Thursday April 14th, 2016
12:00 pm-3:00pm, Waggoner Hall 378
Oral Presentations
3:00 pm-4:45 pm Waggoner Hall, 3rd Floor
Poster presentations
3:00 pm-4:45 pm Waggoner Hall, 3rd Floor
Desert Competition
4:45 pm, Waggoner Hall, First Floor
Group Picture - Wear Purple!
Friday April 15th, 2016
9:00 am-12:00 pm, Waggoner Hall 378
Oral Presentations
12:00-1:00pm, Waggoner Hall 378
Plenary Speaker: Dr. Richard Powell
Chemical Diversity in Plants and Plant Endophytes
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm, Waggoner Hall 2nd Floor
Award Ceremony
Potluck
Plenary Speaker
Dr. Richard G. Powell
Chemical Diversity in Plants and Plant Endophytes
12-1pm, Waggoner Hall 378
Richard Powell was born in 1938 in Avon, Illinois. He attended Western Illinois University,
Macomb, Illinois, where he received degrees B.S. (1961) and M.S., Ed. (1963, chemistry).
Additional graduate study in organic chemistry was obtained Iowa State University (19621963). He was awarded a Research Fellowship in lipid chemistry at St. Andrews University,
Scotland, (1966-1967) in the laboratory of Professor F. D. Gunstone. He was employed by
the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) at the Northern Regional Research
Laboratory (NRRL), now the National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research
(NCAUR), Peoria, Illinois in 1963. He left there at the end of 1994 as Research Leader of the
Bioactive Constituents Research unit. During the period 1995-2013 he remained as a
Physical Science Collaborator to NCAUR. He was appointed Associate Editor of the Journal
of Natural Products in 1990 and held that position for 23 years. Mr. Powell has authored or
co-authored 108 publications, including 12 patents and six book chapters, has been a
member of the American Chemical Society for 53 years, and a member of the American
Society of Pharmacognosy for 37 years. His research interests have been primarily studies
of unusual lipids in plant seeds, potential antitumor agents in collaboration with the
National Cancer Institute, toxic metabolites in fungal-infected plants, and natural products
for control of insect and plant pests.
2
Oral Presentations
THRUSDAY APRIL 14th, 2016
12:00 - 3:00 pm Waggoner 378
Oral presentations are organized by presentation time:
Time
Presenter
Title
12:00 - 12:15pm
Bath, Donald
Comparative Analysis of Helicoverpa zea Gene
Expression and Growth Based on the Host Plant
1
12:15-12:30pm
Ndinga Muniania,
Cedric
Seasonal variation of Dark Septate Fungi in an Arid
Grassland and their Potential Role on Plant Growth
2
12:30-12:45pm
Paudyal, Sangya
3
12:45-1:00pm
Trone, Emma
1:00-1:15pm
Ogundiran, Simeon
1:15-1:30pm
Mathis, Andrew
Identification of Novel Mycoviruses in the
Phytopathogenic Fungi Fusarium
Evaluating gene expression in chronic wasting
disease infected white-tailed deer (Odocoileus
virginianus)
Gene Expression of Soybean (Glycine max) in
Response to Trichoderma and Rhizobium Inoculants
under Heat stress
Assessing Movement of Adult Silver Carp and
Bighead Carp in the Upper Illinois Waterway System
Using GPS Satellite and Radio Telemetry
1:30-1:45pm
Abstract
4
5
6
BREAK
1:45-2:00pm
Pikora, Shanna
Topography and Water Stability Preferences
Exhibited by the North American River Otter (Lontra
canadensis) When Choosing Den Location
7
2:00-2:15pm
Torres Cruz, Terry
8
2:15-2:30pm
Schmuecker, Sara
Characterization of a Novel Early Lineage in the
Mucoromycotina
Predicting bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
movement onto and use of upland landscapes
2:30-2:45pm
Lampo, Eli
Juvenile Asian Carp Predation on the La Grange
Reach, Illinois River
10
9
3
Oral Presentations
FRIDAY APRIL 15th, 2016
9:00am-12:00 pm Waggoner 378
Oral presentations are organized by presentation time:
Time
Presenter
Title
9:00-9:15am
Diveley, Kayleigh
11
9:15-9:30am
Hamm, Paris
Gene Expression Observed from the
interaction between Corn Earworm
(Helicoverpa zea) caterpillars and Corn (Zea
mays) tissues.
Novel species of Actinobacteria with the
capability of inhibiting White-Nose Syndrome
9:30-9:45am
Sartore, Teresa
13
9:45-10am
Cuthbert, Samantha
10:00-10:15am
Davila, Lisa
10:15-10:30am
Rehbein, Michele
The Effects of Cell-Wall Based Treatments
on Leuconostoc citreum to Increase
Transformation Efficiency.
Impact of Regulatory Gene Mutations on
Neisseria gonorrhoeae interactions with the
Innate Human Immune System
Bat Mortality by Single Standing Wing
Turbines in Northwestern Illinois within the
Upper Mississippi River Watershed
Arbovirus Surveillance in Rural Western
Illinois
BREAK
DNA Barcoding Reveals Multiple Cryptic
Species of White Grub Infecting Spring Lake
Fishes
Evaluating the effects of prescribed forest
burnings in relation to tick species
abundance and distribution; Determining the
presence of anthropogenic diseases
Uses of Ecosystem Good and Services in
Adaptive Management: Mud Lake Habitat
Restoration Project as a Case Study
Examining the gene expression in
Helicoverpa zea following feeding on Maize
17
10:30-10:45am
10:45-11:00am
McCarrel, Sami
11:00-11:15am
Warren, Sarah
11:15-11:30am
Michl, Davi
11:30-11:45am
Englund, Andrew
Abstract
12
14
15
16
18
19
20
4
Poster Presentations
THRUSDAY APRIL 14th, 2016
3:00 -5:00 pm, Waggoner Hall Third Floor
Posters are organized by presenter last name:
Poster #
Student Name
Title
Abstract
Status
23
Al-Furaiji, Ammar
23
Graduate
24
Aljubran, Ayat
Effects of Elevated Peroxidase Levels
and Tomato Earworm Feeding on Gene
Expression in Tomato Fruits
Genetic transformation of Leuconostoc
By Treated Assisted- Electroporation
24
Graduate
21
Anderson,
Charmayne
21
Graduate
42
Banigan, Emily
Validating age and growth of Illinois Asian
carp by using known ages from Asian
carp from China
Effect of TOC 132/120 Receptors on
Expression of Jasmonate Genes
42
Undergraduate
30
Bath, Donald
30
Graduate
38
Coffey, Lauren
Comparative Analysis of Helicoverpa zea
Gene Expression and Growth Based on
the Host Plant
Gene Expression of Ovarian Cancer Cells
Treated with J18 Targeting Peptide
38
Undergraduate
51
Deardeuff,
Amanda
51
Graduate
53
Diveley, Kayleigh
53
Graduate
22
Doyle, Brittany
Movement Patterns of a Rehabilitated
Antillean Manatee (Trichechus manatus
manatus) in Response to Resource
Availability in Belize
Gene Expression Observed from the
interaction between Corn Earworm
(Helicoverpa zea) caterpillars and Corn
(Zea mays) tissues.
Xerophilic Dark Septate Endophytes in
Arid Grasslands Roots
22
Undergraduate
26
Dozard, Georgia
White Grub: Still a Generalist or Really a
Specialist?
26
Undergraduate
62
Emory, Nick
Gene Expression of Corn Plants
inoculated with MicroAZ and MicroAF
62
Graduate
50
Garcia, Gabriela
Cytotoxic Determination of a Potential
and Novel Ovarian Cancer Drug
50
Undergraduate
5
29
Gooch, Matthew
25
29
Undergraduate
Hannant, Haley
White Nose Syndrome threat may be
dampened by antifungal producing
Actinobacteria
Mycoviruses: Fungal Friend or Foe?
25
Undergraduate
54
Hebert, Allison
Enhanced Gene Transfer in Leuconostoc
54
Undergraduate
33
Huette, Ashley
Does Sex or Age Affect Infection Levels
in White-Footed Mice?
33
Undergraduate
32
Hutchison,
Kennen
32
Undergraduate
60
Jirik, Jessica
60
Undergraduate
28
La Hood, Boone
Mosquito Mayhem: Are Illinois
Mosquitoes Ready for Chikungunya
Virus?
The Expression of Fatty Acid Desaturase
Genes in Arabidopsis Plants That Have
Been Exposed to Ozone
Quatrefoil light trap survey of larval fish in
the Upper Mississippi River
28
Graduate
41
Larson, Jodi
41
Graduate
56
Lefler, Madison
Alarm call mitigation in captive capuchin
monkeys: Using a visual barrier to reduce
predator/prey stress reactions in a small
zoo setting
Arboviruses Presence in Ticks found in
Western Illinois
56
Undergraduate
35
Lenaerts, Allison
Effects of Commercial Harvest on Asian
Carp present above Lock and Dam 19
35
Graduate
52
Lubbinga, Rachel
52
Undergraduate
46
Mainor, Katie
Development and Analysis of
Microsatellite DNA Markers in Spiny and
Smooth Soft Shell Turtles
Common Snapping Turtle Sportfish
Monitoring and Assessment in Illinois
46
Graduate
44
Miller, Janie
Does Fire Affect Parasitism in Midwestern
White-footed Mice?
44
Undergraduate
27
Ojha, Ruchi
27
Graduate
47
Olanrewaju
Adeyemi
Growth profile and gene expression of
Helicoverpa zea infected by Bacillus
thuringiensis kurstaki and Bacillus
thuringiensis Israelensis
Study of Thermophilic Fungi in cornbased food products
47
Graduate
49
Poore, Lindsey
Nematode Parasitism of Orthopterans in
Sand Prairies vs. Tallgrass Prairies
49
Graduate
36
Potocek, Eliese
Bacterial Diversity Associated with Novel
Mucoromycotina Species
36
Undergraduate
6
43
Roseman, Nicole
Hybridization of Hyla versicolor and Hyla
chrysoscelis using Microsatellite Analysis
43
Graduate
39
Rosenje, Ahmed
39
Undergraduate
31
Saha, Soumya
Caterpillar gene expression in relation to
plant defenses
,
Study of Gene Expression in
Leuconostoc citreum
31
Graduate
34
Sairafi Noor
34
Graduate
55
Scheihing, Beth
55
Graduate
37
Sivaramareddy
Abhishek
Gene Expression of Bacteria-inoculated
Soybean Glycine max in Response to
Heat Stress
The effects of prescribed burning on the
vegetation dynamics and the subsequent
impact on hard bodied tick abundance
and diversity in a Midwest open oak
woodland community.
Gene Expression in a Beneficial Intestinal
Bacterial Species
37
Graduate
40
Smith, Eric
40
Graduate
45
Sonubi-ishaq,
Daccu
45
Graduate
58
Stanley, Ashley
58
Graduate
59
Stevenson, Trent
Using Canvasbacks (Aythya valisineria)
as Bioindicators of Wetland Quality in the
Upper Midwest
Effects of Biological Inoculants on the
gene expression of Maize roots and
leaves under Heat stress
Ontogenetic Diet Shifts of Blue Catfish
(Ictalurus furcatus) and Flathead catfish
(Pylodictis olivaris)
Effectiveness of Orchid Bee Traps and
Attractants
59
Undergraduate
48
Swearingen, Tim
C.
48
Graduate
63
Szott, Emily
Estimating density of bobcats with
capture-mark-recapture data from camera
traps
Quantification of daily otolith increments
in young of year Asian carp
63
Undergraduate
57
Trone, Emma
57
Graduate
61
Worthen, Tori
Post-mortem RNA degradation in whitetailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in
westcentral Illinois
DNA barcoding reveals two cryptic
species of "grub" infecting green sunfish.
61
Undergraduate
7
Abstracts
Abstract 1
Presenter: Bath, Donald
Mentor: Dr. Richard O. Musser
Student status: Graduate
Email: da-bath2@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Comparative Analysis of Helicoverpa zea Gene Expression and Growth Based on the Host
Plant
Donald Bath, Richard Musser, Sue Hum-Musser
Annually millions of dollars are spent reducing crop damage from herbivores such as
Helicoverpa zea, commonly known as the 'corn earworm' or 'tomato fruitworm', a moth
species whose larval stages feed on a variety of plants. Understanding of gene expression
between plant and herbivore interactions allows better insight into co-evolution and
potential novel methods in protecting agricultural crops. This research aims to understand
how H. zea compensates on a variety of plants with different defense tactics and tissues
such as leaves versus fruits. A series of growth assays were performed with Helicoverpa
zea on several plants: control diet, leaves from soybeans (Glycine max), tobacco (Nicotiana
tabacum), corn (Zea mays), and the leaves and fruit of tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum).
Results compared 3rd instar caterpillar’s weights taken 72 hours after herbivory began on
their respective plants tissues. Additional testing was performed with plants altered using
defensive hormones jasmonate and salicylate. Gene expression was determined with realtime qPCR to represent compensatory digestive genes and counter defenses metabolism.
The bioassays demonstrated caterpillars grew greatest on control diet and tomato fruit in
relation to other tissues. In regards to leaf tissues caterpillars grew better on tomato leaves
than any other leaves. Gene expression correlated well to these bioassays where
caterpillars stimulated higher levels of digestive gene expression when feeding on leaves
compared to fruits. Likewise detoxification genes were greater when feeding on leaves in
comparison to fruits. This study provides some the first measurements of gene expression
across wide range of host plants.
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Abstract 2
Presenter: Ndinga Muniania, Cedric
Mentor: Dr. Andrea Porras-Alfaro
Student status: Graduate
Email: C-NdingaMuniania@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Seasonal variation of Dark Septate Fungi in an Arid Grassland and their Potential Role on
Plant Growth
Cedric Ninga-Muniania, Katrina Sandona, Jayne Belnap, Cheryl R. Kuske, Andrea PorrasAlfaro
The high temperatures and long extended drought periods in arid ecosystems promote the
colonization of diverse microenvironments by dominant communities of dark septate fungi
(DSF). Due to their abundance, DSF are likely to contribute to soil nutrient enrichment and
plant survival in these stressful conditions, but their role and diversity are still not well
described. We collected soil and isolated fungi from different microenvironments in an
arid grassland near Moab, UT. The biocrust fungi were isolated from lichen, moss and
cyanobacteria dominated crusts, and rhizosphere soils were collected from two plants,
Bromus tectorum and Hilaria jamesii. Fungi were isolated using a serial dilution technique
and identified using ITS rRNA sequencing. Seasonal variation of DSF was evaluated using
culture-based approaches and compare with fungal community profiles from Illumina
sequencing. Our imaging pigment analysis reveals that DSF are more abundant in BSC
compared to rhizosphere showing differences in colonization rates by season with an
increase during the summer months. From the 813 fungi isolated, Pleosporales was the
dominant order in both biocrust and rhizosphere. The most dominant DSF genera included
Alternaria, Preussia, Cladosporium, Phoma and unknown Pleosporales. Seed germination
experiments using dominant taxa were conducted in corn to determine their potential
roles on plant growth. Cladosporium and Alternaria in particular, showed growth
promoting ability stimulating root production and stem elongation. This variation in
abundance and colonization of DSF could reflect an adaptation to the environmental
conditions in the summer as well as potential plant demand when heat and drought
conditions are high.
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Abstract 3
Presenter: Paudyal, Sangya
Mentor: Dr. Catherine Miller-Hunt
Student status: Graduate
Email: s-paudyal@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Identification of Novel Mycoviruses in the Phytopathogenic Fungi Fusarium
Sangya Paudyal, Catherine Miller-Hunt
Mycoviruses, virus that infect fungi, are common in all major fungal groups. First
discovered in 1962, over 80 mycoviruses species from 10 virus families have been
recognized by the International Committee of Taxonomy of Viruses, while 20% haven’t
been assigned genus or family. While majority of mycoviruses show latent or dormant
infection in the host, some mycoviruses have negative effect on the fungal growth or
survival, as seen in different species of phytopathogenic fungi Fusarium. Found worldwide
in all climate zones, soil, plant or plant debris, Fusarium species cause diseases like vascular
wilt, head and seed blights, stem rots, root and crown rot and canker disease in a wide
range of host plants. Known to cause 81 diseases out of 101 most important diseases of
crop plants listed in American Phytopathological Society, Fusarium species have also been
associated with soybean sudden death syndrome, a leading cause of soybean decline in the
midwest. Large double-stranded RNA mycoviruses are common in Fusarium. FgV1
(Fusarium graminaerum virus 1) was the first Fusarium mycovirus associated with a
decrease in fungal pathogenicity and reduced mycelial growth. With small amount of
taxonomic data available for mycoviruses, and alternative methods like fungal
hypovirulence being sought for fungal control, research in this field is very important. My
primary objective is to screen for and identify novel mycoviruses present in Fusarium
samples taken from local soybean crops experiencing soybean sudden death syndrome. My
secondary objective is to determine if there are associations between mycoviruses and
virulence of the Fusarium.
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Abstract 4
Presenter: Trone, Emma
Mentor: Dr. Christopher N. Jacques
Student status: Graduate
Email: ek-trone@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Evaluating gene expression in chronic wasting disease infected white-tailed deer
(Odocoileus virginianus)
Emma K. Trone, Christopher N. Jacques, James T. Lamer, Paige Zick, Gouging Lu, Paul A.
Shelton
Throughout much of their range, white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are affected by
transmissible diseases such as chronic wasting disease (CWD). Although previous research
has evaluated
CWD genetics (e.g., PRNP gene polymorphisms) the underlying
pathogenicity and mechanisms of the disease remain poorly understood. The primary
objective of our research was to create a genetic profile of CWD-infected deer to better
understand how the disease affects deer on a transcriptome (i.e., full range of mRNA
molecules expressed by individual) level. We evaluated gene-expression in CWD-infected
and non-infected white-tailed deer collected by Illinois Department of Natural Resource
game managers during annual population reduction (e.g., sharpshooting) and disease
monitoring efforts throughout the CWD-endemic area of northcentral Illinois and
established a timeline for RNA viability. We used next generation sequencing (NGS) to
analyze tissue samples from CWD-infected deer euthanized by IDNR sharpshooters during
winter 2015 (February – March 2015). Specifically, we used the Illumina HiSeq 2500
Sequencing System (Illumina Inc., San Diego, CA, USA) to quantify and map the
transcriptomes de novo, and identify novel and known genes from CWD-infected (n=5) and
non-infected (n=5) deer. Preliminary results indicate 59 differentially expressed genes, of
which 23 can be annotated using the Blast2GO database. Molecular functions of these
genes include binding, catalytic activity and receptor activity. Specifically, we have
identified ADIPOQ and CCL3 as differentially expressed. These genes are responsible for
regulation of tumor necrosis factor in a typical immune response. Unidentified genes may
be previously un-described cervid genes or related to CWD infection. Annotation and
validation of differentially expressed genes is necessary when creating a genetic profile.
Identification of differentially expressed genes involved in the pathogenesis of CWD may
enable researchers and wildlife managers throughout Illinois to predict the infectious
status of harvested deer using gene expression (transcriptome) profiles.
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Abstract 5
Presenter: Ogundiran, Simeon
Mentor: Dr. Sue Hum-Musser
Student status: Graduate
Email: SM-ogundiran@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Gene Expression of Soybean (Glycine max) in Response to Trichoderma and Rhizobium
Inoculants under Heat stress
Simeon M. Ogundiran, Richard Musser, Sue Hum-Musser
Many fungi are known to colonize plant roots. Some of these fungi are non-pathogenic and
even beneficial. Fungi in the genus Trichoderma are commonly used to enhance yield and
reduce plant diseases. Trichoderma spp. is an endophytic plant symbiont. It is widely used
as biocontrol for plant diseases. Similarly, Rhizobium spp., a nitrogen fixing bacteria is
present in the root nodules of leguminous plants and increases the availability of nutrients
in the soil, enhance growth and yield of plant. It is used as a bio-fertilizer as well as
biocontrol for plant disease. In this research project, I investigated the individual and
combined effects of Trichoderma and Rhizobium inoculants on gene expression in soybean
(Glycine max) under heat stress condition. I inoculated soybean seeds with the two
different inoculants (Trichoderma spp. and Rhizobium spp.) and an equal amount of the two
inoculants combined together. The seeds were germinated on damp cotton pads for six
days. They were placed in heat at 35C or at room temperature (25C) for 16 hours in the
dark. Expression of some selected genes associated with responses of plant to temperature
stress was examined using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. We
determined that the inoculants significantly altered the expression of several genes related
to anti-oxidation, stress and heat response. This research work will give insight into the
individual and combined effects of bio-inoculants on gene expression in soybeans under
abiotic stress condition.
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Abstract 6
Presenter: Mathis, Andrew
Mentor: Dr. James T. Lamer
Student status: Graduate
Email: at-mathis@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Assessing Movement of Adult Silver Carp and Bighead Carp in the Upper Illinois Waterway
System Using GPS Satellite and Radio Telemetry
Andrew Mathis, James T. Lamer, Brent Knights, Kevin Irons
Invasive silver carp and bighead carp have established populations throughout the Illinois
River. Efforts to prevent invasion into the Great Lakes rely on a comprehensive monitoring
program. Despite a wealth of information on Asian carp movement, a finer-scale approach
to understand real-time movements and habitat use would strengthen management efforts.
We are testing GPS tags to determine patterns of movement, identify potential feeding and
spawning areas, and inform commercial removal efforts in the Upper Illinois River. To
optimize and determine the feasibility of this technology, data logging tags (manually
tracked with radio telemetry) were tethered to bighead and silver carp species in raceway
and field experiments. Seven of fifteen field-deployed tags have been recovered and have
returned 1,194 individual waypoints. We have demonstrated the use of this technology to
monitor Asian carp and will begin testing remotely-accessed, real-time satellite-linked
prototypes in 2016. Fine-scale accuracies and fast acquisition speeds make this an ideal
tool, and is the first use of GPS technology to track fish in riverine systems.
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Abstract 7
Presenter: Pikora, Shanna
Mentor: Dr. Susan Romano
Student status: Graduate
Email: SE-David@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Topography and Water Stability Preferences Exhibited by the North American River Otter
(Lontra canadensis) When Choosing Den Location
Shanna Pikora, Susan Romano
Historically, the North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis) were more abundant, but
over-trapping and habitat degradation caused their near extinction in the Midwest.
Currently, not much is known about certain habitat preferences exhibited by river otters
when choosing den locations. We hypothesized that river otter den location preferences
are based on water stability, and slope of the den site. This study was conducted at Spring
Lake at the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge in Savanna, Illinois
and private property near Industry, Illinois. Den sites were located through scouting and
verified through track identification at the den entrance. Each den was assigned GPS
coordinates, and landscape slope (degrees) at the den was measured (Suunto clinometer).
Water stability was based on US Fish and Wildlife Service records of the number of flood
events per year. Multiple linear regression results indicate that the interaction of slope and
water stability (p=0.013) is important for den selection. Most common were slopes ranging
from 35-60 degrees and a stable water body. These conditions of slope and water level
stability were typical of leveed and controlled water bodies along the Upper Mississippi
River, and of stable farm ponds. This research indicates that river otter den habitat may be
enhanced by these man-made conditions.
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Abstract 8
Presenter: Torres Cruz, Terry
Mentor: Dr. Andrea Porras-Alfaro
Student status: Graduate
Email: tj-torrescruz@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Characterization of a Novel Early Lineage in the Mucoromycotina
Terry Torres Cruz, Terri Tobias, Maryam Almatruk, Cedar Hesse, Alessandro Desirò, Cheryl
Kuske, Gregory Bonito, Jason Stajich, Christopher Dunlap, Andrea Porras-Alfaro
Fungi are one of the largest kingdoms of eukaryotes with fundamental biological functions
in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The great fungal diversity in soils makes these
ecosystems valuable for the discovery of new species. This study seeks to characterize a
potential new fungal species in the Mucoromycotina. Isolates were obtained from the Duke
Forest Free Air Carbon Enrichment Site by soil dilutions on PYG+ media at 25ºC.
Morphological characteristics were described and a phylogenetic analysis was conducted
using multiple genetic regions and a draft genome. Bacterial symbionts were also analyzed
using 454-sequencing to describe the bacterial community associated to this fungus. The
closest BLAST results for the isolates belong to uncultured soil fungal sequences obtained
from metagenomic analyses and an isolate from endophytic fungi in mosses.
Characterization of the fungus on different growth media reveals colony morphology
differences that are likely associated to the growth of specific groups of bacteria promoted
by the different media. Light and electron microscopy showed coenocytic hyphae, yeast like
structures, and potential chlamydospores. Using electron microscopy, the bacterial
communities were observed on the fungus surface. Analysis of SSU and phylogenomic
analysis using a partial genome showed that these isolates represent a new clade closely
related to Endogone as an early lineage in the Mucoromycotina.
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Abstract 9
Presenter: Schmuecker, Sara
Mentor: Dr. Susan Romano
Student status: Graduate
Email: sj-schmuecker@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Predicting bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) movement onto and use of upland
landscapes
Sara Schmiecker, Susan P. Romano, Tricia A. Miller
Over the next 35 years, wind energy production in the United States is expected to increase
from 4.5 to 35 percent, with Iowa and Illinois likely to be substantial contributors.
Significant bald eagle mortality has been observed at wind energy facilities on upland
agricultural landscapes throughout the United States. High eagle mortality and increasing
eagle use of upland areas by the growing population have resulted in the need for more
information regarding bald eagle biology and movements throughout the Midwestern
landscape. In order to guide management and reduce eagle interactions with potentially
hazardous anthropogenic structures, we telemetered (GPS-GSM units) nine bald eagles in
Iowa and Illinois between 2013 and 2015. To understand the conditions when eagles were
present in upland landscapes, we evaluated five models including those representing
extreme cold, storm system, spring migration conditions, and a null and full model. The
extreme cold model (AIC = 4,626.3) had the most support in data. Of the variables
analyzed, waterbody ice cover (p-value<0.005), daily maximum wind speed (pvalue<0.005, 10.02±0.09 mi/hr), and the number of days prior to spring migration (pvalue<0.005, 33.79±0.38 days), appear to have the greatest influence for eagle movement
onto the upland landscape. Our results provide important information about bald eagle
movements into upland landscapes that can be used to guide management decisions,
including placement of energy facilities, required shut down of wind turbines when eagles
are more likely to utilize the upland landscape, and informing pre-construction and
monitoring survey designs.
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Abstract 10
Presenter: Lampo, Eli
Mentor: Dr. James T. Lamer
Student status: Graduate
Email: egl102@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Juvenile Asian Carp Predation on the La Grange Reach, Illinois River
Eli G. Lampo, James T. Lamer, Brent Knights, Jon Vallazza, James H. Larson, Andrew Casper,
Rich Pendleton, Levi Solomon
In 2014, a large Asian carp spawning event in the La Grange reach of the Illinois River
produced an abundance of juvenile silver carp in 2015. This provided the opportunity to
investigate their use as forage for native piscivorous fishes and the size structure of fish
utilizing this resource. We collected fishes from contiguous backwaters and tributaries on
the La Grange Reach of the Illinois River using pulsed DC- electrofishing from June through
November, 2015. Diets were removed for analysis from all native piscivorous fishes during
runs when young Asian carp were detected. Diet components were identified, enumerated,
and weighed by taxa. Asian carp ≤250 mm were collected to validate age and build a length
vs. pharyngeal teeth regression as well as a length vs. masticating pad regression. The
presence of silver carp pharyngeal teeth in the diets were used to confirm identification
and allowed us to estimate silver carp length. Silver carp were predominantly found in the
diets of largemouth bass (25/262, 9%), white bass (6/67, 9%), and shortnose gar (6/34,
17%). We estimated silver carp lengths found in the predators diets, and determined that
there was significant relationship between the size of largemouth bass and the size of silver
carp they consumed (p=0.0001). Identifying species and size of native predators able to
utilize this resource provides insight into natural biological management of this invasive
species.
17
Abstract 11
Presenter: Diveley, Kayleigh
Mentor: Dr. Richard O. Musser
Student status: Graduate
Email: kr-diveley@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Gene Expression Observed from the interaction between Corn Earworm (Helicoverpa zea)
caterpillars and Corn (Zea mays) tissues.
Kayleigh Diveley, Richard O. Musser
By understanding the genetic interaction of plant defense systems to insect pests such as
caterpillars and in understanding how caterpillar digestive systems attempt to overcome
these plant defenses, research may help to find novel methods in protecting our
agricultural crops and limit the use of pesticides. This experiment aimed to observe the
changes to gene expression caused by the interaction between Corn Earworm (Helicoverpa
zea) caterpillars and Corn (Zea mays) tissue. To do so, changes to caterpillar growth and
gene expression by feeding third instar caterpillars several treatments of corn tissues such
as Corn Leaves, Corn Husk, Corn Silk, and Corn Fruit against an artificial diet were
observed. A total of 10 to 15 distinct genes were observed for each experimental objective
to represent the direct defenses of the corn as well as the digestive genes altered as a result
of feeding on the tissues using real-time qualitative PCR. Our results revealed that plant
defenses such as protease inhibitors appeared suppressed in the leaves due in part to the
caterpillar salivary factors. In the bioassay we found the caterpillar grew the greatest on
the Corn Fruit in relation to other corn tissues. Also, the caterpillar digestive genes
correlated to this increased growth on the Corn Fruit in comparison to the other tissue by
less expression for protease genes than if the caterpillar fed on leaves or other tissues.
18
Abstract 12
Presenter: Hamm, Paris
Mentor: Dr. Andrea Porras-Alfaro
Student status: Graduate
Email: ps-hamm@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Novel species of Actinobacteria with the capability of inhibiting White-Nose Syndrome
Paris Hamm, Nicole A. Caimi, Diana E. Northup, Ernest W. Valdez, Debbie C. Buecher, Chris
Dunlap, David P. Labeda, Shiloh Lueschow, Andrea Porras-Alfaro
White-nose syndrome (WNS), a bat fungal disease caused by the psychrophilic (coldloving) fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, has been estimated to cause the death of
more than six million bats in the eastern U.S. and Canada since 2007. Bats play an
important role as insect consumers and it has been projected that agricultural losses may
reach $3.7 billion/year. Fungal and bacterial surveys have been conducted to explore bats’
natural microbial communities as a possible first line of defense against pathogens. We
evaluated 632 naturally occurring Actinobacteria isolated from WNS-free bats from New
Mexico and Arizona for their biocontrol potential. Of 36 (5.7%) isolates showing antifungal
activity against P. destructans, we found six novel Streptomyces species. Procedures of the
International Streptomyces Project were used to conduct the morphological and
physiological characterization. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted to determine DNA
relatedness of the species and place novel taxa. Our results suggest that bats in western
North America possess some novel bacterial microbiota that inhibit P. destructans in situ.
These novel bacteria with antifungal capability require further exploration into their
potential for the discovery of broad spectrum drugs.
19
Abstract 13
Presenter: Sartore, Teresa
Mentor: Dr. Scott Holt
Student status: Graduate
Email: te-sartore@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
The Effects of Cell-Wall Based Treatments on Leuconostoc citreum to Increase
Transformation Efficiency.
Teresa Sartore, Joseph Lucas, Scott Holt
Leuconostoc citreum can synthesize a variety of α-glucan exopolymers and polymerderivatives from agricultural residues such as sucrose that are both widely available and
inexpensive to obtain. The chemical properties of the α-glucans and their derivatives instill
these carbohydrates with properties that make them useful to improve many current and
future applications in the field of biotechnology. L. citreum, however, has been found to be
resistant to electrotransformation since published protocols result in low transformation
frequencies; possibly due to a thick peptidoglycan cell wall. The goal of this study was to
improve the electrotransformation frequency in L. citreum by optimizing plasmid vector
concentration and using treatments that weaken and permeabilize the cell wall to allow for
enhanced transfer of genetic material into the host cell. Using a standard protocol, L.
citreum was electrotransformed using varying concentrations of pGK12 and transformants
were selected on MRS-chloramphenicol agar; which was then repeated in triplicate. In
general, the transformation efficiency improved as less plasmid DNA was used decreasing
from 1.0µg to 0.1µg. The treatments that were used to enhance the permeability of the cell
wall were glycine, penicillin, and lysozyme. Each of these treatments were tested in varying
concentrations. After treating the L. citreum cells, they were then electrotransformed with
pGK12 (0.25-0.1µg). Statistically significant increases in electrotransformation frequencies
were obtained when L. citreum was treated with optimal concentrations of glycine,
penicillin, or lysozyme when compared to the control (no treatments). These results were
repeatable with two L. citreum strains.
20
Abstract 14
Presenter: Cuthbert, Samantha
Mentor: Dr. Catherine Miller-Hunt
Student status: Graduate
Email: sa-cuthbert@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Impact of Regulatory Gene Mutations on Neisseria gonorrhoeae interactions with the Innate
Human Immune System
Samantha Cuthbert, Jason Hunt, Michael Apicella, Catherine Miller-Hunt
Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a highly contagious sexually transmitted disease that causes
inflammation of the urethra or cervix, and is capable of causing permanent health problems
when left untreated. Inflammation is a response driven by the innate immune system upon
recognition of N. gonorrhoeae. Although there are antibiotics to treat N. gonorrhoeae,
infections are becoming less effective as bacterial drug-resistance has increased. The first
N. gonorrhoeae mutant analyzed contains a knock-out in the internal response regulator
gene (MisR), a gene that is part of a two-component regulatory system. Two-component
regulatory systems are commonly used in bacteria to detect and respond to changes in
their environment. An exterior sensor kinase sends signals to the internal response
regulator protein which then elicits changes in transcription and gene expression. In
previous studies in other labs, the MisR strain of N. meningitidis caused a weakened
meningococcal infection in mice. We predict the MisR mutation in N. gonorrhoeae will show
a decrease in resistance to components of the human innate immune system. The second N.
gonorrhoeae mutation is in the acetate kinase (AckA) gene. AckA mutants have been shown
to produce an increase in acetylated proteins. We will test how these mutations impact N.
gonorrhoeae killing by human serum and human innate immune cells (neutrophils,
monocytes, and macrophages). The data collected will show if there is a role of the MisR
and AckA genes in protection of N. gonorrhoeae against killing by the human innate
immune system.
21
Abstract 15
Presenter: Davila, Lisa
Mentor: Dr. Susan Romano
Student status: Graduate
Email: lisadavila2013@gmail.com
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Bat Mortality by Single Standing Wing Turbines in Northwestern Illinois within the Upper
Mississippi River Watershed
Amber Schorg, Susan Romano
While the increase in wind energy has greatly reduced the use of fossil fuels, there have
also been major negative impacts on migratory tree bat populations. Species often
impacted by wind farms include the hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus), the eastern red bat
(Lasiurus borealis) and the silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans). Previous research
indicates that wing morphology and bat body size do not allow evasive maneuvers to avoid
wind turbine blades. While the exact nature of these occurrences is still not clear, higher
rates of mortality occur during seasonal migrations when they are most likely to encounter
wind farms. Our study focused on four single-standing turbines found in Erie, IL, Sherrard,
IL, and two in Geneseo, IL. We searched for dead bat carcasses within a 48m radius of the
turbine base to determine frequency of bat mortality each week from 6/8/2015 to
8/28/2015 (summer roosting season) and 9/1/2015 to 10/31/2015 (fall migration
period). Dead bats located within the circular plot were marked with GPS, and species were
identified. Anabat acoustic detectors were used to determine species present in the
surrounding habitat. Fourty-three carcasses were found at the sites, increasing in August,
and continuing through the fall migration season. Average wind direction, wind speed
(NOAA), and date were modeled using nonparametric multiplicative regression. Our results
indicated that the interaction of increasing average wind speed, wind direction, and date,
has a significant impact on bat mortality near single standing wind turbines. Date was
important, indicating an increase in mortality in late summer and fall during the migration
period. This illustrates that the increased passage of bat species during the fall migration,
particularly during high wind, cause an increase bat mortality. Wind turbines are typically
set to function only during high wind speeds. Bats of this region typically fly during wind
speeds averaging no more than 8m/s, so passage of bat species during high wind was not
expected.
22
Abstract 16
Presenter: Rehbein, Michele
Mentor: Dr. Catherine Miller-Hunt
Student status: Graduate
Email: mm-rehbein@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Arbovirus Surveillance in Rural Western Illinois
Michele Rehbein, Catherine Miller-Hunt, Jason Hunt, Rhiannon Pyle
Arboviral diseases, including West Nile virus (WNV), are a continued and growing public
health concern affecting both humans and animals in urban and rural locations. Rural areas
frequently face obstacles because of poor socioeconomic conditions, being medically
underserved and containing growing elderly and minority populations. These factors
suggest that rural residents may represent a vulnerable population to WNV. To determine
the public health risk posed by potentially infected mosquitoes in non-urban areas, this
study monitored mosquitoes throughout four rural western Illinois counties in
collaboration with local county health departments. The field sites were located within
McDonough, Cass, Fulton, and Schuyler counties. Gravid traps were used to collect adult
mosquitoes from 6/19/15 to 10/02/15. Captured female Culex mosquitoes were analyzed
by using RAMP® WNV Test. A total of 9,131 Culex mosquitoes were collected for this study.
17 samples from McDonough County, 6 samples from Cass County, 3 samples from Fulton
County, and 5 samples from Schuyler County were found to be positive for WNV. Other
mosquito species also captured from all four counties last season have been identified as
invasive mosquito species Aedes japonicus and two native species Ae. triseriatus and Ae.
trivittatus. In 2014, these Aedes species had never before been known to inhabit Fulton
County, and represented a new distribution record in this county. Our goal is to continue to
assist local rural county health departments to trap and test both Culex and Aedes
mosquitoes to better understand the distribution of vector-borne diseases and vectors in
western Illinois.
23
Abstract 17
Presenter: McCarrel, Sami
Mentor: Dr. Shawn Meagher
Student status: Graduate
Email: sl-mccarrel@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
DNA Barcoding Reveals Multiple Cryptic Species of White Grub Infecting Spring Lake Fishes
Samantha McCarrel, Shawn Meagher
Parasites are the most common organisms on Earth. Molecular techniques suggest that the
true number of parasitic species may actually be underestimated, due to the existence of
cryptic species, which are morphologically indistinguishable, but genetically distinct.
Cryptic species may be found among apparently generalist parasites that occur in multiple
host species. Posthodiplostomum minimum centrarchi, or “white grub,” is a parasitic
flatworm (fluke) that infects over 20 species of centrarchid fishes. I examined species
diversity of P. minimum infecting four host species found in Spring Lake, McDonough
County, IL: bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), green sunfish (L. cyanellus), largemouth bass
(Micropterus salmoides) and white crappie (Pomoxis annularis). Genetic distance-based
analyses of DNA barcode regions (mtDNA CO1 and nuclear rDNA ITS) were performed for
95 worms.
The analyses revealed both small genetic distances (mean=0.01
substitutions/nucleotide), indicative of low variation within species, and large distances,
indicating high divergence between species (0.16 substitutions/nucleotide). Neighborjoining cluster diagrams revealed three distinct worm clusters, each of which corresponded
to previously identified genetic types (i.e. “species”) of P. minimum that are not yet formally
described. These 3 species displayed distinct patterns of host specificity: 2 species were
generalists, and occurred either in closely related hosts (2 Lepomis species), or distantly
related hosts (L. cyanellus and P. annularis). The other was a specialist and found in a
single host (M. salmoides). This discovery of multiple worm species in a single lake
suggests that more data are required to determine exactly how many species of P.
minimum there really are.
24
Abstract 18
Presenter: Warren, Sarah
Mentor: Dr. Sean Jenkins, Dr. Catherine Miller-Hunt
Student status: Graduate
Email: s-warren@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Evaluating the effects of prescribed forest burnings in relation to tick species abundance
and distribution; Determining the presence of arthropogenic diseases
Sarah Warren, Sean Jenkins, Catherine Miller-Hunt, Jason Hunt
Oak woodlands, in Eastern North America, have developed under variation in the
magnitude and extent of anthropogenic and “natural” fire for thousands of years. Fire
suppression and landscape fragmentation have greatly altered the dynamics of these
woodlands. These changes have affected the composition, diversity and abundance of both
the flora and fauna. The purpose of this study is to evaluate how prescribed burning affects
vegetative structure and thereby influences the diversity and abundance of ticks. To
evaluate the effect of forest burning on tick diversity and abundance, we collected
abundance and composition data on sites that were burned in spring of 2015, 2014, and
sites that have not burned since 2004. Preliminary data shows that there are 3 different
species present and listed in terms of their descending abundance; Amblyomma
americanum, Dermacentor variabilis and Ixodes scapularis respectively. Increased
abundance of ticks directly relates to an increased risk of human exposure to arthropogenic
diseases. Further work will incorporate presence of disease as public interest. Ticks are
known as the number one vector for disease worldwide. Using extraction kits to obtain
nucleic acid each tick will be prepped for PCR. The presence of bacterial diseases will be
tested on each tick collected. From the data collected we will be able to extrapolate the
degree of disease present. This project will allow us to better understand how burning
affects the presence of ticks and the risk of ticks present as vectors for disease.
25
Abstract 19
Presenter: Michl, Davi
Mentor: Dr. Susan Romano
Student status: Graduate
Email: de-warden-michl@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Uses of Ecosystem Good and Services in Adaptive Management: Mud Lake Habitat
Restoration Project as a Case Study
Davi Michl, Charles Theiling, and Susan Romano
Algal blooms resulting from nitrogen limitation are frequently observed in Upper
Mississippi River (UMR) backwaters (BW) and research has demonstrated that the degree
of connectivity to the main channel (MC) can help introduce nitrogen to these habitats for
nutrient processing. Mud Lake is a UMR-Habitat Rehabilitation and Enhancement Project
(HREP) and used as a case study for a hydrologic-nutrient simulation model assessing
potential nutrient uptake benefits of three flow regimes (rock closure, notched weir, gated
culvert). The objectives of this research were two-fold: 1) to test how the timing and
volume of flow into the Mud Lake project area can affect nutrient processing and habitat
benefits; and 2) to test the assumption of nutrient limitation, we analyzed the difference in
mean NO3-NO2 concentrations between two sites: Brown’s Lake HREP (BW) and an
adjacent MC site using LTRM and Bellevue Field Station datasets (1989-2013). Results of
the Mud Lake model showed total N denitrified (in mg/m2/growing season) for the gated
culvert flow regime was 7.36 x 1010, much higher than the rock closure and notched weir
(2.94x1010 and 4.69x1010, respectively). Preliminary results for the analysis of BW vs MC
difference in means using a two-way ANOVA with two independent variables (site and
season) was statistically significant (p<<0.05). This analysis supports the observed trend
of N limitation in BWs and available N supply in the MC. The Mud lake model is a simple,
yet relevant model with wide management and policy implications for planning future
restoration projects.
26
Abstract 20
Presenter: Englund, Andrew
Mentor: Dr. Richard O. Musser
Student status: Graduate
Email: aj-englund@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Oral Presentation
Examining the gene expression in Helicoverpa zea following feeding on Maize
Andrew J. Englund, Richard O. Musser, Sue M. Hum-Musser, Catherine L. Miller-Hunt
This experiment was designed to examine the genetic expression of Helicoverpa zea (corn
earworm) after feeding on Zea mays (maize). In order to study these interactions, maize
was fed on by the corn earworm for 24 hours. This experiment could lead to further
understanding of the feeding patterns of the corn earworm and potentially lead to
development of an effective pesticide. There were three treatments for the corn earworm:
1) control fed on artificial corn diet, 2) ablated (salivary glands removed), 3) mock
(salivary glands intact). The caterpillars were prepared for RNA purification. Following
the RNA purification, cDNA was synthesized to be used in quantitative-Real-Time-PCR
(qRT-PCR) gene analysis. The caterpillar tissue was analyzed by qRT-PCR in order to
determine which genes were altered both as a result of the feeding and as a result of the
surgery. The primary genes of interest for the caterpillars were various digestive genes.
The relative gene fold expression has been analyzed using the delta-delta CT method. We
have observed that there is greater gene expression for the genes of interest in the mock
group versus the ablated group. We have seen that in the ablated group that the caterpillar
is able to overcome the deficit of having their labial salivary glands removed, most notably
in the genes galactokinase and chymotrypsin.
27
Abstract 21
Presenter: Anderson, Charmayne
Mentor: Dr. James T. Lamer
Student status: Graduate
Email: cl-anderson3@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Validating age and growth of Illinois Asian carp by using known ages from Asian carp from
China
Charmayne Anderson, Jim T Lamer
The silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and bighead carp (Hypophthalmichthys
nobilis) are collectively called Asian carp which have invaded most of the Mississippi River
and its tributaries. One area where they are abundant is in the La Grange reach of the
Illinois River. Our study will focus on aging fish which is used to obtain demographic
information which allows researchers to estimate growth rates, longevity, and maturity of
the fish species. We will use known ages 0-2 from Asian carp raised in aquaculture ponds
from China using age structures to validate age and growth of Illinois River Asian carp.
Methods that will be used is electrofishing to obtain the carp in the La Grange reach.
Chinese Asian carp harvested from Jun Wang and colleagues from Shanghai Ocean
University will be used to validate age in the Illinois River Asian carp. With current
methods of aging bighead and silver carp, such as using first rays of pectoral fins, scales,
cleithrum, and urohyal bones, has had reader-bias, age-bias, and slow process time. Not
only will we validate silver and bighead carp, but grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) and
black carp (Mylopharyngodon pieceus) which have no known research on age validation in
the La Grange reach of the Illinois River. Our research allows opportunities to use opercles
to age fish which is uncommon and only have been used for some fish species to determine
demographics. By exploring uncommon ageing structures, such as opercles and other
vertebrae in Asian carp could provide an accurate method that uses less preparation time
to determine age and growth rates.
28
Abstract 22
Presenter: Doyle, Brittany
Mentor: Dr. Andrea Porras-Alfaro
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: bm-doyle@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Xerophilic Dark Septate Endophytes in Arid Grasslands Roots
Brittany Doyle, Cedric Ndinga-Muniania, Andrea Porras-Alfaro
Dark septate fungal endophytes (DSE) are fungi colonizing plant roots. DSE play an
important role in our ecosystems. Studies thus far provide little insight into their ecological
functions. DSE are found inside or around the root tissues and are distinguished by their
dark color in their cells. DSE have been found in the roots of arid grasslands and many
other plant species and studies have shown that DSE can aid in alleviating plant stress. The
objective of this project is to study and characterize xerophilic DSE in arid grassland
ecosystems. Xerophilic fungi are fungi able to tolerate conditions of low water activity (aw
<0.85). Fungi were isolated and transferred to MEA (malt extract agar) media to allow for
growth. Dichloran Glycerol (DG-18) Agar Base was used to provide a media with different
values of water activity (aw) to test tolerance to drought. The levels of water activity range
from aw=1.00 to aw=0.70. Observations were taken every five days by measuring the
diameter of each fungal colony. A pilot study was conducted over 20 days using 10 different
species of fungi. Data from the pilot resulted in growth of all tested fungi on media with
1.00 aw. At 0.95 aw, four fungi were able to grow with Curvularia (45 mm colony
diameter), Coniochaeta (45mm) with the highest growth rates followed by Paecilomyces
(25mm) and Aspergillus (0.5mm) after 20 days. The only fungus with capacity to grow at
0.90 and 0.85 aw was Coniochaeta (1 mm). Our preliminary experiments showed that
endophytic fungi associated with grasses showed xerophilic properties allowing them to
adapt and actively grow at lower water content.
29
Abstract 23
Presenter: Al-Furaiji, Ammar
Mentor: Dr. Richard O. Musser
Student status: Graduate
Email: akk-al-furaiji@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Effects of Elevated Peroxidase Levels and Tomato Earworm Feeding on Gene Expression in
Tomato Fruits
Ammar Al-Furaiji, Alanna Griffin, Richard O. Musser
Plants can form defenses to caterpillar feeding. Most research has focused on the leaves of
plant versus their fruits. I am investigating the response of tomato fruits (Solanum
lycopersicum). In addition, I am looking at tomato plants that have elevated peroxidase
levels due to a transgene added. I will initially investigate well known plant defense genes
such as proteinase inhibitors, polyphenol oxidase, arginase and threonine deaminase with
quantitative real time PCR to determine differences in gene expression in tomato fruits in
wild type tomato plants versus transgenic plants and with and without caterpillar
(Helicoverpa zea) feeding. I expected to see the highest amount of gene expression
difference due to caterpillar herbivory and for the transgenic tomato to alter these
responses in both a positive or negative manner. The exceptional high peroxide activity in
transgenic plants appear to up-regulate pathogenesis-related (PR) genes as well growth
and flowering genes. Suggesting multiple regulatory pathways are interacting due to the
treatments. Additional studies I will use the microarray analysis to understand the global
changes that are altered.
30
Abstract 24
Presenter: Aljubran, Ayat
Mentor: Dr. Scott Holt
Student status: Graduate
Email: am-aljubran@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Genetic transformation of Leuconostoc By Treated Assisted- Electroporation
Ayat Aljubran, Scott Holt
The goal of this research is to develop an important genetic tool needed for deciphering
gene function and metabolism in the bacterial genus Leuconostoc. Leuconostoc is associated
with production of certain fermented foods and commercially important natural microbial
products such as mannitol, dextrans, and oligosaccharides. Development of an efficient
gene-transfer system for Leuconostoc is important for understanding carbohydrate
synthesis and to enhance their biotechnology potential. Electroporation utilizes brief
exposure to an electrical discharge to create transient pores within the cell membrane.
DNA or genes can then enter the bacterial cell though the transient pores. Leuconostoc,
however, has been resistant to gene-transfer methods such as electrotransformation since
published protocols result in low transformation frequencies. Consequently, the specific
aim of this project is to improve the gene-transfer efficiency in Leuconostoc by optimizing
plasmid concentration and also by enhancing cell survival following electroporation using
the oxygen-scavenging enzyme Oxyrase.
In the first study, the influence of plasmid (pGK12) concentration on transformation
efficiency was tested. Briefly, competent cells of Leuconostoc were electrotransformed
using four different plasmid concentrations (0.25, 0.12, 0.062, 0.031 µg). Transformants
were selected on nutrient agar containing chloramphenicol after three days incubation.
Transformants per microgram pGK12 were calculated for each concentration. Overall, the
highest transformation efficiency occurred using the 0.125 µg concentration and decreased
with higher or lower concentrations tested. For future tests, the 0.125 µg plasmid
concentration will be used for all subsequent experiments. In future studies, the influence
of Oxyrase on transformation efficiency will be tested. Oxyrase will be added to
resuscitation broth following electrotransformation. Oxyrase may have the ability to
scavenge oxygen free radicals generated during the gene-transfer process and enhance
transformation efficiency.
31
Abstract 25
Presenter: Hannant, Haley
Mentor: Dr. Catherine Miller-Hunt
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: hl-hannant@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Mycoviruses: Fungal Friend or Foe?
Haley Hannant, Sangya Paudyal, Catherine L Miller-Hunt
Not much is known about viruses that infect fungi (mycoviruses), or their role in fungi-host
plant interactions. It has been suggested that a three-way symbiotic relationship between
mycoviruses, fungi, and crops exists and ultimately results in higher heat tolerance for
some crops. This research will assess the impact mycoviruses have on soybean plants and
the plant’s heat tolerance ability. It is possible that the presence of specific mycoviruses in
the fungus associated with soybean crops will enhance the crop’s ability to sustain itself in
warmer climates. The primary objective of this research is to determine whether or not
mycoviruses can have a positive impact when they infect fungi that grow on soybean plants
by increasing the plant’s heat tolerance ability. My hypothesis is that the soybean plants
will grow better in the warmer conditions once they have been inoculated with fungi that
are infected with specific mycoviruses. To test this hypothesis, fungus from soybean roots
will be isolated, and their cultures will be grown and examined for mycovirus presence.
Once mycovirus presence is confirmed, the isolated fungus that contains mycoviruses will
be applied to new soybean seeds, and germination rates will be tested in normal and hot
temperatures. If the plants that have been inoculated with the fungus containing mycovirus
have a more successful growth rate in the warmer temperatures, then the hypothesis will
be supported. If the plants that weren’t inoculated grow more successfully in hotter
temperatures, then the research would fail to support the hypothesis.
32
Abstract 26
Presenter: Dozard, Georgia
Mentor: Dr. Shawn Meagher
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: go-dozard@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
White Grub: Still a Generalist or Really a Specialist?
Georgia O. Doazard, Shawn A. Meagher
Host specificity reflects the number of hosts that can be infected by a parasite. White grub
(Posthodiplostomum minimum) is a parasitic flatworm (fluke) that is commonly found in
Centrarchid fishes (sunfishes, basses, and crappies). White grub is considered a generalist
parasite because it infects many hosts, but few studies have quantitatively compared host
use in the same location. I compared white grub infection levels in five species collected
from the Mississippi River: bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), green sunfish (L. cyanellus),
warmouth (L. gulosus), redear sunfish (L. microlophus), and orangespotted sunfish (L.
humilis). Hosts (4–24 individuals per species) were collected using a shock boat. Livers
were removed from each fish and squashed between glass plates to count the worms
within the organ. I calculated “prevalence,” or the fraction of hosts infected with the
parasites, and “median intensity,” the median number of parasites in infected hosts, using
the program Quantitative Parasitology. Prevalence ranged from 0.84–1.00 and did not
differ significantly among species (Fisher’s Exact Test: p=0.34). Median intensity ranged
from 9.0–418.5 and DID differ significantly among species (Mood’s Median Test: p<0.0001).
Bluegills were much more heavily infected that the other four species; bluegill median
infection was ~418.5 and all the other species had values <25. My data show that although
the probability of infection (i.e. prevalence) for these hosts is the same, their suitability as a
parasite habitat (reflected by intensities) varies greatly. Thus white grub is more specific
in its host preferences than was previously thought.
33
Abstract 27
Presenter: Ojha, Ruchi
Mentor: Dr. Sue Hum-Musser
Student status: Graduate
Email: R-ojha@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Growth profile and gene expression of Helicoverpa zea infected by Bacillus thuringiensis
kurstaki and Bacillus thuringiensis Israelensis
Ruchi Ojha, Richard Musser, Sue Hum-Musser
The corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea, is a well-documented agricultural pest throughout
most of North and South America, it causes severe plant tissue damage, which can lead to
infection especially molds in seed corn, resulting in yield loss. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt.) is
a natural control approach due to the secretion of toxic crystal proteins that destroy the gut
wall of insect. Different strains of Bt. have varying effects on the groups of insects (e.g.
gnats, mosquitoes, caterpillars). Caterpillars infected with Bt. Kurstaki carries spore activity
which ruptures the insect gut wall. Bt. Kurstaki infected caterpillars have a high mortality
rate compared to larvae infected with Bt. Israelensis. I examined the effect of different
bacterial strains on insect growth, survival and gene expression. Helicoverpa zea larvae fed
on three diets containing control, Bt. Krustaki, Bt. Israelensis for three days. The growth
profile was monitored by weighing specific groups at regular interval of time. The larvae
growth and survival were different depending on the bacterial strains. Gene responses of
the caterpillar to the bacteria was determined using real-time qualitative polymerase chain
reaction and microarray hybridization. The expression of various insect genes was
different depending on different strains of Bt. This information in determining the defense
mechanisms of the insect against these biological control agents and may be important in
potentially developing more effective insect control methods.
34
Abstract 28
Presenter: La Hood, Boone
Mentor: Dr. James T. Lamer
Student status: Graduate
Email: bm-lahood@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Quatrefoil light trap survey of larval fish in the Upper Mississippi River
Boone M La Hood, James T Lamer, Kevin S Irons
Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and bighead carp (H. nobilis) are two of the five
species of invasive “Asian carp” currently found in the United States. Their range
expansion into the Upper Mississippi River has been slowed by limited passage at Lock and
Dam 19 (12 m hydraulic head) in Keokuk, IA. Bighead and silver carp passage is restricted
to the lock chamber and despite this slowing their establishment above Lock and Dam 19, it
is suspected that populations are now dense enough to support reproduction in the Upper
Mississippi River. To surveille and quantify the reproductive front of bighead and silver
carp in the Upper Mississippi River, we are using quatrefoil light traps in backwater
habitats of pools 17, 18, and 19. Quatrefoil light traps work by exploiting the positively
phototactic behavior of larval fish. When water temperatures are above 17 ̊C, traps are
anchored in shallow water habitats and illuminated with chemical light sticks. After
allowing the traps to fish for one hour, all of the organisms collected are brought to the lab
for analysis. In addition to larval Asian carp, other species of larval fish found in the traps
will be identified and quantified as a baseline for native species recruitment.
35
Abstract 29
Presenter: Gooch, Matthew
Mentor: Dr. Andrea Porras-Alfaro
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: m-gooch@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
White Nose Syndrome threat may be dampened by antifungal producing Actinobacteria
Matthew R. Gooch, Paris S. Hamm, Nicole A. Caimi, Diana E. Northup, Ernest W. Valdez,
Debbie C. Buecher, Andrea Porras-Alfaro
White nose syndrome (WNS) is a fungal infection affecting several bat species along the
East coast and the Midwest regions as it expands westward in North America. The
causative agent of WNS is the fungus P. destructans which has infected and killed nearly
75% of bat populations since its discovery in 2006. Bacteria were isolated from the wings
and fur surfaces of WNS-free bats in New Mexico and Arizona to study potential
antagonism against WNS. An in vitro bi-layer plate method was used to determine their
potential to produce antifungal compounds to inhibit the growth of P. destructans. Bacterial
growth was allowed on R2A media, which is limited in nutrients, to promote the
production of secondary metabolites. An overlay of fungal media was poured followed by
of the culture of P. destructans. We tested 630 isolates with no apparent inhibition but a
previous study showed at least 5.7% show activity against WNS. Understanding the
antifungal potential of external microbiota will provide insights on potential mechanisms
of control for this devastating disease.
36
Abstract 30
Presenter: Bath, Donald
Mentor: Dr. Richard O. Musser
Student status: Graduate
Email: da-bath2@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Comparative Analysis of Helicoverpa zea Gene Expression and Growth Based on the Host
Plant
Donald Bath, Richard Musser, Sue Hum-Musser
Annually millions of dollars are spent reducing crop damage from herbivores such as
Helicoverpa zea, commonly known as the 'corn earworm' or 'tomato fruitworm', a moth
species whose larval stages feed on a variety of plants. Understanding of gene expression
between plant and herbivore interactions allows better insight into co-evolution and
potential novel methods in protecting agricultural crops. This research aims to understand
how H. zea compensates on a variety of plants with different defense tactics and tissues
such as leaves versus fruits. A series of growth assays were performed with Helicoverpa
zea on several plants: control diet, leaves from soybeans (Glycine max), tobacco (Nicotiana
tabacum), corn (Zea mays), and the leaves and fruit of tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum).
Results compared 3rd instar caterpillar’s weights taken 72 hours after herbivory began on
their respective plants tissues. Additional testing was performed with plants altered using
defensive hormones jasmonate and salicylate. Gene expression was determined with realtime qPCR to represent compensatory digestive genes and counter defenses metabolism.
The bioassays demonstrated caterpillars grew greatest on control diet and tomato fruit in
relation to other tissues. In regards to leaf tissues caterpillars grew better on tomato leaves
than any other leaves. Gene expression correlated well to these bioassays where
caterpillars stimulated higher levels of digestive gene expression when feeding on leaves
compared to fruits. Likewise detoxification genes were greater when feeding on leaves in
comparison to fruits. This study provides some the first measurements of gene expression
across wide range of host plants.
37
Abstract 31
Presenter: Saha, Soumya
Mentor: Dr. Scott Holt
Student status: Graduate
Email: s-saha@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Study of Gene Expression in Leuconostoc citreum
Soumya Saha, Scott Holt
Leuconostoc are gram-positive, lactic-acid fermenting bacteria that grow on milk, dairy
products, fermenting vegetables, meats and wines. They are facultative anaerobes and
ferment sugars to lactic acid through the heterofermentative pathway. In addition to their
involvement with fermented foods, Leuconostoc citreum species can produce α-glucan
polymers (dextran and alternan) from sucrose. Dextran is a commercially valuable αglucan polymer that is composed of α-1,6 glycosidic linkages and has applications in
manufacturing of Sephadex chromatography columns, in plasma substitutes, and also in
industries like food and cosmetics. Alternan is different from dextran in that it is composed
of alternating linkages of α-1,3 and α-1,6 glucan units. Alternan derivative oligosaccharides
are used in the composition of Glucerna and marketed as carbsteady. When grown in a
nutrient source containing sucrose, Leuconostoc produce sucrose glucosyltransferases
which catalyze the synthesis of the α-glucan polymers. In spite of the commercial
applications, specific mechanisms involved with sucrose metabolism and regulation is
unknown. Sucrose is the only known inducer of glucosyltransferase enzymes and
conventional biochemical and Northern blot data indicate that sucrose metabolism may be
controlled by a unique regulatory circuit. Sucrase induction in Leuconostoc is not controlled
by carbon catabolite repression which is highly unusual in bacteria; consequently, the
objective of this study is to identify Leuconostoc genes associated with sucrase enzyme
induction and sucrose metabolism. Global differential gene expression method called
microarray technology will be used in this study to help identify Leuconostoc genes
associated with sucrase induction and sucrose metabolism.
38
Abstract 32
Presenter: Hutchison, Kennen
Mentor: Dr. Catherine Miller-Hunt
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: k-hutchison@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Mosquito Mayhem: Are Illinois Mosquitoes Ready for Chikungunya Virus?
Kennen M. Hutchison, Catherine Miller-Hunt, Jason Hunt
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a flavivirus that is transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes
albopictus mosquitoes. Although the virus has a low mortality rate in humans, it causes
several severe symptoms. In 2005, an outbreak of CHIKV was identified on the French La
Reunion Island and infected more than 75% of the island’s population. This outbreak was
later attributed to a CHIKV strain that exhibited a single amino acid change in the viral
glycoprotein, and used the Ae. albopictus mosquito as a new vector. The mutation
responsible for the vector shift was an alanine to valine change at amino acid 226 (A226V.
The fact that one amino mutation can expand vector competency throughout Aedes species
is of interest to our lab. The aim of our project is to identify if other amino acid mutations in
CHIKV’s glycoprotein could permit or increase CHIKV competency in Aedes species
currently located in west-central Illinois, namely the invasive species Ae. japonicus and Ae.
triserriatus. The results of our study will help to indicate if west-central Illinois currently
has a mosquito vector that is competent for CHIKV infection and could therefore put the
communities of west-central Illinois at risk of facing the virus before the invasion of Ae.
aegypti reaches our state. As a secondary objective, our research will look at the
mechanisms of viral entry by CHIKV into mosquito cells. We will be using PCR, site-directed
mutagenesis, bacterial transformation, transduction, and transfection in conjunction with
other techniques during this experiment.
39
Abstract 33
Presenter: Huette, Ashley
Mentor: Dr. Shawn Meagher
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: aj-huette@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Does Sex or Age Affect Infection Levels in White-Footed Mice?
Ashley J Huette, Shawn Meagher
Parasites harm their hosts, and because of this, can potentially reduce host population size.
Parasite epidemiology is the study of the factors that determine host infection. Two factors
that could affect infection levels are sex and age because testosterone may increase
infection susceptibility in males, and older hosts may accumulate parasites over time. I
evaluated the effects of host sex and age on infection by the nematode, Pterygodermatites
peromysci, in the common and widespread white-footed mouse, Peromyscus leucopus. This
worm has been shown to reduce reproductive output (and potentially population size) of
this host. I trapped 113 mice over 3 days at Kibbe Life Sciences Station during July 2015.
Sex was determined by gonad examination. Age was determined by mass: mice ≤ 20 grams
were classified as “subadult”, and those > 20 grams, “adult”. The gastrointestinal track was
examined for P. peromysci. I calculated “prevalence,” the fraction of hosts infected in the
sample, and “intensity,” the number of worms per infected host. For all mice, prevalence
was 0.32 (95% C.I. 0.24–0.42) and intensity was 1.97 (1.61–2.53) worms per host. There
was no effect of sex on prevalence (Fisher’s exact test: p=0.84) or intensity (bootstrap 2sample t-test: p=0.56). There was also no effect of age on prevalence (p=0.64) or intensity
(p=0.78). These results contrast with a previous study of these animals in the
Appalachians. There, sex also had no effect on infection, but age did: older mice had more
worms. Thus, details of infection with P. peromysci vary geographically.
40
Abstract 34
Presenter: Sairafi Noor
Mentor: Dr. Sue Hum-Musser
Student status: Graduate
Email: nma-sairafi@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Gene Expression of Bacteria-inoculated Soybean Glycine max in Response to Heat Stress
Noor Sairafi, Al-Furaiji, Sue Hum-Musser
Several microorganisms have the ability to promote plant growth and can also produce
compounds, which are known to stimulate plant defenses by inducing systemic resistance
in attacked plants. Bacillus species are commonly used in microbial fertilizers due to their
rapid beneficial effects in colonizing plant root and establishing Rhizobia bacteria
mutualism inside their root structure. The objective of this research project is to determine
the gene expression of soybean, Glycine max seedlings inoculated with bacteria exposed to
heat stress. Sterilized seeds were inoculated with the biological inoculants-Defensor,
Rhizoboost, combined Defensor and Rhizobium, and combined Rhizoboost and Rhizobium,
or uninoculated control. The inoculum contain various species of beneficial bacteria. Once
the seeds germinated, seedlings were incubated at 25C or 35C for approximately 16 hours.
Total RNA was extracted and levels of gene expression were examined using real-time
quantitative polymerase chain reaction. We found different levels of several stress genes
dependent on the heat treatment and type of inoculant used. While some information is
known about the effects of these inoculants at the organismal level, the significance of this
study is that it provides information on the effect of bacterial fertilizers in response to heat
stress at the molecular level.
41
Abstract 35
Presenter: Lenaerts, Allison
Mentor: Dr. James T. Lamer
Student status: Graduate
Email: aw-lenaerts@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Effects of Commercial Harvest on Asian Carp present above Lock and Dam 19
Allison Lenaerts, Cortney L. Cox, Jim T. Lamer
Bighead (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis) and silver (Hypophthalmichthys molitix) are invasive
species in the United States and can detrimentally impact invaded environments.
Populations in the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers continue to grow exponentially and
although their abundance in the Upper Mississippi River above Lock and Dam 19 is still
low, evidence of reproduction in this region signifies a need for rapid intervention and
control. Upstream passage through lock and dam 19 is restricted to the lock chamber and
emigration into upper pools is more limited and slower than lower reaches. Thus,
management of silver and bighead carp in the UMR may still be obtained through targeted
removal efforts. We will work with contracted commercial fishers in Pools 14-19 to reduce
abundance, collect life history metrics in this region and evaluate exploitation potential of
adult bighead carp and silver carp. Silver carp and bighead carp will be jaw tagged for a
predetermined amount of time, then followed by removal efforts with in each pool.
Population estimates will be determined by a mark- recapture design and analyzed in
program MARK. Commercial removal efforts will be evaluated to determine the efficiency
of harvest and determine the magnitude of effort needed to effectively reduce populations
above Lock and Dam 19.
42
Abstract 36
Presenter: Potocek, Eliese
Mentor: Dr. Andrea Porras-Alfaro
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: E-potocek@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Bacterial Diversity Associated with Novel Mucoromycotina Species
Eliese Potocek, Terry Torres-Cruz, Terri Tobias, Andrea Porras-Alfaro
Fungi associate with different communities of bacteria, including endobacteria that grow
inside fungal hyphae. Bacterial symbionts have been known to impact the growth of fungal
organisms. A newly proposed genus belonging to the fungal subphylum Mucoromycotina
has been identified in our laboratory. Electron microscopy pictures and next generation
sequencing analysis show large number of bacteria associated with this fungus. The
purpose of this study is to describe the diversity of bacterial species associated with this
new fungus using cultured-based methods. Three isolates (TLT265, YP243, AZ0501) of the
fungus were grown on different media types to isolate the bacteria (e.g. MEA, SDA, R2A,
PYG, CDA) at different temperatures (25˚C, 35˚C, and 45˚C). Plates were observed for
noticeable bacterial growth and bacteria were transferred to new media to generate pure
cultures. DNA was extracted and amplified using the 16S rRNA region. Preliminary results
for the culture isolates showed isolation of Bacillus and Stenotrophomonas. The most
abundant phyla detected with next generation sequencing belong to Proteobacteria and
Firmicutes, which include common taxa found in other close relatives of this new taxon.
43
Abstract 37
Presenter: Sivaramareddy Abhishek
Mentor: Dr. Scott Holt
Student status: Graduate
Email: a-sivaramareddy@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Gene Expression in a Beneficial Intestinal Bacterial Species
Abhishek Sivaramareddy, Scott M Holt
Bifidobacterium is an anaerobic, gram-positive bacterial genus classified in the phylum
Actinobacteria. Bifidobacteria are non pathogenic and commonly found in the
gastrointestinal tract of humans and many animals. These bacteria are recognized as
beneficial probiotic microbes since they aid digestion, supply vitamins, inhibit pathogenic
bacteria, and may boost the immune system in animals. For these reasons, Bifidobacterium
species are commercially used in food and dairy industry. Bifidobacteria have the unique
ability to utilize certain dietary carbohydrates that are otherwise non-digestible or slow to
digest for humans. An example of this type of carbohydrate includes maltooligosaccharides. Malto-oligosaccharide has previously been shown to selectively stimulate
Bifidobacterium growth in-vitro but not support growth of pathogenic or potentially
harmful intestinal bacteria. The objective this research study is to identify Bifidobacterium
genes involved in the metabolism of unique malto-oligosaccharides by using global
differential gene expression (microarray technology). In brief, Bifidobacterium adolescentis
was grown anaerobically on nutrient media (DSM) supplemented with either glucose or
malto-oligosaccharides. Growth of Bifidobacterium on the carbohydrates was monitored by
optical density and direct microscopic cell counts. Total RNA was extracted from cell pellets
(mid log-phase) using RNeasy Mini kit and mRNA will be enriched using Ribo-Zero rRNA
Removal Kit (Gram-Positive Bacteria). Purified mRNA will be amplified and labeled with
two fluorescent dyes. The labeled and amplified mRNAs from the two different culture
conditions (glucose & oligosaccharides) will be used for microarray analysis. Data from the
microarray analysis will be used to identify genes involved in malto-oligosaccharide
metabolism. This research will help develop a model on how beneficial Bifidobacterium
species can metabolize maltooligosaccharides while many other harmful intestinal bacteria
cannot.
44
Abstract 38
Presenter: Coffey, Lauren
Mentor: Dr. Richard O. Musser
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: L-Coffey@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Gene Expression of Ovarian Cancer Cells Treated with J18 Targeting Peptide
Lauren Coffey, Rich O. Musser, Mette Soendergaard
The objective of Dr. Musser’s and Dr. Soendergaard’s collaborative research is to examine
the difference in gene expression between ovarian cancer cells treated with J18 targeting
peptide and ovarian cancer cells not treated with the peptide. In Dr. Soendergaard’s
previous research, a peptide sequence called J18 was identified that shows high affinity for
ovarian cancer cells, but not normal ovarian cells, proving to be useful for detecting and
imaging ovarian cancer. Preliminary data indicated that J18 may have toxic effects on
cancer cells. Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths in women, and there
is a need to develop new drugs that treat the disease. For Dr. Soendergaard’s and Dr.
Musser’s current collaboration, I will assist in using a microarray technique to examine if
the J18 peptide causes toxic effects by changing gene expression of ovarian cancer cells.
Gene expression can be quantified by measuring mRNA, the intermediate between DNA
and protein. We will isolate and amplify mRNA from ovarian cancer cells treated with J18
targeting peptide and ovarian cancer cells not treated with the peptide. The samples will be
analyzed using a microarray to determine if there are differences in the gene expression of
the cells that may help us understand the toxic effects of the peptide. If we can gain insight
into how and why the J18 peptide has toxic effects on cancer cells it binds to, it opens the
door to explore the viability of the peptide as a possible treatment for ovarian cancer.
45
Abstract 39
Presenter: Rosenje, Ahmed
Mentor: Dr. Richard O. Musser
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: A-Rosenje@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Caterpillar gene expression in relation to plant defenses
Ahmed Rosenje, Richard O. Musser, Jake Vincent
The caterpillar Helicoverpa zea, causes tremendous economic crop damage. This caterpillar
is a generalist feeder feeding on a wide range of crops. Our study focuses on the genes
altered from feeding on different plant sources. We allowed 6th instar H. zea to feed on a
wide range of dietary factors and plants such as tomato, corn and soybean. After 24 hours
harvested the caterpillars organs such as midgut, fat body, malpighian tubules, and salivary
glands were total RNA purified for gene expression measurement with qPCR. Our initial
results show that the caterpillar has compensatory up regulation of digestive and
detoxification genes.
46
Abstract 40
Presenter: Smith, Eric
Mentor: Dr. Christopher N. Jacques
Student status: Graduate
Email: ej-smith@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Using Canvasbacks (Aythya valisineria) as Bioindicators of Wetland Quality in the Upper
Midwest
Eric Smith, Christopher N. Jacques, Michael J. Anteau, Heath M. Hagy
The canvasback (Aythya valisineria) is an omnivorous, wetland-obligate species that is
dependent on food associated with submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), namely tubers,
vegetation, moist-soil seeds, and aquatic invertebrates. Since the 1950s, fluctuations in
canvasback populations may be due, in part, to changes in wetland quality and abundance
at migration stopover sites and wintering areas. Wetland loss and degradation can lead to
declining food resources, which in turn has direct implications for migratory waterfowl.
Thus, a need to provide high-quality habitat for wetland-obligate species is paramount for
management and conservation efforts. As such, a greater understanding of the fate of
acquired nutrients (e.g., catabolized or accumulated) as lipid reserves may be useful in
assessing habitat quality of key migration stopover areas for large-bodied diving ducks like
canvasbacks, especially given spatial heterogeneity in habitat quality of stopover sites
along traditional migration corridors. Though plasma-lipid metabolite indices have been
developed for assessing habitat quality of passerines and other small-bodied birds, a
paucity of information exists for assessing wetland quality for large-bodied waterfowl like
canvasbacks. Development of a relatively unbiased plasma metabolite index for
canvasbacks may provide waterfowl managers with a useful tool for assessing the relative
magnitude of change in wetland quality. Thus, our overall goal is to develop a plasma-lipid
index for canvasbacks for landscape-level use in evaluating wetland quality at traditional
stopover sites including Illinois wetlands. Results of our study may assist agencies with the
geographic prioritization of waterfowl conservation efforts. Further, our landscape-level
assessment of wetland quality may be an indicator of how sensitive spring migration
habitat presently is for canvasbacks, which in turn may help to identify specific life stages
whereby management may or may not help with future conservation of this species.
47
Abstract 41
Presenter: Larson, Jodi
Mentor: Dr. Kenneth McCravy
Student status: Graduate
Email: dinogirrl1@gmail.com
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Alarm call mitigation in captive capuchin monkeys: Using a visual barrier to reduce
predator/prey stress reactions in a small zoo setting
Jodi M. Larson, Kenneth W. McCravy
Brown Capuchin Monkeys, (Cebus apella), rely on visual cues to detect and monitor
predators in the wild. At the Ochsner Park and Zoo in Baraboo, Wisconsin, Brown
Capuchins, (Cebus apella), and Canada Lynx, (Lynx canadensis), are neighbors which share
one hundred square foot wire mesh walls, separated by four to six feet of open landscaping.
Lana was the lone member of the Brown Capuchin exhibit at the beginning of this study
and was monitored using trail camera footage for a behavioral baseline before the
introduction of (Cebus apella), Zephyr. After the introduction of Zephyr, both engaged in
routine vigilance behavior and alarm call behavior directed at the Canada Lynx, which was
not exhibited by Lana during the baseline study. A visual barrier was employed to test the
hypothesis that lack of visual contact with the predator by the (Cebus apella) would reduce
their rate of alarm calls and vigilance behavior towards (Lynx canadensis). After installation
of the visual barrier; a canvas tarp; the rate of alarm calling behavior was nearly
extinguished and the rate of vigilance behavior was significantly reduced. In addition, it
was found that the Canada Lynx increased usage of the blocked exhibit area after the tarp
was installed. A multi-way analysis of variance is being used to find the rate of change in
vigilance behavior from both species before and after the tarp installation and to confirm
that the alarm call and vigilance behaviors were directed at (Lynx canadensis) and not due
to novelty or other environmental factors. In this study, removal of visual access between
closely housed predator/prey species successfully mitigated stress related behaviors from
both species.
48
Abstract 42
Presenter: Banigan, Emily
Mentor: Dr. Meshack Afitlhile
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: EA-Banigan@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Effect of TOC 132/120 Receptors on Expression of Jasmonate Genes
Emily A Banigan, Jessica L Jirik, Meshack Afitlhile,
In plants, the major lipids are synthesized in the chloroplasts. Chloroplast membranes have
receptors that mediate the import of enzymes that are synthesized in the cytoplasm,
including enzymes in the jasmonic acid (JA) pathway. The JA pathway is stimulated by
herbivore wounding, beginning with stimulation of a specific type of enzyme that releases
linolenic acid (18:3) from major chloroplast lipids. Inside the chloroplasts, free 18:3 is
modified by sequential action of three enzymes, which yields the first stable compound
called phytodienoic acid (OPDA) that is then exported to the peroxisomes where it is used
in the synthesis of JA. Since the JA pathway is initiated in the chloroplast, the goal of this
study is to evaluate the role of specific chloroplast receptors in facilitating the import of
enzymes in the JA pathway. The hypothesis is that the defect in TOC120/132 chloroplast
receptors will impair the initial steps in the JA pathway. To test this hypothesis, the
expression of genes that encode for enzymes that catalyze the JA pathway and the
expression of JA-responsive genes will be analyzed. Total RNA will be extracted from the
wild type and mutant plants. Complementary DNA will be synthesized and quantitative
polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) will be carried out using gene-specific primers.
Determining if the mutant will respond in the same way as the wild type would indicate
whether or not the enzymes that function in the JA pathway are imported mainly through
the TOC120/132 receptor complex.
49
Abstract 43
Presenter: Roseman, Nicole
Mentor: Dr. Michael Romano
Student status: Graduate
Email: NK-Roseman@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Hybridization of Hyla versicolor and Hyla chrysoscelis using Microsatellite Analysis
Nicole K. Roseman, Mike Romano
Hyla versicolor and Hyla chrysoscelis are both gray tree frog species that live throughout
central and eastern United States (Lannoo et al., 2001). Both of these tree frog species are
morphologically identical to each other. Hyla chrysoscelis is a diploid organism, while H.
versicolor is tetraploid. It is hypothesized that H. versicolor evolved from H. chrysoscelis.
These two gray tree frog species are interesting because polyploidy usually only occurs in
plants. Two types of polyploids occur in anurans: allopolyploidy and autopolyploidy
(Tymowyska, 1991). Allopolyploids are organisms created from two or more species
hybridizing. Autopolyploids are organisms created from the same specie and contain
double the amount of chromosomes through duplication during meiosis II (Konda and
Kashiwagi, 2004). The significance of this research is to use microsatellite and statistical
analyses to better understand the origin of H. versicolor.
Collection will take place during June; peak breeding season for both frog species. Each
individual organism will be identified through call. DNA for both species will be obtained
through toe clippings. Toe clippings will be stored in ethyl alcohol at room temperature
until laboratory analysis. The Gentra procedure will be used to extract DNA from toe
clippings. In order to confirm DNA extraction and quality, an electrophoresis be completed.
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) will then be conducted to amplify DNA. After PCR,
amplification of DNA will be confirmed through fragments electrophoresed on an agarose
gel (Chan, 2006). Collected DNA sequences will then be sent off for sizing and allele scoring.
50
Abstract 44
Presenter: Miller, Janie
Mentor: Dr. Shawn Meagher
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: jl-miller3@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Does Fire Affect Parasitism in Midwestern White-footed Mice?
Janie L Miller, Shawn A Meagher
Parasites are organisms that live either on or inside a host. Parasites can reduce individual
host reproduction or survival, and as a result, have important impacts on host population
size. In order to understand how parasites affect host individuals and populations, we must
determine what regulates parasite infection levels. Environmental factors can have
important effects on levels of parasitism. In the external environment, factors such as
temperature and humidity affect egg survival: hot, dry environments can kill eggs.
Temperature increases, and humidity decreases, when forest cover is reduced. A common,
major cause of reduced forest cover is fire, but with respect to parasitism, there is little
information gathered on how the two are related. A handful of studies have examined the
effects of fire on parasitism. From these studies, there is no clear correlation between
parasitism and fire. My goal is to collect data to test for a general pattern in a different
location, a Midwestern oak forest, to see if fire affects parasite abundance in white-footed
mice (Peromyscus leucopus). White-footed mice will be trapped at Kibbe Life Science
Station using traps in burned and unburned plots. Mice will be euthanized and dissected.
Parasites will be stored in vials and preserved. We will identify all external parasites, as
well as internal parasites because both types have environmental stages that can be
negatively impacted by fire. GLMs will be used to determine whether mouse sex, size, or
forest fire affect the abundance of external, internal or both types of parasites.
51
Abstract 45
Presenter: Sonubi-ishaq, Daccu
Mentor: Dr. Sue Hum-Musser
Student status: Graduate
Email: db-Sonubi-ishaq@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Effects of Biological Inoculants on the gene expression of Maize roots and leaves under
Heat stress
Daccu Sonubi-ishaq, Morgan Hare, Dung Nguyen, Josh Connor, Nick Emory, Ammar AlFuraiji, Richard Musser, Sue Hum-Musser
Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are beneficial microorganisms that can help
plant growth and tolerance to abiotic and biotic stresses. PGPR can help plants directly by
providing phytohormones and indirectly by keeping the plant safe from other pathogenic
bacteria. Some of these microbes include Azospirilum, Bacillus, Bradyrhizobium, Rhizobium
and Pseudomonas. This study examines the effect of these biological inoculants on corn root
and leaves when exposed to heat stress. Sterilized corn seeds were inoculated with the bioinoculants and grown in soil pot for two weeks. Corn seedlings were exposed to 16 hours of
35C or kept at room temperature 25C. Total RNA was extracted separately from plant roots
and leaves. Gene expression of specific genes was determined using real-time quantitative
polymerase chain reaction. The expression of various plant defense genes, genes related to
antioxidation, detoxification and heat tolerance was examined. We determined that there
was a different pattern of gene expression based on the plant tissue, bio-inoculant used and
heat treatment compared to the control. This particular research would allow us to
determine the effects of these inoculants on plants under heat stress and potentially
provide some insight on the use of these biological inoculants in enhancing heat tolerance
in plants.
52
Abstract 46
Presenter: Mainor, Katie
Mentor: Dr. James T. Lamer
Student status: Graduate
Email: k-mainor@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Common Snapping Turtle Sportfish Monitoring and Assessment in Illinois
Katie Mainor, James T. Lamer, Mike McClelland
Common snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina) inhabit waterways throughout Illinois and
are harvested recreationally for sport and consumption. Seasons and bag limits are in
place, but additional data are needed to identify management objectives for common
snapping turtle harvest in Illinois. We will use mark and recapture (survival), size
structure, sex ratio, and fecundity data to populate stage-based life tables needed to inform
better management practices and harvest regulations for common snapping turtles in
Illinois. We measured carapace and plastron dimensions, recorded sex and weight, and
marked all trapped turtles (n=207) with passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags from
three backwaters in Illinois from May 21st to August 7th in 2015. Turtles in the Swan Lake
population sample of Brussels, IL were comprised of 44% females, 52% males, and 4%
juveniles. Turtles in the Gilbert Lake population sample of Brussels, IL were comprised of
31% females, 60% males, and 9% juveniles. Turtles in The New Crystal Lake Gun Club
population sample of Gulfport, IL were comprised of 46% females, 50% males, and 4%
juveniles. Additional data will be collected in 2016 from other populations throughout
Illinois. Data from 2015-2016 will be presented using stage-based life tables, markrecapture population estimates, and population prediction models based on the
demographic rates of each population. The models will be made to replicate long term
impacts of harvest scenarios.
53
Abstract 47
Presenter: Olanrewaju Adeyemi
Mentor: Dr. Andrea Porras-Alfaro
Student status: Graduate
Email: aa-olanrewaju@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Study of Thermophilic Fungi in corn-based food products
Adeyemi A Olanrewaju, Terri Tobias, Andrea Porras-Alfaro
Thermophilic fungi can grow at high temperatures between 45C to 55C and represent an
important component of the microbial community in soils. The diversity and distribution of
these fungi in corn agricultural fields and corn-derived food products and their potential
role on mycotoxin production have not been studied. High incidence of lung infections has
been recorded among corn farmers but the etiology of these infections has not been clearly
determined. We hypothesized that high numbers of thermophilic/ thermotolerant fungal
spores can be isolated from corn fields and isolation rates varied seasonally influencing
rates of lung infections/ allergic reactions on farmers. Fungi will be isolated from soil
samples and corn-based products. Corn meal flour was sampled and tenfold serial dilution
of the product was prepared and cultured on Emerson media and incubated at 50C for two
weeks. Fungal identification was carried out using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and
DNA sequencing. From samples cultured, up to 50% yielded thermophilic fungi. Aspergillus
was the most abundant genus based on morphological identification and microscopy: 4
different morphotypes from corn flour and 3 morphotypes from corn starch. These
preliminary results indicate the presence of thermophiles in corn products which may have
significant implications on human health.
54
Abstract 48
Presenter: Swearingen, Tim C.
Mentor: Dr. Christopher N. Jacques
Student status: Graduate
Email: TC-swearingen@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Estimating density of bobcats with capture-mark-recapture data from camera traps
Eric Smith, Tim C. Swearingen, Christopher N. Jacques, Bob Bluett, Jonathan A. Jenks, Troy
W. Grovenburg, Christopher S. DePerno, Chuck R. Anderson
Continued expansion of bobcat abundance has prompted legislators to initiate the first
bobcat hunting season since the 1970s. Previous research has been limited to southern
Illinois, thus, the need for quantitative information on bobcat population demographics in
other regions of the state is needed. Use of remote cameras is less invasive, labor intensive,
and costly than other long-term census techniques, and especially useful to study species
that occur in low densities. Because bobcats are individually identifiable, the opportunity
exists to obtain population abundance estimates within a capture-recapture framework
using remote cameras. Our objective is to evaluate the efficacy of camera trapping
(concurrent with live trapping and individually marking [radiocollaring]) to estimate
bobcat abundance across northern Illinois. We will conduct camera trap surveys for 3month seasonal sampling intervals, including breeding season (1 November - 30 April) and
parturition-kitten rearing seasons (1 May - 31 October). We will construct encounter (e.g.,
capture) histories for each bobcat camera trapped and analyze data using Program MARK.
This study will identify relationships between camera density, variation in habitat types,
and bobcat detection probabilities. A greater understanding of factors influencing bobcat
detection probabilities will be used to develop efficient camera sampling protocols, and
subsequent validation of established protocols across the state where habitat types and
bobcat densities vary. Further, this study will contribute to a greater understanding of
potential spatial effects (i.e., habitat) on home range use by bobcats across northern Illinois
landscapes, which in turn will aid in refining camera survey protocols (e.g., sampling
intervals, size of sampling area) for subsequent use in estimating bobcat abundance across
Illinois.
55
Abstract 49
Presenter: Poore, Lindsey
Mentor: Dr. Kenneth McCravy
Student status: Graduate
Email: Lm-Poore@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Nematode Parasitism of Orthopterans in Sand Prairies vs. Tallgrass Prairies
Lindsey M. Poore, Kenneth W. McCravy
The goal of this study is to examine parasitism rates of orthopterans (grasshoppers,
katydids, and crickets) by parasitic roundworms in local restored tallgrass and sand
prairies. I will be investigating potential effects of host species on the parasitism rates of
orthopterans and the species composition of the roundworms at both restored and sand
prairies and then comparing the results to see if there are differences between them. By
being grassland herbivores, orthopterans do affect plant diversity. Many other animals also
feed on them for survival. If a substantial number of these orthopterans are being
parasitized it could drastically change the grassland habitat. If certain species have high
infection rates or are being parasitized by a deadly parasite species, orthopteran species
composition could be affected. This study will be done in restored and sand prairies in west
central Illinois. Sand prairies are unique in the way that they are drier than tallgrass
prairies, have sandier soils, and plants that are adapted to more xeric conditions. It will be
interesting to see if parasitism rates are changed by the drier atmosphere. In May through
September 2016, I will be capturing orthopterans using pitfall traps and insect nets. The
orthopterans will be dissected, worms will be counted and identified, and the species of
orthopterans will be cataloged. Parasitism rates and species composition will be compared
between the two prairie types.
56
Abstract 50
Presenter: Garcia, Gabriela
Mentor: Dr. Mette Soendergaard
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: g-garcia2@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Cytotoxic Determination of a Potential and Novel Ovarian Cancer Drug
Gabriela Garcia, Randahl C. Nickerson, Mette Soendergaard
Approximately 21,290 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year, and about
14,180 of them will die. Ovarian cancer involves the growth of malignant ovarian cells.
These cells grow at such an abnormal rate, that they form tumors. Currently, there is no
treatment for ovarian cancer.
Peptides have been rapidly growing as a viable treatment for cancer cells for the early part
of the 21st century. A peptide (J18) is known to bind to ovarian cancer cells, and
preliminary data shows that this peptide is cytotoxic. This means that J18 may be a
potential chemotherapeutic drug for ovarian cancer. However, in order to use J18 as a drug,
the toxicity and the mechanism behind it must be further elucidated.
In this research study, the cytotoxicity of peptide J18 will be tested against ovarian cancer
cells. This will initially be done by a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium
bromide (MTT) assay, which measures the cell viability after incubation with peptide J18.
Both the optimal peptide concentration and incubation time with cells will be determined.
Next, the mechanism of cytotoxicity will be evaluated using a caspase assay, which
measures the levels of programmed cell death (apoptosis) in the cells. If the J18 peptide
kills the cells via apoptosis, it can potentially become a new drug used to treat ovarian
cancer.
57
Abstract 51
Presenter: Deardeuff, Amanda
Mentor: Dr. Jeff Engel
Student status: Graduate
Email: ak-deardeuff@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Movement Patterns of a Rehabilitated Antillean Manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) in
Response to Resource Availability in Belize
Amanda K. Deardeuff, Jeff E. Engel
Manatee conservation has been a growing concern for a number of years. With the increase
in annual manatee deaths from urbanization, habitat loss, boating accidents, and
entanglement in fishing gear, it is important to identify resources that drive manatee
movement patterns. Antillean manatees, Trichechus manatus manatus, are an endangered
subspecies of the West Indian manatee, with their largest population in Belize. Data were
collected from two areas in Belize: Shipstern Lagoon and the Corozal Bay Wildlife
Sanctuary (CBWS). Using satellite tracking data from a rehabilitated male T.m.manatus,
sites of no, low, medium, and high frequency of visitation were identified. 48 GPS locations
were chosen using a random number generator, with some occurring during soft release
(lagoon) and some during post release (CBWS). A quadrat of 0.5 m2 was used to assess
percent cover and species richness of benthic vegetation present at each location. This
study had three main objectives: (1) determine movement patterns related to resource
availability by analyzing biological, chemical, and geographical variables in correlation to
visitation frequency, (2) assist in strengthening conservation management goals in the
Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (CBWS), and (3) to provide feedback in the rehabilitation
process at Wildtracks Manatee Rehabilitation Centre, in order to continue improving
rehabilitation success. Statistical analyses should indicate a strong correlation between
benthic vegetation present and site visitation frequency, where sites with an abundance of
sea grass should have a higher frequency of visitation, as this is thought to be a major food
source for manatees.
58
Abstract 52
Presenter: Lubbinga, Rachel
Mentor: Dr. Michael Romano
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: rl-lubbinga@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Development and Analysis of Microsatellite DNA Markers in Spiny and Smooth Soft Shell
Turtles
Rachel Lubbinga, Michael Romano
The main objective of this study is to test 12 sets of primers for specific microsatellite DNA
markers in Spiny (Apalone spinifera) and Smooth (Apalone mutica) Soft-shelled turtles.
These markers will come from repeat sequences found in the DNA that were originally
isolated by the Cornell Institute of Biotechnology’s Genomics facility of Drs. C. W. Kilpatrick
at the University of Vermont and M. A. Romano at Western Illinois University. The markers
now have to be tested on an actual population of spiny softshell turtles, Apalone spinifera,
to see if they provide useful variation for characterizing the genetic structure of these
populations. . Often microsatellite DNA markers developed for one species amplify
successfully in other closely related species (see King and Julian 2004). The markers will
also be tested on the smooth softshell turtle, A.mutica, an Illinois endangered species.
Once the genetic markers are tested, the genetic structure of population samples will be
characterized using the markers and evaluated to determine genetic diversity among two
species of soft-shell turtles found in the Mississippi River.
Microsatellites are also known as short tandem repeats (STRs) (Allendorf et al. 2013). They
are short DNA sequences that are repeated several times within the DNA. The DNA
segments on either side of the STR are sequenced and single stranded DNA primers are
created. These primers are complementary to those DNA segments that are on either side
of the STR and used for PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction). One primer of a primer pair is
tagged with a dye molecule and after amplification the amplified fragments are sized on a
DNA sequencer to identify the genetic makeup of the individuals that have been sampled.
This will allow for the observation of the genetic variation within the individuals collected.
Such genetic variation can aid in determining factors such as population bottlenecks and
levels of inbreeding. Since A. mutica is endangered, conservation is important for the future
of this species. The data obtained from this experiment could be useful to conservationists
and could help both species survive in the future.
Literature Cited
Allendorf, F. W, G. Luikart, and S. N. Aitken. 2013. Conservation and the genetics of
populations. Wiley-Blackwell, W. Sussex, UK.
King, T. L. and S. E. Julian. 2004. Conservation of microsatellite DNA flanking sequences
across 13 Emydid genera assayed with novel bot turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) loci.
Conservation Genetics 5:719-725.
59
Abstract 53
Presenter: Diveley, Kayleigh
Mentor: Dr. Richard O. Musser
Student status: Graduate
Email: kr-diveley@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Gene Expression Observed from the interaction between Corn Earworm (Helicoverpa zea)
caterpillars and Corn (Zea mays) tissues.
Kayleigh Diveley, Richard O. Musser
By understanding the genetic interaction of plant defense systems to insect pests such as
caterpillars and in understanding how caterpillar digestive systems attempt to overcome
these plant defenses, research may help to find novel methods in protecting our
agricultural crops and limit the use of pesticides. This experiment aimed to observe the
changes to gene expression caused by the interaction between Corn Earworm (Helicoverpa
zea) caterpillars and Corn (Zea mays) tissue. To do so, changes to caterpillar growth and
gene expression by feeding third instar caterpillars several treatments of corn tissues such
as Corn Leaves, Corn Husk, Corn Silk, and Corn Fruit against an artificial diet were
observed. A total of 10 to 15 distinct genes were observed for each experimental objective
to represent the direct defenses of the corn as well as the digestive genes altered as a result
of feeding on the tissues using real-time qualitative PCR. Our results revealed that plant
defenses such as protease inhibitors appeared suppressed in the leaves due in part to the
caterpillar salivary factors. In the bioassay we found the caterpillar grew the greatest on
the Corn Fruit in relation to other corn tissues. Also, the caterpillar digestive genes
correlated to this increased growth on the Corn Fruit in comparison to the other tissue by
less expression for protease genes than if the caterpillar fed on leaves or other tissues.
60
Abstract 54
Presenter: Hebert, Allison
Mentor: Dr. Scott Holt
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: ae-hebert@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Enhanced Gene Transfer in Leuconostoc
Allison Hebert, Ayat M Aljubran, Scott M Holt
The goal of this study is to improve efficiency of transformation in Leuconostoc - a nonpathogenic gram-positive bacterial genus that makes natural products including complex
sugars derived from sucrose. Complex sugars have many applications, e.g., prebiotics and
cosmetics. These complex sugars are made from an enzyme called sucrase. Leuconostoc
excretes sucrase when grown in the presence of sucrose. The mechanism by which
Leuconostoc produces sucrase is unknown due to lack of genetic tools needed for studying
the process. To discover the mechanisms behind sucrase production and enhance further
research and industrial utilization of the produced complex sugars, an efficient method of
transformation must be devised.
Leuconostoc does not accept foreign DNA easily, most likely due to its thick cell wall. For
Leuconostoc to accept foreign DNA a method called electroporation must be used. This
makes it possible for the foreign DNA to enter Leuconostoc cells but also weakens them.
Many do not survive. This study will attempt to increase the number of cells that survive
and the efficiency of transformation by treating the weakened cells after electroporation
during a resuscitation step. Improvement of the transformation efficiency of Leuconostoc
will be measured by comparing control cells to experimental cells treated with either
Oxyrase® or an osmotic stabilizer called sorbitol. The resuscitated Leuconostoc will be
grown on a nutrient agar containing chloramphenicol. If the resuscitated Leuconostoc cells
grow on the nutrient agar containing the antibiotic it will indicate successful transfer of the
plasmid.
61
Abstract 55
Presenter: Scheihing, Beth
Mentor: Dr. Sean Jenkins
Student status: Graduate
Email: me-gilliam@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
The effects of prescribed burning on the vegetation dynamics and the subsequent impact
on hard bodied tick abundance and diversity in a Midwest open oak woodland community.
Beth Scheihing, Sean Jenkins
Fire suppression and land-use changes impact flora and fauna of oak (Quercus spp.)
woodlands which are succeeding to closed forests dominated by shade-tolerant, fire
intolerant sugar maple (Acer saccharum). Burning increases ground flora diversity and oak
regeneration. Burning impacts disease carrying ticks (family: Ixodidae), through mortality
and altering microenvironments. Vegetation recovers in subsequent years. Ticks use
vegetation to ambush hosts. Tick behavior may be correlated to life stage, host density, leaf
litter and vegetation structure. My goals are to: 1) evaluate fire effects on vegetation and 2)
assess the impact of vegetation changes on abundance of adult, instar and larval ticks.
Study will be conducted at Alice L. Kibbe Field Station. Study consists of 15 units equally
spread over areas burned in springs of 2015, 2014, and 2004. Thirty 40 m transects were
established with two transects per treatment unit. 1 m2 quadrats were placed every 5 m
on transect. ground flora basal cover , woody seedling density, canopy cover, vegetation
height, percent bare ground, leaf litter, coarse woody debris, tree density, basal area, and
sapling density will be assessed. Each transect will be sampled, for ticks, using sweep
method, every 2 weeks, beginning April through October of 2016 and 2017. The three
different common tick species at sites are: American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis), lone
star tick (Amblyomma americanum) and black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis). Findings will
provide insight into the effects of prescribe burning on hard bodies tick ecology through
changes in vegetation structure/composition, leaf litter depth and distribution.
62
Abstract 56
Presenter: Lefler, Madison
Mentor: Dr. Catherine Miller-Hunt
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: ml-lefler@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Arboviruses Presence in Ticks found in Western Illinois
Madison Lefler, Warren Sarah, Catherine L Miller-Hunt
The purpose of this project is to determine if arboviruses are present in tick species
commonly found in western Illinois (in areas within and surrounding Macomb, IL). Ticks
carry and can transmit many important infectious agents, including viruses, bacteria and
parasites. Some of these agents can be deadly in humans and animals if left untreated. We
hypothesize that we will find an abundance of ticks in west-central Illinois, and that some
of these ticks will harbor arboviruses. Arboviruses are a group of viruses that are
transmitted through arthropod vectors. We are interested in determining what specific
viruses the individual ticks will be carrying. The ticks RNA will then be converted to cDNA
which will then be used for PCR. cDNA is complementary DNA that is a double stranded
DNA synthesized from mRNA template. We will look at the segments of DNA generated
through PCR to determine if we have found any viruses in the tick sample. We will use
primers during the PCR that are specific to the viruses that we are interested in. This will
allow us to determine if certain arboviruses are present in local tick specimens.
63
Abstract 57
Presenter: Trone, Emma
Mentor: Dr. Christopher N. Jacques
Student status: Graduate
Email: ek-trone@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Post-mortem RNA degradation in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in westcentral
Illinois
Emma K. Trone, Christopher N. Jacques, James T. Lamer, Paul A. Shelton
White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are an important wildlife species in Illinois and
provide many social, economic, cultural, and ecological values to wildlife users throughout
the state. Managing this species remains a top concern to the Illinois Department of
Natural Resources. Potentially valuable molecular techniques (e.g., microarray analyses,
next-generation sequencing) for understanding neurodegenerative diseases require use of
ribonucleic acid (RNA) from post-mortem tissues. Despite ongoing research evaluating
neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., chronic wasting disease) at a molecular level, there exists
a paucity of information on potential effects of intrinsic (sex, tissue type, body temperature
[Tb]) and extrinsic (ambient temperature [Ta]) factors on RNA quality. Thus, our objective
was to evaluate post-mortem RNA degradation in hunter-harvested white-tailed deer to
establish post-mortem intervals (PMIs) for RNA viability. We collected tissue (liver [LV],
brain stem [BS], retropharyngeal lymph nodes [RPLN]) samples from 17 hunter-harvested
deer in Hancock County, Illinois during the 2015 annual firearm season to estimate RNA
stability. We collected tissues at predetermined PMIs (2, 8, 16, 24, 36, 48 hrs) and sent all
samples to the University of Chicago for analysis. Results indicated RNA was stable
through 24 hrs, though sample quality was low; average RNA integrity number (RIN)
values ranged from 3.6–5.67. We used linear regression to determine the influence sex,
time since death, Tb, and Ta on RNA quality. We found significant (P < 0.005) relationships
between our dependent variable and several independent variables, including ambient
temperature (R2 ≥ 0.12) and time since death (lymph node tissue; R2 = 0.35). Our analyses
represents the first quantitative assessment of the effects of intrinsic and extrinsic factors
on quality of tissue samples collected for subsequent disease monitoring. Our findings may
be useful for creating a PMI for RNA quality in white-tailed deer, thereby aiding in future
tissue collection for high-throughput sequencing techniques.
64
Abstract 58
Presenter: Stanley, Ashley
Mentor: Dr. James T. Lamer
Student status: Graduate
Email: AL-stanley@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Graduate Poster Presentation
Ontogenetic Diet Shifts of Blue Catfish (Ictalurus furcatus) and Flathead catfish (Pylodictis
olivaris)
Ashley L Stanley, James T Lamer, Mark W Fritts
Blue catfish (Ictalurus furcatus) and flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) are native to the
Mississippi River Basin and are primarily piscivorous as large adults but consume a variety
of diet items as juveniles and young adults. Traditional diet analyses are useful, but are
often limited by temporal and spatial variation in diet, empty stomachs, lethal or intrusive
techniques used to extract diets, and time investment required to quantify diets. Here, we
use stable isotopes (δ13C and δ15N) to characterize the ontogenetic diet shifts in blue
catfish and flathead catfish in the Mississippi River Basin. We collected and biopsied dorsal
muscle tissue from blue catfish (200mm-1300mm) and flathead catfish (100mm1200mm) from pools 20, 21, 26 and open river conditions on the Mississippi River using
tournament trails, commercial harvest and hoop nets. We dried and ground the muscle
biopsies into a fine powder and will analyze for δ13C and δ15N stable isotope ratios using a
mass spectrometer. Using size ranges from juvenile to adult, we will be able to determine
the length diet shifts occur during the life of blue catfish and flathead catfish.
65
Abstract 59
Presenter: Stevenson, Trent
Mentor: Dr. Kenneth McCravy
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: stevenson-tb@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Effectiveness of Orchid Bee Traps and Attractants
Trent Stevenson, Kenneth W. McCravy
Orchid bees are native to the Neotropics. There have been over two hundred species
identified. In many cases orchid bees are not only the primary pollinator but the only
pollinator for a particular species of orchid. Males are attracted to volatile chemicals that
orchids emit. These chemicals allow effective sampling using orchid bee traps. The focus
of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of different orchid bee trap types. I
hypothesize that different trap types will differ in the abundance and genus of orchid bees
collected, and that relative efficiency of the traps will vary with different chemicals. Data
collection was done at Cusuco National Park, a cloud forest park in Honduras. Two
commonly used orchid bee chemical attractants, eucalyptol and benzyl acetate were used
with four different trap types: ball trap, bottle trap, funnel trap, and inverted funnel trap.
The collected bees were identified to the genus level, and labeled with the trap type and
attractant they were collected with. Abundance of orchid bees was compared among
chemical treatments and trap types using two way analysis of variance (ANOVA).
Comparison between trap types and genus of orchid bees captured was analyzed using the
chi-square test. The ANOVA showed a statistically significant interaction between trap
type and attractant used. Overall, the most effective trap/attractant combinations in
relation to orchid bee abundance were the funnel trap paired with benzyl acetate, and the
inverted funnel trap paired with eucalyptol. The chi-square test showed that the funnel
trap collected more orchid bees in the genus Eulaema than expected.
66
Abstract 60
Presenter: Jirik, Jessica
Mentor: Dr. Meshack Afitlhile
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: JL-Jirik@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
The Expression of Fatty Acid Desaturase Genes in Arabidopsis Plants That Have Been
Exposed to Ozone
Jessica Jirik, Emily Banigan, Meshack Afitlhile
Ozone (O3) is a very reactive form of oxygen that is found naturally in the atmosphere. In
their internal structure, plants are equipped with natural mechanisms such as specific
enzymes and lipids that break down reactive oxygen species, which are produced by ozone
and may damage membranes. When levels of reactive oxygen species are too high inside
the leaves, the plants’ defense breaks down, and this is shown by the lipid breakdown and
subsequent decrease in levels of the fatty acid, linoleic acid (18:3). We are interested in
evaluating how high levels of ozone affects synthesis of the major chloroplast lipids, whose
synthesis is dependent on nuclear-encoded enzymes. Our preliminary studies show that
Arabidopsis plants exposed to ozone for three hours have decreased levels of the fatty acid,
roughanic acid (16:3), which is found in one major chloroplast lipid. The objective of our
study is to compare the total fatty acid composition and lipid content of the wild type and
mutant plants. We hypothesize that genes, which encode enzymes in the lipid synthesis
pathway, will be down-regulated in ozone treated plants. In order to address this, we will
measure the abundance of specific messenger RNA from untreated plants and ozoneexposed plants. Total RNA will be extracted from untreated and ozone exposed plants, then
we will synthesize complementary DNA, and set quantitative polymerase chain reaction.
The goal is to relate the expression of genes in the lipid synthesis pathway to the
accumulation of fatty acids and lipid content under ozone-treated conditions
67
Abstract 61
Presenter: Worthen, Tori
Mentor: Dr. Shawn Meagher
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: tn-worthen@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
DNA barcoding reveals two cryptic species of "grub" infecting green sunfish.
Tori Worthen, Shawn A Meagher
Estimating parasite species diversity is important for understanding biodiversity. However
it can be difficult, due to the existence of morphologically identical, but genetically distinct
“cryptic species”. In Spring Lake, IL, game fishes are infected with “white grub”
(Posthodiplostomum minimum), and two distinct sizes of worms occur in green sunfish
(Lepomis cyanellus). I used DNA “barcoding” to determine the number of white grub
species that infect green sunfish. I collected eleven green sunfish by electroshocking.
Worms were removed from host livers and measured to the nearest 0.1 mm. Sequences of
mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) were determined for 26 worms by the Canadian
Centre for DNA barcoding (CCDB). Pairwise genetic distances were calculated between all
sequences and used to construct a neighbor-joining (NJ) tree. I used a BLAST search to
identify the species of each distinct group. The NJ revealed two genetically distinct groups.
Mean genetic distance within groups was 0.008 while between groups was 0.177. BLAST
determined that one of the clusters was Locke sp. 3 from L. gibbosus (pumpkinseed
sunfish) while the second cluster was Locke sp. 2, also from L. gibbosus. Size differed
significantly between the two types (t=5.58. df =23, p < 0.001); the mean (± variance) for
sp. 3 was 0.83 (± 0.049) and for sp. 2 was 0.50 (± 0.006). These results suggest that green
sunfish are infected by two similar, but distinct, species. Since P. minimum infects >20
different centrachid hosts, more data are needed to accurately determine species number
in this group.
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Abstract 62
Presenter: Emory, Nick
Mentor: Dr. Sue Hum-Musser
Student status: Graduate
Email: ne-emory@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Gene Expression of Corn Plants inoculated with MicroAZ and MicroAF
Nick Emory, Sue Hum-Musser
This study is intended to compare the growth of corn plants when inoculated with MicroAZ
or MicroAF, products of TerraMax®, under a heat stressed environment. The inoculants
are Azospirillium bacteria that are designed to improve root systems and harvest
atmospheric nitrogen, which results in the ability for greater nutrient uptake and therefore,
an increased yield. While using bacteria to help with plant growth has been using in the
past, it has not always been successful due to a lack of stabilization. Micro AZ and AF are
produced as a stabilized product according to TerraMax®, good for at least one year at 95F.
This experiment is part of a larger project that is looking at the total gene expression in
corn plants. Currently another group is looking at the expression of the roots of the plant,
so for my part of the project I will be looking at the effect of the inoculants under heat
stress to the plant. Specifically I will be looking at leaf tissue. I will be inoculating corn
seeds with AZ and AF separately, and growing groups of them at room temperature and
then others at a heated temperature (35C) along with controls in each group. I will look at
the leaf tissue once the plants that have grown and compare the genetic makeup, doing this
by way of extracting the RNA and then utilizing cDNA and qPCR techniques. Determination
of the effect of these inoculants on plant growth is important in for farmers in the
identification of natural methods of increasing crop yield, rather than the continued use of
synthetic chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
69
Abstract 63
Presenter: Szott, Emily
Mentor: Dr. James T. Lamer
Student status: Undergraduate
Email: ea-szott@wiu.edu
Presentation type: Undergraduate Poster Presentation
Quantification of daily otolith increments in young of year Asian carp
Emily A. Szott, James T. Lamer, James H. Larson, Brent Knights, Jon Vallazza, Levi Solomon,
Rich Pendleton, Andrew Casper
Silver and bighead carp are invasive species established throughout the Mississippi River
Basin. Many studies and resources have been dedicated to their management. However,
information on hydrological spawning triggers and growth of juvenile Asian carp is still
lacking. Here, daily incremental growth annuli from otoliths are used to estimate birth and
growth of young of year Asian carp. Otoliths are ear bone structures in fish used for
balance, orientation, and sound detection. We collected juvenile Asian carp from the
LaGrange Reach of the Illinois River following a large spawning event in August 2014. Total
length was measured, and the otoliths removed from each individual. A small piece of
caudal fin tissue was excised for later genetic analysis. Otoliths were aged from up to 20
fish per 5 mm length group (15-79 mm). The extracted otoliths were mounted to slides,
polished, photographed, and aged. Otolith microstructure was validated using juvenile
Asian carp from Chinese aquaculture. Preliminary results show the collected Asian carp
range from 26 to 45 days old, placing their birthdays between June 22 and July 11, 2014.
Further study of age will help determine spawning periodicity and hydrological spawning
triggers. Ultimately, the ability to determine daily growth rates of young of year Asian carp
will help in the management of these invasive species.
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Organizing Committee
Faculty
Dr. Andrea Porras-Alfaro (chair)
Dr. Shawn Meagher
Dr. Catherine Miller-Hunt
Staff
Cynthia Drasities
Amy Brown
Lu Wilson
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