Production Systems Research Articles

Limestone reaction in sandy soil: Rate effects, limestone type, moisture regime, and time

AbstractAn experiment was conducted in the greenhouse facilities of Embrapa Maize and Sorghum to evaluate the limestone reaction in sandy soil based on rates, limestone type, effective calcium carbonate equivalent (ECCE), and moisture regime over time. A factorial design of 4 × 2 + 3 was adopted, consisting of four limestone rates with 76% ECCE (0, 1, 2, and 4 Mg ha−1), two irrigation types (daily and monthly, simulating constant and intermittent moisture regime), and three additional treatments (three rates of “filler” limestone—99% ECCE—under monthly irrigation). Soil chemical characteristics were analyzed at 1, 2, 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment application. Soil fertility improved at the first month after treatment application, with emphasis on higher limestone rates, monthly moisture regime, and filler lime stone. The highest limestone rate did not increase the pH above 7.0. The recommended limestone rate was insufficient to elevate Ca + Mg levels to the adequate level for current production genotypes and systems, which demand higher standards. These outcomes reinforce the need for carrying out further studies and potential revision in liming recommendations for sandy soils.

Productivity effects of agroecological practices in Africa: insights from a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Scholars have proposed agroecology as a promising method for promoting sustainable and socially just agricultural production systems. However, the extent to which agroecological practices will generate the yields required to ensure sufficient food globally remains unclear. This notion is particularly true in the context of Africa, where agricultural productivity is low but levels of hunger and malnutrition are high. To address this knowledge gap, this article undertakes a systematic review of empirical studies to assess the overall status of agroecology-related research in Africa. Using descriptive and meta-analytical methods, we evaluate empirical evidence on the effect of agroecological practices on land and labour productivity. Our analysis of 501 peer-reviewed articles reveals that the body of agroecology-related literature in Africa has been growing in the past 10 years from approximately 10 to more than 70 studies per annum before and after 2014, respectively, with a strong focus on East Africa, particularly Kenya. The majority of the reviewed studies relate to but do not mention agroecology in the title or abstract. Thus, solely relying on studies that use the term may introduce bias and overlook valuable research contributions to the field. The meta-analysis could identify 39 agronomic studies with 392 observations in which agroecological practices were compared to monocrop systems (defined as plots where similar plants grow alongside each other simultaneously and sequentially from one season to the next) with or without inputs as the control groups. The meta-analysis indicates that agroecological practices are associated with a positive and significant difference in land productivity, compared to that for monocrop systems especially so when monocrops are grown without inputs. However, the size and direction of yield differs by practice, crop, climatic factor, soil property and type of control.

Energy efficiency and economic analysis of mechanized vs conventional cotton production system: A comparative study under rainfed vertisols of Tamil Nadu

Energy efficiency plays a pivotal role in optimizing input use and improving the sustainability of agricultural practices, especially in energy-intensive crops like cotton. Due to its high economic importance, cotton cultivation has been in the need of the hour in developing mechanized cultivation practices aimed at improving production efficiency. This study evaluated energy consumption and performed an economic analysis of mechanized versus conventional cotton production under rainfed vertisols in Tamil Nadu. Among the various inputs, fertilizer application consumed the most energy in both systems, followed by labor energy differences between the 2 methods. Mechanized cultivation drastically reduced labor energy requirements (174.2 MJ/ha) compared to manual methods (2215.6 MJ/ha), highlighting the potential for labor savings. Mechanized cultivation also showed more efficient use of non-renewable energy sources, whereas conventional methods relied more on renewable energy inputs, highlighting the trade-offs between the 2 systems. Mechanized cultivation significantly reduced production costs (Rs. 74290/ha) compared to conventional methods (Rs. 140440/ha), largely due to a 47.8 % reduction in labor costs, demonstrating its economic viability. This study suggests that improving the energy efficiency of mechanized cotton production should prioritize efficient fertilizer use and reducing diesel fuel consumption through enhanced machinery performance.

Risk minimizing framework for solar photovoltaics

The complexity of risk assessment and the challenges in decision-making often impede the application of various models to renewable energy systems. This study introduces a comprehensive framework designed to streamline this process, facilitating informed decisions regarding the estimation of risks associated with solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies. Leveraging data and information available in the literature, the framework is particularly useful for manufacturers in selecting materials that balance low environmental risk with high efficiency. The framework emphasizes early-stage risk minimization by integrating changes during PV development, thereby promoting cleaner production systems. It’s interconnected components encompass various approaches to risk assessment, control, and management, providing a structured methodology for risk reduction. Based on available information, the defined steps guide users through evaluating and mitigating risks. Applying risk minimization by metal substitution approach lowers the oral-ingestion and dermal-contact risk by a magnitude of four and six times, respectively. This framework will guide regulatory bodies throughout each step of the product life cycle, suggesting necessary changes and assessment strategies aligned with the perspectives of various stakeholders. By facilitating the identification and implementation of the most effective risk management strategies, the framework aims to advance the development of sustainable and safe PV technologies.

Regenerative agriculture: A paradigm shift for food production in South Africa

Agriculture and other land use practices have severely affected the quality of soils and food production systems in South Africa. In addition, these practices significantly contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Soil quality is generally associated with soil organic matter (SOM) along with elemental Carbon (C) and Nitrogen (N). Approximately 58% of South African soils contain <0.5% organic C, 38% contain 0.5–2% organic C, and 4% contain >2% organic C. The extensive aridity and lack of SOM content in South African soils cause them to lack resilience and have a delicate nature compared to soils in temperate regions. In a country where almost 60% of the land is degraded, and 91% is prone to desertification, farming practices require a revised framework for land management. The challenge of producing food on degraded land that is often water-scarce and particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change is a threat to South Africa's food and nutritional security. Therefore, this review aims to equip farmers with knowledge and principles of innovative and sustainable alternatives such as regenerative agriculture that naturally and progressively improves soil quality/fertility and ecosystem health; and reduces GHG emissions through carbon sequestration. Quantitative studies in South Africa show that during 5–90 years of crop cultivation in the Free State province resulted in a 10–73% reduction in C and N relative to natural grasslands. Similar studies reported a 50% reduction in C after 50 years of cultivation on Hutton soil in Pretoria; and a 50% reduction in C after only 3.5 years of cultivation in the Free State. Considering that the world's food systems are responsible for more than a third of anthropogenic GHG emissions, we are convinced that the shifting trend toward regenerative agriculture is a sustainable climate-smart solution for global food production systems.

Organic Farming in India: A Dual Strategy for Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation

Recent decades have transformed Indian agriculture from traditional methods to a mechanized system reliant on fossil fuels, chemical fertilizers, and pesticides, increasing greenhouse gas emissions and impacting global climate. Higher greenhouse gas levels, including carbon dioxide, methane, and ozone are likely, causing the observed rise in air temperatures and leading to significant climate shifts. In most subtropical regions, a 4°C rise in global temperatures is anticipated to reduce groundwater and surface water, heightening food demand and threatening global food security. Climate change denotes long-term, significant alterations in climate measurements. A production system that maintains the health of ecosystems, soils, and human populations is known as organic farming (IFOAM 2006). Organic farming is energy-efficient and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing chemical and fossil fuel use, while enhancing soil carbon, biodiversity and fertility. It reuses plant and animal waste to restore soil nutrients, relies on renewable resources and supports sustainable, low-pollution management. Organic farming not only helps to mitigate climate change but also provides lasting benefits as an adaptation strategy. Effective nutrient management and carbon sequestration in soils are crucial for adapting and mitigating climate change across diverse temperature zones and local conditions.

Physiological and Biotechnological Approaches in Enhancing Quality Parameters of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)

Physiological approaches play a crucial role in optimizing the plant growth, yield and quality parameters in chilli cultivation. Some key physiological approaches and their influence on quality parameters are stress induction (water and salt stress), hormonal treatment and nutrient management (organic and inorganic fertilizers). These physiological approaches helps chilli growers to meet market demands and consumer preferences more effectively. Biotechnological approaches also can bring major improvements in the quality aspects of chilly. Also the optimization of yield and quality contributes to the economic success of chili cultivation, providing consumers with high-quality products and producers with sustainable production systems.

Nutritional differences in eggs, chicken, and plantain from agroecological, conventional, and commercial systems: a case study in Valle del Cauca, Colombia

ABSTRACT This case study examines the nutritional differences between agroecological, conventional, and commercial products in Valle del Cauca, Colombia. Using a participatory methodology with local farmers, eggs, chicken, and plantain were selected for analysis. Moisture, protein, fat, ash, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium contents were compared across the three production systems. Statistical analyses included ANOVA and MANOVA. Results indicate that agroecological products from the studied farms tended to have lower moisture content. Agroecological eggs showed higher fat content (11.09 g/100 g vs 9.32 g/100 g conventional and 8.45 g/100 g commercial). Agroecological chicken presented higher protein content (22.37 g/100 g vs 20.73 g/100 g conventional and 18.1 g/100 g commercial) and potassium (281 mg/100 g vs 298 mg/100 g conventional and 213 mg/100 g commercial). Agroecological plantain had higher ash content (0.85 g/100 g vs 0.77 g/100 g conventional and 0.79 g/100 g commercial) and calcium (8 mg/100 g vs 5 mg/100 g conventional and 6 mg/100 g commercial). These differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05). While these findings suggest potential nutritional benefits of agroecological production in this region, further studies with a larger number of replicates are needed to confirm these trends on a broader scale.

Effects of Temperature, Dissolved Oxygen Concentration, and Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density on the Growth of the Sea Bivalve Tridacna crocea in Combination with the Symbiotic Alga Zooxanthella

The sea bivalve clam Tridacna crocea inhabiting the shallow sea of tropical and subtropical zones lives with the symbiotic alga zooxanthella in its mantle. Zooxanthellae algae perform photosynthesis and supply nutrients to T. crocea. Recently, the abundance of T. crocea has decreased rapidly due to overfishing in coastal areas in Okinawa, Japan. T. crocea culture systems for mass production will contribute to the conservation of T. crocea and thus marine ecosystems. Environmental control methods for T. crocea culture have not been established because of a lack of knowledge about the appropriate environmental conditions for T. crocea growth. The present study was initiated to obtain basic data for developing environmental control methods for T. crocea land-based aquaculture. The effects of water temperature, dissolved oxygen concentration, and photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) on the O2 exchange rates of the symbiotic system of T. crocea and zooxanthella, which are indicators of photosynthesis and respiration in the system, and the effect of daily integrated PPFD on T. crocea growth were investigated. Basic knowledge was obtained for the development of optimal environmental control technology for T. crocea clam culture. The optimum water temperature and dissolved oxygen concentration for photosynthesis in this symbiotic system were 28 °C, 5–6 mgO2 L−1 and 500 μmol m−2 d−1, respectively. The optimum daily integrated PPFD for clam growth was 20 mol m−2 d−1.

A Digital Twin-based paradigm for programming and control of cooperating robots in reconfigurable production systems

A Digital Twin-based paradigm for programming and control of cooperating robots in reconfigurable production systems

Climate Resilience in Farm Animals: Transcriptomics-Based Alterations in Differentially Expressed Genes and Stress Pathways

The livestock sector, essential for maintaining food supply and security, encounters numerous obstacles as a result of climate change. Rising global populations exacerbate competition for natural resources, affecting feed quality and availability, heightening livestock disease risks, increasing heat stress, and contributing to biodiversity loss. Although various management and dietary interventions exist to alleviate these impacts, they often offer only short-lived solutions. We must take a more comprehensive approach to understanding how animals adapt to and endure their environments. One such approach is quantifying transcriptomes under different environments, which can uncover underlying pathways essential for livestock adaptation. This review explores the progress and techniques in studies that apply gene expression analysis to livestock production systems, focusing on their adaptation to climate change. We also attempt to identify various biomarkers and transcriptomic differences between species and pure/crossbred animals. Looking ahead, integrating emerging technologies such as spatialomics could further accelerate genetic improvements, enabling more thermoresilient and productive livestock in response to future climate fluctuations. Ultimately, insights from these studies will help optimize livestock production systems by identifying thermoresilient/desired animals for use in precise breeding programs to counter climate change.

Integration of Fog Computing in a Distributed Manufacturing Execution System Under the RAMI 4.0 Framework

Technological progress has driven the integration of new technologies in the field of industrial automation, but a structured framework is often lacking to efficiently guide the transition from traditional industries. This article presents the implementation of advanced technologies on FESTO’s (MPS-500) modular production system, using the reference architectural model for Industry 4.0 (RAMI 4.0) as a guide for scaling. It highlights the importance of the synergy between information technologies (ITs), which enables the development of a multi-level processing system. This system performs concurrent tasks, thus managing execution and manufacturing through an MES based on requests from the cloud. On the other hand, at a lower level, a fog computing system was integrated, which relieves the processing load by distributing processes locally. In addition, matrix mapping was performed to map the integrated technologies within the context of a reference model, allowing a clear alignment between the different levels of the system. The results show a significant reduction in waiting times between batches and operations, which directly improves productivity and offers greater flexibility, that is crucial for SMEs during their growth and scaling process towards Industry 4.0.

Development of a protein production system using Ogataea minuta alcohol oxidase-deficient strain under reduced-methanol-consumption conditions.

Methylotrophic yeast is a useful host for producing heterologous proteins using the unique and strong alcohol oxidase 1 (AOX1) promoter, which is induced by methanol and repressed by various carbon sources. However, methanol is preferably avoided in industrial-scale fermentation given its toxicity, flammability, and explosiveness. To develop a protein production system under reduced methanol supply conditions, we attempted to characterize the AOX1 promoter induction activity by comparing between the de-repression and methanol induction conditions. This comparison is important because decreasing methanol consumption would enhance the industrial value of Ogataea minuta for heterologous protein production. For such a comparison, an alcohol oxidase-deficient (Δaox) strain was generated, with methanol only being used for AOX1 promoter induction. We also developed a culture process in a jar fermentor using the O. minuta Δaox strain under mixed feed conditions to achieve heterologous protein production comparable to that of the wild-type strain under low-methanol conditions.

A Modified Simulated Annealing and Enhanced Harmony Search Algorithms for the Continuous Facility Layout Problem (CFLP)

This paper focuses on solving the Continuous Facility Layout Problem (CFLP), which aims to minimize material handling costs by strategically placing facilities in a known or unknown area. The objective is to find optimal or near-optimal facility arrangements while adhering to non-overlapping and spatial constraints, thus enhancing the efficiency of production systems. The study addresses various layout scenarios, including single-row facility layout (with and without clearance), continuous layout, and unequal-area facility layout problems. To achieve this, the authors propose a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) model tailored for continuous layouts. Two meta-heuristic algorithms are developed to optimize this model: a hybrid Simulated Annealing-Genetic Algorithm (SA-GA), which leverages genetic crossover operations, and an Enhanced Harmony Search Algorithm (EHSA), featuring dynamic parameters and a novel improvisation technique. The proposed methods provide flexible and efficient solutions for both small and large-scale layout problems, offering decision-makers practical tools for real-world applications.

Cropping and Pruning Systems of Primocane Raspberries in the Subtropical Climate

Raspberry production is limited to cold temperate areas of high latitude due to the requirement of low temperatures for flowering and fruiting from most cultivars. However, primocane cultivars, as they are less demanding in cold conditions, represent a possible alternative that suits regions with a subtropical climate. The cultivar Heritage primocane raspberry was investigated in the Cwa climate, in three production systems (PS), during two crop cycles. In PS1, canes were hard pruned at ground level after primocane fruiting. In PS2, canes were tipped to promote subapical bud break for a second harvest. In PS3, canes were tipped again after the second harvest to induce a third harvest. PS1 had the lowest yield, however, after two cycles; in plants of this system it was observed the highest root weight, and starch content. Raspberries subjected to subapical pruning show lower carbohydrate storage in the root system. The production systems had little influence on fruit qualities, in both cycles. The cultivation of cv. Heritage raspberry primocane, in the subtropical Cwa climate can be carried out with sequential pruning, allowing for the production of commercial fruits with harvests distributed over the months, without any reduction in the postharvest quality of the fruits produced.

Optimal maintenance and pricing strategy for a periodic review production system with fixed maintenance costs and limited maintenance capacity

In recent times, the escalating complexity of advanced production systems has led to increased exposure to various uncertainties, which impact systems' reliability. To maintain the reliability of systems, reduce maintenance costs and increase revenues, we establish an effective joint optimal maintenance and pricing strategy for a periodic review production system, which is of practical importance. Compared with the existing literature, we make a contribution to considering limited maintenance capacity and fixed maintenance costs simultaneously, and developing joint optimal maintenance and pricing strategies. We initially construct a dynamic programming model for this problem, and prove the objective function is strong CK-concave. We then show that the optimal maintenance strategy is partially characterized by two thresholds, and the optimal pricing strategy depends on the optimal number of operational machines after repairs. Numerical results show that the optimal maintenance and pricing strategy is quite robust, and is not much affected by various parameters.

Optimization of hydrogen production via electrocatalysis using NiCoMo-modified electrodes: An RSM approach

ABSTRACT The depletion of fossil fuels and the environmental impact of their combustion have increased the demand for sustainable energy alternatives, with hydrogen appearing as an appropriate option due to its clean energy potential. This study focuses on developing a laboratory-scale alkaline electrolysis system for hydrogen production. Platinum, known for its high catalytic activity and durability, was employed as the anode, while graphite was selected as the cathode for its cost-effectiveness. To enhance catalytic performance, the graphite electrodes were modified with nickel-cobalt-molybdenum (NiCoMo) using a galvanostatic method. The electrode voltage and molarity were chosen as independent variables to evaluate their effect on hydrogen production. Using the Design-Expert software, the optimal conditions were identified at 3 V and 1.5 mol/l, yielding 10.67 ml of hydrogen. The coefficient of determination (R2) values 98.81% for R2, 97.96% for adjusted R2, and 91.63% for predicted R2 indicate suitable model accuracy. The error margin between experimental and optimized results was only 1.7%, confirming the reliability of the method. This study highlights the potential of NiCoMo-modified electrodes to enhance hydrogen production efficiency. Future research could explore scaling up the system and integrating it with renewable energy sources, positioning this method as a viable pathway toward sustainable hydrogen production.

A model for scheduling the resource deployment in a multi-stage ramp-up production system

Rapid and continuous changes in customer product requirements affect demand, requiring the supply chain to be more responsive. A new product ramp-up is integral to responsiveness, where it is paramount to implement it successfully and manage it effectively. A smooth ramp-up process minimises problems and delays, leading to lower costs and higher profitability. This study develops and analyses a model that describes a multi-stage ramp-up production system to identify the most cost-effective policy for controlling multiple ramp-ups. We propose a search-based optimisation approach to solve the problem. Through numerical analyses, we develop a decision framework to classify the patterns of resource deployment and planning, aiming to make the ramp-up process efficient and responsive to increasing demand. Additionally, we conduct sensitivity analyses to examine how variations in input parameters affect system behaviour. Our findings offer managerial implications and insights based on the numerical results.

Effects of Cleaning Interval, Hapa Layers and Stocking Density on Growth Performance of Sandfish Holothuria scabra Juveniles in Ocean‐Based Nursery Production Systems

ABSTRACTThe mass production of release‐size H. scabra juveniles in the Philippines is primarily done in a floating hapa ocean‐based nursery systems. To optimize its production, understanding the influence of different culture conditions and their management is necessary. In this study, the effects of hapa net cleaning interval, hapa layers, and stocking density on growth and survival of sandfish juveniles reared in floating hapa (L × W × H: 1.7 m × 0.9 m × 1.2 m) nursery system were assessed in two 60‐day field studies. Results showed that the number of hapa net layers and cleaning interval had negligible effects on the growth performance of sandfish juveniles by day 30. However, sandfish juvenile survival was affected by hapa net layers with higher survival in triple‐layer mosquito net hapas (40.5 ± 0.97%) compared to double‐layer mosquito net hapas (17.8 ± 0.62%). By day 60, the growth performance of sandfish juveniles in double‐layer hapas was higher (average weight: 5.0 ± 0.97 g; AGR: 0.13 ± 0.03 g day−1) compared to that in triple‐layer mosquito hapa nets (average weight: 3.1 ± 0.23 g; AGR: 0.07 ± 0.01 g day−1). Survival of sandfish juveniles reared in double‐layer mosquito net hapas, cleaned at 5‐day intervals (85.9 ± 4.58%) was significantly lower compared to all other treatments. Conversely, initial juvenile stocking density did not significantly affect the growth performance and survival of sandfish juveniles in both rearing cycles. We therefore recommend the use of triple‐layer mosquito net hapas during the first 30‐day culture period and an initial stocking density of 1000 post‐settled sandfish juveniles to increase production output. After 30 days, when the juveniles are larger, the use of double‐layer mosquito net hapas and lower stocking density are recommended to reduce cost and enhance growth performance. Where cleaning is necessary, hapa nets may be cleaned at 10‐day intervals to improve survival. The results of this study have important implications for optimizing the production of release‐size sandfish in ocean‐based nursery systems in the Philippines.

Selection of tomato genotypes for organic production systems

ABSTRACT The development of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) varieties adapted to organic production systems is crucial for meeting the demand for organic food and for supporting the sustainable agricultural sector. This study aimed to rescue, evaluate genetic diversity and select tomato genotypes suitable for growing under organic production conditions. To achieve this, the work involved assessing nine table tomato genotypes from different varietal groups in two environments (greenhouse and open field organic conditions). Morpho-agronomic and physical-chemical quality characteristics were evaluated. The experimental design used was a randomised block design with four replications. The data were subjected to analysis of variance, means tests, and Spearman’s correlations. Furthermore, hierarchical dendrograms and principal component analysis were performed to assess morphological variability between genotypes in each of the environments. Dissimilarity dendrograms revealed different clustering patterns under greenhouse and field conditions. In general, the genotypes grown in the greenhouse showed higher commercial yields and organoleptic quality, as well as an earlier crop cycle. The Jumbo, Santa Clara and Kada Gigante genotypes exhibited characteristics that were considered to make them suitable for organic cultivation in both environments, especially in the open field. Gaúcho Marmande presented characteristics (vegetative and physico-chemical) that made it suitable for the open field, while Coração-de-Boi, Bocaina and Roquesso were recommended only for greenhouse cultivation.