Adoption Of Practices Research Articles

Maize crop residue cover mapping using Sentinel-2 MSI data and random forest algorithms

The return of crop residues to cultivated fields has numerous agronomic and soil quality benefits and, therefore, the areal extent of crop residue cover (CRC) could provide a rapid measure of the sustainability of agricultural production systems in a region. Recognizing the limitations of traditional CRC methods, a new method is proposed for estimating the spatial and temporal distribution of maize residue cover (MRC) in the Jilin Province, NE China. The method used random forest (RF) algorithms, 13 tillage indices and 9 textural feature indicators derived from Sentinel-2 data. The tillage indices with the best predictive performance were STI and NDTI (R2 of 0.85 and 0.84, respectively). Among the texture features, the best-fitting was Band8AMean-5∗5 (R2 of 0.56 and 0.54 for the line-transect and photographic methods, respectively). Based on MSE and InNodePurity, the optimal combination of RF algorithm for the line-transect method was STI, NDTI, NDI7, NDRI5, SRNDI, NDRI6, NDRI7 and Band3Mean-3∗3. Likewise, the optimal combination of RF algorithm for the photographic method was STI, NDTI, NDI7, SRNDI, NDRI6, NDRI5, NDRI9 and Band3Mean-3∗3. Regional distribution of MRC in the Jilin Province, estimated using the RF prediction model, was higher in the central and southeast sections than in the northwest. That distribution was in line with the spatial heterogeneity of maize yield in the region. These findings showed that the RF algorithm can be used to map regional MRC and, therefore, represents a useful tool for monitoring regional-scale adoption of conservation agricultural practices.

To Achieve Carbon Neutrality, What Do Individual Residents Say? A Case Study of Yunnan Province of China Based on Spatial Analysis

This study aims to explore factors that affect individual residents’ behaviors contributing to reducing carbon emissions (low-carbon behaviors), based on the empirical analysis of the choice of adoption and the extent of adoption of low-carbon practices, such as using low-carbon transportation and energy-saving, in Kunming, China. We use spatial econometric regression models to consider positive spillover of low-carbon behaviors amongst residents as people tend to obtain knowledge and learn good actions from those located nearby. The results show the existence of positive spillover effects of low-carbon behaviors across several types of low-carbon practices. We find that location effects, such as access to parks, residents’ knowledge of carbon neutrality, and science communications in the local community are the most important determinants of residents’ low-carbon behaviors. The findings may provide insights into designing supporting policies to incentivize residents’ low-carbon behaviors and contribute to the pathway toward carbon neutrality from the micro-perspective.

Clinical Approach to STRIDE-II in Real-Life Settings: Analysis and Practical Recommendations.

We aimed to (1) analyze the applicability of the updated Selecting Therapeutic Targets in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (STRIDE-II) recommendations in real-world clinical practice, (2) identify barriers to their implementation, and (3) propose practical measures to overcome these obstacles. This qualitative study was based on a survey, a literature review, and expert opinions. Nine inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) experts identified 7 areas likely to be controversial or potential implementation barriers in daily clinical practice: endoscopy, histology, ultrasound, quality of life, biomarkers, symptom control, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Based on this, a survey was carried out among educational course participants. The experts discussed the literature review and survey results and proposed several statements and practical actions. A total of 55 gastroenterologists answered the survey. The reported difficulty level in reaching STRIDE-II treatment goals in clinical practice was high. Only 22% of participants performed clinical remission assessments using clinical indexes and PROs. Seventy percent of responders did not use fecal calprotectin cutoffs and considered changes from the previous levels instead. Mucosal healing as a long-term therapeutic goal was considered necessary to be individualized in specific patient subgroups (eg, elderly/fragile patients, multiple treatment failures, and last-line therapies). Other barriers, like the lack of access to imaging techniques or insufficient knowledge and skills among healthcare professionals, were detected. The experts suggested adding less stringent treatment goals and measurements, patient stratification, local adaptations, educational activities, and research. STRIDE-II recommendations face various implementation barriers needing careful evaluation in order to enhance their adoption in clinical practice, and ultimately improve outcomes in IBD patients.

Advancing the common good through business excellence awards: A legitimacy‐seeking perspective

AbstractCompeting for and winning business excellence awards (BEAs) is essential for firms' long‐term performance. However, the role of these BEAs in inspiring good and generating sustainable business practices has often been overlooked. In this article, we draw on the legitimacy‐seeking theory to explore the “socially good” transformations firms go through by competing for BEAs. Data for the inquiry come from semi‐structured interviews with managers whose firms competed in two BEAs in the United Kingdom. Providing insight into BEAs as a competitive legitimating frame in organizing, our findings shed light on how BEAs may serve as competitive crucibles that provide opportunities for feedback and learning, potentiality for brand positioning, and a possibility for stimulating excellence in the adoption of good business practices. The implications of these findings for the theory and practice of advancing the “common good” are outlined.

Multimodality Imaging in the Management of Tricuspid Valve Regurgitation.

Approximately 5% of elderly patients suffer from moderate or severe tricuspid valve regurgitation, which is an independent predictor of high morbidity and mortality. Surgical treatment of isolated tricuspid valve regurgitation has been associated with elevated fatality rate, leading to a growing interest in minimal invasive, transcatheter-based therapies such as transcatheter edge-to-edge repair and transcatheter valve replacement. Nevertheless, despite high procedural efficacy and safety of transcatheter-based therapies, a number of challenges limit their rapid adoption in routine clinical practice. In particular, the wide range of transcatheter approaches to address the significant variability in tricuspid valve pathology challenges the reproducibility of clinical outcomes. Multimodality imaging is pivotal for grading the regurgitation severity, determining the underlying pathology, assessing RV function and pulmonary pressures, identifying concomitant cardiac disease, and selecting the most beneficial treatment modality and access. This article reviews the role of different imaging modalities in guiding the management of patients with significant tricuspid valve regurgitation.

Adoption of a semi-elective lung transplantation practice by safely extending cold ischemic times

ObjectiveLung transplantation is a complex surgical procedure performed by specialized teams. Practice changes to eliminate overnight lung transplants were implemented at our center and patient outcomes were evaluated. MethodsPatient and donor organ selection were performed in the standard fashion. All donors with a crossclamp after 6 pm matched to any of our listed recipients—independent of their surgical complexity or risk—were kept in a temperature-controlled iceless cooler from procurement to recipient implant. All recipients had a 7 am in-room start. Data were prospectively collected and compared with a cohort of recipients from the previous fifteen months. ResultsIn total, 82 transplants were performed at a single academic institution between July 1, 2022, and January 7, 2024, 22% of which included allografts with extended ischemic times using the iceless cooler (n = 18) with a median average temperature of 6.81 °C. Median ischemic times were 13.9 (12.5-15.6) hours, more than twice the length of ischemic times in the standard group (n = 64, 6.8 [6.1-7.4] hours). Postoperative outcomes were similar between groups, including postoperative intensive care unit duration (12 vs 9 days in the standard group), length of stay (24 vs 20 days), primary graft dysfunction grade (17% vs 20%), postoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (22% vs 20%), and 6-month survival (94% vs 91%). ConclusionsDonor lungs preserved in an iceless cooler were successfully transplanted after extended cold ischemic times. Adoption of a semielective transplant strategy can be successfully implemented without compromising patient outcomes. Additional advantages may be gleaned through daytime transplantation with standard transplant surgical teams rather than overnight, on-call, teams.

Performance analysis of a blockchain-based messaging system implementation for air cargo supply chains

ABSTRACT The air cargo supply chain’s goal is to achieve fast shipment movement through multistage coordination among multiple air cargo stakeholders. The lack of transparency in the end-to-end supply chain and complex digital connectivity is what limits the traditional peer-to-peer communication flow in the fragmented air cargo industry. Blockchain technology can enhance communication transparency by streamlining multistage message flows via smart contracts and by acting as an intermediary to simplify digital connections among air cargo stakeholders. Despite the benefits of applying blockchain for air cargo messaging, as blockchain is an emerging technology, technical concerns in the areas of performance, privacy, and interoperability can hinder the practical adoption of the blockchain system. To address practical implementation concerns, a blockchain-based messaging system using the Algorand public blockchain is developed in our work to demonstrate the practicality of blockchain. Transaction data privacy can be protected by the encryption key exchange algorithm, which supports forward secrecy. Our experimental results provide practical performance insights into the Algorand blockchain for streamlined messaging from various aspects related to transaction submission, confirmation, and retrieval. Our results show that by leveraging the Algorand blockchain, our proposed system can offer scalable, efficient, reliable, and cost-effective communication channels for air cargo messaging.

Single-center retrospective review of standard versus minimal monitoring for hepatitis C direct-acting antiviral therapy

BackgroundHighly effective direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies have transformed the landscape of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment. However, there continues to be limited data regarding the efficacy and safety of required in-person clinic visits (standard monitoring) versus completely telehealth clinic visits (minimal monitoring) during HCV therapy, which could delay practice adoption. ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess the rates of undetectable HCV ribonucleic acid (RNA) in sustained viral load 12 weeks after therapy (SVR12) in standard versus minimal monitoring approaches during DAA. MethodsA 12-month, single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted in treatment-naïve HCV-infected adults who received DAA therapy between May 1, 2020, and April 30, 2021. The standard monitoring group had ≥1 in-person clinic visit with HCV RNA laboratory monitoring during DAA treatment. The minimal monitoring group had entirely telehealth visits without HCV RNA laboratory monitoring during treatment. Both groups received telephonic touchpoints throughout DAA treatment from a clinical pharmacist practitioner and a nurse care coordinator. The primary outcome was SVR12. ResultsFrom May 2020 to April 2021, 133 patients with HCV met inclusion criteria and were treated with DAA (standard, n = 56; minimal, n = 77), with no differences in baseline demographics. Overall, total encounters during DAA treatment remained statistically significant in the standard than minimal monitoring group (standard, 2.1 ± 0.8, vs. minimal, 1.7 ± 0.9; P < .01). Although minimal monitoring had higher loss to follow-up rates (standard, 7.1%, vs. minimal, 18.2%; P = 0.06), the modified intention-to-treat analysis showed no differences in sustained virologic response (SVR) between standard and minimal monitoring approaches (standard, 98.1%, n = 51, vs. minimal, 95.3%, n = 60; P = 0.41). ConclusionsThis single-center retrospective cohort study demonstrated that minimal monitoring during HCV treatment was as effective in achieving SVR cure rates as standard monitoring. Eliminating required in-person clinic visits during DAA therapy alongside a collaborative approach may play a major role in overcoming barriers to HCV care in select patients.

Effects of Information Providers, Channels and Types on the Adoption of Climate – Resilient Practices in Lesotho

This study examined the effects of information providers, channels and types on the adoption of climate-resilient practices in Lesotho, deviating from the usual separate analysis of the relationships between information provider, channels and types. Previous studies have generated only partial insights into the influence of different information variables on adoption behaviour, neglecting a holistic representation of the interactive effects of all dimensions of information and adoption. Using a sample of 1,659 farmers from the Bureau of Statistics (BOS) database on the 2019/2020 agricultural production survey, the data was analysed using frequency counts, percentages and Probit regression. The results show that the majority of the farmers are male (53%), less than 30 years of age (59%), possess an education level between High School form 1 to 5 (59%), have between 5 and 10 persons per household (50%) and rely on subsistence farming as their main source of income (36%). The extension services provided, as indicated by at least 90% of the farmers, include information on farm management, crop selection, input use, credit, farm machinery, livestock, crop protection, conservation, marketing, irrigation and nutrition. In contrast, the information received is more focused on marketing, livestock production, agronomic practices, irrigation and fisheries production. The major extension service providers and sources of information are public service providers and radio. Agricultural extension information providers, channels and types influence the adoption of climate-resilient practices. The study recommends that extension information providers, channels and types be matched to specific contexts for improved effectiveness.

AI 디지털교과서 도입과 활용에 관한 중등수학교사의 인식 조사 연구: 학습자 맞춤 교육 실현을 위한 과제

This study explores mathematics teachers' perceptions of the adoption and utilization of AI digital mathematics textbooks and provides implications for both the development of AI digital textbooks and teacher education. A survey was conducted in November 2023 with 130 secondary school mathematics teachers to analyze their perceptions regarding (1) understanding and necessity of AI digital textbooks, (2) key features, (3) application in mathematics instruction, and (4) teacher professional development. The results reveal that while secondary mathematics teachers recognize the necessity of adopting AI digital textbooks, there is a significant gap in their understanding and experience with the core functionalities. There is a strong demand for features such as learning diagnostics and dashboard to support adaptive learning, along with expectations for student-centered adaptive learning and emotional support. However, concerns were also raised about decreased interactivity and challenges in lesson preparation due to changes in the educational environment. Based on these findings, the study suggests the need for enhanced teacher professional development to deepen teachers’ understanding and support practical implementation, as well as functional improvements to AI digital textbooks to ensure their effective and practical adoption in educational settings.

Green Approaches to Extractive Metallurgy: A Novel Synthesis of Sustainable Practices

The realm of extractive metallurgy, a cornerstone for diverse industrial applications, has traditionally grappled with environmental challenges stemming from conventional extraction methods. This thorough literature review delves into the realm of innovative green approaches within extractive metallurgy, with the overarching goal of synthesizing sustainable practices. The introduction casts a spotlight on the environmental quandaries associated with traditional metallurgical practices, underscoring the imperative for ecologically friendly alternatives. The research methodology meticulously entails a comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature, applying stringent criteria to handpick studies that delve into sustainable metallurgical practices. The results and discussion section intricately categorizes and dissects an array of green approaches in metal extraction, including bioleaching, ionic liquids, supercritical fluid extraction, green hydrometallurgy, electrochemical methods, and hybrid processes, providing nuanced insights into their efficacy and sustainability. Through the lens of case studies, the study sheds light on recent strides made by industries that have wholeheartedly embraced these sustainable practices, with a keen focus on unraveling their consequential environmental and economic impacts. Moreover, the study conscientiously addresses the challenges encountered in the adoption of green metallurgy and adeptly identifies latent opportunities for further development in this transformative field. The findings resonate with a resounding call for the widespread adoption of sustainable practices within extractive metallurgy, emphasizing their profound implications for both industrial application and the trajectory of future research endeavors. This expanded exploration underscores the pivotal role of environmentally conscious approaches in reshaping the landscape of extractive metallurgy, paving the way for a more sustainable and responsible future.

The role of agricultural extension workers in transforming agricultural supply chains: enhancing innovation, technology adoption, and ethical practices in Nigeria

Agricultural extension workers play a pivotal role in transforming supply chains by bridging the gap between research, innovation, and on-the-ground farming practices. In Nigeria, where agriculture serves as a backbone for economic development and food security, the adoption of modern technologies and ethical farming practices remains critical. This article explores how agricultural extension workers contribute to enhancing productivity, promoting sustainability, and encouraging the diffusion of innovative technologies within Nigeria's agricultural sector. By serving as catalysts for the adoption of advanced tools such as precision agriculture, mobile-based information systems, and climate-smart practices, extension workers help improve efficiency, reduce post-harvest losses, and ensure farmers’ access to markets. The study highlights the challenges faced by these workers, including resource constraints, technological barriers, and policy limitations. Furthermore, the article delves into the ethical dimensions of farming, emphasizing the need for environmentally sustainable and socially responsible practices. Through case studies and a detailed examination of Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, this paper provides insights into the future direction of agricultural extension services and their role in ensuring food security and rural development. The article concludes with policy recommendations to strengthen extension services and their capacity to drive innovation and sustainability in Nigeria’s agriculture sector.

The Effects of Green Practices on Economic Growth in Pakistan

Green practices play a key role in boosting the economic growth of a country. With the growing awareness and concern about environmental sustainability, the need of shifting towards a low-carbon economy and adoption of green practices has gained significant attention. The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of various green practices on economic growth in Pakistan. For this purpose, green banking, renewable energy, and foreign direct investment have been taken as the independent variables while economic growth has been taken as the dependent variable in this study. A mixed yet predominantly positive relationship between the variables was revealed by a comprehensive review of existing literature. This study is based on a quantitative research method along with a deductive approach that is supported by hypotheses that are tested with the help of the data gathered. Forty- two listed commercial banks in Pakistan that are subject to State Bank of Pakistan regulation make up the population. It also includes five percent of the energy mix which is consumed within Pakistan and is considered renewable energy and the data was gathered from the official website of NEPRA. The sampling data for foreign direct investment is gathered from the official site of the World Bank from the year 1999 to 2022. The sampling technique that is used in this study to collect data is convenience sampling. The number of samples taken for each variable was twenty-three and the software used to analyze data was Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The green banking has a strong positive effect on economic growth meanwhile; the renewable energy and foreign direct investment both have a direct but an insignificant effect on economic growth in Pakistan. Finally, this study could be beneficial for future researchers in the aspect to focusing on green practices and their implementation.

Energy efficiency in public buildings: Evaluating strategies for tropical and temperate climates

This study offers a thorough analysis of the crucial impact of energy efficiency and sustainable architecture on the performance of public buildings in Nigeria. Through a robust methodological approach that integrates an extensive literature review, in-depth case study analyses and expert consultations, the research explores effective strategies for embedding sustainable practices in architectural design and building operations, aiming to enhance overall efficiency and sustainability in public infrastructure. The findings underscore the significant impact of bioclimatic design principles, the implementation of advanced HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems, and the integration of renewable energy technologies—particularly solar photovoltaics—in reducing energy consumption and minimizing environmental footprints. Additionally, the study highlights the substantial benefits associated with adopting energy-efficient lighting and appliances, which not only lead to operational cost savings but also improve overall occupant comfort and well-being. However, the research also identifies several barriers to the widespread adoption of these sustainable practices. These challenges include regulatory inadequacies that do not adequately support sustainable initiatives, financial constraints that limit investment in energy-efficient technologies, a lack of technical expertise necessary for implementing and maintaining these systems and low public awareness regarding the importance and benefits of energy efficiency. These factors collectively hinder the broader acceptance and implementation of energy-efficient solutions within the public sector. The conclusions drawn emphasize the critical need for collaborative efforts among government agencies, industry professionals, and educational institutions to create a sustainable built environment. By following these recommendations, Nigeria can make significant strides toward achieving its sustainability goals, thereby contributing to global efforts to mitigate climate change and enhance environmental resilience.

Farmer identities and permanent grassland management: Evidence from five European biogeographic zones

Abstract Permanent grassland (PG) provides multiple ecosystem services. However, there is increasing concern regarding the decreased multifunctionality of PGs, including those located in Europe. The decreased PG multifunctionality has been attributed to the increased intensity of PG management, where decision‐making is influenced by farmers' relevant behavioural intentions and self‐identities. In order to investigate how farmer identities can translate into future adoption of PG management practices, interviews (n = 373) were conducted with farmers from five European biogeographic zones. Their farms are located in Continental/Pannonian (Czech Republic), Mediterranean (Spain), Boreal (Sweden), Alpine (Switzerland) and Atlantic (United Kingdom) biogeographic regions. The data were analysed using a mixed‐method approach involving thematic analysis and multinomial logistic regression. The thematic analysis enabled seven farmer ‘identity’ types to be identified. The results of multinomial logistic regression showed that productivist identity was a predictor of farmers' intention to intensify or extensify PG in future, while land caretaker identity predicted maintenance of current PG management practice. Farmers with a higher dependence on income from agri‐environment schemes were more likely to extensify their PG in future, while those with a higher dependence on income from farm production were more likely to maintain current PG management practices. Older farmers were less likely to extensify their PG, and those having organic and extensive farms were more likely to intensify PG in future. Future policies and interventions that aim to increase PG‐related ecosystem‐service multifunctionality can be more targeted by considering specific farm attributes, farmer identities and their future PG management intentions, as well as regional differences in these. Financial benefits and risks perceived by farmers should be considered when promoting any management practices, including policy interventions and policy levers. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

FORMATION OF COMMAND QUALITIES IN HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENTS OF HIGHER MILITARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS: PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PEDAGOGICAL ASPECTS

The article explores the significance of cultivating leadership qualities in cadets of higher military educational institutions in light of contemporary challenges, particularly in the context of the Russian invasion and the anti-terrorist operation in eastern Ukraine. The authors stress that the maintenance of combat readiness in military units is directly linked to the professional training of the command staff, encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Key issues that require attention include insufficient training in the organization of combat operations, limited understanding of regulatory and legal frameworks, shortcomings in military and specialized training, and a lack of necessary skills for the effective utilization of modern technologies and decision-making in rapidly evolving situations. Given these challenges, there is a pressing need for the development of new educational programs that align with the current demands placed on military commanders, the establishment of specialized training centers, and the integration of simulation technologies that closely mirror real combat scenarios. Moreover, the authors advocate for enhanced international cooperation to facilitate the exchange of expertise and the adoption of best practices in the training of military leaders. A significant emphasis is placed on the creation of psychological and pedagogical conditions that support the effective development of crucial leadership qualities such as resilience, decisiveness, the ability to make quick decisions, and the capacity to lead. The proposed measures aim not only to elevate the level of command staff training but also to ensure the successful execution of military operations under combat conditions, thereby strengthening the overall security and defense capabilities of the nation.

Assessing Indonesian Nutmeg Commodity Trade Competitiveness and Developing Sustainable Strategies in the Global Market

Nutmeg encounters challenges in productivity, quality, climate change, Covid-19 disruptions, and stagflation, requiring efforts to enhance competitiveness and meet global market demands. This study aims to analyze Indonesian nutmeg trade performance, assess competitive advantage, and formulate essential strategies to increase its competitiveness. Using comprehensive mixed quantitative and qualitative analysis, methods include export-import market share analysis, CAGR, import dependency ratio, import-to-export ratio, RCA, RSCA, RTA, and SWOT/QSPM analysis. The data obtained from in-depth interviews with key stakeholders was used for formulating strategies enhancing nutmeg’s competitiveness. The findings underscore Indonesia's significant dominance in the global nutmeg market, with a considerable 61.6% market share but its export growth rate for nutmeg was less than the import annual growth. The competitiveness indicators demonstrated a robust comparative advantage of Indonesian nutmeg trade in the global market, especially for products categorized as “nutmeg, neither crushed nor ground” and “nutmeg, crushed or ground”. Indonesian also has comparative advantage among other exporter countries. Crucial strategies of internal and external perspectives, such as expanding markets, improving nutmeg quality and productivity through improving farmer capacity, technological adoption, and good agricultural practices are necessary to take into account Indonesia’s nutmeg competitiveness in global markets.

Factors Influencing the Adoption of Green Practices: A Case of Five Selected Shopping Malls in Lusaka District

There is growing recognition for the need for eco-friendly commercial buildings. However, there exists a significant gap between the potential for developing them and the actual implementation. Zambia faces the tangible impacts of climate change, such as droughts and floods, while the uptake of green initiatives remains sluggish. Environmental degradation, worsened by the absence of green initiatives, threatens ecosystems, biodiversity, and the overall health of the planet. Recognizing the urgent need for change, there is a growing consensus that economic growth should no longer be pursued at the expense of environmental degradation. Yet, despite the abundance of opportunities to develop and implement green practices, various stakeholders have not fully embraced these options. This study delved into the factors influencing green practice adoption, focusing on five prominent shopping malls in Lusaka district, Zambia. A mixed methods approach was adopted, and involved 25 purposively selected respondents that attended a questionnaire uploaded via google forms and semi-structured in-depth interviews. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS while content analysis was adopted for qualitative data. The study found a positive correlation between perceived benefits of green practices and willingness to adopt green practices. However, the study showed a disconnect between knowledge of climate change effects and adoption of green practices, which meant that the choice to implement green practices was not influenced by the knowledge of the consequential effects of climate change. This study findings underscore the importance of the educational knowledge on the benefits green implementation and government incentives had in fostering green practice adoption within commercial establishments. While the study provides valuable insights into the dynamics of green practice adoption in the context of Lusaka district, limitations and potential biases underscore the need for further research in this area.

Factors Influencing Farmers’ Adoption of Climate Smart Agriculture Practices in the Case of Ilu Aba Bora Zone, South West Ethiopia

To overcome the challenges of climate change, this study was intended to identify factors that affect the farmers’ adoption of CSA in the Ilu Aba Bora Zone of Southwest Ethiopia across varying agro-ecological zones. A mixed research design was used for this study. During this study, representative districts (Bure, Hurumu, and Nono Sale) were selected purposely based on their differences in agro-ecology, while rural kebeles and respondents were selected randomly from the districts to minimize the biases of the data. Data collection tools employed were a questionnaire, KKI, FGD, and field observations. A binomial logistic regression model was used to identify the interaction of response and explanatory variables and to draw a conclusion. The findings of this study revealed the majority (63.1%) of farmers did not have an understanding of the meaning, function, and goals of CSA practices. Existing CSA options in the study area were conservation agriculture, crop diversification, agro-forestry, early warning system, livelihood diversification, and improved livestock feed, which were practiced at different levels and by a few households. In particular, the early warning system and improved livestock feed were the least implemented CSA options, whereas livelihood diversification, conservation agriculture, and agro-forestry were the highly adopted practices in the area. Independent variables including on-farm income, farming experience, weather information, agro-ecology, farm land size, age, extension service, marital status, and off-farm income were the factors significantly affecting the adoption of CSA practices in the study area. Experts, governments, and nongovernmental organizations should improve farmers’ awareness of the benefits of CSA practices in ensuring food security, climate mitigation and adaptation through training and capacity building. The result of this study will show the direction for farmers, policy makers, planners, and other stakeholders to set up a solution in order to promote CSA practices and technologies based on agro-ecology.

Analysis of land use changes and soil erosion using the EPM-IntErO model in the Sokobanja Basin, Serbia

Soil erosion, with the progressive loss of fertile topsoil and its negative impact on agricultural productivity, has become a critical global environmental problem. In the second half of the 20th century, many municipalities in Serbia experienced significant changes in land use, vegetation, and environmental conditions. The drive towards industrialization and urbanization aimed to improve the living standards of the population, but as a consequence, it led to substantial depopulation of rural areas and the adoption of inadequate agricultural practices, which, in turn, further intensified soil erosion. This study focuses on the Sokobanjska Moravica River basin (Eastern Serbia), extending to the Bovan Lake Dam and upstream, with a total area of 540.4 km². The basin is situated in a characteristic karst landscape. Changes in erosion intensity and runoff from this basin are analyzed using the Intensity of Erosion and Outflow (IntErO) model, which algorithmically integrates the widely used Erosion Potential Method (EPM) with innovative computational techniques to predict sediment production and runoff from the river basin accurately. This analysis utilizes GIS software and official statistical yearbook data, focusing on the period from the second half of the 20th century, including the analysis of the current state. According to our research, the most intensive changes in land use occurred between 1961 and 1971, marking the beginning of the period of a decline in rural population and, consequently, a decrease in erosion intensity. Key findings indicate that predominant changes in land use and vegetation led to a shift from crop farming to animal husbandry. After 1971, ongoing depopulation, particularly in rural areas, resulted in a gradual and steady decrease in erosion intensity. The primary aim of this study is to support policymakers in developing more effective soil and water conservation regulations. By making recommendations for the protection of vegetation, and thus the soil within this river basin, this research helps ensure their long-term preservation. Future research should focus on the long-term impacts of current land use practices and develop strategies to mitigate erosion in the context of changing climate conditions.