Seventh Annual Graduate Research Retreat
Hosted by:
HCS Graduate Studies Committee
John Cardina (Chair)
Joe Scheerens (Chair Designate)
Regina Vann Hickok (Secretary)
Peter Zale (Student Rep.)
Dave Mackey
Dan Struve
Mark Bennett
Imed Dami
Leah McHale
Special thanks to GRR Organizing and Judging Committee
Lisa Robbins (Retreat Co-Chair)
JD Bethel (Retreat Co-Chair)
Michele Bigger
(Competition Co-Chair)
Srimathi Bogamuwa
Abigail Gerdes
Amber Hoffstetter
Bizhen Hu
Lin Jin
Nick Read
Jie Qu
Caitlin Splawski
Scott Wolfe
Regina Vann Hickok
Dr. Dave Barker
Dr. Mark Bennett
Dr. Joshua Blakeslee
Dr. John Cardina
Dr. Jyan-Chyun Jang
Dr. David Francis
Dr. Veena D. Ganeshan
Dr. Kent Harrison
Dr. Yanping Hu
Dr. Matt Kleinhenz
Dr. Hannah Mathers
Dr. Peg McMahon
Dr. Jim Metzger
Dr. Emilie Regnier
Dr. Joseph Scheerens
Dr. Clay Sneller
Table of Contents
Session Overview ................................................................................................. 3
Welcome ........................................................................................................... 5-7
HCS Areas of Graduate Study ........................................................................ 9-13
Faculty Programmatic Interests .................................................................... 14-15
Competition Abstracts .................................................................................. 16-47
Non-Competition Abstract .................................................................................. 48
Appendix ............................................................................................................. 48
2012 Judging Criteria ............................................................................. 49-50
MS and PhD Abstract Evaluation ................................................................ 51
Proposal Abstract Evaluation ....................................................................... 52
Poster Evaluation for MS and PhD .............................................................. 53
Oral Presentation Evaluation for MS and PhD Research............................. 54
Oral Presentation Evaluation for Proposal ................................................... 55
Retreat Evaluation Form .............................................................................. 56
Horticulture & Crop Science Contact List ................................................... 57
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Session Overview
Friday, October 12, 2012, Kottman Hall Auditorium, Columbus Ohio
2:45 - 3:00 pm
Gather in Kottman Hall Lobby for Tour
3:00 - 5:30 pm
Tour of CFAES (Research farms, projects, labs)
5:45 - 6:00 pm
Welcome by Graduate Studies Chair, Dr. John Cardina
6:00 - 6:45 pm
Dinner sponsored by Pioneer
6:45 pm
Introduction – Dr. Joseph Scheerens
Guest Speaker – Dr. Tomasz Przepiorkowski, Studebaker
Nurseries, Inventory Manager, New Carlisle, Ohio
After dinner gathering- Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar
Saturday, October 13, 2012, Kottman Hall Auditorium, Columbus Ohio
8:30 - 8:50 am
Refreshments and poster viewing
8:50 - 9:00 am
Welcome – Dr. Jim Metzger, HCS Interim Chair
9:00 - 9:30 am
Speaker – Jim Chatfield, Associate Professor and
Extension Specialist. Ohio State University
Extension. Dept. of HCS and Dept. of Plant
Pathology
9:30 - 11:30 am
Oral Competition
11:30 – 11:50 pm
Lunch sponsored by Fisher Scientific
11:50 - 12:40 pm
Poster Competition Viewing
12:45- 2:45 pm
Oral Competition
2:45 - 3:15 pm
Overview of Columbus and Wooster Campus Research
3:15 - 3:30 pm
Announcement of Awards and Concluding Remarks
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Department of Horticulture and Crop Science
202 Kottman Hall
2021 Coffey Road
Columbus, OH 43210-1086
Phone: (614) 292-23866
Fax (614) 292-7162 (Kottman)
Fax (614) 292-3505 (Howlett)
hcs.osu.edu
October 12, 2012
Dear Guests and Participants,
Welcome to the 7th Annual Graduate Student Research Retreat and Open House in the
Department of Horticulture & Crop Science at The Ohio State University. Our event
continues to grow and improve each year, primarily through the leadership and
participation of our graduate students. We are pleased to once again showcase their
talents, ingenuity, and creativity.
We are a large department housed in four buildings and two campuses, so we work hard
to integrate all into one department with a common mission. This retreat is an example
of our graduate students from both campuses pulling together to develop and enjoy the
rewarding experience of scientific exchange and camaraderie.
Graduate education is a crucial mission of our Department and faculty. Our goal is to
train the next generation of scientists who will be equipped to tackle critical plant-based
issues in food security and safety as well as environmental sustainability. At this retreat
you will experience the diversity, depth, and breadth of the science being pursued by our
faculty and students. We are very proud of this remarkable group of graduate students.
Our students have received prestigious university fellowships as well as college
fellowships and OARDC awards, various external awards and achievements, and several
of our international students have received awards from their home countries. We
currently have 64 graduate students in our department, including 14 new students.
Enjoy your time, the interactions, and fellowship during this retreat. Ask questions,
explore new ideas together, and stretch your minds!
Sincerely yours,
Dr. Jim Metzger
Professor and Interim Chair
Dept. of Horticulture and Crop Science
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-6-
Department of Horticulture and Crop Science
202 Kottman Hall
2021 Coffey Road
Columbus, OH 43210-1086
Phone: (614) 292-23866
Fax (614) 292-7162 (Kottman)
Fax (614) 292-3505 (Howlett)
hcs.osu.edu
Dear Retreat Attendees,
We would like to welcome you to the 7th annual Graduate Research Retreat for The
Ohio State University Department of Horticulture and Crop Sciences. Though sometimes
it is difficult to find time away from our research, it is our hope that this weekend will be
of value to both students and faculty as a time to focus on past and present research and
future plans while spending time with members of our diverse Columbus and Wooster
campuses. If you are considering graduate work at The Ohio State University, we hope
that you can see the diversity of opportunities that engrossed us to our Horticulture and
Crop Science department.
If you are currently a graduate student in H&CS, we are excited to welcome you to
main campus in Columbus for a weekend filled with highlights of research being conducted
in our department as well as presentations from invited guest speakers. As students from
diverse backgrounds and experiences, we all find ourselves on an academic expedition
filled with classes, experimental techniques, and many vital lessons and challenges. We
hope that through the presentations and conversations with students and faculty, both
from within and outside our department, that your education and research will be
enhanced. Our goal of supporting the education and research of current and prospective
young scientists in H&CS has four central objectives:




Rewarding excellence in research conducted and presented by students
Encouraging interaction between graduate students and faculty
Rewarding excellence in communicating science with peers
Highlighting research activities and opportunities to students outside OSU
and to the general public
If at any time you have any questions or suggestions as to how to improve this
yearly event, please feel free to discuss them with any member of the planning
committee. Better yet, join the planning committee for next year’s retreat! We hope you
have a great weekend and wish you the best on your current and future work in the field
of horticulture and crop sciences!
Thank you and welcome!
Lisa Robbins (Retreat Co-Chair)
JD Bethel (Retreat Co-Chair)
Michele Bigger (Competition Chair)
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*A Huge Thank You Goes to Regina Vann Hickok for her devoted time and effort
into making this retreat possible*
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Areas of Graduate Study
Crop Ecology, Management & Production (CEMP) –
Research projects in Crop Ecology, Management and Production are often designed to
enhance the efficiency of agricultural practices, thereby maximizing productivity, extending
the availability of valuable, shared resources, heightening commercial viability, and/or
advancing social and societal interests. Clearly, plant-human, plant-animal, plant-plant
and/or plant-environment interactions are seminal to production efficiency and CEMP
research addresses these interactions at sub-cellular to landscape levels, especially within
commercial contexts. CEMP research is conducted on existing crops from alfalfa to zucchini
and yet to be commercialized plants (future crops). These current and emerging crops
provide human and animal food, monetary value, an enormous range and quantity of raw
products channeled to applications in medicine, industry and defense, and improve the health
and beauty of natural and human landscapes.
CEMP studies are conducted in
semi-automated and fully climate-controlled indoor facilities providing all growth
requirements, partially-enclosed/semi-controlled, and largely uncontrolled open field
environments and in urban to rural settings. Sustainability is a defining characteristic of this
research; its outcomes have wide-ranging local to global impact.
The HCS-Crop Ecology, Management and Production program is inspired by real-world
issues and questions that lie at the edge of our understanding of cropping systems. Through
their science and applications based on its discoveries, CEMP program members aim to help
solve these issues and open new, knowledge-based frontiers. CEMP program members work
in small, focused, discipline-specific teams; simultaneously they also contribute to the
success of much larger multi-institutional and multi-disciplinary ones. As a consequence, the
impact of the Group’s work is widely evident on farms and in laboratories, professional
societies and organizations, homes, factories, and offices next door and throughout the world.
Those with a stake in the use of land, water, genetic and other key resources – particularly as
they may be directed to the management and production of food, industrial and floricultural
crops – inform and learn from CEMP members.
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Breeding & Genetics (BG) –
Crop breeding is the application of genetic theory to improve diverse traits of crops. In
modern crop breeding, knowledge generated from a variety of research fields such as
molecular biology, genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics are integrated to elevate
crop yield and quality, beyond traditional breeding techniques. Recent release of genome
sequences in diverse crops expedites genomic study for the traits of interests and help to
breed for the traits of economic importance.
The HCS Breeding and Genetics program mainly emphasizes disease or pest resistance
and end product quality. Research activity combines lab experiments and field
evaluation. Interdisciplinary collaboration with Plant Pathology, Entomology, and Plant
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (PMBB) and international collaborations are
encouraged.
Physiology, Biochemistry, & Molecular Biology (PBMB) Hypothesis-driven, basic and applied research in Physiology, Biochemistry and
Molecular Biology is conducted to understand the molecular genetic mechanisms
underlying many diverse plant processes. In HCS, this research encompasses aspects of
combinatorial gene regulation developmental morphology, signal transduction processes,
plant response to stress, the production metabolism and storage of secondary compounds,
senescence, and plant metabolic engineering.
The HCS-Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program uses a wide array of
molecular, biochemical, physiological, developmental and genetic tools to decipher these
processes. The genomic and proteomic “tool boxes” that we utilize allow us to sift
through the entire complement of the 25,000 plus plant genes and their encoded proteins
to identify the key players specifically affected by both internal plant signals and external
environmental cues. We are using mutations and genetic fingerprinting strategies in
combination with large mapping populations to identify genes affecting these plant traits.
We are using “systems approaches” that involve interactions between traditionally
separate
disciplines
such
as
the
biosciences,
physical
sciences,
mathematical/computational sciences, and engineering to address biological questions
that until very recently were thought to be completely intractable. High throughput
sequencing, expression profiling, and RNA, DNA, and protein interaction networking
techniques are now integrated and allow us to discover new genes and new mechanisms.
Research in the group of Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is exciting
work that regularly leads to novel discoveries about the underlying molecular basis of
horticultural and agronomic traits that in the end we hope will benefit all of society!
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Seed Biology (SB) –
Seed Biology is inherently interdisciplinary and the study of seed quality, health, viability
and preservation is fundamental to nearly all plant research areas and to most aspects of
sustainable crop production. Seeds provide 75% of the food consumed by humanity, and
production of high-quality seed is the cornerstone of American and global agriculture. The
specialized nature of the seed industry and the unique biology of seeds as life in suspended
animation have given rise to seed biology as an important discipline. Seeds are vital as
propagating units for the tree, landscape, flower, turf, vegetable, fruit, and agronomic crop
industries. American and multinational seed companies are among the significant
agricultural industries benefiting from advances in seed research and increased student
training. Moreover, Seed Biology is an important component of international programs in
agriculture and natural resources.
The HCS-Seed Biology program possesses academic breadth and is divided into the
following six areas: Seed Production, Seed Quality, Seed Pathology, Seed
Physiology/Biochemistry, Seed Genetics/Molecular Biology, and Weed Seed Ecology. Seed
biology efforts are closely associated with the OSU/USDA Ornamental Plant Germplasm
Center (OPGC). Research efforts in the program examine genetic, environmental and
cultural effects on seed quality, the influence of dormancy on seed storage and the
optimization of germination conditions for various native species and food crops using a
variety of conventional and newer research techniques (e.g., non-destructive seed imaging
techniques). The program has a strong teaching, and outreach/training component.
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Turf Science & Management (TSM) –
Turf health and long term viability are essential components of the greater American
landscape. Studies in turf science and management encompass a wide arena of
production, installation and use issues important to sustainable maintenance of
residential, commercial and public lawns and the aesthetics and function (playability) of
golf course and athletic field turf. As in most areas of plant science, the scope of turf
science and management studies range from basic to applied. Turf science and
management studies are inherently interdisciplinary, involving expertise from the fields
of plant pathology, entomology and natural resources.
The HCS-Turfgrass Science program examines important turf issues using physiological,
horticultural and ecological approaches. Ongoing and recently completed projects
include (have included) the physiological and morphological characterization of shade
tolerant turf plants; the role of ultraviolet light and turfgrass pigmentation in turf stress
responses; the development of improved strategies for the establishment of sustainable
home lawns; the improvement of turfgrass water use efficiency; the efficient management
of athletic fields; the playability of golf greens based on moisture and firmness values;
the control of annual and perennial, grassy and broadleaf weeds in turfgrass; the efficacy
and use of natural herbicides; the fate of pesticides and nutrients in the environment and
golf course ecology
Environmental Horticulture (EH) –
The impact of the “Green” industry on Ohio’s economy is substantial – larger than most
other horticultural industries. Research in environmental horticulture involves a diverse
range of plant materials from herbaceous annuals to woody perennials and addresses
questions concerning the productivity, sustainability of production and quality of these
materials using basic and applied genetic, cultural or physiological research techniques.
Areas of study include plant reproductive biology, the efficient production of plant
materials in nurseries and controlled environments, planting establishment concerns, the
efficiency and sustainability of outdoor plantings, crop quality, and management,
marketing and education strategies.
The objectives of the HCS-Environmental Horticulture program are to deliver a
nationally recognized research program that benefits the nursery and greenhouse
production and landscape industries. Research focuses on creating sustainable cultural
practices that reduce impact on the environment, diversifying and improving plant
selection, and understanding ornamental plant physiology.
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Weed Ecology (WE) –
Weedy and invasive plants are important economic, environmental, and human health
concerns in agricultural crops as well as in managed and natural ecosystems. Specific studies
in weed ecology are diverse and wide-reaching. They include weed biology, competition,
genetic diversity, and phenotypic plasticity; weed seed ecology (seed production, dormancy,
dispersal, and seed banks); herbicide application technologies; alternative weed management
methods for low-input and organic agriculture; development and spread of herbicide resistant
weed biotypes; invasion ecology; and the ecological role of weeds in natural and managed
ecosystems through their interactions with other species
The HCS-Weed Ecology program works on basic and applied aspects of weedy and invasive
plant biology and management. Much of our work focuses on understanding the ecological
processes that make some plant species successful invaders, competitors, and colonizers.
This information is applied to develop effective physical, cultural, biological, and chemical
methods of management, with the ultimate goal of reducing economic, environmental, and
health problems caused by weedy and invasive plant species. Because weedy and invasive
species are common in so many environments, we interact with faculty and students from a
wide range of disciplines, and often provide connections between the molecular and the field
levels. Some of our work addresses weed management in conventional and organic systems
that include grains, vegetable crops, fruit crops, and ornamental plants. Other work focuses
on more global issues, including gene flow, dispersal, and spread of invasive plants in natural
areas.
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Faculty Programmatic Interests
Faculty Member
Loc.
Areas of
Study
Crops
Specific Interests
Pasture ecology and sustainability, Grazing
systems management
Production system efficiency; seed quality and
seedling establishment; chemical input
reduction
Membrane biochemistry and transport;
Terpenoid and sterol metabolism; Abiotic stress
responses
Ecology of natural and managed ecosystems;
Environmental enhancement; Emerald ash borer
Secrest/Chadwick arboretum, Arboblitz, the
economic value of the landscape, carbon
sequestration
Bio-based emergent materials; Natural rubber
biosynthesis and production
Viticultural practices; Grape stress physiology;
Cold tolerance; Wine quality
Turf maintenance; turf stress physiology;
Teaching and extension
Weed management strategies; Invasive species;
Risk management; Food-borne pathogens
Transformation and gene expression; stress
tolerance; pathogen resistance; Grain quality
improvement
Bacterial disease resistance genes; Fruit quality;
Plant architecture improvement; Tomato
grafting
Turf maintenance; turf stress physiology;
Effects of light on turf performance; Weed and
pest control; Agrichemical management
Plant gene regulatory networks; Gene
regulating mechanisms; Intercellular biology;
Plant metabolic engineering
Weed biology and ecology; integrated weed
management in crops; weed seed dormancy and
ecological determinants of survival
Molecular mechanisms of sugar sensing and
signal transduction; sugar-stress hormone
crosstalk; sugar-responsive transcription factors
Floriculture post-harvest physiology; Molecular
regulation of flower petal senescence
Seed testing; Seed improvement; Germplasm
enhancement
Integrated vegetable management strategies;
Vegetable quality and its determinants; organic
and local food production; food security
Soybean and small grain sustainable cropping
systems; Mineral nutrition; Grain quality
Weed management in field crops; reduced
herbicide application via cultural improvement
strategies; herbicide resistant weeds
Barker, David
C
CEMP
Forages
Bennett, Mark
C
CEMP, SB
Vegetables
Blakeslee, Joshua
W
PBMB
Cross-commodity
Cardina, John
W
WE
Cross-commodity
Chatfield, James
W
EH
Ornamental species
Cornish, Katrina
W
PBMB
Cross-commodity
Dami, Imed
W
CEMP
Grapes
Danneberger, Karl
C
TSM
Turf
Doohan, Douglas
W
WE
Fruits and vegetables
Finer, John
W
BG
Soybean, Crosscommodity
Francis, David
W
BG
Tomato
Gardner, David
C
TSM
Turf
Grotewold, Erich
C
PBMB
Cross-commodity
Harrison, Kent
C
SB, WE
Cross-commodity
Jang, Jyan-Chyun
C
PBMB
Cross-commodity
Jones, Michelle
W
PBMB, EH
Floral crops, Petunia
Jourdan, Pablo
C
BG, SB, EH
Kleinhenz, Matthew
W
CEMP, SB
Herbaceous
perennials
Vegetables, Crosscommodity
Lindsey, Laura
C
CEMP
Loux, Mark
C
WE
Soybeans, small
grains
Field crops
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Mackey, David
C
PBMB
Cross-commodity
Mathers, Hannah
C
EH
Ornamentals
McHale, Leah
C
BG
Soybean
McMahon, Margaret
C
EH
Floral crops
Mercer, Kristin
C
CEMP, WE
Maize and sunflower
Metzger, James
C
PBMB, EH
Floral crops
Mian, Rouf
W
BG
Soybean
Miller, A. Raymond
W
PBMB
Fruits and vegetables
Miller, Diane
W
CEMP
Tree fruits and nuts
Pasian, Claudio
C
EH
Floral crops
Precheur, Robert
C
CEMP
Vegetable crops
Regnier, Emilie
C
WE
Cross-commodity
Rhodus, Timothy
C
EH
Cross-commodity
Scheerens, Joseph
W
CEMP, PBMB
Fruits and vegetables
Sneller, Clay
W
BG
Wheat
Stockinger, Eric
W
PBMB
Cereal grains, Crosscommodity
Street, John
C
TSM
Turf
Struve, Daniel
C
EH
Ornamentals
Sulc, R. Mark
C
CEMP
Forages (alfalfa)
Tomison, Peter
C
CEMP
Corn
van der Knaap, Esther
W
PBMB
Tomato
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Plant immune system function; the role of RIN4
in plant immune responses; Plant defense and
cell wall fortification; pathogen-driven
modification of plant metabolism
Nursery production management; weed control
strategies; cold hardiness; ecology of trees in
highway rights-of way; carbon sequestration.
Germplasm enhancement; Biotic stress
responses; R-genes and cognate pathogen
effector proteins; Grain quality
Photoselective plastic films; season extension of
greenhouse crops
Plant evolutionary ecology in agricultural
systems; evolutionary responses to climate
change; gene flow among plant communities
Physiologic determinants of flowering;
photoperiod phytochrome and floral induction;
abiotic stress effects on yield and quality
Cultivar development; Insect and virus
resistance
Fruit and vegetable chemistry and biochemistry;
post-harvest quality; insect resistance; healthbeneficial secondary products
Bio-cultural diversity of apples; germplasm
conservation; scab-resistant cultivar
development; fruit quality improvement
New crop production strategies; use of
greenhouse temperature to control crop timing;
Container greenhouse crop fertility
Integrated crop management systems; cultivar
evaluation for disease and insect resistance and
environmental adaptation; pesticide residues
Seed ecology and biology of weedy and
invasive species; seed dispersal mechanisms;
weed seed survival
Decision-support systems for use in
management, marketing and education
The genetic, cultural and environmental
determinants of fruit and vegetable quality;
health-beneficial secondary products
Resistance to Fusarium head blight;
Wheat quality; Cultivar development; statistics
of large data sets
Genetic control of cold acclimation and freezing
tolerance in plants; the C-repeat Binding Factor
cold response pathway
Turf maintenance; weed control and
fertilization in turf; sports turf management of
sand root zones
Nutrient and water use efficiency of container
nursery crops; transplant survival and
establishment; breeding and selection
Sustainable forage management systems;
grazing season extension; integrated pest
management in alfalfa
Cropping systems and ecophysiology;
phonological responses to heat; grain quality
Molecular, developmental and genetic basis of
tomato fruit morphology; genetic diversity of
Solanaceous crops
Competition Abstracts
The Graduate Research Retreat is an opportunity not only to meet and interact among
faculty, staff and graduate students, but also to explain our research, and to communicate
science. A successful completion of an advanced degree is a multifaceted endeavor:
initiate, execute, and summarize a research project, as well as communicate the research
via poster and/or oral presentations to the scientific community.
This Retreat is a wonderful experience for the current graduate students to take part in the
research competition. The posters and oral presentations will be critically evaluated by
graduate students judges and faculty judges. Monetary prizes will be awarded to each
first place and second place winners in each of five classifications: Oral Presentation for
Masters or PhD Proposal, Oral Presentation for PhD, Oral Presentation for Masters,
Poster presentation for Masters, and Poster presentation for PhD.
Good luck to all of the participants!
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HCS Graduate Retreat Competition Schedule
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Time
9:30
Abstract
2
Category
Oral Prop
9:45
3
10:00
4
10:15
10:30
6
7
10:45
9
11:00
10
11:15
11
11:50-12:40
11:50-12:40
11:50-12:40
11:50-12:40
11:50-12:40
11:50-12:40
11:50-12:40
11:50-12:40
11:50-12:40
11:50-12:40
1
5
8
12
14
16
18
19
23
25
Oral-Phd
Research
Oral-MS
Research
Oral Prop
Oral-MS
Research
Oral-Phd
Research
Oral-MS
Research
Oral-MS
Research
Poster-PhD
Poster-MS
Poster-PhD
Poster-PhD
Poster-PhD
Poster-PhD
Poster-MS
Poster-PhD
Poster-PhD
Poster-PhD
Competitor
BohorquezRestrepo, Andres
Broderick, Shaun
Faculty 1
Metzger
Faculty 2
Hu
Faculty 3
Mathers
JUDGES
Faculty 4
Blakeslee
Student 1
Hu
Student 2
Hoffstetter
Student 3
Jin
Cardina
Bennett
Harrison
Sneller
Bogamuwa
Hu
Wolfe
Clevenger, Josh
Mathers
Metzger
Regnier
Ganeshan
Bogamuwa
Jin
Qu
DeNiro, Julia
Edelman,
Nichole
Hoffstetter,
Amber
Hu, Bizhen
Blakeslee
Bennett
Scheerens
Harrison
Jang
Jang
Hu
Regnier
Hoffstetter
Bogamuwa
Hu
Hoffstetter
Jin
Splawski
Jang
Bennett
Metzger
Hu
Wolfe
Bogamuwa
Qu
Barker
Jang
Regnier
Hu
Qu
Gerdes
Wolfe
Huarachi
Morejon, Nancy
Bigger, Michele
Clevenger, Josh
Gordon, Phoebe
Iaffaldano, Brian
Lee, Sungwoo
Parrish, Jason
Splawski, Caitlin
Wu, Shan
Zhang, Yingxiao
Zhao, Lu
Jang
Sneller
Cardina
Hu
Jin
Qu
Wolfe
Francis
Barker
Harrison
Ganeshan
Bennett
Jang
Blakeslee
Bennett
Barker
Cardina
Harrison
Hu
Jang
Mathers
Cardina
Francis
Sneller
Cardina
Mathers
Ganeshan
Metzger
Metzger
Bennett
Regnier
Harrison
Ganeshan
Francis
Regnier
Metzger
Jang
Sneller
Regnier
Cardina
Sneller
Blakeslee
Scheerens
Scheerens
Hu
Scheerens
Mathers
Hoffstetter
Bogamuwa
Gerdes
Hoffstetter
Splawski
Bogamuwa
Gerdes
Bogamuwa
Gerdes
Bogamuwa
Hu
Gerdes
Hu
Splawski
Hoffstetter
Jin
Wolfe
Wolfe
Jin
Hoffstetter
Qu
Qu
Splawski
Wolfe
Hu
Qu
Qu
Jin
Splawski
Jin
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HCS Graduate Retreat Competition Schedule
Saturday, October 13, 2012 - Continued
Time
12:45
Abstract
13
Category
Oral-Phd
Research
Oral Prop
1:00
15
1:15
17
1:30
20
1:45
21
Oral Prop
2:00
22
2:15
24
2:30
26
Oral-Phd
Research
Oral-Phd
Research
Oral Prop
Oral-MS
Research
Oral-Phd
Research
Competitor
Jin, Lin
Faculty 1
Blakeslee
Faculty 2
Regnier
Faculty 3
Ganeshan
Judges
Faculty 4
Sneller
Student 1
Qu
Student 2
Splawski
Student 3
Gerdes
Orchard,
Caleb
Read,
Nicholas
Zambrano
Mendoza,
Jose
Zhang, Ning
Metzger
Cardina
Harrison
Bennett
Splawski
Hoffstetter
Wolfe
Cardina
Mathers
Sneller
Scheerens
Gerdes
Hoffstetter
Jin
Metzger
Cardina
Barker
Blakeslee
Gerdes
Hu
Splawski
Barker
Mathers
Sneller
Ganeshan
Jin
Hu
Hoffstetter
Zhang, Yi
Ganeshan
Bennett
Blakeslee
Mathers
Bogamuwa
Gerdes
Splawski
Zhang,
Zhifen
Zhao, Lu
Scheerens
Barker
Harrison
Ganeshan
Gerdes
Wolfe
Bogamuwa
Scheerens
Harrison
Regnier
Barker
Hu
Qu
Splawski
- 18 -
HCS Graduate Retreat Competition Abstract Titles
Abstract
No
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
Title
Greening the Highways: Out-plant Survival of Deciduous Trees in Stressful
Environments
Phytochemical trafficking of Anthocyanins in Arabidopsis thaliana cells
Virus-Induced Gene Silencing optimization in petunia
Epistatic interaction of three major fruit shape genes controlling tomato fruit
elongation
Identification of gene and metabolic regulatory networks during early fruit
development in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum): The effect of SUN on early
fruit development
Airborne Transport of Coluforms from Liquid Bovine Manure to Lettuce
(Lactuca sativa) and Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) Surfaces: Developing a
New Food Safety Standard
Use of the seedling triple response to evaluate ethylene sensitivity of
floricultural crops
Tree Liner Production in Columbus, Ohio
Evaluation of Genomic Selection and Comparison of GS Models for Grain
Yield in Soft Red Winter Wheat
Phenolic Production in Callus Culture of Burdock (Arctium lappa L.)
Grafting success between tomato rootstock and scion is improved using
cyanoacrylate adhesives
Transgene Risk Assessment in Taraxacum kok-saghyz
Identification of PP2A as a putative target of AvrE-family type III effector
proteins
Comparative Study of Quantitative Trait Loci for Partial Resistance to
Phytophthora sojae in Six Recombinant Inbred Populations Sharing a
Common Parent
Allelic variation for high beta carotene and strategies for nutritional
improvement of tomato
Investigations into Glyphosate-Resistant Common Ragweed
Combined Cover Crop with Newspaper Sheet Mulch for Weed Management
in Collards
Mulch Effects on Squash and Pollinator (Peponapis Pruinosa) Performance
A study of SUN and OVATE in controlling apical-basal patterning of tomato
fruit
- 19 -
Student
Author
M. Bigger
A.BohorquezRestrepo
S. Broderick
J. Clevenger
J. Clevenger
J. DeNiro
N. Edelman
P. Gordon
A.Hoffstetter
B. Hu
N. HuarachiMorejon
B. Iaffaldano
L. Jin
S. Lee
C. Orchard
Jason Parrish
N. Read
C. Splawski
S. Wu
HCS Graduate Retreat Competition Abstract Titles
Continued
Abstract
No
Title
20
Novel sources of resistance to Maize rayado fino virus
21
Isolation and characterization of “GmScream” promoters from highlyexpressing soybean (Glycine max) genes
Seasonal changes of freezing tolerance, water content, and soluable sugars
in buds of ‘Cabernet franc’ grapevines in response to exogenous Abscisic
acid
Sequencing and comparative analysis of the chloroplast genome of Buckeye
Gold (Taraxacum kok-saghyz)
Plant regeneration in sunflower (Hilanthus annuus L.) via adventitious shoot
induction from leaves
Convert inulin to rubber precursor in kazak dandelion
Convert inulin to rubber precurson in kazak dandelion
22
23
24
25
26
- 20 -
Student
Author
J. Zambrano
Mendoza
N. Zhang
Yi Zhang
Yingxiao
Zhang
Z. Zhang
L. Zhao
L. Zhao
Abstract #1.
Greening the Highways: Out-plant Survival of Deciduous Trees in Stressful
Environments
Category: Poster-PhD
Michele Bigger
Forests offer critical environmental, sociological, and economic benefits, however with
increasing population particularly in urban settings; space is limited for building the
urban forest. Often underused right-of-way (ROW) lands adjacent to roadways offer
spatial opportunities to build the urban forest. Ohio has 266,000 acres of ROW land.
Forest benefits will only be seen if the trees survive. Objectives of this study were to
evaluate survival of deciduous trees in a highway environment, and explore Geohumus®,
a media amendment for reducing water stress, for increasing out-plant survival and tree
growth.
Three gallon containerized liners of Red Maple Acer rubrum, White-barked Himalayan
Birch Betula jacquemontii, Hackberry Celtis occidentalis, and Japanese Tree Lilac
Syringa amurensis ‘Japonica’ were installed June of 2011, in two sites at the intersection
of Interstate 270 and Hamilton Road in Gahanna, Ohio. Trees received one of four levels
of Geohumus®. Measurements (caliper (mm) and overall height (cm)) were taken 0, 16,
and 55 weeks after planting (WAP). Viability was evaluated 47 WAP, as a rated score 0
– 5 (0 being completely healthy alive and 5 being completely dead).
Of 372 trees 47 WAP, Syringa had the highest survival rate (91.3%). Acer (-10.9%)
Betula (-31.1%) and Celtis (-5%) had decreased survival rates when compared with
Syringa Poor drainage and soil conditions may have caused these survival differences.
Syringa had a19% (0 WAP) increase in overall height, with 1% Geohumus® compared
with 0% Geohumus®, suggesting 1% Geohumus® may be aiding in Syringa growth in
the production phase.
- 21 -
Abstract #2.
Phytochemical trafficking of Anthocyanins in Arabidopsis thaliana cells
Category: Oral Proposal
Andres Bohorquez-Restrepo
Anthocyanins are phytochemicals that belong to the secondary metabolite family of
flavonoids and include the red-to-blue pigments present in many organs of plants,
occuring naturally during plant development or under biotic and abiotic stress
conditions. Flavonoids have been widely studied, but little is known about the
subcellular mechanisms involving the anthocyanins trafficking from their site of
biosynthesis (ER) to the vacuole. Even less is known about the anthocyanin vacuolar
inclusions (AVIs) or their relation to transport mechanisms. These intravacuolar
bodies have been found in different organs of many plant species including
Arabidopsis thaliana but very little is known about its formation, compostition and
the biological significance. The purpose of my research is to understand the nature of
the AVIs and their relationship to anthocyanin’s transport and accumulation
mechanisms inside and outside the vacuole, using anthocyanin inductive conditions in
which Arabidopsis accumulates high levels of anthocyanins combined with chemical
complementation of mutants of early steps in the flavonoid pathway to control flux of
metabolites. Together with this I will fractionate the cell compartments in which
anthocyanins and precursors are, hoping to identify the compounds that are key for
the transport to the vacuole. The information obtained from this research will be
valuable for the understanding of how chemicals are transported inside cells and the
cellular processes involved, not to mention its importance for applied purposes in
fields such as metabolic engineering.
- 22 -
Abstract #3.
Virus-Induced Gene Silencing optimization in petunia
Category: Oral – PhD Research
Shaun Broderick
Virus-Induced Gene Silencing (VIGS) is a molecular tool that can be used to down
regulate genes of interest within plants. The efficiency of VIGS is dependent on the
proliferation of viral infection and systemic movement. Although VIGS has been
successfully used in petunia (Petunia x hybrida), it has not been thoroughly optimized.
Here we report the findings of VIGS optimization using the Tobacco Rattle Virus (TRV)
in four areas: 1) inoculating methods, 2) evaluating petunia cultivars, 3) measuring
silencing efficiencies among plants grown under three different growing temperatures,
and 4) developing a control that overcomes the empty vector viral symptoms. From our
research, we utilized a simple shoot apical meristem inoculation method that was both
effective and consistent in silencing. From an evaluation of 11 species, we identified a
compact petunia variety, 'Picobella Blue,' that exhibited a 1.8-fold higher efficiency in
chalcone synthase silencing than any other variety tested. We also determined that 20 °C
daytime temperatures induced stronger gene silencing than 23 °C and 26 °C daytime
temperatures (at 18 °C night temperatures). Severe viral symptoms of the empty vector
control confounded experimental results. We created a recombinant TRV vector
containing a fragment of the green fluorescent protein gene which eliminated viral
symptoms and served as a viable control. These results demonstrate that we developed an
efficient method of VIGS for petunia that is both simple and consistent. We will use this
method for high throughput characterization of genes associated with senescence and
postproduction quality.
- 23 -
Abstract #4.
Epistatic interaction of three major fruit shape genes controlling tomato fruit
elongation
Category: Oral-MS Research
Josh Clevenger, Shan Wu, Liang Sun, Sofia Visa, Esther van der Knaap
Tomato exhibits a large diversity of fruit shape and size. Aspects of fruit shape
inform how the fruit will be used. Processing tomatoes are typically rectangular for
ease of harvest and processing whereas fresh market, slicing tomatoes have a round to
flat shape. Three major fruit shape QTLs have been identified and two, SUN and
OVATE, have been cloned. Fs8.1 has been mapped to short arm of chromosome 8.
In order to study the interaction of these genes in controlling fruit shape, we have
constructed Near Isogenic Lines (NILs) in the wild species background (Solanum
pimpinellifollium). Plants representing all genotypic classes of SUN, OVATE, and
fs8.1 were planted in the field in a completely random design and evaluated for fruit
size and shape. We show that all three genes control fruit shape in an additive
manner, and SUN exhibits additive-by-additive interaction with OVATE and fs8.1 in
controlling fruit shape. All three genes together made a significantly longer fruit than
alone or in combination with another gene. Using an unbiased classification using
Elliptic Fourier Coefficients and unsupervised Bayesian clustering we further show
that all 27 genotypes produce fruit shapes that can be assigned to six distinct classes,
and that membership of these genotypes to these classes reinforces the genetic data.
These data are useful to inform selection of these genes into breeding programs.
- 24 -
Abstract #5.
Identification of gene and metabolite regulatory networks during early fruit
development in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum): The effect of SUN on early fruit
development
Category: Poster-MS
Josh Clevenger, Gustavo Rodriguez, Jason Van Houten, Myako Kusano, Kazuki
Saito, Esther van der Knaap
SUN is a major fruit shape gene controlling fruit elongation. The mutation arose from a
retrotransposon-mediated duplication of a 24.7 kb locus from chromosome 10 to
chromosome 7 in which SUN was putatively placed under control the promoter of
DEFL1, causing SUN to be highly expressed in the developing tomato fruit. Currently, it
is not fully known how SUN controls fruit elongation at the molecular level. We used
metabolite and gene profiling during early fruit development to infer metabolite and gene
regulatory networks and compare how these networks relate in round and elongated fruit.
Near Isogenic Lines (NILs) isogenic for SUN in the cultivated background were grown in
a completely randomized design in the greenhouse. Individual fruits were harvested at 4,
7, and 10 days post anthesis (dpa) and septum, seed, and pericarp tissue were isolated and
analyzed for primary metabolites and gene expression. Metabolite and gene expression
values were normalized using their Z-score and expression profiles were clustered using
an unsupervised Bayesian algorithm. Clusters were verified using Pearson’s correlation
coefficient. Three separate analyses were performed: metabolite accumulation, gene
expression and combined, and networks were compared between round and elongated
fruit. We identified distinct metabolite and gene expression regulatory networks, and
found that new associations were made in elongated fruit. These data provide new
insight into how SUN regulates fruit elongation.
- 25 -
Abstract #6.
Airborne Transport of Coliforms from Liquid Bovine Manure to Lettuce
(Lactuca sativa) and Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) Surfaces: Developing a
New Food Safety Standard
Category: Oral Proposal
Julia DeNiro
Foodborne illness resulting from contaminated fresh fruits and vegetables has become
an increasingly critical issue in the last few years. Many studies have demonstrated
that pathogens from raw manure spread on soil are transferred to the surface of these
fruits and vegetables. However, only a few experiments have investigated airborne
contamination of fresh produce, and none has focused on manure droplets as a source.
The proposed experiment is designed to determine if foodborne pathogens found in
raw manure, specifically coliforms, thrive on vegetable surfaces, as well as to
calculate how far manure is carried due to prevailing wind and air conditions. We
will place nutrient agar plates 15 m upwind and 5, 15, 30, and 122 m downwind from
the manure source and determine microbial counts of coliforms in colony-forming
units (CFU/m3) on the plates using the standard plate count technique. In addition,
we will plant lettuce and tomatoes and measure coliform counts, using the same
procedure, on lettuce leaves and tomato fruits. It is predicted that the plates and
vegetables closest to the contamination source will receive the highest proportion of
airborne manure and will therefore have the highest counts of coliforms in CFU/m3.
From our results, we hope to determine a standard safe distance from a contamination
source at which to plant produce.
- 26 -
Abstract #7.
Use of the seedling triple response to evaluate ethylene sensitivity of floricultural
crops
Category: Oral-MS Research
Nichole Edelman
Ethylene (C2H4) is a gaseous hormone that is produced by plants during development and
in response to stress.
Ethylene causes accelerated leaf and flower senescence or
abscission, which reduces the quality of floriculture crops.
This damage depends on a
plant’s sensitivity to ethylene; therefore it is important to know how sensitive various
species are to ethylene.
Typical screening for ethylene sensitivity is performed on
mature plants at the marketable stage. The industry currently does not have a
standardized method of testing plants for ethylene sensitivity, and evaluating mature
plants takes a lot of time and growing space. Researchers have identified many ethylene
mutants using seedling screens, and we would like to develop a seedling screen for
evaluating new plant introductions.
Seedlings grown in ethylene exhibit the triple
response, which includes an exaggerated apical hook, thickened hypocotyl, and reduced
stem elongation. This seedling screen takes only 7-14 days. I am currently researching
the development of standardized conditions for testing ethylene sensitivity at both the
seedling and mature level in 18 common bedding plant species. This will determine if
seedling sensitivity correlates with ethylene sensitivity at the marketable stage, and if the
seedling assay will provide an accurate and high throughput means of screening new
plant introductions. Based on my results, I have been able to use the seedling assay to
categorized plants into four categories: insensitive, low, medium, and high sensitivity.
Ethylene sensitivity does not always match between seedling and mature plants,
indicating that developmental stage influences ethylene sensitivity.
- 27 -
Abstract #8.
Tree Liner Production in Columbus, Ohio
Category: Poster-PhD
Phoebe E. Gordon, Hannah M. Mathers
Tree liner production in Ohio is at a disadvantage when compared to the Pacific
Northwest, where most of the trees planted in North America originate, due to the
much shorter growing season. Air pruning pots, which induce lateral branching by
introducing a root tip to air, have in some cases been shown to increase plant size.
Geohumus ®, a water retention substance new to market, has the potential to reduce
plant stress in production during the hottest months of the year. In February 2011,
two species, Gleditsia triacanthos and Platanus occidentalis were started from seed
and grown for six weeks in five different starting pot types, with one control that did
not prune the root systems, before being up-shifted to 3-gallon sized containers.
Heights were measured at the time of upshifting. At this time, Geohumus was added
in three different concentrations, with a control of no Geohumus. The plants were
separated between two environments, a Retractable Roof Greenhouse and an
uncovered hoop house. They were grown for one year, and harvested. Height,
caliper, shoot weight, leaf weight, leaf area, leaf count, and root weight were obtained
and analyzed using an ANOVA procedure in SAS. Starting pot type influenced G.
triacanthos height at the time of up-shifting, though these differences disappeared at
final harvest.
Geohumus decreased the shoot:root ratio in G. triacanthos.
P.
occidentalis had an almost significant effect (p = 0.0557) of a decreased stem water
content with increasing levels of Geohumus.
- 28 -
Abstract #9.
Evaluation of Genomic Selection and Comparison of GS Models for Grain Yield
in Soft Red Winter Wheat
Category: Oral-PhD Research
A.L. Hoffstetter, C.H. Sneller, A. Cabrera
Wheat is one of three main cereals that feed the world and over 600 million tons are
harvested annually worldwide. Grain yield of wheat is a quantitatively inherited trait
controlled by many genes with small effects making it difficult to improve with
phenotypic selection (PS) and marker assisted selection (MAS). A cycle of PS for yield
in winter wheat can take seven years and cost $325 USD to phenotype one line.
Genomic selection (GS) is a breeding strategy developed to shorted the breeding cycle
and overcome the limitations of MAS by combining alleles with small effects. GS uses a
training population of individuals with phenotypic and genotypic data to develop a model
to predict future performance of progeny. The objective of this study was to compare
models of GS for their ability to predict breeding values of individuals and to assess
relative efficiency (RE) of GS. A population of 400 lines was phenotyped for yield
(h2=0.61) in five environments and genotyped with 1,820 DArT markers. The models
included: ridge regression BLUPS which assumes all markers have the same variance
and, Bayes A that allows marker variances to be specific and follow a prior distribution.
The correlation of the phenotypes with RR-BLUPS and Bayes A were 0.72 and 0.68
respectively. The RE for RR-BLUPS and Bayes A was 0.92 and 0.87 respectively. RRBLUPS and Bayes A appear very similar. The RE’s show that GS has the potential to be
an efficient alternative to PS for improving wheat yield.
- 29 -
Abstract #10.
Phenolic Production in Callus Culture of Burdock (Arctium lappa L.)
Category: Oral-MS Research
Bizhen Hu, Joseph C. Scheerens, John J. Finer, John Cardina
Use of plant secondary products for pharmaceutical applications has received
increasing attention. Burdock (Arctium lappa L.) has been used as a folk medicine for
treatments of burns, and phenolics in burdock leaves are the potential medically
useful compounds for burn treatment. Levels of biochemical accumulation of
secondary products in source plants can vary due to inconsistencies in environment
and genetics. Plant tissue culture can be used to efficiently increase homogeneous
plant material with superior metabolite profiles for use in clinical studies. Methyl
Jasmonate (MeJA) and high concentrations of sucrose applied in plant tissue culture
generally results in higher secondary metabolite accumulation. This research is aimed
at developing an efficient method for burdock phenolic production in vitro. Callus
culture was initiated from burdock leaves and cultured on media supplemented with
different concentrations of MeJA and sucrose. Phenolics were extracted from callus,
quantified, and qualified by HPLC and LC-MS over various time intervals. Results
showed that MeJA and high levels of sucrose in media significantly increased
phenolic content in burdock callus, but reduced callus growth. Burdock callus
cultured on media supplemented with 0.1 mM MeJA and 30 g/L sucrose resulted in
the highest phenolic production. Our data suggest that callus culture is a way to
produce medicinally phenolics from burdock, and provides a stable source for
practical application of burdock phenolics to treat burns.
- 30 -
Abstract #11.
Grafting success between tomato rootstock and scion is improved using
cyanoacrylate adhesives
Category: Oral-MS Research
Nancy Huarachi Morejon, David M. Francis
The study was carried out to determinate the effects of different methods and rootstock
genotypes on the success of grafting annual vegetables. Nine different rootstocks were
used including accessions of the wild species S. pimpinellifolium (LA1589) (and S.
habrochaites (an inbred selection from LA2204). We also included a processing variety,
FG02-188 (S. lycopersicum); an unimproved variety Hawaii 7998 (H7998); hybrids
derived from crossing these parents (SGH07-316, SGH07-315, SGH07-320, SGH07326); and a commercial rootstock (Maxifort). The experiment was repeated over time,
with five replicates. Tube grafting, a widely used method, was compared to grafting using
cyanoacrylate adhesive. The scion used was Cherokee purple, an heirloom variety. The
success of grafting was significantly affected by the rootstock genotype and the method
used (P≤0.05). The rootstocks SGH07-315 and Maxifort showed higher grafting success
over all the experiments and methods. The highest grafting success was 76% for SGH07315. The lowest success was 42% for SGH07-326, a hybrid with H7998 as a parent.
Success for H7998 was also low, suggesting that this parent contributed to poor scionrootstock compatibility. Using adhesives in the grafting process had the highest
percentage of success, with a survival rate of 66 % over all the genotypes and
experiments. Success of grafting SGH07-315 and Maxifort improved to 78 % and 81%
by using adhesives. Grafting success is therefore dependent on the choice of rootstock
and can be improved by using adhesives.
- 31 -
Abstract #12.
Transgene Risk Assessment in Taraxacum kok-saghyz
Category: Poster-PhD
Brian Iaffaldano
Taraxacum kok-saghyz (Buckeye Gold) is a promising domestic source of natural
rubber, for which there is a growing demand. However, T. kok-saghyz competes
poorly with weeds and requires transgenic herbicide resistance in order to be
agronomically viable.
This raises the concern of transgene introgression into the
ubiquitous weedy dandelion, Taraxacum officinale (Common Dandelion). As broad
interspecific crosses have been demonstrated in Taraxacum, there is a potential risk of
transgene introgression that must be evaluated before transgenic, T. kok-saghyz can
be deployed. T. officinale can exist both as a diploid sexual and a triploid obligate
apomict, with the former posing a much greater risk of interspecific gene flow, as it
can act as a pollen donor and recipient in hybridization events, while the triploid
cytotype produces unbalanced gametes and can only act as a pollen donor. In order to
evaluate risk, the ploidy level of T. officinale has been characterized in North
America. Of the 200 North American T. officinale accessions analyzed by Flow
Cytometric Seed Screening (FCSS), all have proven to be triploids, indicating that
pollen mediated gene flow may be limited. Additionally, controlled crosses between
T. kok-saghyz and triploid T. officinale have been conducted, with T. kok-saghyz
rarely setting viable seed. In order to evaluate if the progeny of such crosses are true
hybrids, putative interspecific SNPs have been discovered at 25 loci utilizing
publically available EST resources. Further work will evaluate the parentage and
fitness of putative hybrids, as well as their ability to backcross with T. officinale.
- 32 -
Abstract #13.
Identification of PP2A as a putative target of AvrE-family type III effector
proteins
Category: Oral-PhD Research
Lin Jin
Type III effector proteins, which are translocated into plant cells by Gram-negative
bacteria via type III secretion system, perturb cellular processes in order to promote
bacterial growth and suppress plant defense responses. Members of the AvrE-family type
III effector proteins, are found in various pathogenic bacteria whose hosts range from
monocots to dicots. Although the AvrE effectors make key contributions to the virulence
of these bacterial pathogens, the mechanism of how these effector proteins work remains
enigmatic.
Previous study of WtsE, an AvrE-family type III effector protein of a maize pathogen
Pantoea Stewartii, has revealed maize PP2A B’ regulatory subunits as potential
interactors of WtsE. To extend the study into a more tractable model system, we will
examine the function of AvrE1, an AvrE-family type III effector of Pseudomonas
syringae, in Arabidopsis thaliana.
So far, preliminary data shows:
1. Pseudomonas infection alters some Arabidopsis PP2A B’ subunit gene expression;
2. BiFC experiment suggests interactions between AvrE1 fragments with candidate B’
subunit proteins.
3. AvrE1 lost its function to promote bacterial growth and suppress basal defense in
several Arabidopsis pp2a mutants;
Our long term goals are to:
1. Assess the regulation of PP2A subcellular localization during pathogen infection;
2. Examine PP2A phosphatase activity in response to AvrE1 effector protein;
3. Determine the role of PP2A in AvrE1 virulence function.
By assembling a picture of how AvrE-family effectors function within plant cells, we will
take a fundamental step towards disease control against pathogens that deploy a member
of this effector family.
- 33 -
Abstract #14.
Comparative Study of Quantitative Trait Loci for Partial Resistance to
Phytophthora sojae in Six Recombinant Inbred Populations Sharing a
Common Parent
Category: Poster-PhD
Sungwoo Lee1, Rouf Mian1,3, Leah McHale1, Clay Sneller1, Anne Dorrance3
1
Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, The Ohio State University/OARDC,
OH, USA
2
Department of Plant Pathology, The Ohio State University/OARDC, OH, USA
3
Corn and Soybean Unit, USDA-ARS, OH, USA
The dynamic evolution of Phytophthora sojae populations has emphasized the
importance of utilizing partial resistance (PR) to manage Phytophthora root and stem
rot caused by P. sojae. Since PR is effective to a wide range of strains, integration of
partial resistance with R-gene mediated resistance is considered to be durable an
effective defense. Only a few genetic sources were characterized for quantitative
disease resistance loci (QDRL) to P. sojae, thus it is important to characterize
additional sources for a better understanding of this trait. The objectives were to
identify and compare QDRL to P. sojae in six recombinant inbred populations
derived from crosses between a common parent OX20-8 and six exotic germplasm
originating from East Asia. The populations were evaluated for the PR based on
either the lesion length or root rot score following P. sojae inoculation. A total of 50
QDRL were identified in 25 genomic regions, including several loci repeatedly
detected in multiple populations. Some of these QDRL were novel and distinct from
those reported previously. The majority of the 50 QDRL identified in this study colocalized to R-gene rich regions or QDRL for other pathogens. The largest effect
QDRL was identified on chromosome 18 from two soybean accessions from China;
explained over 30% of phenotypic variance. Genetic characterization of these
resistant genotypes for the PR will inform breeders’ decisions in selecting resistant
germplasm for the improvement of partial resistance to P. sojae and for the expansion
of the narrow genetic base of soybean cultivars in North America.
- 34 -
Abstract #15.
Allelic variation for high beta carotene and strategies for nutritional
improvement of tomato
Category: Oral Proposal
Caleb Orchard, Sung-chur Sim, David Francis
Beta-carotene is an important carotenoid due to its antioxidant properties as well as its
pro-vitamin A activity. Therefore understanding how plants produce various amounts of
beta-carotene may have implications for human health. Tomato is an excellent source of
beta-carotene and different levels of this nutrient are easily visualized in tomato fruit. The
B gene controls lycopene-B-cyclase, the enzyme responsible for converting translycopene to beta-carotene in the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway. Previous research
suggests that the promoter of the B gene may be a crucial component for understanding
beta-carotene synthesis in tomato. We hypothesize that variation within the promoter
region of B in three tomato varieties will result in differing levels of beta-carotene in
tomato fruit. Sequencing has revealed five unique promoter elements, three of which
occur in high beta carotene varieties. An accelerated backcross strategy consisting of
background genome selection based on molecular markers will be utilized to introgress
favorable alleles of B into elite processing tomato varieties. Field trials in multiple
environments on the resulting lines will be conducted and beta-carotene content of fruit
will be measured using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Investigating
variation that exists in tomato with respect to beta-carotene may allow for the
manipulation of carotenoid production and further enhance tomato's use as a bio-fortified
crop.
- 35 -
Abstract #16.
Investigations into Glyphosate-Resistant Common Ragweed
Category: Poster-PhD
Jason Parrish
A greenhouse study was conducted to determine the level of glyphosate resistance in
a common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) population from southwestern Ohio. In
2010, common ragweed seedlings grown from seeds collected from a suspect
glyphosate-resistant population near Midland, OH were treated with glyphosate in the
greenhouse to select for resistant individuals. These were separated into two groups
based upon degree of regrowth, and pollinated as 2 separate populations, R1 and R2.
A greenhouse dose-response study was conducted in 2011 to evaluate the response of
these progeny to glyphosate, relative to two putative glyphosate-sensitive
populations, S1 and S2. Visual estimates of injury occurred 14 and 21 days after
treatment (DAT), and biomass based on fresh weight was measured 21 DAT.
Glyphosate rates were 0.0084, 0.042, 0.084, 0.21, 0.42, 0.84, 1.68, 3.36, 8.4, 16.8,
and 42 kg acid equivalent (ae) ha-1. Data were subjected to regression analysis with a
4-parameter logistic curve in SigmaPlot, including calculation of I50’s.
For the
resistant population(s), the calculated glyphosate rate required to cause 50% reduction
in fresh weight (I50) was 0.28 and 0.24 kg ae ha-1 for R1 and R2 respectively.
Calculated I50’s for S1 and S2 were 0.074 and 0.044 kg ae ha-1 respectively. This
correlates well with I50‘s from 21 DAT visual data for R1 and R2 of 0.26 and 0.24 kg
ae ha-1 and for S1 and S2 of 0.059 and 0.036 kg ae ha-1.
- 36 -
Abstract #17.
Combined Cover Crop with Newspaper Sheet Mulch for Weed Management in
Collards
Category: Oral-MS Research
Nick Read
Black plastic, unprinted newspaper sheeting, cover crop, and combinations of these
treatments were evaluated during 2011 and 2012 in Columbus, OH for their effects on
weed suppression, soil moisture, soil temperature, and yield of collards. The cover crop
treatment consisted of a mixture of cowpea and buckwheat planted prior to collards. In
comparing the performance of the mulches on weed suppression, treatments including the
black plastic and the newspaper+cover crop mulch were more effective in suppressing
weeds than the newspaper alone and the cover crop mulch alone. Newspaper mulch alone
was compromised where soil surface was uneven and where plants underneath ruptured
the paper. Based on time required to remove weed escapes in subplots, our study
indicated that any mulch barrier that impeded initial weed establishment would
significantly reduce weeding costs compared to the no-mulch control. However, in the
newspaper mulch treatments, weeding may be necessary only if other factors such as
aesthetics or preventing weed seed production are the objective. Initial collard yields
(first harvest) were greatest in the newspaper treatments. Later harvests indicated that
collard yields among mulched treatments, with the exception of the cover crop mulch,
were not significantly different. Soil moisture levels were lowest and soil temperatures
were highest in the black plastic treatments. Our overall results indicated that newspaper
has the potential to be an effective mulching material depending on the surface to which
it is applied and the environmental conditions to which it is exposed after application.
- 37 -
Abstract #18.
Mulch Effects on Squash and Pollinator (Peponapis Pruinosa) Performance
Category: Poster-MS
Caitlin Splawski, E. E. Regnier, S. K. Harrison, M. A. Bennett, J. D. Metzger
Cucurbita pepo has a high pollination demand and the native, ground-nesting bee,
Peponapis pruinosa, provides majority of the crops' pollination requirement. P.
pruinosa also tends to nest directly in crop fields and can be negatively affected by
some weed control techniques such as herbicide use or tillage. Mulch used on the soil
surface to act as a physical barrier to the emergence of weeds is one alternative weed
management strategy.
Few studies have investigated the effects of mulches on
beneficial insects such as pollinators. However, some studies on insect pests and
predators suggest that mulch composition can affect insect populations. Polyethylene
black plastic, woodchips, shredded newspaper, a combination of shredded newspaper
plus grass clippings, and bare soil were evaluated for their effects on crop pollination,
soil characteristics, weed abundance, and overall crop performance. Woodchips,
shredded newspaper, and newspaper+grass had an insulating effect on soil
temperature while newspaper+grass better conserved soil moisture. Black plastic and
woodchips generated the highest percentage of misshapen fruits, an indication of poor
pollination. However, no measurable differences in floral resource production were
found. Nests were located within bare, newspaper, and newspaper+grass plots, so P.
pruinosa nesting was not impeded by these mulches. Newspaper+grass mulch had a
positive effect on plant growth and fruit production presumably from an addition of
plant-available nitrogen. Shredded newspaper when combined with grass clippings
performed as an effective mulch material in suppressing weeds and positively
affecting crop performance with no apparent negative impacts on P. pruinosa nesting
or crop pollination.
- 38 -
Abstract #19.
A study of SUN and OVATE in controlling apical-basal patterning of tomato
fruit
Category: Poster-PhD
Shan Wu, Esther van der Knaap
Genes controlling tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruit morphology offer important
insights into the molecular events happened during domestication, as well the
mechanisms by which the organ shape and size are realized. SUN and OVATE are two of
the major genes that control fruit patterning along the apical-basal axis. The expression
level of SUN is positively correlated with elongated fruit shape. A mutation causing Cterminal truncation of OVATE protein results in elongated or pear-shaped fruit.
Overexpressing SUN leads to fruit neck outgrowth resembling the pear-shape phenotype
caused by ovate, indicating high level of SUN expression may disturb the normal function
of OVATE. However, the nature of the interaction between SUN and OVATE is unknown.
To examine whether fruit shape is synergistically controlled by sun and ovate, we
developed Near Isogenic Lines (NILs) that differ at the sun and/or ovate loci. We found
that in the presence of sun, ovate exhibited an enhanced effect on fruit proximal end
elongation. Our analysis suggests SUN plays a role in redistribution of fruit mass before
and shortly after fertilization, and ovate contributes to neck elongation starting early
during flower development. RNA in situ hybridization showed that OVATE was highly
expressed in floral meristems and organ primordia. In order to explore the candidate
target genes of OVATE and SUN in a global manner, we performed an RNA-seq analysis
using young flowers from the sun-ovate NILs. This analysis provides basis for further
study of the underlying mechanisms of SUN and OVATE in controlling fruit elongation.
- 39 -
Abstract #20.
Novel sources of resistance to Maize rayado fino virus
Category: Oral-PhD Research
Jose Zambrano Mendoza, David Francis, Margaret Redinbaugh
Maize rayado fino virus (MRFV) is one of the most important maize virus diseases in
the Americas. Yield losses up to 100% have been reported. Genetic resistance to
MRFV is scarce and has been found mainly in tropical heterogeneous landraces or
open pollinated cultivars. In order to identify novel sources of resistance, the founders
of the maize Nested Association Mapping (NAM) population, and other temperate
and tropical inbred lines from the USDA, ARS Corn Research Unit (Wooster, OH)
and the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT, Mexico)
were evaluated. A viruliferous Dalbulus maidis colony, originally from California,
was used to inoculate six days old maize seedlings with a Texas MRFV isolate.
Beginning seven days post inoculation, disease incidence (percentage of infected
plants) and severity (0 to 5 scale, where 0 = resistant, and 5 = fully susceptible) were
evaluated. Most of the lines were susceptible to MRFV, with disease incidence and
severity ranging from 21 to 96% and 1.0 to 4.3, respectively. A few genotypes,
including CML333 and Ki11, showed intermediate levels of resistance, with 14 and
10% incidence, respectively. Novel sources of resistance, with less than 5% of
incidence and severity ratings of 0.4 or less, included inbred lines Oh1VI, CML287,
and Cuba. The discovery of novel sources of resistance in inbred lines adapted to
temperate and tropical regions will facilitate the identification of resistance genes and
their use in breeding programs.
- 40 -
Abstract #21.
Isolation and Characterization of “GmScream” Promoters from HighlyExpressing Soybean (Glycine max) Genes
Category: Oral Proposal
Ning Zhang
Soybean is one of the most important crops in the world, with the largest acreage of
transgenics than any other crops. All transgenes consist of a gene of interest, along with a
promoter and terminator, which both regulate the gene of interest. The promoter may be
the most important component of gene regulation and largely determines the level and
specificity of gene expression. With the generation of novel soybean transgenics for both
basic and applied research, it is important to identify new promoters from soybean, which
could be used to regulate various genes of interest. Moreover, identification of novel
promoters is especially important for stacked transgenes, which require different
promoters to regulate each coding region. However, only a few soybean promoters have
been isolated and characterized and little is known about the regulatory elements which
make up soybean promoters. As highly-expressed genes should be driven by strong
promoters, we aimed to identify strong promoters from candidate genes which were
highly expressed. Promoters will be evaluated using three different validation tools, and
regulatory elements within those strong promoters will be identified and selected for
further analysis. Tetramers of the regulatory elements will be generated, fused to a
minimal promoter, and gene expression strength will be evaluated using both transient
and stable expression. We expect to generate a range of strong native soybean promoters
as well as identify the elements that contribute to high levels of gene expression.
- 41 -
Abstract #22.
Seasonal Changes of Freezing Tolerance, Water Content, and Soluble Sugars
in Buds of ‘Cabernet franc’ Grapevines in Response to Exogenous Abscisic
Acid
Category: Oral-PhD Research
Yi Zhang, Imed Dami
Currently, the effect of abscisic acid (ABA) on the freezing tolerance (FT) of
grapevines is unknown. The goal of this study is to improve the FT of grapevine
using exogenous ABA. Previous work indicated that exogenous ABA application can
advance cold acclimation of grapevines, which resulted in morphological,
physiological, and biochemical changes that led to increased FT. In this study, it is
hypothesized that ABA is associated with bud desiccation and soluble sugar
accumulation which results in increased FT. The specific objectives were to 1)
evaluate the seasonal changes in FT, water content, and soluble sugar concentration in
grapevine buds; 2) determine the correlations between FT, water content and soluble
sugar concentration. ABA was applied on ‘Cabernet Franc’ grapevines grown in the
vineyard in 2010. The buds were collected monthly from September 2010 to January
2011 for freezing tests and measurements of water content and soluble sugars.
Thermal analysis and gas chromatography were used to measure FT and soluble sugar
concentration, respectively. ABA treatment increased the FT of grapevine buds; there
were significant correlations between FT, water content, and total soluble sugar
concentration. Raffinose correlated with bud desiccation and FT during the
acclimation stage, but not in mid-winter. Therefore, it is suggested that raffinose may
play a more important role in desiccation tolerance than in FT. The field results
provided physiological and biochemical evidence supporting our previous greenhouse
findings.
- 42 -
Abstract #23.
Sequencing and Comparative Analysis of the Chloroplast Genome of
Buckeye Gold (Taraxacum kok-saghyz)
Category: Poster-PhD
Yingxiao Zhang
Buckeye gold (Taraxacum kok-saghyz, also known as Russian dandelion) is one
important alternative source for high quality, natural rubber. Buckeye gold can adapt to
moderate climate and be developed as a novel crop in Ohio. The chloroplast genome
sequence is essential for identifying insertion sites for chloroplast engineering, barcode
analysis for species and line differentiation, as well as maternal gene flow detection
through chloroplast markers. To this end, chloroplast DNA was extracted using a
modified method, which removed high content latex and polysaccharides, yielding pure
DNA. The chloroplast genome was sequenced using the Illumina GAII platform and then
subjected to a BLAST with four other members of the Asteraceae family. Genome
annotation was achieved by the Dual Organellar Genome Annotator (DOGMA). The
chloroplast sequence of Buckeye gold consists of one small single copy region and one
large single copy region, separated by duplicated inverted repeats. The sequence shares
high homology with other members of the Asteraceae family. There are 149 genes found
in the genome, including 101 genes coding proteins as well as 40 and 8 genes for tRNA
and rRNA, respectively. Primers for chloroplast-specific barcode have been designed to
differentiate Taraxacum species and lines. The chloroplast genome sequence of Buckeye
gold will be further used to amplify regions flanking insertion sites, which will be ligated
with constructs to improve rubber yield and herbicide resistance. The constructs will be
used for chloroplast transformation, which is an eco-friendly approach for crop
modification because of the maternal inheritance of the chloroplast.
- 43 -
Abstract #24.
Plant regeneration in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) via adventitious
shoot induction from leaves
Category: Oral-PhD Research
Zhifen Zhang, John Finer
Gene introduction in plants is useful for both basic research and crop improvement.
Application of transformation technology to sunflower first requires a reliable and
efficient means for generating a whole plant from a single transformed cell. Although
shoot induction from sunflower cotyledonary tissues has been obtained, recovery of
transgenic plants from these cells remains low. We present a new approach for
sunflower regeneration using primary leaves of sunflower seedlings to induce shoots.
Seeds of RHA280 line were germinated on a medium containing Murashige-Skoog
salts and added cytokinins. When primary leaves of 7-day-old seedlings were excised
and placed on shoot induction medium containing cytokinins, adventitious shoots
were observed within 14-21 days. The presence of cytokinin during germination and
shoot induction significantly improved the regeneration rate and number of
adventitious shoots per explants. The effects of five different cytokinins (2ip, BA,
kinetin, TDZ, zeatin) at three different levels, 6.6, 20, 60 µM, in germination medium
were evaluated in a completely randomized design. TDZ gave the highest
regeneration rate and shoot number across three different levels, followed by BA. .
Plants were recovered by micro-grafting. This is the first report showing shoot
recovery from sunflower primary leaves, following germination of seeds on
cytokinin-containing media. The formation of adventitious shoots on leaves may
provide an alternative regeneration system that can be integrated with sunflower
transformation via Agro-infiltration to generate transgenic plants.
- 44 -
Abstract #25.
Convert inulin to rubber precursor in kazak dandelion
Category: Poster-PhD
Lu Zhao1, Zhenyu Li1, Jinshan Lin1, Wenshuang Xie1, Joshua Blakeslee1,
Stephen B. Ryu2, Katrina Cornish1
1
Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, The Ohio State University-OARDC,
1680 Madison Ave, Wooster, OH 44691, USA. 2 Korea Research Institute of Bioscience
and Biotechnology, 111 Gwahangno, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-806, KOREA.
Due to the high demand of natural rubber, Taraxacum kok-saghyz (TKS) has become a
promising alternative crop. In addition to rubber, TKS root also contains inulin, a storage
carbohydrate. Based on previous studies, we hypothesize that substrates released from
inulin dissimilation are used for rubber synthesis. My project targets on genetically
modifying TKS to allow more inulin to be converted into rubber precursor. As a
foundation, we have established two TKS transformation protocols with TKS line
KAZ08-017 and KAZ08-015 seedlings. Traditional transformation was achieved by
inoculating TKS leaf disc with Agrobacterium tumefaciens GV3101 carrying constructs
with bar gene selection marker. The conditions for transgenic TKS selection and
regeneration have been refined. Transgenic TKS plants resistant to glufosinate are
obtained and transgene is confirmed by analyzing extracted genomic DNA with PCR. In
addition, to allow more efficient verification of transgenes in TKS roots, a hairy root
transformation system was developed. Agrobacterium rhizogenes K599 carrying
construct with gfp reporter gene was inoculated to TKS seedling radical with roots
removed. TKS hairy root system was established, as the expression of the GFP was
confirmed by visualizing regenerated root under UV light. Aside from our original
purpose, this also opens up the possibility of introducing transgenes while boosting the
root yield. Subsequently, TKS plants with transgenes involved in rubber biosynthesis will
be generated. The transgenic TKS will then be transferred into a hydroponic system to
allow constant monitoring of root development and rapid selection for rubber analysis.
- 45 -
Abstract #26.
Convert inulin to rubber precursor in kazak dandelion
Category: Oral-Proposal
Lu Zhao, Stephen B. Ryu, Katrina Cornish
1
Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, The Ohio State University-OARDC,
1680 Madison Ave, Wooster, OH 44691, USA. 2 Korea Research Institute of
Bioscience and Biotechnology, 111 Gwahangno, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-806,
KOREA.
Taraxacum kok-saghyz (TKS) is a promising alternative natural rubber crop. In
addition to high quality rubber, TKS root also contains inulin, a storage carbohydrate.
Previous studies indicated that TKS roots contain less rubber in the fall than in the
ensuing spring. Moreover, an inverse correlation between inulin and rubber content
was observed amongst TKS varieties. Therefore, we hypothesize that substrates
released from inulin dissimilation are used for rubber synthesis. This raises interest in
converting inulin in advance to increase rubber yield and allow autumn harvest. In
this study, we will employ genetic engineering to boost inulin degradation or block
inulin synthesis to release the photosynthetic products. To ensure that most of these
liberated substrates are redirected to rubber synthesis, we will up-regulate the key
enzyme involved in biosynthesis of isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP), the monomeric
precursor of rubber. First, a hairy root transformation system for TKS will be
developed. This allows more efficient verification of transgenes. Two TKS lines
KAZ08-017 and KAZ08-15, representing high and low rubber content respectively,
will serve as plant material. The constructs carrying fructan exohydrolase (FEH) gene
and 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGR) gene will be transformed.
FEH is responsible for inulin degradation, and HMGR is the rate-limiting enzyme for
IPP biosynthesis through mevalonate pathway. Alternative to introducing FEH,
sucrose-sucrose 1-fructosyltranferase (SST) and fructan-fructan 1-fructosyltransfease
(FFT) responsible for inulin synthesis will be knocked out by laticiferous tissue
specific RNA interference. The putative transformants will be analyzed by GC-MS,
LC-MS and HPLC for latex content or other interested secondary metabolites.
- 46 -
Non-Competition Abstracts
Abstract #27.
An overview of interspecific hybridization among the Eastern USA native
species of Phlox.
Category: Poster-PhD
Peter Zale
Of the 65 Phlox species native to North America, few are economically significant, yet
the potential for novel forms with enhanced attributes is immense.
Interspecific
hybridization has played a role in the improvement of some phlox cultivars, but a more
thorough delineation of sexual compatibility among the species is lacking. To test such
relationships, we have been making crosses between numerous genotypes of 25 phlox
species native to eastern U.S.A. utilizing germplasm that includes wild collected and
cultivated material. Thus far, we have completed over 14,000 pollinations comprising
over 500 unique cross combinations performed in a partial diallel. A minimum of 50
pollinations per reciprocal cross a have been performed. Success of a given cross is
heavily influenced by phylogenetic relationships, style length, and ploidy level. Crosses
between species within subsections have a high rate of success when made in both
directions, but not all combinations are successful perhaps owing to cytoplasmic effects.
Crosses involving the tetraploid P. floridana and diploid P. longipilosa are only
successful when the former is used as the female parent and results in triploid progeny.
Hybridization between species in different sections have a low rate of success. Crosses
between the diploid species P. paniculata (section Paniculatae) and P. carolina (section
Ovatae) are only successful using the former as the female parent and only using selected
genotypes. Crosses between species with different style lengths have all failed. Hybrids
are being identified by PCR based sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP)
banding patterns, morphological markers, and flow cytometry.
- 47 -
Abstract #28.
Processing-body and stress granule localized tandem zinc finger proteins are
involved in GA and ABA mediated regulation of seed germination, plant
growth, and development
Category: Poster-PhD
Srimathi P. Bogamuwa1 and Jyan-Chyun Jang 1,2,3
1
2
Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, Department of Molecular Genetics,
and 3Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210,
USA
Processing-bodies (PB) and stress granules (SG) are aggregations of translationaly
repressed messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) complexes in eukaryotes. One
prominent component present in mammalian PBs and SGs is tandem zinc finger
(TZF) protein. The mammalian TZF can nucleate PB formation and target mRNA for
degradation via AU-rich elements at 3’UTR. We have identified three seed specific
TZF genes that are co-localized with both PB and SG markers in cytoplasmic foci.
While TZF6 is expressed in immature embryos, TZF4 and 5 are expressed in dry
seeds and expression declines during seed imbibition. This leads us to hypothesize
that TZF4 and TZF5 are ABA inducible and GA repressible because GA levels
increase and ABA levels decrease during seed imbibition. Interestingly, in the
presence of ABA, TZF4 and TZF5 expression is confined to the radical region of the
embryo, which coincides with many well-known positive/negative regulators of seed
germination. This indicates that TZF4 and TZF5 may regulate seed germination.
Consistently, single knockout of TZF4, 5, or 6 showed early germination and ABA
insensitive phenotypes, whereas over-expression plants showed delay of seed
germination and ABA hyper-sensitive phenotypes. Additionally, over-expression
plants were compact and late flowering, which could be partially rescued by external
GA application. Together, these results indicate that TZF4, 5, and 6 may act as
negative regulators of GA and positive regulators of ABA accumulation and
response. We further hypothesize that TZF4/5/6 proteins involved in posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression similar to mammalian TZF. Work is in
progress to test this hypothesis.
- 48 -
Appendix: 2012 Poster / Oral Presentation Competition
General Information and Eligibility
Competition Eligibility:
 Graduate Students enrolled and receiving funding from the HCS department
either summer or autumn terms 2012.
 Students who participated in previous Graduate Research Retreat competitions
are required to report additional or different data.
 Students may submit to more than one category if additional or different data is
reported.
 Proposal Submissions can only be from students admitted autumn 2011 or
later.
Competition Categories:
 Poster Competition - MS
 Poster Competition - PhD
 Oral Presentation Competition – Proposal – MS or PhD
 Oral Presentation Competition – MS Research
 Oral Presentation Competition - PhD Research
Monetary Awards:
 There will be an award given for 1st and 2nd place for each category.
1st Place: $200.00
2nd Place: $100.00
Poster Competition






Students may submit an abstract and poster into the following categories:
Poster Competition - MS
Poster Competition - PhD
Cash prizes will be awarded to the two highest scores within each category (a
total of four awards).
The presenting student has submitted both an abstract and abstract submission
form prior to retreat.
Scores are based on the abstract (25% of the total score) and the poster (75%
of total score).
Student presenters are required to be at their posters during the scheduled
poster viewing session, on Saturday, October 13th.
Posters must be available for set up by 7:00 PM on Friday, October 12th.
- 49 -
Appendix: 2012 Poster / Oral Presentation Competition (Cont.)
Oral Presentation Competition





Students may submit an abstract into one of the following categories:
Oral Presentation Competition - Proposal – MS or PhD
Oral Presentation Competition - MS research
Oral Presentation Competition - PhD research
Cash prizes will be awarded to the two highest scores within each category (a
total of six awards).
The presenting student has submitted both an abstract and abstract submission
form prior to retreat.
Scores are based on the abstract (25% of the total score) and the oral
presentation (75% of the total score).
Judging will consist of a 10 minute oral presentation followed by 3 minutes
for questions.
- 50 -
2012 Horticulture & Crop Science Graduate Research Competition
Abstracts are limited to a maximum of 250 words.
Abstract Evaluation: Oral Presentation MS/PhD Research and Poster Competition
MS/PhD
(25% of the total score)
Please evaluate the abstract on the following criteria using this scale:
(1)
Poor
(2)
Fair
(3)
Satisfactory
(4)
Good
1. Purpose of study (5 points)
a.
b.
c.
d.
(5)
Superior
_________
What problem does this work attempt to solve?
Is the problem/objective/hypothesis clearly stated?
Is the importance of the problem/research clearly stated?
Is the main argument established? What is the main
argument/thesis/claim?
2. Design and Methodology (5 points)
_________
a. Approach: Does the theoretical and/or methodological perspective
seem appropriate?
b. Do the procedures of inquiry seem adequate to support the study’s
objective?
c. Are the instruments/sources/materials appropriate to this inquiry?
3. Results and conclusions (5 points)
_________
a. Are the results clearly stated?
b. Does the interpretation seem clear and justifiable?
c. Do the conclusions seem valid and/or realistic?
4. Implications and significance (5 points)
a.
b.
c.
d.
_________
Does this research hold theoretical significance in its field?
Does this research have practical application in the subject area?
What are the implications of the results?
How does this work add to the body of knowledge on the topic/field?
5. Overall Quality (5 points)
a. Is the abstract presented in a professional manner?
b. Is grammar and spelling correct throughout the abstract?
_________
6. Word limit deduction ( -2.5 points)
( _______ )
a. Exceeded maximum of 250 words.
Presenter name:________________________________________
Comments (use back, if necessary):
*Abstracts will be judged on the first 250 words.
- 51 -
2012 Horticulture & Crop Science Graduate Research Competition
Abstracts are limited to a maximum of 250 words.
Abstract Evaluation: Oral Presentation – Proposal – MS or PhD
(25% of the total score)
Please evaluate the abstract on the following criteria using this scale:
(1)
Poor
(2)
Fair
(3)
Satisfactory
(4)
Good
(5)
Superior
1. Purpose of study (5 points)
a.
b.
c.
d.
_________
What problem does this work attempt to solve?
Is the problem/objective/hypothesis clearly stated?
Is the importance of the problem/research clearly stated?
Is the main argument established? What is the main
argument/thesis/claim?
2. Experimental design (5 points)
_________
a. Is the design appropriate to address the experimental objective?
b. Approach: Does the theoretical and/or methodological perspective
seem appropriate?
3. Experimental methodology (5 points)
_________
a. Do the procedures of inquiry seem adequate to support the study’s
objective?
b. Are the instruments/sources /materials appropriate to this inquiry?
4. Implications and significance (5 points)
_________
a. Does this research hold theoretical significance in its field?
b. Does this research have practical application in the subject area?
c. Are potential outcomes addressed?
5. Overall Quality (5 points)
a. Is the abstract presented in a professional manner?
b. Is grammar and spelling correct throughout the abstract?
6.
Word limit deduction ( -2.5 points)
_________
( _______ )
a. Exceeded maximum of 250 words.
Presenter name:________________________________________
Comments (use back, if necessary):
*Abstracts will be judged on the first 250 words.
- 52 -
2012 Horticulture & Crop Science Graduate Research Competition
Poster Competition Evaluation – MS and PhD
(75% of the total score)
Please evaluate the poster on the following criteria using this scale:
(1-3)
Poor
(4-6)
Fair
(7-9)
Satisfactory
(10-12)
Good
1. Appearance of the poster display (15 points)
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
(13-15)
Superior
_________
Attractively displayed in color, neatness, and timely display.
Clarity: sufficient space between items.
Text, figures, tables, and photos labeled and large enough to view from 3-4’ away.
Title, author(s), and college affiliation and location cited at top in bold.
No spelling errors; literature and scientific or trade names properly cited.
2. Poster organization and preparation (15 points)
_________
a. Has concise and easy to locate highlights of research project.
b. Highlights of research/outreach project concise and easy to find.
c. Introduction: covers previous literature, objectives and/or hypothesis to be tested.
Rational and significance of the proposed studies, in regards to agricultural, food, or
environmental issues, should be presented.
d. Methods and Materials: covers enough detail but not too much verbiage. Includes
detail of the experimental design and research approach, and an outline of the
methods/techniques used.
e. Results and Discussion: overall results are clearly presented.
f. Tables and Figures: appropriate quality, size, and number.
g. Colored photos: important to show results with pictures.
h. Conclusions/summary statements are included and valid.
i. Literature Cited: only key citations listed.
j. Poster is concise, logical, and self-explanatory.
3. Originality and Merit (15 points)
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
_________
Originality of research study: innovative project.
Previous results appropriately cited in introduction and discussion.
Objectives or hypothesis were clearly stated.
Work was well-conceived and properly executed.
Appropriate methods and experimental design to test hypothesis.
Conclusions are supported by the presented data.
Statistics used to evaluate data (if applicable).
4. Knowledge and Presentation (15 points)
a. Student’s enthusiasm of subject area.
b. Student’s knowledge and competence in subject area.
c. Ability to answer questions from judges.
Presenter name:________________________________________
Comments (use back, if necessary):
- 53 -
_________
2012 Horticulture & Crop Science Graduate Research Competition
Oral Presentation Evaluation - MS / PhD Research
(75% of the total score)
Please evaluate the presentation on the following criteria using this scale:
(1-3)
Poor
(4-6)
Fair
(7-9)
Satisfactory
(10-12)
Good
1. Presentation preparation and organization (15 points)
(13-15)
Superior
_________
a. Attractively and clearly designed in color, neatness, and readability.
b. Introduction: Covers objectives and/or hypothesis to be tested and rational and
significance of the proposed studies in regards to agricultural, food, or
environmental issues.
c. Methods and Materials: Includes sufficient detail of the experimental design and
research approach, and an outline of the methods/techniques used.
d. Results and Discussion: overall results are clearly presented and integrated into
existing research.
e. Tables and Figures: appropriate quality, size, and number.
f. Conclusions/summary statements are included and valid.
2. Oral Communication skills (15 points)
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
Demonstrated comfort with presentation of research.
Held interest of audience.
Voice clear and of adequate volume.
Eye contact with judges and audience was appropriate.
Used slides to enhance vocal explanations of research.
Provided a well-reasoned rationale of research.
Went into appropriate detail of experimental design and methods.
Clearly brought forward key results and explained slide tables and graphs well.
Synthesized current and previous research in discussion.
Provided an overall cohesive presentation of main themes and conclusions of research.
3. Originality and Merit (15 points)
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
_________
Originality of research study: innovative project.
Subject is of importance, significance, and interest to HCS/field of study.
Previous results appropriately cited in introduction and discussion.
Objectives or hypothesis were clearly stated.
Work was well-conceived and properly executed.
Appropriate methods and experimental design to test hypothesis.
Conclusions are supported by the presented data.
Statistics used to evaluate data (if applicable).
4. Knowledge and Presentation (15 points)
a.
b.
c.
d.
_________
Student’s enthusiasm of subject area.
Student’s knowledge and competence in subject area.
Presentation of research highlights to judges (10 minutes max).
Ability to answer questions from judges.
Presenter name:________________________________________
Comments (use back, if necessary):
- 54 -
_________
2012 Horticulture & Crop Science Graduate Research Competition
Oral Presentation Evaluation – Proposal – MS / PhD
(75% of the total score)
Please evaluate the presentation on the following criteria using this scale:
(1-3)
Poor
(4-6)
Fair
(7-9)
Satisfactory
(10-12)
Good
1. Presentation preparation and organization (15 points)
(13-15)
Superior
_________
a. Attractively and clearly designed in color, neatness, and readability.
b. Introduction: Covers objectives and/or hypothesis to be tested and rational and
significance of the proposed studies in regards to agricultural, food, or
environmental issues.
c. Methods and Materials: Includes sufficient detail of the experimental design and
research approach, and an outline of the methods/techniques used.
d. Tables and Figures: appropriate quality, size, and number.
e. Anticipated contribution statements are included and valid.
2. Oral Communication skills (15 points)
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
3. Originality and Merit (15 points)
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
_________
Originality of research study: innovative project.
Subject is of importance, significance, and interest to HCS/field of study.
Previous results appropriately cited in introduction and discussion.
Objectives or hypothesis were clearly stated.
Work was well-conceived.
Appropriate methods and experimental design to test hypothesis.
4. Knowledge and Presentation (15 points)
a.
b.
c.
d.
_________
Demonstrated comfort with presentation of research.
Held interest of audience.
Voice clear and of adequate volume.
Eye contact with judges and audience was appropriate.
Used slides to enhance vocal explanations of research.
Provided a well-reasoned rationale of research.
Went into appropriate detail of experimental design and methods.
Synthesized current and previous research in discussion.
Provided an overall cohesive presentation of main themes and goals of research.
Student’s enthusiasm of subject area.
Student’s knowledge and competence in subject area.
Presentation of research highlights to judges (10 minutes max).
Ability to answer questions from judges.
Presenter name:________________________________________
Comments (use back, if necessary):
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_________
Department of Horticulture & Crop Science
2012 Graduate Research Retreat – Evaluation Form
1. Please select one of the following
categories to describe your participation in
the research retreat.
2. How did you learn about the retreat?
3. Was this retreat held at a desirable time?
4. Was there sufficient opportunity to
interact with faculty/graduate students?
Guest
Grad Student/PostDoc/
Visiting Scholar
Faculty
Advisor
Flyer
Email
Yes
No
When is desirable, if not?
5. If you attended last year’s research
retreat, do you believe this year to be an
improvement over last year?
Why or why not?
6. Should we continue to alternate between
Columbus and Wooster campuses in future
retreats?
7. Do you feel any changes should be made
in the format of the competition?
If so, what?
Website
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Invitation
For the next group of questions, please answer on a 1 to 5 scale, with 5 being most positive.
7. Was the experience in Columbus enjoyable and productive?
8. Did the poster and oral presentations provide a good
overview of research conducted in our department?
9. Did the on-campus Friday evening after-dinner activity
enhance the retreat?
10. How satisfied are you with the outcome of this retreat?
11. If you stayed overnight, were you satisfied with the
accommodations?
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
12. Any additional comments or suggestions for the committee?
13. (Optional) Name_____________________________E-mail/phone_____________________
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Contact Page: GRR Organizing Committee
Name
Field of Interest
Lisa Robbins
Plant Biochemistry
JD Bethel
Weed Science
Environmental
Horticulture
Molecular Biology
Viticulture
Wheat Breeding
Nutrition of horticulture
crops and plant materials
Molecular Biology
Weed Science
Molecular Biology
Weed Science
Weed Science
Michele Bigger
Srimathi Bogamuwa
Abigail Gerdes
Amber Hoffstetter
Bizhen Hu
Lin Jin
Nick Read
Jie Qu
Caitlin Splawski
Scott Wolfe
Advisor
J. Scheerens &
J. Cardina
M. Loux
E-mail
Robbins.210@osu.edu
Bethel.37@osu.edu
H. Mathers
Bigger.1@osu.edu
J.C. Jang
I. Dami
C. Sneller
J. Scheerens &
J. Cardina
D. Mackey
E. Regnier
J.C. Jang
E. Regnier
D. Doohan
Bogamuwa.1@osu.edu
Gerdes.16@osu.edu
Hoffstetter.2@osu.edu
Hu.327@osu.edu
Jin.224@osu.edu
Read.28@osu.edu
Qu.20@osu.edu
Splawski.1@osu.edu
Wolfe.529@osu.edu
Section Organizing & Judging Faculty, Researchers and Post Docs
Name
Dr. Dave Barker
Dr. Mark Bennett
Dr. Joshua Blakeslee
Dr. John Cardina
Dr. Jyan-Chyun Jang
Dr. David Francis
Dr. Veena D. Ganeshan
Dr. Yanping Hu
Dr. Kent Harrison
Dr.Matt Kleinhenz
Dr. Hannah Mathers
Dr. Peg McMahon
Dr. Jim Metzger
Dr. Emilie Regnier
Dr. Joseph Scheerens
Dr. Clay Sneller
Regina Vann Hickok
Research Area
Interim Associate Chair- Forages
Seed Biology
Biochemistry
GSC Chair, Interim Associate Chair- Weed
Ecology
Molecular Biology
Tomato Breeding
McHale Post-Doc-Molecular Biology
Visiting Scholar-Forestry
Weed Science
Vegetable Production Systems
Environmental Horticulture
Floriculture
Interim Departmental Chair -Environmental
Horticulture
Weed Science
GSC Chair-Designate, Secondary Products of
Small Fruit and Vegetables
Wheat Breeding and Genetics
HCS Academic Program Advisor
Email
Barker.169@osu.edu
Bennett.18@osu.edu
Blakeslee.19@osu.edu
Cardina.2@osu.edu
Jang.40@osu.edu
Francis.77@osu.edu
Prabhakar.10@osu.edu
Hu.771@osu.edu
Harrison.9@osu.edu
Kleinhenz.1@osu.edu
Mathers.7@osu.edu
McMahon.43@osu.edu
Metzger.72@osu.edu
Regnier.1@osu.edu
Scheerens.1@osu.edu
Sneller.5@osu.edu
Vann.5@osu.edu
Departmental and Graduate Program Contact:
Regina Vann Hickok, Academic Program Coordinator, Vann.5@osu.edu
H&CS Website: http://hcs.osu.edu
H&CS Graduate Studies Website: http://hcs.osu.edu/index.php/graduate-studies
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