of. REU supplement funding was also received. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Jindal Shah 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
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/PDs: 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 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 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
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 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: Seok‐Jhin Kim Civil and Environmental Engineering: Mark Krzmarzick
CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING Civil Engineering Education Outreach: Transportation Infrastructure Activities This broad outreach program includes three major activities: K‐12 outreach activities, OSU Summer Bridge program (incoming freshmen), and the Oklahoma Summer Transportation Symposium. These program include various levels of service including, but not limited to, face‐to‐face site visits at OSU and remote site, workshops, camps, and networking opportunities. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Greg Wilber, Joshua Li, Robert Emerson Laboratory and Field Testing of Geocell‐Reinforced Aggregate Layers The OSU research team will be carrying out laboratory and field testing to study the pressure dissipation (in the lab) underneath, as well as the stiffness (in the lab as well as in the field) of open‐graded aggregate layers constructed with and without geocells. Results from this study will help Presto Geosystems understand the compaction behavior of geocells filled with open‐graded aggregates for applications such as those in permeable pavements. Sponsor: Reynolds Presto Products, Inc. PI/PD: Debakanta Mishra Investigating Project Bundling Practices for Roadway Construction Projects FHWA recently developed a guidebook on project bundling with a focus on bridge projects. However, roadway (such as added travel lanes, resurfacing, intersection improvement, interchange work, shoulder rehabilitation and repair, etc.) construction project bundling was not part of that guidebook. Although many lessons can be learned from bridge bundling, unique aspects may exist in roadway construction bundling and have not been studied thoroughly. This project will include a review and synthesis of state DOTs’ current experiences with project bundling for roadway construction projects. The report will provide a compilation of the documentation including RFPS and sample contracts. Sponsor: University of Colorado‐Boulder for the Colorado Department of Transportation PI/PD: Yongwei Shan Developing Recommendations for Allowable RAP Contents in Idaho Asphalt Mixes The objective is to help Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) determine whether or not a direct correlation exists between the RAP content in an asphalt mix and the performance of a pavement section constructed with this asphalt mix. Additionally, this study will also identify and recommend testing and material processing protocols that need to be adopted to allow different RAP contents in an asphalt mix, considering the performance‐based mix design framework. The information and deliverables generated from the project will immediately help ITD decide regarding the feasibility of allowing high RAP contents (higher than 30%) in surface layers for flexible pavements. Sponsor: Idaho Transportation Department for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Debakanta Mishra
Verification and Correlation of 0.1 mm 3D Safety Sensor with Traditional Texture and Friction Devices The project will determine existing practices across the United States used for pavement safety data collection and benefits of using emerging non‐contact/non‐water based 3D sensors to collect both texture and friction information. The new 0.1mm 3D sensor hardware will be used for correlation and comparison study with traditional texture and friction devices at ODOT (locked‐wheel) and OSU (grip‐tester and dynamic friction tester). Results of design experiments will be included in the report regarding benefits of using non‐contact technology and recommended further work on both hardware and software solutions of using the 0.1mm 3D sensors in Oklahoma. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Kelvin Wang, Joshua Li Work Order 5: Accelerated Construction Techniques The aim of this work is to discuss the science and strategy behind current practices related to deciding when new pavement surfaces can be trafficked and how this can be accelerated when necessary. Deliverables shall include a 58‐compliant report that covers the basic information, including case studies, associated with concrete pavement optimal opening to traffic. Sponsor: Iowa State University for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Norbert Delatte Statistical Analysis of HMA Production and Construction Data to Improve Quality Assurance and Acceptance Practices in Idaho Through this subaward, the OSU investigator will be responsible for the following tasks: 1) Statistical analysis of the project data collected in collaboration with Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) engineers. The analysis will focus on unexpected trends observed in Hot‐Mix Asphalt production and construction data, 2) In coordination with the Boise State University PI, draft and finalize the final project report summarizing all project findings, 3) Development of statistical training modules for ITD engineers to improve ITD’s Quality Control /Quality Assurance (QC/QA) practices. Sponsor: Boise State University for the Idaho Transportation Department PI/PD: Debakanta Mishra
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Surface Applied Corrosion Inhibitors for Treatment of Reinforced Concrete Substructures in Poor Condition Patching materials, especially high strength rapid setting materials, tend to shrink resulting in cracks to the new concrete patches potentially compromising the durability of the patch. While the inhibitor products typically do well in the FHWA cracked beam tests, it is questionable whether these products adequately penetrate. To evaluate the penetration, small reinforced concrete beams will be created and then cracked to different sizes. These beams will be treated with typical surface applied inhibitor products. The depth of penetration will be determined by taking small scores and then checking for penetration in the cracks. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Tyler Ley Development of Construction Specifications for Cold In‐Place (CIR) and Cold Central Plant Recycling (CCPR) CIR is a process that recycles, in‐place, the upper three to four inches of an existing asphalt pavement. CIR is an excellent treatment for rehabilitation of cracked pavements with sound bases. CCPR uses a similar process as CIR but uses existing stockpiles of RAP to produce an asphalt base layer. Both processes are cost effective, sustainable techniques. The project will review agency specifications and trade association best practices for CIR and CCPR, and a draft special provision/specification will be prepared for review and comments by ODOT. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Joshua Li Passive Samplers for Monitoring Perfluoroalkyl Substances at Contaminated Sites The study will determine the equilibrium partitioning relationships for per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) between pore water, sediments and sampling material, including competitive sorption effects between the various phases on the sampling material, and sorption kinetics for the PFAS in the sampler, and demonstrate the technology efficacy at PFAS‐contaminated areas in Oklahoma. The research is expected to develop and demonstrate a standard operating procedure to assess PFAS concentrations in soils and sediments to protect water quality. The sampler will also be used to assess PFAS at air force bases and other areas in Oklahoma to infer potential PFAS exposure routes. Sponsor: United States Geological Survey PI/PD: David Lampert
Work Order 2: Performance Engineered Mixtures (PEMs)/AASHTO PP84‐19 and Precision and Bias Statements OSU will be responsible in supporting the precision and bias testing for fresh and hardened property tests. The fresh property tests include the Super Air Meter, Box Test, and V‐Kelly. These will be evaluated in the first year of the study. The research team at OSU will provide technical guidance to this testing. The second year of the project will be to evaluate hardened tests such as the surface resistivity. Again, OSU will provide support for these tests. Sponsor: Iowa State University for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Tyler Ley Evaluation of AASHTO T 324 The AASHTO T 324 Standard Test Method for Hamburg Wheel‐Track Testing of compacted asphalt mixtures went through a major revision in 2019. The revision calls for a hardware upgrade. This upgrade is estimated at $20,000 per vehicle and ODOT has two machines for a total of $40,000. This task order will investigate the actual differences between the new method and the method ODOT was using. ODOT has used the previous method for several years and has an extensive database. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Debakanta Mishra Sub‐mm 3D Laser Imaging for Bridge Deck Surveys The project includes surveying the outside lane once every 6 months on approximately 50 mainline bridge decks for a section of I‐35 extending from Logan County to Kay County while traveling at highway speeds. Using Next‐Gen 3D laser imaging technology, the research team will determine a base line deck condition documenting cracks, spalls, patches, and joint condition. The research will demonstrate the feasibility of using sub‐mm 3D laser surveys to 1) document cracks, spalls, patches, and joint conditions, 2) determine skid numbers and hydroplaning risk, and 3) evaluate deck smoothness. The research will provide guidance for deck replacements or overlays. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Kelvin Wang, Joshua Li
Instrumentation in End Regions of Prestressed Concrete (PC) Bridge Girders OSU will perform the following work: 1) Purchase instrumentation, multiplexers and data loggers for retrieval and monitoring of the data. Instrumentation will include strain gages for reinforcing steel at prescribed locations, thermocouples and thermistors, and vibrating wire gages. 2) Apply the instrumentation and install data acquisition systems on no more than two prestressed concrete girders. 3) Collect and store data, Analyze the data and provide conclusions and recommendations to the ODOT based on experimental results. 4) Provide reporting as required including both monthly progress reports and a final report. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Bruce Russell Evaluating the Expected Life and Recoating of Silane Water Repellant Treatments on Bridge Decks Tasks include: 1) Increase the number of samples taken from bridges in service with silane coatings, 2) Investigate how cracking, change in w/cm, and different depths of penetration impact performance of silane coatings, 3) Determine the effectiveness of applying silane to extend existing silane coatings, 4) Investigate the performance of unique surface sealers, 5) Develop a decision flow chart for crack sealing and silane application for ODOT specifications. The study will provide an understanding of how silane sealers perform in multiple environments with multiple concrete qualities, which will help ODOT make sound investments in the long‐term performance of its bridges. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PD: Tyler Ley Identifying Existing Opportunities to Reduce the Environmental Impacts of Transportation Infrastructure Construction The project will determine existing practices across the U.S. used for mitigating impacts of construction and transportation infrastructure on relocated streams and habitats. Performance data on various turf reinforcement mats and other erosion control methods will be compiled for potential applicability. A final report will list best management practices for slope stabilization and channel realignment, as well as how turf reinforcement mats are organized. The information will be used to aid ODOT in determining the best approaches to meet the Clean Water Act Section 404 requirements. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PD: David Lampert
Task Order #01 Track Structure Modeling Support The objective is for the OSU faculty member, as the contractor, to provide track structure modeling services to support development and evaluation of new inspection approaches and technologies. The investigator will build a track structure 3D element model that includes rail, ties, ballast and subgrade to assess stress and deformation environment under various loads. The model will be used to calculate deflection basins under track loading vehicle on various track support conditions to aid development of comprehensive vertical deflection measurement. The contractor will also provide additional track structure modeling services on an as needed basis. Sponsor: ENSCO Inc. PI/PD: Deb Mishra Safety of Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs) in Light‐Rail Transit (LRT) Environment This research will include surveying LRT agencies and synthesizing best practices for reducing crashes involving VRUs in LRT systems. The research will examine the effects of alignment decisions, geometric design features, and risky pedestrian behavior on crash experience. It will identify the most effective traffic engineering treatments, traffic control devices, public education techniques, and ITS technologies that can be integrated into LRT operations to reduce crashes and incidents. A toolkit of best practices will be developed that can be incorporated in transit safety courses/workshops, as well as a slide show for use by ODOT in making presentations at educational events. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PD: Samir Ahmed Measuring Transport Properties of Portland Cement Concrete Using Electrical Resistivity The purpose is to develop a body of knowledge through an exhaustive literature review and experimental program to provide recommendations on the best approach for implementing resistivity testing and/or other means of measuring transport properties in the state of Illinois. The research aims of the study are: 1) Study the effects on resistivity testing of common materials used in the making of concrete mixtures in Illinois; 2) Investigate the existence of correlations between resistivity testing and other known means of characterizing transport properties; 3) Investigate the existence of correlations between resistivity testing and standardized methods for durability testing of concrete. Sponsor: The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois for the Illinois Department of Transportation for the United States Department of Transportation PI/PD: Julie Ann Hartell OSU Task Order Contract – Administrative Support The work covered under this Task Order includes coordination with ODOT engineers and OSU faculty on the preparation of Task Orders, and management of successfully funded projects in relation to reporting, deliverables and other performance related matters; and promotion of ODOT and OSU research on transportation topics at both state and national levels. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation PI/PD: Kelvin Wang
Collaborative Research: Impacts of Metals on Disinfection Byproduct Precursor Formation in Bacteria Disinfection by‐products (DBPs) are formed upon reactions of organic matter with disinfectants during water treatment. The research goal is to characterize how trace metals affect DBP precursor production from biofilms under conditions relevant to chloraminated drinking water distribution networks. The specific research objectives are to: (1) determine the influence of metals on DBP formation potential from bacterial isolates, (2) characterize the effects of metal exposure on changes in the composition and reactivity of biofilm‐derived DBP precursors, and (3) determine the underlying mechanisms of increased DBP formation potential in bacterial isolates and biofilms through transcriptomic and proteomic approaches. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Mark Krzmarzick MEGASLAB RSA with S3 Concrete Technologies A concrete mixture will be completed for slab on grade with different water reducer. The mixture will be completed without additive, with additive + spray, and with additive + fibers + spray. Compression testing, flexural testing, freeze thaw testing, and ion permeability testing will be completed for all three mixtures. Additional tests of the additives and spray will also be conducted, such as testing a concrete beam with spray on only one side, and investigation of the combination of additive and saturated calcium hydroxide solution. Sponsor: S3 Concrete Technologies, Inc. PI/PD: Tyler Ley Screening Tools for Considering Grade Separation of Rail‐Highway Crossings in Oklahoma The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) addresses grade crossing safety issues by allocating federal funding through the Railway‐Highway Crossing Program. At‐grade rail‐highway crossings lead to economic losses due to vehicle delays and potential train‐vehicle collisions. To consider the need and priorities for grade separation at crossings, data‐driven screening methodology and tools are required. The project objective is to develop a data‐driven evaluation process for ODOT to identify, evaluate, and prioritize road‐rail crossings as candidates for grade separations. Tasks include literature review, screening methodology development, prioritization of crossings for grade separation, and development of a grade separation screening tool for ODOT. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Joshua Li
Four‐Step PW Desalination Process with Zeolite and a‐Alumina Membranes Wastewater from oil and gas production, known as Produced Water (PW), has a high level of contamination with a complex chemical composition that depends on the recovery process and the geological formation. The goal of this project is to develop a process to decrease hardness, remove suspended solids, remove oil from PW and prepare it for the last step, which is desalination. The results will be used to assess energy efficiency and cost analysis of this method and compare with conventional PW management methods. Sponsor: United States Geological Survey PI/PD: David Lampert Understanding Air Content Measurement Techniques for Durability Prediction Dr. Ley will provide hands‐on training at Oklahoma State University for the Super Air Meter. Additionally, Dr. Ley will provide training for the preparation and evaluation of ASTM C457 samples and results. Dr. Ley will assist with the evaluation of the data from the field collected samples. He will consult with Kansas State University project personnel and students on the possible re‐calibration of Super Air Meter measurements for predicting spacing factor for typical Kansas paving mixtures. Additionally, Dr. Ley can share insights on the latest advancements for screening for accuracy in running the test. Sponsor: Kansas State University for the Kansas Department of Transportation PI/PD: Tyler Ley Review and Analysis of Current Environmental‐DNA Methodologies Being Developed and Used ODOT projects must meet requirements to minimize and avoid disturbances to endangered and threatened species to comply with the Endangered Species Act. Current methods to determine endangered species presence are expensive, intrusive, and often have inconclusive results. Using environmental DNA to detect the presence in a non‐intrusive, quick‐yet‐sensitive, and relatively inexpensive manner is relatively new. This task order will include compilation of complete review and analysis of environmental‐DNA methodologies being developed and used. The review will determine where and by whom are these methods being developed, for what targets and purposes, and how are they being deployed in the field. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Mark Krzmarzick Non‐Pavement‐Intrusive Technologies for Vehicle Classification for Toll Collection The primary objective of this project is to provide OTA with detailed analysis of the fitness of various non‐pavement‐intrusive vehicle detection and classification technologies under different roadway, traffic, and environmental conditions to inform decision‐makers of the accuracy, performance, and life‐cycle‐cost of these technologies. Sponsor: Oklahoma Turnpike Authority PI/PDs: Samir Ahmed Electrical and Computer Engineering: Keith Teague
ODOT Involvement with the NCAT Test Track and Task Groups The project will involve researching ODOT involvement and participation in the NCAT test Track and task groups. A comprehensive report will be provided detailing ODOT involvement from 2000 forward including the 2018‐2020 test cycle. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Joshua Li, Steve Cross, Kelvin Wang Updating ODOT’s Contract Time Determination System Establishing contract time is an integral part of the highway project development process as contract time plays a significant role in determining the expected project delivery date as well as the overall cost of a project. The 23 CFR requires State DOTs to have adequate written procedures for the determination of contract time. ODOT’s existing contract time determination system is no longer functioning because of the upgrade of computer operating systems and software updates as well as personnel turnover. Therefore, there is an urgent need to upgrade and improve the existing system. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Yongwei Shan, Gouranga Banik Contraire: Wastewater Treatment Plant Testing & Aeration Control Services Contraire’s control system technology will enable an innovative alternative testing approach to the typical five‐day testing method currently used at wastewater treatment plants by providing real‐time feedback based off of key wastewater quality parameters and specialized algorithms. A Beta test will be implemented at the Stillwater, Oklahoma wastewater treatment plant. Sponsor: National Collegiate Inventors & Innovators Alliance (NCIIA) d/b/a/ VentureWell PI/PD: David Lampert Evaluating the Performance of Existing Reinforcement for Oklahoma Bridges Corrosion‐related problems generally lead to significant maintenance expenditures. By identifying the optimum reinforcement design considerations, considerable savings in maintenance budgets can be achieved. The proposed activities include: 1) Perform a literature review on field corrosion performance of concrete material, 2) Conduct a detailed investigation of concrete panels reinforced with epoxy‐coated rebar sampled from northbound I‐35 bridge over Cow Creek. Sponsor: University of Kansas Center for Research, Inc. for Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Julie A. Hartell Use of a Novel Controlled Release Surface Curing Agent for Bridge Decks – Phase 2 The project will continue to investigate novel curing techniques that can be rapidly applied to the surface of fresh concrete and not cause deformations in the concrete surface. This material should show equal or better curing performance then typical wet curing methods and be sustainable and safe for the environment. Objectives include: 1) Evaluate the importance of
timing when applying curing methods on bridge decks, 2) Develop field application methods and assessment of novel curing materials, 3) Develop specifications for quality control and usage of novel curing materials, 4) Work with contractors to implement this technology and evaluate the effectiveness. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Tyler Ley Development of Pay Item Categories and Special Provisions for Erosion and Sediment Control Devices to be Used by ODOT The project involves determining existing practices across the United States used for mitigating impacts of construction and transportation infrastructure on relocated streams and habitats. Literature review from sources including TRB, AASHTO and state DOTs for guidance documents and existing specifications will be used to determine potential approaches for ODOT. Performance data on various turf reinforcement mats and other erosion control methods will be compiled and accessed for potential applicability. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: David Lampert Utilizing Pavement Friction and Texture Data for the Reduction of Traffic Crashes and Delays The objective is to use pavement friction, surface texture, and other data to reduce traffic crashes and delays. The research aims to: 1) integrate pavement condition, road geometry, traffic flow, and crash data into a GIS database; 2) determine statistical significance of this data with roadway crash types; 3) develop friction model for non‐contact pavement friction evaluation from raw texture profile using signal processing and deep learning techniques; 4) demonstrate the role of friction and texture data in selection of preventative maintenance strategies; 5) develop a framework on how friction and texture data are considered in pavement maintenance decision making. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Joshua Li, Kelvin Wang, Yongwei Shan I‐Corps: Data Quality Assurance and Inventory Tool (One Voice) for Sewer Inspection Data I‐Corps encourages translation of fundamental research to the marketplace, promotes industry and academic collaboration, and trains faculty and students in entrepreneurship. The proposed technology includes: 1) a data quality assurance tool to evaluate and improve the data quality of current sewer pipeline inspections and 2) a comprehensive and uniform sewer data inventory based on the collected sewer pipe inspections across the country. This technology will provide the sewer industry with easily accessible and high‐quality data to support wastewater infrastructure asset management. I‐Corps funding will allow the team to conduct customer discovery and better target the potential customers of the technology. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Yongwei Shan
Element Data: HDR: Enabling Data Interoperability for NSF Archives of High‐rate Real‐time GPS and Seismic Observations of Induced Earthquakes and Structural Damage Detection in OK This project addresses challenges that limit the joint exploitation of real‐time GPS and seismic data: 1) assuring gap‐free archive quality transmission of realtime data streams from remote stations to the final community archive, and 2) producing precise GPS displacement time series that can be incorporated into the community seismology archive. The project builds on existing capabilities by adding modules to the Antelope Environmental Monitoring System and leverages the NSF investment in seismic data feeds to community archives. These new modules will handle data streams in a manner that is independent of the content and formats of the environmental sensor measurements. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Mohamed Soliman New Steel Connections for Seismic Retrofit and Strengthening of Bridges and Buildings This project investigates the behavior of steel connections that are both bolted and welded, with the bolts and the welds sharing loads. Steel building connections have traditionally relied on either bolts or welds to transfer forces from member to member. However, for many applications in existing structures it becomes apparent that strengthening can only be accomplished by welding pre‐existing bolted connections. This research is in partnership with W&W|AFCO Steel and the American Institute of Steel Construction. The goal is to provide design guidance for realistic configurations of connections employing bolts and welds that may exist in steel buildings and bridges. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Mohamed Soliman, Bruce Russell Aeration Process Controls to Reduce Energy Costs in Wastewater Treatment Plants Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) use large quantities of energy for treatment. WWTPs often drastically oversupply oxygen in their aeration processes. The problem of excess energy consumption in these facilities is particularly pervasive in rural areas where operational budgets are limited. The long‐term goal of the proposed project is to develop a simple, cost effective approach to decrease energy costs in WWTPs using new process control and design technology. The proposed technology has potential commercial viability through the sales of a monthly licensing agreement to ensure compliance and reduce WWTP energy costs. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: David Lampert, Tyler Ley Electrical and Computer Engineering: James Stine Global Computer Analysis to Include Hinge Crack and Thermal Stresses on the I‐235 Bridge in OKC The principal investigator will investigate the cause of cracking originating from the hinges within the 1‐235 bridge. The assessment will integrate a review of bridge data, computer analysis, and the results of the ongoing structural health monitoring of the bridge. Bridge data
(e.g., sectional dimensions, reinforcement details, paste tensioning attributes) will be extracted from as‐built drawings and inspection/repair reports. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Mohamed Soliman Investigation of Slag‐Cement Effects on High Sulfate Soils in Oklahoma This project will investigate slag‐cement and its effects on high sulfate soils found in Oklahoma. It has been determined that utilizing slag‐cement in order to control sulfate induced heave as a stabilizing agent will help the Oklahoma Department of Transportation establish new protocols in this troublesome area. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Rifat Bulut Ground Tire Rubber (GTR), (dry process) Experiment Pavement Surface Evaluation ODOT will place a GTR test section on a county/state highway in early 2019. This project will gather surface data from both the GTR and control sections of pavement, including but not limited to cracking and surface texture at intervals of pre placement, post placement, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Kelvin Wang, Joshua Li Transportation Consortium of South‐Central States (Tran‐SET): Administrative Account OSU is a subrecipient in Louisiana State University’s Transportation Consortium of South‐Central States (Tran‐SET). M. Samir Ahmed is the PI for the project at OSU. Dr. Ahmed is responsible for managing the TranSET UTC projects at OSU, soliciting and getting external reviews for research problem statements, working with the PIs of the selected projects to finalize their projects and budgets, and responding to all inquiries from TranSET. Sponsor: Louisiana State University and A&M College for the United States Department of Transportation PI/PD: M. Samir Ahmed
Transportation Consortium of South‐Central States (Tran‐SET): A Comprehensive Framework for Life‐Cycle Cost Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Bridge Decks The project focuses on introducing an approach that: 1) characterizes the life‐cycle maintenance needs and repair intervals associated with bridge decks constructed using various reinforcement alternatives in FHWA Region‐6, 2) develops a systematic methodology for quantifying the impact of bridge maintenance on indirect life‐cost including the effect of increased travel time, work zone crashes, operating cost, greenhouse gas emissions, and social losses, and 3) compares different steel reinforcement materials (e.g., regular, epoxy coated, galvanized, stainless steel, and MMFX) based on their long term performance and maintenance requirements. Sponsor: Louisiana State University and A&M College for the United States Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Mohamed Soliman, M. Samir Ahmed Transportation Consortium of South‐Central States (Tran‐SET): Vehicle Sensing and Communications Using LED Headlights to Enhance the Performance of Intelligent Transportation Systems: Proof‐of‐Concept, Implementation, and Applications This project aims to improve the accuracy and reliability of traffic data required for developing effective visible‐light‐based intelligent transportation system technologies and solutions. The objective is to perform a proof‐of‐concept for the ViLDAR system by conducting the following tasks: 1) implement the ViLDAR system in a real‐world setting, 2) perform lab and field tests in various scenarios, 3) optimize the ViLDAR system performance, and 4) test the ViLDAR system in different applications. Sponsor: Louisiana State University and A&M College for the United States Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Sabit Ekin, M. Samir Ahmed An Integrated Framework for Prediction of Fatigue Crack Propagation Under Random Sea Loading Through Coupled Experimental and Numerical Analysis The research will include 1) small‐scale experimental testing to collect data that can reduce uncertainty in crack growth parameters in marine steels, 2) large‐scale testing to characterize the crack growth in stiffened box girders subjected to variable amplitude sea loading, and 3) developing an integrated numerical approach using finite element analysis and fracture mechanics approaches to predict crack growth under realistic conditions often encountered in ships. Sponsor: Office of Naval Research PI/PD: Mohamed Soliman
Transportation Consortium of South‐Central States (Tran‐SET): Developing Implementable Climatic Input Data and Moisture Boundary Conditions for Pavement Analysis and Design This project is to develop realistic climatic input data for identifying surface and subsurface moisture boundary conditions, and to develop a practical numerical model for predicting the moisture regime within the pavement subgrade system. Sponsor: Louisiana State University and A&M College for the United States Department of Transportation PI/PD: Rifat Bulut Implementation of Prep‐ME for Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTRANS) The goal of this work is to develop a customized Prep‐ME software with traffic module for the Pavement ME Design at VTRANS, and provide technical support for the implementation of Prep‐ME in the state. Sponsor: State of Vermont PI/PDs: Joshua Li, Kelvin Wang FAST Act Emergency Vehicle (EV‐3) Load Rating The Fast Act made certain emergency vehicles including fire trucks legal on the Interstate and within reasonable access to the Interstate. These vehicles can generate greater load effects in bridges as compared to other legal vehicles. These EVs now must be considered when load rating and posting bridges on the Interstate and within the range of reasonable access to the Interstate (generally taken to be one mile from an Interstate interchange). The existing bridge in the Cooper Lab at OSU provides a unique opportunity to study the actual stresses and strains on a full scale load from an EV3 loading. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the United States Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Bruce Russell Protecting Piers of Overhead Structures from Degradation Due to Snow and Ice Chemical and Material Usage, Phase II Degradation of piers due to corrosion of reinforcing bar is a major maintenance problem for Ohio DOT districts. This corrosion is largely caused by plows throwing chloride laden ice and snow onto the piers and by chloride laden spray from vehicle traffic. This Phase II project will evaluate the effectiveness of two products in providing a barrier to protect the piers from chloride laden ice, snow and spray. The Poly Salt Armor product and the polyaspartic product will both be evaluated. The cost effectiveness of both products will also be addressed. Sponsor: University of Cincinnati for the Ohio Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PD: Norb Delatte Determining Concrete Patch Locations Other Than Visual This project concerns patch locations in concrete and asphalt‐on‐concrete pavements in Indiana It is difficult from visual inspection alone to determine the health of an existing pavement patch. Concrete pavement patches are frequently overlain with asphalt, effectively concealing
the location until failure is well underway. The research goal is to find methods to locate and classify three types of concrete patches and to deliver a corresponding patching table. The approach will use the 3D imaging system to create a 1 mm resolution image of the pavement surface and develop an artificial intelligence based technique to narrow the patch search area. Sponsor: Purdue University for Indiana Department of Transportation PI/PDs: Kelvin Wang, Joshua Li P3 Award: Decreasing the Energy Use in Wastewater Treatment The technical aims of this P3 student design project are to: (1) construct a lab‐scale experiment to analyze the relationships between critical biological process parameters including dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, and aeration; (2) build a simple, automated process control to adjust aeration inputs as oxygen and organic levels fluctuate; (3) simulate the lab‐scale results using a mathematical model that can be extended to the full‐scale facility; and (4) assess the potential energy, greenhouse gas emissions, and cost savings associated with this design using life cycle analysis. Sponsor: United States Environmental Protection Agency PI/PDs: David Lampert Electrical and Computer Engineering: James Stine Concrete Pavement Mixtures with High Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCM) Content The principal objectives of phase I of this project are to first validate/calibrate existing fly ash compositional equations that predict properties of concrete materials for pavements and then extend and/or develop new characterization protocols for high SCM replacement rates of cement (fly ash and slag) available in the State of Illinois. The goal is to have simple characterization and testing protocols that will allow the use of high volume SCMs in concrete pavement without compromising workability, air content, initial setting time, early strength gain, long term mechanical properties, and durability. Sponsor: The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois for the Illinois Department of Transportation for the United States Department of Transportation PI/PD: Tyler Ley Performance Engineered Concrete Paving Mixtures – TPF 5(368) Tasks include: 1) Prepare slides for workshops and webinars, 2) Webinars – Prepare overview of the PEM specification and give annual update on new tests and lessons learned, 3) Guide states in the use of specification, 4) Test support – Demo at NC2 – Guidance documents, 5) Shadow Project Support – Project level education with workshop and testing demonstrations, 6) Set up database, 7) Collect, save and publish field data and pavement performance, 7) Update AASHTO – Annual update on system performance and revise specification, 8) Water content – develop/improve test method, 9) Review constructability. Sponsor: Snyder & Associates, Inc. for Iowa State University for Iowa Department of Transportation PI/PD: Tyler Ley
Behavior of Steel Connections with Bolts and Welds in Combination This project investigates the behavior of steel connections that are both bolted and welded, with the bolts and the welds sharing loads. The research is a collaborative effort between OSU and W&W/AFCO Steel Co. which will provide the fabricated samples to be tested at the Bert Cooper Engineering Laboratory at OSU. Additionally, W&W/AFCO Steel Co. will provide technical expertise and technical support to help ensure the overall success of the research program. The goal of the project is to provide design guidance for realistic configurations of connections employing bolts and welds that may exist in steel buildings and bridges. Sponsor: American Institute of Steel Construction PI/PDs: Mohamed Soliman, Bruce Russell Complete Biodegration of Insensitive High Explosive Compounds The objective is to develop and deploy microbial strategies for the complete biodegradation of Insensitive high explosive (IHE) compounds. The project is being carried out by a partnership of the University of Arizona, University of West Florida, Georgia Tech and Oklahoma State University. The work at Oklahoma State University focuses on the development of molecular tools for genomic and transcriptomic analyses of the isolated bacteria or bacteria in highly enriched IHE‐biodegrading cultures. The bioinformatic analyses will elucidate putative genes involved in biodegradation and thus provide testable hypotheses for biodegradation mechanisms and will inform and support all aspects of the project. Sponsor: The University of Arizona for the United States Army Corps of Engineers PI/PD: Mark Krzmarzick Performance Based Classification Methods for Reclaimed Fly Ash New specifications are needed on the usage of reclaimed fly ash to produce concrete mixtures with long lasting performance. This project will combine advanced material characterization methods, performance based testing, mechanistic modeling, and machine learning to create engineering tools to classify reclaimed fly ash. These tools will then be used to develop specifications and new AASHTO documents to classify and design concrete mixtures to use reclaimed fly ash from a variety of sources to ensure concrete mixtures that are constructible, durable, and with satisfactory engineering properties. A pilot project will be created to showcase the usage of reclaimed fly ash. Sponsor: U.S. Department of Transportation ‐‐ Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Tyler Ley, Paul Tikalsky Electrical and Computer Engineering: Guoling Fan
Developing Standard Definition for Comparable Pavement Cracking Data In order to unify data reporting, sharing, and evaluation, standardization of pavement cracking definitions is needed. The objective of this project is to develop standard, discrete definitions for common cracking types in flexible, rigid, and composite pavements. The standard definitions shall be used to facilitate comparable measurement and interpretation of pavement cracking. The definitions shall be of sufficient detail to serve as the basis to meet user and system requirements for developing automated cracking software, and for being compatible with both existing and emerging image‐based data collection technologies. Sponsor: National Academy of Sciences for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Kelvin Wang, Joshua Li Continuous Friction Measurement Equipment (CFME) for Highway Safety Management in Oklahoma Objectives are: 1) Evaluate Grip Tester capabilities for continuous friction measurements (CFME), and 2) Provide information for Oklahoma Pavement Safety Management. Sub‐objectives are: 1) Compare CFME measurements from Grip Tester with data from ODOT locked‐wheel trailers. 2) Use Oklahoma pavement surfaces to investigate effect of operational factors on CFME friction measurements. 3) Provide guidance for ODOT to implement CFME for pavement management programs for surface treatment selection. 4) Use CFME data to develop crash rate prediction model and use PaveVision3D technology to collect 1mm 3D data. 5) Develop software that allows users to visualize and analyze continuous pavement friction data. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Joshua Li, Kelvin Wang Implement Balanced Asphalt Mix Design in Oklahoma The project will result in development of draft specifications and draft supplemental specifications for a balanced mix design procedure for the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, which will move ODOT away from a voids based mix design procedure, allowing more innovative design concepts and producing longer lasting more durable and rut resistant pavements. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Stephen Cross, Joshua Li
Collaborative Research: WERF: GOALI: Bioaugmentation‐Enhanced Anammox for Mainstream Nitrogen Removal The project involves collaborative research between the University of Arizona, Oklahoma State University and an industrial partner, Pima County Regional Wastewater Reclamation Department. The university collaboration will combine engineering expertise on nonconventional biological nutrient‐nitrogen removal with expertise on metagenomics/transcriptomics to gain insights and biomarkers to improve the process. The project directly addresses the National Academy of Engineering’s grand challenge of improving the management of the nitrogen cycle by developing technology to control the load of excess nutrient nitrogen into the environment. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Mark Krzmarzick 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 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 Chemical Engineering: Seok‐Jhin Kim I‐235 Bridge Repair Monitoring Due to national issues with grouting errors, FHWA required state DOTs to inspect their post tensioned grouted tendons. Based on these inspections, ODOT discovered issues with the I‐235 bridge. Due to construction errors some ducts were not filled with grout and water filled the ungrouted voids, resulting in corrosion issues with some of the strands. ODOT hired a company (VSL) to inspect the post tensioning ducts, develop a plan, and implement repairs. OSU 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 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 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 Development of Concrete Mixture 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 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 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: Brandy Mays 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/PDs: Tyler Ley Oregon State University: William Weiss
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 conducted several research projects funded with the 2013 Regional UTC grant as well as 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
ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING Non‐Pavement‐Intrusive Technologies for Vehicle Classification for Toll Collection The primary objective of this project is to provide OTA with detailed analysis of the fitness of various non‐pavement‐intrusive vehicle detection and classification technologies under different roadway, traffic, and environmental conditions to inform decision‐makers of the accuracy, performance, and life‐cycle‐cost of these technologies. Sponsor: Oklahoma Turnpike Authority PI/PDs: Keith Teague Civil and Environmental Engineering: Samir Ahmed Distributed Protection and Restoration Schemes for Integration of Large‐Scale Solar PV Installations and Responsive Loads: Design, Testbed, Proof of Work and Impact Studies The goal of the project is to prototype SPV integration technologies for distribution systems including microgrids considering demand behavior of associated load or group of loads, such as buildings, campuses or military bases. The integration of the autonomous primary protection and restoration scheme and technology to existing micro‐grid and Distributed Energy Resources technologies and Distribution Management Systems includes the validation at the research laboratory, Solar Photovoltaics farms at the participating utility company (OG&E) and the participating National Renewable Research Lab (NREL). Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for Department of Energy PI/PDs: Ramachandra Ramakumar, Nishantha Ekneligoda Soil Monitoring through UAV‐Assisted Internet of Things Wireless Underground Sensors The objective is to develop a proof‐of‐concept soil monitoring system with wireless underground Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The team will develop and pilot the “Smart Field,” where the smart soil monitoring system can be tested and preliminary data can be collected for future large‐scale applications. The study will look at the feasibility of innovative IoT‐enabled underground sensors for soil sensing that can improve soil and water management, consequently leading to conservation of water quantity and quality. The project will involve field experiments and software and hardware implementation of UAV and IoT systems. Sponsor: United States Geological Society PI/PDs: Sabit Ekin, John O’Hara Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: Jamey Jacob Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering: Saleh Taghvaeian
Radiation‐Hardened RF Receiver with On‐Board Performance Compensation The team will develop a performance compensation technique for commercial‐off‐the‐shelf (COTS) electronic components that are exposed to space radiation effects. By implementing main and auxiliary receivers, the system can monitor the TID‐induced degradation of COTS parts by measuring the dc bias currents and voltages of the auxiliary receiver. Using this information, the bias conditions of the COTS parts in the main receiver are adjusted to maximize the RF performance. Sponsor: IEEE Microwave Theory & Techniques Society PI/PD: Ickhyun Song FAA COE Zone 3 ILS Measurements The objective is to record the glideslope depth of modulation in Zone 3 for analysis of manned aircraft flight inspection system (FIS) accuracy and to advance development of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for ILS facility preparation. A UAS will be instrumented with a lightweight ILS receiver capable of recording both localizer and glideslope depth of modulation (DDM). The UAS will be equipped with an RTK GPS to more accurately track and record position within 5cm laterally and vertically. The UAS position data will be recorded and synchronized with localizer and glideslope DDM. Sponsor: Federal Aviation Administration Center of Excellence PI/PDs: Jim West Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: Jamey Jacob, Gary Ambrose Space‐bourne Antennas and Circuits for Condensed Radars and STEM (SPACERS) The goal is to provide NASA with updated technologies and processing techniques to help with the move towards space‐borne application of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) systems. Tasks include: 1) The quality of a waveform used in the SAR algorithms will be analyzed and optimized. 2) NASA’s current requirements will be reviewed to make recommendations about the hardware design. Previously collected terrestrial data from surface, airborne, and current NASA space‐borne remote sensing platforms will be studied to provide advice about the radar’s operation for maximum sensitivity. Initial analysis of any experimental data will be provided at the end of the program. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Oklahoma Space Grant Consortium for the Oklahoma Regents of Higher Education PI/PD: Jim West
Experiments to Characterize Statistics of the Electric Field in a Spacecraft Payload Fairing OSU is supporting Robust Physics in performing its NASA STTR project. The work will be performed by OSU’s Robust Electromagnetic Field Testing and Simulation (REFTAS) personnel. The first task is fabrication of the test device, which will consist of a cylindrical insert to be placed in a scale‐model rocket fairing. The second task will be electromagnetic measurement of the test structure under various conditions. Testing will be performed in large, on‐site electromagnetic reverberation and anechoic chambers. REFTAS will perform secondary roles in design of the test article, review and analysis of test data, and review of the Phase I report. Sponsor: Sonelite, Inc. d/b/a/ Robust Physics for National Aeronautics and Space Administration PI/PDs: James West, Chuck Bunting FW‐HTF‐P: Robotic Health Assistants: A New Human‐Machine Partnership in Home Healthcare The long‐term goal is to empower home healthcare providers to achieve high productivity and quality of work life by developing a robotic health assistant (RoHA)‐based smart home healthcare system (SHHS). In a SHHS, AI‐powered robotic health assistants interact with homebound older adults and incorporate health monitoring, and if needed, provide proactive interventions. The objectives of this one‐year planning project are: 1) building the research team and fostering collaboration with industry partners and stakeholders to develop the research concept of a RoHA‐based SHHS, and 2) conducting preliminary study and test of this concept. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Weihua Sheng Human Development and Family Science: Alex Bishop OU Health Sciences Center: Barbara Carlson Collaborative Research: SpecEES: Designing A Spectrally Efficient and Energy Efficient Data Aided Demand Driven Elastic Architecture for Future Networks (SpiderNET) The goal is to design, characterize, optimize and validate through a state‐of‐the‐art testbed a new architecture that enables additional degrees of freedom in mobile network design and operation to yield substantial gains in spectral efficiency (SE) and energy efficiency (EE) while ensuring customizable Quality of Experience. The idea is to introduce additional degrees of freedom through an intelligent and adaptive operation to relax the rigid SE‐EE tradeoff and thus enable simultaneous enhancement of both SE and EE. This is done by shifting the pivot of operation from the rigid always on base station centric cells to user‐centric on demand cells. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Sabit Ekin University of Oklahoma: Ali Imran Horizon II Radio and GPS Research Phase (FOUO) OSU will perform a holistic study to determine the best Courses of Action to prevent jamming of the global positioning system and determine which radio frequencies (outside of standard ranges) and ranges provide the best performance and minimize the possibility of jamming when
used as a command and control link for the PUMA II. The focus is to provide a complete analysis of the GPS system and the potential of using a software defined radio as a material solution, with the ability to pre‐select frequencies to the customer and deliver a final report within 60 days from receipt of task. Sponsor: Cambridge International Systems, Inc. for the General Services Administration PI/PDs: Jim West, Sabit Ekin Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: Jamey Jacob, Gary Ambrose RI: Small: Enabling Sound‐based Human Activity Monitoring for Home Service Robots This project aims to solve a fundamental research problem critical to the application of service robots in complex home environments: human activity monitoring. By proposing an innovative concept called visual‐acoustic semantic map (VASM), this project is able to create a bridge between environmental understanding and human behavior understanding, which offers a new theory to realize non‐visual, sensor fusion‐based monitoring of resident behaviors. The theoretical framework will be verified and evaluated through experiments in robot‐integrated smart homes. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Weihua Sheng Performance Based Classification Methods for Reclaimed Fly Ash New specifications are needed on the usage of reclaimed fly ash to produce concrete mixtures with long lasting performance. This project will combine advanced material characterization methods, performance based testing, mechanistic modeling, and machine learning to create engineering tools to classify reclaimed fly ash. These tools will then be used to develop specifications and new AASHTO documents to classify and design concrete mixtures to use reclaimed fly ash from a variety of sources to ensure concrete mixtures that are constructible, durable, and with satisfactory engineering properties. A pilot project will be created to showcase the usage of reclaimed fly ash. Sponsor: U.S. Department of Transportation ‐‐ Federal Highway Administration PI/PDs: Guoling Fan Civil and Environmental Engineering: Tyler Ley, Paul Tikalsky CATcare: Cognition Assistive Technology for Dementia Homecare The goal is to improve the quality and sustainability of dementia homecare via low‐cost wearable, personalized and customizable technology. The two aims are: 1) Identify major environmental cueing functionalities essential for individuals with dementia to accomplish in‐home activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs); 2) Develop and evaluate a wearable tool that can be customized by the caregiver to assist the care recipient with relative independence and quality of living at home. The proposed prototype not only encapsulates hardware innovations (smartglass and smartphone) but also advanced software solutions (image processing, machine learning, computer vision techniques). Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PDs: Guoliang Fan Human Sciences: Emily Roberts
Nested Cavity Reciprocal Field Study NASA Launch Service Program has worked with AI Solutions and Oklahoma State University to statistically characterize a cavity by using an outer reverberation chamber capability. This study will examine the reciprocal nature of the nested cavity radiated and incident fields. Characterizing the external environment using reciprocity theory will significantly reduce the computation time required to validate an internal electromagnetic environment in launch vehicle fairings. Currently only spot checks of this external environment can be performed. In this project, a series of test cases will be performed to support an analysis of the reciprocity concept in the reverberant nested cavity condition. Sponsor: AI Solutions for National Aeronautics and Space Administration PI/PDs: Jim West, Chuck Bunting A Mobile Platform for Clinical Gait Analysis There is a need to have an affordable and easy‐to‐use clinical solution for comprehensive gait analysis that can be operated in a free and natural setting by clinicians and medical professionals without special training. Toward this end, specific aims of the project are: 1) to develop a vision‐based real‐time navigation system to allow the robot to track a walking subject from behind, side or front; 2) to estimate gait kinematics from depth sequences captured from a walking subject; 3) to evaluate the performance of the proposed mobile platform for gait imbalance assessment by comparing with the gold‐standard motion capture system. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Guoliang Fan Structured Low‐Energy High Performance Application‐Specific Computer Architectures The research emphasis is on designing a complex VLSI processor architecture and signal systems using an elaborate design flow or sequence of steps while optimizing constraints for energy, power, and speed given a complex set of OCV issues. Design flows and tools will be created to assist designers in specific computer architectures that are robust, have high amounts of performance, and are considered mobile in that they consume small amounts of power and energy. The objective for these design flows is to create an implementation that outperforms similar architectures in terms of propagation delay, yet produces savings in power consumed. Sponsor: United States Air Force PI/PD: James Stine Investigation of Focused Ultrasound Mediated Enhancement of Chronic Non‐healing Wound Antimicrobial Therapy in Client‐owned Dogs Acute and chronic wounds typically require treatment with a combination of antibiotics administered systemically and locally. They often require extensive surgical debridement, including amputation in patients. The team’s previous studies have shown that focused ultrasound‐induced local warming decreases resistance within vascular beds to elevate local intravascular concentration of systemically‐administered drugs within the solid tumor. This method has not heretofore been adapted to wound therapy in client‐owned dogs. Unlike murine models, canine models replicate the infection profile in humans, and thus a
demonstration of focused ultrasound efficacy in a veterinary clinical trial would provide an easier path for human clinical trials. Sponsor: Focused Ultrasound Foundation PI/PDs: Daqing Piao Center for Veterinary Health Sciences: Ashish Ranjan Optimization and Exploration of Trusted Low‐Power High Performance Computer Architectures This project’s goal is to design, develop, and evaluate hardware support for secure computer architectures at the nanometer level. This will be accomplished by designing complete design flow integration with commercial and open‐source Electronic Design Automation tools. The design flow will take a high‐level system‐level architecture description as inputs along with area, critical path delay, and power dissipation constraints. Based on the SoC architecture description and design constraints, the tools will automatically generate synthesizable HDL models, embedded memories, and custom components to implement the specified VLSI architecture. Sponsor: United States Air Force PI/PD: James Stine Magnetic Hyperthermia Combined Antimicrobial Targeting of Bone Pathogens The goal is to achieve on‐demand rapid, thermally‐targeted antimicrobial agent release within infected bone tissue, using a novel dual‐platform technology that combines Low Temperature‐Sensitive Liposomes (sLTSL) with Alternating Magnetic Field (AMF)‐induced mild local hyperthermia, generated using sLTSL loaded with superparamagnetic iron oxide. Such sLTSL permit induced release of liposome‐borne antimicrobial agent using mild local elevations in tissue temperature. Therefore, the hypothesis is that localized AMF‐induced mild tissue warming combined with microbicide‐loaded sLTSL, administered either systemically or locally, can elicit targeted antimicrobial release in a millisecond time scale, permitting synergistic bacterial killing of poorly‐accessible biofilm bacteria within bone. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Daqing Piao Aeration Process Controls to Reduce Energy Costs in Wastewater Treatment Plants Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) use large quantities of energy for treatment. WWTPs often drastically oversupply oxygen in their aeration processes. The problem of excess energy consumption in these facilities is particularly pervasive in rural areas where operational budgets are limited. The long‐term goal of the proposed project is to develop a simple, cost effective approach to decrease energy costs in WWTPs using new process control and design technology. The proposed technology has potential commercial viability through the sales of a monthly licensing agreement to ensure compliance and reduce WWTP energy costs. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: James Stine Civil and Environmental Engineering: David Lampert, Tyler Ley
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
FIRE PROTECTION PUBLICATIONS Study of Emergency Services Funding Alternatives This cooperative agreement provides funding to study required information updates and revisions to the April 2012 edition of Funding Alternatives for Fire and Emergency Service and incorporate such changes into the document to provide the most up to date information regarding sources of funding for local‐level Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and fire departments. The project will allow for development of a comprehensive and informative document that provides information on funding programs and initiatives for local‐level EMS and fire departments with the intent of FEMA distributing this information to the appropriate audiences. Sponsor: Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency PI/PD: 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/PD: Nancy J. Trench
FIRE SERVICE TRAINING
Firefighter Training for the Gyeonggi‐do Fire and Disaster Headquarters, South Korea Fire Service Training instructors provided both lectures and skill training for South Korean firefighters from September 3, 2019 through October 22, 2019. Twelve members of the firefighting force from the Gyeonggi province of South Korea participated in several different training courses including Firefighter 1, HazMat Awareness, HazMat Operations, Vehicle Extrication and Flammable Liquid and Gas Training. Sponsor: Gyeonggi‐do Fire and Disaster Headquarters PI/PD: Erick Reynolds Homeland Security Grant Program – Mobile Pump Station This grant provides funding for the purchase of a mobile pump station. Sponsor: Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security for the Department of Homeland Security PI/PD: Caroline Reed AFG to Purchase Over the Road Tow Vehicle The grant is for the purchase of an over‐the‐road tow vehicle. The tow vehicle requested is a Class A conventional cab commercial highway truck tractor with tandem axle and 44 inch low roof sleeper for storage, with a gross combined weight rating capable of 80,000 pounds. Providing the firefighters of Oklahoma with more localized training is always the goal of Fire Service Training. With this tow vehicle, FST will better serve the firefighters of this state with specialized training at the local level. Sponsor: Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency PI/PD: Caroline Reed Susan Harwood Training Grant: OSU Chemical Hazards/Hazardous Communications Project OSU proposes to build new training capacity by providing Awareness level training and Operations level training on the topic of chemical hazards/hazard communication in agricultural industries. Examples of the training topics include: OSHA regulations for hazardous communications, chemicals used in agricultural settings and their health hazards, what personal protective equipment (PPE) to use and proper use of PPE, what type of monitors to use to monitor for chemical hazards, how to use the monitoring equipment, and how to make decisions based on the information obtained from monitoring equipment. Sponsor: United States Department of Labor – Occupational Safety and Health Administration PI/PD: Caroline Reed Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering: Carol Jones AFG to Purchase Mobile Live Fire Liquefied Petroleum Gas Simulator The grant is for the purchase of a multipurpose Mobile Live Fire, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Simulator. This multipurpose simulator will allow OSU‐FST to provide live fire training that meets NFPA 1001 certification requirements for both Firefighter I and II in rural areas where training facilities are not available to fire departments. With this unit OSU‐FST will be able to provide specialized training in the areas of controlling propane tank impingement fires,
flammable liquid spill fires, pipeline valve flange fires, vehicle fires and trash dumpster fires all from one trailer. Sponsor: Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency PI/PD: Caroline Reed 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 Public Safety Small Unmanned Aerial Systems Operations Training Baseline Materials & Usage Assessment The objective of this effort is to develop a curriculum that will address sUAS utilization across all operational settings including structural and wildland firefighting, search & rescue, hazardous material responses, natural disasters, and any other events in which public safety operations would benefit from use of drones. Sponsor: Fire Protection Research Foundation, Inc. for the Federal Emergency Management Agency PI/PDs: Dean McFadden Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: Jamey Jacob, James Kidd Engineering Outreach and Extension: Ed Kirtley Fire Protection & Safety Engineering Technology: Rob Agnew Fire & Emergency Management Administration: Haley Murphy
INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT CAREER: Advancing Mathematical Models and Algorithms for Decentralized Optimization in Complex Multi‐agent Networks This research is expected to advance the area of distributed optimization over networks, including networks associated with time‐varying directed graphs, by innovations in three aspects: 1) Development of an enhanced mathematical modeling framework by utilizing the theory of variational inequalities for the first time, 2) Design and analysis of new classes of iteratively regularized consensus‐based algorithms with explicit performance bounds to address the proposed modeling framework, and 3) Explore novel ways to address nonsmoothness in the proposed modeling framework. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Farzad Yousefian CAREER: Parsimonious Models for Redistricting Previous models for redistricting do not scale well. Even the best of them begin to struggle on county level instances of redistricting. This is due, in part, to the large number of variables defining these models. In order to satisfy the rigid population‐equality constraints, one must redistrict at a finer level of granularity, resulting in an even larger problem. This research will consider new models for redistricting that have the potential to handle significantly larger instances. This is enabled, in part, by the newly proposed Arborescence Models, which exploit planar graph duality to simultaneously achieve small size and remarkable strength. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Austin Buchanan Phase 5: Using HazMat Flow Analyzer and Risk Assessment Tools to Support Emergency Response Planning and HazMat Training Activities in Oklahoma A working prototype of a GIS application has been developed, which shows (reported) flows of extremely hazardous substances (EHS) on Oklahoma roadways. Ongoing research includes development of risk assessment models that use EHS flow data, HazMat incident data, and accident data for Oklahoma roadways to estimate HazMat incident risk levels for roadway segments. This next phase will enhance the GIS application and risk assessment tool to provide useful planning and training functionality for end‐users. Tasks include: 1) Integrating results of the risk assessment models into the GIS application, 2) End‐user requirements, feedback, and training, 3) Testing software functionality and output. Sponsor: Oklahoma Emergency Management for the USDOT‐Pipeline and Hazardous Materials and Safety Administration PI/PDs: Manjunath Kamath, Farzad Yousefian Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering: R. Scott Frazier
Modeling Worst‐case Defender‐Attacker Problems as Robust Linear Programs with Mixed‐integer Uncertainty Sets Project objectives include: 1) Study models and algorithms for a base case in which the uncertainty is limited to the cost coefficients and the outer problem contains only continuous variables while the uncertainty set contains continuous and integer variables; 2) Similar to the first objective, explore models and algorithms for a pure integer case in which the uncertainty is not limited to the cost coefficients and both the outer problem and the uncertainty set are represented using only discrete variables; 3) Identify classes of relevant problems that can be solved by the algorithms that are developed. Sponsor: Office of Naval Research PI/PD: Juan Borrero Phase 4: Development of a GIS Application for Analyzing HazMat Flows in Oklahoma In previous phases of this project, the research team developed The Hazardous Material Movement Model (HazM3) Framework that includes a database of Oklahoma commercial facilities, which store materials considered as being extremely hazardous substances (EHS). Following this, a web‐based survey application was designed and built on top of this database of facilities storing EHS materials. In the current phase, this survey is being distributed to these Oklahoma commercial facilities to collect shipment data for the EHS materials they store. This approach of collecting HazMat movement data using a targeted survey of facilities is a novel idea of this research effort. Sponsor: Oklahoma Emergency Management for the USDOT‐Pipeline and Hazardous Materials and Safety Administration PI/PDs: Manjunath Kamath, Farzad Yousefian Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering: R. Scott Frazier Validating a Clinical Decision Support Algorithm Developed with Big Data to Diagnose, State, Prevent, and Monitor a Patient’s Diabetic Retinopathy With a growing diabetic population, it is imperative to develop a tool for preventing, diagnosing, screening, and managing diabetic retinopathy to cater to patients living with diabetes. This project lays the foundation for this kind of tool. The research team will finalize and test a clinical decision support algorithm based on a patient’s current lab results to decipher whether a patient has diabetic retinopathy. The algorithm will lead to a new standard of care for diabetic patients. Ideally, primary care physicians will be empowered to assess patient diabetic retinopathy as part of a standard in‐office primary care visit. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Tieming Liu Center for Health Systems Innovation: William Palva Statistics: Ye Liang Optimization‐based Aggregate Master Planning Tools for Bay Valley Foods, LLC The project focuses on the master planning/scheduling activity, which is a key driver of current operations as it guides production by setting monthly production targets. The goal is to develop analytical approaches for guiding master planning decisions. The objectives are: 1) design and
formulate mathematical optimization models that recommend aggregate‐level master production schedules; and 2) develop computer implementations of the mathematical models that can be solved using a commercial optimization solver. This integrated approach using costs and revenues to drive the plan while simultaneously considering the various resource constraints can lead to better master planning decisions that result in savings. Sponsor: Big Valley Foods, LLC PI/PDs: Baski Balasundaram, Austin Buchanan, Sunderesh Heragu Collaborative Research: Enhancing Power System Resilience Via Data‐Driven Optimization A new class of data‐driven optimization methodologies is proposed to assist power system operations under contingency. This project studies probabilistic modeling of power grid contingency based on meteorological and historical transmission availability data. The data analytics is incorporated in distributionally robust optimization models to (a) conduct risk assessment analysis, (b) harden pre‐disaster power grid, (c) take corrective actions during disasters, and (d) conduct post‐disaster self‐healing and system restoration. Successful implementations of the research can provide data‐driven approaches to address critical resilience issues facing the nation’s power system infrastructure. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Chaoyue Zhao 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 is expected to overcome these limitations and lead to a rich body of knowledge regarding connectivity problems, and, in particular, to faster approaches for solving vertex‐centric connectivity problems. The work will likely generalize existing results about edge‐centric connectivity and will have consequences for hop‐constrained and survivable network design problems. An REU supplement has been received for student support for this project. 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
MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING Design of Novel Electrocoagulation Systems for Produced Water Treatment The project promises a technological breakthrough for electrocoagulation (EC) technology by development of novel, high efficiency but low cost electrodes for produced water treatment. The first project objective is to develop novel electrodes for EC that will have high surface area and will allow for easy removal and/or prevention of the oxide layer formed on the cathode by embedding an electromagnet in the electrodes. The second objective is to identify optimal conditions for electrocoagulation. In particular, conditions to form hyrdroxychloride Green Rusts (GR(Cl‐) to decrease the Cl‐ ion concentrations (and total dissolved solids), will be explored. Sponsor: United States Geological Survey PI/PD: Pankaj Sarin CerFoil‐High Efficiency Ceramic Propellers for UxS The purpose of this research program is to develop a radically new lightweight ceramic composite propeller for use in small unmanned air systems (SUAS) such as commonly known quad‐copter drones. The design is constructed of very lightweight high modulus ceramic composites to provide a 10‐12 db average reduction in radiated noise compared to the state‐of‐the‐art commercially available hobby enthusiast propellers. Sponsor: Hydronalix, Inc. for the Department of Defense PI/PDs: Ranji Vaidyanathan, Jim Smay Continuous Large‐scale Functionalized Silver Nanowire (AgNW)‐Based Transparent Conductive Films (TCFs) Manufacturing The objective is the discovery of reaction conditions in a millifluidic reactor to produce high‐quality, low‐cost AgNW inks that can be continuously printed onto flexible substrates to create low‐cost transparent conductive films (TCFs) for Internet of Nano Things (IoNT) application. To accomplish this, the research aims are: 1) AgNW millifluidic reaction mechanism investigation and synthesis optimization to find the optimum reaction conditions; 2) Large‐scale millifluidic synthesis of functionalized AgNW; and 3) Continuous preparation and writing of AgNW inks onto flexible substrates to create TCFs for IoNT. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: James Smay Chemical Engineering: Shohreh Hemmati Demonstration of TFT‐less Infrared‐driven OLED Projection Display OSU is collaborating with Ghost Display Technologies, LLC on this Department of Defense STTR project. OSU’s tasks include: 1) Optimize monochrome IR‐driven OLED screens, 2) Optimize solution coating processes of solution‐based organic materials for inkjet‐printed full‐color IR‐driven OLEDs, 3) Fabricate solution‐processed OLEDs for phase II full‐color prototypes. Sponsor: Ghost Display Technologies, LLC for Department of Defense PI/PD: Do Young Kim
SBIR Phase I: Z4.01‐3283 Misse Experiments for Evaluation of Reliability of Cryogenic Composite Systems and Materials During the Phase I program, the OSU‐Infinite Composites Technologies (ICT) team will leverage the OSU expertise on preparing samples for Materials International Space Station Experiments (MISSE) to evaluate and demonstrate the reliability of composite systems and materials for cryogenic fluid handling in space. ICT will prepare samples for MISSE experiments with the assistance of OSU researchers and also evaluate its reliability under space conditions, especially related to the interfacial characteristics of the fiber‐matrix systems after exposure to combined conditions of cryogenic temperature exposure and mechanical stresses or other conditions such as radiation and cryogenic temperatures. Sponsor: Infinite Composites Technologies for National Aeronautics and Space Administration PI/PDs: Ranji Vaidyanathan, Feng Lu Engineering Thin Film Solar Cells for Radiation Hardness, Lifetime and Efficiency The project will use a combined experimental and theoretical approach for characterization and in depth study of radiation hard multinary halide and chalcogenide solar cells for space applications. The two proposed materials technologies in this project are based on Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) and emerging lead halide perovskites that demonstrate a combination of remarkable radiation resistance, high efficiency, light weight, thin, and flexible solar cell arrays for NASA’s CubeSat and SmallSat applications in which high power, light, low payload systems are highly desirable. Sponsors: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, University of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Do Young Kim Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: Andy Arena Physics: Mario Borunda Marine Composites with Improved Toughness and Thermal Stability In this OARS project, MITO Material Solutions, LLC will do research to develop additives that mix easily with polyester and vinyl ester resins. Polyester and vinyl ester resins are commonly used to make marine composites. Marine composites are used to make various types of boats and boat parts. The MITO additives will improve the mechanical properties of these resins and make marine composites tougher. MITO mixed resins will be applied in‐between the layers of fiberglass or other fabrics. In this project, the MITO Team will develop new inexpensive formulations as well as scale up the amount of existing MITO products. Sponsor: MITO Materials Solutions for Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Ranji Vaidyanathan Chemistry: Frank Blum Materials Recycling – Promoting Sustainability and a Circular Economy Faculty from materials science and engineering, civil and environmental engineering and Spears school of business will set up an experiential graduate level course for graduate students to: 1) understand sustainable practices, 2) develop and evaluate ideas for innovative sustainable
practices, 3) generate prototypes and term‐papers based on those ideas, 4) test if the idea has commercial potential, 5) apply for scholars programs, 6) generate business plans and elevator pitches, 7) present the pitch to business plan competitions, 8) apply for Venturewell and I‐Corps grants, and, 9) create a business based on the idea and bring the product to the market. Sponsor: National Collegiate Inventors & Innovators Alliance d/b/a/ VentureWell PI/PDs: Ranji Vaidyanathan Civil and Environmental Engineering: Julie Hartell SBIR Phase II: Tough Polymer Composite Materials Through iLAMB, or Interlaminar Modifications Through Master Batching During Phase I, the OSU/MITO Material Solutions team demonstrated a toughening additive that can be blended directly into an epoxy resin at concentrated levels to create a “Master Batch,” exhibiting excellent dispersion of the hybrid nanofillers combining graphene oxide and polyhedral oligomeric silsequioxanes in an epoxy matrix. This master batch can be incorporated into the current composite manufacturing process without any process changes to result in significantly enhanced interlaminar fracture in carbon fiber/epoxy composites. In Phase II, new nanofillers/toughening additives will be developed, manufactured and scaled up that can be added to epoxy/vinyl ester/polyester resin systems in Master Batch form. Sponsor: MITO Material Solutions PI/PDs: Ranji Vaidyanathan, Raman Singh Chemistry: Frank Blum Large‐Volume Stimulation of Rock for Greatly Enhanced Fluids Recovery Using Targeted Seismic‐Assisted Hydraulic Fracturing This project will develop and demonstrate a new technology for large‐volume and targeted comminution of rock in low permeability formations to enhance recovery from unconventional oil and gas resources. This greatly increased rock stimulation, through bulk comminution, is expected to cause significant increase in permeability leading to enhancement of recovery factors for sub‐surface fluids. The effort integrates fundamental scientific understanding of dynamic material response under constraint, damage‐induced permeability and porosity enhancements at multiple length scales, along with models of comminution due to the local release of kinetic energy associated with high shear strain rate of dynamic deformation. Sponsor: Department of Energy PI/PD: Raman P. Singh, Pankaj Sarin
Lightweight Large Composite Tanks for Launch Vehicles and In‐Space Depots This Research Initiation Grant (RIG) will enable the PI to collaborate with Nathanael Greene/Ian Juby and his group in the Propulsion (EP) and Materials and Processes (ES4) branches at NASA Johnson Space Center to develop composite materials that can store and transport cryogenic fuels such as liquid oxygen and liquid methane for long duration space flights. The RIG will allow further development of materials for composite tanks and evaluate the use of highly weight efficient designs for other platforms as well as many space companies. If successful, these materials could be evaluated by NASA for insertion into commercial space activities. Sponsor: Oklahoma NASA EPSCoR for NASA PI/PD: Ranji Vaidyanathan Smart Sensor Development Using Infrared Sensible OLEDs OSU is collaborating with the Korea Institute of Technology for smart sensor development using infrared sensible OLEDs. OSU’s part of the work will include: 1) fabrication of organic infrared photodetectors, 2) characterization of photodetectors, 3) fabrication of all‐organic IR‐to‐visible up‐conversion OLEDs, 4) characterization of up‐conversion OLEDs. Sponsor: Korea Institute of Industrial Technology PI/PD: DoYoung Kim Assessment of Radiation Shielding Properties of Novel and Baseline Materials External to ISS The project will test and measure the radiation shielding and other properties of the multifunctional materials developed in previous awards. In this project, the materials will be tested in the actual space environment external to the International Space Station. Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration PI/PDs: Ranji Vaidyanathan Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering: Andy Arena Department of Physics: Eric Benton Nanostructured Materials for Li‐Ion Batteries with High Capacity and Performance The purpose is to develop state‐of‐the‐art Li‐ion battery materials with enhanced capacity and performance. It is anticipated that the research will result in new anode and cathode materials with at least 2X enhancement in capacity and performance. The research relies on quick and easy to implement experimental techniques to develop the battery materials. The end users of this technology include Li‐ion battery materials manufacturers, alternative energy, portable electronics, and automobile industries. Three local OK commercial partners have been identified who are interested in commercializing the technology upon demonstration of the proof‐of‐concept. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Raj N. Singh, Nirmal Govindaraju
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 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 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
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
MECHANICAL AND AEROSPACE ENGINEERING Collaborative Research: Data‐Driven Variational Multiscale Reduced Order Models for Biomedical and Engineering Applications To develop reduced order models (ROMs) that are accurate in realistic, under‐resolved regimes, the ROM closure problem needs to be solved, i.e., the effect of the discarded ROM modes on the ROM dynamics needs to be modeled. This project puts forth a new data‐driven ROM paradigm that centers around the hierarchical structure of variational multiscale (VMS) methodology and uses machine learning and numerical and observational data to dramatically increase the ROM accuracy at a modest computational cost. The novel data‐driven VMS‐ROM framework aims at transforming ROMs into general and robust computational tools for applications across engineering, science, and medicine. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Omer San Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University: Traian Iliescu Emory University: Alessandro Veneziani Operator Theoretic Methods for Data‐Driven Control Synthesis The goal is to develop novel operator theoretic techniques for data and model‐driven synthesis of control policies through synthesis of control Lyapunov functions (CLFs) and solution of optimal control problems. The technical tasks focus on the use of trajectories (i.e., time‐series) as the fundamental unit of data for the resolution of control synthesis and certification problems in dynamical systems. If successful, the efforts in this project will lead to mathematically rigorous methods that admit efficient linear and/or quadratic programming based numerical approximations for construction of CLFs and solution of optimal control problems using data‐driven black‐box and gray‐box models. Sponsor: Air Force Office of Scientific Research PI/PD: Rushikesh Kamalapurkar Public Safety Small Unmanned Aerial Systems Operations Training Baseline Materials & Usage Assessment The objective of this effort is to develop a curriculum that will address sUAS utilization across all operational settings including structural and wildland firefighting, search & rescue, hazardous material responses, natural disasters, and any other events in which public safety operations would benefit from use of drones. Sponsor: Fire Protection Research Foundation, Inc. for the Federal Emergency Management Agency PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob, James Kidd Engineering Outreach and Extension: Ed Kirtley Fire Protection & Safety Engineering Technology: Rob Agnew Fire & Emergency Management Administration: Haley Murphy Fire Service Training: Dean McFadden
Speedfest X Speedfest will be celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2020, and is an exciting, high‐speed aircraft design/build/fly competition that is intended to foster enthusiasm for aviation and STEM in general. There are two flight competition classes: Alpha Class is the advanced class for collegiate‐level teams. India Class is the invitational class that consists of high school teams, and teams of K‐12 teachers formed from across the state of Oklahoma. Sponsor: Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission PI/PD: Andy Arena FLIR IBAC SkyRaider Wind Tunnel Testing OSU’s wind tunnel will be used to conduct experiments to characterize the response of an instantaneous biological aerosol counter payload attached to a drone. Sponsor: FLIR Detection, Inc. for Advanced Technology International for Department of the Army PI/PD: Jamey Jacob Group 3 Unmanned Airborne Systems UAS Design (Project 117) The OSU investigator will provide an acoustic assessment of a baseline fixed‐wing VTOL UAS platform and then proceed to design and integrate a sound attenuation plan for a new Group III fixed‐wing VTOL USA platform. OSU’s team will design and fabricate a ground based mock‐up test rig for the motor/propeller/fuselage section of the platform in order to test design choices. OSU’s team will assess and provide input to the VTOL rotors in an effort to reduce their noise signature. The results of the test rig measurements and assessment will feed into the final design of a prototype aircraft. Sponsor: Cambridge International Systems, Inc. for the General Services Administration PI/PD: Rick Gaeta Atmospheric Gravity Wave Radiosonde Field Campaign for Eclipse 2020 OSU will collaborate with the University of Montana on the planning, design, implementation and demonstration of scientific research investigating the atmospheric responses to a total solar eclipse. This will include development and testing of observation and data acquisition systems, including balloons, sensors, radiosondes, telemetry, tracking and ground station systems. The project includes international travel to the eclipse site to conduct research including 24+ hours hourly balloon launching, ground station control, data collection and site monitoring. Sponsor: Montana State University for National Science Foundation PI/PD: Jamey Jacob Pistol Pete’s Propulsion Posse Pistol Pete’s Propulsion Posse is competing in the C3 Challenge to further develop the concept of turboelectric propulsion and power for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The turboelectric system will power small UAV (<55lb) platforms in demonstration flight tests, which will show the versatility and scalability of the system. In addition, electrical systems and subsystems will be designed and developed to address integration/vehicle level considerations. Deliverables
include 5 kW, 7 kW and 9 kW turboelectric systems in the Proof of Concept phase and UAVs integrated with turboelectric system in the subsequent System Integration phase, including fixed‐wing and multi‐rotor platforms. Sponsor: Wichita State University for Department of Defense PI/PD: Kurt Rouser Tools and Methods for Fatigue Behavior in Surface‐Modified Metallic Structures This research is aimed at developing tools and methods to support aircraft gas turbine engine repair activities. The project focuses on fatigue behavior in metallic structures, including a study on the effect of surface treatments and coatings on fatigue and life‐limiting mechanics. The goal is to develop an understanding of fatigue behavior to improve structural analysis associated with the repair of metallic structures. The project will enable advancements in gas turbine engine repair development and predictive engine life management for maintenance, repair and overhaul activities. The results will lead to reduced engine life cycle costs and increased engine readiness levels. Sponsor: United Technologies Corporation – Pratt & Whitney Division PI/PDs: Kurt Rouser, Sandip Harimkar, Shuodao Wang Soil Monitoring through UAV‐Assisted Internet of Things Wireless Underground Sensors The objective is to develop a proof‐of‐concept soil monitoring system with wireless underground Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The team will develop and pilot the “Smart Field,” where the smart soil monitoring system can be tested and preliminary data can be collected for future large‐scale applications. The study will look at the feasibility of innovative IoT‐enabled underground sensors for soil sensing that can improve soil and water management, consequently leading to conservation of water quantity and quality. The project will involve field experiments and software and hardware implementation of UAV and IoT systems. Sponsor: United States Geological Society PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob Electrical and Computer Engineering: Sabit Ekin, John O’Hara Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering: Saleh Taghvaeian Investigate and Implement Flexible and Fast g‐function Calculation Methods to Support Automated Design and Optimization of Ground Heat Exchangers To enable wider adoption of the geothermal heat pump (GHP) technology, which can more efficiently provide space conditioning to a built environment than conventional HVAC technologies, it is highly desirable to have a software tool that can reliably predict the performance and analyze the economics of a GHP system. This project will investigate and implement g‐function calculation methods that are fast enough, accurate enough, and flexible enough to support automated design of ground heat exchangers. The project will also investigate and implement ground heat exchanger simulation algorithm improvements that allow the model to go down to very short time steps. Sponsor: UT‐Battelle, LLC for Oak Ridge National Laboratory PI/PD: J.D. Spitler
Research and Sounding Rockets The objective is to support the establishment and execution of a high‐tempo cost effective process to rapidly drive technology maturation from conceptual to application to reduce overall lifecycle time by providing impactful data for performance evaluation and model validation. This involves providing a capability to evaluate new technology performance utilizing low‐cost research rocket flights, which then can progress to higher fidelity tests on sounding rocket and strategic asset flights. Sponsor: Honeywell Federal Manufacturing & Technologies, LLC for Department of Energy PI/PD: Jamey Jacob Failure Analysis and 3D Scan of Bolts OSU will obtain three 3 bolts from Boeing‐OKC and will perform a 3D scan of each bolt using machine Zeiss Xradia 410 X‐ray Computed Tomography. OSU will deliver the 3D image file and submit a final presentation describing the results of the effort. Sponsor: The Boeing Company for the United States Air Force PI/PD: James Kidd Low Cost Engine Performance Baseline Evaluation A team of students and faculty at OSU will construct a test stand for JetCat and AMT Netherlands turbojet engines to evaluate thrust and specific fuel consumption. Performance measures will be corrected for atmospheric effects and evaluated over a range of throttle settings across multiple test runs. Other measurements will include exhaust gas temperature, pressure and swirl. Engine start reliability will be evaluated under different conditions. Sponsor: Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems, Inc. PI/PD: Kurt Rouser Deice/Anti‐icing for Unmanned Aerial Systems In this capstone project, the icing team will develop initial icing predictions for the Scan Eagle under UAS conditions, using both modeling data and flight information. From these estimations, the team will be able to ascertain the anti‐icing mechanisms best suited for the Scan Eagle and develop a design for the prototype. The prototype will be built and tested in simulated icing conditions on either a scan eagle wing or replica. Sponsor: Systems Engineering Research Center (SERC) for Department of Defense PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob, Gary Ambrose Online Policy Synthesis for Unmanned Air Vehicles: A Model‐aware Reinforcement Learning Approach The goal is to develop online model‐aware reinforcement learning (RL) algorithms for nonlinear systems in continuous time and space that can tolerate large modeling errors and maintain closed‐loop stability during the learning phase. Model‐based RL can be realized in continuous time and space through simulation of experience, however, simulation of experience requires a predictive model that is accurate over the entire domain of operation. Methods for online real‐time learning that are robust to modeling errors and abrupt
changes in the dynamic models will be developed via integration of model validation, model‐free RL, and MBRL techniques in a model‐aware RL framework. Sponsor: Air Force Research Laboratory PI/PD: Rushikesh Kamalapurkar Stratosurfer UAS OSU’s Unmanned Systems Research Institute (USRI) will acquire materials, build, test and document performance data to submit the airworthiness documentation for the COTS Stratosurfer UAS. Sponsor: Torch Technologies, Inc. for the United States Army PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob, Gary Ambrose Hole Drilling Using Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) for Removal of Rivets and Key‐Locking Studs/Inserts – Phase 2A This collaborative research between OSU and Pratt and Whitney (P&W) is aimed at developing an electrical discharge machining (EDM) drill for aerospace engine fastener removal. Objectives include: 1) Perform material characterization study to evaluate and quantify damange to flat‐plate workpiece material caused by fastener removal using Perfect Point E‐DrillTM small hole EDM machine from previous Phase‐I repeatability and sensitivity study, 2) Evaluate and quantify damage to the workpiece material caused by fastener removal under geometrically constrained conditions using Perfect Point E‐DrillTM small hole EDM machine, 3) Draft subsequent related research proposal to P&W with scope for 2020 calendar year. Sponsor: United Technologies Corporation – Pratt & Whitney Division PI/PDs: Kurt Rouser, Sandip Harimkar Model‐based Ergonomic Design for Collaborative Lifting The key research components include 1) a musculoskeletal lumbar spine model, 2) an efficient dynamic optimization approach, 3) a novel force coupling method for collaborative lifting, and 4) the experimental validation. The innovative aspects of the study include multisubject modeling and a modern simulation approach that allow quantitative characterization of the collaborative lifting process. The expected deliverable is a robust and validated simulation model that can predict the safe lifting strategy and back injury risk for each individual for collaborative lifting. The study will advance the current understanding of lifting biomechanics and back injury mechanisms. Sponsor: Southwest Center for Occupational and Environmental Health PI/PD: Yujiang Xiang NRI: INT: Safe Wind‐Aware Navigation for Collaborative Autonomous Aircraft in Low Altitude Airspace The objective of this project is to validate the hypothesis that knowledge of 'in‐time' or 'real‐time' wind field, communicated effectively to a pilot, can enhance safety, efficiency and robustness of future autonomous aircraft operations in low altitude airspace. Towards this objective, the team will develop a framework that integrates turbulence modeling, navigation, control, and pilot‐aircraft interface to enable autonomous and remotely piloted aircraft to
navigate through the Atmospheric Boundary Layer with improved predictability and increased endurance. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: He Bai, Jamey Jacob, Balaji Jayaraman, Rushikesh Kamalapurkar Aviation Science: Matt Vance FAA COE Zone 3 ILS Measurements The objective is to record the glideslope depth of modulation in Zone 3 for analysis of manned aircraft flight inspection system (FIS) accuracy and to advance development of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for ILS facility preparation. A UAS will be instrumented with a lightweight ILS receiver capable of recording both localizer and glideslope depth of modulation (DDM). The UAS will be equipped with an RTK GPS to more accurately track and record position within 5cm laterally and vertically. The UAS position data will be recorded and synchronized with localizer and glideslope DDM. Sponsor: Federal Aviation Administration Center of Excellence PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob, Gary Ambrose Electrical and Computer Engineering: Jim West Fatigue Analysis of Turbofix™ Ni Superalloy Repaired Components – Phase 1 The team will use analysis and simulation methods to determine and describe mechanisms causing thermal mechanical fatigue (TMF) cracking and Turbofix™ structural integrity by: 1) Develop a simplified analytical TMF model for a cracked nickel superalloy component that includes applied temperatures, forces and vectors as provided by Pratt & Whitney (PW), 2) Develop a simplified numerical TMF model in ANSYS for a cracked nickel superalloy component sample geometry to describe static stresses and crack growth at the most extreme point of the cycle, comparing analytical and numerical results with each other and with PW experimental data, 3) Follow‐on research proposals. Sponsor: United Technologies Corporation , Pratt & Whitney PI/PDs: Kurt Rouser, Shuodao Wang Advanced Techno‐Economic Modeling for Geothermal Heat Pump Application in Residential, Commercial and Industrial Buildings The team has proposed an analogous g‐function called “cross‐g‐function” that gives the response of one ground heat exchanger to imposed loads on a nearby ground heat exchanger. The ground heat exchangers may begin operation at different dates. The cross‐g‐functions are needed for larger‐scale implementations in urban environments where interference between ground heat exchangers is likely to occur. The objectives are (1) to thoroughly review recent developments in g‐function calculation in order to identify the best way forward and (2) to implement a fast, flexible, and accurate g‐function calculation method in a standalone tool that can support automated design. Sponsor: UT‐Battelle, LLC for Oak Ridge National Laboratory PI/PD: J. Spitler
Integration of Efficient Small Scale Propulsion (ESSP) into USSOCOM MQ‐27B and RQ‐23 Platforms OSU shall serve as a subcontractor to Baker Engineering, LLC. For an Air Force Research Laboratory Phase II program, Improved Turbo/Superchargers for UAS/UGS Application. OSU shall provide technical management for an AFRL engine integration program onto USSOCOM Group 1 and 3 Small UAS platforms. Sponsor: Baker Engineering LLC for the United States Air Force Research Laboratory PI/PD: Rick Gaeta OSU Support This is a follow‐on award to provide sUAS pilot/engineering support for MFIX June/July 2021. Sponsor: Torch Technologies, Inc. PI/PD: Jamey Jacob MFIX 2020 This project will support the Army’s Fires Center of Excellence with the annual Maneuver Fires Integration Experiment (MFIX). MFIX is DOD’s premier Air Defense Artillery Exercise. OSU USRI will support the experiment with manufactured equipment of assembled, integrated and tested UAS, as well as an experienced engineering based flight team familiar as subject matter experts in SUAS and real time target generation. OSU will budget and plan for 1 experienced flight test team to be at Ft. Sill for 6 weeks. OSU will begin manufactured equipment phase and support immediately upon award (estimated 25 April) through 30 December 2019. Sponsor: Torch Technologies, Inc. PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob, Gary Ambrose Torch MFIX 2020 Plus Up – Additional Equipment This project will support Ft. Sill Fires Battle Laboratory, Fires Center of Excellence with additional equipment and 1 flight team for the MFIX experiment. OSU USRI will support Torch Technologies with additional equipment and 1 UAS flight team on or about mid‐October for 14 days. Additionally, OSU USRI will demonstrate a VTOL flight of Locust aircraft. Sponsor: Torch Technologies, Inc. PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob, Gary Ambrose Torch 5th Army at Fort Bliss, Texas The purpose was to provide four experienced sUAS pilots to Fort Bliss, Texas from June 23 – July 4, 2019. Sponsor: Torch Technologies, Inc. PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob, Gary Ambrose Taper‐Lok Fastener Behavioral Analysis OSU shall excise an aircraft structural specimen from a provided larger aircraft structural element, conduct computed tomography scans on selected fastener locations, report on activities and findings, and ship the excised specimen to another Boeing vendor. Activities include a technical interchange meeting, planning and conduct of excision and scanning, crating
and shipping of structural specimen. Deliverables include minutes from the technical interchange meeting, excised and shipped specimen and a report of activities and scan findings. Sponsor: The Boeing Company for the United States Air Force PI/PD: James Kidd Torch Dugway Proving Ground The project involves providing remote pilot support for Dugway Proving Ground, July 7‐13, 2019. Tasks include: 1) Provide two experienced sUAS pilots to Dugway Proving Grounds, UT from 7 July – 13 July, 2019; 2) Assume travel days 7 July and 13 July, 2019; 3) Support training event 8‐12 July 2019; 4) Assume 10 hour workdays during operational support days; 5) Develop and provide training materials (electronic and hard copy) for AGATCS‐based SUAS training, to include Mission Planner and Pixhawk‐based drones; 6) Mission aircraft are anticipated to be EMRC Intense Eye V2 and E900 multicopters. Sponsor: Torch Technologies, Inc. PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob, Gary Ambrose Project 117 The OSU researcher will participate in an IPT providing acoustic assessment and design input into a new Group III fixed‐wing VTOL UAS platform. Sponsor: Cambridge International Systems, Inc. for the National Institutes of Health PI/PDs: Rick Gaeta Infrasound Observations and Demonstration of Real‐Time Tools The project aims to demonstrate the potential value of infrasound technology by co‐locating an infrasound array with a Weather Surveillance Radar—1988 Doppler (WSR‐88D) site, decreasing uncertainty due to sound propagation by deploying mobile infrasound sensors during severe storms, correlating flow‐field metrics with infrasound measurements, and demonstrating processing algorithms to enable real‐time analysis. At the completion of this project, the team expects to have demonstrated how infrasound data can enhance tornado threat predication via correlations between the radar and infrasound metrics and demonstrate improved algorithms for real‐time processing and analysis to operational meteorologists. Sponsor: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration PI/PDs: Brian Elbing, Imraan Faruque University of Nebraska‐Lincoln: Matthew Van Den Broeke
Validation of Radar‐Based Detect‐and‐Avoid System This project is a research, development and testing partnership between OSU and Vigilant Aerospace Systems, Inc. to develop a radar‐based detect‐and‐avoid unmanned aircraft system vehicle collision avoidance system, which will be commercialized into a product to enable safe and efficient access to the US National Airspace by unmanned aircraft. The project will build on existing aircraft and radar technologies and research while pioneering new innovations in integrated systems, radar integration, aircraft and systems autonomy, airspace safety, ground and air‐based systems management, vehicle avoidance algorithms and other technologies. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Jamey Jacob Horizon II Radio and GPS Research Phase (FOUO) OSU will perform a holistic study to determine the best Courses of Action to prevent jamming of the global positioning system and determine which radio frequencies (outside of standard ranges) and ranges provide the best performance and minimize the possibility of jamming when used as a command and control link for the PUMA II. The focus is to provide a complete analysis of the GPS system and the potential of using a software defined radio as a material solution, with the ability to pre‐select frequencies to the customer and deliver a final report within 60 days from receipt of task. Sponsor: Cambridge International Systems, Inc. for the General Services Administration PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob, Gary Ambrose Electrical and Computer Engineering: Jim West, Sabit Ekin Raven Phase VI Methane (CH4) sensing on an aerial platform (UAV) is a relatively new concept to assist upstream oil and gas operators to find fugitive methane emissions (FME). GE’s Project Raven is a UAV modified with visual reconnaissance and CH4 laser sensing. GE will provide the UAV and sensor to OSU. OSU will provide the assembly of this UAV with the sensor, the testing facility of this prototype, and the CH4 source leak at the ground level. Sponsor: Baker Hughes Oilfield Operations, LLC PI/PD: Jamey Jacob Space‐bourne Antennas and Circuits for Condensed Radars and STEM (SPACERS) The goal of the SPACERS effort is to provide NASA with updated technologies and processing techniques to help with the move towards space‐borne application of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) systems. Tasks will include: Radar Fairing Design, Flight Experiments, and Data Collection. A fairing is needed to mount the radar on an aircraft in Oklahoma. The production fairing will be constructed using a multilayer composite fiberglass skin, with Kevlar ribs and spars for support and reinforcements near the fuselage interface as needed. A detailed finite element analysis of the structural loads will be performed. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma for the Oklahoma Space Grant Consortium for the Oklahoma Regents of Higher Education PI/PD: Jamey Jacob
Collaborative Research: The Leaky Rake to Solid Plate Transition on Flow Through Biological Filtering Structures Numerous small organisms that swim, fly, smell, or feed in flows at the intermediate scale (mesoscale), where inertial and viscous forces are balanced, rely on using branched, bristled and hairy structures. Such mesoscale structures (e.g., filtering appendages) can augment underlying biological function (e.g., particle capture) by moving in a manner to transition from acting as solid surfaces to leaky/porous rakes at Reynolds number close to one. This research will elucidate the fundamental fluid dynamics of biological and bioinspired filtering arrays at Reynolds number and Peclet number close to unity. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Arvind Santhanakrishnan Research Rockets The goal of the project is to determine how parts will perform when subjected to real world environments. A secondary goal is to determine how well simulations match real world data. Tasks include: 1) Design of rocket and payload bay, 2) Fabrication of rocket, 3) Development of data acquisitions system, 4) Launch of rocket, 5) Recovery and presentation of data. Sponsor: Honeywell Federal Manufacturing & Technologies, LLC PI/PD: Jamey Jacob Engineering Thin Film Solar Cells for Radiation Hardness, Lifetime and Efficiency The project will use a combined experimental and theoretical approach for characterization and in depth study of radiation hard multinary halide and chalcogenide solar cells for space applications. The two proposed materials technologies in this project are based on Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) and emerging lead halide perovskites that demonstrate a combination of remarkable radiation resistance, high efficiency, light weight, thin, and flexible solar cell arrays for NASA’s CubeSat and SmallSat applications in which high power, light, low payload systems are highly desirable. Sponsors: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, University of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Andy Arena, Materials Science and Engineering: Do Young Kim Physics: Mario Borunda Iron Mustang Project This project will document the feasibility of terrorist groups using hydrogen fuel cells for UAS operations. This testing will demonstrate for National Counter Terrorism Center audiences how the hydrogen fuel cell terrorist threat could develop. Sponsor: ATF Alcohol Tobacco Firearms National Center for Explosives Training and Research PI/PDs: Andy Arena, Jamie Jacob, Gary Ambrose, Rick Gaeta OSU Center for Health Sciences: John Frucci, Matt Green
NASA Oklahoma EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Development This NASA award will provide Oklahoma EPSCoR with three years of funding to be able to award up to four Travel Grants a year and up to three Research Initiation Grants (RIGs) per year. Each travel grant will average $3,000 to support travel for Oklahoma researchers and their undergraduate/graduate students to spend up to three days visiting with researchers at NASA Centers to explore projects of mutual interest. Each RIG will average $36,000 and are intended to develop experience and research capability to help awardees be competitive for follow‐on research with NASA Centers and NASA EPSCoR Implementation and ISS awards. Sponsors: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education PI/PD: Andy Arena OK NASA EPSCoR: Space‐borne Antennas & Circuits for Condensed Radars and STEM (SPACERS) The goal is to combine recently developed digital radar techniques with new and innovative, adaptive radar hardware to help NASA move towards space‐borne applications of new radar systems. A key component of the work will serve to bridge the critical design elements and engineering requirements of the hardware design with the encompassing needs of the scientific community focused on ecosystem dynamics in relation to critical drivers including weather, climate, and available water resources. By training students in the classroom and lab, the students will learn about new technologies and go on internships at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. Sponsors: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education PI/PD: Andy Arena Collaborative Research: Transfer Printed, Single‐Crystalline Si Nanomesh Thin Films The project aims to establish a new unique electronic materials paradigm – Si nanomeshes – for next‐generation stretchable electronics. On the basis of strong preliminary results from the PIs’ team, the PIs hypothesize that with tailored nanomesh geometries and engineered sidewall surface states, Si nanomeshes can achieve simultaneously large stretchability, high mobility and high reliability that are needed for high‐density stretchable electronics. Through both theoretical and experimental investigations, this project aims to investigate and establish the interrelationship of structure‐processing‐properties of Si nanomeshes for stretchable devices. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Shuodao Wang Northeastern University: Hui Fang Comprehensive Model Development for a Rotating Spool Compressor Since initial development of Spoolcomp, a novel rotating spool compressor, it has been validated and used to develop increasingly optimal designs of R410A compressors. However, regulatory trends in the HVAC&R industry and intrinsic attributes of the spool compressor have suggested that lower pressure refrigerants such as R134a, R1234ze(E), R1234yf, and blends of these are better suited for the application of the spool compressor. Spoolcomp does not
adequately capture the performance of this novel compressor using these refrigerants when compared against experimental data. This project will improve the predictive capability of Spoolcomp by addressing deficiencies in the model platform’s current version. Sponsor: Torad Engineering, LLC PI/PD: Craig Bradshaw BH OGTC – Improved Dispersion Modeling for Aerial Sensing of Plumes Tasks will include: 1) Develop a plume inversion model for near‐field applications in the presence of infrastructure, 2) Develop an improved plume model formulation with manageable computational costs, 3) Combine the improved plume model with a data‐driven Bayesian nonlinear inversion framework for source localization, 4) Extend the methods/tools to handle data from the mobile sensor RAVEN, 5) Extend the framework to include a second leak source. Sponsor: Baker Hughes Oilfield Operations, LLC PI/PD: Balaji Jayaraman, Jamey Jacob CAREER: Determine the Roles of Material Heterogeneity and Thickness Variability on the Stability of Thin Membranes The objective of this CAREER project is to test the hypothesis that a higher degree of heterogeneity in thin membranes reduces the critical buckling loads. The research approach is to experimentally measure and compare the buckling loads of a set of thin membranes of various degrees of heterogeneity ranging from highly heterogeneous to homogeneous. Fluorescence stereo microscopy and inverse finite element analysis will be combined to extract the material property distributions and thickness variability, and then a theory‐guided numerical model will be developed to identify a quantitative degree of heterogeneity and elucidate how it is related to reduced buckling loads. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Shuodao Wang Insect Group/Swarm Behaviors and their Relation to Individual Feedback Models New insect kinematics analysis techniques will be applied to extract the strategies insects use in aerial maneuvering in dense, high traffic environments, including swarm behaviors. By applying new tools from control theory, dynamics modeling and system identification, and leveraging significant recent improvements in aerial multi‐insect tracking capabilities, the PI will simultaneously quantify the instantaneous feedback control targets and time histories of individual organisms’ neural function during group and swarm behaviors. The outcome will be an understanding of the foundational mechanisms by which insects provide computationally lightweight swarm behaviors, which will be a strong foundation for design of computationally‐limited autonomous swarms. Sponsor: Office of Naval Research PI/PD: Imraan Faruque Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) Drilling: Phase I The objectives are: 1) Develop proficiency with the Perfect Point E‐DrillTM using common materials and fasteners, 2) Use the Perfect Point E‐DrillTM to demonstrate fastener removal for
Pratt & Whitney applications using flat‐plate specimens, 3) Perform a sensitivity study to understand and quantify Perfect Point E‐DrillTM process and equipment parameters for Pratt & Whitney applications, 4) Submit a grant proposal to the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) for a follow‐on project for a more detailed material characterization, development of potential process improvements, and establishment of a predictive, physics‐based model for small hole EDM applications. Sponsor: United Technologies Corporation – Pratt & Whitney Division PI/PDs: Kurt Rouser, Sandip Harimkar, James Kidd Acoustic Metastructures for Next Generation Aircraft Liners In light of recent proof‐of‐concept achieved at OSU for a metastructural approach to significantly enhance acoustic performance in liners especially for lightweight, compact, broadband, low‐frequency applications, for which there are currently no practical solutions, OSU and Spirit AeroSystems, Inc. propose to conduct a joint R&D project to commercialize this technology for developing new acoustic liners for the next‐generation of commercial aircraft. Based on prior research, an acoustic metastructural solution combining innovative core geometries such as 3D folded and phased cores with potentially incorporating acoustically nonrigid elements with advanced aerospace materials and fabrication processes is proposed to be developed. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: James Manimala, Rick Gaeta Planning IUCRC at Oklahoma State University: Center for Sustainably Integrated Buildings and Sites (SIBS) OSU is a new SIBS site, joining the site at University of North Carolina, Charlotte. SIBS‐OSU will generate transformative research that addresses lack of integration between building and environmental thermal systems components, equipment, and buildings. The site will address the lack of physical/cyber‐physical models for integrated building systems as well as reduced‐order models and datasets for building and environmental thermal systems equipment and components, and disseminate the outcomes to the building design process. OSU's research in thermal systems as well as sensing, model‐predictive control and physics‐reinforced machine learning positions the site to address the integration of building equipment and systems. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Craig Bradshaw, Christian Bach, Dan Fisher, Jeffrey D. Spitler A Hierarchical, Timescale Separation‐Based Approach to Wind‐Aware Guidance and Control As a step towards incorporation of Atmospheric Boundary Layer (ABL) wind field prediction to improve accuracy and predictability of sUAS guidance and control, OSU’s team is combining expertise in optimal control and wind modeling to develop a hierarchical control architecture to exploit the spatiotemporal scale separation in the ABL wind flow dynamics. The architecture will be comprised of a trajectory generator and a trajectory tracker integrated in a hierarchical framework via a formal assume‐guarantee approach. The project will lead to a scalable technique that paves the way for incorporation of ABL wind field models into sUAS guidance and control algorithms.
Sponsor: University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma Space Grant Consortium for the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education PI/PDs: Rushi Kamalapurkar, Balaji Jayaraman Collaborative Research: Musculoskeletal Model for Dynamic Manual Material Handling to Prevent Injury Objectives are to: 1) derive a general dynamic strength model and validate the model parameters from experiments; 2) introduce and experimentally validate a lumbar spine muscle model; and 3) implement these models with a nonlinear programming algorithm to optimize the dynamic lifting motion during manual material handling for minimum injury and experimentally demonstrate proof‐of‐concept. Muscle intra/inter‐joint coupling will be modeled and the lumbar spine area will be added, thereby generating a musculoskeletal model to measure lumbar stresses for back pain in the dynamic lifting process. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Yujiang Xiang Development of a Novel Peristaltic Compressor for Air‐Conditioning and Refrigeration Applications This project addresses the limitations of the previous work on peristaltic compressors by independently developing expertise on the thermodynamic advantages and the electromechanical actuation mechanisms and combining that expertise to inform appropriate compressor applications. This development will be split into two major thrusts. The first thrust, will quantify the thermodynamic advantage by developing a model of the volumetric flow characteristics of the peristaltic compressor using data from a prototype peristaltic compressor. The second thrust will develop models for various electromechanical actuation technologies and inform the most appropriate HVAC&R applications for the peristaltic compressor. Sponsor: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air‐Conditioning Engineers, Inc. PI/PD: Craig Bradshaw Efficient Prediction of Low Reynolds Number Propellers for Quiet UAS Aerial Platforms OSU will develop a semi‐empirical method of predicting low Reynold’s Number propeller operation. The goal is to develop an approach that will help engineers rapidly incorporate quiet propeller design philosophy into a larger quiet aircraft design methodology. OSU will incorporate high fidelity CFD methods and empirical scaling trends as acquired through experimentation. The NASA Langley Research Center will collaborate with OSU and provide test data from their aeroacoustic wind tunnels for analysis development and validation. Data from NASA will be from propellers loaded with freestream flow from their Low Speed Aeroacoustic Wind Tunnel. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma NASA EPSCoR PI/PD: Rick Gaeta
Support for Navy SBIR Phase II – Human Computer Interfacing (HCI) for Autonomous Detect and Avoid (DAA) Systems on Unmanned Aircraft (UAS) Dr. He Bai at Oklahoma State University (OSU) shall provide research and development support for the SBIR Phase‐II program to UtopiaCompression Corporation (UC). Dr. Bai will hire a student at OSU to provide support in the R&D for a period of two years. The deliverables are: 1) DAA Manager formulation, 2) Module to solve DAA Manager formulation, 3) Command blending model and module implementation, 4) Experiment results to show utility and performance of DAA Manager and command blending. Sponsor: UtopiaCompression Corporation for United States Navy PI/PD: He Bai 2019/2020 Aerospace Propulsion Outreach Program (APOP) – Windmill Prevention and Thrust Vectoring Senior undergraduate students will work as a team for program planning, budgeting, designing, fabricating, assembling, and testing a modified JetCat P100. In fall 2019, undergraduate students will design, build and test an altitude engine test stand to determine the windmill prevention load force with an unmodified engine. Students will also begin conceptual and preliminary design for modified engine components for windmill prevention and thrust vectoring. In spring 2020, students enrolled in the OSU Aerospace Engineering capstone design course (MAE 4374) will complete design, build and test of a modified engine, demonstrating windmill prevention and thrust vectoring capabilities. Sponsor: Universal Technology Corporation for Air Force Research Laboratory PI/PD: Kurt Rouser Doctoral Dissertation Research: Spatial Structure of Turbulent Flows in the Atmospheric Boundary Layer The Co‐PI will make 21 two‐day trips to collect data across the various ecoregions of Oklahoma that contain Oklahoma Mesonet sites. Data collection near a Mesonet site is important to allow for simultaneous collection of accurate surface conditions. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Brian Elbing Turboelectric Unmanned Aircraft Sensor System for Oil and Gas Pipeline Inspection The overall goal of this two‐year project is to develop and evaluate a turboelectric unmanned aircraft sensor system to determine its feasibility as an economical means for inspecting and monitoring oil and gas pipelines for safety and integrity. A system‐level approach will be taken to determine feasibility of both fixed‐wing and rotary‐wing applications, developed in series with a focus on versatility using interchangeable components. The hypothesis is that a turboelectric unmanned aircraft sensor system will have significantly greater range and endurance than current battery‐powered systems, thereby reducing the operating cost of inspecting and monitoring oil and gas pipelines. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Kurt Rouser, Jamey Jacob
Develop Design Criteria for Psychrometric Air Sampler and Mixer Apparatus for Use in ASHRAE Test Standards The objective is to provide: 1) Design recommendations for measuring bulk air conditions (a) “samplerless” RTD grids, (b) Sampling trees, and (c) Air mixers to provide uniform air conditions for the above; 2) Methods for validating performance of a sampler and mixer combination that would provide the most accurate bulk temperature and humidity measurement at indoor air inlet and indoor air outlet. The project covers developing the testing methods for the mixers, developing new mixers and air samplers, developing their performance, and evaluating overall in‐situ performance of the newly developed devices with coil tests. Sponsor: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air‐Conditioning Engineers, Inc. PI/PDs: Christian Bach, Omer San Identification of the Physical Mechanism Responsible for Tornado Infrasound The objective is to identify and test physically‐reasoned correlations between infrasound and tornado flow‐field properties, which will suggest potential fluid mechanisms for the infrasound production. The central hypothesis is that infrasonic emissions from tornadoes are unique and directly related to core pressure, wind speed, forward speed, and overall size. Three specific goals to test this hypothesis are: 1) Identify infrasonic events associated with severe storms, 2) Characterize flow‐fields of identified infrasonic events, and 3) Develop a physically‐reasoned empirical model. At the project’s completion, we expect to have identified correlations between tornadic infrasonic signatures and the tornado circulation and size. Sponsors: United States Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration PI/PD: Brian Elbing Physics‐reinforced Machine Learning Algorithms for Multiscale Closure Model Discovery At the conclusion of the project period, we will have a computational toolbox that generates and takes large turbulence data sets as input and extracts functional and structural closure models without assuming any phenomenological assumptions on turbulence physics. Development of such physics‐reinforced learning algorithms and architectures, which are a core strength of the research, will provide a basis to generate predictive technologies for a broad spectrum of engineering and science applications including pattern classification and scale bridging of hierarchical climate simulations. Sponsors: Department of Energy PI/PD: Omer San Non‐contact, in vivo Measurement of Hyper‐Elastic Response of Bio‐Membranes for Predicting Traumatic Injuries The objective of this work is to develop a novel non‐contact, in vivo testing framework for measuring the hyper‐elastic mechanical properties of soft bio‐membranes. The PI proposes to use full‐field three‐dimensional (3D) fluorescent technique in connection with high‐speed microscopic photography to detect the deformation of bio‐membranes under bulge pressure loading. An inverse problem methodology will be adopted by combining finite element method
(FEM) simulation and numerical iterations to obtain the bio‐membrane’s full‐field response so that a full ‘map’ of localized biomembrane properties can be obtained. Sponsors: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Shuodao Wang Joint Industry Project for the Quantification of Fluid Phase Kinetics in Hydrocarbons Phase 2 Phase 2 will consist of two research aims: 1) Quantify the impact of inlet conditioning on gas evolution rates, 2) Quantify the effect of production chemicals on gas evolution rates. For both research aims, the impact of temperature on gas evolution rates will also be evaluated. These research aims build on the Phase 1 work that showed the importance of both shear and crude oil heterogeneity on gas evolution rates. Sponsors: Exxon‐Mobil Upstream Research Company, Anadarko Petroleum Company, Chevron U.S.A. Inc., Equinor AS PI/PDs: J.P. Conner Chemical Engineering: Clint Aichele, Sayeed Mohammad Research on Inflatable Kite Technology This visiting research scholar program will include: 1) inflatable technology development, 2) kite dynamics modeling, 3) designing and building up the flight system, 4) validation of the system. Sponsor: Toyota Motor Corporation PI/PD: Jamey Jacob Assessment of Radiation Shielding Properties of Novel and Baseline Materials External to ISS The project will test and measure the radiation shielding and other properties of the multifunctional materials developed in previous awards. In this project, the materials will be tested in the actual space environment external to the International Space Station. Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration PI/PDs: Andy Arena School of Materials Science & Engineering: Ranji Vaidyanathan Department of Physics: Eric Benton Application of Raman and Infrared Microscopy for the Forensic Examination of Automotive Clear Coats and Paint Smears Current approaches by PDQ, the largest forensic automotive paint database, to identify clear coats have been unsuccessful because the FTIR spectra of clear coats are too similar to generate accurate hit lists by searching clear coat FTIR spectra alone. Recent studies of pattern recognition methods applied to FTIR spectra of clear coats show that information about the line and model of the vehicle can be obtained from these spectra. To enhance the discrimination power of clear coats, Raman spectroscopy and pattern recognition techniques will be investigated as a solution to the problem of extracting investigative lead information from clear coats. Sponsor: U.S. Department of Justice PI/PDs: Kaan Kalkan Arts & Sciences: Barry K. Lavine
Reducing Time to Market for Commercial AC Equipment through Development of a Simulation Platform for Multi‐Circuit Evaporator Coil Performance The research focuses on the development of a new heat exchanger simulation model for multi‐circuited heat exchangers. This model will include consideration of cross‐fin conduction for multi‐circuited coils. The new model will be implemented into Johnson Controls International’s (JCI’s) simulation platform to allow usage for coil design with graphical user interfaces. The model will allow JCI a more competitive product development process. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Christian Bach, Craig Bradshaw Collaborative Research: The Roles of Inter‐limb Jets and Body Angles in Metachronal Swimming of Crustaceans This project examines how small‐scale interactions between adjacent limbs of crustaceans coalesce with large‐scale flow past the body. Recent robotic models show the formation of suction and expulsion jets between adjacent paddles due to their time‐varying geometry that is dictated by the phase difference in motion. Self‐propelling metachronal swimming robots will be developed to examine swimming of individuals and aggregates. The findings will provide insight into crustacean foraging, and how schooling behavior in krill is influenced by hydrodynamic cues. Understanding functional roles of pleopod kinematics and body shape on swimming performance will identify biomimetic design principles for autonomous underwater vehicles. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Arvind Santhanakrishnan Fundamental Study of the Ultra Precision Machining and Near Surface Damage Evolution in Single Crystal Fluorides for Advanced Optics The objective is to test the hypothesis that degradation in optical performance of single crystal calcium fluoride that has been finished by ultra‐precision machining is directly related to the nature and extent of the near surface damage introduced. The research will utilize specially designed cutting experiments on single crystal calcium fluoride to investigate the crystal response to machining with single crystal diamond tools. Three cutting geometries will be considered. After surface generation, the resulting subsurface damage will be investigated with Rutherford backscattering spectrometry and cross sectional transmission electron microscopy. Changes caused by machining to transmissivity and birefringence will be quantified. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Don A. Lucca Photolytic Nanoconjugate Fuel Generators The long‐term goal is to develop a novel fuel‐generating (H2 and CO from water and CO2) photoelectrochemical (PEC) device, which consists of a metal oxide semiconductor nanowire decorated with metal nanoparticles. The investigator hypothesizes electronic, electrostatic and plasmonic mechanisms, which are unique to the nanoconjugate device structure and materials. These hypothetical attributes will be verified and elucidated by designed experiments. Based on encouraging preliminary results using sol‐gel prepared vanadium oxyhydrate nanowires coated
with nanogold (5.6% light‐to‐hydrogen efficiency with H2 to O2 ratio of 2.0 under 445 nm radiation), the project aims at high conversion energy and stability. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Kaan Kalkan The Efficacy and Safety of Silicone O‐ring Intrauterine Devices as a Horse Contraceptive Through a Captive Breeding Trial The purpose is to complete research on the safety and efficacy of an IUD device that has high potential value in feral horse population management and control. Earlier research has shown near 100% contraception when the devices are retained in mares. We are testing a modified IUD, designed for higher retention in the mare. Two years of research have been completed (FY16‐17) on the work described in the supporting CESU agreement (G16AC00050) and project study plan, and this agreement will enable two additional years of direct evaluation of IUD retention rates and biophysical reaction of female horses to IUDs. Sponsor: U.S. Geological Survey PI/PDs: Shuodao Wang Center for Veterinary Health Sciences: G. Reed Holyoak, Candace Lyman Effect of Inlet Duct and Damper Design on ASHRAE 37/116 Fan Performance and Static Pressure Measurements The objective of this project is to develop an inlet duct design guideline for inclusion into the AHRI and ASHRAE testing standards. This guideline will reduce the risk of false testing failures and lead to a higher integrity of the testing results across different laboratories. The guideline will reduce the design space towards a set of configurations and report the resulting performance differences relative to reference configuration. Sponsor: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air‐Conditioning Engineers, Inc. PI/PDs: Christian Bach, Omer San Experimental Validation of Refrigerant Charge Models in Coils for Residential Split Systems The goal of the project is to provide high quality data for oil retention and refrigerant charge in fin‐tube heat exchangers. The objectives are: 1) Develop a test methodology for measuring both oil retention and refrigerant charge of round tube, plate fin (RTPF) heat exchangers, 2) Obtain oil retention and refrigerant charge data for several sets of 3‐ton indoor/outdoor heat exchangers and reduce the results such that it can be used for validation of simulation models, 3) Determine local vapor‐liquid fractions in subsections of the heat exchanger. Sponsor: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air‐Conditioning Engineers, Inc. PI/PDs: Christian Bach, Craig Bradshaw 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 College of Arts & Sciences: A. Frazier, C. Crick 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, Dan Fisher
NASA Oklahoma Space Grant 2015‐2019 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/PDs: Matt Mitchell, Dan Fisher, Jeff Spitler 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
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, Don A. Lucca Determining the Environmental Flows Needed to Support the Federally‐threatened Arkansas River Shiner Notropis Griadi and Associated Assemblage Objectives include: 1) Develop relationships between flow regime and fish diversity and abundance using existing assemblage data across the Southern Great Plains, 2) Identify the discharge(s) that maintains channel complexity under current channel morphology, 3) Determine the relationship among habitat connectivity and flow and identify refuge habitats that persist during low‐flow periods. Sponsor: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service PI/PDs: Jamey Jacob Natural Resource Ecology and Management: Shannon Brewer Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering: Garey Fox 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: Leibniz Institute for Materials Engineering IWT 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 Minimally Invasive Animal Sterilization The NPDC engineering team will improve on the basic dual needle/dual syringe configuration that was developed for the initial testing reported. The goals are: 1) investigate syringe/needle materials that do not degrade under the influence of the chemical compounds in use, 2) improve the dual syringe holder to make it easier for the user to handle, 3) develop a method for producing well bonded dual needle sets. The NPDC engineering team will investigate improved methods for bonding the two needles being used in the injector configuration. The team will also produce needle sets and syringe holders for all test trials. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Robert Taylor College of Veterinary Medicine: Ashish Ranjan Development of a Fluid Turbulator for Use in Hydrocarbon Burner Tubes to Reduce Coking XRG Technologies, in collaboration with OSU’s New Product Development Center (NPDC), will develop a fluid turbulator for use in hydrocarbon burner tubes to reduce coking. The NPDC will be responsible for fabrication and testing of the turbulators. Sponsor: XRG Technologies, LLC for the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Robert Taylor Optimization of Flow and Disbursement for Green Fire Suppression Agent SpectrumFX, in collaboration with the OSU New Product Development Center, will plan, design, test and optimize a new green fire suppressant system that may possibly replace existing systems in a variety of fields. The first effort will model the system, defining optimum operating parameters and physical nozzle configuration. The model results will be used to design a fire suppression system with nozzles matching the model, all of which will then be tested and verified by a Phase Doppler Interferometer. The project will also include the fabrication and field testing of the first prototype system. Sponsor: Spectrum FX for the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Robert Taylor Chemical Engineering: Clint Aichele Fire Protection and Safety Technology: Haejun Park
Commercialization of a novel single‐use bioreactor Specific aims include: 1) Design and fabricate a 2 to 200 L, two‐chamber bioreactor from flexible, pharmaceutical grade plastic film, 2) Perform a ‘design for manufacturing’ analysis of the bioreactor and incorporate design changes necessary to accommodate large scale manufacturing, 3) Develop an operating procedure and evaluate the performance of the 2 to 200 L bioreactor by growing a Chinese hamster ovary cell line that produces the recombinant protein IgG, 4) Build a manufacturing process to produce multi‐chamber bioreactors. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PDs: Robert Taylor Chemical Engineering: Josh Ramsey 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 Establishing a Working Prototype Development Program OSU’s New Product Development Center (NPDC) assists Oklahoma’s industry, inventors, and entrepreneurs with their product and process development, technology commercialization, and technical needs. NPDC clients often lack the resources to develop working prototypes. With this Economic Development Administration grant, NPDC will launch a working prototype development center at the OSU Institute of Technology, allowing NPDC clients to have all the necessary resources for a successful path from concept to commercialization. Sponsor: U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration 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
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT MSA RFP 326668 Customized Fire Suppression Systems Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance Training CEAT Professional Development will deliver a 2‐day ‐ 20 hour Customized Fire Suppression Systems, Inspection, Testing & Maintenance training course, and a 2‐day ‐ 20 hour Customized Fire Alarm Systems Inspection, Testing & Maintenance training course. The training courses will meet all the requirements of the Statement of Work (SOW) provided by the Mission Support Alliance (MSA). Sponsor: Mission Support Alliance, LLC for the Department of Energy PI/PD: Brandy Mays MSA RFP 312060 Customized Fire Suppression Systems Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance Training CEAT Professional Development will deliver a 4‐day ‐ 32 hour Customized Fire Suppression Systems, Inspection, Testing & Maintenance training course, and a 4‐day ‐ 32 hour Customized Fire Alarm Systems Inspection, Testing & Maintenance training course. The training courses will meet all the requirements of the Statement of Work (SOW) provided by the Mission Support Alliance (MSA). Sponsor: Mission Support Alliance, LLC for the Department of Energy PI/PD: Brandy Mays 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: Brandy Mays Civil Engineering: Stephen A. Cross
OSU as an Authorized OSHA Training Institute Education Center OTI Education Centers are a national network of non‐profit organizations authorized by OSHA to deliver occupational safety and health training to private and public sector workers, supervisors, and employers on behalf of OSHA. The OTI Education Centers Program supports OSHA’s training and education mission through a variety of safety and health programs. OTI Education Center courses include OSHA standards and Outreach Training Program trainer and update courses. The OTI Education Centers offer more than 50 courses on various safety and health topics including recordkeeping, machine guarding, confined space, electrical standards, ergonomics, safety and health management, and fall protection. Sponsor: United States Department of Labor – Occupational Safety and Health Administration PI/PD: Clayton Moorman
DIVISION OF ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY (TECH) Performance of Flame Mitigation Device This research is in the area of flame jetting phenomena from portable gas cans. Multiple fire experiments will be conducted at the OSU Fire Safety Laboratory. Sponsor: Midwest Can Company PI/PDs: Haejun Park, Rob Agnew
Micro Computer Integrated Rifle OSU will support Casey Corp Defense LLC under STTR phase 1 and phase 2 awards. Dr. Vora will represent OSU in this project and will use OSU licensed for CAD software and FEA software as well as OSU CEAT Endeavor, SMART Manufacturing Lab, and other OSU facilities and equipment to manufacture/fabricate a functional hard proof prototype (only housing) that houses the MCIR Controls and other electronics devices. Sponsor: Casey Corps Defense, LLC PI/PD: Hitesh Vora State Space Modeling and Parameter Identification of Induction Motors for Fault Diagnostics and Prognostics The objective is to develop a model‐based fault diagnostics and prognostics scheme for induction motors, with linear/nonlinear state space model(s) and parameter identification algorithms, for online condition monitoring. The scheme can be utilized for detection and isolation of various internal and external faults. The variation in the model states and parameters, when compared to the actual states and parameters, will be used as condition indicators for the predictive models to determine the remaining useful life of the motor. Sponsor: The DEI Group PI/PD: Avimanyu Sahoo IAFC Climate Culture Survey Tasks include: 1) Explore the literature for validated measures related to organizational culture and organizational diversity; 2) Construct questionnaire; 3) Pilot test the questionnaire; 4) Conduct preliminary analysis on the data, discuss results with IAFC partners, and develop customized, department‐level reports; 5) Finalize and submit final report on the survey and instructional guide to IAFC. Sponsor: International Association of Fire Chiefs PI/PD: Haley Murphy
Flame Mitigation Multiple fire experiments will be conducted at the OSU Fire Safety Lab to study jetting fire from portable gas containers. For each portable gas container size that contains the prescribed fuel amount, two variables will be tested: 1) Flame Mitigation Device (with and without) and 2) gasoline type (weathered and fresh). Each test will be repeated three times to confirm the test results. If jetting occurs in a portable gas container with a flame mitigation device installed, the test will be repeated for further confirmation. Sponsor: TPG Plastics, LLC PI/PDs: Haejun Park, Rob Agnew Safe Quantity of Open Medical Gas Storage in a Smoke Compartment Although NFPA 99 allows medical gas up to 300 ft3 to be stored outside of dedicated storage, it is not clear how to determine the volume of gas remaining in the gas cylinder or the cylinder size itself. To provide a requirement as low as reasonably practicable, fire risk assessment associated with the medical gas amount is necessary. The research aims to identify risk associated with the medical gas (normally pure oxygen) and its stored amount based on thorough literature review. Based on this, a guidance to enhance understanding on the fire hazards of the medical gas is proposed. Sponsor: Fire Protection Research Foundation PI/PD: Haejun Park Household Risk Perceptions and Hazard Adjustments to Earthquakes in Oklahoma The project will result in a significant progression in fundamental understanding of risk, providing emergency managers with key information they can use in the development of emergency management plans and campaigns to encourage the adoption of hazard adjustment measures. Objectives include: 1) to understand Oklahoma household’s view of recent earthquakes, their earthquake risk perceptions, and their levels of adjustment to the seismic hazard, 2) to investigate the ways in which emergency management researchers can increase their mail survey response rate, and 3) to gain insight on minority groups’ earthquake risk perception and adjustment levels in Oklahoma. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Tristan Wu
An Examination of Household Risk Assessment Judgments and Protective Action Decisions During Tornado Threats The project will advance knowledge about households’ dynamic decision making process in response to tornado threats. Objectives include: 1) Understand the extent of each household member’s tornado risk information preference and how that is related to their risk perceptions and expected protective actions, 2) Identify the difference between each individual’s protective action decisions and household’s joint protective action decisions, 3) Examine ways household members see agreement on protective action decisions, 4) Examine household decision making processes when individuals face an unfamiliar disaster, 5) Provide empirical research findings on household risk information preferences and decision‐making processes to meteorologists and emergency managers. Sponsor: University of North Texas for National Science Foundation PI/PD: Haley Murphy
Kangwon National Education Services Agreement This agreement is for the delivery of the Master of Science in Fire and Emergency Management Administration degree program offered by OSU to Kangwon National University and the National Fire Service Academy, Republic of Korea. Under the agreement, Kangwon National University will also offer a master’s degree enabling qualified students to receive a master’s degree from both OSU and Kangwon National University after completion of all degree requirements from the respective universities. Sponsor: Kangwon National University PI/PD: Haley Murphy
RAPID/Collaborative Research: Households Immediate Response During a Night Time Earthquake The purpose of this RAPID proposal is to examine households’ earthquake risk perceptions and their night time immediate response following the 2018 Eastern Taiwan Earthquake, a magnitude 6.1 earthquake which stuck Taiwan at 11:50 p.m. on February 6, 2018. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI/PD: Tristan Wu
Flame Mitigation The main objective of this project is to check if a jet fire occurs when portable gas containers (PGCs) are tilted while being exposed to an external ignition source with and without a specifically designed Flame Mitigation Device installed. Three different sizes of PGCs (1.25 gal, 2.5 gal and 5 gal) are subject to the experiments. Sponsor: Midwest Can Company PI/PDs: Haejun Park, Qingsheng Wang
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 continue to serve clients throughout Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, and north and northwest Texas, including the Texas Panhandle. 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: Hitesh Vora Understanding the Significance of Standards in Fire Protection and Related Fields The project involves creating seven 30‐minute videos as a learning resource to be integrated into existing undergraduate, graduate, and professional development courses to educate students about the role of standards in the field of fire protection. The objective of the videos is to help students understand the standard development process and the applications of codes and standards. The standards to be addressed are product standards, installation and maintenance standards, and model codes. Sponsor: National Institute of Standards and Technology PI/PDs: Bryan Hoskins, Virginia Charter Public Safety Small Unmanned Aerial Systems Operations Training Baseline Materials & Usage Assessment The objective of this effort is to develop a curriculum that will address sUAS utilization across all operational settings including structural and wildland firefighting, search & rescue, hazardous material responses, natural disasters, and any other events in which public safety operations would benefit from use of drones. Sponsor: Fire Protection Research Foundation, Inc. for the Federal Emergency Management Agency PI/PDs: Rob Agnew, Haley Murphy Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering: Jamey Jacob, James Kidd Engineering Outreach and Extension: Ed Kirtley Fire Service Training: Dean McFadden
College of Education and Human Sciences
–FY2020 Research Abstracts
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND HUMAN SCIENCES
Human Nutrition, Health and Consumer Issues The purpose of this project is to manage funds awarded to Human Sciences’ faculty investigators who are supported by the Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station for the purpose of exploring novel approaches to current issues related to human nutrition and health, as well as safety and consumer issues. (3074) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI: Christine Johnson
COMMUNITY HEALTH SCIENCES, COUNSELING AND COUNSELING PSYCHOLOGY Collaborative Research: EAGER: Towards Increasing Native American Engineering Faculty The purpose of this exploratory research project was to deepen the understanding of factors that support Native Americans' (NA) entry and persistence in engineering faculty careers. There are very few NA engineering faculty and they are critical in attracting NA students into engineering. Using multiple methods (individual interviews, focus groups, quantitative surveys), we collected data from NA engineering faculty and students. We examined individual factors and ecological systems that support pursuit of and persistence in engineering faculty careers. Early results were presented at multiple conferences with final analyses is in process. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PIs: Sue Jacobs University of Minnesota: Sherri Turner Health Policy Research Scholar The grant will support the participant's engagement in the Health Policy Research Scholars program. 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. Grant funds, provided over the first four years, will support the participant's successful completion of the program. For example, grant funds may be used for living expenses, registration fees for relevant conferences/workshops, travel, and supplies. The grantee institution agrees that it will verify that the applicant is enrolled and a student in good standing, with at least a 3.0 grade point average, before distribution of funds to, or for the benefit of, the participant. Sponsor: Robert Wood Johnson Foundation PI: Julie Croff (Center for Health Sciences) Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma Native Connections Grant The Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma’s “Hin kitogle hine ke” project, which means “We Are Going Together” in the Ioway language, seeks to forge a comprehensive and integrated suicide prevention, substance abuse prevention, and mental health promotion system to provide early intervention services to American Indian youth and emerging adults. This system will expand and enhance the current program and provide the foundation for creating prevention prepared communities, tribal mentorship activities with youth, meaningful partnerships that will be created and nourished, and deliver effective, efficient, and culturally appropriate services. Sponsor: Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma PIs: Julie Koch, Xuewei Chen, Carrie Winterowd
Practicum Agreement ‐ Payne County Youth Services, One Master’s Student This agreement provides funding for one master’s degree student to have a paid practicum experience with Payne County Youth Services. Sponsor: Payne County Youth Services PI: Tom Berry Practicum Agreement ‐ Payne County Youth Services, One PhD Student This is a paid counseling practicum for one doctoral student in counseling psychology. Sponsor: Payne County Youth Services, Inc. PI: Carrie Winterowd Practicum Agreement ‐ Payne County Youth Services, PhD Students This is a paid counseling practicum for two doctoral students in counseling psychology. Sponsor: Payne County Youth Services, Inc. PI: Carrie Winterowd Practicum Agreement ‐ Wings of Hope This is a paid counseling practicum for one doctoral student in counseling psychology. Sponsor: Wings of Hope Family Crisis Services PI: Carrie Winterowd
DESIGN, HOUSING AND MERCHANDISING
CATcare: Cognition Assistive Technology for Dementia Homecare CATcare is a cognitive assistive technology in development to provide two‐way assistance to the dementia caregiver and care recipient dyad living at home. CATcare will help improve the quality and sustainability of dementia homecare via low‐cost wearable and customized technology and will be tested in the grant funded Human Environmental Factors Lab (HEFL) located in the College of Education and Human Sciences. Currently the HEFL layout represents a living room, dining room, kitchen and bedroom with furnishings and appliances allowing for evaluations of the CATcare system prototype for programming features, system usability, and data collection for activity recognition algorithm development. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PIs: Emily Roberts Electrical and Computer Engineering: Guoliang Fan A Community Approach to Care Education: Empowering Rural Hospitals and Caregivers to Engage in Exceptional Care of Rural Elders This health education project is aimed at improving health literacy among FCS Educators, rural hospital discharge planners and family caregivers. Applying the socio‐ecological model and resources across six research‐based domains, this team is developing a comprehensive health education curriculum to address the complex issues of rural caregiving. The anticipated impacts include increased confidence among family caregivers and discharge planners in their service to rural elders, increased awareness and utilization of services administered through the aging network, increased numbers of inquiries through the rural FCS Extension network, along with decreased rates of re‐hospitalizations, lower rates of depression and anxiety among rural caregivers. This project is a community partnership with two Colleges of Health Sciences, several community agencies, and with full commitment from the state's Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. Sponsor: United States Department of Agriculture ‐ National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI: Emily Roberts Convergence: Laying the Groundwork for Repurposing Distressed Urban Malls Environments for Mixed‐Use Dementia Friendly City Centers This project lays the groundwork for the Dementia Friendly City Center model, engaging multi‐disciplinary participation from four stakeholder groups in order to facilitate design decision‐making in adaptive reuse of mall environments for dementia housing, programs and services. Five focus groups have taken place over the past year and four publications from these focus groups have been developed with one in press, one in revision and two in review. A survey is under development based on the findings from the focus groups. Due to COVID‐19 delays, this grant term has been extended 6 months to June 30, 2021. Sponsors: NextFifty Initiative and American Society of Interior Designers Foundation PI: Emily Roberts
Healthy Homes Oklahoma The goal of the app is to serve as a tool to reduce housing deficiencies and risks associated with childhood diseases and injuries. As the electronic vehicle for the “Help Yourself to a Healthy Home” tribal publication, the app will provide information that can help educators address housing deficiencies and risks associated with childhood diseases and injuries. The app will be part of an extant, technology‐based holistic healthy homes curriculum. Sponsor: University of Missouri PI: Gina Peek Oven Mitt Thermal Testing and Evaluation – Phase III This project studied the role that moisture plays in the process of heat transfer through oven mitt materials placed in contact with a heated surface. Heat transfer rate was measured for different temperatures and pressures in dry and wet conditions, where moisture was applied following a protocol developed for this study. Layered mitt fabrics were tested with and without different moisture barriers placed closer to the heated surface or closer to the hand skin side. Heat transfer rate in wet conditions was significantly higher than in dry conditions, with the placement of the moisture barrier also making a significant difference. Sponsor: JVS LLC, USA PIs: Adriana Petrova, Semra Peksoz, Aditya Jayadas Personal Protective Technologies for Current and Emerging Occupational and Environmental Hazards As an active member of USDA NC‐170 Research Group, the investigator contributed: 1) to develop a Protective Textile and Clothing Laboratory at Oklahoma State University; 2) to characterize the protective and comfort performance of textile and clothing materials using state‐of‐the‐art equipment; 3) to implement statistical and computational modeling techniques to analyze the protective and comfort performance of textile materials; 4) to develop interdisciplinary research collaboration with eminent professors in the field of protective textiles and clothing; and 5) to disseminate the research on protective textiles and clothing in scientific journals and conferences. (3202) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experimental Station PI: Sumit Mandal Seating Solution for Improved Blood Flow Through the NSF Nationals I‐Corps program, following the customer discovery phase to explore the feasibility for commercialization of a seating solution to help improve blood flow, discussions on making the prototype was carried out. Based on the initial design and further discussion with industry experts, faculty researchers and a licensing expert the decision was made to not prototype the seating solution, but instead explore the possibility of developing a variable smart compression stocking instead. There was a liability issue with moving parts in the seating solution. The smart compression stocking has the potential to be classified as a medical device. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PIs: Aditya Jayadas Pennsylvania State University: Mihyun Kang
EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATIONS, LEADERSHIP AND AVIATION Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) Program Seventy‐four of Oklahoma's 77 counties are designated HPSAs for one or more health professions (primary, mental, dental care), presenting considerable barriers to quality health care in predominately poor counties. OK AHEC will consist of three regional Centers. The targeted trainee population consists of high school, community college, university, and medical school students from rural and underserved areas (RUAs). The goals of the EHA portion are to establish community‐based research capacity and evaluation strategies for OK AHEC. Sponsor: United States Department of Health and Human Services ‐ Health Resources and Services Administration PIs: Laura Barnes, Mwarumba Mwavita FAA Center of Excellence for Technical Training and Human Performance 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: Matt Vance, Jon Loffi Local Law Enforcement Crime Gun Intelligence Center Integration Initiative The OSU Center for Educational Research and Evaluation (CERE) will perform an independent evaluation of the proposed Tulsa Crime Gun Intelligence Center (TCGIC). It will: 1) Assess the evaluation plan during the six‐month planning period following the award, identifying the program’s logic model through guided discussion with program stakeholders; 2) The evaluation plan will then be developed and will describe the methodology for testing the program’s effectiveness in meeting its objectives, including evaluating implementation fidelity; and 3) Implement the evaluation plan. The attainment of each deliverable will be subject to periodic and ongoing evaluation and review. Sponsor: City of Tulsa PIs: Laura Barnes, Jam Khojasteh National Research Conference on College Students Who Were in Foster or Other Out‐of‐Home Care In February 2020, we conducted a 1.5‐day national conference for researchers studying college students who were in foster/out‐of‐home care during their adolescent years (i.e. foster alumni). The goal was to convene interdisciplinary researchers. To keep a tight tie between practice and research, it also included limited practitioners. Outcomes: Established cross‐boundary research relationships and created six interdisciplinary teams who designed and began original research. All teams will present findings at a follow‐up conference at OSU. Thus, a new, interdisciplinary research community is forming to address the complicated social issues that both create and continue to challenge college‐level foster alumni. Sponsor: Spencer Foundation PI: Kerri Kearney
Safe Wind‐Aware Navigation for Collaborative Autonomous Aircraft in Low Altitude Airspace The overall objective of this project is to validate our hypothesis that knowledge of 'in‐time' or 'real‐time' wind field, communicated effectively to a pilot, can enhance safety, efficiency and robustness of future autonomous aircraft operations in low altitude airspace. Towards this objective, we will develop a framework that integrates turbulence modeling, navigation, control, and pilot‐aircraft interface to enable autonomous and remotely piloted aircraft to navigate through the ABL with improved predictability and increased endurance. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PIs: Matt Vance Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering: He Bai, Rushikesh Kamalapurkar, Jamey Jacob 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 PIs: Lucy Bailey Biochemistry & Molecular Biology: John Gustafson Chemistry: John Gelder Integrative Biology: Donald French Microbiology & Molecular Genetics: Wouter Hoff Plant Biology, Ecology, and Evolution: Andrew Doust
HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND FAMILY SCIENCE 3/6 Planning for the HEALthy Early Development Study The planning study will link investigators across five research sites who have complementary experience and expertise in the areas that are essential to designing the study. Planning activities are being accomplished using a coordinated set of Working Groups who are working collaboratively to design a sampling and recruitment strategy for a future large‐scale study, to identify and recommend strategies for addressing the challenges to ethical recruitment and retention of vulnerable populations, and to develop and test a common protocol for neuroimaging, infant and child assessments, exposure assessment, biospecimen collection, and integration of novel technologies. The larger study, once funded, will examine babies’ brain development over 10 years and will study factors that influence successful development. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PIs: Amanda Morris, Lana Beasley, Karina Shreffler BEST's ConnectFirst Family Advocate System Evaluation Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa (BEST) is a comprehensive, continuous, and integrated approach that focuses on families to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. Part of BEST involves the creation of a system, called ConnectFirst, which employs Family Advocates who regularly check‐in and connect with expectant and new mothers to limit the negative impact that poverty has on child development. They do this in partnership with agencies and social service providers that provide ConnectFirst clients with access to valuable resources, assistance, and beneficial programs. The goal of the project is to work with ConnectFirst leadership to identify where it is working well, where it can use improvement, and to make evidence‐based suggestions for system improvement. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University Foundation, George Kaiser Family Foundation PIs: Mike Stout, Martha Zapata Community Impact Core ‐ Center for Integrative Research on Childhood Adversity (CIRCA) 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 human health and development, and on the development of more effective and sustainable prevention and intervention strategies to interrupt the cycle of generational trauma and toxic stress. The Community Impact Core supports CIRCA investigators’ translational research needs, and facilitates the creation of a statewide network of cross‐sector partners focused on building resilient communities through evidence‐informed policy and best practices in trauma‐informed programming. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI: Michael Stout Cultural Adaptation of Legacy for Children for Latino Communities: Feasibility and Implementation 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. A number of papers and presentations have resulted from this study, indicating that mothers benefit from this program and that the Spanish adaptation is successful. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma ‐ Health Sciences Center PI: Amanda Morris
Developing Synergistic Approaches to Healthy Weight in Childhood through Positive Relationships, Diet Quality and Physical Activity As an active member of the W3005 research working group, the investigator made the following contributions to the W3005 umbrella review: reviewed and edited search strategy, performed full‐text reviews, contributed to updated PROSPERO protocol, and conducted quality assessment of final articles. As an active member of the W3005 Extension working group, the investigator participated in the iterative review process that led to the development of the W3005 COPPER rubric and contributed to the development of Qualtrics surveys to collect descriptive data on the wide range of childhood obesity prevention programs in Extension. In her role as W3005 chair, she mentored and monitored working group progress. (3117) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI: Laura Hubbs‐Tait Dyadic Inter‐Brain Signaling Project (DIBS) Depression and emotion management problems contribute to significant public health problems in adolescence and adulthood. However, 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. Current findings indicate that parent and adolescent brain activity influence mental health, and parents have a strong influence on adolescents’ patterns of brain activity. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI: Amanda Morris Early Childhood Partnership Project Stillwater Public Schools and OSU, via the staff of OSU's Child Development Lab (CDL), agree to collaborate regarding the requirements of a public school Pre‐Kindergarten program and to facilitate the enrollment of four and five‐year‐old children residing within the boundaries of Stillwater Schools. The parties further agree to work together in the design and implementation of family literacy activities. Sponsor: Stillwater Public Schools PI: Sissy Osteen Engaging Families and Employers in Latino Construction Worker Injury Prevention The overall goal of the proposed research is to create capacity for sustained commitment to worker safety among small‐scale residential construction contractors employing Latino workers. The project goal will be achieved through a community‐based partnership of academic researchers, the Greater Tulsa Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and a translational research project that will accomplish three specific aims: 1) document strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of contractors in small‐scale residential construction to enhancing fall prevention initiatives with their workers; 2) describe beliefs held by family members about the risks Latino construction workers encounter on the job, the modifiability of those risks, and the ability family members have in minimizing those risks; 3) determine the added impact of a “Lay Health Advisor” (LHA), “employer‐ enhanced” and “family‐enhanced” intervention strategy in comparison to a control group that receives written safety education alone. Sponsor: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ‐ National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health PI: Michael Merten, Isaac Washburn
Enhancing Maternal‐Fetal Bonding to Promote Healthy Pregnancies and Reduce Adverse Perinatal Outcomes Unintended pregnancy (unwanted and/or mistimed pregnancy) heightens the risk for adverse birth outcomes, including preterm birth and very low birth weight (< 1500 grams), which have significant public health costs. The study focuses on rapidly increasing maternal‐fetal bonding, a mediator of the relationship between unintended pregnancy and maternal health practices during pregnancy, through a recently piloted intervention, BLOOM (Babies and Moms, connected by Love, Openness, and Opportunity). Specifically, we will 1) examine change in maternal‐fetal bonding across pregnancy and implications for change in maternal health behaviors during pregnancy; and 2) determine the efficacy of BLOOM to increase maternal‐fetal bonding and reduce adverse perinatal outcomes. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI: Karina Shreffler Evaluation of the Collaborative Oklahoma State University/Stillwater Public Schools Transition Program The program’s collaboration with Stillwater Public Schools (SPS) focused on helping SPS students transition into social and community events with students on the Oklahoma State University (OSU) campus. The OSU REAL (Relationships, Engagement, Advocacy, and Learning) Community program provides experiences that are beneficial for the SPS students through the Next Chapter Book Club and Let’s Take a Walk activities. SPS students attended REAL events for 12 weeks during the Fall2019 semester and 12 weeks during the Spring 2020 semester. Sponsor: Stillwater Public Schools PI: Jennifer Jones Expanding the Cycle of Opportunity: Simultaneously Educating Parents and Children in Head Start Dr. Morris has worked with Northwestern University staff and project PIs, in partnership with the Community Action Project (CAP) in Tulsa, to oversee data collection of parent interviews and home assessments. Dr. Morris's primary responsibilities were to (I) oversee and coordinate the parent interviews and data collected via home visits; (2) oversee the project coordinator and temporary data collectors who are conducting the interviews/ assessments; and (3) aid in data analysis and report/manuscript writing. The project is primarily focused on the impact of English classes on parents of children attending Head Start. Findings reveal this program is helping parents navigate the schooling system and is improving their English language skills, particularly among high‐risk mothers. Sponsor: Northwestern University PI: Amanda Morris Facilitating Artificially Intelligent technology for the Homebound (FAITH) Socially Assisted Robots (SARs) are innovative technological tools that can connect church communities to homebound older adults and vice versa. Such technology has potential to enhance ministerial programming for the older homebound adults. Of central importance is understanding how to design such technology for use by church leaders. Results from a preliminary focus group indicates that SAR technology should be designed to secure private spiritual communication between the minister and older adult, predict the type of religious or spiritual intervention warranted by older churchgoers prior to visitation, and be inclusive of older adults with acute and long‐term disabling conditions. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University Foundation – Bartlett Family Grant for Promoting Independent Living among Individuals with Physical Disabilities PI: Alex Bishop
The Holistic Assessment of Tulsa Children’s Health (HATCH) Project This project examines how adversity that women experienced in their own childhoods affects their pregnancy and birth outcomes through biopsychosocial mechanisms as well as the protective factors that can reduce risks. The PI is currently examining psychosocial and behavioral impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI: Karina Shreffler The Impacts of a Reconciliation Video Podcast on Divorcing Parents Decision‐Making Process This study will investigate the effects of a 10‐15 minute video podcast intervention about the option for reconciliation‐‐including accurate information and resources‐‐among parents who have filed for divorce and attended the Co‐parenting for Resilience course sponsored by Oklahoma State University. One hundred participants will be randomized into an intervention or control group and data will be collected at pre‐intervention, post‐intervention, and 9‐month follow‐up. Ultimately, the aims are to (1) develop and test the feasibility of the video‐podcast and (2) determine whether it is effective in altering beliefs and interests in the reconciliation option. Video production is currently in preparation. Sponsor: Fahs‐Beck Fund for Research and Experimentation PI: Nathan Hardy Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program: A Collaborative Learning Innovation for Addressing Engagement/Retention of Home Visiting Clients 5.0 Lana Beasley, is a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in qualitative research methodology. She will be conducting a qualitative study to examine father involvement within home visiting services. Two‐person teams of qualitative researchers will conduct interviews with clients and providers who are familiar with the program’s curriculum. As the PI at Oklahoma State University, Dr. Beasley will oversee all aspects of the qualitative study. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma ‐ Health Sciences Center PI: Lana Beasley MOU‐Partnership with Tulsa Children’s Project In partnership with Tulsa Educare, OSU delivers high quality mental health supervision for three Mental Health Specialists; provides leadership in planning and delivery of monthly and preservice sessions related to Mental Health topics; and provides consultation on employee relations issues, selection and internal communications. We also support training and evaluation of parent and socioemotional educational programming for parents and staff. Ruth Slocum, MSW, leads this partnership, and with her recent retirement this specific project is ending while informal collaborations continue. Sponsor: Tulsa Educare, Inc. PI: Amanda Morris National Core Indicators Adult In‐Person Survey – Oklahoma OSU conducted the National Core Indicators [NCI] annual Adult In‐Person Survey on behalf of Oklahoma Department of Human Services Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS). Data from the Oklahoma NCI Adult In‐Person Survey is used to track and compare state performance over time and with other states, establish national benchmarks and validate DDS data in regards to the Home and Community Based Services Final Rule (settings). A random sample of 400 was pulled from all adults receiving Home and Community Based Waivered Services including In‐Home Support Waiver‐Adult (IHSW‐A), Homeward Bound Waiver (HBW), and Community Waiver (CW: residential and non‐residential). A representative random sample from IHSW‐A, HBW, CW residential and non‐residential was achieved. In order to
achieve a final sample of 400, oversampling of 436 occurred in order to replace individuals as needed due to refusals, inactives, expirations, and contact failures. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Human Services PIs: Jennifer Jones, Kami Gallus National Core Indicators ‐ Aging & Disabilities (AD) The Oklahoma Department of Human Services‐Aging Services Division (OKDHS‐ASD) and Oklahoma State University (OSU) have joined forces to bring the National Core Indicators‐Aging and Disabilities project (NCI‐AD) to Oklahoma. Data from the Oklahoma NCI‐AD project will span four years and assess national benchmarks related to the Home and Community‐Based Services Final Rule (regarding HCB settings). Through this partnership, OSU and OKDHS‐ASD join a team of 26 other states contributing to a deeper understanding of critical Home and Community‐Based Services and applicable quality measures for home‐based care. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Human Services PI: Whitney Bailey The Northwestern University Two‐Generation Study (NU2Gen) of Parent and Child Human Capital Advancement Dual‐generation approaches – targeting parents and children simultaneously – represent a promising and innovative antipoverty strategy for families. In collaboration with the Community Action Project of Tulsa, Oklahoma (CAP), we conducted a randomized trial on the impact of a dual‐generation education program for parents and their children in CAP’s Head Start Programs. This dual‐generation program, the Education Pathways Program (EPP), provides education services and career coaching for parents at different levels of education while their children attend Head Start programs. Study findings indicate that the program affects children’s attendance in school and parent’s mental health and job placement in positive ways, providing important evidence for two‐generation interventions. Sponsor: Northwestern University PI: Amanda Morris Office of Adolescent Health (OAH) Evaluation of Teen Pregnancy The purpose of this project is to conduct an implementation study of the Office of Adolescent Health Tier 1B Teen Pregnancy Prevention scale‐up project in Tulsa County. This project consists of evaluation activities that target project delivery, community mobilization, teen friendly clinic linkages, and safe and supportive environments for teen pregnancy prevention in the Tulsa area. Survey data from teen clinic visits have resulted in high levels of satisfaction by teens who utilize clinics for reproductive and sexual health visits. Sponsor: Youth Services of Tulsa PI: Michael Merten Oklahoma Good Behavior Game Implementation and Evaluation The OSU Center for Family Resilience develops and coordinates a support system for implementation and evaluation of the Good Behavior Game (GBG) among participating Oklahoma schools. The vision for the support system is to scale sustainable GBG in schools across the state. The support system will build local GBG capacity by training school personnel as a master training venue, providing mixed‐method consultation for successful GBG implementation, and operating a GBG evaluation platform to collect, analyze and report program outcomes. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services PI: Michael Merten
Oklahoma and Langston Sustainable Community Project ‐ The United We Can: African American Youth Entrepreneurship Program African American youth in North Tulsa are at high risk to drop out of school. This project tests the effectiveness of the United We Can! program to increase academic performance and reduce high‐risk behaviors among African American youth. The program includes a six‐week family workshop series to increase family engagement, training in entrepreneurship, weekly one‐on‐one success coaching, and a Summer Youth Academy. Sponsor: United States Department of Agriculture PIs: Ronald Cox, Isaac Washburn Oklahoma State University Sustainable Community Project ‐ The Together We Can: Latino Youth Entrepreneurship Program Model for Immigrant Latino Families Approximately 88% of U.S. population growth over the next five decades will be due to immigrants and their descendants, most of whom will be Latino. Over 85% of Latino youth born to immigrant parents are U.S. citizens and will constitute a significant proportion of the country’s future workforce. This project tests the effectiveness of the United We Can! (Spanish ¡Unidos Se Puede!) program to increase academic performance and reduce high‐risk behaviors among Latino youth. The program includes a six‐week family workshop series, training in entrepreneurship, weekly one‐on‐one success coaching, and a Summer Youth Academy. Sponsor: United States Department of Agriculture ‐ National Institute of Food and Agriculture PIs: Ronald Cox, Isaac Washburn OSU Rural Opioid Technical Assistance Grants (ROTA) TA Project Approximately 128 people in the U.S. die every day from opioid overdoses and thousands experience the negative outcomes associated with drug abuse and addiction. To address opioid misuse in Oklahoma the OSU Cooperative Extension Service has partnered with the OSU Center for Wellness and Recovery to develop and disseminate materials related to prevention, treatment and recovery of opioid misuse and to provide training for medical personnel. This partnership combines Extension’s experience to disseminating research‐based information with the Center’s expertise on the prevention of opioid misuse to benefit citizens in six rural counties in southeastern Oklahoma communities. Sponsor: United States Department of Health and Human Services ‐ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration PIs: Ronald Cox, Matt Brosi Center for Health Sciences: Julie Croff Parent‐Adolescent Training on Neurofeedback and Synchrony The PI will oversee all aspects of the study including recruitment, maintaining positive relationships with families, data collection and coding, the part‐time research assistant and student volunteers, and training. She will assist with clinical assessment of participants and data collection. Under the mentorship of Drs. Amanda Morris and Jerzy Bodurka, she will write and submit conference presentations and manuscripts. Dr. Kerr will have weekly meetings with her mentors and the part‐time research assistant. Sponsor: Laureate Institute for Brain Research PI: Kara Kerr
Payne County Youth Service Graduate Research Assistantship at OSU This contract provides funds for two Graduate Research Assistants to practice and apply student learning in marriage and family therapy with clients served by Payne County Youth Services. Sponsor: Payne County Youth Services, Inc. PI: Matt Brosi Project LAUNCH‐Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Workforce Development This project is a contract with the Oklahoma State Health Department 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 in Fall 2016 through the HDFS department at OSU, training in IMH clinical models, and 50 hours of reflective consultation towards their endorsement in infant mental health ongoing for participants. Sponsor: Oklahoma State Department of Health PI: Amy Payton Promoting Self‐Determination In partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS), OSU developed and piloted an intervention study informed by and aligned with the Self¬‐Determined Learning Model of Instruction to promote self‐awareness and increase self‐determination of individuals receiving DDS waivered services. The current study included two participant groups: [1] an intervention group and [2] a control group. Intervention group participants met for one‐hour sessions, twice a week, for approximately 15 weeks. Sessions were facilitated by two trained OSU facilitators who met weekly for ongoing SDLMI training from leading experts in self‐determination from the University of Kansas. Quantitative and qualitative data assessed feasibility and effectiveness of the intervention. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Human Services PIs: Jennifer Jones, Kami Gallus Reducing Alcohol, Tobacco, and Drug Use among Latino Immigrant Youth: A Preliminary Test of the Unidos Se Puede Program Adolescent alcohol, tobacco, and other drug (ATOD) use is a major public health concern, with rates for Latino middle school youth higher than other ethnic groups. One well‐established precursor of adolescent ATOD use is psychosocial stress. Among Latino immigrant youth, stress related to migration is associated with ATOD use, depressive symptoms, and anti‐social behavior, even after accounting for indicators of socio‐economic status. The proposed project examines the preliminary efficacy of Unidos Se Puede program to decrease ATOD use among Latino youth in new settlement areas like Oklahoma. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PIs: Ronald Cox, Isaac Washburn Reducing Pesticide Exposure among Latino Adolescents through Promotora‐Based Interventions This project implements and evaluates a promotora‐based intervention targeted at adolescent farm workers. To date, a total of 73 adolescents have been part of this study. Overall retention for study participants after initial recruitment has been approximately 87%. Additionally, 85% of the adolescent and parents that are recruited to the La Familia Sana pesticide safety program attended all four sessions of the program. Findings show that youth and parents recruited to the 4‐week program are maintaining high rates of program completion, with the majority of participants attending all of the program sessions. Sponsor: University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler PI: Michael Merten
Robotic Health Assistants: A New Human‐Machine Partnership in Home Healthcare This project aims to empower home healthcare practitioners to achieve high productivity and quality of work life through robot and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Preliminary focus group results involving healthcare and community stakeholders from Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Enid suggest that a future geriatric home health workforce will require a technological device to improve healthcare literacy of home health employees responsible for patient data reporting, translation, and consultation; ensure that older adult patients adhere to the treatment directives of home healthcare providers, and provide environmental and patient monitoring in the absence of an available home health caregiver. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PIs: Alex Bishop Electrical and Computer Engineering: Weihua Sheng System of Care: Strengthening our CreNet (SOC2) ‐ Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Workforce Development The Institute for Building Early Relationships (IBEaR) has coordinated an evaluation of a workforce development program. The goal of the evaluation is to assess the impact of the workforce development on the participating clinicians and agencies as it relates to their knowledge, understanding, and comfort level with infant mental health. It will additionally provide information for areas of needed adaptation as the workforce development program continues. OKDMH and IBEaR will collaborate on papers and presentations sharing findings of the evaluation within academic, professional, and other channels. Data collection is complete, and final analyses and report writing are underway. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services PI: Amanda Morris Wings of Hope Graduate Research Assistantship This contract provides funds for a Graduate Research Assistant to practice and apply student learning in marriage and family therapy with clients served by Wings of Hope Crisis Services. Sponsor: Wings of Hope Family Crisis Services PI: Matt Brosi
KINESOLOGY, APPIED HEALTH AND RECREATION 2020 Oklahoma Scholastic Shooting Sports Program (OKSSSP) State Shoot This project assessed individuals 18 years of age and older opinions and demographic information who attended the 2020 Oklahoma Scholastic Shooting Sports Program events. Information that was collected included why did the students who they were present at the event to observe initiated participation in the shooting activity, did the student also hunt because of the interest in shooting events, did participation increase time in the out of doors and demographic information of the individual responding and the student the individual was present to observe. The project this year was shortened due to the COVID‐19 pandemic; however, the project was still able to provide a summation of event statistics until the cancelation of the program for 2020. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation PI: Tim Passmore Assessment of Public Perception of Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation’s Archery State Shoot Events This project was developed to assess the opinions of the attendees and participants of the Oklahoma Department of Wild life Conservation’s Archery State Shoot Events. The collected data includes why individuals participate in the sport, do the individuals also participate in hunting activities, the cost of equipment to the individual, and did participation in the sport increase the participants time in the out of doors. Data was also collected related to the participants’ parents’ satisfaction with the program, demographic information and an analysis of ethnicity of the participants and their parents or legal guardians. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation PI: Tim Passmore Development, Implementation, and Evaluation of the "Orientation for International Student Athletes" (OISA) This project will develop the resources necessary to successfully deliver an academic orientation class specifically designed for international student‐athletes. The development of this class will include all of the resources and planning necessary for an instructor at another institution to adopt the class to their own situation and resources. At the conclusion of the program, a “How‐To” manual will have been developed to aid the implementation of this program at a range of NCAA member institutions. Sponsor: National Collegiate Athletic Association PI: Timothy Baghurst Do Eccentric Contractions Preferentially Recruit, Damage, and Alter Behavior of High Threshold MUs? Because the motor unit (MU) is the functional unit of the nervous system in skeletal muscle, understanding of the changes in MU behavior following resistance exercise is paramount in our understanding of resistance training (RT) adaptations. The three conditions in this study will help determine the influence of contraction type, intensity, and volume on muscle damage and changes in neuromuscular function following resistance exercise. These data will help inform practical recommendations for coaches and practitioners to optimize adaptation, fatigue, and recovery when implementing resistance training programs with their athletes and clients. The research project is being conducted by Dr. Jenkins’ graduate student Ryan Colquhoun. Sponsor: National Strength and Conditioning Association PI: Nathaniel Jenkins
National Wrestling Hall of Fame Project, 2019 The purpose of this project is to work in conjunction with the National Wrestling Hall of Fame (NWHOF) to: (1) develop a physical and electronic workbook for club level wrestling coaches to use that includes the content of the wrestling curriculum already developed; (2) create a program logo/slogan that is attractive to 10‐12 year old wrestlers; and (3) develop a flyer that contains content about the program for marketing purposes. Sponsor: National Wrestling Hall of Fame PI: Timothy Baghurst Play Golf America University Program “Golf for Business and Life” is a PGA of America college initiative designed to teach and improve the golf skill of students through instruction provided by PGA Professionals, and to suggest ways in which the students can use golf as a business tool as they enter the professional world. Proper golf instruction is the backbone to the PGA Professionals as education is to the universities. Combining these two institutions and their expertise in an effort to better prepare a student is vital and has potentially tremendous positive impact to the students, the universities and PGA of America. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University Foundation PI: Donna Lindenmeier Public Perception of ODWC Wildlife Expo The purpose of this research project was to assess information from individuals who attended the 2019 Wildlife Expo held by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie Oklahoma. The primary focus was to determine attendees’ knowledge of the ODWC activities on their behalf (e.g. Wildlife Management Areas), demographic information (to determine how the department might be meeting the diversity of Oklahoma residents and their needs), and the attendees’ perception of the Expo. The event was held on September 27, 28, and 29. The research protocol was approved by the Oklahoma State University Institution Review Board in compliance with federal laws. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation PI: Tim Passmore The Role of Genetic Polymorphisms on the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Caffeine: Implications for Cardiometabolic Function Dietary factors have been identified as a primary contributor to Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. One such dietary factor is caffeine. Caffeine is the most‐widely consumed psychostimulant on the planet, with approximately 80‐90% of adults reporting habitual consumption of caffeine containing beverages. Caffeine is also purported to have potent SNS stimulating effects. Consequently, based on the premise that caffeine may increase CVD risk, many epidemiological studies have sought to establish the relationship between habitual caffeine (coffee) consumption and CVD. Thus, we are proposing a two phase study that will assess the influence of genetic polymorphisms in CYP1A2, ADORA2A, and ADORA1 on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of caffeine in habitual versus non‐habitual caffeine consuming young adult men (Phase 1) while fasting and (Phase 2) in the post‐prandial period using physiologically relevant doses of caffeine. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI: Nathaniel Jenkins
NUTRITIONAL SCIENCES
Anti‐Inflammatory Properties of Interleukin‐10: A Novel Target to Mitigate Age‐related Osteosarcopenia The decline in muscle and bone, a condition known as osteosarcopenia, begins in the 4th decade of life. It has significant consequences on health due to the decline in strength, endurance, and risk for chronic disease. Components of the immune system have the capacity to protect against these age‐related, musculoskeletal changes. The aim of this project is to determine: 1) how the anti‐inflammatory effects of IL‐10 protect against osteosarcopenia and the influence of the Western diet on this response; and 2) whether the immunomodulatory effects of short chain fatty acids on T cells within the gut can counter this response. (3105) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI: Brenda Smith Beta, Beta‐carotene 9', 10'‐oxygenase 2 in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Influenza virus infection causes damage to the epithelial‐endothelial barrier, fluid leakage into the alveolar lumen, and respiratory insufficiency, often leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a severe respiratory disease with morbidity and low mortality rates. However, it is not well known about precisely how the cellular antioxidant systems are overwhelmed during the infection process. We found that depletion of β, β‐carotene9', 10' oxygenase 2 (BCO2) causes a moderate mitochondrial oxidative stress, which in turn triggers a low level activation of the host immune cells, leading to the resistance to influenza virus infection. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI: Dingbo Lin Chickasaw Nation Eagle Adventure SNAP‐Ed Outcomes Evaluation The purpose of this project is to conduct outcomes evaluation for the Eagle Adventure program. Evaluation will measure intent to change and behavior changes that occurred as a result of the Eagle Adventure program. OSU will enter pre‐tests and post‐test questionnaire data from in school students, parents, and teachers; analyze data and write evaluation; and work with Chickasaw Nation IRB regarding the Eagle Adventure outcomes. Sponsor: Chickasaw Nation PI: Janice Hermann The Clinical Utility of Progressive Resistance Training for Improving Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Post‐Menopausal Women This study is investigating the impact of realistic full‐body progressive resistance training on cardiovascular and muscular health in post‐menopausal women. We are comparing the effects of resistance training to a moderate‐intensity aerobic exercise training program. For 12 weeks, post‐menopausal women are enrolled in a resistance training, aerobic training, or control group. Women in the exercise groups train 3‐5 times per week. The outcomes of interest are aerobic capacity, vascular function, metabolic markers, inflammation, body fat, and muscle strength/function. Forty‐two women have completed the study. We plan to enroll and test the remaining six women over the next year. Sponsor: American Heart Association PIs: Sam Emerson Kinesiology, Applied Health and Recreation: Nathaniel Jenkins
Compliance and Technical Assistance for Child and Adult Care Food Program in Family Child Care Homes The long‐term goal of the project is to reduce the prevalence of childhood obesity prior to kindergarten entry. This will be achieved by promoting the health of vulnerable children enrolled in family child care homes (FCCH) across Oklahoma through improved nutritional quality of the foods served in FCCH. Extension Educators were trained and successfully pivoted to delivering the interventions virtually to family child care home providers. Wave 2 will continue in a virtual format. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma ‐ Health Sciences Center PI: Deana Hildebrand Cooking for Kids ‐ Culinary Training for School Nutrition Professionals The purpose of the Cooking for Kids: Culinary Training for Oklahoma School Nutrition Professionals is to develop and conduct a comprehensive training program to provide the knowledge, skills and resources needed to support Oklahoma’s school food authorities in effectively implementing the revised United State Department of Agriculture (USDA) meal pattern requirements called for by Healthy and Hunger Free Kids Act, 2010. The project is being conducted with on‐going 1 year renewable contracts October through September of each year. In academic year 2020 the program conducted chef consults in 12 school districts and 5 webinars reaching 1000 school nutrition professionals. Sponsor: Oklahoma State Department of Education PIs: Deana Hildebrand Hospitality and Tourism Management: Mark Cochran Curbing Obesity in Adair and Muskogee Counties The purpose is to increase access and utilization of healthy food and physical activity resources in Adair and Muskogee counties, including our Native American citizens. The collaborative efforts of Extension and community partners have implemented safer routes to schools for school age children in Adair County and enhanced active transportation systems in Muskogee County. Evaluated food systems work included distribution of 14,260 Farm to Family food boxes, totaling 324,000 lbs. of food (fresh fruit and vegetables and dairy foods) during the pandemic. To date, $381,000 dollars in leveraged funds total for both counties. Sponsor: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention PIs: Deana Hildebrand, Barbara Brown, Janice Hermann, Jillian Joyce Determination of Health‐promoting Physical Activity Behaviors across Aging: A Pilot Study Our long‐term goal is to advance recommendations for older adults with regard to the dose of physical activity needed to promote healthy aging. The goal of this pilot project is to preliminarily define physical activity habits during older adulthood that are associated with protective health outcomes. Our central hypothesis is that the amount of physical activity that is feasible for older adults and needed to experience protective health outcomes is aging stage‐specific and less than general physical activity recommendations for middle‐aged adults. To date, we have tested 46 of the needed 60 older adults for this study. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University Foundation ‐ Donna Cadwalader Research and Development Grant PIs: Sam Emerson, Janice Hermann Dietary Xanthophylls in Preventing Inflammation and Promoting Gut Health Dietary intervention of xanthophyll‐enriched foods could potentially contribute to digestive health in humans. In this project, we propose to evaluate the anti‐inflammatory properties of xanthophylls‐enriched salmon via rebalancing of human gut microbiome in obese prediabetic human subjects, and to
determine the underlying metabolic mechanism by which xanthophylls, as one of the salmon bioactive compounds, exerts the anti‐inflammatory role through regulating certain aspects of gut microbiome growth, metabolism, and function in obese prediabetic mice. The results from this research are expected to have a significant impact on public health by providing new insights into xanthophylls‐enriched salmon as a healthy dietary option. Sponsor: United States Department of Agriculture PI: Dingbo Lin EPHI Support for Dual PhD Program in Nutritional Sciences This scholarship fund is supporting two Ethiopian Public Health Institute staff members in the completion of a dual‐degree PhD program between Oklahoma State University and Addis Ababa University. These two students currently are enrolled in their third semester of graduate courses in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at OSU. They will return to Ethiopia after the end of fall semester, 2020, for approximately a year to collect data for their dissertations. Upon completion of their data collections, they will return to OSU for additional course work, analyses and writing. Sponsor: Ethiopian Public Health Institute PI: Barbara Stoecker Ethiopian Public Health Institute Dual Ph.D. Program This scholarship fund supports an Ethiopian student sponsored by the Ethiopian Public Health Institute and Valid International, Inc. The student currently is enrolled in graduate classes toward a PhD program within the Department of Nutritional Sciences. He will return to Ethiopia at the end of fall semester, 2020, for data collection. After approximately one year, he will return to OSU, for additional course work, data analysis and writing. Sponsor: Valid International, LTD PI: Barbara Stoecker HSOK Student Outcomes Program Evaluation The goal of the contractual agreement is to strategically evaluate the HSOK program with integrity and statistically valid evaluation and applied research methodologies. The objective also serves to assist with the continued and successful implementation of the HSOK program. Annual written reports are provided to the organization and presentations are made to schools and the HSOK Board of Directors as requested. Sponsor: Healthy Schools OK PI: Deana Hildebrand Nutrient Bioavailability ‐ Phytonutrients and Beyond This project is to determine the bioavailability of food bioactive components in humans and mouse models. We also will determine the efficacy and mechanisms of action of these compounds in promoting gut health, chronic and acute inflammation, obesity and diabetes, and influenza A virus infection, through omics, physiological, and biochemical approaches. (3120) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI: Dingbo Lin Oklahoma ‐ Improving the Health of Americans through Prevention and Management of Diabetes and Heart Disease and Stroke The purpose of the contract is to support Oklahoma State University, Oklahoma County Extension Services (OSU‐OCES) in training county educators in the lifestyle change program and implementing the
National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP) in prioritized counties of Caddo, Delaware, Hughes, Lincoln, McIntosh, Muskogee, Seminole and/or other counties as agreed upon by both parties. Extension Educators in the respective counties were trained in November 2020. Collaboration with the OU‐Tulsa Department of Medical Informatics Doc2Doc Program is underway to facilitate clinicians’ referral of people with pre‐diabetes to Cooperative Extension NDPP and related nutrition education programs. Sponsor: Oklahoma State Department of Health PIs: Deana Hildebrand, Janice Hermann Oklahoma Nutrition Education FY20 The OSU Extension Service, Oklahoma Nutrition Education (ONE) SNAP‐Ed program, focus on improving outcomes in dietary quality, physical activity, food safety and food resource management. These goals support the overall Oklahoma SNAP goal, “To improve dietary quality within a limited budget and choose physically active lifestyles consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the USDA food guidance system in order to prevent obesity.” In addition to targeting low‐income individuals with direct education, ONE also provides comprehensive, multi‐level interventions in counties where direct education is established. These community efforts will focus on improving access to healthy foods through emergency food sites, food security with community gardens, and school wellness programs enhancing overall health of families. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Human Services PI: Candace Gabel Oklahoma Shared Clinical and Translational Resources ‐ Development of a More Sensitive Screening Tool for NAFLD in Children Screening tools for early detection of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are insensitive, and more precise approaches used to diagnose NAFLD (e.g., liver biopsy) are burdensome. Measurement of the post‐meal triglyceride response to a simple fat tolerance test has the potential to be a convenient and sensitive approach to early detection of liver fat build‐up. In this study, we are comparing post‐meal triglycerides in three groups of children: normal‐weight controls, obese controls, and children with NAFLD. We hypothesize that the triglyceride response will be greater in children with NAFLD. Nine of the needed forty‐eight children have completed the study. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma ‐ Health Sciences Center ‐ Oklahoma Clinical and Translational Science Institute PI: Sam Emerson Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust's Healthy Living Program The aims of this study are to 1) provide assessment and evaluation‐related training to local grantees, and 2) contribute to analyzing and interpreting data to reflect program outcomes. The 5‐year evaluation project, 2016‐2020, reflects: a 686% increase in the number of partner organizations with a nutrition policy, a 790% increase in partner organizations with a physical activity policy, and a 516% increase in partner organizations with a tobacco use prevention policy. Partner sectors include businesses, city governments, schools, and community institutions (e.g., child care, congregations, multi‐unit housing, etc.). A new 5‐year program was initiated July 2020. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma ‐ Health Sciences Center PI: Deana Hildebrand
OSCTR ‐ Bridging Clinical Health Care and Community Health Resources to Curb Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes Miletus and Cardiovascular Disease The project aimed to heighten interest and develop a sustainable Community Health Worker model in Oklahoma to reduce risks for obesity, T2DM and CVD and related health care costs, particularly within underserved and rural communities. Formative evaluation revealed need for a structured community health worker workforce, the emergence of active leaders and need for additional training. A statewide forum was held March 2020 and attended by 78 health care professionals representing diverse sectors. The forum successfully met learning outcomes and identified future training needs. The results will be presented to the Oklahoma Public Health Association in September 2020. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma ‐ Health Sciences Center PI: Deana Hildebrand OSCTR ‐ Spanish Cove OSU Community Engaged Research Exploration The purpose of this project is to expand and solidify a collaboration between the Department of Nutritional Sciences at OSU and Spanish Cove Retirement Village in Yukon, OK. Regular meetings are being held and ideas generated with the goal of identifying sustainable and mutually beneficial research and outreach opportunities. We aim to utilize this collaboration to compete for future externally‐funded grant projects. Sponsor: University of Oklahoma ‐ Health Sciences Center ‐ Oklahoma Clinical and Translational Science Institute PI: Sam Emerson Peer Groups to Improve Feeding Practices and Child Nutrition in Post‐Emergency Settlements in Uganda Suboptimal child growth remains a public health concern for refugees in northern Uganda. Our peer‐to‐peer integrated intervention combines nutrition education and social support to improve infant and young child feeding practices. Women (n=380) in their third trimester of pregnancy and their partners were grouped in peer‐led care groups. Leaders were trained on key messages related to feeding practices, hygiene, child stimulation, social support and mental health. The primary outcome is timely introduction of complementary feeding. Secondary outcomes being evaluated include breastfeeding and additional complementary feeding indicators, as well as measures of child stimulation and maternal social support and mental health. Sponsor: Nestlé Foundation PIs: Barbara Stoecker, Joel Komakech, Deana Hildebrand
Resilience and Vulnerability of Beef Cattle Production In the Southern Great Plains under Changing Climate, Land Use and Markets Objectives were to better 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 consumer curriculum focused on contributions of beef cattle to greenhouse gases, nutritional contributions of beef, adapting to increasing prices, and actions to reduce food waste. Positive behavior significantly increased in eating recommended serving sizes, cooking and serving lean beef without ingredients high in sodium or fat and with vegetables or whole grains, buying based on price per serving, using recommended cooking methods, and reducing food waste. Extension Educators in Oklahoma and Kansas were trained. Sponsor: Kansas State University PIs: Barbara Brown Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources: Daryl B. Arnall, Jason Warren, Jeff Edwards, David Lalman, Tyson Oschsner, Albert Sutherland Role of the Anti‐Inflammatory Interleukin‐10 in Attenuating Obesity and Insulin Resistance Obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are all major health issues in the US. In 2015, 30.3 million Americans (9.4%) had diabetes and another 84.1 million had pre‐diabetes. Chronic inflammation produced by activated immune cells damage many tissues and is implicated in the development of obesity, insulin resistance (IR), and T2D. This study is investigating the role of the anti‐inflammatory molecule interleukin (IL)‐10 in the development of IR in IL‐10 knock‐out mice. Our findings will demonstrate the role of IL‐10 in obesity and IR and help develop prevention and treatment strategies to reduce the impact of these conditions. (3104) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI: Edralin Lucas Tart Cherry in Maintaining Gut Integrity and Preventing Insulin Resistance in Diet‐Induced Obesity The purpose of this project is to investigate the effects of tart cherry (TC) supplementation on gut health and metabolic markers in an animal model of diet‐induced obesity. TC supplemented groups showed an increase in beneficial bacteria and production of short chain fatty acids. These changes in the gut have modest effects on metabolic parameters except for improvement in the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), a marker of insulin resistance by 5% TC. The mechanism by which TC improve HOMA‐IR needs to be investigated in future studies. Sponsor: Cherry Marketing Institute PIs: Edralin Lucas, Brenda Smith, Winyoo Chowanadisai, Dingbo Lin Tart Cherry Supplementation and Exercise: A Novel Strategy for Osteoporosis Prevention ‐ Phase II The combination of dietary prebiotics such as tart cherries and weight‐bearing exercise presents a novel strategy for optimizing bone density during skeletal growth and aging. Phase I of this project, we demonstrated that supplementing the diet with tart cherry had a greater effect on bone density than exercise alone or the exercise‐tart cherry combination. This response occurred in conjunction with alterations in mesenchymal stem cells within the bone marrow. Thus, in Phase II we are investigating the response of the aging skeleton to this intervention and the mechanism through which these effects are mediated. Sponsor: Cherry Marketing Institute, Research Committee PI: Brenda Smith
Watermelon and the Bioactive Compounds Promote the Digestive Health in Diabetes Alteration of gut microbiome has been linked to some chronic diseases including diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, and there is a gap of the knowledge on whether the watermelon regulates the gut microbiota functions in diabetes. The goal of this research project is to define the mechanism by which the watermelon in the digestive health in diabetes by targeting the gut microbiome. We found that the watermelon increases the diversity of gut microbiome that produces short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs), leading to up‐regulation of tight junction proteins and glucagon‐like peptide I (GLP‐ l), and consequent mitigation of inflammation in diabetic mice. Sponsor: National Watermelon Promotion Board PI: Dingbo Lin Wheat Germ Supplementation Will Improve Markers of Gut Health, Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance in Overweight Adults This project is investigating the effects of wheat germ supplementation on gut health and subsequent effects on markers of inflammation and insulin resistance in overweight individuals. This project will highlight the health and economic value of wheat germ, an under‐utilized by‐product of wheat processing. This study will also place Oklahoma, one of the largest wheat producers in the nation, in a positive spotlight, as the wheat germ that will be used in this study will be sourced locally. Our findings will support the use of wheat germ as a dietary option for reducing complications associated with obesity. Sponsor: United States Department of Agriculture ‐ National Institute of Food and Agriculture PIs: Edralin Lucas, Winyoo Chowanadisai, Sam Emerson 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: Winyoo Chowanadisai
TEACHING, LEARNING AND EDUCATIONAL SCIENCES 2019‐2020 NWP i3 Scale‐Up Year 3 C3WP Professional Development (Grades 4, 5 & 7‐10) The College, Career, and Community Writers Project is an intensive professional development program that provides classroom teachers with instructional resources and formative assessment tools for the teaching of evidence‐based argument writing. Teachers in C3WP typically participate in 45 hours of professional development per year for two years, experiencing instructional materials of the highest quality, learning to analyze student work carefully to determine instructional next steps, and leading their students towards active participation in their communities through argument writing. Sponsor: National Writing Project PI: Shelbie Witte 2020‐2021 NWP i3 Scale‐Up Year 4 C3WP Professional Development (Grades 4, 5, 7‐10) As in past years, we will schedule a needs/asset analysis that begins with TC’s conducting a model argument writing lesson for teachers to observe. The debriefing of this lesson will begin a dialogue about the teaching of writing. We will collect information about the current writing instruction, connection to literacy instruction and the teachers’ familiarity with argument writing. Teachers will have the opportunity to ask questions about argument writing in response to the model lesson. This also provides an opportunity to gain an understanding of school climate and culture. We have already met with administrators in the last start district to introduce the lead TC’s and explain a bit about C3WP. We toured the school and asked guiding questions about scheduling, turnover and potential challenges to the PD plan. Administrators were proud to share accomplishments of the students, sport teams, and recent improvements to their buildings and grounds. We’ve found that these conversations are effective in building trust. This year we will schedule the needs/assets visit earlier in the spring. Last year we found that coming very late in the year was stressful for teachers and disorienting for students in the midst of final school events. Sponsor: National Writing Project PI: Shanedra Nowell Assembly and Function of the Cyanobacterial Photosystem II Complex This research investigating the hypothesis that the assembly state of the Mn cluster has the ability of self‐repair is both a fascinating biological problem that underpins primary productivity and it represents a blueprint for dealing with photodamage to engineered solar photocatalytic energy devices that may be important for carbon neutral energy sources of the future. Immersing high school science teachers in a research environment combined with professional development activities facilitates educator’s ability to develop an explicit view of how scientific knowledge, and thereby strengthen their own science curriculum. During state and national conferences, teachers share their developed curriculum and mentoring skills with other educators. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PIs: Julie Angle Microbiology and Molecular Genetics: Robert Burnap
Choctaw Nation Summer Academy and Showcase The School of Teaching, Learning, and Educational Sciences will: 1) send 12 interns to Durant for a three week internship in the summer school hosted by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma; 2) host an internship showcase; and 3) collaborate with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma to conduct research on the effectiveness of the internship and ways to improve the summer school experiences for K‐3 students. Oklahoma State University Foundation PIs: Juliana Utley, Sheri Vasinda Educational Foundations, Leadership and Aviation: Mwarumba Mwavita Collaborative Research: Genetic Comparisons of Abscissions Zones in Grasses The formation of the AZ, or lack thereof, is directly relevant for agriculture. This research project is structured to involve high school students, undergraduate education majors, and in‐service master teachers in the generation of data for the project. Trainees are involved particularly in comparative phenotyping studies, and are encouraged to develop their own projects. Teachers incorporate knowledge of the scientific process into lesson plans for their own students. Mechanisms are in place for recruiting under‐represented groups. This project leverages existing programs at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, Missouri Botanical Garden, and University of Missouri‐St. Louis. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PIs: Julie Angle Plant Biology, Ecology and Evolution: Andrew Doust Collaborative Research: RET Site: Quadcopter Research Experiences for Tulsa‐Area STEM Teachers The Center for Research on STEM Teaching and Learning (CRSTL) will conduct the evaluation for the University of Tulsa NSF‐RET site which addresses the major fields of electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer science through the operation and application of quadcopter unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Ten Tulsa‐area high school teachers will participate in a six‐week summer project to conduct research and develop curriculum using the quadcopter UAS that will encourage students to pursue STEM careers and prepare the students for such careers. Evaluation will include formative and summative assessments. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI: Juliana Utley Collaborative Research: REU Site: Solar and Alternative Technologies Dr. Jennifer Cribbs, through the Center for Research on STEM Teaching and Learning, is assisting Laura Ford (Principal Investigator at University of Tulsa) with the following: 1) Administer exit slips with REU students during the summer program and provide a summary to the Principal Investigator, 2) Administer pre‐post surveys with REU students, perform statistical analysis of data, and share results with the Principal Investigator, and 3) Conduct short interviews with the REU students and provide the Principal Investigator with a summary. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PI: Jennifer Cribbs Enhancing the Capacity for Rural Libraries to Engage the Public in Drought Science, Monitoring, and Adaptation The core research focuses on the design, development, and evaluation of informal science education (ISE) programs and educational media for use in rural libraries in drought prone areas of the Great Plains. The target audiences include public librarians in rural communities of Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Colorado, as well as the general public they serve. The project goals are to leverage the professional
skills and community knowledge of rural librarians to support local drought monitoring networks. Our innovative model prepares librarians to introduce citizen science processes and practices within the context of community dialogue and deliberation about drought. The project deliverables include: (1) a professional development workshop series for rural librarians, (2) a drought infographic booklet and poster series, and (3) co‐designed library programs for public audiences. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PIs: Nichole Colston Educational Foundations, Leadership and Aviation: Tutaleni Asino Epigenetic Effects of Brain and Behavior: Testing the Role of Imprinted Genes Imprinted Genes (IGs) are highly enriched in placental endocrine cells, and in the developing and adult brain. Our research is testing for effects of placental LOI on mother mice by profiling the behavior, neural transcriptomes and plasma hormone levels of pregnant females, and the behavior of nursing mothers, and measure expression (RNAseq) and DNA methylation in embryonic brain and placenta, and behavior in neonates. These studies will test the hypothesis that imprinted genes regulate the intimate and obligate relationship between mammalian mothers and their young. This work is in conjunction with a Research Experience for Teachers program in evolutionary and reproductive biology. Sponsor: University of California ‐ Riverside PIs: Julie Angle Integrative Biology: Jennifer Grindstaff University of California – Riverside: Polly Campbell Impacts of the 2018 Education Strike Wave on Teacher Activism and Advocacy In 2018, a wave of education walkouts spread like wildfire across a number of U.S. states and cities, including Oklahoma. The wave introduced hundreds of thousands of educators to collective action and spurred significant policy shifts. Using community‐based participatory and oral history research methods, a team of 12 teacher‐researchers collected nearly 50 oral history narratives of Oklahoma strike participants, conducted analysis, and are preparing the interviews to be archived and publicly accessible. The project has produced insights into the forms of organization, knowledge production, and identity constructions that were and continue to be mobilized by educators in strike wave states. Sponsor: Spencer Foundation PI: Erin Dyke Junior Science and Humanities Symposium The Kansas‐Nebraska‐Oklahoma Junior Science and Humanities Symposia (JSHS) program is one of 48 regional JSHS across the nation. Sponsored by the Army Education Outreach Program (AEOP), the JSHS program is designed to challenge and engage high school students in STEM research, including designing and executing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and communicating their original research to a panel of judges and an audience of their peers. Our funded JSHS program provides 9th – 12th grade students who conduct original research and prepare a research manuscript, with a venue to present their research to judges who have expertise in students’ area of research. Sponsors: National Science Teaching Association PI: Julie Angle
Lake McMurtry "Outdoor Adventure" Summer Camp Director FY19 The purpose of this project is to organize and facilitate the Camp McMurtry. The project will include coordination with Lake McMurtry staff to execute summer camp activities using existing Lake McMurtry facilities. Sponsor: Lake McMurtry Friends, Inc. PI: Nichole Colston Oklahoma AWARE In this collaborative effort with the Oklahoma State Department of Education and the Oklahoma Office of Mental Health, we aim to support three school districts in developing, maintaining and evaluating a multi‐tiered system of behavioral and social emotional support. The participating schools will be trained and supported in the implementation of a three‐tier model designed to address the needs of students experiencing behavioral or social emotional needs. The primary role of the participating personnel from OSU will be to evaluate the degree of model implementation and the effectiveness of the model. Sponsor: Oklahoma State Department of Education PIs: Gary Duhon, Candace Lane, Brian Poncy Oklahoma Tierred Intervention Support System (OTISS), FY 2018‐2022 The purpose of this contract is to provide external coaches (up to six doctoral graduate students) to support the implementation of the Oklahoma Tiered Intervention System of Support (OTISS) model to specified districts/sites through the Oklahoma State Personnel Development Grant (SPDG) III. External coaches will guide and train site personnel on the development and implementation of the OTISS model, which addresses both academics and behavior. Sponsor: Oklahoma State Department of Education PIs: Gary Duhon, Brian Poncy One Community, One Challenge: Pop‐Up STEAM Studios This project was originally conceived as a series of science‐based and art‐infused Pop‐up STEAM Studios in which intergenerational teams would engage in mini challenges supporting a broader community challenge. Due to the constraints of COVID, the project has been reinvented to leverage a YouTube phenomenon of “unboxing videos” and digital storytelling to document engagement with Challenge Boxes and team progress toward the community challenge. Scientists, makerspace educators, and art experts will design the Challenge Boxes with a theme determined by a community advisory board. Boxes will be distributed at libraries and other community outlets. The project goals include promoting a participatory culture using “making” and digital storytelling to address community‐identified and designed challenges. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PIs: Sheri Vasinda, Stephanie Hathcock Art, Graphic Design, and Art History: Rebecca Brienen Osage County Interlocal Cooperative Projects FY20 This paid practicum program for school psychology graduate students provides support for four students working 20 hours per week and two students working 10 hours per week. Sponsor: Osage County Interlocal Cooperative PIs: Gary Duhon, Candace Lane
OSDE Open Up The purpose of this contract is to provide professional development and support for mathematics teachers in grades 6‐8 as they engage their students in robust instructional experiences aligned to the new Oklahoma Academic Standards for Mathematics (OAS‐M). Sponsor: Oklahoma State Department of Education PIs: Juliana Utley, Jennifer Cribbs, John Weaver OSU Math/Science Scholarships (Noyce) Increasing the number, quality, and diversity of mathematics and science secondary teachers has been identified as critical to future US economic growth and success. This 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. The objectives are: 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, Toni Ivey Integrative Biology: Kristin Baum Mathematics: Alan Noell OSU Teach Program In order to promote confidence and accelerate professional development, UTeach students begin a carefully scaffolded sequence of intensive teaching opportunities in their first semester of the program and continue these field experiences throughout. Field experiences are domain specific, tightly articulated with the UTeach curriculum, and closely supervised by course instructors‐both tenure‐track faculty and master teachers‐to promote full integration of critical knowledge and skills. Students develop their own lesson plans, using research‐based instructional materials and strategies, with intensive coaching and feedback from both master teachers and tenure‐track faculty who are experts in STEM content and pedagogy. Sponsor: National Math and Science Initiative PIs: Juliana Utley Integrative Biology: Kristen Baum Pathways to Academic Success The EIR Pathways Project is funded by the U.S. Department of Education’s Education Innovation and Research Office of Innovation and Improvement. It is a collaborative project among eight National Writing Project sites across eight states. This project links 240 (approx. 30 per NWP site) 7th‐11th grade ELA/ELD teachers in ongoing, sustained PD designed to enhance the text‐based analytical writing of mainstreamed English Learners (ELs) to help them complete courses in core academic subjects, meet rigorous state standards for ELA, and become college‐bound. The Pathway Project intervention was one of only three grant proposals to receive an Expansion grant of ~$15 million dollars from EIR in 2018. The project was selected because of its strong track record of improving student outcomes for English learners. Sponsor: University of California ‐ Irvine PI: Shelbie Witte
Practicum Agreement ‐ Perry Public Schools FY20 This program provides a paid practicum experience for two school psychology doctoral graduate students. Sponsor: Perry Public Schools PI: Brian Poncy Project PREPARE Practicum Program FY20 Per the fully executed agreement, Osage County Interlocal Cooperative provides (OCIC) practicum placement at its facilities for four school psychology graduate students (working 10 to 20 hours per week) between October 2019 and May 2020. School Psychology faculty provide supervision of the graduate students and coordinate the application process and placement process. Sponsor: Osage County Interlocal Cooperative PI: Gary Duhon Reading Ability in Young Adult Literature: Pre‐Service Secondary English Teachers as Readers This qualitative multiple case study explores disability representations in young adult literature through the reading experiences of undergraduate students enrolled in Midwestern teacher education programs. Participants selected young adult novels featuring characters with visible disabilities and were interviewed about their reading of disability experiences within and beyond program coursework. In the study, the interview conversations involved concerns about disability inclusion and support for teachers in developing curriculum and practices that disrupt ableism due to lack of disability representations in their coursework. The findings suggest an extension of special education coursework to include physical disabilities and for content area diversity coursework to include authors and characters with disabilities. Sponsor: ALAN Foundation PIs: Sarah Donovan, Rebecca Weber REU SITE: Big Data Analytics at Oklahoma State University The Center for Research on STEM Teaching and Learning (CRSTL) will conduct the evaluation for OSU’s Computer Science Departments REU site. Evaluation will include both formative and summative assessment to help PIs continue to improve the program each year and explore the impacts the REU site that includes a ten week summer institute for ten undergraduate students to engage in research in big data analytics: data collection, data cleansing, data analysis, data interpretation, and data visualization, under the mentorship and guidance of the PIs and other faculty mentors. The intended impact of the REU site is to expose minority students to computer science research which will affect their career decisions and contribute to the broadening of diversity in computer science. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PIs: Juliana Utley Computer Science: Christopher Crick Social Justice Lessons in the Heartland: Exploring the Holocaust and Human Rights in Oklahoma's History This project is an inquiry‐driven, writing‐as‐pedagogy based seminar for educators of all levels interested in deepening their understanding of the Holocaust. Oklahoma’s diverse ethnic heritage, rich history, and the horrors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre demonstrate the need to teach social justice and tolerance within our communities. The Holocaust provides a lens to explore the parallels between our local history and the experiences of oppressed people a world away. With testimony from Holocaust Survivors, advice from experienced Holocaust educators and other guest speakers, as well as field trips, we will think critically about the curriculum and experiences we design for our students to teach social justice
and human rights.Field trips include visiting a local synagogue, the Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art, the Greenwood Cultural Center, and the John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park. Sponsor: The Olga Lengyel Institute for Holocaust Studies and Human Rights PI: Shanedra Nowell Support and Retention of Emergency Certified Teachers in Secondary Education This mentoring program aims to support and retain newly emergency certified teachers in secondary education from high need, urban, and rural districts throughout the state of Oklahoma. The program is designed to improve teaching and thus student learning by providing support, encouragement, and guidance to teachers who are emergency certified. The research component of the project examines teachers’ reasons for continuing or leaving the profession. Sponsor: Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education ‐ Oklahoma Teacher Connection PI: Joe Terantino Transitioning Students to Teacher‐Researchers (TSTR) Efforts to strengthen science literacy skills and ultimately the STEM workforce starts by placing highly qualified science teachers in every K‐12 classroom. This vision begins by strengthening preservice science teachers’ (PSTs’) understanding of how scientific knowledge is generated, scientific knowledge is disseminated, and standards‐based science practices are implemented. The core of our model is the evidence‐based, instructional practice of providing PSTs with Course‐Based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs). In turn, increasing the quality of future teachers entering the teaching profession may increase receptiveness and aptitude of students for STEM careers and strengthen science literacy skills in future generations of students. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PIs: Julie Angle Integrative Biology: Donald French Plant Biology, Ecology and Evolution: Andrew Doust Architecture: Carisa Ramming Writing the Past, Changing the Future: A Century of Learning the 1921 Race Massacre Writing the Past, Changing the Future: A Century of Learning the 1921 Race Massacre is a one‐year wide‐scale youth‐driven inquiry project for middle school and high school students in Oklahoma. With leadership from classroom teachers and the OSU Writing Project, Oklahoma youth will learn about the 1921 Race Massacre in Tulsa, OK, and then spend time leading the creation of digital artifacts such as LRNG "TED" Talks, Podcasts, Expeditions, Ethnographies, and Digital Stories to document their experiences in learning about this historic event. Student leaders from participating schools will collaborate to create and host a youth symposium in spring of 2020 for students to share their inquiry projects that highlight their collaborative inquiry projects. Due to COVID‐19, this symposium was cancelled. Student populations from several school districts throughout Oklahoma, integrating up to 200 students from diverse backgrounds, thrived within opportunities to learn from one another about social justice, critical thinking, collaborative inquiry, and digital composition in digital spaces. Students created digital repository, tulsamassacre1921.com, of their digital artifacts as a testament to their learning and for citizens of Oklahoma and beyond to learn more about the impact of the 1921 Race Massacre on the world. Sponsor: United States Department of Education PI: Shelbie Witte
NASA STEM Pathway Activities ‐ Consortium for Education (N‐SPACE) NASA Intergovernmental Personnel Assignment (IPA) ‐ Dixon The assignee will work across the LOBs to identify synergies, efficiencies, opportunities for collaboration, and areas for improvement. The Assignee's primary function will be to lead MUREP efforts to design, develop, and implement education activities that utilize unique JSC human spaceflight content and JSC facilities to reach undeserved populations. Working across the JSC External Relations Office (ERO), the Assignee will build strong MUREP relationships with JSC Programs, NASA HQ, and other NASA Centers to support new and existing education programs and to identify opportunities to develop NASA‐unique education opportunities. The Assignee will build both internal and external strategic partnerships that promote STEM literacy and awareness in both formal and informal education settings with an emphasis on underserved audiences. Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration PI: Suan Stansberry NASA Intergovernmental Personnel Assignment (IPA) ‐ R. Chappell The Office of STEM Engagement is strengthening involvement with higher education institutions to ensure that NASA can meet future workforce needs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, fields. Participation in NASA projects and research stimulates institutional capacity, increasing numbers of students continuing their studies at all levels of the higher education continuum and ultimately, those earning advanced degrees in these critical fields. Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration ‐ Langley Research Center PI: Susan Stansberry NASA STEM Pathway Activities ‐ Consortium for Education (NSPACE) ‐ HUNCH Through the NASA STEM Pathway Activities Consortium for Education (NSPACE) project, OSU will promote and deliver NASA‘s unique portfolio of experiential STEM educational opportunities, while maintaining a focus to vastly increase the participation of culturally diverse groups and Minority Serving institutions. To fulfill these goals, OSU has partnered with the Texas A&M System; the OSU Center for Sovereign Nations; Langston University; Northern Oklahoma College, an AIANSI community college; the Oklahoma 4‐H Foundation; and the Technology for Learning Consortium. Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration PI: Susan Stansberry NASA STEM Pathway Activities ‐ Consortium for Education (NSPACE) ‐ OE Johnson Space Center's Office of Education (OE) strives to improve STEM education and encourage actions by educators and students to advance human space exploration. Johnson Education is dedicated to inspiring, engaging, educating, and employing the next generation of explorers and innovators by offering experiential activities for students and educators, sharing classroom resources, and collaborating with educational partners. JSC OE leverages its NASA‐unique resources on site (astronaut training facilities, mission control, subject matter experts, etc.) to provide high‐quality STEM activities nationwide and throughout its designated eight‐state region. Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration PI: Susan Stansberry
NASA STEM Pathway Activities ‐ Consortium for Education (NSPACE) ‐ SP Through the NASA STEM Pathway Activities Consortium for Education (NSPACE) project, OSU will promote and deliver NASA‘s unique portfolio of experiential STEM educational opportunities, while maintaining a focus to vastly increase the participation of culturally diverse groups and Minority Serving institutions. To fulfill these goals, OSU has partnered with the Texas A&M System; the OSU Center for Sovereign Nations; Langston University; Northern Oklahoma College, an AIANSI community college; the Oklahoma 4‐H Foundation; and the Technology for Learning Consortium. Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration PI: Susan Stansberry
Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural
Resources–
FY2020 Research Abstracts
AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS Evaluation of Price and Production Risk Management with Changing Markets and Policies Faced by Producers in Oklahoma and the Southern Plains Agricultural producers and agribusinesses operate in an environment where risk creates additional challenges. These entities have shown an acceptance to risk mitigation tools as evidenced by increased use of insurance, futures, and options. The rapidly changing landscape of agriculture, which includes advances in technology, detailed data collection, increased environmental and litigation issues, as well as the aforementioned risks, warrants continued, advanced study of these problems. Therefore,
the focus of this project centers around the risk management approach, thus aiding the financial stability and viability of agricultural producers and agribusinesses in the Southern Plains. (3029) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: John Michael Riley Back to Basics: Expanding Best Management Practice Adoption in Small and Mid‐Sized Beef Enterprises Beef production in the Southern Plains is characterized by small and medium‐sized cow‐calf operations. Strategies to increase the profitability of these enterprises are key to increasing overall profitability for the industry. This project benchmarks producer demographics, selected production and management characteristics, and adoption rates of key production and management practices concerning calf management. The research examines incentives and constraints to beef producer adoption of these research‐based recommended management practices. The project ultimately seeks to increase practice adoption rates of critical recommended practices through hands‐on workshops and via increasing quality and accessibility of educational materials targeted to current and future beef producers. (3049) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Kellie Raper Studying Food Security Using Internet Surveys The U.S. government spends large amounts of money to measure food security across the U.S. The data are valuable because no expense was spared in making the survey representative of the U.S. population. However, most researchers wanting to study food security do not have funds to conduct similar surveys. Instead, they must rely on less expensive tools, like internet surveys. Can we accurately measure food insecurity in the U.S. using internet surveys? This study seeks to answer that question. (3058) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Bailey Norwood The Role of Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) and Development Policy on Economic Growth and Quality of Life in Rural Communities This project will assess the economic and social outcomes associated with (1) information and communications technology (ICT) environments, and (2) state and federal development policies, both from a rural context. The primary goal is to understand which ICT environments and economic development policies are having measurable impacts on rural communities.
Specific topics to be studied include which broadband characteristics are most associated with positive economic outcomes in rural areas, and understanding determinants of rural business innovation. (3059) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Brian Whitacre Economic Analysis of Production, Management and Marketing Challenges Facing Livestock and Agri‐Food Industries Agriculture’s market landscape changes constantly, induced by market forces, policy changes, technological innovation, and weather. Food system participants must navigate these changes and the associated management and marketing challenges. Niches in consumer preferences offer opportunities. Upstream production practices may be influenced by downstream firms’ purchasing requirements. Evolution in these market relationships can lead to more cost‐efficient production and stronger marketing channels, but the economic feasibility must be considered in the context of the best use of producer resources, including management skills and market accessibility. This research provides an economic analysis of potential responses to these opportunities and associated supply chain behavior. Particular emphasis is placed on value enhancement and implications for livestock producers and processors. (3074) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Kellie Raper Enhancing Rural Economic Opportunities, Community Resilience, and Entrepreneurship Rural communities face a wide range of economic growth and development issues ranging from changing the economic structure to public service provision. This project will: (1) increase understanding of the changing determinants of rural prosperity and develop indicators to measure specific community and regional assets and outcomes and (2) identify and analyze policies and strategies contributing to the viability and resiliency of communities in responding to economic and policy changes as well as natural and human‐made shocks. (3103) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Brian Whitacre
Enhancing Rural Economic Opportunities, Community Resilience, and Entrepreneurship Rural Oklahoma suffers from persistent population loss, as well as recent declines in farm income due to economic conditions and federal trade policies. Diversification of these economies is one strategy to address these trends. Through emphasizing entrepreneurship and assisting communities to build upon existing assets in agriculture and natural resources, these communities can create or retain jobs that pay well and provide an incentive for young people to stay and/or return after completing college. Additionally, diversification of local economies (e.g. both expanding the small business sector and fostering retention and expansion of existing businesses) are key development objectives that affect resiliency in the face of natural and human‐caused shocks to the system. This project seeks to identify how rural communities can cultivate entrepreneurial ecosystems to launch and sustain thriving small businesses that will create well‐paying jobs and retain/attract population. (3114) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Dave Shideler Enhancing Rural Economic Opportunities, Community Resilience, and Entrepreneurship The United States Department of Agriculture’s Research, Education, and Economics Action Plan (REEAP, February, 2012) presented a vision to use “Impact‐driven agricultural science” to expand economic opportunity through innovation, to promote sustainability and conservation, enhance environmental quality, and improve quality of life for farmers, farmworkers, and society. Three impacts areas outlined in the plan were; 1) Enhancing Local and Global Food Supply and Security; 2) Response to Climate and Energy Needs, and 3) Sustainable Use of Natural Resources. Oklahoma State University’s Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources indicates nine drivers of change that will impact the economic growth and development of Oklahoma’s rural and urban citizens, the farm sector, and its ability to compete in an increasingly competitive market economy. This project’s objectives integrates the research priority areas identified by DASNR (specifically climate variability, energy, land use and natural resources, market volatility, water, and technology), with the USDA’s REEAP impact areas. Research will be conducted on the rural development impacts of demand for renewable energies and water sources; water and land use, quality, and allocation; and value opportunities added agricultural development. (3125) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Dayton Lambert The Role of Agricultural Policy on Farm Risk Management and Disaster Mitigation Science‐based information is continually needed to support risk‐based policy‐making for US agricultural producers. In turn, farmers and ranchers with a better understanding of those policies can improve the resilience of their operations. The proposed research would support both. Topics include farm policy analysis, market and production damage mitigation, animal health and biosecurity, and land use. (3128) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Amy Hagerman
Bilateral Oligopoly and Price Transmission in the U.S. Beef Industry The structure of the beef industry in the United State has significantly changed in recent years. Previous studies in the industrial organization literature focus on market structures such as horizontal concentration and vertical integration as sources of market power. However, many studies maintain the hypothesis of price‐taking behavior on one side of the market, while assuming that retailers and processors have either oligopoly or oligopsony market power. These studies do not consider potential market power exertion by retailers and processors in both input and output markets. The proposed research project aims to develop an integrative framework to determine market conduct in the U.S. beef industry. The new empirical framework will be not only generalizable and flexible but also theory‐consistent because the empirical framework will be built on the existing theoretical framework from bilateral bargaining and nonlinear pricing literature while considering all adjacent downstream and upstream markets of the beef industry. The proposed studies on bilateral oligopoly in the U.S. beef industry are also important for Oklahoma agriculture. In particular, the economic impacts of increased packer concentration and captive supply in regional cattle procurement markets should benefit Oklahoma cattle producers. Theoretical and empirical frameworks to be developed under this proposal could be directly applied to various issues in Oklahoma agriculture for the benefit of Oklahoma farmers. (3154) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Chanjin Chung Economic and Environmental Impacts of Oklahoma Agricultural Production and Agricultural Technology Information 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). (3160) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Jeff Vitale Economics of Oklahoma Agricultural Production Systems The goal of this project is to provide economic analyses of alternative production systems in the U.S. Southern Plains. Agricultural producers are confronted with a new production, marketing, and financing methods/technologies. Often these new tools are promoted by parties with a vested financial interest. 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. (3162) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Eric DeVuyst
Developing Information and Decision Support Tools to Increase the Effectiveness of Traditional and Non‐Traditional Cooperatives Over 38,000 producers are members of Oklahoma agricultural cooperatives and those firms purchase more than $1B in inputs and commodities while employing over 1,300 people and paying over $120M in salaries. Agricultural cooperatives face unique challenges do their financial model and governance structure. As part of that financial structure, profits are passed on to the farmer‐member and rural households. It is therefore important to continue to research to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and management of Oklahoma’s agricultural cooperatives. This research 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. (3165) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Phil Kenkel Evaluating Costs, Benefits, and Risks of Insect Control Strategies in Post‐Harvest Food Storage and Processing Facilities Consumers desire wholesome, insect‐free foods. Meanwhile, because of consumer preferences and regulations insecticide options are increasingly limited. 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. (3166) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Brian Adam Improving the Efficiency of Agricultural Decisions Producers have to make many decisions about production technologies and marketing tools. These include when to sell, participation in crop insurance, and participation in government farm programs. A key to making decisions is having accurate information. Public institutions can also benefit from more accurate information. This research project seeks to provide information to aid in making efficient agricultural decisions. Examples include participation in crop insurance, design of crop insurance, regulation of futures markets, genetic testing of cattle, use of cover crops, and precision nitrogen application. The approach used will primarily be applied to work based on empirical data. New theory and new methods will be developed when needed. Both marketing and production decisions will be evaluated. Cattle, wheat, and forages will receive the most emphasis due to their importance to Oklahoma. If successful, the project will result in a more optimal allocation of scarce resources. (3170) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Wade Brorsen
AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION, COMMUNICATIONS AND LEADERSHIP 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 Using Branding to Engage the Public in Food, Agricultural, Natural Resources, and Human Sciences Issues Effective branding can improve the relationship between the public and food, agricultural, natural resources, and human sciences (FANRHS) organizations. Branding happens internally (i.e., the organization’s actions that shape the brand) and externally (i.e., what the public thinks of the organization and its communications). To date, projects have assessed how organizations represent their brands, their roles in communities, and professional development needs. Additional research has assessed how external stakeholders perceive FANRHS organizations. Ongoing projects include determining local food perceptions, perceptions of prominent social media communicators of food issues, and continuing exploration of producers’ perceptions of themselves and others in agriculture. (03072) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Quisto Settle Exploring the Impact of Entrepreneurship Education on Agricultural and Food Entrepreneurs: Implications for Programming, Training Delivery, and Global Collaboration The potential for agricultural and food enterprise development and its impact on the economic livelihoods of rural citizens is significant. However, little is understood about agricultural and food entrepreneurs in developing countries or how mentoring and networking relationships with entrepreneurs in developed countries may be activated, maintained, and enhanced. This project will explore the experiences of entrepreneurs from developing countries, including the mentor‐protégé and peer‐to‐peer networks supporting their ventures. The project will examine the impacts of these relationships over distance and time. Policymakers supporting the development of agricultural and food entrepreneurship should be better informed by the project’s results. (03187) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: M. Craig Edwards
ANIMAL AND FOOD SCIENCE 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 have been identified that have high growth performance and water efficiency. Multiple genomic approaches will be applied to the cattle and their microbiome to investigate cattle that can adapt to drought. Outreach and extension efforts will aid in the dissemination of research findings through the development of traditional and online educational materials. These include decision support tools and information being developed on BeefClimate.org and national environmental stress and water needs tools being developed in collaboration with the Oklahoma Mesonet. (2910) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station 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 Supplementation and management strategies to improve productivity and sustainability of Oklahoma grazing systems The long‐term goal of this project was to increase the economic prosperity and sustainability of the 44,000 ranchers managing the 4.6 million cattle on 22 million acres of grassland and 5.3 million acres of wheat in Oklahoma. We found that feeding a strategic amount of supplement and monensin could reduce the carbon footprint of stocker cattle on these systems. Further, we identified that automated supplement feeders offer the potential to precisely manage the amount of supplement to individual animals, which enables the more precise implementation of our supplementation recommendations. (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. The overall goal of this project was to improve the efficiency of beef production and the well‐being of cattle through improved evaluation of environmental and management stressors. Temperature measures were obtained for multiple groups of confined cattle over multiple years and used to determine conditions that resulted in rises in cattle body temperatures (heat stress). During subsequent heat stress conditions, body temperature mitigation techniques were evaluated. Mitigation strategies of shade and wetting via sprinklers had limited immediate effect on core body temperature reduction but did allow for earlier and more extensive cooling during the late afternoon and night hours. This resulted in less accumulated heat load over multiple day heat events. (2988) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station 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 are studying 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 15 years and samples collected annually. The effect of manure amendment to both soil bacteria and manure derived bacteria will be studied. 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 and mortality in feedlot cattle. The effects of trace mineral supplementation on efficiency, daily gains, clinical health, immune response variables, and mineral balance in calves following exposure to BRD pathogens were evaluated. The results indicated that organic trace mineral supplementation may improve clinical symptoms and decrease fever after a BRD pathogen challenge. Also, supplementing calves with organic trace minerals increased serum cobalt and liver and serum selenium concentrations. This indicates that trace mineral sources may play an important role in both mineral balance and immune response in challenged calves. (3010) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Blake K. Wilson Effects of Light on Non‐Enzymatic Metmyoglobin Reduction in‐vitro Predominant oxymyoglobin imparts consumer‐preferred bright cherry‐red meat color. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of light and dark storage conditions on non‐enzymatic metmyoglobin reduction in‐vitro. Solutions of ascorbate and NADH were used as the electron donors and cytochrome c and methylene blue as the electron carriers. The current research demonstrates inherently present electron donors and carriers can contribute to non‐enzymatic metmyoglobin reduction in retail light settings and meat pH. Additionally, the study indicated the characteristics of the individual cofactors impacted the reduction under various lighting conditions. (3024) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Ranjith Ramanathan, Gretchen Mafi, Deb VanOverbeke Immune Boosting Dietary Compounds for Growth Promotion and Disease Control and Prevention Sub‐therapeutic 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 the great potential of enhancing animal biosecurity and production efficiency, while minimizing the use of antibiotics and the emergence of drug‐resistant pathogens. (3025) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology, USDA‐AFRI 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 number 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 Dark‐cutting beef has lower glycolytic metabolites than normal‐pH beef Our long‐term goal is to better understand the postmortem meat biochemistry of dark‐cutting beef. The objective was to characterize the metabolite profiles of dark‐cutting beef. Dark‐cutting and normal‐pH strip loins were selected from a commercial packing plant within 3 d post‐harvest. Metabolites were determined using the gas‐chromatography metabolomics approach. Dark‐cutting beef had less glycolytic metabolites than normal pH beef. Interestingly, dark‐cutting beef had greater mitochondrial content than normal‐pH beef. Lower glycolytic metabolites and greater mitochondrial activity can lead to a darker color. (3043) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Ranjith Ramanathan, Gretchen Mafi, Deb VanOverbeke The Importance of Crystalline and Branched Chain Amino Acids in Regulating Energy Balance of Nursery Pigs Feed cost and environmental concerns associated with swine production threaten the sustainability of the swine industry. Moderately low protein diets may be used to reduce the feed cost and improve environmental sustainability; however, these diets decrease the growth performance of pigs. The goal of this project is to assess the importance of supplemented crystalline and branched‐chain amino acids on the energy balance of pigs fed with moderately low protein diets. This together with understanding the mechanisms by which these amino acids influence the performance of pigs may lead us to develop effective strategies to enhance the productivity of swine. (3045) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI: Adel Pezeshki
Bioelectrical Impedance to Predict Beef and Pork Quality The overall objectives of this project are to determine if bioelectrical impedance can be used to predict the eating quality of fresh beef or pork. This research examined a new hand‐held bioelectrical impedance machine used in the seafood industry to assess the freshness of the product. This device was found to be ineffective to predict marbling, eating quality, and freshness of beef or pork. (3050) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Gretchen Mafi, Ranjith Ramanathan, Deb VanOverbeke Food and Agricultural Products Center: Jake Nelson Improving the growth performance of nursery pigs with low protein diets supplemented with both crystalline and branched chain amino acid Slightly low‐protein diets are used for decreasing feed costs and eliminating nitrogen excretion in the swine industry. While moderately low‐protein diets may have even more beneficial effects on feed cost and nitrogen excretion, these diets lead to poor performance. The objective of this project was to assess the effect of a combination of crystalline and branched‐chain amino acids higher than NRC levels on the growth of pigs receiving moderately low‐protein diets. Supplementing moderately low‐protein diets with a combination of crystalline and branched‐chain amino acids higher than NRC recommendations partially reversed the adverse effects of these diets on growth performance through multiple mechanisms. (3076) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Adel Pezeshki, Scott Carter, Ranjith Ramanathan Improving Beef Cow/Calf Enterprise Water and Nutrient Utilization The latest research documenting water requirements in beef cows was published in 1956. Similarly, few recent publications are available to document energy requirements in modern beef cows. In the meantime, beef cattle have changed dramatically over the past 40 years. The objective of this research is to determine water consumption, feed consumption, and energy requirements in modern beef cows. The old equations estimated water intake in beef cows at about 6 to 7% of their body weight. In our work thus far, water intake has averaged 10 to 14% of body weight when cows were fed a high‐quality diet. To date, forage intake of lower quality forage is moderately correlated to a diet consisting of about 35 to 50% forage and 50 to 65% concentrate feed. However, thus far, there has been no relationship between cow weight gain when consuming a forage diet and cow weight gain when consuming a higher‐quality diet with concentrate feed. We are finding that carbon dioxide emission is moderate to highly correlated to forage intake and therefore, measurement of CO2 could be considered as a possible proxy for forage intake. These data will provide practical guidelines for optimizing the match of genetic potential for various traits to grazing and water resources. (3082) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: David Lalman, Paul Beck, Ryan Reuter, Andrew Foote Argonaute‐bound Small RNAs and RNA: RNA Interactions in Livestock Genomes Small non‐coding RNAs (sncRNA) alter the expression of genes and are a critically important aspect of the genome. The interaction of sncRNA and their targets have been inadequately
investigated. We seek to develop new resources and tools to help researchers accelerate the discovery of knowledge and functionally annotate livestock genomes by identifying mechanisms of gene regulation via post‐transcriptional interactions of RNAs. (3099) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Darren E. Hagen Effects of social rank and dietary modulation on immune, behavior, and well‐being of the weaned pig through the finish phase An alternative to antibiotic usage that modulates gut‐immune interface could significantly improve animal health, well‐being, and food security. The goal is to determine a feeding strategy utilizing amino acids that can enhance the immune system of the weaned pig during times of stress. Early results imply that feeding tryptophan and methionine enriched diets early‐on differentially affected immune, febrile, and cortisol responses; whereas, body weight gain was greatest among pigs fed tryptophan early on but then switched to a control diet. These early findings imply that amino‐acid enriched diets may affect pig immunity and reduce the negative effects of weaning stress. (3100) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Janeen Salak‐Johnson, Adel Pezeshki, Scott Carter Enteric Diseases of Food Animals: Enhanced Prevention, Control, and Food Safety Eliminating the use of in‐feed antibiotics in livestock production has been a global trend to mitigate antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The overall objective is to develop and evaluate host defense peptide (HDP)‐inducing compounds for enhanced production efficiency and gut health in broilers. These compounds will be pursued for their efficacy in promoting growth, health, and bacterial clearance in both healthy and experimentally infected chickens. Successful completion of the project will lead to the development of innovative non‐antibiotic approaches for immediate adoption and commercialization in poultry and possibly other livestock, thus mitigating AMR across the food chain. (3112) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA‐AFRI PI/PD: Glenn Zhang Metabolic Relationships in Supply of Nutrients for Lactating Cows Factors that regulate the metabolism of nutrients are critically important for the production of milk and the health of lactating cows. The purpose of this research is to improve nutrient utilization by dairy cows. The specific goals of this project are 1) identifying the association of circulating gut peptides and metabolites with feed intake, milk production, and nutrient utilization efficiency; and 2) the role of pre‐weaning gut development in long‐term nutrient utilization efficiency and productivity of dairy cows. (3116) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Andrew Foote The role of fat metabolism in beef cattle nutrient utilization efficiency and inflammation Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract of growing and finishing beef cattle has been associated with poor nutrient utilization efficiency. Metabolism of fatty acids can produce
inflammatory compounds that could be contributing to depressed feed efficiency. The purpose of this research is to improve the efficiency of nutrient utilization by growing and finishing beef cattle. The specific goals of this project are 1) to identify the association of long‐chain fatty acids with production traits; 2) to identify the role of fatty acids in eicosanoid production and the inflammatory response in cattle; and 3) to identify the role of dietary factors, including fat source, on rumen fermentation, metabolism, nutrient utilization, and inflammation. (3127) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Soybean board PI/PD: Andrew Foote 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 gonadotropins, insulin‐like growth factors, and numerous intraovarian factors as well as external factors such as mycotoxins. The goal of this project is to determine to effects of growth factors and mycotoxins on ovarian function. It is hoped that new insights regarding techniques to improve fertility in dairy and beef cattle will result from these studies. (3148) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Leon Spicer
Supplementation and growth promoting technologies for stocker calves grazing warm‐season permanent pastures There have recently been increases in the profit potential of stocker programs. Even though the margins on gain have increased, there have also been increases in the costs of fertilizer, fuel, and land; putting a cost‐price squeeze on producers, leading producers to increase stocking rates to maximize production, which will be harmful to pasture and range condition impacting long‐term productivity of grazing enterprises. Alternative methods to the intensification of the stocker cattle enterprise are needed. Feeding high levels of supplemental feed based on corn co‐products of the ethanol production industry can offset forage consumption by grazing cattle and lead to higher stocking rates, without the reductions in forage mass and animal performance. This research is being conducted across Oklahoma with wide variations in climate and production potential from the arid western region on native range pastures, Marvin Klemme Range Research Station, Bessie, Oklahoma, and the USDA Southern Plains Range Research Station, Ft Supply, Oklahoma; to the humid area of eastern Oklahoma on introduced forage species at the Eastern Research Station, Haskell, Oklahoma; to determine the effects feeding rates of a bioenergy co‐product based cube has on performance and pasture carrying capacity. In two years of study at the western range locations, feeding a high rate of supplemental co‐product cubes (0.75% of steer bodyweight) was able to increase stocking rates by 33%, and increase performance over unsupplemented negative controls, increasing the total production per acre by over 100%. While at the Eastern Research Station, the high supplementation rate was able to replace chemical nitrogen fertilization and increase daily gains by 30%. (3172) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Dennis and Marta White Endowed Chair. PI/PDs: Paul Beck, Andrew Foote, Laura Goodman, Chris Richards Optimizing land use for beef cattle production Research conducted at the University of Arkansas LFRS on tillage systems for continuous wheat pasture production in dedicated wheat fields indicates that fields drilled to soft red winter wheat in early September will provide grazeable forage by early November. This high‐quality forage can produce gains over 2.5 lbs/day from November to early May. Research from the LFRS indicates that forage production in conventionally tilled fields is superior to no‐till in some situations in the early fall. Delaying planting date has a greater deleterious effect on fall forage yield in no‐till fields than in conventionally tilled fields. Research from Central Texas indicates that forage yield is not affected by seeding rates ranging from as low as 30 lb/acre up to 120 lb/acre in conventionally tilled dual‐purpose (grain and grazing) wheat fields. Since delayed planting date has a larger impact on no‐till questions arise concerning the effect of reduced seeding rate in conventional vs no‐till situations. This research is proposed to define the effects of tillage system and wheat seeding rate (60, 90, and 120 lb/acre) of continuous wheat pasture production system with an early September planting date in either conventionally tilled or chemical fallowed no‐till production systems. This research will use 6 conventional (CONV) and 6 no‐till (NT) fields that have been in continuous dedicated wheat pasture production for over 10 years. Wheat fields will be planted to Jamestown wheat seed in early September each fall. Two fields of CONV and 2 fields of NT will be planted to each of the proposed seeding rates (60, 90, and 120 lb/acre). Seeding rates will be randomly assigned to pasture within the tillage
system each year before planting. Depending on weather conditions steers are stocked on pastures at 1 calf/acre from November through February and at 2 steers/acre from March to early May. (3182) Sponsor: Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Dennis and Marta White Endowed Chair. PI/PD: Paul Beck Influence of Prenatal Stress on Immune Function, Behavior, and Welfare of the Progeny Maternal stress exposes the fetuses to high levels of stress hormones, especially cortisol, resulting in lifelong and multi‐generational effects on physiology and behavior, ultimately compromising well‐being. Prenatal stress during sensitive periods of development can have lasting effects on physiology, behavior, and stress resiliency. The overall goals are to characterize differential immunologic and behavioral profiles and epigenetic signatures associated with stress resiliency, robustness, and enhanced welfare in piglets born to stressed sows. Defining these mechanisms would make it possible to develop methodologies to select animals with more robust stress and immune response and devise strategies for improved animal welfare. (3204) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Janeen Salak‐Johnson, Darren Hagen Epigenetic Regulation of Host Defense Peptide Synthesis The overall goal of this project is to evaluate the efficacy of newly‐identified epigenetic compounds in host defense peptide (HDP) induction and bacterial clearance in a chicken model of necrotic enteritis. The central hypothesis is that strategies to enhance HDP synthesis will promote bacterial clearance. We proposed to identify the most efficacious epigenetic compounds and their combinations to induce HDP and also demonstrate their efficiency in promoting gut health and pathogen clearance. The outcome of this project will pave the way for the development of an innovative antibiotic alternative technology to maintain animal health and production efficiency. (3206) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA‐AFRI PI/PD: Glenn Zhang
BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY Metabolism of Triglycerides in Insects Fat plays an essential role as a reserve of metabolic energy in all animals. Our studies intend to improve our understanding of the processes of synthesis, accumulation, 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. Moreover, the metabolism of fat in insects has unique features that could allow the discovery of mechanisms useful for medical and animal sciences, in general. (3001) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, National Institutes of Health, OSU Foundation PI/PDs: Jose L Soulages, Estela L Arrese Novel disinfectant/antiseptic‐selected antimicrobial‐reduced susceptibility mechanism in Staphylococcus aureus Antibiotic‐resistant “golden staph” causes disease in livestock and humans and causes mastitis in dairy cattle which negatively impacts this industry. Our long term goal is to determine how this pathogen thwarts the action of alcohol and plant antimicrobial essential oils. It is hoped that this research will reveal unique genetic alterations and physiological responses that will help design novel antistaphylococcal agents. In the last year, the laboratory completed a manuscript on the proteomic/metabolomic analysis of tea tree oil reduced susceptibility mutants and isolated ethanol reduced susceptibility mutants that have been subjected to proteomics analysis which is being prepared for interpretation. (3002) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: John Gustafson β‐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. produces 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 Agricultural sustainability has become increasingly vulnerable due to unprecedented precipitation deficit and climatic extremes. Understanding how environmental perturbations modulate plant genomes is a key element required for sustainable crop production in this rapidly changing climate. Our research aims to uncover the regulatory mechanism that modulates gene expression, such as histone modification and genome‐wide chromatin structure changes responding to environmental cues. We hypothesize that plants respond to drought stress through alterations in chromatin structure to regulate transcriptional responses, and this rapid and reversible changes add to rapid acclimation to water stress. The expected outcomes from this study will be impactful for sustainable crop production in this rapidly changing climate. (3011) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Wheat Research Foundation, OCAST PI/PDs: Charles Chen, Donald Ruhl Structure‐Function Studies on cytokine signaling key to animal immunity The main goal of this research is to provide a detailed molecular basis by which several important viral and host proteins function, and to provide important clues on how to design novel anti‐viral regents key to the immunity of livestock animals. The outcome will be helpful for the development of treatments and preventions against many infectious diseases that target livestock animals and are economically devastating. (3060) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Junpeng Deng The structure of the integral plant cell wall component, pectin, its interactions with other cell wall polymers, and changes during growth 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 crosslinks between pectin and the cell wall protein, extensin. (3061) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Stevens Endowed Chair in Agricultural Biotechnology. PI/PD: Andrew Mort The molecular basis of salt tolerance in rice Rice is the most important crop in the world as measured by the portion of calories provided to the human diet, and has served as a model system for monocots, especially for cereals. The USA is among the top five rice‐exporting countries. Specifically, the states such as Arkansas, California, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Texas produce 20 billion pounds of rice in the United States. Salinity is a major problem in South and Southeast Asian countries, where rice is commonly grown. Even in the United States, rice‐growing areas in California and Louisiana are severely affected by salinity. Therefore, developing salt‐tolerant rice varieties is an important goal, and understanding the molecular basis of salt tolerance is an important direction in this effort. Rice is endowed with rich genetic diversity including wild species, landraces, and
mutants. Among diverse salt‐tolerant rice genotypes, Pokkali (Pok) is highly salt‐tolerant, therefore, frequently used as a tolerant donor in breeding programs. On the other hand, IR29, a modern high‐yielding cultivar but is salt‐sensitive. Molecular comparisons between salt‐tolerant Pok and salt‐sensitive IR29 can instruct us about the underlying mechanisms Pok uses to adapt to salt stress. A comparative expression profile of genes, proteins, and microRNAs under salt stress in these two genotypes will reveal significant information on the genes and gene products that contribute to salt tolerance. This resource will lay strong foundations for future functional genomic studies aimed at improving the salt tolerance of rice. The information also has the potential to apply to closely related cereals such as the wheat. (3062) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Ramanjulu Sunkar Function analysis of HSBP genes in cotton Heat shock proteins (HSP) are protective proteins that are expressed in response to high temperatures and other stresses. The expression of HSP genes is regulated by heat shock factors (HSF). HSF activation is attenuated by heat shock factor binding proteins (HSBP) that bind to HSFs and interfere with their activation. Our research in model plants shows that partial silencing of HSBP expression caused increased activation of HSP leading to increased stress tolerance. Our ongoing project is aimed at understanding and exploiting this critical regulatory pathway to increased abiotic stress tolerance in cotton plants to improve the yield and quality of cotton under conditions of high temperature and limited water availability. (3083) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, OCAST PI/PD: Randy Allen Cereal Grain Products and Ingredients ‐ Opportunities for Future Food and Feed Additives Cereal grain components and products have several benefits including improving essential metabolic functions in human health. Our long‐term goal is to determine the composition, properties, and processing that enhance the potential benefits of cereal grains. In the last year, our laboratory and collaborators completed three publications on extracts from cereals rich in antioxidants and their use in protecting color in ground meat patties, genetic responses in wheat traits to yield improvement, and physical properties of batter and dough of composite flours. (3091) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA PI/PDs: Patricia Rayas‐Duarte Plant and Soil Science: Brett Carver Ribosomes and Translation in Antibiotic‐Tolerant Bacteria Our research is continuing to address the problem of how antibiotic‐tolerant bacteria survive. 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 ribosomes from a variety of model and pathogenic bacteria. The assembly states of ribosomes will be profiled from bacterial cells that can tolerate multiple types of clinically important antibiotics. (3096) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Kevin Wilson Characterization of The Mechanism of Action Bioactive Compounds Present in Functional Herbs and Foods We are determining whether bioactive compounds identified as putative inhibitors of Hsp90, function by inhibition of the Hsp90 chaperone machine. To achieve this, we are: 1) carrying out assays to confirm that the Hsp90 machine is the target of the bioactive compounds, 2) characterizing the mechanism by which the compounds inhibit the Hsp90 machinery, 3) determining the impact of Hsp90 inhibitors on the proteome of cancer cells, and 4) co‐crystalizing Hsp90 constructs with inhibitors. (3159) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, NIH. PI/PD: Robert Matts Drought Induced Global Changes of Chromatin Structure in Winter Wheat Drought stress on wheat production is a growing concern due to its impact on grain yield in Oklahoma and throughout the entire world. To combat this problem, this project aims to identify drought‐resistant varieties of winter wheat using a unique set of biochemical and genetic approaches. We hypothesize that by comparing chromatin structure patterns between water‐restricted versus control winter wheat plants, specific genes, and genomic regions important for drought‐resistance can be identified. This research is significant because it will improve our ability to identify and develop drought‐resistant varieties of winter wheat. (3167) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, OCAST PI/PDs: Donald Ruhl, Charles Chen
BIOSYSTEMS AND AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING Using Big Data and the Internet of Things to Manage Tomorrow’s Agricultural Production Systems This project will perform an analysis of potential sensing methods and examine commercially available soil sensor systems for use in trafficability estimation, as well as controlling planting and tillage depth. One objective of this project is to analyze the field performance of commercially available soil sensing systems to determine their suitability for use on automated agricultural machinery. The overall goal of this Hatch project is to create robust and intelligent control systems and sensors to help monitor, optimize, and manage autonomous agricultural machinery systems. These highly integrated systems will use sensors to monitor environmental conditions and the performance characteristics of specific units within the system. The big data sets produced by the sensors will be processed in a computer‐based learning environment to enact real‐time machine operational decisions. (3070) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Paul Weckler Algal Remediation of Wastewater Generated during Hydraulic Fracturing and Animal Production Oil/gas production and animal husbandry are vital industrial sectors for Oklahoma’s economy. Unfortunately, both animal production and hydraulic fracturing technique used to increase oil/gas extraction generate a large amount of wastewater. Current technologies used for the management of this wastewater present technical, economic, and environmental challenges. This study examines wastewater remediation using Oklahoma native microalgae strains. Hydraulic fracturing wastewater (HFW) contains a low concentration of the nutrients needed for algae growth. Hence, animal wastewater was successfully used to supplement HFW and enhance algal biomass production and contaminant removal. A mathematical model was developed to describe the algae growth rate in HFW supplemented with animal wastewater. (3087) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Nurhan Turgut Dunford Modeling of Fuel Dynamics and Fire Danger for Wildland Fire Decision Support using Weather, Soil Moisture, and Remote Sensing 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 related to wildland fire management: 1) the role of weather, soil moisture, and remote sensing in modeling the spatial and temporal dynamics of wildland fuels; 2) the relationship of weather, soil moisture, and other fire danger variables to historical wildfire occurrence in Oklahoma; and 3) the continued development and improvement of OK‐FIRE, Oklahoma’s operational system for wildland fire management (https://www.mesonet.org/index.php/okfire). (3101) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: J. D. Carlson
The Science and Engineering for a Biobased Industry and Economy The overall goal of this research is to address key issues that limit the commercial application of OSU‐developed gasification technologies. Based on the current interest in commercializing the OSU patented downdraft gasifier in a mobile, self‐contained electricity generation unit, we are addressing the key reliability issues in the gasifier scale‐up. These issues include systems control under a wide range of operating conditions, feedstock type and condition, and producer gas cleanup. (3139) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Raymond L. Huhnke Marketing and Delivery of Quality Grains and BioProcess Coproducts To maintain the best possible quality in grain, insect management is important. Current popular methods of reducing insect infestation include fumigation with insecticides. Insects have developed resistance to the most common fumigant, phosphine, due to inadequate dosing of grain bins. The leakiness of grain bins causes the fumigant to escape the structure and the insects do not receive the required dosage for the duration of the treatment. Therefore, estimating the "leakiness" of a grain bin helps determine the correct original dosage of phosphine so that a sufficient kill rate is achieved. Before this study, managers had no method to quantify the leakiness of their grain bins. This study will test two methods of determining vessel leakiness: half‐life testing and constant pressure testing. The study will also suggest a method to calculate the dosage of phosphine after quantifying the leakiness of a bin. (3140) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Carol Jones The Science and Engineering for a Biobased Industry and Economy The needs for electricity, fuels, and chemicals continue to grow worldwide and are currently met primarily by fossil‐based resources that emit greenhouse gases. At the same time, agricultural biomass and organic wastes including municipal solid wastes continue to get underutilized and degrade to form methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Efficient and economically viable technologies are needed to convert the underutilized biomass and organic wastes into electricity, fuels, and chemicals. This project focuses on the advancement and analyses of thermochemical conversion technologies to utilize these wastes for generating electricity, fuels, and chemicals. (3141) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: A.J. Kumar Management and Policy Challenges in a Water‐Scarce World This multistate project investigates the impacts of climatic variability and anthropogenic perturbations that change water supply and demand. It focuses on quantifying system responses concerning the extent and impacts of both current changes and anticipated future conditions and their implications for water management. Modeling applications and data analysis methods will provide insights for future planning and decision‐making as well as the development of management interventions in Southcentral and Southwestern US. Results are expected to generate critical information about water sustainability for different stakeholders
and improve understanding of the tradeoffs associated with different policy options and technical solutions. (3161) Sponsors: National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Ali Mirchi The Science and Engineering for a Biobased Industry and Economy A crucial step in developing a sustainable biobased economy is establishing viable integrated biorefineries capable of converting biomass feedstocks and industrial wastes into biofuels, and biobased chemicals. Gasification‐syngas fermentation 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. This research examines syngas fermentation process development, reactor design, scale‐up, and control to produce alcohols and value‐added products from biomass and waste gas streams. This also includes the development of novel biocatalytic conversion of biomass to higher alcohols that can be converted to jet‐fuels. (3163) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Hasan Atiyeh Intelligent Sensing/Control Systems and Data Analytics for Precision Crop Production In 2019‐2020, we focused on three tasks: 1) Re‐design and re‐configure a drone platform; 2) Re‐design two ground‐based, remote‐controlled plant phenotyping platforms; and 3) Develop image processing and analysis algorithms for counting peanut flowers within the canopy and stitching continuous plant images. The drone platform can now carry various cameras on board and collect images simultaneously from two cameras. The new ground‐based platforms are achieving better performance with shading and reconfigure driving mechanism. Multiple image processing and analysis algorithms were developed to efficiently and effectively extract the information of interests. (3169) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Ning Wang Microirrigation: A Sustainable Technology for Crop Intensification and Improved Crop Productivity Efforts were focused on two objectives of 1) assessing and improving the performance of scientific irrigation scheduling methods, and 2) promoting the transfer of technologies that can increase water conservation in irrigated agriculture. Regarding the first objective, two irrigation scheduling methods based on soil moisture and canopy temperature were tested at OSU’s Southwest Research and Extension Center. The challenges of implementing each method in practical irrigation management were investigated. Regarding the second objective, a new irrigation management technology developed for irrigated cotton in Australia was tested in collaboration with USDA‐ARS scientists and cotton growers at over 40 sites in Oklahoma. (3177) Sponsors: National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Saleh Taghvaeian
Integrated Systems Research and Development in Automation and Sensors for Sustainability of Specialty Crops We continued developing various sensing technologies for peanut phenotyping. Peanut flower counting is a challenging, but important task to predict the yield in the early stage of the peanut growth season. Most of the peanut flowers are closed to the stems and buried in the canopy. Hence, a sensing platform carried with multiple cameras at various angels was used to take images from top‐down, bottom‐up, and side. Then the collected images from the three angles were stitched together to form a 3D image model of peanut canopy. The flowers in the images were identified and counted using machine learning algorithms. (3178) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Ning Wang Membranes for Sustainable Water Treatment Membrane fouling, accumulation of substances on/inside the membrane, remains a major obstacle for the application of membrane technology in wastewater treatment. We worked on surface engineering of membranes to reduce the interaction with fouling molecules while retaining water flux. Our study demonstrated that fouling was reduced by 34% and the engineered membrane retained more than 85% of their original permeation flux. The research is expected to have a positive impact on membrane technology by increasing the efficiency, stability, and lifespan of membranes. (3183) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Jessie Mao
CENTER FOR VETERINARY HEALTH SERVICES Regulation of latency‐reactivation cycle by ORF2 and beta‐catenin/Wnt signaling pathway. Bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV‐1) is a cofactor of the bovine respiratory disease complex. Following acute infection, latency is established in trigeminal ganglionic (TG) sensory neurons. Stress stimulates reactivation from latency and virus transmission. More than 100 cellular genes are expressed at higher levels during latency compared to stress‐induced reactivation and calves that were not infected. A signaling pathway that regulates metabolism, cell survival, and neurogenesis is also expressed at higher levels during latency compared to reactivation. Components of this signaling hub interfere with stress‐induced viral transcription suggesting cellular factors actively maintain latency by suppressing stress‐induced transcription and promoting normal neuronal functions. (2016) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station 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 the total research capacity of the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM). 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 Regulation of bovine herpes virus 1 reactivation from latency by progesterone and corticosteroids. Bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV‐1) is an important causative agent of abortion and a cofactor for bovine respiratory disease (BRD). Following acute infection, a life‐long latent infection is established in neurons. We recently found that progesterone, a hormone essential for maintaining pregnancy in cows, stimulates viral gene expression, and growth of BoHV‐1. New studies revealed heifers latently infected with BoHV‐1 reactivated from latency following progesterone treatment. If BoHV‐1 vaccines can be developed that prevent spread to reproductive tissues and do not reactivate from latency via increased progesterone and stress, we may reduce abortions in pregnant cows. (3129) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Clinton Jones Physiochemical causes of muscle fatigue and muscle damage in horses Strenuous exercise produces skeletal muscle hyperthermia and acidosis in horses, often with intramuscular temperatures as high as 43‐44oC and pH as low as 6.2. Muscle hyperthermia and acidosis can alter cellular functions and intracellular signaling which can lead to a plethora of changes within the cell, including impaired or inefficient production of adenosine triphosphate
(ATP) and loss of key mitochondrial elements into the sarcoplasm. Our central hypothesis is that physiological hyperthermia and acidosis, individually and in combination, result in progressive leakage of skeletal muscle mitochondrial membranes and oxidative stress, resulting in impaired oxidative phosphorylation, decreased ATP production, muscle damage, and reduced performance. (3142) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Michael Davis Integrated Beef Cattle Program for Veterinarians to Enhance Practice Management and Services Oklahoma has 1.6 million beef cows, yet lacks the veterinarians necessary to fully service cattle operations. This project seeks to offer intervention strategies for rural sustainability by expanding veterinary skills and knowledge to address the common needs of beef producers. Initially, surveys will be developed to fully evaluate the shortage situation including the geographic range of veterinarians. Secondly, educational modules for veterinarians will be created focusing on beef cattle herd management with the ultimate goal to expand services provided by veterinarians. Finally, veterinary students will be networked with participating rural veterinarians to help sustain rural veterinary practices. Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Rosslyn Biggs, John Gilliam, Jerry Malayer, Brandon Raczkoski, Carlos Risco Animal and Food Science: Paul Beck, David Lalman, Derrell Peel Effect of bovine viral diarrhea virus on thymus function and calf immunity Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infection in calves causes major economic losses to US producers. BVDV leads to transient immunosuppression and significant thymus atrophy. Therefore, the impact of BVDV infection may go beyond the increased susceptibility to other pathogens during acute infection, BVDV may lead to prolonged altered protective immune responses to other pathogens due to the effect on the thymus on young animals. The project will specifically evaluate the magnitude and kinetics of specific humoral and T cell responses of calves previously exposed to BVDV on a subsequent viral infection and the impact on the thymus function. Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Fernando V. Bauermann, Mayara Maggioli, Jared Taylor
Regulation of bovine herpesvirus 1 gene expression by pioneer transcription factors Following acute infection, bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV‐1) establishes life‐long latency in sensory and other neurons. Stress, as mimicked by the synthetic corticosteroid dexamethasone, consistently induces reactivation from latency and virus transmission. Two key viral transcriptional regulatory proteins, infected cell protein 0 (bICP0) and bICP4, are regulated by an immediate early promoter. Interestingly, bICP0 expression is also stimulated by an early promoter. Cellular transcription factors that specifically bind inactive chromatin and stimulate gene expression (pioneer transcription factors) were shown to activate promoters that stimulate bICP0 and bICP4 expression. Collectively, these studies suggest pioneer transcription factors trigger reactivation from latency. (3025) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Jeffery Ostler
ENTOMOLOGY AND PLANT PATHOLOGY Decontamination of Foodborne Pathogens on Produce by Atmospheric Cold Plasma Decontamination of foodborne pathogens from foods is critical to human health and the food industry. Research studies have been conducted during this period that includes 1) improving cold plasma actuator design and 2) validating the improved design on inactivation of a foodborne pathogen on low‐moisture foods. The results showed that the modified design has significantly improved the inactivation of the pathogens on low moisture foods than the original design. Additional studies are ongoing to achieving similar reduction but with shorter treatment times. (2999) Sponsors: Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, USDA National Needs Fellowship Program, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Li Maria Ma 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 developed a research‐based sampling protocol and dynamic scouting tool for sugarcane aphid using data collected in commercial sorghum fields in five states. We have completed data collection, published the research, and developed the scouting tool. A beta version of the Glance‐N‐Go scouting smartphone app is being developed. Once developed, we will demonstrate the sampling tool through field days and OSU‐sponsored crop 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
Biology, ecology, and integrated management of turfgrass disorders caused by fungi and nematodes Turfgrasses grown in Oklahoma can be damaged by a variety of diseases and pests. The objectives are to characterize the biology of important turfgrass pathogens and to develop integrated management strategies for these pests. The interaction of a fungal pathogen of bermudagrass and host plant varying in disease susceptibility continues to be investigated. The genomes and transcriptomes of both the host and the fungi are being utilized to study the interaction. Additional efforts include the characterization of elicitors responsible for disease and improving genetic disease resistance. Screening of bermudagrass germplasm has expanded to include nematodes and other common soilborne diseases such as root‐decline of warm‐season grasses. Current integrated pest management approaches used for turfgrass continue to be evaluated and modified. (3034) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Nathan Walker, Stephen Marek, Carla Garzon Plant & Soil Science: Yanqi Wu Pest management of fly pests impacting Oklahoma beef production systems Oklahoma is ranked 5th nationally in total cattle inventory and is the largest animal commodity market within the state. Arthropods associated with the cattle industry have been estimated to cause trillions of dollars in losses nationally to producers annually. Biting flies are considered one of the most important external parasites affecting cattle production. This project will address two broad areas related to biting fly associations to cattle in Oklahoma: 1) New technologies for the management of biting and nuisance flies in beef cattle systems, and 2) Characterize population biology of biting and nuisance flies. (3036) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Justin Talley Filling the Gaps in Crop Biosecurity: Training Graduate Leaders in Plant Pathogen Forensics Forensic studies in plant pathology is an important component of agricultural biosecurity. The need to train highly qualified students capable of moving into law enforcement, diagnostics, and intervention positions at borders is constantly present because of the rapid and almost unobstructed entryways for foreign plant disease agents on imported commodity crops and plant products. To that end, three of the four national needs fellows have completed their degrees as doctoral or master’s students at Oklahoma State University. The final master's student is currently enrolled and an on‐time completion is anticipated. The graduate student projects are diverse: detection of foodborne pathogens on plants using NGS technologies; study of grape‐infecting viruses and pathways of infection, food safety diagnostics, and development of cereal‐infecting pathogen diagnostic assays. (3037) Sponsors: USDA PIs/PDs: Astri Wayadande, Jacque Fletcher, Li Ma, Francisco Ochoa‐Corona, Carla Garzon, Trenna Blagden, Bill Schneider
Influence of spatial proximity and fungal sexuality on re‐emergence and evolution of Aspergillus flavus in biological controlled field soils Aspergillus flavus is a food safety concern for several industries. Toxic strains produce varying amounts of the carcinogen aflatoxin B1. We used metatranscriptomic data to infer toxigenicity and community structure of A. flavus in soil in a semi‐quantitative approach. Using e‐probes previously developed for toxicity transcripts, and new e‐probes for basic A. flavus house‐keeping genes, we assessed metatranscriptomic toxigenic/atoxigenic strain ratios. The technique has the potential to replace current methods and significantly reduce time to assess prevalence of toxigenic/atoxigenic population mixtures in soils. This method can help aflatoxin management programs determine optimum timing for biological control applications. (3047) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Kitty Cardwell, Andres Espindola Camacho Extracellular Signal Transduction of Insect Immunity by Serine Proteases Phenoloxidase‐catalyzed melanization and Spätzle‐triggered Toll signaling are critical insect immune responses triggered by specific proteolysis. It has been unclear whether separate protease cascades or an integrated network of proteases coordinates these responses. We found that hemolymph protease HP5 acts in pathways eliciting activation of both phenoloxidase and Spätzle‐1 in Manduca sexta. HP5 has a unique specificity by cleaving proHP6 at His112, resulting in HP6 activation. CLIP proteases related to HP6 from other insects share this activation site feature with proHP6, and therefore HP5 orthologs in these species are candidates for key roles in regulating and integrating innate immune responses. (3054) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Haobo Jiang Development of Disease Resistant Wheat and Studies of Selected Wheat Diseases Seedlings and adult plants (24,333) were rated in greenhouse tests to determine the reaction of 900 Oklahoma wheat breeder lines to leaf rust, powdery mildew, and tan spot. Rating for wheat soil‐borne mosaic also was attempted in field testing but was not successful as no symptoms developed. These results were used to advance lines in the program, with one variety (‘OK Corral) released in 2019. Other research demonstrated that one timely fungicide application controlled wheat foliar diseases and increased yield and test weight by 31% and 5.1%, while two fungicide applications increased yield and test weight by 42% and 3.4%. (3065) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Wheat Research Foundation, Chemical Companies PI/PDs: Robert M. Hunger, Kris Giles Plant & Soil Sciences: Brett Carver, Liuling Yan USDA‐ARS, Stillwater, OK: Xiangyang Xu Biological Control of Arthropod Pests and Weeds The major goal of this project is to characterize, evaluate, and incorporate the impact of biocontrol agents and other beneficial insects into integrated pest management programs. Specifically, project members are describing the spatial and temporal patterns of aphid parasitism and pollination in agriculture landscapes of the Southern Plains, investigating
competition among parasitoids, investigating interactions between host‐plant resistance and aphid parasitism, and developing management programs that integrate conservation biological control. (3075) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA PI/PD: Kristopher Giles Biology, Ecology, and Pest Management of Wood‐Destroying Termites Positive effects that termites have on soil characteristics, fertility, rainfall percolation, and metabolic gases are being studied on Oklahoma's tallgrass prairie, where above‐ground insect diversity studies are underway. Ant surveys of Oklahoma by county are underway with the help of county educators, including 4‐H participants. Termite densities and foraging activity in salvage‐harvest, sugar pine, re‐planted, biochar‐enhanced soils on a mixed conifer high mountain forest are being determined, with different species identified. Studies of termite foraging behavior on a sage‐steppe mountain habitat being published. Experimental Use Permit studies with new technology termiticide injection equipment are continuing. (3084) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Brad Kard Ecological and social determinants and management of arthropod‐borne diseases of public and veterinary health in South Central United States This project continues to focus on understanding the underlying determinants involved in the transmission and ecology of tick/mosquito‐borne diseases in Oklahoma. Specific projects include ecological studies of medically‐important mosquito and tick species. The project continues to focus on how invasive plant species in the Great Plains are contributing to the spread of vector‐borne disease in the region. Additionally, we have surveyed what university students in the region know about ticks and tick‐borne pathogens. Ongoing studies are developing low‐cost diagnostic tools for tick‐borne pathogens and focusing on identifying the potential for flea/mite‐borne pathogens in the region. (3085) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Bruce Noden Molecular and applied aspects of fungicide hormesis in fungi and oomycetes Our research focused on fungicide sensitivity and hormesis (high‐dose inhibition/low‐dose stimulation) in fungal pathogens of onion, grape, and ornamentals, and fluorescent transformants of Fusarium. Significant growth stimulation of one strain each of two Fusarium species was observed at concentrations of iprodione below the recommended doses for disease management, in pure cultures and during infection of plant tissues. Differential gene expression assays were conducted to examine the metabolic pathway activities of these isolates during hormetic stimulation compared to fungicide‐free controls. The current work is focused on data analysis to identify the metabolic pathways involved in hormetic responses. (3095) Sponsors: Oklahoma Research Experiment Station, ODAFF PI/PDs: Carla Garzon, Stephen Marek
A field deployable Rapid Anaplasma Detection (RAD) kit for screening three Anaplasma species infecting livestock This USDA‐NIFA‐AFRI Seed project focuses on detecting three major blood‐borne diseases (Anaplasma marginale, A. phagocytophilum, and A. ovis) that affect cattle and sheep worldwide. To date, there is only a commercially available test provided by certified diagnostic veterinary laboratories to test cattle blood for bovine anaplasmosis. The goal of this project is the development of a specific and sensitive field‐deployable Rapid Anaplasma Detection (RAD) kit for the economical, large scale, and rapid screening of livestock (mainly cattle and sheep) that is a low cost, easy‐to‐use, and accurate for the detection of three Anaplasma species. (3097). 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 over 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. (3110) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Justin Talley, Astri Wayadande, Bruce Noden Improving Soybean Arthropod Pest Management in the U.S. We will conduct surveys and research/demonstrations projects that evaluate insect control in soybean arthropod pests. Projects included insecticide evaluations, variety evaluations. Project goals are to 1) document changing soybean pest and beneficial arthropod assemblages that feed on soybean leaves, stems, roots, nodules, and pods, 2) educate farmers, industry, colleagues, the general public, and agricultural professionals using traditional tools and innovative methods, 3) develop coordinated best management practices (BMPs) for soybean arthropod management. (3115) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PDs: Tom Royer Biology, Etiology, and Management of Dollar Spot in Turfgrasses Turfgrasses are one of the largest cultivated plants in the United States and provide numerous benefits to society and the environment. Dollar spot, a disease caused by a fungus, is the most common, widespread, and therefore the most important and destructive disease of turfgrasses. Management of dollar spot is most often through the use of fungicides, especially where the turfgrass is intensively maintained. The fungus that causes dollar spot has repeatedly developed resistance to many groups of fungicide rendering those chemistries ineffective. This effort proposes to utilize several cultural approaches to managing dollar spot
without or with minimal use of fungicides. Nitrogen fertilization is known to influence dollar spot severity and this study will attempt to find a fertilization rate that maximizes turfgrass quality and minimizes dollar spot disease of bermudagrass. (3119) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Nathan Walker Horticulture & Landscape Architecture: Charles Fontanier Detection and diagnostic methods for agricultural biosecurity and forensic plant pathology applications. The research contributes to forensic plant pathology and biosecurity developing decision support tools for prioritization, emergency management, and prediction of biosecurity threats: 1) viruses infecting wheat, cucurbits, ornamentals (roses), waterborne plant viruses, and microbes threatening Oklahoma’s Agriculture, 2) methods for regulatory plant health emergencies and microbial forensics (EDNA), 3) develops and adapt technologies for sampling, molecular identification, and discrimination of microbial genomic landmarks (EICD). Four scientific articles in refereed journals were published, one book chapter, and one U.S. Provisional Patent Application. (3143) Sponsors: Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, OSU Office of the Vice President for Research and Technology Transfer, ODAFF‐SCGP, USDA‐NIFA‐SCRI. PI/PD: Francisco, Ochoa‐Corona. Characterizing and Enhancing the Activities of Beneficial Insects in Range Ecosystems Oklahoma has more than 5 million cattle contributing $5.40 billion to the economy. Many factors influence herd health and weight gain including pasture conditions and arthropod pests. The objectives are to characterize the biology of beneficial insects that affect pasture and herd health as part of developing integrated pest management strategies. Statewide grasshopper sampling has updated species distribution and potential for outbreaks while surveys of dung beetles have characterized the community and its role in manure degradation. Research on burying beetles has characterized the improvement of soil nutrients and infiltration. Prescribed fire effects on pasture health and insect faunas are now being investigated. (3155) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA ARS, US ARMY National Guard PI/PD: W. Wyatt Hoback
Preserving Effectiveness of Phosphine and Increasing IPM use for Stored Grain Insects Research is conducted to detect phosphine resistance and to develop robust phosphine resistance management strategies. Investigation of functional and numerical responses of two predatory mites Cheyletus eruditus and Cheyletus malaccensis to Liposcelis decolor is conducted to assess their potential for use as biological control agents for the management of stored‐product psocid pests. Scaling of novel technologies is conducted for improved storage of cereal grains and pulses. (3156) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USAID Feed the Future Innovation Lab for the Reduction of Post‐Harvest Loss (PHLIL) PI/PDs: George P. Opit USDA ARS CGAHR: Paul Armstrong KNUST: Enoch Osekre Insect Transmission of Plant and Human Pathogens This project focuses on the transmission biology of hemipteran and dipteran vectors of phytopathogenic and human viruses and bacteria. To understand leafhopper transmission efficiency, genomic and transcriptomic sequencing was performed on vector and non‐vector leafhoppers. Comparisons revealed gene and transcript differences between the two groups indicating that several key genes may regulate the ability to acquire and transmit plant pathogens. Feeding activities, including pathogen acquisition and inoculation behaviors, of leafhoppers, planthoppers, aphids were studied by electropenetrography. (3168) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, NSF, USDA NIFA, and Department of Defense (DARPA) Insect Allies PIs / PDs: Li Ma, Francisco Ochoa‐Corona Development of sustainable crop production practices for integrated management of plant‐pathogenic nematodes Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is a widespread pest of soybeans, infesting about 17% of Oklahoma’s acreage. Overreliance on varieties with SCN resistance may lead to a loss of effectiveness. Soil sampling for SCN and management strategies such as seed treatments and resistant varieties were evaluated. The infestation rate (30%) was higher than previously reported, but only 11% of fields had damaging levels. Based on levels measured, there has not been a selection of SCN strains capable of breaking the resistance. Research trials supported these conclusions. Resistant varieties increased yield by 10 to 15%, but seed treatments were not beneficial. (3171) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Soybean Board, United Soybean Board, private industry. PI/PD: John Damicone Biology of Fungi Affecting Oklahoma Crops 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 wheat tan spot, switchgrass rust, alfalfa leaf spots, Phymatotrichopsis root rot, onion salmon blotch, bermudagrass spring dead spot, and Botrytis blight. Applications of fungi in biofuel feedstock saccharification, biological control of insects, mushroom cultivation, and mycotoxin contamination also are under study. (3175) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, NSF‐EPSCoR, Noble Foundation, ODAFF, OWRF, USDA‐NIFA, DOE PI/PDs: Stephen Marek, Robert Hunger, Nathan Walker BAE: Danielle Bellmer Delaware Valley University: Carla Garzon Noble Research Institute: Carolyn Young University of Arizona: Barry Pryor Diagnostic Assay Laboratory Network Currently, there is no U.S. coordination or strategy for plant pathogen diagnostic assay development and validation, no standardized practices, and no organized reference collections of control specimens. This leads to the risk of diagnostic error and risks to food security and agribusinesses. This project builds consensus among experts in diagnostic assay development, assay validation, reference laboratory work, and related information technology for a framework for a Diagnostic Assay Laboratory Network (DALN). The objective is to build a shared vision for improved assay integrity and confidence in diagnostic test results. This project will facilitate a proposal to implement the DALN.(3185) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Kitty Cardwell Biology, Ecology & Management of Emerging Disease Vectors This project focuses on understanding the underlying determinants involved in the transmission and ecology of regional tick/mosquito‐borne diseases in the southern Great Plains. Specific projects include ecological studies of medically‐important mosquito and tick species. Current studies are focused on how an invasive plant species in the Great Plains is contributing to the ecology of mosquito‐borne West Nile virus in the region. Ongoing studies are focusing on identifying the potential for flea/mite‐borne pathogens in the region. (3186) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Bruce Noden
ROBERT M. KERR FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT RESEARCH TECHNOLOGY CENTER Development of Value‐Added Products from Food Industry Waste Brewer’s Spent Grain (BSG) is a processing waste generated in large quantities by the brewing industry. It is estimated that over 38 million tons of BSG is produced worldwide each year, and is usually used as animal feed, composted, or thrown into landfills. BSG contains valuable nutritional components, including protein, fiber, and antioxidants, but has seen limited use in food products for human consumption. The goal of this project is to develop a snack chip product utilizing significant quantities of BSG that reduces the robust flavor of the spent grain and embraces the texture promoted by the barley. (3086) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Danielle Bellmer Impacts of Changing Food Safety Policies and Product Verification Strategies on the Production and Marketing of Food and Fiber Products Work was conducted on a project estimating the values consumers place on food safety labels on fresh produce. The work examines the impacts of the Food Safety Modernization Act requirements on consumers’ perceptions of FSMA‐compliant and FSMA‐exempt fresh produce. The research was also performed on the food required and acquired by SNAP participant households relative to non‐SNAP households, with an emphasis on USDA efforts to promote the purchase and consumption of more healthy foods by SNAP participants. (3088) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI: Rodney B. Holcomb Promoting the Food Safety of Fruit and Vegetable‐Based Foods and Evaluating the Processing Potential of Oklahoma Produced and/or Processed Specialty Crops The goal of this research project is to assist Oklahoma's fruit and vegetable processors to produce high‐value products that are innovative, healthy, and safe. Current efforts are focused on evaluating the processing and quality characteristics of Rubaiyat grapes, a variety of wine grape not currently grown commercially in Oklahoma, as well as on developing a novel high‐protein, peanut‐based product enhanced with probiotic bacterial cultures. Our overall goal is to create new food products and expand markets for food producers and processors. (3089) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: William McGlynn Detection, Characterization, and Inhibition of Foodborne Pathogens, Toxins, and/or Spoilage Microorganisms This project involves the detection, isolation, and characterization of pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms in food and food processing environments. The purpose is to reduce the incidence, survival, and/or proliferation of pathogenic (or spoilage) microorganisms in food using physical (thermal processes), chemical (antimicrobials, nitrite for spore inhibition), or biological interventions (bacteriocins, bacteriophage). Although pathogens are of strong concern to food manufacturers, perhaps nothing presents as much a day‐to‐day problem as do losses resulting from spoilage organisms (and addressing spoilage organisms inadvertently also
addresses pathogens as well). This may involve genetic analysis, differentiation, and rapid detection methods in the characterization of problem pathogens/spoilage organisms to better understand them so that interventions may be better applied. Studies may also involve the use of nonpathogenic ‘surrogate’ microorganisms that can take the place of pathogenic strains so that intervention strategies may be examined directly in working food processing environments. (3090) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Peter Muriana Rheological and Sensorial Properties of Grain Products Studies are underway on the rheological and sensorial properties of cereal and non‐cereal grains. Dough and wet gluten isolated from the dough using creep‐recovery and compression recovery tests, and other empirical tests routinely used by the milling and baking industry is being evaluated through sensory analyses with such tests as descriptive analysis with trained panelists, and consumer panel tests with untrained panelists. Added ingredients normally used in the baking industry that enhance shelf life, slice ability, and bioactive ingredients that deliver other value‐added reported health and nutritive benefits are being tested under the gluten and non‐gluten conditions. The grains selected are from new varieties brought to market and those that represent older varieties and ancient grains. The expectation is that there may be varieties that function with better rheological and sensorial properties that would allow them to be selected for the commercial market as single‐variety flours. (3091) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI: Patricia Rayas‐Duarte 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. This past year, the FAPC assisted more than 170 Oklahoma businesses representing 62 communities and 44 counties, resulting in revenue impacts of more than $25 million in annual sales. Additionally, the FAPC has incubated 9 start‐up businesses. The FAPC trained and educated 1,479 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. (3092) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: J. Roy EscoubasDevelopment and Evaluation of Effective Intervention Strategies to
Reduce the Occurrence of Shigatoxigenic Escherichia coli and their Biofilms in the Food Industry The effectiveness of chemical sanitizers and bacteriophages in disrupting E. coli biofilms on food‐contact surfaces was evaluated. Chlorine, peracetic‐acid, sodium‐acid‐sulfate (SAS; 1, 3, and 0.1%), or phages (individual and cocktails), were used. Biofilms were allowed to form on polystyrene, stainless steel (SS), and high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) surfaces. Phages effectively reduced biofilms on all the surfaces and reduced E. coli populations. Phage cocktails showed higher reductions in pathogen populations within the biofilms after 16 h. (3098) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI: Divya Jaroni Texture measurement and use in food processing Inexpensive and easy‐to‐use tools and procedures for texture measurement of foods and agricultural products will be developed. Improved access to texture measurement tools and methods will impact product quality and safety, especially for startups and small organizations. (3164) Sponsors: R.M. Kerr Food & Ag Products Center, Biosystems & Ag Engineering, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Timothy Bowser
HORTICULTURE AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE Integrated Resource Management Systems for Turfgrass Culture in Oklahoma Testing in 2020 confirmed prior findings of Kentucky bluegrasses and Kentucky bluegrass X Texas bluegrass hybrids with improved summer patch and stem rust disease resistance. Slight differences in brown patch fungal disease resistance were found amongst commercial and experiment lines of turf‐type tall fescues in 2020. Testing of advanced OSU turf‐type bermudagrasses continued in 2020. Turf‐type nimblewill and various sedge (Carex genus) accessions were collected in 2020 for progeny evaluations. Entries in a 2019‐planted national bermudagrass trial were evaluated for general field performance in addition to divot recovery in August – September 2020. Green antelopehorn milkweed grown in nursery pots were evaluated for tolerance to two rates each of the post‐emergent grass herbicides fluazifop, clethodim, and sethoxydim. (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, Specialty Crops Research Initiative – National Institute for Food and Agriculture PI/PDs: Dennis Martin, Justin Moss, Charles Fontanier Plant & Soil Sciences: 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 Turfgrass Selection and Management for Sustainability in a Multi‐stress Environment This project will improve on the limitations of existing turfgrasses through the screening of new experimental bermudagrasses and zoysiagrasses for improved shade tolerance and drought resistance. Newly developed varieties from breeding programs across the southern region will be planted in the field under shaded environments, and the best performing plants advanced for further screening of other traits. (3039) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Charles Fontanier Reducing tillage and improving soil quality for Oklahoma vegetable production The project evaluated summer and winter cover crops for soil improvement for cool and warm‐season vegetable crops. Crops trialed in the different cover crop treatments included Southern pea and sweet potato along with spinach. Cultivar trials included replicated trials with Brussel sprouts and tomato. Trial results will be available in the 2020 Vegetable Trial Report MP‐164 available on‐line at http://www.hortla.okstate.edu/outreach/vegetables. (3068) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Lynn Brandenberger, Niels Maness Entomology & Plant Pathology: Eric Rebek Plant & Soil Science: Hailin Zhang, Misha Manuchehri, Tyson Ochsner
Improving Pecan Production by Investigating Physiological and Environmental Constraints on Flowering Pecan branches with buds/flowers at “bud scale shed” and “bloom” stages were treated with a series of cool and cold temperatures. Our results revealed flowers barely developing after the ‐6°C and ‐4°C treatments. At the 4°C treatment for 4 hours, male flowers were observed to have wilted and lacked the sprouting of female flowers on shoots. Stigma cells were found to have collapsed on the flowers during the 4hr/4°C treatment at the early bloom stage. This reveals that ‘cold temperature’ may be a more accurate term than ‘spring freeze’ to describe the spring temperature issues in pecans. (3121) Sponsors: Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, & Forestry Specialty Crop Grant Program, J.D. (Scotty) Scott Horticulture Research Endowed Professorship, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Lu Zhang, Niels Maness Evaluation of More Efficient Practices and Technology in Controlled Environments for Ornamental and Food Crop Production This project will improve production limitations in hydroponics related to algae and plant growth. Through preliminary trials, hydrogen peroxide products have been shown to reduce algae numbers while also boosting oxygen levels. Application rates for Zerotol and PERpose Plus, both hydrogen peroxide products, are being established for tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, and basil grown in Ebb and Flood systems in a greenhouse. Other replicated trials include determining optimum water temperature for several different types of lettuce grown using nutrient film technique with the addition of water chillers. Results will be shared with the industry through site visits, presentations, and publications. (3124) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, ODAFF Specialty Crop (USDA‐AMS) PI/PD: Bruce Dunn
Postharvest Handling and Processing Systems for Horticultural and Alternative Agricultural 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. The quality of Oklahoma grown lettuce is being assessed in terms of bitterness (sesquiterpene lactones) and sweetness (soluble sugars) and possible conditions to improve flavor (reduced bitterness/increased sweetness) are being explored in the field and hydroponic production systems. Pecan oil obtained from nutmeats of two cultivars, of three native populations, and cold‐pressed oil produced in Oklahoma are being assessed for potential variability of quantities of key nutritional compounds in various Oklahoma locations. Gamma tocopherol and beta‐sitosterol are targeted for putative activity against diabetes and squalene are targeted for sunburn protection. Storage conditions that maintain high levels of these phytochemicals are also being investigated. Eastern red cedar harvesting and extraction technologies for the production of podophyllotoxin as a medical ingredient have been developed. Podophyllotoxin purification from the extract is being achieved to produce a new Oklahoma pharmaceutical product. Scale‐up studies may assist the development of a new use for this invasive species. (3145) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, ODAFF Specialty Crop Block Program, OCAST Plant Science PI/PD: Niels Maness Investigations of Turfgrass Abiotic Stress The goal of this project is to promote urban environmental sustainability, efficient use of water, and to reduce lawn inputs through the development, testing, and selection of bermudagrasses with improved abiotic stress tolerance for sod production and fine turf, lawn, and landscape use in Oklahoma and the U.S. transition zone. Several bermudagrass genotypes were field established in 2020 for evaluation. Establishment rate, turfgrass quality, leaf firing, and digital image analysis data were collected during the growing season. This is a multi‐year evaluation process and data will continue to be collected through future growing seasons. Ultimately, improved genotypes will be selected based upon seasonal water use requirements, drought resistance characteristics, and winter hardiness. (3146) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Justin Quetone Moss
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND HUMAN SCIENCES
Human Nutrition, Health and Consumer Issues The purpose of this project is to manage funds awarded to Human Sciences’ faculty investigators who are supported by the Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station to explore novel approaches to current issues related to human nutrition and health, as well as safety and consumer issues. (3074) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Christine Johnson Role of the Anti‐Inflammatory Interleukin‐10 in Attenuating Obesity and Insulin Resistance Obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are all major health issues in the US. In 2015, 30.3 million Americans (9.4%) had diabetes and another 84.1 million had pre‐diabetes. Chronic inflammation produced by activated immune cells damage many tissues and is implicated in the development of obesity, insulin resistance (IR), and T2D. This study is investigating the role of the anti‐inflammatory molecule interleukin (IL)‐10 in the development of IR in IL‐10 knock‐out mice. Our findings will demonstrate the role of IL‐10 in obesity and IR and help develop prevention and treatment strategies to reduce the impact of these conditions. (3104) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Edralin Lucas Anti‐Inflammatory Properties of Interleukin‐10: A Novel Target to Mitigate Age‐related Osteosarcopenia The decline in muscle and bone, a condition known as osteosarcopenia, begins in the 4th decade of life. It has significant consequences on health due to the decline in strength, endurance, and risk for chronic disease. Components of the immune system have the capacity to protect against these age‐related, musculoskeletal changes. This project aims to determine: 1) how the anti‐inflammatory effects of IL‐10 protect against osteosarcopenia and the influence of the Western diet on this response; and 2) whether the immunomodulatory effects of short‐chain fatty acids on T cells within the gut can counter this response. (3105) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Brenda Smith
Developing Synergistic Approaches to Healthy Weight in Childhood through Positive Relationships, Diet Quality and Physical Activity As an active member of the W3005 research working group, the investigator made the following contributions to the W3005 umbrella review: reviewed and edited search strategy, performed full‐text reviews, contributed to updated PROSPERO protocol, and conducted a quality assessment of final articles. As an active member of the W3005 Extension working group, the investigator participated in the iterative review process that led to the development of the W3005 COPPER rubric and contributed to the development of Qualtrics surveys to collect descriptive data on the wide range of childhood obesity prevention programs in Extension. In her role as W3005 chair, she mentored and monitored working group progress. (3117) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Laura Hubbs‐Tait Nutrient Bioavailability ‐ Phytonutrients and Beyond This project is to determine the bioavailability of food bioactive components in humans and mouse models. We also will determine the efficacy and mechanisms of action of these compounds in promoting gut health, chronic and acute inflammation, obesity and diabetes, and influenza A virus infection, through omics, physiological, and biochemical approaches. (3120) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Dingbo Lin Personal Protective Technologies for Current and Emerging Occupational and Environmental Hazards As an active member of USDA NC‐170 Research Group, the investigator contributed: 1) to develop a Protective Textile and Clothing Laboratory at Oklahoma State University; 2) to characterize the protective and comfort performance of textile and clothing materials using state‐of‐the‐art equipment; 3) to implement statistical and computational modeling techniques to analyze the protective and comfort performance of textile materials; 4) to develop interdisciplinary research collaboration with eminent professors in the field of protective textiles and clothing, and 5) to disseminate the research on protective textiles and clothing in scientific journals and conferences. (3202) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experimental Station PI/PD: Sumit Mandal
NATURAL RESOURCE ECOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT Enhancing Fish Production in Reservoirs Through Improved Sampling Methods and Fisheries Management Techniques The overall goal of this research is to provide the knowledge necessary for the wise management of sportfish populations in lake and reservoir systems in Oklahoma and throughout the United States. (3004) Sponsors: 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) Sponsors: 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) Sponsors: 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) Sponsors: 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
Functional Diversity and Resilience in Oklahoma Forests The overarching goal of this research is to identify forest management practices that enhance the resilience of forest plant communities to unplanned disturbances. This work will help to bridge the gap between ecological mechanisms that affect resilience, and management practices that are based upon these concepts. (3015) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Bryan Murray An Assessment of Opportunities and Obstacles Associated with Alternative Land Management Practices in Oklahoma The objective of this research is to explore stakeholder opinions and concerns concerning alternative land management practices that support a better state of the Cross‐timbers region, a large and relatively intact ecosystem stretching from southern Kansas through central Oklahoma and into Texas. (3042) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Omkar Joshi Report of Research Efforts Related to Fisheries, Forestry, Rangeland and Wildlife Resources in the Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management This project will coordinate the reporting of research efforts by first‐year tenure‐track and non‐tenure‐track faculty not associated with individual Hatch and McIntire‐Stennis projects. These research projects explore novel approaches to current issues related to natural resources, ecology, and conservation issues in the areas of fisheries, forestry, rangeland, and wildlife resources. (3051) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: R. James Ansley Impacts of the Thermal Environment on Galliformes The primary goal of this research is to expand our current understanding of habitat for Galliformes in the southern Great Plains. Specifically, we will address what constitutes cover for greater prairie‐chickens and wild turkey by gaining insight into how these birds relate to temperature variation on the landscape and how this variation is related to vegetation structure and composition. Data from this project will enable land managers to make informed decisions that account for the full habitat requirements of our target species and help to ensure resiliency in the face of climate change. (3056) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation PI/PD: R. Dwayne Elmore
Effects of Management and Climate Variability on Productivity and Value for Different Mixes of Timber, Cattle Grazing, and Wildlife The ultimate goal of this project is to facilitate the sustainable management of the forest‐grassland ecotone for different combinations of objectives such as timber, grazing, and wildlife habitat based on recent conditions and to adapt management to mitigate the negative effects of future drought and potential climate change. (3073) Sponsors: USDA NIFA, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Rodney E. Will, Jr., Omkar Joshi, Chris B. Zou Wood Composites Manufactured from Eastern Redcedar Using Modified Starch as Binder Manufacturing wood composite panels is a viable potential to add value to Eastern redcedar, an invasive and otherwise underutilized species in Oklahoma. Also, this project will investigate using starch, a green adhesive, in the manufacturing process. (3094) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Salim Hiziroglu Developing Mycorrhiza Smart Agriculture: Linking Crop Production and Nutrition with Beneficial Soil Fungi Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi increase host‐plant nutrient and water uptake while enhancing soil quality, presenting an opportunity to address food production challenges, such as resource‐use efficiency. This project’s goal is to develop Mycorrhiza Smart Agriculture by examining how plant genetics, farm management, and soil amendments influence AM fungal abundance, diversity, and benefits in agroecosystems. (3144) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Adam B. Cobb Managing Above‐ and Belowground Linkages to Improve Rangeland and Agricultural Production and Sustainability This research will inform rangeland managers and crop breeders on belowground characteristics that may improve soil health, decrease agricultural inputs and increase soil carbon storage, all without a loss in production. (3149) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Gail W. Wilson Understanding and Managing Human‐caused Mortality Sources for North American Birds, Including Forest‐inhabiting Species Understanding and reducing human‐caused mortality of birds is beneficial to the citizens of Oklahoma, the United States, and beyond because birds provide invaluable ecosystem services, including insect pest control, plant pollination, herbaceous and woody plant seed dispersal, and provision of recreational opportunities and aesthetics. (3150) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Scott R. Loss
Silviculture of Forest and Woodland Communities in Oklahoma to Enhance Productivity and Water Use The goal of this research is to investigate how the management of forests and woodlands in Oklahoma can be used to increase the economic value and ecosystem services important to residents. (3151) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Rodney E. Will, Jr. Hydrological Impact of Alternative Vegetation and Land Uses in the Forest‐grassland Transition in the South‐central Great Plains The overall goal of this project is to quantify the water quantity and quality response under different vegetation types and their change associated with the establishment of restored prairie and switchgrass. This information will become necessary for landowners, natural resources managers, and Native American tribes to manage their land in an environmentally sustainable manner in the south‐central Great Plains, especially the Cross‐timbers in Oklahoma. (3152) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA PI/PD: Chris B. Zou Managing Rangelands to Simultaneously Promote Livestock Production, Control Invasive Species and Maintain Biodiversity Incorporating strategies to support biodiversity into rangeland management practices have the potential to substantially contribute to conservation. The overall goal of this research is to optimize the conservation of biodiversity and maintenance or enhancement of agricultural productivity on privately‐owned rangelands. (3153) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA, The Nature Conservancy, Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation PI/PD: Samuel D. Fuhlendorf
PLANT AND SOIL SCIENCES Enhancing Oklahoma cropping systems through the adoption of a genotype by management by environmental (GxMxE) approach Oklahoma production systems have historically been dominated by winter wheat production. This has led to stagnant yields and increasing pest pressures, especially grassy weeds. Integrating summer crops has met challenges, particularly with environmental restraints. The primary focus for 2020 was adapting soybean into western production systems. Work has shown that lowering full‐season seeding rates to under 100,000 seeds/ac yielded higher with a lower risk of crop failure. Furthermore, it was found that soybean inoculum improved yields in western Oklahoma, even with a history of soybean production. These studies provide growers with management practices to improve yields and minimize environmental stress. (3021) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Josh Lofton Improving the sustainability and climate resilience of crop and grazing systems in the Southern Great Plains through agricultural systems modeling The over‐arching goal of this research is to help agricultural producers enhance the sustainability and resilience of crop and grazing systems for the Southern Great Plains (SGP). This project specifically addresses the development and improvement of process‐based computer models that integrate our current best understanding of the processes driving agricultural systems in the SGP. The framework resulting from this work will generate model‐based indicators, which collectively will provide a measure of agricultural system sustainability and resilience. This framework will provide agricultural decision‐makers (e.g. producers, rural agribusinesses, and policy‐makers) with vital information upon which to base their decisions. (3023) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA PI/PD: Phillip D. Alderman Building Pasture Resilience to Drought and Extreme Environmental Conditions in Oklahoma Our main objectives are to improve techniques for promoting forage production year‐round and pasture resilience to drought and hot conditions. The following framework was adopted: 1) Problem identification, 2) Vulnerability identification, 3) Options investigation, 4) Risk Evaluation, and 5) Action. The project is developing steps 3, 4, and 5. Novel summer forages integration to wheat systems, new alfalfa and bermuda grass varieties performance, adaptation of existing in‐season decision‐making tools for assessing pasture production and quality are the current investigated options. A mobile app, i.e. GrazeOK, field days, seminars, and factsheets are the main outputs of our active extension program. (3027) Sponsor: USDA PI/PD: Alex Rocateli
Winter Wheat Breeding for Oklahoma and the U.S. Southern Plains Winter wheat cultivars are developed through field‐based breeding procedures augmented with molecular genetic and accelerated breeding tools. The goal is to release marketable cultivars in multiple classes for commercial production in Oklahoma and surrounding states. Additionally, fundamental research is conducted on optimized trait improvement. Cultivars developed by this project, which have led all cultivars in Oklahoma wheat acreage since 2010, derived from one of four pipelines differing in breeding methodology, with the most recent being the 2019 beardless release, OK Corral, and five pending 2020 releases, headlined by OK16D101089, with unprecedented barley yellow dwarf immunity. (3055) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Wheat Research Foundation, Oklahoma Genetics, Inc., Oklahoma Wheat Commission, USDA‐ARS, BASF PI/PDs: Brett Carver, Amanda de Oliveira Silva, Brian Arnall, Liuling Yan, Gopal Kakani Entomology and Plant Pathology: Bob Hunger, Kris Giles, Ali Zarrabi USDA‐ARS/Stillwater, OK: Xiangyang Xu USDA‐ARS/Manhattan, KS: Guihua Bai, Paul St. Amand, Richard Chen, Robert Bowden, Mary Guttieri, Mike Tilley USDA‐ARS/Lincoln, NE: Gary Hein USDA‐ARS/Pullman, WA: Kim Campbell Molecular characterization and genetic incorporation of multiple resistance genes in Oklahoma wheat The gene Lr34 for leaf rust was reported to have one copy in all hexaploid wheat, with allelic variation in intron 4 and exon 11, 12, or 22. We discovered that Duster has two copies of the gene, the resistance allele Lr34a, and the susceptibility allele Lr34b. The co‐existence of the two genes in Duster is due to a duplication of a chromosomal fragment including Lr34, resulting in the Duster Lr34ab allele. The newfound duplicated fragment not only challenges conventional knowledge of Lr34 with only one copy but also reminds us of being cautious in selection for genotypes of Lr34 in wheat (published in Theor. Appl. Genet., 133: 2183–2195, 2020). (3064) Sponsor: USDA PI/PD: Liuling Yan Maximizing Bioproductivity in a Low Input Wheat Multispecies Cropping System Monoculture is the norm for most of the agricultural world. Increasing crop diversity in a polycultural system may provide increased ecosystem function allowing for reduced inputs while increasing productivity and maintaining grain yield. The project uses mesocosms planted with 1 to 15 plant species without any fertilizer or pesticide addition. First‐year results showed as much as a 2.9 fold increase in total biomass over single monocultural wheat control mesocosms fertilized with a high level of nitrogen. Polycultural summer cover crop coupled to winter wheat without fertilization showed grain yield equal to the conventional nitrogen fertilized winter wheat/ fallow system. (3067) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Michael Anderson
Future Challenges in Animal Production Systems: Seeking Solutions through Focused Facilitation Livestock producers need new tools and technologies to improve grazing land management. One such technology, virtual fencing, has the potential to support improved grazing management. Virtual fencing employs GPS‐enabled collars on individual cattle to provide auditory and electric stimulus to manage cattle location. In February 2020, virtual fencing was installed at the OSU Bluestem Research Range. After collection of baseline data, a series of trials was implemented. Trials included implementing rotational grazing, riparian and sensitive area protection, and gathering cattle for moving them between pastures. Preliminary data analysis indicates effectiveness rates as high as 99% in protecting sensitive areas. (3079) Sponsors: USDA‐NIFA, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Thomas E. Berry Professorship PI/PDs: Kevin Wagner Animal Science: Ryan Reuter Natural Resource Ecology and Management: Laura Goodman Functional validation of candidate genes for resistance against Hessian fly and their applications in wheat breeding Hessian fly (Hf), Mayetiola destructor Say, is one of the most destructive pests of common wheat in the U.S. and worldwide, and the biotype Great Plains is most prevalent in the southern Great Plains. We identified a major QTL QHf.osu‐1Ad on chromosome 1AS for resistance to Hf, which explained 88% of phenotypic variation in a population of doubled haploid lines generated from a cross between two winter wheat cultivars, ‘Duster’ and ‘Billings’. We identified candidates for QHf.osu‐1Ad and found allelic variation in the candidate genes between Duster and Billings. We performed transgenic complementation experiments to validate the functions of the candidate genes in transgenic wheat plants. (3106) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA‐National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI/PDs: Liuling Yan, Brett Carver Plant Genetic Resources Conservation and Utilization The purpose of this regional project is to conserve genetic resources for a broad spectrum of crop species and to transfer‐related information to plant breeders and researchers in the Southern Region. A total of 981 accessions maintained at the USDA‐ARS Plant Genetic Resources Conservation Unit at Griffin, GA were distributed to organizations and individuals in Oklahoma in this reporting period. Receivers of the plant accessions include researchers at USDA‐ARS laboratories, Oklahoma State University, Noble Research Institute, and residents in the state. (3107) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Yanqi Wu
Evaluating production practices and input management for optimizing winter canola production in the southern Great Plains Winter canola could provide a valuable rotational option for winter wheat systems in the southern Great Plains. However, challenges with environmental conditions paired with a limited understanding of critical production practices have hindered acres. As a means to find answers for these challenges, the objectives of this project were: 1) Evaluate the suitability of canola genetic material in the southern Great Plains, 2) Improve input management and evaluate viability in winter canola production systems, 3) Develop integrated pest management strategies for management of canola and understand pollinator habitat, and 4) Disseminate critical production information and practices canola growers throughout the region. (3113) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA NIFA‐SACC PI/PDs: Josh Lofton, Brian Arnall, Jason Warren Entomology and Plant Pathology: Tom Royer, John Damicone, Kristopher Giles Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering: Carol Jones Herbicide resistant weeds in Oklahoma cropping systems Herbicide resistance is one of the biggest threats to Oklahoma crop production and the economic viability of Oklahoma producers. This project evaluates herbicide programs to both prevent the development of herbicide resistance in new technologies and to manage current herbicide‐resistant weed populations. Research is being conducted at various Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station locations evaluating programs in soybean and cotton. Additionally, research was conducted in peanut, grain sorghum, corn, and sesame. Results from this research are shared with producers, commodity organizations, university colleagues, and agricultural chemical companies. (3122) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Todd Baughman Soil, Water, and Environmental Physics to Sustain Agriculture and Natural Resources Research in this project integrates scale‐appropriate methods to improve decisions related to the management of soil and water resources. We developed a new method for forecasting seasonal streamflow totals using in situ soil moisture data and a simple statistical model. We prepared a manuscript describing the results of this research, and the paper was recently published in the Journal of Hydrology. Key outcomes of this project thus far are advances in scientific knowledge on forecasting seasonal streamflow totals using long‐term in situ soil moisture data. (3123) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Tyson Ochsner New Age Hand Planter for Corn Production in the Developing World This year, 92 million acres of corn were hand planted (planting, weed control, harvest) in the developing world. OSU manufactured over 400 hand planters that have been tested all over the world. We received a grant from Rotary International to advance in‐country manufacturing of this planter in Nigeria and to disseminate and train producers. Videos were produced to teach the exact methods needed for machine shop manufacturing. Modification of the internal
drum/cavity of this planter accommodates a wide range of seeds/crops/fertilizer. Planter benefits include decreased soil erosion from improved plant spacing, mid‐season application of urea‐N fertilizer, improved N use efficiency, and increased grain yields for producers desperately needing this new technology. (3131) Sponsor: Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources PI/PDs: Bill Raun Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering: Paul Weckler The Science and Engineering for a Biobased Industry and Economy Biomass feedstock production systems will be evaluated across Oklahoma. Producer and watershed‐scale field studies using the eddy covariance technique will be conducted to estimate carbon sequestration potential, greenhouse gas emissions, and water use of bioenergy systems in marginal lands. Agronomic adaptation of bioenergy crops and best management practices will be evaluated using multi‐location test plots. Growth and developmental traits will be quantified through the field, greenhouse, and controlled environment studies. The performance will be evaluated under current and future climates, and input will be provided for breeding crops for future climates. Bioenergy crop models and Life Cycle Analysis tools will be developed and improved for predicting crop production in Oklahoma. (3132) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Warth Professorship, DOEs ARPA‐E, NSF, USDA PI/PD: Gopal Kakani Developing Soil Health Testing Procedures for On Farm Use The goal of this research is to identify cost‐effective soil health assessment protocols that could be used to track changes in soil health. There are two protocols currently being evaluated. First, we have developed a CO2 burst analysis to provide a rapid assessment of soil microbial activity. Second, we are evaluating an aggregate stability test that has proven to be cost‐effective compared to alternatives. Soon these analyses will be used to better understand the impact of conservation management on a wide variety of production environments found in Oklahoma. (3133) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Jason Warren, Hailin Zhang, Brian Arnall
Enhancing nitrogen utilization in corn based cropping systems to increase yield, improve profitability and minimize environmental impacts The success of the project ‐ reduced Nitrogen (N) loss, efficient N fertilizer use, and continued increase in corn yield ‐ lies in the N recommendations and management practices being utilized by corn growers. This requires an understanding of the impact of N availability and yield, producer/adviser decision making, and development of tools that will help in these areas. A transformative extension education/outreach program is embedded in this project. We are conducting large‐scale nitrogen by irrigation rate study at McCaull Research and Demonstration Farm near Eva, Ok. The data will allow us to look into the spatial response to nitrogen and water and the interaction of the two. (3134) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Brian Arnall Understanding the mechanism MtWOX9‐mediated leaf blade development in Medicago truncatula. The objective is to understand the molecular mechanism of leaf blade expansion to be able to improve biomass yield by increasing photosynthetic surface area. The central regulator of leaf blade lateral outgrowth, STENOFOLIA (STF), is a homeobox transcriptional regulator of the plant‐specific WOX family. STF is a transcriptional repressor with a cell proliferation zone at the adaxial‐abaxial junction by preventing cell differentiation factors in this domain promoting cell proliferation. We identified that STF directly represses MtWOX9‐1, a transcriptional activator, and antagonizes STF activity in leaf blade development. We found MtWOX9‐1 is expressed in the abaxial domain of the leaf blade and involved in cell differentiation, suggesting that STF and MtWOX9‐1 antagonistically regulate blade outgrowth to maintain cell proliferation and differentiation homeostasis during blade development. (3135) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, NSF PI/PD: Million Tadege Governing Soil Health and Sustainability through Understanding of Microbial Community and Enzyme Activities Soil microflora and enzyme activities are essential in maintaining sustainable agricultural production and environmental health. Research progress is hindered by the lack of effective detection methods in the complex soil system. We are making progress in developing new methods and standardizing or modifying existing methods in the detection of enzyme and microbial activities in soils of diverse environments for valid data comparison and interpretation. We are also advancing knowledge of environmental microbiology and developing a better understanding of the biological and microbial activities in soils in relation to preserving and/or improving soil health and sustaining agricultural production (3136). Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PDs: Shiping Deng, Hailin Zhang, William Raun Civil and Environmental Engineering: Mark Krzmarzick Biochemistry & Molecular Biology: John Gustafson
Pasture, Turf, and Biofuel Grass Breeding and Genetics Research Perennial grasses used in pasture and turf are economically, environmentally, and societally important. The main goal of this project is to develop new cultivars for improvements in forage yield and quality, turfgrass quality, adaptation, and other selected performance traits. This involves collecting, evaluating, enhancing germplasm of selected grass species, and elucidating reproductive behavior and genetic variation. The development and use of SSR and SNP markers and genetic maps are one of the current focused research. Our recent releases ‘Latitude 36’, ‘NorthBridge’, and ‘Tahoma 31’ bermudagrasses were expanded for commercial turf use in 2020. (3137) Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, U.S. Golf Association, USDA, Meibergen Family Endowed Professorship, Oklahoma Turf Research Foundation, National Science Foundation PI/PDs: Yanqi Wu Horticulture: Justin Moss, Dennis Martin, Charles Fontanier Entomology & Plant Pathology: Nathan Walker Agricultural Economics: Chanjin Chung University of Florida: Kevin Kenworthy North Carolina State University: Susana Milla‐Lewis Texas A&M University: Ambika Chandra University of Georgia: Paul Raymer, Brian Schwartz Increasing Cotton Sustainability and Profitability in the Southern Plains Region Variety evaluations are pivotal to provide cotton producers with information in an attempt to improve their production and profitability. Traditional areas of Oklahoma cotton acreage will utilize varieties also popular in other regions of the Cotton Belt, including other southwestern states, as well as the Mid‐South and Southeast. This puts a strain on the seed supply of popular varieties that have a wide geographic fit and emphasizes the need for in‐depth knowledge of various characteristics and yield potential to ensure proper variety selection. This work is conducted in collaboration with cotton producers across the state, with results shared through extension meetings and current reports (3138). Sponsor: Oklahoma Agriculture Experiment Station PI/PD: Seth Byrd
Using Reduced‐Lignin Alfalfa Cultivars to Improve Water Use Efficiency, Forage Yield, and Forage Quality in Water‐Limited Environments Reduced‐lignin alfalfa (RLA) cultivars constitute a promising alternative forage for the water‐limited region of the US Great Plains. Our objectives are to 1) quantify the effects of cutting management in rain fed RLA, 2) conduct a survey to link management practices, benchmark yields, and water use‐efficiency across Oklahoma and Kansas, 3) assess the economic feasibility of RLA in water‐limited environments, and 4) disseminate project findings to stakeholders. Field experiments and on‐farm surveys are being conducted in Oklahoma and Kansas. Based on our results, the economic feasibility of RLA will be determined. Project findings will be used to train educators and stakeholders. (3176) Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station PI/PD: Alex Rocateli
Spears School of Business
–FY2020 Research Abstracts
SCHOOL OF ACCOUNTING
Does Ex Ante Severance Pay Affect the Timeliness of Bad News Disclosure? The Role of
Managerial Exit Costs
The extant literature documents a positive association between ex ante severance pay and the
timeliness of bad news disclosure, suggesting that the provision of severance pay is consistent
with efficient contracting. Relying on empirically unexplored theory, we investigate whether
and how managerial exit costs affect the role of severance pay in curbing bad news
withholding. Overall, our findings support the theoretical prediction that a “one‐size‐fits‐all”
structure of severance agreements undermines the potential of severance pay to benefit
shareholders.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Nebraska‐Lincoln, San Diego State
University
PI/PDs: Bryan G. Brockbank
University of Nebraska‐Lincoln: Herita T. Akamah
San Diego State University: Sydney Shu
Charitable CEOs and Earnings Management
CEOs of public companies may serve of boards of non‐profit organizations out of intrinsic
motivation, reflecting a preference for the well‐being of others. Alternatively, CEOs may serve
on non‐profit boards to increase moral reputation or manage their public image. We find that
firms with CEOs serving on boards of non‐profit organizations are associated with higher
discretionary accruals, consistent with these firms engaging in more income‐increasing earnings
management. We also find these firms engage in more tax avoidance activities. Our findings
suggest that on average, CEOs service on non‐profit boards is driven by public image concerns
and not intrinsic motivation.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Northeastern University, Bentley University
PI/PDs: Bryan G. Brockbank
Northeastern University: Jaehan Ahn, Udi Hoitash
Bentley University: Rani Hoitash
Do Non‐GAAP Exclusions Impact the Extent to Which Current Returns Reflect Future Earnings
Information?
Motivated by regulators’ concerns about non‐GAAP financial measures and building on
research that finds more informative disclosures allow current stock returns to better reflect
future earnings, I examine whether non‐GAAP earnings exclusions enhance or garble the future
earnings news captured in current stock returns. Utilizing Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk), I
collect non‐GAAP earnings data from 2003 to 2012 and measure managers’ non‐GAAP
exclusions relative to three comparable earnings: 1) GAAP earnings before extraordinary items,
2) GAAP earnings from operations, and 3) analyst‐adjusted “street earnings.” Finally, I find that
consistent non‐GAAP reporting is associated with more future earnings information reflected in
current stock returns.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Bryan G. Brockbank
Real Earnings Management and Innovation‐Intensive Companies
Prior research suggests firms engage in real earnings management activities, including cutting
research and develop expenses, to achieve earnings benchmarks. Decreasing research and
development expenditures is associated with less firm‐level innovation in the future, measured
using patents and patent citations (Bereskin et al. 2017). We examine whether innovation‐
intensive firms are willing to sacrifice potential long‐term innovation benefits in order to meet
short‐term earnings benchmarks. We find that innovation‐intensive firms engage in the same
level of real earnings management around earnings benchmarks, suggesting that these firms
are willing to sacrifice future innovation for short‐term achievement.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Bryan G. Brockbank, Kent Hu
The Effect of Analyst Conservatism on Earnings Management Little is known about the impact of conservative analysts on firm management. We examine whether a specific analyst characteristic, conservatism (which has an effect on how the market responds to analyst forecast revision), all affects management’s financial reporting decisions. We find that firms with a more conservative analyst following engage in less income‐increasing earnings management, with the effect only noticeable in poor information environments. Next, we consider meeting or beating earnings estimates and financial statement restatements; our findings suggest that managers of firms with more conservative analyst followings tend to manage earnings “within GAAP.” Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Nebraska‐Kearney PI/PDs: Bryan Brockbank, Jaclyn Prentice University of Nebraska‐Kearney: Matt Bjornsen
Managerial Ability and the Accuracy of the Going Concern Opinion Current audit guidance directs the auditor to modify their opinion in the presence of significant
doubt about their client’s ability to continue as a going concern. This paper examines whether
managerial ability influences the accuracy of auditors’ going concern information signal.
Considering prior research indicates that the auditor’s opinion provides important information
to the market, this finding has important public interest implications regarding the signaling of
bankruptcy risk to investors and creditors by auditors’ going concern opinion.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Mississippi State University
PI/PDs: Bradley P. Lawson, Don Herrmann
Mississippi State University: Nathan R. Berglund
Reorganization of the PCAOB’s Auditing Standards
The PCAOB’s final rule to reorganize its own auditing standards, along with the standards issued by the AICPA, into a single integrated system became effective December 31, 2016. The previous system required auditing professionals to understand and know two sets of overlapping standards with different organizational structures and referencing systems. The reorganized standards codify both sets of standards into one comprehensive set of standards with a single referencing system. Although the content of the reorganized standards is not different from the previous standards, the purpose of the reorganized standards is to make it easier for auditing professionals to navigate, apply, and reference the auditing standards applicable to publicly traded companies and broker‐dealers. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Bradley P. Lawson, Angela Spencer Updates and Comparisons Regarding Changes to the Audit Reporting Model in the US, UK,
and EU
In May 2016, the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) proposed some of the
most significant changes to the audit report since the report was adopted in the 1940s. Among
other things, the changes would require auditors to disclose within the audit report critical
audit matters (CAMs), which are matters that are communicated to the audit committee and
that involved especially challenging, subjective, or complex auditor judgement. Although the
PCAOB’s latest proposal is not final, the changes are similar to standards already adopted by
the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB).
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Bradley P. Lawson, Angela Spencer, Vivian O’Hara
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.
We survey accounting professionals at U.S. firms to examine views concerning the framework
and its impact on key areas related to internal controls. Our analyses provide insight into five
specific topics important to the framework and its 17 principles.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Central Oklahoma
PI/PDs: Bradley P. Lawson, Leah Muriel
University of Central Oklahoma: Paula Sanders
The Changing Structure of the Audit Market in the Oil & Gas Industry
This study provides evidence regarding the major structural changes in the audit market for the
U.S. oil and gas industry. Regulators, standard‐setters, and audit clients, both inside and outside
the U.S., have expressed concerns regarding the structure of the market for audit services; in
particular, concentration levels among audit service providers. Using auditor and audit fee data
for publicly traded firms in the U.S. oil and gas industry, overall, this study finds a changing
audit market in this industry with a predominant shift towards non‐Big 4 firms.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Bradley P. Lawson
Audit Market Structure and Audit Pricing
Extant literature finds mixed evidence on the association between audit market concentration
and audit fees. We re‐examine this issue using a large sample of U.S. audit clients covering 90
Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) spanning 2000‐2013. We find that audit market
concentration is associated with significantly higher audit fees, consistent with the concerns of
regulators and managers. We also find that concentration is associated with higher audit
quality for first‐year engagements, but only if the auditor does not lowball on the engagement.
Our results are relevant to the ongoing debate regarding the consequences of increased
concentration within the U.S. audit market.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Michigan Technological University
PI/PDs: Bradley Lawson
Michigan Technological University: Daniel Eshleman
Improvements in Audit Quality under PCAOB Auditing Standard No. 5
We examine changes in audit quality associated with the issuance of Auditing Standard No. 5
(AS5). In contrast to Auditing Standard No. 2 (AS2), AS5 introduces a “top‐down, risk‐based”
approach allowing auditors to place greater focus on higher risk accounts that are more subject
to misstatements. Overall, using financial restatements as our proxy for audit quality, we find
that audit quality improves following the issuance of AS5.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Bradley P. Lawson, Michelle Draegar, Don Herrmann,
The Earnings Quality Information Content of Dividend Policies and Audit Pricing
Recent studies indicate dividends are associated with higher quality earnings. Our study
extends the literature by examining whether dividends’ information is associated with auditors’
assessment of their clients’ earnings quality. Our results show that auditors charge lower fees
to dividend‐paying clients than to non‐dividend‐paying clients and the average fee discount
ranges from 6.0‐10.6 percent. We contribute to the literature by showing that auditors reflect
the earnings quality information content of firms’ dividend policies in their pricing decisions.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas A&M University
PI/PDs: Bradley P. Lawson
Texas A&M University: Dechun Wang
PCAOB Proposes Significant Changes to Auditor’s Reporting Model
The PCAOB recently proposed significant changes to the audit report. These changes would
impact the financial reporting and auditing process for companies’ management, audit
committees, and auditors. The proposals require auditors to disclose company‐specific critical
audit matters and expand their evaluation of other information outside the audited financial
statements. The objective is to increase the value of the audit report, but some suggest the
proposals could change the fundamental nature of the audit process, the scope of the audit
opinion, and significantly increase audit‐related costs.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Bradley P. Lawson, William C. Schwartz, Jr.
Does the Dodd‐Frank Act Affect the Informativeness of Credit Rating Changes? Evidence from
Audit Pricing
In an effort to improve the transparency of the credit rating process and create accountability
for misleading ratings, the Dodd‐Frank Act significantly altered credit rating agencies’ regulatory
and legal environment. This study investigates whether Dodd‐Frank influences the extent to
which auditors incorporate credit ratings into their audit pricing decisions. Auditors are a
unique consumer of credit ratings because they use credit rating information to help assess
client risk, but have access to the same private information as credit ratings agencies. We find
that auditors incorporate more information from credit rating changes into their pricing
decisions after Dodd‐Frank became effective.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas A&M University
PI/PDs: Bradley P. Lawson
Texas A&M University: Sean McGuire, Dechun Wang
Taxable Income and Firm Performance: Evidence from Future Cash Flows
Prior literature provides mixed results as to whether taxable income is positively related to
stock returns or negatively valued by investors. Our study adds to this area of literature by
testing whether taxable income predicts future cash flows. This testing approach allows us to
examine the usefulness of taxable income as a firm performance measure without confounding
concerns of market efficiency and discount rate assumptions. We find that taxable income
positively predicts future pre‐tax cash flows, suggesting that taxable income provides
incremental information to book income regarding firm performance.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Florida, University of Oklahoma
PI/PDs: Bradley P. Lawson
University of Florida: Michael Mayberry
University of Oklahoma: Bradley Blaylock
Does audit committee reporting need to be improved? Evidence from a large‐scale textual analysis? The SEC is considering expanding audit committee reporting requirements to include greater disclosure of the audit committee’s oversight of the external auditor. To provide insight into whether additional reporting requirements are needed we (1) perform a large‐scale textual examination of the characteristics and time trends of over 35,000 US firms’ audit committee report disclosures issued between 2004 and 2015 and (2) explore whether investors find such reports useful. In sum, our findings suggest that there is a need to improve the usefulness of audit committee report disclosures. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Colorado State University, University of Texas
PI/PDs: Bradley P. Lawson Colorado State University: Michelle Draegar University of Texas: Jaime J. Schmidt
The Consequences of Audit Market Structure on Financial Analysts’ Information Environment Audit market structure remains a concern for both regulators and academics due to the potential impact of competition (or lack of) on audit and financial reporting quality. However, studies of audit market structure and financial reporting quality provide mixed results. Testing this association provides evidence on the topic without having to separate the constructs of financial reporting quality and audit quality. We find that concentration improves analysts’ forecast accuracy and decreases dispersion, which is consistent with studies suggesting that higher audit market concentration improves audit and financial reporting quality. Our results further our understanding of audit market structure and its impact on financial disclosure quality. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas State University, University of Las Vegas, Nevada
PI/PDs: Bradley P. Lawson Texas State University: Mikhail Sterin University of Las Vegas, Nevada: Chuong Do
A Reexamination of the Relation between CSR and Firm Performance: The Effect of KLD and
ASSET4 Databases on CSR Research
We re‐examine the findings in “Signaling through Corporate Accountability Reporting” by Lys et
al. (2015) using the KLD Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) ratings in place of the ASSET4
ratings used in their study. We find a positive relation between future firm performance and
the optimal CSR expenditure, in contrast to the deviation from optimal found by Lys et al.
(2015). This result implies that the optimal level of CSR expenditure is a good economic
investment and is associated with increases in future financial performance.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of North Texas
PI/PDs: Teresa Lightner
University of North Texas: Linh Le
The Security Market Impact of IRS Tax Settlements
Corporate tax return information is proprietary and highly confidential. Hence, when the IRS
challenges the accuracy of a firm’s tax return, investors generally are not aware of an IRS audit
or the settlement details unless the company discloses the information. We investigate
whether the stock market has sufficient information to incorporate the effect of an IRS tax
settlement into stock price. Specifically, we examine whether the stock market fully
incorporates increases in or release of firms’ tax cushion resulting from the settlement of an IRS
audit.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Oklahoma
PI/PDs: Teresa Lightner
University of Oklahoma: Fran Ayres
Tax Aggressiveness and the Tax Risk Disclosure
We examine the variation of the Tax Risk disclosure that companies include in their 10K. We
use Direct Edgar to examine the influences and determinates for disclosing taxes as a business
risk and investigate the relation between the Tax Risk disclosure and tax aggressiveness. In
addition, we analyze whether management adds this disclosure in response to an event such
as, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a tax‐related restatement, or material weakness. Also, we examine
whether companies that employ their auditors as their tax provider are more likely to disclose
less than if the company employs another firm.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Teresa Lightner, Jaclyn Prentice
How Do Auditors Respond to FCPA Risk?
Using a sample of public firm FCPA violations, we investigate how auditors respond to FCPA
risk. We find that audit fees are higher for FCPA violators beginning in the violation period with
an additional increase during the period in which regulatory investigations occur. Fees exhibit a
greater sensitivity to payables and SG&A expenses for FCPA violators than for non‐violators,
suggesting that auditors adapt their procedures for accounts that have the highest likely FCPA
risk.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, American University, University of Kansas
PI/PDs: Bradley P. Lawson, Leah Muriel
American University: Gerald Martin University of Kansas: Michael S. Wilkins
Does the reporting of critical audit matters affect nonprofessional investors’ perceptions of audit quality? The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) recently adopted a new auditing standard that would require the auditor to report critical audit matters (CAMs) in the body of the audit report. This new standard will lengthen the audit report but may also provide investors with cues about the quality of the audit. We find that the disclosure of a CAM does not directly affect the quality of the audit. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Clemson University, Mississippi State University PI/PDs: Leah Muriel Clemson University: Brian T. Carver Mississippi State University: Brad S. Trinkle 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. 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/PDs: Leah Muriel, Bradley P. Lawson Universidad Adolfo Ibanez: Nelson Carrasco Reward, Retaliation Protection, and the Unintended Consequences for Whistleblowing We investigate how internal protection from retaliation (provided by the organization), external protection from retaliation (provided by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the opportunity of an external reward (provided by the SEC) affect intentions to report fraud. Concerns have been expressed whether rewards will lead to bypassing internal reporting. We find evidence of an unintended consequence to external protection. We do not find compelling evidence of spillover effects; internal protection is not associated with external reporting and reward is not associated with internal reporting. We also find evidence that auditing experience reduces the influence of reward on reporting intentions. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Universidad Adolfo Ibanez, The University of Tennessee PI/PDs: Leah Muriel Universidad Adolfo Ibanez: Nelson Carrasco The University of Tennessee: Robert M. Fuller Collaborative tenure and earnings management There continues to remain an empirical question as to whether “coziness” or longer timeserving together between the auditor and client has undesirable consequences in financial reporting.
We introduce a new measure of tenure which allows for a more comprehensive analysis of situations where the auditor is more likely to grow closer to management because of their shared time together. We analyze the collaborative tenure of the auditor and the CEO. We provide evidence that longer collaborative tenure between the CEO and the auditor is associated with lower positive discretionary accruals (i.e., less earnings management). Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Universidad Adolfo Ibanez PI/PDs: Leah Muriel Universidad Adolfo Ibanez: Nelson Carrasco 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. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Central Oklahoma PI/PDs: Leah Muriel, Bradley P. Lawson University of Central Oklahoma: Paula Sanders Conflict Mineral Disclosure Requirements Under the Dodd‐Frank Act, U.S. publicly traded companies are now required to provide disclosures related to conflict minerals. These are specifically the minerals of tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold that are obtained from the Democratic Republic of Congo and adjoining countries. Although a portion of the requirements were struck down and ruled as unconstitutional, certain inquiry and other due diligence measures are still required to be filed annually with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). In addition, if a company voluntarily chooses to provide certain additional information, it will trigger a requirement for an independent audit of the Conflict Minerals Report filed with the SEC. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Leah Muriel
Audit Fees and Investor Perceptions of Audit Characteristics We investigate how audit fee disclosures affect investor perceptions of audit characteristics. We find evidence that when audit fees are presented to investors with supplementary contextual information indicating that the fees are low, average, or high (as compared to industry averages), investors perceive audit quality and auditor effort as being low, average, or high, respectively. When not provided with any additional information concerning the audit fee (similar to the present state of disclosures), investors assess audit quality and auditor effort as being average. This latter finding provides important insight regarding investors’ current perceptions of auditor independence, particularly in the absence of relative or comparative audit fee information. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Florida State University, Northeastern University, University of Tennessee PI/PDs: Leah Muriel Florida State University: Allison K. Beck
Northeastern University: Colin D. Reid
University of Tennessee: Robert M. Fuller
Does accounting firm involvement in a breach of the PCAOB inspection process impact non‐professional investor perceptions? We examine investors’ perceptions when auditors’ may be perceived to exhibit higher or lower trustworthiness (by the presence or absence of a breach in the PCAOB inspection process) and higher or lower expertise (via inspection deficiency rates). Using a structural equation model, we find that both the presence of a breach in the inspection process and a higher inspection deficiency rate are associated with lower confidence in the audit opinion and this in turn is associated with an increase in perceived investment risk. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, DePaul University, University of Louisville PI/PDs: Leah Muriel DePaul University: Stephani A. Mason University of Louisville: Dereck Barr‐Pulliam
Real earnings management by benchmark‐beating firms: Implications for future profitability Prior studies document both an improvement and in the future operating performance of firms engaging in real earnings management (REM) to meet earnings benchmarks. We find that small firms, whose information environments are less robust, use REM to signal positive future performance, but large firms do not. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Colorado State University, Kansas State University PI/PDs: Sandeep Nabar Kansas State University: Brooke Beyer Colorado State University: Eric Rapley Macroeconomic effects of aggregate accounting conservatism: A cross‐country analysis This paper examines whether aggregate conditional and unconditional conservatism are associated with economic growth. Prior studies find that conditional conservatism improves contracting efficiency, but that unconditional conservatism has either a neutral or detrimental
impact on contracting. We find that conditional conservatism is associated with higher level of growth in Gross Domestic Product and Gross Domestic Product per Capita. By contrast, unconditional conservatism shows no or negative association. Our study contributes to the ongoing debate on the desirability of accounting conservatism, and also extends the literature on the macroeconomic effects of aggregate financial reporting attributes. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Sandeep Nabar, Chuong Do
The Impact of Benefit Plan Audits on the Financial Statement Audit We explore the implications of benefit plan audits for the financial statement audit. We find that performing a benefit plan allows audit firms to get a “foot in the door” with potential financial statement audit clients. Further, we find that companies that engage the same audit firm for both their benefit plan and financial statement audits have a lower likelihood of misstatements, shorter audit report lags, and a lower likelihood of switching the financial statement auditor. Our findings speak to the continued debate over effective market expansion of audit providers, audit quality determinants, and audit efficiencies. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Michigan State University, University of Arkansas PI/PDs: Jaclyn Prentice Michigan State University: Kenneth L. Bills University of Arkansas: Gary F. Peters Does Insider Trading Affect Auditors’ Risk Assessments? Evidence from Audit Pricing Audit regulations require auditors to consider insider trading as part of their risk assessment. Companies file Form 4 with the SEC when insiders trade. We find that the number of requests for Form 4 in the SEC EDGAR online system is positively associated with audit fees. In addition, audit fees are higher among companies with net insider selling, relative to companies with net insider buying. We find that officer net selling drives this relation. These results suggest that auditors’ risk assessments are sensitive to information reflected in insider trading, consistent with regulatory requirements for auditors to consider non‐traditional risk characteristics. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University and Texas Tech PI/PDs: Jaclyn Prentice Texas Tech: Sabrina Chi
IT Environment Quality and Effectiveness of Controls over the Tax Function and Income Tax Avoidance If a firm’s information technology (IT) environment is not able to handle tax complexities, then the firm’s financial accounting for income taxes is at risk for errors. We find that having an IT‐related material weakness hinders tax avoidance and is positively associated with a likelihood of having a tax‐related MW. We find that firms having a CFO with IT expertise are positively associated with tax avoidance. This suggest that firms with higher quality IT environments are more likely to have effective tax‐related controls and more effective tax avoidance efforts. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas Tech, University of California – Irvine, and University of Arkansas PI/PDs: Jaclyn Prentice Texas Tech: Sabrina Chi University of California – Irvine: Morton Pincus University of Arkansas: Vernon J. Richardson Goodbye and hello: audit quality, the Big 4, and acquiring consulting practices The largest accounting firms have been acquiring consulting practices for the last decade. 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, but this result reverses in the subsequent period. This finding suggests accounting firm management may be distracted in the year of the acquisition and then in the subsequent year audit quality improves as accounting firms are better able to utilize consulting practices’ specialized knowledge. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jaclyn Prentice Tax Aggressiveness and the Tax Risk Disclosure
We examine the variation of the Tax Risk disclosure that companies include in their 10K (Item
1A ‐ risk factors). We examine the influences and determinates for disclosing taxes as a
business risk and investigate the relation between the Tax Risk disclosure and tax
aggressiveness. In addition, we analyze whether management adds this disclosure in response
to an event such as, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a tax‐related restatement, or material
weakness. Also, we examine whether companies that employ their auditors as their tax
provider are more likely to disclose less than if the company employs another firm.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Jaclyn Prentice, Teresa Lightner
The Effect of Analyst Conservatism on Earnings Management Little is known about the impact of conservative analysts on firm management. We examine whether a specific analyst characteristic, conservatism (which has an effect on how the market responds to analyst forecast revision), all affects management’s financial reporting decisions. We find that firms with a more conservative analyst following engage in less income‐increasing earnings management, with the effect only noticeable in poor information environments. Next, we consider meeting or beating earnings estimates and financial statement restatements; our
findings suggest that managers of firms with more conservative analyst followings tend to manage earnings “within GAAP.” Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Nebraska‐Kearney PI/PDs: Bryan Brockbank, Jaclyn Prentice University of Nebraska‐Kearney: Matt Bjornsen A Review of the Literature on Accounting for Derivatives The manner in which firms utilize derivatives have changed in interesting way over time. Furthermore, the accounting for derivative instruments has also evolved over time. This papers reviews the accounting literature on the accounting for derivatives. The goals include describing the contributions and implications of key papers in the literature. Additionally, the paper will tie (or attempt to tie) the literature together and discuss differing results. Finally, the paper will identify areas that are ripe for future research. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Georgia PI/PDs: William C. Schwartz, Jr. University of Georgia: John Campbell 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. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: William C. Schwartz, Jr., Abbie Sadler 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 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/PDs: William C. Schwartz Penn State University: Harry Feng
The market pricing of negative special items through time: An unintended consequence of
regulation change?
Prior research concludes that the implications of negative special items (NSIs) for future
earnings are more fully reflected than earnings before NSIs. Our evidence suggests that U.S.
regulatory changes resulted in dramatic increases (decreases) in NSI reporting frequency. Our
evidence suggests that regulations governing the financial reporting of NSIs resulted in
unintended consequences by impairing the ability of market participants to understand the
future earnings implications of these items.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Alabama, West Virginia University
PI/PDs: Craig A. Sisneros
University of Alabama: Thomas J. Lopez
West Virginia University: Trevor Sorenson
Empirical Implications of Incorrect Tax Rate Assumptions
The objective of this study is to explore the potential empirical consequences of assuming an
incorrect tax rate in adjusting earnings‐related measures. In so doing, we focus our
investigation on special items given their prevalence in the prior literature and the wide
variation in tax rate assumptions. Importantly, our evidence suggests that extreme tax rate
assumptions (zero or the highest statutory rate) can be especially problematic and that firm‐
specific tax rates, such as effective or marginal tax rates, exhibit less bias in several contexts.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Texas at Dallas, University of Alabama
PI/PDs: Craig A. Sisneros
University of Texas at Dallas: William M. Cready
University of Alabama: Thomas J. Lopez, Shane R. Stinson
Evaluating pedagogy in educating business majors: an empirical analysis of teaching
accounting without debits and credits
An upper‐level intermediate accounting course taught at two large universities in the United
States provides a natural experimental setting to examine whether teaching debits/credits in
the introductory financial accounting course matters. Students in the upper‐level course fall
into two groups: those who learned debits/credits in the introductory course and those who
weren’t. Regression results show that the prior knowledge of debits/credits offers only a mild
advantage in the first mid‐term exam, but not thereafter. These results suggest that teaching
debits and credits in the introductory accounting course does not provide any advantage in
learning the material of upper‐level accounting course.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Wichita State University
PI/PDs: Craig A. Sisneros
Wichita State University: Atul Rai
Preparing Accountants for Lifelong Self‐Assessment and Development
Despite calls by the profession to increase the diversity of competencies accounting graduates
possess, there remains a gap in student awareness and attainment of these skills. This
experiential learning opportunity benefits students by increasing awareness of necessary
professional competencies, improving critical and reflective thinking skills, and developing a
plan to take initiative and ownership for acquiring necessary skills for success as an accounting
professional and thus, developing a lifelong learning mindset.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, The University of Tampa, University of Missouri Kansas
City, Purdue University Northwest
PI/PDs: Angela Wheeler Spencer
The University of Tampa: Maureen Butler
University of Missouri Kansas City: Kimberly Swanson Church
Purdue University Northwest: Gail Hoover King
Resources to Implement Experiential Education in Accounting
Experiential education can facilitate student critical thinking and problem‐solving improvement.
However, this method is more than learning by doing as this method requires students to Do,
Reflect, Think, and Act. Instructors transitioning from lecture to experiential delivery may be
discouraged by additional planning and preparing required. This paper provides resources to
help accounting instructors adopt or design experiential learning activities for their courses. We
explain the background and features of experiential learning, identify relevant accounting
specific experiential resources, and provide step‐by‐step examples adapting existing accounting
course activities to an experiential learning model.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, The University of Tampa, University of Missouri Kansas
City
PI/PDs: Angela Wheeler Spencer
The University of Tampa: Maureen Butler
University of Missouri Kansas City: Kimberly Swanson Church
Operating Leases: A Descriptive Analysis
Considering recent 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/PDs: Angela Wheeler Spencer
University of Mississippi: Zach Webb
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% while firms with the highest number of SPVs experience audit fees which are
over 41% 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/PDs: Angela Wheeler Spencer
University of Mississippi: Zach Webb
University of Wisconsin‐Whitewater: Robert T. Yu
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. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Louisville, Georgia Southern University, University of Texas Pan‐American PI/PDs: Angela Wheeler Spencer University of Louisville: Carolyn Callahan George Southern University: Stephanie Hairston University of Texas Pan‐America: Ji Woo Ryou
Population Heterogeneity and Corporate Tax Compliance
This study examines the empirical relationship between population heterogeneity and
corporate tax compliance. In recent years, some political movements have called for the
establishment of social welfare policies similar to those found in Scandinavian countries.
Opponents of the movement have argued that the relative homogeneity of Scandinavian
countries is a prerequisite for successful tax policies featuring high tax rates. In addition, studies
in economics find conflicting evidence about whether diversity is beneficial or detrimental for
public goods provision. This study contributes to both the policy and academic debates. The
results suggest that public policy pertaining to public goods needs to take into account
population characteristics.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Scott White, Chuong Do
Measuring the Cost of Repatriation Taxes: Evidence from Bonds
We examine the extent to which the tax cost of accessing undistributed foreign earnings (UFE)
affects bond yields and bond issuance spreads. Repatriation tax costs are unique because they
include both recognized deferred tax liabilities and unrecognized potential liabilities for UFE
designated as permanently reinvested earnings (PRE). We examine whether the tax costs of
accessing UFE affect debt pricing. Overall, our findings suggest that capital market participants
are more sophisticated in their pricing of repatriation tax liabilities than is documented by prior
research.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Oklahoma, University of Nebraska‐Lincoln,
Auburn University
PI/PDs: Scott White
University of Oklahoma: Bradley S. Blaylock
University of Nebraska‐Lincoln: Jimmy F. Downes
Auburn University: Mollie E. Mathis
MINDSETS AS THE FOCAL POINT OF 21st CENTURY ACCOUNTING EDUCATION
Competency‐based frameworks for accounting education have become fashionable. However, with current technological advances and complex changes, many competencies are being automated, commoditized, and/or becoming obsolete. Drawing from the “mindset” work in various literatures, we highlight important mindsets that accounting graduates should possess. A mindset is a mental attitude or way of thinking. Given the obligation of CPAs to protect the public trust, we treat the “public interest mindset” as foundational. Other desirable mindsets include 1) personal and professional growth; 2) critical thinking; and 3) global. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Dayton, University of Cincinnati
PI/PDs: Audrey Gramling
University of Dayton: Sridhar Ramamoorti
University of Cincinnati: Natalia Mintchik
DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS
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. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma, Oklahoma Department of Human Services PI/PDs: Lee C. Adkins, Bidisha Lahiri Oklahoma Department of Human Services: Naneida Lazarte‐Alcala 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 A Shrinkage Estimator for Endogenous Regressor Models and Weak Instruments. A shrinkage estimator is proposed that takes a convex combination of two‐stage least squares and efficient 2‐step GMM estimators. Shrinkage is controlled based on FEFF (see Andrews, 2018). Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: Lee C. Adkins What’s the Buzz? Sonic representations of the business cycle There are various numerical and graphical ways that cyclical economic data are characterized and studied. In this research, waveforms that characterize fluctuations in macroeconomic data are converted to sound waves, which produce different harmonics based on spectral information contained within their cyclic content. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PD: Lee C. Adkins
The Gender Gap in Undergraduate Economics Course Persistence and Degree Selection This study examines male and female course persistence and choice of economics degree via a combination of student, instructor, and structural characteristics. We find that students of both genders who declare economics as their major are more likely to take additional economics courses than their non‐major peers. Additionally, students’ economics grades are a significant determinant of course persistence and degree selection, but men and women respond somewhat differently to their absolute and relative grades. Finally, men’s economics degree selection is significantly correlated with their math abilities, while women’s economics degree selection is correlated with both their math and verbal aptitudes. Sponsor: University of Delaware PI/PD: Laura J. Ahlstrom
Navigating the Economics Major: Gender and Students’ Degree Pathways Although nationwide a small percentage of students complete an economics degree, many students who initially select another major switch into economics or add it as a second major. The purpose of this study is to assess gender differences in students’ economics degree attainment based on differences in students’ initial major selections and grades received in their introductory microeconomics course. Findings indicate that both male and female students who initially choose to major in economics have a high probability of graduating with an economics major. Male and female students also respond differently to their absolute and relative introductory microeconomics grades. Sponsor: University of Delaware PI/PD: Laura J. Ahlstrom Does Taking a Principles of Economics Course Online Influence Student Performance in Intermediate Economics Courses? Prior research indicates that the grade a student receives in a face‐to‐face introductory economics course is a good predictor of success in intermediate economics courses. Using data from administrative records for students who took economics courses at a land‐grant university, this study analyzes the effect that completing an online introductory microeconomics course has on student performance in intermediate microeconomics. Findings indicate significant differential effects by gender for the correlation between taking principles of microeconomics online and the grade received in intermediate microeconomics. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Laura J. Ahlstrom Women in the Finance Major: Gender Disparities in Finance Course Completion and Degree Attainment This study assesses the gender gap in undergraduate students’ finance course persistence, defined as taking an additional finance course after completing an initial course, as well as gender disparities in students’ finance degree selection. The research is guided by the following question: How do student, instructor, and structural (class) characteristics differentially affect gender persistence in taking finance courses and the propensity to earn a finance degree? Sponsor: University of Delaware PI/PD: Laura J. Ahlstrom
Instructor Gender and Student Performance in Introductory Economics Courses: Is There a Role Model Effect? Past research in economic education has revealed a gender gap in undergraduate economics. Studies also show that the quality of the instructor leads to better outcomes for students and that instructors can act as role models for students. Our study examines the role model effect in the context of the gender gap in achievement in introductory collegiate economics courses. Using an ordered regression, we find that female students perform significantly better in introductory economics courses when taught by female instructors while controlling for other variables. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Laura J. Ahlstrom Super Bowl Participation and the Local Economy: Evidence from the Stock Market This paper assesses the impact of a home team's participation in the Super Bowl on the local economy. We compare the winning and losing cities of the NFL conference championship games under the assumption of similar pre‐trends. We show that the post‐event trends in winning and losing cities diverge despite their similar trends before the end of the regular season. Our empirical results indicate that winning the NFL conference championship game, thus the opportunity to compete in the Super Bowl, has a positive, significant effect on the manufacturing and FIRE (finance, insurance, and real estate) sectors. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Clark University PI/PDs: Rui Du Clark University: Junfu Zhang Polycentric Urban Structure and Innovation: Evidence from a Panel of Chinese Cities This study investigates the relationship between a city’s polycentric urban structure and its innovation capacity by using a panel dataset containing 267 Chinese cities at the prefecture‐level and above from 2006 to 2016. Our empirical results based on two‐way fixed effects panel regression models show that the degree of polycentricity of a city’s urban spatial structure has a significant and negative association with its innovation capacity. The empirical results indicate the need to rethink and reevaluate the current movement of “planned polycentrism” in the Chinese context. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Southeast University PI/PDs: Rui Du Southeast University: Yingcheng Li
“Ghost Cities” versus Boom Towns: When Do China’s HSR New Towns Thrive? In China, local governments often build ``new towns'' anchored in locations with new high‐speed rail (HSR) stations to foster urban economic growth. While some HSR new towns have gained economic activities, others have been vacant for years and became “ghost towns.” This study explores the determinants of this heterogeneity in the urban vibrancy of HSR new towns. The study provides novel insights into the role of 2nd nature geography forces such as market access and agglomeration spillovers through the HSR network in sustaining new town development. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Johns Hopkins University PI/PDs: Rui Du Massachusetts Institute of Technology: Lei Dong, Carlo Ratti, Siqi Zheng Johns Hopkins University: Matthew Kahn The Network Effect of Air Pollution: Evidence from the Housing Market in China This paper examines the housing market reaction to changes in the non‐local housing investor attention due to the degraded air quality. Based on a sample of 39 prefectural‐level cities in China, we document a strong positive effect of local air pollution on housing prices in other cities, which reflects investors’ propensity to make out‐of‐town purchases. A city’s out‐of‐town housing attention increases dramatically following heavily polluted days in the local area. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Central University of Finance and Economics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Zhejiang University PI/PDs: Rui Du Central University of Finance and Economics: Weizeng Sun Massachusetts Institute of Technology: Siqi Zheng Zhejiang University: Zhaoyingzi Dong International Travel Cost and Entrepreneurship Comovement Despite the rapid advances in digital communication tools, information exchange and the transmission of tacit knowledge via in‐person interactions are still of great importance to entrepreneurs and venture capitalists. Using new international non‐stop flight routes as a natural experiment, this article examines whether a reduction in international travel cost increases the comovement of new firm formation in connected cities across different countries. Using panel data at the U.S.‐China city‐pair level from 1990‐2017, we demonstrate that a reduction in information frictions induced by geography has a substantial positive impact on business matches between entrepreneurs and investors of the two countries. The evidence confirms the importance of efficient transportation networks in facilitating information exchange and long‐range business matches. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology PI/PDs: Rui Du Massachusetts Institute of Technology: Wang Jin
Proximity, Knowledge Diffusion, and Technology Similarity: Evidence from the High‐speed Rail in China Using the high‐speed rail (HSR) expansion in China as a natural experiment, this paper identifies the effect of travel cost reduction due to HSR connection between cities on technology similarity. We are able to identify similar effects using a wall‐city instrumental variable approach based on the minimum cost spanning tree. The effect is stronger for cities that are farther away to each other in distance but closer to each other in technology space. Our findings highlight the role of travel cost in influencing regional knowledge diffusion and technology space integration. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Southeast University PI/PDs: Rui Du Southeast University: Yingcheng Li Ride Hailing, Regulation, and Urban Traffic: A New York City Case It remains unclear whether the rapid growth of ride hailing services such as Uber and Lyft is to blame for the aggravation of traffic congestion. While ridesourcing is barely regulated, New York City (NYC) issued a series of laws to restrict the operation of ride sourcing services in 2018 and 2019. This study uses street‐level speed records for NYC, obtained from the Uber Movement, to investigate the impact of these regulations on traffic. Suggesting that the urban traffic impact is mainly driven by how the regulation influences the scale and operational characteristics of the ride hailing companies. The findings of this study shed light on the institution of regulations targeting emerging urban mobility forms Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Rutgers University PI/PDs: Rui Du Rutgers University: Annie Lee, Sicheng Wang State Business Incentives, Firm Demographics, and Innovation Technology‐based, innovation‐driven startups are central to regional productivity, economic development, and job creation in the United States. State and local governments offer numerous and varied programs, financial incentives, and tax breaks to promote innovation‐driven entrepreneurship and attract high‐growth startups. This paper examines how the dynamics in the state governmental provision of financial and tax incentives influence the age distribution of innovation‐driven startups. We further investigate the distributional effects of the firm age distribution on innovation activities. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Southeast University PI/PDs: Rui Du Southeast University: Yingcheng Li Quiet Restaurants and Massage Stores near Power Centers: The Externalities of China's Corruption Crackdown China's recent ``Eight Point Regulation'' imposes harsh austerity measures on the spending of government officials. Exploiting data from a large online retail store review platform and the spatial variations in retail store locations relative to the power centers, we take a spatial difference‐in‐differences approach to investigate the impact of the corruption crackdown on extravagant spending at local stores in Beijing. Taken together, our results suggest that the anti‐
corruption campaign is effective at curbing corruption‐induced extravagance but also creates substantial negative externalities on lower‐end retail stores in the vicinity of power centers. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Central University of Finance and Economics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology PI/PDs: Rui Du Central University of Finance and Economics: Weizeng Sun Massachusetts Institute of Technology: Jianghao Wang, Siqi Zheng College Location and Migration: Evidence from China’s Higher Education Expansion Using college enrollment data and the 1% national sample‐census population data, this paper examines the impact of college education expansion on individual decisions about education and mobility. Our findings suggest that college location impacts college graduates’ geographic mobility in an equally important way as college education does. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Jinan University, Dickinson College PI/PDs: Rui Du Jinan University: Shu Cai Dickinson College: Xiaozhou Ding The effect of trade liberalization on marriage and fertility: Evidence from Indian Districts We examine the medium‐run (1991‐2001) and long‐run (1991‐2011) impacts of the 1991 trade liberalization in India on marriage and fertility rates among young women aged 15‐34 years. We exploit the fact that the countrywide tariff reductions varied across industries creating exogenous local labor market shocks based on the initial industrial composition of the district. We find that districts that were more exposed to tariff cuts witnessed a larger increase in the marriage rate, especially in urban areas. On average, the trade reform had no negative impact on the employment of young men and women. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Mehtabul Azam, Shruti Sengupta Trade Liberalization and Human Capital Accumulation: Evidence from Indian Census We use the 2011 Indian census data, and exploit the exogeneous nature of Indian trade liberalization and cohorts that attended school before and after the reforms to implement a Difference‐in‐Difference strategy to estimate the impact of trade‐liberalization on human capital accumulation. We also construct a district‐level panel data that covers 1981‐2011, and use a Difference‐in‐Difference strategy to get an alternative estimate of the impact of Indian trade liberalization on human capital accumulation. We find that no evidence of trade‐liberalization on attainment of different stages of schooling. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Mehtabul Azam Household Cooking Fuel Choice in India, 2004‐2012: A Panel Multinomial Analysis Using household level panel data, we examine factors driving the cooking fuel choice in urban and rural India, separately. We find that a clean‐break with the use of traditional fuels is less likely in rural areas, but more probable in urban areas. The household characteristics (e.g. income,
education) that are positively correlated with use of clean fuel also increases the probability of fuel stacking for rural households. We also find that access to paved road is an important determinant for rural household adopting clean fuel, and there exists evidence of social spillover effects in rural areas. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Mehtabul Azam, Ying‐Min Kuo Household Income Mobility in India, 1993‐2011 Using longitudinal data, we examine income mobility among rural Indian households over 1993‐2004 and 2004‐2011. Absolute measures of mobility suggest higher income mobility during 2004‐2011 compared to 1993‐2004, and each social group witnessed higher income mobility over 2004‐2011. Importantly, significant differentials in income mobility exist across the Hindu castes in both the time intervals. We also find that conditional on having similar rankings in base period national income distribution, urban households have higher probability to improve their rankings in national income distribution. We find similar patterns in social group differentials in mobility over 2004‐2011 using the consumption expenditure as a measure of well‐being. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Mehtabul Azam 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/PDs: Mary N. 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. 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. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University; Oklahoma City University PI/PDs: Mary N. Gade Oklahoma City University: Jacob Dearmon, Russell Evans
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. 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. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Oklahoma City University PI/PDs: Mary N. Gade Oklahoma City University: Russell Evans Child Marriage and the Role of Brides: Descriptive Evidence from Six West African Countries Although almost universally banned, child (under the age of 18) remains a pervasive issue throughout the world. In this study, we quantify the importance of the child marriage problem, on which evidence remains surprisingly scarce. To do so, we use data we collected in Burkina Faso, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger – six West African countries where child marriage rates are particularly high. This extensive dataset allows us to compare the characteristics of girls based on their age when they first married. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Paris‐Dauphine University, Paris School of Economics, The World Bank PI/PDs: Harounan Kazianga Paris‐Dauphine University: Olivia Bertelli, Elise Huillery Paris School of Economics: Bastien Michel C4ED: Markus Olapade The World Bank: Estelle Koussoubé, Léa Rouanet Impact Assessment of the West Africa Agricultural Productivity Program: Evidence from Ghana, Senegal and Mali Agricultural technology adoption in African nations has been considerably low even when a large fraction of the population depends on agriculture. We study how the diffusion of agricultural technology package affected farmers in Ghana, Senegal and Mali. Results show that the program has increased technology dissemination in the treated villages by 34.9% and adoption of improved variety of seeds increased by 24.6%. We also find that there is a significant effect on productivity and treated households were found to have significant increase in revenue. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University; University of Ouagadougou, West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development PI/PDs: Harounan Kazianga, Anurag Deb University of Ouagadougou: Yiriyibin Bambio
Agricultural Transformation and Farmers' Expectations: Randomized Experimental Evidence from Uganda Adoption rate of profitable agricultural technologies in Africa is still low and knowledge gaps remain on why that is the case. We exploit the randomized roll‐out of a national extension service program to specifically investigate the role of farmers' expectations in crop adoption decisions and the extent to which ex‐ante beliefs about crop profitability (i.e. price and yield expectations) explain the resulting outcomes. We find that randomly assigned extension services increase oilseeds adoption by 15% and those farmers who under‐estimate the oilseeds price at baseline are the most likely to adopt the new crops. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University; University di Milano‐‐Bicocca, Centro Studi L.d'Agliano, PI/PDs: Harounan Kazianga Universita di Milano‐‐Bicocca, Centro Studi L.d'Agliano: Jacopo Bonan, Mariapia Mendola Will Urban Migrants Formally Insure their Rural Relatives? Family Networks and Rainfall Index Insurance in Burkina Faso Large segments of the population in developing countries are vulnerable to weather‐related shocks but have limited means to insure themselves against them. Urban migrants were offered, at the prevailing market price, a rainfall index insurance product that can potentially protect their rural relatives from adverse weather shocks. The product had an uptake of 22% during the two‐week subscription window. Half the urban migrants in the study were randomly offered an insurance policy in which payouts would be made, not to the subscriber, but directly to the intended beneficiary. This feature increased uptake rates by 17‐22 percentage points. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Kent PI/PDs: Harounan Kazianga University of Kent: Zaki Wahhaj The Long‐Term Impacts of Girl‐Friendly Schools: Evidence from the BRIGHT School Construction Program in Burkina Faso We evaluate the long‐term effects of a “girl‐friendly” primary school program in Burkina Faso, using a regression discontinuity design. Ten years later, primary school‐age children in villages selected for the program attend school more often and score significantly higher on standardized tests. Secondary‐school–age youths and young adults complete primary and secondary school at higher rates and perform significantly better on standardized tests. Women old enough to have completed secondary school delay both marriage and childbearing. Sponsors: Oklahoma Stata University, University Texas, Mathematics Policy Research PI/PDs: Harounan Kazianga University of Texas: Leigh Linden Mathematics Policy Research: Nicholas Ingwersen, Arif Mamun, Ali Protik, Matt Sloan 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. 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. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma and The Bank of Korea, Seoul, Korea PI/PDs: J.B. Kim The Bank of Korea, Seoul, Korea: Jung‐Min Kim 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. 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. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma, University of Minnesota at Duluth PI/PDs: J.B. Kim University of Minnesota at Duluth: Ariuna Taivan Effect of India's demonetization move on Trade using synthetic control method The Indian economy has a large segment of small businesses as well as a significant informal sector which were primarily cash based. The government’s surprise move to invalidate existing currencies overnight in an attempt to clear unaccounted cash flows affected the day to day operations for a large segment of domestic producers. We examine the impact of this policy on exports and imports with the expectation of the effect to be stronger in the short run than the long run as the economy adjust to the new system. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Bidisha Lahiri, Anurag Deb "Effect of Prenatal Care visits on Antenatal Outcomes: A survival model analysis” The number of weeks of pregnancy at which antenatal care was first received, the number times of antenatal care was received and whether antenatal care was received in the last three months of pregnancy are three important but similar indicators of antenatal care received during a given pregnancy. We examine the impact of each of these variables on several outcomes such as whether the delivery was at home or medical institution, the presence of skilled birth attendant during delivery, birth weight of the baby and use of postnatal care. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Kalyani, India PI/PDs: Bidisha Lahiri University of Kalyani, India:Prasenjit Sarkhel
Intertemporal preference as a candidate for explaining differences in gender specific outcomes The bigger share of child‐care responsibilities usually lies with women and the resulting labor market implications have been studied in the literature. The current paper extends this research by hypothesizing two different equilibria for women demarcated by childcare costs. Women are less likely to pursue a job if the cost of child‐care exceeds the salary earned. While this might seem optimum in the short run, there are long run costs in terms of experience forfeited. Women who start at a lower wage job are more likely to get stuck in the equilibrium described above, while women who start at higher paid jobs circumvent the above situation. This widens the experience gap and in turn the income gap. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Bidisha Lahiri “Entrepreneurial Effect of Income Program in India” We examine the impact of on an ambitious employment and income guarantee program for the poor in India on family entrepreneurial activities. We find that participation in this program affects family entrepreneurship both at the extensive and intensive margins, and the effect is heterogenous across the scale of the family business endeavor. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Bidisha Lahiri, Richard Daramola “Role of product life cycle in tempering international trade's impact on Indonesian Firms” Our paper empirically examines how the effect of international trade on Indonesian firms varies by the length of product life cycle and R&D activities of different industries. Our exploration is based on theoretical models that predict trade and outsourcing/FDI affect firms in developing countries differently compared to firms in developed countries like the USA. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Texas at Arlington PI/PDs: Bidisha Lahiri University of Texas at Arlington: Mahmut Yasar Pecking Order? Oil and Gas Development and Bird Species Richness on the High Plains of Colorado This paper examines the effect of this development on ecological outcomes, in particular breeding bird populations between 2003 and 2014 in the High Plains region of Colorado and Kansas. We find that aggregate measures including bird species richness and a bird diversity index are surprisingly unaffected by oil and gas development. Future work is focused on examining the effects of oil and gas drilling on particular bird species that are predominant in the high plains. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Tennessee, Knoxville PI/PDs: Karen Maguire University of Tennessee, Knoxville: Monica Papes
Do Workers Benefit from Resource Booms in Their Home State? Evidence from the Fracking Era This paper examines the effects of the mid‐200s oil and gas boom on individual employment and earnings within states. Our analytical technique allows us to differentiate the effects of the boom on workers in the oil and gas industry and long‐term state residents who work in other industries. We find statistically significant and economically meaningful positive effects for workers from the oil and gas boom. These gains accrue to both the oil and gas workers and long‐term state residents. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Iowa State University, Southwestern University of Finance and Economics PI/PDs: Karen Maguire, Shruti Sengupta Iowa State University: John V. Winters Southwestern University of Finance and Economics: Zhengyu Cai Cap and Trade and CO2 Emissions: Was the U.S. Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) Effective? This project uses SCM analysis to investigate whether the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), the first multi‐state cap‐and‐trade program in the United States has led to reductions in CO2 emissions. We will also examine the effects on electricity prices and the relative increase in natural gas in electricity generation. Popular literature suggests the program has been successful at reducing emissions, but there is limited empirical evidence to date. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis PI/PDs: Karen Maguire U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis: Abdul Munasib 1889 Oklahoma Land Run: Guthrie – The Territorial Capital is Founded Guthrie, the original capital of Oklahoma, was established overnight. This resulted in a robust business community by 1890. This project examines the job and demographic characteristics of Guthrie’s first business district. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Karen Maguire, Jonathan Harrington Household Debt and Meeting Fertility Intentions This study examines how housing and non‐housing debt impacts the probability that women meet their 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/PDs: Michael Morris, Karina Shreffler
Neighborhood Violence, Family Stress and College Intentions Student intentions regarding college attendance not only strongly predict earning a higher degree, but also has been found to differ by income and race. We suggest that exposure to neighborhood violence and family stress have negative impacts on college intentions. Using data collected from an in‐depth interview of 206 largely minority (70%) 4th through 12th grade students, and their parents. 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/PDs: Michael Morris, 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/PDs: Michael Morris, Bill Dare Creating a Task Domain for Undergraduate Economics. This paper lists task domain for undergraduate economics courses. In addition, each task includes a conditions and standard criterion. Eventually, the skills mapping will identify where economic tasks are initially and subsequently taught during a degree program. In addition, they serve as a record for skills development. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma Pl/PD: William McLean A Longitudinal Assessment of Economic Learning. 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, and 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: State of Oklahoma Pl/PD: William McLean
What goes up must come down? The recent economic cycles of the four most oil and gas dominated states in the US The recent boom and bust in the US oil and natural gas sector provide a unique opportunity to assess whether the impacts of energy development are symmetric across the differing phases of the energy cycle. Using the synthetic control method, the study examined the four most oil and gas dominated states: Louisiana, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Wyoming. The results reveal differing employment impacts across the four states in both the short and long run and asymmetry during the boom‐bust cycle. The findings are suggested at least in part to be connected to state and local government expenditures. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Dan Rickman, Hongbo Wang The Fiscal State‐Dependent Effects of Capital Income Tax Cuts Using the post‐WWII data of U.S. federal corporate tax changes, this paper finds that the output effect of capital income tax cuts is less expansionary when debt is high than when it is low. To explore the mechanisms that can drive fiscal state‐dependent tax effects, the paper uses a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model with regime‐switching fiscal policy. It finds that a capital income tax cut is stimulative to the extent that it is unlikely to result in a future fiscal adjustment, whether the expected adjustments are through a policy reversal or a consumption tax increase. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma, International Monetary Fund PI/PDs: Wenyi Shen International Monetary Fund: Alexandra Fotiou, Shu‐Chun Yang Fiscal Limit and Fiscal Space in a Heterogeneous Monetary Union: Normal Times vs the Zero Lower Bound In this paper we study fiscal policy effects for countries in a monetary union with different levels of public debt. We develop a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model of a two‐country monetary union, calibrated to match Spain and Germany. The costs of fiscal consolidation in the high‐debt country are diminished when this consolidation improves its debt sustainability prospects. Fiscal consolidations in both countries decrease real interest rates and amplify the reduction in risk premium in the highly‐indebted country, improving union‐wide output in the long run, but at the cost of lower output in the low debt country in the short term. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma, University of Valencia, Bank of Spain PI/PDs: Wenyi Shen University of Valencia: Javier Andrés Bank of Spain: Pablo Burriel
SCHOOL OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP
The Effects of Failure Avoidance and Self‐Enhancement Motives on Entrepreneurs’ Social
Networks in China
The extant research illustrated that social networks are crucial for entrepreneurial success.
However, few studies have investigated what antecedent factors influence entrepreneurs’
social networks. In this article, we ask the following question: What is the role of
entrepreneurs’ motives to avoid failure and enhance self‐esteem in their networking behavior,
and personal network structures? Overall, entrepreneurs’ failure avoidance motive and self‐
enhancement motive lead to different structural patterns of entrepreneurs’ networks.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Ningbo Soft Science Research Awards, Ningbo City
Government.
PI/PDs: Bat Batjargal
Nottingham University Business School: China: Xi Chen
Family members in top management team, salary payment, and company performance in
China
In this study, we examine the role of family member – top manager in Top Management Team
(TMT) salary payment, managerial shareholding and family firm performance from the
integrated perspective of agency theory and TMT research perspective. The study is based on
the sample of 1583 Chinese private firms listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges.
We found that family membership in TMT has positive effects on TMT salary payment and
increased managerial shareholding. However, TMT salary levels negatively moderate the
relationship between family membership in TMT and firm performance of private firms in
China.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Nottingham University Business School, Ningbo, China
PI/PDs: Bat Batjargal
Nottingham University Business School: China: Xiaogang Bi
The Moderating influence of national culture on female and male entrepreneurs’ social
network size and new venture growth
Why do men and women experience different returns from their social networks across
different national cultures? This question was examined with data from 637 (278 women and
359 men) entrepreneurs across four nations. We found that male entrepreneurs in high
relational cultures benefit the most (in terms of growth in revenues) from larger network size
while women in low relational cultures benefit the least. In cultures with low gender
egalitarianism, male entrepreneurs benefited more from their larger social networks than did
the female entrepreneurs.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Nottingham University Business School, Ningbo, China
PI/PD: Bat Batjargal
Religion and Entrepreneurship: Effects of religious beliefs and entrepreneurs’ networks on
venture survival
This project examines the interaction effects of religious beliefs, on the one hand, and business
discussion network size and religion discussion network size, on the other hand, on new
venture performance, i.e., venture survival This is a longitudinal project based on surveys of 248
information technology entrepreneurs in Beijing, China. The preliminary results show that
religious beliefs and business discussion network size are substitute each other in terms of
effects on venture performance.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Nottingham University Business School, China
PI/PD: Bat Batjargal
Institutional Polycentrism Theory and Global Entrepreneurship Research
This is a pure theory development project that examines and explores the concept of
institutional polycentrism and its effects on global entrepreneurship rates.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State, University Nottingham University Business School, China
PI/PD: Bat Batjargal
The Firm vs. the Market: DE homogenizing the Transaction Cost Theories of Coase and
Williamson
Uncovers fundamental differences between the respective transaction cost theories of Ronald
Coase and Oliver Williamson, and discusses implications for strategy
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Per Bylund
The Austrian Free Enterprise Ethic: A Mengerian Comment on Kirzner (2019)
Responds to Israel Kirzner’s Austrian critique of Milton Friedman’s free market ethic
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Per Bylund
Entrepreneurship and Austrian Economics: Theory, History, and Future
Introduction to special issue
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Per Bylund
Towards A Value‐Dominant Logic of Marketing
Develops a theory of entrepreneurship based on value facilitation which is then applied on
marketing practice
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Per Bylund, Hunter Hastings, Fernando D’Andrea
Where is the Austrian Theory of Collaborative Orders? Comment on Elert and Henrekson
Argues that Austrian economics has little to gain from incorporating empirically derived theory
of collaborative orders.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Per Bylund
Entrepreneurial Response to Interstate Regulatory Competition: Evidence from a Discrete
Choice Experiment
Discrete choice experiment to uncover effects of regulation.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Michigan State University, University of Michigan‐
Dearborn
PI/PDs: Per Bylund
Michigan State University: Trey Malone
University of Michigan‐ Dearborn: Antonio Koumpias
Multi‐Family Firms
Multi‐family firms represent a large fraction of family firms and of firms in general, yet little is
known about this unique organizational form. To fill this void, this study proposes a definition
of multi‐family firms. This study distinguishes multi‐family firms from single‐family firms and
non‐family firms, based on their family‐centered noneconomic goals and the nature of the
relationships between the owning families. It also proposes multi‐family firm characteristics
and strategies that may lead to their competitive advantage. Finally, it provides a future
research agenda that advance our knowledge of multi‐family firms, and ultimately the family
business field.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Kristen Madison
The Effects of Spiritual Leadership on Work‐Family Conflict and Organizational Commitment
in the Family Firm
This study draws from conservation of resources theory to predict that spiritual leadership
serves as both a resource to enhance employees’ organizational commitment and a
passageway to mitigate the negative effects of work‐family conflict. Using primary triadic data
from leaders, family employees, and nonfamily employees in 77 family firms, results indicate
that organizational commitment is enhanced by spiritual leadership but is decreased by work‐
family conflict. Surprisingly, spiritual leadership exacerbated the negative effect of work‐family
conflict on organizational commitment. Further analysis reveals that family and nonfamily
employees respond differently to leadership and work‐family stressors.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Kristen Madison
Kinship and Sex in Family Firms: Who Reciprocates the CEO’s Altruistic Behavior?
This study introduces “kinship status,” or whether a leader and employee are related, as a new dimension of relational demography. It predicts that kinship status uniquely impacts leader‐employee relationships and outcomes, and that employee experiences in the family firm are simultaneously shaped by gendered processes and family processes. Data collected from 209 leader‐employee dyads show that male family employees exhibit the greatest increase in organizational citizenship behaviors as their leader’s altruistic behaviors increase. Female family employees display consistently high organizational citizenship behaviors regardless of their leader’s altruistic behavior, suggesting they may be “unsung heroes” of the family firm. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Kristen Madison
Linking the Entrepreneur’s Childhood Communication Patterns to the Innovativeness of their
Ventures
This study integrates human communication and imprinting theories to advance our
understanding of family firm innovation. Using primary triadic data from leaders, family
employees, and nonfamily employees in 38 U.S. family firms, results demonstrate the more
effective the human communication within the family, the more effective the organizational
communication within the family firm and subsequently, the greater the innovativeness.
However, due to differing perceptions of family and nonfamily employees, results indicate
founder communication patterns do not fully imprint on the family firm. This implies the
relationship between founder imprinting and organizational outcomes is more nuanced than
theory would suggest.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Kristen Madison
Sins of the Parents: How Parenting Style Affects Successors and Key Family Firm Outcomes
after Succession
The intent to transfer control to the next generation is a defining characteristic of family firms.
Yet, most family‐controlled firms fail to transfer control and, when they do, the next
generation’s leadership often fails to meet expectations. Ironically, the succession literature
fails to leverage sociology research and theory on the key aspect that makes family firms
different – i.e., families. Therefore, this study extends parental control theory from sociology
and empirically demonstrates that predecessor parenting styles have a direct effect on
successor psychological profiles, which then impact employee behaviors, thereby explaining
why some family successors are more successful than others.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Kristen Madison
A Transactive Memory Systems Approach to Knowledge Complementarity and Firm
Innovation
This study integrates transactive memory systems theory and the knowledge‐based‐view of the
firm to provide insight into how small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises can effectively leverage
their internal resources for innovation. Using primary triadic data from 38 U.S. firms and
dispersion composition modelling, results demonstrate that how employees perceive their
knowledge resources relative to other employees directly effects firm innovation. Even though
value lies in having complementary knowledge within entrepreneurial ventures, if resources are
not leveraged due to differing perceptions among employees, the venture may experience
lower levels of innovation.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Kristen Madison
When Do Nonfamily Managers Enhance the Performance of Small Family Firms?
Employing nonfamily managers can enhance family firm performance. However, highly
qualified nonfamily managers often prefer working in nonfamily firms, leaving a less qualified
pool of managers available to family firms. We address this paradox using a resource‐based
perspective to theorize that family firms with inferior performance benefit most from
employing nonfamily managers because this compensates for deficiencies in the quality of
family managers. Analysis of 324 small family firms shows that family firms with performance
below industry averages experience performance benefits from employing nonfamily
managers, while no benefit is gained by family firms with performance above industry
averages.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Kristen Madison
Family Business as Social Enterprise: An Integrative Review
Family businesses and social enterprises represent distinct organizational forms that share
underlying motivations and behaviors centered on the pursuit of socially inspired non‐economic
goals. This integrative literature review capitalizes on these recent trends and provides an
extensive review of the convergent nature of contemporary family business and social
enterprise research; identify boundary conditions and divergent barriers to coordinated
research activity. This provides a foundation to recognize and pursue promising avenues of
future integrative studies that advance our understanding of the non‐economic motivations
inspiring this research.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Kristen Madison
A Multi‐Signal Perspective on the Reputation of Venture Capital Firms Utilizing a multi‐signal perspective, we examine how IPOs are influenced by the reputation of venture capital firms (VCFs). First, we examine how change in different types of retained founder
equity—i.e., newly created equity created at IPO versus existing equity owned prior to IPO—relates to the reputation of venture capital firms that invest in a venture. We then hypothesize conditions under which the reputations of VC firms versus underwriters are substitutable or complementary to reducing IPO underpricing. Finally, we develop competing hypotheses regarding the impact that affiliation between underwriters and VCFs have on underpricing. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Portland State University PI/PDs: Curt B. Moore Portland State University: Theodore Khoury Entrepreneurship and FDI Building on institutional and Austrian economic theories, we theorize country‐level VC investments reduce information asymmetry and market uncertainty, and, therefore, influence the foreign direct investments (FDI) of multinational corporations (MNCs). Compared to country‐level FDI, analyses of 29 countries over 11 years demonstrate that the relatively small, country‐level VC investments are predictive of subsequent FDI by MNCs. This relationship is dynamic and reinforcing over time, with stronger relationships occurring in countries with higher levels of institutional risk. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas Tech University PI/PDs: Curt B. Moore Texas Tech University: G. Tyge Payne Neurodiversity and Entrepreneurial Cognition Three studies investigating the effect of neurodiversity on entrepreneurial cognition. Specifically, each study focuses on relationships between ADHD and important aspects of entrepreneurial cognition, including cognitive style, coping style, entrepreneurial alertness, entrepreneurial metacognition, and resource‐induced coping heuristics. Ultimately, these studies seek to explore the cognitive benefits and limitations of entrepreneurs with ADHD. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, West Virginia University PI/PDs: Curt B. Moore West Virginia University: Nancy McIntire Social Capital in Family Business Research: This paper advances the state of knowledge about social capital in family business research. Based on a review of family business articles published over the last two decades, we identify and discuss key issues using social capital perspectives. While our review highlights the extensive utility of social capital perspectives in family business research, substantial research challenges and opportunities still exist for family business scholars. Based on our review, we offer theoretical generalizations, criticisms, and areas for future research. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Boise State University PI/PDs: Curt B. Moore, Bat Batjargal Boise State University: Karen Nicholas
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: Rutherford, M., Soleimanof, S., Webb, J.
Business stressors, family‐business identity, and divorce in family business: A vulnerability‐
stress‐adaptation (VSA) model
Considerable amount of research focuses on how divorce in enterprising families influences
family business outcomes. Yet, the impact that family businesses have on the divorce of
enterprising families remains relatively under‐researched. We contribute to the emerging
enterprising family heterogeneity literature by building upon the Vulnerability‐Stress‐
Adaptation (VSA) model and explore two questions regarding the influence of family businesses
on divorce: Do family business‐related stressors influence divorce? We hypothesize that high
levels of debt and high sales revenue levels (as stressors) positively and significantly affect the
rate of divorce in family businesses.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Rutherford, M., Sanchez‐Ruiz, P., Maldonado‐Bautista, I.
Entrepreneurship Everywhere: Across Campus, Across Communities, and Across Borders.
This paper introduces the theme of this special issue related to Entrepreneurship Everywhere:
Across Campus, Across Communities, and Across Borders. We explore three critical points as we
set up the accepted articles for the special issue. First, if we are everywhere are we anywhere?
Second, we focus on the importance of collaboration. Third, we discuss the importance of
strategically planning on how your efforts intervene or integrate into the wider ecosystem.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Rutherford, M, Hornsby, J, Messersmith, J., Simmons, S.
ADHD‐Related Neurodiversity and the Entrepreneurial Mindset
In this study, we draw on research from neuroscience and related fields to examine the
relationship between attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the entrepreneurial
mindset. Herein, we examine differences between entrepreneurs with and without ADHD in
cognitive style, entrepreneurial alertness, metacognition, and resource‐induced coping
heuristic (RICH). Our results suggest neurodiversity that arises from ADHD is meaningfully
related to aspects of an entrepreneurial mindset. Specifically, when compared to entrepreneurs
without ADHD, we find entrepreneurs with ADHD employ a more intuitive cognitive style and
demonstrate higher levels of entrepreneurial alertness and RICH, while no significant
differences in metacognition were found.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, West Virginia University
PI/PDs: Curt B. Moore
West Virginia University: Nancy McIntyre
Opaque Costly Signals and Debt Contracts
New Ventures that are unable to fund expansion using internal equity and prefer to maintain
complete firm ownership may supplement existing cash flow by accessing external funds in the
form of debt contracts (Berger & Udell, 1998). These firms send signals to external stakeholders
that represent a sufficient level of legitimacy and worthiness of investment. However, many
new ventures are unable to send preferred costly signals because they do not possess them. In
this study, I examine specific signals that carry the preferred costly weight needed to gain a
stakeholder’s perception of legitimacy, however are difficult to fully verify.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, Lee Grumbles
Trust the Gut: How Cognitive Biases Interact to Positively Influence Investor Decisions
New startup ventures often require funding to grow and succeed. These startups may pitch
their business idea to a venture capitalist or angel investor to gain resources When evaluating
the potential of the new venture idea, investors rely on “gut” feelings based on perceptions of
the venture’s probability of success. These gut feelings are subjective and produce biased
decisions that ultimately contribute to successes for investors. These cognitive biases have
interactive effects that magnify or diminish the biased decision to invest. This study will
contribute to our understanding of the interaction of the most impactful cognitive biases
prevalent in early investment decision‐making.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, Michael Caston The Entrepreneur/Investor Idea Elaboration Helix This research conceptualizes startup investments as a function of three interconnected factors influencing each other: entrepreneurs, the opportunity/venture, and investors (Gianiodis, Markman, & Espina, 2017). This interconnectivity can be established through interactions such as narrative pitches, dialogue, collaboration, and negotiations. As ideas are mentally simulated and discovery continues throughout the interaction (e.g. negotiation), cognitive elaborations may generate new ideas to be incorporated into the perceived opportunity. If the entrepreneur/investor dyad mutually builds upon the initially pitched idea, then a sort of helix is established. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, Clinton T. Purtell
Will Crypto Become Actual? An Institutional Approach to Cryptocurrency How can cryptocurrency gain legitimacy in the eyes of users? We propose that cryptocurrency firms, through evasive entrepreneurial actions reflected by rhetorical strategies, can acquire legitimacy in the market that will ultimately reduce institutional uncertainty. Drawing from Williamson’s (1998, 2000) hierarchical model of institutional systems, we propose that legitimacy acquisition at the market level via evasive action will attenuate uncertainty in the formal institutional environment; which will beget additional legitimacy for cryptocurrencies, and thus higher performance to those firms, on average. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, Duygu Phillips, Per Bylund New Venture Legitimacy Diffusion: The Role of Storytelling and Social Networks Legitimacy diffusion is critical for new venture success, survival, and growth. Storytelling is a powerful technique to acquire legitimacy as well as to diffuse it. The focus of the current study is to analyze the role of storytelling in social media, specifically on Twitter. We also investigate the moderating effects of social networks based on network density and eigenvector centrality. Results indicate that storytelling in social media can be effective in legitimacy diffusion and that storytelling elements influence the extent on diffusion, specifically cognitive, pragmatic and emotional elements as well as network density and eigenvector centrality. Implications and limitations are discussed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, Duygu Phillips, Curt Moore Creative Potential, Preparedness, and Investment Decisions: A Unimodel of Persuasion Using the Video Metric Approach In this study, we marry the literature on creative potential prototypes of pitchers (Elsbach & Kramer, 2003) with research findings regarding the importance of entrepreneurs’ cognitive preparedness (e.g. Chen et al., 2009) to develop configurations of entrepreneurs’ creative potential and preparedness. More specifically, our models explore the associations between entrepreneurs’ creative potential—in business pitches reflecting artist, storyteller, showrunner, neophyte, journeyman, dealmaker, non‐writer prototypes (Elsbach & Kramer, 2003)—and financers’ decisions to provide capital in support of the entrepreneur. Moreover, we posit that the above relationships will be moderated (enhanced or hindered) by entrepreneurs’ preparedness displayed during the business pitch. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, lleana Maldonada‐Bautista, Paul Sanchez Effects of New Venture Name Characteristics on Purchase Intentions and Performance with the Mediating Role of New Venture Legitimacy A new venture’s name is a key element for its survival and growth. Drawing on organizational identity theory and legitimacy literature, this study empirically analyzes the effects of various characteristics of names on new venture legitimacy as well as on purchase intensions and consequently on new venture performance. The purpose of this paper is to fill a gap in the literature through a detailed analysis of new venture names and their effects on legitimacy and
performance as well as to create a guideline for entrepreneurs to selecting a name for their startups. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, Duygu Phillips, Bryan Edwards Grit and Orientation to Happiness: A Taxonomy and Relationships with Entrepreneurial Goals Individual differences with regard to grit are likely contingent upon what makes individuals happy. To advance theory related to individual differences with regard to grit, this study develops a taxonomy of entrepreneurial motivational dispositions by including orientation to happiness. Our configuration analyses on a sample of 150 entrepreneurs finds that four clusters exists: “Gritty Hedonist”, Gritty and Balanced”, “Inconsistently Engaged” and “Stuck in the Middle.” The specific configurations of the multiple sub‐dimensions of grit and orientation to happiness in each cluster are noted, and the effects on entrepreneurial outcomes are identified. This study advances understanding of the heterogeneous nature of entrepreneurs’ motivational dispositions. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, Alex Lawrence, Ileana Maldonada‐Bautista, David Noack Entrepreneur Problem Recognition: Does Legitimacy Matter? Research has asserted that entrepreneurs are subject to a wide variety of cognitive biases (e.g., overconfidence). However, scholars have yet to establish whether these biases are always detrimental to the creation of successful new ventures. In this paper, we 1) assert and test the notion that entrepreneurs are subject to a problem recognition bias, 2) argue that legitimacy status is likely the key catalyst stimulating the entrepreneur problem recognition bias, and 3) posit that the entrepreneur problem recognition bias is beneficial in the new venture creation process. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, Neil Tocher, Paul Sanchez Ruiz, Ludvig Levasseur A Note on the Impact of Debt and Equity Determinants on De Novo Firm Outcomes: A Model Robustness Analysis We evaluate the robustness of 34 possible drivers that are broadly classified in four groups: 1) inside equity, 2) inside debt, 3) outside equity, and 4) outside debt. We estimate the sampling distribution of 114,688 models in a panel of de novo firms from the Kauffman Firm Survey by conducting a systematic sensitivity analysis. The results suggest that some capital structure variables are robustly correlated with firm outcomes (ROA, growth, survival), but many are not. Specifically, we find no evidence to suggest that angel and venture capital equity financing are key indicators of de novo firm growth and profitability. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, Paul Sanchez, Duygu Phillips
Aligning Entrepreneurial Project Characteristics with Financing Sources: A Taxonomy, Relationships, and Advancement Unique characteristics among entrepreneurial projects have both positive and negative effects on financiers’ judgmental funding decisions. To better understand these characteristics and advance related theory, this study develops a taxonomy of entrepreneurial projects. More specifically, using configuration analyses on a sample of 521 projects, we find that five clusters exist that include projects with Pragmatic, Planned, Innovative, Political, and Provincial characteristics. The specific configurations of each cluster are noted and effects on funding decision outcomes are identified to advance understanding of the heterogeneous nature of entrepreneurial projects. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, Ileana Maldonada‐Bautista, Paul Sanchez, Science‐Practice Gap: Does Innovative Academic Knowledge Diffuse? It has been noted that few practitioners read academic research. In fact, we know that some robust and rigorous scholarship is effectively communicated to practitioners. I hold that once we understand the anatomy of the communicative scholarship, we can begin to close the gap more effectively. By framing scholarship as an innovation, I can investigate the underlying components, (i.e., relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, and observability) of academic research. With this framework, I will contrast the profiles of adopted research with non‐adopted research. Subsequent to this, among the adopted research, I evaluate the impact of the components on the time and extent of diffusion. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, Justin White, Danny Holt, Bryan Edwards Running the Gauntlet: Surviving and Thriving during Recession Results from an 8‐year analysis of 3,869 firms that were founded just prior to the start of the Great Recession indicate that new ventures which display a commitment towards “durability resources” are more likely to survive a recession—and thrive afterword. With regard to these resources, we found that elevated levels of 1) human capital 2) inside funding, and 3) commitment to employees were the most strongly related with positive outcomes. Conversely, high levels of outside funding tended to be negatively associated with performance during a recession. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, Paul Sanchez, Matt Mazzei
Deliberate Practice as Entrepreneurship Curriculum: A Study of Middle School Girls in Economically Challenged Regions Can the deliberate practice process be employed to swiftly improve individual entrepreneurial performance? To address this question, a curriculum was developed based on the deliberate practice model and administered to middle school girls from economically challenged regions to determine whether deliberate entrepreneurial skills practice could lead to the expeditious acquisition of enhanced entrepreneurial performance. Our findings confirmed the conceptual relationship between deliberate practice and entrepreneurial performance. It is hoped that the results of this study can be used by researchers, educators, and policy makers to address a general lack of entrepreneurship in economically challenged regions. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Matt Rutherford, Angela Reddix, Rathin Sarathy, Lincoln Brown
DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE
Robust Estimation of Conditional Risk Measures for Crude Oil and Natural Gas Futures Prices
in the Presence of Outliers
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. 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.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas State University
PI/PDs: Betty Simkins, Joe Byers
Texas State University: Ivilina Popova
The Influence of Major News Events in Causing Outliers for Crude Oil and Natural Gas
Commodity Futures Prices
The main goal is to improve our understanding of the impact of major news events in causing
outliers in commodity futures prices that focus on crude oil and natural gas futures contracts.
Natural gas futures can have up to 120 risk factors based on each open contract and these risk
factors are driven by different news events. This research identifies outliers in the prices for all
crude oil and natural gas futures contracts traded on the CME over the period of 2003 to 2017,
and analyzes what specific types of news events can cause different types of price impacts.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas State University
PI/PDs: Betty Simkins, Joe Byers
Texas State University: Ivilina Popova
Digital Average Price Options (DAPO)
We present an analytical solution for Digital Average Price Options (DAPO). This is an extension
of digital options to incorporate average price or Asian price characteristics. We build on work
by Zhang (1998), Turnbull and Wakeman (1991), and Haug (2004). We utilize numerical
difference methods to calculate the Greeks based on the derived closed‐form solution. These
options can be used to manage risk or generate income. These products can effectively
manager tail risk exposures with one transaction for an energy company who is exposed to
multiple types of tail risk, which otherwise would require insuring each event with separate
transactions.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/Pd: Joe W. Byers
How to Bring Rigorous Risk Management to Classroom and Research Projects: Implementing
Document Control, Disaster Recovery, and Security Standards for the Academic.
All teachers struggle with security, version control, and disaster recovery of their classroom,
research, and administrative documents. The paper will demonstrate that utilizing techniques
and technology from FOSS one can protect their documents and intellectual property. The
paper show how to version control documents in the cloud, providing disaster recovery at all
times, and access from anywhere one has access to the internet. We further demonstrate the
security provided by these methods to protect intellectual property and fraud in our virtual age.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/Pd: Joe W. Byers
Online Exams, an Algorithm for Randomizing Questions to Mitigate the Risk of Fraud.
We provide a proof of concept for algorithms that will mitigate the risk of fraud for online
Multiple choice exams with significant probabilities. The algorithm is implement in an open
source software Ruby. This algorithm will take standard multiple choice and randomize the
questions as different multiple choice and true/false questions that include negative variants of
the questions. One simple question with four options including an all of the above will generate
questions in terms of four factorial.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/Pd: Joe W. Byers
Constraints and Boundary Conditions for Real Option Valuation and Risk Management of
Commodity Storage using constrained optimization.
This paper extends Byers (2005) and Byers (2006) with further insights on monetizing the a Real
Options Commodity Assets with flow constraints. The paper shows how the real asset can be
fully hedged using standard liquid derivatives that are openly traded. We effectively build a
"box" around the value of the asset. This paper overcomes other valuation and risk
management techniques that rely on stochastic modeling and implementing derivatives that do
not trade in the market, so all valuation contains bias and error from parameters estimations.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/Pd: Joe W. Byers
Volatility Persistence or Price Outliers, a Tail of Two Methods?
Volatility persistence is related to the duration of shocks to volatility. These are events that
cause a shift in the standard deviation of an asset's returns that decay over time. The duration
can be short, medium, long. An alternative explanation is how outliers impact asset returns
through the mean of the return process, not the volatility. This will have not volatility
persistence for all outlier types but one, the innovative outlier (IO). This paper will investigate
the impact of controlling for mean shocks (Outliers) to and the asset return process with
respect to past volatility persistence patterns.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/Pd: Joe W. Byers
Round and Charm Number Pricing of Real Estate
Researchers of stock data have found that prices tend to clump around “round” numbers and
more transactions take place on specific digits and, before decimalization, “even eighths.” Real
estate list prices commonly use “charm pricing.” Allen and Dare (2004, 2006) found that
transaction prices of charm listed properties brought more in actual price when compared to
equivalent properties without charm listing, thus indicating a possible signaling from seller to
buyer. We extend the investigation of charm pricing by analyzing actual prices for real estate.
We find in the majority of transactions, round numbers, fives and zeros, dominate final
transaction prices.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: William Dare
Florida Gulf Coast University: Marcus T. Allen
Sports Gambling as an Asset Class
The Supreme Court recently stuck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, creating the possibility of legal sports gambling in the US. The difference between sports and casino gambling is that in sports gambling; the odds of winning are determined by the individuals; those betting, taking the bets, and all involved. We offer a gambling market efficiency test that evaluates betting strategy returns with the risk return tradeoff; specifically, the S&P 500. This incorporates the well‐known Kelly criterion to reexamine the well‐documented bias of NFL games with the tests indicating much less of an inefficiency than previously reported. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: William Dare
Florida Gulf Coast University: Marcus T. Allen
Measuring Institutional Trading Costs and the Implications for Finance Research: The Case of Tick Size Reductions Abstract: We demonstrate that many widely used liquidity measures do not adequately capture institutional trading costs. Using proprietary data, we construct a price impact measure that better represents the costs faced by institutional investors. We find that price impact is not
correlated with many common liquidity proxies. In addition, institutional trading costs are not dramatically impacted by decimalization, casting doubt on the widely used identification strategy that employs decimalization as an exogenous shock to liquidity, particularly institutional liquidity. Indeed, we find that conclusions from prior research are significantly altered when we measure liquidity using institutional trading data. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Gregory Eaton Measuring M&A premiums: Does the Use of Fixed Pre‐Merger Event Windows Impart Bias? Most academic studies use fixed pre‐announcement event days (such as ‐20, ‐42, or ‐63) to measure unaffected target‐firm stock prices. In this paper, we demonstrate that the use of fixed pre‐announcement event days generates downward bias in measured premiums, especially for more recent samples and for transactions with long deal processes (such as target‐initiated deals). We take account of this bias by hand‐collecting deal initiation dates and demonstrate that using these dates results in measured premiums that give contradictory conclusions to those found in the existing literature. We also offer guidance for measuring M&A premiums if hand‐collecting data is impractical. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Gregory Eaton
Ambiguity Aversion and Asset Price Dynamics
We derive the equilibrium asset expected returns when there is ambiguity in asset expected
returns, as well as ambiguity in asset return variances. In our model, ambiguity risk is
systematic in nature and is non‐diversifiable. Under regularity conditions, expected asset
returns are linearly increasing in variance risk and ambiguity risk. We show that a beta pricing
model can be derived from the equilibrium expected return function, which contains a
systematic return factor and an ambiguity portfolio return factor, where the ambiguity portfolio
weights are determined within the model. We test our model empirically and we obtain the
model‐implied results.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Rutgers Business School PI/PDs: Louis Piccotti
Rutgers Business School: Yangru Wu
A Multiscale Estimator for Pricing Errors in High‐frequency Financial Market For a Lévy process corrupted with microstructure noise, I derive the sampling distributions for the information‐related and information‐unrelated pricing error parameters and for the variance of latent true price returns (a noise‐robust and consistent estimator of realized variance). The test statistics converge in distribution to the standard normal distribution, while statistics for joint tests, tests for intraday seasonality, and tests for time varying parameters converge in distribution to the 𝜒 distribution. Simulation evidence verifies that test statistics display good properties. As an empirical example, the proposed tests are taken to a sample of exchange rates, commodities, and index futures. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Louis Piccotti Portfolio Frequency Structure Preferences I examine the optimal portfolio allocation for investors with risk frequency preferences. As an implication, the portfolio opportunity set can be uniquely constructed from a set of basis frequency structures. Factor model representations represent restrictions on the frequency structure space, which is equivalent to finding a linear combination of frequency structures that are required to price a portfolio. A portfolio’s alpha results from the frequency structure misalignment between the marginal investor and the factor model implied one. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Louis Piccotti Financial Contagion: Bank Characteristics Matter
We systematically examine how bank characteristics are related to a bank’s financial contagion
exposure. Examining capital requirements, we find evidence that while tier 1 capital
requirements are negatively related to a bank’s contagion exposure, the sum of tier 1 and tier 2
capital ratios are positively related to it. Banks with greater financial constraints are less
exposed to contagion. Geographic distance between banks is negatively related to contagion
exposures and we find evidence that institutional ownership is positively related to banks’
contagion exposures. Finally, we find that board attributes that reduce banks’ risk taking
incentives negatively associate with financial contagion.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Louis Piccotti, Sharif Mazumder
Are Options Redundant? The Benefits of Synthetic Diversification
This paper examines an alternative avenue through which trading in options can expand investors’ opportunity sets, unrelated to private information, differing opinions, endowments, or trading restrictions in the stock market. Investors can synthetically replicate the return profile of optionable stocks using options for a fraction of the cost of holding the underlying securities, which makes diversification more cost‐efficient. We find that the option to stock volume ratio increases when stock price, idiosyncratic risk, stock illiquidity, borrowing cost, and market risk aversion are high. In addition, institutional holdings and option trading have a U‐shaped relation.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Louis Piccotti, Yifan Liu Portfolio Returns and Consumption Growth Covariation in the Frequency Domain, Real Economic Activity, and Expected Returns The slope of the portfolio return and consumption growth co‐spectrum contains predictive information about future real economic activity; future recession probabilities, the risk aversion coefficient, as well as future expected returns. Commonly used economic variables do not subsume the predictive power of the co‐spectrum slope and while the interest rate term spread largely fails to predict the Financial Crisis, the set of co‐spectrum slopes predicts the crisis with a 75% probability. The co‐spectrum slope significantly improves the fit of long‐horizon expected return models and contains more significant predictive information than the current dividend yield. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Louis Piccotti Information shares in a two‐tier FX market Using several measures of information share, we examine price discovery across the inter‐dealer and dealer‐customer market tiers in the currencies market. In the spot market, the information share of the inter‐dealer tier is higher than that of the dealer‐customer one for non‐financial sector trades and is lower than the dealer‐customer tier for foreign investors’ sell trades. In the forward market, the dealer‐customer tier generally has the greater information share at the dealer’s buy side. Our results indicate the market where customers’ trades are the most informative and demonstrate how exogenous events affect price discovery across markets and market tiers. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Bank of Israel PI/PDs: Louis Piccotti Bank of Israel: Ben Z. Schreiber Strategic Trade when Securitized Portfolio Values are Unknown I examine the effect that securitization has on the market quality of the underlying asset, as well as focus on the market quality of the derivative asset. In a market comprised of liquidity traders, an informed trader, and an arbitrageur, with securitization, the underlying portfolio has improved liquidity, the trading intensity of the informed trader is increased, and the informed trader's expected profit is increased. The combination of the underlying portfolio and derivative portfolio prices can fully reveal the unknown liquidation value of the underlying portfolio. The derivative price can also be fully revealing about the unknown tracking error. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Louis Piccotti Differential Risk Premiums and the UIP Puzzle We re‐specify the uncovered interest rate parity (UIP) conditions by inverting the market price of risk formula. Our empirical model provides new insights, which show that violations to UIP stems from the existence of a risk premium in exchange rates and from observed market return
differentials being a noisy statistic of the markets' expected return differentials in our re‐specified model. Using an integrated macro‐microstructure framework for expected market return differentials improves our model fit and the validity of UIP. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University at Albany, SUNY, Bank of Israel PI/PDs: Louis Piccotti University at Albany, SUNY: Rita Biswas Bank of Israel: Ben Z. Schreiber Informed Trading Surrounding Data Breaches in Options Markets We explore whether there is informed trading, which takes advantage of data breach events. By analyzing transactions in the options market, we find two distinct informed trading patterns that begin approximately three months and nine months prior to corporate data‐breach announcements, which are supported by evidence of higher trading volume and open interest for put options, a higher put‐to‐call volume ratio, a higher put‐to‐call open interest ratio, and lower spreads prior to data‐breach announcements. We further examine stock reactions following data‐breach announcements and find significantly negative CARs of ‐0.35% within one day. Cross‐sectional analysis provides evidence that options trading activity have predictive power for stock returns. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Louis Piccotti, Emily Wang Covariance Matrix Jumps in High‐Frequency Financial Markets In this paper, we examine jumps and co‐jumps in the covariance matrix for high‐frequency financial markets. We formulate the jump test as a two‐step estimator, which allows us to identify jumps in both asset prices and the covariance matrix through time. We provide simulation results of our estimator’s performance and we provide an empirical example with exchange rates. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Louis Piccotti, Yuri Hupka Bond Market Structure and Volatility We examine price volatility in a bond market using the variance ratio concept. The variance ratio methodology has been used to study the price volatility of equity markets extensively. To our knowledge, our article is the first to study the price volatility in a bond market. We find that the open‐to‐open return volatility is on average higher than the close‐to‐close return volatility. This implies that the market mechanism at open affects the price volatility of the bond market. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Georgia College PI/PDs: Louis Piccotti Georgia College: Isarin Durongkadej Option Pricing in the Presence of Pricing Errors in the Underlying In this paper, I examine how option prices need to be adjusted when the underlying asset has microstructure noise. A closed‐form solution is attained, which modifies the BSM option pricing
model. Near‐to‐maturity options are the most mispriced, while Far‐to‐maturity options continue to be relatively fairly priced in the BSM model. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Louis Piccotti
Cash Holdings and CEO Risk Incentive Compensation: Effect of CEO Risk Aversion We examine the risk incentive effect of CEO compensation (Vega) on firm cash holdings and how this relationship is moderated by managerial risk aversion. 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. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Penn State University‐Behrend PI/PDs: Ramesh P. Rao Penn State University‐Behrend: Harry Feng Debt Diversification and Financial Constraints This study examines the impact of debt diversification on the external financing constraints of US firms. We argue that firms are motivated to diversify their debt sources in order to decrease their financial constraints. Using the well‐established measure of cash flow sensitivity of cash to assess the degree of financial constraint, we find that debt diversification indeed has a negative impact on the financial constraints faced by firms. This result is robust across multiple methods of classifying firms based on their inherent degree of financial constraint including firm age, dividend payout, and growth opportunity. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, IMT‐Nagpur PI/PDs: Ramesh P. Rao Indiana University of Pennsylvania: Namrata Saikia IMT‐Nagpur: Nemiraja Jadiyappa The Positive Externalities of Leveraged Buyouts We show that private equity‐sponsored going‐private announcements can evoke positive externality effects on their industry peers. It is well‐established that “active” ownership of private equity (PE) houses increases competitiveness of target firms by improving their operational strategies and corporate governance. We argue that private equity‐sponsored going‐private announcements should also impact their industry peers as a result of increased takeover threat and competitive pressure felt by the peers. Industry peers mitigate the increased takeover threat and competitive pressure by significantly improving their operational efficiency, engaging in long‐term innovation and enhancing their corporate governance. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma, Penn State University‐Behrend PI/PDs: Ramesh P. Rao Penn State University‐Behrend: Harry Feng
Secondary Market Frictions and Real Firm Activity
We show that secondary market structure and trading activity impacts the cost of issuing new
debt. Firms with existing illiquid debt are less likely to issue new debt within a given year, and,
when they do, face higher borrowing costs. Using the staggered implementation of TRACE and
a regression discontinuity design we also show that improvements in market design and
transparency subsequently lowers the cost of debt. Additionally, our results indicate that
liquidity and price discovery affect firms’ decisions related to capital structure and investment.
Overall, the results provide understanding of the connection between the secondary market
and real economy.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Tennessee, University of Alabama,
Burmingham
PI/PDs: Ryan Davis
University of Tennessee: David Maslar
University of Alabama, Burmingham: Brian Roseman
One Stone Kills Two Birds: The Effects of a Tick Size Increase on Equity and Option Liquidity
We examine the impact of the 2016 U.S. SEC Tick Size Pilot Program on liquidity in both the
equity and options markets. We find that an increase in the tick size from one‐cent to five‐cents
degrades stock liquidity for treatment stocks constrained by the minimum price variation,
relative to control stocks. However, for the subset of treatment stocks with an active option
series, the deterioration in stock liquidity is mitigated. We also find an unfavorable liquidity
spillover effect from the underlying stock market to the options market, which seems to be
driven by a shift in information‐based trading from equities to options.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Utah State University
PI/PDs: Brian Roseman, Danjue Shang
Utah State University: Todd Griffith, Danjue Shang
Passive Informed Trading Around Earnings Announcements
Using a sample of NASDAQ firms, we investigate informed trading in the limit order book prior
to earnings announcements. Consistent with recent limit order theory, and in contrast to classic
adverse selection models, we show that liquidity improves during periods of asymmetric
information, which is attributed to the liquidity supply of informed traders. For earnings
announcements with high absolute returns, we find that the quoted spread is low, bid and ask
depth is highly correlated, the implied cost to trade is low, and the information‐share of the
limit order book is high, relative to earnings announcements with low absolute returns.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Texas, El Paso
PI/PDs: Brian Roseman
University of Texas, El Paso: Jim Upson
Economics of Distributed Power Generation via Gasification of Biomass and Municipal Solid Waste This study investigates the economics of power generation through gasification of biomass and
MSW using a 60‐kW downdraft gasifier, developed at Oklahoma State University. Effects of
feedstock cost, electricity selling price, feed‐in‐tariff, tipping fee, tax rate, and the output power
are evaluated using major financial parameters. Results show that the 60‐kW downdraft
gasification power system offers a PP of 7.7 years, while generating an IRR, MIRR, and NPV of
10.9%, 7.7%, and $84,550, respectively. Results from a sensitivity analysis indicate that the feed
in tariff, has the greatest positive impact on the project’s NPV.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, National Institute of Technology Bandung, Indonesia PI/
PDs: Betty Simkins, Ajay Kumar, Raymond L. Huhnke
National Institute of Technology Bandung, Indonesia: Natarianto Indrawan
Energy Realities and U.S. Energy Policy
This study discusses six energy realities and the implications for U.S. energy policy:
1) We are not running out of fossil fuels. All energy sources should be promoted and not punished. 2) Energy transitions are generally slow and historically have taken up to a century. 3) Energy is all about thermodynamics and financial economics. 4) Renewable energy sources help but they are just part of the solution. 5) We need to focus on what the science and economics of energy and not let politics impact our judgement. 6) The public is misinformed about energy. Energy education is a must.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Betty Simkins
Real Options Evaluation and Decision‐Making in Petroleum Exploration and Production
This study establishes a risk‐neutral binomial lattice method to apply real options theory to
valuation and decision‐making in the petroleum exploration and production (E&P) industry
under uncertain oil prices. The research is applied to the switching time from primary to water
flooding oil recovery. The established real options evaluation framework enhances the valuation
and decision‐making for petroleum E&P industry including when to switch from one enhanced
oil recovery method to another and when to switch from conventional to unconventional
hydrocarbon production.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Texas
PI/PDs: Betty Simkins, Liying Xu
University of Texas at Austin: Kamy Sephrnoori, Jim S. Dyer
Cyber Threat Risk and Firm Governance and Risk Implications
This research explores cyber threat attacks on firms in the U.S. and the firms’ responses to
improve cyber risk oversight by the board of directors. Other risk implications are explored.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of New Mexico
PI/PDs: Betty Simkins
Oklahoma State University: Heng (Emily) Wang
University of New Mexico: Subbu Iyer
The Influence of Major News Events in Causing Outliers for Crude Oil and Natural Gas
Commodity Futures Prices
The main goal of this research is to improve our understanding of the impact of major news
events in causing outliers in commodity futures prices. Research to date has been sparse. On
any given day, natural gas futures can have up to 120 risk factors based on each open contract
and these risk factors are driven by different news events. This research studies news around
when the major outliers occur, and analyzes what specific types of news events can cause
different types of price impacts (outliers) in futures prices.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas State University
PI/PDs: Betty Simkins, Joe Byers
Texas State University: Ivilina Popova
Does Risk Management Add Value? An Update
This study reviews the literature on corporate risk management by nonfinancial firms and
provides a review of the findings to date. The study discusses the theories and methodologies
used and provides suggestions for future research in this area.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Oklahoma
PI/PDs: Betty Simkins
University of Oklahoma: Chitru Fernando
Susser Petroleum Partners, LP: IPO of a Master Limited Partnership
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.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Texas, Austin, University of Virginia
PI/PDs: Betty Simkins
University of Virginia: Susan Chaplinsky
University of Texas Austin: Sheridan Titman
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.
Sponsors: State of Oklahoma, Valparaiso University, Georgia Tech University
PI/PDs: Betty Simkins
Valparaiso University: Phillip Humphrey
Georgia Tech: Jacqueline Garner
Investor Attention and the Neutrality of Corporate Social Responsibility
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.
Sponsors: State of Oklahoma, Texas State University
PI/PDs: Betty Simkins
Texas State University: 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.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Arizona
PI/PDs: Qin Wang
University of Arizona: Chris Lamoureux
Second and Higher Moments of Fundamentals: A Literature Review
This literature review outlines the recent progress in fundamental second and higher moments
research. We survey the moments' existence, formation, and financial market and
macroeconomic implications. Research shows that time‐varying volatility and non‐Gaussian
shocks exist throughout all measures of fundamentals at both the micro and macro levels.
Additionally, the granular network among firms helps explain the origin of fundamental second
and higher moments. Empirical evidence shows that the moments have strong predictive
power on asset prices and macroeconomic variables. We also highlight several areas where
more research is needed to better understand the moments.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Central University of Finance and Economics, Texas State
University
PI/PDs: Betty Simkins, Qin Emma Wang
Central University of Finance and Economics: Yuecheng Jia
Texas State University: Ivilina Popova
Stock Market Return Predictability: Evidence from A Decomposition of Dividend Yield
The existing marginally significant evidence for the one‐year stock market return predictability by the dividend yield is the result of an error‐in‐variable problem. A decomposition shows that the trend and innovation components of dividend yield correspond to the expected future long‐term and one‐year returns, respectively. Robust in‐sample and out‐of‐sample evidence is
documented that the innovation provides superior next‐year return predictability than the dividend yield, while the trend captures the long‐run predictability of dividend yield. The findings are consistent with a time‐varying and predictable term structure of expected stock returns. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Shu Yan
Information Spillovers and Predictable Currency Returns: An Analysis via Machine Learning
This paper employs the post‐Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (post‐LASSO) to
forecast 1‐month‐ahead currency return using all other currencies' lagged forward discounts as
candidate predictors. The trading strategy of buying (selling) quintile currency portfolios of high
(low) post‐LASSO forecasts yields a monthly excess return of 1.05% for the 48‐currency sample.
The results do not change even after controlling for various predictors. The predictive power of
the post‐LASSO comes from two sources. First, it identifies the origin currencies of information
spillovers, which are sparse and time‐varying. Second, it incorporates cross‐sectional variations
in currencies' predictive relations with the origin currencies.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Rutgers University, Central University of Finance and
Economics, China
PI/PDs: Shu Yan
Rutgers University: Yangru Wu
Central University of Finance and Economics: Yuecheng Jia
Implicit Government Bailout Guarantee and Short Selling of Financial Stocks
This paper documents significant evidence that implicit government bailout guarantees render
financial stocks less likely to be heavily shorted than otherwise similar non‐financial stocks. The
impact is more pronounced for financial firms that are large, distressed, in the TARP, having
cheap puts, in the banking and broker‐‐dealer sectors, during periods of high financial risk, or
after 2008. When short sellers heavily short a financial stock, they earn significantly higher
profits than shorting a similar non‐financial stock. We show that implicit government bailout
guarantees lead to more informed trading and higher information efficiency in heavily‐shorted
financial stocks.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Central University of Finance and Economics, China,
Rutgers University
PI/PDs: Shu Yan
Central University of Finance and Economics: Yuecheng Jia
Rutgers University: Yuzhao Zhang
A Seesaw Effect in the Cryptocurrency Market: Understanding the Lead‐Lag Effect Among Cryptocurrencies This paper investigates the cross predictability of intraday returns across 22 major cryptocurrencies. In contrast to the well‐documented positive lead‐lag effect in the equity market, we document a significantly negative lead‐lag effect (“seesaw effect") in the
cryptocurrency market: The five largest cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ripple, Ethereum, Litecoin, and EOScoin) negatively predict the returns of other coins but not vice versa. Trading strategies that exploit the cross predictability yield highly significant profits. Further analysis suggests that the “flight to hot large coins" and “flee from cold large coins" jointly drive the seesaw effect. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Rutgers University, Central University of Finance and
Economics, China
PI/PDs: Shu Yan
Rutgers University: Yangru Wu
Central University of Finance and Economics: Yuecheng Jia, Chenxi Yin
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, China: Yuecheng Jia
There is A Growth Premium: Evidence from A Decomposition of Book‐to‐Market Ratio
This paper proposes a time series decomposition of book‐to‐market ratio (BM) into a trend
component and an innovation component (IBM). Under the framework of stock valuation with
growth options, we demonstrate that IBM is negatively related to the change of growth options
and therefore negatively related to the expected stock return. We document significant
empirical evidence consistent with a growth premium as low IBM stocks earn significantly higher
future returns, even after adjustment for risk factors and controlling for other predictors.
Moreover, low IBM firms convert more growth options and take on higher financial leverage in
the future.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Central University of Finance and Economics, China,
Nankai University, China
PI/PDs: Shu Yan
Central University of Finance and Economics, China: Yuecheng Jia
Nankai University, China: Haoxi Yang
Post‐Crisis Regulation of Bank Trading: An Examination of the Basel Framework and Volcker Rule In the aftermath of bank trading losses in the 2007‐09 crisis, the Basel framework uses stressed Conditional Value‐at‐Risk (SCVaR) to set minimum capital requirements for bank trading portfolios, whereas the Volcker rule restricts their composition in the U.S. We examine the impact of a constraint that limits SCVaR in the mean‐variance model. With or without the Volcker rule, such a constraint has the benefit of reducing the standard deviation (SD) of the optimal portfolio but the costs of moving it away from the M‐V frontier and increasing its SD‐to‐minimum capital requirement ratio. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Minnesota, George Washington University PI/PDs: Shu Yan
University of Minnesota: Gordon J. Alexander
George Washington University: Alexandre M. Baptista
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.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Penn State University Behrend
PI/PDs: Shu Yan, Emily (Heng) Wang
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
Local Institutional Investors and Debt Maturity We examine the relation between the geographic proximity of a firm’s institutional investors and the maturity structure of its debt. We hypothesize and find that firms with local institutional investors have shorter maturity debt. 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 Algorithmic Trading and Firm Value Using data from 2002 to 2013, we examine the impact of algorithmic trading on firm value. The results show that algorithmic trading generates net benefits for firm value through impacting stock liquidity, idiosyncratic volatility, and idiosyncratic skewness, and firms benefit more from algorithmic trading when algorithmic trading intensity is higher. Using the advent of auto quotation on the NYSE as an exogenous shock to algorithmic trading, we find evidence of a causal effect of algorithmic trading on firm value. The positive effects of algorithmic trading on firm value are stronger for more liquid stocks and larger firms. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas A&M University, University of Cincinnati PI/PDs: Jun Zhang Texas A&M University: Shane A. Johnson University of Cincinnati: Brian C. Hatch Social Networks and Corporate Payout Policies This paper examines the relation between firm social network and corporate payout policies and finds that social network significantly impacts payout compositions. Firms with greater network centrality pay lower dividends, repurchase more shares, and have a lower dividend to total payout ratio. Moreover, better connected firms invest more in acquisitions and R&D and have higher stock return volatility, and firms with higher acquisition and R&D investment pay lower
dividends and repurchase more shares. Overall results suggest that to accommodate more risky investments, better connected firms substitute share repurchase for dividend payment to remain financially flexible. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jun Zhang Inside and Outside Debt Duration Agency theory emphasizes that the incentive alignment effect of CEO debt compensation relies
on the extent to which its payoffs resemble payoffs to risky corporate debt. We examine this
notion using a sample of new corporate debt issues during 2007‐2012. We find that debt‐biased
CEO relative leverage ratio is associated with longer debt maturity only when the CEO's inside
debt will be less likely to be drawn up in the near future. We show that not only does inside debt
level matter, but its maturity relative to corporate debt also plays an important role in the
incentive‐alignment effect.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas A&M University, Hong Kong Polytechnic University
PI/PDs: Jun Zhang Texas A&M University: Shane Johnson Hong Kong Polytechnic University: Nan Yang Firm Riskiness and SEO Underpricing: Evidence from a Natural Experiment This paper examines the impact of firm riskiness on seasoned equity offering (SEO) underpricing by exploring RegSHO pilot program as a natural experiment. Facing greater downside risk, the RegSHO pilot firms are incentivized to lower their riskiness, which mitigates negative market reactions and reduces SEO underpricing. We find that, consistent with the conjecture, the pilot firms have lower risk and experience smaller SEO underpricing. In addition, the pilot firms tend to issue more equity to take advantage of the lower equity financing cost. Overall results support that firm riskiness has important impacts on SEO underpricing. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Jun Zhang, Siqi Wei 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. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Nevada‐Las Vegas PI/PDs: Jun Zhang, Qin Wang University of Nevada‐Las Vegas: D. Scott Lee
Is Options Trading Informed? Evidence from Credit Rating Change Announcements
This study examines the information content of options trading prior to credit rating change
announcements. Pre‐event informed options trading predicts cumulative abnormal returns
around credit rating change announcements. The predictability of options trading is more
pronounced before announcements of more severe and surprising rating changes such as
downgrades, multiniche rating changes and across class rating changes. The information content
of options trading is greater when the underlying stock market is less informational, when the
options market is more liquid, and in the post‐Reg FD period. Overall results are consistent with
informed options trading prior to credit rating change announcements.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Jun Zhang
Local Institutional Investors and Seasoned Equity Offerings
This paper investigates the impact of local institutional investors on firms’ seasoned equity
offerings (SEOs). Equity issuers with (more) local institutional investors and higher local
institutional ownership experience higher SEO announcement returns. The causal effect is
established by exploiting exogenous shocks to local institutional ownership generated by
reconstitutions of the Russell 1000 and 2000 indexes. The finding is more pronounced for firms
with greater agency problems and robust to the correction of sample selection bias. Overall
results suggest that monitoring by local institutional investors helps reducing agency problems
and mitigating negative market reactions to SEOs.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Jun Zhang
The Efficacy of Buying Stocks on Margin
In this paper, I explore the historical return distributions of various levered investment
strategies in equities and test whether investing in stocks using broker’s call loans is more
effective than investing in stocks on a cash only basis. Using the CRSP value weighted index as
well as randomly selected portfolios of stocks, I simulate investment on margin using the rules
that brokers impose on investors. sing portfolios of stocks as test assets, I find that investing in
stocks on margin is also more effective than investing in stocks on cash, regardless of the policy
stance of the Fed. Other extensive tests are conducted.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Jeffrey M. Mercer, Eric Sisneros
TIPS in the Rearview Mirror: A Relative Performance Comparison
Abstract: We study the ex‐post performance of Treasury Inflation‐Protected Securities (TIPS)
relative to a maturity‐matched nominal Treasury security. We construct two performance
measures, a wealth relative ratio and wealth difference, to explore the performance from the
investor’s perspective. We find that TIPS significantly outperform their maturity‐matched
nominal security because the actual inflation exceeds ex‐ante inflation expectations. We show
that a taxable TIPS investor may realize negative net cash flows, and confirm that the unique
tax treatment of TIPS does not impact the relative performance.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas Tech University
PI/PDs: Eric Sisneros
Texas Tech University: Joshua Fairbanks, Scott E. Hein
Volatility Modeling Using High Frequency Data to Identify Bitcoin Price Bubbles The cryptocurrency Bitcoin has garnered significant interest across the globe. At the beginning of 2017, Bitcoin, was trading in the neighborhood of $970, by December it reached $19,800. Using high frequency trade data, we make use of a statistical test to determine if Bitcoin prices were in a financial bubble. A bubble is confirmed if the price process is a strict local martingale, and not a true martingale. We find that Bitcoin was in intermittently in a bubble during the years 2017 and 2018. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Vijay Gautam, David Carter Mathematics: Weiping Li Non‐interest Income, Bank Profitability and Risk, During the COVID‐19 Pandemic We investigate the effect of non‐interest income on measures of bank performance and risk taking during the 2020 COVID‐19 pandemic. In general, higher levels of non‐interest income are associated with greater profitability and lower levels of risk. Further, changes in non‐interest income are positively related to changes in performance and negatively related to changes in risk. This suggests increases in non‐interest income increase profitability, while reducing bank risk. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Pennsylvania State University Behrend, Zhejiang University PI/PDs: David Carter Pennsylvania State University Behrend: Hongrui Feng, Sebastian Zhao Zhejiang University: Xingjian Li The Effect of the COVID‐19 Pandemic on the Travel and Tourism Industry We investigate the effect of COVID‐19 related news announcements on the stock of firms in the travel and tourism industry (airlines, cruise lines, hotels, etc.). We expect that all firms will be affected by the announcements but we test whether market participants differentiated firms by various characteristics, e.g., liquidity, debt levels, etc. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Eric Sisneros, Sharif Mazumder, David Carter, Betty Simkins
Does hedging impact stock return volatility and idiosyncratic volatility? Analysis from the airline industry This paper investigates the impact of hedging on stock return volatility and idiosyncratic volatility (IVOL) in the airline industry. Results suggest that fuel hedging has a significant negative relationship on both stock return volatility and IVOL. However, the percentage of fuel hedged is more informative than just knowing if the airline hedges its jet fuel exposure when looking at its impact on volatility. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Utah State University, St. John’s University PI/PDs: David Carter Utah State University: Jared Delisle St. John’s University: Jason Berkowitz, Kavya Dasari
SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT
Human Trafficking Awareness and Training in the Lodging Industry Human trafficking is a recognized global problem and many trafficked victims are presented as guests throughout all tiers of the lodging industry. Some lodging companies have taken the initiative to provide awareness training and protocols for reporting, but it is difficult to discern if these training methods are effective. This study examines the current training methods presented by lodging companies and the public records of their respective regions to determine if the current human trafficking training methods are having an effect on human trafficking awareness and reporting. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Catherine Curtis
Hospitality House Network National Impact Study
Hospitality houses are places where family members of a hospitalized individual may seek shelter, food, and clothing. Most of these hospitality houses are affiliated with hospitals and medical centers. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Hospitality House programs by measuring the effectiveness of the hospitality programs and activities, identifying effective program policies, and to understand the program purpose from the client’s perspective. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Catherine Curtis, Denna Wheeler
Food Choices and health outcomes amongst foodservice employees: Impact of work environment Food choices impact health outcomes, and negatively in the absence of inefficient self‐monitoring behavior. Social and environmental factors can further augment inefficiency in individuals’ ability self‐monitoring food choices. Work place routines can be disruptive and have been associated with negative health outcomes. The purpose of this study is to investigate how workplace routines can negatively impact self‐monitoring of food choices, and thereby be associated with adverse health outcomes. The research question for this study is as follows: How do work place routines impact self‐monitoring of food choices and the incidence of non‐communicable or chronic diseases. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Pennsylvania State University PI/PDs: Catherine Curtis
Pennsylvania State University: Amit Sharma
Professional Development Needs of Oklahoma State University Graduate Faculty
The need for graduate faculty professional development is well documented. This study will
provide a baseline of the professional development needs of graduate faculty at OSU. A review
of comparable institutions indicated that professional development of faculty focuses more on
undergraduate teaching, not a comprehensive program for all aspects of being a graduate
faculty member, such as student advising, policy and procedures, and professionalism. This
study will contribute to efforts by the Graduate College and individual units to provide the
needed professional development resources to graduate faculty.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Mary Jo Self, Ki Cole, Rebecca Sheehan, David Wallace, Ranjith Ramanathan, Pouya
Jahanshahi, Birne Binegar, Catherine Curtis, Ning Wang
Unravelling Food Memories This study is about food memories and the ways local households embody the process of food preparation. Using narrative inquiry, this working paper presents vignettes of how food memories are preserved through time. Through the embodied act of cooking with participants, kitchen conversations, and artifact collections, this study voices the stories and memories passed down by generations of familial cooking traditions, informing the contents and preparation of Oklahoman meals. Findings provide a source of ideas with a focus on the embodiment of cooking while shedding light to many areas of hospitality and tourism through food. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Li Miao Vicarious Authenticity in Tourism
This study proposes a new type of authenticity called Vicarious Authenticity achieved by
participating in someone else’s authentic lived experience, using experientialism as a
philosophical base. This study will also develop a measurement scale for this new concept by
taking both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The item pool will be derived from
multiple sources: previous research, online blog postings, and focus group interviews. The items
will be purified via an expert panel and pilot study. The refined measurement scale then will be
validated through two waves of data collection through online research platforms and data
analyses.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Li Miao
The Impact of Psychological Distance on Decision Making in the Hotel and Airbnb Contexts
This working paper proposes that multiple sources of psychological distance (temporal, spatial,
and social distances) have interactive effects on consumers’ perceptions and behaviors. Study
1; (hotel context) proposes that when temporally far from arrival, hotel bookers who have the
‘pay later’ option feel less burdened by payments and have higher booking intention. Study 2;
(Airbnb context) proposes that when temporally and spatially far from arrival, room bookers
who have short social distance are more likely to trust the host and have higher booking
intention. This study offers suggestions on how to drive bookings more effectively depending
on consumers' psychological distance.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Li Miao
Applying psycho‐physiological methods to comparison of Virtual Reality visualizations to traditional visualizations in hotel settings. VR visualizations of a hotel room will be compared to 2‐D hotel room images in terms of emotional, attitudinal, and behavioral responses utilizing psycho‐physiological measurement methods in addition to traditional survey methods. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Lisa Slevitch, Tilanka Chandrasekera, Luis Meja, Kate Korneva Empirical comparison of Kano categorization methods. Several Kano categorization methods will be compared in terms of categorization accuracy using computer data generated data. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Lisa Slevitch, Mindy McCann, Josephine Acosa Optimizing Frontline Shift Composition for Increased Customer Satisfaction and Firm Performance. The effects of shift composition on customer satisfaction and firm performance will be examined in OSU dining services using qualitative approach. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Tom Arnold, Lisa Slevitch Comparison of Virtual Reality visualizations to traditional visualizations in hotel settings
The objective of the study was to investigate how Virtual Reality (VR) visualizations compare to
traditional visualizations such as 2‐D photos in terms of; 1) affective responses, 2)
attitudinal/behavioral responses, and 3) cognitive load as a promotional tool for hotels. A quasi‐
experimental study was conducted over two time periods with independent samples. A
boutique hotel lobby and a guest room were captured in 2‐D and VR formats. Overall findings
suggest that the use of VR as a promotional tool for hotels might not be more effective than
traditional photos.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Lisa Slevitch, Tilanka Chandrasekera
Assessment of Kano Categorization Methods
The aim of the study was to; 1) critically review the existing Kano categorization methods and 2)
conduct a comprehensive empirical comparison. The accuracy of the methods was tested using
a generated dataset simulating the relationships between attribute performance and customer
satisfaction as proposed in the original Kano Model. Additionally, bootstrapping technique was
used to compare the generated dataset with a real data set.
The findings will assist with choosing the most appropriate method and also help with
application in a technically fitting manner.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Lisa Slevitch, Mindy McCann, Josie Agosa, Aisya Larasati
Building Tourism and Marketing Strategies for Oklahoma Wines The goal of 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 conducted market research to identify visitor profiles, examine visitor perceptions, conduct market‐based competitive analyses and conduct a needs assessment of winery and vineyard owners and industry stakeholders 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 (ODAFF) PI/PD: Stacy Tomas Hospitality Training for Wineries Increased visitation and sales at Oklahoma wineries can be the result of positive staff interactions through great customer service and wine knowledge. The purpose of this project is to develop a research‐based hospitality training program specific to Oklahoma wineries to help staff more fully engage with visitors and to increase tourism in many rural communities across the state. The curriculum will be developed by Oklahoma State University in consultation with an advisory committee comprised of Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, the Oklahoma Grape Industry Council and Oklahoma winery owners. The curriculum will be delivered state‐wide through regional trainings. Sponsor: Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODAFF) PI/PD: Stacy Tomas National Agritourism and Direct Sales Research From a national perspective the understanding of agritourism, as both a tourism product and as a strategy for income diversification is limited. While regional research exists across the country, a holistic and comprehensive understanding of this industry segment does not. This multi‐state research study is led and orchestrated by the University of Vermont. The Oklahoma portion of this study is being managed by OSU. Results of this project will provide comprehensive data on the industry not only in Oklahoma, but across the country, and will also be used to develop tools and resources to increase the success of agritourism enterprises. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Vermont, Oregon State University PIs/PDs: Stacy Tomas University of Vermont: Lisa Chase Oregon State University: Mary Stewart How does a menu's information about local food affect restaurant selection? The roles of
corporate social responsibility, transparency, and trust
This study's goal was to investigate the effect of customers' perceptions of a restaurant menu
that contains local food information on their restaurant selections and its underlying
mechanism. The results indicated that perceptions of menu information affect customers'
perceptions of the restaurant's transparency and corporate social responsibility (CSR) actions
positively and also affect customers' trust in the restaurant positively, but indirectly, through
perceived CSR actions. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the influence that
adding information about local foods to restaurant menus has on customers' trust and
consequently, their restaurant selection intentions.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Willie Tao, Kiyan Shafieizadeh
How do authenticity and quality perceptions affect dining experiences and recommendations
of food trucks? The moderating role of perceived risk
The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of customers’ authenticity and quality
perceptions of ethnic food trucks on their memorable dining experience (MDE) and,
consequently, word of mouth (WOM) while considering customers’ perceived risk. The results
indicated that authenticity perceptions influence quality perceptions and dining satisfaction
directly, and MDE indirectly through dining satisfaction. Moreover, dining satisfaction affects
WOM directly as well as indirectly through MDE. Among the three dimensions of perceived risk,
hygienic risk mitigates both of the relationships between authenticity perceptions and dining
satisfaction as well as between quality perceptions and dining satisfaction.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Willie Tao, Kiyan Shafieizadeh, Salman Alotaibi
What constitutes a helpful online review? Exploring child‐friendly restaurants through
structural topic modeling
This study aims to identify the constituents of a helpful online review for child‐friendly
restaurants that align with customers' expectations with and without children through
structural topic modeling. Hierarchical linear modeling results indicated that reviewers’ profile,
readability, and certain topics embedded in the textual reviews, and the negativity of ratings
significantly influenced the perceived helpfulness of an online review. Moreover, the discussion
of atmosphere and waiting time disclosed in a review attributes to the perceived helpfulness.
The study provides practical implications for the foodservice industry while rendering intriguing
theoretical insights into the complex information processing of online reviews.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Willie Tao, Yi (Estella) Zhang, Li Miao
Instagram—Home to the secretless pastry chef: A systems model of culinary creativity and
knowledge sharing
Culinary knowledge resembles highly valued and safeguarded intellectual property among
culinary practitioners. Using an integrated theoretical framework informed by
Csikszentmihalyi’s systems model of creativity and Borkenhagen’s praxis of open source
cooking, this study investigates the extent of this sharing phenomenon on Instagram. A
qualitatively‐driven mixed‐method approach was employed, and 2,456 Instagram posts were
analyzed alongside interviews with elite pastry chefs. Our findings converge to form a new
theoretical model that accounts for the multifaceted considerations of culinary creativity and
knowledge sharing, which delineates how elite pastry chefs share knowledge and express
creativity mindfully, ethically, and altruistically on social media.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Willie Tao, Kai‐Sean Lee
How to communicate corporate social responsibility‐related messages on Twitter? Lessons
learned from the top green restaurants
It is unclear which types of CSR activities or communication strategies are more effective in
terms of influence on consumers’ attitudinal responses, especially for restaurants. To address
this gap, this study collected 136 CSR‐related posts and 3,408 stakeholders’ replies from four
top green restaurants’ Twitter accounts. It was found that CSR activities related to local
community and society were as important as the activities related to environment. Further, the
engagement CSR communication strategy had a stronger influence on customers’ attitudinal
responses, generating more positive sentiments than broadcasting or reactive strategies on
Twitter.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Willie Tao, Kyong Sik Sung, Lisa Slevitch
DEPARTMENT OF MANAGEMENT AND LEGAL STUDIES
Toward an Understanding of Advice‐Seeking Behavior:
A Social Network Perspective on Seeking Advice and Gaining Influence in Organizations
Abstract
Drawing upon theories of proactivity and impression management, we investigate the
relationship between advice seeking and perceptions of influence in organizations. 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
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Oklahoma, University of North Texas,
University of Dallas
PI/PDs: Wm. Matthew Bowler
University of Oklahoma: Mark Bolino
University of North Texas: Vicki Goodwin
University of Dallas: J. Lee Whittington
Clarity Lost: Triangulation Wherefore Art Thou?
As we call to mind the many challenges faced in research methods, the methodological
questions pondered involve the relevancy of traditional measures of firm performance. Do old
beliefs still hold true or should there be a reassessment of existing tools? Since the days of
paradigm shifts and multiple paradigm development, triangulation was used to find new
meaning. This paper takes a triangulated perspective of triangulation from the philosophical
design of the question, measurement issues, and how linkages can be discovered to shine new
light on an old(er) method.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Georgia College, Maynooth University
PI/PDs: Wm. Matthew Bowler, Oklahoma State
Georgia College: Bob Duesing
Maynooth University: Margaret A. White
Clandestine ties: Unlocking hidden social capital or hidden pitfalls.
The purpose of this paper is to provide a conceptual exploration of hard to observe workplace
relationships and their implications for managers who seek to realize the benefits of social
capital. Specifically, we examine the nature of covert and incidental ties and offer a series of
testable propositions. A typology of covert and incidental ties is offered, distinguishing ties by
the distance between actors and the desire for relationship secrecy. Implications of covert and
incidental ties and future research directions are provided.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Houston‐Clear Lake, Creighton University
PI/PDs: Wm. Matthew Bowler
University of Houston‐Clear Lake: Troy Voelker
Creighton University: Matthew T. Seevers
Abstract: An Empirical Study of Patent Grant Rate as a Function of Race and
Gender
In this article, we examine the rate at which patent applications are granted as a function
of the inventor’s race and gender. Empirical analysis of over 3.9 million United States
applications finds minority and women applicants are significantly less likely to secure a patent
relative to the balance of inventors. Further analysis indicates that a portion of this bias is
introduced during prosecution at the Patent Office, independent of the quality of the
application. The paper concludes with a discussion of our results and their interaction with
patent law, innovation policy, and employment trends.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Missouri State University
PI/PDs: Evan Davis, Kourtenay Schley
Missouri State University: Julie Ravenscraft
University of Georgia: Mike Schuster
Toward a More Comprehensive Evaluation of Interventions: A Dose Curve Analysis of an
Explicit Timing Intervention
When remedying student academic deficits, educators must not only decide upon the
intervention package to employ, but how much of that intervention to deliver in order to
provide an effective dose. Discussion focuses on how using dose curve analysis can provide a
more comprehensive evaluation of interventions which can better inform practitioners who are
attempting to prevent and remedy academic skill deficits. Implications for future studies and
expanded evaluation of treatments and treatment catalysts are also discussed.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Evan Davis, Gary Duhon
When Challenges Hinder: An Investigation of When and How Challenge Stressors Impact
Employee Outcomes.
Challenge stressors (such as high workload or difficult assignments) represent a class of
workplace demands that are thought to represent a net benefit to employees. This has elicited
beliefs that managers can enhance performance outcomes by increasing the challenge stressors
experienced at work. This paper questions conventional wisdom by developing theory that
explains how different patterns of challenge stress exposure influence employee outcomes.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Arkansas, Texas Christian University,
University of Central Florida, University of Nebraska, Virginia Commonwealth University,
PI/PDs: Nikos Dimotakis
University of Arkansas: Chris Rosen, Lauren Simon
Texas Christian University: Michael Cole
University of Central Florida: Shannon Taylor
University of Nebraska: Troy Smith
Virginia Commonwealth University: Chris Reina
Does Servant Leadership’s People Focus Facilitate or Constrain its Positive Impact on
Performance? An Examination of Servant Leadership’s Direct, Indirect, and Total Effects on
Branch Financial Performance
Servant leadership theory argues that leaders that adopt this style tend to prioritize people
more than production. How that affects the company’s financial performance is unclear,
however. We show that while servant leadership is still associated with positive financial
performance outcomes, it is also associated with an organizational climate that tends to divert
resources to supporting coworkers rather than organizational goals, thus simultaneously yet
indirectly lowering unit financial performance.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Georgia State University, Texas Tech University
PI/PDs: Nikos Dimotakis
Georgia State University: Chad Hartnell
Texas Tech University: Liz Karam
Hierarchical Leadership Versus Self‐Management in Teams: Goal Orientation Diversity as
Moderator of Their Relative Effectiveness
Self‐managed teams can be effective, but we do not fully understand when. Building on the
authority differentiation, substitutes for leadership, and social hierarchy literatures, we propose
that self‐managed teams require that team members are aligned in their goal orientations. By
contrast, typical hierarchical teams can function more effectively when team members have
diverse goal orientations.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University,
Drexel University, Michigan State University, Queen’s University, Texas Tech University,
Delaware State University
PI/PDs: Nikos Dimotakis
Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University: Anne Nederveen Pieterse
Drexel University: Dan Van Knippenberg
Michigan State University: John Hollenbeck
Queen’s University: Matthias Spitzmuller
Texas Tech University: Elizabeth Karam
Delaware State University: Dustin Sleesman
“How Dare You?!”: The Moderating Role of Employee Performance on the Effects of Abusive
Supervision
High performers are extremely important members of an organization due to their contribution
performance and status as role models to other employees. We depart from the notion that
only low performers are abused in the workplace by examining whether job performance
impacts how employees respond attitudinally and behaviorally to abusive supervision.
Subsequently, we discover that among high performers abusive supervision indirectly enhances
dysfunctional resistance, turnover intentions, and reduces organizational commitment through
job satisfaction, whereas lower performers are unscathed by the abuse.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Southern Methodist University, University of Nebraska,
Ohio State University
PI/PDs: Nikos Dimotakis
Southern Methodist University: Artemis Boulamatsi
University of Nebraska: Troy Smith
Ohio State University: Ben Tepper
Is (in)consistency Key? Understanding How Patterns of Abusive Supervision Influence
Employee Anxiety and Engagement
Abusive supervision has harmful, far‐reaching effects on a broad range of employee outcomes.
These effects can be particularly strong when an employee’s experience of abuse is
unanticipated or persists outside of their realm of control. We posit that an examination of
abusive supervision over time will capture cumulative or combinatory effects previously
overlooked. Over four studies, we investigate how consistent and inconsistent levels of abuse
relate to feelings of anxiety.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas A&M, University of Arkansas, Mercer University,
Townson University
PI/PDs: Nikos Dimotakis
Texas A&M: Joel Koopman, Young Lee
University of Arkansas: Lauren Simon
Mercer University: Juanita Forrester
Townson University: Tanja Darden
Examining the Interplay Between Counterproductive Work Behavior and Negative Affect
We aim to explain how people are affected by their own negative behaviors. Negative feelings
bring about such behaviors, but they do not affect subsequent moods for the average person.
We show individual’s empathy determines how people feel after engaging in negative tasks,
with low empathy people feeling better, and high empathy people feeling worse.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Ohio State University, Central Connecticut State
University, Texas A&M, University North Carolina, Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania,
University of Georgia, Athens
PI/PDs: Nikos Dimotakis
Ohio State: Bennett J. Tepper, Robert Lount
Central Connecticut State University: James Conway
Texas A&M: Joel Koopman, Young Lee
University North Carolina: Steven G. Rogelberg
Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania: Virginia E. Pitts
University of Georgia, Athens: Fadel Matta
Gains and Losses: Week‐to‐Week Changes in Leader‐Follower Relationships.
Leader‐Member Exchange (LMX) theory and research suggest that leader‐follower relationships
develop during the early stages of the dyad, mature relatively rapidly and then stabilize. We
predict that leader‐follower relationships, like other types of relationships, can improve or
deteriorate over time and that these shifts influence follower affect and behavior on the job.
Results showed that when LMX improved from one week to the next (gains), employees
experienced positive affect and were more likely to engage in positive discretionary behavior
(OCBs). When LMX deteriorated over the prior week (loss), they experienced negative affect
and engaged in more negative discretionary behavior (CWBs).
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Ottawa, Southern Methodist University,
Ohio State University, Georgia State University
PI/PDs: Dimotakis, N., Lambert, L. S., Fu, S.
University of Ottawa: Corner, A. J.
Southern Methodist University: Boulamatsi, A.
Ohio State University: Tepper, B. J.
Georgia State University: Maurer, T.
Why Some Leaders Develop Trust More Rapidly and Whether It Matters
Existing research has provided important insights regarding the positive impact that the level of
trust in a leader has on organizational outcomes. Less attention, however, has been given to
fact that trust changes over time. We investigate whether changes in trust, above and beyond
the level of trust, impacts leader and unit effectiveness. The highest levels of effectiveness were
associated with leaders who exhibited an increase in their followers’ trust as the relationship
developed.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Washington University, Saint Louis, Wake Forest
University, West Point
PI/PDs: Nikos Dimotakis
Washington University, Saint Louis: Kurt Dirks
Wake Forest University: Pat Sweeney
West Point: Todd Woodruff
Dim receptions: How Newcomer Competence in the Eyes of Their Veteran Peers Affect
Socialization.
Veteran peers play an important role in the integration of organizational newcomers. Previous
research suggest that they help new employees acquire the necessary tools to perform their
role, build relationships within and outside the organization, and adjust to the new work
environment. This view, however, contradicts recent data that companies lose almost half of
their new hires within the first eighteen months of employment, with tensions with their
coworkers as a main contributing factor of their early departure. This paper aims to explain how
newcomers’ personal characteristics that signal status cues inform veteran peers’ social
judgments and reactions to newcomers.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Southern Methodist University, Georgia State University,
University of Nebraska
PI/PDs: Nikos Dimotakis
Southern Methodist University: Artemis Boulamatsi
Georgia State University: Songqi Liu
University of Nebraska: Blake Runnalls
Overwork, Underwork, Wealth and Time Satisfaction as Predictors of Organizational
Turnover.
We investigated the effects of congruence and incongruence between preferred and actual
levels of workload on workplace attitudes and how these attitudes, in turn, related to individual
job change behaviors. We proposed and found that working as much as desired is associated
with time satisfaction and wealth satisfaction, while working more (overwork) or less
(underwork) than desired is associated with dissatisfaction with time and wealth, respectively.
These domain satisfactions were associated with general job satisfaction, which in turn was
associated with turnover.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Nebraska
PI/PDs: Nikos Dimotakis
University of Nebraska: Haolin Fu
“I didn’t see that coming!”: Effects of As‐Expected and Un‐Expected Workload Levels on
Well‐Being Through Anxiety
Workload is a ubiquitous feature of the workplace, and one that has been a focus of
investigations for decades. In contrast to other workplace aversive experiences, workload
cannot be eliminated; thus, research has focused on identifying factors that could alleviate its
negative consequences instead, with much of this focusing on the buffering effects of
organizational resources. We propose that an unexamined characteristic of workload has the
potential to inform much of this literature and thus help to clarify future work. We propose and
find that the degree (and type) of workload unexpectedness is associated with well‐being via
anxiety.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas A&M, Ohio State University
PI/PDs: Nikos Dimotakis, Sherry Fu
Texas A&M: Joel Koopman
Ohio State University: Ben Tepper
Is Holding Two Jobs Too Much? An Examination of Dual Jobholders.
Many people work two jobs but this can leave them tired and devoid of energy. We showed
that dual jobholders are able to perform both jobs as adequately as their single jobholding
counterparts. However, dual jobholders face obstacles that single jobholders do not, in the
form of high levels of work‐family conflict.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Ball State University, University of South Alabama
PI/PDs: Bryan D. Edwards
Ball State University: Brian D. Webster
University of South Alabama: Mickey B. Smith
Does Holding a Second Job Viewed as a Calling Impact One’s Work at the Primary Job?
If someone works two jobs it is assumed that second job will interfere with the primary job.
However, we showed that this is only true when the second job is viewed as a calling as
opposed to a second job taken simply for extra money. The findings add to a slim body of
literature highlighting vulnerabilities associated with callings.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Ball State University
PI/PDs: Bryan D. Edwards
Ball State University, Brian D. Webster
Selecting Response Anchors with Equal Intervals for Summated Rating Scales
Constructing survey questions with equal distant properties (i.e., interval or ratio data) is
important if researchers plan to analyze the data using parametric statistics. As such, the
present study provided a list of the most common contexts in which summated rating scales are
used (i.e. agreement, similarity, frequency, amount, and judgment) empirical data on the
psychological distance between the verbal anchors on a number line.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Denver, Illinois Institute of Technology
PI/PDs: Bryan D. Edwards
Rowan University, Wm Camron Casper
University of Denver, J. Craig Wallace
Illinois Institute of Technology, Ronald S Landis
Why so negative? The cumulative effect of organizational change on employees
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University; Academy of Management
Organizational change research concludes that employees always appraise changes in their
workplace negatively and thus respond negatively to greater amounts of change. However,
most studies examined single workplace changes in isolation or asked employees to make a
global assessment of changing nature of their workplace. Therefore, we developed and
validated the Quantity of Change Scale (QoC) to provide a more nuanced understanding of
employees’ appraisals of their changing workplace.
PI/PDs: Bryan D. Edwards
University of Houston, Kristin L. Cullen‐Lester
Ball State University, Brian D. Webster
Center for Creative Leadership, Phillip Braddy
Employee Entitlement, Engagement, and Performance: The Moderating Effect of Ethical
Leadership.
Because of their skewed sense of deservingness, employees high in entitlement are less likely
to experience workplace engagement. Furthermore, the negative relationship between
employee entitlement and workplace engagement is stronger with supervisors low in ethical
leadership, but mitigated when ethical leadership is high. We also showed that under
conditions of low ethical leadership, low levels of engagement explain why employee
entitlement results in poorer job performance. But, this effect does not hold when ethical
leadership is high.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Toby Joplin, Bryan D. Edwards
Rutgers University, Rebecca Greenbaum
Clemson University, J. Craig Wallace
Examining Houston Sport Organizations’ Disaster Relief Efforts Following Hurricane Harvey
Sport organizations have often been active in community recovery following natural or man‐
made disasters. Following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, members of the Yankees
baseball team visited several sites throughout New York City. In New Orleans, members of the
Saints National Football League franchise actively served in volunteer roles and fundraising
following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The research questions focused on
identifying the types of responses to the disaster and exploring the sport organizations leader’s
perspectives on the relief process.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Bryan Finch
Investigating Collegiate Athletics' Post‐disaster Community Support
Organizational response during disaster recovery has been examined in various communities
around the world. Researchers have included government agencies, businesses and non‐profit
group in their investigations. This study sought to examine the responses of a National
Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) athletic program at Oklahoma State University (OSU)
following a tragic community event in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Results found six of the eleven
categories of disaster response from Inoue and Havard (2015) and interview data suggested
that collegiate athletics did provide distinct recovery effects for various stakeholders.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Bryan Finch
Endogeneity
Acquiescing to two decades of warnings that endogeneity may threaten the validity of empirical
claims, management scholars now frequently mention endogeneity in their discussion of
methods and results. However, as methods for addressing endogeneity are highly technical and
frequently developed in other disciplines, the knowledge of the methods among authors and
reviewers is fragmented, leading to confusion over the presence, causes, consequences, and
remedies for endogeneity. We summarize the approaches used to address endogeneity,
explaining the assumptions, data requirements, specification tests, and strengths and
weaknesses of each major approach. The resulting review builds literacy about ways to address
endogeneity.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Florida, Iowa State University, Indiana
University
PI/PDs: Lindsey Greco
University of Florida: Aaron Hill
Iowa State University: Scott Johnson
Indiana University: Ernest O’Boyle, Sheri Walter
A Meta‐analytic Review of Identification at Work: Relative Contribution of Professional,
Team, and Organizational Identification
We meta‐analytically test the relationship between each identification target and twenty‐three
attitudes, behaviors and affective states at work with 431 studies and 476 independent samples
(N=154,765). Moreover, our results provide evidence for the relative importance of each
identification target. We found that organizational identification was the most important,
compared to professional and team identification, in explaining organization‐focused attitudes,
in support for the identity matching principle. However, for behaviors, and affective states,
each identity target explained a range of variance in outcomes, failing to support the identity
matching principle.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Indiana University, Xavier University
PI/PDs: Lindsey Greco, Jeanine Porck, Anna Zabinski
Indiana University: Sheri Walter
Xavier University: Alex Scrimpshire
Moral Emotions Meta‐Analysis
Organizations are rife with situations likely to cause emotional responses in employees
including personal relationships, work stressors, and environmental considerations. The
importance of moral emotions has led to a range of studies exploring the implications of
emotions in organizational phenomena, yet despite the increase in scholarly attention, our
understanding of emotional experiences and expression in organizations is limited. We provide
a meta‐analytic review of this diverse literature.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Rutgers University, Indiana University
PI/PDs: Truit Gray, Yingli Deng, Lindsey Greco
Rutgers University: Rebecca Greenbaum
Indiana University: Ernest O’Boyle
Instrumental CWB
The dominant theoretical rationales used to explain counterproductive work behavior (CWB)
position the behavior as a reaction to negative work events. Within these widely used
frameworks CWB is preceded by aversive emotional states, with the primary goal of the
behavior being harm to an intended target. However, these approaches fail to recognize
alternative, goal‐ directed motives for CWB. This type of CWB, motivated by achievement of
planned objectives, is better conceptualized as instrumental CWB. Using a grounded theory
approach, we define four alternative motives for CWB: affiliation, conformity, status gain, and
tangible goods.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Indiana University
PI/PDs: Seth Smart, Lindsey Greco
Indiana University: Sheri Walter
Work‐Effort & Guilt
Employees may feel guilty after withholding effort on their jobs, yet explanations of when
employees feel guilty and how this guilt motivates positive behaviors such as impression
management and organizational citizenship behavior is lacking. Drawing on theories of social
identity and feedback intervention, we propose and test a model wherein employees feel guilty
when they withhold work effort, especially when employees have high work role identity
salience. This guilt, in turn, motivates impression management and organizational citizenship
behavior.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Yingli Deng, Lindsey Greco, Sherry Fu
Costs and Benefits of CWB
Current theoretical models of the antecedents of counterproductive work behaviors (CWB) are
primarily emotion‐focused, proposing that stressful work conditions contribute to negative
emotions which, in turn, cause CWB. In contrast, models of decision making propose a cognitive
analysis where individuals weigh the costs and benefits of actions prior to engaging in negative
behavior. CWB may provide easily accomplished gratification but there are often negative job
consequences. Integrating both emotional and cognitive processes, we test a model wherein
the relationship between job demands (emotional process) and CWB is moderated by the
perceived costs and benefits (cognitive process) of engaging in CWB.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, John Carroll University, Indiana University, University of
Iowa
PI/PDs: Lindsey Greco
John Carroll University: Stacy Astrove
Indiana University: Erik Gonzalez‐Mule
University of Iowa: Michael Mount
Norm‐Based Counterproductive Work Behavior
Current conceptualizations of counterproductive work behavior position it largely as norm‐
violating behavior. That is, the assumption is that such behavior is always judged negatively by
others in the organization. However, judging whether CWB is norm‐violating or norm‐
conforming depends on the referent group. This study identifies two referent groups for
establishing normative standards: society (prescriptive norms of what one should or should not
do) and the workgroup (descriptive norms based on what one typically observes) and explores
the relationship between each in predicting CWB.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Rutgers University, Indiana University
PI/PDs: Lindsey Greco, Seth Smart
Rutgers University: Rebecca Greenbaum
Indiana University: Ernest O’Boyle
Between Team Conflict and Coordination
In organizations with inter‐related project teams, the work executed by one team often
depends on the work and input of other teams. These inherent interdependencies between
teams increase the required coordination, create a need to exchange information and
knowledge, and present unique challenges for solve emerging conflicts. The results of our study
extend theoretical and practical understanding of coordination in multi‐team systems as it
relates to communication, coordination, effectiveness, and conflict.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Lindsey Greco, Jeanine Porck
Virtual Teams Meta‐Analysis
Organizations are increasingly structuring work around teams; increases in technology use,
means that most of these teams can be categorized as “virtual teams” that are comprised of
geographically and/or organizationally dispersed coworkers that are assembled using a
combination of telecommunications and information technologies. This modern reality of
teamwork creates a real need to understand the fundamental ways in which technology
impacts team functioning in terms of; 1) what are the team inputs that relate to effective
virtual team communication and performance and 2) how does the degree of virtuality relate to
team performance.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Drake University, Georgia Southern University Brigham
Young University
PI/PDs: Truit Gray, Lindsey Greco
Drake University: Ina Purvanova
Georgia Southern University: Steve Charlier
Brigham Young University: Cody Reeves
Control Theory and Employee Affective Adaptation to COVID‐19
We use control theory to outline the theoretical mechanisms of how people respond to an
ongoing crisis using different aspects of the way that it unfolds over time and how this impacts
anxiety, attitudes, and behaviors (i.e., task performance, engagement, and burnout). We show
the power of different referents either diminishes or strengthens over time as people habituate
to some changes but are overwhelmed by others. We test these predictions in a shingled ESM
study covering a 12‐week period that spans the introduction and exponential rise of the virus.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Lindsey Greco, Nikos Dimotakis, Sherry Fu, Anna Lennard
Big Bets on Biometrics – NOT YET SUBMITTED
The collection of biometric data from elite‐level athletes has become increasingly complicated,
as sports leagues, teams, and other governing organizations have begun to see potential
commercial value beyond increased performance in this data. This article is divided into five
substantive parts. 1) We provide an overview of the biometric data and its value within the
gambling marketplace. 2) Discusses the issues surrounding data ownership in the major
professional sports leagues and in college sports. 3) Examines the growth and importance of
commercial data sales within elite level athletics. 4) Analyzes the questions surrounding the
ownership of data. 5) Finally, scrutinizes other countries approaches to regulate data collection
and proposes new directions for sports organizations.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: John Holden, Kimberly A. Houser
Copyright and Joint Authorship as a Disruption of the Video Game Streaming Industry
We find copyright to provide protection to streamers over the audiovisual recording of their play,
subject to contractual limitations imposed by game companies. Analysis likewise establishes that
gamers whose play is streamed by another party may qualify as a joint author of the streamed
recording. This co‐authorship could result in multi‐millionaire streamers owing an accounting to
other players appearing in their streams. The Article then explores the potential business
implications associated with these findings and discusses potential strategies to protect the
interests of game companies and streamers.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Georgia
PI/PDs: John Holden
University of Georgia: Mike Schuster
A Short Treatise on Sports Gambling and the Law: How America Regulates Its Most Lucrative
Vice
In less than two years since the Supreme Court’s Murphy decision, nineteen U.S. states, in
addition to Washington D.C., have legalized sports betting in some form. Meanwhile, eleven
states have specifically legalized online sports betting. The article examines closely the history of
sports gambling, seminal legal decisions involving the sports betting industry, new state
regulatory systems that have emerged since the Supreme Court’s Murphy decision, newfound
legal risks for companies that operate in sports gaming markets, and important matters of public
policy related to regulating America’s most lucrative vice.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Baruch College
PI/PDs: John Holden
Baruch College: Marc Edelman
Betting on Education
Two recent changes to US federal law threaten the viability of colleges and universities. President
Trump’s signing of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) into law at the close of 2017 signified a
continued trend of decreasing funds previously available to higher education. National and state
funding cuts are resulting in a cost‐value educational crisis in the US, with tuition increasing,
students needing to borrow more, and academic programs and faculty lines being cut. We
examine the foundational relationships between gambling, taxation, and higher education in the
US and find that Murphy could actually be the catalyst for generating revenue back into colleges
and universities rather than the apocalyptic threat some have predicted.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Clemson University
PI/PDs: John Holden
Clemson University: Kathryn Kisska‐Schulze
Through the Wire Act
The nature of the Wire Act’s targeted activities is one of many questions surrounding a statute
that was applied for decades with few questions. The rise of the internet has brought on many
more questions regarding the scope of the Wire Act—questions that have become prescient in
an era of expanded legal gambling. This Article analyzes the most significant questions regarding
the application of the Wire Act and suggests that contrary to the Department of Justice’s 2018
opinion, the statute is intended to apply to a very small group of activities.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: John Holden
The #E‐Too Movement: Fighting Back Against Sexual Harassment in Electronic Sports
Competitive video gaming or esports has captured the attention of hundreds of millions of people
across the globe. But, it has also exposed an underlying toxic environment that features
widespread sexual and gender harassment. This pervasive culture of harassment threatens to
derail the esports industry, and mars the promise of gender equity in one of the few competitive
“sports” where physical strength, agility and body size do not dictate success. In this Article we
examine the rise of competitive gaming, and provide an in‐depth analysis of the pervasive issue
of harassment that permeates esports.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Georgia, Baruch College
PI/PDs: John Holden
University of Georgia: Thomas A. Baker III
Baruch College: Marc Edelman
Agency on Trial in Daily Fantasy Sport
The New York Attorney General filed a lawsuit against DraftKings and FanDuel in 2015 accusing
them of operating illegal gambling platforms. Using actor–network theory, we show how
DraftKings, FanDuel, the New York Attorney General, critics, and legislators were preoccupied
with how much agency players possessed. They also understood agency as emerging from a
sociometrical arrangement of human and nonhuman entities and saw how agency could be
enhanced or limited by introducing new rules, technologies, and constraints. We compare this
perspective on agency with theories typically used in sociology of sport and we consider how
sociologists can intervene in sport agency.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas Tech University, Florida State University
PI/PDs: John Holden
Texas Tech University: Christopher M. McLeod
Florida State University: Joshua I. Newman
Regulatory Categorization and Arbitrage: How Daily Fantasy Sports Companies Navigated
Regulatory Categories Before and After Legalized Gambling
DraftKings and FanDuel categorized themselves differently to different audiences at different
times in a manner that evaded categorization as an illegal gambling activity, only to then
dominate the sports betting market after the Supreme Court's decision in Murphy v. NCAA. We
examine how this type of strategic categorization, which we call “fluid categorization,” raises
important questions for regulators and others concerned with regulatory arbitrage.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas Tech University, Baruch College
PI/PDs: John Holden
Texas Tech University: Christopher M. McLeod
Baruch College: Marc Edelman
Law, Policy and 5G Technology: Why the U.S. Will Lose the AI Race The future of artificial intelligence, especially the Internet of Things (IoT), will rely on new communication technology once it is widely installed because it will enable data to be transferred and algorithms to run at previously impossible speeds with very low latency. A recent report by the U.S. Defense Innovation Board, however, concludes that the U.S. is ill prepared for the roll‐out of 5G. This paper will examine data laws, government policy, and the obstacles which must be addressed and warns that the failure to do so will harm the U.S.’s ability to compete in the future globally‐connected digital society. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Kimberly A. Houser
The Innovation Winter is Coming: How the U.S.‐China Trade War Endangers the World Although the U.S. was the undisputed leader in 4G technology, China is the primary supplier of 5G networking equipment and, through its Belts and Roads Initiative, seeks to spread its 5G technology throughout the world. While China has created a long‐term strategic plan for AI, the U.S. government relies on private industry to move this field forward. The U.S.‐instigated trade war with China appears to be an attempt to thwart China’s progress. This trade war not only threatens the global economy and endangers democracy, it will likely cause an innovation winter – hindering future developments in AI ‐ creating a bifurcated internet and a 5G infrastructure with non‐interchangeable components requiring the rest of the world to choose a side. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Kimberly A. Houser
Medical Marijuana Registries: A Painful Choice This paper proceeds in five parts: 1) discusses why marijuana is prescribed for patient treatment, as related to rights to healthcare and privacy. 2) Addresses the history of marijuana laws in the U.S. and how the conflict between state and federal law is currently handled. 3) Describes how contagious disease and other medical condition patient registries are treated under the law and the unique issues presented by marijuana patient registries. 4) Explores the arguments for and against the registries and the risks they propose with respect to employment, custody hearings, leasing and housing, federal programs, and fundamental privacy rights. 5) Analyzes and compares the thirty‐three state registry laws and concludes by proposing a model privacy protection provision. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Virginia Tech
PI/PDs: Kimberly A. Houser
Virginia Tech: Janine Hiller
Board Gender Diversity: A Comparison of Laws and Initiatives in the EU and U.S. California enacted a law requiring publicly held corporations headquartered in the state to appoint at least one woman to their boards. Although it is expected to be challenged as violating the U.S. Constitution, the intent of this law is to address the failure of other measures (shareholder initiatives, SEC disclosure requirements) to increase women on corporate boards. A number of countries in the EU have passed similar measures more recently, although with stronger incentives/penalties, including France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy and Germany. This paper will examine the differing laws and initiatives and assess their effectiveness and challenges. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Georgetown Law School
PI/PDs: Kimberly A. Houser
Georgetown Law School: Jamilla Bowman Williams
Elevating the CEO: the Beneficial and Detrimental Effects of Efforts to Promote the CEO
Through Firm Communication
Firms often put significant effort into developing and managing external perceptions, including
proactively managing the timing and use of external communication through an arsenal of
impression management tactics. We examine the benefits and costs associated with efforts
firms take to promote the CEO. Our preliminary results, using both press release and Twitter
data, suggest that firms do make sustained efforts to promote the visibility of new CEOs, and
those efforts are, in turn, associated with faster CEO turnover.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Georgia
PI/PDs: Jason Kiley
University of Georgia: Elle Yoon, Danny Gamache, Mike Pfarrer
Buying Approval: Differences in Acquirer and Target Perceptions and Acquisitions
Recent research suggests that the perceptions of firms by external audiences are associated
with differential strategic behaviors. However, it is not yet clear how these perceptions, and
differences in perceptions, are associated when firms interact with one another. We examine
how differences in media perceptions of acquirers and targets are associated with
characteristics of acquisitions. Our preliminary results suggest that, as perceptions of targets
increase relative to acquirers, target shareholders capture more value.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of California, Riverside, University of Virginia,
University of Georgia
PI/PDs: Jason Kiley
University of California, Riverside: John Haleblian
University of Virginia: Abbie Oliver
University of Georgia: Mike Pfarrer
Sleight of Hand: High Reputation and Corporate Governance
High‐reputation firms benefit from positive perceptions of external audiences. However, recent
research shows that the perceptions that benefit them sometimes create conflicting pressures
that are difficult to navigate. We argue that, when a range of related behavior is considered,
high‐reputation firms will avoid certain behaviors and substitute them with other, less
objectionable ones to advance the same goals. In the corporate governance context, we find
that, compared to other firms, high‐reputation firms engage in lower levels of behaviors that
are more likely to be perceived negatively by firm audiences, and they engage in higher levels
of less interpretable behaviors.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of California, Riverside, University of Georgia
PI/PDs: Jason Kiley
University of California, Riverside: John Haleblian, Alexandru Roman
University of Georgia: Mike Pfarrer
Stand Down or Stand Out?: Equity Analyst Behavior and Reputation
Though definitions differ, reputation is commonly thought to include both visibility and some
form of favorable perception. The picture is less clear when considering the path dependence
of these components, and how behaviors may be aimed to enhance or maintain them
differently. We aim to disentangle these relationships by examining the behavior of equity
analysts and the reputational outcomes associated with their behavior.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas A&M, University of Georgia, Rice University
PI/PDs: Jason Kiley
Texas A&M: Steve Boivie
University of Georgia: Scott Graffin
Rice University: Annie Zavyalova
Are Learning Adaptable Newcomers Innovative? Examining Curvilinear Effects, Mechanisms,
and Boundary Conditions
Drawing on and extending Individual Adaptability Theory, we propose that the relationship
between newcomers’ learning adaptability and their innovative behavior may be nonlinear. In
addition, two types of newcomer cognition, positive framing and role clarity, together help
explain the above link, with supervisor’s tendency to avoid uncertain situations posited as a
boundary condition. Moreover, high levels of role clarity weakened the positive effect of
newcomers’ positive framing on their innovative behavior.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Southern Methodist University, Georgia State University
PI/PDs: Lambert, L. S.
Southern Methodist University: Boulamatsi, A.
Georgia State University: Liu, S.
Peking University: Yao, X., Guo, R., & Yin, J.
"Just Right": A Person‐Environment Fit Approach to Visionary Leadership Visionary leadership has long been credited with increasing employees’ positive attitudes and performance despite early theoretical reasoning that it may also be associated with negative effects. This research applies person‐environment fit (P‐E) theory to visionary leadership theory and examines the joint effect of the visionary leadership that employees need and receive on their attitudes toward their supervisors. Results from two studies showed that trust in the supervisor was most positive when visionary leadership received matched the amount needed by each employee and attitudes became more negative as visionary leadership received was less than or more than the needed amount. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Indiana University East, Ohio State University, North Carolina State University, Brigham Young University, Kennesaw State University PI/PDs: Lambert, L. S. Indiana University East: Goo, W. Ohio State University: Tepper, B. J. North Carolina State University: Carr, J. C. Brigham Young University: Bingham J. B. Kennesaw State University: Hiatt, M. Affective Commitment, Trust, and the Psychological Contract: Contributions Matter, too! Within a psychological contract, employees’ receipt of inducements is associated with trust and affective commitment, signaling a strong reciprocal relationship with the organization. We theorize that employees’ contributions of time, physical and intellectual effort are also related to trust and commitment, independent of the role of inducements. In short, the acts of promising and contributing towards organizational goals may allow employees to evaluate the trustworthiness of the organization and to develop affective commitment. Results suggest that contributions to organizational goals may constitute a path to their feelings of commitment, but that commitment is highest when delivered contributions are within close range of promised amounts. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Brigham Young University PI/PDs: Lambert, L. S., Zabinski, A. Brigham Young University: Bingham, J.
Construct Development and Validation in Three Practical Steps: Recommendations for
Authors, Reviewers and Editors
We review contemporary best practice for developing and validating measures of constructs. The three basic steps in scale development are: 1) construct definition, 2) choosing operationalizations that match the construct definition, and 3) obtaining empirical evidence to confirm construct validity. While summarizing this 3‐step process, we address how to establish construct validity and provide a checklist for journal reviewers and authors when evaluating the validity of measures. We pay special attention to construct conceptualization, acknowledging existing constructs, improving existing measures, multidimensional constructs, macro‐level constructs, and the need for independent samples to confirm construct validity and measurement equivalence across subpopulations.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Illinois
PI/PDs: Lambert, L. S.
University of Illinois: Newman, D.A.
Supervisors’ Trust in their Subordinates: A Quantitative and Qualitative Exploration of Trust
and Trustworthiness
Subordinates assess the trustworthiness of their supervisors based on their ability, benevolence
and integrity. Supervisors’ assessments of trustworthiness have been presumed to rely on
these same dimensions, but the inherently asymmetrical relationship between subordinate and
the supervisor suggests that the development of trust for the supervisor and the subordinate
may differ. Using quantitative and qualitative data, the authors provide evidence that
supervisors and subordinates focus on different aspects of trustworthiness in assessing whether
to trust someone. Within the context of the supervisor‐subordinate relationship, this study lays
the groundwork for a new dimension of trustworthiness, subordinates’ development over time.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Caucasus University, Towson State University, Xavier
University, Abraham Baldwin College
PI/PDs: Lambert, L. S.
Caucasus University: Brekashvili, P.
Abraham Baldwin College: Currie, R.
Xavier University: Hardt, G.
Towson State University: Darden, T.
Too Much of a Good Thing: Prosocial Fit Predicting Job Satisfaction and Pride
We examined the implicit assumption that increasing prosocial values and impact will have
increasing benefits for organizations and employees by considering that employees likely vary
in the strength of their prosocial values and that their jobs offer varying amounts of opportunity
to experience prosocial impact. Our results indicate that employee attitudes vary substantively
depending on whether prosocial supplies meet, are deficient of, or in excess of, prosocial
values. Both deficiency and excess were associated with lower satisfaction and pride, but the
relationship was asymmetrical such that the effects of deficiency were more severe.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: L. S. Lambert, Anna Zabinski, Abbey Davis, Cassidy Creech, Nick Hayden
Emotion Regulation and Work family conflict
We expand emotional labor beyond the work domain to demonstrate how experiences at
home can help employees recover from the emotional requirements of their job. By creating a
much‐needed connection between theorizing on emotional labor and appraisal theory, we
explain those processes by focusing on surface acting at home and subsequent responses. We
demonstrate that emotional labor is not merely an intrapersonal process; it is an interpersonal
process where its implications are as much determined by the response from the recipient of
the surface acting as they are by engaging in the act itself.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Michigan State, University of Nebraska
PI/PDs: Anna Lennard
Michigan State: Brent Scott
University of Nebraska: Amy Bartels
Justice Needs: A Polynomial Perspective
It is typically assumed that the receipt of justice is always desirable and results in exclusively
positive consequences for individuals. This assumption owes to the fact that justice serves
important psychological needs, yet the daily salience or importance of those needs can
fluctuate. Thus, there may be days when employees do not necessarily desire justice, and as a
consequence, higher levels of justice on those days may actually be problematic. In this paper,
we use person‐environment fit to explicate the consequences of congruence across employees’
levels of justice needed and received.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Georgia, Texas A&M, Michigan State
PI/PDs: Anna Lennard
University of Georgia: Fadel Matta, Szu‐Han Lin
Texas A&M: Joel Koopman
Michigan State: Russell Johnson
Escalation of Commitment
Escalation drivers affect projects at different stages, but time and different organizational levels
of influence are often not considered in the escalation of commitment literature, and there is
little theory to organize and delineate these various drivers and contexts. We believe that these
limitations in theorizing are reducing the usefulness of escalation of commitment research and
aim to build new theory on escalation of commitment by using the organizational commitment
literature as a lens to understand how commitment can increase over the lifetime of a project
and what situational and personal drivers of commitment can be impactful.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Michigan State
PI/PDs: Anna Lennard
Michigan State: Donald Conlon, Gerry McNamara
How Network Position and Structure Shape Managerial Responses to Underperformance
Recent performance feedback literature highlights the difference between social and historical
aspirations, and we theorize and examine how a firm’s network position and configuration
creates distinct social pressures that impact managers’ prioritization of performance feedback
sources. We use a dataset of the alliance networks of 4,726 firms from 2000‐2015.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Owen Parker, Taha Havakhor, Jake Duke, Rachel Mui
Novel Ends and Common Means: How Poor Product Quality Shapes Multidimensional Search
Despite growing recognition that managers search for solutions across multiple dimensions in
response to poor performance, scholarly understanding of a multidimensional search process is
lacking. We examine this question in the realm of new product development, distinguishing
between the two components of means‐oriented search (i.e., the product development
process) and ends‐oriented search (i.e., the product features). Our dataset consists of empirical
tests of 810 feature film observations across 16 studios in the U.S. film industry from 2000‐2010
largely supports our arguments.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Nebraska
PI/PDs: Owen Parker, Rachel Mui
University of Nebraska‐Lincoln: Varkey Titus
Change is the Only Constant: The Fit between Exploitation, Imitation, and Collaborative
History.
Firms can achieve relatively certain returns from both exploitation and imitation if the
individuals tasked with implementing product positioning efforts possess the appropriate
experiential resources. To address this, we draw on contingency theory to examine the fit
between product positioning and collaborative history of those engaged in product
development. We test our predictions in the context of the video game industry, with a sample
of 1,057 video games released by 53 game publishers from 1996 to 2013, spanning 40,968
individual personnel with 90,010 person‐game observations.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, North Carolina State University, Arizona State University
PI/PDs: Owen Parker, Rachel Mui
North Carolina State University: Nachiket Bhawe
Arizona State University: Matthew Semadeni
When the Spotlight Burns: Social Media and the High Price of ‘Playing Hardball’ for Female
Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs are subject to a variety of evaluative social judgments from diverse stakeholder
groups, yet most empirical research tends to examine analytical assessments from investors.
We posit that female‐dominant teams will receive less social approval than other teams due to
the perceived incongruence with the masculine entrepreneurial stereotype. We then propose
that there are moderating factors—the number of investment offers made, whether a deal is
struck, and the gender of the investor—that may exacerbate or alleviate this bias.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Nebraska‐Lincoln
PI/PDs: Owen Parker
University of Nebraska‐Lincoln: Varkey Titus, Jon O’Brien, Christopher Aumueller
The Role of Quality Sequences in Reputation Formation
Given the surge of interest in liabilities of high reputation, we draw upon signaling and information
processing theories to examine how “product quality disappointments” differentially affect
perceptions of a firm’s reputation for quality. We theorize that disappointment has different
implications for modest versus high accumulations of product quality, asserting that high quality is
relatively insensitive to the hazards of quality disappointment. We use a randomized, controlled
experiment to examine perceived reputation for nine distinct sequences of three product
introductions and their associated quality ratings, and find effects on observers’ perceptions of
reputation for quality which generally support our hypotheses.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Nebraska
PI/PDs: Owen Parker, Kevin Gong, Rachel Mui
University of Nebraska‐Lincoln: Varkey Titus
Status Position and Durability as Drivers of Aspiration Salience Given developments in the performance aspiration literature that highlight the differential
effects of social versus historical aspiration, we examine how firm status, measured by
networking positioning and structure, impacts the salience of response towards different
performance feedback sources. We posit that firms with central status positions in the network
are more concerned with outperforming peers to maintain their position and thus are more
responsive to social rather than historical aspirations. Our dataset includes alliance and board
interlock networks of 4,726 firms from 2000‐2015.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Owen Parker, Jake Duke, Taha Havakhor, Rachel Mui,
External Attributions of Failure and Managerial Responses to Underperformance
The problem of underperformance is a central consideration of strategic management. Within
the tradition of the behavioral theory of the firm (BTF), research focuses on managerial
responses to underperformance, particularly as it relates to search activities sparked by
performing below an aspirational threshold (referred to as “problemistic search”). However,
research has focused on the action outcome of underperformance at the expense of examining
the cognitions surrounding the response itself, and we must consider how they perceive their
role in the firm’s underperformance. We draw on attribution theory to explain managerial
cognitions in the wake of negative performance feedback.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Nebraska‐Lincoln
PI/PDs: Owen Parker
University of Nebraska‐Lincoln: Varkey Titus, Jon O’Brien
Conductor Gender, Stylistic Conformity, and Performance of American Orchestras.
With this paper, we examine how a conductor’s gender influences their conformity to norms in
selecting orchestral programming for an orchestra performance season.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Owen Parker, Rachel Mui
Diversification as Performance Feedback Response Among ICT Firms.
An issue that has plagued behavioral theory research is the definition of one’s peers when
making performance comparisons and setting performance aspirations. In this paper, we
address this issue by creating inductive measures of strategic groups using overlap in content of
products and services offered by the firms in a network.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Nebraska‐Lincoln
PI/PDs: Owen Parker
University of Nebraska‐Lincoln: Varkey Titus, Jon O’Brien
The Formation and Maintenance of Reputation for Innovation
Firms can obtain a reputation for innovation in numerous ways, but less is known about which
elements contribute most strongly to this reputation formation process. We use data from the
Fortune’s Most Admired Companies ranking, data on R&D spending, and patent activities to
determine which elements and in what combination most strongly drive reputation for
innovation.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Arizona State University
PI/PDs: Owen Parker, Taha Havakhor, Mike Schuster
Arizona State University: Fei Li
Reputation Divergence and Firm Responses
While substantial research examines the performance implications of reputation and how
reputation can shape firm decisions, much less is known about how the divergence between a
firm’s multiple reputations, e.g., reputation for innovation and reputation for product quality,
drive decisions. We examine one key outcome, R&D spending, and theorize and test how the
effect of a firm’s long‐term value reputation on its R&D spending is shaped by the firm’s relative
reputations for innovation versus quality.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Owen Parker, Jiancheng Du
The Power of Pessimism: Exploring the Phenomenon of Negative‐Leaning Anticipatory
Impression Management.
In virtually all prior research on organization‐level impression management, scholars have
assumed that firms engage in positive language to cast the firm in a favorable light. We
examine those rare but important instances in which firms do the opposite, casting doubt and
highlighting negativity about the firm’s performance prospects.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Georgia, University of Nebraska
PI/PDs: Owen Parker
University of Georgia: Cole Short
University of Nebraska‐Lincoln: Varkey Titus
Reputation, CEO Effects, and Performance
Long debated is the proportion of performance variance explained by the CEO’s contribution to
the firm. This paper parses this issue by examining the joint influence of a firm’s reputation on
performance.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas Christian University, Texas A&M,
PI/PDs: Owen Parker
Texas Christian University: Ryan Krause
Texas A&M University: Michael Withers
Frankfurt School of Finance & Management: Markus Fitza
Opposite Sides of the Same Coin: Worker Classifica on in the New Economy
This project examines a proposed legal test for employee status focused on the presence of
factors indica ng entrepreneurship.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Griffin Pivateau
Prospects and Pi alls: Women in the Legal Cannabis Industry
This project proposes a regulatory framework for protec on against sex discrimina on in the
states that have legalized the produc on and sale of cannabis.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Griffin Pivateau
Corruption in International Arbitration: Challenges and Consequences
This project addresses four key issues that may significantly affect international arbitration
outcomes.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Griffin Pivateau
An argument for expanding the use of the IRS worker classification test
The continued growth of the on‐demand economy and its use of the independent contractor
model has created the need for an improved worker classification scheme. In recent years,
some states have required employers to utilize the ABC test, a test that presumes employment
status unless certain standards are met. This study compares the ABC test to the more robust
IRS worker classification test.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Griffin Pivateau
The confusing state of noncompetition agreements in Oklahoma
Although Oklahoma is one of the three states in the US to ban enforcement of noncompetition
agreements, in reality the distinction is much more blurred. This study examines the confused
nature of noncompetition agreements in Oklahoma.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Griffin Pivateau
The Role of Middle Manager Boundary Spanning in Behavioral, Structural, and Cognitive
Coordination of Intergroup Effectiveness
A major challenge for middle managers is managing intergroup effectiveness, interdependent
teams’ effective performance of joint tasks. We develop a theoretical framework on how
intergroup effectiveness may be coordinated and to what extent middle managers can
stimulate such coordination. We propose that behavioral coordination through middle manager
boundary spanning aids intergroup effectiveness more when there is no structural coordination
through a division link. Moreover, we hypothesize that behavioral coordination through middle
manager boundary spanning complements cognitive coordination through intergroup strategic
consensus, shared understanding of the organization’s strategic priorities. Multisource data on
188 intergroup dyads support our predictions.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Drexel University
PI/PDs: Jeanine Porck
Drexel University: Daan van Knippenberg
Preventing Silo’s from Going Solo: the Role of Conflict Management Style and Team Learning
Behavior in Inter‐team Coordination & Knowledge Exchange.
A challenge many organizations face pursuing strategies that require cross‐team coordination
and knowledge exchange is eradicating silo thinking. This study explores the role of conflict
management style and team learning with longitudinal data collected from 27 interdependent
teams in a large government organization in Western Europe. Preliminary results show that
interdependent teams that recognize their interdependence link are better at exchanging
knowledge and inter‐team coordination. Interdependent teams that engage more in team
learning and coordinative conflict management are also better at exchanging knowledge and
inter‐team coordination. Relational identification and organizational identification seem to
impact the strength of these relationships.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Drexel University
PI/PDs: Jeanine Porck
Drexel University: Daan van Knippenberg
Strategic Decision Making in Multi‐team Systems.
Judgment and decision‐making research has a long tradition in management. Despite numerous
reviews of this topic in the organizational behavior, and psychology, there is little investigation
of decision making in multi‐team systems. This is surprising, given the extreme decision‐making
context faced by multi‐team systems—such as high uncertainty, time pressure, emotionally
charged, and consequential extremes. I will study the role of strategic decision making and
contextual factors in multi‐team systems, composed of three five‐person, functionally
specialized component teams, which will be engaged in an exercise that is simultaneously
“laboratory‐like” and “field‐like.”
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Jeanine Porck
Middle Managers, Coopetition and Intraorganizational Knowledge Transfer
Intraorganizational knowledge transfer is difficult yet critical for numerous organizational
outcomes. The knowledge‐sharing behavior of middle managers, those often tasked with
managing this knowledge transfer, should, however, not be taken for granted. This paper aims
to develop an understanding of the underlying motives middle managers have when
coordinating knowledge transfer between teams that are in coopetition, i.e. engage
simultaneously in cooperative and competitive behaviors. Specifically, I argue that coopetition
may prompt middle managers to adopt more myopic motives that make these managers less
inclined to coordinate knowledge exchange between teams in their organization.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Jeanine Porck
An Identity Perspective on Middle Managers’ Role Conflict and their Strategic Role
Performance
What drives middle managers to champion new strategic initiatives to top management and
simultaneously encourage their followers to implement the organization’s current strategy?
These divergent and integrative strategic roles of middle managers are crucial to the strategy
process. We argue that the complexity of middle managers’ identity will influence their
perceived role conflict and will consequently determine their strategic role performance.
Moreover, we hypothesize that managers’ organizational identification affects whether they
perform better at the divergent or integrative part of their strategic role. We plan to collect
data from middle managers and their supervisors to test these hypotheses.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Jeanine Porck, Juan Du
“When and Why Leaders Trust Followers: LMX as a Mediator and Empowerment as a
Moderator of the Trustworthiness‐Trust Relationship"
The role of leader–member exchange (LMX) quality as a mediator of the trustworthiness‐trust
relationship between 347 subordinate‐ supervisor dyads using 3 time‐lagged surveys across
multiple organizations. This study demonstrates the mediating role of LMX in trust between
subordinates and supervisors.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, State of Illinois, University of Illinois, Chicago
PI/PDs: T. H. Stone
State of Illinois: I. M. Jawahar
University of Illinois, Chicago: D. Kluemper
Cutting‐Edge Performance Management Innovations: What Do We Know?
Despite a century of effort by human resources professionals and industrial psychologists to
improve the performance management process, dissatisfaction with these processes has led to
the adoption of innovative cutting‐edge practices among many progressive organizations. Three
practices: 1) ongoing feedback, 2) crowdsourced feedback and 3) rating less reviews, have been
widely heralded in the popular and business press, but researchers have only begun to carefully
discuss them and examine their effectiveness. This paper describes these innovations, assesses
how they resemble and differ from traditional performance management methods, reviews
current research, suggests research questions and discusses issues related to their adoption.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, State of Illinois, Passkeys, International
PI/PDs: T. H. Stone
State of Illinois: I. M. Jawahar
Passkeys, International: G. Deloitte Johnsen, J. Foster
Cutting‐Edge Performance Appraisal Practices: The Disconnect Between Employee Preference
and Public Attention
Dissatisfaction with current performance appraisal methods has led to a set of innovative
“cutting edge” practices, and the only study conducted so far sampled known adopters. Three
hundred thirty‐two respondents described their current appraisal process, rated their
preference for appraisal types, and completed the Hogan Development Survey. Exploratory
factor analysis, preferences, correlations, and ANOVA results indicate significant differences in
preferences for source and delivery method of the appraisal and type of feedback.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, OU Tulsa, Hogan Assessments, Illinois State
PI/PDs: ‐ T. H. Stone
OU Tulsa: B. Steinheider, V. Hoffmeister
Hogan Assessments: B. Ferrell
Illinois State: I. M. Jawahar
The Double‐Edged Sword of Having a Unique Perspective: Feelings of Discrimination and
Perceived Career Advantages Among LGBT Employees
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.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of London, OU Tulsa,
PI/PDs: T. H. Stone
University of London: J. C. G. Gacilo
OU Tulsa: B. Steinheider, V. Hoffmeister
Illinois State: I. M. Jawahar
Gratitude and Divergent Helping in Supervisor‐Subordinate Relations
Drawing on gratitude scholarship and (affect) theory of social exchange, supervisors and
subordinates are posited to use gratitude as a cue to determine appropriate prosocial
responses within the relationship. We argue that relationship‐based gratitude, consisting of felt
gratitude from one party leading to feelings of gratitude toward the other party, can encourage
prosocial behaviors in supervisor‐subordinate relationships. Particularly, perceptions of
attributed motivation of prosocial behavior are proposed to shape felt gratitude response to
received prosocial behavior. Ethical leadership is identified as a relevant contextual factor
shaping subordinates’ and supervisors’ convergent and divergent prosocial behavioral
responses to gratitude.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, NEOMA University, France, York University, Toronto
PI/PDs: T. H. Stone
NEOMA University, France: J. Harrison
York University, Toronto: M. H. Budworth
Stress Leadership
We discuss supervisor and subordinate characteristics as causes of abusive supervision and
highlight the scarcity of research on contextual factors as antecedents. We focus on contexts in
which abusive supervision could have positive effects, such as in critical action organizations,
sports or when the purpose of abusive supervision is to instill “mental toughness” or weed out
the unfit. Through this qualitative review we identify areas for future research.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Illinois State University
PI/PDs: T. H. Stone
Illinois State: I. M. Jawahar
Development of a Measure of Calculative Orientation (CO): Establishing a Nomological Net
and Predictive Utility of the CO Measure
A calculative orientation (CO) captures an individuals’ tendency to analyze and convert
nonquantifiable societal values into quantifiable metrics that shapes behaviors and actions of
employees. While extant research focused primarily on a calculative “state” of individuals, we
focus on a calculative orientation as a new personality trait. Study 1 conceptualizes, develops,
and validates a
measure of CO. In Study 2, we examined how CO is associated with human behaviors at work
such as counterproductive work behavior, organizational citizenship behaviors and in‐ role
performance.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, OU Tulsa, Hogan Assessments, Illinois State
PI/PDs: T. H. Stone
Penn. State U‐ Erie: J. Kim
OU Tulsa: B. Steinheider
Hogan Assessments: B. Ferrell
Illinois State: I. M. Jawahar
A Multi‐Perspectives Approach to Personality Assessment
Unlike traditional self‐report personality assessment, a Multi‐Perspectives (MP) approach relies
on a variety of methods including multiple rater sources and rating types. Specifically, we 1)
discuss multiple methods for assessing personality, 2) demonstrate how alternatives to self‐
report measures can provide new, insightful information about an individual’s personality and
related work behaviors, 3) show how to create personality scales assessing multiple
perspectives, and 4) outline how MP assessments can be used for employee training and
development. Practical and theoretical implications of this approach to assessing personality
and future research are discussed.
Sponsors: Missouri State University, University of Alabama, Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: T. H. Stone
Missouri State University: J. Foster
University of Alabama: P. Harms
Minority Perspective‐Taking: When Authenticity Climate Promotes Minority Involvement in
White‐Dominated Spaces
Underrepresented minorities often have negative workplace experiences that influence their
intentions to stay within their white‐dominated organizations. We posit that perspective‐
taking—imagining the world from another’s perspective—is a strategic tool minorities use to
effectively manage their workplace experiences. We argue that perspective‐taking allows
minorities to accurately assess and navigate their organizational worlds.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Northwestern University, London School of Economics,
Slippery Rock University, Columbia University
PI/PDs: Alexis Smith Washington, Bryan Edwards
Northwestern University: Cynthia Wang
London School of Economics: Gillian Ku
Slippery Rock University: Edward Scott
Columbia University: Adam Galinsky
The Flirting Bias: The Influence of Gender on the Evaluations of Flirtatious Employees
This work examines the display of flirtatious behaviors used by men and women at work. Study
1) assesses what qualifies as flirtatious behaviors for men and women, and took preliminary
measures of individuals’ reactions to flirtatious behavior. In support of our hypothesis, female
flirts received fewer reward recommendations than did male flirts. Study 2), will extend
Study1), by assessing observers’ perceptions of competence, liking and attraction, and reward
recommendations of specific male and female flirtatious behaviors.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Ball State University, Pennsylvania State University,
Northeastern University
PI/PDs: Alexis Smith Washington
Ball State University: Brian Webster
Pennsylvania State University, Eerie: Joongseo Kim
Northeastern University: Marla B. Watkins
Recruiting (dis)advantage: Men and Women Differ in Their Evaluations of Gender‐Based
Targeted Recruitment
Organizations use targeted recruitment to attract applicants with specific characteristics or to
diversify the workforce. Research reports mixed findings regarding the extent to which
beneficiaries and non‐beneficiaries are attracted to organizations. We explore this
inconsistency by investigating how men and women respond to recruitment materials targeted
toward members of the traditionally underrepresented gender. We show that a gender
asymmetry exists such that men and women respond differently when targeted for occupations
in which they are typically the minority gender.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Ball State University, Pennsylvania State University,
Northeastern University
PI/PDs: Alexis Smith Washington, Bryan Edwards
Ball State University: Brian Webster
Pennsylvania State University, Eerie: Joongseo Kim
Northeastern University: Marla B. Watkins
The Implication of Power Dynamics in Dual‐Earner Couples: A Study of Household Labor
Our research studies the household labor of dual‐earner couples—married or cohabiting
couples where both partners are employed. Integrating power theories and gender‐role
perspectives, we examine how power dynamics within dual‐earner couples influence each
spouse's household labor. Polynomial analyses of 204 respondents in dual‐earner couples
revealed that relative power between spouses affects men and women differently. Our
research contributes to the literature of power, gender, and dual‐earner couples by examining
all possible patterns of the power structure within couples and providing a precise explanation
of how relative power and joint power between spouses affect husbands' and wives' household
labor.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Alexis Smith Washington, Elise Yu, Nikos Dimotakis
DEPARTMENT OF MARKETING
Big Brands, Big Cities: How the Population Penalty affects Common, Identity Relevant Brands in Densely Populated Areas The population density of a geographical area has a well‐known and strong positive effect on sales in the area. Yet, for some brands, there may be factors that affect the strength of this density‐sales relationship. The present research shows that for product categories that consumers use to signal their identities (e.g., clothing, restaurants and cars); the strength of this relationship varies with brand commonness. Consumers residing in densely populated areas are motivated to express their distinctiveness by reducing their preference for identity relevant brands that are common, such as large chains and brands owned by many people. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Zachary Arens, Ted Matherly
The Substitution Strategy Dilemma: Substitute Selection versus Substitute Effectiveness
Many brands build market share by acting as a substitute when competitive brands become
undesirable or difficult to obtain. Notably, prior research offers competing strategic
recommendations for marketers hoping to encourage consumers to engage in substitution.
Past research examining substitute selection—measuring consumers’ beliefs about how well
one product will substitute for another—suggests that marketers should offer replacements
that are similar to the initially preferred product. In contrast, research examining substitute
effectiveness—the consequences of substitution—suggests that differentiated brands will
enjoy more long‐term success.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Zachary Arens
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, stock outs 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/PDs: Zachary Arens, Rebecca Hamilton
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.
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.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Zachary Arens, Catalina E. Kopetz
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.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Zachary Arens, Roger Touran
Salesperson Acceptance of Organizational Service Support Offerings and Related Effects upon Performance The purpose of this research is to investigate the interface between salespeople and organizationally provided support services. We look at an early‐stage support service offering from a firm (i.e., the development of a salesperson’s physical office) and examine how such a service offering may ‘set the stage,’ for salesperson views of organizationally provided service offerings going forward. We examine whether initial service offerings may serve as an enculturation tool to subsequently influence salesperson satisfaction with the service offering and a willingness to engage in positive word‐of‐mouth regarding the use of the service among other salespersons within the firm. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Lamar University, University of Montana PI/PDs: Todd Arnold Lamar University: Ken Evans University of Montana: Simona Stan
Interaction Orientation and New Product Performance: The Role of Strategic Orientations and Innovation Capabilities Using the research‐based‐view (RBV) this research seeks to examine the role of interaction orientation (IO) in the context of new product development. Specifically, IO is investigated in
relation to its interactive effect with entrepreneurial, technology and learning orientations to explore how such combined influences affect both exploratory and exploitative capabilities, before affecting new product success. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Surrey PI/PDs: Todd Arnold University of Surrey: Jane Hemsley‐Brown The Influence of a Retail Store Manager in Developing Frontline Employee Brand Relationship, Service Performance and Customer Loyalty In this study, we present a study that provides an integrative view of how leader‐member exchange (LMX) influences the development of a frontline employee’s brand relationship, which ultimately influences retail salesperson performance and customer loyalty/brand equity. The results confirm that LMX is a critical factor to increase the salesperson‐brand relationship, which in turn helps to develop beneficial service performance and customer loyalty/brand equity. Further, these relationships are moderated by a store manager’s brand knowledge and strategic knowledge dissemination. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Ohio Northern University, Soongsil University (Korea) PI/PDs: Todd Arnold Ohio Northern University: Jin‐Ho Jung Soongsil University (Korea): Jay Yoo Enhancing Perceived Product Value through Peripheral Product Attributes In this paper, we examine how firms could design their products’ packaging both to help customers socialize more successfully, as well as profit. We investigate how a peripheral product anecdote, or a brief, interesting story that is loosely connected to the product, but not connected to its history or usage, can serve this purpose. For example, Combat Wombat beer is an Australian beer with an anecdote about a wombat, an Australian animal, on its label. Does such a story facilitate social interaction among those who consume the product? This study addresses such a question. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, SUNY Albany PI/PDs: Todd Arnold, Josh Wiener SUNY Albany: Hillary Wiener
The Costs (and Opportunities) of Highly Involved Organizational Buyers The authors examine the impact of organizational buyers’ product involvement on customers’ and suppliers’ financial outcomes, driven by buyers’ increased willingness to pay and their perceived credibility in negotiations with the supplier. The effects of these competing mechanisms are moderated by characteristics of the customer firm and the customer‐supplier relationship. The authors examine effects of buyer product involvement using a survey of organizational buyers matched with secondary profit data from their supplier. Customer firms should encourage their buyers to be highly involved but limit their influence within the firm. Highly involved buyers can be potentially costly to suppliers. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Missouri PI/PDs: Todd Arnold, Justin Lawrence, Colleen McClure University of Missouri: Lisa Scheer
End User Engagement with Supplier Firm Brands: Meaningfulness of Work and Differential Impact of Other‐Focused versus Self‐Focused Marketing Initiatives Findings suggest a key management concept, meaningfulness of work, can be applied to brand attachment in a work context. More specifically, results illustrate how end users find meaning on their job and develop strong feelings for supplier firm brands. The interaction between meaningfulness of work and supplier firm brand performance demonstrates that end users who find work more meaningful are more likely to both develop strong attachment for a supplier firm brand and more likely to advocate for that brand to superiors and peers. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Todd Arnold, Amy Fehl
Customer involvement and new product performance: the process through the enhancement of marketing and technological capabilities Using a resource‐based view (RBV) and service dominant logic (SDL), this research assesses the
role of a mediating mechanism underlying the customer involvement in NPD−New Product
Performance relationship. We differentiate two dimensions of customer involvement in NPD: customer involvement in information provision (CIP) and customer involvement in coproduction (CIC) to examine their influence upon the development of firm capabilities. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Chinese Culture University PI/PDs: Todd Arnold Chinese Culture University: Yen‐Chun Chen
Optimizing Frontline Shift Composition for Increased Customer Satisfaction and Firm Performance Both academics and marketing managers agree that frontline employees (FLEs) are paramount
for the provision of excellent service to customers. What is less well understood in extant
research is the impact other employees may have upon a given individual frontline worker. We
term this influence the shift climate, defined as the FLE’s perception of the tendencies of other
members on the shift toward service behaviors that focus on customer need satisfaction. This
study investigates the influence of shift climate on FLE performance.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Michigan State University
PI/PDs: Todd Arnold, Amy Fehl
Michigan State University: Valerie Good
Code‐Switching for Work Life Self‐Preservation: A Study of the Role of Sexual Orientation Discrimination on Employee Job Behaviors and Outcomes Despite societal advances in LGBT acceptance, perceptions of sexual orientation discrimination may cause individuals to experience threats toward their workplace identity. The current research examines individual reactions to such identity threats, which we demonstrate cause both socio‐linguistic and behavioral change (i.e., workplace code‐switching). Such change demonstrates effects upon the individual’s workplace self‐efficacy and levels of workplace felt stress. It is further demonstrated that efficacy and stress affect job satisfaction and turnover intentions, respectively. Findings also indicate that a key predictor of LGBT individuals’ workplace code‐switching is satisfaction with workplace support from the organization. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Todd Arnold, Nathan Higdon; Maribeth Kuzmeski, Lex Washington Frontline Employee Passion: Understanding and contrasting the dynamics of serving customers and solving problems in both established and emerging markets. Service is about serving people and solving problems. Through our research, we ask an important question: “Is it possible for frontline employees to activate passion for their roles through service encounters with customers?” By creating and testing a multi‐cultural model that integrates organizationally‐controllable antecedents, our research provides evidence that frontline employees across cultures may activate their passion to serve customers and solve problems through service encounters in differential ways Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Thomas More College, Case Western Reserve, Ohio Northern University PI/PDs: Todd Arnold Thomas More College: Angela Crawford Case Western Reserve: Casey Newmeyer Ohio Northern University: Jin Ho Jung
Understanding a Store Manager’s Intra‐Organizational Relationship Capacity: A research note Despite the critical role that store managers play in linking top management teams and service/retail employees, as well as in fulfilling corporate strategy within multi‐unit, chain store environments, service management research infrequently addresses the factors that may promote store managers’ effective exchange relationships within the firm and subsequent effects on store operations and profitability. This study focuses on how store managers’ performance orientation, trust of a regional manager’s capabilities, and organizational commitment affect a manager’s intra‐organizational relationships relative to regional managers and frontline employees. The direct effect of store managers’ intra‐organizational relationship capacity on store performance is also examined. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Babson College PI/PDs: Todd Arnold Babson College: Dhruv Grewal Adaptive Selling and Employee Authenticity: Perspectives from customers This paper aims to shed light on potential moderating conditions between a salesperson’s engaging in adaptive selling behavior and important organizational outcomes. Specifically, the effect of salesperson authenticity acting as a moderating condition is examined. Survey data collected from customers of an insurance firm in South Korea were used to investigate the proposed model. Customer perceptions of salesperson adaptive selling, authenticity, key benefits delivered, and organizational value provision were all captured. The results suggest that authenticity does, indeed, positively influence perceptions of beneficial outcomes related to a transaction with a salesperson. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Soongsil University ROK PI/PDs: Todd Arnold Soongsil University ROK: Jay Yoo Entrepreneurial Orientation and Firm Innovation Performance This study aims to make three vital contributions in marketing and strategic management areas. First, using RBV and a dynamic capabilities perspective as our theoretical foundation, this study contributes to the extant literature by seizing the underlying mechanism through which EO affects firm performance based on the subsequent theoretical linkages: strategic resources strategic actions (organizational responsiveness) competitive advantage performance. Our theoretical rationale is that EO as an important strategic resource contributes to firm performance through a sequential link of EO dynamic capabilities competitive advantages firm performance. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Chinese Culture University Taiwan PI/PDs: Todd Arnold Chinese Culture University Taiwan: Peter Chen Alliance Orientation, Competitive Advantage in NPD, and New Product Success Strategic orientation is a key determinant of new product development (NPD) performance, yet, little is known about the real value of alliance orientation (AO) in the context of NPD, as well as how it contributes to new product success. This study advances knowledge by
investigating the role of important mediating and moderating mechanisms underlying the AO new product success relationship. Applying a dynamic capabilities perspective, the research demonstrates that competitive advantage in NPD program and process play a significant and varied role (depending upon environmental conditions) in affecting new product success. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Chinese Culture University Taiwan PI/PDs: Todd Arnold Chinese Culture University Taiwan: Peter Chen 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. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Delaware State University PI/PDs: Todd Arnold Delaware State University: Devdeep Maity The Drivers of Salespersons’ Customer Insight Generating Behavior and its impact on Sales
Performance Outcomes in a Relationship Selling Context
Little research has addressed the influence of pre‐encounter customer research on sales performance success. In this project, we investigate key influences on the performance of customer insight‐generating behaviors as well as their influence on sales performance outcomes. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Weber State University, University of Tennessee‐Knoxville PI/PDs: Tom Brown Weber State University: Nicole Flink University of Tennessee‐Knoxville: Alex R. Zablah
An Empirical Investigation of Challenge and Hindrance Appraisals of Customer Demands
For exchange to occur, frontline employees (FLE) must effectively respond to customer
requests. Some studies find that – when such requests are rooted in heightened
expectations – they can be detrimental to FLE welfare, while others reach the opposite
conclusion. Using cognitive appraisal theory to reconcile these mixed findings, we
propose that customer requests are neither “good” nor “bad,” but rather, their nature
and consequences depend on whether individual FLEs appraise them to be a challenge
or hindrance.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Tennessee‐Knoxville
PI/PDs: Tom Brown, Jin Ho Jung
University of Tennessee‐Knoxville: Alex R. Zablah
The Positive Influence of Watching Others Receive Preferential Treatment: The Role of Envy
The purpose of this research is to examine how and when companies can motivate
non‐prioritized consumers to respond positively to customer prioritization and mitigate their
negative reactions. We conducted two studies to test whether non‐prioritized customers can
respond positively to preferential treatment received by others. We used a video experiment to
increase the realism of the manipulation and to establish internal validity and we employed a
field survey to demonstrate external validity. We also suggest that the aspect of upward
comparison that people pay attention to can influence whether they respond positively or
negatively to an upward comparison episode.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Northern Michigan
PI/PDs: Tom Brown
University of Northern Michigan: Yu‐shan Huang
But I Want to Help: The Influence of Customer Orientation on Customer‐Focused Voice and
Rule‐breaking
Sometimes frontline employees are prevented from helping their customers. In these
situations, the literature offers little guidance about how they respond to their customers. Two
possible responses are to speak up to management about needed changes or to simply break
company rules to help the customer. This research examines conditions under which customer
orientation leads to one or the other response.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, New Mexico State University, University of Tennessee‐
Knoxville
PI/PDs: Tom Brown
New Mexico State University: Gabriel Gazzoli
University of Tennessee‐Knoxville: Alex R. Zablah
The Evolution of Analytics and Implications for Industry and Academic Programs
In this work, we discuss how analytics is evolving in industry and academia. To assess industry
needs, we conducted a text‐mining study of online job postings for analytics‐related positions.
We also conducted a survey of academic programs in analytics‐related master’s programs to
ascertain topic coverage relative to industry needs. Based on these studies, we discuss gaps
that we believe need to be addressed. While industry moves along the analytics maturity
spectrum from descriptive to predictive to prescriptive optimization‐based analytics, analytics
master’s programs are focusing less on optimization and heavily on predictive analytics, thus
creating a gap in the analytics training.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Goutam Chakraborty
Attribute‐based Sentiment Analysis in Marketing: Application and strategic implications
Increasingly, customers use social media and other Internet‐based applications (e.g., review
sites) to voice their opinions and to express their sentiments about brands. These reviews
influence brand identity, either directly (by affecting consumer behavior) or indirectly (by
generating positive or negative word‐of‐mouth through online social networks). We present an
automated methodology that can be used to collect data from popular brand review sites and
discussion boards. Customer feedback is then analyzed using best practices of text mining and
supervised sentiment analysis. Strategic implications of customer sentiments are discussed as
we explore the role of sentiment analysis on modification of branding strategy.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Goutam Chakraborty
Examining Consumers’ Adoption of Algorithms in Creative Domains Across four studies, we find that individuals adopt algorithms less than human experts for creative tasks (vs. non‐creative tasks). The effect is mediated by the perceived inflexibility associated with algorithms. Moreover, increasing algorithms’ anthropomorphism and using non‐creative task framing can enhance consumers’ adoption of algorithms for creative tasks. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Sun Yat Sen University PI/PDs: Xiang Fang Sun Yat Sen University: Jifei Wu, Hongyan Yu
Touch or Click? The Effect of Direct and Indirect Human‐Computer Interaction on Consumer Responses Human‐computer interaction is the way consumers access product, service and information, which affects consumers’ attitude, evaluation and purchase behavior. This paper examines how human‐computer interaction affect consumer attitude and purchase intention. Four studies demonstrate that consumer with direct human‐computer interaction will generate more favorable consumers’ attitudes and greater purchase intentions than those with indirect human‐computer interaction. This effect is mediated by sense of immersion and this effect is moderated by the product haptic importance: sense of immersion significantly mediates the effect of human‐computer on consumers’ attitudes and purchase intentions for high haptic products. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Sun Yat Sen University PI/PDs: Xiang Fang Sun Yat Sen University: Jifei Wu, Hongyan Yu
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. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Towson University, Shanghai Univ. of Finance and Economics PI/PDs: 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/PDs: Sandy Huang, Ruping Liu, Xiang Fang
In Human Expert or Algorithm We Trust: A Cross‐Cultural Perspective In this research, we are interested in examining the factors, which influence consumers’ trust in human expert vs. algorithm in cross‐cultural context. We study three broad categories: task‐
related characteristics (e.g., creativity, difficulty, hedonic/utilitarian, objectivity, and familiarity), cultural factors (cultural dimensions), and individual traits (innovativeness and familiarity with technology and AI). In two studies across different recommendation scenarios, we find that consumers in general trust human experts more than algorithm. Furthermore, we plan to conduct several experiments to test the underlying mechanism that accounts for the differences between cultures. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Sun Yat Sen University PI/PDs: Xiang Fang
Sun Yat Sen University: Jifei Wu, Hongyan Yu Touch or Click? The Effect of Direct and Indirect Human‐Computer Interaction on Consumer Responses Human‐computer interaction is the way consumers access product, service and information, which affects consumers’ attitude, evaluation and purchase behavior. This paper examines how human‐computer interaction affect consumer attitude and purchase intention. Four studies demonstrate that consumer with direct human‐computer interaction will generate more favorable consumers’ attitudes and greater purchase intentions than those with indirect human‐computer interaction. This effect is mediated by sense of immersion and this effect is moderated by the product haptic importance: sense of immersion significantly mediates the effect of human‐computer on consumers’ attitudes and purchase intentions for high haptic products. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Sun Yat Sen University PI/PDs: Xiang Fang
Sun Yat Sen University: Jifei Wu, Hongyan Yu
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. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Towson University, Shanghai Univ. of Finance and Economics PI/PDs: 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/PDs: Sandy Huang, Ruping Liu, Xiang Fang
The Effect of Honest and Humble Leadership on Salesperson Customer Orientation
This study examines how characteristics of the leader and the leader‐salesperson relationship
impact salesperson outcomes. The initial model proposes that leader’s honesty and humility
will have a positive effect on salesperson customer orientation and performance via enhanced
leader‐subordinate relationship quality. Servant leadership is expected to magnify the positive
relationship between leader honesty and humility and leader‐subordinate relationship quality.
Data from 175 salespeople do not support the hypothesis that leader honesty and humility
directly impacts relationship quality. However, these data do lend support for an alternative
serial mediation model (honesty‐humility → servant leadership → rela onship quality →
customer orientation).
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Julia Kirkland, Karen Flaherty, Bryan Edwards
Managers as Engineers of Market Knowledge Network: Typology and a Conceptual Framework Adopting a grounded theory approach, we offer a typology of manager’s network engineering that is based on three key variables, including managers’ market orientation, their network approach (proactive or reactive), and their servant leadership approach (self‐focused or other‐focused). Specifically, we propose that marketing managers engineer the social networks of their frontline employees in four unique ways—they may 1) facilitate connections, 2) alter connections, 3) lend connections, or 4) sever connections between the frontline employees and important others. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Baylor University, University of Georgia PI/PDs: Karen Flaherty University of Georgia: Son Lam Baylor University: Andrea Dixon Investigating Firm Level Drivers of Salesperson Brand Identification Taking a social identity theory perspective, we uncover specific actions that firms can take to manage salespeople’s identification with the brands they sell. In particular, we identify five specific brand relationship investments that firms can leverage to increase salesperson’s identification and engagement with the brand, and ultimately performance. These include providing brand specific 1) rewards, 2) communication, 3) productive consumption, 4) leader brand role modeling, and 5) leader effort. Further, we suggest that reactance and social norms
moderate these relationships. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Karen Flaherty, Lee Allison
Who will Compromise? The Role of Gender in Joint Ethical Decision‐Making Current understanding of how unethical behavior arises in a business context remains unclear. This may be due in part to the complex nature of business decisions. In this study, we report the results of an experiment designed to shed some light on factors that influence how moral judgments arise in a team situation. Based on a sample of 249 undergraduate student teams, we first consider the role that the individual’s and their partner’s motivation‐to‐lead and political skill play in determining the extent to which the person adjusts his/her response to an ethical dilemma to reflect greater sensitivity to moral issues. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Karen Flaherty, Jim Pappas, Tara Urich
Low ‘Fit’ Matters Less to Conservatives: The Moderating Role of Political Ideology in the Effect of ‘Fit’ on the Evaluation of Luxury (or Prestigious) Product to Service Extensions. Although ‘brand extension fit’ has been regarded as the most important driver of brand
extension success, fit would matter less to conservatives (vs. liberals) in luxury extension. We
proposed and showed that conservatives (vs. liberals) are more motivated to advocate luxury
brand extensions even when ‘fit’ is low. Results of multiple studies show that conservatives
evaluate the low fit brand extensions more favorably than liberals do. However, this political
ideology effect disappears either when fit is high or when the parent brand is an affordable
brand.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: JiHoon Jhang, Pramit Banerjee
When to Interrupt with What? Attenuating the Negative Impact of Interruption on
Consumers’ Ad Attitudes by Satisfying Consumers’ Information‐seeking Goal with Informative
Advertisements.
When is the best time to interrupt consumers with advertisements? When people are
interrupted with an ad in the middle of media consumption (e.g., watching TV program, reading
newspapers or magazine articles), their responses to the interrupting ad were more favorable
toward informative (vs. emotional) ads, but only when the interruption occurs when they were
induced with curiosity (by the timing of interruption). Theoretical contributions and practical
implications are discussed.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Hanyang University
PI/PDs: JiHoon Jhang, Pramit Banerjee
Hanyang University: Yun‐na Park
God and Decision Delegation under the Limit Situation.
Although the majority of people over the world are religiously affiliated and think their religious
beliefs influence their daily behaviors (Pew Forum 2012), previous research is limited in that it
has narrowly focused on the role of religiosity. Drawing on the concept of limit situation
(Jasper, 1994) and differential images of God, across five studies, authors found that; 1) those
experiencing limit situation (e.g., reminding one’s existential limits) think about the entities
without limits (i.e., God, Supreme being), and thus 2) delegate decisions more (vs. less) when
they have more (vs. less) favorable images of God (i.e., loving).
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Georgetown University
PI/PDs: JiHoon Jhang, Eunyong Jang, and Minjoo Kim
Georgetown University: Kelly Lee
Do Emotional Laborers Help the Needy More or Less? The Mediating Role of Sympathy in the
Effect of Emotional Dissonance on Prosocial Behavior
Despite the growing body of research on emotional labor, little has been known about the
social consequences of emotional labor. Drawing on emotional dissonance theory, the authors
investigate the relationship between the felt emotional dissonance and prosocial behavior (e.g.,
donation to a charity). Findings from multiple studies suggest that higher emotional dissonance
serially influences perceived lack of control, emotional exhaustion, lowered sympathy for
others’ feeling, and subsequently lower willingness to help others.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: JiHoon Jhang
Product Complexity as a Barrier to Consumer Financial Decision‐Making
The complexity of financial products has been increasing over time, and represents a major
barrier to advantageous financial decision‐making. The current experiments use eye‐tracking,
behavioral, and cognitive measures to investigate how complexity and information load affects
consumers’ evaluations of real‐world annuity products. (Experiment 1) demonstrates that
increased complexity and load leads to distraction away from the materials, as well as missing
critical disclosure information. (Experiment 2) demonstrates that even large minimizations in
complexity and load have little effect on individuals’ preferences for an objectively better
product.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Colorado Boulder
PI/PDs: Jihoon Jang
University of Colorado Boulder: Philip Fernbach
Dual Agency in the Sales Role: Effects of Customer Advocacy in Price Negotiation
When should business‐to‐business (B2B) selling firms encourage their salespeople to advocate
for the customer in pricing negotiations? To shed light on this fundamental issue, the authors
extend dual agency theory to the sales role. Viewing the salesperson as a dual agent offers new
insights and reveals important boundary conditions, particularly in situations when the
interests of the customer and seller do not coincide. This research underscores the intertwined
nature of the salesperson’s dual agency roles and the boundary conditions that generate
synergies between seller advocacy and customer advocacy.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Iowa State University, University of Missouri, University
of Georgia
PI/PDs: Justin M. Lawrence
Iowa State University: Andrew T. Crecelius
University of Missouri: Lisa K. Scheer
University of Georgia: Son K. Lam
Partnering for Customer Centricity: Effect of Alliance Partners’ Organizational Structures on
Short‐ and Long‐Term Performance
In this article, according to event study analyses (Study 1) of strategic alliances by Fortune 1000
firms over a 17 year period, product‐centric firms create 2.5 times more value on average
when they work with customer‐ versus product‐centric partners, but they also capture
significantly less share of the joint alliance value when allying with customer‐ versus product‐
centric partners. A complementary panel data analysis (Study 2) details the net long‐term
performance of a product‐centric firm’s alliance portfolio.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Iowa State University, University of Washington
PI/PDs: Justin M. Lawrence
Iowa State University: Ju‐Yeon Lee
University of Washington: Robert W. Palmatier
Multichannel Discount Contagion in Business‐to‐Business Markets
In accordance with today’s multichannel B2B environments, the authors theorize differential
effects on the seller’s margin via offline and online discount contagion. The authors test their
theoretical framework across two large‐scale field studies featuring spatial econometric
analyses. If managers fail to consider contagion systematically, the effects of targeted discounts
can spill over to untargeted buyers, resulting in approximately three times the margin losses.
However, contagion‐conscious deployment, such as targeting buyers that limit e‐commerce
price transparency, allows sellers to virtually eliminate adverse effects of discount contagion.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Iowa State University, University of Washington,
Colorado State University
PI/PDs: Justin M. Lawrence
Iowa State University: Andrew T. Crecelius
University of Washington: Robert W. Palmatier
Colorado State University: Jonathan Z. Zhang
Inside‐Out or Outside‐In? Dynamic Effects of Sales Channel Specialization in Business‐to‐
Business Markets
In an effort to cost‐effectively match sales channels to the shifting needs of customers and reap
the benefits of sales specialization, business‐to‐business sellers are challenged with migrating
customers between outside (field) salespeople and inside (remote) salespeople. Prevalent
approaches include cost‐matching—assigning less‐developed accounts to low‐cost inside
salespeople and migrating them to the costlier outside sales channel once the account grows—
and the relationship‐driven approach—deploying the richer outside sales channel to establish
relationships with newer customers, until the account can be migrated to inside sales.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Iowa State University, University of Washington
PI/PDs: Justin M. Lawrence
Iowa State University: Andrew T. Crecelius
University of Washington: Robert W. Palmatier
The Costs and Opportunities of Highly Involved Organizational Buyers
The authors examine the impact of organizational buyers’ product involvement on customers’
and suppliers’ financial outcomes, driven by buyers’ increased willingness to pay and their
perceived credibility in negotiations with the supplier. The effects of these competing
mechanisms are moderated by characteristics of the customer and the customer‐supplier
relationship. The authors examine effects using a survey of organizational buyers matched with
secondary profit data from their supplier. This study contributes to the limited literature on
product involvement and the role of buyer emotions in a B2B exchange setting.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Missouri
PI/PDs: Justin M. Lawrence, Colleen E. McClure, Todd J. Arnold
University of Missouri: Lisa K. Scheer
Targeting and Designing Supplier‐Initiated Relationship Expansion Proposals
The authors assess effects of relationship expansion proposals contingent on three account
opportunity metrics; 1) sales potential, 2) gross margin position, and 3) historical service
provision.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Iowa State University, Marquette University, Ohio
University
PI/PDs: Justin M. Lawrence
Iowa State University: Andrew T. Crecelius
Marquette University: Jessica L. Ogilvie
Ohio University: Adam A. Rapp
Effects of Multichannel Sales Structures on Customer and Firm Performance: Substitution
Versus Supplementation Tradeoffs
Business‐to‐business selling firms (sellers) increasingly assign customers an inside salesperson,
in addition to a traditional outside salesperson. These multichannel sales structures are
believed to decrease expenses by substituting a less‐costly sales channel and increase sales by
enabling more efficient exchange. However, the authors theorize that substitution toward the
leaner inside channel can also constrain the seller’s relationship building efforts and induce
sales headwinds.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Notre Dame, Iowa State University,
University of Washington
PI/PDs: Justin M. Lawrence
University of Notre Dame: Vamsi Kanuri
Iowa State University: Andrew T. Crecelius
University of Washington: Robert W. Palmatier
Identity‐based Defectors and Their Reacquisition
Unlike performance‐based defectors who leave firms in response to some form of utility deficit
with the offering, identity‐based defectors are customers who sever relationships due to a
perceived mismatch between their identities and the firm’s identity. This study examines
optimal communication strategies for the reacquisition of identity‐based defectors. Study 1)
shows that corporate brand communications focused on reinforcing positive, social initiatives
of the firm are more effective for identity‐based defectors. Study 2) demonstrates that identity‐
based defectors represent more revenue in their second lifetimes when they receive corporate
brand communications after their initial defection.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University; Florida State University; University of North Carolina,
Greensboro
PI/PDs: Justin M. Lawrence
Florida State University: Colleen Harmeling, Michael Brady
The University of North Carolina, Greensboro: Harrison Pugh
Consumer Perceptions of Business’ Ethicality, Sustainability and Quality of Life Influence:
Implications for the Commons
This research examines the important role of consumers’ perceptions of businesses ethical
practices in their corresponding support for sustainable businesses. Based on a study featuring
304 respondents, results suggest that ethical thinking about business positively influences
consumers’ regard for sustainable businesses as mediated by perceived quality of life
contributions from businesses. Additionally, these effects are only found for those with a high
value for nature. These results shed light on sources of commons dilemmas as consumers’
perceptions of business ethicality is what is driving commons‐‐‐related consumption responses.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Wyoming
PI/PDs: Richie L. Liu
University of Wyoming: Elizabeth Minton, Mark Peterson
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 to sales employees. We posit that the perceived rebranding intensity effect depends
on different types of a sales employee’s identification.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Wyoming, Washington State University,
University of California‐ Irvine
PI/PDs: Richie L. Liu
University of Wyoming: David Sprott
Washington State University: 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). 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.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Wyoming, Washington State University,
University of California‐‐ Irvine
PI/PDs: Richie L. Liu
University of Wyoming: David Sprott
Washington State University: Jeff Joireman
University of California‐Irvine: Eric Spangenberg
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). We found that
seeking R&D resource diversity in a strategic alliance often leads to a dark side relationship.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Penn State University‐‐‐Lake Erie, University of the Thai
Chamber of Commerce
PI/PDs: Richie L. Liu
Penn State University‐‐ Lake Erie: Sean Yim
University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce: Sakdipon Juasrikul
Conceptualizing Service Captivity
This research conceptualizes an empirically‐grounded framework of service captivity, contextualizes captivity within two settings, and highlights its pervasiveness through a typology of captivity archetypes. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas State University, San Marcos PI/PDs: Marlys J. Mason Texas State University, San Marcos: Steven Rayburn Identifying Rituals of Social Networking Sites This research identifies and analyzes the types of rituals users engaged in, how these rituals evolved for early adopters of Facebook over time, and their impact on users’ customer journeys. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Penn State, Harrisburg PI/PDs: Marlys J. Mason Penn State Harrisburg: Darrell Bartholomew
Poverty and Unemployment in Oklahoma: How Do They Affect Health?
The research examines the relationships between poverty, income, unemployment, and health outcomes. General linear modeling examined unemployment and poverty in relation to age‐adjusted death rate (AADR). A second model explored the relation between income and self‐reported health status. Results indicate the number of Oklahoman’s experiencing poverty continues to rise, which is concerning because AADR was found to be significantly, independently associated with poverty and unemployment status. Self‐reported health status was associated with income such that respondents in the lowest income bracket were approximately eight times more likely to report having fair or poor health compared to the highest income group. Sponsor: Oklahoma State Department of Health PI/PD: Miriam McGaugh Sex Trafficking – Online ad research
This study examines if phone numbers used in online escort are an important clue for finding
ties to human traffickers. We examined the length of time that phone numbers appeared in
ads, whether one phone number was used in different locations at the same time or in different
locations at different times, and whether ad categories are associated with the amount of time
a phone number remains active. Initial results show that about 65% of phone numbers were
still active after 3 months, about 30% were still active after 8 months, and 20‐25% were active
after 10 months.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Louisiana State University, University of Alabama
PI/PDs: Miriam McGaugh
Louisiana State University: James Van Scotter
University of Alabama: Denise McManus
Understanding Stress during Parent‐Adolescent Interactions about Sexual Risk Avoidance
The purpose of this study is to examine and understand the amount of stress that occurs during discussions on the topic of sexual risk avoidance by quantifying the amount of stress encountered for parents and adolescent children during structured and unstructured conversations. Participants in the evaluation will undergo the industry standard test for testing cortisol levels, which is conducted with mouth swabs before and after the conversation. A smaller sub‐sample will have biometric measures collected for a 24‐hour period to measure indicators of stress. Sponsor: Oklahoma State Department of Health PI/PD: Miriam McGaugh
Poverty and Unemployment in Oklahoma: How Do They Affect Health?
The research examines the relationships between poverty, income, unemployment, and health outcomes. General linear modeling examined unemployment and poverty in relation to age‐adjusted death rate (AADR). A second model explored the relation between income and self‐reported health status. Results indicate the number of Oklahoman’s experiencing poverty continues to rise, which is concerning because AADR was found to be significantly, independently associated with poverty and unemployment status. Self‐reported health status was associated with income such that respondents in the lowest income bracket were approximately eight times more likely to report having fair or poor health compared to the highest income group. Sponsor: Oklahoma State Department of Health PI/PD: Miriam McGaugh Social Network Analysis of Pre‐Diabetic and Diabetic Patients
The project will examine patterns among providers and their patients using visual, statistical, and predictive modeling techniques. Phase 1‐ conduct descriptive and visual analytics on patients to classify into primary, secondary and tertiary diagnosis status using an existing medical classification system as a target. Phase 2‐ conducting predictive analytics on patients to determine which social, behavioral and incoming health variables correctly predict primary, secondary, and tertiary classification using the pre‐defined medical target. Phase 3‐ examine the data using social network analysis on the providers of pre‐diabetic and diabetic patients within the region in which Oklahoma resides. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Miriam McGaugh, Saurabh Kokad, Ritesh Vangapalli, Shashank Gudipati
The Life Expectancy of Phone Numbers used in Escort Ads
This study examines if phone numbers used in online escort are an important clue for finding ties to human traffickers. We examined the length of time that phone numbers appeared in ads, whether one phone number was used in different locations at the same time or in different locations at different times, and whether ad categories are associated with the amount of time a phone number remains active. Initial results show that about 65% of phone numbers were still active after 3 months, about 30% were still active after 8 months, and 20‐25% were active
after 10 months. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Louisiana State University, State of Alabama PI/PDs: Miriam McGaugh Louisiana State University: James Van Scotter University of Alabama: Denise McManus Understanding Stress during Parent‐Adolescent Interactions about Sexual Risk Avoidance The purpose of this study is to examine and understand the amount of stress that occurs during discussions on the topic of sexual risk avoidance by quantifying the amount of stress encountered for parents and adolescent children during structured and unstructured conversations. Participants in the evaluation will undergo the industry standard test for testing cortisol levels, which is conducted with mouth swabs before and after the conversation. A smaller sub‐sample will have biometric measures collected for a 24‐hour period to measure indicators of stress. Sponsor: Oklahoma State Department of Health PI/PD: Miriam McGaugh
Challenges of Military Veterans in their Transition to the Workplace: A Call for Integrating
Basic and Applied Psychological Science,” Perspectives on Psychological Science.
Longstanding structural features of the military have created a culture that is drastically
different and disconnected from civilian society. As such, veterans transitioning to civilian
society face challenges related to fulfilling basic psychological needs and civilian stereotypes.
We integrate social psychological theories and insights with research from sociology, clinical
psychology, military psychology, and organizational behavior. This illustrates the opportunity
and potential for psychological researchers to conduct basic and applied research of veterans,
and for clinicians and managers to draw on basic theory to inform programs and interventions.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Duke University, University of California Santa Barbara
PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd
Duke University: Aaron C. Kay
University of California Santa Barbara: David K. Sherman
Differing Terms for the Peer‐to‐Peer Economy and Their Associations with Race, Morality, and
Legitimacy
Adapting from institutional theory, whiteness theory, and stereotyping research, we find across
a series of experiments that peer‐to‐peer (p2p) business activities are rated more negatively
and lower in normative legitimacy when their actors are perceived to be Black as opposed to
White. Moreover, we find that popular terms for p2p businesses (“sharing economy,” “side
hustle”) have racial associations, influencing perceptions of normative legitimacy. However, we
also show that this may potentially be altered by the legitimating action (an advertising
campaign) of a major p2p company employing these terms.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd, Ted Matherly
Customer Empowerment in the Face of Perceived Incompetence: Effect on Preference for
Anthropomorphized Brands
Brands often tell consumers that they have power, either directly or by allowing them to exert
control over the purchasing process. Would variations in perceived competence affect how
power influences social interactions in the marketplace? We found evidence that customer
empowerment heightened a sense of social dominance and drove preference for
anthropomorphized brands when feelings of competence were high. In contrast, when feelings
of competence were threatened, customer empowerment drove people away from
anthropomorphized brands.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Zayed University, Grenoble Ecole de Management
PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd
Zayed University: Olivier Trendel
Grenoble Ecole de Management: Jamel Khenferand
Special Edition Packaging and its Negative Effects on Search and the Shopping Experience
Past research offers mixed advice for marketers regarding the benefits of novel packaging. We
find that special edition packaging, even when especially visually salient, impedes consumers’
search for the target product and leads to more negative evaluations of the shopping
experience. Special edition packaging that retains (vs. abandons) familiar brand elements that
are used in search (namely, color) attenuates these negative effects. Pre‐shopping exposure to
the special edition packaging also attenuates these negative effects. Overall, this research
highlights the negative impact of deviating from familiar brand cues and the importance of top‐
down processes in goal‐directed searches. Implications are discussed.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Duke University
PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd
Duke University: Gavan J. Fitzsimons
The Effect of Egocentric Taste Judgments on Stereotyping of Welfare Recipients and Attitudes
Toward Welfare Policy
This project identifies the effect of egocentrism on welfare attitudes, whereby a welfare
recipient buying an item that the participant personally values less (vs. more) leads to increased
stereotyping (e.g., irresponsibility, impulsivity) and favorable attitudes toward policy that would
restrict that purchase. This is illustrated with both chronic and situational preferences and
across a number of products commonly debated in welfare policy. These effects do not emerge
in the context of healthy foods and necessities, nor when information about the target suggests
they are otherwise responsible (e.g., budgeting, clipping coupons). Implications for policy and
welfare advocacy are discussed.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Oregon
PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd
University of Oregon: Troy H. Campbell
Understanding Contemporary Forms of Exploitation: Attributions of Passion Serve to
Legitimize the Poor Treatment of Workers
We explore how the modern cultural emphasis on passion may facilitate the legitimization of
unfair and demeaning management practices. We show that people deem poor worker
treatment (e.g., asking employees to do demeaning tasks, asking employees to work extra
hours without pay) as more legitimate when workers are presumed to be “passionate” about
their work. This is due to the belief that the work is its own reward and that the passionate
worker would have volunteered anyway. Likewise, people attribute passion to an exploited (vs.
nonexploited) worker.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Duke University, University of Oregon
PI/PDs: Steve Shepherd
Duke University: Jae Yun Kim, Aaron C. Kay
University of Oregon: Troy H Campbell
Military Veterans are Morally Typecast as Heroic but Unfeeling: Implications for Veteran
Employment
What kind of “mind” do people assume those in the military have? Leveraging previous
theorizing on mind perception, dehumanization, and career typology, the current research
shows that veterans are seen as having a higher capacity for agency but less capacity for
experience. As a result, veterans are seen as less (more) suited for careers that require a high
(low) capacity for experience. Results are found across laypeople, managers, and employees.
Implications for veteran well‐being are discussed.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Duke University, Microsoft Military Affairs Research Gifts
PI/PDs: Steve Shephens,
Duke University: Aaron C. Kay
Microsoft Military Affairs Research Gifts: Kurt Gray
’Jesus, Take the Wheel’: The Appeal of Spiritual Products in Satiating Concerns about
Randomness
Leveraging theorizing regarding the psychological need to perceive the world as orderly and
non‐random, we posit that products imbued with religious/spiritual significance help manage
concerns about randomness and uncontrollability. When randomness concerns were salient,
religious consumers showed increased desire to attach religious significance to secular objects
(e.g. having item blessed, physically attaching a religious symbol). For spiritual consumers,
spiritual products (vs. non‐spiritual physically equivalent products) were seen as having (i) non‐
material efficacy (i.e. efficacy not bound to the purely material world) and (ii) unfalsifiable
efficacy (i.e. immune to contrary evidence).
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Duke University
PI/PDs: Steve Shepherd
Duke University: Aaron C. Kay
Sincere, Not Sinful: The Unique Role of Brand Personality in Shaping Liberals’ and
Conservatives’ Views of LGBTQ Ads
In this research we explore how liberals and conservatives respond to LGBT representation in
advertising. Critically, we also test the moderating role of brand personality. While
conservatives generally respond more negatively to LGBT representation in ads, this is
particularly the case for sincere brand (e.g., brands that are seen as down‐to‐earth, wholesome,
family‐oriented), whereas this negative reaction is attenuated for exciting brands.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University, Duke University
PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd
Duke University: Gavan Fitzsimons, Tanya Chartrand
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 American as opposed to foreign. We find this is due to the presence of ethnic minorities in ads increases perceptions of threat to American values and culture. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Duke University,
PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd
Duke University: Gavan Fitzsimons, Tanya Chartrand
Out of Sight, Out of Mind: The Effects of Victim Vulnerability on Judgments of Harm,
Foreseeability, and Company Culpability
We propose that vulnerability visibility (how easily known/observed the vulnerability is), and
frequency (how rare/common the vulnerability is) shape whether or not company culpability
(e.g., blame, complaining behaviors) is heightened or attenuated. When a vulnerability is more
visible or common, harm and company culpability are heightened. However, when a
vulnerability is invisible or rare, perceptions of foreseeability and company culpability decrease.
Visibility and frequency may be features of the vulnerability itself, or have analogs in the
marketing environment (e.g., a service failure happens in‐person vs. online).
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Northwestern University
PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd
Northwestern University: Alysson E. Light
Brand Dependence, Domain Complexity, and Motivated Brand Trust
We find that 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. 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.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Duke University
PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd
Duke University: Gavan J. Fitzsimons
Dual Concern: The Persuasive Power of Showing Care For Those You Criticize
Criticizing with Care: The Persuasive Power of Dual Concern in Critical Policy Messages
Marketing communication is regularly used to motivate prosocial behavioral change. This often
relies on; 1) showing concern for a harmful outcome, and 2) communicating to a target group
that their behavior is harmful and ought to change. As such, we introduce dual concern
messaging, which firmly communicates that a target group causes harm while also showing
concern for the target group.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Oregon
PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd
University of Oregon: Troy H Campbell
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. We find that limited edition/seasonal packaging has a negative impact on consumers’ ability to find the target product. 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 American as opposed to foreign. We find this is due to the presence of ethnic minorities in ads increases perceptions of threat to American values and culture. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd
Identifying and Explaining the Gender-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. The current research asks if the victim matters is how such incidents are interpreted and reported; specifically, the victim’s membership in a group that is seen as vulnerable (e.g., women, children, elderly). We propose based on various model of person perception and stereotyping that when members of these group are victims of a product failure, consumers will 1) see increased harm done, 2) blame the company more, and 3) show increased tendency to complain about the product failure. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd
Military Veterans are Morally Typecast as Heroic but Unfeeling What kind of “mind” do people assume those in the military have? Leveraging previous theorizing on mind perception, dehumanization, and career typology, the current research shows that veterans are seen as having a higher capacity for agency but less capacity for experience. As a result, veterans are seen as relatively ill suited for careers that require a high capacity for experience. Results are found across laypeople and those employed in management and human resources. Implications for veteran well‐being are discussed. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Steven Shepherd
Brand Dependence, Domain Complexity, and Motivated Brand Trust We find that 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. 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
The Challenges of Military Veterans in the Workplace: Applications, Integrations, and Opportunities Understanding disadvantage and how processes of stereotyping, stigma, and social circumstance affect individuals and society has long been an active area of research within psychology. However, how these processes affect military veterans and their transition to civilian life have largely been ignored. We discuss contemporary social psychology theories and relevant recent research that are relevant to challenges veterans encounter when they transition from military. We hope that this synthesis inspires other researchers to conduct research in the context of veterans, and for clinicians to draw on these theories to inform programs and interventions. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Duke University PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd Duke University: Aaron C Kay The Effect of Brand Personality and Acceptance of LGBT Representation in Ads Among Liberals and Conservatives In this research we explore how liberals and conservatives respond to LGBT representation in advertising. Critically, we also test the moderating role of brand personality. While conservatives generally respond more negatively to LGBT representation in ads, this is particularly the case for sincere brand (e.g., brands that are seen as down‐to‐earth, wholesome, family‐oriented), whereas this negative reaction is attenuated for exciting brands. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Duke University PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd Duke University: Aaron C Kay Differing Terms for the Peer‐to‐Peer Economy and Their Associations with Race, Morality, and Legitimacy Numerous terms that lack clear definitions are often interchangeably used to refer to the peer‐to‐peer economy and activities within it. Moreover, the popular press has noted racial disparities in how different peer‐to‐peer activities are perceived and treated. We find that different terms for the peer‐to‐peer economy are not equivalent when it comes to perceptions of; 1) who participates in these activities, and 2) their morality. Specifically, despite their overlap in application and usage, the sharing economy is more associated with White actors and increased morality, whereas side hustles are more associated with Black actors and decreased morality. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Duke University PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd Duke University: Aaron Kay Passion Exploitation: Legitimization of Taking Advantage of Other People’s Passion for Work
Although passion may indeed be beneficial in many ways, we suggest that the modern cultural
emphasis may also serve to facilitate the legitimization of demeaning and unfair management
practices – a phenomenon we term the legitimization of passion exploitation. We show that
people deem poor worker treatment as more legitimate when workers are presumed to be
“passionate” about their work. We demonstrate two mediating mechanisms by which this
process of legitimization occurs; 1) assumptions that passionate workers would have
volunteered for this work if given the chance, and 2) beliefs that, for passionate workers, work
itself is its own reward.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Duke University
PI/PDs: Steven Shepherd
Duke University: Jae Yun Kim, Aaron C Kay
Linking Fan Values to their Behaviors: An Investigation of Old School Values In Relationship to
BIRGing, CORFing, BIRFing, and CORSing
This study has two main objectives. First, the work seeks to enrich our understanding of four
distinctive fan behaviors. A survey investigates both the well‐established fan behaviors of
basking in reflected glory (BIRGing) and cutting off reflected failure (CORFing) as well as the
relatively untested fan behaviors of basking in spite of reflected failure (BIRFing) and cutting off
from reflected success (CORSing). The second goal of this study is to link these four remarkable
fan behaviors to fans’ deeply entrenched Old School values.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, California State University at Chico, California State
University Sonoma, Temple University, Western Oregon University
PI/PDs: Ajay Sukhdial
California State University at Chico: Kirk Damon Aiken
California State University Sonoma: Richard M. Campbell
Temple University: Aubrey Kent
Western Oregon University: Keven Malkewitz
Consumer Values and Boredom
Throughout history, philosophers have argued “Boredom is the root of all evil”. Current
academic research confirms that, ongoing feelings of boredom, a modern existential condition,
are associated with numerous ills in society. Additionally, researchers have argued that one of
the main causes of individuals being in a perpetual state of boredom is that they have lost a
sense of purpose in life Our goal is to test whether giving priority to self‐enhancement values
relative to self‐transcendence values is more likely to results is lower levels of subjective well‐
being and the accompanying higher levels of boredom.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, California State University at Chico
PI/PDs: Ajay Sukhdial
California State University at Chico: Kirk Damon Aiken
Understanding Brand Comfort: An investigation of comfort foods and comfort brands
The basic human desire for comfort has been studied in the fields of psychology, sociology,
medicine, nutritional science, and economics. Extant research has also shown that brands can
induce comfort amongst consumers (while travelling) by evoking predictability and safety, as
well as sensory experiences of home. Thus, the purpose of this work is to explore the intricacies
of brand comfort and provide a foundational understanding of the term. This work investigates
the well‐documented concept of comfort food and then extends that notion to encompass the
new topics of brand comfort.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, California State University at Chico
PI/PDs: Ajay Sukhdial
California State University at Chico: Kirk Damon Aiken
How Competing Ad Cues Overwhelm a Brand Alliance Cue We demonstrate that distraction impairs brand alliance cues in advertising because brand alliance cues are relatively weak. In published research, theorists have demonstrated that a well‐known ally brand improves consumer evaluations of a previously unknown focal brand. Mental load, sex appeals, and celebrity endorsers attenuate the effect of the brand alliance on the previously unknown focal brand. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Ying Ying Li, YoungOk “Sunny” Song, and Kevin E Voss Emotional Arousal and Perceived Shared Experience: Different Mechanisms in Building Emotional Attachment? The authors explore alternative antecedents of emotional attachment. Perceived shared experience (PSE) is a consistent antecedent of emotional attachment. The authors find that the effect of experience type (extraordinary vs. ordinary experience) on emotional attachment is mediated by PSE. The authors also demonstrate that fear arousal is an important antecedent of emotional attachment, even when viewers’ emotional arousal is attenuated due to the presence of a previously attached brand. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Ying Ying Li and Kevin E Voss Measuring Attachment Anxiety and Avoidance: A Semantic Differential Approach Marketing researchers are increasingly interested in the effects of attachment styles on important variables in consumer and business‐to‐business markets. The scales developed herein provide reliable, valid, and generally applicable scales that are shorter than available alternatives. Respondents high in attachment anxiety had significantly lower evaluations of a shoe ad with exciting positioning while those high in attachment avoidance had significantly lower evaluations of a shoe ad with authentic positioning. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Ying Ying Li and Kevin E Voss The Effect of Unusual Brand Names on Consumer’s Brand Evaluations Research to understand companies’ use of brand names that we classify as unusual. These brand names often use profanity or words that allude to body parts. A website that tracks these names and has a list of 1,617. We lack credible research on why marketers choose such
names, how consumers view such names, and what impacts these names have on brand building. Sponsor: State of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Richie L. Liu and Kevin E Voss
Building Brand Identification through Cause‐Brand Alliances: The Role of Perceived Cause Controversy Examines the extent to which a cause‐brand alliance leads to improved brand identification. In addition, to test whether the attitude toward cause brand alliance is determined, in part, by whether the non‐profit organization’s main issue is the subject of controversy. On average, customers’ perception of controversy concerning the nonprofit ally in a CBA influences the average evaluation of the CBA and subsequently the level of identification with the brand ally. Specifically, when there is controversy concerning the non‐profit’s issue, customers will have a more favorable attitude toward the CBA and identification with the brand ally only if both partners are credible. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Kevin E Voss, Yasamin Vahdati Conjunctionitis: A Call for Clarity in Construct Definitions. The authors determine the extent to which the use of coordinating conjunctions enhances or impairs definitional clarity. A sample of 736 construct definitions from Journal of Marketing, the Journal of Marketing Research, and the Journal of Consumer Research over a 30‐year period were subjected to judging for ambiguity and vagueness by both academic and lay judges. The authors demonstrate that constructing definitions using both ‘and’ and ‘or’ increases the ambiguity and vagueness of the construct’s meaning. The most frequently used conjunction is ‘and’ which appeared in 42% of the definitions. A significant percentage (26%) contain the conjunction ‘or’. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Kevin E Voss, Alex R. Zablah, Yu‐Shan “Sandy” Huang Integrating Reciprocity into a Social Exchange Model of Inter‐Firm B2B Relationships Integrates reciprocity and its antecedents into a social exchange model of inter‐firm relationships. The social exchange model includes credibility trust, benevolence trust, information exchange, affective commitment, calculative commitment, and long‐term orientation. Primary data collection from a sample of firms in the Republic of Korea using a questionnaire. The authors used three‐stage least squares to fit the model given the mediational and moderating effects. Adding reciprocity and its antecedents to the social exchange model produce results that differ from previously published findings. Specifically, reciprocity affects information exchanged indirectly through both credibility and benevolence trust. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Kevin E Voss, Mayoor “Max” Mohan, Emily C. Tanner, Yong‐Ki Lee, Hong‐Kuen Kim
Support for regulations There are many regulations that restrict marketing practices. The regulations impose significant costs on business. Public opinion has a strong impact on the likelihood a specific regulation will be imposed. A series of conceptual papers and studies investigate the reasons why individuals will or will not support a regulation. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Josh Wiener
Look at Me! Or Don’t…: The Role of Social Presence on Innovation Adoption Across three studies, we find that the mere social presence of others enhances consumers’ willingness to fund innovative ideas (study 1) and buy innovative products (studies 2 and 3). However, when familiar others are present, the perceived social risk associated with such adoption outweighs the positive signaling effect of uniqueness, thereby attenuating the effect. Importantly, when innovativeness is presented as an accepted norm, the mere social presence of even familiar others leads to higher willingness to buy innovative products. Both theoretical and practical implications are discussed. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Illinois at Urbana‐Champaign, University of Connecticut PI/PDs: Lidan Xu University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign: Ravi Mehta University of Connecticut: Kelly Herd The Cost of Luxury Display: Luxury Self‐Display Signals Immorality
The current research examines the stereotypes of those who consume luxury products and
services and the downstream consequences of such a stereotype for luxury consumers.
Through two pilot studies and five experiments, it was found that observers ascribe a negative
stereotype to luxury consumers and perceive those who consume luxury products and services
as braggarts. This negative stereotype leads to a perception of inauthenticity and induces the
belief that those luxury consumers are more unethical. Further, the effect was attenuated
when the observed luxury consumption was inconspicuous in nature and when making
observers aware that such a negative stereotype exists.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Lidan Xu Prada Bags and Ice‐cream Flavors: How Conspicuous Consumption Experiences Shape
Consumer Creativity
The current research examines the cognitive implications of engaging in conspicuous
consumption for the self. In a set of four experiments we demonstrate that consuming a
conspicuous luxury product in a public setting increases a consumer’s creative performance.
Investigation of the underlying process reveals that such conspicuous consumption activates a
social‐adjustive orientation, which induces a sense of distinctiveness that in turn leads to higher
creativity. Finally, we find that the observed effect is unique to the engagement in conspicuous
luxury consumption and not an outcome of simple exposure to or usage of luxury products.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Illinois at Urbana‐Champaign, University of Alberta PI/PDs: Lidan Xu University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign: Ravi Mehta University of Alberta: Jennifer J. Argo The Sweet Taste of Creativity: Can Taste Perceptions Affect Consumer Creativity The current research examines the effect of the sensory experience of sweetness on consumer creativity. Two pilot studies and six experiments demonstrate that because the sensory experience of sweet taste is grounded in schematic representations of a safe and secure environment, it enhances openness to cognitive exploration, which leads to higher creativity. Alternative explanations such as the pleasantness of the taste experience, enhanced mood, and increased blood sugar levels are ruled out. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Illinois at Urbana‐Champaign, University of British Columbia PI/PDs: Lidan Xu University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign: Ravi Mehta University of British Columbia: JoAndrea (Joey) Hoegg Exploring the Role of Creative Engagement on Donation Behavior The current work proposes and demonstrates creative engagement as one way for marketers to meet this challenge. A set of five studies show that engaging potential donors in creative tasks positively influences their donation behavior. Importantly, the observed effects are shown to be context independent and hold even when potential donors engage in creative tasks and activities that are unrelated to the focal cause of the charity. Our analysis suggests that engaging in a creative thinking task induces a heightened sense of optimism, which then leads to higher monetary donations. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Illinois at Urbana‐Champaign, University of British Columbia PI/PDs: Lidan Xu University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign: Ravi Mehta University of British Columbia: Darren W. Dahl Cuteness and Creativity The current research examines the effect of an important product characteristic, cuteness, on creative cognition and behavior. The authors propose and demonstrate that exposure to cute versus non‐cute non‐living products enhances creative performance. An investigation of the underlying process finds that exposure to cute products activates a playful mindset that in turn leads to higher originality. Additional evidence for the effect and the underlying process is observed through the moderating role of playfulness on the cuteness – creativity relationship. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign PI/PDs: Lidan Xu University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign: Ravi Mehta
Malevolent Creativity
This research examines the effect of engaging in creative tasks with malevolent versus
benevolent intentions on creativity of the outcome. It is found that malevolent as compared to
benevolent intention induces the perception of grandiose sense of self, which motivates one to
be different from others in order to maintain such aggrandized self‐image and hence heightens
creativity. However, this effect is attenuated when the malevolent intention has unintended
benevolent side‐effect to help others.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Illinois at Urbana‐Champaign, University of British Columbia PI/PDs: Lidan Xu University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign: Ravi Mehta University of British Columbia: Darren W. Dahl Look at Me! Or Don’t…: The Role of Social Presence on Innovation Adoption While adoption of innovative products offers an opportunity for consumers to signal their uniqueness, these innovations may also be associated with social risk. The current research highlights how these related and often conflicting factors can, depending on the social context, impact consumers’ willingness to buy innovative products or fund innovative ideas. Across three studies, we find that mere social presence enhances consumers’ willingness to fund innovative ideas (study 1) and buy innovative products (studies 2 and 3). However, when the audience reflects familiar others, the perceived social risk associated with such adoption outweighs the positive signaling effect of uniqueness. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, University of Connecticut PI/PDs: Lidan Xu University of Illinois Urbana Champaign: Ravi Mehta, University of Connecticut: Kelly Herd
Chanel Necklaces and Lego Toys: Exploring the Effect of Conspicuous Consumption on Consumer Creativity The current research examines how engaging in conspicuous consumption influences creative cognition and behavior. We demonstrate that engaging in conspicuous consumption (through both real and imagined experiences) increases both consumers’ creative performance and willingness to use creative and innovative products. In addition, an investigation of the underlying process reveals that conspicuous consumption activates a differentiation mindset that in turn enhances consumer creativity. Finally, we find that the observed effect is specific to the engagement in conspicuous consumption and not an outcome of exposure to or usage of luxury products. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, University of Alberta PI/PDs: Lidan Xu University of Illinois Urbana Champaign: Ravi Mehta University of Alberta: Jennifer J. Argo
The Sweet Taste of Creativity: Can Taste Perceptions Affect Consumer Creativity Prior research has shown that a variety of sensory cues such a color and sound can impact creativity. The current research extends this line of work by investigating the effect of sweet taste perceptions on creative cognition and behavior. It is proposed that sweet taste perception prompts childhood associations and activates a playful mindset, which in turn, leads to higher creativity. Two pilot studies demonstrate that sweet taste perception has latent associations with childhood. Further, five main experiments show that sweet taste perception increases the originality dimension of creativity without compromising appropriateness. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, University British Columbia PI/PDs: Lidan Xu University of Illinois Urbana Champaign: Ravi Mehta University British Columbia: JoAndrea (Joey) Hoegg Creating to be a Loner or a Conformer: Role of Creative Thinking on Consumption of Majority‐endorsed Products Consumers are frequently asked to engage in creative thought in the marketplace, and those who come up with original ideas compared to those who do not engage in creative thought. This paper examines the influence of engaging in creative thought on preference for products endorsed by a minority (i.e., less popular) and products endorsed by a majority (i.e., more popular). We find that engaging in creative thought increases preference for minority‐endorsed products, but only when this preference will be known by others. Alternatively, engaging in creative thought increases preference for majority‐endorsed products when this preference will be known by others. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Miami University PI/PDs: Lidan Xu Miami University: Juliano Laran Exploring the Role of Creative Engagement on Donation Behavior Traditionally, creativity research has focused on examining the antecedents of creativity, with less attention paid to its downstream implications. Importantly, scarce work that does study implications of creativity has examined effects of priming creativity and has demonstrated negative consequences for social behavior. Extending this nascent line of work, current research argues that under the right context, engaging in a creative task may lead to positive social consequences. Results from a set of five experiments demonstrate that creative engagement activates an expansive mindset, which in the context of donation behavior, manifests as moral expansiveness and leads to higher monetary donation. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign PI/PDs: Lidan Xu University of Illinois Urbana Champaign: Ravi Mehta Cuteness and Creativity The current research examines the effect of an important product characteristic, cuteness, on creative cognition and behavior. The authors propose and demonstrate that exposure to cute
versus non‐cute non‐living products enhances creative performance. An investigation of the underlying process finds that exposure to cute products activates a playful mindset that in turn leads to higher originality. Additional evidence for the effect and the underlying process is observed through the moderating role of playfulness on the cuteness – creativity relationship. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign PI/PDs: Lidan Xu University of Illinois Urbana Champaign: Ravi Mehta
Malevolent Creativity
Creativity is generally considered benevolent in nature. It helps individuals cope and solve
everyday problems, generate new and original findings, and promote societal advancement.
However, recent research has started to examine dark side of creativity, and argues that people
can engage in creative tasks with malevolent intentions and use it to inflict harm to others. This
essay examines the effect of engaging in creative tasks with malevolent versus benevolent
intentions on creativity of the outcome. It is found that malevolent as compared to benevolent
intention induces the perception of grandiose sense of self.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, University British Columbia PI/PDs: Lidan Xu University of Illinois Urbana Champaign: Ravi Mehta University British Columbia: Darren W. Dahl
DEPARTMENT OF MANAGEMENT SCIENCE AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Assigning students to academic majors We study the problem of assigning students to academic majors, develop a model which integrates student preferences, major requirements, and capacity limitations. We also develop efficient algorithms to solve the model. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Ali Amiri The application grouping problem in Software‐as‐a‐Service (SaaS) networks Software as a Service (SaaS) provided by cloud computing has recently gained widespread adoption. Because of increased competition in the SaaS market, it is essential for a SaaS provider to properly design its computing system. Significant gains can be achieved by efficiently clustering software applications. This paper focuses on the application grouping problem encountered in computer clustering in SaaS networks. We present integer programming formulations and propose an efficient solution procedure based on the column generation technique applied to the problem. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Ali Amiri The set covering problem with feature selection: A column generation‐based solution approach We study the Set Covering Problem with Feature Selection (SCF). The problem has wide applications especially in the areas of the design of feature limited demonstration software, facility location and customer segmentation. In the SCF, there is a set of features that the users are interested in. Each opened facility has to be assigned a given number of features. A user is covered by a facility only if the facility includes a minimum number of features that the user is interested in. The goal is to determine the minimum number of facilities to setup that cover all users. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Ali Amiri A Lagrangean based solution algorithm for the knapsack problem with setups We consider the knapsack problem with setups which is a generalization of the classical knapsack problem where the items belong to families and an item can be placed in the knapsack only if its family is selected. The problem has received increasing attention by researchers because of its theoretical significance and practical applications related to resource allocation. This paper presents an algorithm based on a Lagrangean relaxation of the problem that produces solutions whose quality can be assessed automatically with the algorithm itself without ever knowing the optimal solutions. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Ali Amiri
Quantum Information Systems: Harnessing Individual and Group Energies
In this working paper, we propose that an organization is a living organism that generates
energy to achieve certain outcomes. We propose that the relationship between the inputs
(individual and group use of information systems) and the outputs (strategic alignment and
competitive advantage) of a system (an organization) depends on the basic principles of
quantum mechanics. Specifically, we connect the neuroscience research that addresses qualia
(individual) and quale (group) to the Management Information Systems (MIS) research. In this
paper, we proffer our research objective, discuss our constructs, and present our interview
process and survey items that we plan to conduct and administer.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Virginia Military Institute
PI/PDs: Corey Baham
Virginia Military Institute: Jennifer Gerow
Indiana University of Pennsylvania: James Rodgers
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. To address this problem,
we propose a new conceptualization for the DR of enterprise architecture. Further, we present
a case study, its findings, and their implications for DR. 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.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Louisiana 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
This paper explores the use of agile methodologies for improving 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.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Louisiana State University, State University of New York
at Albany
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. 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. 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.
Sponsors: Louisiana State University, State University of New York at Buffalo
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‐driven
procedures of plan‐driven approaches. As organizations continue to adopt agile methods,
understanding how to sustain agile methods is a growing concern. In recent years, researchers
have focused their attention on the issues of sustained 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 factors in the
continuance of agile methods.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Louisiana 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 waterfall approaches. As organizations continue to adopt agile
methodologies, understanding the factors that influence the routinization of agile is a growing
concern. 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. 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/PD: Corey Baham
Teaching Tip: Implementing Scrum Wholesale in the Classroom
This paper describes how Scrum has been incorporated into the classroom wholesale and
highlights important considerations for using Scrum for student software development projects.
Students having little to no knowledge of Scrum were able to gain confidence in using the
method in a real‐world setting. The paper discusses the use of a hands‐on Scrum project as a
pedagogical tool for teaching the Scrum methodology and software development life cycle
principles. Qualitative and qualitative data were collected to understand student experiences
with a wholesale Scrum implementation in the classroom.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Corey Baham
Incorporating the Product Owner Role in Student Projects
As the popularity of Scrum has grown, its roles and ceremonies have been utilized in student
software projects. One of the more difficult roles to implement in the academic context is the
role of Business Product Owner (BPO). This paper discusses lessons learned when attempting to
incorporate the BPO in student software development projects while using Scrum. Over a two‐
year span, quantitative and qualitative data were collected to understand student experiences
in selecting, working with, and responding to BPOs. The paper concludes with data analysis and
recommendations for incorporating BPOs in future projects.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: Corey Baham
Measuring the Relative Performance of Accountable Care Organizations: The Role of Electronic Health Records Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) were established to address the issues related to the soaring costs of healthcare delivery. We propose an evaluation framework to measure ACO efficiency, based on their ability to use health care resources to maximize patient health outcomes. Drawing on a nationwide sample of ACOs, we find that larger ACOs are more likely to exhibit lower efficiency relative to smaller ACOs. We also find that usage of electronic health records mitigates the negative impact of size on ACO performance. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Texas PI/PDs: Chenzhang Bao University of Texas: Indranil Bardhan Antecedents and Impact of Health Information Sharing on Hospital Performance: EMR Sourcing Strategies and HIE Participation Despite significant investments in health information technologies (IT), there is still a dearth of information sharing among healthcare providers and hospitals, which constrain adopters from reaping the full benefits of health IT. In this study, we examine the impact of electronic medical records (EMR) sourcing strategies of healthcare providers, as well as their participation in health information exchanges (HIE), on the extent of health information sharing. We attempt to identify the underlying mechanisms through which the benefits of health IT on hospital outcomes are realized. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Texas PI/PDs: Chenzhang Bao University of Texas: Indranil Bardhan IT Spillover Effects in Levels of Healthcare Delivery Recent literature has examined positive IT spillover effects in regional healthcare. We extend this idea and argue that patient and information exchange occurs mainly between care‐delivery levels (e.g. from primary care clinics to tertiary care hospitals and vice versa) rather than within a care level (e.g. from one tertiary care hospital to another). Using the Medicare Cost Report and HIMSS database, we assess how does IT adoption by primary care clinics affects the operating cost of tertiary care hospitals. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Chenzhang Bao, Dursun Delen, Ankita Srivastava
Investigating Uneven Distribution of Health IT Vendor Products While there is an increasing trend of adopting systems from several dominating vendors, health IT market remains competitive and fragmented. This study investigates the distribution of different vendor products and how hospitals adopt health ITs compared to other neighboring peers in the local healthcare market. We focus on the longitudinal trajectories of different applications across years. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Chenzhang Bao Evolution of EMRs and the Impact on Performance Health IT applications have been criticized for the lack of interoperability across vendor products. We investigate the difference in vendor selection of EMR applications within a hospital referral region. We cluster the longitudinal patterns of this evolution in vendor difference/similarity and examine its impact on hospital performance. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Temple University PI/PDs: Chenzhang Bao Temple University: Sezgin Ayabakan
Vulnerability and Risk Mitigation in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have received considerable attention in both popular culture and in science and academia. While popular culture depicts AI as computers with near human like cognitive abilities, nothing could be further from the truth. Some attempts at AI in the real world have gone terribly wrong. The potential for misplaced trust and catastrophic error in the technology is monumental. This paper exams the state of the AI/ML capabilities and vulnerabilities and proposes strategies for industry and academia to mitigate the risks associated with deploying the technology. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Churadata Inc. PI/PDs: David Biros, Madhav Sharma Churadata Inc: Jacob Biros Building Trust in Wearables for Health Behavior Advances in Internet of Things (IoT) have given users the ability to monitor heart rate, calories
burned, steps walked, time spent exercising, and the electrical activity of the heartbeat. A
prominent barrier to adoption of healthcare features in these devices is lack of user trust. This
research conceptualizes the formation of user’s initial trust in wearables. Understanding the
formation of initial trust on wearable systems’ healthcare features can lead to improvement in
user’s health‐related behaviors, which in turn has the potential to cause a societal change in
primary healthcare delivery.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: David Biros, Madhav Sharma
When Programs Collide: A Panel Report on the Competing Interests of Analytics and Security The increasing demand for business analytics and cybersecurity professionals provides an exciting job outlook for graduates of information systems programs. However, the rapid proliferation of devices and systems that spurred this trend has created a challenging ethical dilemma for those responsible for educating future. Many firms are collecting and storing as much data as possible without regard for security. This behavior results in an ever‐increasing challenge for those charged with protecting organizational assets and exerts pressure on executives seeking an analytical edge to remain profitable in a hyper‐competitive marketplace. This paper reports on that discussion and its insights. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Bradley University PI/PDs: David Biros Bradley University: Jacob Young An Empirical Evaluation of Interpersonal Deception Theory in a Real‐World, High‐Stakes Environment The study of deception and the theories which have been developed have relied heavily on laboratory experiments in controlled environments, using college students participating in mock scenarios. The goal of this study is to validate previous deception detection research in a real‐world, high stakes environment of a convicted criminal attempting to deceive in order to garner a lighter sentence. The study utilized previously confirmed linguistic and paralinguistic speech cues and the constructs of deception in an attempt to validate a leading deception theory, Interpersonal Deception Theory (IDT). The results validate IDT with mixed findings on individual measures and their constructs. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Central Arkansas PI/PDs: David Biros University of Central Arkansas: Joseph Thomas Teaching Programming to the Post‐Millennial Generation: Pedagogic Considerations for an IS Course Teaching introductory programming to IS students is challenging. The educational, technological, demographic, and cultural landscape has changed dramatically in recent years. The post‐millennial generation has different needs and expectations in an era of open resources. Learning to program is perceived as difficult, teaching approaches are diverse, and there is little research on what works best. In this paper, we share our experiences in developing, testing, and implementing a new design for teaching introductory IS programming at the undergraduate level. We describe pedagogic considerations and present teaching tips for a blended course that combines best practices with experimentation. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: David Biros, Madhav Sharma, Surya Ayyalasomayajula, Nikunj Dalal Classification of Malicious Insiders and the Association of the Forms of Attacks Malicious insiders continue to pose a great threat to organizations. With their knowledge about organizational security countermeasures as well as valuable organizational resources, malicious insiders can launch an attack towards the organization easier than an outsider could and with
more devastating consequences. Many studies have attempted to identify the characteristics of malicious insiders in order to deter and prevent attacks. We argue that the current studies confuse the fact that malicious attacks belong to two different categories: those that launch instrumental attacks and expressive attacks. This current study paves the way for future research about the heterogeneity of malicious insiders. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Louisiana State University PI/PDs: David Biros, Fletcher Glancy Louisiana State University: Nan Peter Liang Does Cybersecurity Slow Down Digitization? A Quasi‐Experiment of Security Breach Notification Laws While digitization necessitates cybersecurity reforms, firms engaging in digitization initiatives may be discouraged by the costs of such major changes. Therefore, it has become increasingly important to understand if concerns about the costs of cybersecurity stifle digital growth. This study seizes an opportunity to address this question by investigating the state‐ and industry‐level economic impacts of the passages of security breach notification laws (SBNLs) in the United States. We study the impact of SBNLs on an important economic topic – employment by IT service provider industry. This study provides fresh evidence related to the unintended and broader impacts of cybersecurity legislation. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Temple University PI/PDs: David Biros, Tianjian Zhang Temple University: Taha Havakhor Learned Helplessness Inclusion of Attribution Theory in the Organizational Sciences is disproportionately low compared to other disciplines. We take the position that this is due to the lack of a tool that can demonstrate strong psychometric properties. This study builds such a tool across multiple sets of data gathering and refinement. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Jim Burkman, Andy Luse
Predicting Chronic Pain Development from Preventing Opioid Use The goal of this grant is to study the relationship between opioid use and chronic pain treatment. To identify the underlying patterns, a large and feature‐rich data obtained from Cerner HealthFacts Data Warehouse along with a variety of machine learning technics are leveraged. The early findings of this NIH/OU‐CHS funded health analytics research is very descriptive and promising. The next stage will focus on the predictive models to discover new, novel, and actionable knowledge. Sponsor: NIH/OU‐HSC PI/PD: Dursun Delen Data Science Mentorship The goal of the Data Science Rotations for Advancing Discovery (RoAD Trip) is to invite selected junior investigators to “take to the road” to collaborate with senior data science mentors at one
of many eligible research universities across the United States. It is a competitive and highly‐selective process for the junior investigators as well as the mentors to receive such prestigious award. The program selects and awards only 10 mentorship engagements per year. It pays for the expenses of the awarded mentee and pays a small stipend to the mentor at the end of the mentorship period. Sponsor: National Institute for Health (NIH) (Managed by University of South California) PI/PD: Dursun Delen Identifying Adverse Drug Events with Big Data Analytics In pharmacovigilance terminology, Adverse Drug Event (ADE) is a general term that refers to any injury caused by a medication. Although, pharmaceutical companies conduct rather extensive, time‐demanding clinical studies to identify such adversities beforehand, it is not possible to do so for unexpected and slow‐moving adverse outcomes. This research aimed to discover such ADRs using Big Data and advanced AI (machine learning techniques). The ultimate goal is to use HER, social media/network, medical literature, and biological/chemical databases to develop inelegant systems that detect ADR, thereby to save human lives. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Dursun Delen, Behrooz Davazdahemami Improving Student Retention with Predictive Analytics Accurately predicting and rankling the students at risk of attrition is the key component of any retention management system. The goal if the research project is to use historical data to develop machine learning based prediction models to accurately identify the freshmen students that are at the greater risk of dropping out after their first year at college. The system not only predicts those students that are at risk but also prioritize them based of their likelihood of dropping out so that the limited resources for the intervention and retention programs could optimally be utilized. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Dursun Delen Development of a Clinical Decision Support System for Early Detection of Diabetic Retinopathy Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common cause of vision loss among diabetic patients. In this research study, we analyzed data from more than 1.4 million diabetics and developed a clinical decision support system (CDSS) for predicting DR. While the existing diagnostic approach requires access to ophthalmologists and expensive equipment, our CDSS only uses demographic and lab data to detect patients’ susceptibility to retinopathy with a high accuracy. Our CDSS provides several important practical implications, including identifying the DR risk factors, facilitating the early diagnosis of DR, and solving the problem of low compliance with annual retinopathy screenings. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Dursun Delen, Saeed Piri
Developing a Decision Support Systems for Predicting the Financial Success of Hollywood Movies Motion picture business is one of the riskiest endeavors for any investor, especially in today’s ever‐changing needs and wants, likes and dislikes of the potential audience. In this study, we aim at developing a Web‐based DSS (which we refer to as Movie Forecast Guru, or MFG in short) for investors, movie producers, distributors, and exhibitors to make better decisions in selection of movie projects. In addition to predicting the box‐office success of potential movie projects, this DSS is also capable of assessing the importance/contribution of movie parameters such as genre, super stars, technical effects, release time, etc. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Dursun Delen, Ramesh Sharda Identifying Medical Informatics Research Trends with Text Mining The objective of this research project is to identify major subject areas of medical informatics and health analytics and explore the time‐variant changes (upward or downward trends) therein. Using PubMed archives, we identified 26,307 articles published in the top medical informatics journals within the last 12 years. Employing a predictive analytics / text mining approach, we clustered major research topics and analyzed the most frequently appearing subject terms extracted from the abstracts of these articles. The time‐variant results indicated that some subject areas are declining while others are growing exponentially. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Dursun Delen, Yong‐Mi Kim
A Theory of Deception Detection in Asynchronous Communication This paper develops a theory of deception detection in asynchronous communication. The overarching proposition in Asynchronous Communication Deception Detection Theory (ACDDT) asserts that there is a direct linkage between concealment, isolation, and normality in a text and deception. We derive theoretical constructs and propositions using the case study research method. The theory provides a better explanation of how the deceptive documents are different from the non‐deceptive ones. This study contributes a new and unique theory of deception in asynchronous communication that has a practical contribution in the area of fraud detection. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Texas Tech University PI/PDs: Fletcher Glancy Texas Tech University: Surya Yadav Classification of Malicious Insiders and the Association of the Forms of Attacks Malicious insiders continue to pose a significant threat to the organization. Many studies have attempted to identify the characteristics of malicious insiders. We argue that the current studies about malicious insiders confuse the fact that malicious attacks belong to two different categories: those that launch instrumental attacks and expressive attacks. Our results show that malicious insiders who exhibit signs of manipulative behavior or seeking personal gain tend to carry out instrumental attacks. Malicious insiders who exhibit signs of arrogance tend to
conduct expressive attacks. This current study paves the way for future research about the heterogeneity of malicious insiders. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Louisiana State University PI/PDs: Fletcher Glancy, David Biros, Andy Luse
Louisiana State University: Nan Liang
Who Dares to Jump into the Cloud First? – Antecedents and Consequences of the Attitude
toward Public Cloud Adoption.
Cloud computing has become one of the hottest trends in the IT field. While the cloud offers
various potential benefits to organizations, many organizations are hesitant to migrate to the
public cloud due to the innate uncertainties in the new environment. This research attempts to
identify major factors that influences the attitude of IT professionals toward public cloud
adoption in the organizational IT environment. The effect of the individuals’ attitudes on the
organizational level adoption decision is also examined. The results will provide insights into the
decision‐making and evolution process of enterprise IT architecture.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: JinKyu Lee
To Protect and Serve? Perception of Information Security Team and Cooperative Security
Operations
This research examines the effect of the employees’ perception on their information security
team on their willingness to cooperate security operations. The extent research has identified
various institutionalized mechanisms such as sanctions, incentives, and employee training
programs that can improve information security performance. We propose that how
employees perceive their security team (e.g., controller, projector, enabler, etc.) also plays a
critical role in successful security operations by enacting cooperative behaviors (e.g., reporting
potential security threats, complying with security policies, etc.). The results will extend the
model of security enhancing behaviors and suggest additional tools to improve information
security.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: JinKyu Lee
Moderators for the Antecedents of Information Security Enhancing Behaviors
Previous studies on corporate information security pointed out that employee incompliance is a
major causes of information security incidents. While extant literature suggests that
organizations can adopt various incentive and training programs to encourage employees’
compliance with information security policies, most studies considered 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 compliance incentive and training programs. The findings will identify factors that
can improve the effectiveness of compliance incentive and training programs for various
employee groups.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: JinKyu Lee
The Roles and limitations of Employee Training and Technical Measures for Information
Security
Employee training has been widely recognized as one of the most important means to
strengthen the information security posture of an organization. However, its complementary
and supplementary roles in corporate security architecture has not been clearly understood.
This study examines the effectiveness of employee trainings on organizational security posture
in relation to technical security countermeasures for various types of information security
threats. The findings of this study will help managers develop more effective employee training
programs for their threat environments while identifying the technical components of
information security architecture that should not rely on employee training.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI/PD: JinKyu Lee
From General to Situational Privacy Concerns: A New Mechanism to Explain Information
Disclosure in Social Networks
In this study, we discuss that the inconsistency reported in the literature (i.e., information
sharing in SNSs in the presence of CFIP) is mainly due to lack of proper conceptualization and
operationalization of models in those studies. Our results show that prior research widely lacks
parallelism between the operationalization levels of CFIP and willingness to share information.
Moreover, we show that situational factors such as sensitivity of information and perceived
control over privacy play a critical role in explaining the decision‐making mechanism for
information disclosure in SNSs.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Wisconsin‐Whitewater, Auburn University
PI/PDs: Andy Luse, Bryan Hammer
University of Wisconsin‐Whitewater: Behrooz Davazdahemami
Auburn University: Pankush Kalgotra
Strong vs. Weak Theory: An Evaluative Mechanism for Theoretical Development
The goal of many theoreticians is to develop sound theory that will be utilized within their field
both by researchers and practitioners. Yet, scholars have not arrived at a consensus concerning
what constitutes appropriate theoretical structure. In this paper, we offer an approach to
theory design and analysis based on a categorization of strong and weak theory structure. We
first offer a concrete definition of the meaning of strong and weak theory that is based on a
variety of literature. Second, we apply this evaluative framework to a prominent stream of
theory development and discuss the nature of theory evolution.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Iowa State University
PI/PDs: Andy Luse, Bryan Edwards
Iowa State University: Anthony Townsend
Instruction in 802.11 Technology in Online Virtual Labs
Lab‐based education has been a staple of computing education for decades. By interacting with
the technology, students are able to gain a much greater understanding of the subject through
hands‐on activities. Recently, virtual labs have provided a mechanism to allow both co‐located
and online students access to these lab environments without the time, space, and monetary
constraints of traditional labs. Computer networking and security is one area where virtual labs
provide a highly useful testbed for learning security concepts. One problem is implementing
virtual educational labs pertaining to 802.11 technologies given the inherently physical
location‐based nature of the wireless medium.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Iowa State University
PI/PDs: Andy Luse, Amanda Brown
Iowa State University: Julie Rursch
Does Technology Thwart Gender Stereotypes: An Impression Formation‐based Examination
of the Differential Influence of Technology across Gender and Message
This research examines the relationship between gender, message bias, and technology use on
the way that observers form impressions of others. Building on impression formation and
gender stereotype research and theory, we develop a two‐study research methodology for
examining how impressions are formed of technology users. The results of our two studies
indicate that technology use is an important component in impression formation, significantly
inhibiting the effects of gender stereotyping, such that women and men are not evaluated
differently based upon their apparent competency in using technology nor on the content of
their messaging.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Iowa State University
PI/PDs: Andy Luse
Iowa State University: Anthony Townsend
Data Analytics in Organizations: Leadership, Management, Talent, and Performance The success of today’s organizations depends on data analytics—obtaining data, analyzing it, and using the results to make informed decisions. Although the significance of analytics is recognized more than ever by those in businesses, many lack the leadership and talent to optimize the transition from data analytics to data‐driven decision making. This research investigates the state of data analytics in organizations through an investigation of leadership, management, talent, and performance. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jeretta Horn Nord The Internet of Things (IoTs) Those in the emerging digital world have recently witnessed the proliferation and impact of IoT‐enabled devices. The Internet of Things (IoTs) has provided new opportunities in the technology arena while bringing security, privacy, and trust challenges to an increased level of concern. This research investigates the usage, benefits, and challenges of IoTs in organizations. The research has both practical and theoretical impetus since IoT is still in its infancy, yet is considered by many as the most important technology initiative of today. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Jeretta Horn Nord The Effect of Supply Chain Relationships on Resilience: Empirical Evidence from India The purpose of this study is to empirically explore the effects of trust, communication, commitment and cooperation on Supply Chain (SC) resilience and performance. An online, cross‐sectional survey was used for collecting perceptual responses from supply chain professionals. SmartPLS was used to analyze 155 completed responses. Findings suggest communication and cooperation as dominant enablers of SC resilience in the integrated model with positive effect on performance. The study is the first to consider the inter‐relationships among the relational attributes, and how they collectively influence SC resilience. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, ICFAI Business School (IBS), Hyderabad PI/PDs: Rathindra Sarathy ICFAI Business School (IBS), Hyderabad: Santanu Mandal 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. Sponsors: State of Oklahoma, University of New Mexico, Midwestern State University PI/PDs: Rathindra Sarathy University of New Mexico: Han Li, Xin (Robert) Luo Midwestern State University: Jie Zhang
Statistical Information Recovery from Multivariate Noise‐Multiplied Data, a Computational Approach This paper presents a computational method for sharing multivariate confidential numerical microdata, an area of growing interest. The method can be used to recover interesting statistical information about the sensitive microdata based on noise‐multiplied protected data. Estimating the parameters in linear regression without using the original data directly becomes feasible. An R package Mask Joint Density is built for implementing the method, and is available in the public domain. Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, University of Wollongong, University of Oklahoma PI/PDs: Rathindra Sarathy University of Wollongong, Australia: Luke Mazur, Yan‐Xia Lin University of Oklahoma: Krishnamurty Muralidhar
Health Analytics
We are studying several issues in health analytics using a large electronic medical records data
warehouse through CHSI – prediction of hospital length of stay, estimating comorbidities across
different demographics, estimating mortality rates; etc.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Auburn University
PI/PDs: Ramesh Sharda
Auburn University: Pankush Kalgotra
Quality of Information Exchanged on Social Media
The goal is to determine the quality and objectivity of information being posted on twitter, and
also understand which types of users provide what type of information through their tweets.
Having this guidance permits one to use the posted information more carefully and reliable. We
run such analyses in the context of providing support to chronically mental disease patients.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Wright State University
PI/PDs: Ramesh Sharda
Wright State University: Daniel Asamoah
Analysis of Social Media Interactions
We model the stochastic nature of social media interactions, especially as it relates to
discussion about specific brands and products. The models help understand reactions to
original postings.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Wright State University
PI/PDs: Ramesh Sharda
Wright State University: Amir Hassan Zadeh
Understanding Impacts of Interruptions
We study the effects of interruptions on knowledge tasks. Neuroimaging is employed to deepen
our understanding of what happens during and after an interruption.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Auburn University
PI/PDs: Ramesh Sharda, Corey Baham
Auburn University: Pankush Kalgotra
Mitigating Dark Side of Analytics/AI
Stories abound on how AI/Analytics models are leading companies to make questionable
decisions. This research is aimed at identifying information systems research opportunities to
help mitigate such missteps.
Sponsors: Oklahoma State University, Auburn University
PI/PDs: Ramesh Sharda
Auburn University: Ashish Gupta
Impacts of Smart Technology on Short‐Term Rentals Operations In this working paper, we analyze the financial and operational impacts of deploying smart technologies in short‐term rentals. Landlords are usually not co‐located with lodging units rented through short‐term agents, such as Airbnb and VRBO. Application of smart thermostats, plugs, and energy monitors can have a significant impact on costs without a comparable increase in operational burden. Using a case study of five properties, we assess the impact of these devices and explore additional benefits derived from behavioral changes by tenants due to the presence of these devices. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Mark Weiser
College of Veterinary Medicine
–FY2020 Research Abstracts
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
Skeletal Muscle as a Target for Cardio‐Metabolic Disease in Sarcopenic Obesity The objective of this application is to examine how augmented muscle mass, a by‐product of the exercise intervention commonly prescribed for treatment of obesity and sarcopenia, can prevent and rescue metabolic and vascular dysfunction in sarcopenic obesity. The core hypothesis of this application is that targeting skeletal muscle function in aging can ameliorate metabolic dysfunction and oxidant‐induced hypertension in obesity. Sponsors: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Joshua T. Butcher Augmented Muscle Mass as a Buffer Against Influenza Augmented muscle mass (a by‐product of exercise) protects against obesity‐derived cardiovascular dysfunction, as well reducing the onset, symptoms, recovery time, and mortality of influenza. What remains unknown is whether augmented muscle mass generated by inhibition of myostatin (an exercise mimetic) can protect against influenza severity in lean or obese mice. Importantly, this project will examine both the vascular and skeletal muscle (the diaphragm) dysfunction in the respiratory system that accompanies obesity, influenza, and the how the combination drives overall pathology. Taken together, the following project should yield clinically relevant targets for combating obesity and influenza‐derived disease progression. Sponsors: National Institutes of Health PI/PDs: Joshua T. Butcher (PI), Lin Liu (PD) Roles of Estrogen Sulfotransferase in Estrogen‐dependent Breast Cancers This project develops novel treatments for estrogen‐dependent cancers by enhancing in vivo estrogen sulfotransferase activity to block in vivo estrogenic activity. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Guangping Chen Bioprinting Vascularized 3D Liver Tissues and Drug Metabolic Pathways This project develops a 3D liver tissue using cell bioprinting with co‐axial nozzles, which can be used to spatially locate liver cells around microcapillaries. Using this technique, we want to evaluate the changes in drug metabolizing enzyme activities and influence of different cell types. We will develop models for drug metabolism evaluation, which will contribute to novel drug develop. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University PI/PD: Guangping Chen, and Sundar V. Madihally (Chemical Engineering) 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 Effect of Hyperthermia and Conditioning on Canine Skeletal Muscle Mitochondrial Function Working dogs are likely to develop profound hyperthermia in their skeletal muscle due to their potent capacity for aerobic metabolism combined with their relative lack of capacity for dissipating heat. Hyperthermia can adversely affect mitochondrial function, and in several other species it has been shown that athletic conditioning will improve tolerance to hyperthermia. However, in this study, we demonstrated that athletic conditioning of dogs appears to decrease mitochondrial efficiency. It is believed that this decrease in efficiency serves a secondary benefit in decreasing oxidative stress in the muscle during prolonged exercise, and that the enormous aerobic capacity of canine skeletal muscle allows the dog to tolerate a small decrease in aerobic efficiency in order to prevent oxidative damage. Sponsors: American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation PI/PD: Michael Davis Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases: Animal Models Core This proposal’s focus is to train junior faculty that are new to using animal models for respiratory disease and to prepare them for future extramural funding. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health/NIGMS, P20GM103648. PIs: Myron Hinsdale, Co‐Investigator, Animal Models Core Director Proteoglycans and Adipogenesis This proposal’s focus is to establish the impact of factors such as inflammatory mediators that impact the adipogenic niche. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Advisory Funding PIs: Myron Hinsdale The Role of Glucose Homeostasis During Respiratory Infections The specific aims of this project are to test the hypotheses that: 1) impaired glucose transport and utilization enhances influenza infection in the lungs of diabetic animals; and 2) alterations of the insulin signaling pathway in the diabetic lung enhance the inflammatory response and the severity of influenza infection. Sponsor: The National Institutes of Health, P20GM103648 PI/PDs: Véronique Lacombe (PI), Lin Liu (PD)
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 was to test the hypothesis that the heart of genetically altered mice may secrete proteins into the body which improve whole‐body glucose homeostasis during diabetes. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Advisory Committee PI/PD: Véronique Lacombe The Role of Glucose Metabolism during Type 2 Diabetic Influenza This project aimed to understand how alterations in pulmonary glucose homeostasis during diabetes might enhance viral replication, and thus the severity of influenza infection. The specific aims of this project were to: 1) test the hypothesis that influenza would cause alterations of glucose transport and the glucose transport signaling pathway in human bronchial epithelial cells, and 2) test the hypothesis that influenza would enhance the inflammatory response during diabetes. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Advisory Committee PI/PD: Allison Campolo, (Sponsor/Mentor: Véronique Lacombe) Mitochondrial Alterations During Influenza‐Complicated Pulmonary Glucose Dysregulation This project aimed to test the hypothesis that influenza alters the regulation of glucose transport and mitochondrial function during diabetes. The specific aims were to: 1) characterize the alterations of glucose transport and its downstream signaling pathway in the lung of diabetic mice infected with influenza, and 2) characterize the alterations of mitochondrial bioenergetics in diabetic mice infected with influenza. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Advisory Committee PI/PD: Matthew Rochowski, (Sponsor/Mentor: Véronique Lacombe) Novel Large Animal Model of Cardiovascular Diseases The major goal is to develop a novel model of atrial fibrillation in horses. Sponsor: Office of the Vice President of Research PI/PDs: Véronique Lacombe, Michael Davis Equine atrial fibrillation: novel cause and treatment The major goal is to characterize atrial fibrillation in horses with metabolic diseases and to investigate vagal nerve stimulation as a novel therapeutic strategy Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station funds PI/PDs: Véronique Lacombe, Martin Furr
Alterations of Insulin‐Sensitive Glucose Transporters in the Lung of Insulin‐Resistant and Insulin‐Deficient Mice The major goal was to determine the alterations in glucose transport proteins in the lung of diabetic mice. Sponsor: Niblack PI/PD: Rachel Abraham, (Sponsor/Mentor: Véronique Lacombe) Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases The overall goal of this Phase II CoBRE grant is to further develop the State‐wide multi‐institute Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases (OCRID) into a sustainable center of research excellence. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health/NIGMS, P20GM103648. PIs: Lin Liu OUHSC: Jordan Metcalf 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 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 CRISPRa LncRNA Screen for the Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells into Alveolar Epithelial Type II Cells The major goal of this project is to identify lncRNAs that can convert mesenchymal stem cells into lung cells to repair lung damages in lung diseases via genome‐wide CRISPR activation screen. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for Adult Stem Cell Research PI: Lin Liu Modeling Influenza Virus Infection Using iPSC‐derived Alveolar Organoids The major goal of this project is to develop human alveolar organoids to recapitulate influenza virus infection in the in vivo alveolar epithelium using human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for Adult Stem Cell Research PI: Lin Liu
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: Lara Maxwell CVM, Pathobiology: Clinton Jones Clinical health markers, metabolites, inflammatory mediators and fecal microbiome in dogs fed raw meat based or commercial extruded kibble diet. The goal of this project is to determine if health markers in dogs are affected by diet type, comparing a raw meat diet to a traditional kibble diet. Sponsor: American Holistic Veterinary Medicine Foundation. PI: Dianne McFarlane The role of corticotropin‐like intermediate lobe peptide (CLIP) in insulin release following oral glucose challenge. This study tests whether the pituitary hormone CLIP stimulates insulin release in horses after an oral sugar challenge. It has been suggested that high concentrations of pituitary hormones may promote excessive insulin release in horses, leading to development of laminitis. Sponsor: RAC Small Veterinary Project. PI: Dianne McFarlane 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, Baboon Research Resource Program: 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: Oklahoma State University, CVM, RAC 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 College of Arts & Sciences: Loren Smith College of Health Sciences: David Wallace The Effect of Pesticide Exposure on Cognitive and Brain Development 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 Environmental Health Sciences PI/PDs: Paul Laurienti, Wake Forest University Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Carey Pope, Kirstin Hester CB2 receptor activation and DFP toxicity The objective of this project is to evaluate cannabinoid receptor 2 activation in reducing neuroinflammation and toxicity following anticholinesterase toxicity. Sponsor: CVM, Research Advisory Committee Oklahoma State University PI/PDs: Carey Pope, Kirstin Hester High intensity focused ultrasound mediated targeting of solid tumors and hygroma in client owned dogs The objective of this project is to utilize HIFU for a pilot clinical trial assessment of hygroma reduction in client owned dogs. Sponsor: Focused Ultrasound Foundation PI/PD: Ashish Ranjan Focused ultrasound enhanced Calreticulin‐nanoparticle for immune primed melanoma immunotherapy The goals of this project is to assess the feasibility of liposome and focused ultrasound induction of Calreticulin expression in tumor for enhanced immunotherapeutic outcomes in canine and murine melanoma. Sponsor: National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Ashish Ranjan Magnetic hyperthermia combined antimicrobial targeting of bone pathogens The goals of this project are to hyperthermia for treatment of hard to treat bone pathogen non‐invasively. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) PI/PD: Ashish Ranjan
Development of noninvasive cancer immunomodulation in Pets The objective of this project is to utilize novel adjuvant and focused ultrasound for local tumor immune modulation in canine patients. Sponsor: PETCO PI/PD: Ashish Ranjan Minimally Invasive Animal Sterilization The objective of this project is to utilize novel chemical sterilant for the ablation of reproductive functions. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) PI/PD: Ashish Ranjan Kerr Chair The objective of this grant is to support biomedical research in CVHS. Sponsor: Oklahoma State University, College of Veterinary Medicine PI/PD: Ashish Ranjan Obesity‐induced sympathoexcitation causes glial senescence in the brainstem The overall goal of the study is to investigate which cell type undergoes senescence in the brainstem in obesity. Sponsor: NIH‐HL148844 and OSU‐College of Veterinary Medicine‐Research Advisory Committee PI/PD: Madhan Subramanian Role of Nrf2 signaling and cellular senescence in obesity‐induced symapthoexcitation Obesity is a major risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases hypertension, but the mechanisms are unclear. Accumulating evidence suggests that increases in sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of obesity‐induced hypertension. The specific aims of the grant tests the hypothesis that obesity causes Nrf2 dysfunction and promotes cellular senescence in the RVLM, which in turn contributes to neuroinflammation and increases in SNA leading to the development of hypertension. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Madhan Subramanian
DEPARTMENT OF VETERINARY PATHOBIOLOGY
Pathogen Survival in Large Scale Carcass Management by Above Ground Burial In the event of an African Swine Fever outbreak in the US, many pigs may die from the disease or require euthanizing for welfare reasons or to contain the outbreak. Therefore, a proven, safe, economical on‐farm disposal method is needed. Above Ground Burial (AGB) have shown that cow and pig carcasses decompose completely within 9‐12 months. This project will evaluate the survival of swine pox virus (as a surrogate for ASF virus) in sow femur bone marrow over a one‐year period. Sponsors: United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS); National Pork Board PI/PD: Fernando V. Bauermann, Keith Bailey Effect of bovine viral diarrhea virus on thymus function and calf immunity Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infection in calves cause major economic losses to US producers. BVDV leads to transient immunosuppression, and significant thymus atrophy. Therefore, the impact of BVDV infection may go beyond the increased susceptibility to other pathogens during acute infection, BVDV may lead to prolonged altered protective immune responses to other pathogens due to effect on the thymus on young animals. The project will specifically evaluate the magnitude and kinetics of specific humoral and T cell responses of calves previously exposed to BVDV on a subsequent viral infection and the impact on the thymus function. Sponsors: National Institute of Food and Agriculture/USDA PI/PD: Fernando V. Bauermann, Mayara Maggioli, Jared Taylor
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
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: College of Veterinary Medicine PI/PDs: Todd Yeagley, Eileen Johnson, Mason Reichard, Matt Bolic, Sharon Snowden
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 Development of a live‐attenuated single‐cycle respiratory syncytial virus vaccine expressing prefusion F protein Human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of lung disease in infants, children, immunosuppressed individuals, and the elderly. Despite a major worldwide impact, a vaccine or cost‐ effective drugs are not available. Previous vaccination attempts have failed to protect children from RSV disease. Creating a vaccine that is both safe and effective has proven immensely challenging. This project aims to develop a live‐ attenuated RSV for the pediatric population that expresses the prefusion‐stabilized form of the viral fusion protein. This virus, when applied as a vaccine, will induce highly protective anti‐RSV antibodies and at the same time be safe due to restriction to a single cycle of replication, thereby balancing efficacy and safety. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health PI/PD: Tom Oomens
A novel virus‐like‐particle based RSV vaccine to generate broad and durable protection Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an RNA virus responsible for >100,000 deaths in children worldwide each year, and significant morbidity and mortality in the elderly. Past vaccine designs and trials have failed to create an effective vaccine that is safe enough in the target population. The success of the human papilloma virus vaccine has shown that virus‐like‐particles (VLPs), entities that lack genetic material but yet induce effective anti‐viral immune responses, are attractive vaccine platforms. In this project, we use RSV components to generate RSV‐based VLPs, and test in a mouse model whether these VLPs can induce efficacious, safe, and broadly cross‐protective immune responses. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology PI/PD: Tom Oomens 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: College of Veterinary Medicine 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; College of Veterinary Medicine 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
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: College of Veterinary Medicine 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 College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM). 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
VETERINARY CLINCAL SCIENCES
Integrated Beef Cattle Program for Veterinarians to Enhance Practice Management and Services Oklahoma has 1.6 million beef cows, yet lacks the veterinarians necessary to fully service cattle operations. This project seeks to offer intervention strategies for rural sustainability by expanding veterinary skills and knowledge to address common needs of beef producers. Initially, surveys will be developed to fully evaluate the shortage situation including geographic range of veterinarians. Secondly, educational modules for veterinarians will be created focusing on beef cattle herd management with the ultimate goal to expand services provided by veterinarians. Finally, veterinary students will be networked with participating rural veterinarians to help sustain rural veterinary practices. Sponsor: USDA‐National Institute of Food and Agriculture PI/PDs: Rosslyn Biggs, John Gilliam, Jerry Malayer, Brandon Raczkoski, Carlos Risco College of Agriculture: Paul Beck, David Lalman, Derrell Peel
Intranasal midazolam effective dose 50 and its effect on circulating corticosterone levels in zebra finches Sedation in birds is important for safe handling, preventing escape, and preventing harm to the bird and handler. Intranasal (IN) midazolam has been used in small birds for this purpose, but the ED99 in zebra finches has not been determined. The current study has two phases. The first phase’s objective was to determine the ED99 of IN midazolam using the Dixon Up‐and‐Down method. The first bird was given 6 mg/kg of IN midazolam and its sedation was scored based on three categories: recumbency, first attempt to catch, and righting reflex within 2 seconds of being dorsally placed. The dose for the second bird increased/decreased by 2 mg/kg depending on the sedation score of the previous bird. This continued until 6 crossover events were reached. ED99 was determined to be 2.46 mg/kg. The second phase’s objective was to study the effects of 13 mg/kg of IN midazolam, the ED99, and a saline placebo on circulating corticosterone levels. This was a masked, complete crossover randomized study. 30 zebra finches, divided into 3 sets, were given one of the three treatments. Blood samples were collected at 0 min for baseline, treatments were administered, and blood samples were again collected after 20 min. The samples will later be used to assess corticosterone levels using an ELISA. Sponsors: Start‐up funds, Oklahoma State University Summer Research Training Program sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim, Dr. Kristie Plunkett Exotic Animal Fund PI/PDs: João Brandão, Nicola Di Girolamo Effective Dose 50 of Oral and Intramuscular Midazolam and its Effects on Corticosterone in Zebra Finches While routine care is essential in companion avian species, birds can become easily distressed when handled for examination, leading to an increased risk of injury. Intranasal (IN) midazolam has become increasingly popular in avian medicine to induce sedation for minor procedures. We examined optimal sedation doses of oral and intramuscular (IM) routes of midazolam administration and assessed the clinical practicality of these different sedation routes in small
birds, as compared to IN midazolam. The effective dose 50 (ED50) of oral and IM midazolam was determined using Dixon’s up and down method. Randomly ordered birds (n =14) were treated with a starting dose of 6 mg/kg of midazolam, and sedation score (based on 3 parameters) was determined at 20 min post‐administration. A decrease or increase of 2 mg/kg from the previous dose was then administered to the following bird based on the preceding sedation score. Similar to what was found for IN midazolam (1.9 mg/kg; concurrent study), the ED50 of oral midazolam was 1.7 mg/kg. In contrast, the ED50 for IM midazolam was substantially lower, at 1.08 mg/kg. The impact of midazolam administration route on stress response in zebra finches will be assessed by measuring changes in levels of circulating corticosterone. Sponsors: Start‐up funds, Morris Animal Foundation, Oklahoma State University Summer Research Training Program sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim, Dr. Kristie Plunkett Exotic Animal Fund PI/PDs: João Brandão, Nicola Di Girolamo Urinalysis in Sonoran Desert Toads (Incilius alvarius): Effect of Centrifugation and Refrigeration Amphibians suffering from renal disease show non‐specific clinical signs. Renal assessment is challenging due to limited number of published methodologies. The present study sought to determine the effect of centrifugation and refrigeration on toad urine. Urine from 27 seven‐month‐old, unknown sex Sonoran Desert toads (Incilius alvarius) was collected opportunistically during physical exam and urinalysis was performed. Macroscopic assessment included specific gravity via refractometer, and via reagent strips to estimate glucose, bilirubin, ketone, specific gravity, blood, pH, protein, urobilinogen, nitrite, and leukocyte esterase. Microscopic examination was performed to observe for crystal formation, cellular content, and debris. On the first day, initial urinalysis was performed immediately after sample collection and on the supernatant after centrifugation at 2,600 rpm for 6 minutes. On the second day, initial urinalysis was performed at time 0 and repeated at 4, 7, and 24 hours post‐refrigeration at 5.2°C, after acclimatization to room temperature. Initial urinalysis revealed the presence of debris and fecal parasites. Centrifugation did not lead to any significant changes in comparison to the initial urinalysis, except for the absence of debris and parasites. Crystallization occurred as the samples were refrigerated and the number of crystals increased with time. Sponsors: Start‐up funds, Dr. Kristie Plunkett Exotic Animal Fund PI/PDs: João Brandão, Nicola Di Girolamo
Efficacy of nanofiber coating method for improving osteointegration of total knee replacement surgeries More than one million joint replacement procedures are performed in people each year in the United States. Patient longevity often exceeds the durability of the artificial implant, and not uncommonly, the breakdown involves loosening of the implant within the recipient bone. This has led to the development of numerous strategies for facilitating bony ingrowth into the implant, or “osteointegration.” The goal of this pre‐clinical study is to validate the utility of laser‐induced microgrooves for coating total knee implants with an osteointegrative nanofiber material. Sponsor: NIH, Oklahoma IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence PI/PDs: Erik Clary University of Central Oklahoma: Morshed Khandaker University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center: Mary Beth Humphrey An in vitro evaluation of the effect of thread microgrooving and nanofiber‐coating on the acute biomechanical and microstructural performance of stainless steel bone anchors Bone anchors are widely used in orthopedic surgery. Loosening of the anchor is a recognized issue. This study seeks to evaluate a novel implant surface treatment as a strategy for delivering facilitative molecules to the bone‐implant interface. Specifically, our objective is to determine the impact of microgrooving and nanofiber coating on the acute biomechanical and microstructural performance of a 3.5mm bone anchor inserted into cadaveric radii. We hypothesize no difference in performance between unmodified (BA), microgrooved (MG), or microgrooved with polycaprolactone nanofiber coating (NF) bone anchors. Sponsor: College of Veterinary Medicine PI/PDs: Erik Clary, Rodrigo Roca University of Central Oklahoma: Morshed Khandaker Comparative analysis of molecular profiles in visceral tumors Recent advances in human oncology include personalization of therapeutic regimens based on genomic data. Working from a tissue sample, the cancer’s DNA is sequenced and analyzed for drug‐targetable mutations. With this approach, a variety of cancers in human beings are being treated today, including primary abdominal visceral tumors that have historically garnered a poor prognosis. With intent to further the science of this “precision medicine” and to advance therapeutic options for dogs afflicted with visceral cancers, this research will characterize the genomic profile of visceral tumors encountered in clinical canine patients and compare to profiles reported in humans. Sponsor: UC San Diego Department of Surgery PI/PDs: Erik Clary Pathobiology: Valerie McElliott University of California, San Diego: Jason Sicklick
Identification of bacterial contamination in two fluid bag collection systems and the influence of hang time and location of fluid bags on bacterial contamination rates This study aims to compare the bacterial contamination rates of two different systems to obtain fluid from a hanging intravenous bag. The screw port system has not been examined with respect to bacterial contamination rates, and therefore, its use is being compared to bacterial contamination rates of the previously reported puncture system associated with the fluid bag. The null hypothesis is that there will be no difference in bacterial contamination rates between the puncture method and the screw port method. Sponsor: Cohn Family Chair for Small Animals PI/PD: Danielle Dugat, DVM, MS, DACVS (Small Animal) “Effect of perfusate volume on amikacin concentrations following saphenous intravenous regional limb perfusion in the standing, sedated horse” Systemic administration of antibiotics at recommended doses rarely results in therapeutic local antibiotic concentrations to resolve joint infections in horses. Intravenous regional limb perfusion (IVRLP) of antibiotics a very cost‐effective technique that achieves high concentrations of an antibiotic in synovial structures of the distal limb. The impact of different perfusate volumes has been evaluated in the forelimb but not in the hindlimb. This study will evaluate the efficacy of hind limb IVRLP using three different volumes of perfusate and will provide needed scientific evidence describing the efficacy of IVRLP in the hind limb of horses. Sponsor: OSU, CVM, RAC, Aurora Pharmaceuticals PI/PDs: Mike Schoonover, DVM, MS, DACVS‐LA, DACVSMR “Pharmacokinetics and efficacy of high dose oral gabapentin in horses with chronic lameness” Musculoskeletal conditions resulting in chronic lameness conditions in horses are common. Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant drug used in the management of neuropathic or chronic pain in both human and veterinary medicine. The use of gabapentin for the treatment of neuropathic pain is well described in small animal patients. Studies evaluating its use at low doses (10‐20mg/kg) to treat chronic lameness in horses have described poor results. This study will evaluate the pharmacokinetic and efficacy of a high dose of gabapentin (160mg/kg) administered for 4 weeks to horses with a chronic lameness condition. Sponsor: OSU, CVM, RAC, Henthorne Professorship of Small Animal Medicine PI/PDs: Mike Schoonover, DVM, MS, DACVS‐LA, DACVSMR “Effects of intra‐articular injection of a liquid amnion allograft on synovial fluid parameters and the development of acute reactive synovitis in healthy horses” Regenerative therapies have been widely researched as a potential treatment for joint disease in horses. Amniotic fluid and tissue are excellent sources of growth factors and cytokines important in tissue healing. An equine origin, liquid amnion allograft (LAA) comprised of amnion and amniotic fluid is commercially available. No published studies scientifically evaluate the local and systemic responses to intra‐articular LAA in horses. This study seeks to evaluate the systemic and local effect LAA has following its injection into normal equine joints. Sponsor: Equus Innovations PI/PDs: Mike J. Schoonover. DVM, MS, DACVS‐LA, DACVSMR
Transcutaneous Irradiance Application and its Bio‐Stimulatory Effect on the Canine Spinal Canal Photo‐bio‐modulation (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 Photo‐bio‐modulation of the Canine Spinal Cord and Brain Spinal cord diseases are common in veterinary medicine, and are often treated with rehabilitative modalities, such as photo‐bio‐modulation (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 Local Treatment of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury via Direct Epidural Photo‐neuro‐modulation Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating neurological lesion which negatively affects the function, wellness, and overall quality of life for both animals and people. Management for SCI involves a combination of medical and surgical interventions followed by intense rehabilitation to optimize functional outcomes. As there has been little clinical progress in regenerative and restorative therapies for both acute and chronic SCI, our collaborative team will evaluate the impact of epidurally applied photo‐neuro‐modulation (PNM) as a safe and convenient therapy technology. PNM has the opportunity to non‐invasively reduce inflammation and pain, as well as, stimulate axonal re‐growth, improving treatment outcomes. Sponsors: Henthorne Foundation PI/PDs: Lara Sypniewski Electrical and Computer Engineering: Daqing Piao
Investigation of the Impact of Pete’s Pet Posse Therapy Dogs on the OSU College Campus Pet therapy programs on college campuses are an emergent phenomena and Pete’s Pet Posse (P3) is regarded as the flagship of university pet therapy programs. P3 provides thousands of pet therapy events and “touches”. Our collaborative team is working to evaluation the impact P3 has on the OSU campus family. This research is exploratory and will evaluate impact and outcomes at various levels of the pet therapy program from job satisfaction to student recruitment. As this program grows, so does the opportunity to evaluate its influence on students, staff and faculty. This research will allow for a better understanding of benefits associated with pet therapy programs on college campuses. Sponsors: Henthorne Foundation PI/PDs: Lara Sypniewski College of Education, Health and Aviation: Penny Cantley Microvasculature of the suspensory ligament of the hindlimb of horses Injury to the suspensory ligament is a common cause of lameness in horses. In the hindlimb, proximal suspensory injury is associated with chronic, recurrent lameness. Anatomic descriptions of vasculature and microvasculature play an important role in understanding tendon injury and disease. There is minimal literature describing the microvascular anatomy of equine tendons and ligaments. The microvascular architecture of the equine forelimb suspensory ligament has been described (Williams et. al., 2013), however this has not been evaluated for the hindlimb suspensory ligament. The objective of this study is to describe the vascular and microvascular architecture of the equine hindlimb suspensory ligament. Sponsors: OSU, CVM, Research Advisory Committee PI/PDs: Megan Williams, Evan Crisman
OKLAHOMA ANIMAL 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: Jerry Saliki 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) College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network (Vet‐LIRN). Sponsor: FDA Vet‐LIRN PI/PD: Akhilesh Ramachandran Development of an Interactive Spatial Agrometrics Tool for the Calculation of Livestock
(Cattle, Swine and Poultry) Populations in the United States at the County and Parish Level
The goal of this project is to develop an interactive geographic mapping tool that will aid in
determining animal population on a county, state and national level. This is a collaborative
project between OADDL, Dept. of Geography and Dept. of Agricultural Economics.
Sponsor: NAHLN
PI/PD: Akhilesh Ramachandran
Deep Learning Computations Algorithms for Disease Diagnosis by Genome Sequencing,
NAHLN
This study is aimed at exploring an artificial intelligence and machine learning based approach
for infectious disease diagnostics. This is a collaborative project between OADDL, Dept. of
Pathobiology and Dept. of Computer Sciences.
Sponsor: NAHLN
PI/PD: Akhilesh Ramachandran
OSU Center for Health Sciences
–FY2020 Research Abstracts
BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES
Epigenetic regulation in Neuro‐inflammation.
Many factors, including our environment and our genetic make‐up govern many genes in
neuro‐inflammation. These epigenetic changes play a very crucial role in regulating different
proteins critically involved in neuro‐inflammatory diseases and thus make it very important to
study these epigenetic changes. One such mechanism is DNA methylation where different
enzymes methylate the cytosines in CpG dinucleotides and thus regulate the gene expression.
We are interested in finding out how DNA methylation can trigger neuro‐inflammatory diseases
and pharmacologically blocking this methylation can alleviate pain and inflammation in these
models of neuro‐inflammatory diseases like Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis.
Sponsor: OSU Funding (OVPR)
PI/PD: Subhas Das
Growth of tyrannosaurs from hatchling to adult Foot bones from two hatchling tyrannosaurs, three ravening three‐year‐olds, and a giant adult were placed in the path of synchrotron x‐rays to reveal their 3D blood canal structure. The tyrannosaurs Gorgosaurus and Tyrannosaurus showed explosive early growth, then a considerable slowdown as youngsters eased into a long childhood as mid‐sized predators. Blood vessel patterns also mark spring ligaments in tyrannosaur feet, which enhanced their ability as terrifying hunters. Our 3D methods work in harmony with 2D bone histology to reveal blood supply and cellular resolution of dinosaur bone growth. Sponsors: Canadian Light Source Synchrotron. PI: Eric Snively Locomotion of a super‐giant mastodon on uneven terrain OSU COM graduate student Brenna Hart‐Farrar (supervisor: Holly Woodward Ballard) is continuing research on a gigantic female mastodon from the Grey Fossil Site in Tennessee. Ms. Hart‐Farrar made use of biomechanical methods in our lab to investigate stresses in the hand bones of this huge animal. The mastodon had high safety factors in its bones for moving at moderate speeds, adapting it to uneven terrain of hills and sinkholes. Coupled with a uniquely splayed thumb, the strength of its bones made the mastodon unexpectedly suited to an unusually precarious environment for an animal matching the size of many large dinosaurs. PIs: Brenna Hart‐Farrar, Eric Snively
Development and evolution of bite force in Tyrannosaurus rex Adult Tyrannosaurus rex had the highest bite force of any land animal, blasting through bones of large prey like Triceratops. But how did juvenile T. rex feed on smaller prey? MSc student Evan Johnson‐Ransom is simulating skull stresses in T. rex and its evolutionary relatives, using muscle force reconstruction and finite element engineering analysis. A 12‐year‐old, horse‐sized T. rex had greater skull stresses in a comparatively slender, maneuverable skull than stresses experienced by a big 7‐tonne adult T. rex. This adult (“the Nation’s T. rex” now at the Smithsonian) had a skull easily strong enough for its considerable bite force. Sponsor: Intramural PI: Eric Snively Comparison of 3D bone growth in mammals and dinosaurs Mammals and dinosaurs have bone histology (tissue structure) that reflects rapid growth. We are comparing Bison with the duckbilled dinosaur Maiasaura and the horned dinosaurs Centrosaurus and Triceratops, using synchrotron x‐ray imaging. A synchrotron magnetically accelerates electrons in a circle to nearly the speed of light. Resulting pure x‐rays reveal stunning detail of blood vessels spaces and even cells within the bone. 3D reconstruction of blood vessels further confirm that Triceratops and Maiasaura had inflationary early growth, faster than that contemporary carnivorous dinosaurs or modern baby Bison. Our Bison growth series, perfectly age‐calibrated, ground‐truths our growth interpretations for extinct dinosaurs. Sponsor: Canadian Light Source Synchrotron PIs: Eric Snively, Holly Woodward Ballard American Association for Anatomy Fellowship Grant Award Program: DiceCT Brain Atlases New techniques in neuroanatomical imaging must be ground‐truthed against already accepted and widely confirmed methodologies. In this study, 3D brain atlases for Sprague Dawley rat models based on iodine‐enhanced micro‐CT scans will be compared with standard histological brain atlases. Iodine‐staining, via diffusible iodine‐based contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (diceCT), differentiates white‐ and gray‐matter features of the vertebrate brain. This provides an opportunity for developing high‐quality, 3D, interactive brain atlases for numerous animal systems. Whether or not features present in histological atlases are also common to micro‐CT scan data will be scored in order to determine how well tissue‐level atlases reflect the gold standard of histological imaging. Similarities and differences will help guide future efforts to expand 3D brain imaging. Sponsor: American Association for Anatomy Co‐PIs/PDs: Paul M. Gignac 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 (co‐PI) Rules of Life: Patterns of Diversity and the Origin of Morphological Novelty in Crocodile‐line Archosaurs Elucidating the nature of evolutionary principles that govern diversification requires detailed analyses of groups with long evolutionary histories, broad ecological sophistication, and living descendants for which behavior, ecology, and anatomy are known. Crocodilians and their precursors are one such exceptional line of reptiles, spanning 230 million years and multiple mass extinction events, evolving four orders of magnitude in size, and gaining ecological and phenotypic diversity paralleling those of mammals. Using micro‐CT scanning and 3D imaging, this project will examine coordinated and individual shifts in neurological, forelimb/hindlimb, and vertebral anatomy directed at identifying the “rules” of evolutionary change underlying their widescale success. Sponsor: National Science Foundation PIs/PDs: Paul M. Gignac (PI) Stony Brook University: Alan Turner (lead PI) Stony Brook University: Eric Wilberg (co‐PI) Stony Brook University: Jeroen Smaers (co‐PI) Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences: David Kay (research assistant) Using osteohistology to explore the life histories of gray wolves and dire wolves By visually recording and understanding the growth and physiology of living vertebrates, life history characteristics can be correlated to observations of microscopic structures in bone tissue. The bone tissue of modern gray wolves will be compared to life history data to understand how growth and maturity status is recorded in their skeletons. These trends will then be compared to bone microstructure of the larger and now extinct dire wolf to assess growth and development. Such a comparative study could provide a better understanding of why the dire wolf became extinct and why gray wolves remain successful today. Sponsor: 2018 Paleontological Society Arthur Jame Boucot Research Grant PIs: Holly Woodward Ballard Denver Museum of Nature and Science: Sue Ware Continued Maiasaura fossil excavations enhance large sample histoanalyses The Woodward Ballard lab recently established Maiasaura as the most well‐understood dinosaur to date by revealing aspects of age, growth rate, sexual maturity, and senescence gleaned from fossil bone histology. Incorporation of additional skeletal elements will permit further Maiasaura life history discoveries. Attainment of additional specimens requires excavation of Maiasaura fossil material from the badlands of Montana during summer field
seasons. To promote exposure to STEM, volunteer crewmembers will participate in hands‐on field experiences to learn about biology, geology, anatomy, ecology, and evolution through the lens of paleontology. Sponsor: Intramural, OVPR Pilot/Seed Grants to Attract External Funding PI/PD: Holly Woodward Ballard Osteohistology reveals the life history of Tyrannosaurus rex and its relatives The first longitudinal examination of Tyrannosaurus rex long bone histology will examine a growth series to obtain individual growth curves in order to assess variability in growth and maturity in this genus. Tyrannosaurus rex is the largest of the tyrannosaurs, and this study will also histologically examine longitudinal growth series of smaller tyrannosaur genera to test previous hypotheses regarding general growth “strategies” employed by this group of dinosaurs. Sponsor: Myhrvold Family Charitable Fund, Intramural PD/PI: Holly Woodward Ballard Intraskeletal histological analysis of the North Island Kiwi bird Osteohistology confirms that most dinosaurs took more than a single year to reach adult size. Unfortunately, most modern birds‐ the descendants of dinosaurs‐ achieve adult size in less than a year, so no growth rings form within the bone. Kiwi birds take many years to achieve adult size, and therefore afford a unique opportunity for understanding how multiple years of growth are recorded across skeletal elements in a flightless avian dinosaur. The skeleton of a 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, Christian Heck Advancing Therapeutic Options.for Treating Mood and Anxiety Disorders Using a Novel Anti‐Inflammatory Agent Inflammation in the brain (neuroinflammation) plays an important role in mood and anxiety disorders. However, relatively few available medications specifically target neuroinflammation. This project involves subjecting mice to extreme social stress or “bullying” using a model in which experimental mice are exposed to larger and aggressive strain of mouse for 2h/day for 6 consecutive days. We then test the hypothesis that the drug β‐funaltrexamine (β‐FNA) can reduce or prevent stress‐induced neuroinflammation and anxiety. This project will significantly advance our understanding of the novel anti‐inflammatory and neuroprotective actions of this drug, particularly, in terms of brain disorders associated with social stress. Sponsor: OCAST Funding PI/PD: Randall L. Davis, PhD (Co‐Is: J. Thomas Curtis, PhD; Craig W. Stevens, PhD) Lipopolysaccharide‐induced neuroinflammation and behavioral deficits: toward identifying novel pharmacologic approaches for treating anxiety and mood disorders Our overall objective is to advance the translational implications of β‐funaltrexamine (β‐FNA) as a neuroprotective agent. This pilot project is designed to 1) demonstrate that we are prepared to investigate the effects of route of β‐FNA administration in our mouse model of LPS‐induced
neuroinflammation and behavioral deficits; 2) provide in vivo evidence that supports our in vitro findings that the anti‐inflammatory effects of β‐FNA are independent of actions at mu opioid receptors; and 3) demonstrate that we are prepared to test the effects of β‐FNA on learning and memory by establishing a conditioned taste aversion test in LPS‐treated mice. Sponsor: OSU‐CHS OVPR Pilot Funding PI/PD: Randall L. Davis, PhD (Co‐I: J. Thomas Curtis, PhD) Environmental Toxicants and the Development of Cancer These projects examine the effects of heavy metals and pesticides on tumor development (pancreas, colorectal, prostate, and breast). Assessing the cellular and molecular effects of the toxicants alone, or in a mixture will provide a better understanding of the mechanisms and impact these toxicants exert on the cellular mechanisms regulating cell growth and impacting tumor development. Studies examining the toxicity of metal‐pesticide mixtures will be a major focus. We will assess changes in apoptotic pathways, cellular repair, mitochondrial and DNA function, all culminating with effects on the cell which will lead to tumor formation. Sponsor: Intramural Funding PI/PD: David R. Wallace and Aleksandra Buha Djordjevic (University of Belgrade) 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 Discovery of Indolizidine (‐)‐237D Analogs as Selective alpha6* receptor antagonists Cigarette smoking causes 7,500 adult deaths in Oklahoma alone each year. Better anti‐smoking agents are needed with fewer side effects. We aim to develop synthetic compounds that selectively inhibit α6* nicotinic acetylcholine receptors which are expected to have fewer side effects compared to current smoking cessation agents that are less selective as they bind to many cholinergic nicotinic receptor subtypes. Analogs will be evaluated for in vitro potency at α6* nAChRs via inhibition of nicotine‐evoked dopamine (DA) release from superfused rat striatal slices. These analogs may serve as leads for the discovery of novel smoking cessation agents targeting α6* nAChRs. Sponsor: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) PI/PD: Razi Abdolvand (TU), Blaine Mooers (OU), and 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 Cell Envelope Properties Affecting Intrinsic Resistance and Biofilm Formation in Opportunistic Serratia Species Several species of the enteric genus Serratia are agents of opportunistic etiologies in humans. Our laboratory is conducting ongoing basic research addressing virulence factors which underlie the ability of these organisms to cause disease. We are primarily interested in the physiological role that cell surface hydrophobicity plays in the ability to form biofilms and in intrinsic resistance to hydrophobic antibacterial agents. We are also using the analysis of RNAseq data to generate hypotheses addressing both the roles of targeted genes in resistance to the hydrophobic biocide triclosan and the mechanism by which outer membrane permeabilizers are able to sensitize Serratia marcescens to triclosan. Sponsors: NIH INBRE Undergraduate Research Program, NIH INBRE Faculty Research Opportunity Award Program, TABERC, OVPR Pilot Grant Program PIs: Franklin R. Champlin, Sue Katz Amburn Interactions of Beneficial Microbes with the Mammalian Host The mammalian gut microbiome consists of thousands of microbial species that are considered beneficial 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 and intramural funding PI/PD: Gerwald Koehler Xenobiotics and the Mammalian Gut Microbiome Ingested drugs and environmental toxins are xenobiotics that are likely to interact with the microorganisms that inhabit the mammalian intestine. Currently, we are using molecular analyses (next‐generation sequencing) to examine the impact of xenobiotics on the composition of the gut microbiome. Conversely, the microbes’ responses towards exposure and their potential for modulation of xenobiotic effects are investigated. The project will help us to understand how xenobiotics can impact human health. Sponsor: Intramural funding PI/PD: Gerwald Koehler
Microbiome Research Projects for Medical Students Trillions of microbes live in and on the human body. These microbes together with their genetic information form the human microbiome. New technologies enable us to characterize these microbial communities and explore how they interact with their host. The mentored research projects will allow medical students to gain hands‐on microbiome research experience by using modern DNA sequencing and data analysis methods. As future physicians, the students will learn to evaluate and appreciate the importance of the microbiome for human health and disease. Sponsor: OSU‐CHS Mentor‐Mentee grant PI/PD: Gerwald Koehler Characterization of the Effect of Single Prolonged Stress (a model for PTSD) on neuronal and astrocyte cilia 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, depression, anxiety, and learning. Primary cilia act as an antenna for cells to detect important changes to the external environment of cells and relay that information into the cell body to govern cellular responses. We are examining the effects of post‐traumatic stress disorder on assembly and function of cilia of neurons and glial cells using a model for PTSD in rodents. Sponsor: OSU‐CHS Intramural PI: Nedra F. Wilson Geologic context and classification of Triassic reptile fossils from the Oklahoma Panhandle region Triassic Period rocks of the Oklahoma Panhandle and surrounding region remain poorly contextualized relative to those of extensively studied southwestern U.S. localities. I will make a comprehensive faunal inventory and reconstruct the relationships and paleobiology of reptile fossils found there by describing historic collections housed at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History and leading new fieldwork. Taxonomic identifications of two phytosaurs (extinct crocodile‐like reptiles that are important index fossils for determining the relative age sequence of rocks) suggest a Late Norian (~215‐210 million years old) age for the Oklahoma formations, a hypothesis I will test with future fieldwork. Sponsor: Intramural PI/PD: Daniel Barta
CENTER FOR INDIGENOUS HEALTH RESEARCH AND POLICY (CIHRP) Restoring Ancestral Abundance: A Partnership Between Indigenous Communities to Improve Food Systems, Promote Food Sovereignty, and Repair Relationships Between People, Food, and Land In Indigenous communities, food represents cultural continuance, marrying ecological, cultural, and social dimensions of health. However, colonization displaced Indigenous peoples and led to health disparities. Food sovereignty is key for developing sustainable food systems, leading to health equity. Indigenous community members went to Hawai’i to share/learn strategies to cultivate food sovereignty/health. The group was hosted by a farm/organization (MA’O Farms) that provides Native youth with college tuition in exchange for farm work. The group identified strategies to implement the farm’s efforts within their communities. They developed a framework that repairs relationships between the people, food, and land within their communities. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health
PI: Valarie Blue Bird Jernigan
Changes in Vegetable and Fruit Intake and Willingness‐to‐Try among Children in Native
American Families: the FRESH study
FRESH aims to increase F/V intake and reduce BMI among NAs. Children received a
nutrition/gardening intervention and parents were invited to view web‐based videos identifying
strategies to promote F/V intake among children. Parents were invited to attend in‐person
meetings to discuss strategies to increase healthy food access within communities. We assessed
children’s F/V intake, willingness‐to‐try F/Vs, and BMI. The mean age was 4.7 years, 55% were
female, and 31% were overweight/obese at baseline. Vegetable intake increased for intervention
children and intervention children were more willing to try vegetables. This is the first
gardening/nutrition RCT implemented within a NA reservation.
Sponsor: National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities
PI: Valarie Blue Bird Jernigan
A Food Box Intervention to Reduce Blood Pressure in Native American Adults with
Uncontrolled Hypertension: the CHEERS study
The CHEERS study aims to improve BMI and blood pressure among NAs with uncontrolled
hypertension. CHEERS was co‐created by tribal/university partners and is implemented within
the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma. We created hypertension‐specific food boxes that are packed
and shipped monthly to intervention participants. The study intervenes at both the
environmental and policy levels. The CHEERS intervention launched in 2018 and is currently
ongoing. CHEERS is the first innovative food box intervention to be conducted in NA communities.
Food box interventions show promise in improving dietary intake and reducing hypertension and
obesity in rural and poor food environments.
Sponsor: National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities
PI: Valarie Blue Bird Jernigan
Analysis of the Food Environment and Obesity in Counties with a High Number of Native
Americans
The food environment is a noteworthy factor in determining people’s health. Because Native
American’s (NAs) experience a disproportionate burden of obesity and diabetes, it is important
to understand their food environment. Using the US Department of Agriculture’s Food
Environment Atlas data, we found that counties with the highest number of NAs residing in them
(upper quartile) had fewer grocery stores and more food insecurity than counties with fewer NAs
residing in them. Further, counties with a higher percentage of NAs with low access to grocery
stores was associated with more obesity in unadjusted and adjusted models.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI: Alyson Haslam
Developing Stronger Research Partnerships with American Indian Tribal Communities in
Oklahoma
There is historical distrust among American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities. This is
due to ethical misconduct of researchers, exploitation of participants, causing damage within the
communities or presenting findings that are inaccurate. Because of this distrust, there is a need
for procedures in developing data sharing. Our objective is to explore the concepts of Indigenous
research within four tribal representatives in Oklahoma to develop these procedures. Through
qualitative data gathering through video interviews with tribal representation, we intend to meet
with tribal partners to discuss best research practices when approaching AI/AN Tribal Nations
and how to train better researchers.
Sponsor: Oklahoma State University
PI: Tvli Jacob
Using Motion Picture Storytelling as an Indigenous Method to Explore Food Sovereignty in an
American Indian/Alaska Native Tribe
To gather AI/AN knowledge on food sovereignty, we incorporated a form of research we call, motion picture storytelling. We collected qualitative data from 15 AI/AN community members to share their knowledge, experience, thoughts, beliefs and ideas on food sovereignty through video. The tribal citizens had complete control in how they shared their stories through the moving images, dialogue, discussions or any other means. Then, data was collected and an observation on what was recorded was made, using theme content analysis. After the data was interpreted, the storytellers were contacted for member checking, to confirm or explain the interpretation. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health
PI: Valarie Blue Bird Jernigan
CLINICAL RESEARCH Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for PTSD Clinical Demonstration Protocol Service‐related post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms do not always respond effectively to traditional evidence‐based therapies used by the VA medical system. Although the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for PTSD is considered “off‐label” by the FDA, there is a body of literature that suggests that the therapy may be useful for PTSD. The purpose of this cooperative project between the Eastern Oklahoma VA Healthcare System and OSU Medical Center is to explore whether military veterans with refractory PTSD can be treated effectively in HBOT facilities external to the VA system. Sponsors: Center for Compassionate Innovation, VHA Central Office PI/PD: Paul Rock, Keith Simmons, Brian Diener, Douglas Foster, Susan Young Eastern Oklahoma VAHCS: John Chelf, Erica Jeffries, River Smith, Jane Kurek, Leslie Eddleman, Donald Johnson, Katherine Claassen. 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 noninferiority 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: D. Matt Wilkett, 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: D. Matt Wilkett, DO Pfizer Prevnar This is a Phase 2, randomized, active‐controlled, open‐label study with a 3‐arm parallel design. Healthy 2‐month old infants (42 to 98 days of age) with no history of pneumococcal vaccination will be randomized in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive a 4‐dose series of: multivalent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine co‐administered with Prevnar 13 (Group 1); multivalent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine given 1 month after Prevnar 13 (Group 2); or Prevnar 13 with a single dose of multivalent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Group 3). Sponsor: Pfizer PI: Colony Fugate, DO Crisaborole Study PROTOCOL NUMBER: C3291002 A phase 4, multicenter, open‐label safety study of Crisaborole ointment 2% in children aged 3 months to less than 24 months with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. This is an open‐label study of the safety of crisaborole topical ointment, 2% used twice a day for 28 days on children 3 to ≤ 24 months old with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. This study is to determine if the age indication for this non‐steroidal alternative should be expanded as it is currently an approved treatment only for people 2 years of age and up. Sponsor: Pfizer PI/PD: Colony Fugate, DO Crisaborole Maintenance Therapy Study PROTOCOL NUMBER: C3291035 A Phase 3, Randomized, Double‐Blind, Vehicle‐Controlled Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Maintenance Treatment and Flare Reduction with Crisaborole Ointment, 2%, Once Daily Over 52 Weeks in Pediatric and Adult Participants (Ages 2 Years and Older) with Mild‐to‐Moderate Atopic Dermatitis, who Responded to Twice Daily Crisaborole Ointment, 2%, Treatment. This study is the evaluate the safety and efficacy of maintenance treatment and flare reduction with Crisaborole ointment, 2%, vs. vehicle ointment, used once daily over a 52‐week period in for ages 2 years old and up with mild‐to‐moderate atopic dermatitis, who prove responders to twice daily dosing in the open‐label run‐in period. The goal is to determine if once daily dosing can be used as a long term topical treatment (for prior responders with this level of atopic dermatitis). Sponsor: Pfizer PI/PD: Colony Fugate, DO
Expanded Pneumococcal Vaccine Study This is a safety and immunogenicity study of a 20‐valent pneumococcal vaccine which was developed to expand protection against 7 more serotypes which account for 70% of Invasive Pneumococcal Disease seen today. This vaccine is compared to the standard licensed vaccine, Prevnar 13®. Both are given as an infant series at 2, 4, and 6, months of age with a toddler booster dose at 12 months of age along with routine infant and toddler vaccines. Sponsor: Pfizer PI/PD: Colony Fugate, DO Quadrivalent Meningococcal Vaccine Study A Randomized Study to Describe the Safety of an Investigational Quadrivalent Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine Administered Concomitantly with Routine Pediatric Vaccines in Healthy Infants and Toddlers. This study is to compare the safety profiles of two vaccines aimed to provide broad protection against invasive meningococcal disease when administered concomitantly with routine infant and toddler vaccines. The test article is MenACYW (polysaccharide tetanus toxoid conjugate) vaccine. Menveo® (oligosaccharide diphtheria conjugate) vaccine is given as the control. Each are dosed in a primary infant series at 2, 4, and 6 months of age along with a toddler booster dose at 12 months of age in healthy infants. Sponsor: Sanofi Pasteur PI/PD: Colony Fugate, DO REPRIEVE Study Randomized Trial to Prevent Vascular Events in HIV. HIV causes inflammation (irritation) inside the body that cannot be felt but can be measured. Inflammation may contribute to diseases such as heart disease that have become some of the leading causes of death in people with HIV. HIV medications can lower inflammation somewhat, however sometimes the levels of inflammation can remain higher compared to people who are not infected with HIV. Statins are used to lower the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides (fat in the blood) that people make, but clinical trials have shown that statins may have other benefits. For example, heart disease and the levels of inflammation can be lowered by statins. Pitavastatin is a statin that, along with a diet, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of high cholesterol. It also lowers triglyceride levels in the blood. Sponsor: Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital PI/PD: Damon Baker, DO
VIVO Study Evaluation of the Zilver® Vena™ Venous Stent in the Treatment of Symptomatic Iliofemoral Venous Outflow Obstruction. The Zilver® Vena™ Venous Stent is intended to treat obstruction (blockage/narrowing) of the iliofemoral (groin/pelvis) veins. The purpose of this study is to assess the ability of the investigational device to maintain an open blood vessel in the groin/pelvis (this blood vessel is called the iliofemoral vein). Sponsor: Cook, Inc. PI/PD: George Erbacher, DO SALSA Study A Phase III, randomized, multicenter, open‐label, non‐inferiority study evaluating the efficacy, safety and tolerability of switching to dolutegravir/lamivudine fixed dose combination in HIV‐1 infected adults who are virologically suppressed. Sponsor: ViiV Healthcare Company PI/PD: Katherine Cook, DO AMGEN Cmobius The Cardiovascular Multi‐dimensional Observational Investigation of the Use of PCSK9 Inhibitors (cvMOBIUS). The purpose of this registry is to evaluate the effectiveness of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors (PCSK9i) to reduce cardiovascular events among subjects presenting with a recent atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) event in real‐world practice. Sponsor: AMGEN PI/PD: Matt Wilkett, DO Astellas A Phase 1, Randomized, Single Dose, Blinded, Dose‐Escalation Study to Assess Safety, Tolerability and Inununogenicity of ASP3772, a Pneumococcal Vaccine, in Toddlers 12 to 15 Months of Age in Comparison to an Active Comparator. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and tolerability of three dose levels of ASP3772 and the immune response in comparison to the active comparator Prevnar 13® (PCV13) in toddlers who have previously been administered the routine three‐dose series of PCV13. Sponsor: Astellas Pharma Global Development Inc PI/PD: Colony Fugate, DO Novartis A multi‐center, randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of hydroxychloroquine monotherapy in combination with azithromycin in patients with moderate and severe COVID‐19 disease. Recent studies suggest treatment with hydroxychloroquine combined with azithromycin may shorten the duration of COVID‐19 symptoms and improve viral clearance. Hydroxychloroquine treatment may inhibit viral nucleic acid‐mediated activation of innate immune pathways, as well as blockade of lysosomal
functions in cell types relevant for viral entry and antigen presentation. The purpose is to determine if oral hydroxychloroquine monotherapy, or in combination with azithromycin results in clinical benefit in patients hospitalized with COVID‐19 pneumonia. Sponsor: Novartis Pharmaceuticals PI/PD: Mousumi Som, DO Lilly A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled, Parallel‐Group Phase 3 Study of Baricitinib in Patients with Covid‐19 Infections. The purpose of this study is to see if the study drug baricitinib is effective in hospitalized participants with COVID‐19. Sponsor: Eli Lilly and Company PI/PD: Mousumi Som, DO Lilly‐NIAID A Phase 3 Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of LY3819253 in Preventing Covid‐19 in Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living Facility Residents and Staff; a NIAID and Lilly Collaborative Study. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether LY3819253 prevents severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection and coronavirus disease ‐ 2019 (COVID‐19) in facility staff and residents in contracted skilled nursing and assisted living facility networks with a high risk of SARS‐CoV‐2 exposure. Participants with a high risk of SARS‐CoV‐2 exposure will receive LY3819253 or placebo via an injection into a vein. Sponsor: Eli Lilly and Company and NIAID PI/PD: Mousumi Som, DO
MEDICAL STUDENT RESEARCH
Analysis of practices to promote reproducibility and transparency in anaesthesiology research. Reliable, high‐quality research is essential to the field of anaesthesiology. Reproducibility and
transparency have been investigated in the biomedical domain and in the social sciences, with
both lacking to provide necessary information to reproduce the study findings. In this study, we
investigated 14 indicators of reproducibility in anaesthesiology research. Anaesthesiology
research needs to improve indicators of reproducibility and transparency. By making research
publicly available and improving accessibility to detailed study components, primary research
can be reproduced in subsequent studies and help contribute to the development of new
practice guidelines.
PDs/PIs: Okonya, O., Rorah, D., Tritz, D., Umberham, B., Wiley, M., & Vassar, M.
Evaluation of the completeness of intervention reporting in Cochrane surgical systematic
reviews using the TIDieR‐SR checklist: a cross‐sectional study.
Complete reporting of systematic reviews of interventions is essential to the interpretation of
research findings and the reproducibility of research results. The Template for Intervention
Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist—and the version specific to systematic reviews
(TIDieR‐SR)—was created to provide authors and researchers an evidence‐based guide for
reporting trial and systematic review interventions. In this study, we apply TIDieR‐SR to
Cochrane systematic reviews of surgical interventions. Our results are encouraging, but the
generalisability of our findings is compromised by the inclusion of only Cochrane systematic
reviews. Future reporting of intervention materials is likely to improve the application of
effective surgical interventions in the clinical practice.
PDs/PIs: Vassar, M., Page, M. J., Glasbey, J., Cooper, C., Jorski, A., Sosio, J., & Wayant, C.
Evaluation of the Completeness of Interventions Reported in Published Randomized
Controlled Trials in Plastic Surgery: A Systematic Review.
With the increasing number of randomized control trials being conducted and published in
plastic surgery, complete reporting of trial information is critical for readers to properly
evaluate a trial’s methodology and arrive at appropriate conclusions about its merits and
applicability to patients. The Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR)
checklist was introduced to address the limited guidance for reporting trial interventions. The
extent of TIDieR adoption by trial list appears to be limited, and greater efforts are needed to
disseminate this reporting guideline if widespread uptake is to be expected. Alternatively, it
may be beneficial to incorporate TIDieR into the more widely recognized Consolidated
Standards of Reporting Trials statement.
PDs/PIs: Evans, S., Rauh, S., Jellison, S., Diener, B., Agha, R., & Vassar, M.
Public interest in preventative measures of COVID‐19 associated with timely issuance of
state‐wide Stay‐at‐Home orders.
One method of monitoring public preparedness is through measuring public interest in
preventive measures. The objective of this study was to analyze public interest in the
coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) preventive measures and to identify variables associated
with timely stay‐at‐home (SAH) orders issued by governors. States with greater public interest
in COVID‐19 preventive measures were inversely related to governor issuance of timely SAH
orders. Increasing public interest in preventive measures may slow the spread of the virus that
causes COVID‐19, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), by improving
preparedness.
PDs/PIs: Greiner, B., Ottwell, R., Vassar, M., & Hartwell, M.
Completeness of intervention reporting in neurology randomized controlled trials: a
retrospective, cross‐sectional study.
Incomplete reporting of interventions in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) may hinder the
replicability of studies and thus lead to adverse clinical outcomes for patients. Little is known
about intervention reporting in neurology clinical trials. Aim One: to determine the
completeness of intervention reporting in neurology RCTs, as measured by the Template for
Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist. Aim two: compare the
completeness of intervention reporting before and after TIDieR publication and to evaluate
factors associated with intervention reporting. Results show that authors report an average of
61.7% of items on the TIDier checklist, and that incomplete reporting may hinder the
replicability of studies, which negatively affects clinical outcomes for patients.
PDs/PIs: Roberts, W., Beavers, C., Jellison, S., & Vassar, M.
Evaluation of selective outcome reporting and trial registration practices among addiction
clinical trials.
Selective outcome reporting occurs when trialists pre‐specify primary and secondary outcomes
during trial planning but alter the definitions in the published report. Here, we investigate
selective outcome reporting in published addiction randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and
evaluate whether particular funding sources are associated with an increased likelihood of
selective outcome reporting. There is evidence suggestive of selective outcome reporting in
addiction randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The most common major discrepancies pertained
to the primary outcome.
PDs/PIs: Vassar, M., Roberts, W., Cooper, C. M., Wayant, C., & Bibens, M.
TIDieR checklist evaluation of clinical trial intervention reporting for recent FDA‐approved
anticancer medications.
Clear and comprehensive descriptions of clinical trial interventions are necessary to translate
new results into clinical practice. Analysis of recent clinical trial results involving FDA approved
anticancer interventions, good adherence to the TIDieR checklist. Studies were homogeneous in
their structure and included information; some TIDieR items were always or never/rarely
reported. Clinical trial effect sizes may not translate to real‐world practice for a number of
reasons. Recommendations include adherence to the TIDieR checklist and describe the
infrastructure of trial centres and describe who provided the intervention, along with their
expertise.
PDs/PIs: Wayant, C., Bindernagel, R., & Vassar, M.
YouTube: Searching for answers about breast cancer.
Breast Cancer affects approximately 1 in 8 women worldwide. Women and family members
often go online for information on diagnosis and treatment. This study objectively evaluates
the quality of the information available on YouTube concerning breast cancer. YouTube
searches for videos on breast cancer were conducted. The study included videos less than 20
minutes long, in the top 200 for most views, and narrated or subtitled in English. Videos were
blindly scored using a standardized scoring form. 133 videos were evaluated. Results indicate
that few videos contain a significant amount of quality information and often contain false or
misleading information. There is a significant need for high‐quality educational videos to dispel
myths and pseudoscience.
PDs/PIs: Brachtenbach, T., Cardenas, R., Pate, H., Solis, L., Chinnery, L., Bowers, A., & Vassar, M.
Clinical trial registry use in minimally invasive surgical oncology systematic reviews and meta‐
analyses.
Publication bias arises when data are omitted from publications leading to inaccurate clinical
decision making, affecting clinical outcomes. This cross‐sectional study reviewed 197 articles,
with the aim to evaluate CTR use in systematic reviews and meta‐analyses within the minimally
invasive surgical oncology (MISO) literature and to conduct a search of ClinicalTrials.gov for a
subset of reviews to determine if eligible trials exist that could have been used. Results show
that 18 (13.1%) report searching a CTR. Our ClinicalTrials.gov search revealed that of the 25
randomly selected systematic reviews that failed to conduct a trial registry search, 16 (64.0%)
would have identified additional data sources.
PDs/PIs: Fuller, K., Bowers, A., & Vassar, M.
Methodological quality of oncology non inferiority clinical trials.
Noninferiority trials can show that new treatments with slightly less efficacy are safer, cheaper,
or easier to administer. However, the conclusions of noninferiority trials depend on robust
methodology. The oncology noninferiority trials included in our study had key methodological
shortcomings, counterbalanced by a clear delineation of expected non efficacy benefits of the
new treatment.
PDs/PIs: Wayant, C., Ross, A., & Vassar, M.
Intervention reporting of clinical trials published in high‐impact cardiology journals: effect of
the TIDieR checklist and guide.
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) provide the highest‐level of evidence among primary
research in cardiovascular medicine. The Template for Intervention Description and Replication
(TIDieR) checklist aims to improve research efficiency by setting standards for quality
intervention reporting and reproducibility. The goal of this study was to assess adherence to
the TIDieR checklist among RCTs published in cardiovascular health journals. We also compared
the quality of intervention reporting before and after the publication of TIDieR. Improved
outcome reporting and intervention reproducibility among RCTs are greatly needed in
cardiovascular medicine. Clinicians and researchers should advocate for the ethical publication
of complete, translatable and replicable clinical research results.
PDs/PIs: Palmer, W., Okonya, O., Jellison, S., Horn, J., Harter, Z., Wilkett, M., & Vassar, M.
Lowering the threshold of statistical significance in gastroenterology trials.
A multidisciplinary international cohort of 72 expert statisticians and researchers recently
proposed lowering the p value threshold from 0.05 to 0.005 to mitigate distortion of trial
results and decrease bias. RCTs published in the 20 highest ranked GE and medicine journals
were analyzed. P values were extracted for their primary endpoints. We retrieved 233 RCTs, of
which 159 were included in the final analysis yielding 202 primary endpoints. Of these
endpoints, 60% had a p value less than 0.05 and when a threshold of less than 0.005 was
applied, approximately 50% retained significance. We endorse a lower p value threshold as a
measure for improving statistical inference in GE RCTs.
PDs/PIs: Walters, C., Meyer, C., Fladie, I., Wayant, C., & Vassar, M.
Assessment of the completeness of intervention reporting of randomized clinical trials for
alcohol use disorders: Effect of the TIDieR checklist and guide.
Properly designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are the gold standard in patient‐centered
clinical research. Incomplete intervention reporting affects the readers' ability to evaluate
treatment efficacy. Previous studies show that detailed descriptions of trial interventions
remain insufficient for reliable replication. Understanding reporting areas in need of
improvement can improve the quality of intervention reporting. We found the reporting of
interventions to be inadequate in our sample of AUD‐related RCTs. Fundamental details were
often not reported, hampering both clinical and research reproducibility. Moving forward, it
may be necessary to consider additional mechanisms to either improve TIDieR uptake or to find
other solutions to improve intervention reporting.
PDs/PIs: Vassar, M., Pollard, J., Rorah, D., Jellison, S., Harter, Z. J., & Brasseux, S.
Trial Registry Use in Surgery Systematic Reviews: A Cross‐Sectional Study.
To determine the extent to which systematic reviews published in surgery journals reported a
clinical trial registry search as part of their search strategy and whether systematic reviews that
omitted such searches would have located additional trials for inclusion. Many systematic
reviews published in surgery journals include only published research, which may contribute to
publication bias. We recommend that authors maximize available information by using
unpublished trial data found in clinical trial registries.
PDs/PIs; Gray, H. M., Simpson, A., Bowers, A., Johnson, A. L., & Vassar, M.
Data sharing practices in randomized trials of addiction interventions.
Transparent, open scientific research practices aim to improve the validity and reproducibility
of research findings. A key component of open science is the public sharing of data and
metadata that constitute the basis for research findings. Our finding has significant implications
for the addiction research community. These implications are broad, ranging from possibly
slowed scientific advancement to noncompliance with obligations to the public whose tax
dollars funded a large majority of the included RCTs. To improve the rates of data sharing, we
recommend studying incentive systems, while simultaneously working to cultivate a data
sharing system that emphasizes scientific, rather than author, accuracy.
PDs/PIs: Vassar, M., Jellison, S., Wendelbo, H., & Wayant, C.
The fragility of randomized trial outcomes underlying management of dyspepsia and
Helicobacter pylori infections.
The fragility index is calculated by changing one outcome event to a nonevent within a trial
until the associated P value exceeds 0.05. In this study, we assessed the robustness, risk of bias
(RoB), and power of randomized controlled trials that underlie recommendations set forth by
the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) on managing dyspepsia and Helicobacter pylori
infections. A median of three events was needed to nullify statistical significance in 52 trials
that underpin guideline recommendations on the management of dyspepsia and H. pylori
infections. In addition, concerns for RoB were found for these trials.
PDs/PIs: Meyer, C., Bowers, A., Tritz, D., Fuller, K., Wayant, C., Cook, C., Torgerson, T. Som, M.
& Vassar, M.
Are results from randomized trials in anesthesiology robust or fragile? An analysis using the
fragility index.
Findings from randomized controlled trials often underpin guidelines influencing clinical
decision‐making and directly affect patient care. This study aims to evaluate the fragility index
and fragility quotient of randomized controlled trials published in the eight highest ranked
anesthesiology journals. In addition, we assess the extent to which risk of bias scores, loss to
follow‐up, Web of Science Citation Index, and journal impact factor influence fragility index and
fragility quotient. Results suggest that statistically significant results are fragile. No scale exists
for fragility index ranges. Trials published by top anesthesiology journals are based on
methodology and fragile outcomes.
PDs/PIs: Goerke, K., Parke, M., Horn, J., Meyer, C., Dormire, K., White, B., Bright, T. Walters, C.
& Vassar, M.
Evaluation of spin in the abstracts of emergency medicine randomized controlled trials.
We aim to investigate spin in emergency medicine abstracts, using a sample of randomized
controlled trials from high‐impact‐factor journals with statistically nonsignificant primary
endpoints. Spin was prevalent in the selected randomized controlled trial, emergency medicine
abstracts. Authors most commonly incorporated spin into their reports by focusing on
statistically significant results for secondary outcomes or subgroup analyses when the primary
outcome was statistically nonsignificant. Spin was more common in studies that had some
component of industry funding.
PDs/PIs: Reynolds‐Vaughn, V., Riddle, J., Brown, J., Schiesel, M., Wayant, C., & Vassar, M.
Evaluation of the Clarity and Completeness of Reporting in Orthopedic Clinical Practice
Guidelines.
Clinical practice guidelines positively affect patient care quality. Building on existing framework
for reporting guideline development, including the work of the Enhancing the Quality and
Transparency of Health Research Network, the Reporting Items for Practice Guidelines in
Healthcare (RIGHT) Working Group created a 2016 checklist of 35 items considered essential for
high‐quality reporting of CPGs. Overall, the AAOS guidelines addressed many important
recommendations within the RIGHT checklist. Assessing adherence to the RIGHT checklist can
help ensure that future guidelines are more effectively communicated, hopefully assisting end
users in efficient implementation and increasing the level of evidence‐based patient care.
PDs/PIs: Fishbeck, K., Checketts, J. X., Cooper, C. M., Scott, J. T., & Vassar, M.
Rates of Discontinuation and Nonpublication of Head and Neck Cancer Randomized Clinical
Trials.
Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) play an important role in clinical decision‐making, and
discontinuation or nonpublication of these trials are causes of great concern. The extent of
discontinued or unpublished RCTs about head and neck cancer remains unclear. Of RCTs in
head and neck cancer, 29.2% were discontinued and 40.2% completed trials never reached
publication. The findings suggest that needs exist for RCT guidance of head and neck cancer.
The reporting of reasons for trial discontinuation appears to be lacking, and trial publication
rates were low. This study is relevant to many physicians and researchers because it identifies
potential sources of decreased research productivity and ethics.
PDs/PIs: Johnson, A. L., Fladie, I., Anderson, J. M., Lewis, D. M., Mons, B. R., & Vassar, M.
The use of systematic reviews to justify orthopaedic trauma randomized controlled trials: A
cross‐sectional analysis.
Orthopaedic trauma is one of the largest surgical fields in medicine, and as such, requires the
latest evidence to ensure the best standard of care. Systematic reviews are an invaluable
resource that compiles an exhaustive summary of the most current evidence on a given clinical
question. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the use of systematic reviews as
justification in conducting randomized controlled trials published in high impact orthopaedic
trauma journals. Systematic reviews are frequently cited in orthopaedic trauma RCTs but are
not commonly cited as justification for conducting a clinical trial. Ideally, evidentiary
uncertainty regarding a research question should be established by existing literature through a
systematic review to reduce research waste.
PDs/PIs: Johnson, A. L., Walters, C., Gray, H., Torgerson, T., Checketts, J. X., Boose, M., Norris, B.
& Vassar, M.
An evaluation of nephrology literature for transparency and reproducibility indicators: cross‐
sectional review.
Reproducibility is critical to diagnostic accuracy and treatment implementation. Concurrent
with clinical reproducibility, research reproducibility establishes whether the use of identical
study materials and methodologies in replication efforts permits researchers to arrive at similar
results and conclusions. In this study, we address this gap by evaluating nephrology literature
for common indicators of transparent and reproducible research. Our study found that
reproducible and transparent research practices are infrequently used by the nephrology
research community. Greater efforts should be made by both funders and journals. In doing so,
an open science culture may eventually become the norm rather than the exception.
PDs/PIs: Fladie, I. A., Adewumi, T. M., Vo, N. H., Tritz, D. J., & Vassar, M. B.
The use of systematic reviews to justify phase III ophthalmology trials: an analysis.
Given the drastic increase in publication output in recent years, minimizing research waste
should be a top priority. There are established areas of concern regarding research waste
within ophthalmology along with a lack of systematic review usage to inform trial design in
other areas of medicine. Given these concerns, the aim of this study is to evaluate the use of
systematic reviews as justification for conducting randomized controlled trials (RCT) in top
ophthalmology and optometry journals. Less than one‐quarter of phase III RCTs cited
systematic reviews as justification for conducting the RCT. We believe placing a higher priority
on justifying RCTs with systematic reviews would go a long way to minimizing research waste
within ophthalmology.
PDs/PIs: Torgerson, T., Evans, S., Johnson, B. S., & Vassar, M.
Risk of bias and quality of reporting in colon and rectal cancer systematic reviews cited by
national comprehensive cancer network guidelines.
Given the changing landscape of colorectal cancer, systematic reviews are likely to play a key
role in advancing the understanding of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Systematic
reviews cited in NCCN guidelines for colon and rectal cancer are frequently at unclear or high
risk of bias and do not report key systematic review items that are important for the critical
appraisal of results.
PDs/PIs: Wayant, C., Puljak, L., Bibens, M., & Vassar, M.
Analyzing spin in abstracts of orthopaedic randomized controlled trials with statistically
insignificant primary endpoints. Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic & Related Surgery.
To evaluate the prevalence of spin among abstracts in orthopaedic randomized controlled trials
(RCTs) with nonsignificant primary endpoints. Spin was found in 44.8% of the abstracts within
our sample of orthopaedic RCTs. Nonsignificant primary data were often represented to seem
significant, many orthopaedic RCTs did not indicate primary endpoints, and orthopaedic RCTs
infrequently reported trial registration.
PDs/PIs: Arthur, W., Zaaza, Z., Checketts, J. X., Johnson, A. L., Middlemist, K., Basener, C.,
Jellison, S. Wayant, C. & Vassar, M.
Characteristics and conflicts of interests of public speakers at the Psychopharmacologic Drug
and Advisory Committee meetings regarding psychiatric drugs.
The Psychopharmacologic Drug Advisory Committee (PDAC) is one of 33 advisory committees
of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Our study aimed to investigate the characteristics
and COIs of public speakers at PDAC meetings of the FDA. We evaluated 145 public speakers at
FDA committee meetings over a 10‐year period. Our results indicate that disclosing a COI was
associated with increased odds of public speakers providing a favorable testimony for the
recommendation of psychiatric drugs. The implications of these findings are concerning since
COIs have the potential to skew public speaker’s testimonies and persuade committee
members to recommend a drug through emotionally charged tactics.
PDs/PIs: Roberts, W., Jellison, S., Wayant, C., & Vassar, M.
Evaluation of the Level of Evidence Supporting the Recommendations Constituting the
American Academy of Dermatology Clinical Practice Guidelines: Cross‐Sectional Analysis.
Clinical practice guidelines are evidence‐based recommendations used by physicians to improve
patient care. These guidelines provide the physician with an assessment of the benefits and
harms of a treatment and its alternatives. Therefore, it is essential that the clinical practice
guidelines be based on the strongest available evidence. Numerous studies of different fields in
medicine demonstrate a common theme of clinical practice guideline recommendations made
through weak evidence. Clinical practice guidelines lacking strong supporting evidence may
negatively affect patient care. Future quality research is needed to improve supporting
evidence of the AAD clinical practice guidelines
PDs/PIs: Cook, C., Ottwell, R., Rogers, T., Checketts, J., Musuvathy, S., & Vassar, M.
Evaluation of Spin in the Abstracts of Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses Focused on the
Treatment of Acne Vulgaris: Cross‐Sectional Analysis.
Spin is the misrepresentation of study findings, which may positively or negatively influence the
reader’s interpretation of the results. Little is known regarding the prevalence of spin in
abstracts of systematic reviews, specifically systematic reviews pertaining to the management
and treatment of acne vulgaris. Spin is present in the abstracts of systematic reviews and meta‐
analyses covering the treatment of acne vulgaris. This paper raises awareness of spin in
abstracts and emphasizes the importance of its recognition, which may lead to fewer
incidences of spin in future studies.
PDs/PIs: Ottwell, R., Rogers, T. C., Anderson, J. M., Johnson, A., & Vassar, M.
Evaluation of the completeness of interventions reported in published randomized controlled
trials in plastic surgery: A cross‐sectional review protocol.
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are critical in developing new therapeutic approaches.
Historically, in plastic surgery, RCTs are uncommon as they make up less than 2% of all
publications. However there has recently been an increase in RCTs appearing in plastic surgery
but the quality of these articles has yet to be assessed. We aim to determine the completeness
of intervention reporting in plastic surgery RCTs using the TIDieR checklist. We plan to publish
this review in a peer‐reviewed journal. We may also present this review at local and/or national
conferences.
PDs/PIs: Evans, S., Rauh, S., Jellison, S., Diener, B., Agha, R., & Vassar, M.
Assessment of transparent and reproducible research practices in the psychiatry literature.
Reproducibility is a cornerstone of scientific advancement; however, many published works
may lack the core components needed for study reproducibility. Currently, Psychiatry research
has significant potential to improve adherence to reproducibility and transparency practices.
Thus, this study presents a reference point for the state of reproducibility and transparency in
Psychiatry literature. Future assessments are recommended to evaluate and encourage
progress.
PDs/PIs: Sherry, C. E., Pollard, J. Z., Tritz, D., Carr, B. K., Pierce, A., & Vassar, M.
Do oncology researchers adhere to reproducible and transparent principles? A cross‐sectional
survey of published oncology literature.
As much as 50%–90% of research is estimated to be irreproducible, costing upwards of
$28 billion in the USA alone. Reproducible research practices are essential to improving the
reproducibility and transparency of biomedical research, such as including pre registering
studies, publishing a protocol, making research data and metadata publicly available, and
publishing in open access journals. Here we report an investigation of key reproducible or
transparent research practices in the published oncology literature. We found that key
reproducibility and transparency characteristics were absent from a random sample of
published oncology publications. We recommend required pre registration for all eligible trials
and systematic reviews, published protocols for all manuscripts, and deposition of raw data and
metadata in public repositories.
PDs/PIs: Walters, C., Harter, Z. J., Wayant, C., Vo, N., Warren, M., Chronister, J., Tritz, D. &
Vassar, M.
Evaluation of spin in oncology clinical trials.
Spin, the misrepresentation of research findings, in clinical trial abstract has been shown to
influence how oncologists rate a drug’s efficacy. Spin is prevalent in the abstracts of oncology
clinical trials that measure OS and a surrogate endpoint. The conclusion sections of abstracts
were most prone to contain spin. When OS was the primary endpoint, spin was primarily used
to distract from the nonsignificant OS data. To mitigate unintentional hype for cancer therapies,
we recommend authors structure their conclusions around patient‐important outcomes.
PDs/PIs: Wayant, C., Margalski, D., Vaughn, K., & Vassar, M.
An analysis of randomized controlled trials underpinning ST‐elevation myocardial infarction
management guidelines.
The fragility index (FI) is calculated by iteratively changing one outcome “event” to a “non‐
event” within a trial until the associated p‐value exceeds 0.05. Our findings support the use of
FI and FQ analyses with power analyses in future methodology of randomized control trials.
With understanding and reporting of FI and FQ, evidence of studies can be readily available and
quickly eliminate some readers' concern for possible study limitations.
PDs/PIs: Meyer, C., Bowers, A., Jaiswal, D., Checketts, J., Engheta, M., Severns, C., Cook, S,
Walters, C. & Vassar, M.
Evaluation of the NCCN guidelines using the RIGHT Statement and AGREE‐II instrument: a
cross‐sectional review.
Robust, clearly reported clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are essential for evidence‐based
clinical practice. The Reporting Items for Practice Guidelines in HealThcare (RIGHT) Statement
and Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II instrument were published
to improve the methodological and reporting quality in healthcare CPGs. In this investigation,
we found that NCCN CPGs demonstrate key strengths and weaknesses with respect to the
reporting of key items essential to CPGs. We recommend the continued use of NCCN guidelines
and improvements to weaknesses in reporting and methods. Doing so serves to improve the
evidence delivered to healthcare providers, thus potentially improving patient care.
PDs/PIs: Wayant, C., Cooper, C., & Vassar, M.
Reporting of Clinical Trial Interventions Published in Leading Otolaryngology–Head and Neck
Surgery Journals.
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) play a crucial role in advancing patient care within
otolaryngology–head and neck surgery (OTL‐HNS), yet studies have shown the reporting of
these trials needs improvement. Here, we evaluate the completeness of intervention reporting
of RCTs in OTL‐HNS and evaluate whether the publication of the Template for Intervention
Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist has influenced intervention reporting. The
majority of OTL‐HNS RCTs included in our analysis showed suboptimal reporting factors related
to the TIDieR checklist. Requiring a TIDieR statement and automating the journal requirements
process for all OTL‐HNS clinical trials would be a worthwhile, efficient approach to improving
research quality and ultimately patient care within OTL‐HNS.
PDs/PIs: Torgerson, T., Johnson, A. L., Jellison, S., Tanghetti, M., Langley, J. M., Nguyen, L. H., &
Vassar, M.
Quality of Intervention Reporting in Randomized Clinical Trials Published in Urology Journals.
We used the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) to find evidence
that intervention reporting in urology randomized controlled trials is suboptimal. Action to
improve intervention reporting is warranted and we advise extending TIDieR into Consolidated
Standards for Reporting Trials guidelines.
PDs/PIs: Johnson, B. S., Fladie, I., Jellison, S., McMurray, M., Narayan, V., & Vassar, M.
Evaluation of Reproducible Research Practices in Oncology Systematic Reviews With Meta‐
analyses Referenced by National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines.
Reproducible research practices are essential to biomedical research because these practices
promote trustworthy evidence. In systematic reviews and meta‐analyses, reproducible research
practices ensure that summary effects used to guide patient care are stable and trustworthy.
More reproducible research practices are needed in oncology meta‐analyses, as suggested by
those that are cited by the NCCN. Reporting meta‐analyses in forest plots and requirements for
full data sharing are recommended.
PDs/PIs: Wayant, C., Page, M. J., & Vassar, M.
Effects of a proposal to alter the statistical significance threshold on previously published
orthopaedic trauma randomized controlled trials.
A recent proposal suggests changing the threshold for statistical significance from a P value of
.05 to .005 to minimize bias and increase reproducibility of future studies. This study explores
lowering the P value threshold to affect the significance of previously published orthopaedic
trauma randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and whether outcomes from these trials would
maintain statistical significance under the proposed P value threshold. Results indicate that
adopting a lower threshold of significance would heavily alter the significance of orthopaedic
trauma RCTs. Further evaluation is necessary when viewing the effect of such a proposal on
orthopaedic practice.
PDs/PIs: Johnson, A. L., Evans, S., Checketts, J. X., Scott, J. T., Wayant, C., Johnson, M., Norris, B.
& Vassar, M.
Financial Conflicts of Interest Among Authors of Clinical Practice Guidelines for Routine
Screening Mammography.
Financial conflicts of interest (FCOIs) may influence or undermine the credibility of clinical
practice guidelines or society recommendations. Given the wide regard of such publications,
understanding the prevalence and extent of FCOIs among their authors is essential. These
findings suggest that FCOIs likely have little to no influence on the adoption of consensus
recommendations regarding routine screening mammography for all cohorts of women.
PDs/PIs: Combs, T., Tritz, D., Ivy, H., von Borstel, D., Horn, J., & Vassar, M.
The fragility index applied to liver‐related trials.
The goal of this manuscript was to apply the fragility index (FI) to evaluate robustness of test
results to liver‐related randomized clinical trials. Forty‐eight trials were included, with four
having an FI of 0. Of the 21 trials that showed statistical significance, the number lost to follow
up was greater than the FI in 13 (61.90%) trials. Investigators of liver‐related studies should
consider adding the FI to evaluate their work.
PDs/PIs: Meyer, C., Heavener, T. E., & Vassar, M.
Using the CONSORT statement to evaluate the completeness of reporting of addiction
randomised trials: a cross‐sectional review.
Evaluate the completeness of reporting of addiction randomised controlled trials (RCTs) using
the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement. Poor reporting quality
may prohibit readers from critically appraising the methodological quality of addiction trials.
We recommend journal endorsement of CONSORT since our study and those previous have
shown that CONSORT endorsement improves the quality of reporting.
PDs/PIs: Vassar, M., Jellison, S., Wendelbo, H., Wayant, C., Gray, H., & Bibens, M.
Analysis of completeness of reporting utilizing the Reporting Items for practice Guidelines in
Healthcare Statement in gastroenterology clinical practice guidelines.
Assessing reporting quality is important as it allows distinctions to be made between poor
methodology and poor reporting practices. The Reporting Items for practice Guidelines in
Healthcare (RIGHT) Statement checklist was published in 2017 to improve the thoroughness
and reporting quality of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). This study aims to assess the
completeness of reporting in CPGs listed by the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG)
and their frequency of reporting items listed in the RIGHT Statement. Completeness of
reporting in CPGs listed by the ACG is inadequate in several key areas. Poor adherence of items
of the RIGHT Statement checklist demonstrates that improvement is neededd in reporting
quality.
PDs/PIs: Howard, B., Chapman, C., Meyer, C., Walters, C., & Vassar, M.
Evaluation of spin in the abstracts of otolaryngology randomized controlled trials.
Spin, the misrepresentation and distortion of research findings, has been shown to affect
clinical decision making. Spin has been found in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in
various fields of medicine, but no study has tested for the presence of spin in otolaryngology
RCTs. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the abstracts of RCTs found in the otolaryngology
literature for spin. Spin was common in our sample of otolaryngology RCTs. Spin may
potentially create false impressions about the true validity of a drug or intervention. Further
research needs to test for potential clinical implications of spin in the otolaryngology literature.
PDs/PIs: Cooper, C. M., Gray, H. M., Ross, A. E., Hamilton, T. A., Bea Downs, J., Wayant, C., &
Vassar, M.
Prevalence of deep surgical site infection after repair of periarticular knee fractures: A
systematic review and meta‐analysis.
Surgical management of periarticular knee fractures can be challenging, and adverse outcomes
may be severe. Recent literature indicates that the rate of periarticular knee surgical site
infection (SSI) may range from 2% to 88% depending on the fracture site. Deep SSIs occurred in
nearly 6% of periarticular knee fracture repairs, and 2.4% of SSIs were associated with septic
arthritis. Surgeons managing these injuries should be vigilant when wounds are not pristine.
Efforts should be made to elevate the quality of research conducted not only in this subject but
also in orthopedic surgery as a whole.
PDs/PIs: Norris, G. R., Checketts, J. X., Scott, J. T., Vassar, M., Norris, B. L., & Giannoudis, P. V.
Lack of Reproducibility in Addiction Medicine.
Credible research emphasizes transparency, openness, and reproducibility. Our study aims to
evaluate the current state of transparency and reproducibility in the field of addiction science.
Results indicate transparency and replicability are lacking and need improvement.
Recommendations include investigators preregister studies prior to commencement.
Researchers should also make the materials, data, analysis script publicly available. To foster
reproducibility, individuals should remain transparent about funding sources for the project and
financial conflicts of interest. Research stakeholders should work together toward improved
solutions on these matters.
PDs/PIs: Adewumi, M. T., Vo, N., Tritz, D., Beaman, J., & Vassar, M.
Evaluating the Reproducibility of Research in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Reproducibility is a core tenet of scientific research. A reproducible study is one where the
results can be recreated by different investigators in different circumstances using the same
methodology and materials. Unfortunately, reproducibility is not a standard to which the
majority of research is currently adherent. Research in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology is
not consistently reproducible and frequently lacks conflict of interest disclosure. Consequences
of this could be far‐reaching and include increased research waste, widespread acceptance of
misleading results and erroneous conclusions guiding clinical decision‐making.
PDs/PIs: Bowers, A., Rauh, S., Rorah, D., Tritz, D., Frye, L., & Vassar, M.
The fragility index in a cohort of HIV/AIDS randomized controlled trials.
HIV/AIDS is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and financial burden. We aim to
investigate the fragility index, fragility quotient, and risk of bias of clinical trial endpoints in HIV
medicine. We selected eligible trials from the Department of Health and Human Services
guideline for the use of antiretroviral agents in HIV‐1‐infected adults and adolescents. 39 RCTs
were included in fragility analysis, while 36 were included in the risk of bias analysis. Median
fragility index was 5, with three RCTS at high risk for bias. 20 had some concerns for risk of bias.
The analyzed HIV medicine RCT endpoints were fragile overall. Concerns for bias are present at
a high rate.
PDs/PIs: Wayant, C., Meyer, C., Gupton, R., Som, M., Baker, D., & Vassar, M.
RURAL HEALTH
Searching for Innovative Models Through Rural Hospital Closures The reported crisis of rural hospital closures has been well documented by researchers, advocacy groups, and the media. Oklahoma has experienced seven rural hospital closures since 2005. In particular, Tillman County’s only hospital closed in 2016. The question remains how to effectively deliver care in rural communities after the closure of the hospital. This project seeks to identify innovative models implemented in rural communities similar to Tillman County after the closure of a rural hospital. Sponsor: OSU Rural Renewal Initiative PI/PDS: Mark Woodring, Brian Whitacre, and Lara Brooks Ending the Epidemic: Reducing the HIV/STI Burden among Rural Oklahoma Men The long‐term goal is to reduce HIV and STI transmission in rural communities through comprehensive community‐based prevention programs that include holistic behavioral intervention targeting at‐risk groups. The project seeks to 1) Evaluate the acceptability, uptake, and barriers to: 1) HIV and STI self‐sampling in asymptomatic non‐routine testers and 2) using telehealth visits to counsel and treat those who test positive for an STI and/or HIV; and 2) Pilot the effectiveness of a mHealth HIV and STI prevention intervention when adapted for and delivered to rural emergent adults. Sponsor: OCAST PIs/PDs: Randolph Hubach Co‐Is: Julie Croff, Denna Wheeler, Anil Kaul Tillman County Rural EMS Paramedic Perceptions of Telemedicine Rural hospital closures affect Oklahoma differently than other states, as the next nearest emergency room is often more than 30 miles creating disparities to emergency access and care. Emergency telemedicine is a growing field, and our aim is to assess rural paramedic\EMT beliefs and general attitudes regarding telemedicine. Sponsor: OSU Rural Renewal Initiative PI: Mark Woodring Research Assistants: Courtney Mapes, Hunter Meyers Assessing Rural Broadband and Use of TeleEMS in Tillman County, Oklahoma Tillman County, Oklahoma, recently had a hospital close and the next nearest emergency room is over 30 minutes away. This project will take place on rural highways from the back of the ambulance and in the field, and will test the efficacy of rural broadband connections and mobile telemedicine consultations in southwest Oklahoma as certified EMTs and paramedics connect to real‐time emergency room physicians at OSU Medical Center in Tulsa. Sponsor: OSU Rural Renewal Initiative PI: Mark Woodring Research Assistants: Courtney Mapes, Hunter Meyers