Methods used to determine pesticide residues in teas typically require several laborious steps for sample preparation before analysis. In this study, a simple method based on solid-liquid extraction with low-temperature partitioning (SLE/LTP) and analysis by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was optimized and validated for the determination of pesticide residues (pirimiphos-methyl, flutriafol, cyproconazole, and bifenthrin) in dehydrated green tea leaves. After low-temperature partitioning (LTP), the extract in acetonitrile was subjected to a clean-up step using primary secondary amine (PSA) and octadecylsilane (C18) as sorbents for chlorophyll removal. The optimized SLE/LTP-GC-MS method was validated, and it proved to be effective and selective for extracting pesticides from green tea samples, presenting limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.015 and 0.050 mg kg-1, respectively. Recovery ranged between 81-111%, coefficients of variation were less than 16% and coefficients of determination (R2) were greater than 0.990. The optimized and validated method was applied to green tea and 13 other tea varieties sampled in South and Southeast regions of Brazil. The pesticides under study were detected in some of those samples at values higher than the maximum residue limits (MRLs) allowed by the European Union. solidliquid solid liquid lowtemperature low temperature SLE/LTP SLELTP SLE LTP (SLE/LTP GCMS GC MS (GC-MS pirimiphosmethyl, pirimiphosmethyl pirimiphos methyl, methyl (pirimiphos-methyl flutriafol cyproconazole bifenthrin leaves LTP, , (LTP) cleanup clean up PSA (PSA C18 C (C18 removal SLE/LTPGCMS SLELTPGCMS LOD (LOD LOQ (LOQ 0015 0 015 0.01 0050 050 0.05 kg1, kg1 kg 1, 1 kg-1 respectively 81111%, 81111 81 111%, 111 81-111% 16 R2 R (R2 0990 990 0.990 Brazil MRLs (MRLs Union (LTP C1 (C1 LTPGCMS 001 01 0.0 005 05 kg- 81111% 8111 8 111% 11 81-111 (R 099 99 0.99 (C 00 0. 811 81-11 09 9 0.9 81-1 81-

ABSTRACT The search for new technologies capable of providing benefits to healthy eating is a global goal. The consumption of foods rich in carotenoids can prevent serious health problems. Thus, the availability of foods high in carotenoids that are accessible to the majority of the population is essential. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) is a suitable species for biofortification research based on genetic improvements. In this study, we aimed to select and obtain hybrid lettuce populations with high agronomic potential and biofortified carotenoid content. Ten lettuce lines registered in the “BG α Biofort” software were selected for hybridization. The crosses used to obtain the hybrids involved two strains rich in at least one of the pigments (chlorophyll and carotenoids), and 24 experimental hybrids were obtained. A total of 37 genotypes (strains, hybrids, and commercial cultivars) were evaluated using a randomized block design for agronomic variables and chlorophyll and carotenoid content. Hybrids 12 (UFU-189#3#4#1 × UFU MC BIOFORT 2) and 25 (UFU66#4#2 × UFU-189#3#4#1) had the potential to produce dual-purpose populations (yield and carotenoid biofortification). Hybrid 27 (UFU66#4#2 × UFU MC BIOFORT1) exhibited the best pigment balance. Thus, F2 hybrids 12, 25, and 27 should be obtained to produce new cultivars of biofortified red and green lettuce for curly, american, mini, and romaine lettuce segments. goal problems Thus essential Lactuca L. L improvements study content BG Biofort hybridization carotenoids, , carotenoids) 2 3 strains, (strains 1 UFU189#3#4#1 UFU189341 189#3#4#1 189 4 (UFU-189#3#4# UFU66#4#2 UFU6642 UFU66 (UFU66#4# UFU-189#3#4#1 dualpurpose dual purpose yield biofortification. . biofortification) BIOFORT1 balance F curly american mini segments UFU189 UFU189#3#4# UFU18934 189341 189#3#4# 18 (UFU-189#3#4 UFU66#4# UFU664 UFU6 (UFU66#4 UFU-189#3#4# UFU18 UFU189#3#4 UFU1893 18934 189#3#4 (UFU-189#3# UFU66#4 (UFU66# UFU-189#3#4 UFU1 UFU189#3# 1893 189#3# (UFU-189#3 UFU66# (UFU66 UFU-189#3# UFU189#3 189#3 (UFU-189# (UFU6 UFU-189#3 UFU189# 189# (UFU-189 (UFU UFU-189# (UFU-18 UFU-189 (UFU-1 UFU-18 (UFU- UFU-1 UFU-

RESUMO A busca por novas tecnologias capazes de proporcionar benefícios para uma alimentação saudável tem sido meta mundial. A presença de alimentos ricos em carotenoides pode ser fundamental para prevenir sérios problemas de saúde. Aliar alimentos com altos teores de carotenoides e acessíveis para a maior parte da população é fundamental. A alface (Lactuca sativa L.) se apresenta como uma espécie adequada para investir em pesquisas com biofortificação a partir de melhoramento genético. Assim, o objetivo com este estudo foi selecionar híbridos de alface visando à obtenção de populações com potencial agronômico e biofortificadas para carotenoides. Dez linhagens de alface cadastradas no Software “BG α Biofort” foram utilizadas nas hibridações. Os cruzamentos para obtenção dos híbridos foram planejados envolvendo duas linhagens ricas em pelo menos um dos pigmentos (clorofila e carotenoides) sendo obtidos 24 híbridos experimentais. Foram avaliados 37 genótipos (linhagens, híbridos e cultivares comercias) em delineamento em blocos casualizados quanto as variáveis agronômicas e teores de clorofila e carotenoides. Foi verificado que os híbridos 12 (UFU-189#3#4#1 × UFU MC BIOFORT 2) e 25 (UFU66#4#2 × UFU-189#3#4#1) possuem potencial para obtenção de populações de duplo propósito (produtividade e biofortificada para carotenoide). O híbrido 27 (UFU66#4#2 × UFU MC BIOFORT1) foi o que apresentou maior equilíbrio para pigmentos. Sugere-se a obtenção de populações F2 dos híbridos 12, 25 e 27 visando a obtenção de novas cultivares de alfaces biofortificadas vermelhas e verdes, para os segmentos de alface crespa, americana, mini e romana. mundial saúde Lactuca L. L genético Assim BG Biofort hibridações 2 experimentais 3 linhagens, (linhagens comercias 1 UFU189#3#4#1 UFU189341 189#3#4#1 189 4 (UFU-189#3#4# UFU66#4#2 UFU6642 UFU66 (UFU66#4# UFU-189#3#4#1 produtividade carotenoide. carotenoide . carotenoide) BIOFORT1 Sugerese Sugere F verdes crespa americana romana UFU189 UFU189#3#4# UFU18934 189341 189#3#4# 18 (UFU-189#3#4 UFU66#4# UFU664 UFU6 (UFU66#4 UFU-189#3#4# UFU18 UFU189#3#4 UFU1893 18934 189#3#4 (UFU-189#3# UFU66#4 (UFU66# UFU-189#3#4 UFU1 UFU189#3# 1893 189#3# (UFU-189#3 UFU66# (UFU66 UFU-189#3# UFU189#3 189#3 (UFU-189# (UFU6 UFU-189#3 UFU189# 189# (UFU-189 (UFU UFU-189# (UFU-18 UFU-189 (UFU-1 UFU-18 (UFU- UFU-1 UFU-

ABSTRACT Due to the important functions of calcium in plant physiology, supplementation of this nutrient may be a viable strategy to increase the tolerance of plants to salinity. Thus, the objective in this study was to evaluate the gas exchange and growth of broad-leaf arugula cultivars cultivated in coconut fiber subjected to salt stress. Four nutrient solutions [(S1 - standard nutrient solution (electrical conductivity of water - ECw of 0.5 dS m-1; S2 - nutrient solution using saline water with NaCl at 3.5 dS m-1; S3 - S2 enriched with Ca(NO3)2 at 50%; S4 - S2 enriched with Ca(NO3)2 at 100%, obtaining values of 2.3, 5.1, 5.5, and 5.9 dS m-1, for S1, S2, S3, and S4, respectively], and two cultivars of arugula (Donatella and Gigante Folha Larga), arranged in a 2 × 4 factorial scheme, with three replicates, were studied. Plants were harvested 40 days after sowing and evaluated for the following variables: plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, total fresh mass, total dry mass, specific leaf area, leaf succulence, relative chlorophyll index, stomatal conductance, CO2 assimilation rate, transpiration rate, internal CO2 concentration, instantaneous water use efficiency, and intrinsic carboxylation efficiency. The cultivar Gigante Folha Larga was more tolerant to salinity of nutrient solution. The use of salinized nutrient solution negatively affected arugula growth and physiology, but the extra addition of Ca(NO3)2 reduced the harmful effects of salinity. Extra addition of 50% of Ca(NO3)2 in the nutrient solution is recommended to reduce the effect of salt stress. physiology Thus broadleaf broad stress S1 S [(S electrical 05 0 5 0. m1 m 1 m-1 35 3 3. CaNO32 CaNO Ca NO3 NO Ca(NO3) 50 100 100% 23 2.3 51 5.1 55 5.5 59 9 5. m1, 1, respectively, respectively , respectively] Donatella Larga, Larga) scheme replicates studied variables height leaves area mass succulence index conductance CO rate concentration efficiency m- CaNO3 Ca(NO3 10 2. Ca(NO

RESUMO Devido às importantes funções do cálcio na fisiologia vegetal, a suplementação deste nutriente pode ser uma estratégia viável para aumentar a tolerância das plantas à salinidade. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as trocas gasosas e o crescimento de cultivares de rúcula de folhas largas cultivadas em fibra de coco submetidas ao estresse salino. Quatro soluções nutritivas [(S1-solução nutritiva padrão (condutividade elétrica da água - CEa de 0,5 dS m-1; S2- solução nutritiva utilizando água salina com NaCl a 3,5 dS m-1; S3-S2 enriquecida com Ca(NO3)2 a 50%; S4-S2 enriquecido com Ca(NO3)2 a 100%, obtendo valores de 2,3, 5,1, 5,5 e 5,9 dS m-1, para S1, S2, S3 e S4, respectivamente], e duas cultivares de rúcula. (Donatella e Gigante Folha Larga), dispostas em esquema fatorial 2 × 4, com três repetições, foram estudadas. As plantas foram colhidas 40 dias após a semeadura e avaliadas quanto às seguintes variáveis: altura de planta, número de folhas, área foliar, massa fresca total, massa seca total, área foliar específica, suculência foliar, índice relativo de clorofila, condutância estomática, taxa de assimilação de CO2, taxa de transpiração, concentração interna de CO2 e eficiência instantânea do uso da água e eficiência intrínseca de carboxilação. A cultivar Gigante Folha Larga foi mais tolerante à salinidade da solução nutritiva. O uso de solução nutritiva salinizada afetou negativamente o crescimento e a fisiologia da rúcula, mas a adição extra de Ca(NO3)2 reduziu os efeitos nocivos da salinidade. Recomenda-se adição extra de 50% de Ca(NO3)2 na solução nutritiva para reduzir o efeito do estresse salino. vegetal Assim salino S1solução Ssolução S1 S condutividade 05 0 5 0, m1 m 1 m-1 S2 35 3 3, S3S2 SS S3-S CaNO32 CaNO Ca NO3 NO Ca(NO3) 50 S4S2 S4 S4-S 100 100% 23 2,3 51 5,1 55 5, 59 9 m1, 1, respectivamente, respectivamente , respectivamente] Donatella Larga, Larga) 4 repetições estudadas variáveis planta total específica clorofila estomática CO transpiração carboxilação Recomendase Recomenda se m- S3S CaNO3 Ca(NO3 S4S 10 2, Ca(NO

ABSTRACT In the semi-arid climate, the growth of fruit seedlings is challenged by the water stress characteristic of the region, which can restrict their development and, consequently, affect production. In this context, the aim was to assess the effect of pyroligneous extract on gas exchange characteristics, photosynthetic pigments, growth, and biomass of pitanga under different intensities of water deficit. The experiment was conducted using a randomized block design in a 3 × 2 factorial scheme, with four replicates, corresponding to water deficit periods (7 and 14 days) and control (daily irrigation), in substrates with and without pyroligneous extract. The plants were evaluated for gas exchange characteristics, chlorophyll indices, growth, and dry biomass. Application of pyroligneous extract after 7 days of water deficit increased the photosynthetic rate, carboxylation efficiency and Dickson quality index of pitanga seedlings by 40.04, 42.85 and 41.51%, respectively, compared to 14 days of water deficit. Pyroligneous extract was effective as a water stress attenuator in pitanga seedlings, especially during the first seven days of exposure to stress. Therefore, its application is recommended as a preventive and short-term measure to mitigate such effects on pitanga seedlings. semiarid semi arid climate region consequently production context characteristics pigments scheme replicates ( 1 daily irrigation, irrigation , irrigation) indices rate 4004 40 04 40.04 4285 42 85 42.8 4151 41 51 41.51% respectively Therefore shortterm short term 400 4 0 40.0 428 8 42. 415 5 41.51 40. 41.5 41.

RESUMO No clima semiárido, o crescimento de mudas frutíferas é desafiado pelo estresse hídrico característico da região, o que pode restringir seu desenvolvimento e, consequentemente, afetar a produção. Nesse contexto, o objetivo foi avaliar o efeito do extrato pirolenhoso nas características de troca gasosa, pigmentos fotossintéticos, crescimento e biomassa de pitangueira sob diferentes intensidades de déficit hídrico. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação utilizando um delineamento em blocos casualizados em um esquema fatorial 3 × 2, com quatro repetições, correspondendo a períodos de déficit hídrico foram de 7 e 14 dias, além do controle (irrigação diária), no substrato sem e com extrato pirolenhoso. As plantas foram avaliadas quanto às características de trocas gasosas foliares, índices de clorofila, crescimento e biomassa seca. A aplicação de extrato pirolenhoso aos 7 dias de déficit hídrico elevou a taxa fotossintética, a eficiência de carboxilação e o índice de qualidade de Dickson das mudas de pitanga em 40,04, 42,85 e 41,51%, respectivamente, em comparação aos 14 dias de déficit hídrico. O extrato pirolenhoso foi efetivo como um atenuante do estresse hídrico nas mudas de pitanga, especialmente durante os primeiros sete dias de exposição ao estresse. Assim, sua aplicação é recomendada como uma medida preventiva e de curto prazo para mitigar tais efeitos nas mudas de pitanga. semiárido região consequentemente produção contexto gasosa fotossintéticos 2 repetições 1 irrigação diária, diária , diária) foliares clorofila seca fotossintética 4004 40 04 40,04 4285 42 85 42,8 4151 41 51 41,51% respectivamente Assim 400 4 0 40,0 428 8 42, 415 5 41,51 40, 41,5 41,

ABSTRACT The sorghum crop is considered one of the most important worldwide due to its versatility. However, water stress can be considered a significant threat to its yield. The search for products that mitigate water stress is a crucial area of research in agriculture and water resources management. Thus, the objective in this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using salicylic acid as a water stress attenuator in sorghum. The experiment was conducted in a screened environment in a randomized block design with a 4 × 2 factorial scheme, with four replicates. Four levels of water (40, 60, 80, and 100% of evapotranspiration) and two concentrations of salicylic acid (0 and 2.76 g L-1) were evaluated. Plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, gas exchange, photosynthetic pigments, and chlorophyll a fluorescence were analyzed. Application of deficit irrigation depths reduced plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, and total chlorophyll in sorghum. However, when these depths were associated with salicylic acid, it was observed that the damage was attenuated, especially in chlorophyll a and b. Furthermore, salicylic acid reduced leaf temperature and increased water use efficiency when applied alone. Thus, salicylic acid can be used to mitigate the effects of salt stress on sorghum plants. versatility However yield management Thus scheme replicates 40, 40 (40 60 80 100 evapotranspiration 0 ( 276 76 2.7 L1 L 1 L-1 evaluated height diameter leaves exchange pigments analyzed attenuated b Furthermore alone plants (4 6 8 10 27 7 2. L-

RESUMO A cultura do sorgo é considerada uma das mais importantes do mundo devido a sua versatilidade de utilização. No entanto, o estresse hídrico pode ser considerado uma ameaça significativa para sua produtividade. A busca por produtos mitigadores do estresse hídrico é uma área de pesquisa crucial na agricultura e na gestão de recursos hídricos. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a viabilidade do uso do ácido salicílico como atenuante de estresse hídrico na cultura do sorgo. O experimento foi conduzido em ambiente telado, em delineamento em blocos ao acaso com esquema fatorial 4 × 2, com quatro repetições. Foram avaliados quatro níveis hídricos (40, 60, 80 e 100% da evapotranspiração) e duas concentrações de ácido salicílico (0 e 2,76 g L-1). Foram analisados a altura das plantas, diâmetro do caule, número de folhas, trocas gasosas, pigmentos fotossintéticos e fluorescência da clorofila a. A aplicação de lâminas de irrigação deficitárias reduziu a altura da planta, diâmetro do colmo, número de folhas e clorofila total no sorgo. No entanto, quando essas lâminas foram associadas ao ácido salicílico, foi observado que houve atenuação dos danos, especialmente em relação a clorofila a e b. Além disso, o ácido salicílico quando aplicado isoladamente, contribuiu para redução da temperatura da folha e aumento da eficiência de uso da água. Assim, o ácido salicílico pode ser usado para mitigar os efeitos do estresse salino em plantas de sorgo. utilização entanto produtividade Assim telado 2 repetições 40, 40 (40 60 8 100 evapotranspiração 0 ( 276 76 2,7 L1. L1 L 1 . L-1) caule gasosas planta colmo danos b disso isoladamente água (4 6 10 27 7 L-1 L-

Abstract Introduction. The parameters of physiological response to drought stress are the result of a combination of slow- or fast-acting attributes. Gas exchange variables are classified as fast-acting and their level of occurrence or impact depends on the interaction between factors such as genotype and the duration, intensity, and phenological stage of stress occurrence. Objective. To identify the levels of physiological response exhibited by Solanum phureja under progressive water deficit stress. Materials and methods. The experiment was conducted between 2019 and 2020 under semi-controlled conditions at the Obonuco Research Center of the Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria. Four potato cultivars were planted, with half of the trial was maintained at field capacity and the other half subjected to water deficit stress by withholding irrigation for 15 days, followed by rehydration. Gas exchange variables, chlorophyll content, and photosynthetic efficiency were evaluated every three days. Results. Significant differences were observed, with maximum gas exchange values in control plants showing 16.67 µmol m-2 s-1 photosynthesis rate (A); 0.34 mol m-2 s-1 stomatal conductance (gs); 5.5 mmol m-2 s-1 transpiration (E), and under stress, 1.17 µmol m-2 s-1 (A); 0.013 mol m-2 s-1 (gs); 0.29 mmol m-2 s-1 (E). Chlorophyll content values ranged between 451.7 and 474.69 mg m-2 with and without irrigation, respectively. Conclusions. Stomatic closure was the earliest response to water deficit, and potato plants showed recovery in gas exchange values after rehydration following stress. Finally, three levels of physiological response were identified: mild, moderate, and severe stress, depending on the intensity and duration of stress, which is useful for future studies and the development of irrigation schedules.

Resumen Introducción. Los parámetros de respuesta fisiológica al estrés por sequía son la conjugación de una serie de atributos de acción lenta o rápida. Las variables de intercambio gaseoso son catalogadas como de respuesta rápida, su nivel de aparición o afección dependen de la interacción entre factores como el genotipo y duración, intensidad y etapa fenológica de ocurrencia del estrés. Objetivo. Identificar los niveles de respuesta fisiológica que presenta Solanum phureja bajo el estrés progresivo por déficit hídrico. Materiales y métodos. El experimento se realizó entre 2019 y 2020, bajo condiciones semi-controladas en el Centro de Investigación Obonuco de la Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria. Se sembraron cuatro cultivares de papa, la mitad del ensayo se mantuvo con riego a capacidad de campo y a la otra parte se le suspendió para inducir estrés por déficit hídrico durante 15 días, luego se rehidrataron; se evaluaron variables de intercambio gaseoso, clorofila y eficiencia fotosintética cada tres días. Resultados. Se presentaron diferencias significativas con los valores máximos de intercambio gaseoso en plantas del tratamiento control con 16,67 µmol m-2 s-1 tasa de fotosíntesis (A); 0,34 mol m-2 s-1 conductancia estomática (gs) 5,5 mmol m-2 s-1 transpiración (E) y en estrés 1,17 µmol m-2 s-1 (A); 0,013 mol m-2 s-1 (gs); 0,29 mmol m-2 s-1 (E). En cuanto al contenido de clorofila, se presentaron valores entre 451,7 y 474,69 mg m-2 con riego y sin riego, respectivamente. Conclusiones. El cierre estomático fue la respuesta más temprana al déficit hídrico, además, las plantas de papa presentaron recuperación de los valores de intercambio gaseoso después del suministro de riego posterior al estrés. Finalmente, se identificaron tres niveles de respuesta fisiológica, estrés leve, moderado y severo, según la intensidad y duración del estrés, lo cual es de utilidad para futuros estudios y planteamientos de calendarios de riego.

Abstract Introduction. Seedlings formation under controlled conditions is crucial for cultivating species like strawberry. With LED artificial lighting technology allowing greater control over light, variations in components such as wavelength and intensity can be manipulated to generate seedlings with different characteristics. However, there is a need to generate information for the development of precise and efficient light control practices. Objective. The evaluate strawberry seedling formation under different intensities of violet, blue, and red LED light. Material and methods. The study was conducted in 2020 at the Plant Genetics Laboratory of the Department of Agronomy at the Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico. Seeds from San Andreas variety fruits were collected, and seedlings were grown under violet, blue, and red LED light at high, medium, and low intensities. Color determinations of cotyledon area, Chroma saturation index, and Hue angle were performed. Additionally, physio-technical, chemical, and antioxidant activity variables were measured. Results. The most suitable treatments were high and medium intensity violet light, as well as high intensity blue light, with germination range exceeding 60 %. Seedlings did not elongate or thin out and exhibited the largest cotyledons areas and chlorophyll concentrations. Furthermore, these light treatments consumed, on average, 31.2 % less electrical energy. Conclusions. In addition to white light, the most suitable treatments for strawberry seedlings formation were high and medium intensity violet light, as well as high intensity blue light. It is suggested to evaluate violet and blue light treatments in other cultivars to confirm their positive effect on strawberry seedlings. Red light limited germination and showing higher antioxidant activity.

Resumen Introducción. La formación de plántulas en condiciones controladas es fundamental para cultivar especies como la fresa. Dado que la tecnología de iluminación artificial LED ha permitido un mayor control de la luz, la variación de componentes como la longitud de onda y la intensidad pueden ser manipulados para generar plántulas con diferentes características. Sin embargo, es necesario generar información para el desarrollo de prácticas precisas y eficientes en el control de la luz. Objetivo. Evaluar la formación de plántulas de fresa en diferentes intensidades de luz LED violeta, azul y roja. Materiales y métodos. El estudio se realizó durante 2020 en el Laboratorio de Genética Vegetal del Departamento de Agronomía de la Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, México. Se recuperaron semillas de frutos de la variedad San Andreas y se sembraron plántulas en luz LED violeta, azul y roja a intensidades alta, media y baja. Se realizaron determinaciones de color del área del cotiledón, índice de saturación de color y ángulo Hue. Además, se midieron variables fisiotécnicas, químicas y actividad antioxidante. Resultados. Los tratamientos más adecuados fueron luz violeta de intensidades altas y medias; así como luz azul de alta intensidad, debido a que el porcentaje de germinación superó el 60 %. Las plántulas no se alargaron ni adelgazaron, presentaron las mayores áreas de cotiledones y concentraciones de clorofila. Además, estos tratamientos de luz consumieron en promedio 31,2 % menos energía eléctrica. Conclusiones. Además de la luz blanca, los tratamientos más adecuados para la formación de plántulas de fresa fueron la luz violeta a alta y media intensidad, así como la luz azul a alta intensidad. Se sugiere evaluar los tratamientos de luz violeta y azul en otros cultivares para confirmar el efecto positivo en las plántulas de fresa. La luz roja limitó la germinación y mostró mayor actividad antioxidante.

Abstract Introduction. Corn is one of the oldest known food grains. With climate change and frequent and severe droughts, the water available in the soil will be considerably reduced. Water deficit affects maize crop development to varying degrees, and sensitivity to this stress varies at different development stages. Objective. To identify the phenological stages most sensitive to water deficit in maize. Materials and methods. The experiment was conducted during two growing seasons in 2020 and 2021 in El Ejido, Los Santos province, Panama, under semi-controlled conditions in the greenhouse facilities of the Instituto Coronel Segundo de Villarreal. The commercial corn hybrid ADV-9293 was used and agronomic management was carried out according to the recommendations of the Institute for Agricultural Innovation of Panamá (IDIAP). Plant height, leaf length and width, stem diameter, biomass and yield components, such as number of rows per ear, number of grains per row and 100-grain mass, were determined throughout the crop cycle. Soil moisture was also determined by the gravimetric method. Water deficit at different stages was generated by drought simulation. Results. The grain yields of the control were higher than the different treatments evaluated with 12.83 t ha-1, followed by the treatment with grain filling stress with 10.31 t ha-1. Two periods were determined to be more sensitive to water deficit; these were the stages from 20 to 35 and 40 to 55 days after planting. Water deficit in the different phenological stages of the crop had a negative impact on the relative chlorophyll content. Conclusion. The pre-flowering and flowering stages were more sensitive to water deficiency in maize.

Resumen Introducción. El maíz es uno de los granos alimenticios más antiguos conocido. Con el cambio climático y las sequías severas y frecuentes, se reducirá en gran medida el agua disponible en el suelo. El déficit hídrico afecta en diversos grados el desarrollo del cultivo de maíz y la sensibilidad a este estrés varía en las diferentes etapas de desarrollo. Objetivo. Identificar las etapas fenológicas más sensibles al déficit hídrico en el cultivo de maíz. Materiales y métodos. El experimento se realizó durante dos ciclos en los años 2020 y 2021 en El Ejido, Provincia de Los Santos, Panamá. Se desarrolló bajo condiciones semicontroladas en la casa de cultivo del Instituto Coronel Segundo de Villarreal. Se utilizó el híbrido de maíz comercial ADV-9293. El manejo agronómico se realizó según las recomendaciones del Instituto de Innovación Agropecuaria de Panamá (IDIAP). Durante todo el ciclo del cultivo, se determinaron las variables altura de planta, largo y ancho de hojas, diámetro del tallo, biomasa y los componentes del rendimiento como número de hileras por mazorca, número de granos por hilera y peso de cien granos. También, se determinó la humedad del suelo por el método gravimétrico. El déficit hídrico en distintas etapas se generó a través de la simulación de sequía. Resultados. El rendimiento de grano del testigo superó los diferentes tratamientos evaluados con 12,83 t ha-1, seguido por el tratamiento con estrés en el llenado de grano con 10,31 t ha-1. Se determinaron dos períodos más sensibles al déficit hídrico; los cuales son las etapas comprendidas desde los 20 a 35 y 40 a 55 dds. El déficit hídrico, durante las diferentes etapas fenológicas del cultivo, tuvo un impacto negativo en el contenido relativo de clorofilas. Conclusión. Las etapas de prefloración y floración resultaron más sensibles a la deficiencia hídrica en el cultivo del maíz.

Summary: Plant growth, higher yield and fruit quality are positive ef fects due to the absorption of silicon (Si) and chlorine (Cl), which contributes to mitigating stress due to biotic or abiotic factors and recovering plant growth. The objective of this research was to know what the ef fect of Si or Cl does on morphometric variables, production quality and yield of the cucumber crop. A complete randomized block design was applied, four repetitions and ten treatments in seedlings: six doses of 20, 30 and 50 mg L-1 of Si or Cl, three doses with the volume:volume (v:v) ratio of 20 :20, 30:30 and 50:50 mg L-1 Si:Cl, plus the control. In plants transplanted in soil, already with five true leaves, there were nine treatments: six doses of 20, 30 and 50 mg L-1 of Si or Cl, two with the v:v ratio of 20:20 and 30:30 mg L-1 Si:Cl, and the witness. In pickle cucumber seedlings, the high dose of Cl was more ef fective in increasing leaf greenness and stem length; leaf size was greater in seedlings with the high dose of Si; while low doses of Cl or Si caused greater dry weight of roots. In the ˈModanˈ cultivar, the greenness did not change, the stem length was greater with the intermediate dose of Si, while the size of leaves was better expressed in plants with the lowest dose of Si. So perhaps the greater number of roots, the chlorophyll content and the leaf area influenced the higher yield to be expressed where Si or Cl was fertilized, as well as the firmness, TSS and °Brix of the fruits to improve.

Resumen: El crecimiento de plantas, mayor rendimiento y calidad de frutos, son efectos positivos debido a la absorción de silicio (Si) y cloro (Cl), que contribuye a mitigar el estrés por factores bióticos o abióticos y recuperar el crecimiento de las plantas. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue conocer el efecto que producen las dosis de Si o Cl en variables morfométricas, calidad de producción y rendimiento del cultivo de pepino. Se aplicó un diseño de bloques completos al azar, cuatro repeticiones y diez tratamientos en plántulas: seis dosis de 20, 30 y 50 mg L-1 de Si o Cl, tres dosis con la relación volumen:volumen (v:v) de 20:20, 30:30 y 50:50 mg L-1 Si:Cl, más el testigo. En plantas trasplantadas en suelo, ya con cinco hojas verdaderas, los tratamientos fueron nueve: seis dosis de 20, 30 y 50 mg L-1 de Si o Cl, dos con la relación v:v de 20:20 y 30:30 mg L-1 Si:Cl, y el testigo. En plántulas de pepino ˈpickleˈ, la dosis alta de Cl fue más eficaz para incrementar el verdor de hojas y longitud del tallo; el tamaño de hojas fue superior en plántulas con la dosis alta de Si; mientras que las bajas dosis de Cl o Si ocasionaron mayor peso seco de raíces. En el cultivar ˈModanˈ el verdor no varió, la longitud del tallo fue superior con la dosis intermedia de Si, mientras que el tamaño de hojas se expresó mejor en plantas con la menor dosis de Si. Así que quizás la mayor cantidad de raíces, el contenido de clorofila y el área foliar influyeron para que el rendimiento más alto se expresara donde se fertilizó con Si o Cl, así como para que mejoraran la firmeza, SST y °Brix de los frutos.

Abstract Introduction: Iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) are bioessential micronutrients for plants but can impair the energetic metabolism when present at high levels. Objective: To assess the photosynthetic performance and oxidative damages in Rhizophora mangle L. leaf tissues at low and high concentrations of Fe (74 and 195 mg kg-1; Feleaf) and Mn (65 and 414 mg kg-1; Mnleaf). Methods: Photosynthetic pigments, chlorophyll a fluorescence, leaf CO2 assimilation and gas exchange and DPPH• radical scavenging capacity were sampled in R. mangle growing in estuarine forests in the North region of Espírito Santo State and the extreme South of Bahia State (Brazil) showing low and high Feleaf and Mnleaf. Results: Effects of high Fe and Mn were not identified on pigment levels. The increase in Feleaf and Mnleaf at the levels observed in this assessment had a positive effect on the number of reaction centers and on the efficiency of the oxygen-evolving complex, evaluated as K-band, while no changes were found in the parameters related to the excitation trapping efficiency at the active center of photosystem II. Distinct interference patterns of Fe and Mn on the functional processes of photosynthesis were identified, especially on CO2 assimilation and reactive oxygen species metabolism, with major effects on CO2 assimilation and carboxylation efficiency of Rubisco at high Mnleaf. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate the efficiency of R. mangle in positively regulating the electron transport chain in response to high Fe and Mn, at least in terms of the preservation of structure and functionality of the plant photosynthetic apparatus. Moreover, interference of high Mnleaf in R. mangle occurs at non-stomatal and biochemical levels. There is an antagonistic interference of these trace elements with the physiology of R. mangle, which is a dominant species in Brazilian mangroves.

Resumen Introducción: El hierro (Fe) y el manganeso (Mn) son micronutrientes bioesenciales para las plantas, pero pueden afectar el metabolismo energético cuando están presentes en niveles altos. Objetivo: Evaluar el desempeño fotosintético y los daños oxidativos en tejidos foliares de Rhizophora mangle L. a bajas y altas concentraciones de Fe (74 y 195 mg kg-1; Feleaf) y Mn (65 y 414 mg kg-1; Mnleaf). Métodos: Se muestrearon pigmentos fotosintéticos, fluorescencia de clorofila a, asimilación e intercambio de gases de CO2 foliar y capacidad de eliminación de radicales DPPH• en R. mangle que crece en bosques de estuarios en la región Norte del estado de Espírito Santo y el extremo Sur del Estado de Bahía (Brasil) mostrando Feleaf y Mnleaf bajos y altos. Resultados: No se identificaron efectos de niveles elevados de Fe y Mn en los niveles de pigmento. El aumento de Feleaf y Mnleaf en los niveles observados en esta evaluación tuvo un efecto positivo en el número de centros de reacción y en la eficiencia del complejo generador de oxígeno, evaluado como banda K, mientras que no se encontraron cambios en los parámetros relacionados con la eficiencia de atrapamiento de excitación en el centro activo del fotosistema II. Se identificaron distintos patrones de interferencia de Fe y Mn en los procesos funcionales de la fotosíntesis, especialmente en la asimilación de CO2 y el metabolismo de las especies reactivas de oxígeno, con efectos importantes en la asimilación de CO2 y la eficiencia de carboxilación de Rubisco a niveles altos de Mnleaf. Conclusión: Los hallazgos demuestran la eficiencia de R. mangle en la regulación positiva de la cadena de transporte de electrones en respuesta a los altos niveles de Fe y Mn, al menos en términos de preservación de la estructura y funcionalidad del aparato fotosintético de la planta. Además, la interferencia de Mnleaf alto en R. mangle se presenta a niveles no estomáticos y bioquímicos. Hay interferencia antagónica de estos oligoelementos con la fisiología de R. mangle, que es una especie dominante en los manglares brasileños.

Abstract Background: Invasive parasitic species have barely been studied despite their impact on the communities they invade. Questions: What is the host range used by the invasive parasite Cassytha filiformis in the coastal scrubland of northern Yucatan? Does C. filiformis show host preference? Does the physiological performance of C. fliformis (water deficit and chlorophyll content) vary among hosts on which it establishes and reproduces? Study species: Cassytha filiformis, an invasive hemiparasitic vine of coastal communities. Study sites and dates: Telchac, Yucatán, México. The study lasted from October 2022 to June 2023. Methods: The incidence of C. filiformis parasitism was recorded. Histological analysis confirmed parasitism, and the water potential and chlorophyll concentration of C. filiformis in its main hosts were determined. Results: C. filiformis parasitized 10 species, showing a preference for shrubs. Its main hosts were Scaevola plumieri, Phitecellobium keyense and Croton punctatus. Differences between hosts were observed in water potential variation and total chlorophyll concentration. Differences between stem types (young and mature) in chlorophyll concentration were also observed. Conclusions: C. filiformis prefers shrub species to establish. The physiological performance of C. filiformis varied depending on host identity. Differences in chlorophyll concentration between stem types of C. filiformis suggest functional physiological differences between them.

Resumen Antecedentes: Las especies parásitas invasoras han sido pobremente estudiadas a pesar del impacto que pueden tener en las comunidades que invaden. Preguntas: ¿Cuál es el rango de hospederos que utiliza la parásita invasora Cassytha filiformis? ¿C. filiformis presenta preferencia por hospederos? ¿el desempeño fisiológico (déficit hídrico y contenido de clorofilas) de C. filiformis varía entre los hospederos donde se establece y reproduce? Especie de estudio: Cassytha filiformis, liana hemiparásita invasora de comunidades costeras. Sitio y años de estudio: Telchac, Yucatán México. El estudio abarcó de octubre del 2022 a junio 2023. Métodos: Se registró la incidencia de parasitismo de C. filiformis. Se confirmó el parasitismo mediante análisis histológico y se determinó el potencial hídrico y la concentración de clorofila de C. filiformis en sus principales hospederos. Resultados: C. filiformis parasitó 10 especies mostrando preferencia por especies arbustivas. Sus principales hospederos fueron Scaevola plumieri, Phitecellobium keyense y Croton punctatus. Se observaron diferencias entre hospederos en el cambio del potencial hídrico y la concentración total de clorofila. Adicionalmente, se observaron diferencias entre tipos de tallos (jóvenes y maduros) en la concentración de clorofila. Conclusiones: C. filiformis se establece en especies arbustivas. Su desempeño fisiológico varía dependiendo de la identidad del hospedero. Se observaron diferencias en la concentración de clorofila entre tipos de tallo de C. filiformis sugiriendo diferencias fisiológicas funcionales entre ellos.

Abstract Background: Maize landraces show remarkable diversity and environmental adaptability in Mexico. Nevertheless, few studies have explored physiological mechanisms used by different maize landraces to grow and yield in a particular agroecological region. Question: How do three landrace maize populations from contrasting maize races in southeastern Mexico, differ in their responses in terms of growth, chlorophyll fluorescence, and gas exchange? Studied species: Zea mays L. Study site and date: Yucatan, Mexico; 2017. Methods: The field experiment followed a complete randomized block design, with six replicates. Three contrasting maize landraces were evaluated as treatments. Response variables were vegetative traits, dry matter allocation, yield components, and maize physiological responses. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey multiple comparison test (P ≤ 0.05). Results: Maize landraces showed differences in cycle length, plant morphology, and yield performance. The long cycle maize landrace Xnuc-naal, had tall plants that accumulated 17 and 21 % more dry matter than Xmejen-naal and Elotillo, respectively. The short-cycle maize landraces Elotillo and Xmejen-naal exhibit superior physiological responses leading to higher grain yields compared to the Xnuc-naal. Conclusions: The landrace Xnuc-naal stood out for its ability in forage production, whereas Elotillo and Xmejen-naal exhibited notable physiological efficiency in grain production in southeastern Mexico.

Resumen Antecedentes: Las razas nativas de maíz muestran una notable diversidad y adaptabilidad en México. Sin embargo, pocos estudios han explorado los mecanismos fisiológicos utilizados por las diferentes razas de maíz para crecer y producir en una región agroecológica en particular. Pregunta: ¿Cómo difieren en sus respuestas en cuanto a crecimiento, fluorescencia de la clorofila e intercambio de gases tres variedades de maíz que provienen de razas contrastantes del sureste de México? Especie estudiada: Zea mays L. Sitio y fecha del estudio: Yucatán, México; 2017. Métodos: El experimento de campo siguió un diseño de bloques completamente aleatorios, con seis repeticiones. Se evaluaron tres variedades nativas de maíz contrastantes como tratamientos. Las variables de respuesta fueron rasgos vegetativos, distribución de materia seca, componentes del rendimiento y respuestas fisiológicas de las variedades de maíz. Los datos fueron analizados mediante ANOVA de una vía y la prueba de comparación múltiple de Tukey (P ≤ 0.05). Resultados: Las variedades locales de maíz mostraron diferencias en la duración del ciclo, morfología de la planta y rendimiento. La variedad tardía Xnuc-naal, tuvo plantas altas que acumularon un 17 y 21 % más materia seca que Xmejen-naal y Elotillo, respectivamente. Las variedades precoces Elotillo y Xmejen-naal exhibieron una respuesta fisiológica superior que llevó a un rendimiento de grano superior al de Xnuc-naal. Conclusiones: La variedad de maíz Xnuc-naal destacó por su capacidad para la producción de forraje, mientras que Elotillo y Xmejen-naal demostraron una eficiencia fisiológica notable en la producción de grano en el sureste de México.

Abstract Introduction: Passiflora tripartita var. mollissima (banana passionfruit) is one of the most promising exotic tropical fruits from the diversity of the Passifloraceae family in South America, because of its organoleptic properties and antioxidant activity. Objective: To evaluate the physiological and anatomical responses of banana passionfruit plants under water deficit to better understand the mechanisms that mitigate this stress and affect the production of crops subject to climate change and global warming. Methods: Three-month-old seedlings of banana passionfruit were subjected to a soil water deficit through an irrigation reduction at 70 % for 49 days under greenhouse conditions. Morphology (leaf area, height, and number of leaves) and physiological (stomatal conductance, Fv/Fm, total chlorophyll content) measurements were made through time, and after the irrigation treatments were measured biomass parameters and anatomical foliar traits. Results: The plants experienced a decrease in height, leaf area, number of leaves, leaf area index, and relative water content, that are common responses in plants subjected to reduced irrigation. Additionally, the plants exhibited certain mechanisms that can be attributed to water deficit tolerance such as higher root:shoot ratio, stomatal closing, an increase in stomatal density, a reduction in mesophyll tissue thickness, and a decrease in the number of vessels and its diameter as they enable the banana passionfruit to reduce water loss and decrease the probability of cavitation in xylem vessels. Conclusions: banana passionfruit plants could implement strategies against water scarcity, allowing them to survive and endure challenging environmental conditions.

Resumen Introducción: Passiflora tripartita var. mollissima (banana passionfruit - curuba) es una de las frutas tropicales exóticas de la diversidad de la familia Passifloraceae en Sudamérica, promisoria por sus propiedades organolépticas y actividad antioxidante. Objetivo: Evaluar las respuestas fisiológicas y anatómicas de la curuba bajo déficit hídrico con el fin de comprender mejor los mecanismos que mitigan este estrés y afectan la producción de sus cultivos, que están sujetos al cambio climático y al calentamiento global. Métodos: Plántulas de 3 meses de edad se sometieron a un déficit hídrico mediante una reducción del riego al 70 % durante 49 días en condiciones de invernadero. Se realizaron mediciones morfológicas (área foliar, altura y número de hojas) y fisiológicas (conductancia estomática, Fv/Fm, contenido de clorofilas) a lo largo del tiempo, y transcurridos los tratamientos de irrigación se midieron parámetros de biomasa, además de rasgos anatómicos foliares. Resultados: Las plantas experimentaron una disminución en la altura, área foliar, número de hojas, índice de área foliar y contenido relativo de agua, respuestas comunes en plantas sometidas a una irrigación reducida. Adicionalmente, las plantas exhibieron ciertos mecanismos que pueden atribuirse a la tolerancia al déficit hídrico tales como una mayor relación raíz:vástago, cierre de estomas, un aumento en la densidad estomática, una reducción en el grosor del tejido del mesófilo y una disminución en el número de vasos del xilema y su diámetro; pues le permiten a la curuba disminuir la pérdida de agua y reducir la probabilidad de cavitación en los vasos del xilema. Conclusiones: Las plantas de la curuba tienen la capacidad de implementar estrategias de mitigación frente al déficit hídrico, lo que les permite sobrevivir y soportar condiciones ambientales desafiantes.

ABSTRACT Fossil fuels, particularly oil, face sustainability challenges due to depletion and their role in increasing atmospheric CO2 levels, contributing to climate change and impacting global agriculture. Renewable energy sources like solar power offer a viable alternative. This study explores the feasibility of agro-photovoltaic (APV) systems, which integrate solar panels with agricultural land to generate electricity while cultivating crops. Specifically, the impact of APV systems on rice production and quality was investigated. Solar modules with a total capacity of 99.84 kW were installed on a 2580 m2 site, with two module configurations tested. Two rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars, Woonkwang and Saenuri, were transplanted and monitored for growth characteristics, chlorophyll content, and fluorescence, as well as yield and quality. Growth analysis of rice under APV systems showed minimal impact on plant height and tiller numbers, though chlorophyll content analysis indicated delayed leaf aging and extended maturation time. Rice yield decreased due to altered panicle and spikelet numbers. Quality analysis revealed changes in head rice rate and broken rice, stressing optimal harvest timing in APV systems. Shading conditions also affected physicochemical properties and taste profiles. Yields dropped by about 20% under APV systems, but the financial returns from electricity generation significantly outweighed the crop revenue loss. Despite the high initial installation costs and regulatory challenges, APV systems present a promising dual-use approach for enhancing farm income and promoting renewable energy. Continued research and investment are essential for optimizing APV systems and expanding their adoption.

ABSTRACT Maize (Zea mays L.) is highly sensitive to salt stress, which poses a threat to its production, especially with predicted increases in salinity due to climate change. Enhancing salt tolerance in maize is critical to mitigating these adverse effects, sustaining its production, and ensuring global food security. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of exogenously applied lipoic acid or Si, alone or in integration with soil application of vermicompost-tea on physio-biochemical components, antioxidant defense systems, growth, and yield of maize plants exposed to salt stress. The application of vermicompost-tea was carried out as a soil treatment incorporated into irrigation water at a concentration of 200 L ha-1, and administered in three equal doses in irrigation water within the last 10 min of drip irrigation. Silicon was applied at a rate of 6 mM using potassium silicate and lipoic acid was applied at 0.1 mM. Silicon and lipoic acid were applied three times at 25, 40, and 55 d after planting. The results indicated that the integrative application of soil-based vermicompost-tea with exogenously applied Si or lipoic acid significantly enhanced all studied parameters. Specifically, the combination of Si with vermicompost-tea exhibited the highest improvement percentage compared to untreated control in chlorophyll a (60.3%), chlorophyll b (72.7%), carotenoids (69.9%), net photosynthetic rate (111%), transpiration rate (134%), stomatal conductance (129.5%), relative water content (28.4%), membrane stability index (44.3%), N (33.4%), P (71.9%), K (39.7%), Ca (89.9%), K/Na (81.2%), total soluble sugars (63.7%), proline (60.1%), ascorbate (44.4%), glutathione (83.5%), and α-tocopherol (72.1%). These positive effects were reflected in enhancing yield traits under salt-affected soil conditions by enhancing plant height (25.1%), number of grains per row (43.3%), number of rows per ear (26.7%), 1000‐grain weight (25.9%), grain yield (45.4%), and biological yield (42.8%) compared to untreated control.