A short review: Comparisons of high-throughput phenotyping methods for detecting drought tolerance

Drought is a major threat worldwide for crop production, especially due to the rapid climate changes. Current drought solutions involve improving irrigation system, rainwater harvesting, damming, cloud seeding, and changes of cultivation methods. Despite effective, each solution has economic, environmental, and temporal drawbacks. Among all solutions, the most effective, inexpensive and manageable method is the use of drought-tolerant cultivars via plant breeding. However, conventional plant breeding is a time-consuming and laborious task, especially for phenotypic data acquisition of target traits of numerous progenies. High-throughput phenotyping (HTP) is a recently developed method and has potential to overcome the mentioned issues. HTP offers massive, accurate, rapid, and automatic data acquisition in the breeding procedure and can be a breakthrough for developing drought resistant/tolerant cultivars. This study introduces various methods of HTP to detect drought stress, which can accelerate the breeding processes of drought-tolerant cultivars to provide helpful guidelines for breeders and researchers to choose appropriate methods.(AU)

A short review: Comparisons of high-throughput phenotyping methods for detecting drought tolerance

Drought is a major threat worldwide for crop production, especially due to the rapid climate changes. Current drought solutions involve improving irrigation system, rainwater harvesting, damming, cloud seeding, and changes of cultivation methods. Despite effective, each solution has economic, environmental, and temporal drawbacks. Among all solutions, the most effective, inexpensive and manageable method is the use of drought-tolerant cultivars via plant breeding. However, conventional plant breeding is a time-consuming and laborious task, especially for phenotypic data acquisition of target traits of numerous progenies. High-throughput phenotyping (HTP) is a recently developed method and has potential to overcome the mentioned issues. HTP offers massive, accurate, rapid, and automatic data acquisition in the breeding procedure and can be a breakthrough for developing drought resistant/tolerant cultivars. This study introduces various methods of HTP to detect drought stress, which can accelerate the breeding processes of drought-tolerant cultivars to provide helpful guidelines for breeders and researchers to choose appropriate methods.

Chickpea seed vigor evaluated by computerized seedling analysis / Vigor de sementes de grão-de-bico avaliado por meiode análise computadorizada de plântulas

Computerized seedling analysis is a promising tool for assessing seed vigor, providing reliable and less subjective results. The aim of this study was to define a method for evaluating the vigor of chickpea seeds through computerized image analysis, using the Seedling Analysis System (Sistema de Análise de Plântula - SAPL®) as a basis. Two chickpea cultivars were evaluated, consisting of five seed lots of cv. BRS Aleppo and four seed lots of cv. Cícero. Test were performed on the seeds of each cultivar for initial characterization of the physiological potential of the lots, and the results were compared with the determinations made via SAPL®. The results showed high correlations between the variables obtained from computerized analysis and from traditional vigor tests, especially for the close relationship between the cold test and low temperature germination test with the corrected vigor index (r > 0.9) evaluated on the fourth day after the beginning of the test. The total length of seedlings, length of the primary root, and growth and corrected vigor indices obtained through computerized analysis of seedlings on the 4th day after sowing allowed separation of the lots regarding vigor. Computerized analysis of seedlings using SAPL® is effective in determining the vigor of chickpea seed lots.

A análise computadorizada de plântulas tem se apresentado como uma ferramenta promissora para avaliação do vigor de sementes, proporcionando a obtenção de resultados confiáveis e menos subjetivos. O objetivo do trabalho foi definir uma metodologia para avaliação do vigor de sementes de grão-de-bico por meio da análise computadorizada de imagens, utilizando como base o Sistema de Análise de Plântula (SAPL®). Duas cultivares de grão-de-bico foram avaliadas, sendo cinco lotes da cv. BRS Aleppo e quatro lotes da cv. Cícero. As sementes de cada cultivar foram submetidas a testes para caracterização inicial do potencial fisiológico dos lotes, sendo esses comparados com as determinações feitas pelo SAPL®. Os resultados demonstraram altas correlações entre as variáveis obtidas com a análise computadorizada e os testes tradicionais de vigor, com ênfase para a estreita relação entre o teste de frio e germinação a baixa temperatura com o índice de vigor corrigido (r > 0.9), avaliado no quarto dia após o início do teste. O comprimento total de plântulas, da raiz primária e os índices crescimento e vigor corrigido obtidos por meio da análise computadorizada de plântulas no quarto dia após a semeadura permitiram a separação dos lotes quanto ao vigor. A análise computadorizada de plântulas com o uso do software SAPL® apresenta eficácia na determinação do vigor de sementes de grão-de-bico.

Chickpea seed vigor evaluated by computerized seedling analysis / Vigor de sementes de grão-de-bico avaliado por meiode análise computadorizada de plântulas

Computerized seedling analysis is a promising tool for assessing seed vigor, providing reliable and less subjective results. The aim of this study was to define a method for evaluating the vigor of chickpea seeds through computerized image analysis, using the Seedling Analysis System (Sistema de Análise de Plântula - SAPL®) as a basis. Two chickpea cultivars were evaluated, consisting of five seed lots of cv. BRS Aleppo and four seed lots of cv. Cícero. Test were performed on the seeds of each cultivar for initial characterization of the physiological potential of the lots, and the results were compared with the determinations made via SAPL®. The results showed high correlations between the variables obtained from computerized analysis and from traditional vigor tests, especially for the close relationship between the cold test and low temperature germination test with the corrected vigor index (r > 0.9) evaluated on the fourth day after the beginning of the test. The total length of seedlings, length of the primary root, and growth and corrected vigor indices obtained through computerized analysis of seedlings on the 4th day after sowing allowed separation of the lots regarding vigor. Computerized analysis of seedlings using SAPL® is effective in determining the vigor of chickpea seed lots.

A análise computadorizada de plântulas tem se apresentado como uma ferramenta promissora para avaliação do vigor de sementes, proporcionando a obtenção de resultados confiáveis e menos subjetivos. O objetivo do trabalho foi definir uma metodologia para avaliação do vigor de sementes de grão-de-bico por meio da análise computadorizada de imagens, utilizando como base o Sistema de Análise de Plântula (SAPL®). Duas cultivares de grão-de-bico foram avaliadas, sendo cinco lotes da cv. BRS Aleppo e quatro lotes da cv. Cícero. As sementes de cada cultivar foram submetidas a testes para caracterização inicial do potencial fisiológico dos lotes, sendo esses comparados com as determinações feitas pelo SAPL®. Os resultados demonstraram altas correlações entre as variáveis obtidas com a análise computadorizada e os testes tradicionais de vigor, com ênfase para a estreita relação entre o teste de frio e germinação a baixa temperatura com o índice de vigor corrigido (r > 0.9), avaliado no quarto dia após o início do teste. O comprimento total de plântulas, da raiz primária e os índices crescimento e vigor corrigido obtidos por meio da análise computadorizada de plântulas no quarto dia após a semeadura permitiram a separação dos lotes quanto ao vigor. A análise computadorizada de plântulas com o uso do software SAPL® apresenta eficácia na determinação do vigor de sementes de grão-de-bico.(AU)

PhenoRoots: an inexpensive non-invasive phenotyping system to assess the variability of the root system architecture

The root system architecture (RSA) of plants and its functioning play a fundamental role in a number of plant growth mechanisms including water and nutrient uptake. Optimization of the RSA is important for stable and increased plant productivity under adverse conditions. Despite its great importance, studying the RSA is notoriously laborious because of the difficulty of accessing the rooting system of plants. We developed a root phenotyping platform, PhenoRoots, which allows for the non-invasive study of plant RSA. The system was built using inexpensive material and was designed to provide medium throughput. Substrate or soil-filled rhizotrons are used to grow plantlets, whose roots are directly visible through a glass plate. An experiment conducted on a panel of twenty Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) varieties demonstrated the usefulness of the platform in assessing RSA traits. A number of traits, destructive and non-destructive, related to the RSA were measured and statistically analyzed. The non-destructive traits based on image analysis of roots were more accurate and showed high correlation with the time-consuming destructive measurements. The platform allowed for capturing the phenotypic and genetic variability found in the panel of cotton varieties, and to define three contrasting RSA patterns. PhenoRoots provides an inexpensive alternative to the medium throughput analysis of RSA traits in plants.

PhenoRoots: an inexpensive non-invasive phenotyping system to assess the variability of the root system architecture

The root system architecture (RSA) of plants and its functioning play a fundamental role in a number of plant growth mechanisms including water and nutrient uptake. Optimization of the RSA is important for stable and increased plant productivity under adverse conditions. Despite its great importance, studying the RSA is notoriously laborious because of the difficulty of accessing the rooting system of plants. We developed a root phenotyping platform, PhenoRoots, which allows for the non-invasive study of plant RSA. The system was built using inexpensive material and was designed to provide medium throughput. Substrate or soil-filled rhizotrons are used to grow plantlets, whose roots are directly visible through a glass plate. An experiment conducted on a panel of twenty Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) varieties demonstrated the usefulness of the platform in assessing RSA traits. A number of traits, destructive and non-destructive, related to the RSA were measured and statistically analyzed. The non-destructive traits based on image analysis of roots were more accurate and showed high correlation with the time-consuming destructive measurements. The platform allowed for capturing the phenotypic and genetic variability found in the panel of cotton varieties, and to define three contrasting RSA patterns. PhenoRoots provides an inexpensive alternative to the medium throughput analysis of RSA traits in plants.(AU)

Quantificação do colágeno dérmico equino por duas técnicas morfométricas: contagem de pontos e segmentação de cor / Quantification of equine dermal collagen by two morphometric techniques: point counting and color segmentation

Os colágenos tipos I e III apresentam diferentes tonalidades de birrefringência em cortes histológicos corados com Picrosirius red e analisados em microscópio sob luz polarizada. Com base nessa propriedade, os colágenos podem ser quantificados por histomorfometria. Entretanto, são muitas as variáveis que podem afetar a distribuição das cores na imagem histológica, e a escolha adequada dos parâmetros de análise têm grande influência no resultado final. O objetivo deste trabalho foi comparar a quantificação histomorfométrica de colágeno em pele equina pela morfometria por contagem de pontos e pela segmentação de cor com diversas configurações, a fim de se determinar o melhor método de avaliação. Para a morfometria por contagem de pontos, foram utilizadas três gratículas diferentes (391, 588 e 792 pontos de interseções) e, para a segmentação de cor, seis combinações de hue e brightness no software ImageJ. Os valores foram submetidos ao teste de Friedman, seguido pelo teste de Tukey com 5% de significância. Os resultados demonstraram que a quantificação dos colágenos na gratícula de 792 pontos foi equivalente aos resultados da segmentação de cor com brightness de 1-255 e hue de 0-42 e 43-120 para os colágenos tipos I e III, respectivamente. Dessa forma, conclui-se que a análise automática da segmentação de cor, utilizando configuração adequada para brightness e hue, pode substituir a morfometria por contagem de pontos de forma confiável e segura.(AU)

The types I and III collagens present different tonalities of birefringence in histological sections stained with Picrosirius red, that can be analyzed under a polarized light microscope. Based on this property, collagens can be quantified by histomorphometry. However, many variables can affect the color distribution in the histological image, and the appropriate choice of the analysis parameters have a significant influence on the final result. The objective of this study was to compare the histomorphometric quantification of collagen in the equine skin by counting points planimetry and color segmentation with different configurations to determine the best method of evaluation. For planimetry, three different graticules (391, 588 and 792 intersections) were used and, for color segmentation, six combinations of hue and brightness in ImageJ software. The values were submitted to the Friedman test followed by Tukey with 5% significance. The results showed that the quantification of collagens in the graticule of 792 intersections was equivalent to the results of color segmentation with a brightness of 1-255 and hue of 0-42 and 43-120 for collagens type I and III, respectively. Automatic analysis of the color segmentation, using suitable configuration for brightness and hue can replace the counting points planimetry reliably and safely.(AU)

Quantificação do colágeno dérmico equino por duas técnicas morfométricas: contagem de pontos e segmentação de cor / Quantification of equine dermal collagen by two morphometric techniques: point counting and color segmentation

Os colágenos tipos I e III apresentam diferentes tonalidades de birrefringência em cortes histológicos corados com Picrosirius red e analisados em microscópio sob luz polarizada. Com base nessa propriedade, os colágenos podem ser quantificados por histomorfometria. Entretanto, são muitas as variáveis que podem afetar a distribuição das cores na imagem histológica, e a escolha adequada dos parâmetros de análise têm grande influência no resultado final. O objetivo deste trabalho foi comparar a quantificação histomorfométrica de colágeno em pele equina pela morfometria por contagem de pontos e pela segmentação de cor com diversas configurações, a fim de se determinar o melhor método de avaliação. Para a morfometria por contagem de pontos, foram utilizadas três gratículas diferentes (391, 588 e 792 pontos de interseções) e, para a segmentação de cor, seis combinações de hue e brightness no software ImageJ. Os valores foram submetidos ao teste de Friedman, seguido pelo teste de Tukey com 5% de significância. Os resultados demonstraram que a quantificação dos colágenos na gratícula de 792 pontos foi equivalente aos resultados da segmentação de cor com brightness de 1-255 e hue de 0-42 e 43-120 para os colágenos tipos I e III, respectivamente. Dessa forma, conclui-se que a análise automática da segmentação de cor, utilizando configuração adequada para brightness e hue, pode substituir a morfometria por contagem de pontos de forma confiável e segura.(AU)

The types I and III collagens present different tonalities of birefringence in histological sections stained with Picrosirius red, that can be analyzed under a polarized light microscope. Based on this property, collagens can be quantified by histomorphometry. However, many variables can affect the color distribution in the histological image, and the appropriate choice of the analysis parameters have a significant influence on the final result. The objective of this study was to compare the histomorphometric quantification of collagen in the equine skin by counting points planimetry and color segmentation with different configurations to determine the best method of evaluation. For planimetry, three different graticules (391, 588 and 792 intersections) were used and, for color segmentation, six combinations of hue and brightness in ImageJ software. The values were submitted to the Friedman test followed by Tukey with 5% significance. The results showed that the quantification of collagens in the graticule of 792 intersections was equivalent to the results of color segmentation with a brightness of 1-255 and hue of 0-42 and 43-120 for collagens type I and III, respectively. Automatic analysis of the color segmentation, using suitable configuration for brightness and hue can replace the counting points planimetry reliably and safely.(AU)

Vigor-S, a new system for evaluating the physiological potential of maize seeds

The refinement of vigor tests and the possibility of utilizing computer resources for the effective evaluation of the seed physiological potential have attracted considerable interest from research and seed technologists. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physiological potential of maize seeds using the newly-created Automated Analysis of Seed Vigor System (Vigor-S) compared with other recommended seed vigor tests; two maize hybrids were used, each represented by seven seed lots. Germination and vigor (cold test, saturated salt accelerated aging, and field seedling emergence) evaluations were conducted. For the evaluation of seed vigor with the use of seedling image analysis resources, two systems were compared: the Seed Vigor Imaging System (SVIS®), developed by Ohio State University, USA and the Vigor-S, resulting from collaboration between USP/ESALQ and EMBRAPA (Embrapa Instrumentation). Using these two systems, three day old seedlings were scanned and the images were analyzed. Similar results for the vigor index, uniformity of development, and seedling length were obtained. The computerized image analysis of seedlings using Vigor-S has advantages with respect to accuracy, speed, and the possibility of automatic application to a worksheet. It is a consistent alternative for the evaluation of maize seed vigor, and produces information compatible with that obtained by the accelerated aging test and SVIS®.

Vigor-S, a new system for evaluating the physiological potential of maize seeds

The refinement of vigor tests and the possibility of utilizing computer resources for the effective evaluation of the seed physiological potential have attracted considerable interest from research and seed technologists. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physiological potential of maize seeds using the newly-created Automated Analysis of Seed Vigor System (Vigor-S) compared with other recommended seed vigor tests; two maize hybrids were used, each represented by seven seed lots. Germination and vigor (cold test, saturated salt accelerated aging, and field seedling emergence) evaluations were conducted. For the evaluation of seed vigor with the use of seedling image analysis resources, two systems were compared: the Seed Vigor Imaging System (SVIS®), developed by Ohio State University, USA and the Vigor-S, resulting from collaboration between USP/ESALQ and EMBRAPA (Embrapa Instrumentation). Using these two systems, three day old seedlings were scanned and the images were analyzed. Similar results for the vigor index, uniformity of development, and seedling length were obtained. The computerized image analysis of seedlings using Vigor-S has advantages with respect to accuracy, speed, and the possibility of automatic application to a worksheet. It is a consistent alternative for the evaluation of maize seed vigor, and produces information compatible with that obtained by the accelerated aging test and SVIS®.(AU)

Swingle citrumelo seed vigor and storability associated with fruit maturity classes based on RGB parameters

ABSTRACT: Citrus seeds normally have low storability. Identifying an optimal fruit harvest time for production of high vigor seeds is important for nurseries; however, identifying this stage for Swingle citrumelo fruits has been based only on visual color examination, and research related to this parameter has been inconsistent. The main objective of this study was to evaluate a red-green-blue (RGB) color measurement system for successful identification of Swingle citrumelo fruits possessing seeds with maximum physiological potential and storability. Fruits were harvested at three ripening stages identified as green (G), greenish-yellow (GY), and yellow (Y) pericarp, photographed, and the images processed using ImageJ software. Data were expressed as the average pixel value of R, G and B color components and a mean RGB pixel value (R+G+B/3). After harvest, seeds were evaluated for water content, germination, seedling emergence, length, dry mass and vigor as measured by the Seed Vigor Imaging System - SVIS (uniformity and vigor indexes) after 0 and 5 months storage (5 °C and 65 % relative humidity). Percentage of ruptured coat seeds was also evaluated after extraction. The R color component provided the best identification of each G, GY and Y fruits. Seeds extracted from GY fruits had higher storage potential compared with seeds from G and Y fruits. Thus, precise fruit ripening classification can be generated using the RGB color system to identify the best time for harvest to obtain seeds with greater physiological and storage potential.

Swingle citrumelo seed vigor and storability associated with fruit maturity classes based on RGB parameters

ABSTRACT: Citrus seeds normally have low storability. Identifying an optimal fruit harvest time for production of high vigor seeds is important for nurseries; however, identifying this stage for Swingle citrumelo fruits has been based only on visual color examination, and research related to this parameter has been inconsistent. The main objective of this study was to evaluate a red-green-blue (RGB) color measurement system for successful identification of Swingle citrumelo fruits possessing seeds with maximum physiological potential and storability. Fruits were harvested at three ripening stages identified as green (G), greenish-yellow (GY), and yellow (Y) pericarp, photographed, and the images processed using ImageJ software. Data were expressed as the average pixel value of R, G and B color components and a mean RGB pixel value (R+G+B/3). After harvest, seeds were evaluated for water content, germination, seedling emergence, length, dry mass and vigor as measured by the Seed Vigor Imaging System - SVIS (uniformity and vigor indexes) after 0 and 5 months storage (5 °C and 65 % relative humidity). Percentage of ruptured coat seeds was also evaluated after extraction. The R color component provided the best identification of each G, GY and Y fruits. Seeds extracted from GY fruits had higher storage potential compared with seeds from G and Y fruits. Thus, precise fruit ripening classification can be generated using the RGB color system to identify the best time for harvest to obtain seeds with greater physiological and storage potential.(AU)

Evaluation of thymic lymphocyte loss of broiler using Digital Analysis of the Lymphoid Depletion System (ADDL) / Avaliação de perda de linfócitos do timo em frangos usando análise digital do sistema de depleção linfóide (ADDL)

The thymus is a lymphoid organ and usually evaluated for the degree of lymphocyte loss with subjective histological techniques. This study aimed to adapt and to apply of the digital analysis of the lymphoid depletion system (ADDL) in the thymus in order to obtain a more accurate analysis. Glucocorticoid was used to induce immunosuppression in 55 broilers at 21 days of age; other 15 broilers were the control group. After euthanasia of the broilers, postmortem examination was made. Both thymic chains were collected and six lobes were selected for histological examination of the degree of lymphocyte depletion (scores 1 to 5) and for submission to all stages of processing by the ADDL system. The artificial constructed neural networks (ANN) obtained 94.03% of correct classifications. In conclusion, it was possible to adopt objective criteria to evaluate thymic lymphoid depletion with the ADDL system.(AU)

O timo é um órgão linfóide, que é normalmente avaliado para o grau de perda de linfócitos a partir de técnicas histológicas subjetivas. Este trabalho teve como objetivo a adaptação e aplicação do sistema de análise digital de depleção linfóide (ADDL) para o timo, a fim de tornar sua análise mais acurada. Glicocorticóides foram utilizados a fim de induzir imunossupressão em 55 aves de 21 dias de idade. Outras 15 aves formaram o grupo controle. Posteriormente, para cada um dos aves, realizou-se a eutanásia e necropsia. Ambas as cadeias do timo foram coletadas e foram selecionadas seis lóbulos para processamento histológico, análise quanto ao grau de depleção linfocitária (escores de 1-5) e submissão a todas as fases do processamento pelo sistema ADDL. Observou-se que a rede neural artificial (RNA) construída obteve 94,03% de classificações corretas. Em conclusão, foi possível adotar critérios objetivos para avaliar a depleção linfóide tímica utilizando o sistema ADDL.(AU)

Evaluation of thymic lymphocyte loss of broiler using Digital Analysis of the Lymphoid Depletion System (ADDL) / Avaliação de perda de linfócitos do timo em frangos usando análise digital do sistema de depleção linfóide (ADDL)

The thymus is a lymphoid organ and usually evaluated for the degree of lymphocyte loss with subjective histological techniques. This study aimed to adapt and to apply of the digital analysis of the lymphoid depletion system (ADDL) in the thymus in order to obtain a more accurate analysis. Glucocorticoid was used to induce immunosuppression in 55 broilers at 21 days of age; other 15 broilers were the control group. After euthanasia of the broilers, postmortem examination was made. Both thymic chains were collected and six lobes were selected for histological examination of the degree of lymphocyte depletion (scores 1 to 5) and for submission to all stages of processing by the ADDL system. The artificial constructed neural networks (ANN) obtained 94.03% of correct classifications. In conclusion, it was possible to adopt objective criteria to evaluate thymic lymphoid depletion with the ADDL system.(AU)

O timo é um órgão linfóide, que é normalmente avaliado para o grau de perda de linfócitos a partir de técnicas histológicas subjetivas. Este trabalho teve como objetivo a adaptação e aplicação do sistema de análise digital de depleção linfóide (ADDL) para o timo, a fim de tornar sua análise mais acurada. Glicocorticóides foram utilizados a fim de induzir imunossupressão em 55 aves de 21 dias de idade. Outras 15 aves formaram o grupo controle. Posteriormente, para cada um dos aves, realizou-se a eutanásia e necropsia. Ambas as cadeias do timo foram coletadas e foram selecionadas seis lóbulos para processamento histológico, análise quanto ao grau de depleção linfocitária (escores de 1-5) e submissão a todas as fases do processamento pelo sistema ADDL. Observou-se que a rede neural artificial (RNA) construída obteve 94,03% de classificações corretas. Em conclusão, foi possível adotar critérios objetivos para avaliar a depleção linfóide tímica utilizando o sistema ADDL.(AU)

Aggregates morphometry of a Inceptisol under conservationist system / Morfometria de agregados de um Cambissolo sob manejo conservacionista

Morphological characteristics of the soil aggregates are important tools to analyzing and monitoring the structural quality. The present study aimed to characterize morphometrically aggregates of a Inceptisol, originated from pelitic rocks, after 1.5 years of the implementation of a management system that adopts conservation tillage practices in the coffee cultivation. The aggregates were collected at the depths of 0.0-0.05; 0.05-0.20; 0.20-0.40; 0.40-0.80 m, both at row and interrow position in a coffee field, and also a natural environment of native vegetation that was used as a reference for the study. The analyzes of the aggregates were carried through 2D images obtained by scanning at 300 dpi spatial resolution. Each image contained 60 households and were processed using the software QUANTPORO. The morphometric variables were obtained: area, perimeter, compactness, roughness, appearance and Ferret diameter. For validation, the correlations among morphometric variables determined by image analysis and pattern aggregation indices (GMD, MWD and aggregates retained in the class > 2.00 mm) obtained by wet sieving were studied. After 1.5 years of implantation increased the dimensions of the aggregates on the natural environment have been detected, as well as better structural quality Inceptisol.(AU)

As características morfológicas dos agregados são importantes indicadores da qualidade estrutural do solo. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo caracterizar morfometricamente os agregados de um Cambissolo originado de rochas pelíticas (siltito) após 1,5 anos da implantação de um sistema de manejo que adota práticas conservacionistas do solo no cultivo do cafeeiro. Os agregados foram coletados nas profundidades de 0,0-0,05; 0,05-0,20; 0,20-0,40; 0,40-0,80 m, nas posições linha e entrelinha do cafeeiro e também em um ambiente natural Cerrado Nativo tomado como referência para o estudo. As análises dos agregados foram realizadas por meio de imagens 2D obtidas por escaneamento, em 300 dpi de resolução espacial. Cada imagem continha 60 agregados e foram processadas utilizando o software Quantporo. As variáveis morfométricas obtidas foram: área, perímetro, compacidade, rugosidade, aspecto e diâmetro de Ferret. Para validação, foram estudadas as correlações entre as variáveis morfométricas determinadas pela análise de imagem e dos índices de agregação padrão (DMG, DMP e agregados retidos na classe > 2,00 mm) obtidos por tamisamento úmido. Após 1,5 anos de implantação do sistema de manejo foram detectados aumento nas dimensões dos agregados em relação ao ambiente natural, assim como melhor qualidade estrutural do Cambissolo.(AU)

ANÁLISE DE IMAGENS E REDE NEURAL NA CARACTERIZAÇÃO BIOMÉTRICA E AVALIAÇÃO DA COBERTURA DE GORDURA SUBCUTÂNEA EM BOVINOS E CARCAÇAS

O processo de tipificação determina o mercado para o qual a carcaça será direcionada, considerando sua qualidade. Atualmente, este processo é desenvolvido de maneira subjetiva, e, portanto, a confiabilidade desse pode ser comprometida. Neste sentido, ferramentas que permitam a avaliação objetiva da carcaça bovina in vivo e post mortem são de grande importância. Diante disso, nossos objetivos neste trabalho são (1) avaliar o efeito da classe sexual sobre a morfologia corporal ou de carcaças em bovinos e investigar as relações entre as medidas biométricas e os escores de acabamento atribuídos às carcaças em frigorifico comercial, (2) desenvolver um algoritmo de segmentação utilizando rede neural convolucional, capaz de realizar a segregação de diferentes tecidos em imagens digitais de carcaças, de forma automática, e, (3) desenvolver equações de predição da espessura de gordura subcutânea em bovinos utilizando meta-análise de dados experimentais. Foram utilizados dados de animais de diferentes composições genéticas, classes sexuais, idades e pesos. Os animais foram aleatoriamente selecionados nos currais de espera dos frigoríficos, identificados, submetidos a jejum de sólidos durante 16 horas, pesados e, concomitantemente, foram coletadas imagens do dorso do animal utilizando câmeras RGB-D. Após o abate, a carcaça de cada animal foi dividida longitudinalmente, em duas meias-carcaças, as quais foram pesadas e os escores visuais de gordura avaliados por profissionais treinados, sendo as carcaças resfriadas a 4 ºC por 24 horas. As meias-carcaças foram utilizadas para obtenção de imagens RGB-D. As imagens coletadas foram analisadas para mensuração dos parâmetros biométricos. Os dados foram analisados pelos procedimentos gerais de modelos lineares do SAS 9.0 (Statistical Analysis System Institute, Inc.) e, em seguida, as médias das diferentes classes sexuais foram comparadas pelo teste de Tukey (5%). Uma segunda etapa foi realizada utilizando as imagens coletadas como input para uma rede neural convolucional de segmentação (CNN). Na arquitetura da rede, o backbone convolucional utilizado foi a rede ResNeXt-101 combinada com Feature Pyramid Network. Os resultados obtidos indicam que há influência da classe sexual sobre o peso corporal, peso de carcaça e medidas biométricas. Os escores de gordura foram influenciados por medidas biométricas. Houve efeito do peso corporal no escore final e os animais mais pesados obtiveram os maiores escores de gordura. Comportamento semelhante a este foi verificado para a análise das carcaças, com as maiores médias dos parâmetros biométricos observadas para o escore uniforme. Porém, não houve efeito linear entre o escore de gordura e as medidas biométricas, havendo sobreposição das médias para os menores escores atribuídos às carcaças. No segundo estudo, a rede CNN foi capaz de detectar a proporção de tecidos com uma precisão de 66,5, 42,4 e 11,3%, usando sobreposições (IoU) de 25, 50 e 75%, respectivamente. A análise de imagens pode ser usada para obter medidas biométricas em bovinos e suas carcaças e para estimar o escore final de gordura da carcaça. Além disso, esta pesquisa contribui para a proposição de um método de segmentação de carcaças e tecidos o que pode auxiliar no desenvolvimento de sistemas automatizados de avaliação de carcaças.

The grading process determines the market to which the carcass will be directed, considering its quality atributes. Currently, in slaughterhouses the grading processes are developed subjectively and, therefore, the economic efficiency of these processes canbe compromised. In this sense, tools that allow the objective evaluation of the bovine carcass in vivo and post mortem are of great importance. Therefore, our objectives in this research are (1) to evaluate the effect of sex class on body or carcass morphology in bovine and to investigate the relationships between biometric measurements and fat scores assigned to carcasses in a commercial slaughterhouse. (2) To develop a segmentation algorithm using convolutional network, capable to perform the segregation of different tissues in digital images of carcasses, automatically, and, (3) develop equations to predict the rib fat thickness through meta-analysis of experimental data. Data from animals of different genetic compositions, sex classes, ages and weights were used. The animals were randomly selected in the at slaughterhouses, identified, subjected to solids fasting for 16 hours, weighed and, concomitantly, it was collected images of the animal dorsum using RGB-D cameras, for video image analysis. After slaughter, the carcass of each animal was divided longitudinally, in two half-carcasses, which were weighed and the visual fat scores was evaluated by trained professionals, and then carcass were cooled at 4 ºC for 24 hours. The hot half-carcasses were used to obtain the RGB-D images. The images collected were analyzed to measure the biometric parameters. Data were analyzed using general linear model procedures of SAS 9.0 (Statistical Analysis System Institute, Inc.) and, then the means of different sex classes were compared by the test of Tukey (5%). A second step was performed using the collected images as input to a segmentation convolutional network (CNN). In the network architecture, the convolutional backbone used was the ResNeXt-101 network combined with the Feature Pyramid Network. The obtained results indicate that there is influence of the sex class on body weight, carcass weight and biometric measures. Visual fat scores were influenced by biometric measurements. There was an effect of body weight on the final score and the heaviest animals had the highest fat scores. Similar behavior to this was verified for the analysis of the carcasses, with the highest means of the biometric parameters observed for the uniform score. However, there was no linear effect between the fat score and biometric measurements, with an overlapping of means for the lowest scores assigned to the carcasses. In the second study, the network CNN was able to detect the proportion of tissues with an accuracy of 66.5, 42.4 and 11.3%, using overlays (IoU) of 25, 50 and 75%, respectively. Image analysis can be used to obtain biometric measurements in bovine and their carcasses and to estimate the final carcass fat score. In addition, this research contributes to the proposition of a method of segmentation of carcasses and body tissues that can assist in the development of automated computer vision systems applied to the evaluation of carcasses in slaughterhouses.

Aggregates morphometry of a Inceptisol under conservationist system / Morfometria de agregados de um Cambissolo sob manejo conservacionista

Morphological characteristics of the soil aggregates are important tools to analyzing and monitoring the structural quality. The present study aimed to characterize morphometrically aggregates of a Inceptisol, originated from pelitic rocks, after 1.5 years of the implementation of a management system that adopts conservation tillage practices in the coffee cultivation. The aggregates were collected at the depths of 0.0-0.05; 0.05-0.20; 0.20-0.40; 0.40-0.80 m, both at row and interrow position in a coffee field, and also a natural environment of native vegetation that was used as a reference for the study. The analyzes of the aggregates were carried through 2D images obtained by scanning at 300 dpi spatial resolution. Each image contained 60 households and were processed using the software QUANTPORO. The morphometric variables were obtained: area, perimeter, compactness, roughness, appearance and Ferret diameter. For validation, the correlations among morphometric variables determined by image analysis and pattern aggregation indices (GMD, MWD and aggregates retained in the class > 2.00 mm) obtained by wet sieving were studied. After 1.5 years of implantation increased the dimensions of the aggregates on the natural environment have been detected, as well as better structural quality Inceptisol.

As características morfológicas dos agregados são importantes indicadores da qualidade estrutural do solo. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo caracterizar morfometricamente os agregados de um Cambissolo originado de rochas pelíticas (siltito) após 1,5 anos da implantação de um sistema de manejo que adota práticas conservacionistas do solo no cultivo do cafeeiro. Os agregados foram coletados nas profundidades de 0,0-0,05; 0,05-0,20; 0,20-0,40; 0,40-0,80 m, nas posições linha e entrelinha do cafeeiro e também em um ambiente natural Cerrado Nativo tomado como referência para o estudo. As análises dos agregados foram realizadas por meio de imagens 2D obtidas por escaneamento, em 300 dpi de resolução espacial. Cada imagem continha 60 agregados e foram processadas utilizando o software Quantporo. As variáveis morfométricas obtidas foram: área, perímetro, compacidade, rugosidade, aspecto e diâmetro de Ferret. Para validação, foram estudadas as correlações entre as variáveis morfométricas determinadas pela análise de imagem e dos índices de agregação padrão (DMG, DMP e agregados retidos na classe > 2,00 mm) obtidos por tamisamento úmido. Após 1,5 anos de implantação do sistema de manejo foram detectados aumento nas dimensões dos agregados em relação ao ambiente natural, assim como melhor qualidade estrutural do Cambissolo.

Avaliação de medidas morfoestruturais em equinos da raça quarto de milha utilizando análises de imagens / Evaluation morphostructural measures in horses of the Quarter horse Breed using image analysis

Objetivou-se avaliar técnicas de avaliação morfométrica por análise de imagem em equinos Quartode Milha, a fim de estimar sua viabilidade na rotina da equinocultura brasileira. Foram avaliados 18 animais adultos de ambos os sexos da raça Quarto de Milha. Foram utilizadas três técnicas diferentes: avaliação morfométrica tradicional, avaliação morfométrica por análise de imagens através de software (ImageJ®) sem adesivos reflexivos e avaliação morfométrica por análise de imagens através de software (ImageJ®) com adesivos reflexivos. As medidas corporais foram obtidas foram altura de cernelha (AC), altura de garupa (AG), comprimento corporal (CC), comprimento do pescoço até a cernelha (CPC), comprimento do pescoço até a escápula (CPE), comprimento dorso-lombar (CL), comprimento de garupa (CG), comprimento torácico (CT), comprimento de escápula (ESC), comprimento de úmero (UME), comprimento de rádio/ulna (R/U), comprimento de metacarpo (ME). Para comparação das metodologias foram utilizados o teste de Dunnet a 5% de probabilidade GLM, a correlação entre as metodologias foi avaliada pelo procedimento CORR (StatisticalAnalysis System, versão 9.3), bem como sua acurácia e precisão e análises por variáveis canônicas e deagrupamento pelos métodos de otimização de Tocher. Medidas morfométricas relacionadas com a altura doanimal não diferiram (P > 0,05) entre as metodologias avaliadas. Os dados referentes à acurácia e precisão da avaliação morfométrica por imagens apresentaram um elevado grau de proximidade com o observado pela técnica tradicional. O software ImageJ® pode ser utilizado como técnica alternativa de avaliação morfométrica de equinos da raça Quarto-de-milha

Objective was to evaluate morphometric evaluation techniques by image analysis in horses Quarter Horse breed in order to assess its feasibility in routine Brazilian Equine. We evaluating 18 adult animals of both sexes of bred Quarter Horse. Three different techniques were used: traditional morphometric analysis, morphometric evaluation by image analysis without reflexives adhesives (software ImageJ®) and morphometric evaluation by image analysis with reflexives adhesives (software ImageJ®). Evaluations of body measurements were the withers height (HW), rump height (RH), body length (BL), neck to the withers length (NWL), neck toscapula length (NSL), dorsolumbar length (DL), rump length (RL), thoracic length (TL), scapula length (SL),humerus length (HL), radio/ulna length (R/U) pastern length (PL). To compare the methodology we used the Dunnett test at 5% of probability using PROC GLM, the correlation between the methodologies was evaluated by the CORR procedure (Statistical Analysis System, version 9.3), as well as their accuracy and precision and analysis by canonical variables and cluster analysis by Torcher method. Morphometric measurements related with the height of the animal showed no statistical differences (P > 0.05) among the evaluation methodology.However the measures BL, NWL, NSL, SL, HL, R/U and PL presented statistical differences between the evaluation methodology. Data referring to accuracy and precision of morphometric evaluation by images presented a large degree of proximity to the observed by the traditional technique. The ImageJ® software can be used as alternative technique of morphometric evaluation of equine Quarter Horse breed

Avaliação de medidas morfoestruturais em equinos da raça quarto de milha utilizando análises de imagens / Evaluation morphostructural measures in horses of the Quarter horse Breed using image analysis

Objetivou-se avaliar técnicas de avaliação morfométrica por análise de imagem em equinos Quartode Milha, a fim de estimar sua viabilidade na rotina da equinocultura brasileira. Foram avaliados 18 animais adultos de ambos os sexos da raça Quarto de Milha. Foram utilizadas três técnicas diferentes: avaliação morfométrica tradicional, avaliação morfométrica por análise de imagens através de software (ImageJ®) sem adesivos reflexivos e avaliação morfométrica por análise de imagens através de software (ImageJ®) com adesivos reflexivos. As medidas corporais foram obtidas foram altura de cernelha (AC), altura de garupa (AG), comprimento corporal (CC), comprimento do pescoço até a cernelha (CPC), comprimento do pescoço até a escápula (CPE), comprimento dorso-lombar (CL), comprimento de garupa (CG), comprimento torácico (CT), comprimento de escápula (ESC), comprimento de úmero (UME), comprimento de rádio/ulna (R/U), comprimento de metacarpo (ME). Para comparação das metodologias foram utilizados o teste de Dunnet a 5% de probabilidade GLM, a correlação entre as metodologias foi avaliada pelo procedimento CORR (StatisticalAnalysis System, versão 9.3), bem como sua acurácia e precisão e análises por variáveis canônicas e deagrupamento pelos métodos de otimização de Tocher. Medidas morfométricas relacionadas com a altura doanimal não diferiram (P > 0,05) entre as metodologias avaliadas. Os dados referentes à acurácia e precisão da avaliação morfométrica por imagens apresentaram um elevado grau de proximidade com o observado pela técnica tradicional. O software ImageJ® pode ser utilizado como técnica alternativa de avaliação morfométrica de equinos da raça Quarto-de-milha(AU)

Objective was to evaluate morphometric evaluation techniques by image analysis in horses Quarter Horse breed in order to assess its feasibility in routine Brazilian Equine. We evaluating 18 adult animals of both sexes of bred Quarter Horse. Three different techniques were used: traditional morphometric analysis, morphometric evaluation by image analysis without reflexives adhesives (software ImageJ®) and morphometric evaluation by image analysis with reflexives adhesives (software ImageJ®). Evaluations of body measurements were the withers height (HW), rump height (RH), body length (BL), neck to the withers length (NWL), neck toscapula length (NSL), dorsolumbar length (DL), rump length (RL), thoracic length (TL), scapula length (SL),humerus length (HL), radio/ulna length (R/U) pastern length (PL). To compare the methodology we used the Dunnett test at 5% of probability using PROC GLM, the correlation between the methodologies was evaluated by the CORR procedure (Statistical Analysis System, version 9.3), as well as their accuracy and precision and analysis by canonical variables and cluster analysis by Torcher method. Morphometric measurements related with the height of the animal showed no statistical differences (P > 0.05) among the evaluation methodology.However the measures BL, NWL, NSL, SL, HL, R/U and PL presented statistical differences between the evaluation methodology. Data referring to accuracy and precision of morphometric evaluation by images presented a large degree of proximity to the observed by the traditional technique. The ImageJ® software can be used as alternative technique of morphometric evaluation of equine Quarter Horse breed(AU)

ANÁLISE DE IMAGENS E BIOMETRIA NA IDENTIFICAÇÃO DE MATERNIDADE DE OVOS DE CODORNA

Codornas são animais modelo para diversas áreas das ciências da vida, bem como uma importante espécie para produção de carne e ovos ao redor do mundo. A produção de ovos, seja como alimento ou como meio reprodutivo, frequentemente se dá em gaiolas coletivas, dificultando a identificação individual para controle da produção e em programas de melhoramento genético. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi testar algoritmos de aprendizado estatístico e esquemas de alojamento de codornas que otimizem a identificação da produção, baseada em características externas de seus ovos. Foram utilizados dados de 90 aves, com no mínimo dez ovos cada, sendo testados quatro algoritmos de aprendizado estatístico usando validação cruzada, além de verificar a influência do número de codornas por gaiola e métodos para designar aves a cada gaiola. Os modelos de melhor desempenho consistem no uso de dez variáveis do ovo: peso, largura, altura, proporção de área da casca com padrões, intensidade de vermelho, de azul e de verde, matiz, saturação e luminosidade da cor de fundo dos ovos. A acurácia da classificação é aumentada em gaiolas com menor número de codornas (máxima com três aves) e com direcionamento para aumento da variância dentro de gaiola. O método apresentado mostra viabilidade para uso prático e tem possibilidade de melhoria pelo uso futuro de novas variáveis e métodos mais avançados.

Quail are animal models for many fields of life sciences, as well as an important species for meat and egg production worldwide. Egg production, both as food or as for breeding purposes is often based on multiple-hen cages, hindering individual identification for control of production and in-breeding programs. The aim of the present study was to test algorithms of statistical learning and housing schemes for quail that optimize individual laying control based on quail egg external features. 90 birds were used, with a minimum of ten eggs each, four statistical learning algorithms with cross-validation were tested, as well as verifying the influence of number of quail per cage and methods to assign the birds to each cage. Model with better performance consist in the use of ten variables per egg: weight, height, width, eggshell ratio of patterned area, hue, saturation, lightness, intensity of red, green, and blue of egg background color. The classification accuracy increases when cages have less quail (maximum of three birds) and aimed to increase inside-cage variance. The present method shows feasibility for real-world data and with possibility of improvements with new features and more advanced methods.