Search

In this paper, by adding Co, Mo, and Ni metal binder and using spark plasma coupling high-frequency induction (SP–HF) sintering technology, high-entropy (W,Nb,Mo,Ta,Ti)C cermet with good performance was successfully prepared at 1350 °C. The sintering temperature was much lower than that of the solid-state sintering temperature adopted for high-entropy carbide ceramics (about 2000 °C) while maintaining high hardness and fracture toughness. The effects of sintering temperature, holding time and sintering pressure on the mechanical properties of high-entropy (W,Nb,Mo,Ta,Ti)C cermet were investigated. The experimental results show that the SP-HF sintering can promote the liquid phase flow inside the high-entropy (W,Nb,Mo,Ta,Ti)C cermet and improve the density. The high-frequency induction sintering effect of the high-intensity magnetic metal binder phase (Co, Ni) promotes the rapid diffusion of the constituent phases using the vacancy mechanism and the metal liquid phase, which helps to form a high-entropy cermet solid solution at a lower temperature. The different high-entropy effects of the inner and outer layers of high-entropy (W,Nb,Mo,Ta,Ti)C cermet materials play a role in strengthening and toughening the materials, and effective solid solution strengthening is the main reason for improving mechanical properties. The mechanical properties of high-entropy (W,Nb,Mo,Ta,Ti)C cermet are the optimized at 1350 °C, holding time of 8 min, and sintering pressure of 35 MPa. The Vickers hardness, fracture toughness, and flexural strength are 18.38 ± 0.19 GPa, 9.65 ± 0.25 MPa · m1/2 and 970 ± 30 MPa, Vickers hardness was measured at 49 N load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper comprehensively introduces a new magnesium production technology the compound-vertical-retort technology, involving in the related fundamental researches, core equipment development, working flow, and technical characteristics. Scale-up test and an annual 1200-ton-magnesium demonstration-level test was conducted to confirm the rationality, reliability, and advancement of the equipment, system and process design. It is indicated that the new technology solved a series of problems of traditional silicothermic process including adhesion and glaze, short life of retort, low efficiency, high impurity of crystallized magnesium, large heat losses, and poor working environment, making a great technological breakthrough in this field. Representatively, the new well-designed ceramic-lined steel retort serves 2∼3 times in life than the normal retorts. The magnesium yield per retort is improved 4∼5 times, with purity of >99.8%. The energy consumption in reduction stage is reduced by more than 20%. The mechanical production is fully realized and operating environment is significantly improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Mechanically harvesting strawberries is challenging due to the labor intensity and susceptibility of the fruit to mechanical damage. • A comprehensive review of recent progress in mechanical harvesting of fresh market strawberries was provided. • Four major categories of strawberry harvesting technologies and nearly 172 literatures were reviewed. This article reviews the research and development progress of mechanical harvesting technologies for fresh market strawberries in the past few decades, focusing on the main technologies such as cut-and-separate method, harvest-assist method, mechanical harvesting device method and harvesting robot method. In addition, the report also points out the research bottlenecks and future development trends of these four types of technologies based on the review. As far as traditional cut-and-separate and harvest-assist technologies are concerned, the combination with technologies such as remote sensing, artificial intelligence and plant phenotyping can help to detect the maturity of strawberry fruits and predict the harvest time. The selection of suitable harvesting aids and optimal work scheduling strategies can reduce the risk of musculoskeletal diseases in workers and mechanical damage to the fruit. Mechanical harvesting devices usually include visual perception system (eye) and robotic arm/end-effector (hand). It requires only the cooperation of a small amount of labor to achieve round-the-clock strawberry harvesting. Occlusion of target fruits by adjacent fruits, stems, leaves or other obstacles in the scene hinders the commercial application of mechanical harvesting devices currently in the development stage. The problem of fruit damage caused by the collision of the robotic arm/end-effector still needs to be further solved using methods such as flexible buffer materials, self-adaptive profiling grasping and human–computer interaction. Driven by market drivers and key enabling technologies, strawberry harvesting robots have gradually emerged over the past 3–5 years. The operating model of joint research between industry and academia has brought advanced visual perception systems, robot grasping and handling technologies and artificial intelligence computing power to these robot companies, which has greatly promoted the commercial development of strawberry harvesting robots. Some farmers have gradually adopted harvesting robots, but they have not been widely accepted and put into use by all farmers yet due to low economic benefits. The optimization of the visual sensing system, the diversification of the robot structure and the visualization of economic benefits will be effective solutions to the problem of the last mile of strawberry mechanical harvesting. In the future, with the improvement and advancement of related technologies in agronomy, horticulture, agricultural robotics and agricultural economics, it is believed that robots used for fresh market strawberry harvesting will eventually be widely accepted by all farmers. This will accelerate the transition and transformation of the strawberry harvesting operation from the traditional manual mode to the modern mechanized and intelligent mode, and further promote the sustainable development of the strawberry industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Modern technology altered microbial succession and flavor compounds metabolism. • Lactic acid, starch, and ethanol determine the dynamic changes of microorganisms. • P1 (0–12 days) shows high alcohol production, P2 (12–30 days) flavor compounds. • Monascus , Zygosaccharomyces, and Issatchenkia variations led to distinct flavor changes. Mechanized production of Jiangxiangxing Baijiu (JB) stands as a pivotal trend in today's Baijiu industry. This study, employing high-throughput sequencing and headspace solid phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC–MS) technology, comprehensively analyzed the micro ecology, physicochemical factors, and volatile components during pit fermentation, comparing traditional fermentation Zaopei (TZP) and mechanized fermentation Zaopei (MZP). According to the research findings, the dominant microorganisms in the fermentation process of ZP comprise Lactobacillus , Monascus , Issatchenkia , and Zygosaccharomyces. In addition, functional microorganisms like Zygosaccharomyces , Monascus , Issatchenkia , Leiothecium , Candida , Pichia , and others exhibited differences on day 0 and throughout the fermentation process. These differences are attributed to the effects of distinct fermentation environment and physicochemical factors. Furthermore, comprehensive analysis detected 87 volatile compounds in TZP and MZP, with 56 showing significant differences, primarily including alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, acids, esters, and aromatics. Additionally, fermentation can be classified into two phases based on ethanol and volatile compounds production: the initial phase (0–12 days, P1) primarily focuses on alcohols production, while the subsequent phase (12–30 days, P2) concentrates on volatile compounds generation. The subsequent correlation analysis indicates that variations in volatile compounds primarily arise from shifts in microbial composition, with notable differences observed in fungi, specifically Monascus , Zygosaccharomyces , and Issatchenkia , which drive the disparities in volatile compounds. This study provides an important theoretical basis and practical guidance for the realization of mechanized high-quality production of JB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Multi-dimensional correlations between mechanization and Daqu quality were revealed. • Mechanization improved the activities of microbial metabolism and various enzymes. • Mechanization promoted the conversion of non-volatile compounds to volatile compounds. • Protease and saccharification activities were respectively contributed by bacteria and fungi. • LAB and Rhizopus were closely related to the production of volatile flavor compounds. Mechanization has emerged as a focal point in the modernization of traditional enterprises, offering standardized production and labor reduction benefits. However, little is known about how mechanization affects the microbiota and metabolite profiles of Daqu. To address this gap, we conducted a comprehensive comparison between traditional and mechanical sauce-flavor Daqu using a multi-omics approach. Results showed that mechanical Daqu exhibited higher acidity, amino acid nitrogen and enzyme activity, alongside lower fat and moisture levels. Following mechanization, lactic acid bacteria (LAB), Staphylococcus , Aspergillus and Saccharomycopsis were enriched and identified as biomarkers, whereas Oceanobacillus , Monascus and Scopulariopsis were notably decreased. Furthermore, significant disparities in metabolic profiles were observed between the two types of Daqu based on GC–MS, GC-IMS, and LC-MS/MS analyses. The content of volatile compounds was significantly higher in mechanical Daqu (332.82 ± 22.69 mg/kg), while that of non-volatile compounds was higher in traditional Daqu (753.44 ± 41.82 mg/kg). Moreover, OPLS-DA models identified 44 volatile and 31 non-volatile compounds as differential metabolites. Multivariate statistical analysis indicated that bacteria and fungi primarily contributed to protease and saccharification activities, respectively. Additionally, the co-occurrence network revealed that Oceanobacillus and Scopulariopsis were closely associated with non-volatile compound formation, while LAB and Rhizopus significantly influenced volatile compound production. These findings elucidate the multi-dimensional relationship between mechanization and Daqu quality, offering insights to advance the modernization of traditional industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Superpave 5 presents that compacting work should be integrated into the design of asphalt mixtures. Reducing gyrations for Superpave Gyratory Compacting increases the anti-cracking performance but decreases the anti-rutting performance. To further explore the performance change with decreasing gyrations, the meso-structure properties of Superpave mixtures and the correlation between the meso-structure properties and asphalt mixture performances were analyzed. The aggregate phase, pore phase, and mortar phase were separated first through the CT images. Subsequently, the distribution properties of the aggregate equivalent diameter and inclination were investigated. Besides, the pore phase and mortar phase were converted into PNM(pore network model). The distribution properties and volume properties of the PNMs were explored. Moreover, performance tests were conducted. Finally, the grey relation analysis between the meso-structure indices of the multiphases and the asphalt mixture performances was determined. The results illustrated that increasing gyrations increased the total aggregate equivalent diameter and dispersed the aggregate equivalent diameter distribution. And increasing gyrations made the spatial structure more concentrated. In addition, increasing gyrations made the aggregates rotate along the z-axis in the vertical direction and closer. All the distributions of the azimuth angle became more dispersed. The PNM simulation results implied that the mixture under 50 gyrations had better connectivity of connected pores verified by laboratory permeability test. For the mortar phase, increasing gyrations increased the summation of coordination number, the volume of connected pores, and the volume of channels, which also improved the connectivity. Finally, the high-temperature, low-temperature, and fatigue performances were mostly influenced by the mortar phase through grey relation analysis, and they were improved with increasing connectivity of the mortar phase. The middle-temperature flexibility index decreased with increasing aggregate volume and synthetic centroid distance. However, the middle-temperature fracture work increased with increasing μ and a more dispersed distribution of the polar angle. The results contribute to integrating compacting work into asphalt mixture design. • Multiphases are separated and meso-structure indexes are proposed. • Grey relation analysis is conducted between meso-structure indexes and pavement performances. • Increasing gyrations has a significant impact on the spatial distribution and inclination properties of aggregate phase. • Increasing gyrations improves the connectivity of mortar phase while reducing the connectivity of pore phase. • The properties of aggregate phase and the connectivity of mortar phase make a significant effect on pavement performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A centrifugal side-throwing organic fertilizer spreader is designed to improve the versatility of organic fertilizer spreaders. A discrete-element method is used to investigate the driving layer limit height of the conveyor and the diversion of the guide vane, observe the jet and the disk distribution of organic fertilizer at different fertilizer drop positions, and determine that the gap between the fan blade and guard plate significantly affects the distribution of the organic fertilizer. A mathematical model of openings and flow rate is established using bench tests. Static tests reveal that the coefficient of variation (CV) can be optimized to 15–35%. The operation mode is investigated in dynamic tests by selecting two groups of representative static test results. Group 2 had a coefficient of variation of 15.73% at 0 mm overlap. Group 3 had a coefficient of variation of 18.52% at 1200 mm overlap. The study provides a feasible solution for the design of organic fertilizer spreaders for greenhouses. [Display omitted] • Centrifugal side-dressing organic fertilizer spreader designed for greenhouses. • Determined the non-linear relationship between conveyor flow and openings. • The effects of the gap blade between fan and guard plate on the CV were explored. • Determine the operation mode of a fertilizer spreader's round trip side-dressing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel DBAPA absorbent featured 'self-extraction' property was used for CO 2 capture. • The saturated solution could regenerate efficiently by thermal desorption at 98 °C. • The self-extraction mechanism was clarified by theoretical and experimental analysis. • The polarity reversibility of DBAPA resulted in the performance of self extraction. Due to the strong bonding of amino groups with CO 2 , the alcohol amine-based absorbents for CO 2 capture suffer the disadvantage of high regeneration temperature and energy consumption. To promote the energy-saving regeneration, a novel 3-Dibutylamino-propylamine (DBAPA) aqueous absorbent featured 'self-extraction' property was proposed, for which the fresh solution maintained liquid–liquid two-phase and became homogeneous after CO 2 absorption. Due to the self-extraction regulation, its CO 2 products could be regenerated at a low temperature below the boiling point of water (98 °C). It kept 81.98 % of its initial loading (1.27 mol·mol−1) after the first regeneration and maintained 73.17 % after the sixth regeneration cycle at 98 °C, much higher than that of MEA (28.96 %). Based on the results of 13C NMR and quantum chemical calculations, the self-extraction regulation mechanism of DBAPA for CO 2 capture was clarified. It was proved that there was a vast polarity difference between DBAPA and H 2 O, resulting in phase separation before absorption. With the increasing CO 2 loading, CO 2 reacted with DBAPA to form DBAPA-carbamate, and the solution became homogeneous because of the increasing polarity of the CO 2 products and the strong hydrogen bonds between the products and H 2 O. The amine recovered to its low polarity during the desorption process, and the intermolecular hydrogen bonding with H 2 O decreased. DBAPA separated from the main solution to the upper phase, promoting the regeneration rate at 98 °C. Based on this self-extraction property, the regeneration energy consumption of DBAPA was estimated to be 1.89 GJ·ton−1 CO 2 , which was much lower than that of MEA (3.77 GJ·ton−1 CO 2). The results indicated that the novel DBAPA aqueous absorbent with self-extraction characteristics had good energy-saving potential for CO 2 capture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea) hold significant global economic and nutritional importance, positioning them as a crucial crop in the realm of sustainable agriculture. In this comprehensive systematic and meta-analytic review, we thoroughly examine the extensive research and innovative strategies related to mechanizing peanut farming, with a specific focus on activities encompassing tilling, sowing, and harvesting. Our primary aim is to provide a meticulous and analytical exploration of the far-reaching implications of mechanization in peanut production. We emphasize the urgent need for cost-effective, socially responsible, and environmentally sustainable practices. Through a rigorous analysis of existing literature, we unveil the multifaceted impacts of mechanization on factors such as yield, quality, and losses in peanut cultivation. To ensure a comprehensive analysis, we primarily concentrated on peer-reviewed articles sourced from distinguished databases such as Scopus® and Web of Science™. Specifically, our review encompasses studies published between 1989 and 2022, covering a diverse collection of bibliographic resources. This range spans from the inception of the term "mechanizable peanut" to the most recent publications in these interdisciplinary databases. To refine our search, we developed research-specific search strings by combining relevant keywords, including "PEANUT", "TILLAGE", "SOWING", "DIGGING", "HARVESTING", and/or "MATURITY", along with appropriate Boolean operators. A team of reviewers meticulously evaluated the readability, consistency, and eligibility of papers by scrutinizing titles, highlights, abstracts, keywords, as well as materials and methods sections. We selectively included papers that aligned with our research scope, while excluding studies related to intercropping, rotation systems, fertilization, pests and diseases, and manual labor-related operations. Our findings highlight the potential for increased productivity and quality in agricultural systems that embrace mechanization, all while minimizing losses and their environmental impact. To optimize yield and quality while reducing losses, it is imperative for stakeholders to collaborate and endorse conservationist tillage practices, precision sowing techniques, and advanced harvesting methods. This meta-review serves as a call to action directed at the scientific community, policymakers, and producers, urging them to prioritize the integration of mechanization into peanut farming. This approach not only advances sustainable agricultural practices but also addresses the growing global demand for this essential crop. By examining advancements in conservationist tillage, precision sowing, and harvesting methodologies, we equip stakeholders with the knowledge required to enhance peanut cultivation. We particularly emphasize the importance of harnessing cutting-edge technologies, such as remote sensing for maturity prediction, to facilitate informed decision-making in the field. [Display omitted] • This paper provides a comprehensive review of the literature on tilling, sowing, and harvesting. • Explore advanced technologies like automation and sensors for enhanced efficiency and productivity. • Analyze the significant contributions of research and innovation to the advancement of precision agriculture. • Gain insights into the operation of agricultural machinery [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the actual field speed of rice combine harvester and its influence on grain loss in mechanized rice harvesting in Malaysian paddy field. The study was carried out at rice granaries in Bagan Serai, Perak state of Malaysia during harvesting seasons. Actual field speed of rice combine harvester as daily practiced by the operator was recorded through field observation measurements. Besides that, its influence on grain loss in paddy field was also evaluated. The findings of the study found that the combine harvester field speeds in rice harvesting under Malaysian paddy field conditions ranged from 3.87 km/h to 6.11 km/h. While, the best field speed was noticed to be 3.87 km/h, which contributed only 0.67% grain loss or equal to MYR8.04/ha (USD 1.96/ha) of profit losses. The field speed also showed a linear relationship with grain loss. Conclusively, the results can encourage the improvement of mechanization quality in an effort to reduce rice farmer's profit losses through minimizing grain loss in rice harvesting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "Instrumental Revolution" in chemistry refers to a transitional period in the mid-20th century during which sophisticated instrumentation based on physical principles was introduced to solve chemical problems. Historical and philosophical reflection on whether the revolution was a scientific one has been dominated by general models of scientific revolution, in particular, those proposed by Thomas Kuhn, I. B. Cohen and Ian Hacking. In this article I propose that the Industrial Revolution is a useful model for understanding the transformation wrought by the increasingly important role of machines in chemical research. Drawing on Marx's analysis of that event, I argue that that the Instrumental Revolution bears a striking resemblance to the industrial one. I offer grounds for thinking that the resemblance is not fortuitous, but rather reflects a general pattern of development involving the mechanization of the labor process. It is suggested that the cognitive consequences of radical changes in the means of production, as exemplified in the Instrumental Revolution, warrant the consideration of whether the latter is an instance of a kind of revolution in science rather than a singular episode. • The mid-20th century Instrumental Revolution in chemistry is analyzed using a comparative approach. • A Marxian analysis of mechanization processes in capitalist societies is employed. • Organic chemical analysis before and after the Instrumental Revolution is compared. • The role of machines in scientific change is emphasized. • It is suggested that the episode may be an instance of a kind of revolution in science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We analyze the association between agricultural mechanization and non-farm employment of rural women. • IPWRA estimator and multivalued treatment effects model are utilized to address the selection bias issues. • Mechanization adoption increases the probabilities of rural women's participation in wage employment, local and migrated non-farm work. • The impact of mechanization adoption on non-farm employment is greater for unmarried women. • Adopting semi- or full-mechanized farming increases the probability of women's non-farm work participation. This study analyzes the impact of the adoption of agricultural mechanization and its intensity on the non-farm employment of rural women using the 2016 China Labor-force Dynamics Survey data. The study captures mechanization adoption as a dichotomous decision and adoption intensity using three types of farming strategies: non-mechanized, semi-mechanized, and fully-mechanized. Non-farm work is categorized based on work types (self-employment or wage employment) and work locations (local or migrated non-farm work). Both inverse probability weighting with regression adjustment (IPWRA) estimator and multivalued treatment effects (MVTE) model are utilized to address selection bias. The IPWRA estimates reveal that mechanization adoption increases the probability of rural women participating in non-farm work in general and wage employment and local and migrated non-farm work in particular. The impact is greater for unmarried women than for their married counterparts. The MVTE estimates show that relative to non-mechanized farming, the adoption of semi-or fully-mechanized farming increases the probability of rural women participating in non-farm work, wage employment, and local and migrated non-farm work, with fully-mechanized farming playing a larger role. Meanwhile, relative to semi-mechanized farming, adopting fully-mechanized farming does not have a significant impact on any type of non-farm work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Carabaos can sustain S. japonicum transmission. • Reducing bovine contact with water will result in reduction of human schistosomiasis prevalence. • Mechanization of agriculture can eliminate schistosomiasis in the Philippines. Schistosomiasis is a chronic and debilitating neglected tropical disease (NTD), second only to malaria as one of the most devastating parasitic diseases. Caused by a parasitic flatworm of the genus Schistosoma , infection occurs when skin comes in contact with contaminated freshwater that contains schistosome-hosting snails. The disease continues to be endemic in many regions of the Philippines, where it poses a significant public health challenge due to a lack of healthcare resources. In the Philippines, additional mammalian reservoirs for the S. japonicum parasite, especially bovines such as carabaos, also facilitate the spread of schistosomiasis. We extend existing compartment models to include human, snail, bovine, and free-living Schistosoma for a comprehensive look at the transmission dynamics of the disease. Sensitivity analysis of model parameters shows that the carabaos themselves can sustain the endemicity of schistosomiasis. Thus, we consider the control method of farming mechanization to avoid contaminated freshwater sources. We find that a reduction of contaminated water contacts by at least 77% will break the transmission cycle and eliminate the disease. However, reducing the contact by about 70% will still result in decrease of human schistosomiasis prevalence to under 1% in 15 years or less. Achieving such high reduction of contact rates could be a daunting task, especially in rural areas. Still, the potential to eliminate or at least reduce the schistosomiasis prevalence should be considered an additional benefit of mechanization efforts in the Philippines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Mechanization of agriculture drastically increases labour productivity in crop production, playing a major role in industrialization by freeing up workforce for industry and services. These historical processes are well studied, but there is much less knowledge on their environmental implications, particularly the carbon footprint. In this work, we aimed to reconstruct the complete historical process of mechanization in Spanish agriculture at the national scale, estimating the carbon footprint of traction through a life cycle assessment approach. The assessment includes greenhouse gas emissions from working animals and feed production, and accounts for the historical changes in the energy efficiency of the industrial production of machinery and fuels. The results reveal an increase in the carbon footprint of traction from 3.1 Pg CO 2 e yr−1 in 1900 to 11–12 Pg CO 2 e yr−1 in the 1970s and 1980s, decreasing to 7–8 Pg CO 2 e yr−1 in 2010–2014. Area-based emissions ranged 185–242 kg CO 2 e ha−1 yr−1 in 1900–1933, when the practical totality of traction was animal, and 503–540 kg CO 2 e ha−1 yr−1 in the 21st century, when animal traction had almost completely disappeared. Product-based emissions were similar at the beginning and at the end of the study period, as the productivity growth offset the area-based emissions growth. The results show a large peak in emissions during the main decades of the mechanization process. Thus, the large savings observed in the last three decades start from a very high emission level. The carbon footprint of traction could be reduced by mimicking the logic of traditional organic systems but still benefiting from modern technological efficiency, through the self-production of the fuel. Our analysis, however, shows that a simple shift to biofuels may actually increase greenhouse gas emissions and consume a large share of the current agricultural output. Therefore, its combination with significant reductions in fuel and feed demand would be necessary to achieve its mitigation potential. Highlights • Detailed reconstruction of inventory data on animal and mechanical traction. • Animal traction emissions depend on species mix and feed emission factor. • Higher greenhouse gas emissions in mechanized systems. • Highest emissions during the transition from animal to mechanical traction. • Self-produced biofuels could contribute to mitigation but also increase emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Mechanization of separation and preconcentration processes by flow analysis is noteworthy due to improved precision, low consumption of reagents and samples, as well as lower risks to the analyst, of analyte losses, and contamination. The low efficiency of gas diffusion may however limit the sensitivity of flow-based procedures involving gas-liquid separation. This paper deals with the evaluation of potentialities and limitations of a flow analyzer exploiting a new strategy for gas-liquid separation. The manifold comprised a lab-made syringe pump connected to a separation chamber and solenoid valves for solution management. Gas diffusion without barriers for phase separation was implemented inside the chamber under an air flux, followed by the transference of headspace towards an acceptor/derivatization solution inside the syringe. The innovation was exploited for the determination of dissolved inorganic carbon in natural waters. Sample and an acidic solution were aspirated to the chamber and the generated CO 2 was directed towards a bromothymol blue solution, whose color change was monitored by spectrophotometry. A linear response range was attained within 0.5 and 5.0 mg L−1, with limit of detection of 0.25 mg L−1, variation coefficient < 5% (n = 10), and sampling rate of 12 h−1. An 11.5-fold increase in sensitivity was attained with the proposed procedure in relation to the analogous membrane-based procedure. Results for the analysis of river waters agreed with those attained by the reference procedure at the 95% confidence level. Highlights • A general approach to increase efficiency of gas diffusion • Gas-liquid separation without any physical barrier • Twelve-fold increase in sensitivity in relation to the membrane-based procedure • Manifold comprising a single-syringe pump, a separation chamber and solenoid valves [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture automation is a primary issue and a rapidly developing field for the nation. The global population is growing swiftly, so there is a severe need to fulfill food demand. Traditional farming methods are insufficient to meet the rising demand, so they pressure using fertilizers to increase crop productivity. That fall impacts agricultural activity; sometimes, land stays barren and lacks fertility. This paper is focused on the deep analysis of smart farming-related components such as the Internet of Things (IoT), wireless communication technology, sensors, and hardware. There is serious concern about selecting technology, sensors, and hardware in the different agriculture practices. This may result in an increase in mechanization among various agricultural practices in an easy way. This paper provides a systematic extensive review of the implication of automation in agriculture. And addressed how agricultural operations may benefit from modern sensors, wireless communication technologies, and hardware. Although, major challenges and components have been discussed. Moreover, future applications for crop health, human health, and machine health are also addressed in this study. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • An independent automation stage has been developed for low-noise AFM. • The travel length of the external stage is 10 mm. • Initial position errors (< 6 µm) of the AFM tip stage were examined by the indentation method. • The 30-times-repeated measurements and 10-times-reproduced CD values using an IVPS100 sample were 141.9 ± 0.6 nm and 142 ± 0.8 nm, respectively. • The results of the measured undercut patterns using TGX1 reveals that tip wear was minimized even after the CD measurements. Abstract An independent external stage for low noise atomic force microscope has been developed for mid-range movements so that it aids in measurements of critical dimensions through the low-noise atomic force microscope. The maximum travel length of the external four-axes stage is 10 mm. For image scanning of the specific target region, the sample needs to be moved through two steps: coarse positioning with the external stage and fine positioning with PI XY piezo scanner. Prior to the CD measurements, we confirmed that the position errors caused by the external stage and tip stage were negligible through the reproducibility experiments. In this study, custom-designed software stored the initial position of the probe and then moved it precisely to the sample location to be measured. Subsequently, the sidewalls of an improved vertical parallel structure were measured and the repeatability and reproducibility of the CD measurements were estimated using a CDR30-EBD tip. Finally, we confirmed that tip wear could be minimized by measuring TGX1 samples with undercut structures. Graphical abstract Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MISHELF microscopy [Opt. Express 23, 21352 (2015)] has been recently reported as the background technology of a new concept of compact, cost-effective and field-portable lensless microscope [Sci. Rep. 7, 43291 (2017)] based on wavelength multiplexing and a fast and robust algorithm for twin image minimization and noise reduction. In this manuscript, MISHELF microscopy is expanded beyond its actual configuration by considering 4 illumination/detection channels while retaining its working principle concerning single-shot, twin image mitigation and noise averaging. Proof of principle validation of the proposed improvement is conducted through experiments with a resolution test target and a micro sphere sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Mechanization provided more predictable profit and return on investment of inputs. • Applying inputs by hand disassociated fertilizer from end of season yield. • Chest-mounted spreader can be stop-gap between hand distributed inputs and zero-till. • Labor efficiency was roughly doubled by using chest-mounted spreader. • Chest-mounted spreader increased within and between-field uniformity of yield. Abstract Nepal is at a crossroads of diminishing farm-labor and inadequate investment into farming operations that, among other factors, have stagnated domestic wheat yield. Cultural and economic constraints have hindered the widespread adoption of more expensive precision agriculture technologies like zero-till that have the capacity to improve labor and farm input efficiencies. To capture the benefits from added precision of application but with the ability to fit within the current semi-mechanized seed bed preparation and tillage system, we introduced a low-cost, chest mounted seed and fertilizer. We found that simple mechanization caused yield efficiencies to be positive and significant for nitrogen and phosphate. Seed rates using this method were positively associated with seedling density. This led to both yield and profit being more predictable for farmers. Conversely, hand-applied inputs caused a disassociation between inputs and end of season yield and therefore added a large measure of risk to their farming operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The excellent performance of deep neural networks has enabled us to solve several automatization problems, opening an era of autonomous devices. However, current deep net architectures are heavy with millions of parameters and require billions of floating point operations. Several works have been developed to compress a pre-trained deep network to reduce memory footprint and, possibly, computation. Instead of compressing a pre-trained network, in this work, we propose a generic neural network layer structure employing multilinear projection as the primary feature extractor. The proposed architecture requires several times less memory as compared to the traditional Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), while inherits the similar design principles of a CNN. In addition, the proposed architecture is equipped with two computation schemes that enable computation reduction or scalability. Experimental results show the effectiveness of our compact projection that outperforms traditional CNN, while requiring far fewer parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to provide reference for the development of relevant dredging and processing machinery of the manila clam ( Ruditapes philippinarum ), the clam shell´s microstructure, phase composition, microhardness, nanoindentation hardness and elastic modulus were investigated, the quasi static compression and orthogonal compression tests of live clams were carried out as well. The shell consists of the outer, middle, and inner layer, which correspond with the composite prismatic structure, crossed-lamellar structure, and homogeneous structure, respectively. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results indicated that all the three layers are made up of pure aragonite phase, the outer layer of the shell displays greater intensity and more diffraction peaks than the middle and inner layer. The microhardness of the inner layer, ~ 3.00 GPa, is harder than the middle and outer layer. Both in the middle and outer layers, the microhardnesses of the vertical section perpendicular to the growth lines are obviously higher than that of the cross section parallel to the growth lines. The similar trend was observed in nanoindentation hardness ( H ) and elastic modulus ( E ), but the H/E ratios between three layers and two sections are close to 0.05. The quasi static compressive strengths of live clams with loading along the X (beak horizontal), Y (beak upward and umbo downward), and Z (beak vertical) orientations were tested, and the differences were identified. The lowest strength was found with loading orientation Z, the Weibull strength at 50% probabilities of fracture force is just 153 N. The results of the orthogonal compression tests demonstrated that the fracture force of clams varies from approximately 100 N to 400 N, the effect of the clams´ age on fracture force is more significant ( p  < 0.01) than loading orientation and loading speed. Therefore, the clams´ age and ultimate load of fracture should be taken into account during clam production mechanization, for the purpose of maintaining the clams´ integrity and survival prior to sale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Italian wine-making covers 18.4% of global production and represents the world's largest production. Cultivation of the vineyards foresees the winter pruning necessary for preparation of the next year's production. The annual pruned biomass (1–3 t ha −1 ) is considered waste and is managed by shredding or burning. The possibility of taking advantage of the pruned material in order to obtain biomass for heating purposes represents an alternative that can turn waste into a further product of the vineyard. The easiest form in which to manage the pruned biomass for energy purposes is that of wood chips. Chipping, however, requires specific equipment and has to deal with the problem of residual humidity. Moreover, transport to a processing center represents a critical extra cost. Aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a new mechanization system based on the harvest of the pruned biomass in small diameter (450 mm) round-bales, their natural drying in stacks and then in chip the whole round-bales with a purpose-designed mill, powered by the tractor power take-off (PTO) itself. The trials, carried out in a typical North-West Italian wine-producing area, show that the bottleneck represented by the high water content of prunings directly chipped in field, doesn't represent a limit with the proposed system that foresees a period (4 months) of natural drying of round baled prunings before their energy (thermal) use. Further transformation processes for bulk density increase (i.e. pellet formation) have been considered as upgrade of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the perspective of global inertial navigation system (INS), an improved inertial navigation algorithm is proposed to solve the navigation problem in polar regions. The implementation of navigation system is achieved with two executive units, navigation calculation (NC) unit and parameter transformation (PT) unit. The NC unit is executed autonomously with pseudo INS mechanization under the spherical Earth model. The pseudo INS mechanization is established with the pseudo-Earth frame, which is a generalized Earth frame and is reconstructed based on the switching position selected properly with the motion range of vehicle. Then, the smooth switching of navigation frame and the intrinsic unity of navigation algorithm can be achieved, thereby further unifying the polar navigation algorithm for both strapdown INS and platform INS in a brief form in global regions. On the other hand, the PT units are employed to correct and transform navigation parameters to a corresponding coordinate system with ellipsoidal Earth model and can be conducted simultaneously in parallel, thereby ensuring the navigation accuracy and communicating with other local navigation systems conveniently. Theoretical analysis and numerical results indicate the validity of the proposed algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pruning residues can provide a significant amount of biomass despite being rarely used as a renewable sources to replace fossil fuels. Exploiting such residues entails creating a sustainable and cost-effective supply chain in which the harvesting and initial processing of the residues play a crucial role. The study is a detailed and accurate survey of the harvesting technologies available in Europe for harvest pruning. After defining the main harvest technologies and the distribution of manufacturers in Europe, the survey details the main groups of implements: shredders, chippers and balers. For each group, the most important configurations are discussed, together with the main characteristics of the machine. Some of the main innovations are detailed (modular machines, non-stop balers, densification of the biomass) which can improve the quality of the product and the economic sustainability of the chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 3-degrees of freedom (dof) linear multi-arm robotic fruit harvester models were used to harvest the fruits on high density pear and peach trees. • Pick cycle times of multi-arm robotic fruit harvesters (PCTM's) were low when the arms were arranged in height split configuration compared to length split, height split matrix, and length split matrix configurations. • Harvesting the tree sides separately resulted in lower PCTM's than harvesting both sides of the trees at once with a harvester having the same number of arms while traversing in an orchard row. • Lower pick cycle times (PCT's) that could compete with human PCT's can be achieved using linear multi-arm harvesters. In some cases, it has been shown that fruits on trees with SNAP (Simple, Narrow, Accessible, and Productive) architectures are reachable by robot arms using three linear degrees of freedom; hence, high fruit-picking efficiencies can be achieved with simpler arms. This paper uses digitized fruit position data to compute the fruit pick cycle times (PCT) of robotic fruit harvesters with multiple arms arranged in grid configurations, i.e., operating in disjoint rectangular work cells independently of each other. The effects of the robot joints' maximum linear acceleration and maximum linear velocity on PCTs were studied. As V max increased, the PCT followed a negative exponent power law (diminishing return) for any given A max. Similarly, for a constant V max , the improvement of PCT as A max increased slowed down at higher acceleration values. Also, the PCTs were computed when each arm work cell was designed based on equal fruit load or equal size criteria, using four workspace partitioning schemes (height split, length split, height split matrix, and length split matrix). Equal fruit-load configurations resulted in load balancing and exhibited lower PCTs; the height-split configuration was the best among the four different partitioning schemes, possibly because it compensated better for the fruit distribution's non-uniformity along the trees' height. Finally, the PCTs were computed while harvesting one side of an orchard row or both sides concurrently. Harvesting sides separately resulted in lower PCTs (greater speed) due to non-uniform fruit distributions on the different sides of trees. The insights gained in this paper can inform the design of harvesting robots utilizing arrays of 3-dof linear arms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing mechanization of coal mining, the proportion of fine coal being mined has been rising. To date, the problem of dry separation of fine coal has not been satisfactorily solved. Based on analysis of the surface structure characteristics of a compound dry separation machine, an experimental system with a compound dry separation unit for fine coal separation was established. We analyze the most important structural elements: the effect of the bed plate on fine coal separation and the distribution of the unit bed material layer of the ash separator unit under different structural partition conditions. The value of the comprehensive index, segregation degree of ash and separation efficiency were introduced for evaluation of results. The results indicate an optimum set of baffle parameters ( θ = 45, d = 55–60 mm, and h = 60 mm) for which the segregation degree of ash in the bed material S ash is 0.98, the maximum value of the comprehensive index P is 3.43, and the separation efficiency is the highest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugarcane cultivation is important for the economy of many countries, particularly for Brazil. This plant has been used to produce sugar, ethanol, second generation ethanol, fertilizers, as well as bioelectricity. Due to production growth and the establishment of mechanized sugarcane harvesting, this process needs to be optimized. High costs are linked to mechanized harvesting, which affect the total cost of production. One of the costs of harvesting is related to the long time the sugarcane harvesting machine takes to change the crop row to be cut. To help reduce costs, this work proposes a mathematical model to the Route Planning Problem for Mechanized Harvesting. This mathematical model minimizes the time of maneuvering the harvesting machine and, consequently, reduces fuel and labor costs, among others. Computer tests were performed using data supplied by a company from the sugarcane energy sector located in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. The results were compared to the traditional routes used by the company and proved the efficiency of the mathematical model in supplying solutions that minimize the time of harvesting machine maneuvers. Not only are there economic benefits, but also environmental ones that can be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMD) in the manual harvesting of cultivated mussels. The Ovako Working Posture Analysis System (OWAS) was applied during operations of sea withdrawal and disaggregation of mussels, which are considered as the most difficult ones of the harvest process adopted in the State of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil. On average, 35 work positions were identified during the removal of mussels from the sea and 28 postures during mussels’ disaggregation. During sea withdrawal, 74.4% of the positions were classified as harmful to the workers’ musculoskeletal system, requiring immediate or short-term interventions in the workplace. During mussels’ disaggregation, the percentage was of 69%. Besides pointing out the risks of musculoskeletal injuries to which workers are subject, the research allowed identifying which labor positions should be avoided and how avoiding them to eliminate such risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exchange bias, as an internal magnetic bias induced by a ferromagnetic–antiferromagnetic exchange coupling, is extremely important in many magnetic applications such as memories, sensors and other devices. Voltage control of exchange bias in multiferroics provides an energy-efficient way to achieve a rapidly 180° deterministic switching of magnetization, which has been considered as a key challenge in realizing next generation of fast, compact and ultra-low power magnetoelectric memories and sensors. Additionally, exchange bias can enhance dynamic magnetoelectric coupling strength in an external-field-free manner. In this paper, we provide a perspective on voltage control of exchange bias in different multiferroic heterostructures. Brief mechanization and related experiments are discussed as well as future trend and challenges that can be overcome by electrically tuning of exchange bias in state-of-the-art magnetoelectric devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expansion of sugarcane production for satisfying food and bioenergy demands along with decreasing availability of agricultural workers brings about the concerns on changing the traditional sugarcane cultivation and harvesting practice to mechanization. The study aims to assess the effect on climate change impact via life cycle greenhouse gas emissions along with harvesting costs from 5 current sugarcane harvesting practices in the central region of Thailand. The results show that harvested green cane using cutting machines has moderate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as compared to the other options but it has the highest harvesting cost due to the need for hiring cutting machines which can be quite expensive. Moreover, the insufficient availability of cutting machines in some areas has created a problem of system management. This has led farmers to choose the burning of cane as per the past practice due to the ease of finding labor. Therefore, it could be recommended that the actual cost of mechanized harvesting and good management of cutting machine services should be considered if we need to increase mechanical harvesting. There is no significant difference in the greenhouse gas emissions of various harvesting practices as the largest greenhouse gas emissions are actually from the land preparation stage. Even though the harvesting stage does not contribute much to the greenhouse gas emissions, there is still an opportunity for improvement of both GHG and cost performance for which measures are recommended. In addition, there is a need for further study on its contribution to other impacts such as microbiological properties of the soil and local air pollution from sugarcane trash burning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental footprint of agricultural production can vary significantly both between countries and within a country based on regional conditions and agricultural practices. A life cycle assessment approach was used to model primary fossil fuel energy inputs and greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production of sugarcane in South Africa. Results were calculated for sugarcane produced in two distinct regions, the irrigated North and the non-irrigated North Coast. Regional differences also include terrain, soil, and use of mechanization. Models were adapted to estimate the impacts of burning prior to harvest, leaving a biomass mulch blanket with green cane harvesting, and increasing the level of mechanization for harvest and other field operations. Irrigation contributes to a higher energy input in the irrigated North but differences are mitigated by the lower fertilizer, agro-chemical, and diesel use per ton of sugarcane produced there. Despite higher energy inputs in the irrigated North, greenhouse gas emissions are similar for sugarcane produced in each region. Green cane harvesting reduces energy inputs and greenhouse gas emissions by 4% and 16%, respectively, in both regions. Impacts of mechanization on soil compaction and stool damage result in lower yields and proportionally higher energy inputs and greenhouse gas emissions. Results demonstrate the potential for variability in LCA results based on regional differences in production practices within a country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • • Soil fertility, particularly P availability, was significantly improved by full mechanized cultivation. • • Full mechanized cultivation reduced soil microbial diversity and abundance. • • Full mechanized cultivation significantly enriched some special soil-dominant microorganisms. • • Starch and sucrose metabolism were the most differentially expressed in full mechanized cultivation soil. To provide new insights into whether soil health and fertility in realistic sugarcane production are destroyed by full mechanized cultivation (FMC), we investigated the differential structures and functions of soil bacterial and fungal communities by FMC and conventional artificial cultivation (CAC) treatments in sugarcane fields. The results showed that the soil water, total phosphorus, available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium contents significantly increased, but soil bulk density and pH significantly decreased in the FMC treatment compared with the CAC treatment. The activities of soil enzymes such as β -glucosidase, aminopeptidase, and acid phosphatase changed irregularly. Compared with the CAC treatment, significantly higher β -glucosidase activity and significantly lower aminopeptidase and acid phosphatase activities were detected in the FMC treatment. The soil microbial biomass carbon and microbial biomass phosphorus (MBP) increased; in particular, significant increases in MBP were observed in the FMC treatment. In contrast, soil microbial biomass nitrogen significantly decreased in the FMC treatment. In addition, mechanized cultivation altered soil microbial community structures and their metabolite profiles in sugarcane fields. Although soil bacterial diversity and abundance were significantly reduced, fungal abundance was not significantly different in the FMC treatment. Moreover, compared with CAC treatments, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Acidothermus , Chujaibacter , Conexibacter , and Longimycelium , were significantly enriched in the FMC treatments. In addition, fungal community composition, only Gymnopilus at the genus level was significantly enriched in the FMC treatment. Eight differential metabolites were detected in soils of sugarcane fields between the FMC and CAC treatments and were also found in background (BG) soil. Among them, only organic acids and sugars were positively or negatively correlated with the abundance of different bacteria. Starch and sucrose metabolism were the most differentially expressed metabolic pathways between the FMC and CAC treatments. These results suggest that FMC did not destroy soil health and fertility in sugarcane fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize cropping has often become the only way for many family farmers in Southeast Asia to rapidly obtain a cash income. However, the intensification of maize-based cropping systems is raising concerns about its environmental sustainability. This study contributed to field-based approaches for ex post sustainability assessment of current cropping systems on farms and for the design of more sustainable prototypes, in conditions where the information required for estimating sustainability indicators are not readily available. A 3-year regional agronomic diagnosis was combined with a multicriteria assessment and a prototyping procedure. The latter aimed to increase the performances on the indicators that showed critical levels on current systems. A local diversity of maize fields in Laos was used to test the approach. We defined and used indicators representing farmers' socio-economic objectives and risks for the environment. Sustainability indicators were calculated using data extracted from farm surveys, direct measurements in fields managed by the farmers and crop modelling. Our analysis showed that the most frequent weaknesses in all current maize-based cropping systems were (i) low land and labour productivity, (ii) high susceptibility to weed infestation, (iii) high risk of herbicide leaching, (iv) risk of soil fertility depletion, (v) risk of soil erosion. None of the current cropping systems performed well simultaneously on both indicators of land/labour productivity and control of herbicide leaching. These sustainability issues mainly resulted from difficulties in mastering mechanised crop establishment. Taking the current cropping system as a starting point, prototypes with successful crop establishment thanks to well mastered mechanisation would significantly improve the following sustainability indicators: control of herbicide leaching (improved by 130–340%), yield (multiplied by 1.3–2.3), gross margin (multiplied by 1.3–2.2), weed control (improved by 180–430%) and labour productivity (multiplied by 1.4–3.4). However, it would increase erosion (erosion control divided by 1.6–7) and seasonal cash outflow would increase (multiplied by 1.1–2). Overall, improving crop establishment would increase sustainability (overall sustainability score multiplied by 1.1–1.6). Our results suggest that providing farmers with enhanced capacity to master crop establishment would not solve all sustainability issues of maize cultivation, but at least help avoid a catastrophic overuse of herbicides in that context. • A method to assess sustainability of cropping systems in data-scarce environments is proposed. • Our method is based on measurements in a network of farmers' fields. • We enlarged the focus of agronomic diagnosis paving the way to sustainability diagnosis. • In our case-study, sustainability increase seems within reach with only changes in crop establishment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Two Time-of-Flight technologies have been tested to develop a yield monitor. • Two algorithms have been developed for weight estimation by volume measurement. • Some factors such as illumination or acceleration affect the accuracy. • The developed systems are more stable than load cells under field conditions. • The systems developed are a valid alternative to weighing with load cells. The introduction of fruit tree harvesters on the market allows the opportunity to incorporate new yield monitors. Traditionally, yield has been measured by in-the-field fruit batch weighing systems that employ load cells, which present certain problems as well as oscillations and outliers. We propose the development and evaluation of two distance measurement systems (an experimental one using an array of sensors with low-cost, Time-of-Flight technology and another, commercial system, with a 3D camera) to estimate the volume of fruit harvested in a big box and correlate the volume with its weight. To this end, two algorithms were developed to estimate the volume of fruit filling. Several tests were conducted to determine the field of view of the sensors and the influence of illumination, reflectivity of different surfaces, and vibrations in transit on the measurements they give. Illumination was a limiting factor on the accuracy of the experimental system and required mitigating actions to operate with it. The mean relative error of sensor distance measurement was less than 0.8 % and 1.6 % for the commercial and experimental systems, respectively, which decreased as distance from the measurement target increased. Measurements on matte surfaces showed a lower measurement error than those on glossy surfaces, with error being twice as high in the commercial system than in the experimental system. The error in volume estimation was lower in the commercial system and could be reduced to less than 1.6 % with pre-calibration. In general, with the accelerations typical of agricultural traffic, in dynamic operation the distance sensors provided less variation in results than the load cells, which would require processing of the recorded signals. In the range of filling a box over 150 kg, the absolute error in weight estimation was 5.4 kg for the experimental system and 11.0 kg for the commercial system. However, this error may increase with the use of the experimental system if filling occurs from the center or from the corner. In general, the systems offer acceptable results for using this technology if extreme accuracy is not required. This work establishes the basics of a technology that can be an alternative to load cells and be applied to harvesting machinery to record continuous real-time production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Authors tested a complete new system for recovering wood fuel from the termination of depleted orchards. This operation can generate between 25 and 80 fresh t ha −1 , that can be directed to the growing bioenergy sector. The new system is based on highly-mobile low-investment general-purpose equipment, which allows containing operational cost and speeding relocation between work sites. The new residue collection system is quite flexible, and achieves cost-effective recovery on relatively small fields, often smaller than 1 ha. Under the conditions of the study, trees are cut, chipped and delivered at a cost between 35 and 40 € t −1 (40% water mass fraction), provided that fields are within a 20 km distance from the biomass plant. Use of a standard drum chipper results in a better product quality than if a grinders is used, as is the case for conventional orchard removal operations. Feeding the chipper with a separate loader allows a significant cost reduction, provided that the field offers at least 25 t of fresh wood. In the future, use of remote controls and electronic tethers may allow a further cost reduction, which is estimated at 15%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Bank argued that West Africa's Guinea Savannah zone forms part of “Africa's Sleeping Giant,” where increases in agricultural production could be an engine of economic growth, through expansion of cultivated land in sparsely populated areas. The district of Bougouni, in southern Mali, falls within this zone. We used multiple data sources including a panel survey, remote sensing-based land cover classification, population data, and farmer focus group discussions, to investigate whether the area is following a commonly-described pathway of agricultural intensification due to increasing land scarcity. We then used our understanding of historical change to explore plausible future pathways. Bougouni forms part of the expansion zone of the CMDT, which since the mid-1980s has provided support for intensive agricultural systems of cotton-maize rotations with animal traction and use of mineral fertilizer. In the period of the panel survey (1994–2012), cropped land at household level was correlated with household size: households with less than one full team of draft oxen cultivated 0.50 ha/family member, while households with two or more teams cultivated 0.82 ha/family member ( R 2 > 0.8). At the village level, cropped land increases varied with the amount of remaining available land and the importance of off-farm income. We see some intensification in maize and cotton, and corresponding improvements in food self-sufficiency. However, despite increasing fertilizer use, average maize and cotton yields remain around 1600 and 900 kg/ha respectively, well below national averages. Other crops are still grown in outfields relying on long fallows with limited nutrient inputs. Thus rather than either intensification or extensification the agricultural situation may be best described as stagnation. This may be due to limited incentives to invest in agriculture when compared to opportunities such as gold mining or small businesses, which (in 2012) contribute at least 25% of household income to ten out of 29 households. In future, cropland expansion will likely continue, which could lead to increased conflict between farmers and transhumant herders, and could lead to increased inequality at village level. Factors mitigating the tendency to land expansion include opportunities for off-farm income and migration, or market opportunities and capacity to produce high-value crops such as mango, cashew, or vegetables. This could preserve some remaining savannah area for grazing use and conservation purposes. Understanding household livelihood systems as part of a network of complex social and ecological factors allows the identification and exploration of multiple viable pathways towards desirable futures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In strap-down gyro-compass in-motion alignment, the alignment accuracy depends not only on the quality of the gyroscopes and accelerometers, but also on the accuracy of the velocity provided by the aiding sensors such as odometers. To improve the accuracy of the in-motion alignment, real-time accurate odometer velocity estimation is required. In this paper, the effect of the noise of the odometer velocity on strap-down gyro-compass in-motion alignment accuracy is presented, based on the strap-down gyro-compass algorithm. A velocity tracking model is designed as the state model, to describe the relationship between and among the vehicle’s velocity, acceleration and jerk in the vehicle frame. Based on the velocity equation applied to strap-down navigation system mechanizations, the vehicle’s acceleration in the vehicle frame can be obtained from the specific forces measured by accelerometers. With the observations including the vehicle’s acceleration in the vehicle frame and the vehicle’s velocity in the vehicle frame obtained from the odometer using the first order difference algorithm, real-time velocity estimates are produced by a Kalman filter. The field test results show that the proposed method can successfully improve the accuracy of the odometer velocity. The comparison with the traditional method highlights the superior performance of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the present time on the basis of a number of performed research works, the regulatory base of transport tunneling in Russia and the countries of the Customs Union regulating the order of classification of research and design of tunnels on public highways has been created. Research permitting to establish the indicators and their types for characterizing road tunnels have been conducted, the system of classifying tunnels by types, classes, conditions and groups according to location, design and technical characteristics has been developed allowing to identify construction, structural and technical characteristics, standard construction and technological solutions of tunnels for various methods of construction have been established. As a result, the system of tunnel classification on public highways intended for designation of tunnels in the course of their designing, construction, reconstruction, overhaul and operation corresponding to the international requirements has been created. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of novel robotic harvesters could benefit significantly from a model-based design approach, in which harvesting performance metrics—such as fruit reachability and average pick-and-place cycle—are calculated via simulation, and are used to guide mechanical design. The actual spatial distributions of fruits on orchard trees are necessary for such an approach. Reported methods for measuring the locations of all fruits require several minutes per fruit, and, consequently, have been used only for very small numbers of trees. The novel method presented utilizes high-frequency radio signals and trilateration to measure the locations of all fruits in canopies, at speeds that are significantly higher than those of existing methods. More specifically, a fruit picker wears gloves on which an antenna has been attached. A mobile trailer carries four radio beacons that measure and log their distances from the antenna on each glove, every time a fruit is grasped to be picked. The coordinates of each glove are computed with respect to a coordinate frame attached to the trailer, and the fruit position is approximated by these coordinates. Data from an RTK-GPS and an inclinometer on the trailer are used to compute georeferenced fruit coordinates. Data were collected for 32,193 fruits in eight California pear and cling peach orchards. The measurement rate varied from approximately 8–12 fruits per minute, with an average of 10.8, which is a magnitude faster than existing reported methods. In open space, the root mean square error between the estimated and true distance (DRMS) in the system’s measurement volume was measured to be 10.3 cm. The error’s 90th percentile (R90) was 13.1 cm. In the periphery of and inside canopies, these errors were calculated via Monte Carlo simulation to be equal to 15.7 cm and 24.9 cm respectively. The horizontal accuracies (across and along the row), and the vertical accuracy were 9.6 cm, 4.3 cm and 5.7 cm respectively. The corresponding worst-case relative accuracies were 2.7%, 1.6%, and 3.4%, and were calculated by dividing each accuracy component by the distance between the fruits that were as far away as possible from each other along the corresponding axis. Finally, fruit position statistics, such as fruit elevation and horizontal distance from the row centers were computed and reported for a set of pear trees. Such data can be very useful for growers and for model-based design of harvesting machinery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses some key factors which may arise for successful application of model-based Fault Detection (FD) techniques to aircraft systems. The paper reports on the results and the lessons learned during flight V&V (Validation & Verification) activities, implementation in the A380 Flight Control Computer (FCC) and A380 flight tests at Airbus (Toulouse, France). The paper does not focus on new theoretical materials, but rather on a number of practical design considerations to provide viable technological solutions and mechanization schemes. The selected case studies are taken from past and on-going research actions between Airbus and the University of Bordeaux (France). One of the presented solutions has received final certification on new generation Airbus A350 aircraft and is flying ( first commercial flight: January 15, 2015 ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since machine introduction in the early 1970s, much work has been expended to adapt pruners to vine trellis and physiological requirements, especially regarding the higher bud load their non-selective cuts leave compared to manual trimming. While units have successfully met the former requirement, efforts to meet the latter have been hampered by a broad range of variables depending on cultivar, machine type, environmental conditions and any manual follow-up. Several examples are instructive here. Winter hedge pruning usually delivers best results with low-to-medium basal node fruitfulness coupled with some hand finishing, two crucial factors for achieving the desired balance of crop yield and quality similar to hand pruning but at lower cost. Minimal pruning has by and large proved unsuccessful in European environments, although some of its good features like looser, less rot-susceptible clusters, earlier canopy filling, lower individual shoot vigor and higher vine capacity can be reproduced using a semi-minimal pruned hedge (SMPH) system to better control over-cropping while maintaining desired grape composition. For instance, the best option for winter mechanical pruning in Italian districts today is the single high-wire cordon managed to maintain upright canopy growth for fast and physiologically sound cutter-bar pruning with little or no manual follow-up. A more comprehensive outlook seems to presage robotics for “precision” pruning to deliver a bud load that is adjusted to vine vigor and desired crop level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the objective of reducing the large uncertainties in the estimations of emissions from crop residue open burning, an improved method for establishing emission inventories of crop residue open burning at a high spatial resolution of 0.25° × 0.25° and a temporal resolution of 1 month was established based on the moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) Thermal Anomalies/Fire Daily Level3 Global Product (MOD/MYD14A1). Agriculture mechanization ratios and regional crop-specific grain-to-straw ratios were introduced to improve the accuracy of related activity data. Locally observed emission factors were used to calculate the primary pollutant emissions. MODIS satellite data were modified by combining them with county-level agricultural statistical data, which reduced the influence of missing fire counts caused by their small size and cloud cover. The annual emissions of CO 2 , CO, CH 4 , nonmethane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs), N 2 O, NO x , NH 3 , SO 2 , fine particles (PM 2.5 ), organic carbon (OC), and black carbon (BC) were 150.40, 6.70, 0.51, 0.88, 0.01, 0.13, 0.07, 0.43, 1.09, 0.34, and 0.06 Tg, respectively, in 2012. Crop residue open burning emissions displayed typical seasonal and spatial variation. The highest emission regions were the Yellow-Huai River and Yangtse-Huai River areas, and the monthly emissions were highest in June (37%). Uncertainties in the emission estimates, measured as 95% confidence intervals, range from a low of within ± 126% for N 2 O to a high of within ± 169% for NH 3 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sub-Saharan African women on small-acreage farms carry a disproportionately higher labor burden, which is one of the main reasons they are unable to produce for both home and the market and realize higher incomes. Labor-saving interventions such as hand-tools are needed to save time and/or increase productivity in, for example, land preparation for crop and animal agriculture, post-harvest processing, and meeting daily energy and water needs. Development of such tools requires comprehensive and content-specific anthropometric data or body dimensions and existing databases based on Western women may be less relevant. We conducted measurements on 89 women to provide preliminary results toward answering two questions. First, how well existing databases are applicable in the design of hand-tools for sub-Saharan African women. Second, how universal body dimension predictive models are among ethnic groups. Our results show that, body dimensions between Bantu and Nilotic ethnolinguistic groups are different and both are different from American women. These results strongly support the need for establishing anthropometric databases for sub-Saharan African women, toward hand-tool design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, the rate of land-use change (LUC) is increasing rapidly to support biofuel feedstock production. In Brazil, sugarcane ( Saccharum officinarum ) expansion to produce ethanol is displacing degraded pastures. Intensive mechanization for sugarcane production, could impact soil physical quality in these areas. We evaluated a typical LUC sequence (i.e., native vegetation–pasture–sugarcane) on soil physical quality at three sites in the central-southern region of Brazil. The soil physical properties evaluated through on-farm and laboratory soil analyses were: bulk density, degree of compactness, macroporosity, microporosity and total porosity, water-filled pore space, indexes of soil water storage and aeration capacity, soil resistance to penetration, field-saturated hydraulic conductivity and stability structural index. Calculations of mean weight diameter for the soil aggregates and soil physical quality ratings from a visual evaluation of soil structure (VESS) were also included in this study. From those data we defined a minimum dataset for calculating an additive soil physical quality index (SPQI). Long-term conversion from native ecosystems to pasture increased soil compaction (i.e., higher bulk density, degree of compactness and resistance to penetration values), decreased aeration porosity and water hydraulic conductivity, and consequently, created an unbalanced ratio between water- and air-filled pore space in the soil. Based on our SPQI, the soil's capacity to perform its physical functions decreased from 90% under native vegetation to 73% under pasture. Land-use change from pasture to sugarcane induced slight soil physical quality degradation, in which soil function was 68 and 56% of capacity. Overall, soil physical quality decreased under sugarcane fields, due to decreases in soil porosity, aeration and water hydraulic conductivity as well as increases in soil penetration resistance, structural degradation and erosion risk. Tillage operations performed during the sugarcane replanting (~ 5 years) had a short-term positive effect on soil physical quality, although over time it further decreased the resistance to erosion and structural degradation. Therefore, to convert degraded pasture to sugarcane in a sustainable manner, the soils should be managed in ways that increase the soil organic matter and minimize compaction. These actions are needed to prevent further soil physical quality degradation and to improve both economic and environmental sustainability of sugarcane ethanol production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about the long-term effects of system reliability when operators do not use a system during an extended lay-off period. To examine threats to skill maintenance, 28 participants operated twice a simulation of a complex process control system for 2.5 h, with an 8-month retention interval between sessions. Operators were provided with an adaptable support system, which operated at one of the following reliability levels: 60%, 80% or 100%. Results showed that performance, workload, and trust remained stable at the second testing session, but operators lost self-confidence in their system management abilities. Finally, the effects of system reliability observed at the first testing session were largely found again at the second session. The findings overall suggest that adaptable automation may be a promising means to support operators in maintaining their performance at the second testing session. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the construction of twin mechanized tunnels, a large impact of lagging distance is expected due to the strong effects of external loads and also the time dependence of the tunnel behaviour along the direction of tunnelling. Most researches in the literature focused on the influence of the distance between the tunnels’ axis and their relative position. In this study, a 3D numerical investigation was carried out of the interaction between twin mechanized tunnels excavated in a horizontally parallel section. Special attention was paid to the influence of the lagging distance between the two mechanized tunnel faces. The numerical results indicated that the critical situation in terms of the lining stability occurs when the face of the following tunnel is at the same transverse section as the preceding tunnel. The tendency in the change of the bending moment and the lining deformation in the preceding tunnel and the following tunnel are generally opposite, depending on the lagging distance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although several studies have been carried out on Short Rotation Coppice (SRC) plantations and on their environmental performances, there is a lack of information about the environmental impact of the harvesting operations. In this study, using LCA approach, the environmental performance of two different harvesting solutions for Short Rotation Coppice plantations was evaluated. In more details, for 2-years cutting time poplar plantations, harvesting with a self-propelled forager equipped with a specific header was compared in terms of environmental impact with a tractor-based solution. The LCI was built with experimental data collected during field tests carried out over about 70 ha of SRC plantation in Northern Italy. The following nine impact potentials were evaluated according to the selected method: climate change (CC), ozone depletion (OD), particulate matter (PM), photochemical ozone formation (POF), acidification (TA), freshwater eutrophication (FE), terrestrial eutrophication (TE), marine eutrophication (ME) and mineral, fossil and renewable resource depletion (MFRD). Although harvesting with self-propelled foragers requires higher power and higher diesel consumption, it achieves better environmental performances respect to the harvest with the tractor-based solution. The tractor-based option is characterized by lower operative field capacity (about – 70% for all the evaluated impact categories except for MFRD, which is – 94% compared to the first option). The environmental differences are mainly related to the different machine productivity. From an environmental point of view, respect to the harvesting with self-propelled foragers, the tractor-based solution can achieve a lower environmental impact only in small SRC plantations (< 1–2 ha). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines dynamic patterns of land use, capital investments and wages in agriculture using farm panel data from Indonesia. The empirical analysis shows that with an increase in real wages that prevailed in both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors in rural areas, relatively larger farmers increased the size of operational farm land by renting in land as well as used more hired-in machines through machine rental and/or service providers, which induces the substitution of labor by machines. Machines and land are complementary and, consistently, the inverse farm size-productivity relationship tends to be reversed among relatively large holders. The results support growing (diminishing) advantage of large (small) farms in the presence of rapidly rising real wages and have food security policy implications to many Asian countries where real wages are rapidly rising and small farms are predominant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, newly planted vineyards have been adapted for labor–saving mechanization. This has facilitated the use of machinery, but has meant that most of the soil and water conservation measures, which were assets in the original plantations, have had to be eliminated. This work analyses the effects of introducing drainage terraces and vegetative filter strips in a small basin (0.46 km 2 ) whose main land use is vine cultivation. The basin is located in the municipality of Piera (Barcelona province, NE Spain). Soil and nutrient losses were simulated in scenarios with and without soil conservation measures, using SWAT, for years with different rainfall amounts and characteristics. The model was calibrated and validated using data collected in the basin during the period May 2010–December 2012. The annual rainfall during the study period ranged from 329.8 to 785 mm, with runoff rates of between 4.1 and 21% of total precipitation. In the scenario without conservation measures, annual soil losses ranged from less than 1 Mg ha −1 , in the driest year, to 13.9 Mg ha −1 , in the wettest. Average annual nutrient losses were around 2.7 kg nitrate (N–NO 3 ) ha −1 , 17 kg organic nitrogen (OrgN) ha −1 , 0.5 kg soluble phosphorus (SolP) ha −1 and 5.5 kg organic phosphorus (OrgP) ha −1 . These results highlight the fact that soil and nutrient losses from vineyards contribute to non-point source pollution and also to economic losses for grape producers. The introduction of drainage terraces produced a reduction in soil losses of up to 20%. Introducing filter strips further reduced these soil losses by up to 57%, while nutrient losses were significantly reduced by the introduction of both measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accountings data from 255 livestock farms have been analyzed in order to determinate their mechanization cost. A weighted average value of each part of this cost has been calculated after a classification of the inquired farms. This classification is based on the technical orientation, the size and finally the localization of the farm. The weighing factor depends on the relative importance of each group at the regional level and was determined through the national statistical data. Major differences appear between farms specialized in milk or beef meat production. With more than 750 €/ha, dairy farms need more mechanization than ‘beef meat’ farms which only spend 440 €/ha in average in 2013. The use of external mechanization, mainly through contractor's works, is quite important and represents between 30 and 34% of the total mechanization expenses. We notice that dairy farms with higher gross margin require also higher mechanization costs. In situation of low milk price, the limit where higher mechanization costs are not compensated by higher gross margin is almost achieved. For ‘meat beef’ farms higher mechanization costs are not compensated by higher gross margin. The management of these two kinds of production must be clearly different. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]