MISIRoot: A Robotic, Minimally Invasive, in Situ Imaging System for Plant Root Phenotyping

2021 ◽  
Vol 64 (5) ◽  
pp. 1647-1658
Author(s):  
Wei Qiu ◽  
Jian Jin
Keyword(s):  
Minimally Invasive ◽  
Plant Root ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Color Images ◽  
Natural Soil ◽  
Growth Stages ◽  
Root Phenotyping ◽  
Corn Plants ◽  
Non Destructive

HighlightsA non-destructive, in situ, and low-cost root phenotyping system was developed.The system can collect color images and 3D cloud points of corn roots in soil.When tested in a greenhouse, the scanning process did not cause significant disturbance of corn plants.The results showed significant differences in root growth for different watering treatments and growth stages.Abstract. Plant root phenotyping technologies play an important role in breeding, plant protection, and other plant science research projects. Root phenotyping researchers urgently need technologies that are low-cost, in situ, non-destructive to roots, and suitable for the natural soil environment. Many recently developed root phenotyping methods, such as minirhizotron, X-CT, and MRI scanners, have unique advantages in observing plant roots, but they also have disadvantages and cannot meet all the critical requirements simultaneously. This study focused on the development of a new plant root phenotyping robot, called MISIRoot, that is minimally invasive and works in situ in natural soil. The MISIRoot system mainly consists of an industrial-level robotic arm, a miniature camera with lighting, a plant pot holding platform, and image processing software for root recognition and feature extraction. MISIRoot can acquire high-resolution color images of roots in soil with minimal disturbance to the roots and measure the roots’ three-dimensional (3D) structure with an accuracy of 0.1 mm. In tests, well-watered and drought-stressed groups of corn plants were measured with MISIRoot at the V3, V4, and V5 growth stages. The system successfully acquired RGB color images of the roots and 3D point cloud data containing the locations of the detected roots. The plants measured with MISIRoot and the plants not measured (control) were carefully compared with the results from a hyperspectral imaging facility (reference). No significant differences were found between the two groups of plants at different growth stages. Keywords: 3D point cloud, Low-cost phenotyping, Minimally invasive root measurement, Plant root phenotyping, Robotic arm application, Root imaging.

scholarly journals MISIRoot: A Robotic Minimum Invasion in Situ Imaging System for Plant Root Phenotyping

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zhihang Song ◽  
Wei Qiu ◽  
Jian Jin
Keyword(s):  
Plant Protection ◽  
Plant Root ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
3D Structure ◽  
Color Images ◽  
Plant Roots ◽  
Natural Soil ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Root Phenotyping

Abstract Background: Plant root phenotyping technologies play an important role in breeding, plant protection, and other plant science research projects. The root phenotyping customers urgently need technologies that are low-cost, in situ, non-destructive to the roots, and suitable for the natural soil environment. Many recently developed root phenotyping methods such as minirhizotron, X-CT, and MRI scanners have their unique advantages in observing plant roots, but they also have disadvantages and cannot meet all the critical requirements simultaneously. Results: The study in this paper focuses on the development of a new plant root phenotyping robot that is minimally invasive to plants and working in situ inside natural soil, called “MISIRoot”. The MISIRoot system mainly consists of an industrial-level robotic arm, a mini-size camera with lighting set, a plant pot holding platform, and the image processing software for root recognition and feature extraction. MISIRoot can take high-resolution color images of the roots in soil with minimal disturbance to the root and reconstruct the plant roots’ three-dimensional (3D) structure at an accuracy of 0.1 mm. In a test assay, well-watered and drought-stressed groups of corn plants were measured by MISIRoot at V3, V4, and V5 stages. The system successfully acquired the RGB color images of the roots and extracted the 3D points cloud data containing the locations of the detected roots. The plants measured by MISIRoot and plants not measured (control) were carefully compared with the results from the Hyperspectral Imaging Facility (reference). No significant differences were found between the two groups of plants at different growth stages. Conclusion: The MISIRoot system recently developed at Purdue University has been proved effective in root phenotyping with multiple advantages: With a comparatively low cost and minimal invasion to the plant, this system can automatically measure the root’s 3D structure and take color images of the roots in ordinary soil media, and in situ. This system provides a new option for root phenotyping researchers and has a potential to be applied in a wide range of research topics such as breeding, plant protection and so on.

scholarly journals MISIRoot: A Robotic Minimum Invasion in Situ Imaging System for Plant Root Phenotyping

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zhihang Song ◽  
Wei Qiu ◽  
Jian Jin
Keyword(s):  
Imaging System ◽  
Plant Root ◽  
Root Phenotyping ◽  
In Situ Imaging

Abstract The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to erroneous posting.

Assessing plant-microbe interactions in the rhizosphere using spatially resolved proteomics 

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
James Moran ◽  
Vivian Lin ◽  
Ying Zhu ◽  
Allison Thompson ◽  
Samuel Purvine ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Imaging Techniques ◽  
High Sensitivity ◽  
Membrane Extraction ◽  
Plant Performance ◽  
Natural Soil ◽  
Growth Stages ◽  
P Availability ◽  
Spatially Resolved ◽  
Microbe Interactions ◽  
Non Destructive

<p>Extensive spatial variability combined with analytical challenges associated with soil sampling complicate efforts to elucidate plant-microbe interactions within the rhizosphere, changes in these relationships over time, and the impacts of shifting microenvironmental conditions on microbial community membership and activity. Proteomics analysis of root or soil samples can provide insights to the taxonomy and functional capability of microbial populations and be used to augment various genomic and imaging techniques. Historically, however, proteomics relies on bulk level sampling by removing rhizosphere over relatively large lengths of root surface and is, therefore, neither spatially specific nor non-destructive. We are employing spatially resolved, non-destructive harvesting of mobile proteins onto a membrane to enable both two-dimensional protein mapping and proteomic analysis within rhizosphere while preserving the sample for either timeseries measurements or complementary, destructive techniques.</p><p>We are using rhizoboxes planted with switchgrass (variety Cave-in-rock) and constructed with natural soil (Kellogg Biological Station, Hickory Corners, Michigan, USA) to develop the approach. We are coupling membrane extraction with specialized sample digestion, purification, and analysis to enable proteomic interpretation. Through its non-destructive nature, this approach permits timeseries analyses for tracking specific taxa and, in some cases, functions associated with rhizosphere processes before and after a system perturbation or over plant growth phases during a growing season. The method’s high sensitivity enables spatial analysis at the up to two-millimeter diameter scale along the rhizobox sampling plane and samples can be manually selected based on proximity to specific root structure, metabolic hotspots, or other parameters of choice. We are using this analysis to track statistically significant shifts in plant and microbe contributions to rhizosphere proteome associated with roots at different growth stages. We are also linking this approach to a <sup>13</sup>C tracer to identify specific taxonomic groups having the closest metabolic association with a host plant to identify shifts in plant-microbe interactions associated with nutrient availability. For instance, we are using a split root rhizobox approach to monitor the plasticity of plant-microbe C exchange associated with P availability. Combined, the spatial and <sup>13</sup>C tracer components of this proteomic technique can help illuminate understanding of the complex inter-kingdom interactions within the rhizosphere and the implications these interactions have on driving C cycling and plant performance.</p>

Deciphering taxonomic carbon exchange between plants and microorganisms using proteomics coupled with 13C tracers and spatially resolved protein extraction

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
James Moran ◽  
Vivian Lin ◽  
Ying Zhu ◽  
Nikola Tolic ◽  
Samuel Purvine ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Spatial Analysis ◽  
Protein Extraction ◽  
High Sensitivity ◽  
Membrane Extraction ◽  
Plant Performance ◽  
Natural Soil ◽  
Growth Stages ◽  
Spatially Resolved ◽  
Timeseries Analysis ◽  
Non Destructive

<p>Clear elucidation of plant-microbe interactions within the rhizosphere and how these relationships change over time can be confounded by the large microbial biodiversity, shifting microenvironmental conditions, and extensive spatial constraints within these complex systems. Proteomics analysis of root or soil samples, when linked with metagenomic interpretation, can provide key insights to both the taxonomy and functional capability of microbial populations within a sample. Yet, existing proteomic approaches may not always be able to provide the needed temporal and spatial resolution to capture fine-scale and short-term interactions between plants and microorganisms. To remedy this limitation, we are developing a suite of methodological adaptations intended to leverage proteomic analysis to help identify key interactions between rhizosphere microorganisms and their host plant.</p><p>First, we are employing <sup>13</sup>C tracers coupled with automated data analysis to identify specific organisms consuming both simulated and natural root exudates. We are specifically exploring microcosms constructed from natural soil (Kellogg Biological Station, Hickory Corners, Michigan, USA) and planted with switchgrass as a platform for developing the techniques. Multiple previous studies have linked key interactions between both free-living and epiphytic microbial members with improved performance of a switchgrass host under nutrient-depleted, natural field conditions. Providing evaluation of the amount and taxonomic recipient of switchgrass-supplied carbon under varying conditions may help link key taxonomic groups with improved plant performance and biomass production.</p><p>Second, we are leveraging a membrane extraction technique coupled with specialized sample digestion, purification, and analysis to enable non-destructive, spatially-resolved protein extraction from the root-soil interface within our constructed microcosms. Through its non-destructive nature, this approach permits timeseries analysis for tracking specific taxa and, in some cases, functions associated with rhizosphere processes both before and after a system perturbation as well as variations over plant growth phases during a growing season. The high sensitivity of this system enables spatial analysis at the one to two mm scale where samples can be manually selected based on proximity to specific root structure, metabolic hotspots in the system, or other parameter of choice. Spatial analysis can be leveraged to track taxonomic distribution within the rhizospheres associated with roots at different growth stages or levels of maturity.</p>

Fault Localization of Power-Ground Short via Signal Injection and Oscilloscope Technique

2010 ◽  
Author(s):  
Binh Nguyen
Keyword(s):  
Low Cost ◽  
Short Circuit ◽  
Fault Localization ◽  
Fault Isolation ◽  
Test Apparatus ◽  
Good Working ◽  
Signal Injection ◽  
Set Up ◽  
Non Destructive ◽  
Short Circuit Condition

Abstract For those attempting fault isolation on computer motherboard power-ground short issues, the optimal technique should utilize existing test equipment available in the debug facility, requiring no specialty equipment as well as needing a minimum of training to use effectively. The test apparatus should be both easy to set up and easy to use. This article describes the signal injection and oscilloscope technique which meets the above requirements. The signal injection and oscilloscope technique is based on the application of Ohm's law in a short-circuit condition. Two experiments were conducted to prove the effectiveness of these techniques. Both experiments simulate a short-circuit condition on the VCC3 power rail of a good working PC motherboard and then apply the signal injection and oscilloscope technique to localize the short. The technique described is a simple, low cost and non-destructive method that helps to find the location of the power-ground short quickly and effectively.

To Eliminate Curtain Effect of FIB TEM Samples by a Combination of Sample Dicing and Backside Milling

2014 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jian-Shing Luo ◽  
Hsiu Ting Lee
Keyword(s):  
Sample Preparation ◽  
Focused Ion Beam ◽  
Preparation Method ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Ion Beam ◽  
Sample Preparation Method ◽  
Site Specific ◽  
Dual Beam ◽  
Transmission Electron

Abstract Several methods are used to invert samples 180 deg in a dual beam focused ion beam (FIB) system for backside milling by a specific in-situ lift out system or stages. However, most of those methods occupied too much time on FIB systems or requires a specific in-situ lift out system. This paper provides a novel transmission electron microscopy (TEM) sample preparation method to eliminate the curtain effect completely by a combination of backside milling and sample dicing with low cost and less FIB time. The procedures of the TEM pre-thinned sample preparation method using a combination of sample dicing and backside milling are described step by step. From the analysis results, the method has applied successfully to eliminate the curtain effect of dual beam FIB TEM samples for both random and site specific addresses.

Feasibility study of technology-enabled prevention intervention for children and families (Preprint)

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nikki Theofanopoulou ◽  
Katherine Isbister ◽  
Julian Edbrooke-Childs ◽  
Petr Slovák
Keyword(s):  
Emotion Regulation ◽  
Pilot Study ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Digital Camera ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Structured Interview ◽  
Object A ◽  
Intervention Delivery ◽  
Parents And Children

BACKGROUND A common challenge within psychiatry and prevention science more broadly is the lack of effective, engaging, and scale-able mechanisms to deliver psycho-social interventions for children, especially beyond in-person therapeutic or school-based contexts. Although digital technology has the potential to address these issues, existing research on technology-enabled interventions for families remains limited. OBJECTIVE The aim of this pilot study was to examine the feasibility of in-situ deployments of a low-cost, bespoke prototype, which has been designed to support children’s in-the-moment emotion regulation efforts. This prototype instantiates a novel intervention model that aims to address the existing limitations by delivering the intervention through an interactive object (a ‘smart toy’) sent home with the child, without any prior training necessary for either the child or their carer. This pilot study examined (i) engagement and acceptability of the device in the homes during 1 week deployments; and (ii) qualitative indicators of emotion regulation effects, as reported by parents and children. METHODS In this qualitative study, ten families (altogether 11 children aged 6-10 years) were recruited from three under-privileged communities in the UK. The RA visited participants in their homes to give children the ‘smart toy’ and conduct a semi-structured interview with at least one parent from each family. Children were given the prototype, a discovery book, and a simple digital camera to keep at home for 7-8 days, after which we interviewed each child and their parent about their experience. Thematic analysis guided the identification and organisation of common themes and patterns across the dataset. In addition, the prototypes automatically logged every interaction with the toy throughout the week-long deployments. RESULTS Across all 10 families, parents and children reported that the ‘smart toy’ was incorporated into children’s emotion regulation practices and engaged with naturally in moments children wanted to relax or calm down. Data suggests that children interacted with the toy throughout the duration of the deployment, found the experience enjoyable, and all requested to keep the toy longer. Child emotional connection to the toy—caring for its ‘well-being’—appears to have driven this strong engagement. Parents reported satisfaction with and acceptability of the toy. CONCLUSIONS This is the first known study investigation of the use of object-enabled intervention delivery to support emotion regulation in-situ. The strong engagement and qualitative indications of effects are promising – children were able to use the prototype without any training and incorporated it into their emotion regulation practices during daily challenges. Future work is needed to extend this indicative data with efficacy studies examining the psychological efficacy of the proposed intervention. More broadly, our findings suggest the potential of a technology-enabled shift in how prevention interventions are designed and delivered: empowering children and parents through ‘child-led, situated interventions’, where participants learn through actionable support directly within family life, as opposed to didactic in-person workshops and a subsequent skills application.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document