ABSTRACT This work aimed at investigating the viability of near infrared spectrometry (NIR), associated with chemometric methods, in order to identify differences at the levels of vigor of naturally and artificially aged soybean seeds. Seeds of six soybean genotypes were analyzed when freshly harvested, after natural aging in storage for eight months, and after artificial aging at the temperature of 41 °C for 96 hours. The seed moisture content, germination potential and vigor were evaluated. Also, there were measured the content of protein, oil and of the fatty acids: palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic and linolenic. The NIR spectra were obtained from the freeze-dried and grinded seeds. The natural and artificial aging of the seeds promote deterioration at distinct levels, reflecting in differences in seed vigor. The regions of the electromagnetic spectrum between wavelengths of 1000-1200 nm, 1350-1450 nm, 1800-1900 nm and 2300-2400 nm are important to distinguish the levels of quality of the soybean seeds. The contents of oil and protein have a relationship with the physiological quality of the seeds. Also, the most relevant wavelengths for the classification of seed vigor present a relationship with these compounds. NIR spectroscopy, in combination with chemometric methods, presents potential to be used in the classification of soybean seeds regarding their physiological quality. NIR, , (NIR) methods harvested months 4 C 9 hours evaluated Also acids palmitic stearic oleic linolenic freezedried freeze dried 10001200 1000 1200 1000-120 13501450 1350 1450 1350-145 18001900 1800 1900 1800-190 23002400 2300 2400 2300-240 compounds spectroscopy (NIR 1000120 100 120 1000-12 1350145 135 145 1350-14 1800190 180 190 1800-19 2300240 230 240 2300-24 100012 10 12 1000-1 135014 13 14 1350-1 180019 18 19 1800-1 230024 23 24 2300-2 10001 1 1000- 13501 1350- 18001 1800- 23002 2 2300-

Resumo: Tem sido altamente requerida a elaboração, ajustes e adoção de testes e ferramentas que auxiliem na predição da armazenabilidade de sementes. Diante disso, este trabalho teve por objetivo analisar a eficiência de diferentes tempos de envelhecimento artificial na predição do desempenho das sementes de soja após o armazenamento, utilizando-se o método GGE biplot. Sementes de seis genótipos foram submetidas ao armazenamento, sob condição refrigerada e não refrigerada, e envelhecimento artificial, sendo envelhecidas artificialmente pelos períodos de 0, 48, 96 e 144 horas. As sementes recém-colhidas e após o envelhecimento natural e artificial foram submetidas a testes de germinação e vigor. Os experimentos foram analisados separadamente, por meio de teste de médias, análise de regressão e teste de identidade de modelos, e em conjunto, utilizando-se o método GGE biplot. O envelhecimento artificial, à temperatura de 41 °C por 96 horas apresenta potencial para ser utilizado na predição do desempenho de sementes de soja após oito meses de armazenamento. O GGE biplot é um método que pode ser utilizado como ferramenta para analisar as relações entre os ambientes de envelhecimento e visualizar o ranqueamento dos genótipos quanto ao desempenho das sementes submetidas ao envelhecimento natural e artificial. Resumo elaboração disso armazenamento utilizandose utilizando se 0 48 9 14 recémcolhidas recém colhidas vigor separadamente médias modelos conjunto 4 C 1

Abstract: Creation, adjustments and adoption of tests and tools that help in the prediction of seed storability have been highly demanded. Therefore, this work aimed to analyze the efficiency of different artificial aging times in predicting the performance of soybean seeds after storage, using the GGE biplot method. Seeds of six genotypes were subjected to storage, under refrigerated and non-refrigerated conditions, and artificial aging, being artificially aged for periods of 0, 48, 96 and 144 hours. Seeds freshly harvested and after natural and artificial aging were subjected to germination and vigor tests. The experiments were analyzed separately, using means test, regression analysis and model identity test, and together, using the GGE biplot method. Artificial aging at a temperature of 41 °C for 96 hours has the potential to be used to predict the performance of soybean seeds after eight months of storage. The GGE biplot is a method that can be used as a tool to analyze the relationships between aging environments and visualize the ranking of genotypes regarding the performance of seeds subjected to natural and artificial aging. Abstract Creation demanded Therefore storage nonrefrigerated non conditions 0 48 9 14 separately test together 4 C 1

RESUMO: A espectroscopia no infravermelho próximo (NIR) consiste em uma ferramenta promissora para otimização das análises de sementes de forma rápida e assertiva. Este trabalho teve como objetivo investigar a viabilidade do NIR, associado a métodos quimiométricos, para classificar lotes de sementes de soja quanto ao potencial fisiológico. Foram utilizados 372 lotes de sementes de soja avaliados quanto ao vigor e obtidos espectros NIR das amostras de sementes. Os espectros originais foram submetidos aos métodos de pré-processamento Standard Normal Variate (SNV), SNV + 1ª e 2ª derivadas; Gap-segment derivative; e Savitzky-Golay, pelas derivadas de primeiro e segundo grau, e a combinação entre os métodos. Os lotes foram divididos em Classe I (≥ 85% de germinação após envelhecimento acelerado), Classe II (< 85% de germinação após envelhecimento acelerado) e os espectros pré-processados foram utilizados para a construção de modelos de classificação por meio dos métodos K-nearest neighbors (KNN), Partial Least Squares - Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA), Naive Bayes (NB), Random Forest (RF) e Support Vector Machine (SVM). O modelo de classificação PLS-DA apresentou maior acurácia e kappa, seguido pelo SVM. Os menores valores de acurácia foram obtidos para os modelos NB e RF. As regiões entre os comprimentos de ondas 1.000-1.200 nm e 2.200-2.500 nm foram as mais importantes para distinguir os níveis de qualidade das sementes de soja. RESUMO (NIR assertiva quimiométricos fisiológico 37 préprocessamento pré processamento SNV, , (SNV) ª Gapsegment Gap segment derivative SavitzkyGolay, SavitzkyGolay Savitzky Golay, Golay Savitzky-Golay grau ≥ ( 85 acelerado, acelerado < préprocessados processados Knearest K nearest KNN, KNN (KNN) PLSDA, PLSDA PLS DA (PLS-DA) NB, (NB) RF (RF SVM . (SVM) kappa 1.0001.200 10001200 1.000 1.200 1 000 200 1.000-1.20 2.2002.500 22002500 2.200 2.500 2 500 2.200-2.50 3 (SNV 8 (KNN (PLS-DA (NB (SVM 0001 1.0001.20 1000120 1000 1.00 1200 1.20 00 20 1.000-1.2 2002 2.2002.50 2200250 2200 2.20 2500 2.50 50 2.200-2.5 1.0001.2 100012 100 1.0 120 1.2 0 1.000-1. 2.2002.5 220025 220 2.2 250 2.5 5 2.200-2. 1.0001. 10001 10 1. 12 1.000-1 2.2002. 22002 22 2. 25 2.200-2 1.0001 1.000- 2.2002 2.200-

ABSTRACT: Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is a promising tool for optimizing seed analyses quickly and assertively. The aim of this study was to investigate the viability of NIR in association with chemometric methods in classification of soybean seed lots regarding their physiological potential. We evaluated 372 soybean seed lots for vigor and obtained NIR spectra from seed samples. The original spectra were pre-processed by the following methods: Standard Normal Variate (SNV), SNV + 1st and 2nd derivatives, Gap-segment derivative, and Savitzky-Golay for the first- and second-degree derivatives, as well as combinations of the methods. The lots were divided into Class I (≥ 85% germination after accelerated aging) and Class II (< 85% germination after accelerated aging); and the pre-processed spectra were used to build classification models through the following methods: K-nearest neighbors (KNN), Partial Least Squares - Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA), Naive Bayes (NB), Random Forest (RF), and Support Vector Machine (SVM). The PLS-DA model showed greater classification accuracy and kappa, followed by SVM. The lowest accuracy values were obtained for the NB and RF models. The regions between the wavelengths 1,000-1,200 nm and 2,200-2,500 nm were the most important for distinguishing the quality levels of soybean seeds. ABSTRACT Nearinfrared Near infrared (NIR assertively potential 37 samples preprocessed pre processed SNV, , (SNV) st nd derivatives Gapsegment Gap segment derivative SavitzkyGolay Savitzky Golay first seconddegree second degree ≥ ( 85 aging < Knearest K nearest KNN, KNN (KNN) PLSDA, PLSDA PLS DA (PLS-DA) NB, (NB) RF, (RF) SVM . (SVM) kappa 1,0001,200 10001200 1,000 1,200 1 000 200 1,000-1,20 2,2002,500 22002500 2,200 2,500 2 500 2,200-2,50 seeds 3 (SNV 8 (KNN (PLS-DA (NB (RF (SVM 0001 1,0001,20 1000120 1000 1,00 1200 1,20 00 20 1,000-1,2 2002 2,2002,50 2200250 2200 2,20 2500 2,50 50 2,200-2,5 1,0001,2 100012 100 1,0 120 1,2 0 1,000-1, 2,2002,5 220025 220 2,2 250 2,5 5 2,200-2, 1,0001, 10001 10 1, 12 1,000-1 2,2002, 22002 22 2, 25 2,200-2 1,0001 1,000- 2,2002 2,200-

RESUMO: A qualidade das sementes é rotineiramente avaliada em laboratório por meio de testes de germinação e vigor. Embora eficientes, os métodos disponíveis têm limitações, principalmente associadas ao longo tempo de avaliação. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar se a espectroscopia no infravermelho próximo (NIR) pode categorizar lotes de sementes de soja e genótipos em classes de vigor predefinidas, com base em análises fisiológicas e bioquímicas. As classes foram definidas com base em análises do potencial fisiológico, da atividade de enzimas antioxidantes e dos teores de malonaldeído, óleo e proteína. Os espectros NIR de sementes individuais foram obtidos, pré-processados e utilizados para modelagem. Modelos de classificação utilizando o método K-Vizinhos Mais Próximos (K-NN), Análise Discriminante por Mínimos Quadrados Parciais (PLS-DA) e Máquina de Vetores de Suporte (SVM) foram obtidos. As sementes de baixo vigor apresentaram maiores teores de malonaldeído e óleo e, em geral, menores atividades de enzimas antioxidantes. O melhor modelo para classificar a qualidade das sementes alcançou 99% de precisão. A região de comprimento de onda de 1.000 a 1.250 nm foi a mais importante para distinguir os níveis de qualidade das sementes de soja. RESUMO eficientes limitações avaliação (NIR predefinidas bioquímicas fisiológico proteína obtidos préprocessados pré processados modelagem KVizinhos K Vizinhos KNN, KNN NN , (K-NN) PLSDA PLS DA (PLS-DA SVM (SVM geral 99 precisão 1000 1 000 1.00 1250 250 1.25 (K-NN 9 100 00 1.0 125 25 1.2 10 0 1. 12 2

ABSTRACT: Seed quality is routinely evaluated in the laboratory through germination and vigor tests. Although efficient, the available test methods have limitations, which are mainly associated with long evaluation times. We aimed to verify whether near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy can categorize soybean seed lots and genotypes into predefined vigor classes based on physiological and biochemical analyses. The classes were defined based on analyses of physiological potential; the antioxidant enzymes activities; and the contents of malonaldehyde, oil and protein. The NIR spectra of individual seeds were obtained, preprocessed, and used for modeling. Classification models using the K-Nearest Neighbors (K-NN) method, Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA), and Support Vector Machine (SVM) were obtained. The low-vigor seeds had higher malonaldehyde and oil contents and, in general, lower antioxidative enzyme activities. The best model to classify the seed quality reached 99% accuracy. The wave-length region from 1,000 to 1,250 nm was the most important for distinguishing the levels of soybean seed quality. ABSTRACT tests efficient limitations times nearinfrared near infrared (NIR potential activities protein obtained preprocessed modeling KNearest K Nearest KNN NN (K-NN method PLSDA, PLSDA PLS DA , (PLS-DA) SVM (SVM lowvigor low general 99 accuracy wavelength wave length 1000 1 000 1,00 1250 250 1,25 (PLS-DA 9 100 00 1,0 125 25 1,2 10 0 1, 12 2

Resumo A avaliação do atraso de colheita de sementes de soja pode auxiliar na seleção de cultivares mais resistentes à deterioração no campo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a qualidade fisiológica e sanitária de sementes de três cultivares de soja, submetidas ao atraso da colheita. Sementes das cultivares ‘NS 5959’, ‘BMX Potência’ e ‘TMG 1175’ foram colhidas em quatro épocas (R8; R8 + 10 dias; R8 + 20 dias e R8 + 30 dias) e avaliadas quanto ao grau de umidade, germinação, emergência, crescimento de plântulas e incidência de fungos. Houve redução na germinação e vigor das sementes das diferentes cultivares de soja, principalmente quando colhidas em R8 + 20 e R8 + 30 dias, devido à deterioração em campo. Além disso, o atraso na colheita proporcionou maior incidência de fungos nas sementes, principalmente Phomopsis sp., Aspergillus sp. e Cercospora kikuchii. Em geral, a cultivar ‘TMG 1175’ foi mais resistente à deterioração das sementes em campo causada pelo atraso de colheita.

Abstract The assessment of delayed harvesting of soybean seeds may help in the selection of cultivars more resistant to deterioration in the field. This work aimed to evaluate the physiological and sanitary quality of seeds of three soybean cultivars submitted to harvest delay. Seeds of the cultivars ‘NS 5959’, ‘BMX Potência’, and ‘TMG 1175’ were harvested in four periods (R8; R8 + 10 days; R8 + 20 days, and R8 + 30 days) and evaluated for the moisture content, germination, emergence, seedling growth, and fungal incidence. There was a reduction in germination and vigor of the seeds of the different soybean cultivars, especially when harvested at R8 + 20 and R8 + 30 days, due to deterioration in the field. In addition, the delay in harvest provided a higher incidence of fungi in the seeds, mainly Phomopsis sp., Aspergillus sp., and Cercospora kikuchii. In general, the cultivar ‘TMG 1175’ was more resistant to seed deterioration in the field caused by delayed harvesting.

Resumo: A busca por técnicas que possibilitem avaliar o vigor de sementes de forma rápida e assertiva como o Sistema de Análise de Plântulas (SAPL®) e o ILASTIK® podem ser alternativas promissoras para a análise de imagem de plântulas. O objetivo do trabalho foi realizar a classificação do vigor de sementes de lentilha utilizando técnicas de análise de imagem de plântulas e aprendizagem interativa de máquina. Sementes de sete lotes foram caracterizadas quanto ao potencial fisiológico pelos testes de germinação e vigor. Para a análise computadorizada de plântulas, as sementes foram submetidas ao teste de crescimento de plântulas a 20 °C por três, quatro, cinco e dez dias e, em seguida, fotografadas utilizando uma câmera digital. As imagens foram processadas pelo software SAPL®, obtendo-se valores de comprimento total, da raiz, parte aérea e índices de vigor, crescimento e uniformidade. Pelo ILASTIK®, foram obtidos dados de porcentagem de plântulas vigorosas, não vigorosas e sementes mortas. O comprimento total das plântulas, raiz, parte aérea e os índices de vigor determinados aos 4 dias de germinação pelo SAPL® permitem classificar os lotes quanto ao vigor. Os dados obtidos pelo ILASTIK®, aos 4 dias de germinação, utilizados nos estudos de aprendizagem de máquina, permitem o desenvolvimento de modelos com alta precisão para avaliação do vigor das sementes. Resumo SAPL (SAPL® ILASTIK máquina 2 C três quatro seguida digital obtendose obtendo se raiz uniformidade mortas (SAPL

Abstract: The search for techniques that allow for the rapid and accurate assessment of seed vigor, such as the Seedling Analysis System (SAPL®) and ILASTIK®, can be promising alternatives for seedling image analysis. The objective of this work was to classify the vigor of lentil seeds using seedling image analysis techniques and interactive machine learning. Seeds from seven lots were characterized for physiological potential through germination and vigor tests. For computerized seedling analysis, the seeds were subjected to seedling growth tests at 20 °C for three, four, five, and ten days, and then photographed using a digital camera. The images were processed using SAPL® software, yielding values for total length, root length, shoot length, and vigor, growth, and uniformity indices. ILASTIK® provided data on the percentage of vigorous seedlings, non-vigorous seedlings, and dead seeds. The total length of seedlings, root length, shoot length, and vigor indices determined at 4 days of germination by SAPL® allowed for the classification of lots in terms of vigor. Data obtained by ILASTIK® at 4 days of germination, used in machine learning studies, enable the development of models with high accuracy for seed vigor assessment. Abstract SAPL (SAPL® ILASTIK 2 C three four five camera software seedlings nonvigorous non studies (SAPL

Resumo: O tomate é uma cultura sensível ao déficit hídrico e as respostas de sementes à germinação sob essas condições envolvem processos bioquímicos, fisiológicos e moleculares. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar as alterações físicas, fisiológicas e bioquímicas em sementes de tomate osmocondicionadas com selênio (Se) e, posteriormente, submetidas ao déficit hídrico durante a germinação. Sementes de tomate das linhagens LA 4050 e LA 3475 foram osmocondicionadas com solução PEG 6000 (-1,0 MPa) mais Na2SeO4 (12,5 μM) ou apenas com solução de PEG 6000 por 24 h ou não condicionadas. As sementes provenientes dos diferentes tratamentos foram submetidas ao déficit hídrico (-0,3 MPa) ou ao controle (0 MPa). Foram realizadas análises de imagens (raios X); obtenção de variáveis fisiológicas pelo teste de germinação e atividades das enzimas SOD, CAT e POX. O osmocondicionamento, sobretudo com PEG, proporcionou às sementes de ambas as linhagens maiores densidades e média de cinza quando comparadas às não condicionadas. As sementes sob déficit hídrico apresentaram menor desempenho fisiológico e atividade enzimática. O Se não induziu resistência às sementes ao déficit hídrico. O osmocondicionamento com PEG 6000 a -1,0 MPa é eficiente para melhoria da qualidade fisiológica de sementes dos acessos de tomate suscetíveis e tolerantes ao déficit hídrico. Além disso, a enzima antioxidante CAT se mostrou indicadora da tolerância ao estresse oxidativo em plântulas de tomate sob déficit hídrico. Resumo bioquímicos moleculares físicas (Se posteriormente 405 347 600 1,0 10 1 0 (-1, NaSeO Na SeO Na2SeO 12,5 125 12 5 (12, μM 2 condicionadas 0,3 03 3 (-0, ( MPa. . raios X X) SOD POX enzimática -1, disso 40 34 60 1, (-1 12, (12 0, (-0 -1 4 6 (- (1 -

Abstract: Tomato is a crop sensitive to water deficit and the responses of seeds to germination under these conditions involve biochemical, physiological, and molecular processes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physical, physiological, and biochemical changes in tomato seeds osmoprimed with selenium (Se) and subjected to water deficit during germination. Tomato seeds of the LA 4050 and LA 3475 accessions were osmoprimed with PEG 6000 solution (-1.0 MPa) plus Na2SeO4 (12.5 μM) or only with PEG 6000 solution for 24 h or unprimed. The seeds from the different treatments were subjected to water deficit (-0.3 MPa) or to control (0 MPa). Image analyses were performed (X-ray), physiological variables were obtained by the germination test and activities of SOD, CAT and POX enzymes were determined. Osmopriming, especially with PEG, provided the seeds of both accessions with higher densities and gray mean when compared to unprimed ones. Seeds under water deficit showed lower physiological performance and lower enzymatic activity. Se did not induce seed resistance to water deficit. Osmopriming with PEG 6000 at -1.0 MPa is an efficient technique for improving the physiological quality of seeds of tomato accessions susceptible and tolerant to water deficit. Moreover, the antioxidant enzyme CAT proved to be an indicator of oxidative stress tolerance in tomato seedlings under water deficit. Abstract processes physical (Se 405 347 600 1.0 10 1 0 (-1. NaSeO Na SeO Na2SeO 12.5 125 12 5 (12. μM 2 0.3 03 3 (-0. ( MPa. . Xray, Xray X ray , (X-ray) SOD determined ones activity -1. Moreover 40 34 60 1. (-1 12. (12 0. (-0 (X-ray -1 4 6 (- (1 -

ABSTRACT. The use of multispectral images has great potential to assess seed quality and represents a significant technological advance in the search for fast and non-destructive analysis techniques. However, the devices currently available are expensive. Thus, this study aimed to propose a low-cost method for acquisition and processing of multispectral images of soybean seeds and to evaluate their potential for rapid determination of seed physiological potential. The study was conducted in three steps: implementation of the multispectral image acquisition system, development of an algorithm for automatic image processing, and evaluation of the relationship between the data obtained through image analysis and the results of standard tests used to evaluate seed physiological potential. A total of 43 variables were assessed, eight related to seed physiological potential (germination and vigor) and 35 obtained from the analysis of the multispectral images. Of the variables obtained from multispectral images, 21 were related to pixel values in the images in the different bands evaluated (green, red, and infrared) and 14 associated with seed morphometric characteristics. The proposed system is efficient in obtaining multispectral images and the algorithm developed was efficient to extract morphometric characteristics and pixel information from the images. The parameters obtained from the NIR spectrum region showed a good relationship with the physiological potential of soybean seeds. ABSTRACT nondestructive non destructive techniques However expensive Thus lowcost low cost steps 4 assessed germination vigor 3 2 green, green (green red infrared 1

ABSTRACT. Weathering deterioration affects seed quality, especially in areas with excessive rainfall. This study aimed to evaluate the oxidative stress, physiological quality, and protein metabolism of seeds of different soybean cultivars under weathering deterioration at the pre-harvest phase. Six soybean cultivars (BMX Apolo, DM 6563, NS 5959, NA 5909, BMX Potência, and TMG 1175) were subjected to simulated rainfall at the R8 stage. Each level was divided into two applications at 72-h intervals: 60 mm (30 + 30), 120 mm (60 + 60), and 180 mm (90 + 90). Then, the seeds were harvested and evaluated for physiological potential, antioxidative enzymes, hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde, proteins, and protease activity. The simulated rainfall allowed the variation in seed moisture, promoting a significant reduction in germination and seed vigor, especially at 120 and 180 mm levels. There were also reductions in antioxidative enzyme activity with weathering deterioration (mainly for catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, and peroxidase), accumulation of hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde, and reductions in protein content and protease activity. The proposed rainfall system is efficient in inducing weathering deterioration during the pre-harvest phase and its deleterious effects. Weathering deterioration in soybean seeds in the pre-harvest stage is directly influenced by genotype. ABSTRACT quality stress preharvest pre harvest Apolo 6563 5959 5909 Potência 1175 R 72h h 72 intervals 6 30 (3 30, , 30) 12 (6 60, 60) 18 90 (9 90. . 90) Then potential enzymes malondialdehyde proteins moisture vigor levels mainly catalase peroxidase peroxidase) effects genotype 656 595 590 117 7 3 ( 1 9 65 59 11 5

Resumo: Recentemente está crescendo a necessidade de tecnologias não invasivas, rápidas e precisas que possam estimar a qualidade das sementes. Entre essas tecnologias, destaca-se a análise de imagens de raios X para avaliação da morfologia interna das sementes. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficiência do software SARS na análise de radiografias digitais de sementes de braquiária, denominado SARS (Sistema de Análise de Radiografias de Sementes) na avaliação da qualidade física das sementes. Cinco lotes comerciais de sementes de Urochloa decumbens cv. Basilisk foram utilizados. As sementes foram produzidas na safra de 2018/2019. As imagens radiográficas das sementes foram analisadas por meio do SARS, por meio das quais foram obtidas características físicas. As sementes foram submetidas ao teste de germinação, no qual foram mensuradas variáveis relacionadas à qualidade fisiológica. Foi possível observar que as sementes com maior potencial de germinação e vigor apresentaram correlações fortes e significativas com algumas das variáveis físicas obtidas pelo SARS. Assim, a alta correlação do comprimento de plântulas e a densidade relativa das sementes é importante para validar o método de análise de imagens radiográficas de sementes. O SARS mostrou-se uma ferramenta eficiente para análise de radiografias digitais de sementes de braquiária, gerando descritores que dão suporte a análise morfométrica e interna das sementes, que podem ser associados à sua qualidade fisiológica. Os parâmetros físicos obtidos pela técnica têm estreita relação com a germinação e o vigor das sementes.

Abstract: Recently is growing the need for non-invasive, fast, and accurate technologies that can predict seed quality. Between these technologies, X-ray image analysis stand out for evaluation of the internal morphology of the seeds. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficiency of a specialized software for analyzing digital radiographs of Urochloa decumbens seeds called SARS (Sistema de Análise de Radiografias de Sementes - Seed Radiograph Analysis System). Five comercial seed lots of U. decumbens cv. Basilisk were used. The seed lots were produced in the 2018/2019 crop season. Radiographic images of the seeds were analyzed in SARS, through which physical characteristics were obtained. The seeds were then subjected to germination test, in which variables related to the physiological quality were evaluated. It was possible to observe that the seeds with greater germination and vigor showed strong and significant correlations with some of the physical variables obtained using SARS. Thus, high correlation of seedling length and relative seed density is important for validating the seed radiographic image analysis method. SARS proved to be an efficient tool for analyzing digital radiographs of U. decumbens seeds. It can generate descriptors which support morphometric and internal analysis of the seeds. Physical parameters obtained by using the technique have close relationship with the germination and vigor of the seeds.

ABSTRACT. To be considered drought-tolerant, a tomato cultivar is required to present some level of tolerance at all developmental stages of plant growth. Since drought tolerance is a stage-specific phenomenon, genotype assessment must be performed separately at all developmental stages. In this study, we used a multi-trait index based on factor analysis and genotype-ideotype distance (FAI-BLUP index) to properly rank 49 tomato genotypes according to their tolerance to drought stress conditions at germination and seedling stages. Seeds of 47 introgression lines, which cultivar M82 is considered drought-sensitive, and the Solanum pennellii wild accession LA 716, which is considered drought-tolerant, were subjected to a control condition, where seeds were soaked in distilled water, and a drought condition, where seeds were soaked in a polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution (-0.3 MPa). Drought stress, induced by PEG, had a significant impact on all nine germination and growth performance-related traits; there was a reduction in shoot length (SL), total length (TL), initial germination percentage (IGP), final germination percentage (FGP), germination velocity index (GVI), and germination rate (GR). In contrast, the root-to-shoot ratio (R/S) and time to reach 50% germination (T50) increased under drought stress. Root length (RL) was less affected by drought, and in some genotypes, it was even increased. As expected, LA 716 ranked closest to the drought tolerance ideotype. IL 1-4-18, IL 2-3, IL 1-2, IL 9-2, and IL 10-1 were the most drought-tolerant at the germination stage. These results will serve as guidance for breeders who are aiming at developing drought-resistant tomato cultivars.

Resumo: A deterioração por umidade na fase de pré-colheita prejudica a obtenção de sementes de soja de alta qualidade. Em seleção de genótipos, é comum a realização de vários testes para inferir sobre qualidade de sementes, sendo que a estatística multivariada pode auxiliar nas interpretações. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a eficiência dos métodos de estatística multivariada de componentes principais (PCA) e discriminantes canônicos (CDA) na avaliação da tolerância de sementes de diferentes cultivares de soja à deterioração por umidade na fase de pré-colheita, em condições de casa de vegetação. Foram produzidas sementes de seis cultivares de soja (DM 6563, BMX Apolo, BMX Potência, NA 5909, NS 5959 e TMG 1175). Na fase de pré-colheita, foram aplicados diferentes níveis de precipitação simulada (0, 60, 120 e 180 mm). As sementes foram colhidas e avaliadas quanto a análises fisiológicas, físicas e bioquímicas e os dados obtidos foram analisados pelas técnicas PCA e CDA. Os resultados mostraram que a PCA e a CDA são eficientes para avaliação da tolerância à deterioração por umidade em sementes de soja. Na pré-seleção de genótipos para essa característica, a PCA e a CDA auxiliaram na recomendação dos testes de primeira contagem de germinação, envelhecimento acelerado, tetrazólio, porcentagem de sementes com enrugamento no tegumento, teor de proteínas e atividade da protease. A PCA e a CDA também auxiliaram na identificação das cultivares DM 6563 e BMX Potência como mais suscetíveis e as cultivares NA 5909 e TMG 1175 como mais tolerantes à deterioração por umidade na fase de pré-colheita.

Abstract: Weathering deterioration in the pre-harvest phase impairs high-quality soybean seed production. The performance of several tests to infer seed quality is common in genotype selection, and multivariate statistics can assist in the interpretations. This study aimed to assess the efficiency of the principal component analysis (PCA) and canonical discriminant analysis (CDA) multivariate statistical methods in assessing the tolerance of seeds of different soybean cultivars to weathering deterioration in the pre-harvest phase under greenhouse conditions. Seeds of six soybean cultivars (DM 6563, BMX Apolo, BMX Potência, NA 5909, NS 5959, and TMG 1175) were produced. Different simulated precipitation levels (0, 60, 120, and 180 mm) were applied in the pre-harvest phase. The seeds were collected and assessed for physiological, physical, and biochemical analyses and the data were analyzed by PCA and CDA techniques. The results showed that PCA and CDA are efficient for assessing the tolerance to weathering deterioration in soybean seeds. PCA and CDA assisted in the recommendation of the tests first germination count, accelerated aging, tetrazolium, percentage of seeds with seed coat wrinkling, protein content, and protease activity in the pre-selection of genotypes for weathering deterioration. PCA and CDA also helped to identify the cultivars DM 6563 and BMX Potência as more susceptible and NA 5909 and TMG 1175 as more tolerant to weathering deterioration in the pre-harvest phase.

Resumo: O óxido nítrico (ON) vem se destacando como estimulador do processo de germinação das sementes, principalmente sob condições de estresse. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos fisiológicos e bioquímicos do ON na germinação e no vigor de sementes de ervilha submetidas ao déficit hídrico. Sementes da cv. Itapuã 600 foram semeadas em substrato umedecido com água (controle), solução de PEG 6000 (-0,15 MPa) e em solução de PEG 6000 com nitroprussiato de sódio (SNP) (-0,15 MPa + 50 µM), um doador de ON. Foram avaliadas a germinação, vigor (velocidade de germinação e desenvolvimento de plântulas), atividade de enzimas antioxidantes, espécies reativas de oxigênio, peroxidação de lipídeos e atividade de amilases. A germinação e o vigor das sementes de ervilha foram reduzidos sob o déficit hídrico, mas a aplicação do SNP foi capaz de melhorar o desempenho fisiológico e bioquímico das sementes sob essa condição. O déficit hídrico promove um aumento do estresse oxidativo, mas a aplicação de ON promove maior atividade das enzimas do aparato antioxidativo e das amilases, amenizando os danos causados pelo déficit hídrico durante a germinação e crescimento de plântulas de ervilha.

Abstract: Nitric oxide (NO) has been standing out as a seed germination process stimulator, mainly under stress conditions. This work aimed to evaluate the physiological and biochemical effects of NO on germination and vigor of pea seeds submitted to water deficit. Seeds of cv. Itapuã 600 were sown in moistened substrate with water (control), PEG 6000 solution (-0.15 MPa) and PEG 6000 solution with sodium nitroprusside (SNP) (-0.15 MPa + 50 μM), an NO donor. The germination, vigor (germination speed and seedling development), activity of antioxidant enzymes, reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, and amylase activity were evaluated. Germination and vigor of pea seeds were reduced under water deficit, but the application of SNP was able to improve the physiological and biochemical performance of the seeds under this condition. Water deficit promotes an increase in oxidative stress, but the application of NO promotes greater activity of antioxidative apparatus enzymes and amylases, softening the damage caused by water deficit during seed germination and growth of pea seedlings.

RESUMO O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar as alterações fisiológicas e bioquímicas decorrentes da deterioração controlada em diferentes lotes de sementes de girassol. Foram utilizados dois lotes de sementes da cultivar Hélio 253, condicionados à deterioração simulada, utilizando-se a metodologia do teste de envelhecimento acelerado conduzido (41 °C e 100% UR) por 0, 48, 72 e 96 h. Em seguida, as sementes foram submetidas aos testes de germinação, primeira contagem de germinação, comprimento e matéria seca de plântulas, emergência, envelhecimento acelerado e condutividade elétrica. A avaliação da atividade antioxidante foi feita através das enzimas superóxido dismutase (SOD), ascorbato peroxidase (APX) e peroxidase (POX) aos 0, 2, 4 e 6 dias após a semeadura. A deterioração provocou redução na germinação e no vigor das sementes, principalmente no lote de menor vigor inicial e nos maiores tempos de exposição (72 e 96 h). Para ambos os lotes, foram observadas reduções da atividade da SOD e aumento da POX e APX durante a germinação das sementes, sobretudo a partir de 48 h de exposição ao envelhecimento. As enzimas peroxidases são ativadas em sementes deterioradas e não deterioradas de girassol, principalmente após dois dias de germinação. girassol 253 simulada utilizandose utilizando se 41 (4 C 100 UR 0 7 9 seguida plântulas emergência elétrica SOD, , (SOD) (APX (POX 2 semeadura (7 . h) 25 ( 10 (SOD 1

ABSTRACT This work aimed to evaluate the physiological and biochemical changes resulting from controlled deterioration in different lots of sunflower seeds. Two sunflower seed lots of the cultivar Hélio 253 were subjected to simulated deterioration, using the accelerated aging test methodology (41 °C and 100% RH) for 0, 48, 72, and 96 h. Then, the seeds were subjected to the tests of germination, first germination count, seedling length and dry matter, emergence, accelerated aging, electrical conductivity, and total seedling length. The antioxidant activity was evaluated through the enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and peroxidase (POX) at 0, 2, 4, and 6 days after sowing. Deterioration caused a reduction in the germination and vigor of the seeds, mainly in the lot with lower initial vigor and for the longest exposure times (72 and 96 h). For both lots, reductions in SOD activity and increases in POX and APX were observed during seed germination, mainly after 48 h of exposure to aging deterioration. Peroxidase enzymes are activated in deteriorated and non-deteriorated sunflower seeds, mainly after two days of germination. 25 41 (4 C 100 RH 0 72 9 Then count matter emergence conductivity SOD, , (SOD) APX, (APX) (POX 2 4 sowing (7 . h) nondeteriorated non ( 10 7 (SOD (APX 1

ABSTRACT Water stress during wheat seed germination and seedling establishment for affect the percentage and speed of germination. Silicon (Si) is related to plant tolerance to different types of stress, then the application of this nutrient in the mother plant during seed production could contribute to the improvement of the seed quality and, consequently, its tolerance to stress. The aim was to evaluate the effect of foliar application of silicon on the tolerance of wheat seeds, produced under different irrigation levels, to water stress during germination and initial seedling growth. Wheat seeds were produced under three irrigation depths (0, 50 and 100% of the total required irrigation) applied after the anthesis. The silicon was supplied in two doses by foliar application (0 and 5 mM of Si). The germination and seedling growth were performed under water stress induced by PEG 6000 at the -0.2; -0.4; -0.6 MPa osmotic potentials. In addition, in the control only distilled water was used. The reduction of the osmotic potential reduced seed germination, germination speed and seedling growth. Irrigation depths, as well as foliar application of Si, during seed production did not influence the physiological quality and tolerance of seeds to water stress during germination.