E. E. Sparks

Graft incompatibility between pepper and tomato can be attributed to genetic incompatibility between diverged immune systems

The paper identifies genetic incompatibility between tomato and pepper as the cause of graft rejection, characterized by hyperimmune responses and prolonged cell death.

Bigger is better: Thicker maize brace roots are advantageous for both strength and nitrogen uptake.

This study shows that larger maize brace roots are both stronger and more efficient at nitrogen uptake, contradicting the trade-off hypothesis.

Maize brace root mechanics vary by whorl, genotype, and reproductive stage

This study quantifies how maize brace root mechanics vary by whorl, genotype, and reproductive stage, showing structural differences that affect root lodging resistance.

Image-based assessment of plant disease progression identifies new genetic loci for resistance

The paper uses image-based phenotyping to identify new genetic loci for disease resistance in tomato plants, detecting QTL earlier and more accurately than human assessment.

Multiple brace root phenotypes promote anchorage and limit root lodging in maize

This study quantifies brace root contributions to anchorage and root lodging in maize inbred lines and shows that plant architecture predicts these traits.

Maize brace roots provide stalk anchorage

This study shows that maize brace roots provide a rigid base for stalk anchorage, but their contribution to anchorage is not linearly related to flowering time.