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Background: The agricultural sector is a crucial component of a nation's economy, playing an indispensable role in its economic development. This sector not only ensures food security but also provides employment opportunities and contributes to rural development. The integration of technology into agriculture is vital for increasing production, enhancing efficiency, and facilitating access to global markets. Recent advances in emerging technologies have led to a significant paradigm shift within the agricultural landscape. This transformation, driven by digital technologies, is increasingly recognized as a flexible and sustainable solution for modernizing agricultural practices. This research aims to investigate technological trends and their functions in the agricultural value chain, ultimately facilitating a successful transition to smart agriculture. By exploring these trends, the study seeks to highlight the potential benefits of adopting innovative technologies in agriculture, including improved productivity, better resource management, and enhanced sustainability. Methods: This research is practical in its objectives and systematic in its approach to data collection. The statistical population includes all English-language articles published in the field of smart agriculture between 2011 and 2022, sourced from the Web of Science and Scopus databases. In the initial phase, 3,257 articles were identified and analyzed using Vos Viewer for scientometric analysis. This software allows for the visualization of scientific data and the mapping of research trends, providing insights into the evolution of the field. Following this analysis, the research question was formulated, and the Prisma approach was applied to refine the selection of articles. Ultimately, 33 articles were chosen for a comprehensive qualitative study. This combination of quantitative and qualitative methodologies enables a thorough exploration of the topic, offering both statistical insights and in-depth analyses of the selected literature. Results: In the quantitative section of this research, knowledge maps were utilized to illustrate the growth trend of scientific articles in the field of smart agriculture. This analysis included the identification of key journals, research centers, and active countries contributing to this body of work. Furthermore, the study pinpointed authors with the highest publication outputs and assessed scientific networks to evaluate their influence within the field. The results indicate a growing interest in smart agriculture, reflected in the increasing number of publications and collaborations among researchers. In the qualitative section, the research findings reveal that the Internet of Things (IoT) is the most significant technological domain in the agricultural sector. IoT enables the interconnectivity of devices and systems, facilitating real-time data collection and monitoring, which are essential for informed decision-making in agriculture. Other important technologies identified include artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data analytics, blockchain technology, wireless sensor networks, remote sensing, various types of sensors, cloud computing, fog and edge computing, and low-power wide-area networks. These technologies can be categorized into four primary groups based on their functionalities: data collection, computation and communication, data security and integration, and prediction and classification. Data collection technologies facilitate the gathering of agricultural data from various sources, enabling farmers to make data-driven decisions. Computation and communication tools process and transmit data efficiently, ensuring timely access to critical information. Data security and integration solutions protect sensitive agricultural data while integrating various systems for seamless operation. Prediction and classification technologies assist in forecasting agricultural trends and categorizing data for better management practices. The insights generated from this research are expected to serve as a critical foundation for managers and policymakers. Understanding the current technological landscape will enable them to formulate strategies, policies, and development programs that effectively leverage these innovations to enhance productivity and sustainability in the agricultural sector. Conclusion: Based on the identified trends, it is clear that government intervention is essential for fostering the development of smart agriculture. By adopting strategic measures and creating appropriate frameworks, the government can significantly contribute to this sector's advancement. Key actions include developing technical infrastructure, investing in human capital, supporting research and development initiatives, encouraging smart agricultural practices, providing financial support, and establishing guaranteed markets for agricultural products. These efforts will not only enhance productivity in the agricultural sector but also promote sustainable development, ultimately leading to an improvement in the country's capabilities. The transition to smart agriculture represents a significant opportunity to address the challenges faced by the agricultural sector, including climate change, resource scarcity, and the need for increased food production. By embracing technological advancements and fostering an environment conducive to innovation, nations can ensure the long-term viability and competitiveness of their agricultural industries. In summary, the findings of this study underscore the importance of technological integration within the agricultural value chain. As the sector continues to evolve, stakeholders must remain vigilant and adaptive to emerging trends, ensuring that they harness the full potential of technology to drive growth and sustainability. Future research should continue to explore the impacts of these technologies on agricultural practices and investigate additional strategies for enhancing their adoption across diverse agricultural contexts. This comprehensive approach will not only benefit individual farmers but also contribute to the broader economic and social well-being of communities, ultimately paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable agricultural future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In response to the goals of sustainable development, a new socio-economic system known as the shared economy has emerged. This model focuses on sharing resources among individuals, which helps to mitigate negative environmental and social impacts while also reducing costs. The agricultural sector in Iran, however, is particularly vulnerable to instability, making it essential to explore strategies that promote and implement the shared economy within this field. This study aims to identify the barriers to implementing a shared economy in agriculture, specifically in the central plateau region of Iran. The shared economy in agriculture involves collaborative farming practices where resources such as land, equipment, and labor are shared among farmers. This approach not only enhances productivity but also fosters community engagement and sustainability. However, the successful implementation of shared farming initiatives is often obstructed by various barriers. Understanding these obstacles is crucial for developing effective strategies that can facilitate the transition to a shared economic model in agriculture. Methods: The research employs a descriptive-survey methodology and is classified as practical in terms of its objectives. The statistical sample comprises 15 experts and farmers engaged in shared farming initiatives in the central plateau of Iran. Participants were selected using a judgmental sampling method to ensure that those with relevant expertise and experience were included in the study. The research began with a comprehensive review of existing literature to identify the barriers to establishing shared farms. Based on this review, expert opinions were solicited to localize the identified barriers, leading to the formation of a decision tree. This decision tree served as a framework for analyzing the various obstacles to shared farming. Subsequently, pairwise comparison matrices were constructed at each level of the decision tree, allowing for a systematic evaluation of the barriers. To rank and prioritize these barriers, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method was employed, utilizing Expert Choice version 11 them down into simpler components, thereby facilitating a clearer understanding of the relative importance of each barrier. Results: The findings of this research revealed that the barriers to implementing shared farms in the central plateau of Iran can be categorized into four main groups: economic, social, technical, and stakeholders' barriers. Each of these categories encompasses various sub-barriers that contribute to the challenges faced in establishing shared farming practices. Economic barriers emerged as the most significant obstacle, particularly the high capital costs associated with initiating shared farming projects. Many potential participants are deterred by the substantial initial investments required. Additionally, the lack of financial incentives exacerbates this issue, as many farmers are hesitant to invest in a model that is not well-established. Social barriers also play a critical role in hindering the adoption of shared farming practices. A notable challenge is the lack of willingness to change among farmers. Many individuals are accustomed to traditional farming practices and may resist adopting new methods, even if they promise greater efficiency and sustainability. This reluctance often arises from a fear of the unknown or a lack of awareness regarding the benefits of shared farming. Technical barriers were identified as another significant shared economy becomes increasingly challenging. Furthermore, inadequate communication platforms hinder collaboration among farmers, limiting their ability to coordinate efforts and share resources effectively. This barrier highlights the need for improved networking and collaboration within the agricultural community. Based on the prioritization of these barriers, the study found that the most pressing sub-barriers include capital costs, lack of incentives, reluctance to change, lack of technology, and insufficient communication platforms. Addressing these issues is crucial for facilitating the successful implementation of shared farms in the region. Conclusion: The results of this study underscore the significance of understanding and addressing the barriers to implementing shared farms in the central plateau of Iran. Among the identified barriers, economic challenges, particularly capital costs, emerged as the most critical obstacle to the successful establishment of shared farming initiatives. Therefore, it is imperative that a comprehensive revenue model and return on investment (ROI) calculations are developed and communicated to potential partners before initiating shared farming projects. Furthermore, recognizing the importance of incentives is vital for promoting a culture of shared farming. To encourage participation and foster successful implementation, both material and spiritual incentives should be considered. Material incentives could include financial support, subsidies, and the provision of necessary facilities. On the other hand, spiritual incentives may involve recognizing and appreciating successful shared farming ventures, thereby motivating others to participate. In summary, the development of a shared economy in agriculture holds great potential for enhancing productivity and sustainability in the central plateau of Iran. By addressing the identified barriers and fostering a supportive environment for shared farming practices, stakeholders can contribute to the overall improvement of the agricultural sector, ultimately benefiting farmers and the broader community. facilitate shared farming practices. Without the necessary tools and resources, implementing a challenge. Many farmers in the region lack access to modern agricultural technologies that could [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Entrepreneurship is a crucial factor in agricultural development, as it significantly contributes to improving the economic and livelihood conditions of rural areas. By creating new employment opportunities and income sources, entrepreneurship plays an essential role in enhancing the overall quality of life in villages. Evaluating the level of entrepreneurship and making efforts to develop and strengthen it is vital for sustainable growth. The process of development, which involves providing the necessary foundations for entrepreneurial activities, holds particular importance in regions facing challenges. The Sistan region, in particular, suffers from inappropriate temporal and spatial distribution of water resources. This issue is compounded by population growth, urbanization, and the expansion of agricultural and industrial sectors, leading to an inevitable increase in water demand. Consequently, effective water resource management is essential to prevent potential crises and tensions related to water scarcity. Given the agricultural capabilities present in the Sistan region, it is imperative to prioritize the factors that influence the development of entrepreneurship to improve the economic status of the local population. Special attention should be directed towards economic activities framed within agricultural entrepreneurship. This study aims to plan and prioritize the factors affecting the development of entrepreneurship in the Sistan region. Methods: To analyze the data, the Electra multi-index decision-making technique was employed. This method is recognized as one of the multi-criteria decision-making approaches capable of complex modeling in high-level systems. In this research, the Electra method was implemented through an eight-step process. The statistical population consisted of 45 experts from the Agricultural Jihad Organization in the Sistan region. Data collection was conducted through a structured questionnaire distributed in 2022, ensuring that the information gathered was relevant and comprehensive. Results: The results of the prioritization of factors affecting the development of entrepreneurship in the Sistan region revealed that economic factors held the highest priority, while environmental factors were deemed the least influential. The factors affecting entrepreneurship were ranked based on their significance. Economic factors received the highest mastery number of 4, indicating their critical role in fostering entrepreneurship. Educational factors followed with a mastery number of 3, highlighting the importance of knowledge and skills in promoting entrepreneurial activities. Psychological factors were assigned a mastery number of 2, reflecting their impact on individuals' willingness to engage in entrepreneurial ventures. Environmental factors received a mastery number of 1, indicating a lower priority, while social factors were assigned a mastery number of zero, suggesting minimal influence on the entrepreneurial landscape in the region. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that when prioritizing the dimensions and influencing factors, economic factors emerge as the most significant contributors to the development of agricultural entrepreneurship in the rural areas of Sistan. Conversely, environmental factors appear to have the least effect on this development. Overall, it can be concluded that new plans and programs are necessary for economic advancement in the rural regions of Sistan. This progress is achievable through the promotion of entrepreneurship and the empowerment of environmental policies. Given the priority of economic factors, it is essential to create an environment that facilitates access to loans and national resources for entrepreneurial farmers in the area. By addressing the economic barriers and providing the necessary support, the potential for agricultural entrepreneurship can be significantly enhanced. This support may include financial assistance, training programs, and access to modern agricultural technologies. Furthermore, the development of educational initiatives aimed at improving the skills and knowledge of potential entrepreneurs is crucial. By fostering a culture of entrepreneurship, the Sistan region can harness its agricultural capabilities, ultimately leading to improved economic conditions and enhanced livelihoods for its residents. In summary, the successful development of agricultural entrepreneurship in the Sistan region hinges on understanding and prioritizing the factors that influence this process. By focusing on economic factors and providing the necessary support and resources, stakeholders can create a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem that benefits the entire community. This approach not only addresses current challenges but also sets the stage for sustainable growth and development in the region's agricultural sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Today, knowledge-based economies have become a strategic and important issue in the economies of various societies and fields, including agriculture. Since agriculture is crucial for a country's food security, it is essential for this sector to adopt a knowledge-based approach. Technological and knowledge-based companies, particularly those in agriculture, serve as key institutions that transform knowledge into goods and services. However, these companies in Iran face numerous challenges that hinder their growth and development. Therefore, this research aims to identify the challenges faced by agricultural knowledge-based and technological companies, fairs, and startups in Mazandaran province. Methods: To identify these challenges, an inductive strategy, qualitative data, and thematic analysis were employed. Data collection was conducted through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 20 founders or managers of agricultural technology and knowledge-based companies located in the Mazandaran Science and Technology Park, as well as incubators associated with Sari University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. Statistical samples were selected using the snowball method, continuing until theoretical saturation was reached. The ATLAS.ti 7.5 software was utilized for data analysis, and a peer review method was used to validate the thematic analysis. Results: The analysis revealed 151 fundamental themes identified through ATLAS.ti 7.5. The main themes in this study included challenges involved in generating ideas and formulating comprehensive business plans, challenges related to establishing a company in an incubator or science and technology park, R&D and sample product production challenges, marketing and product introduction challenges, sales and market stabilization challenges, developing new market challenges, and market survival and competition challenges. Conclusion: It is suggested that the policies and regulations supporting knowledge-based companies be carefully examined and analyzed to ensure they are better aligned with the needs of these technological and innovative ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Egyptian Journal of Agricultural Sciences is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Alexandria Journal of Agricultural Research is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Alexandria Journal of Agricultural Research is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Date palm trees are infected by different diseases and pests that negatively affect its quality and productivity. The control of these pests and diseases requires the use of appropriate technologies to minimize the infection rate and crop losses. This study was intended to determine the adoption rate of some diseases and pests control technologies and methods among Date Palm farmers in Dammam area of Saudi Arabia and the most important factors affecting it. Data was collected through face to face interviews from a simple random sample of 111 Date Palm farmers in the study area using a validated and pre-tested questionnaire. Descriptive statistics (frequency distribution. mean and standard deviation) and multiple regression were used to analyze the data. The study results indicated that the adoption rates of the diseases and pests control technologies and methods by Date farmers are very low. Only one practices (getting rid of agricultural residues immediately) out of the seventeenth technologies and methods under consideration reached medium level. The adoption rates of the other technologies and methods were low and all of them were less than two on an adoption scale of four points. The study revealed that the most important determinants of the adoption rate of the diseases and pests control technologies and methods by Date Palm farmers were the farmers' level of contact with the different sources of information and farm size; each of them had a statistically significant effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]