Production Practices Research Articles

Influence of Different Nitrogen Concentrations on Growth, Yield, and Yield Attributes of Hydroponically Grown Cherry Tomato

This scientific study aimed to determine the optimal nitrogen concentration within a hydroponic solution for the Rosa variety of cherry tomato plants cultivated in a controlled greenhouse environment. The study was conducted over a period of October 2019 to April 2021. Various treatments were administered, each with distinct nitrogen concentrations, to evaluate their effects on plant growth, yield, and yield-attributing characteristics. The results unequivocally demonstrated that the application of 8 mmol/L of nitrogen (T3) emerged as the most efficacious treatment for optimizing the growth, yield, and yield-attributing characteristics of the cherry tomato plants. These findings hold significant implications for refining nitrogen management practices in horticultural crop production, particularly for the Rosa variety of cherry tomatoes, within controlled greenhouse settings.

Effects of chitosan on plant growth under stress conditions: similarities with plant growth promoting bacteria

The agricultural use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and growth regulators may represent a serious public health and environmental problem worldwide. All this has prompted the exploration of alternative chemical compounds, leading to exploring the potential of chitosan and PGPB in agricultural systems as a potential biotechnological solution to establish novel agricultural production practices that not only result in fewer adverse impacts on health and the environment but also improve the resilience and growth of the plants. In this work, an analysis of the impact of plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) and chitosan on plant growth and protection has been conducted, emphasizing the crucial bioactivities of the resistance of the plants to both biotic and abiotic stressors. These include inducing phytohormone production, mobilization of insoluble soil nutrients, biological nitrogen fixation, ethylene level regulation, controlling soil phytopathogens, etc. Moreover, some relevant aspects of chitin and chitosan are discussed, including their chemical structures, sources, and how their physical properties are related to beneficial effects on agricultural applications and mechanisms of action. The effects of PGPB and chitosan on photosynthesis, germination, root development, and protection against plant diseases have been compared, emphasizing the intriguing similarities and synergistic effects observed in some of these aspects. Although currently there are limited studies focused on the combined application of PGPB and chitosan, it would be important to consider the similarities highlighted in this work, and those that may emerge in future studies or through well-designed investigations, because these could permit advancing towards a greater knowledge of these systems and to obtain better formulations by combining these bioproducts, especially for use in the new contexts of sustainable agriculture. Thus, it seems feasible to augur a promising near future for these combinations, considering the wide range of possibilities offered by chitinous biomaterials for the development of innovative formulations, as well as allowing different application methods. Likewise, the studies related to the PGPB effects on plant growth appear to be expanding due to ongoing research to test on plants the impacts of microorganisms derived from different environments, whether known or recently discovered, making it a very exciting field of research.

The Usage of Machine Learning Algorithms in Credit Evaluation Model

Credit scoring models are important tools for evaluating the credit status of individuals or businesses and play a significant role in the financial field. This study aims to suggest a prediction framework for credit evaluation model based on machine learning (ML) algorithms and explore the application principles and steps of combining credit scoring models, then provide an practical example to show the method for applying the model.In addition, the article also analyzes the issues that credit evaluation models should pay attention to in production practice at the end.

Assessing the effectiveness of bio-based oil in rejuvenating aged asphalt: a comprehensive physical, rheological, chemical, and mechanical examination

The utilization of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) in flexible pavement construction and rehabilitation has gained significant traction, driven by the need to conserve limited natural resources. This study explores the effectiveness of bio-based oils derived from harvested crops as rejuvenators in asphalt mixtures containing 50% RAP. Comprehensive assessments were conducted, including penetration, softening point, viscosity and ductility tests, to determine the optimal rejuvenator dosage. Additionally, evaluations of rolling thin film oven (RTFO) aging, retained penetration and ductility, equivalent softening and breaking points, plasticity temperature range, stiffness modulus, complex modulus, and phase angle were performed. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Marshall immersion, and moisture susceptibility tests further validated the rejuvenator's efficacy in improving asphalt properties. The incorporation of 1.8% bio-oil significantly reduced the viscosity of the mixtures, enhancing workability. The rejuvenator effectively compensated for the loss of light components in aged binders, restoring the maximum and minimum temperature performance to levels comparable to virgin asphalt (VA). Mechanical testing revealed that bio-oil mitigated the aging effects of RAP asphalt, and the rejuvenated mixtures showed considerable improvements over both VA and non-rejuvenated RAP mixtures, where the rejuvenated specimens achieved 90.8 and 89.4% of retained strength index (RSI) values for 24- and 48-h immersion periods, respectively comparing with 88.9 and 86% post-immersion of VA for similar durations. These findings underscore the potential of bio-oil as a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for rejuvenating aged asphalts, paving the way for more sustainable asphalt production practices.

Optimizing quality and cost in remanufacturing under uncertainty

AbstractIn the context of growing sustainability demands, businesses are increasingly adapting their production practices by integrating remanufacturing. However, companies often face challenges in profitably implementing remanufacturing due to complexities arising from uncertainties in processes, product quality, and market conditions. This highlights the need for effective decision support in remanufacturing processes. Addressing this challenge, our research introduces an algorithm designed to identify cost-efficient process plans that optimize order fulfillment while considering a company’s specific capabilities and inventory levels. By modeling the remanufacturing planning process as a Markov process, our algorithm comprehensively accounts for both process-related and quality-related uncertainties. This approach enables the evaluation of all Pareto optimal process plans in terms of cost efficiency and reliability. We validate our methodology through a real-world application in the automation industry, specifically focusing on the remanufacturing of variable speed drives. This case study demonstrates the practical relevance of our approach and a potential for significant cost reductions, enhanced process efficiency, and improved labor productivity. Overall, businesses gain critical insights into the financial prospects of their remanufacturing efforts, identifying opportunities for optimization and expansion into new product quality categories. This enhances their economic potential and aligns with consumer preferences for distinct product qualities.

Environmental Footprints of Yogurt Production: A Case Study of a Small-Scale Manufacturing Process in Sri Lanka

This study investigated the life cycle environmental impacts of yogurt production from cradle to gate at the Pulathisi milk factory in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. The functional unit considered was one kilogram of yogurt produced in the factory using existing technology. The defined system boundary encompassed raw milk production and transportation, machinery fabrication, standardization of milk, and standard unit operations of yogurt production. Material and energy usage data were collected through a series of observations, literature and Ecoinvent 3.7.1 databases. The ReCiPe 2008 method was employed for impact analysis, considering eighteen impact categories with SimaPro software. The inventory analysis included material consumption for machinery fabrication, energy consumption, and emissions for each unit operation in yogurt production. Results were characterized using midpoint indicators, and normalized impacts were calculated. The characterized outcomes of the yogurt production process contributed 2.48 kgCO2eq to climate change, 0.0297 kgSO2eq to acidification, 0.0002 kgPeq to eutrophication, and 6.9199 kg 1,4-DBeq to human toxicity. The study identified hotspots, emphasizing the significant contributions of cow milk production and electricity usage to environmental impacts. Potential mitigations, such as improved waste management in dairy farming and switching to renewable energy sources, are proposed to address these impacts. The normalized impacts provided insights for decision-makers and stakeholders to compare environmental performances and guide sustainable practices in yogurt production. The total impact was recorded as 0.014-person equivalent per year per one kilogram of yogurt.

Enhancing community potential to boost grassroots economy through value-added pickled bamboo shoots, Thailand

The objectives of this research article were: 1) to examine the community context, problems, and needs, 2) to enhance the community's capacity through the process of upgrading and adding value to fermented bamboo shoot products, and 3) to assess the capacity development of the Ban Sang Thor community, Phon Mueang Subdistrict, Lao Suea Kok District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. This study employed a mixed-methods research design. The key informants were 12 experts, 50 workshop participants selected through purposive sampling, and ten experts, 50 producers (selected through purposive sampling), and 100 consumers selected through accidental sampling for product development satisfaction evaluation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including percentages, frequencies, means, and standard deviations. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis and descriptive explanations. The Ban Sang Thor community, characterized by a rich historical background and traditional Heet Sip Song Kong Sip Si customs, addressed socioeconomic challenges such as poverty, household indebtedness, and low income through the enhancement of fermented bamboo shoot products. The community engages in educational initiatives regarding hygienic production practices and participates in packaging design processes. The resulting products exhibit durability, aesthetic appeal, and consumer acceptance. High levels of satisfaction from experts and consumers culminate in the production of safe sanitary products with a distinct community-branded identity. Sustainable economic development contributes to the preservation of a community's cultural heritage.

Kinetics of manganese removal from groundwater via biological activated carbon fiber

Abstract The residual manganese concentration from groundwater treatment plants normally exceeds the limit of 0.1 mg L−1, which is the maximum permissible manganese content set by the Ministry of Health. A new biological activated carbon fiber technology is described in this paper, in which filtration columns filled with ACF and inoculated manganese oxidizing bacteria (Citrobacter sp. FM-2) were used in an attempt to effectively remove the Mn2+ in groundwater using a biological method. By researching the various factors that influence biological manganese removal, a new kinetics model of BACF filtering with multiple influencing factors that incorporates the key factors of the process, such as the temperature, pH and empty bed contact time (EBCT), was established, and the accuracy of the model was verified. The study further extends the research on biological manganese removal and provides a reference and basis for production practice to some extent.

Prediction and optimisation of solidification structure growth and transformation behaviour in microalloy chamfered continuous casting slab

The solidification structure of complex chamfered slabs of microalloyed steel was analysed and controlled. A computational model of solidified structures was applied and the model was verified. The research results show that there are differences in the solidification structure inside the slab. The slab successively produces fine-grained areas, large-size columnar grain areas, CET (columnar to equiaxed grain transition), and equiaxed grain areas. The effects of different carbon contents on the solidification structure were analysed. As the c content decreases from 0.23% to 0.20%, the tip growth fitting coefficient a3 increases from 4.077172e-06 to 5.403274e-06, which increases the grain growth rate. Considering the different sensitivities of grain growth in the lateral direction, a lateral zoning water supply strategy is used to flexibly control the uniformity of grain growth. By simulating different water flow ratios in the corners and centre areas, the optimal nozzle water flow density ratio is 0.840. Superheat can effectively control grain distribution. The proportion of central equiaxed grains increases with decreasing superheat. The study found that the proportion of equiaxed grains has different sensitivities affected by different degrees of superheat. The superheat degree ranges of strong sensitivity and weak sensitivity were obtained. In the production practice of superheat adjustment to control particle distribution, the adjustment effect is better within the strong sensitivity range.

Hygienic Production Practices and Microbiological Quality of Sheep Milk in Ararso District of Jarar Zone, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia

This study was conducted to evaluate the hygienic production practices and microbiological quality of sheep milk in Ararso district of Jarar Zone, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia. A stratified sampling strategy was used to choose 180 households specifically for this investigation. A total of 60 pooled raw sheep milk samples (each containing 200 mL) were collected from the udders and milk handling equipment of selected milk producers in the research area. The samples were examined to determine microbiological quality. The data were gathered via a questionnaire, field observation, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. The vast majority of respondents in pastoral (86.7%) and agro-pastoral (64.4%) production systems were illiterate. The majority of respondents (70.6%) in the research area cleaned the sheep home (kraal) once every two days. The majority (98.3%) of respondents in the research area milk their sheep in open kraals with no roof or walls. As a consequence, 36.7% of pastoral and agro-pastoral respondents (81.1%) reported cleaning milk vessels on a regular basis. Almost all of the responders in the research area used plastic equipment for milking and handling. The majority of responders in pastoral and agro-pastoralist categories placed barn hygiene first, with indexes of 0.24 and 0.23, respectively. The average total bacterial count (TBC), coiform count (CC) and yeast and mould count (YMC) of raw sheep milk samples were 5.13±0.21, 2.89±0.27, and 0.77±0.21 log10 cfu/mL, respectively. Raw sheep milk samples taken from producers’ milk handling equipment had a substantially higher mean total bacterial count (5.78±0.32 log10 cfu/mL) compared to samples collected from the udder (4.48±0.23 log10 cfu/mL). Milk samples from pastoral and agro-pastoral households had an average coliform count of 3.18 and 2.60 log10 cfu/mL, respectively. The average YMC in milk samples from pastoralists and agro-pastoralists were 0.74 and 0.80 log10 cfu/mL, respectively. In general, pastoralists and agro-pastoralists in the district do not practice hygienic milking and handling. Consequently, the implementation of hygienic milk production and handling practices is essential to enhance the safety and quality of sheep milk in the study area. Additionally, further research should be undertaken to investigate the microbiological aspects and assess the safety and quality parameters of sheep milk in greater detail.

Impact of green trade on green growth in Malaysia: A dynamic ARDL simulation

Green economic growth emphasizes developing an economy that safeguards natural resources, enhances resource capabilities, and promotes sustainable resource utilization. This approach is vital for balancing economic development with environmental preservation, highlighting the efficient and sustainable use of renewable and non-renewable resources to maintain a clean environment and societal well-being. It also stresses the long-term preservation of natural resources for green growth and prosperity. Environmental sustainability is key for economic growth, as poor sustainability can lead to economic decline due to inefficient resource use. The Eleventh Malaysia Plan highlights the importance of green economic growth, focusing on areas such as creating a supportive environment for green growth, adopting sustainable consumption and production practices, conserving natural resources, and strengthening resilience against climate change and natural disasters. This study examines the impact of natural resource use on the green economic growth in Malaysia from 1990 to 2021, with a focus on green trade as a key component. To achieve this objective, this study utlizies the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) method and also its extension, the Dynamic ARDL (DYNARDL). Estimation results for both model indicate that green trade has a significant long run positive impact on green economic growth. While for short run, only DYNARDL method found evidence for positive impact of green trade. These findings suggest that policymakers should further promote green trade as a means to enhance sustainable and equitable resource use, thereby supporting the growth of the green economy in Malaysia.

Manipulating button mushroom casing affects the disease dynamics of blotch and green mold disease

Productive cultivation of the button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) relies on the use of selective substrates and effective disease management. In extending our previous work on manipulating the developmental microbiome (devome), this study employs the strategy of substrate passaging to explore its effects on crop outcomes and disease dynamics. Here we subjected the casing substrate to ten cycles of passaging. This manipulated substrate stimulated early pinning (primordia formation) by at least three days. Passaged casing also altered disease dynamics when challenged with two commercially important A. bisporus pathogens, Pseudomonas tolaasii (causing bacterial blotch) and Trichoderma aggressivum f. aggressivum (responsible for green mold). Passaged casing had a suppressive effect on blotch disease and a conducive effect on green mold disease. Blotch suppression resulted in a significantly higher yield of asymptomatic mushrooms in all three mushroom harvests (flushes) and in the overall crop yield. Blotch severity was also significantly reduced in passaged casing compared to standard casing due to a lower yield of mushrooms with the highest degree of blotch disease expression. Green mold disease expression was markedly higher in passaged casing, leading to lower numbers of asymptomatic mushrooms. Zones where no growth of hyphae or mushrooms were also observed in passaged casing due to green mold disease pressure. The stimulating effect of passaged casing on mushroom development and the dynamic outcomes for disease challenge from two distinct, commercially damaging diseases, demonstrates the potential for passaged casing to be used as material to study more sustainable mushroom production and disease management practices.

Proximal Policy Optimization with Population-based Variable Neighborhood Search Algorithm for Coordinating Photo-Etching and Acid-Etching Processes in Sustainable Storage Chip Manufacturing

In the complex process of manufacturing storage chips, the photo-etching and acid-etching stages play a crucial role, significantly affecting energy consumption and environmental impact. This paper introduces a novel Bi-Level Programming Model for Storage Chip Manufacturing (BLPM-SCM) aimed at optimizing the coordination between these two stages. The upper-level model focuses on minimizing the time it takes to complete wafer production, while the lower-level model seeks to reduce the number of acid-etching tanks used, thereby balancing production efficiency with resource utilization. To address the inherent complexity of the bi-level model, we present a hybrid meta-heuristic algorithm that combines Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO) with a Population-based Variable Neighborhood Search (PVNS) method. The PPO-PVNS algorithm enhances the intensification phase by adaptively selecting shaking and local search strategies, while PVNS supports the diversification phase, ensuring comprehensive exploration of the search space through iterative updates of the solution population. Extensive numerical experiments demonstrate the algorithm's superior performance and generalization capabilities in optimizing the manufacturing process. It significantly improves the coordination between the photo-etching and acid-etching stages, achieving dual optimization of energy consumption and environmental benefits. Furthermore, this study provides valuable insights and decision-making tools for industry practitioners, offering innovative solutions for scheduling optimization in the semiconductor sector and promoting more sustainable and efficient production practices.

Molecular Profiling of Rice Straw Degradability Discrepancy in Stropharia rugosoannulata Core Germplasm.

The rice-S. rugosoannulata pattern is a rapidly growing agricultural practice for straw disposal and mushroom production in China. However, different S. rugosoannulata strains show a large variation in rice straw degradability. Here, we constructed a core collection of S. rugosoannulata containing 14 strains with rich genetic diversity. The molecular profiling of the lignocellulose degradability discrepancy of S. rugosoannulata strains was then explored using enzyme activity assays and transcriptome analysis. The results indicated that mycelial growth rate, lignocellulolytic enzyme activities, and rice straw degradability differed widely among the S. rugosoannulata core strains. The genes encoding lignin modifying and degrading auxiliary enzymes, oxidases, glycoside hydrolases, and detoxification proteins were differentially expressed between two representative S. rugosoannulata strains, resulting in differences in their lignocellulolytic enzyme activities and further causing differences in lignocellulose degradability. This study is useful to improve the production efficiency of S. rugosoannulata and promote the recycling of rice straw.

Research on the Packaging Design Practices of Agricultural Products in the Context of Rural Revitalization: A Case Study of Zhaoqing Emperor Oranges

To carry out the packaging design of agricultural products around rural revitalization, and to study the innovative application of brand culture in the packaging of agricultural products. Through the case method, Zhaoqing Emperor Citrus is selected as an example for design analysis and practice. Firstly, through the domestic and foreign related literature and data research, the current situation of agricultural product packaging design is sorted out, and the existing packaging problems are summarized; secondly, the user needs are obtained through the qualitative analysis of user interviews, and the near-design orientation is made; finally, countermeasure strategies and design solutions are put forward in combination with the current problems of agricultural product packaging design. In this topic, design practice is carried out for the packaging design of agricultural products, design reference is provided, and relevant design strategies are proposed based on the background of rural revitalization. The innovative storytelling as well as visualization of the culture outside the product can better empower the value of agricultural products, thus contributing to rural revitalization.

Microbiology Test Results for White Edible Birds Nest with Fecal Contamination

Background: Southeast Asia's edible bird nest industry, particularly in Indonesia, has experienced rapid growth in recent years. Indonesia stands as the world's leading exporter of edible bird nests. However, concerns persist regarding the quality of edible bird nests produced in the country, specifically to do with meeting quality standards by ensuring freedom from microbial contaminants that can lead to foodborne illnesses. Purpose: To evaluate the microbiological contamination of cleaned edible bird nests sourced from Java Island, Indonesia. Cases(s): Yellow-brown discoloration of edible bird nests collected from bird houses of Javan origin. Case Management: Fifty samples of raw white edible bird’s nest samples (cup-shaped) with yellow-brown discoloration (n=25) originating from Java Island and raw white edible bird’s nest samples (cup-shaped) (n=25) were collected aseptically from the edible bird’s nest warehouses in Surabaya. These samples of edible nests from Java Island were subjected to microbiological analysis. The findings revealed a disconcerting trend, with 25 samples from Java Island exhibiting contamination by Escherichia coli (40%) and coliform bacteria (100%), surpassing established contamination thresholds. Conclusion: This raises critical concerns about the safety and quality of edible bird nests from the region, highlighting the need for enhanced production and processing practices, as well as rigorous quality control measures to ensure consumer safety and to maintain the industry's reputation on a global scale. Addressing these issues is imperative not only to safeguard public health but also to sustain and further develop the lucrative edible bird nest industry in Indonesia.

The Economics of Production and Marketing of Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) in Bukidnon, Philippines

Bukidnon, a province in Region X, is known for its high percentage of oyster mushrooms, accounting for 85.15 percent of total produce. This research aimed to determine production and marketing practices, yield per fruiting bag, marketing channels, and costs. We observed three marketing channels, and the average yield per bag was 0.18 grams per day. Variables affecting productivity included extension visits, educational attainment, culture house temperature, and substrate types. However, producers faced issues like spawn unavailability, poor development, and spoilage. The lack of government equipment support and lower prices led to many farmers stopping production, especially during the pandemic.

Repository structures: Impact on collaboration and productivity

AbstractThis study examines the connection between repository structure, productivity, and management practices in software development collaboration. Analyzing open-source projects, it finds higher collaboration in Multi repository teams than in Mono repository teams, implying a nuanced interaction with team size. Effective management and well-structured architectures correlate positively with productivity, emphasizing strategic management's importance for optimizing collaboration and efficiency in software projects.

Development of Video Learning Media Based on Robert Gagne's Theory (Nine Events of Instruction) in Informatics Subjects at Junior High School

One component that cannot be separated from the learning process is learning media. Learning media is an essential part of education, regardless of the curriculum, because it plays a crucial role in influencing the quality and success of learning. The Informatics subject is no exception, as it introduces computers to students. This introduction is the initial stage of informatics lessons. In presenting the learning process through computer application materials, good preparation is essential. An educator should do more than just coordinate students in front of the computer, use a loud voice to direct them, or write notes on the blackboard. They must wisely package the teaching materials to make learning enjoyable, allowing students to feel that the classroom is a place to explore while they learn to use a computer. This type of research is development and research (R&D) using the ADDIE model. Product validation tests were conducted by three validators: one material validator, one language validator, and one media validator. The product trial involved 30 seventh-grade students from SMPN 1 Siak Hulu, aimed at assessing the practicality of the developed product. The effectiveness test was conducted by administering pre-test and post-test questions to the students. The results of the video media development research showed a validation level of 86% for the material and 85% for the language, both falling into the very valid category. The product practicality results indicated a practicality level of 91%, also in the very practical category. The effectiveness test yielded a t-value of 16.4.

Digital-Based UMKM Branding & Marketing Innovation Assistance for Rengginang and Shrimp Cracker Businesses

Throughout the decade of increasingly rapid digital growth, digital technology has been one of the needs and has played a major role in innovating branding and marketing of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in various sectors. Digitalization is part of the development and innovation to change traditional branding and marketing into digital-based marketing in Rengginang and Krupuk Udang businesses. The purpose of community service activities through mentoring the community is to provide insight and skills about product digitalization in the form of labeling and marketing so that the community can innovate and develop products, especially to improve the welfare of the community in Gerongan Village, Kraton District, Pasuruan Regency. The ABCD (Asset Based Communities Development) method is the community service Method, which is structured and based on the needs and potential to develop village communities. The following are the steps used: Local Identification and Analysis (Discovery), Brand Identity Development (Dream), Optimization of Production Practices and Product Quality (Define), Use of Digital Technology and Marketing (Destiny), and Performance Measurement and Evaluation. The results of this community service activity indicate an increase in MSME insight into the importance of digital-based branding innovation and digital marketing, increasing labeling skills, and digitalization of marketing for innovation and development in their businesses.