Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources

Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources – FY 2006 Research Abstracts

AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS

Improving the Efficiency of Markets and Institutions

This research will increase the use of marketing tools, which can help producers increase income or reduce risk, increase the efficiency of the marketing system in terms of providing incentives for producers to produce what consumers want, and determine the efficiency of public institutions such as public schools and public data collection. (2170)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, Oklahoma State University Foundation

PI: Wade Brorsen

Costs, Returns, Feasibilities and Risks of Producing Cucurbit Crops in Oklahoma

The overall objective of the project is to determine for Oklahoma researchers and

farmers the economic and financial feasibility of cucurbits (watermelon, cantaloupe, muskmelon, squash, cucumber, pumpkin) under alternative production strategies. Specific objectives are to: 1) Identify economically viable and sustainable production practices and enterprise budgets for cucurbits in Oklahoma similar to those developed for other crops. These production practices and budgets will reflect a whole farm approach including other crops involved in the rotations. The budgets will estimate land, capital, equipment, and labor physical input requirements and associated costs for cucurbit crops under Oklahoma conditions for a variety of production strategies, including meeting organic certification requirements. 2) Determine the potential financial and economic feasibility that cucurbit crops have for providing a main or supplemental source of income for Oklahoma farmers. Estimates of the variability in economic returns will be determined as well as point estimates of average returns. (2348)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Texas A&M University

PI: Merritt Taylor

Evaluating Opportunities for Oklahoma’s Value-Added Food and Agricultural

Products Processing and Distribution Industries

The overall objective of this project is to analyze ways to develop and enhance the

value-added food and agricultural products industries in Oklahoma. Specific objectives are: 1) Examine factors affecting the location and/or relocation of agribusiness of Oklahoma. More specifically, identify factors that have led to an industry’s presence, expansion, and/or decline in the state. 2) Assess the market potential for new and/or niche value-added food and agricultural products that may present opportunities for Oklahoma’s production agriculture. These assessments are a crucial component of the strategic planning process that will help ensure the success of small/niche agribusiness firms (Phillips and Peterson, 1999). 3) Identify and evaluate the opportunities for and feasibility of value-added activities for Oklahoma’s primary agricultural commodities (i.e. livestock, wheat, poultry, corn, and milo) and alternative crops (e.g. guar, eastern red cedar, high-antioxidant horticultural crops, etc.), including assessments of business and market risks. To achieve the objectives, research projects are proposed for testing the following hypotheses. Hypotheses associated with factors affecting agribusiness processing activities and distribution center location decisions include: 1) Policymakers and community leaders do not fully understand the many factors that play a role in the location, relocation, expansion, and/or statewide exit of value-added processing/distribution centers. For examples, state policymakers and agencies often inquire as to why a state with extensive cattle and wheat production has no large cattle slaughtering facilities and a very small flour milling industry. Limited understanding of location factors and their impacts on plant locations has led to the disappearance of some industry sectors and many state-supported business failures. 2) Given the diversity of Oklahoma’s production agriculture and the increasingly innovative industrial uses for co-products from production agriculture, unexplored market opportunities exist for technology-generated derivatives from Oklahoma agriculture. 3) Opportunities exist for producer coalitions to generate additional income from their raw agricultural production through the development of producer-owned processing operations in Oklahoma. (2349)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma Food and Agricultural Products Center, Oklahoma Wheat Commission, University of Arkansas

PI: Rodney Holcomb

Resource and Environmental Economics of Animal Production and Land Use

The objectives of this research program are twofold: 1) to address natural resource and environmental issues of relevance to Oklahoma and the nation, and 2) to contribute to the developing theoretical and empirical economic literature on contracting and policy design over natural resource and environmental issues. (2431)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Tracy Boyer

Providing Essential Rural Infrastructure with Emphasis on Health

The overall objective of this research project is to develop economic tools and incorporate them into educational materials and technical assistance programs for rural decision-makers as they make decisions relative to structural changes in their community delivery system. More specifically, the objectives are discussed by service. These are: PRIMARY HEALTH CARE-to develop budgets of primary care health services that enable decision-makers to design a financially sound system meeting needs of their population, to further research the importance of the health sector on a rural economy, and to measure the impact of critical access hospitals on health delivery and the community's economy. SOLID WASTE-to develop budgets that enable decision makers to design a financially sound system and to further investigate rural collection systems, which address illegal dumping problems. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES (part of Primary Care, but problem is such that it needs special attention-to update budgets such that decision makers can evaluate costs of alternative delivery systems and to study alternative systems to determine if they are cost efficient and medically effective. (2433)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: Gerald Doeksen, Michael Woods

Economics of Oklahoma’s Swine Industry, Selecting Swine Production-Waste Management-Marketing Systems and Strategies

The overall objective of this project is to identify resource requirements and management practices associated with economically feasible swine production systems. In addition this project will determine the economic feasibility of increased swine production and processing and the impacts of economic, community, and environmental resources in Oklahoma. The objectives studied are dependent on evolving support and interest. The objectives are: 1) to determine resource requirements, operating costs, and economic returns for selected swine production systems under alternative management systems and ownership structures; 2) to identify management and human capital, financial, land (crop) base, and other resource characteristics of farms where each swine production system would best fit; 3) to identify and evaluate financial, production, marketing and personnel management strategies that enable independent and contract swine producers to reach management objectives in an uncertain environment; 4) to delineate the economic conditions under which Oklahoma producers have a comparative advantage in swine production and the conditions necessary for and upper limits of economically feasible swine industry expansion (production and processing) in Oklahoma given a global market for both swine and pork and increased concern for environmental resources; and 5) to identify, update, and evaluate the impact of the swine industry on economic, community, and environmental resources. (2434)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Missouri-Colombia

PIs: Bailey Norwood, Derrell Peel, Arthur Stoecker, Michael Woods

Economic Research on Livestock Production, Marketing, and Industry Issues

The overriding objective of this project is to generate information enabling individual producers and groups of producers to make informed marketing-related decisions. Specific objectives fall into three categories: 1) evaluate production-marketing alternatives on the basis of their potential for enhancing producer profitability, 2) determine how to effectively use alternative methods of price discovery and coordination, and 3) assess impacts from consolidation and related issues from alternative market or legislative remedies. (2471)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Clement Ward

Costs, Benefits, and Risks of Integrated Pest Management in Grain Storage and Food Processing Facilities

The general objective of the proposed research is to improve the ability of the grain marketing system to respond to increased pesticide regulations and to consumer demands for wholesome, insect-free foods. The specific objectives are: 1) estimate costs and risks associated with chemical-based and IPM-based pest control strategies in stored grain facilities, and 2) estimate costs and risks associated with chemical-based and IPM-based pest control strategies in food processing facilities. These objectives directly address the following priorities in the Division’s Strategic Plan (DASNR, 1999): Priority Area 3 – Enhance Agriculture’s Profitability, Competitiveness, and Sustainability, Goal 2 (Improve Farm, Ranch, and Agribusiness Management Practices), Priority Area 4 – Protect and Sustain the Environment, Goal 3 (Expand and Promote Strategies for Integrated Pest Management in Rural and Urban Environments). (2489)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Brian Adam

Providing Information and Decision Support Tools to Increase the Effectiveness of Traditional and Non-Traditional Cooperatives

The overall objective of this project is to increase the effectiveness of traditional and non-traditional cooperatives. We will measure the efficiency gains of coordinating cooperative grain handling, fuel and fertilizer delivery, fertilizer and plant protection application, and other key services over larger geographic areas and develop information and decision support tools to firms considering these arrangements. This objective will contribute to the OSU Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources strategic plan in Priority Area 3 – Enhance Agriculture’s Profitability, Competitiveness and Sustainability (Goal 2: Improve Farm, Ranch and Agribusiness Management Practices). Objective 2 – Determine the factors affecting the success of mergers and other collaborative arrangements among Oklahoma cooperatives during the past ten years and the factors affecting the success of these arrangements. Factors hypothesized to have an impact on merger success include the debt and equity and profitability characteristics of the cooperative firms, the size of cooperative, similarity in operations and departments, and management style. This objective will contribute to the OSU Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources strategic plan in Priority Area 3 – Enhance Agriculture’s Profitability, Competitiveness, and Sustainability (Goal 2: Improve Farm, Ranch and Agribusiness Management Practices). Objective 3 – Determine the factors impacting the feasibility of value-added processing activities and develop information and decision support tools to help producer groups determine the feasibility and risk of New Generation Cooperatives and other producer-owned value-added efforts. This objective will contribute to the OSU Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources strategic plan in Priority Area 3 – Enhance Agriculture’s Profitability, Competitiveness and Sustainability (Goal 3: Enhance Market Opportunities for Oklahoma’s Commodities and Value Added Products and Goal 4 – Expand Food and Agricultural Product Processing and Product and Process Development). Objective 4 – Investigate the feasibility of common types of shared-service cooperatives in Oklahoma and develop information and decision support tools to assist farmer producer groups, businesses and public agencies evaluate the potential for shared-service cooperatives. This objective will contribute to the OSU Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources strategic plan in Priority Area 5 – Strengthen Rural Oklahoma (Goal 1: Increase the Economic Competitiveness and Sustainability of Rural Communities and Industries and Goal 2: Improve Capacity of Elected Officials and Other Local Leaders to Deal with Economic Development and Quality of Life Issues in Both Urban and Rural Areas). (2491)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, Oklahoma State University Foundation, USDA/CSREES, Kansas State University

PI: Phil Kenkel

Economics of Supply Chain Management, Traceability, and Commodity

Promotion in Food and Agricultural Industries

The overall objective of this project is to provide an economic assessment of supply chain management, traceability, and commodity promotion in food and agricultural industries. We will estimate economic impacts of supply chain management (via contracts, joint ventures, cooperatives, partnerships, and alliances) and traceability on livestock and its related food industries. Project will also evaluate economic impacts of various commodity checkoff programs and assess effects of generic advertising program in differentiated product markets. (2516)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Chanjin Chung

Impacts of Trade and Domestic Policies on the Competitiveness and Performance of Southern Agriculture

Objectives are to determine the impacts of changes in domestic policies on the competitiveness of Southern agriculture. We will determine the impacts of international institutions and trade agreements on the competitiveness of Southern agriculture and determine the impacts of market behavior, performance, and expansion on the competitiveness of Southern agriculture. (2537)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Shida Henneberry

Conservation Reserve Program Haying and Grazing Provision Analysis

The purpose of this proposed research is to develop a procedure that enables the county FSA field agent to develop a management system for haying and grazing management of CRP lands. More specifically, the objectives of this research are to: 1) determine the change in value of the CRP rental rate where limited use is allowed, 2) develop a procedure for measuring the benefits/costs of a CRP acre within a changing landscape, and 3) develop a procedure for developing the limited use management scheme to maximize net returns and environmental benefits. (2541)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Mike Dicks

Local Strategies and Policy Options to Develop Rural Communities in Oklahoma

The overall objective of this proposal is to analyze alternative development strategies for rural Oklahoma communities to aid in diversifying and strengthening the local economy. Specific objectives include: 1) develop methodologies for targeted economic development of rural areas building upon the components of cluster analysis, industry linkages, and impact analysis, and 2) assess trends and forces shaping retail/small business performance in Oklahoma communities, focusing on specific sector detail (2552)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Mike Woods

Fruit and Vegetable Supply-Chain Management, Innovations, and Competitiveness

The overall objective is to analyze the relative costs and competitiveness of fruit and vegetable sub-sectors--either regionally, nationally, and/or globally--using new and established analytical paradigms that incorporate theories from business schools and other fields. (2560)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: R. Joe Schatzer

Economic Consequences of Land Use Changes within the Landscape

Generally the objectives fall into three broad research areas including: 1) the measurement of changes in the spatial allocation of land use, 2) determining the relative importance of the factors responsible for these changes, and 3) impacts of the changes on commodity markets, environmental amenities, and rural economic activity. (2566)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Mike Dicks

Economics of Agricultural Production Systems for Oklahoma

The overall objective of this project is to determine the economic consequences of agricultural production alternatives for Oklahoma. Impacts of alternative practices and systems on expected net returns, variability of returns, and input requirements will be determined. In addition, compatibility of the alternative production practices and enterprises with conventional practices and enterprises, resources, and institutional constraints, and potential external costs will be considered. The specific objectives are to: 1) determine the economic and institutional feasibility, with respect to expected net return, production and financial risk, and rate of return on resources, of alternative production systems compared to existing ones; and 2) determine environmental tradeoffs between alternative and contemporary production systems. (2574)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Francis Epplin

Consumer and Agribusiness Decision Making with Primary Data

The primary objective of this research is to determine the reaction of consumers and producers to a) the introduction of new products, b) new policies, and c) agricultural events, such as BSE. Specific objectives of this research include: 1) develop and compare existing methods for estimating consumer and producer demand for novel agricultural goods, 2) determine external validity of survey and experimental methods, 3) incorporate demand estimates from survey and experimental methods into market-level models to determine welfare implications of technological developments and agricultural policies, 4) create prediction markets and test their external validity, and 5) explore the role of rationality and risk on producer and consumer decision making. (2576)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, Oklahoma State University Foundation, Department of Animal Science and the Food & Agricultural Products Center at Oklahoma State University.

PI: Jayson Lusk

Social Capital and Rural Economic Performance

The purpose of this project is to develop and apply the microeconomic foundations that demonstrate the relationship between economic performance measures and the organization of society in different locations. The objectives are: 1) evaluate alternative theoretical explanations of technology adoption, economic growth, and economic development, and develop a more general theory based soundly on microeconomic foundations; 2) define and determine how best to measure economic performance in specific locations; 3) develop alternative measures of social capital, social governance, and/or social cohesion (including policy instruments used to encourage development); 4) determine if economic performance measures are related to social capital or cohesion indices across geographic areas; and 5) determine if specific firms in Oklahoma are here because of specific policies or indices of social capital or cohesion. (2577)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Bureau for Social Research, Sociology and Geography Departments

PI: Daniel Tilley

Development and Evaluation of TMDL Planning and Assessment Tools and Processes (S273)

Project will assess potential/likely economic benefits and costs and equity issues associated with TMDL implementation at the watershed and individual landowner scale. Project goals are to: 1) evaluate the costs, benefits, risks, and uncertainty associated with TMDL development modeling applications for three selected watersheds; 2) develop and evaluate alternative TMDL Implementation plans for three selected watersheds; 3) evaluate farm level economics of water quality protection; 4) quantify ecosystem values for three selected watersheds, and 5) conduct a longitudinal case study of TMDL implementation processes. (2582)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Art Stoecker

AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION & 4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

Research and Extension Needs Assessment for Oklahoma’s Minor Crops

Oklahoma’s minor food and fiber crops (sorghum, corn, soybean, peanut, canola, snap beans, southern peas, spinach) have an economic impact to Oklahoma’s economy of $181 million annually. The complex nature and scattered acreage of these crops across Oklahoma suggest that the extension and research needs for production and management are diverse. In order for Oklahoma State University to accomplish its land-grant mission of providing relevant, cutting-edge research and extension support for growers and suppliers this study will focus on collecting data to determine producers’ and agricultural suppliers’ extension, education, and research needs using social science research methods.

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: Kathleen D. Kelsey

Entomology and Plant Pathology: Tom Royer

Research and Extension Needs Assessment for the Oklahoma Turfgrass Industry

Oklahoma’s turfgrass industry is comprised of maintenance industries for golf courses, parks and grounds, rights-of-way, sports fields, lawns, generation of seed, and sod. The last comprehensive survey of the Oklahoma turf maintenance industry, conducted in 1987, indicated these industries represented an annual contribution of $267 million to Oklahoma’s economy. The complex nature of this industry connotes the extension, education, and research needs of its constituents are diverse. In order for Oklahoma State University to accomplish its land-grant mission of providing research and educational support, this study will determine the industry’s extension, education, and research priorities using social science research methods.

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: Kathleen D. Kelsey

Entomology and Plant Pathology: Tom Royer

The Uncertainty of AgroTerrorism: A Study of Oklahoma Beef Producers’ Risk Perceptions, Information Sources, and Source Trust in the Pre-Crisis Stage

Research found Oklahoma beef producers perceived the beef industry was susceptible to agroterrorism events, believed feedlots were at elevated levels of threat, were confident in their own operation’s bio-security measures, believed their own operation was not susceptible to agroterrorism events, and did not believe they had enough information about protection from terrorism. Producers looked to veterinarians for information about animal health issues and agriculturally related crisis; and preferred to receive information through county extension publications. They also perceived their veterinarian as the most trusted source of information. The OSU Cooperative Extension Service and the USDA were also trustworthy and reliable sources.

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: D. Dwayne Cartmell II, Marcus A. Ashlock

Editor Preferences for the Use of Scientific Information in Livestock Publications

This study surveyed editor perceptions of the amount, type, and sources of information used in livestock publications. Editors’ identification of the most important topics agreed with audience perceptions of information needs and previous studies, although lower rankings of policy and worker/employee safety information contradicted the importance of magazines identified previously. The specific sources most preferred by editors coincided with other gatekeepers and the audience in selecting appropriate information for publication. Scientific information published during 2005 was similar to editors’ rankings of topics and sources and supported the importance of delivering understandable scientific information to their agricultural audiences.

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: D. Dwayne Cartmell II, Traci L. Naile

ANIMAL SCIENCE

Improving Reproduction Efficiency of Cattle

This research using beef cattle: 1) evaluates the effect of season on behavioral estrus and to determine the time of ovulation relative to the onset of estrus, 2) determines the influence of body condition score at calving and postpartum nutrient intake on behavioral estrus, ovarian function, and reproductive performance at the first postpartum estrus in spring calving beef cows, and 3) evaluates time of fall calving on cow and calf performance. (2331)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station and, Pharmacia and Upjohn

Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: Bob Wettemann, David Lalman

Evaluation of Degradable Intake Protein Sources for Cattle Consuming Low Quality Forages

The main purposes of this study is to: 1) determine the yearly changes in ruminal available protein from forages commonly grazed by beef cattle, 2) develop practical methods for addressing deficiencies in ruminal available protein in grazing situations and the use of different protein sources to overcome these deficiencies, and 3) document the effect of energy and protein supplementation on forage protein utilization and fiber digestion. (2365)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Hebbie T. Purvis, II

Impact of Nutrition on Metabolism, Performance, Carcass Merit, and Nutrient Balance by Feedlot Cattle

This research is being conducted to: 1) determine the effect of previous management (e.g., type, quality, quantity, and duration of forage grazed) by growing steers on grazing and feedlot performance, carcass traits, body composition, critical organ mass, tissue oxygen consumption, liver enzymes, and net portal and hepatic flux of nutrients; 2) determine the effect of limit feeding on adaptation to a high-grain diet, and 3) determine the effects of protein source and level on performance and carcass merit, ruminal and postruminal nutrient digestion, and nitrogen balance by cattle fed high-grain diets. (2438)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Clinton R. Krehbiel

Alternative Beef Cow/Calf Nutritional Management Systems to Improve Beef Production Efficiency and Carcass Traits

When considering beef production costs from conception through the finishing phase, the largest single costs are investment costs in land for the cowherd and purchased feed and harvested forage costs. One purpose of this experiment is to explore the use of nontraditional, unprocessed feed resources to reduce purchased and harvested feed costs. A second purpose is to explore management systems that have the potential to minimize inputs while optimizing animal performance and beef product quality. (2464)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: David Lalman

Integration of 16s rDNA-based Fluctuations in Rumen Microbial Ecology and Digestibility Studies in the Evaluation of Cattle with Subacute Rumen Acidosis

Intramuscular fat deposition (marbling) is considered highly desirable in cattle industry, whereas subcutaneous fat deposition is considered undesirable. The purpose of this study is to understand the genetic regulation of adepogenesis in cattle. (2486)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Udaya DeSilva

Role of the Inter-Alpha-Typsin Inhibitor Family and Kallikren-Kinnogen-Kinin System in Establishment and Maintenance of Pregnancy

Discovery of plasma kallikrein and HMW-Kininogen gene expression by the endometrium, indicates that kinins can play a major role in the development and survival of porcine embryos. Development of possible methods to enhance kinin production during pregnancy may improve litter size in the pig. Understanding the role of estrogen in pregnancy loss in the pig will help establish therapies to inhibit the effects of environmental estrogens on embryonic mortality in the pig. (2495)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: Rod Geisert, Udaya DeSilva

Development of a Specialized Microarray for Porcine Infectious Disease Research

The indiscriminate use of antibiotics for growth promotion and disease prevention in the food animal industry has been accompanied by contamination of food products and the environment with unwanted drug residues and rapid emergence of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. This purpose of this study is to identify efficacious antimicrobial peptides that can be used as alternative non-antibiotic means to prevent and control various infectious diseases and to enhance preharvest food safety in the food animal industry. (2507)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: Guolong Zhang, Stanley Gilliland

Dietary Manipulation to Reduce Nutrient Excretion from Swine.

Excess excretion of nitrogen and phosphorus from swine facilities has the potential to effect water and air quality. This project examines the effects of dietary manipulation on nitrogen and phosphorus excretion. Development of dietary regimens that decrease nitrogen and phosphorus excretion limits the potential for water and air pollution. (2508)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Scott Carter

Identifying Differences in Gene Expression between Normal and Cystic Follicles

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. The goal of this research is to understand the role of the insulin-like growth factor binding proteins and their proteases in follicular development in cattle. (2510)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Leon Spicer

Evaluation of Breed-Type of Lamb on Utilization of Wheat Pasture

When young lambs are first placed on winter wheat pasture, weight gains are negative to the first two to three weeks. This project examines the impact of breed-type on the weight changes that occur when lambs are first placed on winter wheat pasture. (2514)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: Gerald Horn, Bill Phillips, M. Brown

Beef Cattle Production Systems in the Southern Great Plains

Pre-weaning management environment, animal genetics, and their interactions have a dramatic impact on productivity and profitability of beef cattle production systems. The purpose of this project is to identify and document the impact of breed type, predicted genetic potential, pre-weaning livestock management, and post-weaning livestock management on stocker and feeder cattle performance. (2515)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: David Lalman, M. Brown

Effective Caloric Value Applications for Poultry

This research seeks to place calorie values on husbandry so that ration formula may be adjusted. Adjustments will help broiler rations better match the husbandry environment and provide consumers with leaner birds for the following purposes: 1) to establish the caloric value of husbandry and management so that poultry rations may be better formulated to achieve specific body compositions, and 2) to modify current nutrient table so that essential nutrients may be fed according to the provision of energy by the diet and corrected for management and husbandry. (2549)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Robert Teeter

Influence of Dietary Yeast on Nutrient Digestibility, Fermentation, and Microbial Populations in Horses

The addition of yeast culture to equine diets has been shown to increase nutrient digestion, enhance production responses, and significantly alter fermentation parameters. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of yeast culture supplementation on nutrient digestibility, cecal fermentation, and subsequent production parameters in equine rations. (2550)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Steven Cooper

Characterization of the Interactions of Solubilized Proteins in Processed Meat Formulations

Low-binding meats typically have a discounted value. Alternative processing techniques using protein solubilization have demonstrated that the binding ability of these meats can be significantly improved. The purpose of this study is to understand how proteins extracted by solubilization interact with ingredients typically added to processed meats. (2551)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Christina DeWitt

Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-kB) Regulation of Conceptus Development in the Pig

Progesterone and its receptor within the endometrium is known to regulate the estrous cycle and establishment of pregnancy in farm animals. In the pig, inappropriate exposure of pregnant females to estrogen causes implantation failure and embryonic death. The long-term goal of our research is to discover and understand the endocrine, cellular, and molecular mechanisms involved with signaling pathways between the developing pig conceptus and maternal endometrium essential for establishment of pregnancy in the pig. This research is expected to provide the foundation to design clinical therapies to reduce infertility and pregnancy loss in pigs. (2569)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Rodney Geisert

Improvement and Prediction of Tenderness, and Evaluation of Consumer Willingness to Purchase Tender Beef

U.S. domestic beef demand has declined by more than 48% from 1980 through 1997. Meeting and exceeding consumer expectations for beef quality and consistency has declined. Beef cuts have considerable variation and have led to a significant percentage of today’s beef offering as unacceptable in terms of cooked tenderness. This project will examine to incorporate beef carcass value systems, which not only utilize cutability but also incorporate quality (i.e. tenderness). The purpose of this study is to utilize existing technologies into a total quality management (TQM) beef production system that would guarantee beef tenderness while providing useful information for estimating the economic incentives for improving the quality and tenderness of beef. (2572)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: J. Brad Morgan

BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

Metabolism of the Vitamins A

We will synthesize and evaluate the biological activity of analogs (heteroarotinoids) of vitamin A relative to cellular growth and differentiation and as chemopreventative and chemotherapeutic agents for various types of cancers. This should result in compounds with higher activity and lower toxicity than natural retinoids and provide additional insight into structure-activity relationships. (1250)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Eldon C. Nelson

Coupled Enzyme Kinetic Mechanisms and Their Metabolic Consequences

We are studying the kinetic, association, and structural properties of dehydrogenase enzymes. We have found that the enzymes tested (glyceraldehye-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, alcohol dehydrogenase, alpha glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase) do not channel NADH in contrast to previous appearances. The previous appearances resulted from: 1) side reactions that are present at the very high enzyme concentrations used, and 2) a light-scattering artifact, unavoidably interfering with the 340nm-signal in presence of high protein concentration. The most likely results, when artifacts are avoided, are R values not significantly higher than 1 or 2 (i.e., no channeling within probable experimental errors). (1393)

Sponsors: National Science Foundation, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: H. Olin Spivey

The Biochemical Basis for Resistance of Cotton to Pathogens and Pests

Disease resistance is being studied with a set of closely related cotton lines that have different genes for controlling the plant’s response to bacterial infection. Those resistant responses differ in strength and phenotype. The molecular biology and biochemistry of these responses are being compared. (1504)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: Margaret Essenberg, Margaret Pierce

Interactions of Bacterial Pathogens and Animal Hosts

Factors affecting survival of Brucella abortus in macrophages and other cells will be investigated by studying effects on survival in macrophages of loss of specific genes involved in carbohydrate, purine, pyrimidine, and amino acid metabolism. The mechanisms and signals that control the expression of these genes will also be studied. (1565)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education

PI: Richard Essenberg

Virus Evolution

We test hypotheses about how viruses spread and decline and how new viruses emerge. To achieve this, we do the following: 1) analyze the evolution of viral sequences integrated in chromosomes, 2) refine methods for detecting multiple viruses in one, 3) characterize plant viruses by nucleotide sequences, 4) explore the functions of conserved viral nucleotide sequences; and 5) study the distribution of viruses in nature with respect to each other and host and vector species. (1789)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA-ARS, National Science Foundation, OSU Foundation, IBIS Therapeutics

PI: Ulrich Melcher

Structure/Function and Reaction Mechanism of Bioenergetic Apparatuses

Multiple approaches have been used to study the structure, function, and mechanism of quinone-mediated electron and proton transfer complexes of mitochondrial and photosynthesis electron transfer chains. Significant progresses have been made on the atomic structure of the mitochondrial and photosynthetic bacterium cytochrome bc1 complexes. The structural information obtained has been further confirmed by the studies of the site-directed mutagenesis using Rhodobacter spharoides system and the fast kinetic measurement of electron transfer between the two neighboring components in the purified beef complex. Our results obtained from these studies have led us to propose a concerted bifurcated quinol oxidation mechanism in cytochrome bc1 complex. More structure-based mutagenesis will be performed. (1819)
Sponsors: National Institutes of Health, American Heart Association, Dupont Company, Sarkey's Foundation, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education

PIs: Chang-An Yu, Linda Yu

Role of Heat Shock Protein 90 in Regulating Protein Kinases

We will determine the mechanism by which heat shock protein (hsp) 90 and its co-chaperone, Cdc37, mediate the maturation of protein kinases and identification of novel co-chaperone partners and client proteins that are regulated by Hsp90/Cdc37. We will also focus on the development of a high-through put drug screen to identify new lead compounds for inhibition of Hs90. (1975)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, National Institutes of Health, Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology

PI: Robert Matts

The Structure of Pectins from Cotton Cell Walls

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 mode of action of fungal cell wall degrading enzymes. (2099)

Sponsors: U.S. Department of Energy, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Andrew Mort

Improving the Industrial Uses of Oklahoma Wheat

The long-term goal of this research is to understand the basic properties of gliadin, high and low molecular weight glutenin subunits that form the wheat gluten and are directly related to the performance of wheat flour in yeasted baked products. Specific goals include the understanding of the performance of gliadin, high and low molecular weight glutenin subunits in different products, characterization of the interaction of specific groups or subunits with carbohydrates, and the possible correlation of proteins synthesized during the grain filling period to the synthesis of prolamins in wheat. (2351)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Patricia Rayas-Duarte

Photosynthetic Electron Transfer Complexes

Residues 81-84 of subunit IV, with sequence of YRYR, are identified as essential for interaction with the core complex to restore the bc1 activity (reconstitutive activity). The positively charged group at R-82 and R-84, and both the hydroxyl group and aromatic group at Y-81 and Y-83, are essential. The interactions between these four residues of subunit IV and residues of core subunits are also responsible for the stability of the complex. However, these interactions are not essential for the incorporation of subunit IV into the bc1 complex. (2372)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health

PIs: Linda Yu, Shih-Chia Tso, Ying Yin, Chang-An Yu

Structure and Function of Exchangeable Apolipoproteins

Exchangeable apolipoproteins are essential structural and functional components of lipoproteins. The stability of the lipoprotein particles, the activity of lipolytic enzymes and lipid transfer proteins, and the binding of the lipoprotein to receptors are among the processes regulated, to a great extent, by the properties of the apolipoproteins, which bind to the lipoprotein lipid surfaces as well as to cell membranes. The long-term goals of this project are the identification and characterization of the functional domains of the insect apolipophorin-III and human apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), as well as studying the structure of these proteins in the lipoprotein bound state. (2398)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, National Institutes of Health

PI: Jose Soulages

Structural Studies of Midline-1 by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

My lab has focused on solving the three-dimensional structures of three zinc-binding domains from a human protein, Midline-1, that is implicated in almost two dozen human genetic syndromes. We employ nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to solve the structure. We recently solved the first structure of a B-box1 domain (published in Journal of Molecular Biology (JMB)) and the b-box2 (submitted, JMB). We are also in the process of completing the structure of both domains together. From these structures, we are gaining insights into their function that will help us understand how Midline-1 functions in the body. (2527)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Michael Massiah

Oxidative Stress Signaling in Plants

Ozone, the most abundant air pollutants, poses a serious threat to crops and forest ecosystems. We are analyzing the molecular basis of oxidative stress induced by ozone using the tools of functional genomics in two model plant systems--Arabidopsis thaliana and Medicago truncatula. Identification of key redox regulated genes from this research will facilitate the production of crop plants with improved tolerance to multiple stresses. (2528)

Sponsors: National Science Foundation-EPSCoR, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Ramamurthy Mahalingam

BIOSYSTEMS AND AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING

Monitoring and Modeling Evapotranspiration and Soil Moisture: Applications of the Oklahoma Mesonet

Automated soil moisture measurements at Oklahoma Mesonet sites will be calibrated and validated. Methods for quantifying evapotranspiration rates will be assessed. Estimates of evapotranspiration and irrigation water requirements for various Oklahoma crops will be developed. Monitoring and modeling to assess severity and spatial extent of drought conditions will be integrated. (2448)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Ronald L. Elliott

Development of Real-Time Sensor Based Variable Rate Applicators and Systems for Wheat and Other Crops

Sensor/application systems for precision farming are being developed to apply plant nutrients based on the crop’s needs. Sensors are being constructed to monitor cattle grazing. Data from these sensors will be integrated into information from crop sensors to manage forage production and grazing animals. (2453)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: John Solie

Exploitation of Micro-Electronics Technology to Enhance Profitability and Minimize Environmental Impacts in Agricultural Systems

Prototype Zigbee and IEEE 802.14.5 based networks have been examined for application in agricultural applications. An improved sensor network protocol has been developed based on 802.14.5 for these applications. Prototype network nodes have performed very well with regard to function and power consumption. (2468)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Marvin Stone

Weather-Related Research and Modeling for Decision Support in Agriculture and Natural Resources

Research will be conducted to improve and develop weather-based models for use in agriculture and natural resources. Numerical weather forecast output will be incorporated into these models, which will be implemented operationally on the Oklahoma Mesonet, the state’s automated weather station network. This will ensure effective dissemination of weather-related information to agricultural and natural resources clientele. A recent three-year federal grant (OK-FIRE) is helping to improve our wildland fire management products by integrating an 84-hour forecast into the fire danger model, developing a stand-alone fire management web site, and offering regional training for federal and state fire managers. (2477)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: J. D. Carlson

Development and Evaluation of TMDL Planning and Assessment Tools and Processes

Watershed models and other approaches for TMDL development and implementation will be developed, improved and evaluated. Potential economic benefits, costs, and equity issues associated with TMDL implementation at the watershed and individual landowner scale will be assessed, as well as the potential ecological benefits/implications. (2479)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Daniel Storm

Linking Regional Scale Hydrologic/Water Quality Models with Biodiversity Models for Environmental Decision Making

A tool will be developed to improve decision making concerning land use change and ecosystem impact. Models will be modified so simulations can be made of aquatic ecosystem structure/function changes resulting from changing land use. An integrated hydrology/water quality/geomorphology model will be developed to evaluate the impact of land use and land use change. An aquatic ecosystem model will be modified to use output from this model to predict impact to the ecosystem. (2531)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Daniel Storm

Hydrologic Influences to Dryland Wheat Yield in Oklahoma

The research will test the hypothesis, “Wheat grain and forage yields are impacted by the specific hydrologic conditions of initial soil moisture and season precipitation, and not by annual or seasonal totals,” and will focus on the development, testing, and proof of improved models and methods to predict dryland wheat yield. (2532)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Glenn Brown

ENTOMOLOGY AND PLANT PATHOLOGY

Insect Survey and Detection

Insect surveys assist farmers and others to more adequately protect their crops from insect attack. Surveys also assure more prompt detection of newly introduced insect pests. Survey data may lead to the development of a workable insect pest forecasting service. Survey reports may aid manufacturers and suppliers of insecticides and control equipment to determine areas of urgent need. In case of necessity, we provide a countrywide skeleton structure to be expanded as needed, to combat any attempt at biological warfare. (0914)

Sponsors: USDA, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Don Arnold

Interactions Among Insects and Plants in the Alfalfa Community

The goal of this project is to describe life systems of key insect pests and beneficial species in alfalfa. The role of these species as determinants of productivity and stand longevity of alfalfa is assessed. Influence of management practices including host resistance, grazing, and use of insecticides on insect populations and alfalfa productivity is determined. Comprehensive economic thresholds for key insect pests are developed. (1527)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: Richard Berberet, Jack Dillwith

Plant & Soil Sciences: John Caddel

Development of Improved Methods for Evaluating Reaction of Peanut to Soilborne Fungal Pathogens

Objectives of this research are: 1) to develop methods to identify and quantify resistance in peanut to the Sclerotinia and southern blight fungi, 2) to determine the pathogenicity of the two blight fungi against weed species common in Oklahoma, and 3) to assist breeders in developing resistant cultivars. New sources of resistance were identified in peanut germplasm. (1661)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Peanut Commission, Oklahoma State Department of Agriculture, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: Hassan Melouk, Ken Jackson

Graduate College: Mark Payton

Development of Disease Resistant Wheat and Studies of Selected Wheat Diseases

During the past year, more than 2,000 wheat lines from breeding programs in Oklahoma, Kansas, and other states were tested for reaction to wheat leaf rust and/or wheat soilborne mosaic virus (WSBMV). Results were provided to private and public wheat breeders to facilitate selection of lines for advancement. Additionally, about 10 hard red winter wheat lines were provided to the Oklahoma State University Wheat Improvement Program that are resistant to WSBMV, and/or stripe rust, and leaf rust, with the leaf rust resistance due to Lr 19, which is a gene obtained from South African wheat germplasm that appears to confer resistance to all current races of the leaf rust pathogen present in the United States. Greenhouse and field studies involving the bird cherry-oat (BCO) aphid (Rhopalosiphum padi): barley yellow dwarf virus complex indicated that viruliferous BCO aphids affected forage production by winter wheat more than aviruliferous BCO aphids. Additional research involving Sclerotium rolfsii on wheat and peanuts has indicated that host cultivar does not affect disease severity and that isolates from peanut are more pathogenic than isolates from wheat on both hosts. This could affect the disease caused by this pathogen when wheat and peanuts are used in a rotation. (1871)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agriculture Experiment Station, Oklahoma Wheat Research Foundation

PIs: Robert M. Hunger, Kris Giles, Jeanmarie Verchot, Tom Royer

Plant & Soil Sciences: Brett Carver, Art Klatt

Biochemistry of Arthropod-Host Interactions

Newly developed analytical approaches, including proteomics and metabolomics, are being used to study the interaction of aphids with important crop plants including alfalfa and wheat. An emphasis is being placed on understanding the response of insects to susceptible and resistant plants. Similar methods are being used to study the proteins in tick saliva and their role in feeding and disease transmission. (2001)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, USDA-ARS laboratory Stillwater.

PI: Jack Dillwith

Virulence Factors in Phytopathogenic Bacteria

A genetic approach that encompasses both host and pathogen will be used to define the role of coronatine (COR) in the pathogenesis of edible Brassica spp. and tomato. The specific objectives are to: 1) characterize the COR genes in Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000; 2) investigate the role of COR, coronafacic acid (CFA). and coronamic acid (CMA) in the pathogenesis of Brassica and tomato; 3) utilize functional genomics and DC3000 mutants to investigate the role of COR, CFA, and CMA on host responses; and 4) analyze the effect of COR, CFA, and CMA on plant cell biology. (2009)

Sponsors: National Science Foundation, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station,

PI: Carol Bender

Managing Arthropod Pests on Vegetable Crops in the S. Central U.S.

The objectives of this project are to develop and evaluate IPM strategies for insect pests in “organic” vegetable cropping systems, evaluate alternative insecticides for use in IPM programs for watermelon and leafy greens crops, and to determine action thresholds for insect pests on processing greens crops. Results of these research projects are incorporated into management strategy recommendations for vegetable crop producers in the south central U.S.A. (2040)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, USDA-IR4, CSREES

PI: Jonathan Edelson

Pathogen-Host Interactions of Phytopathogenic Mollicutes in Selected Plant and Insect Host Systems

The project will investigate: 1) the molecular basis of pathogenicity, insect transmissibility, and niche adaptations of the phytopathogenic Mollicutes; 2) transmission factors and niche-specificity determinants of Serratia marcescens, the bacterium causing cucurbit yellow vine disease; 3) technology for strain discrimination among plant pathogenic bacteria for forensic applications; and 4) Oklahoma-related problems involving phytopathogenic prokaryotes. (2052)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, USDA

PI: Jacqueline Fletcher

Biology, Epidemiology, and Integrated Management of Peanut and Vegetable Crop Diseases

The project will conduct basic studies on the biology and epidemiology of peanut and vegetable crop diseases and identify and evaluate sources of genetic resistance to important peanut and vegetable crop diseases. We plan to develop integrated management programs for peanut and vegetable crop diseases that utilize cultural practices, efficient spray programs, and genetic resistance. (2159)

Sponsors: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, CSREES/So Region IPM, Vegetable processing and seed industries, University of Arkansas

PI: John Damicone

Centralized Tick Rearing

The objectives of this project are to maintain research tick colonies in sufficient quantities and quality to provide specimens for research. Specifically, the lab initiates new colonies of ticks or arthropods of medical/veterinary importance as needed by research scientists at OSU or cooperating agencies. As part of the rearing process research is conducted to determine optimum rearing conditions and artificial tick rearing techniques are refined and/or developed as needed. (2172)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Jonathan Edelson

Squash Powdery Mildew-Effects of Polyculture

Combined effects of the density of plants and the proportion of each constituent crops species on the productivity of a biculture of summer squash and cucumbers were characterized. Effects of the proportion of each of the constituent crop species on increase of squash powdery mildew in a biculture summer squash and cucumber were also quantified. (2274)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Jim Duthie

Control of Zoosporic Pathogens of Nursery Crops in Recycling Irrigation Systems
The primary objective is to: 1) determine if repeated emergence is prevalent among waterborne Phytophthora spp. that are commonly found in recycling irrigation systems used for ornamental nursery production, 2) evaluate the ability of zoospores of Phytophthora spp. that are produced by repeated emergence from cysts to produce disease as compared with zoospores produced by the most common method (i.e., within sporangia), and 3) investigate the lateral and vertical distribution of motile and encysted zoospores of Phytophthora spp. in model systems imitating water flow conditions in capture and retention basins of nursery recycling irrigation systems. (2319)
Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Sharon von Broembsen

Integrated Pest Management of Aphid Pests in Wheat

The primary objective is to develop management programs for insect pests. Specifically, the research will evaluate: 1) the relationship between aphid infestation and wheat yields and quality, 2) the relationship among aphids, crops, and natural enemies, 3) the presence-absence method of sampling for aphids and parasites, and 4) the ecology of natural enemies in diverse agroecosystems. (2334)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Kris Giles

Mechanisms for Transmission of Soilborne Wheat Mosaic Virus and Wheat Spindle streak Mosaic Virus to Winter Wheat

SBWMV and WSSMV are soilborne viruses transmitted by fungal vectors through the soil to the roots of winter wheat. We are investigating the nature of the relationship of these viruses with their vector Polymyxa graminis. Using antisera to detect viral proteins and RNA probes to detect viral genomes, we found evidence that SBWMV may replicate inside its vector. We are conducting studies to develop antisera to a range of viral proteins and studying the relationship of these two viruses with their vector to determine if the virus persists throughout the life cycle of the vector. If these viruses also infect their fungal vector, we will consider alternative strategies for controlling the vector in the soil and for developing crops that are resistant to the vector as well as the fungus. (2371)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Jeanmarie Verchot

Biology, Ecology, and Integrated Management of Turfgrass Diseases Caused by Fungi and Nematodes, and Insect pests

Objectives are to describe the biology and ecology of turfgrass pests in Oklahoma and develop integrated management strategies for these pests. We will evaluate the diversity of turfgrass pests and describe specifically the pathogenic and non-pathogenic interaction between fungi and grasses and how environmental conditions influence these interactions. We will also evaluate the diversity and seasonal occurrence of white grub pests of turfgrass in Oklahoma. (2420)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PIs: Nathan Walker, Tom Royer, Stephen Marek

Horticulture & Landscaping Architecture: Dennis Martin

Molecular Aspects of Insect Immunity

A serine proteinase pathway in insect hemolymph leads to prophenoloxidase activation, an innate immune response against pathogen infection. We purified and characterized proHP14 from the hemolymph of bacteria-injected Manduca sexta larvae. The zymogen, consisting of a single polypeptide with a molecular mass of 68.5 kDa, is truncated at the amino terminus. It is converted to a two-chain active form in the presence of β-1, 3-glucan (a fungal cell wall component) and β-1,3-glucan recognition protein-2. The 45 kDa heavy chain contains four low-density lipoprotein receptor A repeats, one Sushi domain, and one unique cysteine-rich region, whereas the 30 kDa light chain contains a serine proteinase domain, which was labeled by 3H-diisopropyl fluorophosphates. ProHp14 in the plasma binds curdlan, zymosa yeast, peptidoglycan, and Micrococcus lutes. Addition of autoactivated Hp14 elevated phenoloxidase activity level in the larval plasma. Recombinant M. sexta serpin-1I reduced prophenoloxidase activation by inhibiting HP14. These data are consistent with the current model on initiation and regulation of the prophenoloxidase activation cascade upon recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns by specific pattern recognition proteins. (2450)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Haobo Jiang

Biological Control of Arthropod Pests and Weeds

Objectives are to characterize and quantify the impact of indigenous natural enemies on pest and beneficial species. Evaluation of indigenous natural enemy efficacy is a key component of biological control programs. The hypothesis is that to be effacious natural enemies must have significant individual or additive impacts in reducing pest populations. The role of existing natural enemy complexes in reducing pest populations must be explored thoroughly. Studies will measure host/prey suppression by natural enemies in selected commodities and assess the impact of existing natural enemies on the efficacy of introduced biological control agents. (2455)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Kris Giles

Transmission of Phytopathogenic Bacteria by the Squash Bug: A New Role for Anasa Tristis

The project will determine whether Serratia marcescens is transmitted non-circulatively or circulatively by the squash bug, Anasa tristis. Contrary to our original hypothesis, data now suggests that the bacterium must be internalized and circulate through the body of the vector before deposition via the salivary secretions. It was also determined that other strains of S. marcescens can colonize mechanically inoculated squash, and that marcescens strains are differentially lethal to aphids and squash bugs. (2472)

PIs: Astri Wayadande, Jacqueline Fletcher

USDA, WWAREC: Benny Bruton, Sam Pair

Texas A&M: Forrest Mitchell

Sponsors: USDA/NRI, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

Biology, Ecology, and Pest Management of Wood-Destroying Subterranean Termites

Our research is to elucidate taxonomy distribution and biology of indigenous subterranean termites in Oklahoma. We will conduct a survey to determine if the exotic destructive Formosan termite has arrived in Oklahoma from the southern Gulf Coast states. We will determine foraging territories seasonality and impact of subterranean termites on grassland plant biomass and carbon sequestration, soil characteristics, and investigate influence of soil moisture and temperature on termite location and movement. We will evaluate efficacy of existing, improved, and emerging termite management technologies. (2480)

Sponsor: Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station

PI: Bradford Kard