Innovative Practices Research Articles

An environmental scan of studies reporting current practices for the conduct of environmental scans

Objective: The objective of this environmental scan is to synthesize the published, peer-reviewed literature specific to the term ‘environmental scan’ to determine how it is currently being used in health research and to propose some promising practices. Background: Environmental scans are becoming increasingly popular in synthesizing information on emergent topics and describing practice and research scope. Despite the growing use of environmental scans in health research, including nursing and rehabilitation, limited attention is given to methodological best practices. It is essential that we develop knowledge in this area to assist researchers, trainees, healthcare professionals, educators, and decision-makers with the use and reporting of environmental scans. Study design and methods: This environmental scan included a search of four health databases: CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO. We included peer-reviewed studies published between 2000-2024 in English using two key terms, ‘environmental scan’ and ‘health’. Studies were included that described methods used in conducting an environmental scan. Results: We identified 56 studies describing methods for conducting environmental scans. A synthesis of these studies revealed four promising practices: 1) consider environmental/contextual influences, 2) use of multiple data sources and approaches, 3) engage stakeholders to ensure relevance/need and increase uptake, and 4) use of outcomes to address knowledge or service gap to optimise impact. Conclusion: The findings of this environmental scan are among the first to examine methodological studies to determine promising practices for conducting environmental scans across health disciplines. Implications for research, policy, and practice: The findings of this novel environmental scan are beneficial for health professionals, researchers, trainees, educators, and decision-makers in informing research, practice, and policy change What is already known about the topic? The use of environmental scans is becoming increasingly popular in health research, including nursing and rehabilitation. There is a lack of consistency in the use and reporting of environmental scans across health disciplines. What this paper adds This environmental scan is among the first to contribute foundational knowledge and innovation in promising best practices for the conduct of environmental scans in health research. The novel findings will assist in promoting consistency in the use and reporting of environmental scans.

Impact of Differentiated Learning Management on Enhancing Students' Creative Thinking in Mathematics

In the era of globalization, innovation in education is essential, particularly in fostering students' creative thinking abilities. Mathematics, as a core subject, requires teaching strategies that stimulate creativity. This study explores the influence of differentiated learning management in mathematics on students' creative thinking at MIN 1 Sidoarjo. A quasi-experimental design with a quantitative approach was used. The research population included all students at MIN 1 Sidoarjo, with the sample drawn from class VI students. Data were collected using pre-tests, post-tests, and questionnaires, and analyzed using t-tests to assess the impact of the differentiated learning approach on creative thinking. The findings reveal that differentiated learning management significantly enhances students' creative thinking in mathematics. The experimental group, which received differentiated instruction, showed greater improvements in creative thinking compared to the control group, which followed a traditional teaching approach. The results highlight the positive influence of differentiated learning strategies in promoting creativity within mathematics education. The experimental group's superior performance underscores the need for more innovative teaching practices to meet the demands of modern education. Differentiated learning management in mathematics has a significant positive effect on students' creative thinking. These findings offer important insights for educators seeking to enhance creativity through tailored instructional methods.

Sustainable Waste Management: Innovations and Best Practices

The expanding worldwide trash challenge, caused by urbanization, rising populations, and financial growth, necessitates innovative and long-term waste management techniques. This article investigates several sophisticated techniques and standards of excellence in the management of green waste, with a focus on the use of cutting-edge technologies, community involvement, and comprehensive policy frameworks. It highlights the waste hierarchy, circular economy, and life cycle thinking as essential components to efficient waste management. Developments in technology such as modern waste-to- energy technologies, sophisticated recycling methods, and smart waste management systems are assessed for their potential contribution to sustainability. The paper also includes case studies from San Francisco, Freiburg, and Kami katsu, which demonstrate successful environmentally conscious waste practices. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of legislative frameworks, public-private partnerships, and community involvement in achieving sustainable waste management. Regardless of constant obstacles such as affordability, technological boundaries, behavioral barriers, and regulatory inconsistencies, the article concludes that a strategic combination of innovative technologies, strong policies, and active involvement by the public is essential for addressing the worldwide waste disaster and obtaining a cleaner happier more likely and more sustainable future.

Slaviq

Slaviq is an Orthodox Native Alaskan celebration beginning on the feast of the Nativity of Christ, marked by indigenous people throughout Alaska. It is especially celebrated among the Yup’ik people in mainland southwestern Alaska in the Kuskokwim River delta region. Slaviq or “starring” lasts from three to ten days involving processions by the congregation, and especially the choir, from the church to homes of villagers wishing to host the celebration. At each host’s home a short prayer service is sung accompanied by the spinning of the Christmas star affixed to a pole held generally by young men. This is followed by a short sermon delivered by the priest or even a reader, and then by the singing of Orthodox liturgical hymns in praise of the Nativity of Christ, Ukrainian koliady and folk songs from the Carpathian Mountains describing the feast day, and American Christmas carols. This paraliturgical celebration is followed by the distribution of candy and gifts by the hosts to all the guests, and a festive meal for more senior members of the community who are present. Traditionally, this meal consists of dried fish, often salmon, fermented foods, and moose and reindeer soup followed by akutaq, a dessert containing berries mixed with animal fat. This study analyzes the historical and contemporary practice of celebrating Slaviq, viewing it as a cultural adaptation and expression of the indigenous Yup’ik ethical code enacted within an innovative Orthodox practice.

Mapping research trends in physical education pedagogies: a bibliometric analysis using scopus database

This study aims to provide a comprehensive and systematic review of research trends in applying pedagogical models in physical education (PE) pedagogy. Furthermore, there are ongoing challenges facing teaching and learning in PE to deliver effective learning and achieve current learning objectives. This study used a bibliometric analysis approach by examining publication growth patterns, distribution of publication growth, distribution of authors, countries, affiliations, and network analysis based on the appearance of keywords. A search for articles in the Scopus database with specific keywords related to PE pedagogy yielded 419 relevant articles analyzed using CSV and VOSViewer applications. The results revealed a positive trend of increasing the number of published articles starting in 2018 and peaking in 2022. Keith Davids is a famous and influential author with the most publications and the highest citations. His article titled Algorithmic Skin: Health-tracking Technologies, Personal Analytics and the Biopedagogies of Digitized Health and Physical Education, written by Ben Williamson, was the most popular article with 123 citations. China has the most productive authors, and the United Kingdom is the country of origin for the most popular authors with the highest citation rates. The current and emerging trends demonstrate the integration of innovative teaching practices, alternative pedagogical approaches, and the promotion of holistic student development to cope with the development of PE. At the same time, the co-word analysis presents further research streams that include technology utilization and integrative approaches to transformative PE. In conclusion, this study has practical and theoretical implications in the research and practice of physical education pedagogies to identify integration and strategies and PE pedagogies. Keywords: physical education pedagogy; the trend of research; the integration of innovative and alternative pedagogical approaches; technology utilization and integrative approaches

Enhancing Health Wellbeing of Chronic Patient Through Digital Health; A Systematic Review of Best Nursing Practices and Lessons Learned

Background: Context: Digital health interventions have become essential instruments in contemporary medicine, providing viable means of improving patient outcomes and healthcare provision. The goal of this study is to examine the impact, difficulties, and potential future directions of digital health interventions across a range of healthcare situations by synthesizing results from 12 carefully chosen studies. Aim: This study's objective is to thoroughly examine and summarize the body of research on digital health interventions, with an emphasis on acceptance and utilization as well as implementation and efficacy. Method: Twelve pertinent papers published between 2016 and 2024 were found after a thorough search of electronic databases. Numerous digital health interventions were covered by these research, such as remote monitoring systems, telemedicine, and mobile applications. In order to find common themes, sub-themes, and patterns among the chosen research, thematic analysis was used in the data synthesis process. Results: A number of important themes emerged from the thematic analysis, including interoperability problems, patient engagement, healthcare provider acceptability, regulatory concerns, and usability issues. The sub-themes that fell under these categories emphasized the variables that affect the uptake and efficacy of digital health interventions. Conclusion: The synthesis of data emphasizes how digital health initiatives can increase clinical results, improve patient care, and streamline the delivery of healthcare. But in order to fully reap the benefits, major obstacles like interoperability problems, regulatory difficulties, and usability impediments need to be solved. The recommendations put forth aim to promote innovation and evidence-based practice in digital health by stressing user-centered design, improving digital literacy among medical practitioners, and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration.

Development and validation of China’s Environmental Citizenship Questionnaire: evidence from junior high school students

The cultivation of environmental citizens has become an important measure to cope with the environmental crisis, and the research on the knowledge, conceptions, skills, attitudes, values, and actions of environmental citizens using the Environmental Citizenship Questionnaire (ECQ) is becoming a research focus. The research on environmental citizenship in China mainly staying at the level of theoretical research and descriptive research due to the accuracy of the ECQ. The emergence of the ECQ-China Version is helpful to promote the empirical research on environmental citizenship in China.This study verifies the effectiveness of the ECQ by removing 16 ECQ items which are not suitable for Chinese culture and evaluating environmental citizen-related knowledge among 550 Chinese junior high school students. The ECQ-China Version, consisting of 75 items, showed convincing results for all measurements: students’ past and present environmental citizenship behavior and the essential skills, values, attitudes, and competence that an environmental citizen should be equipped with had a significant impact on students’ future environmental citizenship behavior. This study suggests that: (1) Environmental citizenship education should not only focus on knowledge education, but also include skills education. (2) Environmental citizenship education should adhere to comprehensive principles, focusing on innovative practice of ideas and methods. (3) China’s environmental citizenship education should focus on the cultivation of citizens’ ability to participate, so that environmental citizenship can become the driving force for sustainable environmental development.

Understanding farmer options, context and preferences leads to the co-design of locally relevant agroecological practices for soil, water and integrated pest management: a case from Kiambu and Makueni agroecology living landscapes, Kenya

Agroecology, as a holistic approach to sustainable food systems, is gaining momentum globally as a key approach to addressing current challenges in agricultural and food production. In sub-Saharan Africa, despite numerous efforts to address declining soil productivity, water scarcity, and increasing pest pressure through agroecological soil, water, and integrated pest management (IPM) practices, the adoption of such practices remains low. As part of the CGIAR Agroecology Initiative, we conducted a collaborative rapid innovation assessment of existing soil, water, and pest management practices in two Agroecological Living Landscapes (ALLs) in Makueni and Kiambu counties, Kenya. The assessment also included an evaluation of the performance of these practices and identified farmer preferences. Using a multi-stage approach, we applied stratified random sampling to identify 80 farmers for farm assessments and in-depth interviews. A total of 31 practices were identified, of which 26 were further evaluated. The evaluation revealed a heterogeneous set of socio-economic and biophysical contextual factors influencing practice performance. Respondents identified 19 strengths, and 13 challenges associated with the practices, highlighting opportunities for innovation to improve or adapt performance. Farmers also expressed preferences for future adoption of 31 practices, 77% of which were listed in one of the three focus areas, namely soil management, water management, or IPM. The other 33% were associated with multiple functions and were listed under two or three of the focus areas. The results of the collaborative assessment informed a broader co-design cycle that included participatory prioritization and selection of innovative practices, experimental design, and monitoring protocols. This collaborative and systematic approach was taken because innovative practices often fail to be adopted due to a lack of co-design and inclusion of local perspectives in innovation design, and a disconnect between science and practice. Our study highlights the importance of integrating stakeholder input and transdisciplinary technical expertise in the co-design and implementation of agroecological innovations. It also emphasizes the importance of using a structured methodology to understand farmers’ options, context, and preferences while co-designing locally relevant agroecological practices, which promotes holistic and inclusive adoption, successful implementation and long-term sustainability of agroecological practices.

Level of Maturity in Sustainable Innovation Practices: an Application of the Eco-Mi Model in a Red Ceramics Company

Objective: To identify the level of maturity with sustainable innovation practices of a company in the red ceramics segment in the state of Paraíba, according to the concept and application of the Eco-Mi model. Theoretical Framework: The thematic contextualization recalls the concepts of sustainable development, innovation, sustainability and sustainable innovations. In this sense, (BARBIERI et al., 2010) defends the importance of considering the understanding of sustainable innovation practices, fully incorporated into the company's strategic objectives. The better this relationship between sustainable development through sustainable innovation practices and company objectives is defined, the greater the likelihood of success. Method: This is a descriptive and exploratory study conducted in the form of a case study, using a descriptive statistics approach with quantitative data extracted by applying a questionnaire. The type of sampling is defined as non-probabilistic by intentionality. SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) was used to analyze the data. Results and Discussion: The evolution of the level of maturity weighs up quantitative and qualitative aspects, since the author herself, who designed the Eco-Mi Model, warns that there are some limitations, mainly of a qualitative nature due to the participants' self-assessment, since the analysis requires knowledge of strategy, structure, resources and organizational culture. These limitations highlight promising directions for future research and for consolidating the model and spreading knowledge about eco-innovation. Based on the results obtained from the research, it is possible to conclude that it was possible to answer the research problem by showing that, among the 4 dimensions analyzed, the company moves through levels of maturity evolving between scale 2 and 5. The Strategy and Structure dimensions are not satisfactory, and the Resources and Culture dimensions are more satisfactory. In this case, the company needs to review its choices and practices of sustainable innovation, seeking greater homogeneity in the dimensions of the model used. The field of knowledge still offers ample scope for further research and consolidation of the Eco-Mi maturity model. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the results can be applied to or influence actions in the field of sustainable innovation. These implications can cover the organizational areas of companies in the context of sustainable innovation practices. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature, as the topic of sustainability has incorporated the role of humans as equally responsible as industries, in a way that seeks to balance the relationship between human society (consumption and waste), natural resources, the current mode of production and the socio-economic system. The relevance and value of this research is evidenced by the results of the level of maturity perceived by the four dimensions studied: strategy, structure, resources and culture. The result reflects on the company's performance from the moment it characterizes in detail the levels of maturity according to the Eco-Mi model.

THEORETICAL AND METHODOLOGICAL BASIS OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF INNOVATIVE ACTIVITIES OF CONSTRUCTION ENTERPRISES: SECTORAL DIMENSION

The construction industry is a dynamic and complex sector that involves many stakeholders working in tandem to deliver projects that are essential to the growth and development of society. Innovations in technologies, materials, processes and management practices are increasingly becoming catalysts for structural and functional transformations in relationships between participants in investment and construction projects. Since innovations serve as an impetus for structural transformations, changing traditional roles, improving cooperation and stimulating efficiency and sustainability in the construction sector, the actual direction of research is to identify theoretical prerequisites and provide practical recommendations to construction participants to stimulate innovative activities.It was found that the theoretical basis of approaches for research are the works of Ukrainian and foreign scientists who consider innovations within the framework of conceptual approaches, in which innovative activity is considered through the system of coordinates "phenomenon-quality", "process-result", "adaptation-goal" or " system-synergy"It is proposed to consider the innovative development of the enterprise as the process of the operation of the enterprise, which is oriented towards the use and implementation of various forms of innovation in the operational, financial and investment activities of the enterprise in order to increase profitability and competitiveness, and to interpret the innovative activity of the participants of the investment and construction project as a process of operation and development of the enterprise, which focused on the use and implementation of various forms of innovation in operational, financial and investment activities, aimed at new qualitative transformations of construction products, processes and systems of the enterprise or the introduction of innovations in organizational and technological processes, technologies, work methods, promotion on the market, improvement of interaction with by other construction participants and stakeholders within the investment construction project and the target indicators of which can be both an increase in the economic efficiency of individual project participants and qualitative transformations of the organizational and technological relationships of the project participants, leading to the improvement of the parameters of the construction objects or investment project.A step-by-step methodical approach is proposed for development enterprises in order to promote innovative activities of participants in investment and construction projects.

Looking Back and Looking Forward: Reflections on 20 Years of the Journal of Political Science Education

The 20th Anniversary Special Issue of the Journal of Political Science Education reflects on the achievements of the journal and its emergence as a vital platform for political science educators to share innovative teaching practices, discuss views on the profession's changing nature, and underscore the essentiality and vitality of teaching and learning to the profession.

School-based Management Practices and Teachers' Assessments of Curriculum Innovation among Vocational Colleges in Jiangxi Province

School-based management (SBM) has gained prominence in educational reforms, emphasizing school autonomy in decision-making processes. This study aims to determine decentralizing decision-making authority to individual schools, empowering educators to make decisions that best meet the needs of their students. The descriptive-comparative correlational methodology to be used in this study is distinguished by exact definitions, meticulous documentation, depth analysis, and a profound comprehension of contextual dynamics. The results revealed that school-based management practices can significantly impact curricular innovation through enhanced collaboration, which will provide important references for schools in the future in terms of improving their school-based management systems, carrying out curricular innovation practices, and enhancing teachers' pedagogical competence. The study, therefore, recommends regularly reviewing and updating curriculum by establishing a feedback loop involving students, teachers, and other stakeholders to assess and enhance curriculum effectiveness continuously.

The Relationship between Social Media Use and Innovation in Visual Art Practices

Social media usage entails the interacting with online-based platforms to share the content's, connect with other people, and consuming the digital information. Visual art practitioners innovate by employing the new techniques, materials, and viewpoints to generate distinctive, contemporary artistic representations. The purpose of this investigation is to analyze the relationship among the social media use along with innovation in the visual art practices. It integrated the quantitative and qualitative methods. Initially, the sample data is gathered. The sample includes 200 visual artists from diverse fields and artistic backgrounds. Data is gathered using two fundamental techniques like survey and interviews. Based on their survey responses, 20 participants were chosen to perform Semi-structured interviews. Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are the selected social media platforms. The research findings are quantitative outcomes like correlation analysis and regression analysis, qualitative outcomes such as key themes from interviews, the social media engagement influence on artistic practice aspects, and the social media platforms impact on types of artistic innovations. The ρ-value is less than 0.05. Instagram contributes greatly to artistic innovation by improving collaboration, audience engagement, and visibility, while social media has an overall impact on visual art practices.

Fostering students' inquiry aptitudes and collaborative reasoning in higher education science courses with social annotation tools and collaborative platforms

AbstractInteractive digital technologies are playing an increasingly important part in education for enhancing collaborative learning processes and improving engagement. Social annotation (SA) tools and collaborative platforms are an innovative way to involve students to give and take feedback, annotate, and brainstorm on complex topics in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This article focuses on innovative practices that integrate inquiry‐based discussions using SA tools and collaborative platforms to promote undergraduate students' interest and curiosity about sciences. In this article, lectures were combined with inquiry‐based discussions using an open education SA tool and an open‐access collaborative platform to engage students in a meaningful dialog with peers on scientific topics. Students debated with peers on scientific content in an online environment. Findings show that the integration of inquiry‐based discussions using SA tools and collaborative platforms provides a practical way to effectively improve students interest in science. The information reported in this article can support STEM instructors in designing collaborative learning activities in online and hybrid settings that spark students' curiosity and inquiry attitude about natural sciences.

Degradation Assessment of the M’zab Valley Oases in Algeria

This study investigates the degradation of the Wadi M’zab oasis in Ghardaia, Algeria, an ecologically sensitive area. Using remote sensing data and geographic information systems (GIS), the degradation was assessed through four key indicators: vegetation cover change, soil erosion, salinity, and agricultural productivity. Moreover, to identify the human factors contributing to the degradation, a field survey was conducted. The results indicated significant degradation of the Wadi M’zab oasis, marked by a substantial increase in erosion areas by 220%, a 52% increase in areas affected by salinity, extensive urban expansion at the expense of palm groves, and a decline in agricultural productivity. The causes of degradation are attributed to natural factors such as climate change and soil and water quality, as well as human factors like urban expansion, land-use changes, and human practices, as confirmed by the field survey results. This study serves as an important tool to help mitigate the degradation of the Wadi M’zab oasis. It recommends encouraging investment in the agricultural sector, preserving the oasis’s ecosystem, and adopting innovative practices for water management and using crops that tolerate harsh conditions. It also calls for coordinated efforts between government agencies, farmers, and the local community to ensure the implementation of effective and sustainable strategies for the future of the M’zab oasis.

Research Overview of Rural Logistics Distribution System for Agricultural Products

The logistics distribution of agricultural products in rural areas plays a key role in ensuring economic continuity and community welfare. This system connects agricultural producers with local and global markets, ensuring that products remain fresh and of high quality. However, rural logistics faces unique challenges, such as limited infrastructure, long distances, and inadequate technology. Efficiency in this system not only increases farmers' income but also price stability and product availability in the market. This study explores various elements that affect the logistics distribution system in rural areas, including road infrastructure, storage facilities, transportation technology, and distribution mechanisms. This study uses a systematic literature review approach to analyze data related to this topic. The analyzed articles are limited to articles published in the period between 2013 and 2024. The focus areas of global and Indonesian show a difference in research focus, with global scholars placing more emphasis on technological innovation and management practices, while research in Indonesia is more focused on supply chain analysis and distribution strategies. The main challenges of rural logistics in Indonesia include poor road infrastructure, inadequate storage, and price inequality due to intermediaries. Recommended solutions include infrastructure upgrades, the adoption of modern technology, and innovative distribution models such as farmer cooperatives and digital platforms. Further research is needed to identify solutions that can be implemented in different local contexts. This research is expected to make a significant contribution to the development of a more efficient and effective rural logistics distribution system in Indonesia.

Assessing Remote Sensing-Based Maize Crop Biophysical Characteristics and Evapotranspiration Estimations

The rapid growth in population, climate variability, and decreasing water resources necessitate innovative agricultural practices to ensure food security and resource conservation. This study investigates the effectiveness of various multispectral imagery from remote sensing (RS) platforms, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), PlanetDove microsatellites, Sentinel-2, Landsat 8/9, and proximal MSR-5 in assessing crop biophysical characteristics (CBPCs) and actual crop evapotranspiration (ETa) for maize fields in northeastern Colorado. The research aims to evaluate the accuracy of vegetation indices (VIs) derived from these platforms in estimating key CBPCs, including leaf area index (LAI), crop height (Hc), and fractional vegetation cover (Fc), as well as ETa. Field experiments were conducted during 2022 at the USDA-ARS Limited Irrigation Research Farm in Greeley, Colorado, U.S.A., using different irrigation strategies. Surface reflectance data collected using a handled sensor and observed LAI, Hc, and Fc values, served as ground truth for validating RS estimates. The study applied various statistical analyses to compare the performance of different RS platforms and models. Results indicate that higher-resolution platforms, particularly UAS, provided higher accuracy in estimating VIs and CBPCs than satellite platforms. The study also highlights the influence of environmental conditions on the accuracy of RS models, with locally calibrated models outperforming those developed in dissimilar conditions. The findings underscore the potential of advanced RS technologies in enhancing precision agriculture practices and optimizing water resource management.

Emerging Trends in Pre-Anesthetic Assessment: A Systematic Review of Novel Approaches and Technologies

In order to understand the current evolution, this systematic review examines the advances in preanesthetic assessment. Although the paper demonstrates the potential to revolutionize patient care, it also recognizes its limitations. These include publication bias and search limitations. At the same time, the general exposure to advances in preoperative care, including but not limited to technology and patient-centered approaches, may be valuable to the research. The nature of survey research is complicated because studies vary in quality and are prone to bias. Nevertheless, studies should be conducted on a regular basis, and techniques for assessing preanesthetic should be improved. Furthermore, this improvement should take into account patient outcomes and their subsequent need for surgical safety. Although achievements in assessment systems have limitations, prospective developments aim to fill gaps, including deficiencies in current approaches. This fact is beneficial for both patients and healthcare providers, and underscores the importance of innovation and EBP practices for preanesthetic assessment and overall quality of perioperative care.

Examining the Evolution of Digital Innovation and Its Impact on Organizational Growth

Organizational operations have been modified by using the rise of digital innovation, which has increased consumer interaction, accelerated efficiency, and stimulated overall growth. But obstacles like converting organizational adoption charges and a quickly evolving era would possibly make it more difficult to generalize effects across of different sectors and ancient intervals. To overcome these constraints, a thorough examination of the impact of digital innovation on organizational growth is carried out in this study. This study investigates the connection among Digital infrastructure (DI), Digital Innovation practices (DIP), Adoption of advanced digital technologies (ADT), Leadership support (LS), Organizational growth (OG), and Employee digital capabilities (EDS) utilizing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and CFA test. SEM is used to evaluate the causal pathways between constructs and the connections between latent variables and their indicators. CFA is a method used to validate the dimension model by examining the relationships between observed indicators and their underlying constructs. A systematic questionnaire with a Likert scale rating was used to collect data from 600 populations. The measurement model assessed the validity and reliability of latent constructs, while the structural model analyzed the relationship between constructs based on the proposed hypotheses. The structural model revealed that DI, LS, and ADT are positively connected to the DTP, and OG, between digital innovations on organizational growth. (β = 0.58,0.54,0.60 and 0.62,p < 0.05), providing well support for hypotheses 1, 2, 4, and 5. The SEM and CFA confirm the robustness of these relationships. The findings underscore the critical role of digital infrastructure and leadership in driving effective digital practices and fostering growth.

248 Impacts of sprouted barley on the performance and carcass traits in finishing Angus steers

Abstract The growing population, coupled with unpredictable weather patterns, demands that livestock producers think innovatively to improve sustainability. Producers are interested in innovative practices and technology, such as controlled environment farming to sprout cereal grains that can be fed to livestock. However, little research has determined the effects of giving these feeds to finishing beef steers. As such, Angus steers (n = 60) were stratified by body weight (BW; 385 kg ± 10.3) to receive two different diets (n = 30/diet). The control (CON) diet was a traditional finishing ration for the region, whereas the other included 20% (dry matter; DM) sprouted barley (SB) in place of corn silage. Animals were fed for 128 d in pens with Vytelle units to measure intake and feeding behavior. On d 0, 30, 60, 90, and 128 BW, ruminal fluid, and ultrasound measurements were taken. Liver score (LS) and typical carcass data were collected from a commercial harvest facility. Statistical analyses used the MIXED procedure of SAS to assess the main effect of diet for all measurements collected over time. Dry matter intake (DMI), feed efficiency (gain to feed; G:F), ruminal volatile fatty acid (VFA) composition, and feeding behavior were run as repeated measures. No differences (P = 0.37) in BW gain were found between steers receiving different diets, but steers receiving SB had decreased (P < 0.0001) DMI throughout the trial compared with CON. This decrease in DMI drove a diet × day effect (P = 0.004) for G:F such that SB had increased (P ≤ 0.04) G:F on d 0 and 60, but no effect (P ≥ 0.52) was observed at d 90 or 128. Steers receiving the CON diet spent more (P < 0.0001) time at the feed bunk than those receiving the SB diet, which supports the observation that steers receiving the CON had an increased DMI. Ruminal pH, total VFA concentration, acetate:propionate, percent propionate, and percent butyrate were each impacted by diet × day (P ≤ 0.007). The only carcass trait impacted by diet was yield grade (YG), where steers receiving the SB diet had an increased (P < 0.03) YG compared with CON. These results demonstrate that replacing corn silage with SB in the ration of finishing steers has some effect on ruminal VFA composition, DMI, G:F, and USDAYG. Due to decreased DMI, SB steers had increased feed efficiency which could potentially have a positive economic impact for producers. However, additional analysis is needed to further determine if these systems are economically viable in a production setting.