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- Title
Evaluator effect on the ultrasound measurement of subcutaneous fat deposition and loin eye area from weaning to slaughter lambs.
- Authors
de Vargas Junior, Fernando Miranda; Fernandes, Tatiane; de Matos, Alexsander Toniazzo; Mendes Fernandes, Alexandre Rodrigo; Castro Alves, Luis Gustavo; Rossatti, Julianna Andrade; Vega Britez, Gustavo Daniel; Targanski Zagonel, Natássia Gabriela
- Abstract
Background and Aim: Ultrasound is a non-invasive technique that enables animal evaluation and body condition classification of animals. Although it is not difficult to obtain an image, the analysis of this image can influence results quality. This study aimed to evaluate the repeatability and reproducibility of the technician trained in image interpretation obtained using different ultrasound frequencies. Materials and Methods: Ninety-six lambs were used, ranging in weight from 15 to 40 kg. The images were captured using a linear probe of 13 cm, with a 3.5 megahertz (MHz) frequency and an acoustic couplant aid “standoff” or using a multifrequency transducer (6 and 8 MHz), on B mode, with a linear probe and 8.0 MHz frequency. All measurements were performed by the same technician, on the left side, between the 12th and 13th rib. Five different evaluators, at two different times, with aid of Image J software measured the loin eye area (LEA; only for images obtained with 3.5 MHz), Longissimus thoracis et lumborum depth (DLM), subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT), subcutaneous fat thickness plus skin (SFST), and skin thickness (ST). Results: For LEA, DLM, SFT, SFST, and ST, variation was observed (p<0.01) between evaluators; however, there was no difference (p>0.05) between the 2 times of evaluation. Images measurements obtained with a frequency of 8.0 MHz had better repeatability indices and reproducibility indices. Accordingly, the identity test demonstrated that measurements performed on images obtained using 3.5 or 8.0 MHz were not equivalent. Conclusion: Ultrasound image measurements obtained using an 8.0 MHz frequency were more accurate and precise. It is important to use only one evaluator or providing the simultaneous training for all evaluators.
- Subjects
IMAGE analysis; ANIMAL classification; LAMBS; FAT; EVALUATORS
- Publication
Veterinary World, 2021, Vol 14, Issue 1, p259
- ISSN
0972-8988
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.14202/vetworld.2021.259-264