Small-scale Operations Research Articles

Extending Knowledge on Biosecurity in Small-scale and Backyard Systems in the United States

The number of small-scale and backyard operations has increased in the United States during the past decade, but there is currently a lack of outreach efforts and readily-available educational materials targeting these farming systems. We developed a webinar series on biosecurity to provide training for small-scale and backyard producers, and training tools that can be used by local veterinarians and extension educators to disseminate knowledge and consistent recommendations more effectively. Fewer people attended the webinars than registered, suggesting a gap between interest in biosecurity and commitment to the topic. Participants in the webinar series reported a high level of satisfaction and a significant increase in knowledge.

Assessment of Small Scale Mine Blast Toe Volume Effect on Fragmentation Size Distribution: An Application of Edge Detection Software

This study explores the critical aspect of blast toe volume in small-scale mining operations and its impact on fragmentation size distribution. The assessment is conducted to understand the relationship between blast toe volume and the resultant blast design patterns. A comprehensive analysis is carried out using production blast result from four dolomite quarries in Akoko Edo, Nigeria, focusing on various explosive engineering parameters. The research employs advanced measurement techniques and statistical methods to quantify blast toe volume and assess its influence on fragmentation size distribution. By systematically varying blast toe volumes in controlled experiments, the study aims to establish correlations between toe volume and the resulting fragmentation size. The Variance inflation factor obtained in this study revealed that the selection of parameters during toe volume simulation must be carried out with respect to stemming length and explosive weight (MIC). The result shows that the maximum instantaneous charge has a negative correlation influence on toe volume as stemming also increases. This reveals that variation in stemming length results in low explosive energy release along the blast hole column, causing toe undulation. Finally, it was also revealed that at the blast mean size (X50) increases, the toe also increases due to the poor utilization of explosive energy at the blast column.

Exploring the risk factors to formal financing for artisanal and small-scale mining operations

This article explores the risk factors limiting access to formal financing in the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) industry. It is argued in this study that to tackle the funding constraints in the ASM industry a bottom-up approach that captures the perspective of the miners who are engaged in these activities themselves is required. This involves understanding more about the limiting factors that inhibit the miners’ access to formal lending from the perspective of the miners themselves. This will provide better guidance when formal lenders scrutinize the documents for issuing loans to this group of miners. This study draws data from participants in the mining industry and from formal lenders who lend to operators in the industry, using grounded theory. Results of the analyses of the study data helped to underpin the credit risk factors that limits access of ASM operators to formal sources of funding. With the knowledge of these risk factors, lenders are aware of the critical areas for due diligence, which minimises their risk exposure and can potentially encourage loan issuance to this sector. Adequate funding for the ASM industry will improve their contribution to the national economic development. With access to formal financing which this study promotes, ASM companies are enabled to achieve safe and healthy operations, with reduced negative impact on the environment. Also, formal financing will limit the prospect of vested interests of informal financiers in the industry, thereby increasing the earnings of the miners from the operations and improving their living conditions. Thus, a well-financed ASM sector can help developing nations across the world to move closer to meeting key targets linked to the Sustainable Developments Goals (SDGs), especially SDG1 (end poverty), SDG2 (zero hunger), SDG8 (decent work and economic growth) and SDG10 (reduced inequality).

Application of Entrepreneurship Orientation and Practices among Business Operators in University Campuses in Rivers State, Nigeria

This study examined the extent small-scale business operators on Rivers State University Campuses are able to imbibe and apply entrepreneurial practises and orientation. Two research questions and hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The population comprised 1,000 university campus business operators in the three public universities in Rivers State. Taro Yamane’s formula was used to select 286 small scale business operators as the sample for the study. A validated 9-item self-designed questionnaire titled "Entrepreneurship Orientation and Practises among Small Scale Business Operators in Universities Questionnaire (EOPSSBOUQ)" was used as the instrument for data collection. The reliability of the instrument was determined through a test-retest method. Mean and z-test statistics were used to answer the research questions and test the hypotheses at a 0.05 confidence level. The findings of the study revealed, among others, that people’s business commitment is very high, and in business practise, small scale business operators take personal responsibility for business outcomes. It was recommended, among others, that entrepreneurs develop more achievement motivation in order to discover more areas for new ventures as well as improve business performance.

Load-Bot- Automatic System for Goods Loading and Unloading

Abstract: The transportation of goods from one point to multiple other points can be carried out manually or automatically using load-bot. In the manual method, human labour is required to load and unload the goods, as well as operate the vehicle to transport them. In contrast, the automatic method involves the use of robotic or autonomous systems to handle the loading and unloading of goods and to drive the vehicle to the desired destinations. Both manual and automatic load-carrying vehicles have their advantages and disadvantages. Manual transportation may be more cost-effective in some cases, particularly for smallscale operations, while automatic transportation offers greater efficiency and speed, particularly for larger operations or those involving heavy loads. Additionally, automatic transportation reduces the need for human labour, potentially improving safety and reducing labour costs. The choice between manual and automatic load-carrying vehicles will depend on factors such as the size of the operation, the nature of the goods being transported, the available resources, and the desired level of efficiency and automation.

Challenges in the profitability of small-scale broiler farming by avoiding injudicious use of drugs and additives

The aim of the current study was to determine the present scenario of injudicious use of drugs and additives in small-scale broiler operations and whether broilers can be produced successfully and profitably without the injudicious use of drugs and additives. First, a survey was undertaken in relation to farmers' basic information and general management methods in commercial broilers, with special attention given to the usage of medications and additives in drinking water. Second, based on the survey data, an experimental trial was carried out to compare the growth performance and economic profitability of rearing broilers with and without the use of said drugs and additives. A total of 540 broiler DOCs were allotted into three treatments: T1 = self-formulated feed (SFF) with judicious use of drugs and additives; T2 = commercial feed with judicious use of drugs and additives (JUDA) and T3 = commercial feed with injudicious use of drugs and additives (InJUDA), with six replications (30 birds/replication) in each. The results showed that the farmers used a variety of drugs and additives in 35 days of broiler rearing; however, the farmers usually did not consult with veterinary practitioners, instead relying on and being instructed by local dealers and medicine company representatives. Although the medications and additives account for almost 6–8% of total production costs, the experimental trial clearly demonstrated that the broilers kept with either JUDA or InJUDA showed statistically (p < 0.05) similar BW (2181.93 g & 2222.53 g/bird), BWG (2110.0 g & 2129.91 g/bird), and FCR (1.62 & 1.57, respectively), whereas broilers in the SFF group showed significantly lower growth performances (BW = 1799.31 g/bird, BWG = 1746.19 g/bird, and FCR = 1.93, respectively). The net profit per kg bird in the JUDA group was substantially (p < 0.05) greater (BDT- 27.34/-), followed by the SFF group (BDT- 25.56/) and the InJUDA group (BDT- 24.49/-). Taken together, these findings suggest that profitable broiler farming is possible without the injudicious use of drugs and additives.

Research on preferential tax policies for small and medium-sized enterprises

The survival and development of enterprises depend on the market. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can often seize the market opportunities left by large enterprises. Therefore, small enterprises and medium-sized ones have a good ability to grasp the market. At the same time, changes in market demand require enterprises not only to provide reliable products and high-quality services, but also to enable SMEs to make timely adjustments to market changes. Small and medium-scale companies are able to do this because of their small scale and flexible operations. On the other hand, the flexible operation characteristics of small-scale and moderate-sized taxers can make up for the limitation of scale, financial and other resources. Adjust the direction of production in a timely manner as well as avoiding industry risks. From the perspective of tax policies for SMEs, this paper analyzes the implementation status of tax policies for SMEs in Tianjin based on the existing preferential tax policies and official questionnaires.

Role and Form of Women’s Participation in the Fish Value Chain in Small-Scale Farming in Lusaka Province

This study evaluated the nature of women’s participation in the fish value chain. Recognizing the indispensable contributions of women in agriculture and fisheries, this research was aimed at illuminating the specific ways in which women engage in the fish value chain and what policies support their aquacultural activities. Qualitative approaches including interviews and focus group discussions were employed. Data was gathered from key informants and women actively involved in small-scale fish farming operations in seven districts of Lusaka Province, with a focused exploration of their roles in the fish value chain and any recommendations they had to enable smooth operations. Document review of policies guiding aquaculture was also done using a gender lens. The findings underscored the multifaceted involvement of women across various stages of the fish value chain, encompassing pond management, harvesting, processing and marketing. Despite their substantial contributions, existing policies lack explicit and targeted measures to address the unique challenges faced by women and to address gender disparities within the aquaculture industry. This research has highlighted the multifaceted role and form of women’s participation in the fish value chain within the context of small-scale fish farming in Lusaka Province, Zambia. The findings underscore the significant contribution of women to various aspects of the fish value chain, including trading and processing, showcasing their adaptability through a blend of traditional and modern methods.

Quantification of Earth Material for Sustainable Road Works in Southeast Nigeria

This paper examines the use of earth materials in sustainable road construction in South East, Nigeria. The study aims to determine factors associated with the use of earth materials, identify limiting factors, and examine strategies to improve their use. The study population comprised 60 engineers and craftsmen using local materials. The results show limitations in the use of earth materials in sustainable road works. The study recommends contracting firms to develop better storage facilities for earth materials to prevent damage and wastage. It also suggests incorporating earth materials into construction education curriculums to sensitize students to their potential benefits. The government should adopt a policy of adapting earth materials that require minimal capital and foreign exchange and utilizing available raw materials and skills in small-scale operations. The study's findings highlight the importance of sustainable road construction in Nigeria's socio-economic growth.

Exploring the quality and safety issues in the coconut oil processing industry in Sri Lanka: A Review

Coconut oil is a significant dietary component in Sri Lanka and serves as the primary source of fat for Sri Lankans, primarily used for culinary purposes. This review focuses on the quality and safety concerns within the coconut oil processing industry of Sri Lanka. The study collected data through interviews with industry personnel, conducted field visits to both small-scale and large-scale operations, and analyzed existing research. Several factors impact the quality and safety of coconut oil products. Key issues include the increase in free fatty acid content, the production of aflatoxin in copra, phthalate contamination from packaging, and the contamination of coconut oil with polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAH). These quality and safety concerns result from cross-contamination with metals and other chemicals during equipment use, a shortage of trained personnel, insufficient laboratory testing of oil quality parameters before market distribution, and inadequate surveillance of small and medium-sized oil mills by regulatory bodies. Additionally, the local market faces high levels of adulteration, where coconut oil is mixed with lower-quality oils, stored improperly, or is of overall poor quality. Issues related to coconut cultivation include a decline in yields due to inefficient land usage, reduced productivity, climate change impacts, pest infestations, diseases, and increased production costs. The adulteration problem arises from the supply-demand gap for coconut oil in Sri Lanka and the high cost of producing one litre of good-quality coconut oil. The Sri Lankan government and the Sri Lanka Standards Institution have introduced a product standard for coconut oil production, outlining key parameters for the final product. Nevertheless, the absence of a comprehensive process standard affects quality control throughout production. Small and medium-scale producers lack awareness of SLSI standards, leading to non-compliance, along with an absence of regular quality and safety checks. Consequently, stringent enforcement is necessary to address these challenges. While improvements have been made, unresolved issues remain; therefore, a quality assurance system for the coconut oil processing industry is an urgent requirement, especially for small and medium-scale oil production facilities, which are key suppliers to the local market.

Review of livestock biosecurity resources and trainings: Local, state, federal, and international organizations

PurposeThis study evaluates the accessibility and availability of publicly accessible biosecurity resources in the Fall of 2021, as part of the IN-PREPared and Gearing Up for Safety program. The research into the quantity of material underscores the importance of these resources for disease threat awareness and highlights the need for improved biosecurity resource development for small-scale farming communities and overall biosecurity resources which impact global agricultural operations and food security. Design/methodology/approachThis review consisted of resources on agricultural biosecurity literature, websites, and training materials, involving over 125 agencies and organizations. This analysis provides insights into the distribution of resources across different regions and their availability based on farm scale and production type. FindingsOur research reveals both a geographic distribution trend of material that favors Midwestern states and significant disparities in available materials. Additionally, there are more resources that have content that focus on “general biosecurity’ and are focused on larger operations than that of small-farm biosecurity operations. International resources generally focus on overall importance of biosecurity and aspects of One Health. Practical ImplicationsThis review underscores the crucial role of biosecurity resources in enhancing disease threat awareness and safeguarding the food supply and global impact of international trade within agriculture. This emphasizes the need to address resource deficiencies for small-scale farms, particularly regarding specific livestock concentrations. Theoretical ImplicationsThe study confirms with previous research on limited resources, emphasizing the need for a more equitable approach to disseminating biosecurity information, especially for small-scale farming. Implications highlight the importance of resources, training, and informed decision-making for all farming communities, highlighting the significance of risk-based agricultural materials. Originality/ValueThe research adds value by shedding light on the unequal distribution of biosecurity resources, especially concerning small-scale farming operations. While the study primarily focuses on livestock and animal health, it acknowledges the importance of crop biosecurity, thus contributing to a broader understanding of agricultural protection. The significance of collaboration and information sharing in the global context of biosecurity extends beyond national borders and requires a coordinated effort.

Online characterization of solid biofuels via pocket sized and low-cost near-infrared devices during small-scale boiler operation: Model development, evaluation and application tests

Optimal boiler settings are required to ensure high efficiencies during biomass combustion and to enable compliance with emission thresholds despite lower and fluctuating fuel qualities. Thus, an affordable and simple near-infrared retrofit solution for online fuel characterization was developed and tested to allow for automatic adjustments of the boiler control with respect to actual characteristics of the used fuel assortments. To this end, a low-cost online near-infrared spectroscopy device (SCiO™, Consumer Physics), with investment costs less than 1000 € was employed. Partial least squares regression models based on 13 different spectral preprocessing methods for the prediction of moisture, ash, nitrogen and potassium content, as well as the net calorific value were developed and validated in the lab. The resulting model predictions of biomass properties agree in terms of root mean square error and R2 with the reference values obtained from laboratory analysis. Furthermore, a near-infrared retrofit solution was successfully coupled to the fuel feeding system of a commercially available small-scale biomass boiler for automatic and continuous operation. The automatically predicted values obtained by the near-infrared retrofit solution during continuous boiler operation are stable while the predicted values for moisture and net calorific value are in the range of the reference values obtained from the laboratory analysis but with a small offset. Non-reliable results were obtained for ash and nitrogen content.

Impact of a small-scale tsetse fly control operation with deltamethrin impregnated "Tiny Targets" on tsetse density and trypanosomes' circulation in the Campo sleeping sickness focus of South Cameroon.

Significant progress has been made towards African sleeping sickness elimination in the last decade. Indeed, the World Health Organization (WHO) global goal of eliminating the chronic form of the disease as a public health problem was achieved in 2020 (i.e., < 2,000 new cases per year). Vector control has played an important role in achieving this goal. In this study, we evaluated the impact of the insecticide impregnated Tiny Targets on tsetse fly densities and their infection rates with Trypanosoma spp in the Campo sleeping sickness focus of South Cameroon. The study site was divided into two areas: (i) the south-west experimental area, which included vector control, and (ii) the eastern part as the non-intervention area. After compiling the baseline entomological data (tsetse densities and trypanosome infection rates), around 2000 Tiny Targets were deployed in the South-West area and replaced every six months for two years. Post-intervention surveys were conducted every six months to determine tsetse densities and levels of trypanosome infections with PCR-based methods. Following the intervention, tsetse mean catches decreased by 61% after six months, and up to 73% after twelve months (pre-intervention: 2.48 flies/trap/day, 95%CI [1.92-3.14]; 12-months post-intervention: 0.66 tsetse/trap/day, 95%CI [0.42-0.94]). This decrease was not sustained after 18 months, and the mean catch doubled compared to that after 12 months. After 24 months, the mean catches still increased by 17% (18 months: 1.45 tsetse/trap/day, 95%CI [1.07-1.90] and 24 months: 1.71 tsetse/trap/day, 95%CI [1.27-2.24]). In the non-intervention area, a variation in tsetse catches was observed during the two years, with a general increase from 2.43 [0.73-5.77] to 3.64 [1.47-7.70] tsetse/trap/day. In addition, trypanosome infection rates dropped by 75% in both areas (P-value < 0.001) from 21.20% to 5.06% and from 13.14% to 3.45% in intervention and control areas respectively. Tiny targets have proven useful in reducing tsetse population densities and trypanosome infection rates, providing evidence for the integration of this tool in current strategies towards trypanosomiasis elimination in Campo. The non-sustained decrease of tsetse densities after one year may indicate reinvasions from neighbouring breeding sites or that the intervention area was not large enough. Our results show the need to scale up by accessing difficult breeding sites and extend the tiny targets to the whole transborder focus.

Financial Management Strategies and the Sustainability of Small-Scale Business in River State Public Universities, Nigeria

The study examined financial management strategies and the sustainability of small-scale business in River State public universities, Nigeria. The population of the study comprised sixty-five (65) small-scale business operators that registered with the university management in the study area. A 20-item questionnaire titled “Financial Management Strategies and the Sustainability of Small-Scale Businesses (FMSSSSB)” tool was utilized for data collection. Fifteen (15) small-business owners from the University of Calabar were used to test the internal consistency that produced an overall reliability coefficient of 0.79. The study issues were addressed employing the mean (X) and standard deviations (SD), bar graph, line graph and an independent t-test was employed to assess the null hypotheses at the 0.05 level of significance. Results show that records management techniques and inventory management control influence the Sustainability of Small-Scale Businesses in River State public universities. It was determined that records are crucial to the management of small businesses' sustainability and that they must be treated carefully throughout their creation, maintenance, and disposal. As records are the cornerstone and foundation upon which modern business exists, it was also advised, amid other things, that owners of small businesses try to get involved in the records management process.&#x0D; &#x0D; Received: 18 August 2023 / Accepted: 21 October 2023 / Published: 5 November 2023

U.S. Small-Scale Livestock Operation Approach to Biosecurity

Agricultural biosecurity is a pressing global issue that must be given continuous attention by researchers, producers, consumers, and government agencies responsible for food security. This article examines the relevant literature specifically related to recommended practices for U.S. small-scale farms and ranches to minimize potential disease susceptibility in animals and humans. Current training and educational resources appear to focus on mechanisms of disease transmission and ecological and/or social factors that support mitigation efforts. Training against biological incursion and knowledge of diseases are typically focused on serving the continuing educational needs of veterinarians, epidemiological groups, and animal health technicians for large-scale facilities. However, there is a gap in the available resources that could be beneficial to keepers of livestock, smaller farmers, and ranchers who lack the financial capability to employ the most proven prevention or mitigation strategies. There have been limited comprehensive reviews in the U.S. of disease control, perception, education, or analysis on current prevention measures among small-scale producers. Findings from a review of the literature were used to formulate disease-prevention training resources and outreach strategies directed at U.S. small-scale farm operators and those likely to be involved in disease outbreak situations (e.g., veterinarians, first responders, and family members). The evaluation of the current types and causes of diseases, along with their respective level of current threat to agriculture, was a fundamental strategy to achieve this goal while reviewing literature focused on U.S. biosecurity and international biosecurity. Developing an evidence-based approach to prevention measures for biosecurity operations will allow for more effective execution and adoption of protocols for small-scale farms.

Removal efficiencies of emissions of volatile organic compounds by adsorption systems installed in small-scale auto-repair painting operations

Removal efficiencies of emissions of volatile organic compounds by adsorption systems installed in small-scale auto-repair painting operations

Constraints Perceived by Farmers in Fish Farming: A Review Analysis

The adoption of scientific fish farming faces multiple constraints encompassing economic, infrastructural, technological, marketing, societal, and extension-related challenges. Economically, the substantial upfront investment required for infrastructure and operational costs deters potential fish farmers, especially small-scale operators. Inadequate access to financing further exacerbates this issue. Insufficient infrastructure, including poor transportation networks and processing facilities, hampers the efficient distribution and marketing of fish products. Limited access to scientific farming technology and disease management techniques hinders the adoption of advanced practices, while price fluctuations and a lack of organised markets pose marketing-related challenges. Cultural norms and societal dynamics can influence fish farming practices, sometimes hindering the adoption of sustainable farming. To overcome these constraints, collaborative efforts among the government departments, institutes, banks, NGOs etc. are essential. Strategies include providing financial support mechanisms, infrastructure development, dissemination of latest technical known how and training, establishing market chain, and respecting local social norms. Addressing these issues collectively could unlock the full potential of fish farming, promoting food security, livelihood enhancement and sustainable development.

Agricultural Specialization Threatens Sustainable Mental Health: Implications for Chinese Farmers’ Subjective Well-Being

China’s agriculture is increasingly becoming more specialized. However, specialized production has disrupted traditional farming culture and may threaten sustainable mental health. This study takes Chinese farmers’ subjective happiness and agricultural production outsourcing as the research object, in an attempt to reveal the possible unhappy impacts of Chinese-style agricultural specialization represented by agricultural production outsourcing. First, we construct a theoretical framework of the relationship between agricultural production outsourcing and farmers’ subjective well-being. Secondly, based on more than 3800 household survey data collected by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in 2020, we use the classical econometrics and psychological analysis methods such as the Ordered Probit model and the instrumental variable estimation to conduct a rigorous impact assessment. The results show that for every doubling of agricultural outsourcing expenditure, the probability that farmers think they are very happy decreases by about 21%, and the probability that they think they are relatively happy decreases by about 9%. The groups affected by the negative psychological impact mainly include farmers growing rice and corn, farmers in hills and mountains, and farmers with small-scale operations. Further analysis shows that outsourcing risks, the weakening of farmers’ professional autonomy, and family split caused by agricultural outsourcing bring unhappiness, and the increase in income cannot offset the negative psychological effect of outsourcing. The findings of this study may bring inspiration to other countries with agricultural outsourcing markets and programs to improve the national subjective well-being.

Exploring Hydroponics and the Associated Technologies for Use in Medium-and Small-scale Operations: A Review

Exploring Hydroponics and the Associated Technologies for Use in Medium-and Small-scale Operations: A Review

Identification of Contamination Sources and Assessment of Risk Factors Associated with the Occurrence of Escherichia coli O157:H7 on Small-scale Cow-calf Operations in Oklahoma and Louisiana

Escherichia coli O157:H7 is a human pathogen that exists as part of the commensal microflora of cattle and is shed in animal feces. Little is known about the effect of management practices on its occurrence and transmission on small-scale cow-calf operations. Identification of risk factors associated with farm practices could help implement effective measures to control E. coli O157:H7. This study quantified the risk of E. coli O157:H7 occurrence associated with cow-calf farm practices using risk modeling. Management practices of small-scale cow-calf operations in OK and LA were assessed through survey-based research. Fecal, water, sediments and water-trough-swab samples were collected to determine the incidence of E. coli O157:H7, and potential on-farm contamination sources and risk factors identified. Association between the occurrence of pathogen and farm practices was determined using two risk assessment models (I and II). Model I determined the association of E. coli O157:H7 occurrence with water source, water container, feed, cattle breed, and herd density, while Model II determined its association with farm cleanliness. For both models, logistic regression was followed using a two-step approach, univariable and multivariable analysis. In OK and LA, E. coli O157:H7 was present in 5.8% and 8.8% fecal, 4.4% and 9.4% water, 10.3% and 9.6% sediments, and 1.5% and 10.6% water-trough-swab samples, respectively. In Model I, univariable analysis identified water container and feed, whereas multivariable analysis identified feed as a significant risk factor. In Model II, the univariable analysis found cleanliness of cattle-contact areas, such as, alleyways, water-trough, chute and equipment, to be a significant risk factor. In multivariable analysis, only the cleanliness of water-trough was identified to be a significant risk factor. Results from the study could aid in the development of on-farm best management practices for the reduction of E. coli O157:H7.