bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon balance and energy fluxes of a Mediterranean crop
Authors: Consoli Simona , Facini Osvaldo , Motisi Antonio , Nardino Marianna , Papa Rita , Rossi Federica , Barbagallo Salvatore
Published: September 2016

This paper is based on the analysis of a long-term mass (carbon dioxide, water vapour) and energy (solar radiation) balance monitoring programme carried out during years 2010 and 2012 in an irrigated orange orchard in Sicily, using the Eddy Covariance (EC) method. Orange (Citrus sinensis L.) is one of the main fruit crops worldwide and its evergreen orchard may have a great potential for carbon sequestration, but few data are currently available. In the study, the role of the orchard system in sequestering atmospheric CO2 was analyzed, thus contributing to assess the carbon balance of the specie in the specific environment.Vertical energy fluxes of net radiation, soil heat, sensible heat and latent heat fluxes were measured at orchard scale by EC. Evapotranspiration (ET) values were compared with upscaled transpiration data determined by the sap flow heat pulse technique, evidencing the degree of correspondence between instantaneous transpirational flux at tree level and the micrometeorological measurement of ET at orchard level.
Runoff generation processes in a Mediterranean research catchment (Sardinia)
Authors: Niedda Marcello , Castellini Mirko , Giadrossich Filippo , Pirastru Mario
Published: September 2016

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Application of the new Morphological Quality Index in the Cordevole river (BL, Italy)
Authors: Rigon E. , Moretto J. , Delai F. , Picco L. , Ravazzolo D. , Rainato R. , Lenzi M.A.
Published: September 2016

The evaluation of the morphological quality of rivers is essential to define the level of alteration and for implementing future management strategies that consider also hazards related to fluvial processes and channel dynamics. This type of evaluation is particularly significant for the Italian rivers, that, as in many other European countries, have a very high level of human pressure. Recently, in Italy, the National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research has promoted a methodology named IDRAIM for hydromorphological analysis of streams that pursues an integrated approach aimed at a harmonized implementation of both the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD, 2000/60/EC), and the EU Floods Directive (2007/60/EC). In this paper we present the application of the Morphological Quality Index (MQI) protocol, which is part of IDRAIM, to determine the assessment of the morphological quality of the Cordevole River. The water network (only collectors greater than thirdorder were considered), has been divided, through GIS software, into 132 river reaches of homogeneous morphological characteristics, according to the first phase of the method. At this stage the semi-automatic calculation of lateral confinement (defined by “degree of confinement” and a “confinement index”) was tried, in order to reduce the implementing time. The application of 28 indicators was made for 42 reaches representing the major river types and human pressures in the site investigation. The results showed that 48% of the analyzed reaches have a very good or good quality status, 38% have a moderate morphological quality, while only 14% have the characteristics of poor or very poor quality. The main causes that lead to a strong alteration of the terms of reference are linked to i) poor connectivity between hillslopes and river corridor, that is very important for the natural supply of sediment and large wood; ii) absence of vegetation in the river corridor, that is functional to a range of geomorphic processes; iii) presence of artificial elements, particularly the bedload interception structures in the catchment, bank protection along the reach, and the removal of sediment, large wood and vegetation.
Erosion - deposition evaluation through hybrid DTMs derived by LiDAR and colour bathymetry: the case study of the Brenta, Piave and Tagliamento rivers
Authors: Moretto J. , Delai F. , Rigon E. , Picco L. , Lenzi M.A.
Published: September 2016

Risk management and flood protection are frequently assessed through geo-morphometric evaluations resulting by floods events. If we aim at elevation models with high resolutions and covering large areas, airborne LiDAR surveys can represent a good compromise among costs, time and uncertainty. The major limitation of the nonbathymetric LiDAR surveys consists in the detection of wet areas. Indeed, accounting for more than 20 cm of water depth, LiDAR signal increases exponentially its error. In this paper we present a comparison of the results concerning the application of a colour bathymetry methodology for the production of hybrid DTMs (HDTM). These elevation models were derived by merging LiDAR data for the dry areas and colour bathymetry for the wet areas. The methodological approach consists in a statistical regression between water depth and RGB band intensity values from contemporary aerial images. This methodology includes the use of filters in order to reduce possible errors due to the application of the model, to estimate precise “in-channel” points. The study areas are three different human impacted gravel-bed rivers of the North-East of Italy. This methodology has been applied in three sub-reaches of Brenta River, two of Piave River and two of Tagliamento River before and after relevant flood events with recurrence interval 􀀐 10 years. Potentials and limitations of the applied bathymetric method, the comparison of its use in different fluvial contexts and its possibility of employment for geo-morphometric evaluations, were then tested. DGPS control points (1841, 2638, 10473 respectively for Brenta, Piave and Tagliamento River) were finally used to evaluate the accuracy of wet areas. Results showed that, in each model, wet areas vertical errors were comparable to those featured by LiDAR data for the dry areas.
A simple field method to measure the hydrodynamic properties of soil surface crust
Authors: Alagna Vincenzo , Bagarello Vincenzo , Di Prima Simone , Giordano Giuseppe , Iovino Massimo
Published: September 2016

The hydraulic resistance of the surface crust was determined by a combination of two infiltrometric techniques: first, a surface measurement of steady-state infiltration rate is conducted by a mini-disk tension infiltrometer (MDI); then, the surface crust is removed, its thickness is measured, and a ponded infiltration test is performed at the same site. The Beerkan Estimation of Soil Transfer parameters (BEST) method is applied to estimate the hydraulic properties of the underlying soil provided the particlesize distribution and the bulk density are known. Under the assumption of a unit gradient of hydraulic head below the soil crust, the pressure head at the interface crust-soil is derived. Finally, the hydraulic conductivity of the crust is calculated from the steady-state water flow measured by the MDI and the Darcy law. The method was tested in a sandy loam and a clay soil. In the sandy loam soil, a 2-3 mm thick slaking crust was visually observed, but no increased surface hydraulic resistance was detected in 10 out of 11 cases. In the clay soil, a 5-7 mm thick crust was formed by gradual coalescence of the plastic, wet aggregates by rainfall compaction. In 10 out of 15 tests, the steady-state infiltration rate with the crust was lower than the underlying soil saturated hydraulic conductivity, denoting an increased hydraulic resistance of the surface crust. For the clay soil, the mean value of the hydraulic resistance was practically independent of the crust thickness and varied between 78 and 81 min.
Evaluation of short-term geomorphic changes along the Tagliamento river using LiDAR and terrestrial laser scanner surveys
Authors: Rainato R. , Picco L. , Cavalli M. , Mao L. , Delai F. , Ravazzolo D. , Lenzi M.A.
Published: September 2016

In the recent years a change in the predominant morphology of several river environments has taken place, consisting in a reduction of the braided pattern in favor to wandering or straight configurations. This evolution seems to be due, according to the scientific community, to anthropic causes and, in particular, to the alteration of flow regimes as well as the reduction of sediment transport. Braided rivers are characterized by two or more active channels, separated by bars and fluvial islands and normally feature a high morphological dynamism. This dynamism is the result of the interaction among different elements as sediment supply, flow regime and in-channel and perifluvial vegetation. These factors have a fundamental role in the erosion and deposition processes which are the basis of the morphological changes. The aims of this study are the assessment of the short period geomorphic and volumetric changes occurred along a reach of the Tagliamento River and the comparison between the results obtained from LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and TLS (Terrestrial Laser Scanner) data. The Tagliamento river is a natural gravel-bed river located in the NE of Italy, characterized by a relatively low degree of human disturbances. The analyses were carried out considering two different scales (a reach of about 430 ha and a sub-reach of about 25 ha) and were based on two subsequent datasets in order to investigate the shortterm geomorphic changes due to eight significant floods. The surveys were performed using two different datasets derived from LiDAR and TLS technologies and used to analyze the reach and sub-reach respectively. The short-term estimates of geomorphic and volumetric changes were performed using DEMs of Difference (DoD) based on a Fuzzy Inference System. The results have confirmed the high dynamism of the Tagliamento river, estimating a prevalent deposition at reach and a predominant erosion at sub-reach levels. Finally, a comparative qualitative assessment of the output derived from the different data sources was performed, showing little differences between the two survey methods that proved to be both precise and reliable.
Hydrometeorological monitoring for water balance determination at plot scale
Authors: Sommella A. , Palladino Mario , Comegna A. , Coppola A.
Published: September 2016

To provide adequate answers to recurring problems in land and water resources management, nowadays the use of physically based models is widespread. The reliability of the responses of this kind of model is closely linked to the precision with which model parameters are determined, such as soil hydraulic characteristics and meteorological variables. In this work, we set up a complete station for the monitoring of both meteorological and soil variables, as well as a soil hydraulic characterization. The experimental site shows vertic characteristics and is in Guardia Perticara, Basilicata region, Italy.
A 2D hydrodynamic-sedimentological model for gravel bed rivers. Part II, Case study: the Brenta River in Italy
Authors: Kaless Gabriel , Moretto Johnny , Delai Fabio , Mao Luca , Lenzi Mario A.
Published: September 2016

A 2D depth average model has been used to simulate water and sediment flow in the Brenta River so as to interpret channel changes and to assess model predictive capabilities. The Brenta River is a gravel bed river located in Northern Italy. The study reach is 1400 long and has a mean slope of 0.0056. High resolution digital terrain models has been produced combining laser imaging detection and ranging data with colour bathymetry techniques. Extensive field sedimentological surveys have been also carried out for surface and subsurface material. The data were loaded in the model and the passage of a high intense flood (R.I. > 9 years) was simulated. The model was run under the hypothesis of a substantial equilibrium between sediment input and transport capacity. In this way, the model results were considered as a reference condition, and the potential trend of the reach was assessed. Low-frequency floods (R.I. » 1.5 years) are expected to produce negligible changes in the channel while high floods may focalize erosion on banks instead than on channel bed. Furthermore, the model predicts well the location of erosion and siltation areas and the results promote its application to other reaches of the Brenta River in order to assess their stability and medium-term evolution.
A 2D hydrodynamic-sedimentological model for gravel-bed rivers. Part I: theory and validation
Authors: Kaless Gabriel , Lenzi Mario A. , Mao Luca
Published: September 2016

This paper presents a novel 2D-depth average model especially developed for gravel-bed rivers, named Lican-Leufú (Lican=pebble and Leufu=river, in Mapuche’s language, the native inhabitants of Central Patagonia, Argentina). The model consists of three components: a hydrodynamic, a sedimentological, and a morphological model. The flow of water is described by the depth-averaged Reynolds equations for unsteady, free-surface, shallow water flows. It includes the standard k-e model for turbulence closure. Sediment transport can be divided in different size classes (sand-gravel mixture) and the equilibrium approach is used for Exner’s equation. The amour layer is also included in the structure of the model and the surface grain size distribution is also allowed to evolve. The model simulates bank slides that enable channel widening. Models predictions were tested against a flume experiment where a static armour layer was developed under conditions of sediment starvations and general good agreements were found: the model predicted adequately the sediment transport, grain size of transported material, final armour grain size distribution and bed elevation.
Evaluation of short-term geomorphic changes in differently impacted gravel-bed rivers using improved dems of difference
Authors: Delai F. , Moretto J. , Mao L. , Picco L. , Lenzi M.A.
Published: September 2016

The evaluation of the morphological dynamics of rivers is increasingly focusing, in recent years, on the achievement of quantitative estimates of change in order to identify geomorphic trends and forecast targeted restoration actions. Thanks to the development of more effective and reliable survey technologies, more accurate Digital Elevation Models (DEM) can be produced and, through their consequent differencing (DoD), extremely useful geomorphic analyses can be carried out. In this situation, a major role is played by uncertainty, especially in the final volumetric rates of erosion and deposition processes, that may lead to misinterpretation of spatial and temporal changes. This paper aims at achieving precise geomorphic estimates derived from subsequent hybrid (LiDAR and bathymetric points) surface representations. The study areas consist of gravel-bed reaches of two differently impacted fluvial environments, Piave and Tagliamento rivers, that were affected by two severe flood events (Piave, R.I. of 7 and 10 years and Tagliamento, R.I. of 15 and 12 years) in the inter-surveys period. The basic Hybrid Digital Elevation Models (HDTM) were processed accounting for spatially variable uncertainty and considering, beside slope and point density input variables, a novel component measuring the quality of the bathymetric derived points. In fact, since the major changes occur within river channels, the integration of this variable evaluating the precision of the bathymetric channel elevations in the HDTMs, has allowed, through the creation of targeted FIS (Fuzzy Inference System) rules, to obtain reliable geomorphic estimates of change. Volumes and erosion and deposition patterns were then analyzed and compared to outline the different dynamics among the sub-reaches and the two river systems.
GNSS-based operational monitoring devices for forest logging operation chains
Authors: Gallo Raimondo , Grigolato Stefano , Cavalli Raffaele , Mazzetto Fabrizio
Published: September 2016

The first results of a new approach for implementing operational monitoring tool to control the performance of forest mechanisation chains are proposed and discussed. The solution is based on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) tools that are the core of a datalogging system that, in combination with a specific inference-engine, is able to analyse process times, work distances, forward speeds, vehicle tracking and number of working cycles in forest operations. As a consequence the operational monitoring control methods could provide an evaluation of the efficiency of the investigated forest operations. The study has monitored the performance of a tower yarder with crane and processor-head, during logging operations. The field surveys consisted on the installation of the GNSS device directly on the forest equipment for monitoring its movements. Simultaneously the field survey considered the integration of the GNSS information with a time study of work elements based on the continuous time methods supported by a time study board. Additionally, where possible, the onboard computer of the forest machine was also used in order to obtain additional information to be integrated to the GNSS data and the time study. All the recorded GNSS data integrated with the work elements study were thus post-processed through GIS analysis. The preliminary overview about the application of this approach on harvesting operations has permitted to assess a good feasibility of the use of GNSS in the relief of operative times in high mechanised forest chains. Results showed an easy and complete identification of the different operative cycles and elementary operations phases, with a maximum difference between the two methodologies of 10.32%. The use of GNSS installed on forest equipment, integrated with the inferenceengine and also with an interface for data communication or data storage, will permit an automatic or semi-automatic operational monitoring, improving the quantity of data and reducing the engagement of the surveyor.
Economic and environmental benefits of using a spray control system for the distribution of pesticides
Authors: Calegari F. , Tassi D. , Vincini M.
Published: September 2016

Agrochemical distribution accuracy is critical for an effective intervention with a significant impact both on production costs and on the environment. Here we present the results obtained on processingtomato crops using a sprayer boom with and without nozzle control integrated with an RTK (Real Time Kinematic) automatic guidance system. The trials were carried out on tomato crops cultivated in fields of different shapes in a farm located in the Po’ Valley (Piacenza), using a self-propelled sprayer with a capacity of 1000 L and a 14 m opening boom, with a three-channel direct injection distribution system. The self-propelled sprayer was equipped with an automatic guidance system and integrated nozzle control on each boom section. Several parameters were recorded including the speed (km/h) and treated surface (ha). The analysis of the data collected shows an average overlap reduction of 15% compared to conventional guidance, a value that increases with the irregularity of the field. This technology can improve the environmental sustainability of agrochemical distribution due to the reduction in the consumption of pesticides and can improve the overall welfare of the operator as well.
Satellite guidance systems in agriculture: experimental comparison between EZ-Steer/RTK and AUTOPILOT/EGNOS
Authors: D’Antonio P. , D’Antonio C. , Evangelista C. , Doddato V.
Published: September 2016

The research has been conducted using two different satellite-guidance devices and two different correction systems of the GPS signal: the EZ-Steer/RTK and Autopilot/EGNOS. The machines used in the tests were the tractor New Holland T7060, the rotary harrow Alpego DG-400 and the burier Forigo DG-45, in order to determine which of the two systems ensured the best quality of work. On the basis of the results obtained it is clear that the EZ-Steer/RTK system, guarantees a lower stability of the theoretical trajectory compared to the Autopilot/EGNOS system, above 1,77%. From the elaboration of data of the two guidance systems behavior to manage the only width of transposition, it is observed that the EZ-Steer/RTK system is able to guarantee a better hold of the line compared to the Autopilot/EGNOS system, which provides a mistake of 164 cm on the total width of transposition and 2 cm on the mean value. In the matter of the normalized transposition surfaces, the Autopilot/EGNOS system ensures a better work quality.
New solutions for horse shelters to connect to the equestrian paths
Authors: Bambi Gianluca , Monti Massimo , Barbari Matteo
Published: September 2016

A rational and modern network of riding trails involves the building of specific structures for the horses according to the new needs of equestrian tourists. These shelters require appropriate technical models that today cannot be found easily in the Italian or foreign literature. Over the years this gap has led to the development of the practice “do it yourself”, following old techniques of construction, not able to meet the new demands of the market of horse tourism. This research has highlighted two different solutions that can meet the needs of tourists riding today, in accordance with the laws about the construction and the health part. These structures have been designed observing the principles of low impact, low cost, easy installation, complete reuse. Two kinds of structures have been planned. Temporary stay horse shelter: building to put in resting places of interest along the path (historic villages, monasteries, etc.), where it is possible to arrange the horses for a few hours and allow to the riders to make a careful visit of places of interest. Overnight stay horse shelter: structure to put in particular points where horses and riders can spend the night. A new type of horse barn with annexed feed storage and saddle room. The structure is dynamic, due to the possibility to change quickly the position of the horses (max 8 places).
A partial life cycle assessment approach to evaluate the energy intensity and related greenhouse gas emission in dairy farms
Authors: Murgia Lelia , Todde Giuseppe , Caria Maria , Pazzona Antonio
Published: September 2016

Dairy farming is constantly evolving towards more intensive levels of mechanization and automation which demand more energy consumption and result in higher economic and environmental costs. The usage of fossil energy in agricultural processes contributes to climate change both with on-farm emissions from the combustion of fuels, and by off-farm emissions due to the use of grid power. As a consequence, a more efficient use of fossil resources together with an increased use of renewable energies can play a key role for the development of more sustainable production systems. The aims of this study were to evaluate the energy requirements (fuels and electricity) in dairy farms, define the distribution of the energy demands among the different farm operations, identify the critical point of the process and estimate the amount of CO2 associated with the energy consumption. The inventory of the energy uses has been outlined by a partial Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach, setting the system boundaries at the farm level, from cradle to farm gate. All the flows of materials and energy associated to milk production process, including crops cultivation for fodder production, were investigated in 20 dairy commercial farms over a period of one year. Self-produced energy from renewable sources was also accounted as it influence the overall balance of emissions. Data analysis was focused on the calculation of energy and environmental sustainability indicators (EUI, CO2-eq) referred to the functional units. The production of 1 kg of Fat and Protein Corrected Milk (FPCM) required on average 0.044 kWhel and 0.251 kWhth, corresponding to a total emission of 0.085 kg CO2-eq). The farm activities that contribute most to the electricity requirements were milk cooling, milking and slurry management, while feeding management and crop cultivation were the greatest diesel fuel consuming operation and the largest in terms of environmental impact of milk production (73% of energy CO2-eq emissions). The results of the study can assist in the development of dairy farming models based on a more efficient and profitable use of the energy resources.
A new method for Espresso Coffee brewing: Caffè Firenze
Authors: Parenti Alessandro , Guerrini Lorenzo , Masella Piernicola , Dainelli Riccardo , Spugnoli Paolo
Published: September 2016

Espresso coffee is the most popular choice for Italian coffee consumers. It has been estimated that every day, in the world, over of 50 million of Espresso cups are taken. As a consequence of this success, a large number of devices to make Espresso have been developed. In this scenario, a new device has been recently developed and patented (Eu. Patent 06 023 798.9; US 2010/0034942 A1). This brew method, named “Caffè Firenze”, uses a sealed extraction chamber, where water and gas provides pressure higher than the other extraction methods. Three main parts compose the apparatus: the gas source, the extraction chamber and the heat exchanger. The gas source provides the pressured gas required to raise the pressure of the system. The extraction chamber is made with chrome-brass and accessorized with two heating glow plugs. Many are the factors affecting Espresso quality: it is known that, coffee type, roasting conditions and degree, grinding and storage strongly affect the obtained brew. Also, several studies have been carried out on the effect of the setting parameters on quality, for example water pressure, water temperature, and brew time. Among the characteristics that determine Espresso quality, the main attribute for the visual analysis is, without doubts, the foam, also called “crema”. Indeed, height, aspect, and persistency of foam are features much appreciates by consumers. Two distinguish Espresso foam parameters are the persistency and foam index. Equipping a commercial bar machine with the new designed extraction chamber makes feasible the comparison between the traditional way to brew Espresso and the new device. The comparison was made holding the previous mentioned conditions, and differences were evaluated in terms of physical parameters and aromatic profiles. Caffè Firenze shows pronounced differences compared with traditional Espresso in term of foam-related parameters. Also, the new extraction device produces coffees with higher values of body-related parameters, such density and viscosity. The two kinds of Espressos are perceived different at visual analysis and taste by a panel test.
Assessment of the energy and separation efficiency of the decanter centrifuge with regulation capability of oil water ring in the industrial process line using a continuous method
Authors: Bianchi Biagio , Tamborrino Antonia , Santoro Francesco
Published: September 2016

The third era in olive oil extraction sees a new generation of decanter that give the operator the possibility to chose time by time the type of working: two or three phase shifting from one solution to the other without stopping the machine and even intermediate solutions between two or three phase, making the most suitable adjustments, following olive variety, just as the machine works. A decanter centrifuge was employed during the experimental tests with variable differential speed between bowl and screw conveyor (􀀀n) and with regulation capability of oil-pulp ring levels. Thus permit to shift from three to two phase, reducing water added and discharging the following byproducts: dehydrated husk similar to that of three-phase and recovers a wet pulp that is the between the liquid phase and the solid phase. This paper aims to report the preliminary results of the energy and functional efficiency of the decanter when it works in the industrial scale plant and using a continuous method. The tests were carried out at two different flow rate values; for each flow rate the different variable differential speed between bowl and screw conveyor was varied at 15,50, 17,50 and 19,50. Quality olive, operating speed of the crusher machine and relative feed flow rate of the machine, the malaxing time and the degree of dilution of the paste, as well as the oil-pulp ring level were the same for all the trials. Irrespective of the flow rate and 􀀀n used, the machine tends to stabilize energy consumption in a very short time and values were quite similar to each other. The reductions in flow rate do not involve reductions of energy consumption indeed lead to the increase of absorption per unit mass of product worked. For all thesis studied, no significant changes of the oil recovery efficiency were found, indeed changing the flow rate and the 􀀀n a different distribution of the not extracted oil was found in the pulp and in the husk. To complete the knowledge, a set of tests changing also the oil-pulp ring levels, has been provided for the next olive oil season.
UHF-RFID solutions for logistics units management in the food supply chain
Authors: Barge Paolo , Gay Paolo , Merlino Valentina , Tortia Cristina
Published: September 2016

The availability of systems for automatic and simultaneous identification of several items belonging to a logistics unit during production, warehousing and delivering can improve supply chain management and speed traceability controls. Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a powerful technique that potentially permits to reach this goal, but some aspects as, for instance, food product composition (e.g. moisture content, salt or sugar content) and some peculiarities of the production environment (high moisture, high/low temperatures, metallic structures) have prevented, so far, its application in food sector. In the food industry, composition and shape of items are much less regular than in other commodities sectors. In addition, a wide variety of packaging, composed by different materials, is employed. As material, size and shape of items to which the tag should be attached strongly influence the minimum power requested for tag functioning, performance improvements can be achieved only selecting suitable RF identifier for the specific combination of food product and packaging. When dealing with logistics units, the dynamic reading of a vast number of tags originates simultaneous broadcasting of signals (tag-to-tag collisions) that could affect reading rates and the overall reliability of the identification procedure. This paper reports the results of an extensive analysis of the reading performance of UHF RFID systems for multiple dynamic electronic identification of food packed products in controlled conditions. Products were considered singularly or arranged on a logistics pallet. The effects on reading rate and reading zone of different factors, among which the type of product, the number and position of antennas, the field polarization, the reader RF power output, the interrogation protocol configuration as well as the transit speed, the number of tags and their interactions were analysed and compared.
Kinetic and thermodynamic properties of soybean grains during the drying process
Authors: Cabral de Oliveira Daniel Emanuel , Resende Osvaldo , Vieira Bessa Jaqueline Ferreira , Kester Adrieli Nagila
Published: September 2016

The aims of this work were to adjust different mathematical models to experimental data describing the drying of the Valiosa cultivar soybean grain, to determine and to evaluate the effective diffusion coefficient and to obtain the activation energy and the thermodynamic properties of the drying process under different air conditions. The experiments were conducted at the Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Goiás (Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia Goiano – Câmpus Rio Verde). The Valiosa cultivar soybean grains, with an initial moisture content on a dry basis of 0.56 (d.b., decimal), were dried in an oven with forced air ventilation at five different temperatures (40, 55, 70, 85 and 100°C) until reaching a moisture content of 0.133±0.019 (d.b.). Of the models analyzed, Page’s model was selected to best represent the drying phenomenon. The effective diffusion coefficient of soybeans increased with the air temperature and was described by the Arrhenius equation; an activation energy of 22.77 kJ mol–1 was reported for liquid diffusion in the drying of the soybeans. The enthalpy and entropy decreased with increasing temperature, while the Gibbs free energy increased with increasing drying temperature.
Traction performance simulation for mechanical front wheel drive tractors: towards a practical computer tool
Authors: Battiato A. , Diserens E. , Sartori L.
Published: September 2016

An analytical model to simulate the traction performance of mechanical front wheel drive MFWD tractors was developed at the Agroscope Reckenholz-Tänikon ART. The model was validated via several field tests in which the relationship between drawbar pull and slip was measured for four MFWD tractors of power ranging between 40 and 123 kW on four arable soils of different texture (clay, clay loam, silty loam, and loamy sand). The pulling tests were carried out in steady-state controlling the pulling force along numerous corridors. Different configurations of tractors were considered by changing the wheel load and the tyre pressure. Simulations of traction performance matched experimental results with good agreement (mean error of 8% with maximum and minimum values of 17% and 1% respectively). The model was used as framework for developing a new module for the excel application TASCV3.0.xlsm, a practical computer tool which compares different tractor configurations, soil textures and conditions, in order to determine variants which make for better traction performance, this resulting in saving fuel and time, i.e. reducing the costs of tillage management.
Experimental tests on a new harvesting system for Burley tobacco
Authors: Faugno Salvatore , Okello Collins , Infascelli Roberta , Audino Francesca , Ardito Luca , Pindozzi Stefania
Published: September 2016

The globalization of the tobacco production has led to a drop in competitiveness of the Italian tobacco on the world market. Burley is the main variety of tobacco cropped in Campania region of Southern Italy. Its leaves have to be sewn, in the curing phase. Aim of this work is to show the results of the implementation of a new harvest machine prototype. Basically, the machine used for Bright tobacco, totally mechanical harvested, which doesn’t need to be sewn because it requires an indirect-fire treatment into the curing furnaces. The machine was modified in order to mechanize harvesting of Burley tobacco, and tested on four cultivars of Burley tobacco under three different planting layouts. The Burley tobacco leaves can be harvested mechanically by pulling individual leaves off the stalk; leaves are then sorted and tied in bundles prior to sewing. A mechanical burley tobacco harvesting system was evaluated. This machine consists in realizing a leaves orientation system based on the different weight between the leaf blade and the stalk enhanced by an air flow. The measurements taken were harvest timing, work capacity, and quality standards of the work carried out. The results, in terms of user time, range from 6.67 h/ha to 7.80 h/ha while in terms of operational efficiency are between 88% and 89%. The average user capacity recorded for the four cultivars is equal to 0.14 ha/h, a value far from the one recorded for the same harvesting machine used for Bright tobacco (0.25 ha/h). The harvest timing capacity, range from 0.51 t/h to 0.99 t/h. The work productivity goes from 0.17 t to 0.33 t per hour of human unit respectively. The average number of detached leaves, depending on the cultivar, has been between 523 and 744. Concerning the leaf orientation, a general percentage of 73% was achieved.
Chipping machines: disc and drum energy requirements
Authors: Facello Alessio , Cavallo Eugenio , Spinelli Raffaele
Published: September 2016

Air pollution and fossil fuel reserves exhaustion are increasing the importance of the biomass-derived products, in particular wood, as source of clean and renewable energy for the production of electricity or steam. In order to improve the global efficiency and the entire production chain, we have to evaluate the energetic aspects linked to the process of transformation, handling and transport of these materials. This paper reports results on a comparison between two chippers of similar size using different cutting technology: disc and drum tool respectively. During trials, fuel consumption, PTO torque and speed, processing time and weight of processed material were recorded. Power demand, fuel consumption, specific energy and productivity were computed. The machine was fed with four different feedstock types (chestnut logs, poplar logs, poplar branches, poplar sawmill residues). 15 repetitions for each combination of feedstock-tool were carried out. The results of this study show that the disc tool requires, depending on the processed material, from 12 to 18% less fuel per unit of material processed than the drum tool, and consequently, from 12 to 16% less specific energy. In particular, the highest difference between tools was found in branches processing whereas the smallest was in poplar logs. Furthermore the results of the investigation indicate, that, in testing conditions, the productivity of drum tool is higher (8%) than disc tool.
Monitoring of the tractor working parameters from the CAN-Bus
Authors: Molari Giovannni , Mattetti Michele , Perozzi Daniela , Sereni Eugenio
Published: September 2016

The analysis of the tractor mission profile is one of the main objectives for tractor manufacturers. The mission profile has usually been estimated through the use of questionnaires submitted to consumers. This procedure is time-consuming and not totally reliable due to the trustworthiness in the questionnaire compilation. In all the high power tractors numerous transducers are fitted to monitor some parameters to optimise the operation of the machines. All of these transducers are connected to an electronic central unit or with the tractor CAN-Bus. In this context, a system able to monitor the working parameters of the machines capitalising the existing transducers could represent the optimal solution for monitoring tractors distributed in different regions. The high number of signals are in any case difficult to memorise without a high quantity of memory. The goal of the paper is to define a methodology to memorise the operation parameters useful to define the mission profile of a tractor using a small memory. A tractor of a nominal power of 230 kW was selected and a system able to measure the signals acquired by the transducers fitted on the tractor was connected to the CAN Bus of the tractor. After a detailed analysis of the parameters measured on the tractor, the useful parameters were defined and acquired in different working conditions. The analysis of the parameters stored in the memory has allowed a detailed analysis of the operational parameters of the tractor in different applications. These parameters could be used by engineers to design tractors with a higher quality and reliability and also to define predictive maintenance criteria and reduce unexpected tractor failures.
Water sensitive papers simulation to assess deposits on targets
Authors: Cerruto Emanuele , Aglieco Claudia
Published: September 2016

Aim of the study is to assess the possibility to use water sensitive papers to estimate, beside the superficial coverage, also the amount of deposit on the target at varying the spray features. To point out the main quantities influencing the deposit, the behaviour of the water sensitive papers was simulated by assuming some simplifying hypotheses: log-normal distribution of the diameter population of the drops and circular spots. Several images (630) of water sensitive papers, sprayed with drops of different mean diameter (from 100 up to 500 μm), constant coefficient of variation (0.50), and theoretical percentage of covered surface ranging from 10 up to 100%, were produced by means of simulation. These images were considered as effective water sensitive paper images and then analysed by means of an image processing software. The correlations between measured and effective values were studied and they allowed for an estimate of deposit and spray features from the image data. This implies that the analysis of the water sensitive paper images allows the determination of more complex parameters such as the unitary deposit and the impact density, all data strictly related to the efficacy of a phytosanitary treatment.
Application of software for the optimization of the surface shape of nets for chestnut harvesting
Authors: Formato Andrea , Scaglione Giampiero , Ianniello Domenico
Published: September 2016

In this research conveyance nets for the chestnuts harvest have been considered and the optimization of the surface shape of the chestnuts harvest nets has been performed. Indeed, a steep zone with chestnut trees has been considered, with maximum length of 90 m and maximum width of 60 m and the geometric model of the considered zone has been obtained, by mean GIS system and “Archicad 14” program code, obtaining also the soil local slope distribution. The chestnuts fallen have been simulated by mean a “rain device” available in “Sitetopo” program code. This program has allowed to evaluate the rain draining in function of the considered surface slope. Further, the zone with lower quote, for the considered surface, is the zone in that the chestnuts have to be convoyed, “basin zone”. Indeed, by mean “Sitetopo” program code, it has been possible to evaluate the rain draining contour-plot, and the conveyance effect, that is, where the rain flow is convoyed. This has been obtained by changing of the net surface slope on that, the rain (simulating the chestnuts) fallen. Indeed the nets have been located following the determined optimal surface. In such way all the fallen chestnuts have been convoyed and picked in a determined zone, “basin zone”, and subsequently they have been loaded on the truck for the following workmanships. The evaluated losses have been of around 6-8 % due to chestnuts entangle or little branches obstacle.
Detection of Landscape patterns in airborne LIDAR data in the Nature Reserve of Castelporziano (Rome)
Authors: Recanatesi F. , Tolli M. , Ripa M.N. , Pelorosso R. , Gobattoni F. , Leone A.
Published: September 2016

During the last decades the protection of nature has become a very important aspect due to the anthropogenic interference and structural alteration of the environment, especially in the peri-urban areas. Therefore, for a sustainable forest planning it is fundamental to get information about the actual state and the variation in landscape patterns concerning the forest layers. To this aim, an airborne laser scanning (LIDAR), a type of sensor which explicitly measures canopy height, was used to detect landscape patterns of broadleaf oak forest and for detecting the monumental trees in a peri-urban Natural Reserve: the Presidential Estate of Castelporziano (Rome).
Identification of rural landscape classes through a GIS clustering method
Authors: Diti Irene , Torreggiani Daniele , Tassinari Patrizia
Published: September 2016

The paper presents a methodology aimed at supporting the rural planning process. The analysis of the state of the art of local and regional policies focused on rural and suburban areas, and the study of the scientific literature in the field of spatial analysis methodologies, have allowed the definition of the basic concept of the research. The proposed method, developed in a GIS, is based on spatial metrics selected and defined to cover various agricultural, environmental, and socio-economic components. The specific goal of the proposed methodology is to identify homogeneous extra-urban areas through their objective characterization at different scales. Once areas with intermediate urban-rural characters have been identified, the analysis is then focused on the more detailed definition of periurban agricultural areas. The synthesis of the results of the analysis of the various landscape components is achieved through an original interpretative key which aims to quantify the potential impacts of rural areas on the urban system. This paper presents the general framework of the methodology and some of the main results of its first implementation through an Italian case study.
Application, validation and comparison in different geographical contexts of an integrated model for the design of ecological networks
Authors: Fichera C.R. , Gianoglio R. , Laudari L. , Modica G.
Published: September 2016

The issue of the fragmentation of natural habitats is increasingly at the core of the scientific debate, yet it is not taken into account in planning tools, with particular reference to the dynamism and complexity of landscapes. As it has been recognised at a European level, in order to enable different species to remain in good functional status, a network of green infrastructures is required. The concept of “ecological island” is no longer sufficient to adequately protect the fauna and the ecosystem it lives in. As a consequence, ecological islands must turn into ecological networks. The Ecological connectivity refers to the way habitats are physically connected to each other and how easy it is for species to move in. Good ecological connectivity is fundamental to the effective conservation of biodiversity considering that most species and ecological functions provided by ecosystems (ecosystem services) require a much wider space than that available within the boundaries of a single protected area. The main objective of this paper is to critically compare the application of a model for the design of ecological networks to two very different environmental contexts. This model was first tested in a Mediterranean area (the Province of Reggio Calabria) in 2008; the goal was to integrate the traditional (physiographic and functional) approaches into the design of ecological networks by taking into account biological and orographic elements as well as the anthropic structure of the territory. In 2011, within the ECONNECT European project, the model was applied to the pilot region of South-Western Alps (including the French region of Provence-Alpes - Côte d’Azur and the Italian regions Piedmont and Liguria), which is one of the richest transnational districts in Europe in terms of biodiversity. In such a region, the issue of multidisciplinary ecological connectivity was tackled in order to provide a series of proposals aiming at the development of the ecological potential of the area. The two applications allowed to further investigate the strengths and weaknesses of the implemented model by integrating its validation with information on faunal presence, which obviated one of the major limitations occurred in the first application.