Application of statistical process control in mechanized corn seeding / Aplicação do controle estatístico de processo na semeadura mecanizada do milho

Several factors alter the quality of the mechanized sowing process of corn, and the use of the statistical process control (SPC) technique not only allows the identification of process limitation points but also ensures the correct functioningand conduction of the mechanized process, determiningcritical factors. that may decrease their performance. In view of the above, the present study aims to qualitatively evaluate, through this technique, the longitudinal distribution of corn seeds as a function of different stands and operational speeds during the sowing process. The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design (CBD) with three replications and in a split-plot design. Data were submitted to analysis of variance and when significant, analyzed using Tukey's test, with 5% significance. To carry out the statistical process control, mean and amplitude control charts were used to evaluate the effect of operationalspeed, seed distribution, deposition depth and plant germination. The results indicate that the use of statistical process control is an efficient tool to identify the behavior of the corn sowing process. Based on the results, speeds close to 4.5km/hallowed an efficient sowing process, as it presented a higher percentage of normal spaces in the distribution of maize seeds.(AU)

Vários fatores alteram a qualidade do processo de semeadura mecanizada do milho, e o uso da técnica do controle estatístico de processos (CEP) não só permite a identificação de pontos de limitação do processo como asseguram o correto funcionamento e condução do processo mecanizado determinando fatores críticos que possam diminuir seu desempenho. Diante do exposto, o presente estudo visa avaliar qualitativamente por meio desta técnica a distribuição longitudinal das sementes de milho em função de diferentes estandes e velocidades operacionais durante o processo de semeadura. O experimento foi realizado em delineamento de blocos casualizados (DBC) com três repetições e em esquema de parcela subdividida. Os dados foram submetidos a análise de variância e quando significativos analisados por meio do teste de Tukey, com 5% de significância. Para a realização do controle estatístico de processo, foram utilizadas cartas de controle de média e amplitude para avaliar o efeito da velocidade operacional, distribuição das sementes, a profundidade de deposição e a germinação das plantas. Os resultados indicam que o uso do controle estatístico de processo é uma ferramenta eficiente na identificação do comportamento do processo de semeadura do milho. Com base nos resultados, velocidades próximas a 4.5 km/hpermitiram um processo de semeadura eficiente por apresentar maior percentual de espaços normais na distribuição de sementes de milho.(AU)

Monitoring performance indicators of mechanized agricultural operations through a systemic method

Key performance indicators (KPI) are essential to decision-making in an organization, but the approach to analysis and composition used in the formulation of the KPIs can lead to errors. Analysis based only on averages does not allow for discriminating between variations that are natural to the process or special cases which require investigation. The use of control charts can identify this differentiation. However, when several charts are presented encompassing different measurement units and scales, systemic interpretation can be impaired. To assist in this interpretation, this research study aimed at proposing a method to facilitate the analysis of control charts when multiple indicators are employed in the monitoring of agricultural operations. Based on the data obtained over 26 weeks from a mechanized sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) harvesting front, six indicators were defined and analyzed through individual control charts and, systemically, through a standardized group control chart. Results show that the points identified as being outside the control zone (special causes of variation) according to the standardized group control chart were the same as those identified by the six individual charts, which demonstrates the potential of this method to summarize the information with no loss of quality of analysis.

Fuel consumption by agricultural machinery: a review of pollutant emission control technologies / Consumo de combustível por máquinas agrícolas: uma revisão das tecnologias de controle de emissão de poluentes

Most energy used to operate agricultural machines in the field is generated from fossil fuel combustion. The combustion process emits atmospheric pollutants, increasing the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs). In this context, this review is to discuss technologies for mitigating diesel engine GHG emissions to advance sustainable development in the agricultural machinery sector. This paper presents strategies and technologies widely adopted by agricultural machinery manufacturers in controlling pollutant emissions during fuel combustion. The findings of this study encompass sustainable alternative technologies, such as selective catalytic reduction, exhaust gas recirculation, diesel particulate filter, and fuels. This study helps reveal the environmental impact of agricultural field operations that generate GHG emissions.

Grande parte da energia utilizada para o funcionamento das máquinas agrícolas em suas operações no campo ainda é resultante da combustão de combustíveis fósseis. O processo de combustão provoca a emissão de poluentes atmosféricos que contribuem para o aumento dos Gases de Efeito Estufa (GEE). Neste contexto, esta revisão tem como objetivo descrever as tecnologias que contribuem para mitigar as emissões de GEE pelos motores de ciclo Diesel, a fim de contribuir para a compreensão e o desenvolvimento da sustentabilidade no setor de máquinas agrícolas. São apresentadas as estratégias e tecnologias que comumente estão sendo adotadas pelos fabricantes de máquinas agrícolas para o controle das emissões de poluentes, durante o processo de combustão do combustível. Os achados do estudo apresentam as alternativas tecnológicas sustentáveis como a Selective Catalytic Reduction, Exhaust Gas Recirculation, Diesel Particulate Filter, e sobre o uso de combustíveis alternativos. Ainda, contribui para o entendimento do impacto ambiental das operações agrícolas em campo, que provocam as emissões de GEE.

Occupational noise level emitted by self-propelled harvesters during mechanized coffee harvesting / Nível de ruído ocupacional emitido por colhedoras automotrizes na colheita do cafeeiro

This study evaluated the level of occupational noise emitted by automotive harvesters during coffee harvest. For the evaluations, three self-propelled harvesters were used: Case-IH® model Coffee Express 200, with cabin; Korvan® model 9200, without cabin; and Oxbo® model 9220, with cabin. Data were collected using a noise dosimeter model DOS-700. Noise levels were assessed for the operator and assistant of each harvester. Five repetitions were performed for the operator and assistant, with each repetition consisting of 2 h of evaluation. Results obtained were compared with the action level and exposure limit of the Regulatory Norms (NR) 15 and Occupational Hygiene Norms (NHO) 01. The action levels of the NHO 01 (82 dB) and NR 15 (80 dB) regulations were exceeded for the operator and assistant in the three evaluated harvesters. Regarding the exposure limit (85 dB), the level was exceeded for the operator of the Korvan® and Case-IH® harvesters in accordance with NHO 01. In the NR 15 regulation, the exposure limit was > 85 dB for the operator of the Korvan® harvester. For the assistant, all harvesters emitted noise levels > 85 dB based on both the NHO 01 and NR 15 regulations.

O uso da mecanização na cafeicultura tem se mostrado de suma importância na colheita do cafeeiro, reduzindo custo e tempo desta operação. Entretanto, a intensificação da colheita mecanizada, sem o controle dos riscos ocupacionais tem exposto trabalhadores aos níveis elevados de ruído ocupacional capazes de comprometer sua saúde auditiva. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o nível de ruído ocupacional emitido por colhedoras automotrizes na colheita do cafeeiro, bem como os limites de exposição e nível de ação do operador e auxiliar. Para as avaliações foram utilizadas três colhedoras automotrizes: Case-IH® modelo COFFE EXPESS 200, com cabine; OXBO® modelo 9220, com cabine; KORVAN® modelo 9200, sem cabine. A coleta dos dados foi realizada utilizando dosímetro de ruído modelo DOS-700. Foi avaliado o nível de exposição ao ruído do operador e auxiliar das colhedoras. Foram realizadas cinco repetições, sendo cada repetição formada por duas horas de avaliações. Os dados obtidos foram comparados com o nível de ação e limite de exposição das normativas NHO 01 e NR 15. O nível de ação das normativas NHO 01 (82 dB) e NR 15 (80 dB) foram ultrapassados no operador e auxiliar nas três colhedoras avaliadas. Em relação ao limite de exposição (85 dB), o nível foi ultrapassado no operador das colhedoras KORVAN® e Case-IH® de acordo com a NHO 01. Na normativa NR 15, o limite de exposição ficou acima de 85 dB no operador da colhedora KORVAN®. No auxiliar todas as colhedoras emitiram níveis de ruídos acima de 85 dB tanto na normativa NHO 01 quanto na NR 15.

VCM, RDW-SD e RDW-CV em cães e gatos saudáveis da cidade de Canoas (RS) / MCV, RDW-SD and RDW-CV in healthy dogs and cats from the city of Canoas (RS) / VCM, RDW-SD y RDW-CV em perros y gatos sanos de la ciudad de Canoas (RS)

A Amplitude de Distribuição dos Eritrócitos na automação é medida como RDW-CV (como Coeficiente de Variação) e RDW-SD (como Desvio Padrão), avaliando a variação do volume dos eritrócitos. Embora o RDW-CV seja amplamente utilizado na medicina veterinária como auxílio no diagnóstico da anisocitose, o RDW-SD é raramente utilizado. O estabelecimento dos valores de referência dos três parâmetros poderá auxiliar na diferenciação de algumas anemias e facilitar o diagnóstico das doenças. Foram coletados os dados de 425 cães (240 fêmeas e 185 machos) e 96 gatos (62 fêmeas e 34 machos) saudáveis atendidos no Hospital Veterinário da ULBRA (Canoas/RS), e posteriormente os animais foram divididos em três grupos etários: grupo 1 (3 a 12meses), grupo 2(1 a 8 anos) e grupo 3 (acima de 8 anos). Objetivou-se o estabelecimento de valores de referências para as espécies, assim como a análise de diferença estatística de fêmeas e machos e dos grupos etários para as variáveis estudadas. O programa IBM SPSS® Statistics foi utilizado para as análises estatísticas.

The red blood cell distribution width in automation is measured as RDW-CV (as Coefficient of Variation) and RDW-SD (as Standard Deviation) to assess the variation in erythrocyte volume. Although RDW-CV is widely used in veterinary medicine for the diagnosis of anisocytosis, RDW-SD is rarely used. The establishment of reference values for the parameters may help to differentiate some anemias and facilitate the diagnosis of diseases. Data were collected from 425 healthy dogs (240 females and 185 males) and 96 healthy cats (62 females and 34 males) attended at the ULBRA's Veterinary Hospital (Canoas/RS), and later the animals were divided into three age groups: group 1 (3 to 12 months), group 2 (1 to 8 years) and group 3 (over 8 years). The objective was to establish reference values for the species, as well as to analyze the statistical difference of females and males and of the age groups for the studied variables. The IBM SPSS® Statistics program was used for statistical analysis.

La amplitude de distribución de eritrócitos em automatización se mide como RDW-CV (como coeficiente de variación) y RDW-SD (como desviación estándar), evaluando la variación en el volumen de los eritrocitos. Aunque RDW-CV se usa ampliamente en medicina veterinaria como ayuda en el diagnóstico de anisocitosis, RDW-SD rara vez se usa. El establecimiento de valores de referencia para los tres parámetros puede ayudar a diferenciar alguna anemia y facilitar el diagnóstico de enfermedades. Se recogieron datos de 425 perros sanos (240 hembras y 185 machos) y 96 gatos (62 hembras y 34 machos) tratados en el Hospital Veterinario ULBRA (Canoas/RS), y posteriormente los animales se dividieron en tres grupos de edad: grupo 1 (3 a 12 meses), grupo 2 (1 a 8 años) y grupo 3 (mayores de 8 años). El objetivo fue establecer valores de referencia para la especie, así como el análisis de diferencia estadística entre hembras y machos y grupos de edad para las variables estudiadas. Para los análisis estadísticos se utilizó el programa IBM SPSS® Statistics.

Comportamento de vacas da raça Holandesa em ordenha robotizada / Behaviour of Holstein cows in robotic milking

O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o comportamento ingestivo de concentrado e de ordenha de vacas em lactação em sistema de ordenha robotizada (SOR) conforme a paridade. O experimento foi realizado de março a junho de 2014, em Castro, PR, com vacas da raça Holandesa, confinadas em free stall, ordenhadas automaticamente e classificadas de acordo com a ordem de parto (1, 2 e +3 partos). Os dados foram extraídos do software de gerenciamento, sendo consideradas as atividades de um dia por mês (24h), por quatro meses, no dia seguinte após a realização do controle leiteiro oficial. Os dados foram analisados por técnicas de análise multivariada (análise fatorial, canônica e de agrupamento), utilizando-se o pacote computacional SAS. O comportamento ingestivo de concentrado influenciou toda a atividade das vacas no SOR, sendo fundamental para o desempenho dos animais nesse sistema. A ordem de parto não influenciou o comportamento na ordenha, somente o comportamento ingestivo, devido à dominância social das vacas multíparas. As vacas mais produtivas apresentaram um comportamento ingestivo mais agressivo. Conclui-se que a ordem de parto influencia o comportamento ingestivo de concentrado, porém não interfere no comportamento de ordenha de vacas com maior paridade. No SOR, primíparas devem ser manejadas em grupo específico.(AU)

The aim of this study was to assess the ingestive behavior of concentrate and milking of dairy cows in automatic milking system (AMS) according to parity. The experiment was conducted from March to June 2014, in Castro, PR, with Holstein cows housed in a free stall, milked automatically, and classified according to the lactation order (1, 2 and +3 lactations). Data were extracted from the management software, considering the activities of one day a month (24 hours) for four months, the day after the official milk production control. The data were analyzed by multivariate analysis (factorial analysis, canonical and cluster), using the statistical package SAS. The ingestive behavior of concentrate influenced the entire activity of the cows in the AMS, being a fundamental factor in the performance of animals in this system. Parity did not influence the milking behavior, only the ingestive behavior, due to the social dominance of multiparous cows. High-yielding cows had a more aggressive ingestive behavior. It was concluded that parity influenced the ingestive behavior of concentrate, but does not interfere in milking behavior in cows with higher parity. In the AMS, primiparous should be managed in a specific group.(AU)

Comportamento de vacas da raça Holandesa em ordenha robotizada / Behaviour of Holstein cows in robotic milking

O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o comportamento ingestivo de concentrado e de ordenha de vacas em lactação em sistema de ordenha robotizada (SOR) conforme a paridade. O experimento foi realizado de março a junho de 2014, em Castro, PR, com vacas da raça Holandesa, confinadas em free stall, ordenhadas automaticamente e classificadas de acordo com a ordem de parto (1, 2 e +3 partos). Os dados foram extraídos do software de gerenciamento, sendo consideradas as atividades de um dia por mês (24h), por quatro meses, no dia seguinte após a realização do controle leiteiro oficial. Os dados foram analisados por técnicas de análise multivariada (análise fatorial, canônica e de agrupamento), utilizando-se o pacote computacional SAS. O comportamento ingestivo de concentrado influenciou toda a atividade das vacas no SOR, sendo fundamental para o desempenho dos animais nesse sistema. A ordem de parto não influenciou o comportamento na ordenha, somente o comportamento ingestivo, devido à dominância social das vacas multíparas. As vacas mais produtivas apresentaram um comportamento ingestivo mais agressivo. Conclui-se que a ordem de parto influencia o comportamento ingestivo de concentrado, porém não interfere no comportamento de ordenha de vacas com maior paridade. No SOR, primíparas devem ser manejadas em grupo específico.(AU)

The aim of this study was to assess the ingestive behavior of concentrate and milking of dairy cows in automatic milking system (AMS) according to parity. The experiment was conducted from March to June 2014, in Castro, PR, with Holstein cows housed in a free stall, milked automatically, and classified according to the lactation order (1, 2 and +3 lactations). Data were extracted from the management software, considering the activities of one day a month (24 hours) for four months, the day after the official milk production control. The data were analyzed by multivariate analysis (factorial analysis, canonical and cluster), using the statistical package SAS. The ingestive behavior of concentrate influenced the entire activity of the cows in the AMS, being a fundamental factor in the performance of animals in this system. Parity did not influence the milking behavior, only the ingestive behavior, due to the social dominance of multiparous cows. High-yielding cows had a more aggressive ingestive behavior. It was concluded that parity influenced the ingestive behavior of concentrate, but does not interfere in milking behavior in cows with higher parity. In the AMS, primiparous should be managed in a specific group.(AU)

Impact of local conditions and machine management on grape harvest quality

Since its inception approximately 50 years ago, the grape harvester has been one of the machines responsible for the expansion of viticulture in the world. In Spain, harvesters were introduced in the 1990s (there are now approximately 3,000 machines there as of 2017), while they were introduced in Brazil in 2010. Harvest mechanization requires specific crop adaption and new work features that deserve to be analysed from their very beginnings. The aim of this study was to evaluate the management of four commercial grape harvest machines under actual field conditions on an intercontinental basis in two locations in Brazil and Spain. Machine performance measured by work (ha h1) and processing capacity (kg h1), together with field efficiency (%) and task quality, as measured by grape losses (%), in soil and plant, as well as must release (%), were considered in relation to plot geometry, adaption of plots to mechanical harvesting, and machine type, in order to assess whether the initial steps towards harvest mechanization in Brazil have led to similar performance and quality levels compared to Spain, which represents an example of well-established mechanization. The theoretical work capacities were similar for towed equipment in both countries (0.81 ha h1 in Brazil and 0.87 ha h1 in Spain) and lower compared to self-propelled capacity (1.34 ha h1). Significant differences were observed in terms of losses of grapes and must, with the highest values prevailing in Brazil (2 % grape losses in the ground; up to 23 % of the plant undetached grapes and must losses of 2-4 % (per kg vine productivity).

Impact of local conditions and machine management on grape harvest quality

Since its inception approximately 50 years ago, the grape harvester has been one of the machines responsible for the expansion of viticulture in the world. In Spain, harvesters were introduced in the 1990s (there are now approximately 3,000 machines there as of 2017), while they were introduced in Brazil in 2010. Harvest mechanization requires specific crop adaption and new work features that deserve to be analysed from their very beginnings. The aim of this study was to evaluate the management of four commercial grape harvest machines under actual field conditions on an intercontinental basis in two locations in Brazil and Spain. Machine performance measured by work (ha h1) and processing capacity (kg h1), together with field efficiency (%) and task quality, as measured by grape losses (%), in soil and plant, as well as must release (%), were considered in relation to plot geometry, adaption of plots to mechanical harvesting, and machine type, in order to assess whether the initial steps towards harvest mechanization in Brazil have led to similar performance and quality levels compared to Spain, which represents an example of well-established mechanization. The theoretical work capacities were similar for towed equipment in both countries (0.81 ha h1 in Brazil and 0.87 ha h1 in Spain) and lower compared to self-propelled capacity (1.34 ha h1). Significant differences were observed in terms of losses of grapes and must, with the highest values prevailing in Brazil (2 % grape losses in the ground; up to 23 % of the plant undetached grapes and must losses of 2-4 % (per kg vine productivity).(AU)

Automatically controlled deficit irrigation of lettuce in organic potponics

Concerns with water crisis involve all sectors of society and irrigated agriculture remains the main water consumer. This study evaluated an agricultural production system for lettuce cultivation in greenhouse, organic potponics, to economize water and manure use, using a Simplified Irrigation Controller (SIC), based on soil matric potential monitoring. Five irrigation volumes were evaluated in pots with 4.8 L, fertilized with 200 g of vermicompost. One of the volumes was controlled with the SIC. The other volumes represented 130, 80, 60 and 33 % of that controlled by the SIC and all treatments received water at the same time. Shoot fresh weight, head diameter and stomatal conductance (gs) increased linearly with irrigation volumes. For shoot dry weight, number of leaves and water use efficiency (WUE), the regression was quadratic with maximum values at 126, 114 and 83 %, respectively. Leaf relative water content did not show variation among treatments and changes in some fluorescence parameters (Reo/RC, Sm, N and R0) were much more remarkable to drought compared with the FV/ FM ratio, one of the most commonly used stress indicators. The data indicated a tradeoff between WUE and plant growth thus the economic values of water and lettuce should be taken into account to indicate the best SIC irrigation volume. Organic potponics is promising and should be further improved to save on water, labor and fertilizer use.

Automatically controlled deficit irrigation of lettuce in organic potponics

Concerns with water crisis involve all sectors of society and irrigated agriculture remains the main water consumer. This study evaluated an agricultural production system for lettuce cultivation in greenhouse, organic potponics, to economize water and manure use, using a Simplified Irrigation Controller (SIC), based on soil matric potential monitoring. Five irrigation volumes were evaluated in pots with 4.8 L, fertilized with 200 g of vermicompost. One of the volumes was controlled with the SIC. The other volumes represented 130, 80, 60 and 33 % of that controlled by the SIC and all treatments received water at the same time. Shoot fresh weight, head diameter and stomatal conductance (gs) increased linearly with irrigation volumes. For shoot dry weight, number of leaves and water use efficiency (WUE), the regression was quadratic with maximum values at 126, 114 and 83 %, respectively. Leaf relative water content did not show variation among treatments and changes in some fluorescence parameters (Reo/RC, Sm, N and R0) were much more remarkable to drought compared with the FV/ FM ratio, one of the most commonly used stress indicators. The data indicated a tradeoff between WUE and plant growth thus the economic values of water and lettuce should be taken into account to indicate the best SIC irrigation volume. Organic potponics is promising and should be further improved to save on water, labor and fertilizer use.(AU)

Coleta de células progenitoras periféricas por aférese automatizada em equino: relato de procedimento / Viability of automated collection of peripheral blood progenitor cells in a horse: report of procedure

The biotechnology used in tendon, bone and joint recoveries in Equine Medicine has improved in recent years. The most used are platelet rich plasma and stem cells from adipose tissue and bone marrow. However, recent studies have shown that stem cells can be found in the bloodstream, also named peripheral blood progenitor cells (CPP). This note aims at reporting the feasibility of automated collection of CPP in horses. The procedure was conducted in an equine, female, Quarter Horses, 2 years old, 385kg. The automated collection of CPP was conducted using apheresis equipment Fresenius- Kabi coupled to C4Y kit. The procedure lasted two hours and 30 minutes without complications, processing 5054mL of whole blood and obtaining 351mL of CPP. Upon completion of the collection, the content of CPP was separated into 10 ml aliquots and immediately stored at -18°C. The automated technique proved to be feasible for horses, but needs improvement in order to achieve greater efficiency and reduce procedure time.(AU)

Coleta de células progenitoras periféricas por aférese automatizada em equino: relato de procedimento / Viability of automated collection of peripheral blood progenitor cells in a horse: report of procedure

The biotechnology used in tendon, bone and joint recoveries in Equine Medicine has improved in recent years. The most used are platelet rich plasma and stem cells from adipose tissue and bone marrow. However, recent studies have shown that stem cells can be found in the bloodstream, also named peripheral blood progenitor cells (CPP). This note aims at reporting the feasibility of automated collection of CPP in horses. The procedure was conducted in an equine, female, Quarter Horses, 2 years old, 385kg. The automated collection of CPP was conducted using apheresis equipment Fresenius- Kabi coupled to C4Y kit. The procedure lasted two hours and 30 minutes without complications, processing 5054mL of whole blood and obtaining 351mL of CPP. Upon completion of the collection, the content of CPP was separated into 10 ml aliquots and immediately stored at -18°C. The automated technique proved to be feasible for horses, but needs improvement in order to achieve greater efficiency and reduce procedure time.(AU)

Physical attributes of a dystrophic Regolithic Neosol under pasture submitted to mechanical forage harvestingor animal grazing / Atributos físicos do neossolo regolítico distrófico sob pastagem submetido à colheita mecanizada da forragem e pastejo animal

Cattle grazing and the use of machines for different operations such as tillage, sowing, cropping and harvesting in Brazilian soils have been indicated as the main cause of soil compac-tion. This effect reduces root growth and development and increases the loss of nitrogen due to denitrification and soil erosion due to reduced water infiltration. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physical attributes and basic water infiltration rate in a Regolithic Neosol under pasture submitted to different types of management (extensive grazing and mechanical forage harvesting). The study was conducted on the Roçadinho Farm, municipality of Capoeiras, Agreste de Pernambuco, under Buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliares L.) in a continuous grazing system of cattle, with an average stocking rate of 2 animal units (dairy cows with a mean live weight of 450 kg), and under growth of the same forage. Both areas were established more than 5 years ago, with mechanical forage harvesting where the harvester is coupled to the tractor and with trailer hitch. A completely randomized experimental design was used, with application of the F test at a 5% level of significance. Continuous grazing resulted in greater penetration resistance and bulk density and lower soil porosity compared to the area submitted to mechanical forage harvesting, as well as a lower basic soil infiltration rate. Animal trampling causes greater soil compaction than mechanical forage harvesting. Consequently, the extensive pasture area exhibits greater penetration resistance and bulk density and a lower total porosity and water infiltration rate in the superficial soil layer.

O pastejo de bovinos e a utilização de máquinas em várias operações de preparo, semeadura, tratos culturais, colheita, entre outros, nos solos brasileiros tem sido apontada como a principal causa da compactação. Esse efeito reduz o crescimento e o desenvolvimento radicular, aumenta a perda de nitrogênio por desnitrificação e a erosão do solo pela menor infiltração de água. Diante disso, objetivou-se determinar e avaliar os atributos físicos e a velocidade de infiltração básica de água em um Neossolo Regolítico sob pastagem com diferentes formas de manejo (área sob pastejo extensivo e colheita mecanizada de forragem). O estudo foi conduzido na Fazenda Roçadinho, município de Capoeiras, Agreste de Pernambuco, sob pastagem com capim Búffel (Cenchrus ciliares L.) em pastejo contínuo de bovinos, com lotação média de 2 unidades animais (vacas leiteiras com peso vivo médio de 450 kg), e sob cultivo da mesma forrageira, ambos estabelecidos há mais de 5 anos, com colheita mecanizada da forragem, com a colhedora acoplada ao reboque do trator e com engate para carreta. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi inteiramente casualizado, plicando-se o teste F a 5% de significância. O pastejo contínuo ocasionou maior resistência à penetração e densidade e menor porosidade do solo em comparação à área onde é realizada a colheita mecanizada de forragem, assim como uma menor velocidade de infiltração básica do solo. O pisoteio animal causa maior compactação do solo quando comparado à colheita mecanizada de forragem, portanto, a área de pastejo extensivo apresenta maior resistência à penetração e densidade, e obtém menor porosidade total e velocidade de infiltração da água na camada superficial do solo na camada superficial do solo.

Physical attributes of a dystrophic Regolithic Neosol under pasture submitted to mechanical forage harvestingor animal grazing / Atributos físicos do neossolo regolítico distrófico sob pastagem submetido à colheita mecanizada da forragem e pastejo animal

Cattle grazing and the use of machines for different operations such as tillage, sowing, cropping and harvesting in Brazilian soils have been indicated as the main cause of soil compac-tion. This effect reduces root growth and development and increases the loss of nitrogen due to denitrification and soil erosion due to reduced water infiltration. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physical attributes and basic water infiltration rate in a Regolithic Neosol under pasture submitted to different types of management (extensive grazing and mechanical forage harvesting). The study was conducted on the Roçadinho Farm, municipality of Capoeiras, Agreste de Pernambuco, under Buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliares L.) in a continuous grazing system of cattle, with an average stocking rate of 2 animal units (dairy cows with a mean live weight of 450 kg), and under growth of the same forage. Both areas were established more than 5 years ago, with mechanical forage harvesting where the harvester is coupled to the tractor and with trailer hitch. A completely randomized experimental design was used, with application of the F test at a 5% level of significance. Continuous grazing resulted in greater penetration resistance and bulk density and lower soil porosity compared to the area submitted to mechanical forage harvesting, as well as a lower basic soil infiltration rate. Animal trampling causes greater soil compaction than mechanical forage harvesting. Consequently, the extensive pasture area exhibits greater penetration resistance and bulk density and a lower total porosity and water infiltration rate in the superficial soil layer.(AU)

O pastejo de bovinos e a utilização de máquinas em várias operações de preparo, semeadura, tratos culturais, colheita, entre outros, nos solos brasileiros tem sido apontada como a principal causa da compactação. Esse efeito reduz o crescimento e o desenvolvimento radicular, aumenta a perda de nitrogênio por desnitrificação e a erosão do solo pela menor infiltração de água. Diante disso, objetivou-se determinar e avaliar os atributos físicos e a velocidade de infiltração básica de água em um Neossolo Regolítico sob pastagem com diferentes formas de manejo (área sob pastejo extensivo e colheita mecanizada de forragem). O estudo foi conduzido na Fazenda Roçadinho, município de Capoeiras, Agreste de Pernambuco, sob pastagem com capim Búffel (Cenchrus ciliares L.) em pastejo contínuo de bovinos, com lotação média de 2 unidades animais (vacas leiteiras com peso vivo médio de 450 kg), e sob cultivo da mesma forrageira, ambos estabelecidos há mais de 5 anos, com colheita mecanizada da forragem, com a colhedora acoplada ao reboque do trator e com engate para carreta. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi inteiramente casualizado, plicando-se o teste F a 5% de significância. O pastejo contínuo ocasionou maior resistência à penetração e densidade e menor porosidade do solo em comparação à área onde é realizada a colheita mecanizada de forragem, assim como uma menor velocidade de infiltração básica do solo. O pisoteio animal causa maior compactação do solo quando comparado à colheita mecanizada de forragem, portanto, a área de pastejo extensivo apresenta maior resistência à penetração e densidade, e obtém menor porosidade total e velocidade de infiltração da água na camada superficial do solo na camada superficial do solo.(AU)

Automation in accession classification of Brazilian Capsicum germplasm through artificial neural networks

Germplasm classification by species requires specific knowledge on/of the culture of interest. Therefore, efforts aimed at automation of this process are necessary for the efficient management of collections. Automation of germplasm classification through artificial neural networks may be a viable and less laborious strategy. The aims of this study were to verify the classification potential of Capsicum accessions regarding/ the species based on morphological descriptors and artificial neural networks, and to establish the most important descriptors and the best network architecture for this purpose. Five hundred and sixty-four plants from 47 Brazilian Capsicum accessions were evaluated. Neural networks of multilayer perceptron type were used in order to automate the species identification through 17 morphological descriptors. Six network architectures were evaluated, and the number of neurons in the hidden layer ranged from 1 to 6. The relative importance of morphological descriptors in the classification process was established by Garson's method. Corolla color, corolla spot color, calyx annular constriction, fruit shape at pedicel attachment, and fruit color at mature stage were the most important descriptors. The network architecture with 6 neurons in the hidden layer is the most appropriate in this study. The possibility of classifying Capsicum plants regarding/ the species through artificial neural networks with 100 % accuracy was verified.

Automation in accession classification of Brazilian Capsicum germplasm through artificial neural networks

Germplasm classification by species requires specific knowledge on/of the culture of interest. Therefore, efforts aimed at automation of this process are necessary for the efficient management of collections. Automation of germplasm classification through artificial neural networks may be a viable and less laborious strategy. The aims of this study were to verify the classification potential of Capsicum accessions regarding/ the species based on morphological descriptors and artificial neural networks, and to establish the most important descriptors and the best network architecture for this purpose. Five hundred and sixty-four plants from 47 Brazilian Capsicum accessions were evaluated. Neural networks of multilayer perceptron type were used in order to automate the species identification through 17 morphological descriptors. Six network architectures were evaluated, and the number of neurons in the hidden layer ranged from 1 to 6. The relative importance of morphological descriptors in the classification process was established by Garson's method. Corolla color, corolla spot color, calyx annular constriction, fruit shape at pedicel attachment, and fruit color at mature stage were the most important descriptors. The network architecture with 6 neurons in the hidden layer is the most appropriate in this study. The possibility of classifying Capsicum plants regarding/ the species through artificial neural networks with 100 % accuracy was verified.(AU)

Ordenha robotizada de vacas leiteiras: uma revisão / Robotic milking of dairy cows: a review

Uma tecnologia inovadora e que tenta ganhar espaço no mercado atual são os robôs ordenhadores. Apesar dos altos custos, a ordenha robotizada pode gerar benefícios para o pecuarista e para os animais submetidos a esse sistema. Objetivou-se apresentar uma revisão da literatura sobre a utilização da robótica na ordenha de vacas leiteiras, abordando aspectos como implantação do sistema e funcionamento, efeito sobre a frequência de ordenhas, produção e composição do leite, contagem de células somáticas, mastite, reprodução e bem estar animal. Constatou-se que a programação do robô depende da quantidade de animais a serem ordenhados diariamente e da frequência de ordenha adotada em cada lote. A implantação do sistema depende, primeiramente, do local onde serão construídas as instalações e das possíveis estruturas já existentes na propriedade. A frequência de ordenha é maior em vacas de maior produção leiteira e no início da lactação, sendo esta influenciada pela palatabilidade do concentrado oferecido no momento da ordenha. Frequências maiores que três vezes ao dia diminuem a produção de gordura total no leite e aumentam a concentração de ácidos graxos livres. A incidência de mastite e a contagem de células somáticas tendem a aumentar nos três primeiros meses após a implantação do sistema; a partir do segundo ano, a saúde do úbere tende a melhorar normalizando a incidência de mastite e contagem de células somáticas. A reprodução das vacas não é afetada se a ingestão de matéria seca compensar os maiores gastos energéticos para produções leiteiras mais elevadas. A ordenha robotizada proporciona maior bem estar para as vacas, pois elas se encaminham ao robô de forma voluntária, no momento em que sentirem desconforto...

An innovative technology that currently tries to gain market share are milking robots. Despite the high costs, robotic milking may produce benefits for the farmer and for animals submitted to this system. The objective of this study was to perform a literature review on the use of robotic milking of dairy cows, addressing aspects such as implementation and functioning of the system and effect on milking frequency, milk production and composition, somatic cell count, mastitis, reproduction, and animal welfare. The results showed that the programming of the robot depends on the number of animals to be milked daily and on the milking frequency adopted in each batch. The implementation of the system mainly depends on the site where the facilities will be built and already existing structures on the farm. The milking frequency is higher for high-producing cows and at the beginning of lactation and is influenced by the palatability of the concentrate offered at the time of milking. Frequencies higher than three times per day reduce total milk fat production and increase the concentration of free fatty acids. The incidence of mastitis and somatic cell count tend to increase in the first three months after implementation of the system. After the second year, udder health tends to improve, normalizing mastitis incidence and somatic cell count. Reproduction of the cows is not affected if dry matter intake compensates the higher energy expenditure required for higher milk productions. Robotic milking improves cow welfare since the animals voluntarily turn to the robot when they feel discomfort...

Ordenha robotizada de vacas leiteiras: uma revisão / Robotic milking of dairy cows: a review

Uma tecnologia inovadora e que tenta ganhar espaço no mercado atual são os robôs ordenhadores. Apesar dos altos custos, a ordenha robotizada pode gerar benefícios para o pecuarista e para os animais submetidos a esse sistema. Objetivou-se apresentar uma revisão da literatura sobre a utilização da robótica na ordenha de vacas leiteiras, abordando aspectos como implantação do sistema e funcionamento, efeito sobre a frequência de ordenhas, produção e composição do leite, contagem de células somáticas, mastite, reprodução e bem estar animal. Constatou-se que a programação do robô depende da quantidade de animais a serem ordenhados diariamente e da frequência de ordenha adotada em cada lote. A implantação do sistema depende, primeiramente, do local onde serão construídas as instalações e das possíveis estruturas já existentes na propriedade. A frequência de ordenha é maior em vacas de maior produção leiteira e no início da lactação, sendo esta influenciada pela palatabilidade do concentrado oferecido no momento da ordenha. Frequências maiores que três vezes ao dia diminuem a produção de gordura total no leite e aumentam a concentração de ácidos graxos livres. A incidência de mastite e a contagem de células somáticas tendem a aumentar nos três primeiros meses após a implantação do sistema; a partir do segundo ano, a saúde do úbere tende a melhorar normalizando a incidência de mastite e contagem de células somáticas. A reprodução das vacas não é afetada se a ingestão de matéria seca compensar os maiores gastos energéticos para produções leiteiras mais elevadas. A ordenha robotizada proporciona maior bem estar para as vacas, pois elas se encaminham ao robô de forma voluntária, no momento em que sentirem desconforto...(AU)

An innovative technology that currently tries to gain market share are milking robots. Despite the high costs, robotic milking may produce benefits for the farmer and for animals submitted to this system. The objective of this study was to perform a literature review on the use of robotic milking of dairy cows, addressing aspects such as implementation and functioning of the system and effect on milking frequency, milk production and composition, somatic cell count, mastitis, reproduction, and animal welfare. The results showed that the programming of the robot depends on the number of animals to be milked daily and on the milking frequency adopted in each batch. The implementation of the system mainly depends on the site where the facilities will be built and already existing structures on the farm. The milking frequency is higher for high-producing cows and at the beginning of lactation and is influenced by the palatability of the concentrate offered at the time of milking. Frequencies higher than three times per day reduce total milk fat production and increase the concentration of free fatty acids. The incidence of mastitis and somatic cell count tend to increase in the first three months after implementation of the system. After the second year, udder health tends to improve, normalizing mastitis incidence and somatic cell count. Reproduction of the cows is not affected if dry matter intake compensates the higher energy expenditure required for higher milk productions. Robotic milking improves cow welfare since the animals voluntarily turn to the robot when they feel discomfort...(AU)

Sistema de ordenha automático

O aumento no valor dos preços de terra e da mão de obra e a diminuição da lucratividade nas últimas décadas têm motivado produtores de leite a aumentarem a eficiência dos sistemas de produção (de Koning, 2004). A adoção de tecnologias de automação e pecuária de precisão tem contribuído para o aumento dessa eficiência. O maior impacto pode ser constatado na redução do tempo e dos custos de atividades como remoção e tratamento de dejetos, alimentação e ordenha dos animais.