Seed Testing INTERNATIONAL ISTA News Bulletin No. 147 April 2014

17 ISTA Annual Meeting 2014, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Feature ARTICLEs 4 Quality standards for supporting advanced technologies in Other Seed Determination 7 Chlorophyll fluorescence as an indicator of seed quality 10 Introduction of new methods: spectral imaging ASSOCIATION NEWS 14 7th ISTA Seed Health Symposium, Edinburgh, UK 17 ISTA Annual Meeting 2014, Edinburgh, UK 22 Proposal to change the Articles of ISTA 23 Electronic voting at the ISTA Ordinary General Meeting 26 OECD Scheme for the Certification of Forest Reproductive Material: Annual Meeting in Paris 27 ISTA Technical Committees: Working Programmes 2013–2016 31 New faces at the ISTA Secretariat 32 Update on the electronic Rules 2014 32 Doctorate for ISTA Statistics Committee Chair Jean-Louis Laffont 33 DOIs Я Us: digital object identifiers for Seed Science and Technology papers Rules development 36 Method validation reports on Rules proposals for the ISTA Rules 2015 Edition ACCREDITATION 40 Accreditation of the Central Reference Laboratory of Mexico Seed Testing INTERNATIONAL EDITORIAL

Dear colleagues, seed testing analysts, and readers,

“The times they are a-changin”; in this April issue of Seed Test- ing International (STI) we will be addressing some of the changes and novelties in our ISTA world, alongside the regular informa- tional features. One of the big changes that the Association went through this January was the introduction of the electronic ISTA Rules. This was no small undertaking, and it took more than a year of work on the part of Jonathan Taylor, the Publication Specialist at the Secretariat, Steve Jones and Craig McGill, members of the Execu- tive Committee Publications Working Group, to be accomplished. The change has the promise to enable a more efficient updating of Seed Testing International the Rules, easier and wider member access and saving on produc- No. 147 April 2014 tion costs. It is too early yet to judge how these potential benefits ISSN 1999-5229 measure in reality, but nevertheless, the first three months brought about some simple logistical lessons, and some feedback and expe- Produced on behalf of the riences that Jonathan will be sharing in this issue (page 32). ISTA Executive Committee Our feature articles are also about novelty. The first work ad- dresses the question of how to evaluate new advanced technolo- The views and opinions expressed by au- gies. The authors propose a statistical approach that they have thors in this publication are not necessarily developed based on the results of ISTA Proficiency Tests of Other those of the International Seed Testing As- Seed Determination. The paper then demonstrates methods for sociation (ISTA). No endorsement of any using the data to generate quality standards for a new advanced non-ISTA products or services mentioned method (page 4). The two other articles come from the Advanced in this publication is given or implied by Technologies Committee; each describes a new potential method- the International Seed Testing Association. ology for estimating seed quality. The first looks into exploring the relationship between chlorophyll content and the state of the Editors seed, thus utilizing chlorophyll fluorescence for seed quality esti- Dr. Benjamin Kaufman mates (page 7). The second explores spectral imaging to determine Dr. Rasha El-Khadem morphological and biochemical parameters associated with seed Mrs. Patricia Muschick quality (page 10). Mr. Jonathan Taylor Another novelty is physical, and is something we will experi- ence at the Ordinary General Meeting in Edinburgh this coming International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) June: electronic voting. The red and green cards that have served ISTA Secretariat ISTA for many years, and the exciting ritual of counting ... and Zürichstrasse 50 recounting ... the raised hands, will be replaced. At this year’s An- CH-8303 Bassersdorf, Switzerland nual Meeting we will be introducing electronic voting. The article on page 23, accompanied with a photograph of the new gadget, Phone: +41 44 838 60 00 will provide some insight into how this new method of voting will Fax: +41 44 838 60 01 be used. E-mail: [email protected] Last but not least, a new Doctor within ISTA’s ranks! Jean- Internet: www.seedtest.org Louis Laffont, Chair of the Statistics Committee, has received his Doctorate degree. See more about Dr. Laffont on page 32. Seed Testing International No. 148 Pleasant reading and I hope to see you all in Edinburgh. Deadline for article submission: 15 August 2014 Publication date: October 2014 Yours sincerely Circulation: 1500 No. of copies printed: 2000 Beni Kaufman Instructions to contributors: www.seedtest.org/STI

Other ISTA publications For information on other ISTA publications, please contact the ISTA Secretariat or visit our web site at www.seedtest.org.

Photo credits: Front cover, p. 17: George Gastin

II Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Contents

17 23 43

17 ISTA Annual Meeting, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

23 Electronic voting at the ISTA Annual PRESIDENT’S REPORT Meeting 2 President’s Report

43 Workshop announcements Feature ARTICLEs 4 Quality standards for supporting advanced technologies in Other Seed Determination 7 Chlorophyll fluorescence as an indicator of seed quality 10 Introduction of new methods: spectral imaging

ASSOCIATION NEWS 14 7th ISTA Seed Health Symposium Edinburgh, UK 17 ISTA Annual Meeting 2014, Edinburgh, UK 22 Preparatory documents for the Ordinary General Meeting 22 Proposal to change the Articles of ISTA 23 Electronic voting at the ISTA Ordinary General Meeting 24 Proposed changes to the ISTA Rules 2015 Edition 26 OECD Scheme for the Certification of Forest Reproductive Material: Annual Meeting in Paris 27 ISTA Technical Committees: Working Programmes 2013–2016 31 New faces at the ISTA Secretariat 32 Update on the electronic Rules 2014 32 Doctorate for ISTA Statistics Committee Chair Jean-Louis Laffont 33 DOIs Я Us: digital object identifiers for Seed Science and Technology papers 34 ISTA membership changes

Rules development 36 Method validation reports on Rules proposals for the ISTA Rules 2015 Edition

ACCREDITATION 40 Accreditation of the Central Reference Laboratory of Mexico 41 Laboratory accreditation changes

TRAINING AND EDUCATION 43 Workshop announcements 51 Workshop reports

inside rear cover Calendar

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 1 President's Report

President’s Report Joël Léchappé

The ISTA Rules are updated every year, The ECOM is proud to actively con- and are now available as an electronic tribute to the development of these ISTA version. services and to make them available world- The ISTA Orange International Seed Lot wide via the TCOMs and the Secretariat. Certificates(OICs) are used by the trade to The ECOM, newly elected in June 2013, import and export seed lots. held its first official meeting from 8–15 In support of the ISTA Rules, every February 2014 in St Petersburg, Russia. new method must go through a validation Alexander Malko, ECOM member, and programme, to check the repeatability and his team provided excellent facilities, help- reproducibility between laboratories. This ing the meeting to be a huge success. The guarantees the accuracy and harmoniza- ECOM thanks the Russian Ministry of tion of ISTA methods worldwide. Method Agriculture and the Russian colleagues for validation requires close collaboration be- hosting the meeting. Russia has been an tween the ad hoc technical committees, the ISTA member since 1965, and has 6 Mem- Rules Committee and the Technical Co- ber Laboratories, 5 of which are accredit- ordinator, and the voluntary contribution ed. Like other countries, Russia makes the of the ISTA laboratories undertaking the use of OICs compulsory for the import of t present, our Association has 205 validation studies. The validation reports seed lots into Russia. This regulation ac- Amembers from 74 countries or distinct are available on the ISTA web site. knowledges and supports the role of ISTA economies, and 127 accredited laborato- ISTA also provides both Members and accreditation and the ISTA Rules in their ries. More than 250 scientists, technologists non-members with up-to-date scientific seed trade. and seed experts, ISTA’s technical heart, and technical knowledge in its journal Seed Part of the agenda was aimed at com- contribute to its work as members of the Science and Technology, the ISTA Rules, pleting ISTA’s regulatory work, i.e. to final- 17 Technical Committees (TCOMs) and the handbooks and the news bulletin Seed ize and approve the reports and documents Working Groups. They were confirmed by Testing International. TCOMs are also or- to be submitted for voting at the Ordinary the Executive Committee (ECOM) at the ganizing more and more workshops and General Meeting (OGM), and to coordi- 2013 ISTA Congress in Antalya (Turkey) seminars hosted in member countries, in nate the planned actions with the ISTA and come from seed testing laboratories, close coordination with the local hosts and strategy. Among the documents approved universities and the seed industry. ISTA the Secretariat. So far for 2014, 10 work- were the Secretary General’s and ECOM Members are often members of other in- shops have been scheduled, on quality as- reports, the Rules proposals and the related ternational bodies working in the seed sec- surance, tree and shrub seeds, sampling, method validation reports provided by the tor, such as the OECD, AOSA or ISHI, or seed health, vigour and image analysis TCOMs and the Rules Committee. In dis- of national certification systems or region- tools, in Indonesia, India, and Eastern and cussions, the ECOM also highlighted the al associations of seed analysts. This diver- Western Europe. great quality and amount of work again sity is of great value to ISTA, as it gives a ISTA Member Laboratories are also done by the TCOMs and the Secretariat. worldwide overview as well as a local view provided with a complete programme The financial accounts for 2013 and the of the needs of the users of the ISTA Rules. of proficiency tests (PTs) as part of their provisional budget for 2014 were presented The ECOM strongly supports the TCOMs membership. The PT programme is very by the Secretary General, and confirmed in welcoming new members from different helpful, adds value to the laboratories, and that ISTA’s finances are healthy, allow- geographical regions and fields of exper- allows comparisons between the accredited ing the development of new projects to be tise. The voluntary contribution to ISTA laboratories. It also allows non-accredited funded and membership fees to be retained is welcome. The work of the TCOMS re- laboratories to benchmark themselves at their current level. The new projects are ceives technical and administrative support against accredited laboratories. The PT to continue to financially support the work from the Secretary General and his team in programme is also open to non-members of the TCOMs, to extend the use of web the ISTA Secretariat. Thanks go to our ac- as a paid service. conferencing to the TCOMs, to design a tive members, the Secretariat and our net- The ISTA laboratory accreditation new web site and to better promote ISTA work of collaborating organizations. scheme, established in 1995, helps guar- worldwide. These projects and ongoing ISTA’s mission, harmonizing seed testing antee the quality of harmonized testing topics are detailed below and in the ECOM worldwide and contributing to facilitate worldwide. report. They will also be presented and dis- the seed trade, is achieved by the following: cussed at the OGM in June.

2 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 President's Report

By now you should have received the access from the internet, free multi-user and Indonesia in 2014 is therefore wel- agenda and the documents for the OGM. access for Member Laboratories, chapters come. There is also potential for a higher Since the 2013 Congress, the introduc- available separately, no amendments but a contribution from the seed industry, repre- tion of in-house methods for germination new complete updated version each year. senting about 30 % of the current Member testing has been looked at in depth by a With regard to the price, to promote a wid- Laboratories. The ECOM considers the Working Group, chaired by Joost van der er use of the Rules, Chapters 1 (Certificates) development and promotion of ISTA as Burg (Netherlands) and co-chaired by Ma- and 2 (Sampling) can now be downloaded a major project, requiring coordinated ef- satoshi Sato (Japan) from the ECOM, with free of charge also by non-members, as was forts and appropriate resources. Based on members of the ECOM, ISF and Secretar- already possible for Chapter 7 Seed Health a business case prepared by the Secretary iat. Its goal is to prepare a paper to present methods. The pricing policy is still under General, a Working Group on the Promo- views both for and against the concept of scrutiny by the ECOM. tion of ISTA (Chair: Berta Killermann, in-house methods in germination testing. Electronic publication also opens new Germany, co-chair: Craig McGill, New The ECOM, after considering closely the perspectives for development. The Work- Zealand) has been set up. A new position arguments of the Working Group, sup- ing Group on Publications has discussed aimed at marketing ISTA has also been ports the current ISTA system, and does how best to facilitate the translation of created in the Secretariat, and a budget al- not see the need for in-house methods for the Rules into other languages and how to located to fulfil this. germination testing. Nevertheless, answers ensure that the translated Rules are widely I look forward to seeing you at our next are needed to the main questions that led available to the speakers of these languages. Annual Meeting in Edinburgh, UK from to the discussion of standard methods ver- Furthermore, the need to reduce the 14–19 June. The next Annual Meeting and sus in-house methods. There were an in- times between testing, reporting and de- Congress will be in Uruguay in 2015 and in creasing number of requests for validation livery of seed lots is becoming a major Estonia in 2016. The workshops, seminars of new substrates, as well as a request from challenge for the seed trade. The ECOM and Annual Meetings are very good op- the seed sector for changes to the germina- regards the electronic issue of OICs as a portunities for sharing experiences, and are tion methods to meet their specific needs, contribution to shortening the delays, and essential for the development of ISTA. The such as usable plant tests. A presentation will next work on this issue. Your opinions organization of these events is made possi- and discussion on this topic will be organ- and suggestions as Member Laboratories ble thanks mainly to the voluntary contri- ized for the OGM. issuing OICs, their clients, or stakehold- butions of people in the hosting countries For the second year, the Working Group ers would really be appreciated, and would along with the help of the Secretariat. on Management and Finances (Chair Steve help to define the way forward. Hosting an ISTA meeting in your coun- Jones, Canada), together with the Secre- The Working Group on Review of the try is an opportunity to contribute to tariat, studied the financial data with the Accreditation System, chaired by Rita Zec- ISTA, to reduce costs (e.g. for travel) for accounting system using the ISTA finan- chinelli (Italy), and comprising representa- participants from your geographical re- cial tool. The calculations and principles to tives from the Designated Authorities of gion, and to encourage the development allocate expenses and resources have been Australia and New Zealand, the ISF and of seed testing structures in your region. If checked and validated. This tool, which the Accreditation and Technical Depart- your country would like to host an ISTA still needs to be refined, helps to accurately ment of the Secretariat, has been working Annual Meeting in 2017 or 2018, or the define the ISTA financial policy. For exam- on defining the needs of the laboratories Congress in 2019, please contact the Sec- ple, it will be used to gather the final finan- and stakeholders. ISTA Members all had retary General. cial data for the Working Group on Ac- the opportunity to complete the accredi- On behalf of ISTA I am pleased to invite creditation Review by 2016, as announced tation questionnaire sent to Members, you to these meetings and to work together at the 2012 Ordinary Meeting. accredited laboratories and Designated and be part of the evolution of ISTA by The success and the limits of the ISTA Authorities. Your contribution was very sharing experiences with other experts Rules depend on four parameters: the sci- significant; I take this opportunity to thank from all over the world. entific and technical content provided by you for it. The analysis of the question- A high attendance at Annual Meetings is the TCOMs, the method of publishing naire will also be presented in June. one of the best supports and rewards that (including availability), the price, and the In the ISTA strategy adopted in Antalya the organizers can have. language. The ECOM Working Group on in 2013 there were several goals concern- I personally thank you all for your active Publications (Chair Craig McGill, New ing the development of services provided contribution to ISTA. Zealand) has been working in close collab- by ISTA in more regions of the world. A oration with the Rules Chair (Steve Jones) first-step analysis by the Secretary Gen- Your President and the Secretariat on the electronic pub- eral shows that there is indeed room for lication of the ISTA Rules. This goal has developing ISTA in various regions. The Joël Léchappé been achieved with the electronic publica- 205 current members come from only 74 tion of the 2014 Rules. This first electronic countries or distinct economies; compare edition will be improved according to your this to the 196 member countries of the (prepared with the assistance of Craig McGill, Steve feedback. Moving to electronic publication United Nations. Some geographical re- Jones and Rita Zecchinelli) brings many advantages, benefitting all gions are underrepresented (e.g. Africa and  categories of users, among which are easy Asia). The hosting of workshops in India

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 3 Feature Article

Quality standards for supporting advanced technologies in Other Seed Determination Peter Deplewski and Michael Kruse* *ISTA Personal Member

University of Hohenheim Such a discussion with a company cur- 100 % were taken as 100 %. From the re- Hohenheim, Germany rently engaged in developing such a system sults of the OSDs reported by the labora- [email protected] led to the question how a minimum de- tories, mean detection rates and variances michael.kruse@uni-hohenheim tection rate in OSD might be determined were calculated for each combination of which reflects the current accuracy level of main and other species. seed analysts, and thus might transparently The mean detection rates showed a very Introduction show what accuracy the system would need wide variation, and confirmed very quickly to achieve to be acceptable. that detection rates cannot be expected to The determination of other seeds by In following these questions, the strategy be constant for any given other species. For number (other seed determination: OSD; of the current study was to put together a example, finding and identifying a wheat ISTA Rules Chapter 4 (ISTA, 2013)) is, data set with results of proficiency tests and seed in a grass seed sample would be easy amongst others, an important test of seed comparative tests, in order to derive values (resulting a high detection rate), but in quality. In routine testing, these labour- for good seed testing practice in OSD. The a wheat-type triticale sample would be a intensive determinations are carried out by aim is not explicitly to establish standard huge challenge (resulting in a low detection hand. values for ISTA purposes, but to show how, rate). It was thus necessary to consider all Over the past years there have been vari- in principle, existing data could and should 269 combinations of main and other spe- ous initiatives by technical companies to be used to support advanced technologies cies individually. Therefore, the combina- develop computer-aided imaging systems by providing clear minimum standards. tions were graded by two OSD experts, and to automate OSD. These efforts are ham- assigned to one of the three classes ‘easy’, pered not only by technical obstacles. Very Materials and methods ‘moderate’ or ‘difficult’. This grading was rapidly, the highly relevant question arose made without the experts knowing the de- how accurate such equipment needed to be For this evaluation, the results of 27 in- tection rates calculated from the proficien- in order to be accepted for use in routine ternational and national proficiency tests, cy test data set. seed testing. The standard initial answer with samples from a total of 64 different In order to check for consistency of the to this question is that a single other seed proficiency test seed lots, and 1656 OSDs grading, the influence of the nominal ex- might be relevant for certifying or not cer- were digitalized. Between 15 and 102 labo- planatory variable grade on the continuous tifying a seed lot, and that consequently the ratories had participated in these proficien- response variable detection rate or detec- machine needs to be 100 % accurate; every cy tests, which had taken place between tion variance was tested in a linear model seed of another species needs to be found, 1996 and 2012. ISTA proficiency tests were and generalized linear models with bino- separated and (if possible) identified. not included. The 27 proficiency tests com- mial, quasi-binomial and beta-binomial Since in an OSD there is always a certain prised 17 main species from 13 genera. In link functions (Lesnoff, 2012). number of false negatives, the response each test, the samples were spiked with Quartiles and cumulative distribution of the company is usually that the accu- seeds from up to 10 different other species. functions were determined on the basis of racy cannot reach 100 %. Then, after the In total, 21 756 seeds of 161 other species the combination means. For each class a be- importance of such certification decisions were added to the samples of the 64 profi- ta-binomial (Yee, 1996) one-way 90 % con- has been elucidated, the discussion finally ciency test seed lots, thus forming a total fidence interval for the lower border of the comes to the question how good a seed of 269 combinations of main species and detection rate was also calculated, based analyst is, and what the current detection other species. on the number of other seeds that were de- rate is in routine OSD. If the equipment is The result of an OSD is comprised of tected for each combination (Table 1). For as good as a seed analyst, or even a little the rates of detection of the seeds of each the cumulative distribution functions, poly- better, it should be acceptable, even if not other species with which the sample was nomial regression functions were set up in 100 % accurate. spiked. A total of 7861 such detection such a way that the coefficient of determi- At this point, seed testing scientists must rates was calculated at the laboratory level. nation r2 was greater than 0.99. admit that there is no data set from which Other seeds were rated as being correctly Furthermore, the variance of the detec- standards of accuracy for OSD can be de- detected if at least the genus was reported tion rate and the one-way 90 % confidence rived. No such data or conclusions have so correctly. Thus, the detection rate included interval for the lower border on the basis of far been published. Therefore, although we both the detection of the other seeds and a beta-binomial model were calculated for can agree that the detection rate does not their correct identification at the genus each combination of species. need to be 100 %, we do not have an ac- level. In this study, these two aspects were All calculations were done using the sta- ceptable minimum level. not separated. Detection rates greater than tistical software R (R, 2013).

4 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Feature Article Quality standards for supporting advanced technologies in Other Seed Determination

Class Quartiles Beta binomial derivations Results 0 % 25 % 50 % 75 % 100 % Mu Rho CI min Of the 269 species combinations, 234 easy 0.41 0.87 0.94 0.98 1.00 0.91 0.10 0.78 were graded as ‘easy’, 29 as ‘moderate’ moderate 0.24 0.68 0.83 0.88 1.00 0.76 0.14 0.53 and only 6 as ‘difficult’ (homozygous fat- difficult 0.00 0.17 0.41 0.62 0.82 0.36 0.38 0.02 uoid Avena sativa in Avena sativa, Sinapis arvensis in Brassica rapa, Festulolium in Table 1. Overview of the quartiles of the detection rates per class and 3 values derived by the beta binomial Festuca trachyphylla, Festuca filiformis in distribution. The 50 % quartile is the median of the mean main species – other species detection rates per Festuca trachyphylla, two- or six-row Hor- class deum vulgare in Hordeum vulgare and Fes- Mu = mean of the class as estimated on the basis of a beta binomial distribution tuca pratensis in Lolium perenne). Means Rho = dispersion parameter of the beta binomial distribution (rho is zero if the empirical variance is not bigger than expected; otherwise rho can increase to almost 1). and variances of the detection rates were CI min = beta binomial one-way 90 % confidence interval for the lower border calculated for all 269 combinations. The boxplots in Figure 1 give an overview over these mean detection rates and their vari- ances per class. In Figure 2, the three histograms of the 7861 detection rates grouped according to the three classes (easy: 6765, moder- ate: 943; difficult: 153) each have two main peaks at 0 % and 100 %. This is caused by the fact that if a sample were spiked with one other seed, this can have been either detected (100 %) or not (0 %). If a sample were spiked with two seeds of one species, possible detection rates would be 0 %, 50 % or 100 % , and so on. The histograms show that in the class ‘easy’, laboratories achieved a detection Figure 1. Boxplots of the means (a) of the detection rates of combinations of main and other species and rate of 100 % more often than in the class variances (b) grouped according to the classes ‘easy’, ‘moderate’ and ‘difficult’. ‘difficult’. In this class, 0 % was reported more frequently. However, the histogram for the class ‘easy’ also shows that 520 labo- ratories (approx. 8 %) detected none of the other seeds classified as ‘easy’, while 5761 laboratories (approx. 85 %) detected all of these. On the other hand, the histogram for the class ‘difficult’ shows that 67 laborato- ries (approx. 44 %) detected all other seeds classified as ‘difficult’, while 73 laboratories (approx. 48 %) detected none of these. From the data in Figure 1, empirical cumulative distribution functions were es- tablished and three polynomial functions were adjusted, one for each class (Fig. 3). These distributions and functions can now be applied as follows: if an imaging system for OSD is at least as good as the better Figure 2. Histograms of the 7861 detection rates at the laboratory level for each of the three classes ‘easy’, ‘moderate’ and ‘difficult’.

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 5 Feature Article Quality standards for supporting advanced technologies in Other Seed Determination

5725-2 (ISO 5725-2, 1994) only check whether the difference between the maxi- mum and minimum results exceeds a tol- erated range. The developer of an imaging system, on the other hand, might want to be significantly different from the other result (i.e. better), so that exceeding the maximum tolerated range at the upper end of the detection rates might be a preferred result. Hence minimum detection rates are the better choice. The calculation of confidence inter- vals for OSDs was hampered by the fact that the sample size from which the single laboratory detection rates result was very low – not many other seeds were added to the main species – and that the detec- Figure 3. Cumulative distribution functions of the mean detection rates of the combinations of main and other tion of other seeds in routine testing is not species per class ‘easy’ (green dots and line), ‘moderate’ (red dots and line) and ‘difficult’ (black dots and (only) determined by random distribution, line). The dashed lines show the polynomial regression functions that were adjusted for the classes i.e. the sampling error, but by the ambition ‘easy’: y = 54.926x5 – 171.688x4 + 219.149x3 – 141.244x2 + 45.601x – 5.844; r2 = 0.9911 (pink dashed line) of the laboratories or analysts. In many of ‘moderate’: y = –359.119x6 + 1290.042x5 – 1859.256x4 + 1373.908x3 – 546.284x2 + 110.488x – 8.788; r2 = 0.9912 (blue dashed line) and the proficiency tests analysed, the latter ‘difficult’: y = 1.2231x3 – 1.5112x2 + 1.4427x + 0.1703; r2 = 0.9983 (black dashed line). showed a very high variation, i.e. a very high overdispersion, represented by the parameter rho. This caused the confidence 75 % of the seed analysts, then for ‘easy’ answer without a sound quantitative basis intervals for single samples to range some- other seeds the detection rate should be at for the accuracy of the traditional method. times down to 0 % or to be not available. least 98 %, for ‘moderate’ 88 % and for ‘dif- Proficiency tests, in particular in OSD, Therefore, to avoid this obstacle, the con- ficult’ 62 %. These values are also shown in are run every year, but are not evaluated fidence intervals as shown in Table 1 and Table 1. Thus, any minimum detection rate for this kind of evaluation and use of the the empirical cumulative distribution func- for the three classes can be inferred directly results. tions, together with their fitted polynomial­ from the empirical cumulative distribution Therefore, as an example in this study, regression functions in Figure 3, were cal- functions in Figure 3, or can be calculated data of proficiency tests were combined culated on the basis of the mean detection from the three polynomial regression func- and analysed in order to quantify the av- rates of the combinations of main and tions adjusted to these cumulative distribu- erage quality of OSDs and their variance. other species for each class. Nevertheless, tion functions. The result is not a quality standard, that since there are differences in the detectabil- The polymodal distribution, which also by its nature is a valid standard or toler- ity of different combinations, even within still exists for the class ‘difficult’, if com- ance. It is still the task of ISTA to define the same class, the detection rates and con- bination means were calculated from the authoritative tolerances regarding the fidence intervals can provide an orientation single detection rate values, is a problem minimum number of other seeds to be for each combination of main and other for the linear, binomial and beta-binomial found. The result of this work are options: species. models, and therefore the model fit is sub- mean and median of the detection rate, The methodology of seed testing is quite optimal, as can be seen from the residuals. other quantiles of the distribution of the traditional. In soil testing, there are new Nevertheless, model fits were performed detection rates, and all these values for dif- approaches and technologies entering the for the three classes, the influence of which ferent classes of difficulty. However, this market every year. What are the reasons for was always highly significant, and the re- already forms an unprecedented support this conservatism of seed testing? Analyses sulting confidence intervals are given in for companies, since these values and the are not measurements but assessments, and Table 1. cumulative distribution function provide are based on personal skills and experi- orientation for the new advanced technolo- ence. New advanced technologies are con- Discussion and outlook gies, and allow them to demonstrate their fronted with very high requirements and comparative performance. expectations. Nevertheless, the future of In all discussions during the past decades Tolerance tables for the maximum al- seed testing will also depend significantly with companies developing image analysis lowed differences are not helpful for defin- on the question how well new technologies systems for OSD, the final question was ing the minimum number of other seeds. can be supported, introduced and accepted how accurate the system needs to be to be Maximum ranges as listed in Tables 4A, by the seed trade, because the challenges of suitable for seed testing. This is difficult to 4B or 5B–E (ISTA, 2013) or ISO standard the traditional methods (labour intensive,

6 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Feature Article Quality standards for supporting advanced technologies in Other Seed Determination

requiring trained personal, time consum- like to thank the Agricultural Inspection ISTA (2013). Chapter 4: Other seeds by num- ing) will be tolerated less and less by the and Research Institution in Hameln, which ber. In International Rules for Seed Testing. Chapter 5: The germination test. In markets. Thus, standardizing bodies such provided all proficiency test data, and of Interna- tional Rules for Seed Testing. International as ISTA should develop strategies to help course all the persons and analysts who or- Seed Testing Association (ISTA), Bassers- new advanced technologies get access to ganized, conducted and participated in the dorf, Switzerland. routine testing, by defining adopted stand- proficiency tests, without whom this paper Lesnoff, M., Lancelot, R. (2012). aod: Analysis of Overdispersed Data. R package ver- ards not only for technical aspects but also would not have been possible. sion 1.3, URL http://cran.r-project.org/ for quality aspects of the methodology. To package=aod make use of existing data from proficiency References R Core Team (2013). R: A language and envi- tests is a helpful and efficient approach for ronment for statistical computing. R Foun- dation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, this task. ISO 5725-2 (1994/Cor 1:2002). Accuracy Austria. URL http://www.R-project.org/ . (trueness and precision) of measurement Yee, T. W. and Wild, C. J. (1996). Vector Gen- methods and results – Part 2: Basic method eralized Additive Models. Journal of Royal Acknowledgements for the determination of repeatability and Statistical Society, Series B, 58(3), 481–493. reproducibility of a standard measurement Thanks to Mr. Jochen Pfäfflin for his method. http://www.iso.org/iso/home/search.  essential contribution in grading the dif- htm?qt=5725-2&published=on&active_ tab=standards&sort_by=rel . ficulty levels of the combinations of main and other species. Furthermore, we would

Chlorophyll fluorescence as an indicator of seed quality J. Harry Nijënstein Member, ISTA Advanced Technologies Committee and Germination Committee

Innoseeds BV Chlorophyll is often present in seeds The principle of CF 4420AA Kapelle, the Netherlands during their early development. A relation- [email protected] ship between chlorophyll content and seed The present method of CF measure- quality was discovered as early as 1989 ment as an indicator of seed quality was (Steckel et al., 1989). During maturation, described in 1998 (Jalink et al., 1998a, b) and t is often difficult for the seed testing the chlorophyll content of a seed generally patented in 2000 (Jalink, 2000). Based on this Icommunity to evaluate the value of new decreases gradually. Consequently it is re- technology, various companies designed and seed testing methods. One of the goals of lated to the maturity of the seed (Steckel et marketed seed CF meters, such as the Seed- the ISTA Advanced Technology Commit- al., 1989, Smolikova et al., 2011). The chlo- Analyser (Fytagoras and Astec Global) and tee (ATC) is to identify and evaluate such rophyll level can be assessed by destruc- the iXeed CF analyser (RhinoResearch/Cen- methods for practical use in seed testing. tive chemical extraction methods followed tor Group) and sorter (SeQso/Centor Group). This may facilitate the development of by optical detection (Breia et al., 2013, Meters are currently used by a number of new methods to become routinely applied Canakci et al., 2007; Green et al., 1998, seed companies. and eventually to be incorporated into the Lindgren et al., 2003; Onyilagha et al., The principle of CF is that light of a ISTA Rules. 2011), but this is less convenient for routine certain wavelength is emitted by a suitable ‘New’ technologies may be ‘new’ be- testing. A new method has been developed, source (LED, laser) and shone onto a seed. cause of several reasons: an improvement based on the detection of chlorophyll by its As a result of the absorption of this light, of an existing method in the ISTA Rules, fluorescence. This new method can deter- the chlorophyll in the seed emits fluores- or a totally new principle for assessing seed mine the seed chlorophyll content quickly cent light of a slightly longer wavelength. quality. A new principle may be in various and non-destructively. This emitted fluorescent light is captured stages of ‘new’; it may be commercial or The goal of this paper is to evaluate the by a camera or photo multiplier and there- precommercial. present status of the method and provide by transformed into a small current of a One of the promising new technologies suggestions how to develop it further for few picoampères (pA). The strength of that has been identified by the ATC is chlo- routine application in seed testing. the current is related to the intensity of the rophyll fluorescence (CF). fluorescence, and hence to the chlorophyll content of the seed.

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 7 Feature Article Chlorophyll fluorescence as an indicator of seed quality

The chlorophyll content in seeds is relat- ed to maturity in many species, and thus to seed quality parameters. In general, chlo- rophyll declines with increasing seed matu- rity and quality. Steckel et al. (1989) dem- onstrated the principle on Daucus carota, and Jalink et al. (1998a, b) and Dell’Aquila et al. (2002) on Brassica oleracea. Onyila- gah et al. (2011) found that Brassica napus seeds containing higher levels of chloro- phyll are more prone to deteriorate in the presence of adverse environmental condi- tions. In addition, these seeds had poorer seedling vigour and field performance. Deleuran et al. (2013) demonstrated the re- lationship between CF and mean germina- tion time in Spinacia oleracea seeds. One of the advantages of the new equip- ment over the older chemical extraction and microscopic methods is speed: it takes less than a minute for a sample to be evalu- ated. Furthermore, this method is non- Figure 1. Histograms of CF intensity (in pA) for rice (Oryza sativa ‘Zhenshan’) seeds harvested at 24, 31, destructive, and it is sufficiently precise 38 and 45 days after mid-anthesis. The earlier harvested seeds show a higher average CF level and a more and sensitive to be used on single-seed heterogeneous CF distribution (CF intensity values spread over a wider range). With maturation of the seeds, CF intensity decreases and homogeneity increases (CF intensity distribution becomes smaller). Measure- measurements. ments done with SeedAnalyser equipment, data courtesy of Fiona Hay (International Rice Research Institute, Philippines) and Bert van Duijn (Fytagoras, the Netherlands). Uses of CF

The CF meter can be used for setting values. In addition, the chlorophyll content show a relationship between CF and seed optimal harvest timing by determining the may change during imbibition, and can quality also in these species. Allium (results level of seed chlorophyll that indicates de- be monitored by CF (Jalink et al., 1999), from both A. cepa and A. porrum)(J.W. sired maturity. This can be particularly im- providing a potential opportunity to assess Hoopman and A. Blaakmeer, pers. comm.) portant for indeterminate crops that also seed quality during priming or in germinat- and pine (Pinus palustris) (Barnett et al., have the potential to shatter, as it is not ing seeds. 2006) seem to be crop genera in which CF possible to wait until all seeds are mature The method is now in use by seed com- cannot (or very difficult) be related to seed before harvesting. panies for in-house assessment of seed quality. Upon arrival of the seed lot in the ware- quality, determination of harvest time and Equipment can be of various types, e.g. house, CF can help to decide how to clean, seed sorting, indicating that this method for analysis of whole seed lot samples or upgrade and store the lot. can complement more conventional seed for single seeds. There is also equipment As the method is very sensitive and the evaluation and separation methods such for laboratories, and mobile equipment for chlorophyll content is related to the ger- as air separation and size and colour sort- checking samples in seed production fields. mination quality of the seed, CF has been ing. Seed sorting and evaluation machines incorporated in a seed sorter to remove im- based on CF are currently being used for Present status of the method and mature seeds and improve the germination Brassica spp., pepper (Capsicum annuum), how to proceed percentage or storage potential of seed lots. tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), fennel For some types of seed, the method may (Foeniculum vulgare), various grasses, to- As CF is related to germination quality, also identify cracks in the seed envelope, as bacco (Nicotiana tabacum), rice (Oryza it could be registered as a vigour test meth- uncovering of the inner tissue of the seed sativa), carrot (Daucus carota), cotton od. So far only a limited number of sci- due to the crack may affect the CF reading (Gossypium spp.), sunflower (Helianthus entific research papers are available. Most (H. Jalink, pers. comm.). No detailed stud- annuus) and beet (Beta vulgaris) (J.W. are based on experiments with a limited ies on this possibility are yet available. Hoopman, F. Schreurs and A. Blaakmeer, number of samples, not comprising the full In addition, the meter is suitable for re- pers. comm.). Work in barley (Hordeum range of seed qualities that can be encoun- search or testing related to seed quality. As vulgare) by Konstantinova et al. (2002), in tered in the market place, as also indicated CF is primarily related to seed maturity, rice (Oryza sativa; Fig. 1) by Van der Burg before by Matthews et al. (2011). any seed quality parameter associated with et al. (2009), in soybean (Glycine max) by A comparative study among labs for seed maturity, such as vigour or potential Cicero et al. (2009) and in coriander (Co- carefully selected seed samples could be the longevity, might be correlated with CF riandrum sativum) by Górnik et al. (2013) next step forward. A number of issues and

8 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Feature Article Chlorophyll fluorescence as an indicator of seed quality

questions will have to be addressed in such References Jalink, H., Van der Schoor, R., Bino, R.J. a comparative study: (1999). Werkwijze voor het bepalen van de kwaliteit van voorgekiemde, kiemende, 1. Chlorophyll level is related to germi- Barnett, J.P. and Dumroese, R.K. (2006). en gekiemde zaden en inrichting voor het Separating live from dead longleaf pine nation quality. Does this relationship analyseren en inrichting voor het scheiden van seeds: good and bad news. In Proceedings of change during storage of the seed? Is voorgekiemde zaden. [Method for determining the 13th biennial southern silvicultural research the quality of pregerminated, germinating and it influenced by disease, seed coating conference. (ed. Kristina F. Connor) Gen. germinated seeds and apparatus for analysing products, priming, production loca- Tech. Rep. SRS-92, NC: U.S. Department and apparatus for sorting pre-germinated, ger- of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern tion, production year, other variable minating and germinated seed. Dutch Patent Research Station, pp. 81–84. seed properties (e.g. seed moisture No. 1009006. Breia, R., Vieira, S., Marques da Silva, J., Jalink, H.(2000). Method for determining the content, seed (coat) oxidation level), or Gerós, H., Cunha, A. (2013). Mapping grape maturity and quality of seeds and an ap- variety? berry photosynthesis by chlorophyll fluores- paratus for sorting seeds. U.S. patent No. cence imaging: the effect of saturating pulse 2. CF readings could be influenced by US006080950A. intensity in different tissues. Photochemistry cracks in seed coats. It is not known to Konstantinova, P., Van der Schoor, R., Van and Photobiology, 89, 579–585. der Bulk, R., Jalink, H. (2002). Chlorophyll what extent this could happen. Canakci, S. and Munzuoglu, Ö. (2007). Ef- fluorescence sorting as a method for improve- 3. The seed chlorophyll content can be fects of acetylsalicylic acid on germination, ment of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) seed growth and chlorophyll amounts of cucum- affected by cryopreservation (Cejas health and germination. Seed Science and ber (Cucumis sativus L.) seeds. Pakistan et al., 2012). To what extent, and in Technology, 30, 411–421. Journal of Biological Sciences, 17, 2930–2934. Lindgren, L.O., Stalberg, K.G., Höglund, A. which species? Cejas, I., Vives, K., Laudat, T. (2012). Effects (2003). Seed-specific overexpression of an en- 4. Which alternative methods exist (e.g. of cryopreservation of Phaseolus vulgaris L. dogenous Arabidopsis phytoene synthase gene seeds on early stages of germination. Plant Breia et al., 2013, Ooms et al., 2011, results in delayed germination and increased Cell Rep, 31, 2065–2073 Nakajima et al., 2012). Can all these levels of carotenoids, chlorophyll, and abscicic Cicero, S.M., Van der Schoor, R., Jalink, H. acid. Plant Physiology, 132, 779–785. methods be calibrated, in order to (2009). Use of chlorophyll fluorescence sort- Matthews, S. and Powell, A. (2011). Towards au- have a method validation and not an ing to improve soybean seed quality. Revista tomated single counts of radicle emergence to Brasileira de Sementes, 31(4), 145–151. equipment validation? predict seed and seedling vigour. Seed Testing Dell’Aquila, A., Van der Schoor, R., Jalink, H. International, 142, 44–48. (2002). Application of chlorophyll fluores- Nakajima, S., Ito, H., Tanaka, R., Tanaka, A. Depending on the outcome of one or more cence in sorting controlled deteriorated white (2012). Chlorophyll b reductase plays an comparative studies, the CF method could cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.) seeds. Seed essential role in maturation and storability of Science and Technology, 30, 689–695. qualify for incorporation into the ISTA Arabidopsis seeds. Plant Physiology, 160, Deleuran, L.C., Olesen, M.H., Boelt, B. (2013). Rules or an ISTA Handbook. 261–273. Spinach seed quality: potential for com- Onyilagha, J.C., Elliott, B.H., Buckner, E., Okiror, bining seed size grading and chlorophyll S.O., Raney, P.J. (2011). Seed chlorophyll influ- fluorescence sorting.Seed Science Research, Conclusion ences vigor in oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) 23, 271–278. var AC Excel. Journal of Agricultural Science, Górnik K., Janas R., Grzesik M. (2013). Fluo- Chlorophyll fluorescence is a promis- 3(2), 73–79. rescencja chlorofilu miernikiem dojrzalosci Ooms, D. and Destain, M. (2011). Evaluation of ing sensitive, fast and non-destructive nasion kolendry siewnej [Chlorophyll fluo- chicory seeds maturity by chlorophyll fluores- new technology for use in the production, rescence of coriander seeds as maturation cence imaging. Biosystems Engineering, 110, meter]. Episteme, 20(1), 317–322. cleaning, upgrading and testing of seed. 168–177. Green, B.R., Singh, S., Babic, S, Bladen, I., More research and comparative studies Smolikova, G.N., Laman, N.A., Boriskevich, O.V. Johnson-Flanagan, A.M. (1998). Relation- (2011). Role of chlorophylls and carotenoids will give further insight into possibilities ship of chlorophyll, seed moisture and ABA in seed tolerance to abiotic stressors. Russian for this method to be included in the ISTA levels in the maturing Brassica napus seed Journal of Plant Physiology, 58(6), 965–973. and effect of a mild freezing stress. Physiolo- Rules or an ISTA Handbook. Steckel, J.R., Gray, D., Rowse, H.R. (1989). Rela- gia Plantarum, 104, 125–133. tionship between indices of seed maturity and Jalink, H., Frandas, A., Van der Schoor, R., carrot seed quality. Annals of Applied Biology Acknowledgements Bino, J.B. (1998a). Chlorophyll fluorescence 114(1), 177–183. of the testa of Brassica oleracea seeds as an Van der Burg, J. (2009). Raising seed quality: indicator of seed maturity and seed quality. The author is grateful to members of the what is in the pipeline? In Responding to the Sci.agric., Piracicaba, 55 (Número Especial), ISTA Advanced Technology Committee challenges of a changing world: the role of 88–93. new plant varieties and high quality seed in for valuable suggestions and comments. Jalink, H., Van der Schoor, R., Frandas, A., agriculture. Proceedings of the Second World Van Pijlen, J.G., Bino, R.J. (1998b). Chlo- Seed Conference, pp. 177–184. Rome, UPOV, rophyll fluorescence ofBrassica oleracea Geneva. seeds as a non-destructive marker for seed maturity and seed performance. Seed Science  Research, 8, 437–443.

ISTA Annual Meeting 2014, Edinburgh, UK, 16–19 June 2014 Online registration: www.seedtest.org/AM14

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 9 Feature Article

Introduction of new methods: spectral imaging

Merete Halkjær Olesen1, Bert van Duijn2 and Birte Boelt3 2Chair and 3Member, ISTA Advanced Technologies Committee

1, 3Aarhus University, Institute of Agroecology possibility to distinguish between the pres- Hyperspectral imaging is of interest Flakkebjerg, Denmark ence of chlorophyll a and b by the use of from a research perspective to increase the 2Fytagoras / Leiden University, Institute of Biology specific wavelengths in the region of 400– knowledge about selecting wavelengths Leiden, the Netherlands 500 nm and 600–700 nm, which would not that can be used in quality testing, but the [email protected] be detected in the traditional colour image extra spectral information often comes as (RGB). A spectral image primarily pro- a trade-off of spatial resolution, dynamic vides information on properties originating range and/or speed of acquisition. By us- peed, accuracy and costs are important in the surface chemistry and structure. ing multispectral imaging it is possible to Saspects of seed testing methods. Hence, In multispectral imaging, several images apply only those bands which are valuable the possibilities to introduce new methods are taken in selected bands of wavelengths; in discriminating between the required in seed testing that provide improvements each represents an individual wavelength, traits of the seed. on these aspects as well as additional in- depending on the selected light sources and Advances resulting from the use of a formation on seed quality parameters are optical filters. An example of such a meas- system in which selected frequencies of of great interest. In this respect, spectral uring device is shown in Figure 1. wavelengths are employed (e.g. by LED, as imaging technology can be seen as a meth- Hyperspectral imaging deals with sev- in Fig. 1) are opportunities to determine odology which can add to the knowledge eral images that cover a complete spectral the presence of specific biochemical com- of seed quality aspects, the speed of testing range with a specific interval between each pounds in or on the surface of the seed, and the reproducibility of traditional tests wavelength. fungi or seedling. These may be various within and between laboratories. Seed size, Current multispectral imaging systems pigments, wax, chlorophyll or fatty acids. shape and colour are common features that will typically use light emitting diodes Furthermore, taking of images by use of are employed as sorting parameters for im- (LEDs) as light sources with wavelength near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths provides provement of seed quality. Features can be bands of 10–25 nm width (FWHM), opportunities to separate features that can- extracted from images captured at different whereas hyperspectral systems use broad- not be done visually (Singh et al., 2007), wavelengths. These features provide a new band light sources covering the full spec- like lipids, proteins and carbohydrates. opportunity of determining seed quality tral range and then separate the wavelength Table 1 lists compounds that can be cor- parameters such as morphological and bi- on the camera side, e.g. using a diffraction related to various wavelengths. ochemical characteristics of the seed coat, grating. for example the presence of waxes, pectin and phenols. Table 1. Correlations between wavelength, colour and compound types, when objects (e.g. seeds) are illuminated by different types of LEDs What is spectral imaging? Wavelength (nm) Colour Compound / application example 375 UVA Fluorescence, mycorradicin (Klingner et al., 1995) Images of an object exposed to light of 405 Violet Melanins (Nosanchuk et al., 1998) different wavelengths can be obtained by digital cameras. In general, digital cam- 435 Indigo Chlorophyll a (absorption and excitation)(Salisbury and Ross, 1992) eras capture three different images: a red, 450 Blue Riboflavin, chlorophyll b, β-carotene (Salisbury and Ross, 1992) a green and a blue (RGB) colour image, by 505 Cyan Metmyoglobin (Govindarajan and Snyder, 1973) using three different sensors (for red, green 525 Green Anthocyanin (Vivar-Quintana et al., 2002) and blue light). The combination of these 570 Yellow Oxymyoglobin (Schenkman et al., 1997) images produces a colour picture. When images of for example green seeds are tak- 590 Amber Oxymyoglobin (Schenkman et al., 1997) en by such a camera, the sensors will detect 630 Red Metmyoglobin (weak)(Govindarajan and Snyder, 1973) the green colour because green light waves 645 Red Chlorophyll b (Salisbury and Ross, 1992) are reflected by the seeds, whereas blue and 660 Red Chlorophyll a (Salisbury and Ross, 1992) red light waves are absorbed. 850 NIR Light-harvesting complex 1 (LH2)(Tharia et al., 1999) In spectral imaging the sequential ex- posure of the object to light of different 890 NIR Fat (Song et al., 2009) wavelengths provides further information 940 NIR Fat (Song et al., 2009) about topographical texture, spectral tex- 970 NIR Water (Penuelas et al., 1993) ture and gloss. An example of this is the

10 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Feature Article Introduction of new methods: spectral imaging

Parameter correlations and require highly trained and experienced per- more spectral information than the RGB classification of seed quality sonnel. The use of image analysis technol- image. ogy which can mimic human vision will When dealing with multi-dimensional Parameter determinations and parame- eliminate subjective assessment, and also data, as generated in multispectral images, ter correlations on non-homogeneous seed provide documentation. However, this type reduction of the data dimensions is re- samples or the use of a combination of of imaging technology mostly requires quired to visualize and find natural group- different parameters to distinguish classes ings within the data set. Data reduction can be achieved by various mathematical methods which transform multispectral images into new images with reduced num- bers of bands. If the various groups within the samples are unknown, it can be valu- able to apply unsupervised data analysis methods, such as principal component analysis (PCA). Examples of this ap- proach were published in studies by Singh et al. (2007) and Zhang et al. (2012). In some cases, such as in the case of canoni- cal discriminant analysis (CDA), the multi- spectral images can be reduced to only one band image. CDA is also known as Fisher’s linear classifier and is defined as a super- vised transformation, because it is based a b on known groups used as training samples (e.g. fungi and uninfected seeds). Examples of the possibilities of spec- tral imaging in seed quality testing are de- scribed below.

Purity

Determination of purity of seed lots in seed testing is often time consuming, and for some species difficult. This is especially the case for seed lots in which the seeds of different subspecies (e.g. Brassica species) can hardly be distinguished visually. Mul- tispectral imaging analysis may provide tools for distinguishing species and varie- ties. In maize and grape, spectral imag- c ing has been used to distinguish varieties based on the optical spectral features of Figure 1. Example of a multispectral imaging tool (a), consisting of an array of LED light sources providing the seeds (Zhang et al., 2012; Rodríguez- light of 19 different wavelengths (colours in the range of 405–970 nm) that illuminate the seed sample (b). A Pulido et al., 2013). For maize, the optimal 5 megapixel camera captures the reflection images of the sample for the various wavelengths consecutively wavelengths for distinguishing the groups (c). The whole set-up is placed inside a sphere to achieve homogenous illumination. Thus, the camera takes (i.e. varieties) in a principal component 19 greyscale images with a spatial resolution of 2056 × 2056 pixels, taken at wavelengths from 405 to 970 nm. The camera is connected to a computer, which handles the images as 19 two-dimensional matrices of analysis (PCA) were 523, 579 and 863 nm. numbers. Each of these matrices represents the reflectance data from each of the 19 wavelengths. Each of Measurements on these three wavelengths the numbers in each matrix represents the reflectance value in one particular image pixel. allowed the varieties in the batch to be clearly distinguished.

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 11 Feature Article Introduction of new methods: spectral imaging

Germination and vigour that can provide valuable information re- determination of pregerminated barley lating to germination and seed vigour. Im- (Arngren et al., 2011). Monitoring of seed germination by im- age analysis has proven to be a valuable aging has been employed in a number of tool in germination testing and monitor- Seed health studies. Multispectral imaging may con- ing of germination curves, as discussed by tribute to identifying morphological and Matthews and Powell (2012), Dell’Aquila In a multispectral imaging approach, the biochemical features of the seed or radical (2004, 2005) and Wagner et al. (2012), and combinations of the features from images

c

Figure 2. Images of spinach seeds taken with the VideometerLab multispectral imaging tool at 450 nm (a) and 870 nm (b), and data analysis of the images. 1: un- infected; 2: Stemphylium botryosum; 3: Fusarium spp.; 4: Cladosporium spp.; 5: Verticillium spp.; 6: Alternaria alternate. c Average reflectance distribution for each seed group under light of wavelengths of 450 nm and 870 nm. The distribution is given as the number of pixels with different pixel intensities. At 870 nm, all infected seeds, except for the Fusarium-infected seeds, can be distinguished from uninfected seeds. In combination with 450 nm, the Fusarium-infected seeds can also be detected.

12 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Feature Article Introduction of new methods: spectral imaging

captured by visible light wavelengths and Conclusion Matthews, S.,Powell, A. (2012). Towards au- NIR wavelengths were shown to be valu- tomated single counts of radicle emergence to predict seed and seedling vigour. Seed able in separating uninfected spinach seed New methods for seed testing are emerg- Testing, 44. from seeds infected by Stemphylium bot- ing with increasing technological possi- Nosanchuk, J. D., Rosas, A. L.,Casadevall, ryosum, Cladosporium spp., Fusarium spp., bilities and computer power, parallel to de- A. (1998). The antibody response to fungal Verticillium spp. or Alternaria alternate creasing prices for such systems. Multi- and melanin in mice. Journal of Immunology, 160, 6026–6031. (Fig. 2; Olesen et al., 2011). hyperspectral imaging and analysis of the Olesen, M. H., Carstensen, J. M.,Boelt, B. Images of the spinach seeds, taken with generated data are clear examples of these (2011). Multispectral imaging as a potential visible light (e.g. 450 nm), resulted in pixel developments. The light sources, cameras tool for seed health testing of spinach (Spina- values that could not be grouped to dis- and computers for such systems are read- cia oleracea L.). Seed Science and Technology, 39, 140–150. tinguish between infected and uninfected ily available and relatively affordable. This Penuelas, J., Filella, I., Biel, C., Serrano, seeds (Fig. 2, left). However, when NIR opens a wide array of potential applica- L.,Save, R. (1993). The reflectance at the wavelengths (e.g. 870 nm) were used, it tions in seed testing at various levels, as 950–970 nm region as an indicator of plant was possible to group the seeds into three well as research opportunities that before water status. International journal of remote , 14, 1887–1905. distinct groups. Thus, all seeds infected were only possible for a few very special- sensing Rodríguez-Pulido, F. J., Barbin, D. F., Sun, by fungi, except by Fusarium spp., could ized institutions. The example of the pos- D.-W., Gordillo, B., González-Miret, M. be separated from the uninfected seeds sible use of multispectral imaging in seed L.,Heredia, F. J. (2013). Grape seed char- (Fig. 2, right). By studying the visible light quality testing shows that this technology acterization by NIR hyperspectral imaging. images (Fig. 2, left) it can be concluded has a lot to offer to the seed testing com- Postharvest Biology and Technology, 76, 74–82. that the Fusarium spp.-infected seeds can munity. However, the major testing, com- Salisbury, F. B.,Ross, C. W. (1992). Plant be distinguished from the uninfected seeds paring and validation still has to be done. physiology. by the visible light wavelengths. Hence, by Nevertheless, we may expect multispectral Schenkman, K. A., Marble, D. R., Burns, D. using both visible and NIR wavelengths it and hyperspectral imaging to be part of H.,Feigl, E. O. (1997). Myoglobin oxygen dissociation by multiwavelength spectrosco- is possible to separate the uninfected seeds the standard seed testing equipment in the py. Journal of Applied Physiology, 82, 86–92. from seeds infected by Stemphylium bot- near future. Singh, C. B., Jayas, D. S., Paliwal, J.,White, ryosum, Cladosporium spp., Fusarium spp., N. D. G. (2007). Fungal detection in wheat using near-infrared hyperspectral imaging. Verticillium spp. or Alternaria alternate. References Transactions of the Asabe, 50, 2171–2176. A similar approach was employed in a Arngren, M., Hansen, P. W., Eriksen, B., Song, W., Zhang, S., Yang, Y.,Yang, L. (2009). study on malting barley (Bodevin et al., Larsen, J., Larsen, R. (2011). Analysis of The system of portable fat detector with du- 2009). In this study, a calibration model Pregerminated Barley Using Hyperspectral al-wavelength near-infrared light. Bioinfor- matics and Biomedical Engineering (2009). was developed for detecting Fusarium spp. Image Analysis. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 59, 11385–11394. ICBBE 2009. 3rd International Conference on barley. The common, but time-consum- Bodevin, S., Larsen, T. G., Lok, F., Jørgensen, on. IEEE: pp. 1–4 ing, ELISA and real-time PCR methods K., Carstensen, J. M., Møller, B., Skadhauge, Tharia, H. A., Nightingale, T. D., Papiz, M. used for detecting fungi were compared B. (2009). A rapid non-destructive method Z., Lawless, A. M. (1999). Characterisation with the multispectral imaging analysis for quantification of fungal infection on of hydrophobic peptides by RP-HPLC from barley and malt grains. Poster at 32nd EBC different spectral forms of LH2 isolated from method. The aim of the study was to evalu- Congress, Hamburg, Germany, 10–14 May. Rps. palustris. Photosynthesis research, 61, ate the correlation between the three meth- Dell’Aquila, A. (2004). Cabbage, lentil, pepper 157–167. ods. 48 samples from seed lots with infec- and tomato seed germination monitored by Vivar-Quintana, A., Santos-Buelga, C.,Rivas- tions between 1 and 30 % were analysed by an image analysis system. Seed Science and Gonzalo, J. (2002). Anthocyanin-derived Technology, 32, 225–229. pigments and colour of red wines. Analytica the use of ELISA, real-time PCR and mul- Dell’Aquila, A. (2005). The use of image Chimica Acta, 458, 147–155. tispectral imaging (18 wavelengths ranging analysis to monitor the germination of seeds Wagner, M., Demilly, D., Ducournau, S., Dürr, from 405 to 970 nm). High correlations of broccoli (Brassica oleracea) and radish C.,Léchappé, J. (2012). Computer vision for were found between results from PCR and (Raphanus sativus). Annals of Applied Biol- monitoring seed germination from dry state ogy, 146, 545–550. to young seedlings. Seed Testing, 49. 2 multispectral imaging (R = 0.85), in con- Govindarajan, S.,Snyder, H. (1973). Fresh meat Zhang, X. L., Liu, F., He, Y.,Li, X. L. (2012). trast to the correlations between ELISA color. Critical Reviews in Food Science & Application of Hyperspectral Imaging and imaging (R2 = 0.3) and ELISA and Nutrition, 4, 117–140. and Chemometric Calibrations for Variety Discrimination of Maize Seeds. Sensors, 12, PCR (R2 = 0.2). Klingner, A., Hundeshagen, B., Kernebeck, H.,Bothe, H. (1995). Localization of the 17234–17246. yellow pigment formed in roots of gramine- ous plants colonized by arbuscular fungi. Protoplasma, 185, 50–57.

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 13 Association News

7th ISTA Seed Health Symposium Edinburgh, United Kingdom, 12–14 June 2014 Valerie Cockerell Chair of the Organising Committee

Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture exchange and hospitality. We will do all we Sponsors and exhibitors Roddinglaw Road can to ensure your visit is a pleasant one. Edinburgh, United Kingdom EH12 9FJ There are possibilities to sponsor the [email protected] Venue 7th ISTA Seed Health Symposium, with a variety of sponsoring packages to choose The 7th Seed Health Symposium will from. he Organising Committee is proud to take place from 12 to 14 June 2014 at the Reach seed health professionals from Tinvite you to the 7th ISTA Seed Health National Museum of Scotland, in the heart laboratories and organisations in the UK Symposium on 12–14 June 2014 in Edin- of Edinburgh and within walking distance and worldwide. Only a limited number of burgh. The symposium provides a unique of the railway station and local hotels. exhibition stands are available. The exhibi- opportunity to bring together scientists, tor registration fee includes one exhibitor technicians, managers and policy makers Registration for the duration of the Seed Health Sym- from research institutes, government, the posium as well as coffees, lunches and din- seed trade, and international organisations ISTA Members: GBP 220 ner barbecue. who are involved with the health status of Non-members: GBP 255 For detailed information about spon- seed. Students: GBP 75 sorship and/or exhibiting, please contact The programme will be of a high techni- Exhibitors: GBP 1250 Valerie Cockerell (valerie.cockerell@sasa. cal and scientific quality discussing the lat- gsi.gov.uk). est scientific research on seed-borne patho- Registration can be made through the gens; progress in seed health testing; and ISTA web site. Registration includes tea More information (both) phytosanitary and practical issues and coffee breaks, lunches, dinner barbe- confronting the industry worldwide. cue (Friday evening) and visit to the Royal For more details please visit the ISTA Finally, we hope Edinburgh will pro- Botanic Garden. web site at www.seedtest.org/SHS  vide an ideal environment for scientific

TLP010613

The Symposium venue: the National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh

14 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Association News 7th ISTA Seed Health Symposium

Programme Venue: National Museum of Scotland, Chambers St., Edinburgh

Thursday, 12 June 2014 Friday, 13 June 2014 13:00–17:00 Registration desk open 08:30–09:00 Registration desk open 13:00–16:45 ISTA Seed Health Symposium Day 1 09:00–17:00 ISTA Seed Health Symposium Day 2 13:00–13:45 Tea and coffee 09:00–09:25 Invited Speaker: Ruud Scheffer, ISF 13:45–14:00 Opening of the Symposium Seed health and the International Seed Health Initiative: status and challenges Welcoming address of the Chair of the National Organising Committee 09:25–10:25 Session 2: Test method standardisation and Valerie Cockerell, SASA, UK laboratory evaluation Welcoming address of the Secretary General of Chair: Valérie Grimault, GEVES, France ISTA­ Beni Kaufman Detection of pospiviroids in seeds of tomato 14:00–14:30 Invited Speaker: Françoise Petter, EPPO and pepper EPPO activities with a special focus on seed- Harrie Koenraadt, Ko Verhoeven, André van Vliet, borne pests Agata Jodlowska, Michel Ebskamp and Maaike Bruinsma, Naktuinbouw, the Netherlands 14:30–15:15 Session 1: Seed-borne diseases transmission and epidemiology Chair: Terry Aveling, Univer- Sample preparation of artificial infected chili sity of Pretoria, South Africa seed (Capsicum annum) by Colletotrichum capsici for seed health proficiency testing Ramularia collo-cygni – an emerging seed-borne Tri Susetyo, Amiyarsi Mustika, Siti Fadhilah and pathogen of barley Endang Murwantini, PPMB-TPH, Indonesia Neil Havis, Kalina Gorniak, Gareth Hughes and Fiona Burnett, SRUC, UK Rapid method for the detection of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum on soybean seeds Virulence pattern in Danish races of common E Grabicoski, D Jaccoud Filho, M Pileggi, L Hen- bunt (Tilletia caries) neberg, C Vrisman, M Pierre, F Cantele, H Sartori, Anders Borgen, Agrologica, Denmark G Tullio, C Hüller and C Wutzki, State Universiy of Coriander bacterial blight: predicting the risk Ponta Grossa, Brazil and defining seed health standards ISTA seed health proficiency testing develop- Steve Roberts, Plant Health Solutions Ltd., UK ments Valérie Grimault, GEVES, France 15:15–15:45 Coffee break 10:25–10:55 Coffee break 15:45–16:30 Session 1 (continued) 10:55–11:25 Session 2 (continued) Common bunt caused by Tilletia caries: Development of a molecular assay for the detec- epidemiology study and set up of a protocol to tion of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris assess transmission to plantlets and damage in Brassica seeds threshold G Orgeur, A Delaunay, I Sérandat, F Maaike Bruinsma, André van Vliet and Harrie Koen- Decugis, M Rolland, J Gombert, M Fontaine, R Val- raadt, Naktuinbouw, the Netherlands lade and V Grimault, GEVES, France Development of IPPC standards The effect of Microdochium nivale and M. majus Jane Chard, SASA, UK on the establishment of barley and oats Marian McNeil, Tina Langan and Valerie Cockerell, 11:25–11:35 Session 2 discussion, questions and answers SASA, UK 11:35–12:30 Poster session Comparison of infection and seedling disease Chair: tbc caused by wild-type and Tri6 mutant strains of 12:30–13:40 Lunch Fusarium graminearum T Bruns and G Munkvold, Iowa State University 13:20–14:50 Session 3: Seed treatments for conventional Seed Science Center, USA and organic seed production Chair: Neil Havis, SRUC, UK 16:30–16:45 Session 1 discussion, questions and answers

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 15 Association News 7th ISTA Seed Health Symposium

Seed treatment effects on maize seedling Occurrence of Fusarium langsethiae on oat infection by Spacelotheca reiliana measured by kernels in Italy real-time PCR M Dal Prà, S Tonti, M Montanari, E Stafani and I Al- S Anderson and G Munkvold, Iowa State University berti, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy Seed Science Center, USA Examinations on the Phomopsis complex on Efficacy of selected rhizobacterial isolates soya beans (Glycine max) obtained from Aus- for enhanced seed germination, vigour and trian seed production areas seedling growth of maize and biocontrol of Manfred Weinhappel and Angela Weingast, Austrian Rhizoctonia solani N Rudolph, T Aveling and N Agency for Health and Food Safety, Austria Labuschagne, University of Pretoria, South Africa 16:45–17:00 Session 4 discussion, questions and answers Seed borne inoculum of Sydowia polyspora may 17:00 Departure for visit and barbecue at the Caledo- cause infection in conifer seedlings nian Hall, Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh Guro Brodal, Eleonora Høst, Heidi Røsok Bye, Arne Stensvand and Venche Talgø, Bioforsk, Norway Saturday, 14 June 2014 Biopriming of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) seed 09:00–12:00 ISTA Seed Symposium Day 3 for enhanced seedling vigour and protection 09:00–09:25 Day 3 Invited Speaker: tbc against wilt pathogen Presentation title tbc Sandeep Kumar Lal, Shiv K Yadav, P Nallathambi and Manoj Kumar, Indian Agricultural Research 09:25–10:25 Session 5: Traditional and modern approaches Institute, India for the evaluation of seed health Chair: Gary Munkvold, Iowa State University Seed The influence of seed infection by Alternaria Science Center, USA spp. on sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) seed germination and control using fungicides as a Ditylenchus dipsaci on alfalfa seeds: obtaining bio-control agent and testing for healthy seeds G Kgatle, T Ramusi, M Truter, B Flett and T Aveling, I Sérandat, V Grimault, V Blouin, J Gombert, E University of Pretoria, South Africa Lesprit, C Sarniguet, M Straëbler, H Lemaire and G Forsberg, GEVES, France Seed treatments and seedling root soaking with biological agents controlled Xanthomonas Do we need a new sampling plan for seed oryzae pv. oryzae and improved growth of rice health? Roy MacArthur and Valerie Cockerell, plants in greenhouses Fera/SASA, UK Satriyas Ilyas, Kirana Lizansari and Muhammad Malting barley grain mycoflora studied by Machmud, Bogor Agricultural University, Indonesia Videometer multispectral imaging and next 14:50–15:00 Session 3 discussion, questions and answers generation barley sequencing Mogens Nicolaisen, Søren Knudsen, Merete 15:00–15:30 Coffee break Halkjær Olesen, Birte Boelt, Kim Jørgensen and 15:30–16:45 Session 4: Emerging diseases and climate Jens Michael Carstensen, Aarhus University, change Denmark Chair: Jane Thomas, NIAB, UK Videometer demonstration Emerging pathogens of leafy vegetables trans- Jens Michael Carstensen, Videometer A/S mitted through seeds in Italy 10:25–10:55 Coffee break Giovanna Gilardi, Stefano Demarchi, Maria Lodovica Gullino and Angelo Garibaldi, AGROIN- 10:55–11:35 Session 5 (continued) NOVA, Italy Developing MiSeq Next Generation Sequencing The occurrence of Fusarium in cereal seeds for pathogen screening in seeds in Norway 1970-2012 and the relationship with Adrian Fox, Ian Adams, Ummey Hanny, Toby climatic conditions Hodges and Victoria Barton, Fera, UK Guro Brodal, Trond Rafoss and Håkon Tangerås, Seed health test for bacterial fruit blotch in Bioforsk, Norway cucurbits using sweat-bag seedling method Contributions of seed health quality to the dis- Masatoshi Sato, Hiroki Takahashi and Takashi Shi- semination and diagnosis of Sclerotinia disease rakawa, National Center for Seeds and Seedlings, in soybean crops in Brazil Japan J Machado, L Silva, E Barrocas, W Zancan and M 11:35–11:50 Session 5 discussion, questions and answers Salgado, Federal University of Lavras, Brazil 11:50–12:00 Overview and Conclusion of Symposium 12:00 Packed lunch and departure

16 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 ISTA Annual Meeting 2014 Edinburgh, United Kingdom 16–19 June 2014 Overview

Thursday–Saturday 7th ISTA Seed Health Symposium (see page 14) 12–14 June Sunday 15 June Day tour to Kingdom of Fife (see page 21) Welcome reception Monday 16 June Opening ceremony Monday 16 June ISTA Sampling Seminar Tues–Wed Presentation of ISTA’s technical work (see page 18) 17–18 June Wednesday 18 June Official Dinner Thursday 19 June ISTA Ordinary General Meeting (see page 18) Friday 20 June Tour to Royal Highland Show (see page 21) Visit to SASA (morning; see page 21) Monday–Thursday ISTA Seed Sampling Workshop (fully booked) Above: Edinburgh Castle, viewed from Princes 23–26 June Street Gardens. Top: Forth Rail Bridge

ISTA Annual Meeting 2014, Edinburgh, UK, 16–19 June 2014 Online registration: www.seedtest.org/AM14

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 17 Programme Venue: Assembly Rooms, George Street, Edinburgh

Unless otherwise stated, all activities mentioned in the programme will be held at the venue Sunday, 15 June 2014 How to respond to non-conformities Rasha El-Khadem 16:00–19:00 Registration of participants at conference venue Evaluation of suppliers and of supplied 19:00 Welcome reception equipment Monday, 16 June 2014 Jette Nydam, Nordic Genetic 08:00–18:00 Registration of participants at conference venue Resource Center, Sweden 08:30–17:45 ISTA Sampling Seminar 12:45–14:00 Lunch break, view equipment 08:30–09:00 Opening Valerie Cockerell, SASA, UK 14:00–14:40 Training, examination and authorization of seed Introduction Joël Léchappé, ISTA President samplers Introduction David Barnes, Deputy Director of Dot Vittrup Pedersen, DLF-Trifolium A/S, Denmark Agriculture, Food and Rural Communities, Head of Monitoring of seed samplers Agriculture and Rural Development Leena Pietilä, Finnish Food Safety Authority, Finland 09:00–09:15 Introduction to the Sampling Seminar 14:40–15:45 Session 4: Panel Debate: Monitoring of seed Eddie Goldschagg, SANSOR, South Africa samplers and seed sampling equipment 09:15–10:15 Session 1: Relevance of seed sampling for seed Joël Léchappé (panel members to be announced) testing statistics Questions to the panel members Michael Kruse, University of Hohenheim, Germany 15:45–16:15 Tea break, view equipment Sampling as a source of variation in ISTA toler- 16:15–17:15 Session 4: Panel Debate (continued) ances Michael Kruse 17:15–17:30 Summary of the debate Beni Kaufman Practical examples for monitoring the perfor- mance of sampling and sampling tools 17:30–17:45 Closing of the Seminar Eddie Goldschagg Peter Deplewski, University of Hohenheim, Ger- Tuesday, 17 June 2014 many 08:00–18:00 Registration of participants at conference venue 10:15–10:45 Tea break 08:30–18:30 Presentations of ISTA’s technical work and 10:45–11:45 Session 2: New methods/developments in seed meetings of ISTA Technical Committees sampling 08:30 Opening by the ISTA President, Joël Léchappé Steve Jones, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, (France) Canada 08:30–10:00 Purity Committee (Chair: Jane Taylor) Validation of new methods and equipment for Germination Committee (Chair: Sylvie Ducournau) sampling purposes Steve Jones Moisture Committee (Chair: Jette Nydam) Optimizing sampling plans for seed transmitted 10:00–10:30 Coffee break pathogens Roy MacArthur, Food and Environ- ment Research Agency; Valerie Cockerell; 10:30–12:30 Tetrazolium Committee (Chair: Stefanie Krämer) Jean-Louis Laffont, Pioneer Génétique, France Seed Vigour Committee (Chair: Alison Powell) Seed Health Committee (Chair: Valérie Grimault) Automatic seed sampling Variety Committee (Chair: Ana Laura Vicario) Lotta Claesson, Swedish Board of Agriculture, Sweden 12:30–13:30 Lunch break 11:45–12:45 Session 3: Quality assurance in seed sampling 13:30–14:00 GMO Committee (Chair: Cheryl Dollard) Rasha El-Khadem, ISTA Secretariat, Switzerland 14:00–15:00 Flower Seed Committee (Chair: Rita Zecchinelli) Why is quality assurance essential in seed Forest Tree & Shrub Seed Committee (Chair: Fabio sampling Eddie Goldschagg Gorian) 15:00–15:30 SST Editorial Board (Chair: Fiona Hay)

18 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 15:30–16:00 Coffee break and official photo session 09:30–10:00 Presentation on behalf of Scottish Industry by 16:00–18:30 Individual ISTA Technical Committee meetings Mr. Kevin Mills, Scottish Policy Manager, Agri- cultural Industries Confederation Scotland 19:00 Whisky tasting (free of charge) Agenda Wednesday, 18 June 2014 10:30–12:30 1. Call to order 08:00–17:00 Presentations of ISTA’s technical work (cont.) 2. President’s address 08:30 Opening by the ISTA President, Joël Léchappé 3. Roll call of Designated Members entitled to vote 4. Comments about the minutes of the previous 08:30–10:00 Bulking and Sampling Committee (Chair: Eddie General Meeting Goldschagg) 5. Report of the Executive Committee Statistics Committee (Chair: Jean-Louis Laffont) 6. Report of the Secretary General Nomenclature Committee (Chair: John Wiersema) 12:30–13:30 Lunch break 10:00–10:30 Coffee break 13:30–15:00 7. Fixation of annual subscriptions 10:30–11:30 Seed Storage Committee Chair: (Hugh Pritchard) 8. Changes to the Articles (see page 22) Advanced Technologies Committee (Chair: Bert van 9. Consideration and adoption of the proposed Duijn) Rules changes 2015 11:30–12:30 Proficiency Test Committee (Chair: Günter Müller) 15:00–15:30 Coffee break Laboratory Accreditation and Quality Assurance Programme (Chair: Rasha El-Khadem) 15:30–17:30 10. Consideration and adoption of reports 11. Announcement of the places and dates of the 12:40–13:30 Lunch break next Ordinary General Meetings 13:30–15:30 Rules Committee (Chair: Steve Jones) 11.1 Annual Meeting 2015 15:30–16:00 Coffee break 11.2 Congress and Seed Symposium 2016 12. Any other business raised by a Member, of 16:00–18:00 Rules Committee (cont.)(Chair: Steve Jones) which notice in writing has been received by the 19:00–23:00 Official Dinner Secretary General at least two months prior to Thursday, 19 June 2014 the date of the General Meeting 13. Any other business raised by consent of the 09:00–17:30 ISTA Ordinary General Meeting Executive Committee 09:00–09:30 Welcome by the ISTA President, Joël Léchappé 13.1 Discussion on the late payment of member- Welcome on behalf of the Scottish Govern- ship fee system and late fees charge ment by Dr. Kevin O’Donnell, Deputy Director of 14. President’s closing address Agriculture, Food and Rural Communities, Head 15. Adjournment of Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) Preparatory documents for Ordinary General Meeting: see page 22.

Meeting venue Edinburgh For further information on Edinburgh and Scotland please visit: The meeting will take place in the Assem- The City of Edinburgh, Scotland's in- www.edinburgh-inspiringcapital.com bly Rooms, George Street, in the centre of spiring capital city, is one of the leading and Edinburgh's World Heritage site. The As- cities in the world in which to visit. Explore www.visitscotland.com sembly Rooms opened in 1787. Through- the fascinating cobbled streets of the me- out its history the venue has catered for dieval old town of this UNESCO World Flight information balls, music festivals, banquets and Royal Heritage City and stroll across to the ele- Occasions, as well as conferences. gant New Town to marvel at James Craig's There are direct flights from many Eu- The venue has recently undergone an stunning architecture. ropean cities to Edinburgh, and Edinburgh eighteen month refurbishment resulting in The Botanic Garden offers a wondrous is approximately a 1 hour 15 minute flight modernised spaces which retain the build- experience in an oasis of plants and trees from London. The taxi fare from the air- ings character and beauty. The venue pro- or visit the Giant Pandas at Edinburgh port to Edinburgh city centre will cost vides the perfect space for the ISTA Annual Zoo. Wherever you choose to visit, the approximately £16–20. There is also an Meeting 2014 with state of the art light- backdrop of Arthur's Seat, the Pentland airport bus every 10 minutes that heads ing and sound systems throughout and in Hills and Edinburgh Waterfront make the directly to the city centre which may be a house audio visual and wireless internet. city a unique visitor destination. cheaper option at £3.50 depending on the

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 19 hotel you have chosen. See the link be- Registration fees (online registration at www.seedtest.org/AM14) low for Edinburgh airport and up to date information: Periods Events Registration fees (15 March–15 May 2014) http://www.edinburghairport.com/ ISTA Members transport-and-directions/ 16–19 June Annual Meeting incl. Seminar GBP 660 travel-into-edinburgh-city 16 June Seminar only GBP 225 Non-members Representatives from SASA will be availa- 16–19 June Congress incl. Seminar GBP 990 ble at the airport to advise on the best form 16 June Seminar only GBP 340 of transport for you and to try to answer Students any other questions you may have on arriv- 16 June Seminar only GBP 50 al (depending on your flight arrival time). Accompanying persons 16–19 June Social events, lunches etc. only GBP 200 Climate Exhibitors (incl. 1 person) 16–19 June Exhibition booth GBP 3000 Edinburgh in June enjoys temperatures in the range of 10–20 °C and the aver- age rainfall for the month is 50 mm. The June, and with 17 hours of daylight there is Visas Scottish weather can be changeable and is plenty of time to enjoy your visit. often localised. This means you may well Visitors are advised to check with the have a morning of rain and an afternoon Currency and exchange UK Border Agency (http://www.ukba. of sunshine, and that the weather may be homeoffice.gov.uk) for visa requirements. quite different 10 miles away. So remember The currency in Scotland is the pound A letter of invitation can be requested to pack your waterproof or an umbrella Sterling (£), and the exchange rates are ap- upon successful registration and payment and something to keep you warm as well as proximately £1 to 1.47 USD or £1 to 1.21 from the ISTA Secretariat. sun cream! The days are at their longest in Euros.

Post-Meeting tour, Friday, 20 June: Highland cattle at the Royal Highland Show.

20 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Accommodation

A variety of accommodation is available in central Edinburgh from student accom- modation to 4 star hotel accommodation. Marketing Edinburgh has negotiated rates for the International Seed Testing Asso- ciation Annual Meeting 2014 and the 7th ISTA Seed Health Symposium) and is pleased to offer a free online accommoda- tion booking service to delegates attending this meeting. To view and book the various accommo- dation options please use the link below: https://cabs.conventionedinburgh.com/ei/ Credit card details are required to make a booking, and confirmation shall be sent to your e-mail address. Payment is paid di- rectly to the accommodation provider at the time of your stay. To contact Marketing Edinburgh, either e-mail bookings@conventionedinburgh. The giant panda Tian Tian at Edinburgh Zoo. (Photo: Chris Keating) com or telephone on +44 (0) 131 473 3874. Please note that there is no organised Tours and visits fishing villages in the East Neuk to the Me- transport from the hotels to the ISTA dieval City of St. Andrews, home of golf. Meeting venue. There is an excellent pub- All visits listed below will go ahead. Fi- Enjoy free time and lunch in St. Andrews. lic transport system if you do not wish to nal details will be confirmed with partici- Finally, the tour will head to the village of walk. Directions to the ISTA Meeting ven- pants nearer the time. Falkland, home of James V’s renaissance ue and details of suitable public transport palace, before heading back to Edinburgh. from your hotel will be waiting for you in Visit the Kingdom of Fife! Cost: £40 (includes guide and entrance your room (if booked through the above Sunday 15 June 2014 (full day 09:00 to to Falkland Palace, excludes lunch). link). 18:00) Book early as accommodation in Edin- Stopping at South Queensferry to view Visit to the Royal Highland Show burgh is very popular during the summer the Forth Rail Bridge, then follow the Friday 20 June 2014 (full day 09:30 to months! coastal route through picturesque old 16:30) This agricultural show has a worldwide reputation for showcasing the very best of Scottish food, farming and culture. The visit to the Royal Highland Show will go ahead, and we hope you will en- joy everything it has to offer from cows to combine harvesters and much more! We are still trying to get the best deal on entry tickets. Cost: £35 estimate (includes entry to Show and bus to and from central Edinburgh)

Visit to Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture Friday 20 June 2014 (morning) Cost: free

Please register your interest when you reg- ister, and we will be in touch with details in May once final numbers are received. 

Whisky tasting (free of charge; Tuesday, 17 June, 19:00)

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 21 Preparatory documents for the Ordinary General Meeting

he following documents are submitted – OGM14-04 Proposal for the Member- – OGM14-08 Discussion Paper on In- Tto the ISTA Ordinary General Meet- ship Fees 2014 [voting document] house Methods [information document] ing 2014 for information and discussion – OGM14-05 Rules Proposals for the In- and/or acceptance by the nominated ISTA ternational Rules for Seed Testing 2015 Please note that no paper copies of the Designated Members voting on behalf of Edition [voting document] meeting documents will be available at the their respective Governments: – OGM14-06 Method Validation Reports meeting. – OGM14-01 Agenda for the Ordinary on Rules Proposals for the International The documents have been posted on the Meeting 2014 [information document] Rules for Seed Testing 2015 Edition ISTA web site at: – OGM14-02 Minutes of the Ordinary [supporting document to voting docu- www.seedtest.org/OGM14 Meeting 2013 [information document] ment OGM14-05]  – OGM14-03 Activity Report of the – OGM14-07 Article Change Proposals ISTA Committees 2013 [voting 2014 [voting document] document]

Proposal to change the Articles of ISTA

change to the Articles of ISTA is being proposed for vot- Current Proposed Aing at the 2014 Ordinary General Meeting. The full docu- Article 4 Governments, Au- Article 4 Governments, Au- ment “OGM14-07 Article Change Proposals 2014” was sent to the thorities and Members thorities and Members Members in April, two months before the OGM. The proposed change is summarized below. a) … a) … g) Corporate Member g) Industry Member A Corporate Member is any An Industry Member is any Article Change Proposal OM14-07-1: To change the corporate organisation which supports entity organisation which sup- membership category from a single membership to one that allows the Association and its objec- ports the Association and its for different levels of membership depending on the size (number of tives, pays an appropriate objectives, pays an appropri- employees) of the organization. annual fee to the Association, ate annual fee to the Associa- ISTA has had Corporate Membership since 2007. To date there and is admitted by the As- tion, and is admitted by the have been no Corporate Members. To encourage corporate mem- sociation. Association. The industry bership we need to review the structure of the corporate member- (h) … membership fee depends on ship category. the number of employees. (h) … A corporation (company) may vary in size from a few employees to many hundreds. As a first step to encouraging corporate mem- bership the Executive Committee is proposing that the member- ship category of corporate member be split into levels based on corporate size. Corporate size will be defined by the number of employees. This will enable the corporate membership fee to be targeted to company size. Membership benefits will be the same for all corporate members. The Executive Committee is also proposing to change the name of the category from corporate to industry since not all companies are corporations.

22 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Electronic voting at the ISTA Ordinary General Meeting Jonathan Taylor ISTA Publications Unit

ISTA Secretariat 8303 Bassersdorf, Switzerland [email protected]

“Please raise your green cards.” These words, familiar to so many attend- ants at ISTA Ordinary Meetings, will now become a thing of the past. ISTA is moving to electronic voting. Following approval by the ISTA Ex- ecutive Committee, the Secretariat has purchased a PowerVote electronic voting system. The most important feature of this sys- tem are the PowerVote voting keypads (see photo at right). Before the Ordinary Gen- eral Meeting, each Voting Delegate will receive a voting keypad, which must be re- turned after the Meeting. As usual, the various points of the agen- da of the Meeting will be shown on the screen of the plenary room as PowerPoint slides. However, the computer showing the slides will have special voting slides within The PowerVote keypad, with the number ‘1’ selected the PowerPoint presentation, and will be fitted with the PowerVote USB receiver. Whenever a question requires a vote, the When the correct number is displayed After a suitable interval, the end of the question will be shown on a voting slide, on the keypad, the vote can be recorded by voting is announced; the results can then together with the possible voting options, pressing ‘OK’. be displayed on the screen, and saved to the for example: It is important that Voting Delegates computer as part of the PowerPoint file. 1 = Yes check that they have entered the correct All the Voting Delegates then need to 2 = No number for their vote, as the vote cannot do is – please! – remember to hand in their be changed or withdrawn after ‘OK’ has keypads after the Meeting. The Voting Delegates can select their been pressed. The new PowerVote system promises to choice by pressing the relevant number. A The vote recorded is always for the ques- speed up the voting procedure, and to al- wrong selection can be corrected by press- tion that is displayed on the screen at the low reliable and fast recording of results at ing the ‘C’ key. time of voting. ISTA meetings. 

ISTA Annual Meeting 2014, Edinburgh, UK, 16–19 June 2014 Online registration: www.seedtest.org/AM14

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 23 Proposed changes to the International Rules for Seed Testing 2015 Edition Jonathan Taylor ISTA Publications Unit

ISTA Secretariat Chapter 4: Determination of other seeds Chapter 9: Moisture determination 8303 Bassersdorf by number – Clarification of the method to be used Switzerland – Clarification how to report when seed for new species (9.0, 9.0.1) [email protected] cannot be identified with certainty to – Review of requirements for moisture species level (4.7, following wording of calibration samples (filling containers; 3.7) 9.2.1.5.2) gain this year, a number of proposals – Clarification regarding retention and – Changes to methods for cutting seeds Afor changes and amendments to the storage of seeds until sample disposal (9.1.5.2, 9.1.5.5) ISTA International Rules for Seed Testing (4.5.2) – Changes to methods for cutting large will be submitted for voting by the nomi- tree seeds for moisture testing (9.1.5.5) nated ISTA Designated Members on be- Chapter 5: The germination test half of their respective Governments, un- – More categories to describe seminal Chapter 10: Weight determination der Agenda point 9. See also the Method root defects (5.2.8.1) – Coefficient of 6.0 should apply to all Validation Reports on page 36, and on the – Allowing combinations of suitable chaffy seed (10.5.3) ISTA web site at growing media (5.4.1) – Correct number of decimal places speci- www.seedtest.org/OGM14. – Clarifying procedures for acceptance fied when weighing (10.6) Among the proposed changes are the testing of media (5.4.3.2, 5.4.3.3) following: – Clarifying procedures for counting er- Chapter 11: Testing coated seeds rors during the germination test (5.6.1) – Clarifying suitable media (11.5.4) Chapter 1: Certificates – Amendments to “Reporting results” Chapter 6: Topographical tetrazolium test Chapter 15: Seed vigour testing following changes to 4.7 – Additional information for the prepara- – Conductivity test for Cicer arietinum tion and storage of tetrazolium solu- (15.8.1.2) Chapter 2: Sampling tions (6.4.1, 6.4.2) – Radicle emergence test for Brassica – Removal of text on evidence of hetero- napus (15.8.4) geneity (2.5.1.1) Chapter 7: Seed health testing – Revision of ‘General directions’ text – Clarification about suitable collecting – Modifications to seed health methods (15.5.2) containers: containers must be static 7-009 and 7-019a, after comments and free (2.4) review by the authors and the SHC Chapter 19: Testing for seeds of – New seed health method 7-030: Detec- genetically modified organisms Chapter 3: The purity analysis tion of Acidovorax valerianellae on – Text change to better reflect the aims of – Rounding of fractions clarified (3.6.1.3) Valerianella locusta (Corn salad) the Chapter (19.4.1) – Clarification regarding retention and – Revision of Table 7A to include full  storage of components until sample crop names and pathogen names with disposal (3.5.2, §4) authorities

ISTA Annual Meeting 2014, Edinburgh, UK, 16–19 June 2014 Online registration: www.seedtest.org/AM14

24 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 25 Association News

OECD Scheme for the Certification of Forest Reproductive Material: Annual Meeting in Paris Fabio Gorian1 and Dale Simpson2 1Chair and 2Member, ISTA Forest Tree and Shrub Seed Committee

1Centro Nazionale per lo Studio e la other countries and international organiza- organizations will be necessary to enhance Conservazione della Biodiversità Forestale tions, such as the FAO and ISTA. FRM quality along the supply chain. Del- 37020 Peri, Verona, Italy The OECD Forest Scheme also com- egations discussed establishing an inter- [email protected] prises Technical Working Group (TWG), national seed herbarium or photographic 2 Natural Resources Canada which meets twice a year, with the second catalogue of forest tree seeds, and recom- Fredericton, Canada E3B 5P7 meeting associated with the Annual Meet- mended that the TWG explore the possi- [email protected] ing. Recently, the TWG approved the inclu- bility to use existing herbaria as reference sion of tested material within the Scheme, material in the Scheme. making the Scheme equivalent with the The 2013 Annual Meeting was chaired ince 2007, the Annual Meeting of the European Union’s Directive 1999/105/CE. by ISTA Member Robert Karrfalt. An- SOECD Scheme for the Certification of At the last meeting, held in September other ISTA Member, Dale Simpson, gave a Forest Reproductive Material (FRM) has 2013, many items were discussed, includ- comprehensive overview on the Canadian been held once a year, usually in Paris at ing the creation of a homogenous list of FRM certification system. In 2013, the the OECD headquarters. The goal of the scientific species names, the inclusion of OECD published the OECD Guidelines on Scheme is to encourage the worldwide trade new definitions on forestry, agroforestry the Production of Forest Reproductive Ma- of FRM. There are currently 25 member etc, into the rules of the Scheme, and the terials in English and French, written by countries. Uganda and Kenya’s applica- use of the Scheme for multifunctional for- another ISTA member, Fabio Gorian. tions for membership were approved at est trees. The FAO reported on the state As you can see, ISTA Members are re- the 2014 meeting. The Annual Meeting of the world’s forest genetic resources ally active members in the OECD Forest is attended by representatives from mem- (FGR) and about the global plan of ac- Scheme! ber countries as well as by observers from tion on FGR. It was also stated that closer The next Annual Meeting will be held in working relations with other international Paris on 24, 25 September 2014.

OECD Scheme for the Certification of Forest Reproductive Material: background

(from the OECD web site: The OECD Forest Seed and Plant included, the participating countries ap- www.oecd.org/agriculture/code/ Scheme defines three broad categories of proved to date 275 tree species eligible for forestreproductivematerial.htm) forest reproductive material recognised OECD certification of reproductive mate- for certification: Source-identified material rial, with a total area of 13.6 millions of The OECD Scheme for the Control of (minimum standard); Material from select- hectares. Forest Reproductive Material Moving ed stands located in well-delimited regions AN UPDATE OF THE RULES be- in International Trade is open to OECD of provenance; Material from untested came necessary in recent years because of Members as well as to other States. To date seed orchards which can produce seed of a growing commercial importance of new 25 participating countries implement the improved quality. types of material derived from breeding Scheme (including tropical countries which Different OECD labels are used accord- programmes. A complete revision of the are developing their seed exchange for re- ing to the category of the forest reproduc- Scheme has been undertaken by partici- forestation purposes). Seeds and plants are tive material. The labelled material is then pating countries to keep in line with new produced and officially controlled accord- recognised internationally as “QUAL- forestry production and tree improvement ing to common harmonised procedures. ITY GUARANTEED” and “OF CON- techniques. TROLLED ORIGIN”. All categories

26 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Association News

ISTA Technical Committees: Working Programmes 2013–2016

ased on the ISTA Strategy, which was our first priority is the finalization of the the ISTA Rules for the flower species. For Bapproved by the Members at the Con- revision and the publication of the ISTA the triennium 2013–2016, around forty gress 2013 in Turkey, the ISTA Technical Handbook on Seed Sampling early in new sheets will be prepared. Among them, Committees developed their working pro- 2014. As far as Rules developments and for the first time, sheets dedicated to herbs grammes. The working programme is pre- special projects are concerned we will be and medicinal species will be included (e.g. pared by each committee by evaluating the working on sampling methods for seed Hyssopus, Lavandula, Marrubium, Matri- current situation in the Committee-related health testing, seed mixtures, and seed lots caria, Melissa, Mentha, Perilla, Pimpinella, area worldwide, taking into account the re- contaminated by seed of parasitic plants Reseda, Ruta, Thymus, Sylibum, Valeriana). sources available. (Orobanche and Striga). The minimum size In the current working programme, the The working programme is established of submitted samples, diameters of sam- FSC has also planned validation studies for a period of three years. Major changes pling probes and divider channels will also by means of inter-laboratory comparative are made in consultation with the Execu- receive attention. We also plan to draw up tests addressed to the inclusion of new spe- tive Committee and documented in annual a check list / SOP for sampling workshops cies in the ISTA Rules (Felicia heterophylla, progress reports. and publish a guide on supporting material Eustoma spp.). Another part of the pro- This article highlights the main tasks for ‘Train the trainers’. gramme involves the revision of the sam- and goals of each Technical Committee for ple sizes for the flower species, and in that this triennium. Editorial Board of Seed Science framework the FSC is collecting data and and Technology information. Advanced Technology Committee The FSC also collaborates with the Pro- The task of the Editorial Board is to edit ficiency Test Committee in the preparation The ISTA Advanced Technology Com- the ISTA scientific journal ‘Seed Science every three years of a special round for a mittee (ATC) is committed to signal, evalu- and Technology’. flower species, and in 2014 we will have a ate and if appropriate introduce technolo- Seed Science and Technology (SST) is Proficiency Test onCallistephus chinensis. gies new for ISTA into the Association. one of the leading international journals A new special project is also starting For this triennium ATC will report on, featuring original papers and review arti- concerning wild flower species, becoming among others, application of multispec- cles in all areas of seed quality and physiol- more and more popular, both for orna- tral imaging, chlorophyll fluorescence seed ogy as related to seed production, harvest, mental and environmental use. evaluation and X-ray seed imaging. ATC processing, sampling, storage, genetic con- In general, the FSC would like to repre- will organise ISTA (advanced) seminars servation, habitat regeneration, distribu- sent the main reference for all stakeholders on various topics, including seed image tion and testing. interested in flower seed testing, to provide analysis. ATC searches for seed applicable SST is published in three issues per analysts with practical information useful technologies and proposes further studies volume and year with approximately 600 in their daily work and to help ISTA labo- of these. pages. ratories willing to include flowers in their scope of ISTA accreditation. Bulking and Sampling Committee Flower Seed Testing Committee If you are interested in flower seed test- ing, or if you have proposals or useful in- The Bulking and Sampling Committee More than 350 flower species are listed in formation, please don’t hesitate to contact will be very active during this triennium, the ISTA Rules, together with spice, herb the FSC! especially as far as workshops and training and medicinal species. They belong to 192 is concerned. In 2014 alone we will present genera and 55 families, and they are the Forest Tree and Shrub Seed three Workshops on Seed Sampling and focus of the activities of the ISTA Flower Committee Quality Assurance in Sampling in Edin- Seed Testing Committee (FSC). burgh, Scotland, Saskatoon, Canada and In 2008 the first edition of the ISTA The Forest Tree and Shrub Seed Com- Bangalore India, with two more in the Handbook on Flower Seed Testing was mittee has organized its programme for planning stage for 2015 in Uruguay and published, and since that time the most the next triennium, setting up 11 techni- South Africa. In addition we will present important work of FSC is to publish new cal working groups. One goal is to de- a Sampling Seminar in conjunction with method sheets with the final aim to clarify velop each year protocols for two species, the 2014 ISTA Annual Meeting. However, laboratory seed testing methods listed in for both the tetrazolium and germination

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 27 Association News ISTA Technical Committees: Working Programmes 2013–2016

tests. Another is to test water as a new sub- Closely linked to this work, the GMO small amounts of seed or with very costly strate for Populus spp., and the use of agar, Proficiency Test Resource Procurement seeds. A working group will also look at also as a new substrate. Finally, for the first group will work to secure the reference ma- the possibilities for shortening the drying time, a proficiency test will be organized terials (GM and non-GM) needed for the period for soybean. with a broadleaf (Fagus sylvatica). PT, as well as securing financial support for the program. Already, this group has Nomenclature Committee Germination Committee secured funding and reference material for 2014. The Nomenclature Committee has just An important task of the Germination The Workshops group will continue to completed a new (6th) edition of the ISTA Committee consists of developing new develop training materials and deliver in- List of Stabilized Plant Names in 2013. methods (germination duration for some ternational training workshops in GMO The last three editions of this publication grass or fodder species, treatments for testing in the coming years, and the ISTA reflect a 6-year cycle of revision, although breaking physiological or physical seed GMO Web Site group will be developing opinions have been expressed to the Com- dormancy, new substrates for germination) content for the GMO TCOM web page. mittee that more frequent updating of this or introducing methods for germinating The Statistical Tools for GMO Testing document is desirable. The Stabilized List new species (e.g. Cleome gynandra, Cheno- group will focus on proving specialized sta- now treats approximately 3000 scientific podium quinoa, Carica papaya, Salvia his- tistical support of the Committee, through names, and a complete evaluation of these panica). Many validation studies are thus projects such as the detection of stacked requires considerable work by Committee carried out. These studies are conducted in genes, GMO PT rating system evalua- members to identify potential taxonomic close collaboration with the Flower Seed tion; measurement uncertainty. Already, or nomenclatural changes and fully con- Committee and the Forest Tree and Shrub progress has been made by providing im- sider their adoption. Due to the size of Committee. Another objective of the Com- proved purity testing requirements for the this workload, the revision cycle cannot mittee is to improve the ISTA Handbook GMO PT and performance data prepara- easily be shortened. To help overcome this on Seedling Evaluation on specific parts tion for laboratories seeking accreditation obstacle, the Committee will be proposing such as sampling, substrates, light and for GMO testing which are significantly to the ISTA Membership at the 2014 An- seedling evaluation of specific species. Spe- less burdensome, while still maintaining nual Meeting to limit future editions of the cial projects are also planned for the next high quality. Stabilized List to only the species (approx. three years in order to harmonize germina- The Publications group will coordinate 1000) listed in Table 2A, Parts 1–3 of the tion methods between ISTA and AOSA, to writing of articles for journals such as ISTA Rules. For the names of other spe- study the interest of using in-house meth- STI, including results of the ISTA GMO cies (approx. 2000) currently treated in the ods, to study new methods in collaboration PT program and reports of the GMO PT Stabilized List, the nomenclature reflected with the Advanced Technology Committee rounds. in the GRIN database would be endorsed and to start preparing E-learning docu- Finally, the Rules-Handbook group will by ISTA. If this proposal is approved, the ments for germination training of seed work to complete a high priority project: workload for each subsequent revision of analysts. the Technical Handbook for GMO Test- the Stabilized List would become more ing. This handbook will support the new manageable, thereby permitting the Com- GMO Committee Rules chapter and provide guidance to mittee to revise this document more fre- those involved in GMO testing and accred- quently and allowing ISTA nomenclature The GMO Technical Committee has a itation by providing background on GMO to become more responsive to global taxo- busy program planned in several key areas testing, describing analytical approaches, nomic or nomenclatural changes. over the next three years. To facilitate this, and providing statistical tools, workbooks, the committee has established workgroups and guidance on validation, QA, and be- Proficiency Test Committee to share this work. coming accredited by ISTA. The GMO Proficiency Test Adminis- At the ISTA Congress in Antalya, the tration and Sample Preparation group Moisture Committee Proficiency Test Committee decided to will focus on execution of the GMO PTs organize 11 test rounds in the triennium by coordinating administration of the PT The Moisture Committee (MOI) work- 2014–2016. In a triennium, every crop program with the ISTA Secretariat. This ing programme will over the next three group must be covered by at least one pro- will include developing PT plans, evaluat- years focus on finalizing the former trienni- ficiency test round. Besides, the Proficiency ing results and ratings, addressing techni- um working programme and then on a val- Test Programme plan should be balanced. cal questions, and reviewing and updating idation study for small-seeded clover spe- This means that crops from all parts of the the associated SOPs for administration of cies, testing the need for grinding. Further, globe should be considered. the GMO PT program and sample prepa- the MOI will work on the development of Purity analysis, germination testing and ration. A significant success here has been Rules change proposals for measuring wa- determination of other seeds are the stand- recruitment of a new sample preparation ter activity. This method is a non-destruc- ard tests. Some proficiency test rounds deal laboratory, which will start preparing sam- tive method, and therefore it will of inter- with viability testing, determination of ples this year (2014). est for many laboratories working with moisture content and reporting results on

28 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Association News ISTA Technical Committees: Working Programmes 2013–2016

ISTA Certificates. These additional tests have Rules proposals for voting in June ISTA Rules the English version is the of- and the reporting must be offered at least 2014. ficial reference version. once a year. For publications, the Purity Committee How did this work for you as an ISTA In close cooperation with the Vigour has two working groups who are making member? Do you like the electronic ver- Committee, a conductivity test on pea seed steady progress with seed images and de- sion? Or are there some things in the elec- was organized for 2014. scriptions for the Universal List and the tronic version that can be improved? Very expressive are the activities of the Handbook on Tropical Species. There is a Feedback on this and any other improve- Forest and Shrub Seed Committee to or- standardized image format, and some ex- ments to the content to the ISTA Rules can ganize a second forest seed proficiency cellent images are being prepared, which it be sent to the Chair of the ISTA Rules test round in 2015 on Fagus sylvatica. The is hoped will be available as digital images Committee, Steve Jones, or to the Chair of participants will have to perform germina- on the ISTA web site. the relevant Technical Committee. tion testing, viability testing and moisture The Purity Committee intends to con- In June 2014 in Edinburgh the ISTA determination. The results of one lot will tinue with the work on comparison of Membership will be discussing, and then have to be reported on an Orange Interna- master calibration samples and their use the designated voting members of ISTA tional Seed Lot Certificate. and distribution to ISTA laboratories. The will be voting on, the proposals for chang- In order to include the crops of the ‘Guidelines for blower calibration and use es to the ISTA Rules to become effective southern hemisphere, Oryza sativa, Glycine of the uniform blowing procedure for Poa in January 2015. This year, the topics for max and Brachiaria brizantha were incor- pratensis and Dactylis glomerata’ will be discussion and approval include, for exam- porated into the plan. updated to include the use of anemometers­ ple: changes to the number of species in The purity analysis performed using seed to measure the equivalent air velocity the ISTA Stabilized List, clarifications and blowers will be offered in a test round on (EVA) which became effective from 1 Janu- improvements to text in the Rules, propos- seeds of Poa pratensis. ary 2014. als for sampling, purity testing, other seed Identification of foreign seeds is not easy There are special project areas such as determinations, germination, tetrazolium, for inexperienced participants and is often ‘toolkits for purity calculations’ and ‘new moisture, weight determination, coated the reason for poor ratings. The Proficiency technologies’ that the Committee hope to seed and GMO chapters. In addition, there Test Committee plans therefore to organize develop further to benefit the application are new and modified seed health methods one voluntary training test round on seed of the ISTA Rules in purity testing. and new species to be included in the vig- identification every year. Participants will The Purity Committee are looking for- our testing chapter. For the full proposals need to identify roughly 20 species in a seed ward to a busy and fruitful time. and the associated validation reports see mixture. the Ordinary General Meeting documents ISTA also offers proficiency test rounds Rules Committee on the ISTA web site at: on GMO and seed health testing, which www.seedtest.org/OGM14 are organized by the relevant Technical The Rules Committee 2013–2016 has Committees. some new members. The Rules Commit- Seed Health Committee tee is composed of the Honorary Presi- Purity Committee dent (Attilio Lovato, ex-officio) and the The Seed Health Committee (SHC) is Chairs of the Technical Committees and involved in the European project TESTA The Purity Committee welcomes new the Editorial Board. As part of harmoni- and the update of the ISTA annotated list members Karima Boudehri and Dot zation with AOSA, the Rules Committee of seed-borne diseases, and discussions Vittrup Pedersen for the next triennial Chairs of AOSA (Mr. Michael Stahr) and have begun with ISF to collaborate with term. The working programme will con- the SCST (Ms. Susan Alvarez) are now them on the list of pathogens, in order to tinue to review the Pure Seed Definition re- also ex-officio members of the ISTA Rules arrive at a unique list to be published. For quirements for new species, and we would Committee. The ISTA Rules Chair is also TESTA, members of the SHC are also appreciate seed and/or data on the species an ex-officio member of the AOSA Rules working on the validation of methods for listed in the working programme to be Committee. detection of pathogens. able to review the thousand-seed weight In January 2014, the International Rules Nine method validation projects are and therefore the working sample weights for Seed Testing (ISTA Rules) were avail- in progress, including three methods to needed. able for the first time as electronic versions be voted on next June, two from ISHI- Proposals for Rules changes are often to all members. With the move to the elec- Veg and one coming from an Euphresco/ the outcome of questions to the Purity tronic version the ISTA Rules are no long- EPPO project. Each seed health method is Committee, which highlight where im- er available in hard copy, but the electronic reviewed every five years through a ques- provements are needed mainly because version which contains the English, French tionnaire sent to ISTA Members and con- the wording in the Rules is not clear and and German versions of the Rules is print- tacts. Reports are published in STI, and ac- the interpretation is ambiguous. There are able. It is worth remembering that if there tions are prioritized when modifications of currently ten topics under ‘Rules Changes’ is any doubt about the interpretation of the methods are necessary. As a consequence in the working programme, three of which of this review, the harmonization of names

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 29 Association News ISTA Technical Committees: Working Programmes 2013–2016

of methods and of taxonomic names of innovations or techniques associated with Vigour Committee pathogens has been proposed for a vote. seed storage (e.g. cathodic amelioration, Two workshops are being organized in lipid biophysical analysis) and the maximi- In 2013–2016, the work of the Vigour 2014 on seed health, one in Poland in Sep- sation of dry storage potential (including Committee that relates directly to the tember and one in Indonesia in November. seed health) for seeds of 70 species. ISTA Rules will focus on the current vali- Details for registration can be found on the dated vigour tests, in particular, extending ISTA web site. Tetrazolium Committee the scope of the radicle emergence and SHC continues its collaboration with the conductivity tests and shortening the con- Statistics Committee to set up guidelines In May 2012, the Committee began a trolled deterioration test. for the organization and statistical analysis storage experiment. We wanted to know Work on the radicle emergence test will of proficiency tests and of method valida- how long the prepared tetrazolium solu- focus on a wide range of species, including tion, and the first guidelines were published tion is storable under optimum conditions vegetables (leek, cabbage, onion,), grasses on the ISTA web site in 2013. (cold and in a brown bottle in darkness). (Lolium perenne, Elymus nutans, Festu- In May 2014, we had the result: up to one ca arundinacea) and field crops (soybean, Statistics Committee year without any reduction of efficacy. On wheat, alfalfa, sunflower). Initial work will this basis we presented a rules proposal for determine suitable conditions and tim- The aim of the Statistics Committee is voting at the 2014 Ordinary General Meet- ing for obtaining a count of radicle emer- to provide statistical support to ISTA. For ing. More information about the experi- gence before test results are compared to 2013–2016, we will continue to provide this ment is on the web site. emergence and/or storage trials. Follow- statistical expertise for the different ISTA We plan to introduce a method for Gly- ing this background development work, Technical Committees. We will also work cine max into the ISTA Rules. We hope to small-scale comparative tests, to determine on more specific projects; without provid- finalize this project this year. At the mo- whether the test protocols are repeatable ing an exhaustive list, here are some pro- ment we are at the stage before shipping and reproducible, will be followed by com- jects we plan to work on for this triennium: the seeds to the participants. parative tests that will form part of method – Delivering a new version of Seedcalc for For Pennisetum, Larix and Pinus we validation. MS Excel 2007. made no progress. Extension of the scope of the conductiv- – Delivering a tool for the analysis of The revision of the working sheets is in ity test will be limited to the small-seeded, ISTA germination validation studies. progress and should be ready at the end of coloured Desi-type chickpea (Cicer arieti- – Revising the rating methodology of the this year. num). In this case, the validated conductiv- ISTA GMO Proficiency Tests (PTs). The reorganization of a new Tetrazo- ity test in the ISTA Rules will be applied – Developing methodology and tools for lium Handbook is also still in progress, but and the result compared to the results of the rating of SH PTs. a precise date of finalization is not foresee- field emergence trials. – Assessing seed purity requirements for able yet. Two approaches to shortening the con- elaborating ISTA GMO PTs samples. trolled deterioration test will also be exam- – Developing methods for appropriate Variety Committee ined. One of these is an alternative method probability computations for small seed for raising seed moisture content, the sec- lots. The Variety Committee has representa- ond the use of a conductivity measurement One area we believe is promising in Sta- tives from twelve countries and three con- as an alternative to the germination test tistics for seed testing is Bayesian Statistics tinents. The proposed Rules developments that is currently performed after the dete- and we are planning to explore this area for the next triennium include the devel- rioration step of the test. These alternative in the future. Finally, be aware that we are opment of a semi-performance-based ap- procedures would reduce the test time to available to give workshops on statistics in proach for DNA-based tests, the introduc- three days compared to the current 10–14 seed testing. tion of new species such as Sorghum, Poa, days. Agrostis and tomato, and the introduction In addition to work related to the ISTA Storage Committee of new tests such as DNA-based methods. Rules, research projects will be ongoing, The Variety Committee is also working on including investigations on the application The Storage Committee is planning to new publications such as the revision of of the controlled deterioration test to to- publish 30 new publications within this tri- Handbooks, including the introduction of mato, the cell cycle in high and low vigour ennium. One big goal for the Committee is the DNA Handbook and the collection of maize, controlled deterioration and stor- the new Handbook on Seed Storage, which methods. We are also working on the or- age potential in canola (Brassica napus), will include an appendix on seed storage of ganization of workshops, such as those in and comparisons of vigour test methods in Rules species. Furthermore, the commit- Canada and India, and proficiency tests for canola. A proficiency test on conductivity tee is working on various special projects, several techniques. for Pisum sativum will take place in early such as the characterisation of seed stor- 2014, and in November 2014 a workshop age characteristics of 100 ‘new’ species, will be held in Bengaluru, India.  the development and/or application of five

30 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Association News

New faces at the ISTA Secretariat

Sejal Patel After graduating, she worked in various home for children with learning difficul- industries and corporations of various siz- ties, providing the carers with IT-related Administrator es, where she held a variety of roles in the training. areas of marketing, telecommunications, Sejal joined the ISTA Secretariat as an customer support and IT consultancy in Administrator (part-time) in November the UK, before moving to Switzerland in 2013, working with the Administration 2000, where she carried on working for Department in helping with the Annual the IT and telecommunications industry Meeting preparations and with the Ac- before deciding to have a break from her creditation and Technical Department professional career to have a family. Sejal with audit preparations, proficiency tests Sejal Patel was born in Africa (Kenya), is married and has two children, and is a and certificate orders. before moving to London in 1980. She certified health and wellness coach. During graduated with a BSc degree with Honours this time she worked as a playgroup leader in Computing with Business from the Uni- and volunteered at a local charitable foun- versity of Hertfordshire, UK. dation which runs a garden nursery and

Olga Stöckli From 2002, Olga Stoeckli worked in var- mobile subscribers in Russia, the Ukraine, ious positions at the Russian Post, which Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Armenia and Administrator operates 86 large hubs and 42 000 branches Belarus, a region that has a total popula- with 415 000 employees throughout the tion of more than 230 million. Her main Russian Federation. Olga was first assist- tasks were implementing the group quality ing financial audits and then worked as a strategy, tracking it with statistics monitor- Key Account Manager in the Moscow Re- ing, challenging each country’s quality per- gion for 27 branches. In a third phase as formance in both technical and customer a Senior Specialist in the Treasury/Cash service areas and performing business pro- Operations & Development department, cess auditing in central and decentral busi- Olga Stoeckli was born in Moscow and she deployed regional treasury in all 86 ness unit bodies. studied at the Moscow Communication Russian large postal hubs throughout the Olga Stoeckli joined the ISTA Secre- and Informatics University, which trains Russian Federation. tariat as an Administrator (part-time) in students in economics and managing IT From 2007, Olga worked as a Project February 2014, working with the Admin- and telecommunication enterprises in Manager in the Quality Department of istration Department on pressing ongo- the areas of organizational management, the Business Unit “Foreign Subsidiaries” ing affairs, currently mainly the upcoming planning and analysis, finance, economics, in Mobile Telesystems (MTS) and became ISTA Annual Meeting in Edinburgh and scientific research, design and marketing a certified Chief Auditor ISO-9001 during membership administration. activities and solving practical problems of this time. MTS is the leading telecommu- market economics. In 2002 she obtained a nications group in Russia, Eastern Europe Master’s Degree as Manager Economist. and Central Asia, serving over 100 million

ISTA Annual Meeting 2014, Edinburgh, UK, 16–19 June 2014 Online registration: www.seedtest.org/AM14

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 31 Association News

Update on the electronic Rules 2014 Jonathan Taylor ISTA Publications Unit

ISTA Secretariat representatives of Member Laboratories Reader, which is recommended and can 8303 Bassersdorf, Switzerland registered personal accounts instead of in- be downloaded free of charge from www. [email protected] stitutional accounts. This meant that they adobe.com. could not request institutional subscrip- tions with multiple-user access. It is recom- Copying the Rules PDF files? t the beginning of January, the Inter- mended that Member Laboratories register Anational Rules for Seed Testing were with institutional accounts and an account We received a few enquiries about published for the first time in a completely administrator, who can then organize sub- whether it was allowed to make copies of electronic edition. scriptions for the whole laboratory. the Rules PDF files for others to use. This Many ISTA Members were familiar with concerned especially the single-user access the use of this format, since online sub- Problems with PDF readers for Personal and Associate Members and scriptions to ISTA’s journal Seed Science purchasers of single downloads. and Technology had already been available Some users who had downloaded the According to the ISTA Copyright Policy, for several years. Most users thus had no Rules with the Mozilla Firefox web brows- electronic copies of ISTA works are not problems in registering accounts on the er discovered that, other than announced, permitted, except for backup purposes. Ingentaconnect web site and requesting ac- the texts of all three language appeared at However, it is acceptable for a backup cess. At the Secretariat, we were kept busy the same time, and none could be switched copy on another device to be used also, verifying subscription requests, not only off. as long as only one copy of a downloaded for the Rules, but also for SST. This problem was traced to the built- PDF file is used at any one time. in Firefox PDF reader, which needs to be The principle to be followed is that when Personal or institutional account? disabled. two PDF copies are used at the same time It is also advised not to save any PDF by different users, there needs to be two However, for others it was a novelty file of the electronic Rules using PDF ed- purchases or memberships. which needed getting used to. A few iting software other than Adobe Acrobat

Doctorate for ISTA Statistics Committee Chair Jean-Louis Laffont Kirk Remund Vice-Chair, ISTA Statistics Committee

Monsanto Life Sciences Company analysis approach. We are all beneficiaries St. Louis, Missouri, USA of Jean-Louis’s numerous contributions to [email protected] our Association as he has served as Chair of the ISTA Statistics Committee and ac- tive member of the ISTA GMO Commit- e would like to offer very hearty tee. He has added much statistical rigor Wcongratulations to Dr. Jean-Louis to ISTA study designs, data analysis and Laffont, a valued ISTA colleague, on his seed testing rules from advances in sta- recent completion of a Doctor of Philos- tistical theory in recent years. Many have ophy Degree in Mathematics and Statistics benefited from participating in workshops from ONIRIS, the Nantes Atlantic College that Jean-Louis instructed in areas includ- of Veterinary Medicine, Food Science and ing GMO testing, germination and seed Engineering, Nantes, France. His disserta- health. Jean-Louis has been instrumental enhancements to SeedCalc. Again we con- tion research focused on modeling geno- in bringing many new software program gratulate Jean-Louis for this great accom- type by environment interactions in plant tools to the hands of seed testing scientists plishment and hope for many more years breeding using a novel biplot and two-way including the germination calculator and of associating with him in ISTA.

32 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Association News

DOIs Я Us: digital object identifiers for Seed Science and Technology papers Jonathan Taylor ISTA Publications Unit

ISTA Secretariat The solution: DOI names In this form, it can be added to the biblio- 8303 Bassersdorf, Switzerland graphic reference of this paper, when cited [email protected] This problem is solved by the DOI sys- in another paper. On a web page or in a tem and DOI names. PDF document, it will become a direct hy- In principle, the DOI system consists of perlink, in this case to the abstract page of STA is taking a further step forward in a database or registry, in which each digi- this SST paper on the Ingentaconnect web Ithe field of electronic publishing. tal object is given an unambiguous, unique site. Beginning with the April 2014 issue, all and permanent DOI name, which is associ- papers published in ISTA’s scientific jour- ated with metadata of the object, including DOI names for SST papers nal Seed Science and Technology (SST) will its URL. be given a digital object identifier, or DOI After a digital object has been published Beginning with the April 2014 issue, all name. online, it must be registered with the DOI papers published in SST will be given a system, when it must be given a DOI name, DOI name, which will appear on the first The problem: changing URLs and when its metadata must be entered, in- page of each paper in both the online and cluding its URL. print editions. For readers who may be unfamiliar with If the URL of a digital object is changed, Older papers from 2003 to 2013, which this subject, the DOI system and DOI the publisher only needs to update its are already available online, will also be names address a common problem with lo- metadata in the DOI system. The DOI registered and given DOI names, but the cating digital objects on the Internet. name itself, once issued, is never changed, existing PDF files will not be amended to As is well known to most users of the and hence can serve as a permanent refer- include the DOI names. However, a list of Internet, digital objects comprise all kinds ence to the object, as long as the publisher these papers will be published on the ISTA of digital files to be found on the Inter- maintains the entry in the DOI system. web site, allowing authors to add DOI net: web pages, PDF files of all kinds of names to citations of SST papers. documents, photographs, sound files etc. DOI names in practice At any one time, all of these objects can Further information be identified and located by their uniform The DOI name itself consists of a pre- resource locator, or URL, also known as fix, which identifies the publisher, a for- The first stop for information on the web address. The object can be opened in ward slash, and a suffix, which identifies DOI system must be the web site of the In- a web browser or other program by a hy- the object. The suffix is determined by the ternational DOI Foundation: perlink containing the URL, or by entering publisher, and can be completely random http://www.doi.org the URL directly in the address field of the (as long as it is unique), or can follow some browser. kind of system. Thus, a typical DOI name Publishers wishing to use DOI names for Since an object is identified by its URL, for a paper in Seed Science and Technology their publications must become a member the URL can be published by others at might look like this: of a registration agency. ISTA has become other locations on the Internet (e.g. in ref- 10.15258/sst.2013.41.3.01 a member of The Publishers International erence lists), thus acting as both a reference Linking Association Inc. (PILA), which and a direct link to the digital object. A DOI name of a paper can be converted does business under the name CrossRef: However, if a URL of an object is into a web address by adding in front the http://www.crossref.org changed, either by renaming files or fold- URL of the DOI web site, like this: ers or by moving the object to a differ- http://doi.org/10.15258/sst.2013.41.3.01 There are Wikipedia articles on DOIs in a ent location, these references and links in number of languages: other locations will become outdated and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ will cease to function (dead links), since Digital_object_identifier they are outside the control of the original  publisher.

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 33 Association News

ISTA membership changes Status 17 March 2014

New Member Laboratories INML3500/INML3501 New Associate Members Bosnia and Herzegovina BAML0200/ Laboratory representative: S. Rajendra Prasad Brazil BRAM0007 BAML0201 Directorate of Seed Research, Mau, Uttar Pradesh (ICAR, DARE) Francisco Carlos Krzyzanowski Laboratory representative: Mirsad Mujkovic Ministry of Agriculture, Gov. of India Embrapa Soybean Federal Institute of Agriculture Sarajevo, Test- Kushmuar, Kaithauli P.O. Box 231 ing Laboratory for Quality Control Maunath Bhanjan, Uttar Pradesh 275 101 Londrina, PR, 86001-970 Butmirska cesta 40 Phone: +91 547 2530326 Phone: +55 43 3371 6262 Ilidza-Sarajevo, 71 210 Fax: +91 547 2530325 Fax: +55 43 3371 6100 Phone: +387 33 774 230 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +387 33 637 601 France FRAM0013 E-mail: [email protected] Philippines PHML0300/PHML0301 Elise Leclercq China CNML0700/CNML0701 Laboratory representative: Lingyu Zhang DuPont Pioneer, Asia Pacific Regional Quality GNIS, Service Documentation Laboratory representative: Yanrong Wang Laboratory, Luisita Industrial Park, San Miguel 44, rue du Louvre Lanzhou Herbage Seed Testing Centre 2301 Tarlac 75001 Paris Ministry of Agriculture China Phone: +63 9175920920 Phone: +33 1 42337697 Lanzhou University E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +33 1 40284016 No 768 Jiayuguan West Road, P.O. Box 61 E-mail: [email protected] Romania ROML0700/ROML0701 Lanzhou, 730020 Germany DEAM0011 Phone: +86 931 8914043 Pioneer Romania Laboratory Fax: +86 931 8910979 Raluca Maria Piloiu Christof Neuhaus E-mail: [email protected] SC Pioneer Hi Bred Seeds Agro SRL Deutsche Saatveredelung AG Weissenburger Str. 5 Canada CAML1300/CAML1301 DN 2, Km 19.7, Sindrilita, Ganeasa 077104 Ilfov 59557 Lippstadt Laboratory representative: Morgan Webb Phone: +40 21 3035330 Phone: +49 2941 296232 Seed Check Technologies Inc., Private Seed Fax: +40 21 303 5301 Fax: +49 2941 296 8232 Laboratory E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] #101 - 5906-50 Street Korea, South KRAM0002 Leduc, Alberta, T9E 0R6 South Africa ZAML0300/ZAML0301 Phone: +1 780 980 8324 Laboratory representative: Frikkie Marais Kee-Hwa Bae Fax: +1 780 980 8375 Starke Ayres Quality Assurance Laboratory National Institute of Biological Resource E-mail: [email protected] Starke Ayres (Pty) Ltd, National Operations Wildlife Genetic Resources Center Environmental Research Complex Germany DEML2100/ DEML2101 P.O. Box 13339 Northmead, 1511 42 Hwangyeong-ro Laboratory representative: Anneke Behn Phone: +27 11 7483514 Incheon, 404-708 Syngenta Seeds Germany Fax: +27 11 7483505 Phone: +82 32 590 7343 Quality Laboratory for Field Crops E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +82 32 590 7120 Zum Knipkenbach 20 E-mail: [email protected] New Personal Members 32107 Bad Salzuflen KRAM0003 Phone: +49 5222 530848 United Kingdom GBPM0014 Fax: +49 5222 58457 Soo-Young Kim E-mail: [email protected] Martin James Griffin National Institute of Biological Resource Germains Seed Technology, Quality Assurance Wildlife Genetic Resources Center India INML3200/INML3201 Hansa Road, Hardwick Industrial Estate Environmental Research Complex Laboratory representative: Hanmant Shinde King’s Lynn PE30 4LG 42 Hwangyeong-ro Seed Testing Laboratory Pune Phone: +44 7525 705821 Incheon, 404-708 Department of Agriculture, Maharashtra State E-mail: [email protected] Phone: +82 32 590 7111 Krishi Bhavan, Shivaji Nagar Fax: +82 32 590 7120 Pune, 411005 E-mail: [email protected] Phone: +91 020 255 36 449 Fax: +91 020 255 36 449 E-mail: [email protected]

34 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Association News ISTA membership changes

New Zealand NZAM0005 India INDL0100/INML0103 Sri Lanka LKML0200/LKML0201 Emily Kate Kimber Laboratory representative: Vilas A. Tonapi Laboratory representative: Waruna P. Madawa- New Zealand Agriseeds Limited Indian Agricultural Research Institute narachchi 2547 Old West Coast Road, RD 1 Seed Testing Laboratory, Division of Seed Sci- CIC Seeds (Pvt) Ltd, CIC AGRI Businesses Christchurch, 7671 ence and Technology, Pusa Campus (Pvt) Ltd, CIC Seeds Testing Laboratory Phone: +64 3 3188 514 New Delhi, 110012 205, D.R. Wijewardena Mawatha Fax: +64 3 3188 549 Phone: +91 11 25841428 Colombo, 10 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +91 11 25841428 Phone: +94 112681024 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +94 1 691 909 Spain ESAM0010 E-mail: [email protected] INML2600/INML2601 Jorge Salguero Illescas Granada Coating S.L. Laboratory representative: Vembu Sankaran Other membership cancellations C/ Alonso de Monroy N° 1 Krishidhan Seeds Limited, Quality Management Australia AUAM0006 18730 Carchuna (Granada) Laboratory Phone: +34 958624138 HO. D3-D6, Addl MIDC Area Louise Larrieu Fax: +34 958624337 Aurangabad Road The Diggers Club E-mail: [email protected] Jalna 431 213 Seed Department Phone: +91 2482 222 600 P.O. Box 300 United Kingdom GBAM0013 Fax: +91 2482 222 611 Dromana, 3936 Kate Loveday E-mail: [email protected] Phone: +61 3 59 84 79 30 Germains Seed Technology, R & D E-mail: [email protected] INML2900/INML2901 St Andrew’s Road, Hardwick Industrial Estate Brazil BRDM0001 King’s Lynn PE12 9HS Laboratory representative: Haresh D. Ganar Phone: +44 1553 774012 Vibha Agrotech Ltd., Seed Testing Laboratory Silmar T. Peske Fax: +44 1553 773145 “Inspire”, Plot #. 21, Sector 1 Fac. de Agronomia Eliseu Maciel, Depto. de E-mail: [email protected] HUDA’S Techno Enclave, Madhapur Fitotecnia Hyderabad 500 081 (AP) Rua Maestro Bandeira 237 United States of America USAM0023 Phone: + 91 40 3041 5851 Pelotas RS, 96055-650 Scott Taylor Fax: + 91 40 3041 5781 Phone: +55 53 327 57 289 AMM Seed Testing, Inc. E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +55 53 3275 7463 2064 Alameda Padre Serra, Suite 110 E-mail: [email protected] Korea, South KRDL0100/KRDL0101 Santa Barbara, CA 93103 Greece GRDM0002 Phone: +1 805 5642155 Laboratory representative: Jin-Kug Kim Fax: +1 805 5641356 Central Seed Testing Laboratory Sotiris Kosmas E-mail: [email protected] Inspection Division, Experiment Research Seed Testing Station of Athens Institute of NAQS Ministry of Rural Development and Food Laboratory cancellations and 560, 3-Ga, Dangsan-Dong Antheon 2, Maroussi terminations Youngdeungpo-Gu, Seoul 151 23 Athens Phone: +82 2 2165 6041 Phone: +30 210 683 5657 Czech Republic CZDL0200/CZDL0201 Fax: +82 2 21656005 Fax: +30 210 6830917 Laboratory representative: Zdenka Procház- E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] ková United Kingdom GBAM0012 FGMRI-Research Station Kunovice, Seed Test- ing Laboratory Hail Rihan Na Zahonech 601 University of Plymouth 68604 Kunovice Faculty of Science and Technology Phone: +420 572 420917 409 Portland Square Fax: +420 572 549119 Plymouth, PL14 5GB E-mail: [email protected] Phone: +447513724273 E-mail: [email protected]

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 35 Rules Development

Method validation reports on Rules proposals for the ISTA Rules 2015 Edition

Full texts on the ISTA web site at www.seedtest.org/OGM14

Modification to existing seed health method. 7-009: Detection of Gibberella circinata on Pinus spp. (pine) and Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas-fir) seed

Renaud Ioos1 and the ISTA Seed Health Committee

1Anses Laboratoire de la Santé des Végétaux (Ioos et al., 2013). This method is very ef- References Unité de mycologie ficient and reliable to isolate anyFusarium Andrews, S. and Pitt, J. (1986). Selection me- 54220 Malzézville, France spp. from infected seeds and does not re- dium for Fusarium species and dematiaceous [email protected] quire expensive equipment. However, the Hyphomycetes from cereals. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 5, 1235–1238. correct morphological identification ofF. Britz, H., Coutinho, T.A., Wingfield M. J. and circinatum in pure culture requires experi- Marasas W.F.O. (2002). Validation of the Background ence and a molecular confirmation should description of Gibberella circinata and mor- be carried out in case of uncertainty, such phological differentiation of the anamorph Gibberella circinata is the causal agent as those described in EPPO (2009) and in Fusarium circinatum. Sydowia, 54, 9–22. EPPO (2009), PM 7/91(1): Gibberella of pitch canker disease. The disease almost Ioos et al. (2013). In addition, Storer et al. circinata. EPPO Bulletin, 39: 298–309. exclusively affects Pinus spp., but was also (1998) have demonstrated that agar plat- doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2338.2009.02317.x described on Douglas-fir Pseudotsuga( ing of pine seeds may not be able to detect Gerlach, W. and Nirenberg, H. (1982). The ge- menziesii). This disease is a serious threat dormant (quiescent) propagules of F. circi- nus Fusarium – a pictorial atlas. Mitteilungen aus der Biologischen Bundesanstalt fur Land- to the pine forests wherever it occurs (espe- natum, thus leading to an unknown risk of und Forstwirtschaft, 209. 406 pp. cially on plantations of Pinus radiata), due false negative results. Ioos, R., Annesi, T., Fourrier, C., Saurat, C., to extensive tree mortality, reduced growth This protocol replaces the former ISTA Chandelier, A., Inghelbrecht, S., Diogo, and timber quality. Conifer seeds can be procotol “7-009: Detection of Fusarium E.L.F., Pérez-Sierra, A.M., Barnes, A.V., Paruma, K., Adam, M., van Rijswick, P. and colonized by G. circinata internally (where moniliforme var. subglutinans on Pinus Riccioni, L. (2013). Test performance study it can remain dormant until seed germina- taeda and P. elliotii (Pine)”, which did not of diagnostic procedures for identification tion) and externally (Storer et al., 1998). take into consideration the more recent and detection of Gibberella circinata in pine Although an official ISTA method was taxonomic re-assignation of Fusarium seeds in the framework of a EUPHRESCO project. EPPO Bulletin, 43, 267–275. published in 2002 to detect F. moniliforme moniliforme var. subglutinans to F. circi- Ioos, R., Belhadj, A. and Menez, M. (2004). f. sp. subglutinans in seeds of Pinus taeda natum, anamorph of Gibberella circinata Occurrence and distribution of Micro- and Pinus elliotii (ISTA, 2002), the mor- (Nirenberg and O’Donnell, 1998), and in dochium nivale and Fusarium species isolated phological features indicated as typical particular the production of typical sterile from barley, durum, and soft wheat grains in France from 2000 to 2002. Mycopathologia, for F. moniliforme f. sp. subglutinans in hyphae by this species. 158, 351–362. this method were based on a substrate not Nirenberg, H.I. and O’Donnell, K. (1998). New showing the characteristic sterile hyphae Validation studies Fusarium species and combinations with the of this pathogen and were not sufficient to Gibberella fujikuroi species complex. Mycolo- gia, 90, 434–458. ensure a reliable identification ofF. circi- Test performance study of diagnostic Storer, A.J., Gordon, T.R. and Clarck, S.L. natum Nirenberg & O’Donnell (anamo- procedures for identification and detec- (1998). Association of the pitch canker rphic stage of G. circinata). This method tion of Gibberella circinata in pine seeds fungus, Fusarium subglutinans f. sp. pini with and the accompanying figures are taken was carried out in the framework of a EU- Monterey pine seeds, and seedlings in Cali- fornia. Plant Pathology, 47, 649–656. from the EPPO diagnostic protocol PM PHRESCO project (Ioos et al. 2013). 7/91 (EPPO, 2009). This method has been  evaluated through a European ring test

36 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Rules Development Method validation reports on Rules proposals for the ISTA Rules 2015 Edition

Proposal for replacement of mCS20ABN and FS media recipes in ISTA Rule 7-019a (Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris detection in Brassica spp. seed lots) by adapted versions M. Sato1, M. Asma2 and L. Politikou3

1Seed Health Testing Laboratory Summary ISHI-Veg peer validation study that was National Center for Seeds and Seedlings organized in parallel to the ISTA profi- Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0852, Japan The recipes of the FS and mCS20ABN ciency test. Extracts of three 10 000-seed [email protected] semi-selective media described in the ISTA subsamples of a low, medium, high and 2Bejo Zaden B.V. Rule 7-019a were adapted to increase their Xcc-free cabbage lot were plated on media 1749 ZH Warmenhuizen, the Netherlands performance regarding the recovery and plates prepared with the adapted and the [email protected] 3International Seed Federation recognition of Xanthomonas campestris ISTA Rule 7-019a recipes. Comparison of 1260 Nyon, Switzerland pv. campestris (Xcc) on the plates as well results showed no difference between the [email protected] as safety and practicality in their prepara- two recipes. The benefits of the adapted FS tion. The adapted and ISTA Rule 7-019a and mCS20ABN media recipes suggest the media recipes were compared between replacement of the ISTA Rule 7-019a reci- five seed health testing laboratories in an pes by the former.

Validation of a new method for the detection of Acidovorax valerianellae on corn salad (Valerianella locusta) V. Grimault1 and L. Politikou2

1GEVES-SNES eight laboratories organized by ISHI-Veg. comparable results to vermiculite alone as 49071 Beaucouzé CEDEX, France The method includes a grow-out test per- substrate and is therefore considered an al- [email protected] formed in a sweatbox followed by PCR ternative. No significant effect of Thiram 2 International Seed Federation confirmation of Av on symptomatic/ treatment was shown on the saprophytic 1260 Nyon, Switzerland doubtful corn salad cotyledons at 14 or 21 load of seed lots. Yet, its application in the [email protected] days after sowing. One pathogen-free un- recommended ratio can ensure discernible treated, and two (low and medium infect- Av symptoms on corn salad cotyledons. ed) naturally contaminated seed lots with The detection method showed high values Summary variable saprophytic loads were compared. of accordance (repeatability), concordance Each seed lot was tested in six blind repli- (reproducibility), sensitivity, specificity and The performance of an ISHI-Veg de- cates of 5000 seeds. One 1000-seed sample accuracy for all three contamination levels. veloped method for the detection of the from the pathogen-free and one 1000 seed Therefore, it is considered to be a reliable seed-transmitted pathogen Acidovorax sample of the medium contaminated seed method for the detection of Av on corn valerianellae (Av) on corn salad (Valeri- lot served as negative and positive con- salad seed and is highly recommended in anellae locusta) seed was evaluated in an trol, respectively. In the same comparison routine seed health testing. international comparative test between a potting soil-vermiculite mixture showed

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 37 Rules Development Method validation reports on Rules proposals for the ISTA Rules 2015 Edition

Proposal for the addition of Cicer arietinum (Kabuli type) as a species to which the conductivity test for seed vigour can be applied Mohammad Khajeh-Hosseini1, Carina Gallo2 and Hulya Ilbi3

1Department of Crop Science the correlation between solute leakage and and F) seed vigour was particularly low, Faculty of Agriculture field emergence in wrinkled-seeded vining giving conductivity measurements higher Ferdowsi University of Mashhad peas (Pisum sativum). Low leakage and than those in the tolerance tables. Never- Mashhad, Iran therefore low conductivity was associated theless, application of the highest tolerance [email protected] or [email protected] with seeds that emerged well, that is seeds value from Tables 15B and D (ISTA, 2013) 2National Institute of Agricultural Research with high vigour; whereas low vigour seeds revealed that only in lot D, Run 1 were the Oliveros Experimental Station Oliveros, Argentina with poor emergence had high levels of replicate means out of tolerance, and only 3Seed Technology Centre leakage and conductivity (Matthews and two out of six lab means (2 runs × 3 labs) Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture Whitbread, 1968). The conductivity test were out of tolerance. This provides evi- Ege University has also been used as an indicator of field dence in support of the addition of Cicer Izmir, Turkey emergence in field beans Vicia( faba, He- arietinum (Kabuli type), to the ISTA Rules garty, 1977), Phaseolus beans (Matthews as a species for which the conductivity test and Bradnock, 1968; Powell et al., 1986), can be applied. Summary soybean (Oliveria et al., 1984; Yaklich et al., 1984) and long bean (Vigna sesquipe- References Six seed lots of Cicer arietinum (Kabuli dalis; Abdullah et al., 1991). Leakage has Abdullah, W. D., Powell, A. A. and Matthews, type), all having a laboratory germination also been related to emergence in the light- S. 1991. Association of differences in seed of >80 %, were tested by three laboratories coloured, larger seeded Kabuli type chick- vigour in long bean (Vigna sesquipedalis L.) using the electrical conductivity test, as de- pea (Cicer arietinum) (Khajeh-Hosseini et with testa colour and imbibition damage. Journal of Agricultural Science, Cambridge, scribed in the ISTA Rules for Pisum sati- al., 2007; Khajeh-Hosseini and Rezaza- 116, 259–264. vum for 24 h in two runs in each laboratory. deh, 2011). Investigations are currently in Hegarty, T. W. 1977. Seed vigour in field beans All laboratories consistently identified the progress using the coloured, smaller-seed- (Vicia faba L.) and its influence on plant same significant differences in the seed lot ed Desi type (ISTA Vigour Committee, stand. Journal of Agricultural Science, Cam- bridge, 88, 169–173. conductivity and the data was repeatable 2013–2016). The test identifies where sol- ISTA 2013. ISTA Rules 2013. International within laboratories and reproducible be- ute leakage occurs as a result of decreased Seed Testing Association, Bassersdorf, tween laboratories. This provides evidence membrane integrity and the death of tissue Switzerland. in support of the addition of Cicer arieti- during the ageing of seeds. The objective Khajeh-Hosseini, M., Rostami, M., Tatari, M., Asadi, G. and Abbasi-Alikamar, R. 2007. num (Kabuli type), to the ISTA Rules as a of this study was to demonstrate that the Electrical conductivity provides a rapid species for which the conductivity test can conductivity test applied to Cicer arietinum assessment of quality in chickpea seeds be applied. (Kabuli type), is both repeatable within produced in Iran. Proceedings of 28th Inter- laboratories and reproducible between national Seed Testing Association Congress. Iguassu Falls, Brazil. Introduction laboratories. Khajeh-Hosseini, M. and Rezazadeh, M. 2011. The electrical conductivity of soak-water of The conductivity test is validated in the Discussion chickpea seeds provides a quick test indica- ISTA Rules as a test that can be applied to tive of field emergence.Seed Science and Technology, 39, 692–696. species of Pisum sativum (garden pea only, The conductivity test consistently iden- Matthews, S. and Bradnock, W. T. 1968. The excluding petit-pois varieties), Phaseolus tified differences between seed lots in each detection of seed samples of wrinkled-seeded vulgaris and Glycine max. This test is based of three laboratories. The test was both re- peas (Pisum sativum L.) of potentially low on the leakage of solutes that occurs from peatable within laboratories and reproduc- planting value. Proceedings of the Interna- tional Seed Testing Association, 32, 553–563. all seeds that are soaked in water. These sol- ible in different laboratories. In addition, Matthews, S. and Whitbread, R. 1968. An utes include sugars, amino acids and most where the conductivity measurements of association between seed exudates and the importantly for the test, electrolytes. Thus lots fell within the range of the tolerance incidence of pre-emergence mortality in the incidence of leakage can be detected by tables (ISTA, 2013), the replicates within wrinkle-seeded peas. Plant Pathology, 17, 11–17. measurement of the electrical conductivity the laboratories and the mean values ob- (EC) of the seed soak-water. The test was tained for each lot in different laboratories developed following the observation of were within tolerance. In three lots (A, D

38 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Rules Development Method validation reports on Rules proposals for the ISTA Rules 2015 Edition

Oliveira, M. de A., Matthews, S. and Powell, Powell, A.A. 2009. Proposal for the addition Yaklich, R.W., Kulik, M.M. and Anderson, J.D. A.A. 1984. The role of split seed coats in of Phaseolus vulgaris as a species to which 1984. Evaluation of vigour tests in soybean determining seed vigour in commercial the conductivity test can be applied. Method seeds: relationship of ATP, conductivity, and seed lots of soyabean, as measured by the Validation reports 2009, International Seed radioactive tracer multiple criteria laboratory electrical conductivity test. Seed Science and Testing Association. tests to field performance.Crop Science, 19, Technology, 12, 659–668. Powell, A.A. 2012. Proposal for the addition of 806–810 Powell, A. A., Oliveria, M. de A. and Mat- Glycine max as a species to which the con-  thews, S. 1986. Seed vigour in cultivars of ductivity test for seed vigour can be applied. dwarf French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) in Method Validation Reports 2012, Interna- relation to the colour of the testa. Journal tional Seed Testing Association. of Agricultural Science, Cambridge, 106, 419–425.

Early counts of radicle emergence as a vigour test for oil seed rape A.A. Powell1, S. Matthews1, L. Kerr3, G. McLaren4 and M.-H. Wagner2

1School of Biological Sciences emergence (RE) vigour test for maize to not be identified. In contrast, the range of University of Aberdeen the ISTA Rules in 2010. Similar highly RE test results was from 51 to 95 %, clearly Aberdeen AB24 3UU, UK significant relationships have been seen in distinguishing differences between the lots. [email protected] several other crop species (Matthews and Thus, lots E and F were clearly identified 2 GEVES Powell, 2011). Recent work on oilseed rape as having higher vigour than lots I and H Station Nationale d’Essais de Semences (SNES) (Brassica napus)(Matthews et al., 2012) has even though they all had the same standard Angers, France 3Alexander Harley Seeds (Milnathort) Ltd shown that single counts of radicle emer- germination, 98 % (Table 1). In addition Milnathort gence of oilseed rape, taken after 30 h at the repeatability and reproducibility of the Tayside KY13 7RF, UK 20 °C are also indicative of the rate of ger- data supports the proposal that the radicle 4SASA mination and vigour. Thus, single counts emergence test can be used routinely to re- Roddinglaw Road of radicle emergence predicted the MGT veal differences in seed vigour of oilseed Edinburgh EH12 9FJ, UK (R2 = 0.920), 7 day field emergence R( 2 = rape. 0.961) and maximum field emergence R( 2 = 0.713). In addition, the results were high- References Summary ly consistent between three laboratories ISTA (2012) International Rules for Seed Test- (Matthews et al. 2012). The aim of this re- ing. International Seed Testing Association, Radicle emergence (RE) of nine seed lots port is to analyse the data from the three Bassersdorf, Switzerland. of oilseed rape was assessed after 30 h at laboratories to illustrate the repeatability Matthews, S. and Powell, A.A. (2011). Towards automated single counts of radicle emer- 20 °C by each of three laboratories. Clear and reproducibility of the test method. gence. Seed Testing International, 142, 44–48. and significant differences were observed Matthews, S., Beltrami, E., El-Khadem. R., between lots in all laboratories. All results Discussion Khajeh Hosseini, M., Nasehzadeh, M. and were within tolerance and both repeatabil- Urso, G. (2011a). Evidence that time for repair during early germination leads to ity and reproducibility were good, there The significant differences in the radi- vigour differences in maize. Seed Science and being no evidence of over-dispersion. It is cle emergence of seed lots, revealed here Technology, 39, 501–509. proposed that the RE test be validated as a across three laboratories have previously Matthews, S., Wagner, M.-H., Ratzenboeck, vigour test for oilseed rape. been shown to predict both the rate of, A., Khajeh Hosseini, M. Casarini, E., El- Khadem, R., Yakhlifi, M. and Powell, A.A. and final, emergence of the lots in the field (2011b). Early counts of radicle emergence Introduction (Matthews et al. 2012) and therefore pre- during germination as a repeatable and re- dict differences in seed vigour of the lots. producible vigour test for maize. Seed Testing Early counts of radicle emergence of The standard germination (%) was also sig- International, 141, 39–45. Matthews, S., Wagner, M.-H, Kerr, L., McLar- maize (after 6 d at 13 °C or 66 h at 20 °C), nificantly correlated with the rate of, and en, G. and Powell, A.A. (2012). Automated have been shown to be closely related to the final, emergence. However, the difference determination of germination time courses rate of germination, as expressed by the between the lowest and highest standard by image capture and early counts of radicle mean germination time (MGT) and to vig- germination was small, only 9 % when all emergence lead to a new vigour test for winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L). Seed our, reflected in the rate of and final field lots were considered, and only 5 % different Science and Technology, 40, 413–424 emergence (Matthews et al., 2011a,b). This for eight of the nine lots. Clear differences resulted in the introduction of the radicle in vigour between the lots would therefore 

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 39 Accreditation

Accreditation of the Central Reference Laboratory of Mexico José Manuel Chávez Bravo

Servicio Nacional de Inspección y Certificación de Semillas (SNICS) 54000 Tlalnepantla, Mexico [email protected]

he Central Reference Laboratory T(LCR) of the National Inspection Service for Seed Certification (SNICS) of Mexico has obtained international ac- creditation by the International Seed Test- ing Association, demonstrating technical competence and high reliability of results in seed testing. After relocation, the Central Reference Laboratory took up operations again in 2008, to provide nationwide sampling and seed testing services. A Member of ISTA since 2003, the laboratory has pursued excellence and quality in seed testing to achieve international recognition through such ISTA international accreditation. There was much that needed to be done to prepare for international accreditation. – Implementation of a quality manage- – Training: laboratory staff participated at This process included: ment system, which set strict quality international workshops to achieve the – Participation in international proficiency controls at all stages of the sampling and required level of qualifications. tests for five consecutive years, achieving seed testing process, to ensure technical outstanding results, to the same level as competence. This preparation took two years, in which accredited laboratories worldwide. the purchase of equipment, training,

40 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Accreditation Accreditation of SNICS Laboratory, Mexico

establishment of quality control and im- and weight determination per 1000 seeds With this great achievement the Mexican provement of the quality management sys- for oats, rice, barley, rye, corn, sorghum, seed sector has access to this area of oppor- tem was completed. Finally, the ISTA wheat and triticale, allowing the laboratory tunity, helping to develop the competitive- accreditation audit was scheduled for 9 to issue Orange International Seed Lot ness of the rural economy of Mexico, and October 2013. Certificates and Blue International Seed advance the institutional commitment to The ISTA audit was conducted at the Sample Certificates for these crops. provide best-quality and modern services. LCR site by ISTA auditors, who issued Thus, from now on, the seed produced in With this accreditation, the LCR joins a number of non-conformities and rec- Mexico under OECD certification schemes the small group of accredited laboratories ommendations. These were all resolved may be exported as certified seed, since worldwide (numbering only 120) which promptly with corrective actions and ap- Mexico is recognized by the OECD to im- may issue ISTA Certificates and becomes a proved by the auditors, who were thus able plement monitoring methodologies in the laboratory recognized for its expertise and to recommend that accreditation should be field to describe the genetic quality, and quality. The laboratory is the only interna- granted. the ISTA laboratory can issue certificates tionally accredited laboratory in the entire The scope of the LCR’s accreditation in- to rate the quality laboratory. The process Central American region, and one of only cludes seed sampling, purity and identifica- of international seed certification system in six laboratories in Latin America.  tion of other seeds, identification of other Mexico is complete. seeds by number, germination and viability,

Laboratory accreditation changes Status 17 March 2014

Re-accreditations CADL0800 Chile CLDL0200 Canada CADL0400 Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Saskatoon Laboratorio Oficial de Análisis de Semillas Laboratory Servicio Agricola y Ganadero Ontario Plant Laboratories Seed Science & Technology Section Correo Central, Km.22, Ruta 68 Plant Pathology Laboratory 301-421 Downey Road Cas. 4088 Santiago Canadian Food Inspection Agency Saskatoon, Sask. S7N 4L8 Phone: +56 2 345 1831 Ottawa Laboratory Fallowfield Phone: +1 306 385 4854 Fax: +56 2 345 1802 Ottawa, Ontario K2H 8P9 Fax: +1 306 385 4944 E-mail: [email protected] Phone: +1 613 7591292 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +1 613 759 1260 E-mail: [email protected]

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 41 Accreditation Accreditation changes

Denmark DKML0800 Portugal PTDL0100 SEML0900 Maribo Seed International ApS Direção-Geral de Alimentação e Veterinária Syngenta Seeds AB, Quality Control Laboratory Germination Laboratory Direção de Serviços de Sanidade Vegetal P.O. Box 302 Højbygårdvej 31 Divisão de Variedades e Sementes 261 23 Landskrona 4960 Holeby Edificio II - Tapada da Ajuda Phone: +46 418 437243 Phone: +45 5446 0734 1349-018 Lisboa Fax: +46 418 437132 Fax: +45 5446 0703 Phone: +351 21 3613274 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +351 213613277 United Kingdom GBDL0400 E-mail: [email protected] France FRML0700 Official Seed Testing Station for Scotland Romania RODL0200 Pioneer Génétique S.A.R.L. Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture Seed Quality Laboratory Forest Research and Management Institute 1 Roddinglaw Road 1131 Chemin de l’Enseignure (ICAS), Laboratorul de Seminte Edinburgh EH12 9FJ 31840 Aussonne B-ul Eroilor 128 Phone: +44 131 244 8900 Phone: +33 5 61 06 20 00 077190 Voluntari, Bucuresti Fax: +44 131 244 8940 Fax: +33 5 61 06 20 67 Phone: +40 21 350 32 45 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +40 21 350 32 45 Uruguay UYDL0200 E-mail: [email protected] Germany DEDL1000 Instituto Nacional de Semillas (INASE) Russian Federation RUDL0100 LUFA Speyer, Referat Saatgutprüfung Cam. Bertolotti s/n y, Ruta 8, Km 29 Obere Langgasse 40 Russian Agricultural Centre Barros Blancos, Canelones 67346 Speyer am Rhein Orlikov pereulok 1/11 Phone: +598 2 2887099 Phone: +49 623 21360 107139 Moscow Fax: +598 2 2887077 Fax: +49 6232136110 Phone: +7 095 2077064 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +7 095 2070567 E-mail: [email protected] Newly accredited Ireland IEDL0100 RUML0300 China CNDL0100 Seed Testing Laboratory, Department of Agri- culture & Food, Backweston Campus Federal State Budgetary Institution China Agricultural University Youngs Cross, Celbridge Krasnodar Interregional Veterinary Laboratory Forage Seed Laboratory Co. Kildare Kalinina st, 15 2 Yuangmingyuan West Road, HaiDian District Phone: +353 1 615 7505 35004 Krasnodar Beijing 100193 Fax: +353 1 615 7196 Phone: +7 861 226 2243 Phone: +86 10 62733311 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +7 861 226 2243 Fax: +86 10 62733311 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Korea (South) KRML0200 Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Mexico MXDL0100 Seed Testing Laboratory, Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu TWDL0100 Servicio Nacional de Inspección y Certificación de Semillas (SNICS) Korea Seed and Variety Service Seed Testing Laboratory, Council of Agriculture Av. Presidente Juárez no. 13 39 Taejangro, Yeongtong-gu, Gyeonggi-do 76 Chung-Cheng Road Col. El Cortijo 443-400 Suwon-si Wu Feng, Taichung Tlalnepantla, 54000 Phone: +82 31 8008 0230 Phone: +886 4 23394371 Phone: +52 55 651910 or 53842213 Ext:21 Fax: +82 31 203 7431 Fax: +886 423335425 Fax: +52 53 901441 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Lithuania LTDL0100 Spain ESDL0100 New Zealand NZML0500 Plant Products Quality Testing Laboratory Estación de Ensayos INIA Kimihia Research Centre Laboratory (Division) of the State Plant Service Carretera de la Coruña, km 7,500 PGG Wrightson Seeds Ltd under the Ministry of Agriculture 28040 Madrid 742 Tancreds Road, RD 6 Ozo g. 4A Phone: +34 91 347 4171 7676 Lincoln, Christchurch 08200 Vilnius Fax: +34 91 3474168 Phone: +64 3 325 3573 Phone: +370 5 276 0341 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +370 5 273 30233 and +370 5 237 5631 Fax: +64 3 325 2417 E-mail: [email protected] Sweden SEDL0700 E-mail: [email protected] Norway NODL0100 Frökontrollen Mellansverige AB, Section Örebro P.O. Box 22014 Kimen Seed Laboratory 702 02 Örebro P.O. Box 164 Phone: +46 19 6114607 N-1431 Ås Fax: +46 19 135082 Phone: +47 64 970665 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +47 64 970663 E-mail: [email protected]

42 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Training and Education

ISTA Workshop on Seed Sampling and Quality Assurance in Seed Sampling Edinburgh, United Kingdom, 23–26 June 2014 www.seedtest.org/bscws614 ANNOUNCEMENT

This Workshop is fully booked. See also Workshop on Seed Sampling and Quality Assurance in Seed Sampling in Bengaluru, India, 17–20 November 2014 (page 49)

ISTA Workshop on Variety Identification Using Molecular Markers Ottawa, Canada, 7–10 July 2014 www.seedtest.org/varws714

Organizer Target group: Accommodation Canadian Food Inspection Agency The workshop is destined to anyone in- Capital Hill Hotel & Suites (CFIA) volved with crop variety identification with 88 Albert Street Ottawa Plant Laboratories no or beginner level knowledge of DNA- Ottawa, Canada, K1P 5E9 Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, K2H 8P9 based molecular markers. Contact: Marie-José Côté Guest rooms E-mail: [email protected] Workshop content A block of standard executive rooms Phone: +1 (343) 212-0239 Lectures on: has been reserved for this workshop for – Genome organisation of bred plants the nights of 6–10 July 2014, at the special Lecturers – DNA extraction group rate of CAD 109.00 per room per Dr. Daniel Perry (Canadian Grain Com- – DNA basics night exclusive of taxes. This is for a guest mission), ISTA Variety Committee, – microsatellite markers room with either one queen, one king or DNA Working Group – SNP markers two queen beds; kitchenettes are subject Ms. Cheryl Dollard (CFIA), ISTA Variety – genotyping data interpretation to availability at the time of individual Committee, DNA Working Group reservations. Mr. Mark Forhan, CFIA, Variety Regis- Laboratory hands-on sessions: tration Office – sampling of suspected off-type in a field How to reserve by phone or e-mail Dr. Marie-José Côté (CFIA), DNA Work- plot Guests may contact the hotel directly ing Group – DNA extraction and quality assessment by calling +1-800-463-7705 or e-mail – microsatellite assay on different [email protected] to book their Aim of the workshop: platforms reservations and have them quote “Cnd The use of DNA-based molecular mark- – SNP assay on different platforms Food Inspection Agency” to ensure this ers to genotype crop varieties has become – genotyping result data interpretation special group rate. a valuable tool to help in the identification of varieties. Therefore, the ISTA Variety Location How to reserve online: Committee is announcing a Workshop on The workshop will be held in one of Guests may book directly online on the Variety Identification Using Molecular the CFIA Ottawa Laboratories situated at hotel web site at www.capitalhill.com and Markers to be held in Ottawa, Canada, 3851 Fallowfield Road, Ottawa, Ontario. clicking on “Reservations”, and then enter- from 7–10 July 2014. The workshop is in- The hotel accommodation will be in down- ing the following codes: tended to instruct the participant on the town Ottawa (20 km). Transport from the – group code: 651683 theory and practices of: hotel to the laboratory will be provided. – PIN: 1234 – Basic DNA techniques – Genotyping methods – Data interpretation.

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 43 Training and Education ISTA Workshop announcements ANNOUNCEMENT

Changing of the Guard on Parliament Hill, Ottawa. (Photo: Yann Fauché, Alma Mulalic)

Payment Participation fee: If you would like to attend the workshop Guests will be required to provide a val- ISTA Members: EUR 450 please fill in the registration form. An in- id credit card upon booking to guarantee Non-members: EUR 675 voice will be sent to you, which has to be their reservation, and will be responsible paid before the participation confirmation for payment of their own room, taxes and The participation fee includes all literature will be generated. incidentals. and supporting material for the workshop, You can pay by credit card upon individ- lunches and coffee breaks, excursion to the ual request to the ISTA Secretariat. Cancellation field, workshop dinner and transfer be- Registration and payment deadline is Individual guests cancelling their res- tween the workshop venue and hotels (ex- 1 June 2014. ervation must contact the hotel directly cept airport transfer). by 18:00 h (6 pm) on the day of arrival, It does not include accommodation or Please note: to avoid cancellation charges (first night’s meals other than those specified. For cancellations made after 1 June room and taxes would apply). The number of participants is for a mini- 2014, registration fees are non-refundable. mum of 12 and restricted to a maximum of  18 participants.

44 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Training and Education ISTA Workshop announcements

ISTA Workshop on Seed Health Testing Poznan, Poland, 4–7 September 2014 www.seedtest.org/shws914 ANNOUNCEMENT

This Workshop is fully booked.

ISTA Hands-on Seminar on Seed Image Analysis Angers, France, 14–17 October 2014 www.seedtest.org/atcws1014

he ISTA Advanced Technologies Com- Tmittee (ATC) and GEVES (Angers, France) are organizing an ISTA Hands-on Seminar on Seed Image Analysis. In this Seminar, the participants will learn about and discuss the basics of vari- ous imaging technologies that are or may be applied in seed analysis. An essential part of the Seminar will be hands-on ex- perience with the available equipment. The focus will be on imaging technologies and image analysis that are already available and being used in practice applied in re- search and seed evaluation.

Venue The Seminar will be held from 14–17 October 2014 at the GEVES laboratories in Angers, France, a seed science inspiring environment in a historic city.

Registration Registration will open 1 May 2014 and will be limited to 25 participants.

Organizing committee Karima Boudehri, Bert van Duijn, Birte Boelt (ATC), Joël Léchappé (GEVES) 

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 45 Training and Education ISTA Workshop announcements

ISTA Workshop on Seed Health Testing Depok, Indonesia, 10–14 November 2014 www.seedtest.org/shws1114 ANNOUNCEMENT

e are pleased to invite you to the Lecturers Aim of the workshop WISTA-accredited seed testing labo- Valérie Grimault, Chair of the ISTA Seed The aim of this workshop is to improve ratory ID01, Balai Besar PPMB-TPH, Ja- Health Committee, Pathology Labora- our understanding and practical ability lan Raya Tapos, Depok, in Indonesia. tory Manager at GEVES, France in seed health testing based on the ISTA Mark Buimer, Member of the ISTA Seed Rules. This training course consists of lec- Venue Health Committee, Routine Laboratory tures (L) and practical work. Balai Besar PPMB-TPH, Jalan Raya Manager at Naktuinbouw, Netherlands Tapos, Depok, Indonesia Masatoshi Sato, Member of the ISTA Provisional programme Seed Health Committee and Executive – An introduction to pests and seed infes- Local organizer Committee, National Center for Seeds tation and to seed health testing (L) Balai Besar PPMB-TPH, Jalan Raya and Seedlings, Director of Seed Health – General introduction to seed health Tapos, Depok, Indonesia Laboratory, Japan fungi and bacteria (L) Tri Susetyo Corinne Sarniguet, specialist in nema- – Good laboratory practice in the seed E-mail: [email protected] todes, Laboratory of Plant Health health laboratory (L) (ANSES-LSV), France (lecture given by – Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris: web training) ISTA method 7-019 (L) Bonny W. Soekarno, lecturer at the Plant – Blotter tests for detection of fungi/rice: Protection Department, Bogor Agricul- ISTA methods 7-010, 011 and 012 (L) ture Institute

Palace of Bogor. (Photo: David Elit)

46 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Training and Education ISTA Workshop announcements

– Blotter test for detection of fungi/Cap- Accommodation Registration fees sicum (L) There are three recommended hotels at ISTA Members: USD 600 – General introduction on the seed health Bogor. Participants are welcome to make Non-members: USD 900 virus (L) their own hotel reservations. – Critical Control Points in seed health The registration fee includes all literature testing (L) Hotel Santika and supporting material for the work-

– General introduction on the seed Botani Square, Jalan Padjadjaran shop, lunches and coffee breaks, excursion, ANNOUNCEMENT health nematodes (lecture given by web Bogor 16127 workshop dinner and transfer between the training) Phone: +62 251 8400707 workshop venue and hotels (except airport – Molecular techniques in seed health Fax: +62 251 8400706 transfer). testing (L) E-mail: [email protected] There is a minimum number of 20 partici- – Quality assurance in seed health testing Web site: www.santika.com pants required for this workshop to take (L) place, with a maximum number of 24. – ISTA seed health testing (sample size, IPB Convention Hotel If you would like to attend the workshop subsample size, how to take subsamples, Botani Square, Jalan Padjadjaran please fill in the registration form. tolerance numbers, overview of ISTA Bogor 16127 An invoice will be sent to you, which has methods) and method validation in seed Phone: +62 251 8345698, 8345699 to be paid before the participation confir- health testing (general principles) (L) Fax: +62 251 8345636 mation will be generated. – Practical work on bacteria and fungi E-mail: [email protected] Payment by credit card is possible upon • Bacteria: dilution, plating, selection Web site: www.ipbch.com request to the ISTA Secretariat. of suspect colonies and sub culturing, The registration deadline is 15 August PCR Hotel Royal Amaroossa 2014 and the payment deadline is 10 Sep- • Blotter test for detection of fungi in Jalan Otto Iskandardinata No. 84 tember 2014. rice: ISTA methods 7-010, 011 and Bogor 16127 Please note: For cancellations made be- 012: plating of seeds, morphological Phone : +62 251 8354333 fore 15 September 2014, registration fees identification Fax: +62 251 8351799 are refundable less an administration fee of – Practical work on viruses (ELISA) E-mail: [email protected] EUR 50. For cancellations made after 16 – Demonstration of nematodes (Apha- Web site: www.amaroossahotel.com/ September 2014, registration fees are non- lenchoides besseyi on Orza sativa) royalbogor refundable. 

ISTA Workshop on Seed Vigour Bengaluru, India, 10–13 November 2014 www.seedtest.org/vigws1114

he ISTA Vigour Committee and Indo – Controlled deterioration test for Bras- Practical work TAmerican Hybrid Seeds, Bengaluru sica spp.; application to other small- All participants will gain practical expe- (Bangalore), India invite you to a Work- seeded vegetables rience in, and assess results from, conduc- shop on Seed Vigour Testing. The work- – Radicle emergence test: development tivity, controlled deterioration, accelerated shop will be made up of lectures, interactive and validation. Examples: maize, ageing, radicle emergence, and cold and seminars and practical experience in vigour cotton, brassica, peppers, cucurbits, cool tests. testing. It will also offer an opportunity for onions; general applicability general discussion on seed vigour and time – Accelerated ageing test for soya beans Question and answer sessions for participants to ask specific questions – Cold test for maize; cool test for cotton These will consider questions on all as- regarding vigour testing procedures. – Physiological basis of seed vigour: the pects of seed vigour and any vigour test. seed ageing/repair hypothesis Workshop content – Factors affecting seed vigour; avoiding Lecturers – Introduction to seed vigour and its the production of low-vigour seed Alison Powell PhD DSc, Chair of ISTA importance in crop production – Future developments in vigour testing Vigour Committee, University of Aber- – Conductivity test for Pisum sativum, – Discussion on seed quality assurance deen, UK Phaseolus vulgaris. Glycine max, Cicer and vigour Stan Matthews PhD DSc, ISTA Vigour arietinum Committee member, University of Aberdeen, UK

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 47 Training and Education ISTA Workshop announcements ANNOUNCEMENT

Organizer Accommodation Registration fees Dr. G.V. Jagadish Participants are asked to book accom- ISTA Members: EUR 500 Seed Laboratory IN07, Indo-American modation directly with the hotels. Please Non-members: EUR 750 Hybrid Seeds (India) Pvt. Ltd. indicate ‘ISTA Workshop’ when booking 7th km, Banashankari-Kengeri Link Road and inform the local organizer. The registration fee includes all literature Kengeri Hobli, Channasandra and supporting material for the work- Rajarajeshwari Nagar Post Workshop hotel: shop, lunches and coffee breaks, excursion, Bengaluru 560 098 The Chancery workshop dinner and transfer between the 10/6, Lavelle Road workshop venue and hotels (except airport E-mail: [email protected] Bengaluru 560 001 transfer). It does not include accommoda- Web site: www.indamseeds.com Tel: +91 80 22276767, 41188888 tion or meals other than those specified. Telephone: +91 80 2811356, 28612356, Fax: +91 80 22276700 There is a minimum number of 25 partici- 28615104, 28611499 www.chanceryhotel.net pants required for this workshop to take Mobile: +91 98 45274209 Single room including breakfast: place, with a maximum number of 30. INR 5500 (EUR 64) If you would like to attend the work- Location shop, please fill in the registration form. The workshop will take place at Indo Alternative accommodation: An invoice will be sent to you, which must American Hybrid Seeds (India) Pvt., Ltd., Hotel Citrine be paid before participation is confirmed. Bengaluru for practical sessions. The theo- 211, S.C. Road Payment by credit card is possible upon ry will be presented at the Hotel Chancery, Seshadripuram request to the ISTA Secretariat. Lavelle Road, Bengaluru. Bengaluru 560 020 Registration and payment deadline is 15 Indo American Hybrid Seeds, Bengal- Tel: +91 80 4000 3000 September 2014. uru, India has a seed testing laboratory E-mail: [email protected] Please note: For cancellations made be- (IN07), accredited by the International Single room including breakfast: fore 15 September 2014, registration fees Seed Testing Association and ISO 17025. INR 4500 (Euro 52) are refundable less CHF 50.00 adminis- In 2002 it was the first private laboratory tration fee. For cancellations made after in India to gain ISTA accreditation. The Hotel Hoysala 15 September 2014, registration fees are core business of Indo American Hybrid 212, S.C. Road non-refundable. Seeds is the production and marketing of Sheshadripuram hybrid seeds, and the company established Bangalore 560 020 About Bengaluru its seed laboratory for for purity, germina- Tel: +91 80 4000 6000; +91 80 2346 4300 Bengaluru is the capital city of the Indi- tion, vigour and seed health testing. More E-mail: [email protected] an state of Karnataka, located on the Dec- information about Indo American Hybrid Single room including breakfast: can Plateau in the south-eastern part of Seeds, Bengaluru, India can be found at INR 2000 (EUR 23) Karnataka. Bengaluru is India’s third most www.indamseeds.com. populous city and fifth-most populous ur- The Grand Meridien Hotel ban agglomeration. Bengaluru is known 117, Subedhar Chatram Road as the Silicon Valley of India because of Sheshadripuram its position as the nation’s leading infor- Bengaluru 560 020 mation technology exporter. Located at a Phone: +91 80 41241660 height of over 3000 feet (914.4 m) above Fax: +91 80 23463310 sea level, Bengaluru is known for its pleas- E-mail: [email protected]; ant climate throughout the year. The city [email protected] is amongst the top ten preferred entrepre- Single room including breakfast: neurial locations in the world.  INR 2500 (EUR 29)

48 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Training and Education ISTA Workshop announcements

ISTA Workshop on Seed Sampling and Quality Assurance in Seed Sampling Bengaluru, India, 17–20 November 2014 www.seedtest.org/bscws1114 ANNOUNCEMENT

he ISTA Bulking and Sampling Com- – Sampling in relation to the ISTA Ac- Lecturers Tmittee and the Indo American Hybrid creditation standard Eddie Goldschagg, Chair of the ISTA Seeds, Bengaluru (Bangalore), India in- – Quality assurance aspects in connection Bulking and Sampling Committee vite you to a Workshop on Seed Sampling to automatic and manual seed sampling (South Africa) and Quality Assurance in Seed Sampling and dividing Gerry Hall, Member of the ISTA Bulk- in November 2014. The workshop will be – Control, calibration and maintenance ing and Sampling Committee (United made up of lectures, interactive sessions of automatic and manual sampling and Kingdom) and practical experience in sampling of dividing equipment Max Soepboer, former Vice-Chair of the seed lots and evaluation of samplers. It will – Audit of sampling and how to deal with ISTA Bulking and Sampling Committee also offer the opportunity for general dis- non-conformities (Netherlands) cussion of seed sampling and provide time – Monitoring of seed samplers for participants to ask specific questions – Evaluations and examinations Organiser regarding automatic samplers and differ- – Trend analyses of samplers work See ‘ISTA Workshop on Seed Vigour’, ent sampling methods and procedures. – Future developments and plans in the p. 47. Bulking and Sampling Committee Workshop content The workshop will consist of lectures and practical exercises including evaluation and examination of candidates (written). It will offer the opportunity for general discussion on automatic and manual seed sampling and dividing, as well as quality assurance in seed sampling and monitor- ing of seed samplers. In connection with the lectures, there will be practical session on seed sampling and sample division. The session on quality assurance will focus on control, calibration and maintenance of automatic sampling and manual sampling equipment, as well as audit sampling and monitoring of seed samplers. The use of the ISTA Rules and the ISTA Handbook on Seed sampling will be discussed during the workshop, as well as the ISTA accredi- tation standard in connection to seed sam- pling. The language of the workshop will be English.

Programme overview – Introduction to ISTA – General principles of seed sampling and sample dividing – Automatic seed sampler (installation, operation, approval and monitory check) – Marking, labelling and sealing of seed lots and samples

Bangalore Palace. (Photo: C. Arunrathnakumar)

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 49 Training and Education ISTA Workshop announcements

Accommodation transfer). It does not include accommoda- Please note: For cancellations made be- See ‘ISTA Workshop on Seed Vigour’, tion or meals other than those specified. fore 15 September 2014, registration fees p. 47. There is a minimum number of 30 partici- are refundable less CHF 50.00 adminis- pants required for this workshop to take tration fee. For cancellations made after Registration fees place, with a maximum number of 34. 15 September 2014, registration fees are ISTA Members: EUR 500 If you would like to attend the work- non-refundable.

ANNOUNCEMENT Non-members: EUR 750 shop, please fill in the registration form. An invoice will be sent to you, which must About Bengaluru The registration fee includes all literature be paid before participation is confirmed. See ‘ISTA Workshop on Seed Vigour’, and supporting material for the work- Payment by credit card is possible upon p. 47.  shop, lunches and coffee breaks, excursion, request to the ISTA Secretariat. workshop dinner and transfer between the Registration and payment deadline is 15 workshop venue and hotels (except airport September 2014.

ISTA Quality Assurance Workshop for Advanced Laboratories Bassersdorf, Switzerland, December 2014

Organizer Content Location ISTA Secretariat The workshop will consist of oral pres- ISTA Secretariat, Zürichstrasse 50, Zürichstrasse 50 entations, group work and exercises. The 8303 Bassersdorf, Switzerland 8303 Bassersdorf, Switzerland lecturers will try to involve the participants as much as possible. Participants are invit- Accommodation Contact person ed to bring their laptops along. Participants are asked to book accom- Nadine Ettel ([email protected]) Some of the workshop content will deal modation directly with hotels nearby. with: Lecturers General management Registration fee Ronald Don, Technical Auditor, ISTA Technical aspects: Details will be published on the ISTA Honorary Life Member, Member of – Statistical aspects of seed testing web site soon. several ISTA Technical Committees – Calibration/verification of equipment The registration fee will include all litera- Rasha El-Khadem, Head of ISTA Ac- etc. ture and supporting material for the work- creditation and Technical Department, – How to read uncertainty on calibration shop, lunches and coffee breaks, excursion, System Auditor certificates workshop dinner and transfer between the Internal quality control: workshop venue and hotels (except airport Aim of the workshop – Check testing, blind tests etc. transfer). To give experienced laboratories the op- – Analysis It does not include accommodation or portunity to discuss and obtain inspiration – Trends meals other than those specified. on how to improve their quality assurance – Monitoring of staff (seed samplers and system and benefit from it. analysts) Registration How to deal with non-conformities Information will be published soon on Target groups Requirements of selected topics of the Ac- the ISTA web site: The workshop is for members of experi- creditation Standard www.seedtest.org/en/workshop.html enced laboratories that have already a well-  running quality management system in The workshop will include an excursion in place. The lecturers will focus on selected Zurich. topics to be discussed.

50 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Training and Education Workshop reports

ISTA Workshop on Quality Assurance in Seed Testing for Advanced Laboratories Bassersdorf, Switzerland, 3–6 December 2013 Ronald Don1 and Rasha El-Khadem2 1ISTA Honorary Life Member and Technical Auditor; 2ISTA Accreditation and Technical Department

2ISTA Secretariat 8303 Bassersdorf, Switzerland [email protected]

he ISTA Accreditation and Technical TDepartment announced and organised at short notice an ISTA Quality Assurance Workshop for advanced laboratories at the ISTA Secretariat. We were overwhelmed by the number of interested persons. 25 participants from 17 different coun- tries, covering nations from Africa, Asia, Oceania, America and Europe, attended the workshop. The participants were from governmental seed testing stations, re- search institutes, universities, and the seed industry. The aim of the workshop was to present Department, and Ronald Don, ISTA tech- was possible to discuss these issues during and discuss selected topics that are known nical auditor, delivered the lectures. coffee breaks with the participants in small to be challenging for advanced laborato- At the beginning the participants an- groups. The other expectations of the par- ries. In group work, the participants had nounced their expectations with regards ticipants were covered by the aims as out- the possibility to explore issues and set up to the workshop. Some of the expectations lined in the workshop announcement. new processes. Rasha El-Khadem, head could not be covered by the presentations, One of the technical focuses was on of the ISTA Accreditation and Technical as they were very specific and of interest for the management of equipment. The cali- only a small group. In the following days it bration and verification requirements of

No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International 51 Training and Education Workshop reports

laboratory equipment such as analytical laboratories to check whether the new sub- answered. Some other examples of top- balances, seed dividers and temperature strate batch is suitable by using statistical ics that were covered were the checks per- measuring devices, and information on tools. The participants were shown how formed on competency in hand halving how to read calibration certificates were to use a basic software tool to conduct an and divider checks. discussed in detail. Participants learned analysis of variance that enabled them to The group visited the Swiss ISTA-ac- how to derive from the measurement of decide whether to accept or reject a new credited official seed station of Agroscope uncertainty whether equipment is fit for batch of substrate based on statistical data. and had a tour through the laboratory. The purpose. One morning was reserved for a presen- administration of incoming test requests as The presentation “Statistical Aspects in tation and group work on internal qual- well as the management of data and issu- Seed Testing” dealt with confidence inter- ity control aspects. Examples of possible ance of national and ISTA Certificates was vals of test results showing that variability programmes to monitor the performance one of the aspects that were demonstrated in seed testing is given and must be taken of the laboratory and the laboratory staff to us. In the purity and the germination into account when comparing results of were provided, and the groups had to de- laboratories some of the tests performed retesting in the same or in a different labo- velop and present their own programmes by the laboratory were demonstrated, and ratory. Variability is also present when a on monitoring for individual tests in the the participants could observe the sample new batch of substrate is used in the ger- laboratory. The interest was very high flow. The binocular purity work stations mination test. The ISTA Rules require and many questions were addressed and and the growing chambers and their tem- perature monitoring system were of special interest for the participants. The group had a guided tour through Zurich city, starting from the main sta- tion. Fortunately, although the weather was cold, it was a bright day, and the view over the city and the lake was fantastic. The workshop dinner was held in a Thai restaurant where we could warm up with spicy and hot food. We would like to thank the staff of the Swiss seed testing laboratory for their hos- pitality and the great opportunity to meet them and visit their laboratory. Our col- leagues from the ISTA Secretariat must be thanked for the efforts put into the organi- sation and smooth workshop flow, as well as the continuous support provided during the workshop. Their contribution was very much appreciated by the lecturers and par- ticipants. 

52 Seed Testing International No. 147 April 2014 Calendar

12–16 May ISTA Quality Assurance Workshop Depok, Indonesia www.seedtest.org/qaws514

2014 26–28 May ISF World Seed Congress Beijing, China www.worldseed.org/isf/congress.html

12–14 June ISTA Seed Health Symposium Edinburgh, UK www.seedtest.org (see page 14)

16–19 June ISTA Annual Meeting Edinburgh, UK www.seedtest.org (see page 17)

23–26 June ISTA Workshop on Seed Sampling and Quality Assurance in Seed Sampling (fully booked) Edinburgh, UK www.seedtest.org/bscws614 (see page 18)

7–10 July ISTA Workshop on Variety Identification Using Molecular Markers Ottawa, Canada, 2014 www.seedtest.org/varws714 (see page 43)

4–7 September ISTA Workshop on Seed Health Testing (fully booked) Poznán, Poland www.seedtest.org/shws914

15–19 September 11th Conference of the International Society for Seed Science (ISSS) Changsha, China http://2014seed.doevent.com (see page 25)

14–17 October ISTA Hands-on Seminar on Seed Image Analysis Angers, France www.seedtest.org/atcws1014 (see page 45)

10–14 November ISTA Workshop on Seed Health Testing Depok, Indonesia www.seedtest.org/shws1114 (see page 46)

10–13 November ISTA Workshop on Seed Vigour Bengaluru, India www.seedtest.org/vigws1114 (see page 47)

17–20 November ISTA Workshop on Seed Sampling and Quality Assurance in Seed Sampling Bengaluru, India www.seedtest.org/bscws1114 (see page 49)

December ISTA Quality Assurance Workshop for Advanced Laboratories­ Bassersdorf, Switzerland (dates to be announced; see page 50)

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No. 147 April 2014 Seed Testing International III Seed Testing INTERNATIONAL

ISTA News Bulletin No. 147 April 2014 ISSN 1999-5229

International Seed Testing Association (ISTA)

ISTA Secretariat Phone: +41 44 838 60 00 www.seedtest.org Zürichstrasse 50 Fax: +41 44 838 60 01 CH-8303 Bassersdorf E-mail: [email protected] Switzerland