Evaluation Of Resources Research Articles

Harnessing Solar and Hydropower in Pakistan: A Strategic Approach to Climate Change Mitigation

This study aims to conduct a thorough examination of Pakistan’s energy sector, with a specific focus on renewable energy (RE) and nonrenewable energy (non-RE) sources. It intends to delve into the potential of solar and hydropower resources within Pakistan and their capacity to mitigate the effects of climate change, thus centering the discussion on RE, particularly solar and hydropower. Adopting secondary data sources, this study seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of the current state of Pakistan’s energy sector and the challenges that it faces. One of the key findings highlighted in the analysis is the serious problem within Pakistan’s energy sector: existing institutions struggle to cope with the increasing demand for energy owing to insufficient growth in power generation capacity. This inadequacy has led to an increase in CO2 emissions, primarily driven by the country’s growing reliance on fossil fuels to meet its energy needs. Despite this challenge, Pakistan possesses substantial potential for Resources, particularly solar energy and hydropower. Following an evaluation of renewable energy resources, this study proposes recommendations to support the adoption and utilization of renewable energy as a critical component of sustainable growth. These suggestions are geared toward accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources, thus positioning Pakistan for a more sustainable and resilient energy future. This research paper underscores the urgency of addressing the shortcomings in Pakistan’s energy sector and emphasizes the pivotal role of renewable energy, especially solar and hydropower, in mitigating climate change and fostering sustainable development. By leveraging its abundant renewable energy resources and implementing strategic measures, Pakistan can chart a path toward a more environmentally friendly and economically viable energy landscape.

Research on the Registration of Aerial Images of Cyclobalanopsis Natural Forest Based on Optimized Fast Sample Consensus Point Matching with SIFT Features

The effective management and conservation of forest resources hinge on accurate monitoring. Nonetheless, individual remote-sensing images captured by low-altitude unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) fail to encapsulate the entirety of a forest’s characteristics. The application of image-stitching technology to high-resolution drone imagery facilitates a prompt evaluation of forest resources, encompassing quantity, quality, and spatial distribution. This study introduces an improved SIFT algorithm designed to tackle the challenges of low matching rates and prolonged registration times encountered with forest images characterized by dense textures. By implementing the SIFT-OCT (SIFT omitting the initial scale space) approach, the algorithm bypasses the initial scale space, thereby reducing the number of ineffective feature points and augmenting processing efficiency. To bolster the SIFT algorithm’s resilience against rotation and illumination variations, and to furnish supplementary information for registration even when fewer valid feature points are available, a gradient location and orientation histogram (GLOH) descriptor is integrated. For feature matching, the more computationally efficient Manhattan distance is utilized to filter feature points, which further optimizes efficiency. The fast sample consensus (FSC) algorithm is then applied to remove mismatched point pairs, thus refining registration accuracy. This research also investigates the influence of vegetation coverage and image overlap rates on the algorithm’s efficacy, using five sets of Cyclobalanopsis natural forest images. Experimental outcomes reveal that the proposed method significantly reduces registration time by an average of 3.66 times compared to that of SIFT, 1.71 times compared to that of SIFT-OCT, 5.67 times compared to that of PSO-SIFT, and 3.42 times compared to that of KAZE, demonstrating its superior performance.

Evaluation of the Growth Performance and Meat Quality of Different F1 Crosses of Tengchong Snow and Xichou Black Bone Chicken Breeds

Unlike other chicken breeds, Xichuan Black Bone (XBB) chickens are an established breed in China with excellent production performance and unique characteristics, including black meat, beaks, skin, bones, and legs, and they produce blue-shelled eggs. The Tengchong Snow (TS) chicken breed has relatively lower growth performance than commercial breeds but is considered one of the main genetic treasures of black meat in China. To improve the production and meat quality traits of the TS chickens by hybridization, the current study aimed to investigate the growth performance, carcass indices, meat quality physical properties, and muscle fiber traits of fiber traits of F1 crosses of TS with XBB chickens. Three groups of crossbreeding combinations were produced: (1) XT group (XBB × TS ), (2) TX group (TS × XBB ), and (3) TT group (TS × TS ), with the TT group used as a control. A total of 725 healthy chicks (XT group: 247, TX group: 180, TT group: 298) were reared up to 20 weeks of age to estimate the growth performance and associated meat parameters. The results showed that the XT and TX groups had higher body weight and body size compared with the TT group (p < 0.05). Similarly, breast width, breast length, width of body, and carcass weights were also greater (p < 0.05) in the XT and TX groups compared with the TT group. Meat physical properties, including color, water-holding capacity, and tenderness, were improved (p < 0.05) for the XT and TX group compared to the TT group. The XT group had the better color of the leg muscles with the unique orientation of muscle fibers. Based on the results, the XT group is more in line with the future breeding direction as they have greater body weight, larger size, and lower abdominal fat. This study is a baseline technical reference for the protection, evaluation, and utilization of germplasm resources of Tengchong Snow chicken for screening the best matching lines and combinations with local chickens.

WaterGPT: Training a Large Language Model to Become a Hydrology Expert

This paper introduces WaterGPT, a language model designed for complex multimodal tasks in hydrology. WaterGPT is applied in three main areas: (1) processing and analyzing data such as images and text in water resources, (2) supporting intelligent decision-making for hydrological tasks, and (3) enabling interdisciplinary information integration and knowledge-based Q&A. The model has achieved promising results. One core aspect of WaterGPT involves the meticulous segmentation of training data for the supervised fine-tuning phase, sourced from real-world data and annotated with high quality using both manual methods and GPT-series model annotations. These data are carefully categorized into four types: knowledge-based, task-oriented, negative samples, and multi-turn dialogues. Additionally, another key component is the development of a multi-agent framework called Water_Agent, which enables WaterGPT to intelligently invoke various tools to solve complex tasks in the field of water resources. This framework handles multimodal data, including text and images, allowing for deep understanding and analysis of complex hydrological environments. Based on this framework, WaterGPT has achieved over a 90% success rate in tasks such as object detection and waterbody extraction. For the waterbody extraction task, using Dice and mIoU metrics, WaterGPT’s performance on high-resolution images from 2013 to 2022 has remained stable, with accuracy exceeding 90%. Moreover, we have constructed a high-quality water resources evaluation dataset, EvalWater, which covers 21 categories and approximately 10,000 questions. Using this dataset, WaterGPT achieved the highest accuracy to date in the field of water resources, reaching 83.09%, which is about 17.83 points higher than GPT-4.

Progress in the resistance mechanism and breeding of Camellia oleifera with resistance to anthracnose

Camellia oleifera is an important woody oil crop in China, and its seed oil has a high economic value. Anthracnose, one of the main diseases in C. oleifera, occurs in a wide range in the production areas, limiting the growth and development of plants and causing serious losses of oil production. With the rapid development of the C. oleifera industry in recent years, great progress has been achieved in the research on anthracnose in C. oleifera. This paper summarized the resistance mechanisms, the mining of resistance genes, and the evaluation of resistant germplasm resources, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and control of anthracnose and the breeding of C. oleifera germplasm with resistance to anthracnose.

CPH-Fmnet: An Optimized Deep Learning Model for Multi-View Stereo and Parameter Extraction in Complex Forest Scenes

The three-dimensional reconstruction of forests is crucial in remote sensing technology, ecological monitoring, and forestry management, as it yields precise forest structure and tree parameters, providing essential data support for forest resource management, evaluation, and sustainable development. Nevertheless, forest 3D reconstruction now encounters obstacles including higher equipment costs, reduced data collection efficiency, and complex data processing. This work introduces a unique deep learning model, CPH-Fmnet, designed to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of 3D reconstruction in intricate forest environments. CPH-Fmnet enhances the FPN Encoder-Decoder Architecture by meticulously incorporating the Channel Attention Mechanism (CA), Path Aggregation Module (PA), and High-Level Feature Selection Module (HFS), alongside the integration of the pre-trained Vision Transformer (ViT), thereby significantly improving the model’s global feature extraction and local detail reconstruction abilities. We selected three representative sample plots in Haidian District, Beijing, China, as the study area and took forest stand sequence photos with an iPhone for the research. Comparative experiments with the conventional SfM + MVS and MVSFormer models, along with comprehensive parameter extraction and ablation studies, substantiated the enhanced efficacy of the proposed CPH-Fmnet model in addressing difficult circumstances such as intricate occlusions, poorly textured areas, and variations in lighting. The test results show that the model does better on a number of evaluation criteria. It has an RMSE of 1.353, an MAE of only 5.1%, an r value of 1.190, and a forest reconstruction rate of 100%, all of which are better than current methods. Furthermore, the model produced a more compact and precise 3D point cloud while accurately determining the properties of the forest trees. The findings indicate that CPH-Fmnet offers an innovative approach for forest resource management and ecological monitoring, characterized by cheap cost, high accuracy, and high efficiency.

The Sibling Sexual Behaviour Mapping Tool (SSBMT): Supporting practitioner confidence, planning and competency when responding to sexual behaviours between siblings

ObjectivesThis paper outlines the development and initial pilot of the Sibling Sexual Behaviour Mapping Tool (SSBMT). Building on the findings of the National Project on Sibling Sexual Abuse (King-Hill, McCartan, et al., 2023) and work by Yates and Allardyce (2023), the tool was devised with the aim of supporting frontline child-protection social workers during the initial stages of working with families where sibling sexual behaviours (SSB) may be present. MethodsThis paper explores the rationale for the SSBMT design, and preliminary findings from the first phase of resource evaluation. The evaluation process comprised a small pilot with social workers across seven local authorities in the United Kingdom (UK). The pilot study sought to assess the workability and effectiveness of the SSBMT within social work practice, providing stakeholder insight prior to its launch. The study employed mixed methods to gain feedback on the SSBMT design, accessibility, ease of use and compatibility with current child protection work processes, which included training of 50 practitioners, surveys with 20 professionals and two semi-structured interviews. FindingsThe findings suggest that the SSBMT increased practitioner confidence when working with SSB, and promoted holistic, whole-family approaches in the initial stages of work with children and families affected by SSB.

Perinatal and Demographic Risk Factors Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A National Survey of Potential Predictors and Severity.

INTRODUCTION: This study investigates autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in Greece, focusing on estimating prevalence and identifying regional disparities in children aged 4 to 7 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Utilizing a quantitative, descriptive, and exploratory methodology, the research employed a structured questionnaire to gather extensive maternal and child health data. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 517 mothers of children diagnosed with ASD from all over Greece, contributing to a nuanced understanding of ASD predictors. This study aims to elucidate the role of prenatal factors in the likelihood of an ASD diagnosis and their impact on the subsequent functionality of children with ASD. The study identified significant predictors of lower functionality in children with ASD, including higher maternal age, delayed ASD diagnosis, lower family income, and higher birth order. Prenatal health issues, such as vaginal bleeding and infections, also influenced functional outcomes. Notably, a family history of neurological or psychiatric conditions appeared protective. DISCUSSION: The regression model demonstrated robust predictive power, underscoring the complexity of genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors in ASD development. The findings advocate for early diagnosis and intervention, systematic screening, and addressing socioeconomic disparities to improve functional outcomes. The results support evidence-based service development and policy adjustments to enhance early identification, intervention, and rehabilitation for children with ASD. CONCLUSIONS: Establishing standardized case-recording procedures and an ASD register at national and regional levels is recommended for systematic monitoring and resource evaluation.

Exploring Intellectual Freedom and Collection Development Policies in School Libraries: Perspectives from US and Kenya.

Information is one of the essentials for decision making and intellectual development, thus it is difficult for democratic societies to exist without access to diverse information (Knox, 2011). Within school libraries, access to information resources should be enhanced through the selection, evaluation, and acquisition of diverse resources in different formats to cater to the different needs of students, support the curriculum and promote their intellectual freedom. The fight for intellectual freedom in schools is not a recent development and the number of challenges and book bans is escalating and anticipated to continue rising in the years ahead (ALA,2022). While issues regarding intellectual freedom and censorship are global affairs, much is known about the US, but this study also focuses on Kenya, two countries with varying approaches on different issues thus addressing a significant research gap on intellectual freedom beyond the US. Employing a mixed methods approach, the study involves semi structured interviews among school librarians (10 from the US and 10 from Kenya) and an analysis of the school’s collection development policies. A qualitative thematic analysis of the data is being carried out to identify school librarians’ perspectives on censorship and advocacy for intellectual freedom through policies. The study aims at creating an awareness of the social reality regarding intellectual freedom between the two contexts. School librarians, administrators and policy makers will be able to restructure existing policies to enhance intellectual freedom for students.

Evaluation of germplasm resources of Sarcomyxa edulis in the Changbai Mountains of Northeast China

ABSTRACT In this study, we evaluated 16 strains of Sarcomyxa edulis from the Changbai Mountains, China through antagonism tests and ISSR molecular marker technique for cytological and molecular biological evaluation. Q-type and R-type cluster analyses were utilised to evaluate and classify agronomic traits according to the test guidelines for distinctness, uniformity, and stability. The tested strains showed antagonistic reactions. The differences in antagonistic reactions among different germplasm resources are helpful for evaluating genetic diversity and provide a basis for better development and utilisation of fungal germplasm resources. A total of 330 bands were amplified by 21 ISSR primers, including 321 polymorphic bands. The percentage of polymorphic bands observed was 97.07%. Using PopGen32 software, the effective number of alleles (Ne), Nei's gene diversity index (H), and Shannon's diversity index (I) were calculated, yielding average values of 1.6638, 0.3796, and 0.5480, respectively. In addition, the genetic similarity coefficient of 16 strains ranged from 0.4306–0.7778. According to the Q-type clustering, the tested strains were classified into two categories based on the Euclidean distance of 8.52. While R-type cluster analysis revealed a significant correlation between the traits. At the Euclidean distance of 6.298, the traits could be classified into three distinct categories. According to the findings, all 16 strains demonstrated high genetic diversity. The ISSR clustering results revealed that strains with shorter genetic distances were more similar in specific traits. However, there were notable differences between the results of comprehensive trait clustering (Q-type clustering) and ISSR clustering.

Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation-Based Development System for Eco-Agricultural Tourism Resources

This manuscript outlines a systematic evaluation of agricultural eco-tourism resources, focusing on the Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon scenic area. Employing fuzzy mathematics principles, we construct a comprehensive evaluation model to assess various dimensions of agro-ecotourism potential. The framework includes hierarchical levels (A, B1-B3, C1-C8) covering ecological resource value, environment condition, and tourism development. Using the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method, we determine indicator weights via expert assessments and statistical analyses. Notably, ecological resource value and environment quality emerge as pivotal criteria. The resulting comprehensive score of 82.875 suggests Grade IV suitability for eco-tourism development. Our findings support strategic planning and sustainable management, emphasizing the importance of ecological preservation amidst China's urbanization. Graphical representations and detailed steps provided enhance practicality for sustainable tourism researchers and practitioners.

Magnesite hosted by the Neoarchean ultramafic rocks in Attappadi, southern India: Insights from spectral and stable isotope investigation

Magnesite is an economically important mineral commonly found in ultramafic complexes worldwide, primarily in Archean to Proterozoic ultramafic complexes. This study focuses on the chemical and spectral characterization of magnesite found in the Neoarchean ultramafic rocks in the Attappadi region in the Southern Granulite Terrane of southern India. The research utilizes x‐ray diffraction analysis, hyperspectral, laser Raman, Fourier Transform Infrared, and Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry. The studied ultramafic rocks are part of a well‐exposed ophiolitic suite known as the Agali ophiolitic complex. Magnesite primarily occurs as veins, veinlets, and lenses within weathered ultramafic rocks. The hyperspectral analysis of the magnesite samples shows absorption bands in the shortwave infrared region, particularly around 2.3 and 2.5 μm, which correspond to the stretching and bending of the CO bond in the (CO3)2− ion in MgCO3. The laser Raman spectra show intensity peaks at 1095, 738, and 330 cm−1, which may be attributed to the translational and librational vibrations. The Fourier transform infrared data reveal transmittance at 1434, 880, and 747 cm−1, corresponding to MgO bond stretching and asymmetrical CO stretching. The x‐ray powder diffraction spectra exhibit diffraction peaks at 32°, 35°, 42°, 46° and 53°, characteristic of pure magnesite. The spectroscopic parameters derived from various analyses indicate that the magnesite is high quality and free from gangue minerals. Stable isotope analysis of the magnesite samples yielded δ13C values ranging from −5‰ to −9‰ and δ18O values in the range of 21‰–25‰. The estimated water temperature from which the magnesite has been precipitated is ~59 ± 3.9°C. Based on the field relations, mode of occurrence and isotopic signatures, the mineralization is considered to have been formed by the low‐temperature alteration of ultramafic rocks facilitated by CO2‐rich fluids in the near‐surface environment. This study compares the characteristics of magnesite from the study area with a few Neoproterozoic serpentinite‐hosted magnesite veins in the ophiolitic sequence of the Egyptian Eastern Desert, which is part of the Arabian Nubian shield. The research aims to contribute to understanding magnesite formation in Archaean to Proterozoic mafic–ultramafic rocks on the Earth's crust. It also provides insights into the geological processes that govern the genesis of ultramafic‐hosted magnesite globally, particularly in East Gondwana fragments. This information can enhance mineral exploration and resource evaluation in these regions, helping to identify economic prospects and assess the feasibility of magnesite resource extraction and utilization in East Gondwana fragments.

Mild water deficit at seed filling stage promotes drought-tolerant soybean production formation and flavonoids accumulation

Soybean is an important crop for both grain and oil use. Appropriate agricultural managements increase crop productivity quantity and chemical nutrition quality. This study utilized two soybean varieties HN44(drought-tolerant) and SN14 (drought-sensitive)to analyze mechanism effect of light drought stress on instantaneous water use efficiency(WUEi), yield and isoflavone content by changes in the transcriptome and metabolome during the early seed-filling stage. The results showed that light drought stress can improve WUEi, stimulate the yield potential and increase the content of Daidzin and 6''-O-malonyldaidzin of HN44. In addition, under light drought stress, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) in HN44 and SN14 were significantly enriched in the biosynthetic pathways of flavonoids and isoflavones. The flavonoid metabolites in HN44 increased, while those in SN14 decreased. Through the different expression patterns of DEGs and DAMs in the two varieties, differential genes and differential metabolites were screened out, such as CHS, HCT, F3H, HIDH, IF7GT, VR, p-coumaroylquinic, and 6''-O-Malonylglycitin. These genes and metabolites can provide theoretical basis for the selection breeding of drought-tolerant soybean varieties and the evaluation of drought-resistant resources. The findings provided important agronomic strategies for improving the yield, bioactive substances, and water resource management of crop soybeans.

Dual Method for Comprehensive Evaluation of Sustainable Water Resources’ Utilization Capacity in Huangshui River in Yellow River Basin, China

The evaluation of sustainable water resources’ utilization capacity in the Huangshui Basin is essential for effective management and development in the water-scarce regions of northwest China. This research provides valuable insights into the basin’s potential capacity for sustainable water resource use by developing a comprehensive evaluation index that addresses the following three critical aspects: climate factors, water resource systems, and socio-economic conditions. The evaluation is conducted using a dual method, as follows: the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model and the ELECTRE III evaluation method. The results indicate that the Huangshui Basin’s water resources, as a whole, exhibit a medium sustainable utilization capacity. Climatic factors and socio-economic characteristics are the main factors affecting the sustainable utilization of water resources in the Huangshui Basin. Remarkably, both methods yield consistent results, indicating that the overall sustainable utilization capacity of the Huangshui Basin’s water resources is medium. Climatic factors and socio-economic characteristics are identified as the primary aspects influencing the sustainable utilization of water resources in the basin. Based on these findings, recommendations such as enhancing the introduction of external water resources, improving water resources’ management, and implementing comprehensive remediation efforts can help to elevate the level of sustainable water use. This research not only contributes to a deeper understanding of the basin’s water resources’ dynamics, but also serves as an important reference for informed decision making regarding sustainable utilization in the Huangshui Basin.

Germplasm Resources Evaluation of Cultured Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides) in China Based on Whole Genome Resequencing.

Background: Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), a valuable freshwater fish species, has experienced significant genetic decline in China due to prolonged domestic breeding and limited introduction of new genetic material. It is necessary to have a comprehensive understanding of the genetic status of largemouth bass populations in China. Method: In this study, we conducted population genetic analyses on nine cultured largemouth bass populations using whole genome resequencing. Results: A total of 3.23 Tb of clean bases were generated, with average Q20 and Q30 values of 98.17% and 94.25%, respectively, and 2,140,534 high-quality SNPs were obtained. Relatively high genetic diversity was observed across all populations. Combined with linkage disequilibrium (LD) patterns, the Wanlu (WL) population possessed the highest genetic diversity, and the Longyou (LY) population possessed the lowest genetic diversity. Additionally, population structure analyses, including pairwise F-statistics, phylogenetic trees, PCA, and admixture analysis, revealed significant genetic differentiation, particularly between the WL, LY, and other 7 populations, while also indicating the occurrence of a common admixture event. Finally, TreeMix inferred migration events from the WL to the Chuanlu (CL) population and from the Taiwan breeding population (TWL) to the Guanglu (GL) population. Conclusions: These findings provide a critical foundation for developing conservation and breeding strategies for largemouth bass in China.

Evaluation of germplasm resources and selection of elite individuals of Gardenia jasminoides

Evaluation of germplasm resources and selection of elite individuals of Gardenia jasminoides

Evaluation of Groundwater Resources in the Middle and Lower Reaches of Songhua River Based on SWAT Model

The SWAT model primarily investigates sources of water pollution and conducts ecological assessments of surface water in contemporary hydrology and water resources research. To date, there have been limited accomplishments in the study of groundwater resources in China. The MODFLOW model currently primarily simulates groundwater levels and the migration of water quality, depending on the hydrological surface water data in the relevant area. This study aims to investigate the groundwater distribution characteristics of the middle and lower reaches of the Songhua River, a significant agricultural and grain production region in China. The research focuses on the middle and lower reaches of the Songhua River basin in Northeast China and employed the SWAT distributed hydrological model to simulate runoff. The monthly recorded runoff at Tongjiang Station in Jiamusi City was utilized to calibrate the model parameters. Consequently, the MODFLOW model was introduced to compare and assess the simulation outcomes of the SWAT model, ultimately ascertaining the distribution characteristics of shallow groundwater, groundwater recharge, recoverable volume, and groundwater levels in the Songhua River Basin. The findings indicate that: (1) The SWAT model demonstrates efficacy in the study region, achieving R2 and NS values of 0.81 and 0.76, respectively, thereby fulfilling the fundamental criteria for scientific research. The MODFLOW model exhibits strong performance in the study region, achieving a periodic R2 of 0.98 and a verification R2 of 0.97, with the discrepancy between simulated and actual groundwater levels confined to 0.6 m, thereby satisfying the criteria for scientific research. (2) In 2011, 2014, and 2016, the groundwater recharge in the middle and lower sections of the Songhua River was 24.33 × 108 m3, 30.79 × 108 m3, and 32.25 × 108 m3, respectively, aligning closely with the SWAT simulation results, while the average annual groundwater level depth was 8.17 m. (3) In the research area, groundwater recharging occurs primarily by atmospheric precipitation, while drainage predominantly transpires via groundwater as base flow, constituting 81.46%. Secondly, the recharge of shallow groundwater to deep aquifers is around 7.14%, with a minimal share attributed to vadose zone loss, constituting merely 2.1%. (4) From 2010 to 2016, the average groundwater runoff modulus of the middle and lower reaches of the Songhua River basin was 1.005 L/(s·km²), with a total recharge of 216.58 × 108 m3 and a total recoverable amount of 105.11 × 108 m3. The mean yearly supply was 25.11 × 108 m3. The total groundwater recharge was 26.54 × 108 m3 in the driest year (2011) and 33.25 × 108 m3 in the year of most ample water (2016).

Evaluation of Resource and Environmental Carrying Capacity at Provincial Level in China Using a Pressure–Support–Adjustment Ternary System

Resources and environment are essential elements of social and economic development. Whether the current resources and environment can sufficiently support economic and social development is an important scientific issue. Existing studies have not reached a consensus on the definition, assessment, and forewarning methods of resource and environmental carrying capacity (RECC). Therefore, this study puts forward a ternary theoretical system of RECC from the perspective of pressure, support, and adjustment, constructs a novel evaluation indices system of RECC, introduces a ternary evaluation model, and proposes a hierarchical forewarning method of RECC with a threshold of 1. Furthermore, an empirical demonstration of 31 provinces in China is presented. The results show that: (1) the average RECC index of 31 areas revealed a downward trend from 2012 to 2021, indicating the gradually improving RECC; (2) the RECC indices of central areas were always high, which manifests the poor RECC; (3) the number of provinces with RECC at Alert Level III decreased from 18 to 7, and the number of provinces at Non-Alert Level increased from 6 to 8.

Study of the Evaluation of Resource and Environmental Carrying Capacity and Driving Factors in Arid Areas – A Case Study in Xinjiang, China

Study of the Evaluation of Resource and Environmental Carrying Capacity and Driving Factors in Arid Areas – A Case Study in Xinjiang, China

Planetary Geologic Maps: Essential Tools for Scientific Inquiry and Space Exploration

AbstractPlanetary geologic maps are crucial tools for understanding the geological features and processes of solid bodies in the Solar System. Over the past six decades, best practices in planetary geologic mapping have emphasized clear and objective observation, geological interpretation, multi‐sensor fusion, and iterative revision of maps based on new data. We summarize here four ways in which maps serve as indispensable instruments for scientific investigation, from enhancing observations to interrogating surface processes. With respect to space exploration, we underscore the role of planetary geologic maps as tools to link testable, hypothesis‐driven science to exploration goals and provide actionable information for hazard identification, resource evaluation, sample collection, and potential infrastructure development. To further advance the field of planetary geologic mapping, international collaboration is essential. This includes sharing data and maps through FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable) platforms, establishing standardized mapping practices, promoting diverse nomenclature, and fostering continued cooperation in space exploration.